From Gatwick To Sunshine: Straightforward Tricks For Cheaper Holidays

BY  Sibashree Oct 15, 2024

Lassen Volcanic National Park was in the news recently as the fourth-largest wildfire in California exploded out of proportion. The park's officials evacuated staff from the Mineral community near the park headquarters.  120 people were there in the community, and the evacuation started as the fire started moving east to the park on the evening of 26th July 2024.  However, the park fire reached near containment in August, and on 17th August 2024, the park was partially reopened. You may wonder what to see in Lassen Volcanic National Park after the fire breakout and if there is any significant destruction in the places of interest in the park.  Let me assure you. The park officials stated that the fire had never entered the park. However, there are still risks in the southern part of the park and Mill Creek and Mineral communities.  Nevertheless, the reopened parts of the park are out of danger despite some lingering smoke. So, Subway Cave, located around 15 miles north of Lassen Volcanic National Park, is one of the safest sites to explore after the fire incident. Make a rush, as it remains open from late April to November.  What To See In Lassen Volcanic National Park After The Fire Breakout (Exploring The Underground World Of A Lava Tube) Yes, you got me right! I am talking about the Subway Cave. The self-guided trail inside the cave is ⅓ miles long and 30 feet wide, and complete darkness is inside. So, many call it the journey into darkness. The USDA Forest Service maintains the cave, which remains open from dawn to dusk.  Before I get into more stories and facts about the cave, I want to present the basics you need to know briefly.  Important Facts About Subway Cave, Lassen National Volcanic Park Location in the ParkA 2-minute walk from the parking lot near the junction of “Highway 89” and “Highway 44” in Old StationAmenitiesPicnic TablesDrinking WaterParkingToiletsInterpretive SiteFeesFree (You can make donations)Pet-FriendlyNoParking FacilitiesMany Parking Facilities, Buses and RVsOutdoor ActivitiesInterpretative Sessions, Caving, PicnicTemperature Inside the Cave46 Degree Farrenheit Nearby AttractionShasta County (Mountainous landscape and multiple picnic locations)Nearby Trails*Cinder Crone TrailSpattercone Nature TrailButte Lake to Widow Lake, etc.  *Many hiking trails in the park, such as the Lassen Peak, Bumpass Hell, and Mill Creek Falls, are closed as the park has partially reopened after the recent wildfire explosion. So, check with the park authorities before you plan a hike on the park trails.  This Is How The Subway Cave Was Formed  If you are a keen learner of geology and want to know what to see in Lassen Volcanic National Park, you cannot avoid the lure of Subway Cave. I have already shared an account on the geothermal wonders of the park. This cave is an example of how lava flowed around 20000 years ago and created some magic.  A major lava explosion happened all across the Hat Creek area around 20000 years ago. The top layer of the lava flow became cold and hard in contact with air. Thus, a hard cap was formed. However, there was a continuous flow of molten lava below this cap.  The molten lava drained out Over time, but a hollow tube structure remained there. As you hike this trail, you will find traces of the more recent lava flows.  Route To The Subway Cave Is Bumpass Hell on your list of what to see in Lassen Volcanic National Park? Are you planning a trip to the park soon? Then, you will be disappointed as the Bumpass Hell trek route is closed after the park has reopened following the recent fire breakout.  Further, as Bumpass Hell is closed, you must take the Warner Valley Area route to  Devils Kitchen, which is the cave's opening. Devils Kitchen is a 4.4-mile hike from the Warner Valley Area (camping here is closed for 2024).   Accessing The Subway Cave  You have to climb down metal stairs as you access the Subway Cave. You will get down into a wide opening in the ground. The ground surface has a leveled floor. However, you must be careful as you get off the stair flight.  Further, you must wear sturdy footwear to avoid injuries and difficulties where the floor gets rough.  Fortunately, the ceiling and walls are quite smooth, minimizing the hiking difficulty level while hiking. Also, there is complete darkness inside the cave. So, you will need a flashlight to make it to the end.  The weather inside is a little cold, even in summer. So you will need a light jacket. Moreover, don’t forget to read and follow the interpretative signs through the trail to better understand the place.  The best thing about this park is that it’s 30 feet wide. So, even with complete darkness inside, you never feel suffocated.  What To See In Lassen Volcanic National Park Subway Cave It is not a long walk inside the Subway Cave. However, this short walk is enough to make it feature on the list of what to see in Lassen Volcanic Park.  Lucifer’s Cul-de-sac (An Attraction Very Few Knows About) Have you listened to Satan’s Cul-de-sac from Gangland Buries Its Own? The first thing that may amaze you inside the cave is Lucifer’s Cul-de-sac. There is a split as you enter the cave, and you are to turn to the right if you want to continue the trail. However, you will notice a big room if you are adventurous enough to turn left, when I tell you about Lucifer’s Cul-de-sac, The ceiling height starts from 6 feet and gets higher up to 15 feet. The most amazing thing about this room inside the cave is the rock formation on the ceiling and walls. It’s gothic and justified its name.  https://open.spotify.com/track/6cq37W4OXjEdQRLh2IVQOF As The Hike Advances  The ceiling height will vary as you continue the trek, and there are small boulder-like rock formations in many places. So, be careful with your steps and do not stumble upon them. Also, because of these rock formations, you must not wear an open-toe shoe while walking through the cave.  Nevertheless, the ceiling formation is fascinating, and in one section, it looks like stoned rainfall or water ripples. The section is called the Lavacicle Lane. Molten lava dripped off through the cracks in the ceiling cave, and there were formations of “drip pendants” or “lavacicles.”  Further, as you plan to take the exit, you notice all the colors in the lava rock formation, including green, blue, white, and brown lines.  Getting Out Of The Subway Cave As you approach the end of the cave, you will find a metal stair flight similar to the one at the entrance. From the top of the exit staircase, you can hike through an on-ground trail to the west or north to find the parking lot.  However, I prefer to take another walk through the cave and get back to the entrance. It will be so much fun to explore this unique geological formation again.  Things To Remember Before Getting Into The Darkness Of The Subway Cave  Subway Cave is a hidden gem if you consider what to see in Lassen Volcanic National Park. However, once you take the hike and read the interpretative signs, you will learn why it is geologically unique.  Nevertheless, you must be careful about certain things to ensure complete safety throughout the hike.  You will find rattlesnakes in the trail, and you have to be respectful to these reptiles. You must not make any move to catch or hurt them. Moreover, you cannot go off trails or litter inside the cave.  No food, water, or firelighting is allowed inside the cave. There are picnic areas nearby for you to catch refreshments. Wish you a safe, easy, and fun-filled experience inside the Subway Cave!  Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

BY  Sibashree Mar 22, 2025

Are you aware of Chikmagalur's Coffee? The taste is counted among the richest coffees in the world. You may have tasted the coffee from here. But did you care to visit the most prestigious coffee estate in the country yet?  You’ll be amazed by the hills covered by mist. As you graze past, you will see the lush green plantations.  The contrasts of the green top against the grey rocks will surely amaze you. But the best part is something else. You will come across the rich coffee aroma. It’s always present in the air.  The bottom line is that this characteristic coffee station is a must-visit. There’s a reason why it is called the Distinct Coffee Land of Karnataka.  The Rich Heritage You Can't-Miss The coffee culture started under the British Raj. Now it has flourished beyond leaps. But things were different from the start. The coffee culture was prevalent among the Britishers and a small section of the Indian elites only.  But that has spread now. Subsequently, Chikmagalur's Coffee is now reputed as one of the finest Indian coffee. Meanwhile, the estate has also risen to the helm of fame. When you visit her, you will encounter one of the biggest and finest coffee estates in the country.  Planning a Chikmagalur Tour Plan your Chikmagalur tour today. Begin with a coffee plantation tour. When you come here,, you will meet a plethora of global and domestic tourists who flock here every year. Firstly, you will enjoy the breathtaking scenery around. Next, you will soak yourself in the rich coffee aroma in the surroundings.  From coffee beans to the brewery, you will witness every step with your eyes. At the same time, you will get insights that you make you a coffee pro. So, make your visit to Chikmagalur’s coffee plantations more memorable and insightful! The History of Chikmagalur Coffee Coffee dates back to the 17th century India. Baba Budan, who also goes by the name of  Hazarat Shah Janab Allah Magatabi, paid a Haj visit. He was mesmerized by the strong beverage he had in Yemen. And the stark aroma with a rich taste took a toll on his tastebuds.  Then he decided to take coffee back to his land. That’s how coffee occurred in India.  undertook a pilgrimage to the holy land of Mecca. During his travels, he encountered the rich, aromatic coffee of Yemen and was so impressed by its refreshing qualities that he decided to bring it back to India. The Challenge  Back then, exporting coffee from the Arabian estates was not allowed. But the legend says that he smuggled around 7 beans. He just hid them in his robes.  When he returned in 1670, he paid a visit to the Chikmagalur's Coffee Hills. At first, he didn’t know it would be a coffee plantation paradise. But the rich soil and the soothing weather worked like magic.  Later the surrounding Sufi hills were named Baba Budan Giri, honoring him.  How Did It Spread? Initial coffee’s acceptance was slow. Hence the cultivation was limited too. But coffees started to spread like wildfire when the English came here.  The Europeans were mesmerized. At first, The Dutch made spreading coffee plantations a personal agenda in India. But the real reign of coffee started under the British. Around 1850, coffee plantations became normal in India.  What’s The Status Now? The Chikmagalur's Coffee is now popular across India and abroad too. However there is a sheer economic importance of this beverage as well. At first, the story began with just 7 coffee beans. But it has now grown into a fully fledged industry.  Today, the coffee plantation is a separate tourist attraction. If you ever go by the scenic Chikmagalur's Coffee estate, check out the coffee plantations with awe!  The Art of Coffee-Making Chikmagalur’s coffee plantations are home to two distinct varieties of coffee: Arabica and Robusta. Arabica is known for its delicate flavor and sweet undertones and is in high demand in international markets.  Arabica plants are smaller and thrive at higher altitudes. They require more manual attention and meticulous care. On the other hand, Robusta is more resilient, growing at lower elevations and having a bold, strong taste. Robusta plants are also easier to maintain. While a casual coffee drinker may be unable to distinguish between the two easily, estate owners carefully select their preferred variety based on climate conditions, maintenance needs, and market demand. Both coffee varieties play a crucial role in Chikmagalur’s coffee industry. The journey from coffee cherry to mug is an intricate, labor-intensive process. The steps of coffee-making are as follows: Step 1: Harvesting Skilled coffee pickers handpick only the ripest coffee cherries, ensuring quality and consistency. Step 2: Processing The harvested cherries undergo various processing methods to remove the outer layers and prepare the beans. Step 3: Drying In this stage, the main aim is to dry the coffee. You can use the sun drying method. Most roasteries use it too.  Once there is no moisture in the beans, you can go to the next stage.  Step 4: Roasting Once done, the coffee beans go through the penultimate stage. Each bean goes through careful roasting. But you need to maintain a precise temperature during the process. It helps to infuse the rich gourmet smell and characteristic taste.  This careful process, perfected over generations, is what makes Chikmagalur’s coffee so exceptional. Explore the Coffee Museum For those eager to explore the world of coffee, a visit to the Coffee Museum, also known as the Coffee Yatra Museum in Chikmagalur, is a must. The Coffee Board of India started this museum as a solo initiative. Now this is the main Indian coffee museum that educates visitors about coffee. You can learn about coffee’s journey from scratch here.  Located in Dasarahalli, just a short drive from Chikmagalur’s city center, the museum offers an enriching experience that is ideal for both casual coffee lovers and connoisseurs. Pay A Visit Today! For a truly immersive coffee experience, a stay amid Chikmagalur’s Coffee plantations is ideal. Gateway Chikmagalur provides the perfect luxury stay, offering modern comforts while keeping visitors close to the town’s coffee heritage.  With its proximity to key attractions like the Coffee Museum, it serves as a great base to explore the region’s rich coffee culture, while indulging in a luxurious, nature-infused getaway.

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 7, 2021

Before you plan an uplifting vacation in Atlanta, let's get a grasp of what the city is all about. There are a number of attractions that are great if you are visiting with your partner or even with your kids. Atlanta family vacations are really very charming for you, your family, and your kids. Many Georgians are asking about family day trips near me.  But do you know Atlanta is the best place for family vacations? Because this place has many day trips for the Atlanta family. Many kid events in Atlanta are organized in the holidays. The city of the forest is full of natural parks and hiking spots for young children. Here are the top motivations, from its brilliant wall paintings around the city to its extraordinary food choice. It also is the capital of the radiant state of Georgia, United States. The Best Season To Visit Atlanta As a family day out, Atlanta is the best place. Hence the fun day trips in Georgia are also very popular places among travelers. Check out the best season for Atlanta family vacations. Highlighting some of the facts: Atlanta no doubt offers a monstrous scope of traveler areas and joint spots to nearby individuals. It guarantees you a decent place for getting away for sightseeing from all around the world. You will find the best show lobbies and galleries here in Atlanta. The art portrayal of this city. It portrays the greatness of South American traditions to the divine sorts of the south. The Essence Of The City Art and culture are the essences of Atlanta. The city has a general fast ambiance; ongoing quality but the preservation and portrayal of history are divine. The nature parks are the best place for day trips for kids.  Apart from the natural parks, the stone mountain is another good traveling place for young children. Olympic park and high museum art are the best choices for young children and toddlers. Even Atlanta has a children’s museum for toddlers and younger than 8 years children. Especially great traveler areas, fantastic cafe destinations, and safeguarded history reviews, particularly from the 1960s. The city was an immense arrangement in the progressing common battle around then. There are endless Social attractions or places of interest as we state that contribute fundamentally to the characteristic and hugeness of this excellent city. Planning A Getaway In Atlanta? Depending on what sort of excursion you're going for, you can without a doubt place in several days in the city. Looking for connecting with exercises in Atlanta isn't hard anyway getting aware of how the city limits and how you can exploit your trip matters a ton. On the off chance that you are new to researching the wonders of "New York of the South", make yourself comfortable and read this article quite far to get a decent sight on what to do while you're in the courageous city of Atlanta, so you never abandon Fun activities in Atlanta. In this article, we are going to look into some information on the things to do with the family in Atlanta that you wouldn't want to leave behind. The main center of attractions at Atlanta family vacations. Atlanta is famous for some of the Best campgrounds in Georgia The food cuisine is southern and amazingly captures the whole southern American vibe for you Historic places Natural heritage preserved. Music festivals Arts and culture beautifully portrayed Atlanta's hallmark is shopping variety. Nature-connected spots. Atlanta is a city known for constant fun and relentless experience. While discussing fun activities in Atlanta outdoors has been known to feel comfortable around the vacationer's heart. Atlanta family vacations are full of enticements, and from the age of 4 to 100, everyone can enjoy the vacations. At the point where, you get away from the metropolitan zone in Atlanta. There are trails, forests, lakes, and streams or lakes to research out in the commonplace zones, so whichever campground zone you pick, you're sure to find experience and fun. Depending on what is your place of interest you choose, you would surely find marvelous spots to stay and have fun in. The top three places that you can visit easily on a one-day trip: 1. Georgia Aquarium: One of Atlanta Georgia’s biggest attractions is the Aquarium. The aquarium is a must-visit if you are traveling with kids. Adults, too, are likely to find some of the experiences to be particularly breathtaking in nature. Without seeing the beautiful sea animals, your Atlanta family vacations are remaining incomplete. The Aquarium also plays a major role in the conservation efforts of marine life. If you are traveling to the Aquarium, you will be able to see exotic aquatic animals like- Sharks Beluga Whales Alligators Dolphins Penguins Sea Lions Manta Ray In addition, the aquarium also houses some of the world’s best viewing galleries. The galleries have been designed in a manner that allows you to view the animals in all their natural glory. This is a far cry from some of the aquariums that keep animals in enclosed facilities. The Aquarium also has a number of Programs going on every day. If you are serious about volunteering, you can choose to become a part of the many volunteer programs the aquarium has to offer. When you are vacationing in Atlanta as a family do not skip the gorgeous Aquarium. There are also Gift Shops and Souvenir Shops inside the aquarium where you can pick up gifts for your near and dear ones back home. 2. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site: Start at the guest place and afterward work your way around the three primary destinations in this noteworthy park: Seeing the glorious history of America is turning your Atlanta family vacations a more joyful holiday family vacations. The home wherein the head of the Civil Rights development in America was conceived. The congregation where he lectured The dedication site where he is covered. A significant Atlanta fascination, the recreation center draws around millions of guests every year and still hasn't gotten old for a tourist spot. 3. The World Of Coca-Cola Coca-Cola is one of the biggest companies in the world. However, very few people know that the global giant started its humble origins in Atlanta, Georgia. If you are visiting Georgia, you need to definitely visit the World of Coca-Cola. Here you can get to know some amazing facts on how Coca-Cola is made and how the first ingredients were chosen, and what did they lead to. If you are someone who loves Coca-Cola as much as I do, trust me, you would not want to miss this for anything in the world. There is a defined lounge where you can taste all the early and present flavors; check out some of the most memorable artifacts, including early Coke bottles, photos, and videos, as well as illustrations from the ages. You can also carry back some souvenirs from the trip with you to gift to your friends and family members. And yes, the vault where the original Coca-Cola recipe is kept is also open to the public. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Is Atlanta good for the family?  Atlanta has been ranked 77th for being the best place to start a family. In short, the place is sputtered. Its family-friendliness is burgered between Carrollton and Fairburn. How many days are perfect for visiting Atlanta? Roundabout 3 days. In three days it will cover all the tourists attraction in Atlanta. You can start from the Atlanta Center.  How long does it take to explore the Georgia Aquarium? It takes 3-4 hours to complete the view of the entire aquarium. The weekends get very busy, so make sure you arrive there early.   How much does it cost to get into the Georgia Aquarium? General admission tickets cost 35.94 dollars, barring age and arrival time Children aged 2 or below do not need tickets. The parking spot costs, 17 dollars but the members of the aquarium pay 11 dollars. There is a 12 dollar discount for aquarium guests.  Conclusion If you are looking to visit the heart and soul of America, you cannot afford to miss Atlanta. While cities and places like New York and Las Vegas have their own set of contemporary appeal, Atlanta is where America was truly made. There are plenty of things to do with the family in Atlanta that you will certainly enjoy. Atlanta family vacation planning is the best way to enjoy your holiday with your family and friends. Especially when you are in Georgia, do not waste a single moment and make a travel plan for Atlanta.