Top 5 places to visit in 2017

It is midnight on the first day of 2017; we wish everyone a happy new year, make resolutions we probably will not keep and think of buying a gym membership. January 1rst is always a day filled with excitement for the upcoming year. It is the beginning of a new calendar and opportunities, making us realise we have a promising future ahead of us. To some, like myself, this future is filled with travels and discoveries. You can be sure that as soon as the clock strikes midnight in 2017, I'll be on my computer, trying to find the best deals to travel all over the world. 2017 is looking particularly bright on that area. Airplane tickets are getting cheaper and countries are making themselves look enticing by investing in the tourism industry. All of this combined makes us ready for new adventures. Some countries especially distinguished themselves over others;  here are my top five places to visit in 2017.

1.Taiwan
Even though it is a small island located in the Pacific Ocean, Taiwan has its place in history. Known for its rapid growth and industrialisation, the Chinese island is still full of tradition. In the last decade, the tourists took over the island, which is now a popular destination. From the modern Taipei to the traditional tea plantation, passing by the south-eastern beaches, Taiwan has it all for itself. It is now a traveller and foodie paradise, where the insular hospitality is well-known.
2.Canada
This might look like a shameless plug, but my home is actually a country you should visit at least once in your lifetime. The Canadian dollar got pretty low in the last months, making it an affordable trip. Since the country is wide, there is a large variety of sceneries and climates to see. From the Maritimes to the Canadian Rockies, there are plenty of places to visit for every type of traveller.
3.Oman
The real door between Asia, Africa and Europe, Oman is a rising star in the tourism industry. With its clear blue water and ochre sand dunes, it is no wonder the country reclaims Sinbad was its inhabitant. The culture and the hospitality of the locals make this destination especially welcoming. Just looking at the pictures, I know Oman is on my list.
4.Ethiopia
When thinking of booking your next travel destination, I am pretty sure Ethiopia doesn't come on the top of your list. Well, it should. Don't you remember Lucy? The oldest human bones were found in Ethiopia, where history meets civilisation. From UNESCO world heritage sites to cultural experience, the African country has much to offer for your next travel. Make sure you take a look at this beautiful place in 2017.
5. Columbia
If you are like me and spend your days on Netflix, Columbia is associated to the Medellin drug cartel. At least, that is what I tough until a curiously googled "Columbia". What I saw was a breathtaking country with lots to offer. The colourful houses, spicy food, Caribbean beaches and Amazon excursions made me want to buy my plane ticket right away. And if you are worried about the security, do not worry, it is a safe place to visit.
I hope these destinations made you dream of your next travels and that I inspired you to visit a few of them in a near future. I personally will restrain myself from buying plane tickets for all of them, but I might buy at least one.

Enjoy,
The little traveller's boots
Xox

5 festive drinks for the New Year

Are you tired of the same old drink every New Year's Eve? Plain champagne and your aunt's "special holiday punch" do not appeal to you anymore? You might be in need of a change in your cocktail wardrobe. I assembled a few of the most festive drinks you should try on this special day. As a host or simply for yourself,  here are a few cocktails recipe to start 2017 on the right foot. Cheers!

1.Pomegranate Moscow mule
The Moscow mule, even though it has been on the market for a while, had a sudden rise in popularity this year. Give it a twist with pomegranate juice and you will be sure to impress your guests with something special.
Recipe:
-2 oz. of vodka
-1 oz. of pomegranate juice
-1 tbsp. of pomegranate seeds
-1 tbsp. of lime juice
-1 tsp. of honey
-½ c. ice
-ginger beer
-spring of rosemary

·         2.Manhattan
As one of my favourite drinks, I could only include it in the list. Sure, Manhattans can be found anywhere and be drank at any time. So why during New Year's Eve? Simple, everybody loves a good bourbon and this drink is different than your traditional holiday drink. So pour that alcohol and enjoy.
Recipe:
·         -1 c. of bourbon
-⅔ c. of red vermouth
-4 dashes of Angostura bitters
-4 orange twists
-4 cherries
·         3.Blackberry thyme sparkler
I love making cocktails for my guests, especially if they are easy to make but look complicated. This one is no exception. It not only looks chic, but also taste good! But beware of the sweetness, there is still champagne in it.
·         Recipe:
·         -1 c. blackberries + 8 more for garnish
-1 c. of water
-1 c. of sugar
-butter
-1 bottle of champagne
-4 oz. of gin
-4 sprigs of thyme
-1 c. of ice
-gold baking sugar for the rim
First, in a saucepan, bring the blackberries, water and sugar to boil. Simmer for 10 minutes until it becomes a syrup. Drain the blackberries and wait until they cool down. Then, apply butter on the rim of your champagne glasses and dip it in the gold baking sugar. Finally, add 1 oz. of gin per glass, 2 oz of the syrup, champagne, blackberries and the sprig of thyme. Voilà!
4.Hot spiked cider
I don't know about you, but during the new year celebration, the weather gets pretty cold. Starting the new year with a warm drink can be a good thing, especially if your guests aren't familiar with the harsh winter weather.
Recipe:
-1 quart of water
-3 orange spice tea bags
-½ c. of light brown sugar
-2 c. of apple cider
-1 & ½ c. of light rum
-8 cinnamon sticks
-3 tsp. of butter
Pour water into a large saucepan and bring it to a boil. Remove from heat and put the orange spice tea bags in it. Let it infuse for 5 minutes and remove the tea bags. Put the sugar, apple cider, rum and 2 cinnamon sticks and let it warm up. Pour the drink in the mugs, add ½ tsp of butter in each. Finish with cinnamon sticks for garnish.
5.Habitant
As a proud Canadian, I am obligated to provide you with a cocktail recipe what contains maple syrup. It is mandatory. Seriously, this drink has just the hint of sweetness that you need to celebrate the upcoming year. Enjoy!
Recipe:
-2 oz. of Canadian Whiskey
-1 oz. of lemon juice
-1 tsp. of maple syrup
-1 slice of orange for garnish
-1 maraschino cherry for garnish
I hope you enjoyed those recipes and that you have a fine evening with your family and friends. I also wish you a happy new year and a blast for 2017!
























Enjoy,
The little traveller's boots
Xox

Cocktails by: delish