Side trips
IgUazu falls
One of the hidden gems of South America is Iguazu Falls. The falls sit along the country borders of Argentina, and Brazil. The waterfalls are simply huge. We’d been to visit Niagara Falls the month before and were left wondering how that had become so famous because it seems pretty ordinary compared to the absolute volume and majesty of the falls at Iguazu.
Where do you fly to visit Iguazu Falls?
You can fly into Foz Igaçu in Brazil or Missiones in Argentina. We opted for the Argentinian option as the flight times where a little more friendly for us travelling with kids. The flights either go via Rio De Janiero or Buenes Aires so it largely depends whether it’s easier or cheaper to get to one of those locations. We check the sky scanner website to easily compare the flight times for different airlines similtaneously, as it picks up all of the airlines (even the low cost airlines) unlike a lot of the travel sites that only compare full service airlines.
Where to stay?
The cream of the crop hotel is the Belmond, which is located inside the park. Unfortunately it was a little out our budget at around $US500 a night. The cheapest options are family run lodges in the surrounding areas which can get as low as $US20-30/night. We opted for a mid range half catered lodge called The Falls on the Argentinian side. Wish Hotels also get fantastic reviews from families as it’s close to a fun water park.
How long do you need to stay?
3-4 days is a good stay length. You’ll want at least a day on each side of the falls. The Brasilian side has a better overall view of the falls but the Argentinian side is well set up for walking and enjoy the local nature including the colourful birds and huge fishes in the jungle as well as the coatis!
Anything else to know?
Consider getting a yellow fever shot before you go!
Would you recommend a trip to Iguazu Falls.?
Yes, it’s a can’t be missed location for any expats in South America.
MALDIVES
Dubai is expat central with significant amounts of work in oil and gas, as well as well paying jobs in support services including teaching and IT support. The bustling city is filled with opportunities for eating out, shopping and earning money but can feel a little hot, busy and overwhelming after a while. That’s why a 4 hour flight to the Maldives can be a great way to recharge and cool down in nature.
Where to fly into?
Male is the easiest airport to fly into and is a direct flight from Dubai. Most of the best resorts are a further flight on a small plane or a ferry ride from the airport but your accomodation can usually accomodation. There are also a range of high end hotels that cater to adults only or family guests, most with private beach front.
Where to stay?
Our favourite in the area is the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, which has two connected islands. It has a section that is more family oriented and one that is for adults, so it’s a great option for groups. Additionally as it’s part of the Hilton group it can be great place to use up any Hilton Honours points you’ve accumulated on work travel. You can stay in beach side villas or underwater rooms where you can literally sleep with the fishes.
If you are on a more limited budget there is a growing number of airbnb offerings in the area, which offer an affordable if rustic way to explore the island and get to know the native way of life.
Would you recommend a trip to the Maldives.?
Yes, it’s a can’t be missed location for any expats in Dubai.
