How to Spend 2 Weeks in Ecuador

As the name implies, the nation of Ecuador straddles the equator itself, bringing together the Northern and Southern hemispheres. Ecuador is a vibrant, fascinating country in South America, and it makes for an incredible destination. If you’re planning an upcoming trip to Ecuador, be prepared for everything from volcanoes to colonial cities to lush jungle terrain. While you could spend a month exploring everything, 2 weeks in Ecuador should be enough to see the country’s highlights.

Quito (3 nights)

Many Ecuador itineraries start in Quito, the nation’s capital. Quito is unique for a number of reasons, but most travelers will appreciate that is has such an amazingly preserved historic center. The Old Town is packed with architecture dating from the 16th to the 19th century, and just a few of the world-class museums include the enormous art collection at the Museo del Banco Central and the Museo de la Ciudad, where scenes from Ecuador’s history are reenacted live on an hourly basis. Quito is the second highest capital city in the world, and to truly appreciate that fact you’ll want to head outdoors with a stroll through the Parque La Carolina or a ride on the Teleferico cable car.

Otavalo (day trip from Quito)

While you’re staying in Quito, set aside a full day to explore Otavalo, a city just 80 km (50 miles) north of Quito. Otavalo is home to an indigenous population known as the Otavalos, a group recognizable thanks to the long hair of both men and women. You can spot the Otavalos in their customary dress, which is a dark poncho for men and colorful, embroidered waistband over a skirt for women. Shop for handicrafts at the weekly Mercado Artesanal, one of the most famous outdoor markets in the Andes, and then learn more about the local culture by visiting the Museo del Pueblo Kichwa or one of the local villages, where guided tours are offered. Embrace the incredible scenery with a short detour to the Peguche Waterfall just two miles outside of the city.

Tena (3 nights)

Tena is a relatively small jungle town that is also known as the cinnamon capital of Ecuador, but it more importantly serves as the gateway to the Ecuadorian Amazon. If you want to explore the natural side of the country on your trip, then spending time in Tena is ideal. While in the region, you can go caving through the underground labyrinth called Cuevas de Jumandy, try out a rafting expedition, go on a canoe tour through the Amazon to get to the trading junction of Misahuallí or hire a guided to trek to the summit of the Sumaco Volcano.

Baños (2 nights)

Under the shadow of the incredible Tungurahua Volcano in the Ecuadorian Andes highlands is the city of Baños. Named for the city’s hydrothermal springs, Baños is a scenic getaway spot that is loaded with the potential for adventure. It can feel a little touristy, but it can’t be beat if you’re in search of some adrenaline. Spend your time rappelling down the side of a waterfall, riding a cable car directly over the stunning Manto de la Novia Waterfalls, cycling along the thrilling downhill Pailón del Diablo path or rafting in the Pastaza River. After a day of thrills, you can relax and unwind by soaking in one of the thermal baths, some of which offer waterfall views while you recline in the warm water.

Alausi (1 night)

Alausi is a very small town found in the Andes highlands in Ecuador, but it is often busy thanks to tourists who want to ride the famed Devil’s Nose Train. Beside the thrilling train ride, Alausi boasts a number of charming eateries where you can fill up on the local cuisine. Try dishes like Choclo, a dried corn snacks available from street vendors, or Librillo, a tripe entree popularly served with rice in the Ecuadorian mountains. Alausi is also home to several farms, many of which offer guided tours and even accommodation for those who want a realistic look at rural life in Ecuador.

Ride the Devil’s Nose Train (en route)

You won’t want to leave Alausi without riding the Devil’s Nose Train, known in Ecuador as La Nariz del Diablo. The Devil’s Nose is a breathtaking sheer rock face that looks completely impossible to navigate, but a cleverly designed train route takes you right up its steep face. In under two hours, you will pass between mountains and sidle up to waterfalls, making this both an amazing chance to experience an engineering feat and one of the most densely-packed scenic tours in the country of Ecuador.

Cuenca (2 nights)

Cuenca is located in Southern Ecuador, and is known for its mild climate that persists year-round. Cuenca boasts an array of beautiful colonial buildings and a few ruins dating to the ancient Inca Empire, making it a must-see spot for historical buffs. In Cuenca, you can tour the historic monuments, explore the impressive collection at the Museo del Banco Central and Pumapungo or spot animals in the Amaru Zoo. You’ll want to spend some time in the Parque Calderon, the city’s main plaza, and admire the beautiful 19th century cathedral called El Sagrario. For an unforgettable evening, head to the Barranco, a riverwalk destination with paved trails, bars, cafes and shops available to pedestrians.

Guayaquil (2 nights)

Although Quito is the capital of Ecudaor, Guayaquil is its largest city. Guayaquil is a port city known for incredible seafood and a diverse culture. While you’re there, you might want to explore the Parque Histórico, a lush green park that serves as the home to several historic buildings, the gardens and butterfly farm at the Jardín Botánico, the Mercado Artesanal for souvenir shopping and the popular Salinas beach, which offers everything from seasonal whale watching to seafood feasts right on the sand. If your schedule allows, take the time to hike in the Santa Ana & El Carmen Hills in order to soak in stunning views over the city and the sea below.

Source from: http://www.touropia.com/how-to-spend-2-weeks-in-ecuador/

How to Spend 2 Weeks in Myanmar

Although technically known as the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, you might know the country as Burma. Evolved from the ancient Burmese Empire, modern Myanmar is a result of countless cultures settling, invading and contributing to the nation’s development. Until just a few years ago, getting a visa to visit Myanmar was virtually impossible, but today travelers can easily peek into this mysterious and beautiful nation. Along with major cities, like Yangon, you’ll encounter historic towns, natural wonders and a unique culture during your 2 weeks in Myanmar.

Yangon (2 nights)

Yangon, which was once known as Rangoon, served as the capital of Myanmar until 2005. Although it no longer holds that official title, Yangon is still the major hub for business and travel in the country. After landing at the Yangon International Airport, the main entry point for foreign travelers, it is time to see the Shwedagon Paya, a religious pagoda considered to be the most important landmark in all of Myanmar. Spend some time sightseeing, and enjoy landmarks like the octagonal Sule Pagoda, Saint Mary’s Cathedral, the Musmeah Yeshua Synagogue, the National Museum and the Martyr’s Mausoleum. There is an abundance of colonial architecture throughout the city, making it a great spot for history or architecture enthusiasts.

Kinpun (1 night)

Many of Myanmar’s top attractions are religious or spiritual in nature, and the Golden Rock is no exception. Also known as Kyaiktiyo, the Golden Rock is a pagoda that was, according to legend, built around a relic of the Buddha. The pagoda stands on a precariously-perched boulder that is covered in gold leaf, and the rock stands at the top of a cliff. To see the Golden Rock, you’ll need to travel to Kinpun, a small mountaintop village that provides easy access to the attraction. If you want to get to Golden Rock like a religious pilgrim, there is a trail that leads to the site, but it takes approximately four hours on foot.

Mandalay (3 nights)

In Central Myanmar you’ll find Mandalay, the former capital of the Konbaung Dynasty. After Yangon, Mandalay is the largest city in all of Myanmar. By many standards, Mandalay is actually a new city, as it was only founded towards the end of the 19th century. Arguably the most important landmark in Mandalay is the Royal Palace, a walled city around which the rest of the city was built. Foreigners are allowed to enter the Royal Palace, but only through the East Gate. Other don’t-miss activities in Mandalay include visiting the holy pilgrimage site of Maha Myat Muni Paya, hiking up Mandalay Hill to spot the many monasteries and temples along the way and tasting the sweet Burmese dessert known as Htou moun.

Bagan (3 nights)

To gain some perspective on the incredible heritage and history of Myanmar, make your way to the city of Bagan. This destination is home to an amazing concentration of 11th and 12th century temples, many of which are now in ruin. Located on the banks of the Ayeyarwady River, Bagan’s top religious structures include the 11th century Ananda Temple, the Sunset Temple, or Shwesandaw Temple, and the Shwe Zigon Temple. You’ll find perfectly intact pagodas, enormous complexes in ruin and countless archeological sites worth exploring. Each evening, monks of all ages parade through the streets of Bagan to collect uncooked rice.

Mt. Popa (stopover)

Before your next destination on this Myanmar itinerary, take a slight detour and head to Mt. Popa. This peak may be small, but it is topped with gold stupas that combine to form the Popa Taungkalat shrine. At the shrine are statues representing spirit entities that were once so important to Myanmar’s culture that kings would consult with them before making major political or military decisions. You can climb all 777 steps to get to the top of Mt. Popa, but be prepared for lots of monkeys along the way. Although the shrine is spectacular, don’t forget to look outwards and admire the views and the lush vegetation all around the mountain.

Kalaw (2 nights)

Kalaw is a small hill station in Myanmar and one of the top destinations for travelers in the country thanks to a spectacular landscape and miles of trekking paths. Climb the Stairway to Heaven, which leads to Tein Taung, or Cloud Hill, for a breathtaking vantage point. You can also hike to the Shweoomin Pagoda, the Bamboo Strip Pagoda, the Myoma Monastery or the caves at Myin Ma Thi village. In addition to trekking, you can rent a bicycle to get around Kalaw and see everything from farms to elephants.

Inle Lake (2 nights)

Inle is an enormous but shallow lake, and more than 70,000 inhabitants live on the shores or have built floating homes right on the water. Visiting Inle Lake is an opportunity to experience life among the local tribes, particularly the indigenous Intha people. You’ll want to get out on the water with a guided boat tour, which allows you to see the floating homes, watch local fisherman pulling in their catch and even shop from floating stores selling souvenirs. Surrounding the lake itself, you’ll find a charming winery, miles of hiking paths and the spectacular Htat Eian Caves.

Yangon (1 night)

Since most travelers depart from Yangon, head back to the city for your final night in Myanmar. If you’ve already covered most of the major historical attractions during the first part of the vacation, then use this time to see something different. Stroll through the People’s Park in the morning and join in a spiritual exercise class, ride the Circular Train to view the changing scenery of the city or snag tickets to one of the popular singing, dancing and culture dinner shows. For souvenirs, try shopping at the Bogyoke Aung San Market or at the smaller stalls in Chinatown.

Source from: http://www.touropia.com/

How to Spend 3 Weeks in France

If two weeks in France is good, then 3 weeks in France is even better! It gives you more time to explore this fascinating country that is world famous for its culture, including food, fashion, bygone royalty and historic sites. You can use the extra week to tour the French Riviera and make your way back to Paris where your memorable holiday started. Since the return route is different, you’ll be able to experience additional regions of France.

Nice (3 nights)

Nice is nice, no doubt about that. Located on the French Riviera known for its glitz and glamour, Nice is a blend of the old and the modern as it sits alongside the Mediterranean Sea. Enjoy a walk on the Promenade des Anglais that borders the sea blue water. Explore the colorful Old Town with is small market Rest weary feet at the Place Massena, the city’s main square; there’s lots of nice squares surrounding it where you can shop for souvenirs. If you’re into art, Nice has several art museums of note, including those devoted to Matisse and Marc Chagall.

Monaco & Èze (day trip from Nice)

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for today’s day trip to Eze Village and Monaco. Pace yourself as you climb the steep cobblestone paths of Eze, a medieval fortress/castle that sits more than 430 meters (1,400 feet) above sea level. The climb is worth it: an unexpected cactus garden and stunning views of the Mediterranean at the top. If it’s glamour you’re craving, you’ll find it in Monaco, a tiny sovereign state that is encircled by France and the Mediterranean. This is the principality where fairy tales come true, such as when its ruler made American actress Grace Kelly his princess. Monaco also is famous for its casinos, its upscale stores, fast cars and a harbor filled with fancy yachts.

Annecy (2 nights)

The journey to Annecy takes you from the Mediterranean to the Alps where the city is located just 35 km (22 miles) south of Geneva, Switzerland. Annecy is a pretty city located on the upper end of Lake Annecy, and has been described as the “Pearl of the French Alps.” It’s also been called the “Venice of the Alps” because of its two canals and river. Top sights include the Palais de l’Ile along the Thiru River, which is now a historical museum, and the requisite castle, the Chateau d’Annecy. A picture-postcard Old Town, cathedral and lovely gardens also await you.

Chamonix (2 nights)

If skiing is your passion, then Chamonix is the place to go. Its slopes are famous the world over. Situated in the shadow of Mont Blanc, Chamonix hosted the first Winter Olympics in 1924. But you don’t have to be a skier to enjoy this resort. In summer, it’s popular with mountain climbers, hikers and golfers. The less athletic might want to take a cable car up Aiguille du Midi; the cable car is the highest vertical ascent cable car in the world. Chamonix also is famous for its Unlimited Festival, a mountain top music festival, in April and the Cosmo Jazz Festival in July.

Lyon (1 night)

France’s third largest city, Lyon, Is known for several things: weaving fine silk fabrics, banking, its counterrevolutionary role in the French Revolution, its street art and, of course, its food. Lyon has been called the “gastronomic capital of the world.” You’ll definitely want to eat at a bouchon, a traditional Lyonnaise restaurant that serves sausages and duck pâté. Take time to explore the Old Town, with its medieval buildings filled with historic atmosphere. If you’re there on December 8, be sure to take in the light festival that gave Lyon its nickname, “capital of light.”

Paris (1 night)

Your three-week tour of France ends back where it started: the fabulous city of Paris. This is a good time to catch a couple of the sights you didn’t have time for before. You might want to stroll through the Luxembourg Gardens, with its palace where the French senate meets and more than 100 sculptures and fountains, including the model for the Statue of Liberty, a gift from France to the United States. And don’t go home without trying some of the food Paris is famous for: fine pastries, chocolate, baguettes, duck comfit and steak frites.

Source from: http://www.touropia.com/