The warm SoCal sun is one of the most breathtaking sights on the planet! Every evening the sun paints a picture in the sky with vibrant colors across a backdrop of endless blue water and white sandy beaches.  In many ways, it’s the perfect base for a digital nomad!
It’s time to just relax and enjoy the sunset, when you visit San Diego.
Before you start this amazing journey, I recommend using Gatwick Airport parking to save money on expensive taxis. I highly recommend you secure your own airport parking before your journey even begins.
The warm dry breeze and beautiful sights are what make this destination a spectacular holiday spot. Why not live like a local when in San Diego? Enjoy a night out with food and drink specials every Taco Tuesday. You can head over to Old Town and eat your way into bliss with discounted Margaritas and authentic Mexican tacos. If you are looking to try something new, you absolutely must have a local favorite, the fish taco! When I’m visiting Old Town, I like to make it a day and first explore the various shops of the western town filled with local handmade items and art pieces. Or perhaps you would like to walk the halls of a local mission and discover a bit of California’s history.
There’s always plenty to see and do when visiting Southern California. Maybe you would like to hop on the trolley and head to Los Angeles for the day. In Hollywood you can walk amongst the stars on the boulevard, or visit LA’s China Town where strings of lanterns decorate the streets. Maybe you would like to stay close and explore the beaches. Luckily, there are plenty of beach communities just north of San Diego. The areas of Mission Beach, Ocean Beach, and Pacific Beach each hold a unique feel so that every day at the beach can be enjoyed a different way. Sunset Cliffs and La Jolla both meet the Pacific high up on the cliff and are a great spot to photograph a sunset. Head south toward the Mexican Border and exit the last stop before Mexico, where you will Las Americanas

Premium Outlets with a wide selection of name brands and prices that can’t be beat!
When in the city I recommend you visit the gardens, art galleries, and museums of the magnificent Balboa Park. Here you can take a relaxing stroll in the warm San Diego sun or walk in the shade beneath the arches and decorated architecture. Fountains, statutes, and an outdoor theater are just some of the sights Balboa Park has to offer when it comes to arts and culture in San Diego. Just across the harbor is the gorgeous Coronado Island where you can find fabulous beaches like the Silver Strand and the famous Hotel Del Coronado. But nothing compares to a night out in downtown San Diego. The best selection of bars, clubs and prized restaurants can be found in the heart of the city known as San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter. Booking ahead with airport parking Dublin is a great way to rest at ease at the end of a long journey.
The warmth, the sand and waves of the ocean are all waiting for you in sunny San Diego.

Lucy West is a keen traveller, writer and often even dabbles in photography. Based in the beautiful Kent countryside she tries to takes time out and to write and is passionate about all things social media. You can contact her at lucy.west@parkbcp.co.uk

Somewhere in the world, there’s probably a festival going on this very minute. It can be a celebration of a religious figure, a party to signal the end of summer, or just a reason to get together and have fun. Some of these festivals are not your usual fare, as evidenced in the list below.

Hadaka Matsuri (Naked Festival), Japan

There’s nothing like a bunch of nearly naked men running through the streets in cold weather. Every summer and winter in many parts of Japan, the Naked Festival is held as a ritual of purification. Originating in Okayama, it is still the most popular of all the events throughout Japan. It draws as many as 9,000 men. The men usually wear a loin cloth, called a fundoshi, as they run through the streets and then are doused with water as part of the purification process.

Holi (Festival of Colors), India

This is one festival you don’t want to attend while wearing your finest clothes. As a matter of fact, you’ll want to pull out those clothes destined for the trash for this one. The Festival of Colors is a ritual by Hindus celebrating good over evil as well as the coming harvest of spring. People gather armed with colored water and powders which they throw on friends and family. When it’s all over, everyone is a walking rainbow. In addition, many of these celebrations include eating and drinking bhang-laced foods and drinks. Bhang is a part of the cannabis plant. This explains a lot.

Bolas de Fuego (Balls of Fire), El Salvador

This festival has been an annual event for more than 100 years. It commemorates the violent eruption of the El Playon volcano in 1658. The eruption forced the townspeople to relocate and was said to produce flaming balls of fire that destroyed the town. Today men with painted faces fling flaming rags at each other, fire codes notwithstanding. This is an event that gives the term “balls of fire” a whole new meaning.

Stiletto Run (Stiletto Laufen), Germany

Who said women weren’t tough? Women in Berlin, Germany, show their stuff in the annual Stiletto Run where they must race the length of 100 meters (approximately 109 yards) to grab up a prize of €10,000. For that kind of money, it’s a wonder men haven’t tried to take part in this event. Sponsored by Glamour magazine, one of the rules requires that heels must be at least 2.75 inches high. For most women, that’s nothing, unless she breaks a heel. Women are geniuses when it comes to dealing with broken heels, but in this contest a broken heel means disqualification.

Camel Wrestling (Deve Güreşi), Turkey

Who knew camels could wrestle? Not only can they wrestle, they’re pretty fierce about it. The tradition involves buffed-up men and camels who are bred and trained specifically for these events. The men who ride the camels wear armor or bright, extravagant costumes. One can only imagine what it’s like to be sitting atop a camel as it locks necks with another, biting and dragging its opponent before becoming victorious or falling in defeat. It might be safe to say that most people would rather be spit on by a camel than to participate in this violent event.

There are hundreds, possibly thousands more festivals around the world more bizarre and more dangerous. If you thought these were unusual, this is only the tip of the iceberg. Some festivals are just too strange to mention despite their popularity. However, some you just can’t ignore. Human nature and curiosity is a funny thing.

Many travel bloggers enjoy the location independent backpacking lifestyle where ‘home’ is a very relative term.  For most digital nomads, there comes a point in time when the gruelling pace of backpacking can take its toll.  In these types of instances, a semi-permanent base or home is often an ideal solution to cope with burnout, work on projects and save money.  There are numerous spots all over the world that cater specifically towards location independent types.  The following three cities come highly recommended:

London, England

At first glance, one may wonder ‘why’ London was included on a such a list.  Isn’t it outrageously expensive?  Indeed, London does not have the lowest cost of living but it has a number of advantages working in its favour.  Firstly, many of the main attractions in London are absolutely free!  Travel bloggers are often constantly forking over money to visit the top landmarks in a given city.  Furthermore, many of the top travel conferences are based in or near London.  It makes for an excellent city to network and build valuable contacts in the travel industry. In terms of actually getting to the city try Stansted Airport Parking to save some valuable pennies when travelling directly into the capital

Alternatively It may be worth travelling to the city from smaller, and inevitably cheaper regions of Britain, With a large amount of airports to choose from staying outside of the city is a viable option and may give you a chance to see other cities in the UK, Glasgow Airport Parking and
Belfast International Airport Parking will give you the chance to see Scotland and Maybe even Ireland if thats what you fancy!

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang is known as the cultural HUB of northern Thailand.  From elephants to massages, from Buddhist temples to night markets, this place has got it all.  From a cost of living perspective it offers the best value.  Digital nomads have been known to get by on $500-1000 a month in total expenses.  With a smorgasbord of cultural activities on offer it makes the perfect base for those wanting to try something new.

Medellin, Colombia

Medellin (and Colombia as a country) are quickly gaining traction as hot spots for digital nomads.  It’s a city that features lovely scenery, pumping night-life and gorgeous locals.  It’s especially popular with singles.  The cost of living is relatively cheap, although not as cheap as Chiang Mai.  Many predict it will continue to grow in popularity in the near future.

One of the dreams many have of becoming a successful travel blogger is having the opportunity to become location independent.  When one has achieved this level of success making money travel blogging, numerous top travel destinations are available as choice locations to be based.  What could possibly be better than waking up to gentle sounds of waves, stepping outside your door and seeing nothing but gorgeous scenery in every direction.  It’s possible to turn dream into a reality!  The following is a list of 8 dream beach destination for digital nomads:

1)  Maldives (Dream Beach Location)

Coming it at number 1 is the Maldives.  There simply isn’t a more stunning and pristine place than here.  From pampered nights to deep sea diving, this place has got it all and is popular for a reason.

2)  Langkawi, Malaysia

When your name translates to “the land of one’s wishes’ it’s easy to see why Langkawi, Malaysia comes in at number 2 on the list.  Lush green forests and pristine waters await those who visit this island situated on the Adaman Sea.

3)  Lanikai Beach, Hawaii – USA

Hawaii has some of the top beaches in all of the world and none come to mind more than Lanikai Beach.  This is the location to get your picture perfect postcard shot to show all of your friends, family and followers.

4)  Seychelles

Of all the beaches that made this list, Seychelles may have the nicest backdrop of them all.  With imposing granite boulders as a backdrop this gem of a beach shines brightly in the Indian Ocean.

5)  Bora Bora, Tahiti

Bora Bora could make even the most amateur photographer appear to be an expert.  It is just that gorgeous here.  When one is not snapping away taking photos some serious relaxation is well deserved.

6)  Nantucket Island, Massachusetts – USA

If calm waters and family friendly fun sound appealing, Nantucket Island, Massachusetts is the ideal spot for you.  Enjoy relaxing times and gorgeous sunsets here.

7)  Fraser Island, Australia

How could any list be complete without heading down under?  Fraser Island boasts the largest sand island in the world nestled just off of Queensland coast.

8)  The Hamptons, New York – USA

Come check out the playground of the plenty.  Coming in at number 8, this area is not the cheapest to be based but it has a lot to offer.

If you haven’t heard already, Chiang Mai is one of the most popular destinations for long-term digital nomads, travel bloggers and other location independent types. What makes this northern Thai cultural hub such a popular hotspot for travel bloggers? Come check out this article highlighting Chiang Mai as the perfect base for digital nomads and scroll down the page to find out ‘why’ it has achieved such distinction.

Affordability

It goes without saying that Chiang Mai is extremely affordable and welcoming for foreigners. Accommodation is cheap and plentiful, local food is both delicious and ridiculously cheap and transportation costs a fraction of what it would back home. One can potentially rent an apartment for less than $200 a month and ride around town on a scooter of bicycle as a way of getting around town.

Local Food

The delicious Thai curries that cost a fortune back home are served up at a fraction of the price in Chiang Mai. One can expect to pay anywhere from just over a dollar to less than five for a splendid local Thai meal. For those with a craving for treats back home, Chiang Mai has you covered, although it doesn’t come nearly as cheap as regional and local delicacies.

Cultural Activities

A smorgasbord of cultural activities are on offer in Chiang Mai. Fancy learning Thai Massage? Ever wanted to master the art of Thai cooking? How about learning a martial art? It’s all available in Chiang Mai as both long-term and short-term courses.

Expat Community

Chiang Mai has a thriving expat community that is supportive and well connected. Living in Chiang Mai will not make you feel like a foreigner. You’ll have the opportunity to forge relationships with locals and with other location independent sorts.

Proximity to Other Hubs

Chiang Mai might be the one of the most convenient locations geographically. One is only a overnight bus ride away from the capital Bangkok. Laos beckons mere hundreds of kilometres away. Chiang Mai even has an airport that connects one with major destinations in the region. You couldn’t ask for a better location.

Possibly the most under-rated beaches in all of the world are located in Malaysia.  With a name that translates to “the land of one’s wishes” it’s well worth hanging your hat in Langkawi beach for a significant period of time.  Lush green forest and pristine waters await you.  Situated on the Andaman Sea it’s the perfect spot to get some much needed blogging work done while earning money with your travel sites.  Langkawi is rated an impressive number 2 on Top 8 Beach Destinations For Travel Bloggers.

Considering heading down under to Australia to enjoy a location independent lifestyle.  While based in Australia don’t forget to check out Fraser Island.  It’s an ideal spot to be based while monetizing your travel blog and planning your next move.  Nestled just off of Queensland coast, this island is the largest sand island in the world.  As a World Heritage Site it offers paradise for nature lovers.  This location has something for everyone.  Fraser Island rates 7 out of 8 for beaches that digital nomads could consider basing themselves.

With calm waters that are family friendly, Nantucket Island, Massachusetts is a dream travel blogging destination for many.  For those with families this quiet area is perfect for sunbathing or castle-building.  While making money travel blogging you can enjoy the gorgeous sunsets.  It’s a location worth dreaming about.  Nantucket Islands rates as an impressive 6 on the top beaches for travel bloggers list.

It’s impossible to mention the top beaches in the world without including Lanikai Beach, Hawaii.  As one of the premier beaches in the world it offers views that will make your jaw drop.  For those already earning or aspiring to earn money with your travel blog it should be on your short list of dream locations to pop open your laptop screen.  With pristine sand, swaying palm trees and tropical plants it is consider Hawaii’s premier beach.  The water with its deep green color can make any travel photography shot look like a winner.  Lankai Beach was awarded the highly coveted #3 position for top beaches to pursue a travel blogging.

The Hamptons are often noted for being a playground for the rich.  Although making money with your travel site may not allow you to permanently stay in this location, it certainly is worth considering for a short period of time.  Located in Long Island, these beaches are the nicest in the region.  With unspoiled shorelines you’ll find yourself wandering the beaches and living the life most only dream of.  The Hamptons comes in at number 8 for the best beaches for remote travel blogging.

Few places in the world have scenery as pristine as Bora Bora, Tahiti.  If waking up in the morning to paradise sounds ideal it may well be worth considering monetizing your travel blog to the point where you can make this location a permanent fixture on your nomad trails.  As just one of the magical islands that is a part of French Polynesia, this incredible place features a protected lagoon with white sand.  Given the moniker “Romantic Island” this gem of a place is located in the South Pacific.  Bora Bora ranks amongst the top locations for travel bloggers coming in at 5.

It’s hard to imagine a more stunning and pristine destination than the Maldives to potentially hunker down while making money with your travel blog.  You won’t be sharing paradise alone.  The Maldives is a travel destinationfrequented those on vacation, honeymoon and/or divers.  Pampered nights and waking up to swim with tropical fish are just some of the activities you can potentially enjoy while basing yourself here.  The over 1000 islands are located just off of Sri Lanka.  The Maldives comes in at #1 on the 8 dream beach destinations for digital nomads.

Seychelles beach is one of the most coveted in all of the world.  With pristine turquoise waters, pinks sands and gorgeous backdrops it is a dream blogging destination.  For location independents, imagine the joy of waking up in a location such as this while going to work on your laptop.  Anse Source d’Argent shines brightly in the Indian Ocean with granite boulders looming as a backdrop.  Why not make this dream destination a reality by planning to base yourself there while you make money with your travel blog and enjoy the stunning scenery.  It should come as no surprise that Seychelles beach comes in at number 4 on the top beaches for digital nomads.