Plan an Exciting Family Vacation at Aquaventuras Park

BY  Barsha Jul 7, 2022

If you are located anywhere in Eastern India, then Darjeeling is one name you must have heard while growing up. A favourite vacation spot for Bongs across the country, there is no best time to visit Darjeeling. I mean, you can definitely go during Summer like most bongs to escape the heat. But be prepared to encounter lots of other tourists, long queues outside restaurants, and even probable ticket cancellations. Instead, you can choose to be a little more adventurous and maybe consider travelling to Darjeeling during the latter half of the year and witness something magical like some snow (but only if you are very lucky). Keep reading to find out how I witnessed the most beautiful snow of all time. Exploring The Unexplored: Screw The Itinerary Are you still wondering what is the best time to visit Darjeeling? There are two ways to go about it - either you could visit like most of the country during Summer or drop in during the winter months for a crowd-free experience. The first thing that I did once I set foot at Darjeeling was screwing the itinerary. Because you might think that the place’s done and dusted, but it’s so not, considering all the offbeat places to visit in Darjeeling! Scroll down and find out the places I visited on my solo trip to Darjeeling last Summer!. Spend A Weekend At Dhotrey: Location104k.m from Siliguri Costing (Stay And Meals)1500/- nightTransportationReserved Car or Shared Taxi from SiliguriNearby TreksSandakphu, and Phalut via TongluNumber Of Days2 Days (excluding time for the trek) If you have never heard about Dhotrey, it’s because this beautiful hamlet is one of the smallest villages in Darjeeling - and it’s not just small, not many people even know about this place. There is no best time to visit Dhotrey, considering it’s always free of crowds! The locals are friendly, and I even ended up making lifelong friends with Manoj and his wife. Manoj was my guide who let me stay at his house since there were no rooms in either of the two homestays in this village. His wife cooked yummy meals for me and even made a comfortable, warm place for me to sleep in - she almost tucked me in that night… The best part? The village was breathtakingly beautiful, with lush, green landscapes on different sides, and it also happens to be the starting point for the even more popular Sandakphu trek. You can spend a whole weekend at Dhotrey and embark on the Sandakphu trek for a more adventurous approach to your trek. Hike To Tonglu: Location2.5 hours from Darjeeling at 10,130 feetCosting (Stay And Meals)1000/- nightTransportationWalk from Dhotrey village via Singalila ForestNearby TreksSandakphu, and PhalutNumber Of Days1 or 2 Days (excluding time for the trek) If you are already spending a weekend at Dhotrey, then you can easily hike to Tonglu - it’ll take you somewhere between an hour and a half to double the time, depending on your speed stamina, and the weather. Walking to Tonglu was perhaps my first hiking experience, and it was so cold! If Manoj had not offered to help me out with my heavy backpack, I would have probably given up on the hike! Yes, my boyfriend did carry my bag too, but then again, he adapts to mountain weather far better than I will ever be able to do. The most astonishing thing about visiting Tonglu during winter was the bone-chilling cold, the hot food, and the WIND! At night, it felt like a woman was running around screaming in a high-pitched, shrilly voice - but it was the wind making all that noise, a kind of sound I had never heard before. Instead of finding out the best time to visit Darjeeling for honeymoon, you can always spend your honeymoon at Tonglu - you can always walk to the equally beautiful nearby village of Tumling - also, I witnessed my first snowfall at Tonglu since it was January and boy was it cold! Gorge On The Best Darjeeling Has To Offer: If you are spending a few days in Darjeeling, the best thing that you need to do is gorge to your heart’s extent on the delicacies that Darjeeling has to offer! Experiment with traditional cuisines from the different local communities such as the Gorkhas, Sherpas, Lepchas, and Khampas.  Instead of typing ‘Darjeeling best time to visit’ on Google, have you considered finding out the dishes you must try here? Here you go! ThukpaKunga Restaurant (51, Gandhi Road, Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling) and Devekas Restaurant (Chauk Bazaar)Depends from stall to stallTraditional Nepali ThaliRevolver Restaurant (110 Gandhi Road, Behind Union Chapel, Darjeeling)300 to 400/-Naga CuisineRevolver Restaurant (110 Gandhi Road, Behind Union Chapel, Darjeeling)300 to 400/-ChurpeeKeventer’s (Keventer’s, 1 Nehru Road, Darjeeling)400/-MomosKunga Restaurant (51, Gandhi Road, Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling) and many places in and around Darjeeling100 to 200/-Aloo ThukpaLocal vendors, and Hasty Tasty (Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling)200/-Sael RotisLocal vendorsDepends from stall to stallShafaleyNawangs Restaurant (No 7 Robertson Road | Clubside, Darjeeling)100 to 200/-ChaangHot stimulating cafe (Lebong Cart Rd, Richmond Hill, Darjeeling)100 to 200/-Lots of Darjeeling TeaThe House of Tea Address (11, Nehru Road, Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling) and Nathmulls Tea & Sunset Lounge (The Rink Mall (Opp. GPO), 19, Ladenla Road, Darjeeling)Depends from stall to stall If You Still Want To Know About The Best Time To Visit Darjeeling! Darjeeling has primarily two tourist seasons. Ask anyone! They are either planning a trip between April to June, or they are up for an autumn trip between September to November.  In both these seasons, Darjeeling has clearer skiers and longer sunny hours. Further, the days of precipitation go down during these months. So, the chances of landslides, mudslides, or road blockages are less in autumn and spring. Moreover, with better clarity, Darjeeling, in these seasons,   Having said that, Darjeeling has something to offer to its visitors across all seasons. So, let’s find out the seasonal attractions of Darjeeling.  1. Spring Season (March to May) Spring is the best time to visit Darjeeling if you want to see rhododendrons, orchids and other famous flowers of the region in full bloom.  Many photography enthusiasts flock to Darjeeling this season to capture the beauty of these flowers in red, pink, and white.  Further, there are dedicated trek routes to Sandakphu and Tonglu, where you will find beautiful rhododendron flowers in full bloom.  In this season, you can even enjoy a ride in the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways or Toy Train to have the best view of the tea gardens and lush greenery.  2. Summer (May To June) With decent sunny hours, charming weather, and cloud-free skies, May to June or, in fact, April to June is the best time to visit Darjeeling.  Further, this is the season for going on a trek to Sandakphu. Sandakphu is the highest mountain peak in West Bengal. Once you conquer Sandakphu, you will get an amazing view of Mount Kanchenjunga, Mount Everest, Makalu, and Lhotse.  3. Late September To December (Fall And Winter) September comes to Darjeeling with post-monsoon beauty. You can enjoy the lush greenery in these months minus the continuous days of precipitation. Further, from October to early December, you can explore the trekking routes in Darjeeling, including Sandakphu and Tonglu.  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 1. Which Month Is Off-Season In Darjeeling? The winter months are usually off-season in Darjeeling. The months of December and January happen to be the least humid, with temperatures dropping to 2 to 7 degrees, and in some cases, even below zero degrees in January. In addition, there are no chances of floods or landslides, making it the perfect time to visit for a crowd-free experience. 2. How Many Days Is Good For Darjeeling Trip? You can easily spend four to five days in Darjeeling if you have no plans of checking out the nearby trekking routes or even villages. But make sure you have at least 4 days in your hands for touring Darjeeling, otherwise, it’ll be a complete waste of time and money. 3. Can We See Snow In Darjeeling? Snowfall is rarely a possibility in Darjeeling, but if you are fortunate, you might just get snowfall in case temperatures to fall down to negative 2 degrees celsius. But if you visit the nearby areas in winter, there are a hundred possibilities that you might just witness some snow. Bitten By The Wanderlust Bug: Can’t Stop Travelling! If you are planning to visit Darjeeling, extend your trip to include surrounding locations such as Gangtok, Kalimpong, and even Kurseong for a long vacation. The best time to visit Darjeeling and Gangtok depends on the kind of travelling you want to do - if you love spending time away from crowds then winter is your season, and if it’s too hot to stay during Summer, it’s better to escape the heat! In the meantime, don’t forget to share your thoughts and experiences (if you have already been to Darjeeling) on the same in the comments below. Read Also: Expedia.Com – Best Review By Users In 2022 Which Is The Best Time To Visit Auli? – Travel Guide Which Is The Best Time To Visit Kashmir? – Travel Guide

BY  Abdul Aziz Sep 16, 2021

Have you heard the term tattoo tourism? It is the practice of getting a design inked on your body as a souvenir of the place you have visited. Bali is a popular hub for tattoo tourism, fusing cultural symbolism with artistic expressions. Further, reputed tattoo parlors, experienced artists, and an affordable cost attract many ink aficionados to this picturesque and culturally rich country. So, do you want to get tattooed in Bali? Here are some tips before getting a tattoo in Bali. Best Tips Before Getting A Tattoo In Bali: Tattoo Tourism At Its Best Aren’t we all fascinated with those beautiful strokes on our skin? No matter how painful it is, we all are big fans. Further, something is thrilling about visiting a country (for tattooing) that exudes a mystical charm.  So, before you start scratching your head and finding the best tattoo place near me, here are a few helpful tips. Tattoo Bali – Tips Before Getting A Tattoo: Aren’t we all fascinated with those beautiful strokes on our skin? No matter how painful it is, we all are big fans of it. So, before you start scratching your head finding the best tattoo place near me, here are a few helpful tips: 1. Search The Best Tattoo Artist In Bali: Everyone has their own set of ideas and opinions about who is the best tattoo artist. Just like not anyone country is the best vacation spot or one kind of dish is the best food. Similarly, the ideals of the best tattoo artist also vary from one person to the other. It may happen that the tattoo artist who was the best for your friend may not prove as good for you or vice versa. So, do not depend on just hear and say. Search thoroughly, go through a number of online reviews and ratings to know more about the style and skill of the tattoo artist. In the end, your mission is just to find a tattoo artist who meets your specific requirements, like a specific style of tattoo Bali that you wish to have or someone who is available on the dates and prices that you want and soon. However, the thing you must not compromise with while selecting a Bali tattoo artist is that you must ensure that the artist works with tattooing practices that are safe and hygienic. Also, you must also make sure that the tattoo shop where the artist works is a nice place and you are comfortable getting inked there. 2. Look For Hygienic Tattoo Studios In Bali: Tips Before Getting A Tattoo In Bali Finding a hygienic and safe tattoo studio or shop is one of the most critical steps in getting a tattoo done.  You must be comfortable in a particular studio besides tattoo design and tattoo artist. Also, you must ensure the studio is entirely safe and uses hygienic tattoo practices. So, you need to thoroughly search for the ideal tattoo studio in Bali. If you want to search for the best tattoo studios in Bali’s regencies, Badung is where you need to get inked.  Other than that, the borders of Badung house the complete southwest coast of tattoo Bali, which the tourists love to explore. For more options, you can also go through over 200 tattoo parlor options in areas like Kuta, Canggu, and Seminyak. Many roadside tattoo artists and tattoo shops in Bali will make your tattoo for 5-10 bucks, but you never make your tattoo from them. This is one of the most crucial tips before getting a tattoo in Bali.  They use poor-quality tattoo equipment, and there is little concern about hygiene and safety.  They use inexpensive, unsafe tattoo inks. This can lead to tattoo infection and other kinds of complications. Always go to reputed tattoo shops, as they use high-quality sterilized equipment and natural and safe tattoo inks. Have a hygienic and safe environment. However, they charge you. Here Are The Names of Few Popular Tattoo Parlors in Bali Are you looking for the best tattoo studios in Bali? Let’s know about the studios creating the buzz. Mex Tattoos https://www.instagram.com/p/CgeYDrUr_rC/?img_index=1 “Was my first ever tattoo, these guys were great. Can be very confusing choosing a place in Bali, there are so many. Very reassuring, hygienic. Walked me through every step of what was going to happen. Even my wife and sister in law decided to get one they were so impressed.” - Eric Moss Bali Tattoo Studio https://www.instagram.com/p/BhV97XDhy4Z/ “An easy choice for tattoos. The talent these guys have is unreal. I am extremely happy with my tattoo and was impressed with their professionalism and friendly atmosphere. I even drank with them after we were finished and learned more about Balinese culture. If you want quality and a reasonable price, definitely check these guys out” - David Kim Two Guns Tattoo https://www.instagram.com/p/DBLaGPdTHO1/?img_index=1 “Awesome studio & artists. Dodo is amazing, I get all my work in Bali done by him, and have for a few years now. Highly recommend Two Guns & Dodo 🔥” - Isaac S. Tattoo Hut Bali https://www.instagram.com/p/DBU5zhPyzLH/ “Booked my tattoo in January and it was such an easy process. When we arrived in Bali the tattoo hut team was able to check sizing and design to ensure I was happy with the tattoo. All the tattoo hut members were extremely friendly and funny which made the experience much more enjoyable. Jony was my artist and he did such an amazing job. He is very professional and his style is impeccable. My whole arm sleeve only took 2 days! I highly recommend to go to tattoo hut!!” - James Fernandez Addicted Ink Tattoo Studio Bali https://www.instagram.com/p/C9W7-Uip1j6/?hl=en “The artists were so friendly and professional. We came in with simple standard outline designs, but for a couple of them, the artists asked if they could spend more time to elevate the concept (with shading or definition etc). It was wonderful that their priority was to ensure that our tattoos came out looking the best, regardless how long it took. I highly recommend Addicted Ink :)” - Sheridan K Bali Family Tattoo Studio “This is my second time getting inked here in 3 years. They did an amazing job with all my requests. I had numerous small pieces done and two bigger intricate ones also. highly detailed, patient and friendly. Very affordable prices. Definitely one of the best around in Kuta.” - Ashwin C. M. Paradise Ink Tattoo https://www.instagram.com/p/DADnJyWvgYM/?hl=en “Excellent services. Award winning artiste is very patient and takes time to understand the whole designing process. Studio is clean and neat. Equipments are new so you don't have to worry about hygiene. Location is easy to find. Check out their portfolio. Awesome works.” - melvin lee 3. Know About The Tattoo Prices In Bali: Another critical concern people usually have before getting inked is that pleasurable tattoos come at what cost? People concerned about getting an appointment with a tattoo artist or studio must know they can do so online or in person. However, many tourists schedule their tattoo Bali appointments in the last days of Bali vacation things to do, because of following the precautions. Up to two weeks of getting a tattoo, you can’t go underwater, surfing, or swimming.  You can only pay at Bali Tattoo Parlors with Indonesian Rupiah because many studios do not accept other currencies or have credit card machines. There is no need to schedule an appointment for a small tattoo, which can be done in a few minutes. Usually, in Bali, the price for most Bali tattoos is calculated per hour, and the rate varies depending on the tattoo artist, tattoo design, and the tattoo studio.  However, the average Bali tattoo price in 2024 was around 1,500,000 IDR, approximately 150 Australian dollars. When making an appointment with the tattoo Bali studio or artist, you will probably also be expected to pay a deposit.  After getting inked, if you are satisfied with the artist's work and the tattoo design, you can give away a generous tip to the artist any day. 4. Know The Meaning Of The Tattoo Design: Tips Before Getting A Tattoo In Bali With tattoo tourism on the rise in Bali, there is a tendency to disrespect a design's religious and philosophical significance. However, in most cases, it happens because of ignorance, and at the same time, no two travelers are the same.  You must learn and appreciate the cultural significance of a tattoo design before getting it inked on your body.  You can discuss this with your local tattoo artist or an expert in Balinese culture to learn about the design you are getting inked.  In addition, these tattoos are more than memories. The body art is an expression of the island’s spirit. So, enjoy the excitement, but be respectful of the tradition.  Did You Know?Mencocoh is the term for traditional tattoo art in Bali. Further, in conventional Balinese tattoos, only black ink needles were used. Also, only the clergies, rulers, and the “elite of shamans” used to wear these tattoos. So, tattooing was only allowed for the people in power and those considered closer to god. Though you will find many secular tattoo designs in Balinese culture today, traditionally, these designs draw inspiration from nature and Hindu gods and goddesses. Further, you will notice the presence of Balinese weapons like chains, daggers, maces, and axes in the design. Moreover, Ongkara, Ung, Ang, and Mang are symbolic Balinese scriptures popularly depicted in tattoos. In addition. Rangda, Kala Raksa, Kala, and other evil figures were common in traditional Bali tattoos.  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Is it safe to get a tattoo in Bali? If you are careful enough, getting a tattoo in Bali is safe. This means you have to do your research when choosing an artist. Get proper information about the studio and the artist. Ensure you have a good design and look for hygiene in the studio. Above all, looking after the tat is the big challenge. How much do tattoos cost in Bali? Well, it depends upon the size, and so do tattoos worldwide. If it’s small, it will cost $30 to  $85.  The cost will be $80-$850 for medium to large tattoos. Half and full sleeves will cost  $600  to $1.450 and $1.200 to $3.000. What is a tattoo blowout? A tattoo blowout is a tattoo artist pressing too hard while applying the ink to the skin. The ink goes below the top layers of the skin where tattoos belong. The ink spreads out below the skin’s surface on a layer of fat. This starts the blurring associated with a tattoo blowout. Is Bali cheaper than Thailand? Thailand is an expensive place, but it is, overall, a place of high standards. On the other hand, Bali is almost always cheaper in everything. So, if you want tattoos, wait no longer and book the Bali holiday packages from Delhi. Other than just getting a tattoo, have an amazing vacation there! Read Also: 10 Best Things To Do In San Diego (USA) Top 10 Places To Visit In Singapore Vacationing In Florence

BY  Abdul Aziz Jan 4, 2024

Situated on the western coast of Phuket, one of the most popular tourist attractions is Patong Beach. There is a range of activities with something for everyone.  You can party, relax at a spa, sample delicious food, enjoy the shopping, or indulge in water sports. It’s all there. The 3-km golden sand strip is very popular among beach lovers.  So, if you are looking for something similar, this article is the one for you. Read till the end and discover some hidden gems in Patong and which places you should avoid going in Thailand.  When to Visit Patong? If you want ideal weather, then the best time to visit is from mid-December to the end of February. The peak month for tourism is January, when the weather is best. Another peak is in July and August when many European travelers have vacations. May has the fewest visitors, and autumn is quieter, too, but Patong sees plenty of activity all year round. May to October is the time to witness some large waves and scary swells, and nobody pays for such sights. Hence, visit it from November to April when the weather is pleasant.  Even during sunny days, it is important that you are careful on the beach and look for potential red flags.  Where To Stay In Patong? There is plenty of excellent accommodation at Patong Beach. Prices may be generally higher than in Phuket city, but there is a wider selection of budget accommodation too. Whatever your budget, you are sure to find a selection of hotels in Patong, Thailand that suit your needs and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. 1. Phuket Mariott Resort & Spa If you are in and around Merlin Beach, Phuket Mariott Resort is the one where you stay. The hotel has a mesmerizing oasis surrounded by a butterfly sanctuary and a private coral reef experience. Dive into a splash of comfort with this 5-star stay.  2. Hotel Clover Patong Phuket Free parking, an adjacent swimming pool, and easy airport accessibility- if it rings a bell to you, Hotel Clover should be your ultimate destination. This Cosmopolitan stay amidst a wondrous surfing destination offers a great view of the entire Patong Beach.  Activities On Patong Beach: Sunbathing And Swimming Patong is a great place for sunbathing, swimming, and even building sandcastles. The temperature of the water is perfect for swimming. Moreover, Patong receives bright sunny days, and it’s great for sunbathing, but don’t forget the sunscreen and take regular breaks in the shade. Beach Massage. You will find plenty of masseurs on or near the beach who offer head massage, foot massage, or a Thai complete-body massage. Moreover, you can enjoy the sounds of the waves. Your worries will disappear completely. Water Adventures. Patong is popular for a range of water sports, like windsurfing, parasailing, and even jet skiing. Licensed operators are common around Bangla Road. Always check that operators are genuine and that equipment like jet skis is licensed and insured. Snorkeling On the north side of the beach, you will find fantastic snorkeling spots and many vendors who offer equipment for snorkeling for rent. You can also go on tours to snorkeling to various reefs, caves, and also the islands located nearby. Nightlife Nightlife is mostly concentrated on Bangla Road.  There, one can find many pubs, beer bars, dance clubs, and lounges. There is so much variation in nightlife that it can be indeed difficult to understand where to initiate. Dining Patong is perfect for foodies. You can get every type of major global culinary experience here. You will find Korean, Indian, German,  Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Scandinavian, and many more international options. There are also, of course, delicious and authentic Thai restaurants amongst the international cuisine that you must also try. Shopping Visitors are often surprised at the variety of shopping options available. At night, the town transforms itself into a massive marketplace. You will find stalls selling clothing, accessories, jewelry, beachwear, and much more. Starting prices are high, so you have to negotiate hard. There are also plenty of shopping malls where you can find brand-name goods at reasonable prices. Things To Consider Before Visiting Thailand Thailand is one place laden with the most precious beauties of nature. Due to its natural and artificial marvels, it continues to woo the attention of people from different parts of the world. Here are some things you need to consider before visiting Thailand.  Let us begin with the discussion here so that you have a better understanding. The Rainy Season Varires Usually, the rainy season in Thailand ranges between June to October. It fetches heavy showers in central, north, and western Thailand. But one can experience rainfall in the Gulf of Thailand and the Southern coast a bit later, usually from October. The rainy season travel denotes lower prices and, at the same time, the smaller crowds. Look Out For The Recommended Vaccinations If you are moving to Thailand without vaccination, your initial investments before landing there will be wasted. The protocols for tourists on the vaccination are stringent. COVID-19 vaccine is a must, but at the same time, you can not leave behind vaccinations against tetanus and hepatitis. They are essential, and the authorities may ask you about them. The Thailand Tourist Visa Fetching a tourist visa for Thailand is quite simple for a listed citizen. It is because they offer a thirty-day visa exemption, mainly for countries like the USA, the UK, South Africa, Australia, and more. Be sure to check out check out the list of countries. When you arrive with the visa exemption, you need to fill out an entry form for the sake of immigration. You should have proof of exit from the country. It helps show that your stay in Thailand does not exceed thirty days. What To Pack For Thailand?  Thousands of people visit Thailand every year. But the first question that is bound to strike you is the list of packing. The internet is flooded with the same question. Thailand is one country that lives with its traditions. 1. Outfits Therefore, you should skip the tight-fitted clothing. But the smartest way to do it is to check out the weather forecasts and then strategize clothes packing. However, do not forget to keep the rain jacket under any conditions. A pair of dresses for ladies and trousers for men if you are planning to hit a fancy restaurant. Unisex polo shirts with collars.  Outfits that keep the knees and shoulders covered if you are visiting temples or archaeological sites.  Culottes/shirts. Trunks or swimming costume if you have plans for snorkeling. Sarong.  2. Footwear Just like other Asian religious sites, taking off shoes is a must when visiting Thailand’s religious shrines. Hence, pack shoes that are practical and easy to put on and off. For example, consider packing: Comfortable trainers, tennis shoes, or sketchers if you are planning to walk a lot. Flip-flops for Patong and other adjacent beaches.  Loafers for hitting dinning destinations in and around Patong.  Places Not To Visit In Thailand You may have heard a lot about the must-visit places in Thailand. But have you ever looked for the list of places that you must abstain from visiting? Some areas in Thailand are extremely crowded, and if you are not a lover of it, then you must subtract them from your list. 1. Krabi and Phi-Phi You may have heard about some hot favorite places like Phi Phi and  Krabi. Yes, these places have their popularity, but they lack the Thai authenticity you always seek when visiting Thailand. Independent travelers do not have much to explore on these islands.  2. Hua Hin Hua Hin has recently become a retreat for retired Westerners. But it is quieter than Pattaya and Phuket, with almost no tourist destinations. Apart from a few markets, you wouldn’t find too many interesting sights to visit here. Hence, there’s no point in spending all this money on a quiet destination like Hua Hin.  3. Pai This lovely destination set across rice fields was once a backpacker's paradise. But over-western influence and tourist saturation have left this place with some serious damage. You might find it difficult to find decent local food here, which is the basic criterion of traveling. Conclusion Patong Beach In Thailand has its attractions, which is why the place's popularity keeps increasing with time. The beach is indeed beautiful, with myriad attractions. But apart from the beach, if you are looking forward to an exotic Thailand tour, the aforementioned points may help you out. Having said that, here comes an end to this comprehensive guide. Patong Beach in Phuket is a must-visit destination once in everyone’s lifetime. So, what are you waiting for? Go pack your bags now! Thank you for reading this one till the end! Read Also: Things To Do When You Are In Pigeon Forge The Best Resort Spa & Wellness Island Experience! 12 Best Things To Do In Sanibel Island – Tour And Travel Guide