Monday, 7 April 2025

EL DIABLO RESTAURANT – Where Your Food is cooked on a Volcano - A Fiery Culinary Adventure

 

If you ever thought, “Hey, I wonder what it’s like to cook my dinner on actual lava,” then have an experience at the world’s only volcano-cooked cuisine at El Diablo Restaurant in Lanzarote.

El Diablo Restaurant in Lanzarote


How Does It Work?

Instead of using a boring old stove, El Diablo grills its food using the natural heat of a volcano. Yes, you read that right—your steak, chicken, or fish is cooked over a giant hole in the ground, where volcanic heat rises from the Earth's core. The grill sits on top of an opening where temperatures can reach over 450°C (840°F). It’s like Mother Nature herself is the head chef, and she doesn’t need gas or electricity.

El Diablo grill

El Diablo grill

The Ultimate Hot Plate

The restaurant is located on Timanfaya National Park, a volcanic area famous for its geothermal activity. While there’s no active lava flow (thankfully), heat from underground still escapes through the cracks, creating a natural grill that’s both genius and mildly terrifying.

Must-Try Dishes:


1.       Volcanic Grilled Chicken: Marinated in Canarian spices, cooked to tender perfection.

2.       Papas Arrugadas: Wrinkled potatoes with mojo picón sauce, a local favorite.

Papas Arrugadas

3.       Fresh Caught Fish: Infused with a hint of sulfurous earthiness.

4.       Vegetable Skewers: Charred caramelization only volcanic heat can achieve.

Pair your meal with a glass of Lanzarote wine, grown in volcanic ash soil for a mineral-rich twist.

Beyond the Plate: A Feast for the Senses

El Diablo isn’t just about food—it’s an immersive experience. Before dining, witness staff demonstrating the volcano’s raw power:


Geothermal Wonders: Watch water turn to steam in seconds when poured into volcanic boreholes.

360° Views: Dine on a terrace overlooking Timanfaya’s Martian-like landscapes of rust-red craters and lava fields.

Sunset Magic: Time your visit for golden hour, when the terrain glows like embers.


Pro Tips:

-          Combine your meal with a Timanfaya bus tour to explore the park’s volcanic wonders.

-          Visit in spring or fall for milder weather and fewer crowds.

-          Wear layers—the volcanic heat is on the grill, but ocean breezes can be chilly!

Final Word: Why El Diablo Restaurant is a Must-Visit

El Diablo Restaurant isn’t just dinner—it’s a story you’ll tell for years. Where else can you toast marshmallows over a volcano, sip wine grown in ash, and dine in a landscape that feels like another planet? It’s a fiery ode to human ingenuity and Earth’s awe-inspiring power.

#ElDiabloVolcanoFeast

 #LanzaroteEats

Would you dare to eat at El Diablo, or would you rather stick to a good old-fashioned BBQ?



Photos credit: trip advisor & Alamy

Sunday, 6 April 2025

CHERRY BLOSSOM VIEWING: Top Spots in the UK for Spring 2025

 There’s something magical about springtime in the UK. As the grey chill of winter fades, bursts of pink and white blossoms breathe new life into parks, gardens, and cobbled streets. Cherry blossom season isn’t just a visual treat — it’s a fleeting moment of pure beauty that draws people outdoors, cameras in hand, eager to witness nature's softest spectacle.

If you're planning a spring getaway or simply want to embrace the season’s charm, here are the top places to see cherry blossoms in the UK in 2025. Whether you're a photographer, a romantic, or just someone looking to slow down and take in the beauty, these locations won’t disappoint.

 

1. Doddington Hall, Lincolnshire

Best time to visit: Mid to late April

This historic estate is known for its impressive cherry walk. Picture rows of blush-pink trees lining the gardens, with petals softly falling like confetti. Doddington Hall is perfect for a peaceful day trip — complete with scenic strolls and a charming café on-site for post-blossom tea and cake.

Doddington Hall, Lincolnshire

Travel tip: Arrive early for fewer crowds and golden-hour light. Don’t forget to check their event calendar for spring garden tours!

  2. Kew Gardens, London

Best time to visit: Late March to mid-April

Kew Gardens is iconic for a reason. As spring unfolds, its Cherry Walk becomes a floral wonderland. You'll see an array of Japanese cherry varieties blooming in harmony, with the majestic Temperate House in the background.

Why it’s special: Kew combines scientific excellence with stunning scenery, making it one of the most educational (and Instagram-worthy) spots for blossom viewing.

cherry walk Kew Gardens, London


 3. The Meadows, Edinburgh

Best time to visit: Mid to late April.

A local favorite in the heart of Edinburgh, The Meadows transforms into a pink paradise each spring. Lined with Sakura trees, this expansive green space offers dramatic views of Arthur’s Seat framed by clouds of cherry blossoms.

Pro tip: Grab a coffee from a nearby café and enjoy a relaxed morning walk or picnic under the blooms.

The Meadows, Edinburgh

4. Bute Park, Cardiff

Best time to visit: Early to mid-April

Bute Park’s cherry trees line the River Taff, offering a fairytale-like walk right in the center of the Welsh capital. The contrast of vivid green lawns with pastel petals makes this an unforgettable spot for blossom lovers.

Bonus: Combine blossom viewing with a visit to Cardiff Castle or enjoy a boat ride down the river.

Bute Park, Cardiff

5. RHS Garden Wisley, Surrey

Best time to visit: Early April

For a peaceful countryside blossom experience, Wisley delivers. Their spring show includes not just cherry trees, but magnolias and daffodils too. It’s a multi-sensory celebration of the season.

Top reason to go: RHS Wisley is ideal for families and garden enthusiasts looking to explore curated landscapes.

RHS Garden Wisley, Surrey


Blossom Season Travel Tips

- Timing is key: Blossoms are unpredictable. Follow each garden or park on social media for real-time updates.

- Go midweek: For quieter paths and better photo opportunities, visit on weekdays.

- Pack layers: Spring weather can be moody — dress in layers and bring a raincoat just in case.

- Respect nature: Stick to paths and avoid shaking trees or picking petals. Let everyone enjoy the view.

 

  Final Thoughts

Cherry blossom season in the UK is a short-lived but deeply treasured time of year. In 2025, make it a point to plan a little floral escape, whether it's a solo walk through Kew Gardens or a romantic weekend in Edinburgh. As the blossoms bloom, so too does the joy of slowing down, looking up, and soaking in the beauty of nature.

CELESTIAL MAGIC: Where to Watch the Lyrid and Eta Aquarid Meteor Showers in April 2025

 

Two meteor showers will light up the skies this April — here’s how and where to catch them for an unforgettable stargazing experience.

There’s something incredibly humbling about staring up at the night sky and witnessing nature’s most dazzling light show. This April 2025, sky watchers and adventure-seekers are in for a rare celestial treat: the Lyrid and Eta Aquarid meteor showers will both be visible, overlapping briefly to create a magical experience in the heavens.

If you've ever dreamed of chasing shooting stars, now’s your chance.

What Are the Lyrid and Eta Aquarid Meteor Showers?

The Lyrids are one of the oldest recorded meteor showers, active each year between April 17 and 26. In 2025, they’re expected to peak on the night of April 21 into the early hours of April 22, offering about 10 to 20 meteors per hour. While not the most intense shower, the Lyrids are known for their fast, bright meteors — and occasional fireballs.

A Lyrid meteor streaks across the sky, credit NASA

Then comes the Eta Aquarids, a spectacular meteor shower associated with Halley’s Comet. Active from April 20 through May 21, the peak occurs around May 3–4, with rates that can exceed 50 meteors per hour — especially in the Southern Hemisphere. These meteors are known for their speed, leaving glowing trails that linger in the sky.


Best Places to Watch the Meteor Showers in April 2025

To get the best view, you’ll need dark skies, minimal light pollution, and clear weather. Here are a few top stargazing spots around the world that are perfect for watching the Lyrid and Eta Aquarid meteor showers:

 1. Atacama Desert, Chile

With some of the darkest skies on Earth, the Atacama is an astronomer’s paradise. Plus, the Eta Aquarids are more visible in the Southern Hemisphere — a win-win!

Stargazing at Atacama Desert, Chile

 2. Mauna Kea, Hawaii

Towering above the clouds, Mauna Kea offers pristine conditions and incredible elevation. Be sure to dress warm — temperatures drop fast at night!

Mauna Kea, Hawaii

3. Jasper National Park, Canada

A designated Dark Sky Preserve, Jasper is breathtaking by day and truly magical by night. Bundle up and bring a blanket!

Jasper National Park, Canada

4. Outback, Australia

Wide open skies, zero light pollution, and clear autumn weather in April make the Australian Outback one of the best places to view the Eta Aquarids.

 5. Joshua Tree National Park, USA

A favorite among California stargazers, Joshua Tree’s dry desert climate and wide horizons provide the perfect backdrop for watching meteors streak across the sky.

Joshua Tree National Park, USA

Stargazing Tips for the Best Experience

- Arrive early: Let your eyes adjust to the dark (this takes about 20-30 minutes).

- Bring a reclining chair or blanket: You’ll want to lie back and take in as much of the sky as possible.

- Avoid using your phone: Even a quick glance can ruin your night vision.

- Check the moon phase: A brighter moon can outshine fainter meteors. (Good news: April 2025 offers favorable moonlight conditions during the Lyrid peak!)

- Bring snacks and hot drinks: It’s a cosmic picnic — make it cozy.

 

Why You Should Travel for a Meteor Shower

Traveling to witness a meteor shower isn’t just about the stars — it’s about connecting with nature, disconnecting from digital noise, and creating core memories under the open sky. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple seeking a romantic adventure, or a family looking for a unique experience, meteor showers offer something rare: wonder.

 

Final Thoughts

April 2025 is a golden opportunity to experience not one but two meteor showers — and if you're lucky, you might catch both on the same trip. Whether you’re gazing from a mountain peak or the middle of the desert, the night sky will be putting on a show you won’t want to miss.

So pack your gear, grab your camera, and chase the stars. Because the best kind of souvenirs are the ones that light up your memories.

Saturday, 5 April 2025

12 BUCKET LIST PLACES TO VISIT IN AFRICA

Africa is a land of contrasts — from golden deserts to lush jungles, ancient cities to pristine beaches. It’s a continent brimming with natural beauty, cultural richness, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures. If you're planning your dream trip or simply looking to fuel your wanderlust, here are 12 bucket list destinations in Africa that deserve a spot on every traveler’s itinerary.

 

 1. Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe

Why Go: One of the largest and most dramatic waterfalls in the world, Victoria Falls is a breathtaking spectacle of nature. Known locally as "The Smoke That Thunders," this UNESCO World Heritage Site is perfect for thrill seekers — think bungee jumping, whitewater rafting, and the famous Devil’s Pool swim.

For a unique perspective, take a helicopter ride or white-water raft on the Zambezi River. 

Victoria Falls

 2. Masai Mara, Kenya

Why Go: Home to the iconic Great Migration, where over a million wildebeest and zebras cross the plains, the Masai Mara offers some of the best wildlife viewing on Earth. Stay in a luxury safari lodge or a tented camp for an unforgettable experience.

Visit between July and October to see herds crossing the Mara River.

Masai Mara, Kenya

3. Cape Town, South Africa

Why Go: A vibrant city with a stunning coastline, Cape Town is famous for Table Mountain, colorful BoKaap, nearby Cape Wine lands and penguin-populated Boulders Beach add to the city’s allure. Whether you love history, hiking, or sipping wine by the sea, this city delivers on all fronts.

Insider tip: Pair your visit with a safari in Kruger National Park, home to the Big Five. 

Cape Town, South Africa

4. Sahara Desert, Morocco

Why Go: The Sahara, the world’s largest hot desert, offers a surreal escape into endless golden dunes and star-studded skies. Ride a camel through endless dunes, sleep under a star filled sky in a Berber camp, and watch the sunrise over the sand. The Sahara Desert in Morocco offers a magical experience that feels like stepping into another world.

Best time to visit: October–April (avoid summer’s scorching heat).

Sahara Desert, Morocco

5. Okavango Delta, Botswana

Why Go: A UNESCO-listed inland delta, the Okavango transforms arid landscapes into a lush oasis during flood season (June-August). This lush inland delta is a haven for wildlife and one of Africa’s top safari destinations. Glide through the waterways in a mokoro (dugout canoe), spot elephants and hippos, and stay in ecofriendly lodges nestled in nature.

Okavango Delta, Botswana

6. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Why Go: White sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a mix of African, Arab, and European influences make Zanzibar an exotic island paradise. Explore Stone Town’s winding alleys, snorkel vibrant coral reefs, or just unwind by the ocean.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

7. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Why Go: Africa’s highest peak stands tall at 5,895 meters and is a dream climb for adventure lovers. No technical climbing skills are needed, just determination and good hiking boots. Reaching the summit is a rewarding and unforgettable experience.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

8. Pyramids of Giza & Cairo, Egypt

Why Go: Step back in time at the only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World. The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx are awe-inspiring, while Cairo’s Khan El-Khalili bazaar immerses you in vibrant local culture. For deeper history, explore Luxor’s Valley of the Kings.

Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

9. Lalibela, Ethiopia

Why Go: Step back in time in Lalibela, known for its 12th century rock hewn churches carved straight into the ground. A pilgrimage site and architectural wonder, this is one of the most spiritual and surreal places in Africa.

Lalibela, Ethiopia

10. Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda

Why Go: Also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” the Rwenzori range offers glaciers, waterfalls, and rare flora. It’s a lesser known trekking destination, ideal for seasoned hikers looking to explore remote beauty.

Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda

11. Sossusvlei Dunes, Namibia

Why Go: The Namib Desert’s rust-red dunes, some towering 300 meters, create a surreal landscape. Hike Dune 45 at dawn or explore Dead lei’s fossilized camel thorn trees. Nearby, the Skeleton Coast’s shipwrecks and desert-adapted lions add to Namibia’s otherworldly charm. 

Sossusvlei Dunes, Namibia

12. Seychelles

Why Go: Tucked away in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is an island dream come true. With powdery white-sand beaches, granite boulders, and clear turquoise waters, it’s the ultimate escape for honeymooners, solo travelers, and luxury seekers. Go island-hopping between Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, snorkel in crystal lagoons, or simply unwind in a beachfront villa surrounded by palm trees.

Whether you're watching giant tortoises on Curieuse Island or diving among colorful coral reefs, Seychelles offers a slice of paradise like no other.

Seychelles


 Final Thoughts

Africa is a continent that stirs the soul — whether you're chasing wildlife across the savannah, exploring ancient ruins, or relaxing on idyllic islands. These twelve bucket list destinations offer a taste of the diversity and magic Africa holds.

 

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your African adventure today!

15 Quirky Facts About Paris That’ll Make You Say ‘Ooh La La!’

 Ah, Paris—the City of Light, Love, and… Wait, Did You Know They Once Tried to Ban Smiling in Passport Photos? Let’s skip the clichés and dive into the weird, wonderful, and downright hilarious secrets of Paris. Perfect for trivia nights, first dates, or justifying your croissant addiction. 

 

 1. The Eiffel Tower Grows in Summer (Like a Baguette in the Oven) 

Yep, Paris’s iconic iron lady isn’t just photogenic—she’s a metallurgical drama queen. When temperatures rise, the Eiffel Tower expands by up to 6 inches (15 cm) due to thermal expansion. That’s taller than the average Parisian poodle.

The Eiffel Tower
Pro tip: Visit in winter if you’re intimidated by towering landmarks. 

 2. Parisian Bridges Are Lovers’ Heavyweight Champions 

The Pont des Arts bridge became so weighed down by “love locks” (over 700,000!) that a section collapsed in 2015. Authorities now ban locks, but lovebirds still sneak them onto lesser-known bridges. Moral of the story: Love is heavy. And expensive (fines start at €135). 

The Pont des Arts bridge

 3. Paris Wasn’t Always Called Paris 

Before it was Paris, the city went by Lutetia—a name that sounds like a rejected Harry Potter spell. The Romans founded it in 52 BC, and honestly, we’re all grateful they didn’t stick with “Mudville” (the literal translation of Lutetia). 

 4. There’s a Phantom Metro Station… for Ghosts? 

Deep beneath the Seine lies Porte Molitor, an abandoned metro station that’s never been used. Rumor has it, it’s now home to phantom commuters and the ghosts of unfinished croissants. (Or maybe just storage. But ghosts are more fun.) 


5. The World’s Shortest Street Is Here (And It’s Very French) 

There are over 6000 streets in Paris, Rue des Degrés in the 2nd arrondissement is just 5.75 meters long—shorter than a baguette. It has two whole addresses and zero cafés. Perfect for indecisive tourists who want to “see all of Paris” in 10 seconds. 

 7. The City Has More Dogs than Children 

Paris is home to 300,000 dogs vs. 200,000 kids. Stroll through Luxembourg Gardens, and you’ll see more poodles than toddlers. Bonus fun fact: Dog poop cleanup is a €183-million-a-year industry. Sacré-bleurgh.

8. Parisians Invented the “Selfie” in 1839 

Sort of. The first-ever photographic self-portrait was taken in Paris by chemist Robert Cornelius in 1839. It took 15 minutes of sitting still—so no duck lips.

9. The Louvre is the Largest Art Gallery in the World

The world’s most famous museum is The Louvre, in Paris, right on the river Seine. It is also, perhaps not surprisingly, the largest art gallery in the world. It houses more than 35,000 pieces of art for the public. The museum’s expanded collection is said to number over 450,000 pieces.

The Louvre, Paris

10. The Fashion Capital of the World?

Most of the world's finest fashion houses reside in Paris. The city dominating so many of the industry's major shows is sufficient enough to make brands like Chanel, Christian Louboutin, Dior, Givenchy, Lacroix, Lancôme, and Louis Vuitton its favorite children.


11. The Louvre Was Originally a Fortress (With a Moat!) 

Before housing the Mona Lisa’s smirk, the Louvre was a 12th-century fortress built to repel invaders. Today, the only invaders are tourists trying to take selfies with Venus de Milo. 

12. The City Has Its Own “Wall of Love” 

Located in Montmartre, the Le mur des je t’aime features “I love you” written in over 250 languages. Perfect for proposals, selfies, or dramatically staring at it while listening to French jazz.

The " I love you " wall - Montmartre

13. You Can Rent a Book—From a Vending Machine 

Parisian metro stations have book vending machines. Why scroll your phone when you can casually read Sartre underground like a true intellectual?

14. There’s a Law That Every Baguette Must Be Made a Certain Way 

No joke—since 1993, French law dictates what ingredients go into a traditional baguette. That’s how serious France is about bread. If only everything in life were that dependable.

French Baguette

15. Every Single Tree in Paris Is Measured and Numbered 

That’s right—more than 470,000 trees are cataloged by the city. So technically, Paris is not only romantic, but extremely organized.


From expanding towers to phantom metros, Paris proves that history doesn’t have to be boring. Whether you’re planning a trip or just need to one-up your know-it-all cousin, these facts are magnifique.  

Friday, 4 April 2025

Escape to Paradise: Why Soneva Fushi in the Maldives Is the Ultimate Luxury Hideaway

 

If paradise had a zip code, it would be Soneva Fushi.


Tucked away in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Soneva Fushi is more than just a resort—it's a luxurious escape where time slows down, shoes are optional, and nature takes center stage. Whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, a family vacation, or a solo recharge, this Maldivian gem offers an experience like no other.

Where Jungle Meets Ocean

Soneva Fushi sits on one of the largest islands in the Maldives—Kunfunadhoo Island—surrounded by white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lush tropical jungle. What sets it apart is its “No News, No Shoes” philosophy that invites guests to disconnect from the world and reconnect with themselves. It’s renowned for its barefoot luxury, allowing guests to connect with nature while enjoying exceptional service and amenities.


Accommodations 

Choose from sunrise/sunset villas, overwater Water Reserves (with private pools and ocean slides), or expansive Residences (up to nine bedrooms) for families or groups. 

Whether nestled in the jungle or perched over the water—is a sanctuary of privacy and serenity. Think open-air bathrooms, private pools, water slides, in-villa wine cellars, and thatched roofs that blend effortlessly with the natural surroundings.

 Sustainability with Style

Soneva Fushi isn’t just about indulgence—it’s a pioneer in sustainable luxury. From solar power to recycling centers, organic gardens, and coral regeneration, the resort is deeply committed to preserving the environment that makes it so special.

Even the food tells a story—most ingredients are sourced locally or from the island’s own garden, and each dish is a celebration of flavor and sustainability. With 11 Dining Venues, you can dine in a treetop pod, on the beach under the stars, at the Out of the Blue restaurant suspended over the ocean or even at the Flying Sauces, the world’s first zip line fine-dining experience.

Experiences That Take Your Breath Away

Want to swim with manta rays? Stargaze from an overwater observatory? Watch a movie under the stars at a jungle cinema? At Soneva Fushi, the experiences are as magical as the setting.


The resort offers world-class snorkeling and diving, glassblowing classes, sailing excursions, and even a chocolate and ice cream room that’s open 24/7 (yes, you read that right!). Every experience is curated with thought, heart, and a touch of wonder.

Family-Friendly Features 

- The Den: Asia’s largest children’s club with Lego rooms, cooking classes, and a cinema. 

- Soneva Academy: Educational programs for teens (12+), covering marine conservation and astronomy. 

- Family Offers: Complimentary full-board stays for children under 12 and 25% savings on larger villas. 

- Great Escape: Book four nights with half-board dining and receive one complimentary night. 


Getting There

Getting to Soneva Fushi is part of the adventure. After landing at Velana International Airport in Malé, a scenic 30-minute seaplane ride or domestic flight followed by a short speedboat transfer will take you to the island. From the moment you arrive, the world fades away.

Visit the official Soneva Fushi website for more detailed information on accommodations, experiences, and reservations.


photo credit Soneva Fushi website





THE GREAT WALL OF INDIA: Discovering the Mighty Kumbhalgarh Fort

 When we think of massive ancient walls, the Great Wall of China often comes to mind. But hidden in the heart of India lies a lesser-known m...