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Sick of the same pubs, the same people, conversations, bus routes and seemingly never-ending days that blur into each other?

You, my friend, are not alone.

And the answer? Travel. 

Travelling alone might seem like this big, daunting, terrifying thing – and in this day and age, no-one could blame you.

But what about those visions of sitting on a side-street cafe in Paris having your Instagram-worthy morning croissant and black coffee?

Or trekking through the Grand Canyon or swimming in the sea on one of the many Greek islands?

I can see the crystal-clear sparking water in my mind as I write this. 

So what are you waiting for?If you find yourself single and your mates are doing their thing then don't sit at home and wait for someone to be free.

Pack a suitcase and be that free-spirited person you always wanted to be – life is short, right?

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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The essential tips for travelling alone are important and as follows:

1. Screw the itinerary (kinda)

It might sound cool and spontaneous to just go wth the flow and not plan anything but when you're flying solo, it ain't so clever.

Do you really wanna arrive in a foreign place and, tired and with no idea how to get around and have no bed sorted for the night?

Didn't think so.

Always have accommodation arranged and a rough idea of what city is to come while still keeping your plans loose. 

Better to safe than sorry, right?

2. Be careful with the booze

All-you-can-drink-in-two-hours might sound tempting and if you're flanked by mates then go for it.

But when you have to watch your own back, maybe skip Margarita Hour.

I'm not saying you can't enjoy a glass of local vino or try out he popular beers in whatever city you're in, but don't get hammered.

It's easy to lose your bearings, your possessions or become a target for crime.

Also, nursing hangovers alone is plain old depressing tbh. 

3. Curiosity killed the cat

A little mystery never hurt anyone, right?

While it might seem like you've known the people you've met on your travels for years as you laugh at dinner together but they are also strangers.

So when it comes to talking about where you're staying, keep scutum.

Ditto on where you're planning to go – be breezy and vague. 

No-one needs to know you're every move and the info might end up falling into the hands of someone, let's say….undesirable. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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4. Don't take everything and the kitchen sink with you

You don't need to bring that much shit.

One of everything is enough – are you really gonna wear three pairs of runners and four pairs of heeled boots?

Obvs not.

And remember that you're gonna be lugging all this stuff around with you so if you don't mind carrying your entire wardrobe on your back, go for it. 

5. MIX WTH EVERYONE

This is your time to be whoever you want to be, approach anyone you want and not having to worry about seeing them again.

The world is full of interesting people and you – go forth and meet them.

And think of all the funny stories you'll have to tell your mates in the pub when you're back not to mention the KILLER Instagram feed that will have everyone frothing at the mouth with jealousy.

Now we're off to buy some tickets…

Feature image credit: solofemaletravel/Instagram

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Is there anything Sir David Attenborough can't achieve? Probs not. He's an absolute legend and undisputed king of nature, as well as possessing one of the greatest narratorial voices of ALL TIME.

He's lending his voice to Netflix for their forthcoming natural history show (seems off-brand for them?) but now he'll be back on the BBC screens with a huge new programme.

The TV show will focus on the environmental forces reshaping our world, and is entitled One Planet, Seven Worlds. We can't wait for this.

One Planet, Seven Worlds will focus on an individual continent per episode, and uses cutting-edge technology to explore the characteristics of how the animals are affected by their habitat.

He is also appearing in Green Planet, which will look at the world from the plants' point of view in the global ecosystem.

Attenborough recently spoke to Prince William about today's environment, emphasising the fact that we are less in touch with nature than ever.

"We are one coherent ecosystem- it's not just a question of beauty or interest or wonder, it's the essential ingredient. The essential part of human life is a healthy planet," he said.

He urged politicians and business leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos to focus their attention on climate change, before it's too late; “the Garden of Eden is no more”.

Blue Planet II and Plastics Watch have both achieved massive success, so the new BBC One shows are hoping to spotlight the environment in the form of protection.

Three-quarters of a BILLION people worldwide watched Blue Planet I, which is mind-blowing. Some people see his new Netflix affiliation as a blow to the BBC, as streaming services take over.

He has worked with the BBC for over 60 years, so he most likely isn't ditching them.

The Netflix show is due out this April, while the BBC show will hopefully air in the autumn. Get yourselves and your metal straws ready, it's time to save the WORLD, people.

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Our little Emerald Island is full of stunning landscapes. 

So we are delighted to hear that Kerry's Reeks District has been ranked so highly.

In a list published by The Rough Guides travel website, we come in at a very respectable third place.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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The website put together 'Six Regions on our Radar' and the MacGillycuddy's Reeks came after Argentina's Iberá Wetlands and China's Yúnnán province.

The Kerry landmark was described by The Rough Guides as "spectacular" and "postcard scenery."

"Drive, walk, hike, climb, bike, kayak or sail around the mountains and lakes of this rugged landscape encircled by the Ring of Kerry," it added.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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DAILY IRELAND (@daily_ireland) on

Canada’s Yukon Territory came in at fourth place, and was described as "true wilderness, where the wildlife outnumbers humans."

Following behind it was Wadi Rum, Jordon. 

If you're a Star Wars fan, you may recognise this location from the third Star Wars sequel trilogy (Episode IX) – it was filmed here and we can totally understand why.

In sixth and final position was Alabama in the USA, in July of this year they will be celebrating 50 years since the moon landing.

And you better believe the celebrations will be so VERY extra, as the city has been nicknamed the “Rocket City”. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Angela D'Cruz (@angela.dcruz) on

We are thrilled to see Kerry being featured amongst such stunning locations.

Although we aren't completely surprised – it's breathtaking.

So now you have the perfect excuse to plan a gals trip to Kerry. 

 

Feature Image Credit: catalinagemanari/Instagram

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If you thought Valetine’s Day was all hilarious cards and awkward Irish fellas trying to hide behind wilted roses then you’re wrong – all around the world different countries have very different traditions.

Giftcloud have put together some of the more unusual Valetine’s Day traditions that can be found worldwide, and we have to say some of them are very interesting indeed!

For example, guys not aware of tradition in Taiwan may want to count their red roses very carefully as 108 roses signifies a proposal – eep!

In The Philippines, many couples choose this day of love to tie the knot or renew vows, with over 4,000 couples getting married in 2013 and 2014. How romantic!

In Japan, Giri-choco which translates to ‘obligation chocolate’ is given by women to men they have no romantic attachment to such as friends or co-workers and it is generally low-quality and inexpensive. This is in comparison to Honmei choco which is given by Japanese women to men they are romantically involved with and it is generally more expensive and of a higher quality.

Perhaps our favourite Valentine’s Day tradition from around the world comes from Finland where the day is known as Ystävänpäivä, which translates to ‘Friend’s Day’ – a day in which people celebrate and spend time with their besties. Aww!

Do you wish Ireland would adopt any of these interesting traditions? 

To view the full infographic, click here

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We can all help to make a difference in the world around us.

A few simple changes to our life can have a big impact.

Why not start today!

1. Have a Meatless Monday

2. Switch to online bank statements

3. Invest in a reusable water bottle

4. Avoid products made from or aiding the destruction of endangered animals

5. Turn off the tap when shampooing and brushing teeth

6. Buy local produce as much as possible

7. Take public transport

8. Wash clothes at 40°C or lower

9. Turn off all switches at night and all lights when not required

10. Recycle – packaging, clothes, bottles, technology, everything you can!

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Here are some ways to make sure you arrive home content and happy with your travels.

1. Take lots of photos
Snap all around you. Who cares if you “look like a tourist” – you’ll appreciate the great memories when you come home!

2. Get out there
Hotels are strictly for sleep. Get out there and see what this new and exciting place has to offer and do it all.

3. Keep a journal
Sometimes we forget the little things so write everything down so you can remember each day as it was.

4. Early to bed, early to rise
We’re not suggesting you hit the leaba at 6pm or anything but you will need your full day to do all you need to so get your beauty sleep. You need to look good in those pictures after all!

5. Don’t miss opportunities
Just because your tired or it’s too hot doesn’t mean you should skip the day’s activities. You will regret what you didn’t do rather than what you did.

Remember to stay safe when travelling, these tips should help! 

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These festivals are full of culture, colour and fun. If you are lucky enough, you may experience a few of them.

1. Fourth of July – US
Held, unsurprisingly, on the 4th of July each year all over the United States. Barbecues, beer and the American flag are all a staple part of any good 4th of July celebration!

2. Mardi Gras – New Orleans, US
Beginning on January 6th and stretching until Shrove Tuesday, you have about 11 hours left to get to the best city for celebrating Mardi Gras!

3. Oktoberfest – Munich, Germany
A 16 day festival running from the end of September until the first week of October. A celebration of Bavarian culture, dress and of course, beer.

4. La Tomatina – Buñol, Spain
Held on the last Wednesday of August each year, this day consists mainly of throwing tomatoes at people. What a fun mess!

5. Diwali – Nepal, India
Also known as the Festival of Lights, this ancient Hindu tradition is held in autumn each year. The festival celebrates the victory of lightness over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil and hope over despair.

6. St Patrick’s Day – Dublin, Ireland
I’m sure most of us know about this one and there is nowhere like Dublin on Paddy’s Day for fun, festivities and Guinness!

7. Holi Festival, India
This is also known as the Festival of Colours and is another ancient Hindu tradition. The festival has become increasingly popular with travellers and promotes community spirit as everyone is fair game in this colourful and friendly fight!

8. Carnival – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Held around the same time as Mardi Gras, before Lent, Rio is renowned for holding one of the most famous Carnival celebration.

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1. Travel insurance
Make sure you have adequate health and travel insurance before embarking on your trip – it could save you a lot of money and hassle.

2. Make copies of everything
We mean EVERYTHING – passports, credit cards, travel itinerary and anything else you can think of. Leave one copy with your family at home, and take one with you too.

3. Get all appropriate shots
Visit your GP a few months before your trip and find out what shots you need for where you may be going. These will stand to you and may save you from getting ill.

4. Give your family or a close friend your exact travel itinerary 
Leave copies of your itinerary with them so they know what area of a country you will be in at any given day. If you make any changes to your plans you should let them know as soon as you can.

5. Don’t bring valuables
This one should be obvious – leave the jewellery, laptops and iPads behind. They will only draw unwanted attention and may end up being more of a hinderance than a help.

6. Always be aware of your surroundings
Never allow yourself to get too distracted and always try to be aware of who and what is around you at any time.

7. Carry a first-aid kit. 
You need to have a good first aid kit when travelling, especially if you want to trek through jungles and climb mountains. Plaster, pain killers, antiseptic wipes and cream, bug repellent, oral rehydration tablets and anything else you can think of that may make your trip a bit easier.

8. Stay hydrated
This is so important. You need to make sure you are drinking lots and lots of water to ensure you stay alert and avoid dehydration or sunstroke. In many countries you should only drink bottled water and always check the seals. The local water may not be dirty but it could have microbes our immune system is not used to and could make you ill. Water purification tablets are also a very good idea.

9. Be aware of the culture
Always be aware of what the culture is regarding women and clothing before entering a country. To avoid unwanted attention it is important to dress appropriately. Have a small collection of shawls for entering churches and religious sites.

10. Be a traveller, not a party animal
It’s no lie that worse things happen at 3am than they do at 3pm so take it easy. Remember you can drink and stay up all night at home any time you want but you are here to experience a different country and culture so get a good night’s rest!

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