From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego

BY  Sibashree May 19, 2025

Every time I have been to Zion National Park, adventures, stunning landscapes, and thrilling outdoor activities have made me make a promise to come back.  A summer trip to Zion National Park is always special, and 2025 is no exception. In 2024, Zion National Park had 5 million visitors, the second-highest number among the country's national parks.  Furthermore, during the Memorial Day Weekend in 2024, 92000 people visited this national park.  So, as we approach the Memorial Day Weekend in 2025 and the summer season in Zion is about to start in full swing, the park authorities have taken several measures.  Also, there are a few changes and additions in the park attractions to make your summer trip to Zion more enjoyable. Whether you're into rock climbing, exploring the breathtaking views, or hiking in Zion National Park, you can be ready for a mesmerizing experience. Also, don't forget to consider accommodations like The Riv At Zion, which provides comfort and convenience near the park's entrance.  Moreover, this season, you can explore many features and additions in the park and in this Tour and Travel Guide, we are going to talk about them.  A Summer Trip To Zion National Park: Know The Quick Facts Before Packing Your Bags Established: 1919 Area: 148,016 Acres Elevation: 1117 to 2660 Meters Standard Pass: $20-35 Pet Safety: The water of the Virgin River in the park has cyanotoxins and cyanobacteria. Cyanotoxins are very harmful to dogs and other pets. So, keep them on a leash during a summer visit to Zion National Park.  Hours Open: 24/7 (All the facilities in the park have different opening and closing hours.) Know About The Operating Hours Of Various Facilities In The Park  Have a look at the table below to know the operation hours of the facilities in the park. The data here is updated on 7th May 2025.  Park Facilities Hours Of OperationZion Canyon Visitor CenterInformation Desk8 AM to 5 PMZion Forever Park Store8 AM to 7 PMZion Canyon Wilderness DeskAllow at least 20 minutes to get a permit8 AM to 5 PMZion Human History Museum10 AM to 5 PMKolob Canyons Visitor Center8 AM to 12 PM and 1 PM to 5 PM Furthemore, before planning your summer trip to Zion National Park, you must note that the Zion Nature Center Junior Ranger Station is closed for the season. The Kolob Canyons Wilderness Desk also remains closed.  Moreover, oversized vehicles can pass through the Zion Mountain Carmel Tunnel between 8 AM and 4:30 PM.  How To Reach Zion National Park And Where To Stay? Zion National Park is situated in southwestern Utah, and the closest airport is St. George Regional Airport, about 50 miles away.  You can rent a car or take a shuttle to the park from there.  Furthemore, you can fly into Las Vegas, Nevada, or Salt Lake City, Utah, and enjoy a scenic drive to Zion. Talking about accommodations, nearby resorts offer a blend of comfort and convenience, and they are just a short drive from the park entrance.  Do you want your stay to be more adventurous? You can give the luxury hotels and resorts a miss and choose camping or staying in cozy log cabins.  Exploring Zion National Park: Things To Do During A Summer Trip To Zion National Park The first thing you can do is hike to Angels Landing. This is my favorite route for breathtaking views. Furthermore, the Narrows will allow you to wade through the Virgin River between steep canyon walls. You can join a ranger-led hike, take a photography tour, or even try rock climbing with experienced guides.  If you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider scenic drives or shuttle tours to take in the beauty of Zion without strenuous effort.  Additionally, the park has recently upgraded facilities and expanded shuttle services, making it easier to navigate its popular areas.  What's New In 2025? Your Summer Trip To Zion Will Now Be More Exciting In 2025, Zion National Park unveils several exciting updates to enhance your visit. Noteworthy upgrades include improved facilities and expanded shuttle services, making it easier to access popular park areas.  New interactive exhibits at the Zion Human History Museum offer fresh insights into the park's rich cultural and geological background, providing a more immersive experience for visitors. Additionally, the park introduces a range of events and programs like stargazing and nature workshops to engage and educate visitors.  Things You May Have To Face During A Summer Trip To Zion National Park Considering the record number of visitors to Zion National Park in 2024, you must be ready to face the following situations during your summer trip to Zion National Park in 2025.  Heavy traffic congestion in the Zion National Park, and especially in the Springdale Area Temporary and intermittent closures of the vehicle entrance station in the east and south of the park Long waiting time while boarding the shuttle from Zion Canyon and Springdale Long queues at the visitor center, trailheads, and park entrances Tips For A Successful Summer Trip To Zion National Park To maximize your enjoyment in Zion, avoid peak times by visiting on weekdays or early mornings, especially during the summer.  Spring in Zion National Park is beautiful, and the fall season also offers pleasant weather and fewer visitors, providing a more serene experience.  1. Pack The Right Gear For Your Summer Trip To Zion National Park Make sure to pack the right gear for your activities. Sturdy hiking shoes, ample water, sun protection, and layered clothing for fluctuating temperatures are essential.  If you plan to hike, the Narrows, water shoes, and a walking stick will be necessary to navigate the riverbed.  A camera is also a must to capture the park's stunning landscapes. 2. Stay Hydrated And Stay Updated About The Weather During Your Summer Trip To Zion Stay hydrated and take breaks in shaded areas to avoid heat exhaustion.  Familiarize yourself with the park's shuttle schedule and routes to streamline your travel within the park.  Keep a map handy and know your surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Lastly, check for any trail updates or weather advisories from park rangers before heading out daily.  It’s The Right Time To Plan A Summer Trip To Zion National Park With the latest upgrades and new activities, there's never been a better time to visit.  From exhilarating hikes to serene drives and educational programs, every moment in this remarkable national park will contribute to a memorable and fulfilling trip.

BY  Sibashree Mar 21, 2025

Nepal has remained one of the best trekking destinations in the world, catering to every kind of adventurer. From the famous Everest Base Camp to the famous Annapurna Circuit and the much-demanding Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek, the trekking routes in Nepal are also the litmus taste for the most seasoned trekkers.  So, preparation is very crucial to make your trekking expedition safe and enjoyable. In this Tour and Travel Blog, we will quickly touch upon some helpful tips for your treks in Nepal. Best Tips For Trekking In Nepal: Approved By Local Guides And Seasoned Trekkers  Trekking in Nepal is like a dream come true moment for mountain lovers and adventure seekers.  Further, with a renewed focus on sustainability, Nepal is now committed to offering the best trekking experience that aligns with environmental values.  Along with the beauty of the mountains, the trekking routes here are pathways to learning about local culture, heritage, and diverse wildlife.  Nevertheless, the bounty or the fruit of the treks does not come easily to you. In fact, the trekking routes will throw you challenges.  So, you need to do the following preparations before you hit the mountains.  1. Choose The Right Trek Trekking in Nepal is ideal for trekkers across all expertise ranges. They welcome beginners and the ones with years of experience.  However, if you are a beginner, the Everest Base Camp Trek helicopter return and the Annapurna Circuit treks are not for you. These are for the most seasoned and the fittest hikers.  Rather, you can focus on the Langtang Valley treks, Helambu Trek, and Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.  So, assess the altitude, trek duration, and difficulty of a trek route to make the right choice.  2. Train Before You Go For Trekking In Nepal Physical and mental training can make your body used to the long hours of travel and walking for days or weeks. Further, you must start training for the trek at least two to three months before you start trekking. During physical training, you must focus on your muscles and leg strength.  Also, you must practice carrying extra weight so that trekking with your backpack becomes easier.  These exercises or practices will help you adjust to what you’ll experience on the trails.  Moreover, working on your weight and getting in better shape will reduce fatigue and make your trek much more enjoyable. 3. Pack Smart And Light For Trekking In Nepal Packing light and wise is the ultimate tip for trekking in Nepal. Make sure that you only carry the things you need to avoid carrying extra baggage.  Check out the table below to have some ideas about the things you need. ClothingFootwearWeather ProtectionWarmthAdditional ItemsBreathable, long-sleeved shirtsLightweight trekking pantsFleece pullover or jacketThermal socks for colder areasStrong, waterproof hiking bootsGaiters for snowy or muddy trailsWaterproof jacketFleece or wool beanieSunglasses with side shieldsSleeping bag and linerInner gloves or thermal glovesNotebook and penSun hatLip balm SunscreenTowel In addition to the essentials mentioned in the table, you need to carry a small kit with bandages, blister treatment, pain relievers, and personal medications. Further, you will need soft flasks or reusable water bottles. You can even choose insulated water bottles, and don’t forget to keep the purification filters and tablets handy.  Moreover, you will need a headlamp with extra batteries, and your backpack must have a solid frame with multiple compartments and adjustable straps.  4. Get The Necessary Permits When you plan a trek in Nepal, you have to bring the right permits.  Most trekking routes require a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card. You’ll also need entry permits for national parks or conservation areas like Everest, Annapurna, or Langtang.  These permits not only ensure your safety but also support local communities.  Further, If you’re heading to restricted areas such as Upper Mustang or Dolpo, a special permit is mandatory.  Get these permits, carry your passport, visa copies, and passport-size photos. Moreover, hire a guide from a registered agency if you are doing solo trekking in Nepal.  5. Hire A Guide Or Porter For Trekking In Nepal A local guide shares valuable knowledge about the culture and trails, and porters can help by carrying heavy loads, allowing you to trek comfortably. Further, on remote and high-altutde routes, you will need a guide and porter for safety.  Moreover, by hiring a guide or porter, you can support the community and promote sustainable tourism. Overall, having a guide or porter enhances your trekking experience while positively impacting the region. 6. Acclimatize Properly When Trekking In Nepal Trekking in Nepal comes with the risk of altitude sickness. To stay safe, you have to follow the ‘climb high, sleep low’ rule. The rule means ascending during the day and sleeping at a lower altitude. This is essential for a successful peak climbing experience. For example, during your Everest Base Camp trek, you can acclimatize at Namche Bazaar and ensure a successful peak climbing experience. Further, staying hydrated is crucial while trading the high-altitude routes. So, drink four liters of water every day.  7. Respect Local Culture When Trekking In Nepal As you pass through the local villages during trekking, you must be respectful of local traditions. Greeting people with “Namaste” is a warm and respectful way to say hello!  Be polite and show interest in their in their way of life. Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, especially in religious areas. Further, always ask for permission before photographing locals or sacred sites. Respect customs such as removing shoes to enter temples and walking clockwise around stupas.  These small acts of respect go a long way in your relationship with the locals.  8. Be Environmentally Responsible Keep Nepal’s trails clean and beautiful, and follow simple eco-friendly habits. Always carry a reusable water bottle to cut down on plastic waste.  Further, you must dispose of trash and use biodegradable soap to protect water sources. Stick to marked trails to avoid harming plants and animals. Also, avoid using single-use plastics and choose lodges that support sustainable practices.  In addition, you have to be respectful to the local community by preserving cultural sites and keeping the noise levels low. 9. Prepare For Unpredictable Weather Trekking in Nepal will surprise you with changing weather conditions. A moment you can see bright sunlight and the next moment everything can be covered in snow, fog and rain, making it very difficult for you to trek.  The change of weather conditions is also crucial if you want to go for a mountain view helicopter tour. Further, to stay warm, you must dress in layers and carry a rain jacket.  10. Enjoy The  Trekking Journey Enjoy your journey to the fullest when trekking in Nepal. Indulge in the scenic views and immerse in the local culture and hospitality.  Make the trek or the journey all about acquiring meaningful experiences and just being present in the moment. 

BY  Abdul Aziz May 16, 2023

Camping is a perfect way to reconnect with nature and find yourself. If you have packed your all-weather great, your habanero beef jerky, and your sense of adventure, all you need is a place to pitch your tent. Lucky for us, the United States offers some of the most breathtaking campsites in the world. Some of them have great trails to hike, while others offer serene lakes for swimming or fishing. Here are the top five destinations well worth considering for your next outdoor getaway. You Cannot Miss These Camping Spots In The United States: Into The Wilderness  For many tourists, camping is an alternative method of tourism and it is a more flexible option to explore nature and the best of wildlife.  Further, Americans prefer camping to make their vacations more meaningful. Like the local homestays in remote regions, camping in parks or wilderness is a great way to know about local people and culture.  Also, so many camping spots in the United States, especially the national parks, have fuelled the love of Americans for camping. Especially millennials in America love camping the most as a traveling or outdoor activity.  The popularity of camping in America also shows in the market data. Here is a quick excerpt. The CAGR of camping in the USA is expected to be 6.11% between 2024 and 2029.By 2029, the camping market in the USA is about to have 80.88 million consumers.Online sales will be the primary channel, with 61% of the business happening through it by 2029. So, do you also want to explore the best camping spots in the United States? Here is a Tour and Travel list curated for you.  1. Yosemite National Park, California Yosemite National Park, likely the most famous park in the American park system, spans nearly 1,200 square miles of jaw-dropping wilderness in California's Sierra Nevada mountains. The park's granite cliffs, including the world-renowned El Capitan and Half Dome, inspire awe in even the most experienced outdoors enthusiasts. The park has 13 campgrounds, some of which accommodate RVs and others that are accessible only on foot. The Valley campgrounds like Upper Pines and North Pines are hugely popular due to their proximity to Yosemite Valley's major attractions. However, for a more tranquil and immersive experience, consider camping in the high country at Tuolumne Meadows, but check on the National Park Service site to ensure that camping in these areas is currently allowed. Seasoned campers can also head to the backcountry of Little Yosemite Valley and remote wilderness sites like Glen Aulin or Merced Lake, but be sure to secure the proper wilderness permits before you set off. 2. Glacier National Park, Montana Often called the "Crown of the Continent," Glacier National Park's rugged peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and vast meadows offer a camping experience that feels truly wild. With over a thousand campsites spread across 13 campgrounds, you have numerous options for where to pitch your tent. Many Glacier Campground is a top pick for its stunning views of Swiftcurrent Lake and the park's signature rugged peaks. The park's namesake glaciers, while receding, are a sight to behold, especially from the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. If you want to escape the crowds, backcountry camping permits allow you to explore the park's more rugged areas. 3. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia For those based on the East Coast, Shenandoah National Park offers an amazing wilderness escape. This park, stretching along the Blue Ridge Mountains, has over 500 miles of trails, including a portion of the famous Appalachian Trail. The Big Meadows Campground is a favorite among campers for its spacious sites, convenient facilities, and proximity to hiking trails. For wildlife lovers, the park is home to a healthy population of black bears, white-tailed deer, red foxes, diverse bird species, and the rare Shenandoah salamander—found only on the mountain peaks within the park. Visit in the autumn to witness the spectacular display of fall colors, or in spring to see the forest burst into life with blooming wildflowers. 4. Olympic National Park, Washington Olympic National Park, situated in the Pacific Northwest, offers another incredibly diverse camping experience. The park is home to several unique ecosystems, including glacier-capped mountains, over 70 miles of wild coastline, and verdant rainforests. For beach lovers, the park offers the unique opportunity to camp right on the sand at places like Second Beach, where you can dose to the sound of lapping waves. Forest campers will be enchanted by the Hoh Rain Forest Campground, nestled amongst towering Sitka spruces and western hemlocks. If you prefer higher altitudes, Deer Park Campground offers unparalleled views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. 5. Acadia National Park, Maine Acadia National Park, located on Maine's rugged Atlantic coast, offers a unique blend of mountain and sea. The park's Blackwoods Campground is just a stone's throw from the ocean and offers easy access to over 120 miles of hiking trails. The park is renowned for its rocky headlands, like the Otter Cliffs, which provide vast turquoise ocean vistas. No matter what time of year you visit, Acadia offers a memorable camping experience. A must-do in Acadia is watching the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain; from October to March, this is the first place in the United States to see the morning light. Make sure you plan ahead as this popular park can get quite crowded during peak season and there are a limited number of permits issued for the sunrise visitors each day. 6. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida Dry Tortugas National Park, one of the topmost camping spots in the United States, is a hub of stargazing, snorkeling, and sunset viewing. Further, as you camp in the Dry Tortugas National Park of Florida, you feel the proximity to a 19th-century Fort Jefferson and the crystal clear water. You have to take a Yankee Freedom ferry, a private boat, or a charter seaplane to reach Dry Tortugas National Park. Further, you have to set the itinerary right to make the most of your camping experience here. Here is a tentative itinerary of camping at Dry Tortugas National Park. Day 1Securing the campsiteWalking through the parkVisiting the Park Gift ShopClicking photosSnorkeling to see beautiful corals and fishSunset viewingRelaxing on the beachStargazingDay 2Sunrise viewingPacking up your gearLunch on the ferryExploring the Jefferson FortBack to Key West While camping at Dry Tortugas, you will have bugs and lizards as your visitors. Keep your camping zone clean and use repellants (only when needed) to keep them at bay.  Tour And Travel Tips As You Visit The Best Camping Spots In The United States Preparing for the best camping spots in the USA needs careful planning and thoughtful packing.  One of the most important aspects is planning your meals and packing enough food and water. Cooking equipment, such as a portable camping stove, can be very helpful.  Consider convenient food items like jerky, canned goods, or pasta. Do not forget essential items like a can opener and utensils.  In many camping spots in the United States, wildlife such as bears can be attracted to food. So, pack a bear canister to store food securely. Research your chosen campsite to understand the specific rules, available amenities, and local weather conditions.  Temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in warmer climates. So you should have the best tent and appropriate sleeping gear. Popular campsites can book up quickly, so always check the relevant park websites for up-to-date information and availability.  Lastly, remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace to preserve these precious environments for other nature lovers. Read Also: Best Restaurants In Honduras To Visit While Traveling Indian Buffet Near Me In Florida – Best Buffets For You Top 15 Restaurants In Colombia You Must Visit While Traveling