• United States
    • Arizona
      • Glendale – 623-251-0442
    • Connecticut
      • Tanger Outlet Center – 860-383-4340
    • Florida
      • Key West – 305-396-7307
      • Orlando – 407-851-7234
      • Tampa – 813-513-9868
      • Westfield Brandon – 813-689-4143
    • Hawaii
      • Hilton Hawaiian Village – 808-945-2221
      • Maui Store – 808-661-1112
    • Lancaster
      • Park City Center – 717-390-8783
    • Las Vegas
      • Caesar’s Palace Hotel – 702-836-9654
    • Los Angeles
      • Valencia Town Center – 661-287-9415
    • New York
      • East Hampton – 877-544-1777
      • Madison Avenue – 646-478-7263
      • Manhattan – 212-371-7242
      • Bleecker St
    • Northern California
      • Arden Fair Mall – 916-920-3388
      • Hillsdale Center – 650-571-5582
      • Market St. Store – 415-618-0303
      • Powell St. – (415) 951-1929
      • Westfield Galleria – 916-781-0167
      • Foothills Blvd
    • Orange County
      • Irvine Spectrum Center – 949-585-9294
      • Cerritos Mall – 877-554-1777
      • Galleria at Tyler – 951-359-6764
    • Palm Desert
      • El Paseo – 760-674-0000
    • San Diego
      • Escondido – 760-489-0631
    • Santa Barbara
      • Pacific View Mall – 805-654-0043
      • Paseo Nuevo – 805-899-4455
    • Seattle
      • Bellevue Collection – 425-454-2909
    • Texas
      • Baybrook Mall – 281-486-1114
      • Galleria Dallas – 972-239-2036
      • Houston Galleria – 713-623-0691
      • Stonebriar Mall – 972-668-4900
    • Virgin Islands – 1-877-554-1777
    • Virginia Beach
      • Lynnhaven Mall – 757-340-0688
  • Abu Dhabi
    • Yas Mall – 1-877-554-1777
  • The Netherlands
    • Amsterdam – +31-20-7370564
  • Australia
    • Sydney – 02-8542-6100
    • Chatswood – 02-9415-4454
  • Brazil
    • Salvador
  • Canada
    • Bramalea City Centre – 647-874-9994
    • Georgian Mall – 705-725-9248
    • Holt Renfrew Center – 1-800-848-2350
    • Scarborough Town Centre – 416-290-0454
  • Germany
    • Dusseldorf – 49-211-869-39030
  • Italy
    • Bologna
  • Hong Kong
    • Causeway Bay – 852 28712229
    • Matheson St
    • Central – 852 23240389
    • Yun Ping Road – 852 28712229
  • Malta
    • Bisazza St. – 356-27444312
  • Mexico
    • Andares
    • Angelópolis Centro Comercial
    • Centro Santa Fe – 55 9688 7363
    • Cozumel
    • Guadalajara – 01 (33) 31 10 03 02
    • Jalisco
    • Liverpool – 55 5480 1300
    • Parque Delta – 9154 9671
    • Pasanje Polanco – 52 80 04 63
    • Paseo Acoxpa – 56 79 72 29
    • Paseo Interlomas – 52 91 67 67
    • Paseo Queretaro
    • Perisur – 3488 8045
    • Playa Del Carmen – 01 (99) 84 68 85 57
    • Plaza Altabrisa Tabasco
    • Puebla – 01 (22) 22 25 75 55
    • Puerto Vallarta – 4893 6898
    • San Miguel de Cozumel
    • Oasis Coyoacán – 91 54 89 53
    • Villahermosa – 01 (99) 32 53 53 70
  • Oman
    • Bareeq Al Shatti Mall – 1-877-554-1777
  • Philippines
    • Robinsons Place – (02) 354 78 27
    • Century City Mall – (02) 556 69 68
    • Newport – (02) 835 54 67
    • Shangri-La Plaza – (02) 718 55 08
  • Puerto Rico
    • The Plaza Las Americas – 1-877-554-1777
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Singapore
    • Orchard Gateway – 65 6702 6391
    • Wisma Atria – 65 6735 1829
    • Westgate – 65 6465 9771
    • Marina Bay Sands – 65 6688 7475
    • Marina Bay Sands
  • Spain
    • Barcelona – 34-932.725.269
    • Bulevard Rosa – 34-932.158.331
    • La Roca Village – 34-932.445.591
    • Madrid – 34 911 25 07 97
    • Marbella – 34-952.862.716
  • Taiwan
    • Taipei – 1-877-554-1777
  • Vietnam
    • Ha Noi
  • Blog

OROGOLD Locations

  • United States
    • Arizona
      • Glendale – 623-251-0442
    • Connecticut
      • Tanger Outlet Center – 860-383-4340
    • Florida
      • Key West – 305-396-7307
      • Orlando – 407-851-7234
      • Tampa – 813-513-9868
      • Westfield Brandon – 813-689-4143
    • Hawaii
      • Hilton Hawaiian Village – 808-945-2221
      • Maui Store – 808-661-1112
    • Lancaster
      • Park City Center – 717-390-8783
    • Las Vegas
      • Caesar’s Palace Hotel – 702-836-9654
    • Los Angeles
      • Valencia Town Center – 661-287-9415
    • New York
      • East Hampton – 877-544-1777
      • Madison Avenue – 646-478-7263
      • Manhattan – 212-371-7242
      • Bleecker St
    • Northern California
      • Arden Fair Mall – 916-920-3388
      • Hillsdale Center – 650-571-5582
      • Market St. Store – 415-618-0303
      • Powell St. – (415) 951-1929
      • Westfield Galleria – 916-781-0167
      • Foothills Blvd
    • Orange County
      • Irvine Spectrum Center – 949-585-9294
      • Cerritos Mall – 877-554-1777
      • Galleria at Tyler – 951-359-6764
    • Palm Desert
      • El Paseo – 760-674-0000
    • San Diego
      • Escondido – 760-489-0631
    • Santa Barbara
      • Pacific View Mall – 805-654-0043
      • Paseo Nuevo – 805-899-4455
    • Seattle
      • Bellevue Collection – 425-454-2909
    • Texas
      • Baybrook Mall – 281-486-1114
      • Galleria Dallas – 972-239-2036
      • Houston Galleria – 713-623-0691
      • Stonebriar Mall – 972-668-4900
    • Virgin Islands – 1-877-554-1777
    • Virginia Beach
      • Lynnhaven Mall – 757-340-0688
  • Abu Dhabi
    • Yas Mall – 1-877-554-1777
  • The Netherlands
    • Amsterdam – +31-20-7370564
  • Australia
    • Sydney – 02-8542-6100
    • Chatswood – 02-9415-4454
  • Brazil
    • Salvador
  • Canada
    • Bramalea City Centre – 647-874-9994
    • Georgian Mall – 705-725-9248
    • Holt Renfrew Center – 1-800-848-2350
    • Scarborough Town Centre – 416-290-0454
  • Germany
    • Dusseldorf – 49-211-869-39030
  • Italy
    • Bologna
  • Hong Kong
    • Causeway Bay – 852 28712229
    • Matheson St
    • Central – 852 23240389
    • Yun Ping Road – 852 28712229
  • Malta
    • Bisazza St. – 356-27444312
  • Mexico
    • Andares
    • Angelópolis Centro Comercial
    • Centro Santa Fe – 55 9688 7363
    • Cozumel
    • Guadalajara – 01 (33) 31 10 03 02
    • Jalisco
    • Liverpool – 55 5480 1300
    • Parque Delta – 9154 9671
    • Pasanje Polanco – 52 80 04 63
    • Paseo Acoxpa – 56 79 72 29
    • Paseo Interlomas – 52 91 67 67
    • Paseo Queretaro
    • Perisur – 3488 8045
    • Playa Del Carmen – 01 (99) 84 68 85 57
    • Plaza Altabrisa Tabasco
    • Puebla – 01 (22) 22 25 75 55
    • Puerto Vallarta – 4893 6898
    • San Miguel de Cozumel
    • Oasis Coyoacán – 91 54 89 53
    • Villahermosa – 01 (99) 32 53 53 70
  • Oman
    • Bareeq Al Shatti Mall – 1-877-554-1777
  • Philippines
    • Robinsons Place – (02) 354 78 27
    • Century City Mall – (02) 556 69 68
    • Newport – (02) 835 54 67
    • Shangri-La Plaza – (02) 718 55 08
  • Puerto Rico
    • The Plaza Las Americas – 1-877-554-1777
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Singapore
    • Orchard Gateway – 65 6702 6391
    • Wisma Atria – 65 6735 1829
    • Westgate – 65 6465 9771
    • Marina Bay Sands – 65 6688 7475
    • Marina Bay Sands
  • Spain
    • Barcelona – 34-932.725.269
    • Bulevard Rosa – 34-932.158.331
    • La Roca Village – 34-932.445.591
    • Madrid – 34 911 25 07 97
    • Marbella – 34-952.862.716
  • Taiwan
    • Taipei – 1-877-554-1777
  • Vietnam
    • Ha Noi
  • Blog
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Tag Archives: Surfing

Travel |

December 2, 2019

| OROGOLD

8 Travel Trends Set to Be Huge in 2020

Woman on train

ChunChang Wu / Shutterstock.com

Trends come and go in every industry out there, with travel and tourism being no exception. If you want to stay ahead of the curve, here are eight travel trends for 2020 that you should definitely take note of. 

Vegan Hotels

Whether veganism is something you love or hate, there is no denying that the vegan lifestyle is one that has been rapidly growing in popularity. The demand for vegan products is steadily growing, meaning that companies now have to cater for this. 

Of course, veganism isn’t only about food…

The vegan lifestyle is one that makes use of no animal products whatsoever, and hotels all over the world are now adopting this concept throughout their business. There are more vegan hotels out there now than ever before, giving people so much choice when it comes to booking accommodation. 

While vegan hotels can be found all over the world, here are a few that are worth taking a special trip to stay at: 

  • Villa Vegana Mallorca, Spain – one of the oldest vegan hotels in Europe, this villa is located within a gorgeous conservation area, offering up spectacular views. All the food served here is plant-based, with most of it coming from the hotel’s own permaculture garden, while toiletries, cleaning products and more are also completely cruelty-free 
  • Being Sattvaa, Indonesia – located in the tropical paradise of Bali, this hotel sits within miles of lush greenery. Not only is their vegan kitchen open throughout the day, but the hotel also offers everything from raw food retreats to yoga sessions to kayaking trips, helping you to make the most of your incredible surroundings 
  • Stanford Inn by the Sea, California, USA – located in beautiful meadow that overlooks the Mendocino Bay, Stanford Inn by the Sea is fully vegan, with a farm-to-table food concept. This is a hotel that provides the ultimate in comfort, with several fireplaces, an indoor pool, private yoga and massages, and so much more. As an added bonus, this hotel is pet-friendly too  

View this post on Instagram

So honored to be included as one of the 12 great hotels for vegans (and you’ll notice one of the only 100% vegan hotels on the list!)! #compassionatetravel #veganresort #ethics bit.ly/32j83vV

A post shared by Stanford Inn by the Sea (@stanford_inn) on Nov 5, 2019 at 1:36pm PST

Even if you aren’t vegan, just the experience of staying at a vegan hotel still makes this so worthwhile. 

Undertourism 

Overtourism is a problem that has been affecting many destinations all over the world. From Angkor Wat to Santorini to Mount Everest, many popular destinations are now having to exert some form of crowd control in order to protect their history, heritage and future. 

Fortunately, more and more people are becoming aware of how their tourism footprint is negatively impacting certain destinations, which has led to undertourism becoming quite the popular concept. 

What exactly is undertourism? 

It is basically the opposite of overtourism – visiting destinations that are off the beaten path, places that the majority of tourists wouldn’t usually head to. 

Don’t worry, this doesn’t mean that you will be missing out on anything. Instead, your experience will likely be all the more richer and rewarding, as you will encounter so many hidden gems, rather than hoards of tourists. 

Wondering which destinations would be suitable for an undertourist to visit? 

Here are a few to choose from: 

  • Trieste instead of Venice – Trieste is a classy and elegant city overlooking the Gulf of Trieste, with gorgeous architecture, a fascinating history and delicious food
  • Kep instead of Phuket – Rather than heading to Thailand, visit Kep in Cambodia instead for shimmering sandy beaches backed by lush jungles, and a thriving party scene in town 
  • Zaragoza instead of Barcelona – Boasting both historic and contemporary features, the mix of old and new that you will find in the Spanish city of Zaragoza is reminiscent of Barcelona, but with its own unique charm 
  • Kuelap instead of Machu Picchu – Kuelap is an Incan site that is actually older than Machu Picchu. This historic town sits about 1800 meters above sea level, and is one of the most captivating places in Peru to visit

View this post on Instagram

Chachapoyas, es una ciudad que tiene muchos paisajes hermosos y sitios arqueológicos de nuestros antepasados. . . . ⚜️Te animas a conocerlo 🏞️🌎? . . . . . 📌Location: Chachapoyas – Perú 🇵🇪 . . . . . .👉 Follow : @peru_nature . . . Photo 📸 :@freebius . . . . . . . . . #chachapoyas #amazonas #selva #naturaleza #inca #mountain #montaña #montañas #cerros #peruhermoso #tarapoto #iquitos #selva #selva #kuelap #mirador #green #perunature

A post shared by Perú nature (@peru_nature) on Jul 25, 2019 at 10:00am PDT

All About Surfing

If you have been looking forward to the 2020 Olympic Games, then you likely already know that surfing is going to be counted as an Olympic sport for the first time in history. It should then come as no surprise that the sport itself is becoming more and more popular, partly due to all of the extra promotion it has gained because of the Olympics. 

Not only that, but research has been emerging that points to surfing as being just as beneficial as yoga. Findings show that it can help with: 

  • Depression 
  • Insomnia and other sleep problems
  • Post traumatic stress disorder 

Sadly, most people do not live in an area where surfing is easily accessible, which is why surfing vacations and retreats are set to be huge in 2020. 

If you like the idea of booking yourself in for a surfing retreat, here are some worth considering: 

  • Karma Surf Retreat, Portugal – this retreat combines surfing and yoga, with several different packages to choose from
  • Surf Star, Morocco – located on a coast where there are numerous surf spots to choose from, this retreat is one that will also immerse you in local Moroccan culture 
  • Wanderlust Surf Adventures, New Zealand – designed for women, this surfing retreat will take you to some of the best surf spots in the area, while providing you with delicious food and therapeutic yoga sessions too 
  • Lumi Yoga and Surf, Hawaii – another retreat that combines surfing and yoga, Lumi is located on the island of Oahu. Spend some of your free time paying a visit to the OROGOLD Oahu Store to treat your skin to some of the luxury and relaxation that your body has been experiencing 

View this post on Instagram

Winter sunset sessions – less wind less people 👌🏼 Carcavelos earlier this week, one of the beaches we surf most! @karmasurfschool 🌓

A post shared by Karma Surf Retreat (@karmasurfretreat) on Oct 24, 2019 at 1:25am PDT

Luxury Bunk Beds

Okay, so bunk beds may not sound very luxurious at first, but keep reading…

One of the more interesting trends to take over the hotel industry for 2020 is going to be bunk beds. This will make booking accommodation so much more convenient for families and those traveling in groups, especially when the bunk bed option is even more luxurious than the rooms with standard beds. 

You’re probably thinking…

How can bunk beds be luxurious? 

It all comes down to the way in which they’re designed…

Take The Siren hotel in Detroit for example – their Hideout room offers twin beds as extremely chic bunkbeds, complemented by custom furniture and vintage accessories. The Bunk room at Seattle’s Palihotel offers bunk beds too, along with all of the other creature comforts you would expect from a luxury hotel. 

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Wake up with a friend #TheSirenHotel

A post shared by The Siren Hotel (@thesirenhotel) on Jan 7, 2019 at 6:11am PST

Transformative Experiences 

Ever wished that you could do a little more to make a positive difference in the world? 

This is a thought shared by many travelers, which is why more and more of them are now seeking out transformative experiences when they are on a trip. 

This is an idea that can start off quite small…

No matter where you travel to, always try to support the local economy as much as possible by eating and shopping locally. Local hotels, rather than international chains, would also really benefit from your visit. 

If you would like to take things a little further, here are some ideas: 

  • Sail around the bays of Vietnam on a kayak while collecting floating plastic 
  • Spend some time volunteering at an orphanage in any country
  • Visit an elephant sanctuary in Thailand to learn more about these majestic creatures and support the sanctuary’s conservation work 

View this post on Instagram

Thailand turned me into a peeping Tom 👀🌿 . Today is my first day of work! I’m SO excited to get settled and start familiarizing myself with Florida’s wildlife – on land and in the water (even though we know in the water is my favorite) 🙃🧜🏻‍♀️ So I’m throwing it back to my favorite wildlife encounter of the year, with the old grey ladies at the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary 🐘💕 . . . . . #elephant🐘 #elephantsantuary #elephantsanctuaryphuket #phuketelephantsanctuary #elephantlover #wildlifelovers #lovewildlife #wildlifelover #thailandvisit #exploringthailand #explorethailand #southeastasiatravel #southeastasiatrip #adventuredaily #wildlifeencounters #wildlifeencounter #wildlifesanctuary #hapagirl #filipinagirl #tropicalvibes #thetravelcult #thetraveltag #backpackinglife #girlstraveltale

A post shared by Victoria Ruddle (@victoriaruddle) on Jun 6, 2019 at 5:48am PDT

Figure out exactly what it is that you are passionate about when it comes to making a positive difference in the world, and then work out how you can incorporate this into your next vacation. 

Japan

The 2020 Olympics have already been mentioned above, with the new Olympic inclusion of skiing spiking a rise in the sport’s popularity. 

Well, the Olympics has had yet another impact on the travel trends of 2020…

With the 2020 Olympics being held in Japan, the country has really stepped up its game when it comes to its tourism industry. Of course, Japan was already doing pretty well, but 2020 is set to be one of the best years to visit this island nation. 

Where in Japan should you go? 

Most people are flocking to Tokyo to check out the New National Stadium, which is just about complete. However, Japan has so much more to offer – it all depends on the type of vacation you are hoping to take: 

  • Osaka – a great city for soaking up Japan’s culture, with a range of different attractions, museums and one-of-a-kind activities 
  • Nara – home to cherry blossoms, shrines, free-roaming deer and an incredibly peaceful atmosphere 
  • Hiroshima – learn about this city’s tragic history while rejoicing in the inspirational way in which it has built itself back up 
  • Tottori – packed with gorgeous sandy beaches, and even home to a sand museum with sculptures made entirely from sand 
  • Kobe – the must-visit Japanese destination for foodies 

View this post on Instagram

🇫🇷 J'ai cherché longtemps les plus jolis paysages dans la région de Tottori en automne. Et l'endroit qui m'a paru le plus évident, c'est le Mont Mitoku. Je ne me lasse pas de ces montagnes aux couleurs jaune et rouge. A votre avis, quel est ce vêtement que je porte ? (réponse dans le prochain post !) . 🇯🇵 鳥取県の秋の絶景スポットをよく探した。そして、「あそこでしょう」と思った私のお気に入りの場所がある。それは三徳山(みとくさん)だ。周りの紅葉の景色に飽きないぐらい美しい。あ、この服装はなんだか分かる?(次の投稿で説明する!) . 🇬🇧 I was looking for the most beautiful autumn's landscapes in Tottori Prefecture. And there is one place that seems obvious to me. This is the Mount Mitoku. I can't get tired of those mountains yellowish and reddish. By the way, do you know what is this cloth I am wearing ? (Answer in the next post !) . #my_misasa #tottori #misasa #mitoku #mont #mount #unknownjapan #visitjapan #鳥取 #三朝 #三朝温泉 #三徳山 #山 #紅葉 #絶景 #知らない日本 #旅

A post shared by Marie In Misasa (@marie_in_misasa) on Nov 22, 2019 at 3:54am PST

If you really want to experience the very best of Japan, try combining your Japanese vacation with the “City Loops” travel trend mentioned above. 

Trains Instead of Planes

As people are becoming increasingly eco-conscious, they are also understanding that flying can be so detrimental to the environment. Fortunately, there is often another option, which is why train travel has been growing in popularity, with this set to continue even further in 2020. 

When you think about how a plane produces 285g of CO2 per every passenger kilometer, while a train produces just 14g, this in itself is a good incentive to cut back on flights in exchange for train trips.  

Think that train journeys aren’t quite as exciting or exotic as a flight? 

This is where you would be wrong. Thanks to the surge in demand, train companies around the world are now offering up luxurious train-based getaways, saving you a plane journey. Here are a few to look into: 

  • The Robos Rail, South Africa – this train, complete with a glass observation car, will take you around South Africa, showcasing everything from Namibian wildlife to the Victoria Falls 
  • Venice Simplon Orient Express, Europe – travel around Europe in style on this historic and elegant train 
  • The Eastern and Oriental Express, South East Asia – this stunning train will take you through the lushest parts of Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand
  • Al Andulas, Spain – explore the beauty of several Spanish regions on the decadent Al Andulas 

No matter where in the world you live, you are likely to find a train journey that excites you enough to stimulate that wanderlust desire. 

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Step into a world of classic glamour as you travel between ancient wonders and cosmopolitan cities. #TheArtofBelmond #easternoriental #luxurytrains

A post shared by Eastern & Oriental Express (@easternoriental) on Apr 26, 2019 at 9:35pm PDT

City Loops

Visiting a new city in a new country is always exciting, but it is easy to sometimes feel as though you have missed out on everything else that your chosen country may have to offer. 

Well, the city loops travel trend ensures that you will no longer feel this way…

Wondering what city loops actually is? 

It refers to a multi-destination vacation, usually incorporating several cities in one trip. The reason why you would do this is pretty obvious – it gives you the opportunity to visit several different destinations, rather than just one. 

View this post on Instagram

Siempre que pienso en Amsterdam pienso en galletas de chocolate 😋🍫😉

A post shared by Julia Dávila-Lampe (@chaulafanita) on Nov 8, 2019 at 3:31am PST

You have two main options when it comes to booking a city loops trip; you can either do all of the legwork yourself, or opt for a travel operator that offers pre-organized city loops. Thanks to this becoming quite a major trend, more and more travel operators are now providing this option, and many of these trips are easily customizable. 

Even if you do not usually take much notice of travel trends, these trends will no doubt inspire you when it comes to planning your next vacation. Whether this means incorporating some way of making a positive impact on your destination or trying to travel in a way that is as eco-friendly as possible, the travel trends for 2020 are looking to be extremely promising. 

Bali, Bunk Beds, California, City Loops, Eco-Friendly, Environment, Japan, Kep, Kuelap, Mallorca, Morocco, Multidestination, New Zealand, Oahu, Portugal, Surfing, Train, travel, Travel Trends, Trends, Trieste, Undertourism, Vegan, Vegan Hotel, Zaragoza | Comment
Travel |

August 1, 2016

| OROGOLD

Great Beaches in the Middle East

 

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Rus S / Shutterstock.com

The Middle East is home to some of the finest beaches in the world, but, due to political reasons, beach tourism is often not promoted heavily in many areas. Nevertheless, each of these beaches are truly spectacular in their own right, and are well worth considering for your next beach vacation.

Beit Yanai Beach, Israel
Considered to be one of the best beaches in Israel, Beit Yanai Beach is located about a 20-minute drive from Tel Aviv. Since the beach is run and managed by the Israel Parks and Nature Authority, it is extremely clean, relatively quiet, and has some great facilities. Since the beach is not protected from the sea, it often experiences massive waves, making it a popular spot for surfing and kitesurfing.

Khor Kalba Beach, Sharjah, UAE
The beach at Khor Kalba is extremely hidden and tucked away, but this is a large part of its charm. What it lacks in amenities, it makes up for in privacy, seclusion and incredible natural beauty. From the surrounding mangroves to the nesting turtles, Khor Kalba in itself is an important nature reserve, and the beach is a fine example of a conservation success. The waters here are calm, and if you want the utmost in serenity, it is best to pay the beach a visit during the weekdays.

Mughsayl Beach, Oman

Katiekk / Shutterstock.com

Mughsayl Beach, Oman
Oman boasts about 1000 miles of coastline, many parts of which are just simply breathtaking. Hidden away in southern Oman, Mughsayl Beach offers quite a diverse experience, depending on when in the year you visit it. In the summertime, it is reminiscent of a tropical Caribbean island, with coconut groves and banana plantations lining the pristine sand, while in the winter months, giant waves crash into the cliffs, with water exploding out of blow holes dotted along the coastline. The beach is situated about 40 kilometers from Salahah, and is easy to access.

Naqoura, Lebanon
Situated in the south of Lebanon, Naqoura is a small city that boasts an expansive, and extremely clean, beach. Unlike many of the other beaches in Lebanon, this one is free of beach resorts, large crowds and noisy bars, giving you the opportunity to hear the sound of the waves crashing onto the sand, and the breeze rustling through the trees in the forest behind the beach. To access the beach, visitors need to cross a beautiful orchard, which also serves as a turtle reserve, and is home to a number of other wildlife species too. Rumour has it that developers are interested in Naqoura’s beach, so if you want to experience this untouched slice of paradise, now is the time to visit.

While the Middle East may not immediately spring to mind when planning a beach vacation, there is no denying that the beaches found in this part of the world are extremely underrated. From the sandy coconut groves of Oman to the abundant wildlife in Naqoura, these are all considered to be some of the finest beaches that the Middle East has to offer.

Beach, Beit Yanai, Best Beaches, Coastline, Great Beaches in the Middle East, Hidden Beach, Israel, Khor Kalba, Kitesurfing, Lebanon, Middle East, Mughsayl Beach, Naqoura, Natural Beauty, Nature, Nature Reserve, Oman, Oro Gold, Orogold, Orogold Cosmetics, Sharjah, Surfing, travel, UAE | Comment
Travel |

July 18, 2016

| OROGOLD

Daytrips from Manila

The Philippines is made up of over 7000 different islands, but with Manila being the capital of the country, this pulsating metropolis is usually where a large number of tourists begin their visit to the Philippines. Fortunately, for those who want to take in more of the country than what the capital can offer, there are several day trips from Manila that you can take, giving you the opportunity to deeper explore the country’s history, culture and natural beauty.

Tagaytay

Tagaytay
With its cool climate and vibrant food scene, the holiday town of Tagaytay, which lies south of Manila, has always been popular with both locals and tourists. The highest point of the Cavite province, Tagaytay enjoys spectacular views of the famous Taal Lake, as well as the Taal Volcano, which is the smallest active volcano in the world. This volcanic island is set in the middle of Taal Lake, and, in addition to being easy to access, only requires 45 minutes for a hike up to the crater, making this a popular activity here.

Zambales

Zambales
Easily accessed from Metro Manila, Zambales is a destination that is able to offer a little of just about everything. From its 107 miles of pure untainted beaches to pristine forest landscapes to communities that still practice traditional methods of living, this is a great spot to soak up some nature and culture. With 60% of the region covered in mountains, hiking is always a popular activity, especially with the prospect of being able to meet the local Aeta community. For those looking to get in some surfing, Crystal Beach is a must-visit spot, with gentle waves, perfect for a beginner, and soft pillows of sand to fall on.

Angono
Nicknamed the Art Capital of the Philippines, Angono is located just 30 kilometers from Manila. The area is jam-packed with a huge array of art galleries, and is also home to some of the oldest rock art in the country, dating all the way back to 3000 B.C. Once you have done a few gallery visits, take a stroll down Dona Aurora, also known as the Art Gallery on the Streets, where you will encounter even more local artwork.

Corregidor Island

Corregidor Island
Just a one-hour ferry ride from Manila lies Corregidor Island, a spot that any history buffs should definitely take the time to visit. From fort ruins to historic chapels to war memorials, a visit to Corregidor Island almost feels like taking a journey back through time. There are many day trip tours that you can sign up to, ensuring that you do not miss out on any of the most important sights, and giving you the opportunity to truly learn more about the country’s history.

The Philippines is a country that is so incredibly diverse, and while a visit to Manila always proves to be action-packed, these day trips offer a much different experience. From the colorful local art of Angono to the eerie history of Corregidor Island, these destinations enable you to see the country in a completely different light.

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Travel |

December 9, 2015

| OROGOLD

Best Mexican Destinations for Solo Travel

Traveling to a new country on your own can often be intimidating, especially if you don’t speak the language and are unfamiliar with the culture. When it comes to Mexico, there are some areas that it’s best to stay clear of if you are on your own, but there are many others that are known for their hospitality and generosity, making solo travelers feel extremely welcome. OROGOLD takes a look at some of the best Mexican destinations for solo travel.

Ancient ruins in Tulum.

Tulum
Tulum is a quaint Mexican beach town located on the Yucatan Peninsula, and is a great place to relax while taking in the sights at your own leisurely pace. The beaches have managed to escape all of the development that is seen on other parts of the coastline, giving you the opportunity to enjoy some unspoiled natural beauty. Tulum is also known for its freshwater pools, many of which form an underground network of rivers that can be explored with a snorkeling or scuba diving trip. The Tulum ruins are just to the north of the town, and can easily be reached by renting a bike, or catching a taxi. These are known for being one of the Mayan civilization’s only walled cities, and are definitely worth the visit. OROGOLD recommends heading there early in the morning, to not only escape the heat, but also the majority of the crowds.

Cathedral in Mexico City.

hodschanas / Shutterstock.com

Mexico City
Mexico City is a fantastic destination for solo travelers, as many of the hotels and hostels have rooftop bars that are aimed at introducing solo guests to other travelers. This is the oldest city on the American continent, and, understandably so, is filled with many different museums and historic sites. The city is easy to navigate, and, if you don’t feel safe alone on the metro, taxis are easy to find. For those days where you don’t have a set itinerary, it is always enjoyable to wander through the city, appreciating the Art Deco, the street entertainment, and the fantastic array of authentic street snacks. If you have an afternoon to spare, OROGOLD recommends heading to Condesa, a laid-back area with a bohemian vibe and some cute outdoor cafés to sit back and do some people-watching.

Sunset in Huatulco

Huatulco
Situated in the state of Oaxaca, Huatulco is a resort region that, until the 1980s, was nothing more than just a single fishing village. Development restrictions mean that building heights are limited, and each developed area is separated by areas of unspoiled coastline, leaving 12 miles of natural shoreline for you to explore. While such a developed area may not be for everyone’s tastes, it does come with its advantages, the main one here being that there is no end to the number of different activities on offer. From snorkeling to diving to surfing to cycling to rafting, there is so much to fill your day with while meeting other similar-minded travelers. If you start to feel a thirst for exploring more of the region, there are many tours that you can join, from visiting magnificent waterfalls to a guided tour of a coffee farm.

While many may believe that Mexico isn’t safe for a solo traveler, these thoughts are usually based on rumors. Mexican culture places a huge emphasis on hospitality and warmth, and this will make you feel comfortable and right at home, no matter where in Mexico you visit.

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Travel |

August 1, 2015

| OROGOLD

Australia’s Best Beaches

With some of the longest stretches of sand covered coastline in the world, Australia is home to over 11,000 different beaches, each unique for its own reasons. It would be impossible to explore all of Australia’s beaches in a single trip, or even your entire lifetime, so if you are wondering where to go, take a look at OROGOLD’s picks of Australia’s best beaches.

Boondi Beach, Australia

Bondi Beach, Sydney
While Bondi Beach has made it on the list of Australia’s best beaches, this is not necessarily due to the quality of the beach itself. Bondi Beach is a Sydney icon, if not a beach icon for the whole of Australia, and a visit to Sydney would not be complete without spending some time on Bondi Beach. It is usually exceptionally crowded, but is the best beach to do some people watching and soak up the authentic Australian beach culture. The history of the area, as well as the atmosphere and surroundings, definitely make it worth the visit, even if you don’t intend to do any swimming.

Whithaven Beach, Whithaven Island.

Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island, Queensland
The most photographed beach in Australia, Whitehaven Beach is arguably the country’s most beautiful. The silica in the sand makes it extremely soft to the touch, and prevents it from getting too hot, giving it a gleaming white color that contrasts gorgeously with the aquamarine waters. Although this may be a popular beach, its beauty stretches out for over 7km, so even when the tour buses come along to unload their hordes of beach-going tourists, you will still be able to find a quiet area to enjoy some peace and tranquillity.

Cable Beach, Australia.

Cable Beach, Broome, Western Australia
Known to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Cable Beach has 22km of pristine white sand, washed clean every day by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Since it sits on the Indian, rather than Pacific, Ocean, Cable Beach is world famous for its spectacular sunsets, which appear as a bright red ball in the sky, casting off amazing warm shades over the water. The Sunset Bar is a great place to relax and take this in, while others opt for a sunset camel ride along the beach. Those who want to soak up the sun au naturel can visit the area of the beach just north of the rocks, where clothing is optional, while those who want to experience some native culture can follow one of the walking trails south of the rocks, which will take you through the red dunes of Minyirr Park, a spiritual location for the Yawuru people.

The beaches in Australia are as varied as the country is. While some may have huge breaks for experienced surfers, others will have gentle waters for children to splash around in. Nature lovers will be able to enjoy the wildlife at the more isolated beaches, while those who want to snorkel or dive have many spots to choose from. Since there are so many options available, OROGOLD recommends researching all of the beaches in the area of Australia that you are in, so that you can be sure that you are picking the best one for your needs.

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Travel |

July 6, 2015

| OROGOLD

Hong Kong’s Best Beaches

With hundreds of different beaches scattered throughout the country, and around 50 of them that are safe to swim from, many don’t realize that Hong Kong has much more to offer than just city life. From a beach that will ensure that you can get away from the crowds, to a beach that offers up freshwater pools, OROGOLD takes a look at some of Hong Kong’s best beaches.

Sai Wan Beach, Hong Kong,

Sai Wan Beach
Located in Sai Kung Country Park, Sai Wan Beach is quite small, but its stretch of sand is white, clean and gorgeous. A small hill near the beach is where you will find two waterfalls and freshwater pools, ideal for a cooling swim away from the crowds. Since the beach has two steep hills on either side of it, this not only forms a protective bay, but also cuts you off from the noise and crowds of the nearby towns, something that really is rare in a city like Hong Kong!

Shek O Village Beach, Hong Kong.

Shek O Village Beach
One of the most popular beaches in Hong Kong, Shek O Village Beach has a relaxing, chilled out vibe, with a long stretch of white sand and some great facilities. This means that it can often be quite crowded, but, for those of you who like to indulge in some people watching, this shouldn’t be too much of a problem, although OROGOLD recommends getting there early so that you can stake out a good spot for the day. With water sports equipment for rent, and plenty of beach bars and restaurants, this is easily a beach that you could spend the whole day at.

Pui O Beach
Located at the south of Lantau Island, Pui O Beach is a scenic one, and is also great for surfing. The beach is broad and sandy, and, when the weather conditions are right, it is the best of Hong Kong’s surfing beaches. Since there are many small islands and inlets around, kayaking is also very popular at Pui O Beach, as you can row to secluded areas and spend the night camping there. For those of you who enjoy hiking, Pui O Beach is the place for you, as there are trails that will take you to some of the finest hiking spots in the country.

Cheung Sha Beach, Hong Kong

Cheung Sha Beaches
This is one of the more underrated of Lantau Island’s beaches, but has the longest stretches of sand out of all of the beaches in Hong Kong. In addition to better swimming opportunities than you will find at Lantau’s other beaches, there are also some unique eateries nearby, including a local cafe where all of the ingredients are grown in the kitchen garden. Just beyond Lower Cheung Sha Beach, you will find Tong Fuk, another great lesser-known beach which is usually quite quiet.

Most of Hong Kong’s swimming beaches will have huge shark nets beneath the water, to keep the pollution out and to keep swimmers safe, enabling you to splash around without fears of being snatched away by a strong current. With beaches that are great for mingling with the crowds, as well as beaches that will ensure that you are the only one around, Hong Kong really does have a beach for every preference.

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