Interesting Facts About Beaches That Will Surprise You

BY  Ankita Feb 13, 2024

Traveling opens up a world of adventure, especially for younger explorers. But before you book your tickets and board the plane, it’s important to know that proper immunization is critical to ensure your child's health and safety abroad. Are you equipped with the essential vaccinations for your young adventurer? Key Takeaways Vaccinations are critical for safe travel. A tailored immunization schedule is necessary. Proper administration and aftercare of vaccines protect young adventurers. Fundamental Concepts Of Vaccination When planning trips for young adventurers, it is crucial to understand how vaccines protect against diseases by boosting immunity, and the processes that ensure their safety and efficacy. Understanding Immunity And Vaccines Your immune system is your body's defense against infections. When exposed to disease-causing organisms, your body produces antibodies to fight the invaders. Vaccines are biological preparations that provide this immunity without causing the disease itself. They contain weakened or killed forms of the microbes or their parts, stimulating your immune system to recognize and combat the actual disease if you're exposed in the future. Types of Vaccines: Live, attenuated vaccines Inactivated vaccines Subunit, recombinant, polysaccharide, and conjugate vaccines Toxoid vaccines Common Vaccines for Kids: Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP) Polio (IPV) Hepatitis B Vaccine Development And Safety The development of vaccines is a rigorous process. It involves several stages of testing for effectiveness and safety before they can be approved by regulatory bodies such as the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics. After a vaccine is released, it continues to be monitored for adverse side effects. Vaccine safety is a priority, and side effects, when they occur, are mostly mild, such as a sore arm or low-grade fever. More serious side effects are very rare. You need to be aware of the recommended vaccine schedule for kids to ensure they are protected against preventable diseases during their travels and beyond. Vaccination Schedule And Recommendations It's crucial to adhere to recommended vaccination schedules for different stages of life to ensure protection against various diseases. Childhood Vaccination Guidelines Your childhood immunization schedule starts from infancy. The CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) outline that infants should receive multiple doses of vaccines such as DTaP, which protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. It's important to keep a record and follow up with your pediatrician to stay on track. Birth to 6 years Vaccine Schedule Summary: AgeKey ShotsBirthHepatitis B1-2 MonthsHepatitis B, DTaP, Rotavirus, Hib, PCV, Polio4 monthsDTaP, Rotavirus, Hib, PCV, Polio6 monthsHepatitis B, DTaP, Rotavirus, Hib, PCV, Polio12-15 monthsHib, PCV, MMR, Varicella4-6 yearsDTaP, Polio, MMR, Varicella Adolescent Immunization Needs As you transition into your teen years, additional vaccinations are necessary to maintain immunity. Adolescents should receive the Tdap vaccine, a booster for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, typically around 11-12 years old. The HPV vaccine series should also begin at this age to protect against human papillomavirus-related diseases. 7-18 years Vaccine Schedule Summary: AgeKey Shots11-12 yearsTdap, HPV series start, Meningococcal16 yearsMeningococcal booster Vaccines For Specific Age Groups Young adults should ensure they are up to date with vaccinations, especially if they haven't completed the HPV vaccine series or haven't received a Tdap booster in their adolescence. As you age, vaccines like the annual influenza shot and potential travel-related vaccines become pertinent based on your lifestyle and destinations. Always consult with a healthcare professional to tailor your immunization plan to your specific needs and to assess whether you need any catch-up vaccines. 19-26 years Vaccine Checkpoints: Annual: Influenza As needed: HPV series completion, Tdap, Travel-specific vaccines (Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, etc.) Protection Against Specific Diseases As you prepare for your adventures, ensuring you are vaccinated is a key step in protecting your health. This section covers essential routine and travel-related vaccines and guidance for disease outbreaks and seasonal vaccinations that are critical for young adventurers. Routine And Travel-Related Vaccines Your vaccination schedule should begin with routine vaccines that protect against common diseases. These include: Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR): A combined vaccine providing immunity to these three diseases. Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTaP): Protects against these bacterial infections; a booster is needed every 10 years. Polio: Typically given in childhood but check your status as it's vital for travel to certain regions. Varicella (Chickenpox): Important if you haven't had the disease in childhood. For hepatitis A and hepatitis B, vaccines offer long-term protection, particularly important in regions with higher incidence rates. As for travel-specific vaccinations, they depend on your destination: Yellow Fever: Required for entry into certain countries; check if it's necessary for your itinerary. Typhoid and Hepatitis A: Recommended for travelers to most parts of the world, including Southeast Asia. Vaccine Shots for Southeast Asia: shots for Japanese encephalitis and typhoid are needed, along with malaria pills for protection against the mosquito-borne disease. Rabies and cholera shots should be considered as well. Disease Outbreaks And Seasonal Vaccinations Be aware of disease outbreaks in your travel destinations. This requires staying informed about current health threats which may necessitate additional vaccinations or precautions. For seasonal vaccinations, the yearly flu shot is recommended for all travelers to maintain health and minimize disruptions to their plans. Additionally, consider vaccines for: Meningococcal disease: Especially if you're visiting areas where outbreaks are common or live in close quarters with others (e.g., hostels). Human papillomavirus (HPV): Recommended to protect against various cancers and diseases caused by HPV. Rotavirus: Particularly for young children, as this vaccine is part of the routine immunization schedule. Always consult with a healthcare provider or a travel medicine clinic well in advance of your trip to ensure you receive all necessary vaccinations for safe travels. Vaccine Administration And Aftercare Ensuring proper vaccine administration and managing aftercare can significantly enhance the benefits of immunization, such as reducing the risk of hospitalization due to vaccine-preventable diseases. Read Also: Bali Beyond The Beaches: Exploring The Hidden Gems Of The Island Preparing For Vaccination When preparing for vaccination, it is crucial to consult with your pediatrician to understand which vaccines are appropriate for your kid. Your healthcare provider will recommend the necessary doses, including if a booster shot is needed. For example, the COVID-19 vaccine regimen may consist of more than one dose. Make sure you are aware of: The vaccination schedule, including the timing between doses. Possible pre-vaccination requirements: such as an allergy test for severe allergic reactions. Managing Possible Side Effects Post-vaccination, it's common to experience minor side effects such as redness, pain, swelling, and soreness at the injection site. To manage these: Apply a clean, cool, wet washcloth over the area to alleviate discomfort. Use your arm regularly to improve blood flow and reduce pain. For side effects that persist or if you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction (e.g., difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face and throat), seek medical attention immediately. Keep in mind that the benefits of vaccines, like the prevention of serious illness, often outweigh these temporary discomforts. Conclusion Your children’s health is paramount. Adhering to recommended vaccinations significantly reduces your risk of contracting travel-associated illnesses. Stay informed, be proactive with their health, and consult healthcare professionals for appropriate vaccines before embarking on your travels. 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BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 27, 2023

Mauritius! I had the amazing experience of going to this island country recently, and let me tell you, it was an experience of a lifetime. Initially, I was confused about which time to plan it out for. The temperatures and weather in Mauritius are at odds with the rest of the world because of its position in the middle of the ocean. But, when I got there, lucky as I was, I had arrived just before peak season. I got to know about their culture, their food, and most importantly, the best time to visit Mauritius. Here I will describe to you what Mauritius has to offer in each of the months of the year. If you want to know about Mauritanian weather the year around, make sure to stick it out to the end. Plan your trip then on, accordingly. The Best Time To Visit Mauritius Image Source: images.news18.com Mauritius is known for its sunny beaches and beautiful nature treasures. I am here to give you a season-by-season breakdown of the island. Keep reading! January To March Image Source: www.lexpressproperty.com In Mauritius, January is considered one of the hottest and wettest months of the year. Despite the high rainfall, the island is still quite busy due to the influx of tourists from the Christmas period. You can expect heavy rainfall during late afternoons, and there is a possibility of torrential storms during this month. Similarly, February is also quite hot, humid, and rainy in Mauritius. However, the rain usually doesn't last long and clears up after a few hours. Though not perfect for a beach vacation, February has fewer crowds than January. It is important to note that there is still a chance of cyclones during this month. March marks the Holi Festival, also known as the 'Festival of Colours' on the island. This annual celebration is held in honor of Lord Krishna, a Hindu deity. During the festivities, people line up on the streets and cover themselves with vibrantly-colored powder, creating a jovial atmosphere. Despite being a humid month, March sees less rainfall than January and February. April To June Image Source: media1.thrillophilia.com The month of April is a hot and humid season, making it an ideal time for sun-seekers. However, the Easter holidays make the island quite busy. If you prefer a quieter beach vacation, it's better to plan your trip outside of this period. April is also the beginning of the best time of the year to indulge in surfing or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. May is officially the start of winter in Mauritius, but the temperature remains comfortable, and the humidity drops. This month is popular among tourists as there are reasonable travel specials on Mauritius accommodations. The evenings can get chilly, so it is recommended to pack some warmer clothes. June is a cooler month in Mauritius compared to the humid weather at the beginning of the year. If you prefer hot weather, then June may feel much cooler. The trade winds start to increase, and like in May, the evenings can become a little colder. It's the perfect time for kite surfers. July To September Image source: www.eventsmauritius.mu July is also considered a cooler month in Mauritius. If you want to enjoy the best possible weather during this period, it's recommended to visit the North of the Island. Despite the lower temperatures, July is still a popular time of the year due to school holidays in the Northern Hemisphere. I visited Mauritius in August. In Mauritius, August is a month with mild temperatures and no rainfall, making it perfect for sunny days without the scorching heat. I would recommend you stay on the west or north coast during August as these areas provide more shelter from the wind. This month marks the Ganesh Chaturthi Festival, a festival honoring the God Ganesh, and you can see statues of the Elephant God all around the island during the celebration. September is considered the unofficial beginning of peak season in Mauritius. At this time, the strong trade winds start to die down, and the temperatures rise, ushering in the summer months and longer days of sunshine. Despite this, September still offers some quiet beaches, good deals on flights, exciting tours in Mauritius, and discounts on accommodations. October To December Image Source: www.mauvillas.com October is the driest month of the year in Mauritius, and it tends to be a busy time at the most popular destinations on the island. This month is also significant as it is the time for the Hindu festival of Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights. During this festive period, candles and lamps light up the island in a soft glow, making it a beautiful sight to behold. November is characterized by a significant increase in humidity and temperature. The month offers more sunshine, but it's also associated with an increase in rainfall. It's a perfect time for scuba diving enthusiasts who want to catch a glimpse of the seasonal turtles, particularly the Green turtle and the Hawksbill turtle, which are commonly spotted during this period. In December, the last month of the year, Mauritius experiences a surge in global activities, and the island is no exception. Humidity levels rise, and heavy rainfall is expected, mostly in the afternoons. The sea temperature is warmer, making it ideal for water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking, and scuba diving. However, it is advisable to plan your beach holiday well in advance to avoid the high demand during the festive season. Things To Do When Visiting Mauritius Image Source: planetofhotels.com Mauritius is absolutely gorgeous most of the time, and visiting it is a must, whether solo or with family. Here are some things you can try once you decide to try this island country for your next trip: Snorkeling At Blue Bay Marine Park Image Source: static2.tripoto.com If you're interested in witnessing the beautiful marine life of Mauritius, snorkeling is an excellent way to do so. By snorkeling at Blue Bay Marine Park, you'll have the opportunity to closely observe the amazing underwater world of Mauritius that has been hidden for centuries. This excursion will transport you to a different world, allowing you to explore something that is beyond your imagination. Cave Sea Kayaking At Albion Caves Image Source: images.squarespace-cdn.com Kayaking in Mauritius offers a unique and adventurous experience. One such experience is kayaking across the cave sea, providing you with an exclusive opportunity to witness the beauty of the caves. If you are fascinated by caves and enjoy exploring their hidden stories and interesting designs, then you should definitely try a kayaking tour at Albion Caves. Walks With Lions At Casela Park Image Source: toursmauritius.mu Have you ever considered taking a walk with the king of the jungle? If so, Casela Park in Mauritius offers an opportunity to experience the wild side of the jungle by taking a thrilling walk with lions. This excursion in Mauritius promises to give you an adrenaline rush and an unforgettable experience that you may have never imagined! Wrapping Up If you are planning to visit Mauritius and want to know more I hope this article helped. My Experience of Mauritius and knowledge of it will help you select your trip timing better. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! Read Also: This Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland & These Are The Things You Should Do! 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BY  Sibashree Sep 5, 2024

The Lassen Volcanic National Park is an underrated hub of geothermal wonders and intriguing landscapes. Endless trails in the park and the rugged beauty make it a favorite of hikers and campers. Do you also want to know where to stay near Lassen Volcanic National Park?   This national park has limited lodging options. However, if you are into outdoor pursuits and want to make the most of this national park, the home to the largest plug dome volcano in the world, camping and glamping are the best options for you.   This park has a combination of basic and developed campgrounds. Further, you can try backcountry camping to encounter the wilderness. Are you in for the fun?  Pack your bags, and find the most adventurous accommodation near Lassen Volcanic Park.   Where To Stay Near Lassen Volcanic National Park?   Drakesbad Guest Ranch and Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins are two of the most comfortable options for anyone looking for where to stay near Lassen Volcanic National Park. Further, Drakesbad Guest Ranch is the only “hotel-like” lodging facility.  However, Drakesbad Guest Ranch will remain closed throughout 2024. It is still under recovery after the rampage of the 2021 Dixie Fire breakout.   At the same time, the Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins only remain open from late May to mid-October. So, camping and glamping are the best options if you want to stay near Lassen Volcanic National Park.   Camping Near Lassen Volcanic National Park  Among the seven campgrounds in the Lassen Volcanic National Park, only four will remain open in 2024. Also, the remaining four are undergoing recovery work, and hence, they are not suitable for lodging or camping.   The table below shows a list of camping sites in the Lassen Volcanic National Park and their availability for the season. It’s time to know where to stay near Lassen Volcanic National Park.   Name of the Camping Site  Availability  Butte Lake Single Sites Group Sites Stock Corral Juniper Lake Closed for 2024 Lost Creek Group Open Manzanita Lake Single Sites Camping Cabins Summit Lake North Sites South Sites Southwest Campground Southwest Parking Warner Valley Closed for 2024.   Before you choose a campground for you, you must focus on the kind of activity you want to explore. For example, if you want to enjoy the best amenities, kayaking, and take a rejuvenating shower, the Manzanita Lake campground will be the best for you.   Further, if you want to enjoy the best hydrothermal activities and are a recluse by nature, the Warner Valley Campground will be an excellent pick for you. Also, the Southwest Campground is the only campground that remains open throughout the year.   Amenities Available At Lassen Volcanic Park Camping Sites   You can divide the amenities available for Lassen Volcanic Park camping into four categories. So, let’s have a look at the chart below to learn about the amenities in detail.  Amenities & Services  Availability  Campsite Picnic Table Fire Ring Bear-Resistant Storage Locker Hard-Sided Vehicle Campground Spigots (Except Juniper Lake) Drinking Water Sinks (Except Juniper Lake) Flush Toilets Utility Sinks for Dish Washing Trash Receptacles/Recyclables  Camper (Manzanita Lake Area) Laundromat Showers Food Supplies Souvenirs from Mid-May through Mid-October Dump Station Accessibility (Manzanita Lake A32 and B9, Butte Lake A6, and North Summit Lake A-1) Wheelchair Restrooms   You can get additional camping services at Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center near the Southwest Campground. Here, you will find camping services, food, and souvenirs.   Further, you can get laundromat and shower facilities in the Warner Valley Areas and Juniper Lake from the town of Chester.   Backcountry Camping Near Lassen Volcanic Park   The major part of the Lassen Volcanic Park  is a “designated wilderness.” You will need a wilderness permit to camp in these locations. Further, you will have to follow the “Leave no Trace Principles” to minimize human impact on these camping grounds and keep their natural conditions unadulterated.   Under these “Leave No Trace” principles, you must ensure that:  You need to do advanced and detailed planning for the backcountry camping.  Also, traveling and camping are only allowed on surfaces that are durable.  You must dispose of your waste properly.  You cannot litter.  Avoid touching historical statues and artifacts.  Ensure that the campfires you lit have minimized impacts.  Be respectful to wildlife.  Respect other visitors.  Along with adhering to these Leave No Trace Principles, you will also have to abide by the backcountry camping rules and regulations.   If you are carrying firearms or weapons, you will have to carry the California Concealed Weapons Permit. You cannot hunt or use Bear Spray in this park.  You can use a bear-resistant storage container to keep these wild animals at bay. Moreover, you cannot use a woodfire, bicycles, or pets for backcountry camping. Also, keep your group smaller (less than 10 people) to get permission for backcountry camping.   Glamping Near Lassen National Park    With changing amenities, camping near Lassen National Park has become more glamorous. There has been a new concept of glamping. It allows you to encounter wilderness with all the amenities indoors.   Let’s have a look at the glamping accommodations available.   Little House In The Big Woods   This is a humble 5-acre glamping accommodation for people who want to know where to stay near Lassen Volcanic National Park. This glamping station has potable water, toilets, and camping facilities.   The tariff here starts from $99 per night.   Camp Almanor At Big Springs   https://www.instagram.com/p/CrCmRT-r2Y0/ Camp Almanor at Big Springs is one of the most luxurious accommodations where your pets can accompany you. As the name suggests, you can cherish the pristine beauty of Lake Almanor from this camp. Further, it has toilets and potable water facilities.  However, the rent for this glamping accommodation is quite high, and the tariff starts from $175 per night.   Camp Becausewecan  In Quincy, California, it is one of the pet-friendly glamping accommodations near Lassen Volcanic Park. Further, this 17-acre private property also has amenities like campfires and potable water.   The rent for this accommodation starts from $40 per night.   Story Creekside Retreat   It is one of the most reasonable glamping accommodations near Lassen Volcanic Park. The best thing about this accommodation is that it has Warner Creek running through it.   It is a pet-friendly glamping site, with a tariff starting from $25 per night.   Final Words   Is there anything else you want to know about where to stay near Lassen Volcanic National Park? Put up a camp or try glamping to make the most of this national park, boasting unique hydrothermal features.   You will find all four types of volcanoes here. Also, meadows, forests, and mountain lakes will present the most versatile landscape in front of you.   So, get ready to admire the rugged beauty of the park during the daytime and its tranquil beauty at night. Once you come back, don’t forget to share your camping experience with us!   Where To Stay Near Lassen Volcanic National Park (FAQs)  Can You Camp Free In Lassen Volcanic National Park?   No, you cannot camp free in Lassen Volcanic National Park. You will have to pay around $1 to $21 to put up camps at any of the chosen campgrounds. Dry campgrounds without basic amenities like water or flushing toilets come at a cheaper rate.  However, if you are looking for free campsites, you must explore the dispersed camping options at the Lassen National Forest.   These camping sites do not offer standard amenities. Further, you must adhere to the “No Trace Policy” while leaving the campsites.   How Long Should You Stay At Lassen Volcanic Park?   You can stay from one to three days in Lassen Volcanic Park based on what kind of trekker or explorer you are. However, if you want to minutely observe the diverse landscape of the park, the entire expedition may take you around a week.   On the first day, you can try hiking on the Bumpass Hell Trail. You will encounter various hydrothermal activities on this trail, which is the largest geothermal area in the park. The geothermal water here is green or emerald blue in color. Further, the rocks and soil here have orange or yellow colors because of the minerals present in the hydrothermal water.  On the second day, you can visit Kings Creek Falls and enjoy an immersive experience at Lake Manzanita. In addition, you can reserve the night for some essential spiritual and psychological activities such as stargazing.  Are you a seasoned hiker? You can keep your third day in the park hiking the Lassen Peak Trail. Also, you can dedicate the 3rd day to know the exotic wildlife at this national park. Remember that it’s home to around 300 species of vertebrates.   Do You Need A Permit For Lassen Volcanic Park?   You will not need a permit to stay in the Lassen Volcanic Park, provided you are camping on the established campgrounds. Also, a permit is not required when you are hiking in the park.   However, if you have plans for backcountry camping, you will need a permit. To collect the wilderness permit, you will have to visit the recreation.gov website. It is the only channel for obtaining the wilderness permit.   Further, for the wilderness permit, you will have to pay a non-refundable amount of $6 as an administration fee to recreation.gov. Also, if you are over 16 years old, you will need to pay $5 for each trip.   Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. 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