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Island-Hopping the South Pacific

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Island-Hopping the South Pacific: New Caledonia, Mystery Island, and Dravuni Island The South Pacific has always held a certain magic for me — a mix of wild beauty, rich cultures, and that irresistible laid-back island vibe. On a recent trip, I had the chance to experience three incredible destinations: New Caledonia, Mystery Island in Vanuatu, and Dravuni Island in Fiji. Each place offered something unforgettable, from cultural discoveries to lazy days in crystal-clear waters. Mystery Island, Vanuatu Nouméa, New Caledonia: A Touch of France in the Pacific My journey began in Nouméa, the capital of New Caledonia, where French influence blends seamlessly with Melanesian heritage. Of course, the waters were every shade of blue I had dreamed about — perfect for snorkeling and swimming. But beyond the beaches, Nouméa surprised me with its culture and history. I visited Coconut Palm Square , home to the Celeste Fountain , built in 1892 — a lovely, shaded place that felt like a little E...
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Qatar

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  Discovering Qatar: A Blend of Old and New When I stepped out of the airport in Doha, I thought I knew what to expect — a city similar to Abu Dhabi or Dubai. In some ways, that was true. The skyline, partially shrouded in fog, felt familiar. But as I traveled from the airport to my hotel, I realized Qatar had its own distinct character. The landscape was sparse, just as I had imagined — few trees, mostly artificial palm trees lining the boulevard. Yet, as we passed a palace, I was struck by the sight of guardsmen on horseback riding around the palace. (I found out later that the palace was not the royal residence but a meeting place) That moment felt like stepping into another place and time — a reminder that I was truly in a foreign land. My hotel was in the old town, conveniently close to several museums. From my room, I could see the National Museum of Qatar, a stunning building with its desert rose-inspired design. Visiting the museum, along with the Museum of Islamic Art...
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Madagascar

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My visit to Madagascar was an unforgettable experience, filled with vibrant scenery, rich culture, and fascinating wildlife. Starting from the east coast, we journeyed across Nosy Be, a lush island known for its beaches and biodiversity. Our destination was Nosy Komba, famously known as the “Island of the Lemurs.” The journey took us past the verdant Lokobe Mountain, a stunning green expanse that added to the island’s natural beauty. Eventually, we arrived at a small village, where I had a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals. Children played joyfully around the village school, and it was clear that tourism — particularly visits to see the lemurs — played a significant role in supporting the community. As we approached the trail leading to the forest and the lemur sanctuary, vendors lined the path, selling colorful pareos and scarves in vibrant colors. Their cheerful displays added a lively charm to the surroundings. Once inside the sanctuary, we encountered numerous lemurs. The ...
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Seychelles

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  A Journey Through Seychelles: Beaches, Spices, and Natural Wonders Seychelles had always been on my travel list, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer beauty of this island paradise. From the moment I arrived in Mahé , the capital, I knew I was in for a special experience. My first stop was one of Mahé’s famous beaches, where I was introduced to the turquoise waters and soft sands that Seychelles is known for. Snorkeling was on the agenda, and while the experience of floating in the warm Indian Ocean was calming, I didn’t see as many fish as I had hoped. Nevertheless, the tranquility of the water and the breathtaking surroundings made up for it. From the coast, I ventured inland to a spice garden , where the air was rich with the aroma of nutmeg, cinnamon, and other exotic spices. Walking through the garden was like stepping into a world of scents, each one telling a story of Seychelles’ trade history and culinary traditions. Our guide introduced us to Coco de Me...
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