LanzarotePuerto del CarmenTravel Guides

Puerto del Carmen Nightlife: Clubs, Discos, Pubs & Bars

You’ll find a wide array of places to party in Puerto del Carmen. Our nightlife map shows the top clubs, bars, pubs, and live music venues. Specialty places like cocktail bars, show bars, karaoke, and sports bars are also included, as well as the best beach bars, bar & grills.

Hotspots

Almost all the Puerto del Carmen bars and nightlife can be found along Avenida de las Playas or very close to it. The stretch from Old Town Harbour through Playa Grande up until Punta El Barranquilla accounts for roughly 90% of the party options in PDC.

From there on you won’t find mind much until you get closer to Playa Matagorda. A decent cluster of pubs and cocktail bars can be found on both ends of the beach, but the selection pales in comparison to the heart of Avenida de las Playas.

Beyond the nightclubs in Lanzarote, we further added beer gardens and wine bars, rooftop bars, shisha bars, holes-in-the-wall, as well as, places with bingo nights, quizzes, and trivia nights.

Interactive Map

As you can see on the interactive map below, most of the nightlife is focused very close to the ocean. It starts at the harborfront, then moves along Playa Grande up to Los Pocillos and Playa Matagorda.

Clubs

The Lanzarote Palace is near the harbor and doesn’t close until 6 am. The Ibiza Disco is near the tourism kiosk at Playa Grande… but is Ibiza in name only.

Aside from that, there’s not much going on in town. A lot of discos tend to open and close rather quickly in PDC, but Arrecife is but a short taxi ride and offers a greater selection.

Themed Bars

Ruta 66 is an American theme bar that plays 80s/90s music and is probably the most popular of all drinking establishments in Puerto del Carmen.

Africa Bar has an African safari theme, as well as some of the best live music on the island. Both options are located on the eastern end of Playa Grande and within easy walking distance of each other.

While not really a themed bar per se, the Gran Casino de Lanzarote can get quite busy in the evening and has reasonably priced drinks.

Show Bars

The Musical Hall Tavern is the most famous diner and shows the bar in town and is also the most popular in all of the Lanzarote for drag queen shows.

Basseys and Betty Boops are the two other options that are drag show related but on a smaller scale. Betty Boops also has karaoke following the show.

Oceans Royale is unique in the fact that its dinner and show have a vegas cabaret theme.

Live Music

While Island Bar no longer exists, Tequila Lounge and Africa Bar (playa grande), as well as Electric Island (harbor) are incredibly popular. Many bars also play great music videos too with the only downside being it’s not live pop-rock.

At Playa Matagorda, Marcos & Aless Bar and Rockolla are well-known, while the latter hosts The Ska Duo on Sunday nights and is well worth the trip.

Almost every Irish or Scottish pub in PDC also offers live music with some sort of house band or solitary singer. Around the harbor, that’s The Scotch Corner Bar (Scotch bar), Mulligans, Craic and Ceol, Dicey Reillys, and The Irish Harbour Bar.

Along Avenida de las Playas through Playa Grande, there’s Brian Boru, Murphy’s, and The Irish Viking. At the end of the beach and heading towards Los Pocillos, you’ll find Maguires, The Dubliner, and Ned Kelly’s.

Karaoke Bars

O’ Briens (playa grande) and Rockola (matagorda) both offer live music on top of karaoke, while Betty Boops has karaoke after their drag show.

Cocktail Bars

The best cocktail bars are sandwiched between Playa Grande and Playa Los Pocillos. La Delicatezza and Golden Corner are the heavy favorites with Diamond, and La Gruta trailing behind. While a couple of streets back from Avenida de las Playas, Bogarts Bar is a fairly unique option, while RockaDilly, California, and Hawaïan Bar round out the rest.

At the harborfront, Heineken Bar reigns supreme while Skyy is fairly trendy and also doubles as a shisha bar. Cerveceria San Miguel has a decent selection of cocktails and beers.

Behind Playa Grande, Óleo is a fast-rising star that not only has great cocktails but is a highly-regard beer garden and tapas bar.

On the far end of Playa Los Picollos you’ll find the Corner Cafe, Horizonte and then at Playa Matagorda is Ocean’s, which is top-notch with great service.

The top beach bars usually have decent cocktails too with the Chiringuito Beach Terrace at Playa Grande getting rave reviews.

Wine Bars

At the harbor side of Playa Grande, you’ll find Vino+ La Tienda which is a tapas bar/wine store, so the selection is quite extensive.

Beer Gardens

Óleo Tapas Bar has great food and Beer Garden at Playa Grande has an impressive selection of brews while the Cerveceria San Miguel at the Old Town Harbor is a nice brewpub that’s just a short walk away.

Pubs

The Irish dominate the pub scene in Puerto del Carmen and make it one of the best places to watch the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Lanzarote. There are English and Scottish options too, and in general, the pubs in PDC also double as sports bars with a UK flavor.

A lot of options can be found near the harbor and aside from the Irish pubs with live music listed above, The Purple Turtle, Irish Rover, Slattery’s, Highlander Too, Hogan Stand, as well as, The Dog and Duck, Tipplers, and The Rock Inn.

In between Playa Grande and Playa Los Pocillos, most of the pubs have ocean views with The Galleon 2 being the most popular. Other options include The Bucket List Bar, Bar Adelante, the Owl & Pussycat Inn, and the Cock & Bull.

At the end of Playa Los Pocillos, you’ll find another popular pub, The GuinnessTavern. At Playa Matagorda, The Auld Triangle is a great spot, plus there’s also Peggy’s Snug, and Decky Dillon’s.

Bingo nights at the Highlander Too near the harbor are quite popular. They also have family games, along with live music on Thursday afternoons from 3-5 pm.

Three bingo bars, Topgun Bar, Why Not, and The Hot Spot are sandwiched in between Playa Grande and Playa Los Pocillos.

Quiz Nights

Sunset Beach at Playa Grande has trivia night and is a great beach bar to boot.

The aforementioned bingo bars, Topgun Bar, Why Not, The Hot Spot, and the Owl & Pussycat Inn all have quiz nights too.

Holes in the Wall

Sometimes, these snug spots are all you need to have a good time. The Tiny Bar near Playa Grande offers a sweet ocean view while O’Connells Dug Out is a teensy Irish pub that doubles as an intense little sports bar.

Linekers and Gallagher’s Beachview are decent options right in front of Playa Grande, while Arthur’s Bar near Playa Los Pocillos has a nice menu too.

Near the harbor, there’s Thomas ECK, while The Sportsman Bar is at Playa Matagorda.

Most pubs in PDC also have TVs tuned into UK sports, as do some of the bar & grills.

Beach Bars

Along Playa Grande, you’ll find a bunch of options with Sunset Beach, Shenanigans, Chiringuito, The Galleon Inn, and The Tavern on the Seafront.

On the way to Playa Los Pocillos, there are a couple of decent bars with ocean views in Ancala2 and The Venue.

At the end of Playa Los Pocillos, there’s Paddy’s Paradise and O’Sheas Bar while the Aussie’s Beach Bar at Playa Matagorda is an island favorite.

Rooftop Bars

The Sugar Lounge Terrace near the harbor offers a sunny rooftop with lots of spots to lounge and enjoy the ocean view.

Bar & Grills

Most of the top beach bars and pubs also have great grills but these selections best fit the category.

Near the harbor, you’ll one of the best grills in PDC at The Drunken Monkey, along with the Hatton Garden Bar which has an outdoor pool table.

The Snug Bar is a street back from Playa Grande and is a little hole-in-the-wall with outdoor seating and is right beside The Rendezvous Bar.

In between Playa Grande and Playa Los Pocillos you’ll find the three places, Topgun Bar, Why Not, and The Hot Spot, all of which have bingo and quiz nights.

Cafe Berlin is at the end of Playa Los Pocillos, while Peggy’s Snug is found at the end of Playa Matagorda.

Shisha Bars

Skyy, found near the harbor is a trendy place that also has great cocktails.

FAQ

You can find answers to all of our frequently asked questions about the nightlife in Puerto del Carmen below.

Ibiza Go Karting

Ibiza Laser Combat

Currently, there is just one place to play simulated laser games on the island and that’s at Ibiza Laser Combat in Santa Eulalia del Río.

Ibiza Virtual Reality

You can play several VR video games like car racing and football at Virtual Recall Ibiza in Eivissa, as well as play a real, simulated outdoor combat game (similar to paintball) at Ibiza Laser Combat in Santa Eulalia del Río.

Istanbul Christmas

Unfortunately, this is a rare occurrence, as in the last ten years, it’s only come close once. On December 25th, 2018, it was a cold and rainy day with a high of 7°C (44°F). The temperature did dip to 4°C (39°F) in the early morning, but it was only sprinkles of light rain with no white fluffy stuff to carpet the ground.

Istanbul Shopping

Istiklal Caddesi is probably the largest, as it runs all the from Taksim Square to Tunel Square with every brand imaginable sold there. Abdi Ipekci Caddesi in the Nisantsi neighborhood is known for its luxury and world-famous brands from Prada to Louis Vuitton. Bagdat Caddesi has both luxurious and reasonable priced clothing stores, along with ceramic art, painting, and sculptures.

Serdar-i Ekrem Caddesi is that cool, cobblestone shopping street near the Galata Tower that’s full of boutique shops. Cukurcuma Caddesi is Istanbul’s main antique-hunting street with beautiful neoclassical houses all around. Nuruosmaniye Caddesi is where you can find fine-carpets and jewelry.

Rumeli Caddesi in the Harbiye district is famous for international brands and accessories, while Nispetiye Caddesi is very popular due to the Akmerkez mall having a large area with street-side shops.

Puerto del Carmen Dining

Some of the best spots to grab an English breakfast in Puerto del Carmen are The Good Old Days Bar, Purple Turtle, Topgun Bar, Why Not Bar, Blue Marlin, and the Highlander Too. There’s are a ton of Irish pubs here too and few Scottish ones that also serve English breakfast.

UK

The general opinion has Dr. Mark Tam in London as one of the most sought-after FUE hair transplant surgeons in UK. Dr. Tam has received several awards and his accreditations for hairline and frontal area work include being voted the #1 Hair Transplant Surgeon in London for 3 consecutive years.

Hair Transplant

The general opinion has Dr. Mark Tam in London as one of the most sought-after FUE hair transplant surgeons in UK. Dr. Tam has received several awards and his accreditations for hairline and frontal area work include being voted the #1 Hair Transplant Surgeon in London for 3 consecutive years.

Clinics

The general opinion has Dr. Mark Tam in London as one of the most sought-after FUE hair transplant surgeons in UK. Dr. Tam has received several awards and his accreditations for hairline and frontal area work include being voted the #1 Hair Transplant Surgeon in London for 3 consecutive years.

Playa del Carmen

Cancun International Airport is the most convenient airport for traveling to Playa del Carmen, and the rest of the Yucatan Peninsula in Quintana Roo including Puerto Morelos, Puerto Aventuras, and Tulum. While Cozumel Airport is also very close to PDC, it’s situated on an island and requires taking a scheduled ferry.

Transport

Cancun International Airport is the most convenient airport for traveling to Playa del Carmen, and the rest of the Yucatan Peninsula in Quintana Roo including Puerto Morelos, Puerto Aventuras, and Tulum. While Cozumel Airport is also very close to PDC, it’s situated on an island and requires taking a scheduled ferry.

Airport

Cancun International Airport is the most convenient airport for traveling to Playa del Carmen, and the rest of the Yucatan Peninsula in Quintana Roo including Puerto Morelos, Puerto Aventuras, and Tulum. While Cozumel Airport is also very close to PDC, it’s situated on an island and requires taking a scheduled ferry.

Agua de Lechuga

On average, HOA fees at ADL are $150 per month for studios and between $250-$300 monthly for larger one or two-bedroom units.

Ibiza Bowling Alleys

Yes, on April 22, 2020, they sadly made a closing announcement on Facebook while leaving a small possibility that they may re-open one day if the stars align. 

Currently, there is just one bowling alley remaining at Friends Kitchen Ibiza which has 4-lanes of neon-lighting nicely tucked away in a popular restaurant.

Ibiza Adventure Parks

At Acrobosc, ticket prices range from 15-25€ per route, with adult prices at the higher end and two -route combinations available for 25-30€.

Currently, there is just one adventure park in Ibiza called Acrobosc that is located in Santa Eulària des Riu. They offers three different canopy routes, one of which is for adults (Red Route).

Ibiza Minigolf

Currently, there is just one place to play a round of miniature golf in Ibiza and that’s at the Minigolf venue in Sant Josep de sa Talaia.

Currently, there is just one place to play a round of miniature golf in Ibiza and that’s at the Minigolf venue in Sant Josep de sa Talaia.

Ibiza Activity Centers

The adventure park area in Gran Piruleto costs an extra 5€ to enter.

Gran Piruleto near Playa d’en Bossa is dedicated to entertaining children. Its main features include animation entertainers, a splash area, an adventure park area, and scheduled activities, games, crafts, etc.

Milan Airports

Ensure you pack everything you need in-flight inside your carry-on bag while ensuring it does not exceed 5 kg or contain any prohibited objects. Pack everything else in your checked luggage while also ensuring there are no dangerous objects within.

For check-in and security control, keep all of your travel documents in a secure, but easy-to-reach pocket or bag.

Furthermore, be courteous, patient, and respectful with all Milan MXP Airport staff. Even when you’re in a hurry, be prepared to kindly answer any question the check-in desk, passport, and baggage control might ask you.

You should arrive at MXP airport at least 2-3 hours prior to departure so you can check in your luggage soon after the desk opens. Getting your boarding pass and navigating through passport control could take approximately 30-90 minutes.

The airport also has 76 departure gates, so you might need to add an extra 10-20 minutes after passing through customs to get to your flight.

Milan MXP Airport

Ensure you pack everything you need in-flight inside your carry-on bag while ensuring it does not exceed 5 kg or contain any prohibited objects. Pack everything else in your checked luggage while also ensuring there are no dangerous objects within.

For check-in and security control, keep all of your travel documents in a secure, but easy-to-reach pocket or bag.

Furthermore, be courteous, patient, and respectful with all Milan MXP Airport staff. Even when you’re in a hurry, be prepared to kindly answer any question the check-in desk, passport, and baggage control might ask you.

You should arrive at MXP airport at least 2-3 hours prior to departure so you can check in your luggage soon after the desk opens. Getting your boarding pass and navigating through passport control could take approximately 30-90 minutes.

The airport also has 76 departure gates, so you might need to add an extra 10-20 minutes after passing through customs to get to your flight.

Guanacaste

You can rent a jet ski from a local travel agency in Coco starting from around $110 USD per hour.

A few guided jet ski tours run out of Brasalito near Tamarindo. They generally do a beach triangle run through Playa Flamingo, Portrero, Danta, Grande, and Guacamaya.

Playas del Coco

You can rent a jet ski from a local travel agency in Coco starting from around $110 USD per hour.

A few guided jet ski tours run out of Brasalito near Tamarindo. They generally do a beach triangle run through Playa Flamingo, Portrero, Danta, Grande, and Guacamaya.

Rentals

You can rent a jet ski from a local travel agency in Coco starting from around $110 USD per hour.

A few guided jet ski tours run out of Brasalito near Tamarindo. They generally do a beach triangle run through Playa Flamingo, Portrero, Danta, Grande, and Guacamaya.

Jet Skis

You can rent a jet ski from a local travel agency in Coco starting from around $110 USD per hour.

A few guided jet ski tours run out of Brasalito near Tamarindo. They generally do a beach triangle run through Playa Flamingo, Portrero, Danta, Grande, and Guacamaya.

USA

While there are many to choose from, any top hair transplant surgeon list should include Dr. John P. Cole in Atlanta, Dr. Alan J. Bauman in Boca Ratonand Dr. Ken Anderson, also in Atlanta. All of these hair restoration specialists have had numerous accolades and achievement awards in their names, along with hundreds of satisfied hair transplant recipient reviews.

For our money, it’s the Cole Isolation Technique or the FUE CIT® performed by Dr. John Cole at the ForHair Clinic in Atlanta, Georgia. The CIT method maximizes hair density while minimizing scarring during hair transplant operations. The 97% yield for hair grafts is also more than Direct Hair Implantation (DHI) method and the Sapphire FUE technique can offer.

Hair Tranplant

While there are many to choose from, any top hair transplant surgeon list should include Dr. John P. Cole in Atlanta, Dr. Alan J. Bauman in Boca Ratonand Dr. Ken Anderson, also in Atlanta. All of these hair restoration specialists have had numerous accolades and achievement awards in their names, along with hundreds of satisfied hair transplant recipient reviews.

For our money, it’s the Cole Isolation Technique or the FUE CIT® performed by Dr. John Cole at the ForHair Clinic in Atlanta, Georgia. The CIT method maximizes hair density while minimizing scarring during hair transplant operations. The 97% yield for hair grafts is also more than Direct Hair Implantation (DHI) method and the Sapphire FUE technique can offer.

Clinics

While there are many to choose from, any top hair transplant surgeon list should include Dr. John P. Cole in Atlanta, Dr. Alan J. Bauman in Boca Ratonand Dr. Ken Anderson, also in Atlanta. All of these hair restoration specialists have had numerous accolades and achievement awards in their names, along with hundreds of satisfied hair transplant recipient reviews.

For our money, it’s the Cole Isolation Technique or the FUE CIT® performed by Dr. John Cole at the ForHair Clinic in Atlanta, Georgia. The CIT method maximizes hair density while minimizing scarring during hair transplant operations. The 97% yield for hair grafts is also more than Direct Hair Implantation (DHI) method and the Sapphire FUE technique can offer.

Milan Shopping

Generally, you can just minus a US women’s shoe size by 1.5 or 2 to get the youth size. For example, a 4.5-5in women’s shoes is equivalent to a size 3 in youth, while a women’s 5-5.5 is a size 3.5 for youths.

Youth SizeWomen’s SizeSize in Inches
3Y4.5-58 3/8
3.5Y5-5.58 1/2
Size 5 Women’s in Youth Size Chart

Italians use EU standard shoe sizes, where both men and women from the UK can simply add 33 to 35 to their size back home to get their European shoe size.

For example, a men’s Italian size 36 in the UK size is a 3. Or 3 + 33 = 36. As shoe sizes get higher in number, you have to increase the number to 34 (sizes 6-9) or 35 (sizes 10-12).

Shopping for Shoes in Milan

Generally, you can just minus a US women’s shoe size by 1.5 or 2 to get the youth size. For example, a 4.5-5in women’s shoes is equivalent to a size 3 in youth, while a women’s 5-5.5 is a size 3.5 for youths.

Youth SizeWomen’s SizeSize in Inches
3Y4.5-58 3/8
3.5Y5-5.58 1/2
Size 5 Women’s in Youth Size Chart

Italians use EU standard shoe sizes, where both men and women from the UK can simply add 33 to 35 to their size back home to get their European shoe size.

For example, a men’s Italian size 36 in the UK size is a 3. Or 3 + 33 = 36. As shoe sizes get higher in number, you have to increase the number to 34 (sizes 6-9) or 35 (sizes 10-12).

Italian Shoes Sizes

Generally, you can just minus a US women’s shoe size by 1.5 or 2 to get the youth size. For example, a 4.5-5in women’s shoes is equivalent to a size 3 in youth, while a women’s 5-5.5 is a size 3.5 for youths.

Youth SizeWomen’s SizeSize in Inches
3Y4.5-58 3/8
3.5Y5-5.58 1/2
Size 5 Women’s in Youth Size Chart

Italians use EU standard shoe sizes, where both men and women from the UK can simply add 33 to 35 to their size back home to get their European shoe size.

For example, a men’s Italian size 36 in the UK size is a 3. Or 3 + 33 = 36. As shoe sizes get higher in number, you have to increase the number to 34 (sizes 6-9) or 35 (sizes 10-12).

Nightlife

From pulsating Costa Rica nightclubs in San Jose to the resort vibes of Jaco and Tamarindo, there’s no dearth of spots to unwind. Then there’s the relaxed ambiance of beach towns like Puerto Viejo, Santa Teresa, Dominical, and of course, Playas del Coco.

Absolutely. Like many global destinations, some nightclubs in Costa Rica adhere to dress codes. A rule of thumb is to sidestep hats, shorts, tank tops (primarily for males), ripped pants, and athletic shoes. Elevating your look with a classy dress or ensemble, perhaps a notch above your regular beach wear, ensures you blend seamlessly into the spirited crowd.

Sirenis Aquagames

You can purchase a day pass to the water park at the Sirenis Seaview Country Club reception.

Guest of both the Sirenis Hotels Club Aura and the Sirenis Seaview Country Club have free access to the water park.

Yes, while guests of the hotel get free access, the park is open to anyone and everyone.

Ibiza Escape Rooms

The Scapart’s escape-room games consist of The Theft of Tanit (archaeologist message), Target Spy (paparazzi film roll), and Pirates Secret (stop the curse).

There are three escape rooms in total, all found in the same location at Scapart in Evissia.

Currently, there is just one escape room venue (Scapart), which has three different games to choose from.

Ibiza Golfing

There are two golf courses in Ibiza, Golf de Ibiza (18 holes), and Rocca Llisa (9 holes) which are both located at the same facility, Golf Ibiza by asuLineHotels in Santa Eulalia.

There is just one golf facility on the island named Golf Ibiza, but it has two courses to choose from: Golf de Ibiza (18 holes), and Rocca Llisa (9 holes).

The one golf facility on the island (Golf Ibiza) is located in Santa Eulalia, just 8 km from Eivissa a and includes two courses: Golf de Ibiza (18 holes), and Rocca Llisa (9 holes).

Ibiza Theme Parks

The crazy frog ride at Slingshot Ibiza costs 5€ per person (max 2 per person per car) for 5 minutes.

The bumper cars at Slingshot Ibiza cost 5€ per car (up to 2 people) for 5 minutes.

The regular price to ride The Slingshot in Ibiza is 25€ per person. You can have a 2nd free ride if you do it with two people on Mondays before 8 pm. Kids under 16 can also ride the slingshot for 15€ before 8 pm on Thursdays.

Ibiza Zoos

Yes. There are two small animal farms called Cam Munson in Santa Eulia del Rio and Puig de Can Maymo near Sant Mateu d’Albarca that have an assortment of goats, pigs, and rabbits that you can pay to feed.

No, not really. There are, however, two small animal farms called Cam Munson in Santa Eulia del Rio and Puig de Can Maymo near Sant Mateu d’Albarca which are wineries with animal areas.

No, the closest one is in Majorca. But, there are two small animal farms on winery bodega grounds called Cam Munson in Santa Eulia del Rio and Puig de Can Maymo near Sant Mateu d’Albarca where you can feed goats, pigs, and rabbits.

Ibiza Slingshot

The crazy frog ride at Slingshot Ibiza costs 5€ per person (max 2 per person per car) for 5 minutes.

The bumper cars at Slingshot Ibiza cost 5€ per car (up to 2 people) for 5 minutes.

The regular price to ride The Slingshot in Ibiza is 25€ per person. You can have a 2nd free ride if you do it with two people on Mondays before 8 pm. Kids under 16 can also ride the slingshot for 15€ before 8 pm on Thursdays.

Lanzarote Go Karting

It may surprise you to know that due to the go-kart’s low center of gravity and the small steering wheel size, even after a short 6-minute ride, you will notice some tension in your arms.

Yes. Lanzarote’s dry climate keeps the track surface safer than most other places. The sport of go-karting itself is also generally safe, as long as you follow the instructions given and do not deviate from them.

No, they’re not. Hitting the go-kart tracks in Lanzarote can be quite expensive, with 6-8 minutes of track time costing between 7-15€ per session.

Istanbul Kebaps History

The doner kebap originated in the Ottoman Empire. It started out as the cag kebab, stacks of seasoned sliced meat cooked on a horizontal rotisserie, which dates back to the 17th century. 

Bursa, which is just south of Istanbul is thought to be the birthplace of the vertical rotisserie used for today’s modern doner kebap. Its believed that it was invented sometime in the 19th century by Iskender Efendi of Iskender kebap fame or possibly Hamdi Usta from Kastamonu.

There’s nothing definitive in history, as the use of fire for cooking (790,000+ years ago) predates the pen and paper by many moons. In the Kitab al-Tabikh, a 10th-century Baghdadi cookbook there are descriptions of kabāb as cut-up meat, either fried in a pan or grilled over a fire. Stone supports for skewers however were unearthed in excavations of the ancient Minoan settlement of Akrotiri.

The ancient Indian text of Mahabharata and even Homer’s Iliad also mentioned pieces of meat roasted on spits which could be kebaps. Meat kebabs were also believed to have been grilled on swords by Nomadic tribesmen. In 17th-century Turkey, Evliya Celebi, an Ottoman journeyman, describes the kebeb as a horizontal bundle of meat which is long before the vertically skewed, Iskender Kebap, was made famous in the 19th century. 

So while there’s no definitive answer, kebaps have most likely been around a very, very long time. 

The vertical rotisserie was invented in the 19th-century Ottoman Empire and soon spread around the world. The Greek gyro, the Arab shawarma, Mexican al pastor, and Canadian donair are all kebap variations that use this type of rotisserie.

Turkey Travel Myths

No, poinsettias are native to Central America. The reason you see so many of them in Turkey is because they are a symbol of Turkish patriotism. 

The myth of Turkish poinsettias began because they are the favorite flower of the founding father of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who cultivated their growth across the country. Locals now commonly refer to them as the Ataturk flower (Ataturk cicegi).

The Aztecs, however, first called them cuetlaxochitl, meaning the flower that grows in residues or soil. In Mexico and Guatemala, they are known today as flor de Noche Buena, which translates as flowers of the holy night. They are also known in Central America as the Christmas Eve flower, which is in reference to the holy night being the one when Jesus was born.

Noturkey birds are native to North America. Contrary to the urban legend, those gobble-gobblers of Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner fame have no known association with Turkey. In fact, the Republic of Turkey only became a country in 1923 long after Thanksgiving turkey dinners became a thing in 17th-century America.

No, Saint Nicholas, whom the legend of Sinterklaas was based on (also known as the myth of the Turkish Santa Claus of western world fame), was born in the Greek seaport town of Patara to wealthy Christian parents.

In his youth be started out as the Bishop of Myra whose habit of secretly gift-giving away his inherited wealth was well known in the region. The reference to Jolly Old Saint Nick (a short form of Nicholas) pays homage to the real-life Saint Nicholas of Myra.

The ancient Greek city of Myra passed through many ruling hands over the hands and is known today as Demre and found in the province of Antalya, Turkey. The ruins of the St. Nicholas Church is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site now. This church turned museum receives over 500,000 visitors a year who want to glimpse Saint Nicholas’ tomb.

Turkey Christmas Myths

No, poinsettias are native to Central America. The reason you see so many of them in Turkey is because they are a symbol of Turkish patriotism. 

The myth of Turkish poinsettias began because they are the favorite flower of the founding father of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who cultivated their growth across the country. Locals now commonly refer to them as the Ataturk flower (Ataturk cicegi).

The Aztecs, however, first called them cuetlaxochitl, meaning the flower that grows in residues or soil. In Mexico and Guatemala, they are known today as flor de Noche Buena, which translates as flowers of the holy night. They are also known in Central America as the Christmas Eve flower, which is in reference to the holy night being the one when Jesus was born.

Noturkey birds are native to North America. Contrary to the urban legend, those gobble-gobblers of Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner fame have no known association with Turkey. In fact, the Republic of Turkey only became a country in 1923 long after Thanksgiving turkey dinners became a thing in 17th-century America.

No, Saint Nicholas, whom the legend of Sinterklaas was based on (also known as the myth of the Turkish Santa Claus of western world fame), was born in the Greek seaport town of Patara to wealthy Christian parents.

In his youth be started out as the Bishop of Myra whose habit of secretly gift-giving away his inherited wealth was well known in the region. The reference to Jolly Old Saint Nick (a short form of Nicholas) pays homage to the real-life Saint Nicholas of Myra.

The ancient Greek city of Myra passed through many ruling hands over the hands and is known today as Demre and found in the province of Antalya, Turkey. The ruins of the St. Nicholas Church is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site now. This church turned museum receives over 500,000 visitors a year who want to glimpse Saint Nicholas’ tomb.

Ibiza Casinos

Yes. The slot machine room at Casino de Ibiza in Evissa has 90,000€ super jackpots when playing Swampland and Neptune’s Pearls. There is also a super jackpot on StarGate which varies in payout based on gameplay.

Yes. The poker room at Casino de Ibiza in Evissa has NL Texas Hold’em games and they announce their tournament schedule on Facebook.

Yes. The slot machine room at Casino de Ibiza in Evissa has over 60 different types of slot games, including a 90,000€ super jackpot when playing Swampland and Neptune’s Pearls.

Currently, there is just one, which is the Casino de Ibiza in Evissa which has table games, i-games, and slot machines.

Medical Check Ups

Prices for a comprehensive medical check-up in Istanbul start from $150 for a standard assessment package. When adding in all-inclusive VIP options such as designated guides and consultants, accommodation and transportation prices can max out around $750.

Depending on the assessment package you choose, you’ll receive several different tests during your medical check-up in Istanbul, including:

  • Chest x-ray, electrocardiogram, and abdominal ultrasound
  • Heart, liver, and kidney functions
  • Blood count and sedimentation
  • Cholesterol levels and thyroid test
  • Full urine analysis and hepatitis test

A medical assessment can determine your risk of cardiovascular disease and preventable diseases like type 2 diabetes. Check-up testing will also highlight underlying issues such as high cholesterol, anemia, over or underactive thyroid, and autoimmune disorders.

First up, you’ll need to avoid strenuous exercise and fast for at least 12 hours prior to your medical assessment appointment, while consuming no food, water, or supplements. As well as no alcohol consumption for three days prior.

Comfortable attire with clothing and shoes fit for physical activity testing should be worn to your appointment.  Medical staff must be advised upon arrival of any prescribed medications, pregnancies, or suspected pregnancies, while any previous assessment results should be presented at this time.

Women should schedule their assessment so it does not coincide with their menstruation cycle.

Purchasing Property

Yes, but it is not recommended, as it will make you personally liable for anything that happens on your property. It also can create a potential issue if your property lies within the Maritime Terrestrial Zone (200m from the median tide line), where foreigners can only own 49% of the concession rights.

The recommended path is to make your purchase through a newly registered Costa Rica corporation. This will add a liability protection barrier, and allow for easier ownership transfer in your living will. Owning your property as a legally registered company will also make obtaining a local bank account, and utilities, such as internet and electricity much easier.

No, not unless you are buying property in the Maritime Terrestrial Zone (200m from the median tide line), where foreigners can only own 49% of the concession rights. Otherwise, a Costa Rican partner is not required to buy land in Costa Rica, nor are any restrictions in place that specifically apply to foreigners when purchasing property.

As a non-resident, you can buy real estate in Costa Rica both as an individual (not recommended), and as a corporate entity (easier transition, limits liability, and is highly recommended).

Yes, and is no different than owning real estate in the US, Canada or, Europe. Foreigners are entitled to the same property ownership rights as Costa Ricans as noted in Article 45 of the Constitution of Costa Rica.

Property is inviolable; none may be deprived of it.

Quote from Article 45 of the Constitution of Costa Rica

Yes. Foreigners who purchase real estate in Costa Rica have the same equal rights under Costa Rica Law to buy and own property as Costa Rican citizens do. Property can be purchased in your personal name, but it is not recommended due to liability concerns.

The most common practice is to purchase property in the name of a newly registered Costa Rica corporation, which can be owned by you, or another foreign corporation/LLC- limited liability company.

Where to Stay

Generally yes, as tourist dollars are of great importance to drug cartels. Gang activity is usually kept out of tourist areas, but high-end beach clubs at times can attract a bad crowd. If renting a condo in Tulum, do note that many are located in the jungle, and unlike Playa del Carmen, walking around after the sun goes down is not recommended.

They’re like apples and oranges. Tulum’s hotel zone is your ticket to a lavish beachside chill session. On the flip side, if you’re planning a spree of day trips or if your budget’s on a leash, Tulum Town is where it’s at.

The Kore Tulum Retreat and Spa Resort and Amansala Yoga And Wellness Resort are the only all-inclusives with locations on Tulum Beach. The Secrets Tulum Resort has a jungle location near Aldea Zama, but you need to take a shuttle to their beach club. The Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa is quite popular, but it’s located outside of Tulum past the Mayan Ruins and Cenote Tankah.

For now, Cancun International Airport is the best option, but the New Tulum Airport is on schedule to have domestic flights from five major cities in Mexico starting December 2023. International flights are expected in April 2024 with Delta Airlines announcing flights from Atlanta, and Aeromexico having options from New York, San Francisco, and Toronto.

Guide

Generally yes, as tourist dollars are of great importance to drug cartels. Gang activity is usually kept out of tourist areas, but high-end beach clubs at times can attract a bad crowd. If renting a condo in Tulum, do note that many are located in the jungle, and unlike Playa del Carmen, walking around after the sun goes down is not recommended.

They’re like apples and oranges. Tulum’s hotel zone is your ticket to a lavish beachside chill session. On the flip side, if you’re planning a spree of day trips or if your budget’s on a leash, Tulum Town is where it’s at.

The Kore Tulum Retreat and Spa Resort and Amansala Yoga And Wellness Resort are the only all-inclusives with locations on Tulum Beach. The Secrets Tulum Resort has a jungle location near Aldea Zama, but you need to take a shuttle to their beach club. The Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa is quite popular, but it’s located outside of Tulum past the Mayan Ruins and Cenote Tankah.

For now, Cancun International Airport is the best option, but the New Tulum Airport is on schedule to have domestic flights from five major cities in Mexico starting December 2023. International flights are expected in April 2024 with Delta Airlines announcing flights from Atlanta, and Aeromexico having options from New York, San Francisco, and Toronto.

Aguamar Water Park

There are no age restrictions for entrance, just the standard height restrictions on rides.

There’s tons of parking available at the water park just by the famous Hï Disco in Playa d’en Bossa.

Driving with a car is quite easy, but if you don’t have a vehicle, then the #14 bus from Ibiza town passes by every 20 minutes throughout the summer.

The park is open from 10:000 with low season closing at 17:30 and high season closing at 18:00.

The entrance gates for the water park are open from the May 17th until September 26th.

New Airport

No, it remains a work in progress, but the ribbon-cutting ceremony is slated for December 1, 2023, with Viva Aerobus being the first airline out of the gates.

The closest airport is Cancun International which connects to a multitude of global hotspots, from New York, Los Angeles, and Toronto to London, Paris, Rome, Madrid, and Paris. Taxis or private transfers from Cancun (CUN) can take around 1.5 hours, while a shared shuttle or ADO bus is normally 2.0-3.0 hours. Once the Maya Tren goes live in December, it will be the fastest way from Cancun to Tulum.

For now, you’ll need to arrive at Cancun International Airport (CUN) while Tulum TQO (not TUY) is still under construction. On December 1, 2023, domestic flights within Mexico will be available on Aeromexico and Viva Aerobus. Delta has also announced flights from Atlanta (ATL) starting on March 28, 2024.

No. Soon, but not yet. As of October 2023, the Tulum International Airport (TQO) is only 65% complete, but eyeing a December 2023 launch for flights within Mexico. For now, travelers should prepare for Cancun International arrivals and seek out transportation to Tulum such as a private shuttle, ADO bus, or rental car.

About 20 km (around 12.5 miles) south of Tulum. The Tren Maya will stop have an airport stop at TQO with a drop-off in the city center (Tulum Pueblo). For a beach hotel destination, your best option would be to take a taxi from the Tulum train station or hire a private transfer to meet you in person at Tulum Airport.

Cocmarindo

Cocomarindo’s location is in the town of Playas del Coco, Guanacaste. It is on the road toward Playa Ocotal. It is a 10-15 minute walk or a 3-5 minute car ride to the main street.

It is a 5-minute walk (350 m) to the far end of Coco Beach or a 15-minute (1.2 km) walk to the main area of the beach.

Go hiking to Playa Gringo or up Cacique Hill to watch the sunset or visit the Monkey Farm in Ocotal. Rent bikes and go cycling around Coco or Ocotal. Take a boat tour for scuba diving, snorkeling, or for relaxing and see the beautiful beaches of Playa Penca, Playa Huevos, and Playa Nacascolo.

There are tour companies that have a half-day or a full-day trip to experience wildlife, waterfalls, and Costa Rican culture. Tours should be booked in advance to get the date you want, and it is usually cheaper for payment to be in cash.

There is a large pool in the complex with a wet bar. The facilities also include a laundry service. The community is gated and there is 24/7 security for additional safety. Access to free parking is also available. There is also a mini-store, a fresh fish market, and an Italian restaurant, just outside the gates of the property.

Check-in is usually at around 3 pm, while check-out is around 11 am- 12 pm. You can contact the property directly with your expected arrival time should you wish to request an earlier check-in or later check-out time. Extra fees may be charged.

No. Pets are not allowed anywhere in the entire complex.

Ibiza Aquariums

Yes. Besides sea life, you can also view specimens of shark eggs, sea sponges, gastropods, bivalves, and other marine invertebrate.

Besides the fish and marine creatures, the aquatic life consists of invertebrates like sea sponges, starfish, and corals alongside Pitiusan marine fauna.

Alongside the fish, you’ll also be able to spot sea creatures like manta rays, eels, octopus, sea horses, lobsters, and sea snails.

Yes. The bloated and morbid looking scorpionfish, as well as the flying gurnard with its butterfly-like fins are some of the most unique fish species in the aquarium.

You will mostly see bright and colorful fish species of the Ibizan Mediterranean like groupers, snappers, sea bream, and fadrins. However, there are some exotic species like scorpionfish, saltwater catfish, and the flying gurnard.

An entrance ticket to Aquarium Cap Blanc costs 5€ for adults, and 3€ for children aged 4 to 12.

Yes. The aquarium can provide hospital-like treatment to sea creatures who’ve fallen victim to man-made activities like improper garbage disposal. Sea turtles, in particular, are given treatment and nursed back to health at the recovery center before being returned to the wild.

Istanbul Food

Doner kebabs are either plated dishes or grilled meat placed on sandwich bread, while Durum kebab use wrapped flatbread like lavash or yufka.

The literal meaning of durum in Turkish is roll or wrap. A thin flatbread such as lavash or yufka is generally used in Turkey and it makes it very easy to hold in your hand when it’s stuffed with vegetables and various types of sauces.

Doner is a specific type of kebab that is made of meat pressed into the shape of an inverted cone that is slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The outer layer is then sliced into thin shavings as it cooks which are then added to a plated dish or sandwich bread.

Kebaps are most often made with beef or lamb, but some offer chicken grilled on skewers as well.

The doner kebap originated in the Ottoman Empire. It started out as the cag kebab, stacks of seasoned sliced meat cooked on a horizontal rotisserie, which dates back to the 17th century. 

Bursa, which is just south of Istanbul is thought to be the birthplace of the vertical rotisserie used for today’s modern doner kebap. Its believed that it was invented sometime in the 19th century by Iskender Efendi of Iskender kebap fame or possibly Hamdi Usta from Kastamonu.

There’s nothing definitive in history, as the use of fire for cooking (790,000+ years ago) predates the pen and paper by many moons. In the Kitab al-Tabikh, a 10th-century Baghdadi cookbook there are descriptions of kabāb as cut-up meat, either fried in a pan or grilled over a fire. Stone supports for skewers however were unearthed in excavations of the ancient Minoan settlement of Akrotiri.

The ancient Indian text of Mahabharata and even Homer’s Iliad also mentioned pieces of meat roasted on spits which could be kebaps. Meat kebabs were also believed to have been grilled on swords by Nomadic tribesmen. In 17th-century Turkey, Evliya Celebi, an Ottoman journeyman, describes the kebeb as a horizontal bundle of meat which is long before the vertically skewed, Iskender Kebap, was made famous in the 19th century. 

So while there’s no definitive answer, kebaps have most likely been around a very, very long time. 

The vertical rotisserie was invented in the 19th-century Ottoman Empire and soon spread around the world. The Greek gyro, the Arab shawarma, Mexican al pastor, and Canadian donair are all kebap variations that use this type of rotisserie.

Istanbul Kebaps

Doner kebabs are either plated dishes or grilled meat placed on sandwich bread, while Durum kebab use wrapped flatbread like lavash or yufka.

The literal meaning of durum in Turkish is roll or wrap. A thin flatbread such as lavash or yufka is generally used in Turkey and it makes it very easy to hold in your hand when it’s stuffed with vegetables and various types of sauces.

Doner is a specific type of kebab that is made of meat pressed into the shape of an inverted cone that is slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The outer layer is then sliced into thin shavings as it cooks which are then added to a plated dish or sandwich bread.

Kebaps are most often made with beef or lamb, but some offer chicken grilled on skewers as well.

The doner kebap originated in the Ottoman Empire. It started out as the cag kebab, stacks of seasoned sliced meat cooked on a horizontal rotisserie, which dates back to the 17th century. 

Bursa, which is just south of Istanbul is thought to be the birthplace of the vertical rotisserie used for today’s modern doner kebap. Its believed that it was invented sometime in the 19th century by Iskender Efendi of Iskender kebap fame or possibly Hamdi Usta from Kastamonu.

There’s nothing definitive in history, as the use of fire for cooking (790,000+ years ago) predates the pen and paper by many moons. In the Kitab al-Tabikh, a 10th-century Baghdadi cookbook there are descriptions of kabāb as cut-up meat, either fried in a pan or grilled over a fire. Stone supports for skewers however were unearthed in excavations of the ancient Minoan settlement of Akrotiri.

The ancient Indian text of Mahabharata and even Homer’s Iliad also mentioned pieces of meat roasted on spits which could be kebaps. Meat kebabs were also believed to have been grilled on swords by Nomadic tribesmen. In 17th-century Turkey, Evliya Celebi, an Ottoman journeyman, describes the kebeb as a horizontal bundle of meat which is long before the vertically skewed, Iskender Kebap, was made famous in the 19th century. 

So while there’s no definitive answer, kebaps have most likely been around a very, very long time. 

The vertical rotisserie was invented in the 19th-century Ottoman Empire and soon spread around the world. The Greek gyro, the Arab shawarma, Mexican al pastor, and Canadian donair are all kebap variations that use this type of rotisserie.

Istanbul Transportation

Yes, but you’ll have to clear customs if you won’t want to shop at the airport. The HVIST-6 to Halkali will take you first to the Mall of Istanbul in about 30-40 minutes and then the ArenaPark Mall in about 40-50 minutes.  You can also take the HVIST-7 to Beylikduzu which will take you to the Marmara Park Shopping Mall in about 60-70 minutes. If it’s street shopping you’re after you can take the HVIST-14 to Taksim and just walk right on to Iskital Avenue, one of the most famous streets in all of Istanbul.

Yes, but you’ll have to purchase two tickets as there are no transfers, or you can meet the bus take the bus directly from the mall. The two last stops on the HVIST-6 from Halkali are ArenaPark Mall and the Mall of Istanbul, which will require 30-50 minutes from there to the airport.  The HVIST-7 from Beylikduzu comes directly from Marmara Park Shopping Mall and is about 60-70 minutes away. You can also do a ton of street shopping on Iskital Street and then just hop on the HVIST-14 at Taksim Square.

No, the HavaIST is an airport shuttle bus, but you can connect with the sightseeing Big Bus at all major tourist attractions. If you’re on a layover, you can take the HVIST-14 directly to Taksim Square where you can easily walk to Iskital Street or the Galata Tower. For Sultanahmet, the closest option is the HVIST-12 to Beyazit Square, which a 1.5 km taxi ride away from Hagia Sofia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.  If you wanted to see Dolmabalche Palace, the HVIST-13 will drop you off just a short walk away at Bakirkoy Pier.

Yes, kids can ride HavaIST Buses with you, but they pay the same adult fare with prices varying from 21–37 TL (2,5–4,5 €) depending on which route you take. Kids must take their own seats, and are not allowed to stand in the aisle or sit on the lap of their parents during the trip.

If you’re wondering, what is the HavaIST Bus, or why it’s called that, it’s simply a play on words. Havalimani means airport in Turkish, with Hava being a slang short form, while IST is simply the designated IATA airport code of the New Istanbul Airport. Put the two words together and you get the HavaIST shuttle bus

There are 105 airport shuttle buses in the HavaIST fleet that transports passengers of the New Istanbul Airport to and from various points in the city.  Some of the more popular routes go through Taksim, Kadikoy, Besiktas, and Bakirkoy.

Belongings left on HavaIST airport shuttle buses as generally returned to the HavaIST desk at your routes’ respective airport. If you’ve lost something during your trip, notify the Lost and Found Department immediately through the Call Center at 0850 888 33 34.

In general, they throw out perishables, hold valuables and currency in an airport safe, and return identification to the proper authorities within 5 days. It is, however, possible to have items returned on the same route you lost them on. You can view more details in Turkish on their lost good page, or use Google Translate on the link. Their FAQ page simply mentions calling the number above.

HavaIST Airport Shuttle

Yes, but you’ll have to clear customs if you won’t want to shop at the airport. The HVIST-6 to Halkali will take you first to the Mall of Istanbul in about 30-40 minutes and then the ArenaPark Mall in about 40-50 minutes.  You can also take the HVIST-7 to Beylikduzu which will take you to the Marmara Park Shopping Mall in about 60-70 minutes. If it’s street shopping you’re after you can take the HVIST-14 to Taksim and just walk right on to Iskital Avenue, one of the most famous streets in all of Istanbul.

Yes, but you’ll have to purchase two tickets as there are no transfers, or you can meet the bus take the bus directly from the mall. The two last stops on the HVIST-6 from Halkali are ArenaPark Mall and the Mall of Istanbul, which will require 30-50 minutes from there to the airport.  The HVIST-7 from Beylikduzu comes directly from Marmara Park Shopping Mall and is about 60-70 minutes away. You can also do a ton of street shopping on Iskital Street and then just hop on the HVIST-14 at Taksim Square.

No, the HavaIST is an airport shuttle bus, but you can connect with the sightseeing Big Bus at all major tourist attractions. If you’re on a layover, you can take the HVIST-14 directly to Taksim Square where you can easily walk to Iskital Street or the Galata Tower. For Sultanahmet, the closest option is the HVIST-12 to Beyazit Square, which a 1.5 km taxi ride away from Hagia Sofia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.  If you wanted to see Dolmabalche Palace, the HVIST-13 will drop you off just a short walk away at Bakirkoy Pier.

Yes, kids can ride HavaIST Buses with you, but they pay the same adult fare with prices varying from 21–37 TL (2,5–4,5 €) depending on which route you take. Kids must take their own seats, and are not allowed to stand in the aisle or sit on the lap of their parents during the trip.

If you’re wondering, what is the HavaIST Bus, or why it’s called that, it’s simply a play on words. Havalimani means airport in Turkish, with Hava being a slang short form, while IST is simply the designated IATA airport code of the New Istanbul Airport. Put the two words together and you get the HavaIST shuttle bus

There are 105 airport shuttle buses in the HavaIST fleet that transports passengers of the New Istanbul Airport to and from various points in the city.  Some of the more popular routes go through Taksim, Kadikoy, Besiktas, and Bakirkoy.

Belongings left on HavaIST airport shuttle buses as generally returned to the HavaIST desk at your routes’ respective airport. If you’ve lost something during your trip, notify the Lost and Found Department immediately through the Call Center at 0850 888 33 34.

In general, they throw out perishables, hold valuables and currency in an airport safe, and return identification to the proper authorities within 5 days. It is, however, possible to have items returned on the same route you lost them on. You can view more details in Turkish on their lost good page, or use Google Translate on the link. Their FAQ page simply mentions calling the number above.

Turkish Night

The Turkish night cruise is a kind of boat cruise on the Bosphorus in the evening. With dinner and Turkish night shows like Turkish Gypsy Dances, Caucasian Dances, Oriental Group Show, Turkish Folk Dances, Rhythm Show, Oriental Dance, Whirling Dervishes, and a Professional DJ.

The prices depend on the beverage package that you choose. The cheapest option is a non-alcoholic beverage option that includes unlimited soft drinks from around €35 per person. The upgraded package with unlimited local alcoholic drinks is around €45. If you want premium international drinks, then this costs a little more.

We prefer using Acetes Travel to book Turkish Nights on the Bosphorus. Their 3-deck luxury boats have both open and closed decks, and the professional dance teams are quite good, as are the food and the service.

Around 3.5-4 hours. The boats usually leave Kabtas Pier at 8:00 pm and return around 11:30 pm.

Yes, but this can vary from boat to boat. A typical vegetarian menu would include oven potatoes and sautéed vegetables with curry rice. On request, some other dishes might include vegetarian pizza or pasta with vegetable sauce.

Yes, children between 3 and 7 years old are typically allowed on these boats It’s however, not a good environment for infants, as there are lots of bright lights and loud noises.

Yes, but usually only on request. When organizing surprise birthday parties, cakes may cost €10 or so extra.

The easiest way is by tram to the Kabatas Pier. This is the last stop on the route, and the pier is right across the street from the tram station. If arriving by car, you can park near Dolmabahce Palace, which is a scenic 5-minute walk to Kabatas pier.

Mayan Train

Imagine stepping off your plane in Cancun and hopping directly on a train that visits all the popular tourist destinations along the Mexican Caribbean. Forget the hours spent figuring out transport to Playa del Carmen or Tulum. Bid adieu to shelingl out big bucks for tours to wonders like Chichen Itza or Palenque. This train promises not only convenience but also a safe, affordable alternative to other pricier transport options.

According to the National Fund for the Promotion of Tourism (Fonatur), average ticket prices will be somewhere between $40-$50, or 800-1,000 MNX. The distance traveled and who you are (local, domestic, or international tourist) will play a part in the final price tag, with local passengers snagging the best deals.

As of now, these Maya train tickets remain elusive, but it’s expected to start operating on December 1, 2023. Once this date is confirmed, the official Tren Maya Website and Facebook Page will guide you to where you can secure your seat.

Yes, once you touch down at CUN, you’ll be just an 8-minute electric minibus away from boarding the Maya Train. From there, the historical wonders of Quintana Roo, the Yucatan, Campeche, and Chiapas are ready and waiting to be explored.

Straight from the horse’s mouth: it’s a mere eight minutes on the electric minibus. This zippy little route skirts the fringes of the Cancun Airport property, meaning you won’t be held hostage by pesky traffic jams.

The journey will take an impressive 1 hour and 30 minutes when all is up and running in December. To put it in perspective, that’s a drastic cut of 2.5 hours from the grueling four-hour car journey.

Yes. A flat floor layout provides inclusivity for those with limited mobility. Plus, thoughtful touches like storage for wheelchairs and accessible restroom facilities ensure everyone can journey with ease.

It is set to blaze between stations at a whopping top speed of 160 km/h (100 mph).

Ibiza Water Parks

There are two water parks on the island of Ibiza. Aguamar is the largest and found in Sant Josep de sa Talaia. Aguagames is a Sirenis hotel water park that is free for guests and good option if you’re staying near Port d’es Torrent with kids.

There are no age restrictions for entrance, just the standard height restrictions on rides.

There’s tons of parking available at the water park just by the famous Hï Disco in Playa d’en Bossa.

Driving with a car is quite easy, but if you don’t have a vehicle, then the #14 bus from Ibiza town passes by every 20 minutes throughout the summer.

The park is open from 10:000 with low season closing at 17:30 and high season closing at 18:00.

The entrance gates for the water park are open from the May 17th until September 26th.

You can purchase a day pass to the water park at the Sirenis Seaview Country Club reception.

Guest of both the Sirenis Hotels Club Aura and the Sirenis Seaview Country Club have free access to the water park.

Yes, while guests of the hotel get free access, the park is open to anyone and everyone.

Lanzarote Nightlife

There is no better word than lively to describe the Puerto del Carmen nightlife. The beach bars and theme bars, like Bikers Club, Ruta 66, and Africa Bar, along with the cocktail lounges and wine bars are the best in Lanzarote.

There are two show bars too, and most pubs in town either have live music, karaoke, bingo, or trivia. On top of that, there are numerous sports bars, as well, as a few beer gardens, and shisha bars. You can even hit the casino, which is always open late.

You can find bingo nights at the The Hot Spot, Topgun Bar, Why Not Bar, Highlander Too, and the Owl & Pussycat Inn. Many of these places also have a trivia night too.

Yes, there are more Irish pubs in Puerto del Carmen than you can shake a leprechaun at with whole town drinking green beer when the St. Patrick’s Day Parade comes to town.

Around the Old Town Harbour and in walking distance of each other, you’ll find Mulligans Old Town, Irish Rover, Craic and Ceol, Dicey Reillys, Irish Harbor Bar, Bodhran, Hogan Stand, Brendan Brehan, Keely’s Bar, PJ’s Bar, Paddy’s Bar, Tipplers, The Rock Inn, Fox’s Bar, The Inn Place, and The Shamrock Bar.

Near Playa Grande there’s The Guinness Tavern, Shenanigans, Murphy’s, Irish Viking, Slattery’s, Brian Boru, O’connel’s Dug Out, Maguire’s, O’Briens, Bodhran, Darby O’Gills, and Mulligans New Town. Near Playa de Los Pocillos there’s Sally Joans and Fiddler’s Green. Near Playa Matagorda there’s Auld Triangle, Ned Kelly’s, The Sportsman, Peggy’s Snug, Decky Dillon’s, The Dubliner, and Paddy’s Paradise.

You’ll find 90% of the Puerto del Carmen’s nightlife along Avenida de las Playas with the largest concentrations around the Old Town Harbour and Playa Grande. You’ll also find pockets of nightlife around the Gran Casino and at the far end of Playa Matagorda near the airport.

The clubs, theme bars, and pubs, bar and with live music tend to be the ones that stay open late.

Yes, the nightlife in Puerto del Carmen is some of the best in the Canary Islands with roughly 100 party options along Avenida de las Playas alone. Aside from the general assortment of clubs, pubs, bar and grills, there’s a good live music scene, a ton of beach bars, and several sports bars.

The theme bars, show bars, and karaoke bars are also quite popular, along with the beer gardens, wine bars, and cocktail lounges. There’s also the Gran Casino which is open late.

If you’re staying near Playa Grande, Sunset Beach has a trivia night and is a wonderful beach bar too. You can also find quiz nights at Topgun Bar, Why Not Bar, The Hot Spot, and the Owl & Pussycat Inn. Many of these places also have a bingo night too.

Yes, the Scotch Corner Bar and Bluebells are the most popular Scottish pubs, along with Highlander Too.

Near the Old Town Harbour there’s a trendy cocktail lounge called Skyy that has shisha pipes, and a great drink menu too.

Yes, there are several British pubs which include the Purple Turtle, The Galleon Inn, Arthur’s Bar, Topgun Bar, and The Owl and Pussycat Inn.

Puerto del Carmen Nightlife

There is no better word than lively to describe the Puerto del Carmen nightlife. The beach bars and theme bars, like Bikers Club, Ruta 66, and Africa Bar, along with the cocktail lounges and wine bars are the best in Lanzarote.

There are two show bars too, and most pubs in town either have live music, karaoke, bingo, or trivia. On top of that, there are numerous sports bars, as well, as a few beer gardens, and shisha bars. You can even hit the casino, which is always open late.

You can find bingo nights at the The Hot Spot, Topgun Bar, Why Not Bar, Highlander Too, and the Owl & Pussycat Inn. Many of these places also have a trivia night too.

Yes, there are more Irish pubs in Puerto del Carmen than you can shake a leprechaun at with whole town drinking green beer when the St. Patrick’s Day Parade comes to town.

Around the Old Town Harbour and in walking distance of each other, you’ll find Mulligans Old Town, Irish Rover, Craic and Ceol, Dicey Reillys, Irish Harbor Bar, Bodhran, Hogan Stand, Brendan Brehan, Keely’s Bar, PJ’s Bar, Paddy’s Bar, Tipplers, The Rock Inn, Fox’s Bar, The Inn Place, and The Shamrock Bar.

Near Playa Grande there’s The Guinness Tavern, Shenanigans, Murphy’s, Irish Viking, Slattery’s, Brian Boru, O’connel’s Dug Out, Maguire’s, O’Briens, Bodhran, Darby O’Gills, and Mulligans New Town. Near Playa de Los Pocillos there’s Sally Joans and Fiddler’s Green. Near Playa Matagorda there’s Auld Triangle, Ned Kelly’s, The Sportsman, Peggy’s Snug, Decky Dillon’s, The Dubliner, and Paddy’s Paradise.

You’ll find 90% of the Puerto del Carmen’s nightlife along Avenida de las Playas with the largest concentrations around the Old Town Harbour and Playa Grande. You’ll also find pockets of nightlife around the Gran Casino and at the far end of Playa Matagorda near the airport.

The clubs, theme bars, and pubs, bar and with live music tend to be the ones that stay open late.

Yes, the nightlife in Puerto del Carmen is some of the best in the Canary Islands with roughly 100 party options along Avenida de las Playas alone. Aside from the general assortment of clubs, pubs, bar and grills, there’s a good live music scene, a ton of beach bars, and several sports bars.

The theme bars, show bars, and karaoke bars are also quite popular, along with the beer gardens, wine bars, and cocktail lounges. There’s also the Gran Casino which is open late.

If you’re staying near Playa Grande, Sunset Beach has a trivia night and is a wonderful beach bar too. You can also find quiz nights at Topgun Bar, Why Not Bar, The Hot Spot, and the Owl & Pussycat Inn. Many of these places also have a bingo night too.

Yes, the Scotch Corner Bar and Bluebells are the most popular Scottish pubs, along with Highlander Too.

Near the Old Town Harbour there’s a trendy cocktail lounge called Skyy that has shisha pipes, and a great drink menu too.

Yes, there are several British pubs which include the Purple Turtle, The Galleon Inn, Arthur’s Bar, Topgun Bar, and The Owl and Pussycat Inn.

Hair Transplants

Though a surgical procedure, hair transplants are relatively easy and only involve two steps. First, the surgeon takes hair from your healthy areas and then transfers it to the bald ones. The best areas for hair extraction, are in the back of your head. If that’s not possible, the doctor will then focus on retrieving hair follicles from other parts of your body.

Telogen Effluvium is a rare condition that is generally caused by numerous external factors. You will need to see a surgeon who specialist who can diagnose the root causes of your condition in order to ensure a successful hair transplant.

Yes.  Low-quality hair grafts are generally the cause of limited donor areas or inexperienced doctors. Be sure you get a qualified evaluation and select a certified hair transplant clinic to reduce this risk.

Yes. Improper post hair transplant care can also cause hair loss, so be sure to follow your doctor’s directions to the letter during the recovery process.

A small percentage of graft rejection is expected after a hair transplant. This loss is permanent due to the body’s immune system rejecting the transplant. The ARTAS Robotic System helps reduce this possibility, as does booking with a certified hair transplant clinic.

Shock hair loss is caused by the trauma of hair transplant surgery and usually occurs within 1-5 weeks after your procedure. This is only a temporary condition though and your hair will grow back in a normal cycle.

There are three main causes of hair loss after transplants that are due to shock, graft rejection, and post-transplant hair care. Two other causes are low-quality donor grafts, and telogen effluvium.

Yes. The transplanted hair will conform to the same shedding cycle as normal hair, which consists of the three stages; anagen, catagen, and telogen phases. Aside from this, there will hair loss specifically related to the transplant, which can consist of shock hair loss, graft rejection, and improper hair transplant aftercare.

The answer to this question depends on the size of the bald/ hair thinning area. Each hair transplant session means the extraction of around 3000 – 4000 hair grafts. If it’s a large area that requires more grafts, then one surgery might not be enough. Two, even three hair transplant procedures might be required if you require 6000-8000+ hair grafts.

Puerto del Carmen

There is no better word than lively to describe the Puerto del Carmen nightlife. The beach bars and theme bars, like Bikers Club, Ruta 66, and Africa Bar, along with the cocktail lounges and wine bars are the best in Lanzarote.

There are two show bars too, and most pubs in town either have live music, karaoke, bingo, or trivia. On top of that, there are numerous sports bars, as well, as a few beer gardens, and shisha bars. You can even hit the casino, which is always open late.

You can find bingo nights at the The Hot Spot, Topgun Bar, Why Not Bar, Highlander Too, and the Owl & Pussycat Inn. Many of these places also have a trivia night too.

Yes, there are more Irish pubs in Puerto del Carmen than you can shake a leprechaun at with whole town drinking green beer when the St. Patrick’s Day Parade comes to town.

Around the Old Town Harbour and in walking distance of each other, you’ll find Mulligans Old Town, Irish Rover, Craic and Ceol, Dicey Reillys, Irish Harbor Bar, Bodhran, Hogan Stand, Brendan Brehan, Keely’s Bar, PJ’s Bar, Paddy’s Bar, Tipplers, The Rock Inn, Fox’s Bar, The Inn Place, and The Shamrock Bar.

Near Playa Grande there’s The Guinness Tavern, Shenanigans, Murphy’s, Irish Viking, Slattery’s, Brian Boru, O’connel’s Dug Out, Maguire’s, O’Briens, Bodhran, Darby O’Gills, and Mulligans New Town. Near Playa de Los Pocillos there’s Sally Joans and Fiddler’s Green. Near Playa Matagorda there’s Auld Triangle, Ned Kelly’s, The Sportsman, Peggy’s Snug, Decky Dillon’s, The Dubliner, and Paddy’s Paradise.

You’ll find 90% of the Puerto del Carmen’s nightlife along Avenida de las Playas with the largest concentrations around the Old Town Harbour and Playa Grande. You’ll also find pockets of nightlife around the Gran Casino and at the far end of Playa Matagorda near the airport.

The clubs, theme bars, and pubs, bar and with live music tend to be the ones that stay open late.

Yes, the nightlife in Puerto del Carmen is some of the best in the Canary Islands with roughly 100 party options along Avenida de las Playas alone. Aside from the general assortment of clubs, pubs, bar and grills, there’s a good live music scene, a ton of beach bars, and several sports bars.

The theme bars, show bars, and karaoke bars are also quite popular, along with the beer gardens, wine bars, and cocktail lounges. There’s also the Gran Casino which is open late.

Some of the best spots to grab an English breakfast in Puerto del Carmen are The Good Old Days Bar, Purple Turtle, Topgun Bar, Why Not Bar, Blue Marlin, and the Highlander Too. There’s are a ton of Irish pubs here too and few Scottish ones that also serve English breakfast.

If you’re staying near Playa Grande, Sunset Beach has a trivia night and is a wonderful beach bar too. You can also find quiz nights at Topgun Bar, Why Not Bar, The Hot Spot, and the Owl & Pussycat Inn. Many of these places also have a bingo night too.

Yes, the Scotch Corner Bar and Bluebells are the most popular Scottish pubs, along with Highlander Too.

Near the Old Town Harbour there’s a trendy cocktail lounge called Skyy that has shisha pipes, and a great drink menu too.

Yes, there are several British pubs which include the Purple Turtle, The Galleon Inn, Arthur’s Bar, Topgun Bar, and The Owl and Pussycat Inn.

Closest

Until the new Tulum (TUY) Airport is operational, Cancun International Airport (CUN) is the best option. It not only offers the closest proximity to Tulum but also hosts a vast array of international flights.

Booking a private transfer, shared shuttle, or boarding the ADO bus directly from the Cancun International Airport offer are the best options for Cancun airport transport. Once the new Maya Train is operational in December 2023, however, it will be faster and cheaper than all but the bus.

Only after December 1st, 2023 will you be be to take domestic flights directly into Tulum, using the new minted TUY Airport, while international flights are expected to start in April 2024. In the meantime, the best alterative option is flying into Cancun (CUN).

Currently, yes until the Tulum Airport is finished, most passengers will book tickets to Cancun International and take a bus or private transfer to their Tulum hotel or vacation rental. Other nearby airports in Quintana Roo can be found in tourist destinations such as Cozumel, Merida, or Chetumal but require longer and more costly journeys.

Cancun International (CUN) is the superior choice given its shorter travel time of 1.5-2 hours by car. Cozumel requires a longer journey of about 3 hours, which includes a ferry ride to Playa del Carmen before taking the Federal Highway to Tulum.

As of now, no. Most private jet services choose to land in either Cancun or Cozumel. However, a luxurious Tulum Airport is on the horizon, with plans to inaugurate domestic flights in December 2023.

Yes, but this will not be budget-friendly until the new airport in Tulum is fully operational in April 2024. Given the likelihood of landing at Cancun Airport, a two-hour taxi ride to Tulum could cost upwards of $150-$200. Booking an ADO bus ticket for $20 or the forthcoming Mayan Train set to start operations in December is more feasible. Pre-booking a shared or private transfer is also a more cost-effective solution.

It’s roughly 75 miles or around 120 kilometers with a journey spanning anywhere from 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes depending on construction and tourist season traffic.

While Cozumel International Airport might be the nearest to Tulum in terms of direct distance, the Cancun International Airport offers a quicker transit, clocking in at about 1.5-2 hours. However, the travel landscape is set for a significant shift with the inauguration of a new international airport in Tulum. This facility is slated to commence domestic operations on December 1st, 2023, and will usher in international flights by April 2024, promising a substantial reduction in travel time.

As the crow flies, it’s only 50 miles (82 km), but it will require a complicated 2.5-3 hour journey as the Island of Cozumel has no connection to the mainland other than via ferry.

Currently, the answer is no. The much-anticipated Tulum Airport is projected to open its doors between December 2023 and April 2024, though a concrete date remains elusive. Until this development materializes, travelers will need to book flights to alternative airports like Cancun, Cozumel, Merida, or Chetumal and then orchestrate onward transportation to Tulum.

Milan Info

Milan is the fashion capital of Italy; the Italian equivalent of Paris, France.

No, it is, however, the capital of the Lombardy region of Italy; the most populous, richest and most productive region in the country.

You’ll find Milan in the Lombardy region on the northern tip of Italy’s boot. You can draw a line south from Lugano, past the Switzerland border. and through Lake Como into Milan. In a westerly line can find it to be parallel to Verona and Venice, just southwest of Bergamo.

The metropolitan area of Milan has a population of 3.26 million with 1.4 million of those living in the city proper. Milan is also the second-most populous city in Italy with only Rome, at 4.3 million, having more people.

Yes, Milan/Milano is most definitely a city in Italy; and with 3.26 million inhabitants, it’s only second to Rome in population. If you thought it might have been in France, this may simply be because it’s the fashion capital of Italy, and is sometimes mistaken for its Paris counterpart.

Yes, Milan/Milano is located in the Lombardy region near the tip of Italy’s boot, and the Switzerland border.

You’ll find Milan/Milano in the Italian Republic; the country of Italy/Italia.

You’ll find Milan in the Lombardy region on the northern tip of Italy’s boot, southwest of Bergamo and directly south of Lake Como and the Switzerland border.

Milan/Milano is located in northern Italy in the Lombardy region. It’s so north in fact, that the Switzerland border is but a short 166 km drive away.

For starters, Milan is the fashion capital of Italy, so if you’re talking Gucci or Armani, you’re talking about Milan fashion. It’s also the economic heart of Italy with many titans of the financial industry being headquarters here. Leonardo Da Vinci also spent many of his years in Milan leaving many tourist attractions behind like his famous Last Supper painting and the murals in Duomo di Milano. His famous Codex of Templar fame is also located in Milan as are many of his inventions. On top of that, there’s FC Inter Milano, the most famous football club in Italy!

No, but there’s more to the story than that. It was only in 1871 that all the provinces of Italy were unified with Rome being named the capital of the Kingdom of Italy.  In 1946, the monarchy was disbanded and the name changed to the Italian Republic or Italy as we know it today.  Milan, however, existed centuries before in 222 BC and was known then by its Latin name of Mediolanum. The city served as the capital of the Western Roman Empire, the Duchy of Milan, and the Kingdom of Lombardy–Venetia.

You’ll find Milan/Milano on the northern tip of Italy’s boot, just southwest of Bergamo. If you’re wondering in relation to Venice, it’s in parallel with the canal city directly west across Italy. You can also draw a straight line down from Lugano, across the Switzerland border, and through Lake Como to Milan. To the southwest, you’ll find Torino almost an equal distance away from Milan as Verona is to the east.

Coco Sunset Hills

Purchase prices range from $200,000 for a studio to upwards of $600,000 for a penthouse. Listing price is based on factors like square footage, number of bedrooms, ocean views, and whether the unit boasts balconies or private terraces.

Rental prices start around $70 a night in low-season for studio and can go as high as $250 per night for two-bedroon unit in the high-season from December through April.

Each condo typically features a well-stocked kitchen, air conditioning, high-speed WiFi internet, and private balconies or patios. Two-bedroom units usually have a dishwasher and private laundry machines. Higher-end options tend to have ocean views, along with private terraces and BBQ facilities. The CSH complex also has four swimming pools, two Jacuzzis, and beautifully maintained gardens to enjoy. This gated community also offers 24/7 security with key fobs required to enter the main gates.

Homeowners Association fees typically range between $235 to $265 for low-to-mid-range units.

Yes, many owners list their condos for rent on platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com. Depending on your preference, you can opt for short-term or long-term rental, or hire a rental manager to assist with check-ins/check-outs.

Generally, studio and 1-bedroom units can host between two to four people. In contrast, a 2-bedroom unit can comfortably accommodate four to a maximum of six individuals including adults and children.

It’s about 500 meters to Las Palmas Plaza, which is then about 150m to the nearest Coco Beach entrance if you go either left or right. Another 200m to the right beyond that is Cafe de Playa, a swanky beachfront restaurant, followed by the Pacifico Beach Club.

Guests can enjoy beach activities, water sports like kayaking or jet skiing, hiking up Cacique Hill for sunset, and exploring the local shops and restaurants. Coco Beach also has shore fishing along a plethora of sport fishing charter boats. Many catamaran sailing trips and scuba diving tours leave from the main beach, along with surfing tours to Witches Rock. Other fun activities include snorkeling and horseback riding in Ocotal, along with Diamonte theme park and near the Rui Guanacaste. Attractions like Rincon de la Viejo and Palo Verde within an easy day trip.

No, but fitness enthusiasts have several Coco gyms and even a few dance studios that are either on the main beach road or very close to the main strip near the bars and restaurants.

Hygiene and sanitation measures are typically before and after every guest’s stay. Some properties might include the perk of a mid-stay cleaning. If not drop a note in their special requests box, message the property directly, or contact a local maid service who can clean your condo for $20-$40.

The expected arrival time for guests is usually around 3 pm and check out around 11 am. Many Airbnb hosts will accommodate flexible arrivals and late departures if needed. For greater flexible availability, don’t forget to get confirmation of times and dates well in advance.

Look for rental units that provide contact details and are managed by people who actually live in them. Simple supplies these people usually stock are beach towels, a hair dryer, a kettle, salt, pepper, and some spices. If you need more comfortable places to sleep for guests, seek out those who offer extra beds and linens or free toiletries.

Turkey

Though a surgical procedure, hair transplants are relatively easy and only involve two steps. First, the surgeon takes hair from your healthy areas and then transfers it to the bald ones. The best areas for hair extraction, are in the back of your head. If that’s not possible, the doctor will then focus on retrieving hair follicles from other parts of your body.

Prices for a comprehensive medical check-up in Istanbul start from $150 for a standard assessment package. When adding in all-inclusive VIP options such as designated guides and consultants, accommodation and transportation prices can max out around $750.

Depending on the assessment package you choose, you’ll receive several different tests during your medical check-up in Istanbul, including:

  • Chest x-ray, electrocardiogram, and abdominal ultrasound
  • Heart, liver, and kidney functions
  • Blood count and sedimentation
  • Cholesterol levels and thyroid test
  • Full urine analysis and hepatitis test

A medical assessment can determine your risk of cardiovascular disease and preventable diseases like type 2 diabetes. Check-up testing will also highlight underlying issues such as high cholesterol, anemia, over or underactive thyroid, and autoimmune disorders.

First up, you’ll need to avoid strenuous exercise and fast for at least 12 hours prior to your medical assessment appointment, while consuming no food, water, or supplements. As well as no alcohol consumption for three days prior.

Comfortable attire with clothing and shoes fit for physical activity testing should be worn to your appointment.  Medical staff must be advised upon arrival of any prescribed medications, pregnancies, or suspected pregnancies, while any previous assessment results should be presented at this time.

Women should schedule their assessment so it does not coincide with their menstruation cycle.

Telogen Effluvium is a rare condition that is generally caused by numerous external factors. You will need to see a surgeon who specialist who can diagnose the root causes of your condition in order to ensure a successful hair transplant.

Yes.  Low-quality hair grafts are generally the cause of limited donor areas or inexperienced doctors. Be sure you get a qualified evaluation and select a certified hair transplant clinic to reduce this risk.

Yes. Improper post hair transplant care can also cause hair loss, so be sure to follow your doctor’s directions to the letter during the recovery process.

A small percentage of graft rejection is expected after a hair transplant. This loss is permanent due to the body’s immune system rejecting the transplant. The ARTAS Robotic System helps reduce this possibility, as does booking with a certified hair transplant clinic.

Shock hair loss is caused by the trauma of hair transplant surgery and usually occurs within 1-5 weeks after your procedure. This is only a temporary condition though and your hair will grow back in a normal cycle.

There are three main causes of hair loss after transplants that are due to shock, graft rejection, and post-transplant hair care. Two other causes are low-quality donor grafts, and telogen effluvium.

Yes. The transplanted hair will conform to the same shedding cycle as normal hair, which consists of the three stages; anagen, catagen, and telogen phases. Aside from this, there will hair loss specifically related to the transplant, which can consist of shock hair loss, graft rejection, and improper hair transplant aftercare.

The answer to this question depends on the size of the bald/ hair thinning area. Each hair transplant session means the extraction of around 3000 – 4000 hair grafts. If it’s a large area that requires more grafts, then one surgery might not be enough. Two, even three hair transplant procedures might be required if you require 6000-8000+ hair grafts.

Milan

Generally, you can just minus a US women’s shoe size by 1.5 or 2 to get the youth size. For example, a 4.5-5in women’s shoes is equivalent to a size 3 in youth, while a women’s 5-5.5 is a size 3.5 for youths.

Youth SizeWomen’s SizeSize in Inches
3Y4.5-58 3/8
3.5Y5-5.58 1/2
Size 5 Women’s in Youth Size Chart

Italians use EU standard shoe sizes, where both men and women from the UK can simply add 33 to 35 to their size back home to get their European shoe size.

For example, a men’s Italian size 36 in the UK size is a 3. Or 3 + 33 = 36. As shoe sizes get higher in number, you have to increase the number to 34 (sizes 6-9) or 35 (sizes 10-12).

Ensure you pack everything you need in-flight inside your carry-on bag while ensuring it does not exceed 5 kg or contain any prohibited objects. Pack everything else in your checked luggage while also ensuring there are no dangerous objects within.

For check-in and security control, keep all of your travel documents in a secure, but easy-to-reach pocket or bag.

Furthermore, be courteous, patient, and respectful with all Milan MXP Airport staff. Even when you’re in a hurry, be prepared to kindly answer any question the check-in desk, passport, and baggage control might ask you.

You should arrive at MXP airport at least 2-3 hours prior to departure so you can check in your luggage soon after the desk opens. Getting your boarding pass and navigating through passport control could take approximately 30-90 minutes.

The airport also has 76 departure gates, so you might need to add an extra 10-20 minutes after passing through customs to get to your flight.

Milan is the fashion capital of Italy; the Italian equivalent of Paris, France.

No, it is, however, the capital of the Lombardy region of Italy; the most populous, richest and most productive region in the country.

You’ll find Milan in the Lombardy region on the northern tip of Italy’s boot. You can draw a line south from Lugano, past the Switzerland border. and through Lake Como into Milan. In a westerly line can find it to be parallel to Verona and Venice, just southwest of Bergamo.

The metropolitan area of Milan has a population of 3.26 million with 1.4 million of those living in the city proper. Milan is also the second-most populous city in Italy with only Rome, at 4.3 million, having more people.

Yes, Milan/Milano is most definitely a city in Italy; and with 3.26 million inhabitants, it’s only second to Rome in population. If you thought it might have been in France, this may simply be because it’s the fashion capital of Italy, and is sometimes mistaken for its Paris counterpart.

Yes, Milan/Milano is located in the Lombardy region near the tip of Italy’s boot, and the Switzerland border.

You’ll find Milan/Milano in the Italian Republic; the country of Italy/Italia.

You’ll find Milan in the Lombardy region on the northern tip of Italy’s boot, southwest of Bergamo and directly south of Lake Como and the Switzerland border.

Milan/Milano is located in northern Italy in the Lombardy region. It’s so north in fact, that the Switzerland border is but a short 166 km drive away.

For starters, Milan is the fashion capital of Italy, so if you’re talking Gucci or Armani, you’re talking about Milan fashion. It’s also the economic heart of Italy with many titans of the financial industry being headquarters here. Leonardo Da Vinci also spent many of his years in Milan leaving many tourist attractions behind like his famous Last Supper painting and the murals in Duomo di Milano. His famous Codex of Templar fame is also located in Milan as are many of his inventions. On top of that, there’s FC Inter Milano, the most famous football club in Italy!

No, but there’s more to the story than that. It was only in 1871 that all the provinces of Italy were unified with Rome being named the capital of the Kingdom of Italy.  In 1946, the monarchy was disbanded and the name changed to the Italian Republic or Italy as we know it today.  Milan, however, existed centuries before in 222 BC and was known then by its Latin name of Mediolanum. The city served as the capital of the Western Roman Empire, the Duchy of Milan, and the Kingdom of Lombardy–Venetia.

You’ll find Milan/Milano on the northern tip of Italy’s boot, just southwest of Bergamo. If you’re wondering in relation to Venice, it’s in parallel with the canal city directly west across Italy. You can also draw a straight line down from Lugano, across the Switzerland border, and through Lake Como to Milan. To the southwest, you’ll find Torino almost an equal distance away from Milan as Verona is to the east.

Medical

Though a surgical procedure, hair transplants are relatively easy and only involve two steps. First, the surgeon takes hair from your healthy areas and then transfers it to the bald ones. The best areas for hair extraction, are in the back of your head. If that’s not possible, the doctor will then focus on retrieving hair follicles from other parts of your body.

While there are many to choose from, any top hair transplant surgeon list should include Dr. John P. Cole in Atlanta, Dr. Alan J. Bauman in Boca Ratonand Dr. Ken Anderson, also in Atlanta. All of these hair restoration specialists have had numerous accolades and achievement awards in their names, along with hundreds of satisfied hair transplant recipient reviews.

For our money, it’s the Cole Isolation Technique or the FUE CIT® performed by Dr. John Cole at the ForHair Clinic in Atlanta, Georgia. The CIT method maximizes hair density while minimizing scarring during hair transplant operations. The 97% yield for hair grafts is also more than Direct Hair Implantation (DHI) method and the Sapphire FUE technique can offer.

The general opinion has Dr. Mark Tam in London as one of the most sought-after FUE hair transplant surgeons in UK. Dr. Tam has received several awards and his accreditations for hairline and frontal area work include being voted the #1 Hair Transplant Surgeon in London for 3 consecutive years.

Prices for a comprehensive medical check-up in Istanbul start from $150 for a standard assessment package. When adding in all-inclusive VIP options such as designated guides and consultants, accommodation and transportation prices can max out around $750.

Depending on the assessment package you choose, you’ll receive several different tests during your medical check-up in Istanbul, including:

  • Chest x-ray, electrocardiogram, and abdominal ultrasound
  • Heart, liver, and kidney functions
  • Blood count and sedimentation
  • Cholesterol levels and thyroid test
  • Full urine analysis and hepatitis test

A medical assessment can determine your risk of cardiovascular disease and preventable diseases like type 2 diabetes. Check-up testing will also highlight underlying issues such as high cholesterol, anemia, over or underactive thyroid, and autoimmune disorders.

First up, you’ll need to avoid strenuous exercise and fast for at least 12 hours prior to your medical assessment appointment, while consuming no food, water, or supplements. As well as no alcohol consumption for three days prior.

Comfortable attire with clothing and shoes fit for physical activity testing should be worn to your appointment.  Medical staff must be advised upon arrival of any prescribed medications, pregnancies, or suspected pregnancies, while any previous assessment results should be presented at this time.

Women should schedule their assessment so it does not coincide with their menstruation cycle.

Telogen Effluvium is a rare condition that is generally caused by numerous external factors. You will need to see a surgeon who specialist who can diagnose the root causes of your condition in order to ensure a successful hair transplant.

Yes.  Low-quality hair grafts are generally the cause of limited donor areas or inexperienced doctors. Be sure you get a qualified evaluation and select a certified hair transplant clinic to reduce this risk.

Yes. Improper post hair transplant care can also cause hair loss, so be sure to follow your doctor’s directions to the letter during the recovery process.

A small percentage of graft rejection is expected after a hair transplant. This loss is permanent due to the body’s immune system rejecting the transplant. The ARTAS Robotic System helps reduce this possibility, as does booking with a certified hair transplant clinic.

Shock hair loss is caused by the trauma of hair transplant surgery and usually occurs within 1-5 weeks after your procedure. This is only a temporary condition though and your hair will grow back in a normal cycle.

There are three main causes of hair loss after transplants that are due to shock, graft rejection, and post-transplant hair care. Two other causes are low-quality donor grafts, and telogen effluvium.

Yes. The transplanted hair will conform to the same shedding cycle as normal hair, which consists of the three stages; anagen, catagen, and telogen phases. Aside from this, there will hair loss specifically related to the transplant, which can consist of shock hair loss, graft rejection, and improper hair transplant aftercare.

The answer to this question depends on the size of the bald/ hair thinning area. Each hair transplant session means the extraction of around 3000 – 4000 hair grafts. If it’s a large area that requires more grafts, then one surgery might not be enough. Two, even three hair transplant procedures might be required if you require 6000-8000+ hair grafts.

Airport

Until the new Tulum (TUY) Airport is operational, Cancun International Airport (CUN) is the best option. It not only offers the closest proximity to Tulum but also hosts a vast array of international flights.

Booking a private transfer, shared shuttle, or boarding the ADO bus directly from the Cancun International Airport offer are the best options for Cancun airport transport. Once the new Maya Train is operational in December 2023, however, it will be faster and cheaper than all but the bus.

Only after December 1st, 2023 will you be be to take domestic flights directly into Tulum, using the new minted TUY Airport, while international flights are expected to start in April 2024. In the meantime, the best alterative option is flying into Cancun (CUN).

Currently, yes until the Tulum Airport is finished, most passengers will book tickets to Cancun International and take a bus or private transfer to their Tulum hotel or vacation rental. Other nearby airports in Quintana Roo can be found in tourist destinations such as Cozumel, Merida, or Chetumal but require longer and more costly journeys.

Cancun International (CUN) is the superior choice given its shorter travel time of 1.5-2 hours by car. Cozumel requires a longer journey of about 3 hours, which includes a ferry ride to Playa del Carmen before taking the Federal Highway to Tulum.

As of now, no. Most private jet services choose to land in either Cancun or Cozumel. However, a luxurious Tulum Airport is on the horizon, with plans to inaugurate domestic flights in December 2023.

Yes, but this will not be budget-friendly until the new airport in Tulum is fully operational in April 2024. Given the likelihood of landing at Cancun Airport, a two-hour taxi ride to Tulum could cost upwards of $150-$200. Booking an ADO bus ticket for $20 or the forthcoming Mayan Train set to start operations in December is more feasible. Pre-booking a shared or private transfer is also a more cost-effective solution.

It’s roughly 75 miles or around 120 kilometers with a journey spanning anywhere from 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes depending on construction and tourist season traffic.

While Cozumel International Airport might be the nearest to Tulum in terms of direct distance, the Cancun International Airport offers a quicker transit, clocking in at about 1.5-2 hours. However, the travel landscape is set for a significant shift with the inauguration of a new international airport in Tulum. This facility is slated to commence domestic operations on December 1st, 2023, and will usher in international flights by April 2024, promising a substantial reduction in travel time.

As the crow flies, it’s only 50 miles (82 km), but it will require a complicated 2.5-3 hour journey as the Island of Cozumel has no connection to the mainland other than via ferry.

Currently, the answer is no. The much-anticipated Tulum Airport is projected to open its doors between December 2023 and April 2024, though a concrete date remains elusive. Until this development materializes, travelers will need to book flights to alternative airports like Cancun, Cozumel, Merida, or Chetumal and then orchestrate onward transportation to Tulum.

No, it remains a work in progress, but the ribbon-cutting ceremony is slated for December 1, 2023, with Viva Aerobus being the first airline out of the gates.

The closest airport is Cancun International which connects to a multitude of global hotspots, from New York, Los Angeles, and Toronto to London, Paris, Rome, Madrid, and Paris. Taxis or private transfers from Cancun (CUN) can take around 1.5 hours, while a shared shuttle or ADO bus is normally 2.0-3.0 hours. Once the Maya Tren goes live in December, it will be the fastest way from Cancun to Tulum.

For now, you’ll need to arrive at Cancun International Airport (CUN) while Tulum TQO (not TUY) is still under construction. On December 1, 2023, domestic flights within Mexico will be available on Aeromexico and Viva Aerobus. Delta has also announced flights from Atlanta (ATL) starting on March 28, 2024.

No. Soon, but not yet. As of October 2023, the Tulum International Airport (TQO) is only 65% complete, but eyeing a December 2023 launch for flights within Mexico. For now, travelers should prepare for Cancun International arrivals and seek out transportation to Tulum such as a private shuttle, ADO bus, or rental car.

About 20 km (around 12.5 miles) south of Tulum. The Tren Maya will stop have an airport stop at TQO with a drop-off in the city center (Tulum Pueblo). For a beach hotel destination, your best option would be to take a taxi from the Tulum train station or hire a private transfer to meet you in person at Tulum Airport.

Ibiza Activities

Yes. The slot machine room at Casino de Ibiza in Evissa has 90,000€ super jackpots when playing Swampland and Neptune’s Pearls. There is also a super jackpot on StarGate which varies in payout based on gameplay.

Yes. The poker room at Casino de Ibiza in Evissa has NL Texas Hold’em games and they announce their tournament schedule on Facebook.

Yes. The slot machine room at Casino de Ibiza in Evissa has over 60 different types of slot games, including a 90,000€ super jackpot when playing Swampland and Neptune’s Pearls.

Currently, there is just one, which is the Casino de Ibiza in Evissa which has table games, i-games, and slot machines.

You can play several VR video games like car racing and football at Virtual Recall Ibiza in Eivissa, as well as play a real, simulated outdoor combat game (similar to paintball) at Ibiza Laser Combat in Santa Eulalia del Río.

Currently, there is just one place to play a round of miniature golf in Ibiza and that’s at the Minigolf venue in Sant Josep de sa Talaia.

Currently, there is just one place to play a round of miniature golf in Ibiza and that’s at the Minigolf venue in Sant Josep de sa Talaia.

There are two golf courses in Ibiza, Golf de Ibiza (18 holes), and Rocca Llisa (9 holes) which are both located at the same facility, Golf Ibiza by asuLineHotels in Santa Eulalia.

There is just one golf facility on the island named Golf Ibiza, but it has two courses to choose from: Golf de Ibiza (18 holes), and Rocca Llisa (9 holes).

The one golf facility on the island (Golf Ibiza) is located in Santa Eulalia, just 8 km from Eivissa a and includes two courses: Golf de Ibiza (18 holes), and Rocca Llisa (9 holes).

Currently, there is just one place to play simulated laser games on the island and that’s at Ibiza Laser Combat in Santa Eulalia del Río.

The Scapart’s escape-room games consist of The Theft of Tanit (archaeologist message), Target Spy (paparazzi film roll), and Pirates Secret (stop the curse).

There are three escape rooms in total, all found in the same location at Scapart in Evissia.

Currently, there is just one escape room venue (Scapart), which has three different games to choose from.

Yes, on April 22, 2020, they sadly made a closing announcement on Facebook while leaving a small possibility that they may re-open one day if the stars align. 

Currently, there is just one bowling alley remaining at Friends Kitchen Ibiza which has 4-lanes of neon-lighting nicely tucked away in a popular restaurant.

There are two places go kart in Ibiza, Go Karts Santa Eulalia and Ibiza Karting in San Antonio.

Lanzarote Escape Rooms

Yes. Unfortunately, EscapeRoomLanzarote.com closed their doors with an official post on Facebook. Their escape room themes were called DeadLand, The Office, and The Mad House. They now recommend visitors to Try to Escape in Costa Teguise.

Yes, but it’s only subject to availability in The Great Escape in Puerto del Carmen.

Yes, all three escape room facilities in Lanzarote offer gameplay in Spanish.

Yes, all three escape room facilities in Lanzarote offer gameplay in English.

All 8 themed rooms escaped rooms in Lanzarote are offered in both English and Spanish, along with German being subject to availability at The Great Escape in Puerto del Carmen.

The escape room facilities in Lanzarote are called Island Quest Lanzarote (in Playa Blanca), The Great Escape (in Puerto del Carmen), and Try to Escape (in Costa Teguise).

There are a total of 7 themed escape rooms in Lanzarote. Island Quest in Playa Blanca has 4 rooms, Try to Escape in Costa Teguise has 2 rooms, while The Great Escape in Puerto del Carmen has just one room.

The 7 unique themed escape rooms in Lanzarote are named Serial Killer, The Magic Market, Project Atlantis, Dino Heist, (Island Quest), Galleon the Raid and Ghost Shire (Try to Escape), and Roman Dungeon (The Great Escape) where two more themed rooms are slated for development (Escape The Jungle and The Lost Tomb).

You can find one escape room facility in each of the three resort towns of Playa Blanca (Island Quest), Puerto del Carmen (The Great Escape), and Costa Teguise (Try to Escape).

There are three different escape room facilities in Lanzarote which combine for a total of 7 different themed rooms.

In general, the escape rooms are open from 09:00-10:000- to 21:00-22:00 with Island Quest in Playa Blanca open from 10:00-21:00, The Great Escape in Puerto del Carmen open from 10:00-22:00, Try to Escape in Costa Teguise open from 12:00-21:00.

The maximum allotted time for an escape room game in Lanzarote is 60 minutes, but game playing times will vary between participants. The faster you solve the puzzles, the sooner you finish.

Yes. Entrance prices for Lanzarote Escape Rooms have prices ranging from 15-25€ person (based on group size) with a maximum playing time of 1 hour.

The group rates for escape room games in Lanzarote are based on player size: 15€ per person (group of 6), 16€ (group of 5), 17.50€ (group of 4), 20€ (group of 3) and 25€ (group of 2).

Escape rooms in Lanzarote have prices that range from 15-25€ per person, with discounted offers for groups of 3 or more.

Each individually themed escape room allows for 2-6 people per group at both Island Quest in Playa Blanca and The Great Escape in Puerto del Carmen and 2-5 people at Try to Escape in Costa Teguise.

Yes and no. Escape rooms in Lanzarote have a floating price range of 15-25€ per person with discounts being offered when more people play within the same group. i.e. 15€ per person (group of 6), 16€ (group of 5), 17.50€ (group of 4), 20€ (group of 3).

An escape room is a timed (60-minute), locked room puzzle game where a group of 2 to 6 people work in tandem to seek out hidden clues and solve challenging puzzles that escalate in difficulty as the game progresses.

Mexico

Cancun International Airport is the most convenient airport for traveling to Playa del Carmen, and the rest of the Yucatan Peninsula in Quintana Roo including Puerto Morelos, Puerto Aventuras, and Tulum. While Cozumel Airport is also very close to PDC, it’s situated on an island and requires taking a scheduled ferry.

Imagine stepping off your plane in Cancun and hopping directly on a train that visits all the popular tourist destinations along the Mexican Caribbean. Forget the hours spent figuring out transport to Playa del Carmen or Tulum. Bid adieu to shelingl out big bucks for tours to wonders like Chichen Itza or Palenque. This train promises not only convenience but also a safe, affordable alternative to other pricier transport options.

According to the National Fund for the Promotion of Tourism (Fonatur), average ticket prices will be somewhere between $40-$50, or 800-1,000 MNX. The distance traveled and who you are (local, domestic, or international tourist) will play a part in the final price tag, with local passengers snagging the best deals.

As of now, these Maya train tickets remain elusive, but it’s expected to start operating on December 1, 2023. Once this date is confirmed, the official Tren Maya Website and Facebook Page will guide you to where you can secure your seat.

Yes, once you touch down at CUN, you’ll be just an 8-minute electric minibus away from boarding the Maya Train. From there, the historical wonders of Quintana Roo, the Yucatan, Campeche, and Chiapas are ready and waiting to be explored.

Straight from the horse’s mouth: it’s a mere eight minutes on the electric minibus. This zippy little route skirts the fringes of the Cancun Airport property, meaning you won’t be held hostage by pesky traffic jams.

The journey will take an impressive 1 hour and 30 minutes when all is up and running in December. To put it in perspective, that’s a drastic cut of 2.5 hours from the grueling four-hour car journey.

Yes. A flat floor layout provides inclusivity for those with limited mobility. Plus, thoughtful touches like storage for wheelchairs and accessible restroom facilities ensure everyone can journey with ease.

It is set to blaze between stations at a whopping top speed of 160 km/h (100 mph).

No, it remains a work in progress, but the ribbon-cutting ceremony is slated for December 1, 2023, with Viva Aerobus being the first airline out of the gates.

The closest airport is Cancun International which connects to a multitude of global hotspots, from New York, Los Angeles, and Toronto to London, Paris, Rome, Madrid, and Paris. Taxis or private transfers from Cancun (CUN) can take around 1.5 hours, while a shared shuttle or ADO bus is normally 2.0-3.0 hours. Once the Maya Tren goes live in December, it will be the fastest way from Cancun to Tulum.

For now, you’ll need to arrive at Cancun International Airport (CUN) while Tulum TQO (not TUY) is still under construction. On December 1, 2023, domestic flights within Mexico will be available on Aeromexico and Viva Aerobus. Delta has also announced flights from Atlanta (ATL) starting on March 28, 2024.

No. Soon, but not yet. As of October 2023, the Tulum International Airport (TQO) is only 65% complete, but eyeing a December 2023 launch for flights within Mexico. For now, travelers should prepare for Cancun International arrivals and seek out transportation to Tulum such as a private shuttle, ADO bus, or rental car.

About 20 km (around 12.5 miles) south of Tulum. The Tren Maya will stop have an airport stop at TQO with a drop-off in the city center (Tulum Pueblo). For a beach hotel destination, your best option would be to take a taxi from the Tulum train station or hire a private transfer to meet you in person at Tulum Airport.

Generally yes, as tourist dollars are of great importance to drug cartels. Gang activity is usually kept out of tourist areas, but high-end beach clubs at times can attract a bad crowd. If renting a condo in Tulum, do note that many are located in the jungle, and unlike Playa del Carmen, walking around after the sun goes down is not recommended.

They’re like apples and oranges. Tulum’s hotel zone is your ticket to a lavish beachside chill session. On the flip side, if you’re planning a spree of day trips or if your budget’s on a leash, Tulum Town is where it’s at.

The Kore Tulum Retreat and Spa Resort and Amansala Yoga And Wellness Resort are the only all-inclusives with locations on Tulum Beach. The Secrets Tulum Resort has a jungle location near Aldea Zama, but you need to take a shuttle to their beach club. The Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa is quite popular, but it’s located outside of Tulum past the Mayan Ruins and Cenote Tankah.

For now, Cancun International Airport is the best option, but the New Tulum Airport is on schedule to have domestic flights from five major cities in Mexico starting December 2023. International flights are expected in April 2024 with Delta Airlines announcing flights from Atlanta, and Aeromexico having options from New York, San Francisco, and Toronto.

Playa del Coco

On average, HOA fees at ADL are $150 per month for studios and between $250-$300 monthly for larger one or two-bedroom units.

Cocomarindo’s location is in the town of Playas del Coco, Guanacaste. It is on the road toward Playa Ocotal. It is a 10-15 minute walk or a 3-5 minute car ride to the main street.

It is a 5-minute walk (350 m) to the far end of Coco Beach or a 15-minute (1.2 km) walk to the main area of the beach.

Go hiking to Playa Gringo or up Cacique Hill to watch the sunset or visit the Monkey Farm in Ocotal. Rent bikes and go cycling around Coco or Ocotal. Take a boat tour for scuba diving, snorkeling, or for relaxing and see the beautiful beaches of Playa Penca, Playa Huevos, and Playa Nacascolo.

There are tour companies that have a half-day or a full-day trip to experience wildlife, waterfalls, and Costa Rican culture. Tours should be booked in advance to get the date you want, and it is usually cheaper for payment to be in cash.

There is a large pool in the complex with a wet bar. The facilities also include a laundry service. The community is gated and there is 24/7 security for additional safety. Access to free parking is also available. There is also a mini-store, a fresh fish market, and an Italian restaurant, just outside the gates of the property.

Check-in is usually at around 3 pm, while check-out is around 11 am- 12 pm. You can contact the property directly with your expected arrival time should you wish to request an earlier check-in or later check-out time. Extra fees may be charged.

No. Pets are not allowed anywhere in the entire complex.

Purchase prices range from $200,000 for a studio to upwards of $600,000 for a penthouse. Listing price is based on factors like square footage, number of bedrooms, ocean views, and whether the unit boasts balconies or private terraces.

Rental prices start around $70 a night in low-season for studio and can go as high as $250 per night for two-bedroon unit in the high-season from December through April.

Each condo typically features a well-stocked kitchen, air conditioning, high-speed WiFi internet, and private balconies or patios. Two-bedroom units usually have a dishwasher and private laundry machines. Higher-end options tend to have ocean views, along with private terraces and BBQ facilities. The CSH complex also has four swimming pools, two Jacuzzis, and beautifully maintained gardens to enjoy. This gated community also offers 24/7 security with key fobs required to enter the main gates.

Homeowners Association fees typically range between $235 to $265 for low-to-mid-range units.

Yes, many owners list their condos for rent on platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com. Depending on your preference, you can opt for short-term or long-term rental, or hire a rental manager to assist with check-ins/check-outs.

Generally, studio and 1-bedroom units can host between two to four people. In contrast, a 2-bedroom unit can comfortably accommodate four to a maximum of six individuals including adults and children.

It’s about 500 meters to Las Palmas Plaza, which is then about 150m to the nearest Coco Beach entrance if you go either left or right. Another 200m to the right beyond that is Cafe de Playa, a swanky beachfront restaurant, followed by the Pacifico Beach Club.

Guests can enjoy beach activities, water sports like kayaking or jet skiing, hiking up Cacique Hill for sunset, and exploring the local shops and restaurants. Coco Beach also has shore fishing along a plethora of sport fishing charter boats. Many catamaran sailing trips and scuba diving tours leave from the main beach, along with surfing tours to Witches Rock. Other fun activities include snorkeling and horseback riding in Ocotal, along with Diamonte theme park and near the Rui Guanacaste. Attractions like Rincon de la Viejo and Palo Verde within an easy day trip.

No, but fitness enthusiasts have several Coco gyms and even a few dance studios that are either on the main beach road or very close to the main strip near the bars and restaurants.

Hygiene and sanitation measures are typically before and after every guest’s stay. Some properties might include the perk of a mid-stay cleaning. If not drop a note in their special requests box, message the property directly, or contact a local maid service who can clean your condo for $20-$40.

The expected arrival time for guests is usually around 3 pm and check out around 11 am. Many Airbnb hosts will accommodate flexible arrivals and late departures if needed. For greater flexible availability, don’t forget to get confirmation of times and dates well in advance.

Look for rental units that provide contact details and are managed by people who actually live in them. Simple supplies these people usually stock are beach towels, a hair dryer, a kettle, salt, pepper, and some spices. If you need more comfortable places to sleep for guests, seek out those who offer extra beds and linens or free toiletries.

Lanzarote Activities

Yes. Unfortunately, EscapeRoomLanzarote.com closed their doors with an official post on Facebook. Their escape room themes were called DeadLand, The Office, and The Mad House. They now recommend visitors to Try to Escape in Costa Teguise.

Yes, but it’s only subject to availability in The Great Escape in Puerto del Carmen.

Yes, all three escape room facilities in Lanzarote offer gameplay in Spanish.

Yes, all three escape room facilities in Lanzarote offer gameplay in English.

All 8 themed rooms escaped rooms in Lanzarote are offered in both English and Spanish, along with German being subject to availability at The Great Escape in Puerto del Carmen.

The escape room facilities in Lanzarote are called Island Quest Lanzarote (in Playa Blanca), The Great Escape (in Puerto del Carmen), and Try to Escape (in Costa Teguise).

There are a total of 7 themed escape rooms in Lanzarote. Island Quest in Playa Blanca has 4 rooms, Try to Escape in Costa Teguise has 2 rooms, while The Great Escape in Puerto del Carmen has just one room.

The 7 unique themed escape rooms in Lanzarote are named Serial Killer, The Magic Market, Project Atlantis, Dino Heist, (Island Quest), Galleon the Raid and Ghost Shire (Try to Escape), and Roman Dungeon (The Great Escape) where two more themed rooms are slated for development (Escape The Jungle and The Lost Tomb).

You can find one escape room facility in each of the three resort towns of Playa Blanca (Island Quest), Puerto del Carmen (The Great Escape), and Costa Teguise (Try to Escape).

There are three different escape room facilities in Lanzarote which combine for a total of 7 different themed rooms.

In general, the escape rooms are open from 09:00-10:000- to 21:00-22:00 with Island Quest in Playa Blanca open from 10:00-21:00, The Great Escape in Puerto del Carmen open from 10:00-22:00, Try to Escape in Costa Teguise open from 12:00-21:00.

The maximum allotted time for an escape room game in Lanzarote is 60 minutes, but game playing times will vary between participants. The faster you solve the puzzles, the sooner you finish.

Yes. Entrance prices for Lanzarote Escape Rooms have prices ranging from 15-25€ person (based on group size) with a maximum playing time of 1 hour.

The group rates for escape room games in Lanzarote are based on player size: 15€ per person (group of 6), 16€ (group of 5), 17.50€ (group of 4), 20€ (group of 3) and 25€ (group of 2).

Escape rooms in Lanzarote have prices that range from 15-25€ per person, with discounted offers for groups of 3 or more.

Each individually themed escape room allows for 2-6 people per group at both Island Quest in Playa Blanca and The Great Escape in Puerto del Carmen and 2-5 people at Try to Escape in Costa Teguise.

Yes and no. Escape rooms in Lanzarote have a floating price range of 15-25€ per person with discounts being offered when more people play within the same group. i.e. 15€ per person (group of 6), 16€ (group of 5), 17.50€ (group of 4), 20€ (group of 3).

An escape room is a timed (60-minute), locked room puzzle game where a group of 2 to 6 people work in tandem to seek out hidden clues and solve challenging puzzles that escalate in difficulty as the game progresses.

It may surprise you to know that due to the go-kart’s low center of gravity and the small steering wheel size, even after a short 6-minute ride, you will notice some tension in your arms.

Yes. Lanzarote’s dry climate keeps the track surface safer than most other places. The sport of go-karting itself is also generally safe, as long as you follow the instructions given and do not deviate from them.

No, they’re not. Hitting the go-kart tracks in Lanzarote can be quite expensive, with 6-8 minutes of track time costing between 7-15€ per session.

Real Estate

Yes, but it is not recommended, as it will make you personally liable for anything that happens on your property. It also can create a potential issue if your property lies within the Maritime Terrestrial Zone (200m from the median tide line), where foreigners can only own 49% of the concession rights.

The recommended path is to make your purchase through a newly registered Costa Rica corporation. This will add a liability protection barrier, and allow for easier ownership transfer in your living will. Owning your property as a legally registered company will also make obtaining a local bank account, and utilities, such as internet and electricity much easier.

No, not unless you are buying property in the Maritime Terrestrial Zone (200m from the median tide line), where foreigners can only own 49% of the concession rights. Otherwise, a Costa Rican partner is not required to buy land in Costa Rica, nor are any restrictions in place that specifically apply to foreigners when purchasing property.

As a non-resident, you can buy real estate in Costa Rica both as an individual (not recommended), and as a corporate entity (easier transition, limits liability, and is highly recommended).

Yes, and is no different than owning real estate in the US, Canada or, Europe. Foreigners are entitled to the same property ownership rights as Costa Ricans as noted in Article 45 of the Constitution of Costa Rica.

Property is inviolable; none may be deprived of it.

Quote from Article 45 of the Constitution of Costa Rica

Yes. Foreigners who purchase real estate in Costa Rica have the same equal rights under Costa Rica Law to buy and own property as Costa Rican citizens do. Property can be purchased in your personal name, but it is not recommended due to liability concerns.

The most common practice is to purchase property in the name of a newly registered Costa Rica corporation, which can be owned by you, or another foreign corporation/LLC- limited liability company.

On average, HOA fees at ADL are $150 per month for studios and between $250-$300 monthly for larger one or two-bedroom units.

Cocomarindo’s location is in the town of Playas del Coco, Guanacaste. It is on the road toward Playa Ocotal. It is a 10-15 minute walk or a 3-5 minute car ride to the main street.

It is a 5-minute walk (350 m) to the far end of Coco Beach or a 15-minute (1.2 km) walk to the main area of the beach.

Go hiking to Playa Gringo or up Cacique Hill to watch the sunset or visit the Monkey Farm in Ocotal. Rent bikes and go cycling around Coco or Ocotal. Take a boat tour for scuba diving, snorkeling, or for relaxing and see the beautiful beaches of Playa Penca, Playa Huevos, and Playa Nacascolo.

There are tour companies that have a half-day or a full-day trip to experience wildlife, waterfalls, and Costa Rican culture. Tours should be booked in advance to get the date you want, and it is usually cheaper for payment to be in cash.

There is a large pool in the complex with a wet bar. The facilities also include a laundry service. The community is gated and there is 24/7 security for additional safety. Access to free parking is also available. There is also a mini-store, a fresh fish market, and an Italian restaurant, just outside the gates of the property.

Check-in is usually at around 3 pm, while check-out is around 11 am- 12 pm. You can contact the property directly with your expected arrival time should you wish to request an earlier check-in or later check-out time. Extra fees may be charged.

No. Pets are not allowed anywhere in the entire complex.

Purchase prices range from $200,000 for a studio to upwards of $600,000 for a penthouse. Listing price is based on factors like square footage, number of bedrooms, ocean views, and whether the unit boasts balconies or private terraces.

Rental prices start around $70 a night in low-season for studio and can go as high as $250 per night for two-bedroon unit in the high-season from December through April.

Each condo typically features a well-stocked kitchen, air conditioning, high-speed WiFi internet, and private balconies or patios. Two-bedroom units usually have a dishwasher and private laundry machines. Higher-end options tend to have ocean views, along with private terraces and BBQ facilities. The CSH complex also has four swimming pools, two Jacuzzis, and beautifully maintained gardens to enjoy. This gated community also offers 24/7 security with key fobs required to enter the main gates.

Homeowners Association fees typically range between $235 to $265 for low-to-mid-range units.

Yes, many owners list their condos for rent on platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com. Depending on your preference, you can opt for short-term or long-term rental, or hire a rental manager to assist with check-ins/check-outs.

Generally, studio and 1-bedroom units can host between two to four people. In contrast, a 2-bedroom unit can comfortably accommodate four to a maximum of six individuals including adults and children.

It’s about 500 meters to Las Palmas Plaza, which is then about 150m to the nearest Coco Beach entrance if you go either left or right. Another 200m to the right beyond that is Cafe de Playa, a swanky beachfront restaurant, followed by the Pacifico Beach Club.

Guests can enjoy beach activities, water sports like kayaking or jet skiing, hiking up Cacique Hill for sunset, and exploring the local shops and restaurants. Coco Beach also has shore fishing along a plethora of sport fishing charter boats. Many catamaran sailing trips and scuba diving tours leave from the main beach, along with surfing tours to Witches Rock. Other fun activities include snorkeling and horseback riding in Ocotal, along with Diamonte theme park and near the Rui Guanacaste. Attractions like Rincon de la Viejo and Palo Verde within an easy day trip.

No, but fitness enthusiasts have several Coco gyms and even a few dance studios that are either on the main beach road or very close to the main strip near the bars and restaurants.

Hygiene and sanitation measures are typically before and after every guest’s stay. Some properties might include the perk of a mid-stay cleaning. If not drop a note in their special requests box, message the property directly, or contact a local maid service who can clean your condo for $20-$40.

The expected arrival time for guests is usually around 3 pm and check out around 11 am. Many Airbnb hosts will accommodate flexible arrivals and late departures if needed. For greater flexible availability, don’t forget to get confirmation of times and dates well in advance.

Look for rental units that provide contact details and are managed by people who actually live in them. Simple supplies these people usually stock are beach towels, a hair dryer, a kettle, salt, pepper, and some spices. If you need more comfortable places to sleep for guests, seek out those who offer extra beds and linens or free toiletries.

Istanbul

Yes, but you’ll have to clear customs if you won’t want to shop at the airport. The HVIST-6 to Halkali will take you first to the Mall of Istanbul in about 30-40 minutes and then the ArenaPark Mall in about 40-50 minutes.  You can also take the HVIST-7 to Beylikduzu which will take you to the Marmara Park Shopping Mall in about 60-70 minutes. If it’s street shopping you’re after you can take the HVIST-14 to Taksim and just walk right on to Iskital Avenue, one of the most famous streets in all of Istanbul.

Yes, but you’ll have to purchase two tickets as there are no transfers, or you can meet the bus take the bus directly from the mall. The two last stops on the HVIST-6 from Halkali are ArenaPark Mall and the Mall of Istanbul, which will require 30-50 minutes from there to the airport.  The HVIST-7 from Beylikduzu comes directly from Marmara Park Shopping Mall and is about 60-70 minutes away. You can also do a ton of street shopping on Iskital Street and then just hop on the HVIST-14 at Taksim Square.

No, the HavaIST is an airport shuttle bus, but you can connect with the sightseeing Big Bus at all major tourist attractions. If you’re on a layover, you can take the HVIST-14 directly to Taksim Square where you can easily walk to Iskital Street or the Galata Tower. For Sultanahmet, the closest option is the HVIST-12 to Beyazit Square, which a 1.5 km taxi ride away from Hagia Sofia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.  If you wanted to see Dolmabalche Palace, the HVIST-13 will drop you off just a short walk away at Bakirkoy Pier.

Yes, kids can ride HavaIST Buses with you, but they pay the same adult fare with prices varying from 21–37 TL (2,5–4,5 €) depending on which route you take. Kids must take their own seats, and are not allowed to stand in the aisle or sit on the lap of their parents during the trip.

If you’re wondering, what is the HavaIST Bus, or why it’s called that, it’s simply a play on words. Havalimani means airport in Turkish, with Hava being a slang short form, while IST is simply the designated IATA airport code of the New Istanbul Airport. Put the two words together and you get the HavaIST shuttle bus

There are 105 airport shuttle buses in the HavaIST fleet that transports passengers of the New Istanbul Airport to and from various points in the city.  Some of the more popular routes go through Taksim, Kadikoy, Besiktas, and Bakirkoy.

Belongings left on HavaIST airport shuttle buses as generally returned to the HavaIST desk at your routes’ respective airport. If you’ve lost something during your trip, notify the Lost and Found Department immediately through the Call Center at 0850 888 33 34.

In general, they throw out perishables, hold valuables and currency in an airport safe, and return identification to the proper authorities within 5 days. It is, however, possible to have items returned on the same route you lost them on. You can view more details in Turkish on their lost good page, or use Google Translate on the link. Their FAQ page simply mentions calling the number above.

The Turkish night cruise is a kind of boat cruise on the Bosphorus in the evening. With dinner and Turkish night shows like Turkish Gypsy Dances, Caucasian Dances, Oriental Group Show, Turkish Folk Dances, Rhythm Show, Oriental Dance, Whirling Dervishes, and a Professional DJ.

The prices depend on the beverage package that you choose. The cheapest option is a non-alcoholic beverage option that includes unlimited soft drinks from around €35 per person. The upgraded package with unlimited local alcoholic drinks is around €45. If you want premium international drinks, then this costs a little more.

We prefer using Acetes Travel to book Turkish Nights on the Bosphorus. Their 3-deck luxury boats have both open and closed decks, and the professional dance teams are quite good, as are the food and the service.

Around 3.5-4 hours. The boats usually leave Kabtas Pier at 8:00 pm and return around 11:30 pm.

Yes, but this can vary from boat to boat. A typical vegetarian menu would include oven potatoes and sautéed vegetables with curry rice. On request, some other dishes might include vegetarian pizza or pasta with vegetable sauce.

Yes, children between 3 and 7 years old are typically allowed on these boats It’s however, not a good environment for infants, as there are lots of bright lights and loud noises.

Yes, but usually only on request. When organizing surprise birthday parties, cakes may cost €10 or so extra.

The easiest way is by tram to the Kabatas Pier. This is the last stop on the route, and the pier is right across the street from the tram station. If arriving by car, you can park near Dolmabahce Palace, which is a scenic 5-minute walk to Kabatas pier.

Istiklal Caddesi is probably the largest, as it runs all the from Taksim Square to Tunel Square with every brand imaginable sold there. Abdi Ipekci Caddesi in the Nisantsi neighborhood is known for its luxury and world-famous brands from Prada to Louis Vuitton. Bagdat Caddesi has both luxurious and reasonable priced clothing stores, along with ceramic art, painting, and sculptures.

Serdar-i Ekrem Caddesi is that cool, cobblestone shopping street near the Galata Tower that’s full of boutique shops. Cukurcuma Caddesi is Istanbul’s main antique-hunting street with beautiful neoclassical houses all around. Nuruosmaniye Caddesi is where you can find fine-carpets and jewelry.

Rumeli Caddesi in the Harbiye district is famous for international brands and accessories, while Nispetiye Caddesi is very popular due to the Akmerkez mall having a large area with street-side shops.

Unfortunately, this is a rare occurrence, as in the last ten years, it’s only come close once. On December 25th, 2018, it was a cold and rainy day with a high of 7°C (44°F). The temperature did dip to 4°C (39°F) in the early morning, but it was only sprinkles of light rain with no white fluffy stuff to carpet the ground.

Doner kebabs are either plated dishes or grilled meat placed on sandwich bread, while Durum kebab use wrapped flatbread like lavash or yufka.

The literal meaning of durum in Turkish is roll or wrap. A thin flatbread such as lavash or yufka is generally used in Turkey and it makes it very easy to hold in your hand when it’s stuffed with vegetables and various types of sauces.

Doner is a specific type of kebab that is made of meat pressed into the shape of an inverted cone that is slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The outer layer is then sliced into thin shavings as it cooks which are then added to a plated dish or sandwich bread.

Kebaps are most often made with beef or lamb, but some offer chicken grilled on skewers as well.

The doner kebap originated in the Ottoman Empire. It started out as the cag kebab, stacks of seasoned sliced meat cooked on a horizontal rotisserie, which dates back to the 17th century. 

Bursa, which is just south of Istanbul is thought to be the birthplace of the vertical rotisserie used for today’s modern doner kebap. Its believed that it was invented sometime in the 19th century by Iskender Efendi of Iskender kebap fame or possibly Hamdi Usta from Kastamonu.

There’s nothing definitive in history, as the use of fire for cooking (790,000+ years ago) predates the pen and paper by many moons. In the Kitab al-Tabikh, a 10th-century Baghdadi cookbook there are descriptions of kabāb as cut-up meat, either fried in a pan or grilled over a fire. Stone supports for skewers however were unearthed in excavations of the ancient Minoan settlement of Akrotiri.

The ancient Indian text of Mahabharata and even Homer’s Iliad also mentioned pieces of meat roasted on spits which could be kebaps. Meat kebabs were also believed to have been grilled on swords by Nomadic tribesmen. In 17th-century Turkey, Evliya Celebi, an Ottoman journeyman, describes the kebeb as a horizontal bundle of meat which is long before the vertically skewed, Iskender Kebap, was made famous in the 19th century. 

So while there’s no definitive answer, kebaps have most likely been around a very, very long time. 

The vertical rotisserie was invented in the 19th-century Ottoman Empire and soon spread around the world. The Greek gyro, the Arab shawarma, Mexican al pastor, and Canadian donair are all kebap variations that use this type of rotisserie.

Transportation

Until the new Tulum (TUY) Airport is operational, Cancun International Airport (CUN) is the best option. It not only offers the closest proximity to Tulum but also hosts a vast array of international flights.

Booking a private transfer, shared shuttle, or boarding the ADO bus directly from the Cancun International Airport offer are the best options for Cancun airport transport. Once the new Maya Train is operational in December 2023, however, it will be faster and cheaper than all but the bus.

Only after December 1st, 2023 will you be be to take domestic flights directly into Tulum, using the new minted TUY Airport, while international flights are expected to start in April 2024. In the meantime, the best alterative option is flying into Cancun (CUN).

Currently, yes until the Tulum Airport is finished, most passengers will book tickets to Cancun International and take a bus or private transfer to their Tulum hotel or vacation rental. Other nearby airports in Quintana Roo can be found in tourist destinations such as Cozumel, Merida, or Chetumal but require longer and more costly journeys.

Cancun International (CUN) is the superior choice given its shorter travel time of 1.5-2 hours by car. Cozumel requires a longer journey of about 3 hours, which includes a ferry ride to Playa del Carmen before taking the Federal Highway to Tulum.

As of now, no. Most private jet services choose to land in either Cancun or Cozumel. However, a luxurious Tulum Airport is on the horizon, with plans to inaugurate domestic flights in December 2023.

Yes, but this will not be budget-friendly until the new airport in Tulum is fully operational in April 2024. Given the likelihood of landing at Cancun Airport, a two-hour taxi ride to Tulum could cost upwards of $150-$200. Booking an ADO bus ticket for $20 or the forthcoming Mayan Train set to start operations in December is more feasible. Pre-booking a shared or private transfer is also a more cost-effective solution.

It’s roughly 75 miles or around 120 kilometers with a journey spanning anywhere from 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes depending on construction and tourist season traffic.

While Cozumel International Airport might be the nearest to Tulum in terms of direct distance, the Cancun International Airport offers a quicker transit, clocking in at about 1.5-2 hours. However, the travel landscape is set for a significant shift with the inauguration of a new international airport in Tulum. This facility is slated to commence domestic operations on December 1st, 2023, and will usher in international flights by April 2024, promising a substantial reduction in travel time.

As the crow flies, it’s only 50 miles (82 km), but it will require a complicated 2.5-3 hour journey as the Island of Cozumel has no connection to the mainland other than via ferry.

Currently, the answer is no. The much-anticipated Tulum Airport is projected to open its doors between December 2023 and April 2024, though a concrete date remains elusive. Until this development materializes, travelers will need to book flights to alternative airports like Cancun, Cozumel, Merida, or Chetumal and then orchestrate onward transportation to Tulum.

Imagine stepping off your plane in Cancun and hopping directly on a train that visits all the popular tourist destinations along the Mexican Caribbean. Forget the hours spent figuring out transport to Playa del Carmen or Tulum. Bid adieu to shelingl out big bucks for tours to wonders like Chichen Itza or Palenque. This train promises not only convenience but also a safe, affordable alternative to other pricier transport options.

According to the National Fund for the Promotion of Tourism (Fonatur), average ticket prices will be somewhere between $40-$50, or 800-1,000 MNX. The distance traveled and who you are (local, domestic, or international tourist) will play a part in the final price tag, with local passengers snagging the best deals.

As of now, these Maya train tickets remain elusive, but it’s expected to start operating on December 1, 2023. Once this date is confirmed, the official Tren Maya Website and Facebook Page will guide you to where you can secure your seat.

Yes, once you touch down at CUN, you’ll be just an 8-minute electric minibus away from boarding the Maya Train. From there, the historical wonders of Quintana Roo, the Yucatan, Campeche, and Chiapas are ready and waiting to be explored.

Straight from the horse’s mouth: it’s a mere eight minutes on the electric minibus. This zippy little route skirts the fringes of the Cancun Airport property, meaning you won’t be held hostage by pesky traffic jams.

The journey will take an impressive 1 hour and 30 minutes when all is up and running in December. To put it in perspective, that’s a drastic cut of 2.5 hours from the grueling four-hour car journey.

Yes. A flat floor layout provides inclusivity for those with limited mobility. Plus, thoughtful touches like storage for wheelchairs and accessible restroom facilities ensure everyone can journey with ease.

It is set to blaze between stations at a whopping top speed of 160 km/h (100 mph).

No, it remains a work in progress, but the ribbon-cutting ceremony is slated for December 1, 2023, with Viva Aerobus being the first airline out of the gates.

The closest airport is Cancun International which connects to a multitude of global hotspots, from New York, Los Angeles, and Toronto to London, Paris, Rome, Madrid, and Paris. Taxis or private transfers from Cancun (CUN) can take around 1.5 hours, while a shared shuttle or ADO bus is normally 2.0-3.0 hours. Once the Maya Tren goes live in December, it will be the fastest way from Cancun to Tulum.

For now, you’ll need to arrive at Cancun International Airport (CUN) while Tulum TQO (not TUY) is still under construction. On December 1, 2023, domestic flights within Mexico will be available on Aeromexico and Viva Aerobus. Delta has also announced flights from Atlanta (ATL) starting on March 28, 2024.

No. Soon, but not yet. As of October 2023, the Tulum International Airport (TQO) is only 65% complete, but eyeing a December 2023 launch for flights within Mexico. For now, travelers should prepare for Cancun International arrivals and seek out transportation to Tulum such as a private shuttle, ADO bus, or rental car.

About 20 km (around 12.5 miles) south of Tulum. The Tren Maya will stop have an airport stop at TQO with a drop-off in the city center (Tulum Pueblo). For a beach hotel destination, your best option would be to take a taxi from the Tulum train station or hire a private transfer to meet you in person at Tulum Airport.

Ibiza Attractions

Yes. There are two small animal farms called Cam Munson in Santa Eulia del Rio and Puig de Can Maymo near Sant Mateu d’Albarca that have an assortment of goats, pigs, and rabbits that you can pay to feed.

No, not really. There are, however, two small animal farms called Cam Munson in Santa Eulia del Rio and Puig de Can Maymo near Sant Mateu d’Albarca which are wineries with animal areas.

No, the closest one is in Majorca. But, there are two small animal farms on winery bodega grounds called Cam Munson in Santa Eulia del Rio and Puig de Can Maymo near Sant Mateu d’Albarca where you can feed goats, pigs, and rabbits.

Yes. Besides sea life, you can also view specimens of shark eggs, sea sponges, gastropods, bivalves, and other marine invertebrate.

Besides the fish and marine creatures, the aquatic life consists of invertebrates like sea sponges, starfish, and corals alongside Pitiusan marine fauna.

Alongside the fish, you’ll also be able to spot sea creatures like manta rays, eels, octopus, sea horses, lobsters, and sea snails.

Yes. The bloated and morbid looking scorpionfish, as well as the flying gurnard with its butterfly-like fins are some of the most unique fish species in the aquarium.

You will mostly see bright and colorful fish species of the Ibizan Mediterranean like groupers, snappers, sea bream, and fadrins. However, there are some exotic species like scorpionfish, saltwater catfish, and the flying gurnard.

An entrance ticket to Aquarium Cap Blanc costs 5€ for adults, and 3€ for children aged 4 to 12.

Yes. The aquarium can provide hospital-like treatment to sea creatures who’ve fallen victim to man-made activities like improper garbage disposal. Sea turtles, in particular, are given treatment and nursed back to health at the recovery center before being returned to the wild.

The crazy frog ride at Slingshot Ibiza costs 5€ per person (max 2 per person per car) for 5 minutes.

The bumper cars at Slingshot Ibiza cost 5€ per car (up to 2 people) for 5 minutes.

The regular price to ride The Slingshot in Ibiza is 25€ per person. You can have a 2nd free ride if you do it with two people on Mondays before 8 pm. Kids under 16 can also ride the slingshot for 15€ before 8 pm on Thursdays.

At Acrobosc, ticket prices range from 15-25€ per route, with adult prices at the higher end and two -route combinations available for 25-30€.

Currently, there is just one adventure park in Ibiza called Acrobosc that is located in Santa Eulària des Riu. They offers three different canopy routes, one of which is for adults (Red Route).

Gran Piruleto near Playa d’en Bossa is dedicated to entertaining children. Its main features include animation entertainers, a splash area, an adventure park area, and scheduled activities, games, crafts, etc.

There are two water parks on the island of Ibiza. Aguamar is the largest and found in Sant Josep de sa Talaia. Aguagames is a Sirenis hotel water park that is free for guests and good option if you’re staying near Port d’es Torrent with kids.

There are no age restrictions for entrance, just the standard height restrictions on rides.

There’s tons of parking available at the water park just by the famous Hï Disco in Playa d’en Bossa.

Driving with a car is quite easy, but if you don’t have a vehicle, then the #14 bus from Ibiza town passes by every 20 minutes throughout the summer.

The park is open from 10:000 with low season closing at 17:30 and high season closing at 18:00.

The entrance gates for the water park are open from the May 17th until September 26th.

You can purchase a day pass to the water park at the Sirenis Seaview Country Club reception.

Guest of both the Sirenis Hotels Club Aura and the Sirenis Seaview Country Club have free access to the water park.

Yes, while guests of the hotel get free access, the park is open to anyone and everyone.

Costa Rica

Yes, but it is not recommended, as it will make you personally liable for anything that happens on your property. It also can create a potential issue if your property lies within the Maritime Terrestrial Zone (200m from the median tide line), where foreigners can only own 49% of the concession rights.

The recommended path is to make your purchase through a newly registered Costa Rica corporation. This will add a liability protection barrier, and allow for easier ownership transfer in your living will. Owning your property as a legally registered company will also make obtaining a local bank account, and utilities, such as internet and electricity much easier.

No, not unless you are buying property in the Maritime Terrestrial Zone (200m from the median tide line), where foreigners can only own 49% of the concession rights. Otherwise, a Costa Rican partner is not required to buy land in Costa Rica, nor are any restrictions in place that specifically apply to foreigners when purchasing property.

As a non-resident, you can buy real estate in Costa Rica both as an individual (not recommended), and as a corporate entity (easier transition, limits liability, and is highly recommended).

Yes, and is no different than owning real estate in the US, Canada or, Europe. Foreigners are entitled to the same property ownership rights as Costa Ricans as noted in Article 45 of the Constitution of Costa Rica.

Property is inviolable; none may be deprived of it.

Quote from Article 45 of the Constitution of Costa Rica

Yes. Foreigners who purchase real estate in Costa Rica have the same equal rights under Costa Rica Law to buy and own property as Costa Rican citizens do. Property can be purchased in your personal name, but it is not recommended due to liability concerns.

The most common practice is to purchase property in the name of a newly registered Costa Rica corporation, which can be owned by you, or another foreign corporation/LLC- limited liability company.

You can rent a jet ski from a local travel agency in Coco starting from around $110 USD per hour.

A few guided jet ski tours run out of Brasalito near Tamarindo. They generally do a beach triangle run through Playa Flamingo, Portrero, Danta, Grande, and Guacamaya.

On average, HOA fees at ADL are $150 per month for studios and between $250-$300 monthly for larger one or two-bedroom units.

Cocomarindo’s location is in the town of Playas del Coco, Guanacaste. It is on the road toward Playa Ocotal. It is a 10-15 minute walk or a 3-5 minute car ride to the main street.

It is a 5-minute walk (350 m) to the far end of Coco Beach or a 15-minute (1.2 km) walk to the main area of the beach.

Go hiking to Playa Gringo or up Cacique Hill to watch the sunset or visit the Monkey Farm in Ocotal. Rent bikes and go cycling around Coco or Ocotal. Take a boat tour for scuba diving, snorkeling, or for relaxing and see the beautiful beaches of Playa Penca, Playa Huevos, and Playa Nacascolo.

There are tour companies that have a half-day or a full-day trip to experience wildlife, waterfalls, and Costa Rican culture. Tours should be booked in advance to get the date you want, and it is usually cheaper for payment to be in cash.

There is a large pool in the complex with a wet bar. The facilities also include a laundry service. The community is gated and there is 24/7 security for additional safety. Access to free parking is also available. There is also a mini-store, a fresh fish market, and an Italian restaurant, just outside the gates of the property.

Check-in is usually at around 3 pm, while check-out is around 11 am- 12 pm. You can contact the property directly with your expected arrival time should you wish to request an earlier check-in or later check-out time. Extra fees may be charged.

No. Pets are not allowed anywhere in the entire complex.

From pulsating Costa Rica nightclubs in San Jose to the resort vibes of Jaco and Tamarindo, there’s no dearth of spots to unwind. Then there’s the relaxed ambiance of beach towns like Puerto Viejo, Santa Teresa, Dominical, and of course, Playas del Coco.

Absolutely. Like many global destinations, some nightclubs in Costa Rica adhere to dress codes. A rule of thumb is to sidestep hats, shorts, tank tops (primarily for males), ripped pants, and athletic shoes. Elevating your look with a classy dress or ensemble, perhaps a notch above your regular beach wear, ensures you blend seamlessly into the spirited crowd.

Purchase prices range from $200,000 for a studio to upwards of $600,000 for a penthouse. Listing price is based on factors like square footage, number of bedrooms, ocean views, and whether the unit boasts balconies or private terraces.

Rental prices start around $70 a night in low-season for studio and can go as high as $250 per night for two-bedroon unit in the high-season from December through April.

Each condo typically features a well-stocked kitchen, air conditioning, high-speed WiFi internet, and private balconies or patios. Two-bedroom units usually have a dishwasher and private laundry machines. Higher-end options tend to have ocean views, along with private terraces and BBQ facilities. The CSH complex also has four swimming pools, two Jacuzzis, and beautifully maintained gardens to enjoy. This gated community also offers 24/7 security with key fobs required to enter the main gates.

Homeowners Association fees typically range between $235 to $265 for low-to-mid-range units.

Yes, many owners list their condos for rent on platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com. Depending on your preference, you can opt for short-term or long-term rental, or hire a rental manager to assist with check-ins/check-outs.

Generally, studio and 1-bedroom units can host between two to four people. In contrast, a 2-bedroom unit can comfortably accommodate four to a maximum of six individuals including adults and children.

It’s about 500 meters to Las Palmas Plaza, which is then about 150m to the nearest Coco Beach entrance if you go either left or right. Another 200m to the right beyond that is Cafe de Playa, a swanky beachfront restaurant, followed by the Pacifico Beach Club.

Guests can enjoy beach activities, water sports like kayaking or jet skiing, hiking up Cacique Hill for sunset, and exploring the local shops and restaurants. Coco Beach also has shore fishing along a plethora of sport fishing charter boats. Many catamaran sailing trips and scuba diving tours leave from the main beach, along with surfing tours to Witches Rock. Other fun activities include snorkeling and horseback riding in Ocotal, along with Diamonte theme park and near the Rui Guanacaste. Attractions like Rincon de la Viejo and Palo Verde within an easy day trip.

No, but fitness enthusiasts have several Coco gyms and even a few dance studios that are either on the main beach road or very close to the main strip near the bars and restaurants.

Hygiene and sanitation measures are typically before and after every guest’s stay. Some properties might include the perk of a mid-stay cleaning. If not drop a note in their special requests box, message the property directly, or contact a local maid service who can clean your condo for $20-$40.

The expected arrival time for guests is usually around 3 pm and check out around 11 am. Many Airbnb hosts will accommodate flexible arrivals and late departures if needed. For greater flexible availability, don’t forget to get confirmation of times and dates well in advance.

Look for rental units that provide contact details and are managed by people who actually live in them. Simple supplies these people usually stock are beach towels, a hair dryer, a kettle, salt, pepper, and some spices. If you need more comfortable places to sleep for guests, seek out those who offer extra beds and linens or free toiletries.

Tulum

Until the new Tulum (TUY) Airport is operational, Cancun International Airport (CUN) is the best option. It not only offers the closest proximity to Tulum but also hosts a vast array of international flights.

Booking a private transfer, shared shuttle, or boarding the ADO bus directly from the Cancun International Airport offer are the best options for Cancun airport transport. Once the new Maya Train is operational in December 2023, however, it will be faster and cheaper than all but the bus.

Only after December 1st, 2023 will you be be to take domestic flights directly into Tulum, using the new minted TUY Airport, while international flights are expected to start in April 2024. In the meantime, the best alterative option is flying into Cancun (CUN).

Currently, yes until the Tulum Airport is finished, most passengers will book tickets to Cancun International and take a bus or private transfer to their Tulum hotel or vacation rental. Other nearby airports in Quintana Roo can be found in tourist destinations such as Cozumel, Merida, or Chetumal but require longer and more costly journeys.

Cancun International (CUN) is the superior choice given its shorter travel time of 1.5-2 hours by car. Cozumel requires a longer journey of about 3 hours, which includes a ferry ride to Playa del Carmen before taking the Federal Highway to Tulum.

As of now, no. Most private jet services choose to land in either Cancun or Cozumel. However, a luxurious Tulum Airport is on the horizon, with plans to inaugurate domestic flights in December 2023.

Yes, but this will not be budget-friendly until the new airport in Tulum is fully operational in April 2024. Given the likelihood of landing at Cancun Airport, a two-hour taxi ride to Tulum could cost upwards of $150-$200. Booking an ADO bus ticket for $20 or the forthcoming Mayan Train set to start operations in December is more feasible. Pre-booking a shared or private transfer is also a more cost-effective solution.

It’s roughly 75 miles or around 120 kilometers with a journey spanning anywhere from 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes depending on construction and tourist season traffic.

While Cozumel International Airport might be the nearest to Tulum in terms of direct distance, the Cancun International Airport offers a quicker transit, clocking in at about 1.5-2 hours. However, the travel landscape is set for a significant shift with the inauguration of a new international airport in Tulum. This facility is slated to commence domestic operations on December 1st, 2023, and will usher in international flights by April 2024, promising a substantial reduction in travel time.

As the crow flies, it’s only 50 miles (82 km), but it will require a complicated 2.5-3 hour journey as the Island of Cozumel has no connection to the mainland other than via ferry.

Currently, the answer is no. The much-anticipated Tulum Airport is projected to open its doors between December 2023 and April 2024, though a concrete date remains elusive. Until this development materializes, travelers will need to book flights to alternative airports like Cancun, Cozumel, Merida, or Chetumal and then orchestrate onward transportation to Tulum.

Imagine stepping off your plane in Cancun and hopping directly on a train that visits all the popular tourist destinations along the Mexican Caribbean. Forget the hours spent figuring out transport to Playa del Carmen or Tulum. Bid adieu to shelingl out big bucks for tours to wonders like Chichen Itza or Palenque. This train promises not only convenience but also a safe, affordable alternative to other pricier transport options.

According to the National Fund for the Promotion of Tourism (Fonatur), average ticket prices will be somewhere between $40-$50, or 800-1,000 MNX. The distance traveled and who you are (local, domestic, or international tourist) will play a part in the final price tag, with local passengers snagging the best deals.

As of now, these Maya train tickets remain elusive, but it’s expected to start operating on December 1, 2023. Once this date is confirmed, the official Tren Maya Website and Facebook Page will guide you to where you can secure your seat.

Yes, once you touch down at CUN, you’ll be just an 8-minute electric minibus away from boarding the Maya Train. From there, the historical wonders of Quintana Roo, the Yucatan, Campeche, and Chiapas are ready and waiting to be explored.

Straight from the horse’s mouth: it’s a mere eight minutes on the electric minibus. This zippy little route skirts the fringes of the Cancun Airport property, meaning you won’t be held hostage by pesky traffic jams.

The journey will take an impressive 1 hour and 30 minutes when all is up and running in December. To put it in perspective, that’s a drastic cut of 2.5 hours from the grueling four-hour car journey.

Yes. A flat floor layout provides inclusivity for those with limited mobility. Plus, thoughtful touches like storage for wheelchairs and accessible restroom facilities ensure everyone can journey with ease.

It is set to blaze between stations at a whopping top speed of 160 km/h (100 mph).

No, it remains a work in progress, but the ribbon-cutting ceremony is slated for December 1, 2023, with Viva Aerobus being the first airline out of the gates.

The closest airport is Cancun International which connects to a multitude of global hotspots, from New York, Los Angeles, and Toronto to London, Paris, Rome, Madrid, and Paris. Taxis or private transfers from Cancun (CUN) can take around 1.5 hours, while a shared shuttle or ADO bus is normally 2.0-3.0 hours. Once the Maya Tren goes live in December, it will be the fastest way from Cancun to Tulum.

For now, you’ll need to arrive at Cancun International Airport (CUN) while Tulum TQO (not TUY) is still under construction. On December 1, 2023, domestic flights within Mexico will be available on Aeromexico and Viva Aerobus. Delta has also announced flights from Atlanta (ATL) starting on March 28, 2024.

No. Soon, but not yet. As of October 2023, the Tulum International Airport (TQO) is only 65% complete, but eyeing a December 2023 launch for flights within Mexico. For now, travelers should prepare for Cancun International arrivals and seek out transportation to Tulum such as a private shuttle, ADO bus, or rental car.

About 20 km (around 12.5 miles) south of Tulum. The Tren Maya will stop have an airport stop at TQO with a drop-off in the city center (Tulum Pueblo). For a beach hotel destination, your best option would be to take a taxi from the Tulum train station or hire a private transfer to meet you in person at Tulum Airport.

Generally yes, as tourist dollars are of great importance to drug cartels. Gang activity is usually kept out of tourist areas, but high-end beach clubs at times can attract a bad crowd. If renting a condo in Tulum, do note that many are located in the jungle, and unlike Playa del Carmen, walking around after the sun goes down is not recommended.

They’re like apples and oranges. Tulum’s hotel zone is your ticket to a lavish beachside chill session. On the flip side, if you’re planning a spree of day trips or if your budget’s on a leash, Tulum Town is where it’s at.

The Kore Tulum Retreat and Spa Resort and Amansala Yoga And Wellness Resort are the only all-inclusives with locations on Tulum Beach. The Secrets Tulum Resort has a jungle location near Aldea Zama, but you need to take a shuttle to their beach club. The Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa is quite popular, but it’s located outside of Tulum past the Mayan Ruins and Cenote Tankah.

For now, Cancun International Airport is the best option, but the New Tulum Airport is on schedule to have domestic flights from five major cities in Mexico starting December 2023. International flights are expected in April 2024 with Delta Airlines announcing flights from Atlanta, and Aeromexico having options from New York, San Francisco, and Toronto.

Lanzarote

There is no better word than lively to describe the Puerto del Carmen nightlife. The beach bars and theme bars, like Bikers Club, Ruta 66, and Africa Bar, along with the cocktail lounges and wine bars are the best in Lanzarote.

There are two show bars too, and most pubs in town either have live music, karaoke, bingo, or trivia. On top of that, there are numerous sports bars, as well, as a few beer gardens, and shisha bars. You can even hit the casino, which is always open late.

You can find bingo nights at the The Hot Spot, Topgun Bar, Why Not Bar, Highlander Too, and the Owl & Pussycat Inn. Many of these places also have a trivia night too.

Yes, there are more Irish pubs in Puerto del Carmen than you can shake a leprechaun at with whole town drinking green beer when the St. Patrick’s Day Parade comes to town.

Around the Old Town Harbour and in walking distance of each other, you’ll find Mulligans Old Town, Irish Rover, Craic and Ceol, Dicey Reillys, Irish Harbor Bar, Bodhran, Hogan Stand, Brendan Brehan, Keely’s Bar, PJ’s Bar, Paddy’s Bar, Tipplers, The Rock Inn, Fox’s Bar, The Inn Place, and The Shamrock Bar.

Near Playa Grande there’s The Guinness Tavern, Shenanigans, Murphy’s, Irish Viking, Slattery’s, Brian Boru, O’connel’s Dug Out, Maguire’s, O’Briens, Bodhran, Darby O’Gills, and Mulligans New Town. Near Playa de Los Pocillos there’s Sally Joans and Fiddler’s Green. Near Playa Matagorda there’s Auld Triangle, Ned Kelly’s, The Sportsman, Peggy’s Snug, Decky Dillon’s, The Dubliner, and Paddy’s Paradise.

You’ll find 90% of the Puerto del Carmen’s nightlife along Avenida de las Playas with the largest concentrations around the Old Town Harbour and Playa Grande. You’ll also find pockets of nightlife around the Gran Casino and at the far end of Playa Matagorda near the airport.

The clubs, theme bars, and pubs, bar and with live music tend to be the ones that stay open late.

Yes, the nightlife in Puerto del Carmen is some of the best in the Canary Islands with roughly 100 party options along Avenida de las Playas alone. Aside from the general assortment of clubs, pubs, bar and grills, there’s a good live music scene, a ton of beach bars, and several sports bars.

The theme bars, show bars, and karaoke bars are also quite popular, along with the beer gardens, wine bars, and cocktail lounges. There’s also the Gran Casino which is open late.

Some of the best spots to grab an English breakfast in Puerto del Carmen are The Good Old Days Bar, Purple Turtle, Topgun Bar, Why Not Bar, Blue Marlin, and the Highlander Too. There’s are a ton of Irish pubs here too and few Scottish ones that also serve English breakfast.

If you’re staying near Playa Grande, Sunset Beach has a trivia night and is a wonderful beach bar too. You can also find quiz nights at Topgun Bar, Why Not Bar, The Hot Spot, and the Owl & Pussycat Inn. Many of these places also have a bingo night too.

Yes, the Scotch Corner Bar and Bluebells are the most popular Scottish pubs, along with Highlander Too.

Near the Old Town Harbour there’s a trendy cocktail lounge called Skyy that has shisha pipes, and a great drink menu too.

Yes, there are several British pubs which include the Purple Turtle, The Galleon Inn, Arthur’s Bar, Topgun Bar, and The Owl and Pussycat Inn.

Yes. Unfortunately, EscapeRoomLanzarote.com closed their doors with an official post on Facebook. Their escape room themes were called DeadLand, The Office, and The Mad House. They now recommend visitors to Try to Escape in Costa Teguise.

Yes, but it’s only subject to availability in The Great Escape in Puerto del Carmen.

Yes, all three escape room facilities in Lanzarote offer gameplay in Spanish.

Yes, all three escape room facilities in Lanzarote offer gameplay in English.

All 8 themed rooms escaped rooms in Lanzarote are offered in both English and Spanish, along with German being subject to availability at The Great Escape in Puerto del Carmen.

The escape room facilities in Lanzarote are called Island Quest Lanzarote (in Playa Blanca), The Great Escape (in Puerto del Carmen), and Try to Escape (in Costa Teguise).

There are a total of 7 themed escape rooms in Lanzarote. Island Quest in Playa Blanca has 4 rooms, Try to Escape in Costa Teguise has 2 rooms, while The Great Escape in Puerto del Carmen has just one room.

The 7 unique themed escape rooms in Lanzarote are named Serial Killer, The Magic Market, Project Atlantis, Dino Heist, (Island Quest), Galleon the Raid and Ghost Shire (Try to Escape), and Roman Dungeon (The Great Escape) where two more themed rooms are slated for development (Escape The Jungle and The Lost Tomb).

You can find one escape room facility in each of the three resort towns of Playa Blanca (Island Quest), Puerto del Carmen (The Great Escape), and Costa Teguise (Try to Escape).

There are three different escape room facilities in Lanzarote which combine for a total of 7 different themed rooms.

In general, the escape rooms are open from 09:00-10:000- to 21:00-22:00 with Island Quest in Playa Blanca open from 10:00-21:00, The Great Escape in Puerto del Carmen open from 10:00-22:00, Try to Escape in Costa Teguise open from 12:00-21:00.

The maximum allotted time for an escape room game in Lanzarote is 60 minutes, but game playing times will vary between participants. The faster you solve the puzzles, the sooner you finish.

Yes. Entrance prices for Lanzarote Escape Rooms have prices ranging from 15-25€ person (based on group size) with a maximum playing time of 1 hour.

The group rates for escape room games in Lanzarote are based on player size: 15€ per person (group of 6), 16€ (group of 5), 17.50€ (group of 4), 20€ (group of 3) and 25€ (group of 2).

Escape rooms in Lanzarote have prices that range from 15-25€ per person, with discounted offers for groups of 3 or more.

Each individually themed escape room allows for 2-6 people per group at both Island Quest in Playa Blanca and The Great Escape in Puerto del Carmen and 2-5 people at Try to Escape in Costa Teguise.

Yes and no. Escape rooms in Lanzarote have a floating price range of 15-25€ per person with discounts being offered when more people play within the same group. i.e. 15€ per person (group of 6), 16€ (group of 5), 17.50€ (group of 4), 20€ (group of 3).

An escape room is a timed (60-minute), locked room puzzle game where a group of 2 to 6 people work in tandem to seek out hidden clues and solve challenging puzzles that escalate in difficulty as the game progresses.

It may surprise you to know that due to the go-kart’s low center of gravity and the small steering wheel size, even after a short 6-minute ride, you will notice some tension in your arms.

Yes. Lanzarote’s dry climate keeps the track surface safer than most other places. The sport of go-karting itself is also generally safe, as long as you follow the instructions given and do not deviate from them.

No, they’re not. Hitting the go-kart tracks in Lanzarote can be quite expensive, with 6-8 minutes of track time costing between 7-15€ per session.

Turkey

Yes, but you’ll have to clear customs if you won’t want to shop at the airport. The HVIST-6 to Halkali will take you first to the Mall of Istanbul in about 30-40 minutes and then the ArenaPark Mall in about 40-50 minutes.  You can also take the HVIST-7 to Beylikduzu which will take you to the Marmara Park Shopping Mall in about 60-70 minutes. If it’s street shopping you’re after you can take the HVIST-14 to Taksim and just walk right on to Iskital Avenue, one of the most famous streets in all of Istanbul.

Yes, but you’ll have to purchase two tickets as there are no transfers, or you can meet the bus take the bus directly from the mall. The two last stops on the HVIST-6 from Halkali are ArenaPark Mall and the Mall of Istanbul, which will require 30-50 minutes from there to the airport.  The HVIST-7 from Beylikduzu comes directly from Marmara Park Shopping Mall and is about 60-70 minutes away. You can also do a ton of street shopping on Iskital Street and then just hop on the HVIST-14 at Taksim Square.

No, the HavaIST is an airport shuttle bus, but you can connect with the sightseeing Big Bus at all major tourist attractions. If you’re on a layover, you can take the HVIST-14 directly to Taksim Square where you can easily walk to Iskital Street or the Galata Tower. For Sultanahmet, the closest option is the HVIST-12 to Beyazit Square, which a 1.5 km taxi ride away from Hagia Sofia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.  If you wanted to see Dolmabalche Palace, the HVIST-13 will drop you off just a short walk away at Bakirkoy Pier.

Yes, kids can ride HavaIST Buses with you, but they pay the same adult fare with prices varying from 21–37 TL (2,5–4,5 €) depending on which route you take. Kids must take their own seats, and are not allowed to stand in the aisle or sit on the lap of their parents during the trip.

If you’re wondering, what is the HavaIST Bus, or why it’s called that, it’s simply a play on words. Havalimani means airport in Turkish, with Hava being a slang short form, while IST is simply the designated IATA airport code of the New Istanbul Airport. Put the two words together and you get the HavaIST shuttle bus

There are 105 airport shuttle buses in the HavaIST fleet that transports passengers of the New Istanbul Airport to and from various points in the city.  Some of the more popular routes go through Taksim, Kadikoy, Besiktas, and Bakirkoy.

Belongings left on HavaIST airport shuttle buses as generally returned to the HavaIST desk at your routes’ respective airport. If you’ve lost something during your trip, notify the Lost and Found Department immediately through the Call Center at 0850 888 33 34.

In general, they throw out perishables, hold valuables and currency in an airport safe, and return identification to the proper authorities within 5 days. It is, however, possible to have items returned on the same route you lost them on. You can view more details in Turkish on their lost good page, or use Google Translate on the link. Their FAQ page simply mentions calling the number above.

Though a surgical procedure, hair transplants are relatively easy and only involve two steps. First, the surgeon takes hair from your healthy areas and then transfers it to the bald ones. The best areas for hair extraction, are in the back of your head. If that’s not possible, the doctor will then focus on retrieving hair follicles from other parts of your body.

The Turkish night cruise is a kind of boat cruise on the Bosphorus in the evening. With dinner and Turkish night shows like Turkish Gypsy Dances, Caucasian Dances, Oriental Group Show, Turkish Folk Dances, Rhythm Show, Oriental Dance, Whirling Dervishes, and a Professional DJ.

The prices depend on the beverage package that you choose. The cheapest option is a non-alcoholic beverage option that includes unlimited soft drinks from around €35 per person. The upgraded package with unlimited local alcoholic drinks is around €45. If you want premium international drinks, then this costs a little more.

We prefer using Acetes Travel to book Turkish Nights on the Bosphorus. Their 3-deck luxury boats have both open and closed decks, and the professional dance teams are quite good, as are the food and the service.

Around 3.5-4 hours. The boats usually leave Kabtas Pier at 8:00 pm and return around 11:30 pm.

Yes, but this can vary from boat to boat. A typical vegetarian menu would include oven potatoes and sautéed vegetables with curry rice. On request, some other dishes might include vegetarian pizza or pasta with vegetable sauce.

Yes, children between 3 and 7 years old are typically allowed on these boats It’s however, not a good environment for infants, as there are lots of bright lights and loud noises.

Yes, but usually only on request. When organizing surprise birthday parties, cakes may cost €10 or so extra.

The easiest way is by tram to the Kabatas Pier. This is the last stop on the route, and the pier is right across the street from the tram station. If arriving by car, you can park near Dolmabahce Palace, which is a scenic 5-minute walk to Kabatas pier.

Prices for a comprehensive medical check-up in Istanbul start from $150 for a standard assessment package. When adding in all-inclusive VIP options such as designated guides and consultants, accommodation and transportation prices can max out around $750.

Depending on the assessment package you choose, you’ll receive several different tests during your medical check-up in Istanbul, including:

  • Chest x-ray, electrocardiogram, and abdominal ultrasound
  • Heart, liver, and kidney functions
  • Blood count and sedimentation
  • Cholesterol levels and thyroid test
  • Full urine analysis and hepatitis test

A medical assessment can determine your risk of cardiovascular disease and preventable diseases like type 2 diabetes. Check-up testing will also highlight underlying issues such as high cholesterol, anemia, over or underactive thyroid, and autoimmune disorders.

First up, you’ll need to avoid strenuous exercise and fast for at least 12 hours prior to your medical assessment appointment, while consuming no food, water, or supplements. As well as no alcohol consumption for three days prior.

Comfortable attire with clothing and shoes fit for physical activity testing should be worn to your appointment.  Medical staff must be advised upon arrival of any prescribed medications, pregnancies, or suspected pregnancies, while any previous assessment results should be presented at this time.

Women should schedule their assessment so it does not coincide with their menstruation cycle.

Telogen Effluvium is a rare condition that is generally caused by numerous external factors. You will need to see a surgeon who specialist who can diagnose the root causes of your condition in order to ensure a successful hair transplant.

Yes.  Low-quality hair grafts are generally the cause of limited donor areas or inexperienced doctors. Be sure you get a qualified evaluation and select a certified hair transplant clinic to reduce this risk.

Yes. Improper post hair transplant care can also cause hair loss, so be sure to follow your doctor’s directions to the letter during the recovery process.

A small percentage of graft rejection is expected after a hair transplant. This loss is permanent due to the body’s immune system rejecting the transplant. The ARTAS Robotic System helps reduce this possibility, as does booking with a certified hair transplant clinic.

Shock hair loss is caused by the trauma of hair transplant surgery and usually occurs within 1-5 weeks after your procedure. This is only a temporary condition though and your hair will grow back in a normal cycle.

There are three main causes of hair loss after transplants that are due to shock, graft rejection, and post-transplant hair care. Two other causes are low-quality donor grafts, and telogen effluvium.

Yes. The transplanted hair will conform to the same shedding cycle as normal hair, which consists of the three stages; anagen, catagen, and telogen phases. Aside from this, there will hair loss specifically related to the transplant, which can consist of shock hair loss, graft rejection, and improper hair transplant aftercare.

The answer to this question depends on the size of the bald/ hair thinning area. Each hair transplant session means the extraction of around 3000 – 4000 hair grafts. If it’s a large area that requires more grafts, then one surgery might not be enough. Two, even three hair transplant procedures might be required if you require 6000-8000+ hair grafts.

No, poinsettias are native to Central America. The reason you see so many of them in Turkey is because they are a symbol of Turkish patriotism. 

The myth of Turkish poinsettias began because they are the favorite flower of the founding father of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who cultivated their growth across the country. Locals now commonly refer to them as the Ataturk flower (Ataturk cicegi).

The Aztecs, however, first called them cuetlaxochitl, meaning the flower that grows in residues or soil. In Mexico and Guatemala, they are known today as flor de Noche Buena, which translates as flowers of the holy night. They are also known in Central America as the Christmas Eve flower, which is in reference to the holy night being the one when Jesus was born.

Noturkey birds are native to North America. Contrary to the urban legend, those gobble-gobblers of Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner fame have no known association with Turkey. In fact, the Republic of Turkey only became a country in 1923 long after Thanksgiving turkey dinners became a thing in 17th-century America.

No, Saint Nicholas, whom the legend of Sinterklaas was based on (also known as the myth of the Turkish Santa Claus of western world fame), was born in the Greek seaport town of Patara to wealthy Christian parents.

In his youth be started out as the Bishop of Myra whose habit of secretly gift-giving away his inherited wealth was well known in the region. The reference to Jolly Old Saint Nick (a short form of Nicholas) pays homage to the real-life Saint Nicholas of Myra.

The ancient Greek city of Myra passed through many ruling hands over the hands and is known today as Demre and found in the province of Antalya, Turkey. The ruins of the St. Nicholas Church is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site now. This church turned museum receives over 500,000 visitors a year who want to glimpse Saint Nicholas’ tomb.

Istiklal Caddesi is probably the largest, as it runs all the from Taksim Square to Tunel Square with every brand imaginable sold there. Abdi Ipekci Caddesi in the Nisantsi neighborhood is known for its luxury and world-famous brands from Prada to Louis Vuitton. Bagdat Caddesi has both luxurious and reasonable priced clothing stores, along with ceramic art, painting, and sculptures.

Serdar-i Ekrem Caddesi is that cool, cobblestone shopping street near the Galata Tower that’s full of boutique shops. Cukurcuma Caddesi is Istanbul’s main antique-hunting street with beautiful neoclassical houses all around. Nuruosmaniye Caddesi is where you can find fine-carpets and jewelry.

Rumeli Caddesi in the Harbiye district is famous for international brands and accessories, while Nispetiye Caddesi is very popular due to the Akmerkez mall having a large area with street-side shops.

Unfortunately, this is a rare occurrence, as in the last ten years, it’s only come close once. On December 25th, 2018, it was a cold and rainy day with a high of 7°C (44°F). The temperature did dip to 4°C (39°F) in the early morning, but it was only sprinkles of light rain with no white fluffy stuff to carpet the ground.

Doner kebabs are either plated dishes or grilled meat placed on sandwich bread, while Durum kebab use wrapped flatbread like lavash or yufka.

The literal meaning of durum in Turkish is roll or wrap. A thin flatbread such as lavash or yufka is generally used in Turkey and it makes it very easy to hold in your hand when it’s stuffed with vegetables and various types of sauces.

Doner is a specific type of kebab that is made of meat pressed into the shape of an inverted cone that is slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The outer layer is then sliced into thin shavings as it cooks which are then added to a plated dish or sandwich bread.

Kebaps are most often made with beef or lamb, but some offer chicken grilled on skewers as well.

The doner kebap originated in the Ottoman Empire. It started out as the cag kebab, stacks of seasoned sliced meat cooked on a horizontal rotisserie, which dates back to the 17th century. 

Bursa, which is just south of Istanbul is thought to be the birthplace of the vertical rotisserie used for today’s modern doner kebap. Its believed that it was invented sometime in the 19th century by Iskender Efendi of Iskender kebap fame or possibly Hamdi Usta from Kastamonu.

There’s nothing definitive in history, as the use of fire for cooking (790,000+ years ago) predates the pen and paper by many moons. In the Kitab al-Tabikh, a 10th-century Baghdadi cookbook there are descriptions of kabāb as cut-up meat, either fried in a pan or grilled over a fire. Stone supports for skewers however were unearthed in excavations of the ancient Minoan settlement of Akrotiri.

The ancient Indian text of Mahabharata and even Homer’s Iliad also mentioned pieces of meat roasted on spits which could be kebaps. Meat kebabs were also believed to have been grilled on swords by Nomadic tribesmen. In 17th-century Turkey, Evliya Celebi, an Ottoman journeyman, describes the kebeb as a horizontal bundle of meat which is long before the vertically skewed, Iskender Kebap, was made famous in the 19th century. 

So while there’s no definitive answer, kebaps have most likely been around a very, very long time. 

The vertical rotisserie was invented in the 19th-century Ottoman Empire and soon spread around the world. The Greek gyro, the Arab shawarma, Mexican al pastor, and Canadian donair are all kebap variations that use this type of rotisserie.

Ibiza

Yes. The slot machine room at Casino de Ibiza in Evissa has 90,000€ super jackpots when playing Swampland and Neptune’s Pearls. There is also a super jackpot on StarGate which varies in payout based on gameplay.

Yes. The poker room at Casino de Ibiza in Evissa has NL Texas Hold’em games and they announce their tournament schedule on Facebook.

Yes. The slot machine room at Casino de Ibiza in Evissa has over 60 different types of slot games, including a 90,000€ super jackpot when playing Swampland and Neptune’s Pearls.

Currently, there is just one, which is the Casino de Ibiza in Evissa which has table games, i-games, and slot machines.

Yes. There are two small animal farms called Cam Munson in Santa Eulia del Rio and Puig de Can Maymo near Sant Mateu d’Albarca that have an assortment of goats, pigs, and rabbits that you can pay to feed.

No, not really. There are, however, two small animal farms called Cam Munson in Santa Eulia del Rio and Puig de Can Maymo near Sant Mateu d’Albarca which are wineries with animal areas.

No, the closest one is in Majorca. But, there are two small animal farms on winery bodega grounds called Cam Munson in Santa Eulia del Rio and Puig de Can Maymo near Sant Mateu d’Albarca where you can feed goats, pigs, and rabbits.

Yes. Besides sea life, you can also view specimens of shark eggs, sea sponges, gastropods, bivalves, and other marine invertebrate.

Besides the fish and marine creatures, the aquatic life consists of invertebrates like sea sponges, starfish, and corals alongside Pitiusan marine fauna.

Alongside the fish, you’ll also be able to spot sea creatures like manta rays, eels, octopus, sea horses, lobsters, and sea snails.

Yes. The bloated and morbid looking scorpionfish, as well as the flying gurnard with its butterfly-like fins are some of the most unique fish species in the aquarium.

You will mostly see bright and colorful fish species of the Ibizan Mediterranean like groupers, snappers, sea bream, and fadrins. However, there are some exotic species like scorpionfish, saltwater catfish, and the flying gurnard.

An entrance ticket to Aquarium Cap Blanc costs 5€ for adults, and 3€ for children aged 4 to 12.

Yes. The aquarium can provide hospital-like treatment to sea creatures who’ve fallen victim to man-made activities like improper garbage disposal. Sea turtles, in particular, are given treatment and nursed back to health at the recovery center before being returned to the wild.

The crazy frog ride at Slingshot Ibiza costs 5€ per person (max 2 per person per car) for 5 minutes.

The bumper cars at Slingshot Ibiza cost 5€ per car (up to 2 people) for 5 minutes.

The regular price to ride The Slingshot in Ibiza is 25€ per person. You can have a 2nd free ride if you do it with two people on Mondays before 8 pm. Kids under 16 can also ride the slingshot for 15€ before 8 pm on Thursdays.

At Acrobosc, ticket prices range from 15-25€ per route, with adult prices at the higher end and two -route combinations available for 25-30€.

Currently, there is just one adventure park in Ibiza called Acrobosc that is located in Santa Eulària des Riu. They offers three different canopy routes, one of which is for adults (Red Route).

The adventure park area in Gran Piruleto costs an extra 5€ to enter.

Gran Piruleto near Playa d’en Bossa is dedicated to entertaining children. Its main features include animation entertainers, a splash area, an adventure park area, and scheduled activities, games, crafts, etc.

You can play several VR video games like car racing and football at Virtual Recall Ibiza in Eivissa, as well as play a real, simulated outdoor combat game (similar to paintball) at Ibiza Laser Combat in Santa Eulalia del Río.

Currently, there is just one place to play a round of miniature golf in Ibiza and that’s at the Minigolf venue in Sant Josep de sa Talaia.

Currently, there is just one place to play a round of miniature golf in Ibiza and that’s at the Minigolf venue in Sant Josep de sa Talaia.

There are two golf courses in Ibiza, Golf de Ibiza (18 holes), and Rocca Llisa (9 holes) which are both located at the same facility, Golf Ibiza by asuLineHotels in Santa Eulalia.

There is just one golf facility on the island named Golf Ibiza, but it has two courses to choose from: Golf de Ibiza (18 holes), and Rocca Llisa (9 holes).

The one golf facility on the island (Golf Ibiza) is located in Santa Eulalia, just 8 km from Eivissa a and includes two courses: Golf de Ibiza (18 holes), and Rocca Llisa (9 holes).

Currently, there is just one place to play simulated laser games on the island and that’s at Ibiza Laser Combat in Santa Eulalia del Río.

The Scapart’s escape-room games consist of The Theft of Tanit (archaeologist message), Target Spy (paparazzi film roll), and Pirates Secret (stop the curse).

There are three escape rooms in total, all found in the same location at Scapart in Evissia.

Currently, there is just one escape room venue (Scapart), which has three different games to choose from.

Yes, on April 22, 2020, they sadly made a closing announcement on Facebook while leaving a small possibility that they may re-open one day if the stars align. 

Currently, there is just one bowling alley remaining at Friends Kitchen Ibiza which has 4-lanes of neon-lighting nicely tucked away in a popular restaurant.

There are two places go kart in Ibiza, Go Karts Santa Eulalia and Ibiza Karting in San Antonio.

There are two water parks on the island of Ibiza. Aguamar is the largest and found in Sant Josep de sa Talaia. Aguagames is a Sirenis hotel water park that is free for guests and good option if you’re staying near Port d’es Torrent with kids.

There are no age restrictions for entrance, just the standard height restrictions on rides.

There’s tons of parking available at the water park just by the famous Hï Disco in Playa d’en Bossa.

Driving with a car is quite easy, but if you don’t have a vehicle, then the #14 bus from Ibiza town passes by every 20 minutes throughout the summer.

The park is open from 10:000 with low season closing at 17:30 and high season closing at 18:00.

The entrance gates for the water park are open from the May 17th until September 26th.

You can purchase a day pass to the water park at the Sirenis Seaview Country Club reception.

Guest of both the Sirenis Hotels Club Aura and the Sirenis Seaview Country Club have free access to the water park.

Yes, while guests of the hotel get free access, the park is open to anyone and everyone.