Just an Hour from Lisbon: A Bohemian Seaside Escape for Summer Relaxation

Just an Hour from Lisbon: A Bohemian Seaside Escape for Summer Relaxation

Walk along the scenic roads of this lovely coastal town in Portugal, known as a top destination for surfers.

Ericeira, Portugal’s surfing paradise

This tiny coastal village, home to less than 7,000 people, is most famous for being a surfer’s dream destination, a place where life moves at a relaxed pace, far removed from the busy energy of Portugal’s main city. It boasts countless stretches of beautiful coastline—some of which are regarded as…
best surfing spots
In Europe, the coastal town of Ericeira thrives on the sound of crashing waves. Both in summer and winter, groups of surfers—ranging from professionals to beginners—gather in this charming small village located just a 45-minute drive from Lisbon. However, this renowned surfing destination offers far more than its rugged natural beauty—the town boasts numerous lively spots influenced by California’s vibe, along with famous local eateries. Here are our top recommendations for an exceptional visit to Ericeira.

Things to do while staying in Ericeira?

Eat some fish and sea food in a
marisqueira

The
marisqueira
These charming seafood eateries offering fresh daily catches have evolved into essential landmarks along the Portuguese coastline. There’s no need to request a menu since one isn’t provided. Before settling down—often alongside other locals or visitors—you can personally craft today’s specialty by choosing from the fish and sea creatures showcased near the entrance, or occasionally right within the kitchen area. We highly suggest the

Canastra

, which boasts a remarkable position right at the cliff’s edge, offering stunning views of spectacular sunsets.

Give surfing a try
Attempt to surf
Have a go at surfing
Take up surfing for a bit
Experience the thrill of surfing
See how you do with surfing
Go for a session of surfing
Dive into the world of surfing
Test your skills at surfing
Get some practice riding waves

Ericeira’s shores offer an ideal setting for surfers at every skill level. The village features a variety of surfing locations, such as

Ribeira d’Ilhas beach

one of the best-known surfing locations
in Portugal
and the globe. However, this is also the perfect spot to start learning the sport—master a professional-style takeoff within an hour by enrolling in an initial class offered by one of the numerous surfing academies located along each beach. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, you can appreciate the view from atop the cliffs. Plenty of excitement available!

Devote the afternoon to visiting a winery

Having spent the morning riding the surf, how about heading inland to wrap up the day at a
quinta
(to farm), to visit the vineyards and sample the regional wines?

Quinta de Sant’Ana

It is a privately owned, environmentally conscious, and sustainable winery located only 20 minutes away from Ericeira. This offers an excellent chance to explore regional wines like Arinto, a classic Portuguese white grape known for its strong acidity and citrus undertones, set within a picturesque environment.

Go to the Sintra-Cascois Natural Park

Located just thirty minutes’ drive from Ericeira, the Sintra-Cascois Natural Park hosts some of Portugal’s most impressive attractions, such as
Pena Palace, a vibrant castle
constructed atop a hill within the magical village of Sintra. The garden also houses the westernmost location on the European mainland,

Cabo da Roca

a location that the poet Luís de Cames referred to as “the spot where the land meets the sea.”

Lying in the sun on one of the town’s numerous shorelines

Ericeira could easily be known as the city boasting a thousand and one shores. Indeed, a week isn’t nearly sufficient to explore every beach located within and near the town. Warm sunlit golden sands extending beyond sight, rocky outcrops painted in earthy tones crowned with vibrant greenery, and sapphire-colored waters calling out for a dip… these coastlines provide an ideal setting for your vacation, ensuring your visit to Ericeira becomes unforgettable.

America’s Deepest Lake Bans Swimming Until 2027

America’s Deepest Lake Bans Swimming Until 2027

The United States’ deepest lake will be off-limits to tourists until 2027 due to scheduled maintenance, leaving just a brief period during which one can swim there.

Crater Lake National Park in
Oregon
draws over 500,000 visitors annually, thanks to the stunning 592-meter-deep lake which serves as the centerpiece of this beautiful setting.

Day trippers can enjoy diving from a nearby 11-meter cliff face into the clear blue depths of the waterway, which sits in the blown-out caldera of a once mighty volcano known as Mount Mazama.

Encircled by the Cascade Mountains, the pristine blue waters of the lake feature two notable landforms — Wizard Island and the Phantom Ship natural rock formation — both of which are accessible for exploration.

The extensive lagoon serves as a habitat for substantial populations of kokanee salmon and rainbow trout, making it an ideal location for anglers and those who enjoy water activities like boating.

Throughout the years, millions of individuals have traversed the narrow Cleetwood Cove Trail, a brief but steep pathway serving as the sole access to the coast.

But starting this summer, the trail will be closed for two years for rehabilitation works, the National Park Service has announced.

The NPS stated in a release that this initiative aims to restore the trail along with its associated facilities to guarantee secure passage to the lake, deliver essential amenities for visitors, and safeguard the natural surroundings.



The project encompasses the complete refurbishment of the 1.1-mile long Cleetwood Cove Trail, which includes enhancements to the trail surface and retaining structures.

The NPS teams will similarly pinpoint hazardous areas prone to rockfall and make necessary adjustments in those locations.

This huge undertaking also includes demolishing the decaying pier and substituting it with a ‘sturdily constructed marina.’

The NPS teams mentioned that they will replace the small, outdated restroom facility near the marina with bigger, more contemporary ones.

The aim of this project is to avoid any incidents occurring at the lake. Back in 2019, a 28-year-old man from Florida was involved in an accident.
stumbled and dropped 245 meters into the water
.

Tyler Johns, a welder hailing from Bronson, amazingly managed to survive after slipping during a hike.

‘We went to Crater Lake to sight-see and I propped down on a snow bank that I thought was soft,’ Johns told SANGGRALOKAat the time.

‘I somewhat dove into what I thought was a soft snowbank but ended up bouncing off it before starting to slide downhill backwards and headfirst.’

‘I skidded for about 800 feet, did a spin, came to a halt, and ended up with some bumps on my head, a cut on my arm, and bruised ribs.’

John said he felt achy all over and beaten up, plus his boots were filling up with snow.

He attempted to ascend again, yet failed to reach the summit as the cliff face turned too steep to overcome.

‘I began climbing back up, 150 feet upward, but I couldn’t go any further as there weren’t any trees or anything to hold onto,’ he shared with SANGGRALOKA.

Following approximately seven hours of searching, rescuers located John and transported him to safety via helicopter.


On calmer trips to the lake, fortunate visitors have had the chance to see the aurora borealis, commonly referred to as the northern lights, illuminating the water body.

In May 2024, a natural spectacle illuminated the region with a soft pink hue above the water and nearby mountains, offering breathtaking vistas during a uncommon event in this location.

The NPS stated in a release that the park intends to commence construction in 2026 as part of the rehabilitation initiative.

‘Owing to the volume of work needed and the brief construction periods, trail closures will be necessary and are anticipated throughout the 2027 and 2028 summer seasons.’

‘In this period, boat tours won’t be offered, and the trail will remain closed because of construction activities and risks from rockfalls.’

‘Provided the construction proceeds according to plan, the refurbished trail should be reopened during the summer of 2029.’

Read more

Cherry Blossom Fiesta: Arima Onsen International Celebration

Cherry Blossom Fiesta: Arima Onsen International Celebration

If you want to experience the charm of cherry blossoms combined with the serene ambiance of an ancient hot springs town, then the Arima Onsen Cherry Blossom Festival is your ideal choice. It’s just a half-hour away.
central Kobe
Arima Onsen is famous for its mineral-rich “gold” and “silver” thermal waters, believed to possess therapeutic qualities. Being one of Japan’s most ancient hot spring destinations, Arima combines historical charm with stunning natural landscapes. During springtime, the area comes alive as cherry blossoms adorn the banks of the Arima River, painting a serene and beautiful scene.

Arima Onsen Sakura Matsuri

The Arima Onsen Cherry Blossom Festival was initiated numerous years back to mark the onset of spring and the area’s beautiful cherry blossom season. Over time, this event has evolved into a cherished custom for residents as well as tourists, featuring celebrations timed perfectly with the prime blooming period of the cherry trees. Regardless of whether your visit spans just one day or extends over multiple nights, Arima provides a serene fusion of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and authentic Japanese allure, solidifying it as an essential stopover during the blooms.
sakura
(cherry blossom) season.

Festival Highlights

The Arima Onsen Cherry Blossom Festival features an array of stunning cherry blossom varieties, such as
Someiyoshino
The most prevalent type of cherry tree along with weeping cherries can be found at Zenpuku-ji Temple. The Arima River, bordered by these blooms, offers a serene riverside walkway ideal for casual walks and taking photographs. A notable attraction here is the evening lighting of the cherry trees, which causes the flowers to shimmer beneath lanterns until 10 PM nightly.

Another highlight is the traditional Geisha dances performed by Arima’s
Geiko
(The local term for geisha, pertaining to female entertainers proficient in traditional Japanese arts) provide guests with a unique chance to immerse themselves in genuine cultural practices within Arima’s historical ambiance.

Festival Activities

Past the breathtaking cherry blossoms, the Arima Onsen Cherry Blossom Festival provides an array of activities that enhance its appeal. Visitors can participate alongside locals in various traditions.
hanami
(Flower appreciation) outings, where individuals come together beneath blossoming trees and alongside riversides to savor meals, beverages, and one another’s companionship.

The food stands in the square offer a variety of regional specialties.
oden
(A dish featuring components such as daikon radish, fishcakes, and hard-boiled eggs)
yakitori
(grilled chicken skewers),
onigiri
(rice balls) and
takoyaki
(savory dough balls filled with octopus). Refreshing drinks like beer, wine, and sodas are available for enjoyment. Kids can participate in festive games and have the chance to win little prizes, enhancing the overall celebratory experience.

Experience a Thrilling Raya Celebration at Resorts World Genting!

Experience a Thrilling Raya Celebration at Resorts World Genting!

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Organize a laid-back yet lively vacation for your entire family’s delight at Resorts World Genting (RWG), Malaysia’s top integrated resort, until April 20, 2025! This magical entertainment center high up in the sky is welcoming Eid celebrations with magnificent decorations, captivating shows, and numerous offers to create an incredibly unforgettable experience! Let’s celebrate Hari Raya at the summit!

Honoring Malay craftsmanship through batik-themed decor

Inspired by the enchanting allure and distinctiveness of batik, the resort’s signature Kimhua Atrium exudes opulence with elaborately crafted hanging lanterns and arcs adorned with twinkling fairy lights. Vibrant flowers, butterflies, classic kites, and larger-than-life hibiscus patterns featuring batik borders frame an impressive batik archway. On either side of the stage stand six photogenic booths showcasing elements of Malaysian culture and heritage for picture-perfect moments.


Cherubic characters dressed up in traditional Raya attire

Join us in welcoming our charming Genting Highlands’ heroes dressed up in festive Raya attire! Catch them performing amusing acts at Kimhua Atrium between 2:30 pm – 3:00 pm and 4:30 pm – 5:00 pm, along with shows at Skytropolis Indoor Theme Park from 3:30 pm – 4:00 pm and 5:30 pm – 6:00 pm until 20th April.

Ethnic dances

Enjoy an array of cultural dance performances! Admire the skillful moves of our troupe of dancers presenting Traditional Raya Dance shows regularly between 12 noon and 9 pm each day at Kimhua Atrium from 29 March through 13 April. Meanwhile, Raya Dance exhibitions are taking place at Skytropolis every day from 4pm to 4:13pm up until 20 April. Also, catch Raya Mana Dancers dressed in batik attire performing daily at 6pm at Kimhua Atrium until 20 April.

Sand painting and batik artwork

Satisfy your artistic impulses and create stunning batik masterpieces! Visit our batik painting and sand art area to dive into colors and creativity with your loved ones. These public-accessible events run daily from 10 am until 10 pm at Kimhua Atrium.

Game of “Grab the Ketupat”!

Shopaholics have the opportunity to win special rewards through the ‘Catch The Ketupat’ challenge held at SkyAvenue Mall! As your spending increases, so do your odds of securing exclusive items like cash or discount coupons, limited-edition Hari Raya decorative plates and scented candles, handmade batik notepads paired with stylish lanyards, RWG Diamond Jubilee kits, and much more! If you wish to join in, just show evidence of an expenditure amounting to RM300 for Genting Rewards Cardholders or RM350 for those without cards across two separate bills at the mall’s Info Center located on Level 1 near Zouk Atrium. Every entrant gets up to two attempts to claim their prize. Please check terms and conditions before participating.

Fuuhhh! Staycation

Wrapping up the sweet Eid promotions, the jungle-surrounded Resorts World Awana is providing from now until March 31st, their Superior Deluxe Room starting from RM202 for stays between April 1st and June 30th. For those interested in the Super Deluxe Sixers with two Queen-sized beds and two Super Single bunk beds at the resort, these can be booked for RM342 nett for GRC members and RM380 nett for non-members.

Book early at the unique Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park hotel and enjoy savings of up to 70% on your room!

To learn more about lodging options and current deals at the resort, kindly head over to
rwgenting.com
.

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Glampers Beware: Residents Call Site a “Field of Nightmares”

Glampers Beware: Residents Call Site a “Field of Nightmares”

A county council in County Antrim is looking into a glamping location after claims surfaced that it violated planning regulations.

Cotters Park, located close to Randalstown, was proposed to Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council as a “back-to-nature, sustainable” destination for food tourism.

However, residents in the vicinity have referred to it as a “loud party location” and a “nightmare field.”

A representative from A Cotters Park stated that they have “carried out an extensive planning process,” and they aim to “promote environmentally conscious” tourism in the region.

The proprietors of Cotters Park initially proposed a ‘culinary tourism idea,’ which involved hosting cooking demo evenings led by nearby culinary experts for guests.

A planning document stated that visitors would have the chance to taste regional products and buy goods from the nearby farm store.

Since its inauguration in December 2023, it has been home to bridal showers, weddings, and various gatherings featuring DJs, bands, and live performances.

These activities were not included as possible uses in the initial planning application, and Cotters Park did not refute them occurring when questioned by LIFEHACKNI.

Posts on social media advertised “catering, entertainment, bar services, etc.,” however, Cotters Park lacked an entertainment license.

A cabin was constructed at the center of an island within the development area, with the developer stating that it would “stay undisturbed” for the sake of local wildlife.

The cabin was advertised on social media as a “bar and event venue” or “partying area on the island.”

Locals sometimes say it embraced a “Love Island theme.”

The Residents Against Cotters Park organization stated: “The construction completed hardly resembles what was approved in terms of size and purpose.”

The site received approval for six pods and a welcome center, yet there are presently seven pods serving as accommodations onsite.

Additionally, there are saunas, hot tubs, and other facilities that were not initially authorized.

Cotters Park is seeking approval for retroactive planning permissions to keep those.

Neighbors have likened the location to an airport runway and mention that the brightly lit decorations are considerably diminishing the region’s rustic ambiance.

They have expressed concerns that the neon lights installed at the fronts of the cabins are affecting wildlife.

A study on ecological impact released in February revealed that “there has been a significant decrease in both the number of bats and their level of activity…”

The report stated that this largely stems from the inadequate present conditions of amenity lighting.

‘A living nightmare’

Bernie Crossan, who belongs to the local opposition group, stated that the developer has carried out nearly unrestricted development of the area, greatly exceeding the planning permissions that were approved.

“The establishment has become a nightmarish reality for numerous long-term local inhabitants,” stated Ms. Crossan.

She emphasized that we urgently require the local Council’s intervention to bring an end to this torment.

The Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has stated that the location is still undergoing an enforcement inquiry.

A representative further stated: “The council treats all aspects of enforcement with seriousness and is unable to share particular details regarding the investigation… as doing so might adversely affect potential legal actions.”

Local politician ‘somewhat misled’

The Alliance Party MLA John Blair had formerly backed the project but expressed that he now feels “misinformed” regarding its planned purpose.

“As evident, what has occurred significantly deviates from what was initially promised to me,” he stated to LIFEHACKNews NI.

Neon lighting, themed parties, live music, and light pollution are completely different from my expectations. Furthermore, an island that was advertised to me as a natural attraction has now been developed.

Mr Blair stated that the development “does not align with sustainable rural development and rural economic goals as it lacks suitability and proportionality.”

‘Committed to environmental stewardship’

A representative from Cotters Park stated that they “carried out an extensive planning process.”

The council carried out an assessment at Cotters Park and determined that the authorized cabins meet both the planning consent conditions and the stipulations set forth by the Caravan Act. They also mentioned that Cotters Park is collaborating with the council regarding another planning submission for the location.

Past social media mentions of bars, events, or party spaces at the location have been taken down, and a liquor license is unnecessary since alcohol isn’t provided at Cotters Park.

Cotters Park stated that they have recently installed “lighting with red bulbs, low wattage, and hoods to increase wildlife and bat activity in the vicinity.”

The representative further stated that Cotters Park is dedicated to environmental responsibility and has made investments to aid local habitats through the placement of owl boxes, birdhouses, and bat nests.

Eco-studies verify that hedgerows, ponds, and other plant life with significant ecological diversity and conservation significance have been preserved and improved upon, offering increased benefits for wildlife within the area.

The representative further stated: “Cotters Park does not provide drink packages, and there is aNoise Management Plan established at the location.”

2 Pilihan Elok Glamping di Banten: Tempat Ideal untuk Staycation Selama Libur Lebaran 2025

2 Pilihan Elok Glamping di Banten: Tempat Ideal untuk Staycation Selama Libur Lebaran 2025


Lifehack My ID

– Simak baik-baik dua rekomendasi hotel atau resort keren bertema glamping di Provinsi Banten, yang pas buat staycation saat Libur Lebaran Idul Fitri 2025.

Satu lagi, terletak di Kawasan Wisata Pantai Anyer-Carita yang ada di Provinsi Banten.

Satu lagi terletak di Kota Cilegon, Banten.


Tiga Saran Tempat Wisata Gunung Menakjubkan di Banten Untuk Berpiknik Saat Cuti Lebaran Tahun 2025

Berikut daftarnya:


Glamping di Anyer Banten

Di kawasan wisata Pantai Anyer-Carita terdapat sebuah resor bertema glamping yang luar biasa menakjubkan.

Namanya adalah Kadena Glamping Dive Resort.

Resor ini sangat sesuai digunakan sebagai tempat staycation bagi para pembaca Tribun ketika sedang berlibur.

Kadena Glamping Dive Resort adalah lokasi peristirahatan yang relatif baru berada di Kawasan Wisata Pantai Anyer-Cinangka.

Resor ini terletak di Jalan Raya Anyer-Sirih Nomor 126, Sindanglaya, Kecamatan Cinangka, Kabupaten Serang, Provinsi Banten.

Menampilkan ide dari glamping, Kadena Glamping Dive Resort menawarkan pengalaman unik dan berbeda.

Resort ini tidak hanya memperlihatkan pantainya saja, tetapi juga menyajikan taman-taman berkolam renang yang luar biasa.

Resor dapat menjadi pilihan untuk liburan tinggal sejenak yang nyaman, memberikan pengalaman seperti bermalam di alam terbuka namun dengan dilengkapi fasilitas premium.

Impresi awal dari resor ini begitu menakjubkan dan memukau, dilengkapi dengan halaman hijau yang terawat dengan baik beserta pohon-pohon kelapa lebat hampir di seluruh bagian area.

Aktivitas yang bisa dilakukan di sini, antara lain berjalan-jalan area resort dengan suasananya yang masih sangat asri dengan barisan pohon kelapa.

Tersedia juga aneka fasilitas water sport seperti bermain jet ski, banana boat, dan wahana lainnya.

Tertarik staycation di sini? Tarif menginap per malam di Kadena Glamping Dive Resort dipatok kurang lebih mulai Rp 1 jutaan.

Walaupun cukup pricey, tetapi worthed dengan berbagai fasilitas yang disediakan.


Pengalaman Glamping di Cilegon Seperti Berada di Ubud Bali

Di Kota Cilegon, Provinsi Banten, ada wisata kolam renang, sekaligus vila dan glamping keren.

Namanya adalah Panorama Hills.

Lokasinya berada di Jalan. Cikerai, Kelurahan Cikerai, Kecamatan Cibeber, Kota Cilegon, Provinsi Banten.

Panorama Hills merupakan destinasi wisata villa, glamping, kolam renang dan kafe yang mirip seperti di Puncak Bogor atau di Ubud Bali.

Vila dan glamping Panorama Hills ini sangat cocok untuk staycation atau liburan bareng keluarga, atau kekasih halal.

Panorama Hills memiliki satu vila saja, serta tiga unit glamping.

Biaya penginapan setiap malam di Vila Panorama Hills adalah Rp 3.500.000 untuk enam orang.

Untuk glamping, harga per malamnya dimulai dari sekitar Rp 700 ribu saja.

Panorama Hills menawarkan kafe dan kolam renang yang cantik, di mana Anda dapat menikmati view pegunungan yang asri dan mempesona.

Kolam renang dan kafe di Panorama Hills buka untuk publik, tidak perlu menginap di vila atau glamping.

Tarif berenang di Panorama Hills tanpa menginap, adalah Rp 50 ribu untuk anak-anak, dan Rp 100 ribu untuk dewasa.

Tergolong agak mahal memang, namun harga itu untuk menjaga kualitas kolam renang, agar tetap prima, dan tidak berjubel dipenuhi banyak pengunjung.

Pemandangan yang indah dari kolam renang juga menjadi nilai plus tersendiri.

Kolam renang dan kafe di Panorama Hills dibuka pada hari kerja dari jam 11.00 hingga 20.00 WIB.

Pada hari libur akhir pekan, tempat tersebut dibuka dari jam 13.00 hingga 21.00 WIB.


3 Saran Tempat Wisata Menarik di Pulau-pulau Cantik Pandeglang Banten Buat Aktivitas Outing Saat Cuti Lebaran Tahun 2025

Tiap hari Sabtu dan Minggu malam, Panorama Hills menyajikan hiburan musik langsung, sebab jumlah kunjungan ke tempat ini meningkat di waktu weekend.

Pemandangan di Panorama Hills di Cilegon dapat menjadi opsi bagi para wisatawan sebagai gantian dari kawasan wisata Anyer, cocok untuk liburan dan menginap pada hari Sabtu-Minggu.

Yuk jangan ragu-ragu, mari kita berlibur ke Banten!