By Joanna Allen at Allen Batista Travel, Inc

Hikers will discover a treasure trove of hiking trails—rugged mountain terrain, river vistas, peaceful woods, and rippling waterfalls—in the New York tri-state area. Allen Batista Travel, Inc. spotlights five hiking destinations ranging from the dramatic rock scrambles to serene forest hikes for the beginner and experienced hiker to enjoy during the weekend.

Breakneck Ridge And Anthony’s Nose—Hudson Valley

Breakneck Ridge provides hikers with breathtaking views of the Hudson River on a trail located between Beacon and Cold Spring. The trail is known for its challenging rocky terrain. When hikers reach the top, they will see panoramic views of the Hudson River, Storm King Mountain, and the valley.

Anthony Nose is a milder yet equally rewarding hike that is just a few miles down the road. Located near the Bear Mountain Bridge, the trail slowly rises to a point overlooking a picturesque view of the bridge and the flowing river. Anthony's Nose is a less crowded, family-friendly trail in the Breakneck Ridge area.

Both hikes in the Hudson Valley demonstrate the natural beauty of this area and are well worth a day out of New York City.

Harriman State Park—Rockland and Orange Counties, NY

Harriman State Park is popular among those who enjoy the outdoors (it is more than 47,000 acres of land, with over 200 miles of hiking trails). New York State’s second largest state park boasts of thick forests, pristine lakes, and diverse landscapes that serve the less experienced and more experienced hikers.

The popular Appalachian Trail goes through the state park. The Pine Meadow Lake Trail sends hikers through quiet woods to a gorgeous lake, a perfect setting for a picnic. The Reeves Brook Loop Trail is another popular 4.4-mile trail with moderate elevation change; there are also a few waterfalls and panoramic lookouts.

The fall foliage here is a sight to behold; photographers flock here every year. However, the park is a four-season destination, offering snowshoeing and cross-country skiing during winter and hiking in the spring, summer, and fall.

Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area—New Jersey/Pennsylvania

Located at the border between Pennsylvania and New Jersey, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area has more than 109 miles of wilderness—easy river strolls and challenging mountain hikes.

The Mount Tammany Trail offers steep and rough terrain rising more than 1,200 feet. Nonetheless, the sight from the top is breathtaking to re-visualize the twisting Delaware River and its framing by cliffs.

The McDade Trail has a milder trail (through the forests and meadows) for those who want a less demanding hike. There are waterfalls, including Raymondskill Falls, the tallest in Pennsylvania, and Dingman Falls, which is easily viewed through borders.

Catskill Mountains and Kaaterskill Falls—Upstate New York

The Catskills have inspired artists, writers, and outdoor enthusiasts for a long time. Nestled only two hours north of New York City, this mountain range is a rugged, wild beauty that is quite difficult to find in the tri-state region. The Catskills feature dozens of mountains over 3,000 feet and hundreds of miles of trails and are top hiking territory.

Kaaterskill Falls is a must-visit waterfall in the area. The two-level waterfalls, which consist of a 260-plus-foot total drop, are awe-inspiring as well as photogenic.

The Devil Path is a challenging multi-day hike, and the Overlook Mountain path offers panoramic views of the Catskills.

Ramapo Mountain State Forest—New Jersey

The park has been a destination for day hikers, mountain bike enthusiasts, and dog walkers, with an area of more than six miles and more than 30 miles of trails.

Ramapo Lake Loop, a renowned 3.5-mile trail leading to a serene lake fringed by trees, offers fishing, birding, and even swimming spots during warmer seasons. The Castle Point Trail will treat the hiker to the Van Slyke Castle ruin, a dose of history, and panoramic views of the Ramapo Valley.
 
The short trails have varied elevation and scenic views, and the trails are popular with hikers seeking peace and solitude.

Where The Trails Lead

Whether hikers want to reconnect with nature, these five destinations are just starting points for nature. Strap on your boots, take your backpack, and explore the natural side of the tri-state, one trail at a time.

​Contact Allen Batista Travel, Inc to plan your next hiking adventure.

By Joanna Allen at Allen Batista Travel, Inc.

Mexico City, one of the oldest cities in North America, founded by Native Americans, is a vibrant city known for its culture, history, and cuisine. Allen Batista Travel, Inc. invites visitors to experience the magic of Mexico City on a cultural sightseeing tour.

Currency Exchange Tips

The Mexican Peso (MXN) is the official currency in Mexico. Many restaurants, stores, and hotels accept credit cards, but street sellers, markets, and tipping tour guides and drivers have no other choice but to take cash. The best exchange rate can be found in bank ATMs, rather than currency exchange kiosks at the airport or rundown street stalls.

It is also convenient to bring small bills and coins in case you want to buy something in artisan markets or eat in food stalls.

Cultural Treasures In The Historic Center

The Mexico City sightseeing tour begins in the Centro Histórico, the pulsating heart of Mexico City. Here, the magnificent Zocalo, which is one of the biggest city squares in the world, is located with a plethora of historical buildings such as the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace, where the most famous murals of Diego Rivera are located. The architecture is also an interesting mixture of native and foreign styles, with the story of the complicated past of Mexico.

Next stop is Templo Mayor, or the ruins of an ancient Aztec temple directly adjacent to the contemporary buildings. You will find a lot more of this old-versus-new theme throughout the city.

A Spiritual Journey To The Basilica Of Guadalupe

The Basilica route leads to one of the most sacred religious landmarks in the whole of America, the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The pilgrimage center is visited by an increasing number of people each year. You will find not just the new basilica in this, but even the older one, which is more than 400 years old.

Must-Visit Attractions

The Museo Nacional de Antropología showcases pre-Hispanic artifacts from the Aztecs, the Mayans, and the Olmecs, including the world-renowned Aztec Sun Stone. On the outskirts of the city, tourists can get a glimpse into early Mesoamerican life by visiting the Teotihuacan Pyramids, also known as the Pyramids of the Sun. Our adventure continues with the colorful canal rides in Xochimilco on traditional trajineras—brightly colored flat-bottom boats.

Our sightseeing adventure includes a trip to Cuernavaca and Taxco with colonial style and craftwork. Cuernavaca is renowned as the City of Eternal Spring. The neighboring Taxco has a long history as far as silversmiths are concerned, and this is why all their markets and boutiques are filled with silver jewelry. Visitors can purchase intricately made earrings and breathtaking necklaces, and also handmade home decor, while admiring the Baroque architecture, including the Santa Prisca Church.

Culinary Delights: A Taste Of Mexico City

Mexico City is known for its fine dining restaurants and for its street food. The cuisine blends indigenous and Spanish influences in the food.

• Tacos al Pastor involves marinated pork, cooked vertically on a spit and then garnished with pineapple, onions, and cilantro.
• Mole is a rich sauce composed of chocolate, chiles, and spices, which are customarily poured on chicken.
• Chiles en Nogada are little stuffed poblano peppers with walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds.
• Pozole is a pork-rich soup of hominy with a topping of fresh products.
• Enchiladas are corn-filled tortillas filled with meat, cheese, and vegetables, topped with a chili sauce.

Popular street food includes sweet snacks such as airy churros, which are most likely to be combined with hot chocolate. Guacamole and tamales complete the culinary experience in Mexico.

Tequila, Mezcal, Kahlua, Pulque, Mezcal And Other Drinks To Try

Mexico City is known for its spirits.

• Tequila is made from blue agave. can be savored neat with just a little salt and lime or with an invigorating margarita.
• Mezcal has a smoky background flavor and is produced in small batches as a more artisanal option that can be served with pieces of orange and worm salt to the full effect.
• Pulque, a fermented pre-Hispanic drink made from agave, has an earthy and thicker taste infused with fruits and herbs.
• Kahula, a sweet Veracruz-born coffee liqueur, is fashionable in mixed drinks or served on ice.

​Our Mexico City sightseeing tour will provide tourists insider knowledge of the city and an opportunity to mix and mingle with locals. Contact Allen Batista Travel, Inc. to book your Mexico City adventure.

By Joanna Allen at Allen Batista Travel, Inc.

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Costa Rica is full of breathtaking biodiversity, rich culture, and endless opportunities for soft adventure. This Central American country's small size allows for visitors to pass the cloud forest and coastline, volcano and wetland, and fields to colorful town plazas. Allen Batista Travel, Inc. offers visitors a perfect blend of cultural and natural discovery on the Costa Rica sightseeing tour.

What To Know About Traveling In The Country?

The Costa Rican Colón is the official currency. Although Spanish is the official language in the country, indigenous languages such as Bribri, Cabécar, Maleku, and Guaymí are also spoken throughout the country. English is also spoken in the country.

Nature Up Close: Volcanoes, Lakes, And Wildlife

The Arenal Volcano, a cone-like mountain, is one of Costa Rica’s well-known attractions. This grand volcano supplies the hot springs nearby for visitors to soak in thermal waters as they gaze out at the jungle and mountain beyond.

The Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge is a river safari leading to the well-renowned biodiversity in Costa Rica. As your boat cruises gracefully through the marshes, visitors will see herons, iguanas, monkeys, and maybe a coy sloth peeking through the trees.

Monteverde’s Enchanted Cloud Forest

A journey to Costa Rica is not complete without a visit to the surreal cloud forest in Monteverde. The cloud forest is known for its biodiversity and a breathtaking walk on the hanging bridges. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, visitors can zip-line over the treetops, feeling the gust of the wind and taking in the panoramic views.

In the region, there are butterfly gardens and hummingbird sanctuaries that offer calm respite, letting you get even closer to Costa Rica and all of its colorful wildlife.

Farm Life, Coffee Culture, And Culinary Traditions

Costa Rican sightseeing is not only about the natural attractions; it is also about the rhythm of rural life and local culture. Among the travel experience highlights, we have a visit to a traditional organic farm. In this case, sustainability is not a fad but rather a lifestyle. Tourists will learn how the local families use ancient methods to make cheese, cultivate fruit, and extract sugar.

A cooking demonstration featuring fresh tropical fruits straight off the tree, sizzling plantains, and handmade tortillas provides visitors with a taste of Costa Rica. Our sightseeing tour visits a coffee plantation to learn about how volcanic soil, altitude, and climate work together to produce world-famous beans. This tour is not simply coffee sipping, but coffee and life.

From Culture To Coast: San José To The Pacific

San Jose, the capital city, is a gateway to the country. The country’s rich culture can be seen in street markets, colonial buildings, museums, and contemporary artists.

The country’s scenery makes a dramatic change as you approach the Pacific coast. Guanacaste’s golden beaches are a wonderful place to swim and surf during the day and to soak in the amber-coral-colored sunset in the evening.

In the nearby town of Sámara, visitors will find a surf-town atmosphere and the local community, filled with artisans selling handcrafted jewelry.

Whether you are making your way down a river, walking across a cloud forest bridge, or hearing stories from a local farmer, Costa Rica will enchant visitors. Contact Allen Batista Travel, Inc. to book your Costa Rican adventure.

By Teller Thomas 
Dreaming of a destination where every cobblestone tells a story, the food sings with spice, and the rhythm of the drums is never far off? Look no further than Cartagena, Colombia. Allen Batista Travel, Inc spotlights a five-day, four-night sightseeing adventure offering travelers a deep dive into the Spanish, African, and Indigenous influences that make Cartagena one of the most captivating cities in the world.

A Cultural Experience That Moves You—Literally
This isn’t your typical sightseeing tour. You’ll kick things off with a walking tour through the Old Walled City, where the streets themselves hold centuries of history—from Spanish colonial rule and African enslavement to Indigenous resilience.

Then head into Getsemaní, Cartagena’s bohemian heartbeat, for a street art and foodie tour. This colorful neighborhood is a feast for the eyes and the tastebuds, filled with murals that tell stories of revolution, pride, and local joy.

Between stops, you’ll gallery hop, shop for emeralds, and snag one-of-a-kind African-inspired jewelry—all while soaking up the laid-back magic of the Caribbean coast.

And let’s not forget the dancing. You’ll join locals in a two-hour Zumba class in the plaza, learn the fundamentals of Colombian salsa, and get your hands moving during drumming lessons. The rhythm never stops, and neither will you.

From Islands To Inland Flavor
After a few days in the city, you’ll set sail for Isla de los Rosarios, a picture-perfect island paradise. Here, a seafood lunch and champagne toast await—because no trip to the Caribbean coast is complete without fresh-caught fish, ocean breezes, and a little bubbly.

Back on land, you’ll get an inside look at Palenque, the first free African town in the Americas, and discover the power of culture, resistance, and community that lives on today.

The tour also includes coffee demonstrations, rum tastings, and a night out dancing to live salsa music—because in Cartagena, the energy flows from sunrise to well past sunset.

What’s On The Plate: Must-Try Colombian Dishes
Colombian cuisine is as vibrant and diverse as its people. While some meals on this tour are not included, you’ll want to make room (and reservations) for these beloved staples:

• Arepas – Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, these cornmeal cakes are the ultimate street snack. Try them stuffed with cheese, eggs, or beef.
  
  
• Ceviche Cartagenero – Cartagena’s twist on ceviche features fresh shrimp marinated in lime juice, garlic, and spicy ají. It’s zesty, refreshing, and a coastal must.
  
  
• Sancocho – A rich stew made with meat (often fish or chicken), plantains, cassava, corn, and herbs. It’s comfort in a bowl.
  
  
• Posta Negra Cartagenera – Beef slow-cooked in a sweet and savory sauce made of Coca-Cola, onions, garlic, and spices. Best enjoyed with coconut rice.
  
  
• Patacones – Twice-fried green plantains served with hogao (a tomato-onion sauce). Crunchy, salty, and addictive.
  
  

What To Sip: Colombian Drinks To Try

• Agua de Panela – A refreshing drink made from sugarcane and lime—perfect for rehydrating after dance class.
  
  
• Lulada – A sweet and tart lime and lulo fruit drink from the Valle del Cauca region.
  
  
• Tinto – No, not wine! In Colombia, tinto is strong, black coffee, often sweetened and served in tiny cups on street corners.
  
  
• Aguardiente – Colombia’s iconic anise-flavored liquor. Sip it slowly—it's strong.
  
  
• Rum – Don’t miss a tasting of local favorites like Ron Medellín or Dictador.
  
  

Ready to Experience Cartagena Like A local?
Contact Allen Batista Travel, Inc to book your spot today and prepare for five days of flavor, rhythm, and unforgettable memories.

By Joanna Allen at Allen Batista Travel, Inc.

Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, is known for its warm hospitality, beautiful Buddha temples, and mouthwatering cuisine. Allen Batista Travel, Inc. spotlights five experiences, as well as travel tips to have a memorable visit in the “Land of Smiles.”

Understanding Currency Exchange In Thailand

In Thailand, the Thai Baht (THB) is the local currency. To a first-time traveler, it would be wise to change some money at your departure airport to cover immediate needs before proceeding to change the remainder at better Thailand rates.

Airports, shopping malls, and urban streets have plenty of currency exchange booths. Nevertheless, banks and licensed exchange desks are more likely to have better rates compared to hotels or individual booths. ATMs can be found anywhere with good rates, but check with your home bank regarding foreign transaction charges.

It is usual to use cash, particularly with street markets, tuk-tuk transports, and food vendors. The shopping malls and the high-end restaurants accept credit cards, although daily cash transactions are preferable.

Explore The Grandeur Of The Grand Palace And Wat Phra Kaew

The Grand Palace, a sacred area in Bangkok, is a glittering display of elaborate buildings, gold-covered roofs, and beautifully tended gardens that represent a former royal residence. The Grand Palace compound includes the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the most sacred temple in Thailand.

​The palace compound narrates the history of the Thais and their artistry, and every single carving and mural holds you captivated in its production detail. There is also a modest dress code to show respect: visitors should not wear shorts and no sleeveless tops.

Cruise Through Bangkok’s Canals

Bangkok is also known as the Venice of the East because locals travel by canal. It is now possible, of course, to ride a long-tail boat through the khlongs (canals) of Thonburi to experience a more traditional lifestyle. Visitors will sail past stilt wooden houses, floating markets, and exotic temples hidden from tourists.

Located on the river, Wat Arun has a shiny covering of mosaics. A boat ride will provide you with a calmer break from busy streets and a link to the history of the city.

Dive Into The Chaos Of Chatuchak Weekend Market

Chatuchak Weekend Market is one of the largest open-air markets in the world—there are more than 15,000 stalls featuring local handicrafts, vintage fashion, exotic pets, and street food. Visitors will feel the electric energy as they bargain for Thai treasures—Thai spices, art, silk scarves, and other things.

Experience The Vibrant Nightlife

Bangkok changes when the sun sets in the city. Skyline bars also have a view of the lit skyline. The city is a place that can offer everything to you in the nightlife, whether you enjoy cocktails above the city or cultural performances in the cabaret shows.

​The night markets are another memorable experience. The Khao San Road is the hub of live music, midnight munchies, and interesting people from around the world.

Immerse Yourself In Thai Culture With A Cooking Class Or Muay Thai Match

In order to gain a real idea of Thai culture, it is useful to get into its traditions. A Thai cooking class teaches food lovers how to cook items such as Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, and green curry, using fresh herbs and spices.

Muay Thai, also known as the national sport of Thailand, is not always a fight but also a well-choreographed combination of power, rhythm, and respect. It is a cultural event whose experience should be observed through the roar of the crowd and ceremonial rituals before the start of every match.

Thailand's Must-Try Delicacies

​Thai food is globally renowned as a spicy dish of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy tastes that are in excellent balance. In Bangkok, do not fail to sample some of the most popular dishes of the country.

• Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish.
• Tom Yum Goong is a spicy shrimp soup, including lemongrass and lime.
• Som Tum is spicy green papaya salad with chilies, usually.
• Gaeng Keow Wan is a hot, bright green curry with coconut milk and Thai basil.

Thai culture is based on street food. Whether it is grilled satay skewers or mango sticky rice and crispy Thai pancakes, it's hard to run out of marvelous on-the-go food. Seek out vendors who turn over lots of stock, safe and fresh issues.

Planning Your Trip With Ease

​Thailand is the ideal dream destination for many types of tourists, whether traveling alone, in families, as couples, or as a group. Allen Batista Travel, Inc. can create a memorable itinerary for your visit to the “Land of Smiles.”

By Joanna Allen at Allen Batista Travel, Inc.

Whitewater rafting is the ultimate getaway among city dwellers seeking an adrenaline rush. Allen Batista Travel, Inc. spotlights day trips to upstate New York, Pennsylvania, and the Poconos for whitewater rafting adventures that test courage, build camaraderie, and leave lasting memories.

The Majesty Of The Hudson River Gorge

The Hudson River Gorge is a destination for heart-stopping whitewater rafting adventures set against a picturesque natural landscape. The one-day whitewater rafting trip travels along 17 miles of dam-released Class III to Class V rapids, slicing through the stunning Adirondack wilderness.

The adventure starts with a good orientation on safety, which is followed by transportation to the beginning of the river. The Hudson Gorge provides strong rapids, energizing falls, as well as slower sections where rafters are able to swim or float down them under huge cliffs. The Elephant Rock swimming hole is a popular place for visitors to swim.

During the journey, trained guides guide the raft and also provide information on the circumnavigated landscape and wildlife. Guests will enjoy lunch at Riverside.

A Scenic And Milder Experience On The Delaware River

The Delaware River is a good place to start your introduction to whitewater rafting—the river has an alternating combination of Class I and II rapids with calm areas where floating along the river and gazing at nature is ideal. The rafters will paddle the banks of the trees, slide through the old historic places, and are likely to see eagles, herons, and other wildlife.

This day tour is a family-friendly activity for parents with young children. The rapids are not so wild, and the adventure feeling is quite alive.

Adventures In The Pocono Mountains

The Poconos Mountains is another destination for whitewater day trips with Class II and III rapids. The whitewater rafting adventure normally takes three or four hours on the water, and there is an experience of authentic whitewater action.

The Poconos Mountains rapids are ideal for beginners and intermediate whitewater rafters because the course yields a bit of everything: raging rapids, floats, and beautiful scenery. They commonly dam-release the rivers, so when there is a scheduled time (usually the weekend), it is good to be there, and planning is worth it. Outfitters normally offer transportation, equipment, and, in some cases, lunch, thus making the already memorable trip easy.

Group Bonding And Outdoor Fun

Whitewater rafting is more than navigating rapids: it is the creation of relationships and the creation of memories. Whitewater rafting is a wonderful team builder, family outing, or group celebration because everyone must work as one unit to navigate the rapids.

Whitewater rafting is also used by corporate teams to foster leadership and teamwork that do not take place in the office. A day of physical exercise, teamwork, and mind concentration makes it a memorable moment.

From City To River: A Hassle-Free Escape

City life in New York does not imply that people there have to travel far before they can enjoy the outdoors. The whitewater rafting tours have transportation deals that transport you to the river and back to the city on the same day. By leaving early in the morning, whitewater rafting enthusiasts can maximize the daylight and have a full day of adrenaline-pumping experience on the waters before returning home in the evening.

Planning Your Rafting Adventure

Although whitewater rafting is a safe activity with a professional whitewater rafting tour company, it is still important to prepare for your adventure. For first-time rafters, quick-dry clothes, secure water shoes, sunscreen, spare clothes, and a towel are recommended for your adventures. The whitewater rafting outfitters offer helmets, paddles, life jackets, and wet bags to hold valuables. It is important to verify age and health restrictions since many companies have minimum age requirements or swimming ability.

Advance booking is also needed, especially during the high season. Many companies have dam release days to enhance guests’ adventures on the water.

Final Words: Go With The Flow

​A whitewater rafting day trip provides an opportunity to reconnect with nature, push your comfort zone, and make memories. Allen Batista Travel, Inc. can organize whitewater adventures for beginners, intermediate, and advanced whitewater rafters. Contact us today.

​
By Teller Thomas

Let’s be real: the moment you land in Havana, Cuba you feel it—that electric energy of the city. It’s colorful, charming, and somehow still unbelievably cool. If you’ve been daydreaming about a destination that’s overflowing with music, flavor, history, and heart, let me save you the search: it’s Havana. 

Now let’s really unpack the statement… Here are the reasons why your next trip should be in Havana, Cuba.
 
Old Havana Feels Like a Movie Set (Because It Basically Is)

Wandering the cobblestone streets of Old Havana feels similar to stepping into a technicolor postcard from the 1950s. Think historic pastel buildings, vintage cars in candy-colored hues, and plazas that beg you to sit with a mojito and just watch the magic unfold in the city. Don’t miss Plaza Vieja  and Plaza de la Catedral—both are stunning and full of life, often with live music and salsa dancers surrounded by Cuban baroque architecture.

Ride in a Classic Convertible (Yes, It’s As Fun As It Looks)You can’t visit Havana without cruising the Malecón (a dreamy seaside esplanade) in a retro convertible. Picture the sea on one side, locals playing music or fishing on the rocks, and the wind in your hair as you glide past Havana’s historic skyline. If you book a driver, ask for some local history—they often double as tour guides with incredible stories.

What to Know About Currency in Cuba
Heads up: the money situation in Cuba is unique. Although Cuba uses the Cuban Peso (CUP), the U.S. dollar is now widely accepted all over Cuba. Cash is king. US credit and debit cards may not be accepted at most places, so it’s best to take money out before your trip rather than rely on a card. 

Also, keep in mind that prices for tourists are often different from local pricing.

Eat Like You Mean It: Top Five Foods & Drinks to Try in Havana

Havana’s food scene is having a moment. Here are five unforgettable Cuban delicacies to savor during a visit to this city.

• Ropa Vieja, Cuba’s national dish, is shredded beef simmered in tomatoes, garlic, and spices. Comfort food with flair.
  
• Arroz con Moro is flavor-packed rice and black beans, often served with meat or plantains. Simple, satisfying, and everywhere.
  
• Lechón Asado is roasted pork with crispy skin, marinated in mojo (a citrusy garlic sauce). Order this at a family-run paladar and thank me later.
• Cuban Sandwich is pork, ham, cheese, mustard, pickles—pressed into golden, buttery perfection. It’s even better in Cuba.
  
• Mojito incorporates Havana Club rum, fresh mint, lime juice, sugar and soda water.
• Guarapo is a refreshing sugarcane juice, sometimes mixed with rum for a local twist.
• Cuba Libre - Invented during the Spanish-American war, the Cuba Libre is freedom in the form of a beverage. Refreshing, exhilarating, and sweet, the Cuba Libre is made of rum, cola, and a squeeze of fresh lime. 
• El Presidente may as well be called “liquid sunset.” It is made of white rum, dry vermouth, orange caracao, and grenadine, garnished with an orange twist and a maraschino cherry, this drink is more stunning, and refreshing, than an Aperol Spritz in the summer. 
• Daiquiri - Simple but classic. The Cuban Daiquiri consists of white rum, fresh lime, and simple syrup. You can’t go wrong with this order, and you’ll likely find that it beats American daiquiris by a long shot.
• Café Cubano (Cuban coffee) is not for the faint of heart. It’s strong, sweet, and usually served in a shot-sized cup.

La Bodeguita Del Medio is a must-visit restaurant for all visitors in Cuba. The birthplace of the Mojito and a historic cultural hub, La Bodeguita has served musicians, artists, and writers such as Ernest Hemingway since 1942. Enjoy traditional Cuban cuisine, live music, and timeless ambiance, with an original mojito in hand, of course. 

Music Is Everywhere—and It’s Magical
In Havana, music doesn’t live in concert halls—it spills into the streets, the bars, the living rooms. From impromptu bands in alleyways to live jazz in the clubs,  there’s always something playing. Don’t be surprised if someone grabs your hand and invites you to dance. Say yes.

Culture, Art, and Soul
Cuba is bursting with creativity, and Havana is its heartbeat. Visit Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, showcasing Cuban art from colonial times to today, and international works including European and Latin American art. Next, check out Museo de la Revolucion, located in Havana’s former Presidential Palace. This museum traces Cuba’s political history, especially the 1959 Revolution, featuring exhibits on Fidel Castro, Che Guevara, and includes the Granma yacht used in the revolutionary landing.

Don’t forget to take in the street art as well, beautiful murals cover the walls of Callejón de Hamel, an alley dedicated to Afro-Cuban culture. Ernest Hemingway’s old residence, Finca Vigia, is also a must-see location. Situated on top of a hill, the 1886 Spanish Colonial style home overlooks Havana and houses a collection of more than 9,000 books as well as Hemingway’s personal belongings. 

Are you looking for something interactive? Visitors can take a salsa class, savor an organic farm to table Cuban meal, or even a cigar-rolling workshop.

Final Thoughts: Go Now, Thank Yourself Later
Havana is a city with rhythm in its bones, stories in its walls, and a vibe that lingers long after you’ve left the city. Go for the colors, the music, the food, and the people. Go because your soul needs something a little different. Go because Havana will surprise you—in the best way.

​So pack that linen and toiletries, bring an extra memory card, and get ready for the most unforgettable trip of your life.

By Joanna Allen at Allen Batista Travel, Inc.

The United Arab Emirates is a cultural tapestry of hospitality, modern skylines, and centuries-old traditions. An Emirates sightseeing tour takes in everything from Dubai’s glittering towers to the cultural treasures of Abu Dhabi, giving a complete introduction to the heart of the Arabian Peninsula.

This guided tour lets you traverse the iconic Emirati landmarks, vibrant souks, posh malls, and desert vistas that form the premise of the Emirates. A mix of cultural insight and modern marvels, it’s the perfect mix for travelers looking for a nuanced take on this dazzling region.

Language And Cultural Tips

The official language is Arabic. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, restaurants, and hotels. Most international travelers will be pleased with bilingual road signs, menus, and public information.

But that’s no reason travelers shouldn’t know a few Arabic phrases to show respect.
 

• Marhaba—Hello!
• Shukran—Thank you.
• La shukran—No, thank you.

It’s important to respect cultural etiquette. Travelers should dress modestly when going to visit religious sites. For a mosque visit, women should carry a shawl or scarf, and both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Public displays of affection are not allowed in the country. Tourists should ask permission before taking pictures of locals.

Currency And Exchange

The currency is the UAE Dirham (AED). At the time of writing this, 1 USD equals approximately 3.67 AED. At airports, shopping malls, and local exchange centers, visitors will find currency exchange. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to have some cash for smaller purchases made at markets and street vendors, though.

Travelers should notify their banks before they leave to avoid blocks on debit or credit cards.

Dubai: Innovation On Display

Our sightseeing adventure starts from Dubai, a city known for its innovation, opulence, and jaw-dropping architecture. The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, is more than approximately 2717 feet (or 828 meters) high. Visitors often venture to the observation deck on the 124th and 125th floors to see sweeping views of the city, desert, and ocean.

From there, travelers are escorted to the largest shopping and entertainment complex in the world, the Dubai Mall, with over 1,200 stores, an indoor ice rink, a VR park, and the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. The Dubai Fountain is known for its breathtaking water, light, and music show.

The Palm Jumeirah, the world-famous man-made island shaped similar to a palm tree. By riding the monorail, visitors will have a bird’s-eye view of the country’s architecture and beach resorts.

A Walk Through Old Dubai

The tour meanders through Old Dubai to learn about the heritage of the Emirates. The tour wanders through narrow alleys and traditional wind tower architecture, passing art galleries, museums, and cafés serving Arabic coffee along the way.

There’s an authentic Emirati vibe in the Dubai Creek area. Visitors enter the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk through a traditional abra (water taxi) ride across the creek.

Cultural Capital Of The UAE: Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE and a cultural and architectural hub, is the next place on the tour. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a white marble marvel decorated in gold, mosaics, and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, goes down as the crown jewel. More than 40,000 locals and tourists can worship in the mosque all year long.

A visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a gloriously modern museum that links Eastern and Western artistic traditions, will be dear to art lovers. The futuristic dome turns sunlight into a ’rain of light,’ which only adds to the mesmerizing exhibitions already inside.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is a thrill ride in the heart of the desert—home to the world’s fastest roller coaster, Formula Rossa, which hurtles visitors at 149mph.

Local Cuisine: A First-Time Traveler’s Delight

Emirates boasts mouthwatering delicacies—a treasure trove of flavors from Emirati to Middle Eastern to South Asian foods.
 

• Shawarma is a street food made up of spiced meat wrapped in pita bread, topped with garlic sauce and pickles.
• Machboos is a typical Emirati dish of rice, meat (often lamb or chicken), and dried lime.
• Grilled hammour (a local fish) served with fragrant rice is often served with lemon and will please seafood lovers.
• Luqaimat are fried dough balls drizzled with date syrup (crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside).
• Karak chai is a rich tea steeped with milk and sugar.
• Jallab is a sweet non-alcoholic drink made of dates, grape molasses, and rose water.

A Seamless Travel Experience

Traveling with a knowledgeable guide makes all the difference due to so much to see and do. The Emirates are experienced in comfort and style on a well-balanced itinerary of iconic landmarks with hidden gems, cultural integration, and relaxation.

Contact Allen Batista Travel, Inc. to embark on your Emirates adventure.