Beach holidays in Ecuador. Resorts of Ecuador: a small country along the equator

The most famous imaginary line on Earth, the equator, touches just three continents and passes through 11 countries. Where the equator lies, there is no concept of "season" - the sun will rise exactly 12 hours at the same time, every day of the year.
In countries near the equator, there will always be a lot sunlight and high air temperature. But the question is, what is the best place to choose to travel in this area? You will find answers to all questions below.

Quito, Ecuador

Ecuador is perhaps the most diverse country crossing the equator. Home to the legendary Galapagos archipelago, breathtaking beaches, hot springs, rising volcanoes, the Amazonian rainforest and the world famous cities heritage.

If you really want to "walk the equator" you can do so in Quito, just north of the city center at the Intinan Museum. Here you will be able to stand on the line drawn by the "real equator" as a tourist trap that is really worth a visit. Subsequently, you can explore the city, its population and many other delights.

Indonesia

The largest archipelago on the planet, Indonesia includes over 17,000 islands, all scattered around the equator. While you're on the lookout for the equator line, north of the city of Pontianak is a large dome known as the Tugu Khatulistiwa (Equator Monument).

It covers the monument with a spire that extends from the center of the building to the sky. While you're in Indonesia, visit one of the least visited Indonesian islands, Sumbawa, which lies to the east of Bali and Lombok.

There are few tourist facilities here, but this only means one thing: you will be able to enjoy all the astounding beauty without the crowds. As a rule, there is only a crowd of surfers riding the waves.

Kenya

Kenya is often at the top of the list when it comes to seeing exotic nature, so if you're looking to kill two birds with one stone, this might be the perfect option for you.

Kenya is considered one of the the best places to see wildlife such as elephants and lions, and watch the Great Migration when wildebeests and zebras evade crocodiles as they cross the Mara River during the dry season. During the rainy season, large herds of elephants and buffalo can be seen feeding on the tall grass. The forest grows along the banks of the Mara River, offering shelter for elephants, leopards and monkeys.

Brazil

Equator passes through northern part Brazil and includes the Amazon rainforest, an area that is so remote and there are no roads at all, which is estimated at about 10 percent local residents never had contact with the outside world.

If you want to visit at least one of the last untouched places on Earth, this is the perfect option. In addition to desert and wilderness travel, you can also take advantage of the country's many other options: incredible beaches and parties that go on all day and all night in places like Rio de Janeiro.

Maldives

Perfect for romance lovers who want to experience what it's like to get to the equator. The Maldives lie in Indian Ocean and is often considered the most romantic archipelago in the world.

There are hundreds of sandy islands to choose from and just as many luxury resorts, with many offering overwater bungalows or beach huts. Swimming on fluffy white sandy beaches at the edge of crystal clear warm waters in blue and turquoise hues.

There is the possibility of active pastime in the form of diving or snorkeling among the bright coral reefs, sails, windsurfing, etc. fishing villages or head to one of the neighboring uninhabited islands, where you can enjoy complete privacy.

The equator is an imaginary line that divides the Earth into the northern and southern hemispheres and acts as the reference point for geographic latitude. The countries closest to the equator have a hot, equatorial climate, a feature of which is the absence of a pronounced seasonal temperature change; in such countries, the temperature is approximately the same +25 - +30 degrees all year round.

Are there many countries through which the equator line passes? Let's count together.

In our understanding, the equator should pass exactly through the land territory of the country. Territorial waters do not apply to this. That is, we need countries where one foot can stand on the northern hemisphere, and the other on the southern.

1. Sao Tome and Principe.

A small island nation off the coast of Africa in the Gulf of Guinea. One of the tiny islands of this country - Rolash (port. Ilhéu das Rolas) is crossed by the equator. At the intersection there is a stele indicating such an unusual position of the island, as well as a bar and a hotel.

2. Gabon.

Despite the fact that the equator divides the country almost in half, Gabon makes little use of this feature to attract tourists. None at the equator locality. On numerous roads crossing the equator, you will not even find any column or sign notifying you that you are already in the other hemisphere.

3. Republic of the Congo.

The equator crosses the country in a sparsely populated area among dense jungles. As in Gabon, on the roads that cross the equator, you will not find any information. Only in small town Makua, located clearly on the equator, stands a small globe frame on a dilapidated pedestal, by which one can guess that the equator passes here.

4. Democratic Republic Congo.

Not far from the border with the Republic of the Congo, on the outskirts of the city of Mbandaka, there is a commemorative plaque, as well as in a couple of places where large transport arteries (rivers or roads) cross the equator.

5. Uganda.

In the city of Kayabu, not far from Lake Victoria, there is a popular tourist complex in the form of two rings, where the equator line is indicated.

6. Kenya.

In this country, tourism is relatively well developed. That is why in Kenya, unlike other African countries, they are very actively covering the fact of crossing the equator. For example, in the city of Maseno, in the west of the country, there is a stele on the side of the road notifying that you have crossed the equator, and 200 meters to the east, right on the equator, there is a tourist complex with hotels and hostels. Also, the pointer is on the Nakuru - Eldoret highway, and other busy roads.

An interesting fact is that in the village of Nyang’oma-Kogelo, 100 meters from the equator, there is a school named after Senator and former US President Barack Obama. In addition, the house of the second wife of Obama's father is located in the same village.

7. Somalia.

The equator line runs through southern Somalia. But the country is immersed in its problems: hunger, poverty, Civil War and unstable political environment. Therefore, there is no time for tourism in Somalia. There is not a single stele or even a sign in the country that you are crossing the equator.

Indonesia is a state in southeast Asia, located on several hundred islands. The equator crosses the three largest islands: Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, as well as about ten smaller ones.

Along the entire line of the equator there are sculptures in the form of a globe and the designation of the direction of the equator.

9. Ecuador.

The very name of the country comes from the word equator. 20 km north of the country's capital Quito, in San Antonio is one of the most famous monuments on the entire line of the equator - the "Middle of the World".

In addition, Ecuador has highest point equator (4690 m), which is located on the southern slope of the Cayambe volcano, and only in this place on the equator can snow cover be observed. Another fact of interest is also Galapagos Islands(belonging to Ecuador) the equator runs right through the active Wolf volcano, which erupted on May 25, 2015.

10. Colombia.

The equator runs along the south of the country, where the impenetrable jungles of the Amazon are located. Tourists rarely set foot in these places. There is no infrastructure.

11. Brazil.

In Brazil, the equator line runs along the north of the country, in the west it goes through the impenetrable jungle. In the municipality of Rorainopolis, the equator crosses highway, in this place there is a memorial with an indicator of the direction of the equator in the form of a hockey stick. In addition, the city of Macapa in the Amazon Delta is located simultaneously in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. The Zeran stadium is located in this city, crossed by the equator line almost along the middle line of the field. Nearby is Marco Zero - a "monument" to the equator. From Marco Zero to the east, almost to the coast of the Amazon along the line of the equator, there is an "Equatorial street" (port. Avenida Equatorial). Also interesting is the fact that the delta of the world's most full-flowing Amazon River is located clearly on the equator.

In total, we counted 11 countries through which the equator line passes. In some countries, they are very proud of this fact and elevate it to the status of a national treasure, while others do not even react to it. In any case, crossing the equator line is a great event for a tourist, and this fact remains for a long time in memory.

Confess who dreamed at least once to escape to picturesque island by the sea? To around - beaches with shells, palm trees and coconuts? We are sure that everyone should afford a luxurious vacation on an island far from civilization.

In the collection - budget islands, which species are able to wipe the nose of the Maldives and Seychelles. Decide where you would like - to a calm island with untouched nature, resort with quality service, rich history or to a fun and noisy place with youth discos.

Fifth place: Mallorca

The largest in the archipelago of the Balearic Islands. It is located in the Mediterranean Sea and belongs to Spain. Prestigious resort with developed infrastructure, European level services in hotels and restaurants. There are no palm trees and coconuts - but it's full pine groves, oak forests and rocky cliffs. Hidden among the rocks are secluded sandy beaches, beautiful caves and clear sea.

Mallorca offers windsurfing and diving. The island has the ruins of medieval castles, monuments of the 10th century, a cathedral, historical Museum. To save money, look for a hotel closer to the center of the island. Getting to the beach is not much more difficult, but you save 20-30% on housing.

Visa: need a schengen

Season: June-October

The cost of a week of rest: At the beginning of June*

Fourth place: Phu Quoc

Island in Gulf of Thailand counts the best resort Vietnam. Quiet and peaceful Phu Quoc is protected from the elements mountain range- typhoons, unlike Nha Trang, do not happen here. The island has palm trees, tropical plants, golden sand and clear sea. The resort is well equipped - cafes, restaurants, car and water equipment rentals at every turn. English will come in handy: the island is not yet as Russified as Mui Ne and Nha Trang.

Fukuoka has a great beach holiday, but there are few attractions. Waterfalls, nature reserves, temples and pagodas can be seen in a week's vacation. Rent a bike and explore on your own - this way you will save a lot on excursions.

Visa: need not

Season: December-March

The cost of a week of rest: in March*

Third place. Corfu

The greenery of cypresses, the aromas of oranges and pine groves, the azure Ionian Sea and golden beaches - here it is, blooming Greece in all its glory! The most authentic island of Hellas is the perfect choice for a leisurely a relaxing holiday. Local residents do not tolerate fuss and remain unhurriedly calm in any situation, like their ancient ancestors. Getting to this resort, you involuntarily recharge with an atmosphere of tranquility and relax as much as possible.

The main attraction of the island - magnificent nature in Paleokastritsa. The coast of the village is indented by picturesque bays, in which clean sandy beaches and luxurious hotels are hidden. If you are planning a romantic getaway, head to the West for the most beautiful secluded beaches. In the South and in the Center - developed infrastructure and equipped coast.

Visa: need a schengen

Season: May-October

The cost of a week of rest: in June*

Second place. Phuket

Everything on the island is like in the movie Blue Lagoon": soft White sand, clear water and palm trees hang over the shore. Dozens of small islands in the sea and picturesque rocks- Ideal for photo shoots. People come here not only for natural beauties. Fun is concentrated in the Patong Beach area: go-go clubs, night discos, salons Thai massage. Near Bangla Road - the mecca of world sex tourism.

If you are not interested in such entertainment, plan a vacation in the Nai Harn beach area. This is a cozy bay between green hills with excellent conditions for diving. Calm family beach- Kata Beach, quiet secluded - Kata Noi Beach. And the cleanest and most beautiful in Phuket is Karon Beach. A wide sandy strip, a shallow sea with a gentle entrance and waves - here you feel like in a real tropical paradise. The only negative of Karon Beach is paid sunbeds, umbrellas and expensive restaurants.

Visa: need not

Season: December-April

The cost of a week of rest: in April*

First place: Tenerife

Tenerife has it all: an impeccably beautiful coastline with palm trees and soft sand, clean beaches marked with Blue Flags, unique nature, architectural landmarks. On the island high mountains, National parks with forests, waterfalls, a mysterious ancient pyramid and picturesque volcano. The best beach of the island is called Playa Arena - famous for its black volcanic sand. And besides the beautiful nature in Tenerife, there is an excellent promenade with restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops.

Tenerife is the largest canary islands. All beaches are free public. In the North - Teresita beach with light sand, which is specially imported from the Sahara. The windy South-East of the resort is ideal for surfing, the North is calm and quiet, ideal for families with children. To save money, book tours at the beginning of the season and in advance.

Visa: need a schengen

Season: May-October

The cost of a week of rest: in June*

Share your impressions of the rest on the islands in our groups

After a hard day at work, you want to drop everything and wave beyond the horizon. Silence. Water. Vacation on the ocean. Hammock under palm trees, cocktails and sunset. So where to go?

Hello!

Vacation on the ocean can be different. It all depends on the resort and time of year. In this article weLet's discuss the most popular destinations.

Rest on the Indian Ocean

The Indian Ocean is a distant and alluring romance. Here, surrounded by palm trees and local natives, you will have the opportunity to swim, eat seafood and try your hand at diving.

NOTE

Goa, India

The former Portuguese colony in India welcomes 2 million tourists every year. Everyone wants to retire with the ocean and Asian flavor.

Are you planning a trip? That way!

We have prepared some useful gifts for you. They will help save money at the stage of preparation for the trip.

Goa is divided into two parts:

1. North (young people and more economical tourists come here, there is a more developed infrastructure and more different entertainments);
2. South (considered the most decent and expensive, they are looking for peace and tranquility here).

Why go to Goa

• Beach holidays;
• Diving;
• Yoga;
• Ayurveda.

Pros of Goa

• Easy to get to;
• Budgetary by world standards;
• Good beaches;
• Developed tourism infrastructure;
• English is widely spoken;
• There are no periods of radical heat;
• Easy to rent a bike;
• Beautiful sunsets in the evenings.

Maldives

The Republic of Maldives is located on several hundred small coral islands in the Indian Ocean. Choose any and enjoy the warm ocean.

Why go to the Maldives

• Beach holidays;
• Separation from civilization;
• Diving;
• Surfing.

Pros of the Maldives

• No visa required;
• white sand beaches and clean water;
• Lots of exotic fruits;
• Hotels on the water;
• Safely.

By the way, in the Maldives you can swim with giant whale sharks. Amazing experience. To at least roughly imagine these sensations, watch the video.

When to go to the Maldives

The best time to visit the ocean in the Maldives is from to . Read more in the article about by month.

What to fear in the Maldives

• Few tourist entertainment;
• High prices for everything (especially drinking water);
• Sometimes stingrays and sharks swim to the islands;
• You can’t break corals and take them as a keepsake;
• Nudism is prohibited;
• Huge garbage fines.

What currency to take to the Maldives

It is better to take dollars on a trip. If the need arises, change them to local rufiyaas already on the islands. Usually this is not required and all calculations are made in US currency.

What to bring from the Maldives

Tea, handmade souvenirs and hookah sets.

Attention!Souvenirs made from red and black corals, shells, pearls and tortoise shell products are not allowed to be exported.

Mauritius

The island state belongs to East Africa. was the only habitat for the extinct Dodo bird.

Why go to Mauritius

• Beach holidays;
• Diving;
• Luxury vacation on the ocean.

Pros of Mauritius

• Great service: beaches, hotels, restaurants, etc.
• There is no crime;
• Time close to Moscow;
• A visa is made free of charge right at the airport;
• Around Coral reefs with interesting wildlife.

When to go to Mauritius

What to fear in Mauritius

• Prices bite;
• Left side traffic;
• Sharp corals are often found near the shore, sea urchins are found in them: do not forget about special shoes;
• The weather changes dramatically, don't forget to bring windbreakers or raincoats;
• There are strong currents beyond the nearest reefs. Do not swim there without an instructor.

What currency to take to Mauritius

It is better to take dollars or euros with you. There is no particular difference. In tourist places you can pay by credit card, though there will be a commission. For shopping in the markets, you will have to change the currency to local rupees.

What to bring from Mauritius

Wooden models of ships, souvenirs with a Dodo bird, key rings with multi-colored sand.

Seychelles

The state in East Africa is located on 115 islands. True, only 33 are inhabited. After the international airport was opened in 1971, tourists and big business flocked here. More information in the post on how to .

Why go to the Seychelles

• Beach holidays;
• Diving;
• Surfing;
• Fishing in the ocean;
• Wedding on the beach.

Pluses Seychelles

• No visa required;
• White sand beaches;
• The tourist infrastructure is well developed;
• Safe (occasionally stolen);
• On Eden Island, you can find a great Russian restaurant serving okroshka!

When to go to the Seychelles

The best time to visit the Seychelles is from November to March.

What to fear in the Seychelles

• food poisoning;
• Contact with sea urchins and poisonous fish;
• Complex logistics (it takes a long time to get to the islands);
• Large tips (up to 20%).

What currency to take to the Seychelles

On vacation it is better to take dollars with you. Rubles are difficult to change, and the euro is rotten. It is only necessary to change the currency officially: at banks, ATMs, at the airport. Currency trading is prohibited by law.

What to bring from the Seychelles

Souvenirs from palm leaves, sea nuts, coral and shell decorations.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali - huge island in the Malay Archipelago. An excellent choice for those who do not want to sit still. - the opportunity to combine beach gatherings and a cultural program in one trip.

Why go to Bali

• Beach holidays;
• Surfing;
• Introduction to Indonesian culture.

Pros of Bali

• Convenient logistics (there is an international airport on the island);
• Entertainment for tourists: nature reserves, attractions, etc.
• Lots of budget housing;
• Cheap scooter rental and petrol;
• Beautiful and diverse nature.

When to go to Bali

The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season, from May to October. Read more in the article about by month.

What to fear in Bali

• Big waves;
• street crime;
• Traffic jams;
• Bad roads;
• Cheating tourists.

What currency to take to Bali

It is best to take dollars or euros with you. Try to bring small bills. Please note that it is better if dollars are issued after 2004. Early options may not be accepted. The fact is that a lot of fakes were riveted here at one time.

Do not change the currency in suspicious guys and where the rate is with a bunch of nines. Most likely, they will try to deceive you.

If you plan to take bank cards with you, then before the trip, do not forget to inform your bank about this. Indonesia is considered not a very trustworthy country, so your card can simply be blocked for your own safety.

What to bring from Bali

Creations of local artisans: paintings, decorative weapons, dolls, masks, chess, etc. Girls bring oils, shampoos, soaps and cosmetics.

Sri Lanka

If you want an exclusively beach holiday, then stay on the southern part of the island (remember the monsoons). If you want drive and adventure, then rent a car and drive around the island in search of attractions.

What to fear in Sri Lanka

• unsanitary conditions;
• Dirty water (drink only from a bottle);
• Crime;
• Insect attacks (If mosquitoes get you, and the fumigator does not help, then buy cinnamon oil from the locals);
• Strong waves and reverse flow.

What currency to take to Sri Lanka

It is best to take dollars with you on a trip to Sri Lanka. Exchange them for rupees -no problem. Paying for purchases with bank cards should be done with caution. Lots of scammers. For exchange, it is better to take small bills. They have a better rate.

What to bring from Sri Lanka

This is Ceylon! Be sure to buy tea and spices: cardamom, pepper, ginger, curry, etc. Along the way, you can take cosmetics and coconut arak. This is such an alcoholic drink.

Holidays in the Pacific

The Pacific Ocean is boundless and beautiful. Many come to its resorts to get as far away from the familiar world as possible and get lost on small islands.

Fiji

Fiji is one of the most developed countries in Oceania. It is located on three hundred islands, more than two hundred of which are uninhabited. Movies and commercials about the tropical paradise are often filmed here, so you should have a good idea of ​​what it looks like: islands, palm trees, blue water and beauties in bikinis.

Why go to Fiji

• Beach holidays;
• Wedding ceremony;
• Swimming with sharks;
• Separation from civilization;

Pros Fiji

• Tipping is not customary;
• You do not need to make a visa;
• Wild nature;
• Clean sandy beaches;
• Every day you can watch the ebb and flow of the tide.

When to go to Fiji

The ideal time to visit is from May to October. The air temperature fluctuates around 25 degrees. There are no heavy rains and hurricanes.

What to fear in Fiji

• Before the rest, it is necessary to be vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, typhoid fever, diphtheria and tetanus;
• The islands are very difficult to get to;
• Often there are ethnic clashes between the inhabitants of the country, you should not take part in rallies, pickets and wear political symbols;
• On unequipped beaches, sea urchins live in corals. Don't forget your beach shoes;
• Be careful while swimming, diving and fishing. In wild places, it is quite possible to meet with poisonous inhabitants of the ocean, sharks and sea snakes;
• In cities they can be robbed, on tourist islands this is impossible.

What currency to take to Fiji

It is best to take dollars with you on a trip. But paying with them on the islands is not accepted. Change currency to local dollars.

What to bring from Fiji

The main souvenirs are handicrafts: bags, baskets, rugs, fans, wood crafts, shark teeth knives and various utensils and accessories related to the life of local aborigines.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

One of the most beautiful islands French Polynesia discovered by the infamous James Cook. Now it is a cult resort for wealthy tourists. Others do not get here: too far from civilization. Around the ocean.

Why go to Bora Bora

• Beach holidays;
• Diving;
• Separation from civilization.

Advantages of Bora Bora

• Wild nature;
• Clean beaches and water;
• Great service;
• There is no crime.

When to go to Bora Bora

The best time to visit is from May to October. At this time, there is little rain, and the temperature does not exceed 30 degrees.

What to fear in Bora Bora

• Wild prices for everything;
• long flight;
• There isn't much to do on the island;
• Marine predators are somewhere nearby.

What currency to take to Bora Bora

It is most advantageous to take euros with you on a trip. Dollars can also be exchanged, but the exchange rate will be worse. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere.

What to bring from Bora Bora

First of all, Bora Bora brings memories of a paradise vacation and a rested body. In the second -coconut soap, black pearls, marine attributes (shells, panama hats, wicker baskets, etc.)

Hawaii, USA

Boundless ocean, active volcanoes, jungle and comfortable hotels. Aloha, this is Hawaii! 160 islands - a separate state of the USA. This imposes a number of features. More about them.

Why go to Hawaii

• Beach holidays;
• Introduction to Hawaiian culture;
• Volcanoes;
• Surfing;
• Diving.

Pros of Hawaii

• Payment in dollars;
• General knowledge of English;
• Good level of service;
• There is no risk of catching a tropical infection;
• Rich nightlife.

When to go to Hawaii

Climate on Hawaiian Islands pleasant and even. There are 2 seasons: dry (April— September) and wet (October— March). Most tourists come during the wet season, because in summer the temperature is higher and hurricanes occur more often.

What to watch out for in Hawaii

• For a vacation in Hawaii, you need to make out . With all the ensuing consequences;
• There are no direct flights from Russia;
• Due to isolation from the mainland, prices are higher;

What currency to take to Hawaii

Dollars!

What to bring from Hawaii

Usually tourists buy traditional Hawaiian shirts, dresses and macadamia nuts on the islands. Plus a traditional set of souvenirs from a vacation on the ocean: jewelry, seafood, art and so on.

Holidays on the Atlantic Ocean

The Atlantic Ocean, although cool, can also become great place for a beach holiday. Here are some examples.

Algarve, Portugal

In Portugal, you can have a great rest on the ocean, without much breaking away from civilization. If desired, you canfind cheap hotelsor use couchsurfing . The Atlantic water here is quite clean, although colder than in the Mediterranean or the Black Sea. In addition to the Algarve, there are many other resorts, for example,.

Why go to the Algarve

• Civilized beach holiday;
• Introduction to Portugal.

Pros Algarve

• It is easy to come up with a cultural program;
• Clean and civil;
• Developed infrastructure;
• Rich nightlife;
• Easy to get to for Schengen holders.

When to go to the Algarve

The best time to visit is between May and October.

What to fear in the Algarve

• Need a Schengen
• Crowded beaches in season;
• Fraudsters;
• Cool water.

What currency to take in the Algarve

Take euro.

What to bring from the Algarve

All traditional Portuguese souvenirs. Bring home port or wine, cork products, cheese and olive oil.

Canary Islands

Autonomous region, located on islands in the Atlantic Ocean, belongs to Spain with all the ensuing consequences (language, currency, visa, etc.). Here you can find wonderful beaches with black volcanic sand, which will help you relax and forget about traditional everyday problems. In Tenerife, the legendary carnival takes place, which is sometimes compared in terms of beauty with the Brazilian one.

Why go to the Canaries

• Beach holidays;
• Carnival in Tenerife;
• Surfing (beaches at Guincho and Ericeira).

Pros of the Canary Islands

• Lots of delicious local wines;
• European service;
• Comfortable climate;
• Beaches with black volcanic sand.

When to go to the Canaries

The best time to visit is from May to May. A huge flow of tourists falls on Christmas and Easter.

What to fear in the Canaries

• Need a Schengen
• There are a lot of surfers (it is difficult for beginners);
• Cool water of the ocean;
• Few budget housing;
• A little space for a non-beach holiday.

What currency to take to the Canaries

Euro!

What to bring from the Canary Islands

Wine, cigars, aloe cosmetics, obsidian and olivine jewelry, and earthenware are usually brought from the islands. If you feel sorry for money for souvenirs, then you can find a huge cone of Canarian pine.

South Africa

A huge number of beautiful sandy beaches can be found on the Atlantic coast of South Africa. It is not far from the capital of this country - Cape Town. According to the stories of tourists, the atmosphere strongly resembles the south of France. Pleasant beach, adequate infrastructure, fresh breeze.

If desired, you can get to the cape good hope, there, before your eyes, two oceans will merge into one whole: the Atlantic and the Indian.

Why go to South Africa

• Beach holidays;
• Surfing;
• Swimming with sharks;
• Safari in nature reserves;
• Diving;
• Yachting;
• Visiting the penguins.

Advantages of South Africa

• Extensive The cultural program;
• Good service in tourist places (for Africa);
• Paradise for surfing.

When to go to South Africa

The best time to visit is from October to March.

What to fear in South Africa

• Long flight;
• Crime;
• Sunshine (take a hat, cream, glasses);
• In the border areas there is a risk of contracting malaria and yellow fever.

What currency to take in South Africa

The country's currency is the South African rand. There are many exchange points, but it is better to use bank ones. Hotels charge an extra fee. You cannot pay in dollars or euros. You can take both world currencies. Preferably in small bills.

What to bring from South Africa

Tanzinite stone jewelry, African handicrafts: paintings, masks, figurines, beaded jewelry and traditional marine souvenirs.

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic occupies two-thirds of the island of Haiti. People come here to lie on the beach and take a break from the usual civilization.

Why go to the Dominican Republic

• Beach holidays;
• Diving.

Pros of the Dominican Republic

• No visa required;
• Beautiful and clean beaches;
• Unusual cuisine.

When to go to the Dominican Republic

What to fear in the Dominican Republic

• Long flight;
• Problems with acclimatization;
• The locals do not speak English well;
• Internet problems (speed);
• petty theft;
• Expensive excursions;
• Problems with early check-in at hotels.

What currency to take to the Dominican Republic

The main currency is the peso. But tourists can safely pay with US dollars. If you decide to buy local currency be sure to keep your receipt. Otherwise, you will not be able to change the balance at the end of the holiday.

What to bring from the Dominican Republic

Tourists return from the Dominican Republic with bottles of rum, cigars, coffee and cocoa. They sell a lot of marine souvenirs: shells, stars, shark teeth, crabs and beautiful stones.

Rest on the Arctic Ocean

There is no beach holiday on the Arctic Ocean. In general, here you will not find anything from the traditional television picture. No palm trees or coconuts. All around snow, ice and crazy wind. But there are adventure lovers who plan whole expeditions to these parts to surf the endless expanses on snowmobiles and enjoy complete solitude and beauty. northern nature.

Interested in hot tours?

See what options are available for your dates. The site monitors offers from 120 firms. There is a convenient system for searching and filtering offers. All prices are final. Flight and accommodation are already included. Prices start from 6,000 rubles per person.

For readers of the LHTravel website, there is .

Afraid of being left without communication on the road?

All this becomes a reality for tourists coming to the resorts of the Indian Ocean.

The Indian Ocean Islands are an all-season destination for luxury holidays. It remains to decide what you like more: relaxation and contemplation, active classes sports, the opportunity to touch the antiquities or watch the most unusual creatures on Earth.

Mauritius

Tropical Mauritius was once a favorite haunt of pirates, and now the island attracts thousands of tourists every year with its luxurious hotels and snow-white beaches, surrounded by mountains of volcanic origin. This place is suitable not only for heat-loving couch potatoes, but also for inquisitive travelers who want to get acquainted with the amazing colonial architecture of the region, Indian temples and botanical gardens. Here you can also find rare birds, take a walk in the park with lions or swim with dolphins, or you can even test your strength by doing extreme sports - windsurfing and kitesurfing are very popular on the island.

Mauritius is located just 20 degrees south of the equator, so the temperature here does not drop below +25 ° C. Most tourists go here on vacation when the cold sets in in the Northern Hemisphere, so the peak tourist season The island is considered to be between October and April. However, at this time of the year it is quite hot and humid, and sometimes rainy. The best time to visit Mauritius is the local winter, which begins in the Southern Hemisphere in May.

Mauritius is quite small, only 45 × 65 sq. km, however, due to the unique landscape, the weather here is very changeable. You are unlikely to be able to quickly go around this small island, and all because it is riddled with narrow and winding roads, on which it is simply impossible to accelerate. In addition, when planning excursions, it is worth remembering that left-hand traffic has remained on the island since the British colonial era. Therefore, it is better for tourists to use the services of a taxi or an organized transfer.

The tourist center of Mauritius is the resort town of Grand Baie in the northeast of the island, where most of the hotels and entertainment facilities are concentrated. The west coast is the most expensive and prestigious: those who are accustomed to relaxing in the most luxurious hotels and who want to sunbathe on the most beautiful beaches with white sand. The south is considered the greenest, wildest and very interesting part of the island.

Where to settle

The pearl of Mauritius - Paradis & Golf Club on the Le Morne peninsula. This hotel is considered one of the best in southwest coast. It is especially remembered by the guests due to the breathtaking views from the rooms to the picturesque beach and the lagoon.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway with several restaurants, a brand-name spa, the largest fitness center in Mauritius, your own international golf course and a golf academy, Paradis Resort is ideal for those who prefer leisure and is engaged water sports sports. On the beach, hotel guests can use any equipment free of charge, including masks with a snorkel and windsurfing equipment. A separate fee will be asked only for the services of a personal instructor. By the way, this hotel hosts the Kite Jam Festival, which every year gathers professionals and amateurs of wind and kite surfing from all over the world. Within the framework of the festival, amateur competitions, master classes from world champions and the best athletes of the planet are held, as well as surfing and kiteboarding schools.

Madagascar

Madagascar is the largest island in the Indian Ocean, one of the poorest countries in the world, but at the same time one of the most safe countries Africa. Such nature as in Madagascar cannot be found anywhere else. The flora and fauna of the island are rich in absolutely endemic plants and animals that cannot be found in other parts of the world.

Baobabs grow everywhere in Madagascar. In some areas, impressive rows of giant trees line up, in the crowns of which an African sun pancake beautifully "gets stuck" during sunset, giving tourists the opportunity to take photos of amazing beauty.

Here you can see 70 species of lemurs and chameleons and even watch humpback whales. The best time to see whales migrating is from June to September, but they appear all year round in the waters of the east coast.

There is also a unique stone forest on the island, covering an area of ​​​​more than 150 thousand hectares and representing sharp karst spiers, the approximate age of which is a million years. Stone Forest consists of intricate labyrinths, through which tours are organized for tourists.

As a rule, travelers go to Madagascar to see the jungle, wild animals, take part in a safari or walk through adapted and safe tourist routes, which are complemented by a few days of relaxation on the coast. The most popular recreation areas foreign tourists- these are the resorts of the Anakao Peninsula and the beaches of a tiny island near Madagascar - Nosy Be.

The north of the country is very fond of divers all over the world, including from Russia. The long coastline with unique underwater plants and animals gives them a completely new diving experience.

The climate of Madagascar is very diverse: on the coast it is tropical, in the depths it is closer to subtropical, and in the south it is dry (arid), with high air temperatures that experience large daily fluctuations and with negligible rainfall. The island has two seasons. The hot and humid season - the Madagascar summer - lasts from November to April, the air temperature in these months is + 25 + 27 ° C, the cooler dry season is set from May to October (+ 20 + 24 ° C).

Where to settle

One of the best hotels the popular resort island of Nosy Be - Ravintsara Wellness Hotel. "Fantastic holidays", " royal holiday", "heaven on earth" - these are the reviews of tourists that Ravintsara received for beautiful and spacious bungalows on the beach, green gardens around, excellent service and gourmet cuisine. The hotel also offers entertainment for all tastes: boat trips, quad bike trips. The cost of accommodation - from 300 dollars per day.

Seychelles

Seychelles is an archipelago of magical beauty, 115 islands, many of which are uninhabited, scattered in the waters of the Indian Ocean off the coast East Africa. Breathtaking secluded beaches, unique nature and climate have made the islands perhaps the most idyllic tourist destination in the world.

The Seychelles are one of the few resort areas where you can just take and fly at any time of the year without worrying about seasonal changes weather. The climate here is quite stable throughout the year, average temperature air on the islands + 26 + 30º C. In the peak season (December-January), precipitation becomes more frequent on the islands, which disappear only by mid-March, but they cannot be called plentiful and, in fact, they do not interfere with tourists' rest.

The warmest and calmest weather is set in April-May and October-November. During this period, the islands have ideal conditions for swimming, snorkeling and diving: the water temperature reaches +29º C, and visibility often exceeds 30 meters.

Period from October to April - best time for lovers of fishing, and from April to October - the season for watching exotic birds. It is during these months that they breed, nurse their offspring and migrate to other lands. From May to September, fans of surfing and windsurfing flock to the Seychelles.

The main island of the archipelago, on which the international airport is located - about. Mahe. Those who fly to the Seychelles in search of peace and secluded relaxation are unlikely to appreciate the bustle of Mahe, but it is worth staying here at least in order to study the colonial architecture of the capital of the Seychelles - the city of Victoria, or visit Botanical Garden, which contains dozens of species tropical plants. The surroundings of Mahe Island have great opportunities for deep-sea diving: here you can not only swim with magnificent tropical fish, but also walk through the habitats of reef and nosed sharks, stingrays, sea ​​urchins, sea turtles.

Each island of the archipelago has its own atmosphere, and if you don’t want the noise of Mahe at all, then you can go to small islands where complete peace and quiet reigns.

Where to settle

One of the best hotels Mahe - Banyan Tree Seychelles, located on the picturesque southwestern coast of the island. There are 60 villas on the territory of Banyan Tree, each of which has its own pool.

This resort is in a quiet location away from anything that might disturb you during your holiday. This sometimes makes the guests think that they are on desert island, on which someone invisible provides round-the-clock comfort. Nearby there are no places of entertainment and significant tourist places, so it is chosen by those who are going to enjoy a vacation away from civilization. The cost of renting a villa - from 1200 dollars per day.

Maldives

The Maldives is about 20 groups of atolls, but only half of the islands that make up them are open to tourists. If you are planning to visit the Republic of Maldives for the first time and are looking for some general recommendations for choosing a resort, then you need to remember the main thing: each of the Maldivian resorts is on its own island, the sizes of the islands vary from 2.5 km to 150 m (from coast to coast). This means that all facilities in the resort (restaurants, bars, sports facilities, etc.) will be the only entertainment for the duration of your stay in the Maldives. Therefore, their infrastructure must be carefully studied in advance in order to long-awaited vacation do not fall into deep despair. In general, there are offers for tourists for every taste: from affordable bungalows adjacent to diving equipment rental points, to secluded luxury villas on stilts in the sea, from the terrace of which you can hang your legs and admire the colored fish swimming in the water.

The Maldives archipelago is located almost on the equator, the climate here is tropical, the temperature is stable all year round (about +28+30º C). The hottest season on the islands falls on our winter: from December to April, the islands are dry, and the air temperature reaches its highest levels.

Most of the activities in the Maldives are centered around water activities. Snorkeling and diving are very popular - vacationers have the opportunity to see the most beautiful coral reefs and get acquainted with 700 species of exotic fish that live in the Indian Ocean. Surfers (both advanced and beginners) also like to come here to spend an invigorating vacation, cutting the waves on the board. Fans of a more relaxing holiday may be interested in fishing in open water.

Where to settle

One of the most famous Maldivian resorts Shangri-La's Villingili Resort & Spa is located on the large and very picturesque Addu Atoll, on Villingili Island. Shangri-La offers accommodation in fully equipped traditional style villas. Guests can choose a house in the garden, on the shore or on stilts right above the water. It offers vacationers several restaurants, an outdoor pool, a gym, a kids club, a beauty salon and a spa center that offers various face and body care programs, scrubs, body wraps, as well as massage and stone therapy. On the territory there are tennis and badminton courts, a small golf course, as well as everything you need for snorkeling, diving, windsurfing and fishing.

Tourists are delivered to the resort from Male International Airport by plane or speedboat.

O. Ceylon

Ceylon (Sri Lanka) - real corner eternal holiday. The number of significant events that are celebrated here is more than 160 a year! Add to that colorful beaches, misty mountains, tea plantations and luxurious hotels - and you will get a truly unforgettable vacation in the realm of nature on the shores of the Indian Ocean.

Sri Lanka's well-developed tourist infrastructure provides holidaymakers with excellent leisure opportunities for all tastes, from "doing nothing" on the beaches and pampering in local spas to wildlife watching, extreme sports and pilgrimages to ancient cities.

The climate in Sri Lanka is equatorial. It is warm and humid all year round, with a rainy season in summer. Average annual temperature air on the island is +28º C, the water temperature in the Indian Ocean reaches +26º C.

The largest city of the island nation is noisy, crazy Colombo. Tourists come here to get acquainted with the main attractions: admire the colonial buildings, mosques, churches, Buddhist and Hindu temples, see the presidential residence (or the Queen's House), visit the National Museum and art gallery. There is also a wonderful zoo in Colombo, where tourists tend to get to the elephant show.

The beaches of the island enjoy great love of tourists. Moreover, Sri Lanka is gaining more and more popularity among those who love active water sports. Surfers managed to take a fancy to Arugam Bay - a place 314 km from Colombo, on the southeast coast of Ceylon, which was included in the honorary list of the ten best surf beaches in the world. Arugam Bay is popular with beginners, but for experienced athletes, the west coast has become a point of attraction, where you can catch an impressive wave. The town of Negombo on the west coast of Sri Lanka has become a hangout for kitesurfers who come here for the winds from May to the end of September.

Due to the diverse relief of the island, Ceylon has excellent conditions for rafting, hiking and mountain biking.

lovers wildlife come to Sri Lanka to watch whales and dolphins that appear in the waters near the town of Mirissa. At certain times of the year, sea turtles can also be seen coming ashore to lay their eggs.

Where to settle

The most famous resort for a beach holiday in Sri Lanka is Bentota and its surroundings. Most of the hotels offering accommodation for every taste are located here. Nevertheless, the hotels are located at a considerable distance from each other, so tourists can enjoy a relaxing holiday.

Beautiful secluded hotel in Benot - Saman Villas, which is located on a small rocky hill, right on the ocean. It is quiet and comfortable here, the number of rooms (and especially the open-air bathroom) pleases travelers who do not skimp on positive reviews. Tourists also note the excellent cuisine at the hotel restaurant and praise the treatments at the local spa. The cost of living is about 300 dollars per day.

The small village of Hikkaduwa is popular with divers and surfers, who are notoriously picky, so it's mostly budget hotels and apartments.

You can swim with a mask, swim in calm waters, which are protected from waves by a coral ridge, in the resort of Trincomalee, which is located on the east coast of the country.

Irina Lavery