Category: Just to be Curious…

Tucked away in the Tennengebirge mountains near Werfen, about 40 km south of Salzburg, lies one of Austria’s most extraordinary natural wonders: the Eisriesenwelt, or “World of the Ice Giants.” Stretching more than 42 kilometres, it is the largest ice cave on the planet. Only the first kilometre is covered in shimmering ice, but this section alone feels like stepping into a frozen fairy tale of crystal palaces, frozen cascades, and immense icy sculptures.

A Natural Wonder Carved by Time

The cave was formed over millions of years as water slowly hollowed out the limestone rock. During the cold winter months, icy winds push into the caverns, freezing the water that seeps in from the surface. The result is a constantly evolving wonderland of frost and ice, with formations that shift subtly from year to year.

It’s important to note that while the cave remains below freezing year-round, the most spectacular ice formations are seasonal. The cave is open to visitors from May to October, when the ice is stable and safely accessible. In winter, the cave remains closed due to snow, ice, and safety hazards, so visitors cannot explore it at that time.

The Journey to the Entrance

Reaching Eisriesenwelt is an adventure in itself. From the village of Werfen, famous for its medieval Hohenwerfen Castle, visitors travel up a steep mountain road before boarding Austria’s steepest cable car. The ride glides high above the valley, delivering breathtaking views of the Salzach River below. A short but scenic hike leads to the cave entrance, perched dramatically at 1,641 meters above sea level.

Once inside, guides lead groups through chambers lit by flickering carbide lamps. The silence, interrupted only by the sound of water droplets and footsteps crunching on the frozen floor, creates a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. Highlights along the route include the Posselt Hall, the first chamber discovered in 1879, and the spectacular Ice Palace, where towering formations resemble a cathedral carved entirely from ice.

Practical Tips

• When to visit: The cave is open from May to October. In winter it remains closed due to hazardous ice conditions.
• What to wear: Warm clothing, sturdy shoes, and gloves are essential, even in summer, temperatures inside never rise above freezing.
• Tours: Visits are only possible with a guide and take about 75 minutes. Photography is restricted inside, which helps preserve the unique atmosphere.
• Getting there: Werfen is a 40-minute train or car ride from Salzburg. From the village, shuttle buses, a cable car, and a short hike complete the journey.

Why Eisriesenwelt Should Be on Your Map

The Eisriesenwelt is more than just a cave, it’s a journey into another world. Few experiences combine such raw natural power, Alpine adventure, and sheer beauty. For anyone travelling through Austria, this icy underworld is a stop that promises to stay with you long after you leave the mountains behind.

Cormorant fishing is an ancient practice that showcases the unique relationship between humans and animals in traditional ways of life. Practised for over a thousand years in East Asia, this technique involves using trained cormorants to catch fish, especially in rivers. Today, the tradition continues mainly as a cultural performance, but it remains a captivating experience for travellers and a subject of interest for wildlife enthusiasts.

Cormorant fishing is a technique in which cormorants are trained to dive into rivers and retrieve fish for their handlers. A loose ring is often tied at the base of the bird’s neck, which prevents it from swallowing larger fish. These are then collected by the fisherman. Smaller fish can be swallowed by the bird as a reward.

This form of fishing requires deep expertise and a strong bond between the bird and the handler. It is often performed at night, with fires placed at the front of the boat to attract fish and light up the water.

Cormorants belong to the family Phalacrocoracidae, which includes about 40 species found in aquatic environments around the world. The species most commonly used in fishing is the Japanese cormorant, scientifically known as Phalacrocorax capillatus. The Great Cormorant, Phalacrocorax carbo, is also used in some regions.

Cormorants are skilled divers (can dive as deep as 45 meters) with streamlined bodies, webbed feet for powerful swimming, and a hooked bill that helps grip slippery fish. Unlike most aquatic birds, cormorants do not have waterproof feathers. This makes them more effective divers, but also means they must spend time drying their wings after fishing.

Although modern fishing has replaced this technique in everyday life, cormorant fishing continues as a cultural tradition supported by tourism and local pride. The following are the best-known places where you can still witness this rare practice.

Japan – Gifu City on the Nagaragawa River
Best time to visit: May 11 to October 15
Gifu is the most famous location in Japan for traditional cormorant fishing, known as Ukai. The fishermen wear traditional robes and guide long wooden boats under the glow of open flames. This practice has been protected and sponsored by the Japanese Imperial Household for centuries. Visitors can watch from specially designed viewing boats.

China – Guilin and Yangshuo in Guangxi Province
Best time to visit: All year, especially from October to March
Cormorant fishing is sometimes demonstrated along the Li River, particularly for tourists during sunset. These performances recreate an ancient tradition that dates back to the Tang Dynasty. While it is no longer used for subsistence, it remains a visually stunning and symbolic display.

China – Xingping Ancient Town along the Li River
Best time to visit: October to April
Xingping is a quieter and more authentic spot to observe cormorant fishing. The town’s old architecture and calm river atmosphere provide a perfect backdrop for the experience.

China – Erhai Lake in Yunnan Province
Best time to visit: March to May
In this area, the practice is still known among the Bai ethnic minority. While rarer today, it is occasionally performed in cultural events and local festivals.

Vietnam once saw cormorant fishing in the Red River Delta, though it is now nearly extinct. Some ethnic groups in rural areas may still train birds for symbolic or ceremonial purposes.
In medieval Europe, cormorants were trained in England and France, more as a royal sport than a means of fishing.

Cormorant fishing is not just a way to catch fish. It represents a deeper philosophy of coexistence between people and nature. In Japan, the head fisherman, called Usho, is often seen as a guardian of the river’s spirit. In China, the practice has inspired poets, painters, and storytellers for centuries.
Today, conservationists ensure that trained cormorants are treated with care. They are fed properly, given regular rest, and often live longer than their wild counterparts due to veterinary support and the absence of natural predators.

Nestled in County Down in Northern Ireland, the Mourne Mountains are a paradise for hikers, nature lovers, and adventurers. Designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the Mournes offer dramatic peaks, peaceful valleys, tranquil lakes, and a network of well-maintained trails. With over 30 marked hiking routes ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs, this region stands as the most prominent mountain range in Northern Ireland.

A Landscape Dominated by Granite Peaks

The Mourne Mountains are famed for their rugged beauty and distinctive granite peaks. Slieve Donard, at 850 metres, is the highest point in Northern Ireland and a popular summit for both seasoned climbers and enthusiastic amateurs. Other major peaks include Slieve Binnian, Slieve Bearnagh, and Slieve Meelmore, all offering panoramic views across the Irish Sea, nearby valleys, and even Scotland on a clear day.

The Mourne Wall – A Miniature Great Wall of Ireland

One of the most striking man-made features of the Mournes is the Mourne Wall, a 35-kilometre (22-mile) dry-stone wall built between 1904 and 1922. Constructed to enclose the catchment area of the Silent Valley Reservoir, the wall crosses 15 of the highest mountains in the range. It winds over peaks and across valleys with such purpose and precision that it could be likened to a miniature version of the Great Wall of China.

Many hikers choose to follow segments of the wall as a natural guide through the hills, and some even take on the full Mourne Wall Challenge Walk, a strenuous but rewarding one-day trek that covers the entire route.

Trails for Every Type of Hiker

The Mournes boast over 30 marked trails, offering everything from gentle family walks to intense mountain hikes. Some of the most popular routes include:

• The Glen River Trail to Slieve Donard begins at Donard Park in Newcastle and ascends steadily through forest and mountain terrain.
• The Binnian Loop Walk – a moderate to strenuous loop with breathtaking views over the Silent Valley and Annalong Valley.
• The Trassey Track to Slieve Bearnagh – known for its dramatic tors and sweeping views.
• The Ott Track to Slieve Loughshannagh and Doan – a less crowded but spectacular path through peatland and granite scenery.

The variety and quality of trails make the Mourne Mountains an ideal year-round destination for hikers of all levels.

Silent Valley and the Lakes of the Mournes

The Silent Valley Reservoir, set deep within the mountains, is one of the area’s most serene and scenic destinations. Managed by Northern Ireland Water, this reservoir not only supplies water to the region but also provides a peaceful setting for walking trails, picnics, and nature photography.

Nearby, Ben Crom Reservoir and Lough Shannagh offer additional points of interest for those seeking quiet retreats surrounded by nature.

Main Car Parks and Starting Points

Access to the Mourne Mountains is well-established, with several key car parks and trailheads scattered around the perimeter:

• Donard Park (Newcastle) – ideal for accessing Slieve Donard and the Glen River Trail.
• Carrick Little Car Park – starting point for the Slieve Binnian loop and access to the Silent Valley.
• Ott Car Park – a quieter access point for the central Mournes, ideal for routes to Doan and Lough Shannagh.
• Meelmore Lodge Car Park – provides access to Slieve Meelmore, Slieve Bearnagh, and the Trassey Track.
• Silent Valley Car Park – great for families and easy walking trails around the reservoir.

Tucked away on the eastern coast of County Wicklow, the Glen Beach Cliff Walk offers one of the most breathtaking yet lesser-known hikes on Ireland’s East coast. Starting just a short stroll from the charming town of Wicklow, this coastal trail blends dramatic sea views, rugged cliffs, peaceful countryside paths and even a chance to spot wild seals. With no crowds.

The walk begins at Glen Beach, just south of Wicklow Harbour. From the car park, a narrow, well-worn path climbs gently along the cliff edge. As you gain elevation, the views open up across the Irish Sea, with sheer drops to the crashing waves below. It’s a walk that feels wild and invigorating, yet manageable for most walkers.

Not far along the trail, a detour leads down to Lime Kiln Bay, a peaceful cove often visited by a small colony of grey seals. Between August and April, this bay becomes a nursery for seal pups, which are sometimes seen lying quietly on the beach. These pups are often left alone while their mothers are out at sea hunting for fish, and although it may be tempting to get closer, it’s vital to maintain a minimum distance of at least 100 metres.

Approaching a seal pup can cause stress or alarm, and human presence may discourage the mother from returning, leaving the pup vulnerable to starvation. Observing from a distance helps protect the pups and ensures the seal colony remains undisturbed. Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times.

From there, the main trail continues south toward Wicklow Head, where a series of scenic cliffs leads to the old and new lighthouses. The route toward the 18th-century octagonal tower is slightly more rugged but well worth the effort for the panoramic views.

Trail Details:
Distance: 4–5 km for the loop, with an optional 2–3 km extension to the lighthouse.
Time: 1.5–2 hours including the lighthouse.
Difficulty: Moderate – mostly easy paths with a few uneven sections.

Getting There:
Wicklow Town is about 40 minutes south of Dublin by car, train, or bus. From the town center, head to South Quay and follow the road signs to Glen Beach, where you’ll find a small parking area with picnic tables. The trailhead starts at the end of the car park.

If you have time after your walk, don’t miss a visit to Wicklow Gaol, one of Ireland’s most atmospheric historic prisons. Located in the heart of Wicklow Town, this 18th-century jail tells the story of Ireland’s troubled past through immersive exhibits and guided tours. You’ll learn about political prisoners, famine-era hardships, and even alleged hauntings

The Manaslu Circuit Trek is a hidden Himalayan adventure that combines raw beauty, cultural richness, and an off-the-grid feel. This journey traces the footsteps of ancient salt traders, winding through lush valleys, Buddhist monasteries, and the towering shadow of Mt. Manaslu, the world’s eighth-highest peak. It’s a trek for those who want more than just a path.

The Manaslu region is located in the west-central part of Nepal, bordering the Annapurna Conservation Area. The circuit itself encircles Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), passing through the Gorkha District and into remote northern Himalayan terrain close to Tibet.

Unlike the busy trails of Everest or Annapurna, the Manaslu Circuit Trek offers solitude and authenticity. It’s a route that sees far fewer trekkers, yet it rewards with breathtaking alpine scenery, dramatic gorges, and Tibetan-influenced culture. Think of it as one of Nepal’s last truly wild treks, where nature speaks louder than crowds.

You won’t just hike through terrain—you’ll walk through history. From stone mani walls to ancient Buddhist monasteries like Lho and Samagaun, the trail reveals deep spiritual heritage. Many villages mirror Tibetan lifestyles, offering a great cultural experience shaped by geography and tradition.

Manaslu vs Annapurna vs Everest: A Comparative Trekker’s Guide

Choosing a trekking route in Nepal can feel like choosing between masterpieces. Each has its own flavor, character, and rhythm. But which one speaks to the kind of journey you’re seeking?

Manaslu Circuit: A hidden Himalayan gem—remote, peaceful, and steeped in authenticity. This trail sees fewer trekkers, offers deeper cultural immersion, and has limited but charming teahouse infrastructure. It’s perfect for those who value solitude and raw natural beauty.

Annapurna Circuit Trek: Once the darling of Nepal treks, it’s now more accessible with expanded road networks. Still diverse and scenic, but less secluded than before. Ideal for those who want variety with some creature comforts.

Everest Base Camp Trek: The most iconic trek in Nepal, and for good reason. Expect breathtaking peaks, high-quality lodges, and a well-trodden route—but also crowds and a commercial vibe.

If you crave quiet trails, ancient rhythms, and untouched landscapes, the Manaslu Circuit Trek doesn’t just compete—it captivates.

The ideal seasons to trek the Manaslu Circuit are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). These months offer stable weather, clear skies, and blooming rhododendrons or post-monsoon clarity.

Trekking Permits and Regulations

Due to its restricted status, you’ll need:

• Manaslu Restricted Area Permit
• Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)
• Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP)

Trekkers must be in a group of two or more with a licensed guide from a registered agency.

Outline of the Classic Itinerary

A typical 14 to 18-day itinerary includes:

• Kathmandu to Soti Khola (start point)
• Trek through Machha Khola, Jagat, Deng, Namrung, Lho
• Acclimatization in Samagaun
• Cross Larkya La Pass (5,160m)
• Descend to Bimthang, Dharapani, and exit via Besisahar

Larkya La Pass: The Grand Challenge

Larkya La is the climax, both in altitude and thrill. Snow-covered, exposed, and dramatic, it’s a true mountaineering experience. Yet with the right acclimatization and support, it’s achievable even for fit trekkers without climbing experience.

Teahouse Trekking and Accommodation

The route now offers basic but improving teahouse accommodations. Expect twin-bed rooms, dal bhat meals, and cozy dining halls warmed by yak dung stoves. It’s rustic, but it’s real.

Food on the Trail: What to Expect

Meals are hearty and simple:

• Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice) – your power meal
• Tibetan bread, noodle soups, potatoes
• Occasional eggs and seasonal veggies

Bring snacks for variety and energy boosts along the way.

Connectivity and Offline Bliss

Expect limited mobile signals and no Wi-Fi in most areas. Embrace the digital detox, a rare opportunity to connect with nature, people, and your own thoughts.

Sustainable Trekking and Community Impact

Choosing Manaslu supports local economies. Most teahouses are family-run, and guides/porters are from nearby villages. Trekking responsibly ensures this region retains its natural and cultural integrity.

How to Get Started: Planning Your Trek

Book with a reliable local agency (like Nepal Hiking Team), prepare well, and choose the right season. Whether you’re solo or part of a group, expert guidance ensures safety and comfort.

Suggested Reading and Resources

• Maps: Himalayan Map House – Manaslu Edition
• Books: Trekking in the Nepal Himalaya by Lonely Planet
• Travel blogs and TripAdvisor reviews from recent trekkers

A Trek That Stays With You

The Manaslu Circuit isn’t just a trek—it’s an awakening. It challenges you, moves you, and humbles you in the presence of vast mountains and ancient cultures. When you return, it’s not just your body that feels stronger, but your sense of wonder that feels infinitely expanded. This is your map to a different kind of journey. Are you ready to follow it?

Angel’s Eye Mountain, or Núi Mắt Thần in Vietnamese, is located in the misty hills of Cao Bằng Province, Vietnam’s northeast frontier, part of the Non Nước Cao Bằng UNESCO Global Geopark, a region celebrated for its dramatic karst landscapes and biodiversity.
It’s about 50 km (30 miles) from Cao Bằng City, surrounded by hidden lakes, rice paddies, and stony highlands.
Towering over lush valleys and mirror-like lakes, this limestone colossus is pierced by a giant circular hole named by locals “Mắt Thần” – literally Eye of God. The cave is around 50 meters in diameter, carved naturally through the rock by millions of years of erosion.

The formation looks like a portal to another world, especially when the sunlight streams through the hole or it reflects in the seasonal lake below. For many visitors, it’s a spiritual, almost otherworldly experience.

Nearby lies the Thang Hen Lake system, a network of 36 interconnected lakes that change dramatically between dry and wet seasons, creating an ever-evolving landscape.

🧭 GPS Coordinates: 22.80127°N, 106.33685°E

One of the most magical things about Angel’s Eye Mountain is how it transforms with the weather.

Rainy Season (May–September): A lake called Nam Cha forms at the base of the mountain. The reflection of the “eye” in the still water creates an almost symmetrical spectacle. Mist often floats across the valley, giving the scene a dreamlike quality.

Dry Season (October–April): The lake dries up, revealing wide grassy meadows. Buffaloes and horses roam freely. The golden light of dawn and dusk paints the surrounding cliffs in amber hues.

Arrive early in the morning for soft lighting and fewer tourists, as the mountain is often included in the popular Ha Giang loop tours.

The valley around Angel’s Eye Mountain is inhabited primarily by the Tày ethnic group, one of Vietnam’s 54 recognized ethnic minorities. Their stilt houses – made of wood and palm thatch – dot the nearby hills. You’ll walk past stone fences, herds of buffalo, and terraced rice fields on your way to the site.

The locals are warm and welcoming. Some families offer homestay experiences, where you can sleep in traditional homes, try regional dishes like thịt lợn gác bếp (smoked pork), and enjoy folk music under the stars.

In the evenings, Tày villagers sometimes play the Đàn tính, a traditional lute used in love songs and spiritual rituals.

Though it’s in Cao Bằng, not Hà Giang, many travelers include Angel’s Eye Mountain as a detour or bonus stop when riding the Hà Giang Loop – Vietnam’s most legendary motorbike route (which can also be done by car/4WD). This detour is especially rewarding for those craving less touristy, more serene natural experiences.

To get to Angel’s Eye Mountain from Hanoi, it’s about a 300 km drive, which takes roughly 6 to 7 hours by car or sleeper bus. You’ll follow National Highway 3 to Cao Bằng City, then head towards Trà Lĩnh District and Quốc Toản Commune. Once you’re in Cao Bằng City, you can hop on a motorbike or taxi to reach Thang Hen Lake, and from there, it’s a 7 km journey to Bản Danh Hamlet. After parking your vehicle, it’s about a 1.5 km walk through rice paddies and along stone paths to the mountain itself. If you’re planning to camp, there are flat grassy areas perfect for setting up a tent or hammock, and campsites are also available in the area. While there’s no entrance fee at the moment, it’s always a good idea to check with locals and ask for permission before setting up camp.

Angel’s Eye Mountain remains one of northern Vietnam’s least commercialized natural wonders. There are no souvenir stalls, no ticket booths, no crowds, just you, nature, and the quiet stare of a limestone mountain that has watched over this valley for millions of years.

For those who find the idea of observing great white sharks from a cage too daunting, there’s another underwater spectacle that’s equally mesmerizing but far less intimidating. Diving or swimming with sardines offers an incredible opportunity to witness one of nature’s most extraordinary phenomena. Imagine being surrounded by millions of shimmering silver fish, moving in synchronized harmony like a living, breathing cloud. This natural ballet, known as a sardine run or sardine shoal, is a captivating sight that attracts underwater enthusiasts from around the globe.

The magic of swimming or diving with sardines lies in the beauty of their movements. Sardines form large schools as a survival mechanism, creating intricate and ever-changing patterns that seem choreographed. It’s an awe-inspiring experience to float amidst this swirling silver spectacle, feeling a part of their world, even if just for a moment.

But the thrill doesn’t end there. Often, where there are sardines, their predators are not far behind. Depending on the location and season, you might encounter dolphins darting through the shoal with lightning speed, using their agility and teamwork to hunt. In some places, larger predators like tunas or even barracudas join the chase, adding a layer of drama to the underwater scene. For those truly lucky, the breathtaking sight of a whale swooping in to feast on sardines is an unforgettable highlight. These encounters remind us of the delicate and dynamic balance of marine ecosystems.

One of the most famous locations to dive with sardines is Moalboal, on the island of Cebu in the Philippines. Here, the sardines stay year-round, making it an accessible destination for divers and snorkelers alike. Another renowned phenomenon is the Sardine Run in South Africa, an event that occurs annually between May-June and July. During this time, millions of sardines migrate along the eastern coastline, drawing predators and adventurers in equal measure. The spectacle here is on a grander scale, with the added excitement of dramatic predator-prey interactions.

For those new to underwater adventures, snorkelling with sardines can be just as thrilling as diving. The fish often stay near the surface, so you don’t need to venture deep to witness the magic. For divers, the opportunity to explore the phenomenon at varying depths offers a new perspective on the spectacle.

If you’re planning your next adventure, consider adding this extraordinary experience to your list. Witnessing the mesmerizing dance of sardines and their predators is more than just a dive or a swim; it’s an immersion into one of nature’s most beautiful spectacles, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Best places in the world for swimming with sardines:

Philippines
Moalboal, Cebu > Year-round
Panglao, Bohol > Year-round

Mexico
Magdalena Bay, Baja California > from mid-October to the end of November

South Africa
Port St. Johns > June and July

Other places where sardines might also be encountered:
(Reliable sources confirming consistent sightings in these areas are currently unavailable. While these destinations are rich in marine biodiversity and breathtaking underwater landscapes, the chance of encountering sardine shoals is considered lower compared to the primary destinations listed above)

Australia
Shoal Bay, New South Wales > From May to September
Ningaloo Reef > From March to October

Azores
Pico Island and Faial Island > From May to October

Thailand
Chumphon Pinnacle, Koh Tao > From December to April

USA
La Jolla Cove, California > Year-round
Catalina Island, California (Lovers Cove and Casino Point) > Year-round

Other locations: Raja Ampat and Komodo (Indonesia), the Great Barrier Reef, Maldives.