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Daily Mirror
11-07-2025
- Daily Mirror
'Underrated' hidden paradise of natural wonders that's perfect for explorers
Ecuador in South America is a country steeped in culture, rich in history and bursting with natural beauty - yet it doesn't see many tourists. Here's why it should be on your list Fancy a getaway to an under-the-radar destination? Though bursting with cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, the South American gem of Ecuador tends to slip under the tourist radar but truly deserves a spot on your bucket list. In 2023, Ecuador welcomed just shy of 1.5 million wanderers to its shores. In comparison, with a whopping 125 million holidaymakers flocking to Spain in the same timeframe, Ecuador certainly isn't topping the charts as a travellers' favourite. Yet, adventure gurus from Adventure Life have dished out all the insider info on why you should be writing Ecuador into your next adventure itinerary, reports the Express. Things to do "The archipelago consists of 19 islands and numerous smaller islets, each offering a unique glimpse into nature's unparalleled creativity, as this unique ecosystem hosts a variety of species not found anywhere else in the world." The Galápagos Islands promise remarkable encounters with the animal kingdom - snorkel alongside playful sea lions or watch in awe as giant Galápagos tortoises roam their native turf. Curious explorers can join expert-guided excursions, delving into the mysteries of the islands and their extraordinary residents. A volcanic past has sculpted the islands into an extraordinary geological tapestry, from Sullivan Bay's black lava flows to Bartolomé Island's spatter cones – the terrain is as diverse as its furred and feathered inhabitants. Rainforest The Ecuadorian Amazon, a treasure trove of biodiversity, offers guided tours through its lush greenery where visitors can marvel at exotic orchids, ancient towering trees, and an array of wildlife including vibrant macaws and the elusive jaguar. Tourists have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture of the Amazon's inhabitants, learning about their use of rainforest resources, traditional cuisine, and age-old ceremonies. For the more adventurous souls, there are options to kayak along serene rivers, trek jungle paths, or zip-line across the rainforest canopy. Nature Nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike can ascend the formidable Cotopaxi volcano, one of the planet's highest active volcanoes, or traverse the Quilotoa Loop with its breathtaking volcanic crater lake. Adventure Life highlights the cultural vibrancy of the Andes, especially during the many festivals that dot the calendar. "The Andes are also alive with cultural richness, evident in the numerous festivals that fill the calendar. One of the most vibrant is the Inti Raymi, or Festival of the Sun, which celebrates the Inca sun god and marks the winter solstice with music, dancing, and ritual ceremonies," they say. A trip to the Andes wouldn't be complete without delving into its market towns. Otavalo boasts one of South America's largest and most renowned indigenous markets, brimming with handcrafted textiles, jewellery, traditional musical instruments, and artwork. History "You can explore significant architectural landmarks such as the ornate La Compañía de Jesús, which is adorned with gold leaf interiors, and the imposing San Francisco Church, which houses masterpieces of the Quito School of Art." Quito's vibrant culinary scene is another highlight, offering everything from upscale restaurants that showcase local staples like Andean potatoes and exotic Amazonian fruits to street vendors serving up traditional empanadas and hornado. The capital's proximity to nature is best experienced at the nearby TelefériQo. The cable car provides stunning views over the city and ascends towards hiking paths on the Pichincha Volcano's slopes. "Ecuador seamlessly blends a rich history, unparalleled natural beauty, and vibrant cultural expressions into a journey that feels both timeless and essential," according to Adventure Life. "For those looking to explore beyond the familiar, Ecuador presents an unmatched choice of activities and scenery in which to immerse yourself."


India Today
22-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India Today
Festivals around the world you've never heard of but should experience once
While millions flock to popular festivals like La Tomatina, Holi, and Coachella, the true magic of travel often lies in the lesser-known, the festivals that haven't yet hit every influencer's grid but remain rich with local flavor, tradition, and unforgettable experiences. If you're seeking immersive cultural adventures and brag-worthy stories, these under-the-radar festivals around the globe are your beauty of these hidden festivals lies in their authenticity: They're not tailored for tourists but proudly preserved by communities. Whether it's a flaming Viking ship in Scotland or a river of lanterns in Korea, these offbeat cultural treasures offer unforgettable stories and genuine connections. So before you book that ticket to a mega-event, consider traveling off the beaten festival path, and let the world surprise Jinju Lantern Festival – South Korea Each October, the Nam River in Jinju is transformed into a glowing wonderland during the Jinju Namgang Yudeung Festival. Originally held to honor the souls lost in a 16th-century battle, this lantern festival now invites visitors to float messages of peace and hope down the river in thousands of handmade OctoberWhere: Jinju, South KoreaWhy Go: Picture-perfect visuals and deep emotional resonance.2. Boryeong Mud Festival – South KoreaIt may sound messy, and it is, but that's the charm. Held every July on Daecheon Beach, this gloriously mucky event attracts thrill-seekers who flock to mud wrestling pits, slides, obstacle courses, and live K-pop concerts, all in the name of fun and skincare (yes, the mud is mineral-rich).When: JulyWhere: Boryeong, South KoreaWhy Go: Equal parts chaotic, therapeutic, and Surva Festival – BulgariaIn the small town of Pernik, Bulgaria, ancient pagan rituals come alive during the Surva Festival. Locals don fur costumes and eerie masks as they perform dances to scare away evil spirits and welcome a prosperous new year. It's as haunting as it is Late JanuaryWhere: Pernik, BulgariaWhy Go: A portal into Europe's pagan past and raw cultural storytelling.4. Monkey Buffet Festival – ThailandYes, it's exactly what it sounds like. In Lopburi, Thailand, thousands of monkeys are honored with a lavish vegetarian buffet spread laid out on temple grounds. This bizarre-yet-charming event celebrates the animals that draw tourists year-round and are seen as spiritual Last Sunday of NovemberWhere: Lopburi, ThailandWhy Go: Surreal and joyfully chaotic, with monkeys stealing the show.5. Inti Raymi – PeruDating back to the Inca Empire, Inti Raymi is the Festival of the Sun celebrated in Cusco with dramatic reenactments, traditional music, colorful parades, and ancient rituals that honor Inti, the sun god. It's a deeply spiritual and theatrical June 24Where: Cusco, PeruWhy Go: Step back in time and witness living history in the Andes.6. Fete de l'Escalade – SwitzerlandGeneva's quiet streets explode with medieval pageantry during this December festival, commemorating a 1602 victory over invaders. Locals don period costumes, pour molten chocolate 'cauldrons,' and march with torches through the Old Mid-DecemberWhere: Geneva, SwitzerlandWhy Go: A blend of history, chocolate, and Swiss spirit.7. Hadaka Matsuri – JapanOne of Japan's wildest festivals, the Hadaka Matsuri sees thousands of men wearing only loincloths scrambling to catch sacred sticks thrown by priests. It's a spiritual test of endurance and a bid for good FebruaryWhere: Okayama, JapanWhy Go: A raw and intense cultural spectacle unlike any other.8. Gion Matsuri – JapanWhile this is well-known in Japan, Gion Matsuri often slips under the radar for international travelers. This month-long Kyoto festival features massive wooden floats, ancient rituals, and street food galore, a UNESCO-recognised living JulyWhere: Kyoto, JapanWhy Go: Japan's most elaborate festival that somehow still feels local.9. Up Helly Aa – ScotlandMove over Viking cosplay, this is the real deal. In Shetland, fiery processions and full Viking regalia honor Norse heritage during this epic fire festival. The climax? The burning of a giant Viking Last Tuesday in JanuaryWhere: Lerwick, Shetland Islands, ScotlandWhy Go: A dramatic blend of fire, folklore, and fierce community Cheung Chau Bun Festival – Hong KongThis quirky Taoist festival features tower-climbing contests on bamboo structures covered in buns, parades with giant papier-mache deities, and martial arts performances. It's whimsical, spiritual, and completely May (aligned with Buddha's birthday)Where: Cheung Chau Island, Hong KongWhy Go: A photogenic oddity with spiritual roots and carnival energy.