Keytours Vacations Blog

While most countries use the solar calendar, some follow the lunar calendar, which is based around the cycles of the moon, or the lunisolar calendar, which reflects both the moon phase and solar year. With the lunar New Year coming up on January 25th comes the Year of the Rat - the very first animal in the 12-animal zodiac, just in time for the new decade! Check out some of the countries that will recognize the New Year this weekend and how they will celebrate.

Topics: Festivals, new years, vietnam, malaysia, myanmar, indonesia, thailand, china, Spring Festival, chinese new year, lunar new year

South America is a veritable treasure chest waiting to be explored, full of some of the most fantastic scenery on the planet that is still relatively unknown to most. Boasting many "World's Most" titles, its brilliant landscapes are as diverse as they are mesmerizing, and the only thing warmer than the friendly culture are the lush rainforests. 

Topics: Latin America, adventure, argentina, chile, ecuador, south america, brazil, easter island, natural wonders, bolivia, patagonia

New decade, new countries! Technological advancements have opened up access to new places and ways for us to explore, and travel has never been easier. Check out some of the hottest destinations that are on everyone's lips as you map out your travel inspiration for 2020.

Topics: new years, iceland, costa rica, japan, 2020, slovenia, rwanda, trending

You know New York City's famous Times Square ball drop on New Year's Eve, but did you know that in Germany, molten lead is dropped into cold water to predict what will happen in the coming year? The new year has been celebrated since the times of ancient Babylon, and while most cultures recognize January 1st as the official New Year, celebrations vary widely. Read on to see how the new year is celebrated around the globe as you think about your own resolutions - and get some travel inspiration!

Topics: holiday, new years, germany travel, japan, egypt, history, peru, france, thailand

Christmas is special to celebrate anywhere, but some places make it especially magical. 

Topics: Spain, holiday, germany, germany travel, finland, christmas, christmas markets, austria, colombia, latvia

 

For classical music lovers, Europe offers a wealth of options for walking in the footsteps of your favorite composer, visiting famous concert venues, and enjoying outstanding performances in beautiful settings.  

Topics: europe travel, trips to europe, european vacations

 

Italy is famous for its incredible cuisine, but each region has its own local specialties. Food in northern Italy is traditionally heavier and richer, with more butter, cream, and cheese while southern Italian food is more typically Mediterranean, with lots of fish and seafood, olive oil, and tomato sauce. No matter where you go, though, it's always delicious! Let's explore a few of Italy's regions and their characteristic cuisine. 

Topics: food, tuscany, florence, italy, venice, milan, rome, sicily

 

While fine dining with white tablecloths and Michelin stars has its place, if you want to really get to know a destination, there's nothing like sampling its authentic street food. And one of the best places for amazing street food is North Africa - specifically Egypt and Morocco. Cairo, Marrakesh, Fez and Luxor all boast thriving street food scenes, where you can often get a tastier meal than you would at a restaurant -- and for much cheaper too. Let's explore some highlights of these countries' street food. 

Topics: morocco, egypt, street food