G'day! I'm Chris. I left my home in rural Australia back in 2007 to pursue a life less ordinary.
I specialize in ambitious travel - bucket list worthy journeys such as the Great US Road Trip, the ultimate African safari, and following the length of the Silk Road.
Germany, a country steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, offers a plethora of breathtaking destinations for travellers. From the buzzing metropolises to serene landscapes like the scenic Black Forest region, there’s truly something for everyone.
Whether you want to get lost along the quaint alley ways of Munich, learn all about Germany’s dark past in Berlin, or simply marvel at the country’s majestic landscape and
Here are ten bucket list locations you must visit when you go to Germany.
Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria
Neuschwanstein Castle is a fairy-tale-like fortress perched atop rugged hills in Bavaria. Built in the 19th century for King Ludwig II, it’s said to have inspired Disney’s Cinderella castle. A visit here offers a glimpse into royal history and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Brandenburg Gate, Berlin
The Brandenburg Gate is more than just an architectural marvel; it’s a symbol of German unity and history. Located in Berlin, this neoclassical gate has witnessed numerous historical events and is a must-visit for its historical significance and impressive structure.
The Black Forest, Baden-Württemberg
Famed for its dense, evergreen forests and picturesque villages, the Black Forest is a paradise for nature lovers. It offers a myriad of outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and skiing in winter, along with the opportunity to indulge in the region’s unique culinary delights.
Cologne Cathedral, Cologne
Cologne Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, is one of Germany’s most visited landmarks and one of the tallest churches in the world. Its impressive twin spires dominate the city’s skyline, and the cathedral is renowned for its stunning stained glass windows and the Shrine of the Three Kings. The liberal and lively city of Cologne itself is also worth a visit. With its world famous carnival, inclusive festivals and live music the party spirit is alive and well in Cologne!
The Romantic Road
The Romantic Road is a scenic route winding through Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. It offers a journey through medieval towns, fairy-tale castles, and picturesque countryside. Highlights include the towns of Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Füssen.
Oktoberfest, Munich
Oktoberfest in Munich is the world’s largest Volksfest (beer festival and travelling funfair). It’s an essential experience for beer enthusiasts, offering an array of traditional brews, Bavarian music, and cultural festivities.
The Rhine Valley
The Rhine Valley is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, dotted with castles, vineyards, and quaint towns. A river cruise here offers spectacular views and a chance to experience the rich cultural heritage of this region.
Miniatur Wunderland, Hamburg
Miniatur Wunderland is the world’s largest model railway exhibit, located in Hamburg. It’s a fascinating world in miniature, featuring incredibly detailed landscapes and scenes from around the globe, making it a delight for all ages.
Saxon Switzerland National Park
Saxon national park, near the border with the Czech Republic, is known for its unique sandstone rock formations and lush forests. It’s a paradise for hikers and climbers, offering some of the most dramatic and beautiful scenery in Germany.
Sanssouci Palace, Potsdam
Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam is a magnificent example of Rococo architecture and was the summer palace of Frederick the Great, King of Prussia. The palace and its beautifully landscaped gardens are a testament to the lavishness of Prussian kings.
Each of these destinations offers a unique slice of Germany’s rich tapestry, promising unforgettable experiences and insights into the nation’s heart and soul. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or cultural enthusiast, Germany’s diverse attractions are sure to leave a lasting impression.
In the heart of Slovenia’s enchanting Julian Alps, Bled Castle stands as a timeless sentinel overlooking the serene Lake Bled. This mediaeval fortress, perched atop a cliff, offers a window into the past while presenting breathtaking views that captivate the modern traveller. Renowned for its rich history and stunning natural surroundings, Bled Castle is not just a historical monument but a jewel in the crown of Slovenia’s tourist attractions. This article aims to guide travel enthusiasts through the wonders of Bled Castle, offering tips and insights to make your visit truly unforgettable.
The Castle’s History: A Walk Through Time
Bled Castle’s history is a tapestry of tales dating back to the 11th century. As the oldest Slovenian castle, it has witnessed numerous historical events, including the reigns of various noble families. The castle’s architecture combines Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles, reflecting the changes over the centuries. Inside, the museum provides an immersive historical experience, showcasing artefacts and exhibits that tell the story of Bled from prehistoric times to the present. Take advantage of the printing workshop, where you can see traditional printing techniques. Before embarking on your journey to Bled Castle, ensuring you have all the necessary documents is crucial. A key aspect of travel preparation is understanding visa requirements. For comprehensive information on visas and other entry documents, go to iVisa.com. Once all the travel documents are sorted, you can focus on enjoying this architectural gem, one of Slovenia’s most visited tourist attractions.
The Panoramic Experience: Unforgettable Views
The highlight of any visit to Bled Castle is undoubtedly its panoramic view. From its terraces, you can gaze upon the emerald waters of Lake Bled, the charming island in its midst, and the majestic peaks of the Julian Alps. These views provide perfect photo opportunities, so keep your camera ready. For a truly magical experience, visit at sunset when the sky’s changing colours cast a spellbinding glow over the landscape. It’s a moment of serene beauty that epitomises the allure of Bled Castle. The changing seasons offer a kaleidoscope of colours, from summer’s lush greens to autumn’s golden hues. Early morning visitors can often catch a mesmerising mist rising from the lake, adding a mystical touch. Nighttime offers a different charm, with the castle lights reflecting on the lake’s tranquil surface.
Culinary Delights: Taste the Tradition
Bled Castle isn’t just about history and views; it’s also a haven for food enthusiasts. The castle restaurant offers a range of traditional Slovenian dishes prepared with a modern twist. A must-try is the famous Bled cream cake, a delightful local speciality. The castle’s wine cellar is another highlight, offering tastings of fine Slovenian wines. Here, you can learn about the rich wine-making tradition of the region and even bottle your wine to take home as a unique souvenir. Additionally, the castle hosts seasonal gastronomic events, showcasing local produce and traditional cooking methods. These events offer a deeper dive into the local cuisine, often accompanied by folk music and cultural performances, adding to the dining experience. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor dining with a lake view, creating an unforgettable ambience. The castle’s herbal garden, supplying fresh ingredients to the restaurant, is worth a visit for those interested in botany.
Exploring Beyond the Castle
While Bled Castle is a primary attraction, the surrounding area is full of wonders. Take a pletna boat to Bled Island and visit the Church of the Assumption. For adventure seekers, the nearby Triglav National Park offers hiking, cycling, and rafting opportunities. The region transforms into a snowy paradise in winter, ideal for skiing and ice skating. Don’t forget to explore the charming town of Bled itself, with its quaint streets and cosy cafes. For those interested in local crafts, the city hosts workshops where you can learn traditional Slovenian handicrafts. The area’s thermal springs also offer a relaxing escape, with several wellness centres providing rejuvenating treatments using natural resources. Exploring the Vintgar Gorge, with its wooden bridges and waterfalls, is a must for nature lovers. During festive seasons, Bled’s market squares come alive with cultural festivals and fairs, offering a glimpse into local traditions.
Bled Castle is more than just a historical monument; it’s a gateway to a rich cultural and natural experience. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just seeking a peaceful retreat, Bled offers something for everyone. Pack appropriately for the Alpine weather, and immerse yourself in the wonders of this Slovenian gem. With its captivating views, rich history, and vibrant culture, Bled Castle awaits to leave you spellbound.
Embarking on a journey from the sunbaked shores of Australia to the vibrant and diverse landscapes of India is an adventure of a lifetime. As you prepare to wander through ancient fortresses, navigate bustling markets, and indulge in the kaleidoscopic Indian cuisine, equipping yourself with the right knowledge and essentials becomes crucial. This comprehensive guide is tailored to help Australians immerse themselves in the Indian experience with ease and confidence.
1. Navigating Travel Documents and Currency Essentials:
Visa Requirements: A valid tourist visa is your golden ticket. An Indian e Visa offers a hassle-free online application process for Australians.
Passport Protocols: Your passport should remain valid for a minimum of six months beyond your planned stay in India.
Financial Preparedness: Carry Indian Rupees for initial expenses. Remember to notify your bank of your travel to ensure seamless card transactions in a different country.
2. Health and Wellness in India:
Pre-Travel Vaccinations: Engage in a consultation with your healthcare provider to get recommended vaccinations, including shots for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and Tetanus.
Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Invest in robust travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, offering peace of mind as you explore.
Essential Medication Kit: Pack a well-stocked medical kit, including essentials like rehydration solutions, anti-diarrheal medicine, and any specific prescription medications.
3. Embracing Indian Culture with Sensitivity:
Understanding Indian Etiquette: Dive into understanding Indian customs and etiquette. This knowledge is invaluable in showing respect and avoiding cultural faux pas.
Modest and Respectful Attire: Indian culture appreciates modesty, especially at religious sites. Packing conservative clothing is both respectful and practical.
4. Effective Communication Strategies:
Staying Connected: A local SIM card can be a lifeline for easy communication and internet access.
Language Tips: While English is prevalent, grasping a few basic phrases in Hindi can enrich interactions and earn appreciation from locals.
5. Safety and Scam Awareness:
Steering Clear of Scams: Equip yourself with knowledge about common tourist scams to avoid falling prey to them.
Safeguarding Personal Belongings: In crowded areas, a sturdy bag and a watchful eye are essential to prevent pickpocketing.
6. Adapting to India’s Climate:
Seasonal Wardrobe Considerations: Dress for the season – lightweight, breathable fabrics for the heat, and warm layers for cooler weather.
Sun Protection is Key: In India’s often-intense sun, sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protection sunglasses are must-haves.
7. Power and Connectivity:
Electrical Essentials: India operates on 230V, 50Hz with plug types C, D, and M. Ensure you have suitable adapters for your electronic devices.
8. Food and Water Precautions:
Hydration Safety: Stick to bottled or purified water and avoid tap water to steer clear of health risks.
Savoring Indian Cuisine Wisely: Embrace the culinary adventure with caution – opt for freshly cooked meals and be wary of raw or uncooked dishes.
9. Exploring the Indian Terrain:
Transport Options Across India: Familiarize yourself with the varied transport options like the extensive train network, local buses, and the ubiquitous auto-rickshaws.
Guidance and Navigation: Carry a reliable map or make use of GPS-based applications to find your way through the maze of Indian streets.
How can Natvisa help?
Natvisa is a highly reliable and convenient platform that facilitates Australian visitors in obtaining their Indian e visa with utmost ease and efficiency. The platform offers a streamlined application process that enables users to submit their application form, pay the visa fee, and receive their e-Visa in their email inbox within a few days.
The platform is backed by a team of dedicated professionals who are available round-the-clock to provide customers with prompt and efficient assistance. Natvisa also provides users with comprehensive guidance and resources, including a detailed guide on how to apply for an Indian e-Visa.
From Australia’s tranquil beaches to the energetic rhythm of India’s cities and the serene beauty of its countryside, this journey is a tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered. With thoughtful preparation, you can delve into the heart of India’s vibrant culture, history, and natural beauty, ensuring an enriching and memorable expedition.
Fairbanks sits at the heart of the Alaskan wilderness, the largest city in the state’s interior, and the gateway to the vast tundra that contains some of the most incredible landscapes and thrilling experiences the Last Frontier has to offer. Some of the best hiking, most remarkable wildlife, and most exciting back-country experiences can be found starting at Fairbanks.
But Fairbanks itself is far more than just a base for exploring the wide-open spaces of Alaska’s interior. The city boasts a rich cultural tapestry that makes it a wonderful place to visit in its own right and offers a vibrant calendar of events with something for everyone throughout the year.
From dazzling winter wonderlands at Christmas to spiritual summer Solstice celebrations, there are some amazing things to do whenever you arrive in Fairbanks. So if you’ve chosen to explore Alaska by boarding a cruise or setting off on a road trip and are looking for something cultural to add to your adventure, here are some of Fairbanks’ most exciting festivals and events to look forward to.
Fairbanks Ice Art Festival
Fairbanks kicks off the year in grand style with its annual Ice Art Festival. Held every February, the festival transforms Fairbanks into a magical, mysterious, and thoroughly mesmerizing world of incredible sculptures made solely from ice and snow. The festival attracts ice sculptors and artists from around the world to work their magic, carving stunning works of art from blocks of ice and creating an enchanting and thoroughly astonishing frozen landscape.
Midnight Sun Season
Alaska’s interior might conjure up images of long, dark nights and frozen wilderness, but during the summer this couldn’t be further from the truth. As the city sits within the Arctic Circle, Fairbanks enjoys extraordinarily long days during May, June, and July, and the sun doesn’t set for 70 consecutive days! As a result, the summer solstice is a phenomenon to behold – 24 hours of genuine sunshine, with midnight being as bright as midday. This remarkable celestial event is celebrated in Fairbanks with the Midnight Sun Festival, a street fair that combines exciting live music, local art, and food trucks, with a slightly more spiritual ambiance recognizing the importance of the solstice for various cultures.
World Eskimo-Indian Olympics (WEIO)
The World Eskimo-Indian Olympics (WEIO) is also known as the Alaska Native Games. This fascinating and incredible event showcases the traditional skills, games, and pastimes of the indigenous Alaskans, with some weird and wonderful events such as the one-foot high kick and the ear pull. It offers a unique twist on traditional sporting events and is a brilliant opportunity to learn more about Native Alaskan customs, culture, and sport.
Golden Days
The history of Fairbanks is inextricably interlinked with the history of gold, as it was the discovery of gold near the city in 1902 that led to the Fairbanks Gold Rush. In fact, Fairbanks was largely built around the fervor for gold, so it is unsurprising that one of their biggest celebrations is in its honor. Fairbanks’ Golden Days is a week-long festival in July commemorating the first discovery of gold in the city, with parades, street fairs, and most excitingly of all a rubber duckie race own the Chena River!
Tanana Valley State Fair
In August Fairbanks celebrates everything agricultural with the Tanana Valley State Fair. With everything from hay rides and tractor races to live entertainment and nose-to-tail eating, it is a wonderful exposition of the local produce and industry of the region, and a delightfully family-friendly affair.
Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival
Fairbanks has a pretty serious cultural side, and art lovers should make the effort to visit during the Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival in July. This wide-ranging event combines exhibitions, performances, and workshops across a variety of artistic disciplines, and is an incredible showcase of the creativity and ingenuity of the city and Alaska as a whole.
The Yukon Quest
The Yukon Quest is known as the ‘toughest sled dog race in the world’, a gruelling challenge across 1,000 miles of rugged Alaskan and Canadian wilderness, pitting race teams against the elements. Starting in Fairbanks in February it is an extraordinary testament to the endurance of mushers and dogs, and the unbreakable bonds that join them together.
Thanks to its diverse and unique calendar of festivals and events, Fairbanks is one of the most interesting cultural hubs in Alaska, and maybe even across the US. From ice art to Native Alaskan traditions, the cultural heritage of this fascinating state is proudly on show throughout the year in Fairbanks.
If you’re nomadic like me, you’ll probably find that the people in your life have a hell of a time coming up with Christmas gift ideas for you. When you’re shopping for somebody who travels carry-on only, it can be a nightmare coming up with ideas as to what gifts to get them for Christmas or their birthday.
People who love to travel are partaking in one of the greatest pleasures in life, and while we may make lifelong memories, it can mean that we need to eschew the ‘stuff’ that others collect. Without a home base to put that stunning painting or scratch-off travel map in, gift ideas are often limited to what we can fit into a suitcase.
The below list of travel-inspired gifts are ones I own myself or ones I want to own. If you’ve got a traveler in your life, here are fifteen amazing gift ideas for them this Christmas.
Toasting from drinking horns while wine tasting in Georgia
30 Travel Gifts for Adventurous Souls
I’m gonna level with you here, folks. This post is going to contain affiliate links.
This means that if you buy any of the below (or buy something else on Amazon after clicking through one of the below), I’m going to make a little commission. This doesn’t impact how much you pay in the end, but I wanted you to know that I’m not being completely selfless here. Your gift to me this Christmas will be the gift of a cheeky little Amazon commission going into my bank.
However, I will stand by all of the below gifts as things I either already own or sorely wish to. I’ll even tell you which are which!
A Tinggly gift box is the perfect way to give the gift of a travel experience without a set date in mind.
Tinggly Experience Box
If there is one thing the traveler in your life will never say no to, it’s more money to fund their travels.
If folding up a crisp $100 bill in a Christmas card seems a bit too “I don’t know you well enough to spend even a second trying to figure out what you like” for you, a Tinggly Experience Box might be the trick. It’s the same as giving your traveling friend money, but it’s just travel-themed enough that they’ll feel like you really get them.
Incidentally, last year my father forewarned me that I was getting a Tinggly experience box for Christmas. He’s also told me how much he spent. He’s fun like that.
Your Tinggly Experience comes in a cute box and boasts a pretty massive list of experiences all over the world. This gives the traveler in your life the freedom to choose the adventure they’ll enjoy most, so you don’t have to!
There are experiences in 100+ countries and they have two years to use it, so it’s as easy as just taking out your credit card and letting them do the work. You don’t even need to know where in the world they are!
Personally, I hate buying endless plastic water bottles when I travel in places where you can’t drink the water. Having a water bottle with a filter is so handy while backpacking through Southeast Asia or South America, or when you live in a country like China or Vietnam, where tap water is completely undrinkable.
Personally, I’m a fan of the bite and suck straws on water bottles, because it actually encourages me to drink at least the bare minimum of water necessary to survive as a human.
Plus, Lifestraw gives back to the community! Through the company’s Follow the Liters program, every LifeStraw product sold provides a child in a developing country with access to clean, safe drinking water for an entire school year.
Ask anybody to list off their most indispensable possessions, and after the wife, kids, and passport, you’re likely to land on their smartphone.
What might have been a bit of a frivolous luxury item a decade ago is now so essential that you’ll see people losing their minds when they’re in a signal dead zone or can’t find a charger.
With your phone being so essential to your day-to-day existence, it makes sense to protect it, and why protect it with a dull bit of hardware when you can have something that speaks to your personality?
The team at Carved produces gorgeous iPhone (and Samsung) cases alongside some truly beautiful wallets, chargers, and more. If your world-traveler is looking to step away from cookie-cutter cases and have something that speaks to their personality, Carved is what you’re looking for.
The practical benefits of owning noise-canceling headphones or earbuds are many.
Screaming baby on your red-eye flight? Drown them out with the dulcet tones of an all Michael Buble playlist.
A long, boring commute in a cramped train? Let the boys from the Adventure Zone nerd you to your happy place.
Chinese guy behind you on the bus shouting into his phone because he doesn’t understand how phones work? Who cares? You’re binging Schitt’s Creek in blissful silence.
When I first got a pair of Sennheiser PXC550 noise-canceling headphones back in 2017, I liked them so much I wrote a whole post masturbating over them.
More recently, I’ve come to appreciate that I won’t always want to carry a massive pair of headphones around like some obnoxious wannabe DJ. That’s where earbuds come in, and I’m especially fond of my new xFyro Aria Earbuds.
Noise-cancelling? Check
Up to 32 hours of life thanks to their charging case? Check
Touch controls to change tracks or increase volume? Check
Don’t look like Apple’s iButtplugs? Check
While they’re a bit pricier than the average earbuds, the extended battery life and touch controls make the xFyro ARIA a welcome addition to my travel electronics collection.
My wife, Adventures Around Asia is obsessed with her Tropicfeel shoes. So much so that she backed them on Kickstarter and was upset when I got offered a free review pair.
Never fear, dear reader! I did not take their free shoes! It definitely had nothing to do with the fact my clown feet are too large for conventional shoes, I assure you.
Truthfully, I really dig Tropicfeel’s look, practically, and message. I’m bummed that my colossal appendage has once again meant I can’t have something I want.
Quick-drying and comfortable, Tropicfeel shoes are designed with travelers in mind. If you’ve ever peeled off your sweaty shoes after a long day of hiking or backpacking to the dismay of the gathered crowd, you’ll be pleased to know that these little miracles go a long way towards avoiding such awkward social moments.
My wife and I have been talking about getting a good travel speaker for a while now, and I have my sights on the Sony Bluetooth Waterproof Speaker.
Firstly, who doesn’t want to listen to music or a podcast in the shower? Personally, I’ve been binging Adventure Zone. But also, speakers really come in handy when you’re trying to watch a movie on your laptop in a hotel room, and your wife keeps complaining about the sound quality on your computer… Not that I have personal experience with this or anything.
If you’re not taking advantage of the in-flight beverage service on your long haul flights, you’re basically leaving money on the table.
While I would never be one to advocate being that person who disrupts the entire flight by loudly offering to hold a crying baby through red-wine stained teeth, there’s something to be said for a cheeky beverage (or three) to help knock you out. Let’s be honest, there are never more than 2-3 movies worth watching on the in-flight entertainment.
If lukewarm beer or wine of dubious origin doesn’t scratch that itch, a carry-on cocktail kit is a great way to spice up your inebriation experience. While it’s only a single serving, there’s something oh-so-fancy about muddling your own Old Fashioned while the sucker next to you pretends to enjoy his can of Japanese beer.
Growing up in Australia, I had no idea how spoiled I was when it came to coffee until my first visit to the United States.
“You’ll hate the coffee,” our LA Insider Tours guide warned me before I lifted the cup of molten slag to my lips, “All of you Aussies do”.
That’s because the coffee was one step above greywater. Deadset, how do Americans survive on that swill?
Yes, I’m aware that America has some terrific independent coffee shops. Hell, even Starbucks isn’t bad if you don’t mind paying overs for a mediocre latte.
If you’re traveling through Asia (aside from Vietnam), however, you’re going to be facing some hard times, daddy. Coffee culture just hasn’t reached Africa or Asia yet, and I don’t care if Ethiopia invented coffee culture.
For days where you need something that isn’t subpar, an Aeropress is a godsend. Our trusty little miracle worker got Richelle and I through Tanzania, China, rural Japan, and even a few days here in the US of A.
If the traveler in your life doesn’t have a beard, they’re either female or broken. Either way, you can skip this portion.
If, however, they are in possession of a badass beard that would make Odin spontaneously ejaculate, they’re going to need a badass beard care kit.
When I first grew my beard, it was out of laziness, but I now realize that the care and maintenance of a beard is almost as much work as just shaving on the regular. Of course, shaving on the regular would mean looking like a thumb with teeth, so I’ve had to suck it up.
A Badass Beard Care Loaded Travel Kit comes with beard oil, beard balm (or wax), a comb, a brush, and scissors in a handy travel kit, and you best believe I upgraded mine so that my comb smelled of rich sandalwood.
If the man in your life has lumberjack aspirations and enough beardruff to make it a white Christmas, do him (and his furniture) a favor by buying him some beard oils and a good brush. It makes a world of difference.
I once knew a girl who would trade sexual favors in exchange for the promise of Pandora charms. I hope she got help.
I definitely didn’t purposely go out of my way to perform sexual favors to get rings for my Wander Club Wanderchain from my wife last Christmas… but that doesn’t mean I don’t love the idea all the same.
A more gender-neutral and practical take on the Pandora model, Wander Club lets the traveler in your life collect rings for every country, US state, continent, and US national park that they visit. Clipped onto your bag or tucked into a pocket, your Wander Club “Wanderchain” is a kind of record of where you’ve been.
Wanderchain sounds like a spell a bard casts in Dungeons & Dragons. I’m not going to call mine a Wanderchain. I have just enough self-respect.
A percentage of the profits also go to feeding orphans abroad, so you get to feel good while also showing your fellow travelers where you’ve been in a less obnoxious way than a tedious browse through the pages of your well-loved passport.
Amazon Kindle
Look, I know what you’re going to say: “But Chris, a Kindle can never hope to capture the heart and soul of a book!”
In a perfect world, I’d carry my library of 400 novels around with me everywhere I went. I wouldn’t need an external HDD devoted solely to storing PDFs of every Dungeons & Dragons book ever published.
Until RyanAir starts allowing 1,500 kgs of carry-on, however, the “books are better” hill is not one I’m going to die on.
Yes, books are awesome. Do you know what else is awesome? Being able to read more than 1-2 of the fucking things on your trip.
What they lack in soul, a Kindle (or other off-brand eReader) lets you carry a massive library of books with you wherever you go. It can be read in the dark, so you don’t need to wear one of those obnoxious reading lamps on your head like a Welsh miner. It also fits in your pocket, but don’t sit on the thing. It will break. Bitter experience has taught me this.
I may never be the unshaven vagabond that can confidently hitch his hammock between trees in a park, but I cling to the notion that I might someday be that daring and carefree.
A few years ago I mentioned exactly two things two my Mum in the lead-up to Christmas:
I really liked the idea of a travel hammock
I wished my father told me he loved me more often.
Two days after Christmas, the man himself strolled into my room, presented me with a travel hammock, and told me he loved me.
I doubt your own experience with receiving a travel hammock can hope to measure up to that, but you should probably still ask for one.
I’ve long been of the opinion that watches are an outdated status symbol. Who needs to strap a timepiece to their wrists in an age where you have access to the amassed knowledge of mankind in a pocket-sized device that can also take photos and play Pokemon Go?
Those were the bitter ramblings of a man who had never owned a nice watch, friends.
For our wedding, my lovely wife presented me with this gorgeous Daniel Wellington watch that I wear even as I type this post. Do I need a watch while sitting at a laptop that tells the time while glancing occasionally at my phone that tells the time? No.
Do I like being able to hitch up my coat sleeve at a fancy restaurant that I have no business being in so that I can show off my expensive watch? You better fucking believe it.
If you’re anything like me, the inside of your suitcase resembles the inside of a human being. It’s a messy, sometimes sticky mess that you feel uncomfortable thrusting your bare hands into.
My Eagle Creek packing cubes have revolutionized the way that I pack. They’ve also allowed me to say something has revolutionized me, which is a nice little byproduct.
Seriously, though, life gets so much easier when you’re able to introduce a semblance of order to your backpack or suitcase. Now, rather than rifling through the contents of my bag like a filthy hobo, I’m able to be a filthy hobo who knows where to find socks or shirts.
I don’t know about you, but I’m not a huge fan of the camera straps that come with most DSLR cameras. Not only do they have zero personality, but they also really hurt your neck,
A few years ago the wife got me this sexy vintage strap for my DSLR, and I’ve been using it ever since. For the ladies, I know my wife loves this scarf neck strap, and she always gets compliments on it whenever she breaks out her camera.
Want to look like you use your camera more than once or twice a year? Get yourself a sexy neck strap.
Ask an irate boomer what upsets us Millennials more than anything, and they’ll probably say something about our phones running out of battery. Much original. Very humor. Wow.
Don’t give those assholes the satisfaction of minimizing our valid concerns about deep breath: the economy, climate change, the patriarchy, consent, worrying increases in white nationalism, science-hating, anti-vaxxing, Flat Earth believers, notions of gender and sexuality, and gun control. Make sure your phone is always charged so that you can use your valuable energy on putting the privileged shits in their place.
A portable charger is a pocket-sized way to stay connected at all times.
I can’t tell you how much this lightweight packable backpack has come in handy during my travels. I used to use this while going to the beach or the shops on my motorbike in Hoi An, or for a day hike in Japan,
The best part is that when you’re not using it, the backpack folds up small enough to fit in your pocket, meaning you’re not lugging around an empty backpack, or shoving a loose day back in your already full suitcase.
It may not be a glamorous stocking stuffer, but making sure that special someone in your life doesn’t fall prey to their own idiocy is such a sweet way of showing that you care.
Don’t be like me and break your arm while scuba diving. This not only meant three very uncomfortable long-haul flights with a broken arm, but an expensive flight back to Australia to get surgery that travel insurance could have covered.
In Korean culture, it is commonplace to give people gifts of things that they need so that they can spend their money on things that they want. The gift of travel insurance not only ensures your loved one stays safe but lets them fritter their money away on more exciting things.
I use World Nomads whenever I travel these days. I’m not making that mistake again.
If you’re lucky enough to have a travel partner, you’re probably going to want to get busy on your trip, but who wants to stress about wet spots?
The Layer is a discreet way to indulge in a little slap and tickle on the road regardless of whether you’re going full-blown pornstar, if you or your partner is on their period, or if your tastes run a little more exotic in the bedroom.
Regardless, the Layer is an ultra absorbent, portable travel tool that you can throw down on any bed, get busy atop, and then tuck away for later washing.
Before I owned a portable luggage scale, I would go to every flight check-in smelling of sour sweat and nerves. Had I done a good job of culling my wardrobe down? Were they going to look at my suspiciously bulging backpack and insist on weighing it?
With a portable luggage scale, you can weigh-in before you even head to the airport. This means you won’t ever have to be that annoying asshole holding up the check-in while you frantically tear apart your luggage trying to somehow make 27 kilograms miraculously become 23 kilograms.
What do you do with all those cords, earbuds, SIM cards, chargers, and more when you travel?
If the interior of my suitcase is like the savaged remains of a human body, then my backpack is a tangle of twisted cords not unlike the inside of a murdered robot.
Taking my electronics out of my bag at the airport is not so different from trying to untangle Christmas lights.
If you’re traveling with a lot of tech gear and want to keep it organized, a tech pouch is the solution for you! Seriously… I need this.
Want to organize your individual cords so the pocket gremlins don’t tie them in eight thousand knots for you?
If you’re the kind of person whose security check-in resembles an autopsy on C-3PO, a cord organizer or cord tacos will save you a lot of headaches and heartache.
I can’t think of a funny way to describe how important a good, laptop-friendly day pack is for the traveler in your life.
Whether it’s a slim and adorable Macbook or a chunky Acer Predator gaming laptop like mine, your traveler’s laptop is probably the most important thing to them after their passport. Having a backpack that can not only fit their laptop but also offer it a measure of protection is super helpful.
My favorite option right now is this gorgeous piece of work. It has the standard stuff you would expect from a backpack but also has additional goodies like phone and pen pockets, an external USB charging port, and an anti-theft rear pocket.
While I love having my custom-made coat while I travel, I’ll be honest… It’s not the easiest thing to fit in a suitcase. Seriously, my tailored jacket gets my wife’s engine revving like it’s the start of a NASCAR race, but it just isn’t practical to be that good-looking all of the time.
While I’ve been happy to sacrifice space for FASHION, this last year I’ve been pretty jealous of my wife’s black puffy packable jacket that she can roll right up and fit in a tiny corner of her suitcase. It’s nice enough looking to wear out to dinner, but she even used it when we hiked the Kumano Kodo in Japan!
It has come to my attention that they also make these packable puffy jackets for men, and I’m seriously considering asking for one on my Christmas list this year.
Ever since my dear friend, Magro handed me a credit card-sized bottle opener, I have delighted in whipping the thing out in bars, restaurants, and at BBQs to coolly open people’s drinks for them. It’s especially fun when you do it while the staff member is struggling to unhook their bottle opener from their belt.
If you want to up your wallet game, however, an 11 in 1 wallet tool lets you be the platinum credit card owner of handyman stuff.
Opening a bottle of beer? Too easy
Can of beans? Done!
Need a screwdriver or wrench? You’ve got one!
Amputating a limb after you fall into a narrow canyon? You’ll have to ask James Franco.
Still, that’s a pretty good strike rate for something that definitely won’t have TSA poring over your wallet like it says “Made in Iraq”.
If your loved one is heading to China, they’re going to need a VPN. That country’s overbearing government just isn’t going to let them Tweet, Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, or… uh… Pokemon Go about their experiences there.
Even if they aren’t going to a country that hates freedom of speech, a VPN is still a great way to stay connected while abroad. Being able to seamlessly tell your computer that you’re back home not only lets you watch Netflix or HBO on the go, but it also avoids annoying regional content blocks on your favorite news sites.
If your bank is as paranoid as mine is, a VPN also stops them from randomly blocking you from accessing your account.
My personal recommendation is ExpressVPN, who can handle regular VPN duties and the process of vaulting China’s Great Firewall.
My wife Richelle’s folks got me one of these for Christmas last year and I’m never going back. All you need to do is plug your Fire Stick into an HDMI port on any tv, and you have instant access to all your favorite tv streaming services.
With the Fire Stick, we’re able to watch Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO, Disney Plus, Hulu, Youtube and more from our tv in Tbilisi, and if we move all we have to do is take it with us and plug it into the tv at the next place.
It’s an introvert’s heaven.
The best part is Express VPN works with the Fire Stick so that you can watch US (or Australian) shows no matter where you are in the world. This has allowed us to binge Avatar, the Expanse, New Girl and so many other shows that aren’t on Georgian Netflix.
While not a practical gift for somebody who travels full time, a scratch-off travel map has been on my Christmas wish list for so long that it might as well be a pony.
Someday, I’ll have a home of my own and I’ll be able to mount this on my wall and think about how cool I used to be when I still traveled.
Not a fan of the scratch-off map? A world map pinboard is another cool option for those who aren’t traveling all the time. I love the pinboard idea because you can easily put pins in your map without worrying about destroying the wall or having pins fall out constantly.
Personally, I think this Artgeist Pinboard Map would look perfect in my living room right now… cough cough
What traveling man wouldn’t want this? This Ultimate Man’s Survival Guide is the go-to survival guide for anything you might encounter in the wilderness. From fighting a bear to setting a dislocated joint, every manly man traveler should have this on his Christmas list.
Granted, not everybody shares my crippling need for digital connection, but any long-term traveler will understand the frustration of trying to make do on dial-up speed hostel WiFi when you have a deadline looming.
Airalo eSims change all of that. Rather than buying plastic SIM cards at every airport, you can simply activate your eSim online and be ready to go the moment that you land.
While the service is only available to newer phones right now, the technology really is going to change the way people travel. No more expensive roaming charges. No more stupid local tourist SIMS with irritating passport and registration procedures.
There’s just something fancy about sitting down at the airport, tucking your passport into a gorgeous leather passport wallet, and then taking out your leather bound notebook to scribble down some errant thought that amused you.
You probably have a living room that smells of rich mahogany.
Sad story, I actually managed to lose my passport wallet already, as I left it at my last check-in counter and never saw it again. Thank God my passport wasn’t in it at the time!
Leather Neo has a huge variety of gorgeous leather goods for any itinerant traveler. From laptop covers to leather bags to iPad sleeves and more, there’s bound to be something here to tickle your fancy travel buddies.
Whatever travel-themed gift you choose for your loved one’s birthday, you can be sure that they will be delighted that you know them so well, and will appreciate the effort you have put in to find something that appeals to perfectly to their passions and interests.
Your Say
What is on your Christmas list this year?
If possible, try to make your response as acidic and scathing as possible. I’ve got a tone I’m trying to stick to.
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