If you think Canada turns to the land of nod in winter, you’re definitely wrong. When most territory of the country is covered with pristine white snow and it’s pretty cold outside, Canadians don’t sit in warm inns and drink hot wine, but enjoy outdoor activities! Winter is a favorite time for many people in Canada as it brings biggest, most popular and truly unforgettable festivals. Festivals in Canada are a place where party never ends, even at night you can feel the atmosphere of holiday, joy and delight. Illumination, sparkling lights and colorful garlands light dark Canadian evenings and various fun activities and warm cider will help not to get chill in cold weather. Making festival outdoors is an old tradition in Canada. This country is usually a snowy one in winter, snow level frequently reaches waist, but no one even has a thought this can be a problem. You shouldn’t be scared of this too - just put in your warm scarf and let a party begin! (more…)

The latest economic crisis has touched seems everyone in our country, making people think more about ways of saving money. If you consider travel a luxury that costs much and thus is not for you this time, then just read the following list of top destinations for budget travelers. Travel is a real art and traveling smart is a double pleasure as you come back home with both unforgettable memories and bucks in your pocket.

1. China and Asia in whole Asia is the only place where backpackers no longer need to decide whether they want to exhaust their bank account or experience second-rate service. While worldwide economic crisis and expensive Euro make trips to Europe costly, Asian countries seem to be the right location. Current stats show each year Americans prefer visiting more Asian countries while Europe stats are flat. China remains the most desired Asian destination showing an unbelievable 83% increase in trips comparing to previous year. What makes China so popular? Only in China any traveler can both explore one of the world’s most ancient civilizations and enjoy cheap rates with quality service. Also China is tending to become a shopper’s paradise - it’s hard to find something you cannot buy on Chinese markets. The prices are not just low; they tend to go to zero. Don’t forget to try Chinese food - it’s totally different from something you used to eat. By the way, if you have never been in any Asian country, you can save your money by doing all-in-one trips that have recently become very popular. This includes 14-21 day vacation throughout continent starting from Bangkok to Bali, Taipei and Tokyo.

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Brazil is not only a country of contrasts, but truly cosmopolitan place. You can feel this not only in architecture and people, but in cuisine as well. In true, it’s hard to find an international cuisine you cannot find here. Eating in Brazil is a cheap experience, but do not be scared, service and food are simply great.

If you plan to make a trip to Brazil, I do not recommend you to hang in famous fast-foods like McDonald’s and delve local cuisine. Here is the list of the most popular dishes and drinks you can find nearly in any local restaurant:

Feijoada. This is the main dish in Brazil and you can find it elsewhere from famous luxury restaurants up to street outlets. You don’t know how Brazil tastes if you haven’t tried Feijoada. This is a delicious mix of black beans, pork and rice. If you have enough time to explore Brazilian food, wait until Sunday as traditionally this dish is served on Sundays, so you can taste the best Feijoada.

Feijoada is usually eaten with some complementing drinks and food like Caldo – a soup that is normally served before main dish and Caipirinha. This refreshing lime and sugar drink is widely drunk in Brazil before eating famous Feijoada.

Brazilian food is full of other exotic dishes. Grill junkies will like Churrasco – mixed meat, grilled with manioc four. If you like fish and seafoods, try Moqueca (unbelievably delicious fish stew), Caruru (shrimps with okra, pepper and onion) or Vatapa (rice, bread, shrimps with fish oil and coconut milk). (more…)

Chocolate paradise in Belgium

All chocolate lovers should prepare themselves before going to Belgium as this is a place where it’s almost impossible to resist and don’t try another candy or chocolate bar. Brussels, Belgium capital, offers fantastic sightseeing, truly amazing architecture, numerous attractions and its diamond – divine chocolates.

When you arrive to Brussels, consider taking a bike and making a bike tour as this is not only fun, but also simply the best way to explore this city. There are several must seen places like Grand Palace or statue of a little boy and fountain called Manneken Pis. When you get a little bit familiar with Brussels, it’s high time to make some rest and visit one of multiple chocolate shops and cafes.

Belgium makes best and highest quality chocolate that can satisfy absolutely everyone. Even if you are not a sweet tooth, don’t pass through shops like Neuhaus, Godiva or Pierre Marcolini. Only here you can taste exclusive candies and chocolates you can never find anywhere else. Best chocolate, fantastic flavors, nuts, toffees, cream, liqueur and other numerous ingredients are mixed to create a unique and elegant taste.

During each visit to a chocolates shop in Belgium you will feel like you’re attending a boutique or a perfume shop. Luxury design, perfect boxes everywhere and heaven like chocolate in showcases.

This country has an old tradition of making premium chocolate and it tries to maintain this prestigious level and provide only best quality. (more…)