Elle-Rose /

The 5 Most Terrifying Travel Destinations in the World

Most of us travel zealots like to take vacations to destinations that prove to be exotic and tranquil. Ideal excursions to white sandy beaches, such as Carillon Beach, Miami, have been a great preference for most, while safari expeditions, such as in Masai Mara, have amassed a massive fan base.

While we may live in a big, beautiful world, our planet certainly has its fair share of some of the horrifying and mysterious places—destinations just waiting for that morbidly inclined tourist to go visit. From the eternally-burning pit in middle Turkmenistan to islands swarming with flesh-melting snakes to a tiny village in Japan where life-sized dolls outnumber the residents just about 10:1, here are some of the scariest places on earth.

Hoia Baciu Forest, Romania

Any forest can turn into a creepy and terrifying ground for bloodshed and other types of crime, but Hoia Baciu Forest, just outside Cluj-Napoca, Romania’s second city, has a rep of being the most haunted and ghostly forests on the planet.  The trees stop in a uniform oval, where nothing grows, and where, according to official reports, nothing has grown.

This place has defied the investigations of soil scientists and has attracted Romanian witches, sword-wielding Americans, and yoga devotees who have attempted to cleanse the forest of its evils. Known as the Bermuda Tringle of Romania, many visitors have reported ghost sightings, UFO detections, and other mysterious events. And oh, if you think you can enter the forest with your smartphone and use it to find help if you need it, think again.

Hoia Baciu Forest

Some of those who have been there report that electronic devices start to malfunction as soon as you enter the forest. Others report strange symptoms such as anxiety, nausea, and the feeling of ‘being watched’ upon entering this ground. Joggers who are brave enough to enter report of ‘Ectoplasms’ sightings.

Nagoro, Japan

Nagoro is a small village located in the valleys of Shikoku, Japan, with one very notable, but creepy feature—a life-sized doll population that outnumbers the residents approximately 10:1. The dolls are the work of an elderly local called Tsukimi Ayano, who began making these eerie toys as replicas of her neighbours who had left the village or died. The dolls can be seen in a variety of positions across the village—an elderly couple sitting on benches outside of the building, students filling entire classrooms, fishermen sitting on the riverbanks, some sitting beside the road staring at you, and more. Tsukimi made the first doll in the likeness of her dead father, and then came up with the same idea to replace her dead family members, and later her neighbours. Today, there are over 350 strange doppelgängers in the town and only about 27 humans [the youngest of them is over 50 years old]. 

most scary travel destinations

North Yungas Road, Bolivia

North Yungas Road in Bolivia is famously referred to as ‘Death Road’ for all the reasons you’d guess. To one side is solid rock and to the other a 2000-foot abyss. In between is two-way 12-foot- wide path, making it the most terrifying and dangerous road in the world. This pathway from Laz Paz to Coroico is a treacherous one considering that frightening elevation, lack of guardrails, and limited visibility due to fog and rain.

Humid winds, numerous mudslides and tumbling rocks make the pathway even more dangerous and more challenging than the horse racing track of the Kentucky Derby.

scary travel destinations

Many crosses stand as a memorial for thrill-seekers and drivers who have perished here. While the road used to see about 300 annual deaths, it has now become more of a destination for audacious mountain bikers than a vehicular thoroughfare.  Special driving rules apply to this pathway. While the rest of Bolivia drives on the right, at North Yungas Road, drivers drive on the left to allow a better view of the edge of the cliff.

Moreover, descending vehicles have the right of way and must move to the otter edge. For safe passing, drivers must stop and negotiate.

Ilha Da Queimada Grande, Brazil

Visiting Brazil’s Ilha Da Queimada Grande is prohibited! This is because the island is the most dangerous island in the world. The island is heavily populated with a swarm of venomous snakes. Located about150 kilometres off the coast of São Paulo, it is estimated that for every square meter, you’ll find at least one snake.

With subtropical landscapes, extremely rocky terrains, and isolation makes this island totally uninhabitable for humans and other mammals. This has made it possible for the snakes to thrive and populate with no human intervention or predators. The snakes have sustained themselves through feeding on migratory birds that use the island as a resting stop.

snake island brazil

The snakes, called the golden lanceheads, exist nowhere else in the world and are totally unique to Ilha Da Queimada Grande. They also happen to be some of the most poisonous reptiles on the planet. The snakes grow to more than half a meter long and possess a deadly, fast-acting venom that melts human flesh. The venom causes, a grab bag of symptoms that include intestinal bleeding, brain haemorrhaging, necrosis of muscular tissue, kidney failure, and necrosis of muscular tissue.

Darvaza Gas Crater, Turkmenistan

The real-life hell on earth in the Turkmenistan desert has been burning for more than four decades now. It was a scientific project gone horribly wrong. In 1971, a group of Soviet scientists started an expedition to assess what the thought was a substantial oil field in the middle of Turkmenistan Karakum Desert. Little did they know that beneath the ground was a massive natural gas field, and as soon the scientists started their drilling, the ground collapsed into a gaping crater.

It swallowed all the researchers and their camp. Fearing the spread of the poisonous gas, a group of other scientists set the crater ablaze, tearing a hellish hole of vicious flames all around the crater. They hoped that the flames would burn out within a few days to a week. It’s been 40 years!

The locals have nicknamed the Darvaza Gas Crater ‘The Gates of Hell’ or ‘The Door to Hell.’ It seems the terrifying pit of fire will never burn off. But, this hasn’t stopped thrill seekers from visiting this eternal inferno. Some even set camps around the gas field. 

These are the 5 scariest places on earth. Luckily, the world is also home to some of the most beautiful holiday destinations in the world.

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Elle-Rose /

4 Common Hiking Injuries And How You Can Treat Them

Undoubtedly, injuries are an inevitable part of any adventure.

And, the first thought that strikes our mind when we mention hiking injuries is ‘prevention’. Obviously, because “Prevention is better than cure.”

However, do you feel learning to prevent them is enough? We don’t. 

In fact, we believe:

Knowing how to treat them is as essential to knowing how to prevent them. 

That being said, we have listed four of the most common hiking injuries below followed by the ways to treat them, just in case. 

Blisters 

Even the toughest of hikers are prone to blisters. Although these are relatively one of the minor injuries yet are the cause of extreme discomfort. Long story short, they can turn any memorable hiking experience into a bitter one! 

They are caused due to the friction between your skin, ill-fitting socks, and the moisture that gets trapped inside the footwear. Make sure to keep your feet dry and opt for moisture-wicking socks, especially those who sweat a lot.

So, you tried your best to prevent them but these nasty blisters just wouldn’t let go. In such a case, treat them by washing the affected area with soap and water and then follow these steps:

  1. Sterilize the affected area with iodine swab
  2. In case the blister is in tact, insert a sterilized needle into the sides 
  3. Apply a little antibiotic ointment and cover it with a gauze 
  4. Check the wound time and again and replace the gauze as needed

Sprains 

Sprained ankles are one of the most common injuries amongst hikers. Thanks to the rugged terrains of the mountains. 

While these are very mild injuries, yet sometimes they can be really painful and prevent you from walking comfortably. 

Prevention is simple: You just need to invest in a quality pair of hiking boots. Make sure they are sturdy and provide enough support to your ankle. However, if you fall prey to sprained ankles and they are really painful, firstly keep yourself warm and comfortable. Rest as much as possible and apply ice. This will reduce the pain and will speed up the healing process. 

Furthermore, apply pain reliever onto it for easy relief. Once you do, cover the affected area with an ace bandage. 

Cuts

Just like the other two, cuts are also one of the most common hiking injuries. The bad news is that they can happen anytime, anywhere. Whether you’re on an uneven ground and you fall or it is the trees’ branches to blame, preventing cuts is almost next to impossible.

Treat a small cut by disinfecting the wound, applying an antiseptic over it, and covering it with a bandage. Yes, that’s it. You can get back on the trail now. 

In the case of deep cuts, tie a piece of clothing tightly over the wound immediately so as to stop the bleeding. You need to seek medical assistance there and then. 

Sunburn

We’re all already aware of what sunburn is. So, I won’t stress on this information. Instead, I’ll come to the main point directly. This is one of the most painful and irritating hiking injuries experienced by adventurists. Especially those who have relatively sensitive skin and if you are hiking in the summer months. 

For prevention, make sure to apply a sunscreen of SPF 25 or more on all the exposed parts of your body 20 minutes prior to stepping out. It is most effective then. Moreover, a cap or a hat is a must so as to prevent the sun rays coming on top of your head directly.

Treatments include applying ice packs over the affected area (wrapped in a piece of clothing). Besides, you can also apply aloe vera and other sun remedies that have a cooling effect on the human skin.

Final Word

Now that you’re aware of the most common hiking injuries and ways to prevent and treat them, pack your backpack accordingly.

Make sure to include all the necessary items in your first aid kit. Most importantly, dress appropriately. I.e. according to the climate and cover yourself properly. Carry an additional layer if required (Even if it means carrying a tactical vest too!)

Happy hiking!  

 

 

 

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Elle-Rose /

6 Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents and How You Can Avoid Them

Motorcycles are associated with the word danger but also the words fun and exciting. Motorcycles offer not only the good feeling of adrenaline but the sleek and cool look when you are riding. But every rider knows there is precaution he must take while riding on the streets. As a motorcyclist, you should be practicing safe driving skills and defensive mechanisms that help you avoid traumatic accidents.

Motorcycles accidents are more prominent than car accidents as riders are more susceptible given that they are smaller and more hidden. Cars, especially big ones, may have a hard time seeing a motorcycle on the road, so it is a must that motorists wear appropriate clothing and have quality lights to make sure they are seen by other drivers. Whether you are traveling long distances or down the street, you should always wear your motorcycle gear for your protection. The motorcycle gear you must wear includes:

  • Helmet
  • Eye Protection
  • Jacket
  • Gloves
  • Pants
  • Boots

It can be very dangerous to get in a motorcycle accident and can lead to fatal injuries. You must know the common causes of motorcycle accidents to be able to prepare yourself and be alert. Here are some of the accidents you will hear about when it comes to motorcycle dangers on the road.

Left Turning Cars

Left turning cars are the most common cause of motorcycle accidents because the person usually cannot see you. Sometimes the driver cannot determine the speed accurately and crash into a motorcyclist. Make sure you see them coming first so that you avoid getting hit. Pay attention to their car and its movement. Also, look to see if they are telling you which direction they are going (i.e. blinker or hand signal). Focus on the wheel angel too to determine when and which way a car is turning.

If you need to turn first make sure you see that they see you. Slow your speed to make sure you can tell what their next move is.

Lane Switching

Switching lanes on a motorcycle can be dangerous if you aren’t being defensive and paying attention to your surroundings. It is also dangerous when a car needs to change lanes and doesn’t see you. This can lead to a very serious motor accident and cause fatal injuries. Cars have blind spots and you should avoid them like the plague. They are death zones for you as a motorcyclist because you won’t be able to react within enough time to get out of the way. It is advised that motorcycles stay out of blind spots and pay attention to a cars turn signal. You can easily determine if a person is thinking about getting over by the way they are turning their head.

Head-On Collision

Head-on collisions are more popular among motorcycle accidents than you may think. This is usually when a car strikes a bike head-on and can be fatal for the motorcyclist. 

Head-on collisions usually happen when both vehicles are driving at high speeds and result in the rider being thrown from their bike into a hard surface. The chances of surviving this type of accident are decreased as it is one of the most fatal accidents.

Rear-Ending

Getting rear-ended in a car may not seem like such a danger, but when you are riding a motorcycle you are more exposed and therefore more susceptible to injury or motorcycle damage. When a car hits a motorcycle from behind, even at low speeds of 20 mph, the motorist can get seriously injured. You should be aware of your surroundings and be able to gauge how fast a car is coming behind you.

It is beneficial to flash your brake lights often so that the car behind you knows that you are slowing down or stopping. Staying to the side of the road instead of the middle can save you time that is taken to get out of a car’s way if they are going too fast.

Riding Too Fast

High-speed motorcycle accidents are quite common as well. Many motorcycle riders find it exhilarating to ride at fast speeds, but this can be extremely dangerous and lead to fatal injuries. Not only is it easier to lose control when you are going at fast speeds but also makes you more susceptible to collisions.

You should always operate your motorcycle at safe speeds, especially when you are on the road with other vehicles. The speed limit is there for a reason and you should abide by it for your safety and others’ as well. You can enjoy the capabilities of your motorcycle but try to think about the possible accidents that may happen. If you want you can find interesting curvy roads for a thrill or search for speed parks special for the riders that want to ride at high-speeds in a safe environment.

Open Car Doors

You have to be well aware when riding a motorcycle because others are not thinking about you. Motorcycles colliding with open car doors can lead to serious injury. It can be a very unlucky moment for you if you run into an open door. Majority of the time this is caused by a driver who didn’t look in their mirrors before opening their doors. Perhaps they just didn’t see you at all.

Try to keep enough space between you and the vehicles parked on the side of the road. If you notice that someone may be exiting their vehicle, slow your speeds to be safe. You want to be ready to take defense by having your fingers on the brake and ready to honk your horn if you need to.

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Elle-Rose /

Top Bucket List Activites to Do Before Actually “Kicking the Bucket”

Everyone has their bucket list destinations they want to visit before they actually “kick the bucket.” Greece, New York, and Fiji are all destinations that people want to visit before they die but what about the activities people want to do before kicking the bucket? It’s all about the experiences you encounter while visiting these breathtaking destinations.

What Exactly is a Bucket List?

So now the question is, what makes a particular activity “bucket list” worthy? Does it simply have to be something you’ve never done before or is it more to it than that? Well, for most people, it means doing something extreme that you’ve never done before and doing it before you die. According to bucketlistjourney.net, the definition of bucket list is much simpler. It’s a collection of dreams and goals that you want to accomplish before you reach a certain age or before you die; things you want to do within your lifetime, in short.

Now, you would prepare for your bucket list the same way you would prepare for any vacation. You will need to figure out where you want to go, look for vacation rentals, budget and save, and of course, don’t forget to bring a little bit of courage with you in case you need it! Regardless of the destinations that are on your bucket list, remember, it’s all about the experiences you have while in those destinations.

If you have a bucket list at home that you’ve created, try revisiting it to see if it’s based on the destination or on the experience you’ll have in that destination. If it’s based on the destination, consider looking into these top bucket list activities that will take you all over the world.

Bucket List Activities From Across the Globe

Mexico: Go Swimming Alongside Friendly Whale Sharks

The two words “friendly” and “shark” typically don’t go together, right? When people hear the word shark, everyone’s minds automatically go to the movie Jaws. Well, have no fear, that’s not the case with the whale sharks in Mexico. Kids can even swim with these gentle creatures.

There are various tour boats in Mexico that will take you to the whale shark sweet spot to dive in and swim amongst these gentle giants. It will definitely be a moment you will never forget. For one, the ocean water in Mexico is absolutely divine in temperature. Secondly, swimming alongside these harmless sharks will not only make the ocean more beautiful but it will also change your opinion of the ocean and sharks in general… they’re not all bad!

How’s that for an unforgettable experience to check off your bucket list!

Africa: Get to Know the “Motherland” on an African Safari

A lot of times when people think of Africa, they think of all the negative parts of it without seeing the beauty in it. The best way to see Africa and all the beauty it has to offer visitors is to go on an African safari. Africa is a big continent so there are several safaris you can go on whether it’s in Zambia or Uganda. In fact, African Safaris is one of the top reasons people add Uganda to bucket lists!

Imagine being able to see majestic animals like lions, giraffes, zebras, and elephants up close and personal. The animals that you only see in movies and on TV are right before your eyes. Yes, you can go see them at a zoo but this is a totally different experience.

A zoo can’t give you an experience like this!

Jamaica: Go Horseback Swimming in the Ocean

No need for cowboy boots or Wrangler jean for this particular experience because you don’t need any shoes or pants at all for this type of horseback riding… and it’s not even riding! It’s horseback swimming!

One of the best experiences you will ever have in your life is going to Jamaica and riding a horse through the hills of Jamaica which eventually turned into a horseback swim. The horseback ride and swim is located in Montego Bay, Jamaica. With this particular experience, you will start off riding through the farmlands of Jamaica, which is narrated by a tour guide, of course, and then you then enter the water.

Upon entering the water, while still on horseback, you can feel the rocks and sand under the horse’s hoofs. It will at times feel like the horse is going to lose their balance but horses are graceful creatures and they will keep steady on the path. Once you enter the water on the horse, that’s when you see the horse’s true beauty.

If you think you know all about horseback riding, try horseback swimming in the ocean!

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What You Need To Know About Mountain Hiking Before Your Next Adventure

Mountain hiking is the gift that keeps on giving and the lesson that keeps on teaching. No matter how many times you hike a mountain – be it Everest or Kilimanjaro or Teide – there are still so many things you discover and learn along the way.

From ways to pack effectively, the best kind of walking boots and the best time of year to go hiking in different climates and countries, it’s obvious there’s just so much that goes into being a knowledgeable mountaineer. So, without further ado, here’s what you need to know about mountain hiking before your next adventure.

  1. Endurance is key

Maybe you’ve already figured this one out, but maybe you haven’t. Basically, your endurance is key to your mountaineering success.

Hiking mountains takes a lot of mental and physical persistence, so it’s important that you practice testing yourself and pushing yourself to the limit. The longer you spend at the gym, or the harder you push at the gym, the stronger your endurance.

It’s important to be able to persist when mountain hiking because it often gets tough up there. You need to physically handle the strain on your body when you’ve been going for six hours, and mentally handle the pressure of any negative self-talk when hiking.

  1. Packing smart is easy

The number one packing technique for hikers and travellers is always to roll clothes to make more room. It’s a good tip, but it doesn’t necessarily make life any easier or your clothes any drier.

If you’re heading somewhere with the chance (or certainty) of rain or snowfall, you should buy a dry bag. In fact, you should buy a few dry bags seeing as they are so handy for organising your stuff and keeping it dry.

A dry bag is basically just a waterproof bag, secured with a clip lock after you’ve rolled the top of the bag to get rid of the air inside. It will prevent your clothes (particularly underwear and socks) from getting wet, as well as camera batteries, chargers and power banks. That’s what we call a packing hack.

  1. Freezing nights aren’t always necessary

When mountain hiking in colder locations, it’s easy to fall into a trap of pitching the tent in somewhere ‘protected’, like a valley or meadow. But, actually, that’s a bad idea – and it’ll leave you freezing.

Pitch up on the flattest surface that is above any valleys or meadows, but below the next considerable ascent. This way you won’t be freezing (especially if you position the smallest side of your tent towards the wind) and are in a good position to start the next day’s hiking.

And to add an extra level of cosy, drink something hot before you sleep.

  1. Always pack sunglasses

Sure, we might have just been talking about rain and snow, but sunglasses are actually pretty important when mountain hiking. Oh, and you should also pack sunscreen just in case.

Although it might not be very warm up there, the sun still exists – and it still likes to get in your eyes when you’re hiking up a particularly tricky patch. Up in the mountains you expose yourself to high intensity UV light rays and a multitude of bright reflections from snow and glaciers. All of this can damage your eyes and your health, sometimes making a hiker dizzy and suffering from temporary blindness.

We recommend investing in a good pair of sunglasses designed for adventure trekking and hiking. They’re usually funky colours and not the kind you’d see advertised by Gucci or Chanel. But then again, who ever saw Coco Chanel mountain hiking?

  1. Bring extra food

One very easy mountain hiking mistake that is often made is not bringing enough food. It is vital that you can provide the fuel necessary for your body to keep on climbing, but it’s just as important to be able to provide for the smaller refuelling requirements.

You’re working your body harder than usual by making it hike a mountain, so it naturally gets hungrier. Pack extra food in the form of snacks, like some nuts, dried fruit and maybe a couple of packets of your favourite sweets.

Happy hiking! We hope this tips will inspire your next journey.

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Elle-Rose /

Best Things To Do In Antarctica

Antarctica is world-renowned as one of the last true wildernesses on earth. This is largely thanks to the Antarctic Treaty which prevents any infrastructure or permanent human impact upon the land. When the Antarctic Peninsula first comes into sight from your ship, you’re instantly struck by just how remote and wild Antarctica truly is. A land of rock, ice and endless sea where the sounds of waves, wind and seabirds permeate the air.

Thanks to its unique landscape and wildlife, Antarctica is now becoming one of the premiere destinations for adventurous travellers. In our modern and connected world, it’s often difficult to find a truly unique area that hasn’t got tourists crawling all over it. Antarctica is that landscape.

So, to help you start planning your adventure, I’ve written the best things to do in Antarctica.

Meet Cute Penguins

Lets face it, meeting cute penguins is one of the main reasons people visit Antarctica. These charismatic creatures will often waddle right up to you, giving you the perfect chance to snap a photo or two. During your trip you’ll see colonies of both adelie and chinstrap penguins. If you have the time (and money), I seriously suggest visiting South Georgia Island. You’ll witness colonies of king penguins over 2 million strong, not to mention 4 ton male elephant seals guarding their harem of females!

Go In Search Of Giants

One of my favourite things during my Antarctic adventure was taking zodiac trips each day to search for wildlife. The guides were very knowledgable and knew all the best spots. We saw plenty of lounging seals and, to my delight, several species of whale! One minke came right up to our small boat and looked us in the eye. That is definitely something I won’t be forgetting anytime soon! If you’re keen to spot as many whales as possible, then you should visit late in the season when they’re most active. Look out for orca, minke, and humpbacks.

Kayak Next To A Seal

Most operators, prior to departure, will give you the chance to book added activities during your cruise. One of most popular is sea kayaking. Although it costs extra – roughly $600-800 – it’s absolutely worth it. You get multiple trips during the cruise and all the equipment is provided for by the operator. You can explore icebergs, shallow bays, and quietly view seals sleeping on ice-floats. Kayaking really gives you the chance to explore the raw landscape in peace and solitude.

Visit The Lemaire Channel

The Lemaire Channel is one of the most picturesque locations in Antarctica. Stretching for 7 miles between Kiev Peninsula and Booth Island, Lemaire Channel is affectionally referred to as ‘Kodak Gap’ due to it’s photogenic landscape. Thanks to its secluded location, the waters in the channel are generally very calm, creating magnificent reflections off the surrounding glaciers and cliffs. The channel is also one of the best places to see whales, especially later in the season.

Take The Freezing Leap

One of the best things to do in Antarctica, particularly for adrenalin junkies, is the Polar Plunge. This involves being harnessed to a rope and jumping into the icy waters from your ship! I might also add that you do it without the aid of a wetsuit! Let me assure you that it is not a pleasant moment when you hit the water – in fact, it’s a horrible moment! However, after a stiff drink and a hot shower, the memory you’re left with brings a big smile to your face.

Learn Something!

Unlike standard cruises to the Med or the Caribbean, Antarctic cruises offer daily lectures from onboard experts. These lectures can be anything from geography and geology, to wildlife and photography. If you’re thinking ‘oh god, that sound a bit like school’, then think again. These lectures are absolutely fascinating, especially as you’re actually sailing through the landscape that is being discussed. Often, the more expensive cruises have more experts onboard and better lecture facilities.

Camp On The Cracking Ice

Like kayaking, camping is one of the added activities often offered by Antarctic operators. Very few people can actually say they camped out in Antartica! There really is nothing quite like camping out on the ice, listening to the sounds of seabirds and cracking ice. Don’t panic though – this is just the constantly moving ice making these noises. If you’re worried about sleeping, make sure to bring thermals and some ear plugs!   

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