By Mariam Nihal
Saudi Gazette
If it is that time of the year and you “can’t wait to leave” then let us make the next step easier. More often than not, it is deciding where to go which is harder than deciding it is time to.
Once you have reached that stage, the best thing to do is to go for it. If you need a break, give yourself one. Not just for yourself but for those around you. Sometimes you need to take a break to start over. To make things easier, we have a list of destination suggestions. Take this time to contemplate, explore and rediscover life like never before.
Kenya
The real winner here is Masai Mara. Covering an area of 1510 square km, the Masai Mara is a National Reserve that is unlike any other. With breathtaking views, incredible wildlife and grasslands and an unforgettable safari experience makes it a family favorite. Around two million animals make up the Great Migration. You can watch the animals cross the Mara River for the Masai Mara from July to October.
Their Ecosystem holds one of the highest lion densities in world. And there’s no way you will miss them. You can glide over the Masai Mara in a hot air balloon and indulge in a champion’s breakfast celebration.
Prague
Nicknamed “the City of a Hundred Spires” Prague is one of the most beautiful European cities. It has been a favorite part of every cinematic experience from all over the world and is still cherished for its natural splendor. You have probably seen the famous pedestrian Charles Bridge lined with 30 statues of saints in movie stills or even Tumblr posts. A city loved by bohemians for fairytales and romance, Prague does not disappoint. It’s a cosmopolitan city filled with culture buffs, historic monuments and chic cafes. ‘Viator’ offers a three-hour guided tour, driving through the narrow streets of Prague’s Old Town and includes prominent highlights like Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral and the John Lennon Wall.
Istanbul
The love is real. People living in the Middle East find Istanbul to be the best mixture of Asia and Europe while many Saudis even own homes there. Istanbul is easy to love and an inspiring place for many. As one of the most developed Islamic countries in the world, Turkey offers the best of Asia and Europe in one city. Istanbul is divided by the Bosporus and provides an incredible mixture of both worlds. Enjoy the aroma of Turkish coffee ‘Kahve’ around every corner, rich bazaars, join the Dervish performances and fall in love with the history it has preserved. A great place for families and for souls who want to be inspired, if you haven’t been, it is time to discover Istanbul.
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The beautiful blue medina of Chefchaouen in Morocco[/caption]
Chefchaouen
The mysticism of Morocco is a mystery to all. If you have already been to Casablanca and Marrakech, it is time to discover this gem hidden in the beautiful Rif Mountains. With social media helping us to learn more about each region, you must have seen that Moroccan city with the stunning labyrinth of blue-on-blue buildings. And yes, you guessed it, its Chefchaouen.
Located in northwest Morocco, Chefchaouen is close to Tangier. Not only is the landscape stunning it is known for its cuisine, heritage and traditional handicrafts hard to find anywhere else. Take your DSLR and see what falling in love through the lens is all about.
Palau
If you just want to be lost or try a new destination altogether, then this is the winner. If you are ready to switch your phone off and disconnect, head over to Palau. This slice of heaven is a snorkeling paradise for scuba-diving fanatics. Palau is an archipelago of more than 500 islands in the western Pacific Ocean. Enjoy beach bungalows and just unplug. In Palau you will need to leave your worries at the shore, listen to Frank Ocean and just ‘swim good’.
For a place set in an indefinite space, Palau families strictly follow their own traditions and culture. They partake in consistent cultural activities like the annual Olechotel Belau Fair and Palauan Night Markets, which include Palau’s 16 states representing their abilities through dances, chants, arts and crafts and much more.
