9 Fun Activities You Should Add To Your Pigeon Forge Bucket List

BY  Sibashree Jan 22, 2025

The land of the Grand Canyon! The Grand Canyon State! Ask anyone about what is Arizona known for, or search #Arizona on Instagram. With 26.1m posts on Instagram, you will find the Saguaro National Park, Grand Canyon, and desert landscape ruling the scenario.  However, if you are done with #desertdreaming in Arizona, it’s time to check out how the desert delights are making their presence felt on your plate.  #arizonafood is doing well on socials, and I get to see a lot of steaks, honey garlic shrimp, fried chicken, street tacos, and BBQ. This vividness in Arizona food, of course, comes from the most eclectic Mexican, Native American, and Sonoran desert influences.  Again, Arizona is known for its farm-to-table cuisine. Places like Scottsdale and Flagstaff are celebrating this food mantra of Arizona to the fullest, and last November, we had Chef Tamara Stanger coming back to Shift in Flagstaff, Arizona. ShiftAddress: 107 North San Francisco St, #2, Flagstaff, AZ 86001Contact Number: (928) 440-5135 So, this is the best time to visit Shift and other celebrated eating points in Arizona to indulge in the ultimate desert delight. This Tour and Travel blog is a humble food tour and a guide on what Arizona is known for food. What is Arizona Known For Food | History Of Arizona Cuisine If we want to decode what Arizona is known for food, we must learn its history. Food in Arizona has three major influences: Native American, Spanish, and Mexican. Of course, modern evolution is there in making Arizona food what it is today. Tucson in Arizona is the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the USA. It earned the designation in 2015. This shows how the state of Arizona fuses the history of at least 4000 years with the most innovative or new takes.   "One thing visitors will notice is that this deep food heritage is not frozen in the past, but is very much alive. Not only can they sample outstanding versions of traditional dishes of the region, but in our many chef-driven restaurants they can also taste new takes on old favorites and creative new dishes using heritage ingredients.” Jonathan Mabry, Executive Director, Tucson City of Gastronomy Organization 1. Native American Influence On Arizona Food https://www.instagram.com/p/C340jn5reSW/ Native American people like Hopi, Navajo, and Apache brought the use of corn, squash, and beans. They even introduced using desert plants and their various parts in their cuisine. For example, the fruits of prickly pear cactus were widely loved and even those were used as cooking pads.  Again, flour for bread came from grinding mesquite pods. Moreover, saguaro cactus fruits were used in making wines and syrups.  Further, today, when you have Navajo tacos, you must know that the origin goes back to many years. The Native American tribes made these fried breads for survival during the reservation days.  With the passage of time, these fried breads have emerged as the cultural symbol of the state.  Hope's Frybread is a happening place for having Navajo Taco in Arizona. It is located at 144 S Mesa Dr E Ste E Mesa, and you can contact them at (480) 465-2666.  The Stand, on N Alma School Road, Scottsdale, is another great place for having Navajo tacos. Call them at (480) 519-1108 before your visit. 2. The Mexican Influence On Arizona Food Today, everyone swoons over Sonoran Hot Dog. This one and many other Sonoran Desert delicacies came to Arizona and grew in popularity with the Mexican fusion.  The use of carne seca and a lot of cheese, the signature of Mexican topping, changed the cuisine of Arizona for the better.   3. Spanish Influence On Arizona Food Spanish influence became prominent in Arizona Food via the Mexico route. In other words, when Spanish people came to Mexico in the early 20th century, they brought a lot of layering techniques.  Further, they introduced the use of citrus fruits and wheat in food. What is Arizona Known For Food | Famous Dishes You Must Try  Arizona food comes with quintessential Southwestern influences! So, the flavors are bold, and a touch of spice gives that extra zing.  Again, when the peppers and spices add that heat, the desert elements like cactus pads balance the dishes with their neutral taste.  Nevertheless, these are some of the must-try dishes if you want to know what is Arizona known for food. 1. Sonoran Hot Dog https://www.instagram.com/p/ClWlwH0N9sF/ Best Place To Have: Jack in the Box Address: 1194 E Florence Blvd Casa Grande Contact Number: (520) 836-0304 If Chicago has deep-dish pizza, Arizona has Sonoran hot dogs. The dish's origin goes back to the 1940s, and the twist lies in the use of bolillo (a roll with a split top) instead of a bun.  The filling of pinto beans in the blanket of bacon tastes out of the world with jalapenos, mayo, tomatoes and onions. The ultimate desert delight, it is!  2. Chimichanga https://www.instagram.com/p/CnkAGonpYH_/ Best Place To Have: Rito's Mexican Food - Mesa Address: 1033 N Dobson Rd Ste 101 Mesa Contact Number: (480) 264-0966 A burrito, when deep fried, becomes chimichanga. Here, the wrap of golden brown tortilla comes with a filling of beans, meat, and cheese.  The toppings of these delicacies have sour cream, cheese sauce, and guacamole. Can you imagine the delicacies, just melting in your mouth? 3. Prickly Pear Delicacies Prickly pear delicacies encompass many beverages, desserts, and mains in Arizona. Using prickly pear fruits in the dishes adds a subtle flavor and taste. Further, the bright pink color of the fruits makes the dish look more tantalizing.  The fruits, thanks to their “sweet-tart flavor,” are also popular in ice cream, jellies, and candies. Even wines and tonics get flavors from these fruits.  4. Cheese Crisp Best Place To Have: Ghost Ranch: Modern Southwest Cuisine Address: 1006 E Warner Rd Ste 102-103 Tempe Contact Number: (480) 474-4328 Do you love quesadilla? You will love cheese crisp, its open-faced form even more. The roasted and crisp tortilla in this dish tastes heavenly with layers of cheese. If you want it a little spicy, you can always ask to add some green chilies.  Cheese crips are cut into slices before serving. They are like a simpler form of pizza.  5. Pie Best Place To Have: Pie Snob Chandler Address: 250 S Arizona Ave Ste 4 Chandler Contact Number: (480) 855-1019 If you want to try desserts from the desert, you must try the classic pie. It has seasonal fruits and has a distinct Spanish influence.  Other desserts you can have in Arizona are sopapillas (with honey) and chocolate chili cakes.  6. Green Chili Stew A lot of roasted green chilies and chunks of pork simmered in it! That’s green chili for you. This is another prominent example of how Mexican influence is massive on the food of Arizona.  You can have green chili stew with tortilla or bread on a winter day and feel the warmth. It’s a comfort food and you can have it better at any Arizona home than restaurants.  7. Steak And BBQ Best Place To Have: Maddie Jo’s BBQ Address: 5388 E Skyline Dr, San Tan Valley Contact Number: (480) 625-1131 When it comes to southern or southwestern BBQ, we all know that the rub makes all the difference. Paprika, garlic and onion powder, chili powder, brown sugar, and a hot of herbs infuse the right flavors and taste into the steaks and BBQs.  The steakhouses and BBQ joints in Arizona await with all these smoky delicacies if you are ready to taste the best of Arizona.  Trying The Best Of Farm-To-Table Cuisine In Arizona | Living What Is Arizona Known For Arizona has a reputation for its farm-to-table culture. This state enjoys year-round production of fresh veggies and fruits. There are dedicated farmers’ markets and restaurants to celebrate the farm-to-table food culture of Arizona.  Some popular farm-to-fresh restaurants in Arizona are: RestaurantAddressContact NumberFarm Provisions148 N Montezuma St Prescott(928) 776-3001Farm & Craft4302 N Scottsdale Rd Scottsdale(480) 568-8980Arcadia Farms Cafe7025 E 1st Ave Scottsdale(480) 941-5665 Overall, the farm-to-table concept makes the food experience in Arizona truly unique!  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 6, 2023

For regular travelers or digital nomads, a well-designed suitcase is crucial. It is probably the most crucial travel item. It is incumbent that you choose the ideal one to safely manage all of your travel necessities. Given how important it is, it is natural that travelers want to make a solid investment in their travel luggage that will last a long while. Despite this, it can be difficult to select the ideal bag. Today, we'll discuss the Monos luggage line of bags. Although Monos is a relatively new travel accessory company, its wide selection of bags is helping it thrive in the market. Is this emerging luggage brand any good? Can Monos be trusted in place of reliable names like Samsonite or Tumi? Before spending your money on the new Monos luggage, you need to learn everything about Monos and its products. Here is all you need to know and reviews from people who have used it. What Is Monos Luggage? The Vancouver-based company Monos travel luggage offers a range of travel-related products. Today, the primary focus will be on its specialty collection of high-end travel luggage and bags. Every Monos bag has a clean, fashionable design with lots of useful functions. The quality of the Monos luggage is what distinguishes it from its competition. In order to make its products last longer, Monos portrays itself as an ethical company by sourcing high-quality, sustainable materials. And if you care about protecting the environment (we should all strive to do our part!), this is a bonus. It's fantastic to know that Monos is a certified climate-conscious business with zero net carbon emissions. It provides eco-friendly and non-cruelty-based products. These both seem to be excellent selling points and are definitely things you should strive to look for when purchasing a purse. Is the cost of a Monos travel bag really worth it, despite these significant product accomplishments? Is Monos luggage worth it? Here is our take on it. Important Physical Characteristics Of Monos Luggage The minimalist and understated appearance of Monos baggage bags makes them ideal for all sorts of travel. They are available in a variety of neutral yet fashionable colors, as well as occasionally limited edition hues. This luggage’s robust surfaces are made of aerospace-grade polycarbonate, a substance renowned for its extraordinary toughness and stress resistance. They are conveniently portable thanks to their silent-running wheels and telescoping handles. Strong YKK zippers and TSA combination locks from Monos ensure that your possessions are secure. Monos has also done a good job of covering the safety issue. All Monos baggage includes a couple of shoe bags, an anti-microbial laundry bag, and a vegan leather luggage tag. Here is a quick overview of everything Monos has to offer: Different Sizes Minimal and Chic Designs Functional Features TSA-Approved Locks Monos has not left any stone unturned. In any case, Monos has been approved as a climate-neutral brand. You may feel good about purchasing things from this company, as I already indicated. A lifetime guarantee, a 100-day return policy, and free delivery to the United States and Canada are some of the additional benefits. We will now describe what Monos has to offer in terms of its featured luggage. Remember that the prices and availability are preliminary and subject to change. Visit the official website of Mono for the most recent information on prices, offers, features, and availability. Monos Luggage Review: Carry-On Collection The carry-on range features 4 models: a) Monos Carry-On - $272 b) Monos Carry-On Plus - $294 c) Monos Carry-On Pro - $300 d) Monos Carry-On Pro Plus - $321 The Carry-On models' interiors are exceptionally well-designed. The interior of Monos Luggage is lined with an antibacterial substance to keep the bag tidy and clean. You can organize your necessities with the help of the many pockets as well! Monos bags make sure you keep organized when traveling with a zipped panel on one side and a compression pad-held pocket on the other. Here are the details of each model of Monos' Carry-On collection: Carry-On Because it can fit in most overhead compartments, the carry-on is designed to be the most practical size of the bag. No matter your destination or airline, Monos' standard-size carry is the ideal cabin-sized travel companion. Its outside dimensions are 22" by 14" by 9”. User Review: "I wanted a suitcase that didn’t look like everyone’s Away suitcase at baggage claim. I waited for a sale and got the carry on and check-in medium in terracotta. I get compliments on the color, but it does get scuffed up easily, which I don’t think is really avoidable for suitcases that aren’t black/dark grey. I was worried about the quality because it felt a thinner than Away, but I really stuffed both to the brim (like sitting on it to zip it up) on international trips and it surprisingly held up." Carry-On Plus A larger "sibling" of Monos' original Carry-On is the Carry-On Plus. For travelers who want more space, this is the perfect suitcase. According to Monos, the Carry-On Plus will fit most US airline guidelines due to its size and proportions. However, this might not be your luggage if you're traveling on a smaller aircraft or using a carrier with stricter carry-on regulations. The Carry-On Plus is 23" x 15" x 9.5" in size. User Review: “Purchased the monos Hybrid Carry-On Plus for about $300. When I purchased the luggage I thought the suitcase was ALL aluminum and it’s NOT which I was bummed about. The luggage is plastic and the frame and latches are made of aluminum. Would I buy again probably not but for $300 I can’t complain I guess. One of the things I was worried about was the size being too big for carry-on. I flew with United from LAX to Cancun and to my surprise it fit in their overhead compartment. I tried writing a review on their website but I was unable to do so. I contacted Monos and they told me that they would send me an email after 90 days of purchase which I thought was weird. I never received the link to write a review. I contacted them again and they said they didn’t have the ability to send me another link which I thought was suspicious. So it may be some of their reviews may be biased.” Carry-On Pro The Carry-On Pro is the following variant. In addition to having a front pocket, a laptop sleeve, and zipped pouches, it is the same size as the original Carry-On. User Review: “My go-to boring and ugly American Tourister black carry-on gave out on me after 9 years of service (10/10 durability). On the market for a treat-yo self-stylish upgrade for my suitcase, I got the Monos Carry-On pro and I am obsessed. It's functional, has held up great over several international flights over the last few months, and the four-wheel drive is impressively smooth. Above all - its just CUTE.” Carry-On Pro Plus The concept is the same. Use the extra exterior pocket on the Carry-On Plus to fit electronic devices like computers, iPads, or travel headphones inside. Monos' Carry-On Pro Plus is made to cover all that. Advice: The Carry-On Pro Plus is bigger than a typical carry-on luggage and may not fit in the overhead compartments of smaller aircraft or airlines. User Review: “Initially I felt the duffel cost way more than it should. However, when I received the duffel and compared it to another one I recently purchased I realized that the bag is made with a lot of thought involved and the quality of the material is great. I am now considering buying the duffel in another color and giving away the one I originally purchased especially after traveling with it.” Conclusions About The Carry-On Lineup We hope the differences between the various models are clear. How do they perform when traveling with others? These carry-on bags meet all the right standards. They are lightweight, made of materials that are extremely durable, and simple to manage. However, these bags don't always adhere to size requirements. One piece of advice I would provide is to make sure your Monos Carry-On works with your favorite carrier by checking the measurements, especially for the Pro and Pro Plus! Additionally, the front pocket of Mono's Pro luggage is frequently criticized for being challenging to close when fully packed. Pack sensibly and appropriately! Read Also: Traveling During Winter? Here Is A Winter Vacation Planning Checklist Winter Camping Checklist: 10 Must-Have Items For A Cozy Campsite Must Pack Business Travel Packing List Along With Tips 5 Backpacking Tips For An Unforgettable Euro-Trip

BY  Sibashree Sep 26, 2025

San Diego’s funny, and it feels like two vacations in one. You can be lazy by the beach and still find yourself hiking or grabbing tacos in some little neighborhood later.  The city’s chill, but not boring, which is kind of rare. If you’ve got a week, you can hit a mix of spots without running yourself ragged. And yeah, there’s always that random “Oh wow, I didn’t plan this, but it’s awesome” moment. So here’s a one week San Diego. It’s beaches, food, history, and a bit of hiking! All of these await you.  You don’t need to follow a very strict plan. However, having a basic plan always helps. What Is The Best One Week San Diego Itinerary?  Terminal 1 of the San Diego International Airport has just undergone a rejuvenation. The transformation has cost a whopping 3 billion US dollars, and the improvements show how the city is committed to serving its guests better. It perfectly blends smart designs, comfort, and technology.  Naturally, the current rejuvenation of Terminal 1 will be a milestone in boosting tourism to the city, which is otherwise fighting a downturn in the tourism sector in 2025. We can see the echo of the same in the words of Kerri Kapich, the COO of the San Diego Tourism Authority.  Kerri’s statement issued in May 2025 stated, “We are starting to see a slowdown. That is obviously a concern to all of us working in travel and tourism since we are the second-largest traded economy here in San Diego." Nevertheless, despite the not-so-great numbers, San Diego will never disappoint you with its beautiful beaches and marine life.  So, here is the one week San Diego itinerary for you.  Day 1: Beaches And The Waterfront The beaches and oceanfront are, of course, at the epicenter of the tourism scene of San Diego. Furthermore, these beaches are crucial for the city to adhere to sustainable and green tourism practices.  La Jolla Cove – Sea lions everywhere (they’re loud and hilarious). The water’s clear, cliffs are super photogenic, and if you’ve got snorkel gear, bring it. Sometimes they rope off parts during sea lion season, but you can still get close enough for a look.  The mornings here are calm, and it usually gets busy in the afternoon.  Mission Beach + Boardwalk – Classic scene. Long stretch of sand, bikes, rollerbladers, dudes juggling, all of it. It’s noisy in a good way. Sunset Cliffs – Come here at the end of the day. The cliffs are dramatic, like movie-scene dramatic. If the tide’s low, you can mess around in tide pools. Local tip: Parking near La Jolla can be a headache. So, reach early.  Day 2: Balboa Park And Downtown Energy Balboa Park is like San Diego showing off with its gardens, museums, and old Spanish-style buildings. Gardens – Some are free (always nice). The Botanical Building has plants everywhere, and the Alcazar Garden feels like a tiled postcard. Museums – Pick your flavor. Art, science, natural history! There are literally 17 of them. You won’t see it all, and that’s fine. Gaslamp Quarter – At night, the downtown buzz kicks in. Rooftop bars, restaurants, live music.  Local tip: Many museums offer free entry on Tuesdays. So, explore the official museum websites.  Day 3: Old Town And Classic Mexican Flavors If you want history with tacos (and who doesn’t), Old Town’s the move. Historic Park – Adobe houses, blacksmith demos, street performers! It’s half museum, half fair. Café Coyote – Fresh tortillas, large plates, and a fun vibe make Café Coyote a must-visit. Shops – Skip fridge magnets and choose handmade pottery, woven stuff, and jewelry, instead. Local tip: Late afternoon is the mariachi time, and it is super festive.  Day 4: Hiking And Outdoor Escapes Beaches are cool, but don’t skip the trails. San Diego has legit nature spots. Torrey Pines – Wild trees, epic ocean views, trails that make you stop mid-step just to gawk. Check closures before you go. Cowles Mountain – Moderate climb, great views from the top. You’ll feel like you earned your tacos. Mission Trails Park – Huge, less touristy. Lots of trails, chill atmosphere. Old Mission Dam is a simple stroll. Local tip: Sunrise hikes. Cooler, quieter, better. Day 5: San Diego Bay And A Boat Tour Different vibe today—see the city from the water. USS Midway – Enormous. Even just standing outside, you’ll be like, wow. Seaport Village – Cute, a little touristy, but good for wandering and snacks. San Diego Boat Tour – A harbor cruise is an affordable way to see the city from the water. You will pass under the Coronado Bridge, glide by the naval base, and take in the skyline from a fresh angle.  Some tours even spot dolphins along the way. If you want a more relaxing San Diego Bay tour with a fun island vibe, Tiki Time Bay Tours is one of the best choices. Their tiki-style boats create a laid-back atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding on the water. Local tip: Evening cruises can be cheaper. Plus, lights on the water are underrated. Day 6: Neighborhoods And Local Life This day’s all about vibes. Little Italy – You will find food everywhere, including good coffee, murals, and a farmers' market if you’re lucky. North Park – The North Park is artsy with craft beer and the vintage shops being the main attractions. Explore North Park in the afternoon. Ocean Beach – It is very chill and exudes a hippie-surfer energy. End with tacos by the pier. Day 7: Scenic Drives And A Relaxed Farewell Enjoy the last day of your trip in San Diego. You don’t need to do too much planning.  Pacific Coast Highway – Drive north, stop whenever the view makes you. (It’ll be often.) Coronado Island – Wide beach, fancy hotel, little cafes! It’s postcard-perfect but relaxed. Sunset Picnic – Grab snacks and sit on a blanket at Sunset Cliffs or Coronado. End the trip slowly and soak in the moments. Local tip: Locals picnic at the beach all the time. Join in. Wrapping Up Your San Diego Week Seven days later, you get why people rave about this place. You’ve seen beaches, trails, food spots, historic stuff, and neighborhoods, all with that laid-back SoCal vibe.  And the thing is that you didn’t even cover it all. Which just means that there’s more waiting when you come back. Read Also: What Is South Of France? What Will Be The Perfect South Of France Itinerary? What Are The Unique Things To Do In Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic? Unique Things To Do In Tuscany: What Is A Must-See In Tuscany?