Bali, Indonesia: An Incentive Travel Featured Destination

/in

Bali is a unique coastal destination consisting of breathtaking hills, mountains, rice terraces, rugged coastlines, beaches, and barren volcanic masses. It provides a picture perfect setting for any individual or family wanting to get away from the stresses of daily life. The areas distinctive culture and deep spiritual roots contributes to the locations popular nickname of the “Island of the Gods.” Bali is an ideal vacationing spot for travelers who desire a world-class diving or surfing experience. It also holds several historical and archaeological attractions that are easily reachable from a plethora of accommodation choices.

It is an Indonesian province lying to the west of Java and the east of Lombok as part of the Lesser Sunda Islands. Mount Agung, an active volcano, is the highest elevated point on the island; however, many other elevated points can be found throughout the region. Rice crops lie to the south of the central mountains where they steadily descend and the northern portion of the mountain range has a steeper slope, which makes it ideal for coffee production. Bali is completely surrounded by coral reefs and the whitest sanded beaches lie on south side of the island along the resorts.

Popular Tourist Areas

Most tourist activities remain in the southern portion; however, certain excursion opportunities exist in other regions of the island for the more active traveler. Kuta, one of the most developed Bali cities, is a great location for surfing, shopping, an active night-life scene, and local culture. Visitors desiring a quieter, upscale resort area have the option of Seminyak. This suburb region holds a variety of fashionable restaurants, trendy bars, and dance clubs for fun nights near the beach. Sanur houses an abundance of sea-side resorts that are an ideal family location while Ubud, the cultural center of Bali, provides travelers with sightseeing opportunities such as museums and craft shops.

Bali Attractions

Bali is a perfect vacation destination offering extremely pleasant daytime temperatures ranging from seventy to ninety degrees Fahrenheit all year. Rain is more common between the months of December and March; however, the days remain sunny as most precipitation occurs in the afternoon for only a short period of time. The Hindu temples residing in Bali are one of the locations prevalent drawing points. A number of temples exist throughout the island since each village must maintain at least three as part of area customs.

The Bali shoreline consists of both white and black sanded beachfront with the exception of a few forest areas and straight cliff drops. Visitors should take some time to see a few of the museums in the area or to peruse local crafts. Scuba diving, surfing, white-water rafting, fishing, and swimming are a few water fun options made available to visitors. Sightseeing tours are another great choice for exploring the numerous wonders of Bali. Individuals desiring fun on land can choose from horseback riding, jungle trekking, mountain cycling, or paragliding. Whatever the desire, Bali is an island paradise where travelers get to bask in the sun while enjoying some their favorite activities in a gorgeous setting.

Bahamas: An Incentive Travel Featured Destination

/in

The Bahamas is a popular tourist destination consisting of over three thousand islands in the Atlantic Ocean. It was first inhabited by the Lucayans who were a Taino people of the Arawakan language. These isles were the first stopping point of Columbus during the discovery of the New World in 1492. The location was never colonized by the Spanish and remained deserted until 1648 when the isle of Eleuthera was settled by the English. In 1718, the location shifted toward a plantation economy as slaves were moved to the area and American Loyalists made it their home.

Slave trading was abolished approximately one hundred years later by the British Empire and many liberated people made the Bahamas their home shortly after. Mount Alvernia is the highest point in the area with a total height of two-hundred and seven feet. The isles have a tropical climate, which is affected by the Gulf Stream and this contributes to hurricanes in the region. Temperatures remain around seventy to eighty degrees for most of the year with the exception of occasional dips caused by Artic outbreaks.

Local Culture

Less developed islands in the Bahamas center on crafts such as basketry, hat making, and bags with palm fronds. An African street parade called Junkanoo is held in Nassau on December 26th each year. It is a great choice for travelers desiring to experience local music, art, and dance. Additional events are held at various times of the year such as the Crab Fest to celebrate traditional crops as well as foods of the region. The Bahamas is all about fun on the beach and local culture. Travelers do not have to exchange US dollars to buy things as this form is currency is accepted by venders in the area. Few items are made for resale to visitors; however, luxury products can be obtained for quite a deal by bargaining with sellers.

Area Attractions

The Bahamas has been a popular vacationing choice for numerous years because of the supplied beach scenery and paradise like atmosphere. Travelers come to kick back, enjoy the sun, and have fun in the water while getting away from everyday life. Visitors have the opportunity to explore a variety of boutiques offering stunning prices on some of the most demanded, high priced products found in North America. Additionally, travelers can take some time trying out new, adventurous activities to receive a once in a lifetime experience.

While the gorgeous blue waters of the Bahamas are enough to envelope any traveler, these islands supply abundant opportunities for fun in the water or on land. Water activities include:

  • Boating
  • Sailing
  • Swimming
  • Diving
  • Deep Sea Fishing

It is an ideal vacationing spot for fun in the sun or a more active adventure since the water temperature remains around eighty degrees Fahrenheit all year. Travelers seeking fun on land in the Bahamas have the option to view man-made attractions, attend a show, shop, take a tour, bird watch, hike, or relax at a spa. It is a true paradise that provides the perfect setting for a one of a kind getaway at any time of the year.

Antigua & Barbuda An Incentive Travel Featured Destination

/in

Antigua and Barbuda are twin isles located between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The two masses lie in the center of Leeward Islands, which is often referred to as the “Land of 365 Beaches.” Culture in the area has been immensely influenced by British customs since it was once part of the countries empire. Both isles reside to the southeast of Puerto Rico as part of the North American continent. The terrain of these islands was developed by limestone formations in addition to volcanic activity. They are low-lying land masses that have become popular for their beaches. Climates in the region are toned-down by the northeast trade winds and precipitation remains minimal due to the low elevation of each island.

Local History

Sir Christopher Codrington was the first to arrive in the beautiful lands of Antigua and Barbuda. The enterprising man came to the region in 1684 to determine if it was suitable for sugar cultivation. It was a successful venture where cultivation remained prominent on Antigua for approximately fifty years. In the mid-18th century, over one-hundred fifty processing windmills were scattered across the island and can still be viewed today by visitors. Many have been transformed into bars, shops, or restaurants; however, the original mill on Codrington’s estate has been fully restored. Antigua grew into a significant port and commercial colony at the end of the eighteenth century. It was then referred to as the “gateway to the Caribbean” since its position could be used to control numerous sailing routes. Several historical sites were built to protect the land from outside attacks during the colonization period and remain standing for visitors to view.

Things to See & Do

Of the two islands, Barbuda remains fairly undeveloped while Antigua has been slightly commercialized. Barbuda delivers white sanded beaches in a peaceful, mostly unaltered setting. The activities offered on this undeveloped mass of land are centered on nature. Travelers are able to participate in beachcombing, fishing, hunting, and resort offered fun. Resorts on both isles allow travelers to take part in activities such as:

  • Golf
  • Tennis
  • Diving
  • Snorkeling
  • Beach Basking
  • Horseback Riding
  • Hiking
  • Bird Watching

Visitors have a few specific points of interest when staying on Barbuda including a trip to the Frigate Bird Sanctuary. This sanctuary consists of stunning beaches mixed with shipwreck sites and gorgeous reef formations. The island, reachable by plane or boat from Antigua, houses luxury accommodations in addition to small, cozy hotels. Antigua is more modernized with a variety of things to do including eateries and shopping opportunities. Individuals visiting the island should take some time to see the best view of the English Harbour from Shirley Heights or the creative works of art housed at Harmony Hall museum. This particular museum plays a major role in the area arts community and holds many events to show off local creations. The Museum of Antigua and Barbuda presents the story of these two land masses from their first formation to present day. Both isles provide countless attractions, sightseeing opportunities, and some of the best beach scenery in the world.

Algarve, Portugal: An Incentive Travel Featured Destination

/in

Algarve is a destination in south Portugal along the Atlantic coastline that offers a scene of beautiful beaches combined with tranquil waters. The region’s economy consists of tourism, fishing, seafood, and fruit production with travelers being most frequent during the summer months. Oranges, figs, and almonds are some of the most significant items produced in the area. Algarve, Portugal is one of the highest ranked tourist destinations in the region. Approximately seven million people from around the world make their way to the location each year. Why do so many individuals choose this location when planning a getaway? Algarve, Portugal delivers stunning views consisting of mountains, islands, lagoons, beaches, and the Atlantic waters. Visitors have the opportunity to view limestone caves along the coastline or watch a variety of birds as the location is a common stopping point for a number of species. Additionally, the area supplies countless entertaining and adventurous activity choices to visitors of all ages.

An Impeccable Spot for Creativity or Nature Exploration

Algarve promises fun on the beach, great family memories, a plethora of dining options, and plenty to do. The supplied coastline and rural countryside of this location deliver a one of a kind contrast to the creative or nature loving visitor. It is a great vacationing choice for individuals with specific interests such as:

  • Photography
  • Nature Walking
  • Water Activities
  • Painting
  • Bird Watching
  • Area Exploration

The natural beauty supplied by this destination brings people desiring a pleasurable and relaxing getaway from various countries together. Algarve travelers typically enter through the Faro Airport by plane; however, the location is also reachable by travelers through alternative means. The summer months of July through September are the busiest travel times due to the locations outstanding weather. Travelers seeking a getaway full of new experiences have a winning choice with Algarve since the area promises more than anyone can do during a stay. Exciting activities combined with picture-perfect views has made Algarve, Portugal one of the top tourist destinations in the world!

What to Do In Algarve, Portugal

Individuals choosing Algarve as their vacation spot have numerous options for fun, relaxation, and exploration. Exquisite beaches are just the beginning when traveling to this region of Portugal. Area weather patterns provide sunny, dry days where individuals have the opportunity to take walks, do a little sightseeing, or choose from several types of activities. Visitors yearning for an active vacation have these sporty options:

  • Cycling
  • Tennis
  • Surfing
  • Golf
  • Kayaking
  • Horseback Riding
  • Rock Climbing
  • Wakeboarding

Those desiring to have an extreme adventure can add the choice of kitesurfing to their roster. The family friendly destination offers less risky adventures including water parks, zoos, and boating trips along the coastline. Visitors can take a dinghy into the local caves or hang out with the dolphins. The regions large variety of accommodations makes it easy to visit Portugal on any budget. Whether visiting alone, with someone special, or the entire family, Algarve delivers the perfect mix of fun and new, exciting adventures. A memorable beach setting and an abundance of activities make this unique island paradise a fruitful choice for individuals or incentive travel.

Boston, Massachusetts: An Incentive Travel Featured Destination

/in

Boston, the largest and oldest city in Massachusetts, is well-known for its cultural roots in the New England region of the United States. The greater metropolitan area houses over four million inhabitants with a total of over seven million spanning the entire region. It was originally founded in 1630 by England colonists and later became the location of events such as the Boston Tea Party. The city offers multiple tourist spots centered on major turning points as the nation curved its path to what it is known as today. After independence was gained, the region became an important shipping and manufacturing location. It housed the first public school found within the independent nation as well as the first subway system.

Modern Boston

The metropolis offers an enormous look into the initial development of the United States to travelers. It has strong ties to the original New England customs and the accent heard by those traveling through the area is referred to as Boston English. Local food focuses on seafood with dairy and salt coming in at a close second. Government and religion in the region are greatly influenced by Irish culture. An abundance of theatres are spread throughout the city in addition to performing arts and classical music venues. Historic sites from the American Revolution time period have been preserved in the Boston National Historic Park. Visitors can move ahead a few years to explore the deep roots of hardcore punk as it was the original birthplace of the music genre. Religion remains as a prominent focal point in the region as well due to its historical background.

Versatility by Season

Every season in Boston offers its own little delights both in scenery and held events. Summer creates the perfect setting for strolling through a local park or sitting at an outdoor café. Fall is a great time of the year to sightsee along the many walking trails in the area including the popular historic Freedom Trail. The cobblestone pathways of the Beacon Hill portion of Boston make a memorable romantic atmosphere in the winter as they are lit up by street lamps. Whatever the time of year, Boston provides a welcoming atmosphere combined with stunning scenery and a variety of activities.

City Highlights

Museums in this metropolis offer visitors the chance to become familiar with local history or see artistic masterpieces. The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum delivers a live reenactment of the beginning of the American Revolution that is a must see for any historical enthusiast. The Boston National Historic Park is another location where the roots of this region can be explored. It provides vast information about Boston’s role leading up to the American Revolution. Those wanting to take in the scenery have ample opportunities to walk in parks or visit a historic part of the city. Boston has an exquisite nightlife, countless performing arts choices, and numerous forms of entertainment. It is a beautiful place to visit any time of the year and a shining example of how a city can continue to grow with the times.