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As we travel through the year, the solstices mark significant moments in our connection with nature. These celestial events, occurring in June and December, offer unique opportunities to witness nature's grandeur and immerse ourselves in cultural festivities. At Zahara Travel, we invite you to explore some of the best destinations to experience the magic of the solstices. Our fascination with the Solstices predates modern times. The term solstice comes from the Latin word meaning "sun stands still," capturing the moment when the sun reaches its lowest point in the sky before beginning its ascent. This celestial event has been celebrated for millennia, symbolizing life, death, and our connection with nature's most powerful force. In many parts of the world, solstice celebrations are deeply rooted in local customs and folklore, often accompanied by the flickering light and crackling warmth of bonfires. From the lively Midsummer festivals of Scandinavia, where bonfires illuminate the midnight sun, to the sacred fires of the Pueblo peoples in North America, solstice bonfires connect communities to their heritage and the natural world. These gatherings are not just about marking the astronomical event but also about honoring the spirit of renewal and abundance that the changing seasons bring. The ancient tradition of lighting bonfires at solstice continues to be a poignant reminder of our shared human connection to the rhythms of the Earth and the cosmos.These are just a few of the interesting Solstice celebrations across the world. Summer Solstice in Stonehenge, England For a mystical experience, join the thousands who gather at Stonehenge during the summer solstice. This prehistoric monument, built around 5,000 years ago, aligns perfectly with the sunrise on the longest day of the year. The atmosphere is electric, filled with awe and reverence for this ancient site. Winter Solstice in Reykjavik, Iceland On the flip side, Reykjavik offers a magical winter solstice experience. As the shortest day of the year, it marks a time of reflection and celebration. The city's Yule festivities, bonfires, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights make it a memorable destination. The long nights provide a perfect backdrop for witnessing the Northern Lights, a natural wonder that adds a touch of magic to the season. Midnight Sun in Tromsø, Norway During the summer solstice, the Arctic Circle experiences the Midnight Sun, where the sun never sets. Tromsø, Norway, is an ideal spot to witness this phenomenon. Imagine hiking, boating, or attending festivals under the continuous daylight, experiencing a world where time seems to stand still. Cultural Festivities in Cusco, Peru Cusco’s Inti Raymi, or Festival of the Sun, coincides with the Southern Hemisphere's winter solstice. This vibrant celebration revives ancient Incan traditions with parades, music, and dances. The city's rich cultural heritage and the festival's energy offer a profound connection to the past. Solstice at the Pyramids of Giza, Egypt The solstices have significant alignments with ancient structures like the Pyramids of Giza. During these times, the sun's rays align with the pyramids, showcasing ancient engineering marvels. Witnessing this alignment is an awe-inspiring experience that connects you with the ingenuity of ancient civilizations. Serene Solstice in Kyoto, Japan For a tranquil solstice experience, Kyoto’s temples and gardens offer a serene retreat. During the winter solstice, the city’s landscapes, covered in a light dusting of snow, provide a perfect setting for reflection and meditation. The Japanese tradition of yuzu baths, taken to cleanse and protect during the solstice, adds a cultural touch to your visit. At Zahara Travel, we believe in creating journeys that align with nature’s rhythms. Whether you’re chasing the Midnight Sun, celebrating ancient traditions, or marveling at engineering marvels, we are here to craft the perfect solstice adventure for you. Plan your solstice journey with Zahara Travel and embrace the magic of the solstices. It's an experience that promises to be both memorable and enriching, connecting you deeply with the rhythms of our world.
In an extraordinary turn of event, the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, have extended their reach across multiple locations, courtesy of a potent solar storm. Enthusiasts and spectators alike are revelling in the awe-inspiring display as the dancing lights paint the night skies from Alaska to Scotland. The phenomenon, typically associated with Arctic regions such as Norway, Iceland, and Canada, has expanded its canvas due to a recent surge in solar activity. This surge has sent charged particles hurtling towards Earth, creating ideal conditions for the Northern Lights to manifest. From the remote wilderness of Alaska to the mystical landscapes of Scotland's Isle of Skye, lucky spectators are treated to a rare and extended showcase of the Aurora Borealis. Finland, with its glass igloos offering unparalleled viewing opportunities, and Russia, with its vast expanses of northern territory, are also among the locations where the spectacle can be witnessed. The Northern Lights, characterised by curtains of light in varying hues of green, pink, and purple, have captivated audiences for centuries. Amateur photographers and nature enthusiasts alike are urged to seize the moment, with the spectacle providing ample opportunities for stunning imagery. As the solar storm continues to make its presence felt, enthusiasts are advised to monitor aurora forecast websites and apps for optimal viewing times and locations. Patience, warm clothing, and camera equipment with manual settings are recommended for those seeking to capture the beauty of the Northern Lights in all its splendour. In a world filled with natural wonders, the Northern Lights stand out as a testament to the majesty of the cosmos. As they grace skies across multiple locations, travellers and adventurers are reminded of the profound beauty that can be found in the heavens above.
Sustainability and responsible tourism are becoming increasingly important in today's rapidly changing world. At Zahara Travel, we are committed to promoting responsible and ecofriendly travel strategies that allow you to explore the world while minimizing the impact on the environmental. In this blog post, we will share practical tips and recommendations on how to travel in an eco-friendly manner and contribute to the preservation of our planet's natural beauty and cultural heritage. 1. Choose Sustainable Accommodation Choose eco-friendly lodging establishments that put an emphasis on sustainable measures including water conservation, waste reduction, energy efficiency, and the utilisation of renewable resources. When making your hotel reservation, look for eco-certifications and green programmes to support companies that practise environmental care. 2. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint Consider carbon offsetting options to neutralize the carbon emissions from your flights and transportation. Many airlines and travel companies offer carbon offset programs that fund renewable energy projects and reforestation initiatives to offset the environmental impact of travel. 3. Support Local Communities Choose locally owned and operated businesses, restaurants, and tour operators to promote community development and the local economy. Get involved with the communities where you are, discover their customs, culture, and way of life, and support local artisans and craftsmen by buying souvenirs and other merchandise manufactured there. 4. Minimize Single-Use Plastics When travelling, use reusable shopping bags, travel mugs, and water bottles to cut down on single-use plastics and waste. Steer clear of plastic straws, cutlery, and containers in favour of eco-friendly substitutes made of sustainable materials like bamboo, stainless steel, or biodegradable materials. 5. Practice Responsible Wildlife Tourism While choosing wildlife tourism options select wildlife encounters that put conservation and animal welfare first, such as responsible whale watching excursions, ethical elephant sanctuaries, and wildlife rehabilitation facilities. Steer clear of endeavours that injure or exploit wildlife, use captive animals, or damage their habitats. Instead, support groups and organisations that work to save endangered species and their environment. 6. Honour and safeguard cultural and natural heritage To reduce your impact on natural habitats and cultural sites, abide by the "Leave No Trace" and "Take Only Photos, Leave Only Footprints" concepts. To maintain the integrity and authenticity of the locations you visit, respect local customs, traditions, and holy sites. You should also get permission before taking pictures of people, places, and cu cultural artifacts to preserve the integrity and authenticity of the destinations you visit. 7. Choose Eco-Friendly Transportation Opt for eco-friendly modes of transportation such as walking, cycling, or using public transportation to explore destinations and reduce your carbon footprint. Consider renting hybrid or electric vehicles, carpooling, and using eco-friendly transport options such as trains or buses for longer journeys to minimize environmental impact. Traveling sustainably is not only about protecting the environment but also about enriching your travel experiences, fostering cultural exchange, and supporting local communities and economies. At Zahara Travel, we are dedicated to promoting eco-friendly travel practices and offering sustainable travel options that allow you to explore the world responsibly and make a positive difference. For personalized eco-friendly travel experiences and expert guidance to plan your sustainable adventures, contact Zahara Travel at (968) 24400811 or sales.marketing@zaharatravel.com. Visit our website www.zaharatravel.com to explore our range of eco-friendly tours and services. Join us in our commitment to responsible tourism and sustainable travel, and together we can protect and preserve the natural and cultural heritage of our planet for future generations to enjoy.
At Zahara Travel, we believe that travel is not just about the destinations we visit but also about the stories we discover along the way. To help you feed your wanderlust and inspire your next adventure, we've put together a selection of the top travel books that will take you on a journey across the globe all without leaving the comforts of your home. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho This timeless classic follows Santiago, a young shepherd, on his journey to find a hidden treasure in the Egyptian pyramids. A tale of adventure, self-discovery, and following one’s dreams, The Alchemist will inspire you to embark on your own personal quest for treasure, wherever that may lead you. Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert Eat, Pray, Love chronicles Elizabeth Gilbert's transformative journey across Italy, India, and Indonesia as she seeks to rediscover herself and find balance in her life. The book is a heartfelt and humorous memoir that celebrates the joys of travel, self-discovery, and the pursuit of happiness. Wild by Cheryl Strayed Cheryl Strayed embarks on a solo trek along the Pacific Crest Trail, confronting her fears, embracing solitude, and finding strength in the face of adversity in this powerful read. Wild is an inspiring memoir that celebrates the healing power of nature and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of difficult odds. The Geography of Bliss by Eric Weiner Journey with journalist Eric Weiner on his quest to uncover the secrets to happiness by exploring the world’s happiest countries and cultures. The Geography of Bliss is a thought-provoking and entertaining travelogue that delves into the complexities of happiness and the cultural factors that shape our well-being. Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer This is a gripping retelling of a true story where we follow Christopher McCandless as he leaves behind his comfortable life to embark on a solitary journey into the Alaskan wilderness. Into the Wild is a compelling and cautionary tale that explores the allure of adventure, the beauty of nature, and the consequences of living on the edge. The Beach by Alex Garland Dive into the tropical paradise of Thailand’s hidden beaches with Richard, a young backpacker in search of adventure and escape from the tourist trail. The Beach is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that explores the darker side of paradise and the extent people would go to in order to build their own utopia. In Patagonia by Bruce Chatwin Bruce Chatwin takes readers on a journey across the untamed landscapes of Patagonia, highlighting the area's breathtaking natural beauty, fascinating history, and captivating folklore. The poetic and evocative travel read "In Patagonia" whisks readers away to a world of distant wildness and antiquated customs. So whether you're looking to get inspired while ensconced in the comforts of your home or are planning your next vacation, these engrossing travel reads will definitely satisfy your wanderlust and transport you to some of the most intriguing places on earth. We at Zahara Travel are dedicated to enhancing and enriching your travel experiences, and so we hope that these top travel books will inspire you to set out on new adventures and unearth hidden gems around the globe. For personalised travel experiences and expert guidance to plan your next adventure, contact us at (968) 24400811 or sales.marketing@zaharatravel.com and explore our range of tours and services on our website. Happy reading and happy travels from the team at Zahara Travel!
The way we travel is constantly changing and one of the biggest trends in the last few years is the rise of self-drive vacations. According to some experts, the number of people opting for such holidays is seeing a steady growth particularly within the age group of 25 to 45 years. The last decade has seen more Omanis now opting to explore domestic destinations by renting a car. In contrast to a decade ago where one would mostly see families making trips with their children, there is a steep increase in younger crowds heading out for road trips now. With trips to places like Salalah, and Sur leading the boards as the top destinations domestically, Britain, Ireland, USA, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Spain, and Thailand are some of the many international destinations that make for a great self-drive holiday options among Omanis. The increasing popularity of road trips in Oman can be attributed to great road connectivity, increasing good navigation systems and the wide variety of options for car and bike rentals among others. Infact the self-drive holiday segment itself has grown among people travelling both within Oman and abroad with many believing that movies and the increasing influence of social media is giving rise to the trend, resulting in road trips being on the bucket list of many travellers these days. Particularly in these hectic times with the concept of long-weekend holidays serving as a mini-escape, popular drive-down locations are seeing a surge of interest. But what exactly is involved in a self-drive vacation? A self-drive vacation is a package that at a minimum entails a rental car, accommodation, and transportation. This can involve flying down to the destination of your choice and picking up your car from the regional airport. There, you will be able to venture out into the open roads and explore the area at your own pace while having a pre-suggested itinerary by your side.Drive from city to city while enjoying the stress-free comfort of convenient pre-planned routes and accommodations in every place that you visit. Many may wonder what are the benefits of self-drive vacations over traditional holiday packages? The answer to that is plenty of freedom and flexibility wherein one can explore a destination at one's own pace and interest. While you will have a pre-suggested itinerary developed by travel experts who know the area well and can suggest sites to visit and routes to explore according to your interest; You can choose what interests you from the suggested itinerary, follow it exactly or completely ignore this list and go with the flow. Just make sure you make it to the cities where your accommodations will be booked. While you will have the freedom and flexibility you desire, you are also afforded the comfort and convenience that comes with having your accommodations pre-planned and booked for you, in the best hotels our expert partners could find at the best possible price. You can cut out the stresses involved with searching for places to stay and ensuring they suit the dates and location you’re travelling on by not having to do any of the planning yourself. So you can just focus on enjoying your vacation! So if you don’t enjoy waiting in line or following the crowd, then self-drive tours might be for you. Among the best ways to discover places at your own pace is through self-drive itineraries, where you can choose the sites you want to check out, how many breaks you wish to take, or which route interests you. The shorter or the scenic route, it's all up to you, depending on what your interests are and what pace you want to set out and explore at. Are you in the mood to book a rental vehicle and set off for a trip? Whether you're searching for answers about the workings of self-drive vacations, or are just searching for recommendations or advice from our travel experts, reach out to our team of highly knowledgeable and experienced travel experts at (+968) 24400811 or sales.marketing@zaharatravel.com and they will be happy to help you!
Thu, 12 Jul 2018
Sun, 23 Dec 2018