Because let’s be honest. Responsible tourism is a necessity. Why?

Because tourism destroys. It’s a simple fact.

Cruise ships pollute. Airplanes pollute. Hotels pollute. Tourists add to the seas of plastic and waste all around the world.

The definition of responsible tourism is to travel and make a positive impact on the environment and local culture.

And so today, we are going to learn together! Keep reading for ways to master responsible tourism and ethical travel, and tips to help you spot animal abuse and exploitation from a mile away.

Tia Does Travel contains affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase through these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. For full information, take a look at our disclaimer here.

Why are we responsible?

In this day and age, we are hugely responsible as tourists and travelers of the world to sustain the natural wonders of our planet and protect the exploitation of animals. Full stop.

Not only for our benefit but to ensure there is a planet for other generations to travel to.

I have personally seen so much of the devastating effects of irresponsible tourism around the world and I am here to tell you that this is simply not ok. We can, and must do better!

But how can we, as simple tourists practice responsible tourism?

What can we do to protect the planet and its animals from harm? Can we really change the world with every trip?

My Journey to Responsible Tourism

I haven’t always practiced responsible tourism. I was once young naive and uneducated on the subject.

But then, I traveled a lot. And the effects of the human race on nature and animals shocked me to my core.

I have witnessed beaches so polluted with garbage they are deemed unfit to swim in. Forests burned to the ground from a single cigarette bud. Thousands of miles of coral life were wiped clean and Jungles with no trees left.

I have seen tigers dragged, declawed, and defanged for photo ops. Whales self-harm and die in misery and captivity.

Baby cubs are forced away from their mothers and starved so they can be bottle-fed by tourists.

Monkeys with chains around their necks and elephants are beaten to perform ”circus tricks”.

Have you ever heard a monkey screech in terror? An elephant mother crying and searching for her child? I have… ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!

How can you say you love these places? Travel there, tour around, have a great time? But then leave them behind and just think somebody else will take care of them?”

So what do we do that is so bad for the environment? And how can we do better?

Throwing our rubbish away anywhere we feel convenient is one of the main ways in which we are ruining our planet.

Going plastic-free isn’t always easy when you are traveling I know! But a few simple and cheap adjustments can make a HUGE difference in the grand scheme of things.

Easy ways to master responsible tourism.

1. Replace your disposables with reusable items.

For example, cotton rounds, cotton swabs, and tissues. We use trillions of them! I swapped to reusables 2 years ago, and haven’t looked back since!

In particular, I picked up swabs for my ears, pointy ones for my make-up, cotton rounds for skincare, and even tissues.

Yeap, all reusable, from the incredible Last Object, which by the way, delivers from various warehouses – both Europe, Canada, and the US, so you don’t have to pay loads for delivery!

Just ONE of these eco-friendly swabs replaces over 1000 cotton swabs that end up in our oceans! They come in gorgeous colors, are durable, and are super easy to clean! Use code TIA for 10% off all purchases!

2. Get a portable ashtray

Cigarette butts are the single greatest source of ocean pollution, with more than 60 million collected over 32 years! Yuk!

To save our oceans, just carry a portable ashtray like this one in your backpack!

This pack of two can be fastened to any backpack! With every use, you are taking a huge step towards responsible tourism.

3. Carry a water bottle and straw

A simple reusable cup and metal straw are the best, and contribute a lot to the solution; trust me!

This filter bottle is great as it reduces chlorine and micro-particles. You can fill it up from any tap, or at your hotel to avoid buying a million plastic bottles when you travel.

100,000 marine creatures and 1 million sea birds die from plastic entanglement in a year.

Personally, I have tried paper straws and pasta straws too, but I really hate them! This stainless steel straw set comes with a handy pouch, and a brush to clean too!

4. Switch to shampoo and conditioner bars

There is no need to carry plastic bottles that you will later throw away. Not when you can get top-quality shampoo and conditioner in a bar!

This shampoo and conditioner set smells like heavenly lemon and eucalyptus, and don’t laugh, but mosquitos hate the smell of lemon so this is a WIN for me!

Tips for FREE that all of us should practice!

• Recycle. Save your plastic for the recycle bins and for the love of God please STOP throwing trash in the ocean!
• Eat local food, and carry a takeaway box to take back any leftovers! Local food is most often delicious, and you are also supporting the local food vendors!

Responsible tourism and ethical travel tips – Saving the animals

1. Stay away from zoos and aquariums

A whopping 75% of zoos and aquariums and zoos around the world offer services directly linked to animal cruelty.

In zoos, animals are kept hungry, defanged, and declawed just to be used for tricks and photo ops.

In aquariums, the animals are poached from the wild or bred in captivity. They are basically forced to swim in the same closed encounters until they die.

Your money directly funds this cruelty and it needs to stop!!

At Seaworld aquariums in the States, 38 orcas, over 100 dolphins, and at least 58 belugas have died – how heartbreaking is that?

2. Research before you visit

A great way to practice responsible tourism is to do a little research before you visit, and read up on the establishment.

Do animals have freedom or are they in cages? Does this establishment offer close encounter photos with the animals?

Is there any type of animal show involved? If so, AVOID.

Stop visiting zoos and aquariums and instead opt for rescue and rehabilitation centers.

There are so many organizations out there doing their utmost to keep animals safe, and they deserve our support! Search online to find one close to you.

3. Say NO to Elephant trekking and shows

This particular part is a matter extremely close to my heart.

Elephants are my spirit animals, I adore everything about them. I always dreamt of meeting an elephant up close, and in my travels in Thailand, I was overjoyed to be granted the opportunity.

So I bought a full day sightseeing tour of Koh Samui…and in my excitement to see the island’s treasures …I naively and stupidly didn’t notice that it included an animal show.

To this day, I remember crying my eyes out watching these poor beautiful creatures forced to stand on stools, dance, and play football. I also witnessed monkeys being forced to peel coconuts with chains around their necks.

Worst of all, I remember the dozens of tourists and their young children laughing, taking photos, and enjoying this ”show” !!!

I truthfully have never felt more disappointed in myself and our cruel human race.

From then on out, I vowed to NEVER fund a single activity that puts animals in danger and pain. And I have kept my vow!

Why is elephant trekking bad for the animals?

It’s a common misconception that this is ok, seeing as elephants are so big in size- surely they can carry our weight!

But sadly, no. Elephant trekking is extremely painful for elephants.

Firstly, because it’s a wild animal, and it has to be beaten to be ”broken into submission”.

Secondly, because their skin needs constant moisture, or else it creates blisters from the sun.

In the wild, they bathe in muddy lakes – the mud is what keeps their skin safe- it’s their natural sunscreen!

In captivity though, they are simply not given the chance, resulting in agonizing skin blistering and torture.

4. Say YES to elephant sanctuaries

Fear not, you can meet these majestic and gentle giants in elephant sanctuaries, all around Thailand, Asia, and the world over!

One of my articles on elephant sanctuaries in Thailand got picked up and published by Adventographer. It is packed with useful information so go ahead and read it to find the best and most ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand!

5. Take no pets

Sloths, Reptiles, and other exotic animals are not our friends. And as a result, they do not want to live in a cage in our living room!

They belong in the wild!

Disturbingly, studies have shown that sloths, monkeys, and reptiles have a much higher rate of dying within 6 months of captivity than they do from living in the wild.

If you are traveling and you come across an exotic animal in need of help, please take it to a sanctuary. Not your living room!

6. Do not eat the world’s Endangered species

Actually, we have had an endangered species act since 1973…so how are animals STILL going extinct?

Well, firstly, the black market is thriving. Secondly, we are eating away the endangered animals of our planet.

The biggest offenders in this regard are Japan, China, Vietnam, Africa, and Canada.

There, you’ll find illegal delicacies like shark fin soup, Chinese salamander, Caribu, and even mountain Gorilla dishes.

Needless to say, responsible tourism and eating your way through endangered species do not go hand in hand!

7. Safely Dispose your Covid Masks

This pandemic started by doing nature a favor – beaches were less polluted, marine and wildlife were thriving.

2 years after the fact though, and we have a ridiculous amount of waste in the oceans again. This time, it’s from plastic gloves, masks, and self-test sticks.

To help, simply dispose of your rubbish in bins, and always choose recycling bins where they are available!

Some interesting research

Did you know that some of the earth’s most breathtaking gems are either ruined or greatly suffering from extinction?

China is the biggest marine polluter in the world, and Indonesia follows second, contributing 10% of global marine pollution.

Famous islands and beaches ruined by irresponsible tourism:

• The Outer Banks, North Carolina – Human development (construction of hotels and beach houses) has resulted in dangerous rising sea levels.
• Maya Bay, Ko Phi Phi Island, Thailand. The famous beach used in Leonardo Di Caprio’s blockbuster ”The Beach” is now closed indefinitely to tourists. The reason? Its marine ecosystem suffered devastating damage from tourism. Phi Phi islands, in general, are suffering greatly and I witnessed the effects myself.
• Kuta Beach in Bali, Indonesia Covered in garbage left by tourists. Especially bad during rain season when the sea washes away thousands of tonnes of rubbish on this former little paradise.

Paradisical destinations that are almost destroyed

• Boracay Island, the Philippines With over 1.7 million visitors per year, Bocarray island is now in ruins. Like Maya Bay, the beaches are so polluted and dirty, the island is now closed off to tourists. Officials are hoping that nature will manage to restore itself from the damage.
• Kamilo Beach, Hawaii, United States. Now considered one of the dirtiest beaches on the planet! Thousands of plastic debris – from bottles, containers and even hairbrushes wash up every year. 
• Cozumel Island, Mexico. This paradise is suffering from high temperatures in the waters. This is due to a large number of cruise ships and boats, carrying visitors to visit. As a result, it has almost wiped clean its coral reefs and marine life.
• Pig Beach – Bahamas. An entire colonies of wild pigs were found dead a few years ago. Investigations found beer, rum, and sand in their bellies. Apparently there are morons out there who think feeding wild pigs sand and booze is a good idea!

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I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to read this article.

If you are a traveler already practicing these responsible tourism tips then I applaud you! And I honestly thank you.

If not, I sincerely hope I have given you food for thought…and the right solutions to travel better and more ethically.

What do you, as travelers do, to travel more ethically? Join the discussion by following my Instagram account

And remember, together we can do it! Every little helps!

Love, Tia

The post Responsible Tourism – How To Travel And Save Our Planet appeared first on Tia Does Travel.

Why do I choose to travel light?

The most obvious reason is to cut the costs down! On my last trip to Amsterdam, Brussels, and Paris, I had an airline try to charge me 160 euros for a 20-kilo bag! I swear airline regulations and extra fees are getting more ridiculous by the minute. Personally, I refuse to pay such high fees for a stupid bag. I work way too hard on my money to throw it out the window.

So when I can, I choose a carry on bag. I will admit, It took years of traveling to make me able to pack light. I am one of those girls that like to have an outfit for every occasion- but when I traveled to Bali I realized that half my clothes stayed untouched in my suitcase! So on my next flight, I made a carry on packing list and traveled with a cabin bag!

Tia Does Travel contains affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase through these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. For full information, take a look at our disclaimer here

General tips for packing a carry on that I follow

The No 1 rule is to find a way to minimize and reuse. Essential items only are a must, and planning your outfits ahead is crucial! Packing a carry on has also helped me minimize my use of plastic and travel responsibly and eco-friendly! Additionally, when you haven’t got the space, you tend to choose each item you pack carefully and only pack the things you will really need.

Keep reading for my tried and tested Carry on packing list

Clothes

The key is to pack clothes you can mix and match! I usually pack thin layers that i can take off and on, and they take up less space than bulky items! Of course, your list will vary greatly depending on the climate of your destination.

Carry on packing list – Summer

Your summer carry on packing list will also change depending on the destination. Are you traveling somewhere exotic or in Europe? And lastly, is the country Muslim? Being respectful to a countries customs is vital, and the clothes you will pack will be different for sure! My packing list for Jordan which is a Muslim country was entirely different from my Thailand packing list even though I traveled to both countries in July of different years.

In general though, for summer I always a pair of comfortable leggings that I travel with. Then I think of mix and match items I can combine. 3x pairs of shorts, 2x long maxi skirts, and some simple tops in colors of white, black, cream and grey are fab. As for going out outfits, I usually go with 1-2 summer dresses that I can dress up with heels or down with sandals! Pack a light cardigan you can wear on the plane (long-haul flights especially) and keep with you for those chillier summer evenings!

Summer  Tip: A multiuse sarong or pashmina will be a lifesaver! Wear it at the beach, or to cover up for temple/church/mosque visits! 

Beachwear. Then, of course, you have beachwear. I always pack mix and match bikinis, and 1 pair of flip flops. I also never pack towels. Good hotels actually provide beach towels, but if not, I buy one from a souvenir shop when I land!

Hair

I generally like to keep my hair simple, especially on holiday! I have naturally wavy hair, so I wear the beach hair look and let my hair air dry! If your hair is not as easy to manage, choose one piece of hair appliance you can do many things with like this one from Remington, that is infused with Moroccan oil or my personal favorite – the triple wave barrel! The barrel created the most mermaid style hair ever, I’m in love with it!

Hair Tip: Summer often means humidity, so I always pack a few headbands, elastic bands and hair grips for the times my hair is looking crazy. This is also an easy way to change and update any outfit! 

Carry on packing list – Winter

Traveling during winter makes your carry on packing list a little more difficult. After all, jumpers and boots take up lots of space! For years, I couldn’t manage it without a large suitcase but I have finally found the secret recipe! For starters, winter means one thing – layers. But not just any old layers. Thermals! Amazon came to the rescue when I went snowboarding in Bansko, and needed to pack a suitcase for ski and snowboarding. All the gear I found in Cyprus, cost an arm and a leg, and I was in need of thermals!

So I bought these thermal tops online, and have been using them ever since! Thermal tops are brilliant – they don’t take up space, are inexpensive, and keep you super warm in the cold! Layer a jumper on top, a thick scarf, gloves and your coat and you are good to go! Packing wise, I would suggest packing a few thermals, 2-3 jeans and jumpers, and some leggings to travel with.

Winter packing Tip: Wear your bulkiest items at the airport, and keep your coat, scarf, and gloves outside of your carry on. 

The best item to have when traveling and packing light

The best item is without a doubt a good quality backpack, which is a total lifesaver! A good backpack for starters will help you store a ridiculous amount of items outside of your carry on. It also the safest way to carry weight around (no more bad backs please!) Lastly, you can double it as a beach bag, city tour bag and everything in between. Winner!

Shoes

Shoes take up space, so here, you need to be frugal! For the summer, my carry on packing list consists of one pair of flip flops and one pair of nice flat sandals. Additionally, a pair of summer wedges in a nude/brown color will come in handy too, and you can combine them will all your outfits!

Carry on packing list – how will I fit all this in a cabin bag?

Its time I share with you my biggest secret….packing cubes! In all honesty, packing cubes are the best thing since sliced bread. I don’t know who came up with them, but I salute you! Packing cubes are the holy grail to anyone wishing to be neat and travel light. They keep your luggage organized, and protect your clothes and luggage from stains and wrinkles. They also help you fit more in your cabin bag so you can pack more in it! Lastly, say goodbye to living out of a messy suitcase on your travels! Just put the cubes inside the closet and drawers and avoid the clutter 🙂

These packing cubes are the best! They are made of durable High-Quality Nylon Fabric quality zippers and have a see-through mesh top. They come in a pack of 6 sizes and a variety of colors (i have the navy blue ones). I generally pack:

• 1 cube for toiletries
• A cube for underwear./socks/bikinis
• 1 cube for trousers, skirts dresses
• A cube for tops, shirts
• 1 cube for extras or electronics
• I carry the smallest one with me at the airport 🙂

Electronics

A good international travel adapter will be your saving grace and help minimize space. On this one adapter, you can charge any device, in any socket in the world, so there is no need for extras! Winner! Additionally, you will need your phone charger and possibly a power bank to charge on the go! You can carry a kindle or a camera with you in your backpack! Kindles are great and lightweight, and you can download lots of books without carrying a single one!

Carry on packing list – Toiletries

Girls (and boys) will understand my pain. We use so.much.stuff! It’s crazy! So if you are a girl that loves her skincare, lotions and potions keep reading! I will show you my secret tips about incorporating ALL your skincare and lotions in your carry on packing list!

Travel bottles. I have personally been raving about those to anyone who would listen for the past year! You can get these types of bottles everywhere, and I have tonnes of them! But many of them leak, and after a while, I have no recollection of what is inside each bottle! That’s why I am so in love with these ones! They come in a pack of 8 bottles in a clear PVC bag. They are made of soft silicone, are 100% leak-proof, waterproof and squeezable! The best thing about them though is that these travel containers have an ID window with 6 options to change the text that shows. Simply twist the movable label to find the right word; i.e shampoo – shower gel, conditioner, body lotion, etc and you will never mix up another product again. Honestly, genius!

Solid shampoo and conditioner (unisex) Unless you are comfortable using the shampoo and conditioner your hotel will provide (and I am really not), you will need a shampoo and conditioner. These solid bars are brilliant for many reasons. For starters, they are made from natural ingredients, and they smell amazing! Secondly, they last for months on end and the fact that they are solid means they won’t take up on your liquid allowance! Lastly, they are plastic-free…Yay!

Pack ONE cotton bud. Yeap, you heard me, ONE! The world’s first plastic-free and reusable cotton swab is here and I am beyond excited! Just ONE of these eco-friendly swabs replaces over 1000 cotton swabs that end up in our oceans! They come in gorgeous colors, are durable, and super easy to clean! Take the pledge today, and be part of the revolution of travel conscious, responsible travelers in the world! My link gives you 10% off your basket 🙂

bamboo toothbrush (unisex) Obviously, we all brush our teeth, and you will pack a toothbrush. But don’t just pack any toothbrush, you are better than that! Eco-friendly and Biodegradable Toothbrushes are a must in protecting our planet from pollution and are surprisingly cheap! Each toothbrush is made of high-quality natural bamboo, that is biodegradable and sustainable. Once you’ve finished with your toothbrush, you can recycle the bristles and reuse the handle in arts & crafts!

Travel jewelry box – (unisex ). Losing jewelry in my suitcase is my absolute nightmare! This tiny, elegant travel jewelry box has hidden compartments to fit all your favorite holiday pieces whilst occupying only a teeny tiny place in your cabin bag!

Mini perfume/aftershave bottle (unisex). As you know, your carry on packing list should have limited liquids of under 100ml with a total allowance of 1L. These inexpensive mini bottles can hold 6ml of your perfume and aftershave and are perfect on the go. They come in a pack of 3 so you can keep one in every bag and hold practically no weight at all!

So here we are folks! thank you for reading through my carry on packing list and I really hope I have helped you save some money today!

Let me know in the comments if you have any other packing light tips for me to try, and subscribe below for travel discounts and monthly newsletters!

Love, Tia

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The post Carry on packing list – An expert guide to packing light! appeared first on Tia Does Travel.

Are you a Cypriot passport holder? Do you love traveling but cannot be bothered or have time to apply for visas? Then fear not!

My expert guide tells you all about the Cyprus Passport Visa Free Countries you can visit.

The list will actually surprise you, and in all likelihood, give you some serious wanderlust! So if you want to travel to paradise without a visa, keep reading!

Tia Does Travel contains affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase through these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. For full information, take a look at our disclaimer here.

Us Cypriots are pretty lucky. Not only are we located in a perfect geographical position in Europe, but our island is pretty much paradisical too.

But regardless of how incredible Cyprus is, the world is far too beautiful to stay in one place! And luckily for us, there are so many!

The visa requirements for Cyprus citizens are pretty relaxed in so many countries worldwide!

So let’s get started with the gorgeous places you can book last minute, visa-free and cost-free!

I am also dividing in continents to help you plan your trip around them. Personally, I tend to hop to nearby countries!

For example, I stopped in New York City for two days, before hopping on a plane from Miami to the paradisical Belize in Central America/ Caribbean.

After a week there, I took another plane to the poster child of green living – Costa Rica!

Can I really travel Visa Free?

In the list below, you will see the very many countries Cypriot passport holders can travel to without a visa.

Make sure you carry documents of hotel bookings etcetera, in case you get asked at the airport.

Most importantly, ensure your passport is valid for another 6 months after your date of entering the country. This is required for all international travel

Cyprus passport visa free countries -Understanding the different types of Visas.

To fully understand what you are reading you must familiarise yourself with the different types of visas around the world.

Below I am explaining the 3 main types!

1. E Visa – What does the term E-Visa mean?

An eVisa, or electronic visa, is a digital visa that is stored in a database rather than stamped or glued into the bearer’s passport.

The eVisa is linked to the individual’s passport number.

Applications for E-Visas are typically done over the Internet and the applicant will receive a paper document to present while traveling.

2. VOA – Can I get Visa on Arrival?

This one is tricky. The term VOA means that you can arrive at the destination airport and be granted a visa right after a short process.

Now, most countries give you the option of an e-visa or visa on arrival.

My advice? ALWAYS choose the e-visa.

The reasons are many. For starters, the queues at the airport’s visa desks are often huge, and do you really want more delays after surviving a long-haul flight?

Secondly, there is always the chance of being denied entry whilst there. Maybe you are missing a document, or there is miscommunication due to language barriers.

Whatever the case, if you can apply for an e-visa online, save yourself the hassle and stress and choose that option!

3. Visa Required – What does the term ”Visa Required” mean?

When you see the term ”visa required” that means you need to contact the country’s embassy and follow their instructions to obtain a visa.

This will almost always result in a personal appointment at the embassy itself.

TIP: Try to apply for your visas well in advance! Peak travel times mean you might not get an appointment for weeks!

My ex-boyfriend decided to join me in America last minute and we had to jump through hoops to get his visa on time.

The more information you provide at your appointment, the better.

Flights (with return dates), confirmed hotel booking, and a letter of invitation if you are visiting someone always help get you approved for a visa!

Remember: Most passports need to be valid for a further 6 months to be stamped.

Therefore, if your passport is close to its expiry date, make sure you renew it first!

Cyprus passport visa-free countries – Divided By Continent

Asia

I am obsessed with Asia. I have created some of my most loved travel memories on this continent and cannot wait to visit more!

Traveling in Asia is generally cheaper than other continents, and in my opinion, safer too.

If you are a nature lover like me, and a total sucker for paradisical locations, Asia is the continent for you!

Read more about Cyprus passport visa-free countries in Asia!

Cyprus passport visa free countries in Asia

• Indonesia – Visa-Free for 30 days. If you haven’t yet been to Bali, join me this August 2020, for the first Tia does Travel group trip! Contact me for information!
• Brunei – visa-free / 90 days
• Uzbekistan – Visa-Free – 90 days
• United Arab Emirates – Visa-Free – 90 days
• Timor – Leste – Visa-Free – 90 days
• Taiwan Visa-Free – 90 days

• Singapore Visa Free – 90 days
• Qatar – Visa-Free – 90 days
• South Korea – Visa-Free- 30 days.
• Philipines – Visa-Free – 90 days
• Palestine – Visa Free
• Malaysia – Visa-Free – 30 days
• Japan – Visa- free for 90 days
• Israel – Visa Free for 90 days. Tel Aviv is beautiful and not at all what I expected. Only a short 35minute flight from Larnaca airport, Israel is perfect for a mini weekend getaway!

Countries in Asia that require an E-visa or Visa On Arrival

• Cambodia – visa on arrival / eVisa / 30 days
• Turkey – eVisa that is valid for 30 days. Cypriots are only allowed to travel to Turkey if they go through another country- for example, Greece. When I visited Istanbul, I went through Athens first. To be honest, Istanbul for me is Greek, how it has always been! So I always say I visited beautiful Constantinoupoli and not Turkey.
• Thailand – Visa on Arrival for 15 days. For longer travels like mine, a visa is required. If you are visiting Thailand, do try to take your time, its utter paradise! I personally split my time between Phi Phi islands, Koh Samui (which not a lot of Cypriots visit but its the BEST island) and Phuket.
• Sri Lanka – Evisa or Visa on arrival for 30 days
• Nepal – Visa on Arrival

• Bangladesh – visa on arrival / 30 days
• Bahrain – visa on arrival / eVisa / 14 days
• The Maldives -Visa on Arrival/ 30 days. The Maldives is the poster child for honeymooners and people with a taste for luxury and the budget to match!
• Lebanon -Visa on Arrival /30 days. A popular mini-break for Cypriots as its close by and inexpensive!
• Laos – Visa on arrival /30 days.
• Kuwait – Visa on arrival or E-visa /90 days. E-visas are easier and can save you a lot of time queuing at the airport. When given the choice, I always go for the e-visa option!

• Kyrgyzstan – Visa on arrival or E-visa /90 days
• Jordan – Visa on Arrival. Jordan is captivating! The stark contrast of Cosmopolitan Amman, the eerie beauty of the Wadi Rum Desert and the breathtaking Lost city of Petra! There is an incredible amount to see and do here, and I recommend a visit 100%.
• Iran – Visa on arrival /30 days

Countries in Asia that require a visa

• Bhutan – visa required
• Tajikistan – eVisa – 45 days
• Turkmenistan – Visa Required
• Syria – Visa Required
• Saudi Arabia – Visa Required –
• Pakistan – Visa Required
• Oman – eVisa for 30 days
• North Korea – Visa required
• Iraq – Visa Required

• Myanmar – eVisa for 28 days
• Afganistan – Visa Required
• Mongolia – Visa required
• India – e-Visa for 60 days

• China – Visa required.

My Chinese visa cost me 30 euros when I visited a few years ago.

I booked an interview with the Chinese Embassy in Cyprus where I presented my air-tickets and information.

I was visiting a friend in China so I had to obtain a signed letter from her (not in electronic form) that was confirming I would be staying with her and that she was inviting me into the country.

So that took time, and thankfully I started the process a few months in advance. Simple tourists staying in hotels will have an easier experience I imagine!

The Chinese are notorious with being suspicious of Westerners. But once there, China is incredible!

You will experience cultural shocks yes, but also incredible architecture, food, nature and just an entirely different way of living!

And no, not everyone eats cats and dogs! In fact, this only happens in remote villages very far away from ”civilization” . Don’t believe everything you read online!

America / The Americas

The Americas are huge and cover a vast number of countries, climates, and vibes.

From the incredible Caribbean to the United States of America and spicy Latin America, this is a continent you will want to revisit – a lot.

Below, find The Cyprus passport visa free countries in the Americas!

Cyprus passport visa free countries in the Americas

• Dominica – Visa-Free- 90 days
• Costa Rica – Visa-Free- 90 days
• Colombia – Visa-Free- 90 days
• Chile – (South America) – Visa-Free- 90 days
• Brazil visa-free / 30 days

• Belize (North America) – visa-free / 30 days
• Barbados (North America) – visa-free / 30 days
• Bahamas (North America) – visa-free / 30 days
• Argentina (South America) – visa-free / 90 days
• Antigua and Barbuda (North America) – Visa Free – for 90 days
• Dominican Republic (North America) – Visa-Free – 90 days

• Equador – Visa-Free – 90 days
• El Salvador – (South America) – Visa-Free – 90 days
• Grenada – Visa-Free – 90 days
• Guatemala – Visa-Free – 90 days
• Bolivia visa on arrival / 90 days
• Haiti – Visa-Free – 90 days
• Honduras (South America) – Visa-Free – 90 days
• Jamaica – Visa Free
• Mexico – Visa Free – 180 days

• Nicaragua – Visa-Free – 90 days
• Panama – (North America) Visa-Free – 180 days
• Paraguay (South America) – Visa-Free – 90 days
• Peru – Visa Free – 90 days
• Saint Kitts and Nevis – Visa-Free – 90 days

• Saint Lucia (North America) Visa-Free – 90 days
• St Vincent and the Grenadines Visa-Free – 90 days
• Trinidad and Tobago – Visa-Free – 90 days
• Uruguay – South America – Visa-Free – 90 days

Countries in the Americas that require a visa

• Canada – (North America) – eTA / 180 days . An eTa is a type of visa that requires planning in advance. A travel agent can take care of all of that for you!
• Guyana – Visa Required
• Cuba – Tourist card. You will need to contact a travel agency like Travel Pass that has a specific license to issue visas to Cuba.
• Suriname – Visa Required
• United States of America – Visa Required.

Do Cypriots need a visa for USA?

Absolutely! My US visa was probably the most time-consuming visa to obtain and the most expensive.

My personal application was pretty smooth though. I was 29 at the time, with a stable career and income and no criminal priors.

I filled in an online form – this process can take 45 minutes to 2 hours. The reason is that with every answer you provide, the form changes its questions!

You need to have details like your family’s ID numbers and dates of birth, your past school, and university addresses, and various others.

After completing the form, you have to pay 150 dollars online (with a bank card) before you are transferred to an online calendar with available dates and times for your interview at the American Embassy in Nicosia.

You will need to take various documents with you – they will email you the information.

How to obtain an American Visa – Part 2

Upon arrival at the embassy, you will wait outside for your appointment.

Mine was at 7 am but I wasn’t seen until 9 am. As a result, you might need to take the morning off work!

Before entering the embassy, your phone/possessions will be taken away and kept in a box.

You will pass through various security checks and end up at the office for your interview. Once your visa is approved, you’ll hand in your passport and leave.

The embassy will send your passport back to you in 2-5 working days via ACS couriers, stamped with the American Visa.

The good news is that most tourist Visas are valid for 10 years!

Australia / Oceania

This incredible continent has been calling my name for a while now.

As a result, I am planning a trip to Australia, Fiji, and Micronesia!

The reason I am postponing is that I want to have my diving diploma before I go. Australia has the greatest barrier reef in the world!

You will be surprised by the number of paradisical countries in Oceania that we Cypriots, can travel to without a visa!

And I have a feeling that you would be utterly inspired to book a trip- pronto.

Cyprus passport visa-free countries in Oceania are coming right up!

Cyprus passport Visa Free countries in Oceania

• Fiji – Visa Free for 120 days
• Kiribati – Visa-Free – 90 days
• Marshall Islands – Visa-Free – 90 days
• Micronesia – Visa Free – 90 days
• New Zealand – Visa-Free – 90 days

• Palau- Visa-Free – 90 days
• Samoa – Visa-Free – 90 days
• Solomon Islands – Visa-Free – 90 days
• Tonga – Visa-Free – 90 days
• Tuvalu Visa-Free – 90 days
• Vanuatu – Visa-Free – 90 days

Countries in Oceania that require a visa

• Australia – eVisitor 90 days
• Papua – New Guinea – e- visa or visa on arrival for 90 days
• Nauru – visa required.

Cyprus Passport Visa Free Countries in Africa

Africa – also referred to as Mother Africa is the “Mother of All Humanity”.

This is because all of humanity’s DNA can be traced back there (Moran, 2014).

Originally, all of our current continents were all on one large continent called Pangea. But over time each continent broke off and migrated to the places they are today.

Africa is, of course, huge – there are 54 countries in this continent alone!

Cyprus passport Visa Free Countries in Africa

• Cape Verde – visa-free / 30 days
• Botswana – visa-free / 90 days
• Lesotho – Visa Free
• Sao Tome and principe – Visa free for 15 days
• Senegal – Visa Free for 90 days
• Seychelles – Visa Free for 90 days

• South Africa – Visa-Free for 30 days
• Tanzania – Visa-Free for 30 days
• Uganda – Visa =- free for 90 days
• Zambia – Visa-Free for 90 days
• Zimbabwe – Visa-free for 90 days
• Morocco – Visa-free for 90 days
• Mauritius – Visa-free for 90 days

• Malawi – Visa on arrival for 30 days
• Gambia – Visa-free for 90 days
• Eswatini – Visa-Free for 30 days

African countries with easy visa options

• Comoros -Visa on Arrival
• Benin – eVisa – 30 days / visa on arrival – 8 days
• Angola – eVisa / 30 days
• Ethiopia – e-visa for 90 days
• Rwanda – Visa on Arrival or e-visa for 30 days

• Somalia – Visa on arrival for 30 days
• Togo – Visa on arrival for 7 days
• Mozambique – Visa on arrival for 30 days
• Mauritania – Visa on arrival
• Madagascar – Visa on arrival for 30 days

• Kenya – Visa-free for 30 days
• Gabon – Visa on arrival or e-visa for 90 days
• Egypt – Visa on arrival or e-visa for 30 days
• Dijibouti – e-visa for 31 days

African countries that require a visa

• Ivory Coast – Visa Required
• Congo – Visa required
• Chad – Visa required
• Central African Republic – Visa required
• Cameroon – Visa Required

• Burundi – Visa Required
• Burkina Faso – Visa Required
• Algeria – visa required
• Liberia
• Libya
• Namibia

• Niger
• Nigeria
• Sierra Leone
• South Sudan
• Sudan
• Tunisia

• Mali
• Guinea
• Ghana
• Eritrea
• Equatorial Guinea

Europe

Now we all know, that we do not need a visa to travel within Europe.

But how long can we stay there?

And can we really enter every country in Europe without a second thought or visa?

The answer is, no! In conclusion, while we have free reign in most of Europe, there are some exceptions you should know!

European Countries with visa limitations

• Albania – Visa on arrival or E-visa for 90 days only
• Armenia – Visa- Free for 180 days only
• Belarus – Visa-free for 30 days only
• Bosnia and Herzegovina – Visa on arrival or E-visa for 90 days
• Georgia – Visa-Free for up to 1 year
• Kazakhstan – Visa-Free for 30 days
• Kosovo – Visa-Free for 90 days
• Azerbaijan – e-Visa for 30 days

• Macedonia – Visa Free for 90 days
• Moldova – Visa Free for 90 days
• Montenegro – Visa Free for 90 days

• Russia – Visa Required. Don’t confuse the European continent with the European Union. In conclusion, Russia requires a tourist visa to allow entry to the country! Russia also has specific requirements needed, which a licenced travel agent can take care of for you.
• Serbia – Visa Free for 90 days
• Ukraine – Visa Free for 90 days

Cyprus passport visa free Countries in Europe with no time limit

• Andorra
• Austria
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Denmark
• Chech Republic
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Greece
• Germany
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Ireland

• Italy – One of the most breathtaking countries in Europe.

I have traveled to Italy extensively and even lived in Florence for a year!

So when I say you need to visit… You really need to visit!

Above all, the beauty of Italy goes much further than the touristy, yet must-visit Rome. If you aren’t familiar with this stunning country I’ve got all the reasons you need to visit Italy right here!

More of visa Free Europe

• Latvia
• Lithuania
• Liechtenstein
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Monaco
• Netherlands

• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• San Marino
• Slovenia

• Slovakia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland

• The United Kingdom.

As you probably know, the UK no longer belongs in the EU. Luckily for us, the country remains visa free for the next 2 years (therefore until 2022).

Europe or not, the UK is still a lovely country that will always have a piece of my heart.

11 years of my life were spent in London, a city so vibrant and full of life, it is pretty hard not to love! Christmas in London is always magical, the shopping is second to none, and let’s not forget it is the undeniable food capital of the world!

You will taste incredible food in London, I can tell you that with certainty!

Follow my journey

Phew, we made it to the end! Thank you for reading through my Cyprus Passport Visa Free Countries list!

It has been pretty eye-opening for me too – my mind is creating itineraries as we speak! As for you, I hope I have provided all the information for every trip you are thinking to take!

Make sure you subscribe at the bottom with your email for more travel articles, and follow my journey on my Instagram too!

Important – Travel eco-friendly

As always, I would like to take the time to stress the importance of responsible, eco-friendly travel.

I wrote a whole guide on how to travel responsibly, and i urge you all to read it.

Our planet is dying and irresponsible tourism and littering are doing nothing to help! As a general rule, say NO to plastic and excessive waste. I am listing my favorite products below!

• Replace your disposables with reusable items.

For example, cotton rounds, cotton swabs, and tissues. We use trillions of them! I swapped to reusables 2 years ago, and haven’t looked back since!

Yeap, all reusable, from the incredible Last Object, which by the way, delivers from various warehouses – both Europe, Canada, and the US.

Just ONE of these eco-friendly swabs replaces over 1000 cotton swabs that end up in our oceans!  Use code TIA for 10% off all purchases!

• Get a portable ashtray

Cigarette butts are the single greatest source of ocean pollution, with more than 60 million collected over 32 years! Yuk!

To save our oceans, just carry a portable ashtray like this one in your backpack!

• Carry a water bottle and straw

This filter bottle is great as it reduces chlorine and micro-particles. You can fill it up from any tap, or at your hotel to avoid buying a million plastic bottles when you travel.

100,000 marine creatures and 1 million sea birds die from plastic entanglement in a year.

• Switch to shampoo and conditioner bars

This shampoo and conditioner set smells like heavenly lemon and eucalyptus

Pin this post for later!

Love, Tia

Related Cyprus Articles

Tia Does Agrotourism Series – Discovering Cyprus’s Mountains and Villages

• Wine Villages in Paphos – Cyprus Agrotourism in Pano Panayia, Letymbou, Lemona and Amargeti (And Video)
• Culture, Nature and Wine in Kathikas, Arodes and Akamas Peninsula in Paphos (And Video_)
• Omodos, Arsos and Ayios Amvrosios – the most picturesque villages in Limassol (And Video)
• Vouni, Lofou and Koilani Villages – exploring Limassol Province (and Video)
• Kalopanayiotis, Kykkos, and Pedoulas – Nicosia’s hidden village gems! (and Video )
• Agrotourism in Cyprus – Farmakas, Palaichori, and Askas – Wine, Safari, and Nature! (and Video )
• Tochni, Choirokitia, and Kalavasos – Basket Weaving, history, and cycling activities! (and Video)
• Lefkara, Kato Drys, and Vavla – Lefkara lace designs, wineries, brunch, and bees! (and Video)
• Pelendri and Agros Cyprus – Rose factories, wineries, brunch, and religious tourism ( and Video)
• Platres Cyprus and Pera Pedi – A nature lover’s paradise (and Video)
• Paliometoxo and Nikitari – A gorgeous farm and religious tourism (and video)
• Lympia, Skarinou, and Agios Theodoros – Street Art, donkey farms, and hiking trails (And Video)
• Kakopetria and Galata – Nature, traditional architecture, and fantastic food (And Video)
• Kyperounta – Wineries, hiking and religious tourism in Limassol (and Video)
• Akamas and Paphos – Safari, nature and incredible landscapes ( and Video)
• Phini Village – waterfalls, nature and haunted hotels ( and Video)

Exploring Cyprus Content

• When to Visit Cyprus – How to choose the season to visit Cyprus
• Where to stay in Cyprus – The Best hotels And Cottages In The Villages
• Amazing Cyprus Brunch – A Hot List For The Best Breakfast In The Mountains
• Cyprus Meze – The best Cyprus Taverns in the Villages and Mountains of the island!
• Cyprus Travel Blog – Everything you need to know to visit Cyprus. Start with this first if you are not local!
• A city by city guide to Cyprus. Decide which city in Cyprus suits you best!
• Incredible food in Cyprus to try. You will most likely drool at this article!
• Edem’s Yard – Best Brunch in Cyprus – Larnaca. The best brunch spot in Cyprus- hands down!
• Hamam Omeriye – Stunning Turkish baths in the heart of Nicosia– A Hamam Experience you are unlikely to forget!
• The best beaches in Ayia Napa and Protaras. The best blue flag beaches on the island – say hello to paradise!
• Cyprus Passport Visa Free Countries – Travel to paradise without a visa!

Beautiful Seaside Hotels in Cyprus

• Hotel Napa Suites – Gorgeous, Central, with infinity pools
• Almyra Hotel Paphos – Luxury, elegance, and class.
• King Jason Hotel Protaras – Modern, central, fun, breathtaking!
• Napa Mermaid – The most incredible hotel in Ayia Napa– Looking for a proper hotel in Napa? Say no more!
• Apartment for rent in Protaras – Sofias Seaview review. A gorgeous apartment in the heart of Protaras square!
• Protaras Villas – The Incredible Villa Oniro. A huge and luxurious villa in Protaras!
• Limassol Hotels – A Beautiful stay at The Crowne Plaza Limassol. A modest hotel in Limassol that you will highly appreciate!
• Alasia Boutique Hotel- Luxury and elegance. Elegance and understated luxury in the quiet part of Limassol

The post Cyprus Passport Visa Free Countries – A Full List appeared first on Tia Does Travel.

All the information you need to know about glorious Mykonos, Greece, is right here in this article.

Budget, accommodation recommendations, places with unforgettable food, and incredible beach bars.

So go ahead and keep reading!

Visit Mykonos through my eyes; and I can guarantee you, that falling in love with it, will be a piece of cake.

Tia Does Travel contains affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase through these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. For full information, take a look at our disclaimer here.

My Mykonos Experience

I never thought I would be the kind of traveler to visit Mykonos.

For starters, I am Cypriot, therefore trips to Greece to me mean short speedy holidays that are cheaper. My long-distance travels where I typically travel for two to four weeks at a time.

And Mykonos is not…cheap. In fact, it is by far the most expensive vacation I have taken!

It is also an incredibly touristy island, one that I thought I would avoid for many years to come.

But, my summer travels to Sri Lanka were tragically canceled when suicide bombers attacked 3 churches and 3 hotels on Easter Sunday (2019). My one-month vacation through this incredible country had to be put on hold due to safety reasons, and just like that… I had all this free time!

When the opportunity came to travel to Mykonos I took it on in a spare of the moment decision.

And i…Loved it. So without further ado, let me tell you all about Mykonos Holidays you will go crazy about!

Mykonos Pros and Cons

PROS:

• Luxurious Hotels
• Phenomenal Food
• Incredible Sunsets
• Unforgettable Nightlife
• Cosmopolitan Atmosphere
• Incredibly LGBT friendly – by far the most gay-friendly island in Greece
• Extremely good customer service everywhere you go
• No language Barriers – all the staff speak perfect Greek and English

CONS

• Very expensive
• Incredibly windy – to the point it causes a headache!
• The beaches are clean but lack the clear blue, almost white color you find in destinations like nearby Milos, or neighboring Cyprus
• Beaches in Mykonos are also often not sandy, and combined with the wind, entering and exiting the water somethings feels like a mission!

Mykonos Location

Mykonos is located in Greece and is part of the Kyklades island group.

Its neighboring islands are Paros, Naxos, Tinos, and Syros. The gorgeous Milos Island is also nearby.

Language, religion, and currency

The language spoken in Mykonos is Greek although English is widely spoken everywhere , and by everyone.

The religion is Christian Orthodox and the currency is the Euro.

Credit cards are accepted everywhere, and there are various ATM machines around the island.

Mykonos Holidays – How to get there

You can get to Mykonos via plane or ferry boat.

From Cyprus, you can fly directly with Ryan Air from Paphos International Airport or fly from Larnaca International Airport via Athens with Aegean Air.

Both flights land at Mykonos International Airport.

Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Piraeus Port in Athens.

The ferry from Athens is 2.30 hours long and a return ticket costs approximately € 150.

Where to stay in Mykonos

There is a huge and wide variety of accommodations on the Island, and your budget will vary depending on your choice.

If you want a luxurious holiday, The best two hotels, in my opinion, are the Kouros Hotel and Suites and the Cavo Tagoo Mykonos.

Both hotels are situated next to each other and are a 10-minute drive from the center. They also share a similarly high price tag.

I chose the Kouros Hotel and Suites – an exquisite hotel with incredible beauty, luxury, and attention to detail.

For more information and pictures, read my review here

Other Mykonos Accommodation Recommendations

5-star Luxury Hotels

• Kouros Hotel and Suites – From € 450 to € 1600 per night for 2 people
• Cavo Tagoo Hotel – from € 740 to € 2250 per night for 2 people
• Absolut Mykonos Suites -from € 350 to € 600 per night for 2 people

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

• MSC Apartments. These beautiful apartments fit 2-4 people and are far more budget-friendly than the luxury hotels mentioned above. There are no meals or maid service provided here, but at approximately € 150 per night, you can’t go wrong with MSC Apartments!
• MyCocoon Hostel – from € 80 per night for a single bed in a shared dormitory
• Giovani Apartments – from € 150 per night per room (for two people)

Mykonos Holidays – How many days should I stay?

I personally stayed for 5 days and felt like it was enough to see and do a lot, although I wouldn’t have minded a few more days!

On average, people tend to visit Mykonos for 3-7 days, and often combine it with other Greek islands and cities.

The best beach clubs to visit

The Beach Clubs in Mykonos are second to none.

The decor and ambiance exhume luxury and elegance you won’t see in many Greek islands.

The beaches are pristine and the staff was so kind and efficient it really blew my mind! Principote Mykonos is by far my favorite venue followed closely by many others I mention in my Mykonos Beaches guide

Mykonos Holidays – Culinary experience and restaurants

Mykonos will forever remain in my mind, like the island that provided the most fascinating culinary experience in all my travels.

I have so far traveled to over 25 countries, and 40 cities/Islands, and nothing comes close to the food in Mykonos.

Everything; from the humble Greek salad to the almighty tomahawk steak is elevated to a dish of excellence and culinary brilliance.

I didn’t have a single bad meal in Mykonos, and if you read my Mykonos Restaurants guide, I will tell you the best places to eat the same incredible unforgettable food.

Mykonos Holidays – Budget

Your budget will wildly vary depending on how luxurious your Mykonos holidays are going to be. How expensive your accommodation will be, your chosen form of transport, the beaches, and restaurants you visit and the nightlife you are planning to explore.

A close friend of mine travels there for 3-5 days at a time and budgets € 1500 for a moderate to a semi-luxurious holiday including flights.

Others travel cheaper, visiting free beaches, eating cheaply and limiting their partying, and others …go all out.

In case you are wondering I belonged in the latter category. I flew business class to Mykonos and I stayed in the absolutely stunning and luxurious Kouros Hotel and Suites.

I used a private car hire for transport, and I visited beach bars and their respective restaurants for lunch.

Furthermore, we had dinner reservations every evening where we also consumed alcohol, although we hardly visited any nightclubs.

Our budget was € 5.000 per person for 5 days including the hotel. I doubt I will ever spend this CRAZY amount of money on a 5-day trip again!

Approximate Mykonos Holidays Budget for 5 days (For 2 people)

• Budget: € 1500
• Semi Luxury: € 3.000
• Luxury € 5.000

Like this post? Then share it on Pinterest!

I hope you have enjoyed this Mykonos Holidays Guide!

Below, please find my many other Greek articles linked below, that you might find useful!

For travel vlogs, don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel! For group trips and travel discounts, subscribe with your email at the bottom of this page!

Also, join my travel family on Instagram, and let’s stay connected.

See you soon,

Love, Tia x

Related Articles on Greece

• Planning a trip to Greece – Everything you need to know about traveling to Greece
• Greece Island Hopping Itinerary – The ultimate guide to visiting multiple islands in Greece
• Greece Packing Guide – A local’s guide on what to pack for Greece
• 20 Greece Photos to Make You Fall in Love – Travelust loading!

Athens

• The most unusual things to do in Athens – Athens off the beaten path
• Where to stay in the center of Athens – Hotel Recommendation

Thessaloniki

• Thessaloniki Food – 11 Amazing Foods To Try In The City

Kefalonia

• Kefalonia Itinerary – The 17 Most Amazing Things to Do in Kefalonia 
• The Best Beaches in Kefalonia – 11 incredible beach destinations on the island
• Assos Kefalonia – The 9 best things to do in the picture-perfect village
• Where To Stay In Kefalonia – The best areas to stay on the island and accommodation options

Ithaki – Ithaca

• Ithaca Travel Guide: Everything you need to plan the perfect day trip or holiday to Odysseus Island

Mykonos

• Mykonos Holidays – All you need to know when visiting Mykonos
• Nusret Mykonos review – Is the ”salt bae” worth the hype?
• The best beach bars in Mykonos – Incredible beach bars and beaches
• The best restaurants in Mykonos – Unforgettable culinary experiences
• Where to stay in Mykonos – Hotel Review of the 5* Kouros Hotel

Milos Island

• Milos Island – The best beaches – Some of the best beaches in Greece
• Milos Accommodation – where to stay and why – Accommodation options

Agistri Island

• Visit Aggistri island – the best 8 things to do in Agistri island
• Amazing Agistri beaches – the top 7 beaches in Agistri

Spetses Island

• Spetses Greece: A Traveler’s Guide to Island Adventures
• Beaches in Spetses: A list of 12 unique beaches on the island to visit

The post Mykonos Holidays – All You Need To Know To Plan The Perfect Trip appeared first on Tia Does Travel.

The following places take the humble potato and elevate it to an unforgettable experience you wouldn’t want to miss. What better way to combine food and travel than with the best fry places in the world?

Tia Does Travel contains affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase through these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. For full information, take a look at our disclaimer here.

Without further ado, here are the 13 Places all French fry lovers must visit at least once in their lives! If you are ever in these cities, don’t miss a visit to this fabulous shops taking French fry on a whole other level.

1. Food and Travel -Maison Antoine – Belgium. (Called Belgium Fries).

This place in Belgium deserves first place – because did you know ‘’French Fries’’ actually originated in Belgium and not France? Maison Antoine, is the oldest fry shop in Belgium. It is located in the heart of Brussels and serves up generous portions of delicious crispy fries with a variety of sauce toppings for as little at 3 Euros. Maison Antoine gets extra Bonus Points for their great Belgian Beer that you can enjoy on their terrace, overlooking the city. Bliss.

2. Vleminckx – Amsterdam. (Called Patat) 

Located down an alley close to the Spui Tram Station, Vleminckx is a small shop that ONLY serves fries. The Fries are cooked in 3 different types of fryers of different temperatures to ensure the perfect crisp. Served in white, cone-shaped cups, these delicious fries can be topped with any of their 28 globally inspired sauces. Be prepared to queue- this place is busy !!

3. Food and Travel – Pont Neuf  – Paris (called Pommes Frites).

Pont Neuf in Paris is straight to the point. Their menu is simple- a small or big portion of incredibly crispy French fries, with a choice of 6 sauces like their signature iodized Port Neuf sauce. Alternatively choose from classics like béarnaise, mustard, ketchup or mayonnaise. What makes them different is their choice of accompaniments! Choose from Paris Ham, Pastrami, Fish or chicken fritters or shrimp croquette and make a real meal out of your Pont Neuf Experience.

 4. Poptata – London (Called Chips).

Freshly cut premium potatoes, double fried to perfection. England, the country of the almighty fish and chips could not be off this list of best fry places. English people know, and love their fries! At Poptata you start by choosing between a small, medium or a large portion of fries. You then proceed to choose sauces – cheddar, caramelized onions, curry or BBQ being only a few of the options. Finish off with toppings like smashed avocado, halloumi or delicious goat cheese and you are good to go! Poptata has stores in Shoreditch. Portobello Market, Croydon and Tooting Market. I would expect anything less, from London, the food capital of the world!!

5. Food and Travel – Awesome Chips – Birmingham and Leicester.

Served in cones and suitable for vegetarians, Awesome Chips serves only…chips! Belgian potatoes are double fried to perfection and served in cones of  Small, regular or large size. Sweet potato chips are also on the menu! There are over 30 sauces on the menu, from curry ketchup to garlic aioli and even vegan mayo and vegan dairy-free cheese! Finish off your order with a choice of the 16 spices from all around the world – Jamaican Jerk, wasabi Mix, Thai Spice, Mexican Fajita and the list goes on!

TIP: Awesome Chips, now has a store in Londons Wood Green Area too – aka the Greek and Cypriot area of London.

6.Frites Atelier – The Hague, Netherlands. (called frites)

  Frites Atelier evolved from a love for French fries and perfect sauces. A gourmet looking eaterie run by3 Michelin awarded chef Sergio Herman, this place lives up to its gourmet name.. Potatoes are sourced from Zeeland, and are served with their skin on with homemade sauces like deep truffle, French Bernaise, Andalouse and more. Every season, the chef creates a limited edition special that is available for a short time too – the seasonal tomato, basil and parmesan frites are a dream.

7. Food and Travel – Pommes Frites – New York City

A little more on the expensive side, in comparison to the previously mentioned places in Europe. However, if you’ve been to New York City, you’ll know that’s the case with most things! Pommes Frites double fries their authentic Belgian potatoes in high-quality gluten-free vegetable oil. It then serves them up with over 35 of their Famous homemade sauces that you can mix and match. Also available for take away.

8. Boise Fry Company – Idaho & Oregon USA

Boise does not mess about when it comes to potatoes! Your order is custom made from beginning to end. On their menu, you will find 6 different types of potatoes to choose from: Russet purple, gold, sweet, red and even yams! You can choose from 6 different types of cuts too, and if you fancy a larger meal, Boise serves up beef, bison, turkey and vegan burgers too! Arrive hungry..preferably starving as the portions are 100% American!

9.Food and Travel – Elbows Mac n’ Cheese – California

As the name suggests, this place specializes in the American Favorite, Mac and Cheese. They also serve a gluten-free mac and cheese as well are gluten-free sandwiches)! Elbows Mac n’ Cheese also serves my favorite- huge tornado potatoes! Essentially a potato thinly sliced around a giant chopstick, fried then loaded with spices and sauces is to die for – and the pictures are totally Instagram worthy too.

10. Moo Frites – Toronto, Canada.  

Moo Frites not only fries their chips in beef fat, but they also serve them up in some interesting and adventurous combinations inspired by many nationalities. Kimchi fries with Korean Kimchi, Japo Frites with Japanese Seaweed, Nacho Frites from Mexican Nachos and the list goes on! There’s weird and exciting ingredients like dutch peanut sauce, curry ketchup, jalapenos and more. They also serve up POUTINE – fries loaded with double-layered cheese and beef gravy !

Like this post? Then share it on Pinterest!

I hope you have enjoyed this delicious addition to Food and Travel around the world! Do you have other amazing fry places that you love to visit? Let me know in the comments 🙂

See you soon,

Tia xoxo

The post Food and Travel – 10 Places All French Fry Lovers Must Visit appeared first on Tia Does Travel.

Thailand Packing List – Everyday Beach Wear

We’ve all been there

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Phi Phi Islands Ultimate guide 

Koh Samui Guide – My favorite island in Thailand 

Thailand at a glance – useful information 

Short Travel Stories – How i crashed my scooter in Thailand 

Exotic Destinations and Diseases – Vaccination Advice 

Thailand Packing List

1. Pashmina (women).

                                                                                           

Thailand Packing List – A sarong or pashmina is an item you will use daily!

2. Shorts

3. Umbrella

4. Swimsuits (a lot of )

Need I say more? This country is so gorgeous you will be taking an insane amount of pictures. Make sure you take plenty of swimsuit options too! My advice would be to pack smart swimwear, that causes no funny tan lines! That cut out monokini might look cute…if you like the zebra look!

At my happiest in a bikini!

5. Thailand Packing List – Floaty Maxi Dresses (women).

The perfect evening wear for Thailand is the almighty maxi dress.

Maxis dresses are versatile, light, airy and totally elegant. Also, cute little skirts and airy tops are your second go-to nightwear!

You don’t need to pack jeans, long trousers, or skin-tight party dresses!

Thailand packing list – evening wear

6. Light shirts and t-shirts and 3/4 length trousers (Men)

7. Flip flops and flat sandals – No heels! (women)

8. Trainers/hiking shoes

9. Thailand Packing List – Take Minimal Jewelry

Leave the excessive stuff at home! Real and expensive jewelry should also be avoided at risk of theft from yourself or the hotel. You may also lose things whilst snorkeling, diving, etc. So do take a minimal amount and keep it all safe in this smart, travel jewelry box! 

Mellow in Yellow!

10. Waterproof Jacket or a cardigan

Because when it rains, it pours! Hard and fast, the Thai tropical rain will have you drenched and shivering in 0.5 seconds. The key here is to pack from rain protection and not for cold, as even when it’s raining, its warm.

11. Thailand packing list – Pack a small Backpack

Thailand packing list- its all about the accessories!

12. Camera/Go Pro

13. Travel Adapter. (or two)

14. Thailand Packing list – Medicine Bag.

Thailand Packing List – What to wear for Dinner

15. Body and Hair oils

17. Sun Protection

18. Thailand Packing List – Vaccinations

Thailand Packing List – Maxi Dresses will be your Holy Grail!

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Phuket is a busy island with dozens of activities and things to keep you busy for the duration of your trip! Here, I am covering the top of the creme; the kind of activities that should be in anyone’s ”Things to do in Phuket”! There are separate articles about what to eat in Phuket, as well as the best beaches In Phuket so make sure you read up on those too!

Bathe with elephants at the Elephant Retirement Park Phuket

In a country that is sadly considered to have one of the highest rates of animal exploitation and abuse in the world, the Elephant Retirement Park Phuket is a breath of fresh air. It provides hope that things are finally starting to change for the better.

In this Sanctuary, you can feed, bathe and play with the elephants in their natural habitat – the great outdoors. The elephants are all rescues from various difficult and abusive backgrounds. They are tamed, gentle friendly animals that will simply take your breath away!

What does the Elephant Retirement Park Phuket Offer?

You will find out their story, the kind of foods they like and their different temperaments and characters. You get to bottle feed the baby elephants, give them a freshwater bath with a hose and feed them! Then, you walk with them through the jungle and of course, take a mud bath with them!

An experience I will never forget – getting close to these gentle giants and creating lifetime memories! All this, while practicing responsible tourism and staying FAR away from animal exploitation and abuse.

Hands down, the best money I spent in Phuket! An experience you simply cannot miss and my personal No1 in the list of top things to do in Phuket. 

Cost: 2.600 THB Duration: 8:30-12:00 or 1:00-4:30    

Master your cooking skills with a Thai cooking class

Do you think you know Thai food? Well, think again, because Thai food overseas – like other popular cuisines – is completely different in its original place!

Thai cooking classes are hugely popular and a wonderful activity to do on a rainy day! Also when you’ve perhaps had enough of the scorching sun and intense shopping marathons!

Recommended Thai Cooking Class

One cooking class I particularly recommend is the Kata Thai Cooking Class. An authentic yet fun Thai cooking experience you will love to do with friends, family or significant other.  They will take you on a market tour to buy ingredients, explain each item and teach you everything from scratch including how to make your own curry paste!

You get to choose 4 traditional Tha dishes each to cook. These include a soup, a rice dish, a curry, and a dessert

Bonus fact: You get to eat what you’ve cooked too!

Top Tip: Make sure you are hungry. Very, very hungry..

Cost 2,300 THB (To check out Thai Currency please click here )

Duration: Half a day    

Feast your eyes and bellies at Fantasea Phuket

Fantasea Phuket is an extravagant show, housed in a theme park in Phuket that reminds you of a small Disneyland.

The show itself ‘’Fantasea Of a Kingdom’’ is the longest-running show in Asia. The story is based on Thai culture and traditional myths and customs.

It features aerial stunts, special effects and acrobatics, animal performances, stunts, and 4-dimensional effects. Its comprised of 11 scenes and features 44 elephants, 6 buffaloes, 400 birds, 40 goats and a handful of chickens!

You can walk along the beautiful gardens and indulge in some shopping. There is also a first-class dinner – either at the Golden Kinnaree Buffet Restaurant or the luxurious Suriyamas Seafood Buffet.  I dined at the Kinnaree Buffet and the food was wonderful, I literally ate till I couldn’t physically breath!

Cost: 2150 THB to 3200 THB depending on the choice of seats and Restaurant options. All tickets include the Show, Dinner and hotel transfer.

Duration: 6pm-11pm  

Swim with Leopard sharks

Although I don’t have my diving certificate yet, Phuket Dive Tours is considered the best and most reputable company for diving.

The two most popular dive sites are the Shark Point and the Anemone Reef. Both are suitable for elementary and experienced divers! There are high chances of seeing leopard sharks and Whale Sharks along with a plethora of fishes and corals.

Diving has been something I have feared for a long time, but traveling has changed all that for me! It’s broadened my mind so much I have now booked my diving course in early 2019. I cannot wait to put it to use in my next Travel Destination!

Cost: 3.000-4.000 THB

Duration: Full day  

Enlighten yourself at the Big Buddha

High in the hills of Nakkerd, visible from all over the islands, lies the mammoth statue of the 45 ft Big Buddha.

Yes its tourist, but you know what? Anyone entering a foreign land is considered a tourist – so I don’t really agree with avoiding all ”tourist” destinations. I mean, they became popular for a reason so why should I avoid seeing it if it’s worth it? And it is.

So, Big Buddha Phuket is touristy and busy, but a must-see for its sheer size alone! And of course, the gorgeous views (and photos) of Kata Bay and Karon’s perfect sands. Take a moment to take in your surroundings and reconnect with your spirit.

The Big Buddha’s origins are a beautiful story! The story of a prince who gave up a life of privilege and luxury to become a monk, and achieve the highest knowledge of truth. Buddhism is a fascinating religion and one I plan of studying a lot more in my future trips to Asia.

Fee: Free

Duration: 1-3 hours  

Observe thousands of monkeys at Monkey Hill

Toh Sae Hill commonly known as Monkey Hill is a beautiful hill in Phuket Town. What makes it special is that its home to over 300 monkeys- particularly macaques.

The monkeys roam the hill free in their natural environment. Visiting the Monkey Hill is a dream come true for nature and photography lovers! You will see beautiful views of the monkeys and surrounding jungle; but also from the hill- the highest hill in Phuket!

The monkeys are not aggressive at all but they do love to steal! Nevertheless, you should not leave children unattended at any point.

Top Monkey Hill Tip

For a different experience, arrive at the entrance of Monkey Hill (a short walk from Phuket City Hall) instead of the top, where everyone else goes. Then Hike the 2 km distance to the top through the entire area. During your walk, you will also witness roosters and pigs roaming the streets. Choose to go between 4-6 pm when the road is closed off to motor vehicles. Ideally, aim to get to the top of the hill for the spectacular sunset views! , Once there, you can catch a glimpse of the Big Buddha and the Nakkerd hills of Central Phuket.,

On your way out, be sure to stop at the shrine of the holy spirits of Toh Sae Dam, Toe Sae Kaow and Toh Sae Dang. The shrine is located at the bottom of the hill. This is where locals go to pray for lucky lottery numbers!

You never know, luck might be on your side!

Explore Breathtaking Beaches

Phuket doesn’t disappoint on beaches and natural beauty! You will be spoiled for choice and hard pushed to choose a favorite! The Top Beaches in Phuket, are waiting for you to discover!

All you gotta do is figure out how to squeeze them all in!

Feel at peace at the Shrine of the Serene Light

The shrine of the Serene light is a small Chinese temple – that until recently was one of the best-kept secrets of Phuket.

Tucked away in busy Phuket Town, this shrine used to only be accessible by a small back alley! Sadly this all changed up in 2003 where the entrance was widened and the Shrine was opened to the public. Originally build back in 1891 by the descendants of the powerful Than Luan Jae Family; it is modest in size but extravagant in architecture and appearance. Inside, you will find a plethora of beautiful Si Yin Gui Murals, burning candles and incense. You will also offerings of fresh fruit, statues, and religious idols. It’s such a beautiful place to find serenity in the chaos of Phuket! Perfect to recollect and take time for peace and quiet.

Fee – Free

Duration: 1-2 hours  

Take a boat ride to Phi Phi Islands

If I am honest, Phi Phi is not the kind of place you should visit for a single day. It is so breathtakingly beautiful (although massively affected by irresponsible tourism) . You should really give it a good 2-3 days at the very list.

These Islands will blow your minds, provided you have the perfect Phi Phi Islands Ultimate Guide to follow!

Cost: Varies on tour, whether you stay overnight etcetera. You can reach Phi Phi from Phuket in under 3 hours via ferry or speedboat. Click here for tickets and timetable

Duration: Full day or ideally 3-4 days at the minimum!  

Help out dogs in need at the Soi Dog Foundation

What a beautiful thing it is, to be able to help others in need! And especially animals that have no voice to speak for themselves

The Soi Dog Foundation was founded back in 2003 as is sustained entirely by private donations. Its goal is to help the overwhelming amount of stray dogs and cats that roam the streets of Thailand. It has so far neutered over a quarter of a million animals and provides food, shelter, and medical care.  

Spend some meaningful days volunteering at the shelter. I guarantee you that your heart will be filled with so much love and warmth! Volunteers are asked to walk the dogs and cats and help integrate them into a future loving forever home. This is done by helping them trust humans, learn to walk on a leash and get used to being indoors. A wonderful way to contribute towards this great cause!  

Fee- Free

Duration: Up to you!  

Escape Phuket and land in idyllic Koh Samui

Do you have a bit of time to spend in Thailand? If so then dividing your time in between different Islands is something I highly recommend!

A couple of days in chaotic and vibrant Bangkok…then a good 4-5 days in Phi Phi Islands, ! Finally a short trip to Krabi and of course my absolute favorite Thailand destination. The utterly gorgeous Island of Koh Samui. I spent 10 glorious days here and cannot wait to return for more!

There is so much to see, do and enjoy in Koh Samui that I guarantee you will fall in love!  All these destinations can be reached from Phuket via ferry, bus, or flights.  

Bangkok Air is the main provides of these small flights. 

Cost: Varies!

Duration: 4-5 days (or a lifetime!!)  

Fall in love with the views at Karon View Point

There is something so special about Viewpoints. The view so often leaves you breathless and makes you feel rather small in the grand scheme of things!

Phuket has various Viewpoints scattered around the island – all beautiful in their own way. Do you want to see endless ocean views? Lush green surroundings? The beautiful Beaches Phuket is so famous for? Then Karon Viewpoint is the one for you!

For more info on Karon View Point and lots of pictures, content check out this awesome guide!

Top Karon View Point Tips

To avoid the crowds and get the best sunset views, arrive early to take your pictures from the top. Then, take the road next to the view point all the way downhill. Make a stop at this little restaurant called ‘’Heaven’’, and go straight for the balcony! Sit comfortably order a drink or two and watch the most beautiful uninterrupted sunset in Phuket!  

Fee: Free Duration: 1-2 Hours  

Volunteer at the Gibbon Rehabilitation Center

In yet another tragic case of animal exploitation, more than 3,000 gibbons are killed every year in Thailand by poachers.

This rehabilitation project was set up to help nurse the sick and surviving gibbons back to full health. The aim is to be able to release them back in the wild

Volunteers get to do admin work, fix things around the center and feed the animals. A beautiful and gentle way to meet these beautiful animals up close! Whilst, of course, taking no part in any exploitation or unethical tourism acts  

Fee- Free

Duration: Up to you!  

Some words of advice about Phuket and Thailand in general.

Animal exploitation and abuse are rampant throughout the region. Seeing photos of people doing elephant trekking, taking pictures with chained tigers or stressed out Capuchin monkeys is heartbreaking.

I understand that these magnificent animals are mesmerizing. I also know that you often don’t think you are contributing to this abuse- but you are! We all are!

  By visiting such places you are actually paying for the animal exploitation to continue. Wild animals are not our pets or friends.

Elephants were not born to play football! Monkeys were not born to be chained by their neck! Crocodiles were not born to be prodded with a stick! Tigers were also certainly not born to be drugged up and toothless in a windowless room for all their lives. If it’s one thing I hope you take away from this article is this… Resist the urge. Be a grown-up. Teach your children that this is NOT OKAY. 

Please stop booking any such excursions to make sure that these companies close for good! No more animal abuse !!

 Related Articles

Thailand at a glance – Information on weather, visas, currency, etc.

Phuket Restaurant and Nightlife Guide – The Best Places to Eat, Drink and Party

The Best Beaches In Phuket- Enchanting Phuket – Breathtaking beaches you must visit.

The Ultimate Guide To Phi Phi Islands – Everything you need for your dream holiday

The Ultimate Guide to Koh Samui – A detailed mega guide to the island of Samui

Tropical Diseases and Vaccinations – A guide for safe travels to Thailand    

Responsible Travel -tips to travel ethically and save our planet 

Short travel Stories – How I crashed my scooter in Thailand

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Much Love and Happy Thai Smiles  

Tia  xoxo

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Exotic Holidays-  The main culprit of most tropical diseases…

The seemingly humble but evil mosquito

If you are one of those lucky people that mosquitoes detest, I hate you. They are drawn to me like a moth to the flame and have on numerous occasions eaten me alive from head to toe.

The worst of it was actually in Belize and CostaRica when I counted 46 bites just on my legs alone.

One of them was so infected it gave me a staph infection – I had to take 2 rounds of antibiotics!!I won’t even describe what it looked like but let me just tell you, my sister cried when she saw it. A year later, the scar is still there.  

Diseases Spread by Mosquitos

Mosquitoes bites are at the best of times – annoying and itchy as hell. But an infected mosquito in the tropics can cause serious and sometimes lethal damage:

Malaria

•  Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by a parasite that infects a type of mosquito that feeds on humans. People who get malaria are typically very sick with high fevers, shaking chills, and flu-like illness.

Although malaria can be a deadly disease, illness and death from malaria can usually be prevented with anti-malaria tablets. About 1,700 cases of malaria are diagnosed in the United States alone each year. The vast majority of cases in the United States are in travelers and immigrants returning from countries where malaria transmission occurs, many from sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.

Staph Infection

• Doctors are reporting a spike in staph infections from infected insect bites. Scratching tears or cuts the skin-allowing bacteria to get in. So you want to make sure that the wound is covered and protected. The drainage from these wounds is what carries the contagious bacteria.

Do your best not to scratch mosquito bites to avoid a staph infection. I had it, and it was horrible!

Exotic Holidays – Preventing Mosquito Bites 

In order to protect yourself, you must come prepared with the right products.   Through trial and many (!) errors here are my top products to ward off evil mosquitoes for good.  

1. Mosquito Net. This lightweight and breathable mesh net is made of premium polyester material and allows the air to circulate, also effectively keeps mosquitos and insects from entering your bed! The really great thing about this mosquito net is that it is made to fit all beds; from children to single and king size beds. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor sleeping (hotel, hostel, camping, hiking). Say hello to blissful, safe sleep!

 2.  Mosquito Repellant Spray

 3. Protec Mosquito Repellent Spray, or cream. (available in pharmacies in Cyprus)

 4. Mosquito Bracelets. I tried some weaker ones in Bali that worked quite well as additional protection – I wouldn’t count on those alone! It’s important you understand how vicious mosquitos actually are in exotic destinations! These particular mosquito bracelets though have a brand new technology that contains the highest 64% PMD diluted in a 10.8% solution proven extremely effective at protecting against Mosquitoes, Midges, Ticks, and other biting insects! Each bracelet is individually packaged in a resealable packet, proven to provide a longer life span. Before opening they can be kept for 3 years!

 5. Catnip Essential Oil. A great natural alternative that is DEET – free. So get this, mosquitoes hate the smell of catnip oil. Now I don’t know if its enough to keep them away for a solid 8 hours. What I know is I still use it for the sole purpose of pissing them off and as an extra layer of protection. #ComeAndGetMePeta .

6. You may also use Lemon Eucalyptus Oil, Tee Tree and Citronella Oil all found cheaply on Amazon.  

Exotic Holidays – Curing Mosquito Bites 

“But I have taken all precautions!!” – u cry. 

They will still get you folks; they just won’t eat you alive. After years and heaps of money wasted, I have finally found the perfect aftercare:  

step 1:

•   Octenicept disinfecting spray

aka the holy grail of my entire travel life. Bitten by mosquitos? Spray. Crashed your scooter into the jungle and scraped your skin off? spray. Swam with elephants in a pool of mud and dirty water? SPRAY.

Spray like the man on My Big Fat Greek Wedding sprays Windex on his whole entire life.

Find it at your local chemist!  

step 2:

• Fucidin Antibiotic cream.

Humble and inexpensive it has saved my skin from a whole lotta suffering and a whole lotta itching and scarring.

Apply as soon as your Octenicept spray is dry and you are good to go. Find it at your local chemist.  

Step 3 (optional)

• Antihistamine Tablets    – those will ease skin rashes, itching, and general allergy symptoms!

Exotic Holidays – Other (very) common diseases

Skin rash

• Caused by bed bugs and unsanitary surroundings. Always use a towel before you lay on a sunbed (i will never understand the people who don’t! )
• Also be aware of sand flies who hide close to the ground such as dry tree holes, palm tree crowns, and tropical and sub-tropical rain forest jungles. Their bites are highly infectious and painful. If you see them (can be distinguished by their vertical wings and very long legs) get the f*** outta there.

Exotic Holidays – Food and Water Poisoning.

  They don’t call it the ”Delhi Belly” for nothing guys.

The tropics are notorious for food poisoning with a whopping 30 – 50% of tourists getting sick on their holiday.

It’s funny to think about till it happens to you and you end up in hospital on an IV drip being violently sick for a good 7 days. #byebyeHoliday  

How to avoid water poisoning:

• DO NOT DRINK TAP WATER. It doesn’t matter if your hotel is 5* just don’t do it. We don’t have the antibodies for it, period.
• NO ICE– unless its filtered water ice. (they are long ice cubes with a hole running through the middle). Those are filtered and imported, therefore safe.
• AVOID salads, veggies, and fruits in suspicious surroundings that have been washed with tap water. Also, produce handles by unsanitary hands which can lead to Hepatitis A.
• In regards to fruit, if it can be peeled (by you) it’s safe.

what filtered ice looks like

How to Avoid Food Poisoning:

  Sometimes you just can’t avoid it, no matter how hard you try. But the general guidelines are:

• Stick to freshly cooked food – choose live seafood or meat that’s cooked in front of you. Use your sense of smell and taste and if it’s dodgy, don’t eat it.
• Choose your restaurant wisely. YES, you will try street food, and yes you will eat outdoors in shabby little tents. That’s what traveling is all about! In fact, the best lobster of my life was had in Belize, on the beach, cooked in a little tent, served in tinfoil! But when it comes to either street food or restaurants- always go for the one that has a long queue of locals.
• Never EVER  consume food that’s been sitting outdoors for hours. Make sure they cook it fresh in front of you. The heat and the flies are a recipe for disaster.

street food

Food or Water Poisoning Cure

For starters, I never leave the country without Primperan and Immodium. (for vomiting and diarrhea)

However, I do have a new travel favorite: Activated Charcoal.  Activated charcoal was a lifesaver in Thailand when I had a bad smoothie – and I’m now a hardcore fan. It picks up and eliminates all bacteria and nasties in your stomach and speeds up your recovery time. It also cures bloated stomachs and eases symptoms of IBS. I take it at the beginning of every flight and keep taking it while I travel! #winner    

Exotic Holidays – Vaccinations to Get. 

  Some vaccinations are compulsory. Visit your local clinic (Cypriots Visit your General Doctor or the Old Nicosia Hospital) a minimum of 6-8 weeks before your travels.

The two shots you must get are a Tetanus shot and a Hepatites A (you must get two shots to be protected).

There are other additional shots like Yellow fever, Hep B, etc that may not apply to you.

Visit the site here for more up to date information!

  Lastly, let’s talk about something boring.  

Exotic Holidays – Travel Insurance.

No one wants to spend money on ”what-ifs” when they could spend it on cute outfits right? Wrong.  

What no one wants, is to end up in Hospital and have to fork out thousands in medical bills. Plus, to have to spend their entire trip in misery (and the toilet bowl).  

Don’t be silly kids, get travel insurance!  Personally, i have a great Medical Insurance with Prime Insurance that protects me globally. I’ve been with them for 5 years now and my claims have been pretty straightforward so I can now recommend! Call them here for a quote.  

Related Articles

Thailand

Costa Rica 

Belize 

 China 

Responsible tourism and traveling ethically 

How to beat jet lag on long-distance flights 

How to find the perfect travel agent 

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Happy travels enjoy the tropics!! (and avoid tropical diseases)  

See you soon!
Tia
xoxo      

The post Exotic Holidays – And the Diseases in Tropical Destinations appeared first on Tia Does Travel.