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BY  Mashum Nov 20, 2024

Puerto Rico is more than just a beach vacation. There is a reason why it is all over the internet, with a 22% surge in the search volume in 2024 (year-on-year). The UN Tourism report further highlights Puerto Rico as the second-most searched Caribbean destination.  The tourism attractions in Puerto Rico are diverse, and there is a sincere attempt from the government to develop the tourism infrastructure.  San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, has a vital role to play in the tourism boost of Puerto Rico. Along with being a stunning destination, San Juan also has vibrant street art and a happening neighborhood. Moreover, it is a quintessence of joie de vivre.  Need more reasons to head to San Juan? It has many activities that will not charge you a single buck. Sounds fun, right? Let’s explore the best things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico, for free.  You Can Try The Following Things To Do In San Juan, Puerto Rico, For Free | Budget-Friendly Travel Ideas In The Caribbeans  It will not be a jugglery of words if I call San Juan a “Caribbean Gem.” By the end of the 1800s, San Juan became a part of the USA. Further, San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, is the oldest city under the USA jurisdiction. Did You Know?Some airlines in Puerto Rico have increased their line of flights. Avelo Airlines is one of them and it has added a flight in “The Lakeland (LAL) – San Juan (SJU) route.” Further, it is the second route it has added to its itinerary outside the continental USA.  The flight will have 20000 more seats, and this addition is expected to yield an economic impact of $6.3 million only in the first year of the line’s operations. This news corroborates the prospects and boost of tourism in San Juan.“The strengthening and expansion of air access to the island is key to the full development of the local tourism industry, so negotiations to attract new airlines and the increase in routes and frequencies is decisive for everyone. We share the enthusiasm of Avelo management with this new non-stop route since this new service between Puerto Rico and Florida will result in economic benefits for the entire tourism industry.”Carlos Mercado-Santiago, Executive Director, Puerto Rico Tourism Co. (PRTC) The city has rainforest, beaches with cobalt blue waters, century-old architecture, heritage, and of course, the things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico, for free.  So, why not try them? 1. Explore The Street Art In Santurce El Patio de Sole is a local restaurant on Calle Cerra and it is one of the highlights of Santruce, the most happening neighborhood of San Juan.  Murals and larger-than-life art pieces by street artists have transformed this locality into a vibrant art gallery.  Calle Loíza, the “Foodie and Arts Avenue” of Santruce, is another great place to explore street art here. Moreover, Aguacates and Las Musas are some of the best larger-than-life installations here. Did You Know?Almost 10 years back, San Juan, Santurce, and the entire Puerto Rico were going through an economic crisis. Through the Santurce Es Ley street art festival and the Color Libre engagement project, the street artists addressed social problems.   2. Enjoy Bird Feeding At Parque de las Palomas Parque de las Palomas is a public park and it is a place to relax amidst or after a tiring day at work. You can just sit on the benches overlooking the ocean and enjoy the cool breeze here.  Further, feeding birds at Parque de las Palomas is one of the best things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico, for free. This park is home to pigeons. You can collect bird seed from the park kiosk and feed these playful creatures.  3. Indulge In Street Food At Piñones Piñones on the beach bustle with local street foods. You can have fresh coconut here. Also, the alcapurrias and empanadas available at the local kiosks are amazing. Tour And Travel Note Don’t forget to get some honey and souvenirs from local vendors and artisans here. You can also take a stroll along the boardwalk or enjoy a bike ride in the mangrove forest.  4. Flying Kites At El Morro El Morro, a famous fort in San Juan, is located on the top of a hill, and it overlooks the bay. The grassy land in front of the fort is a big draw to the visitors.  The high winds here make the grassy stretch ideal for flying kites. You can carry your own kites or buy one from the local vendors and enjoy your time with kids and the ones young at heart.  5. Sunbathing Playa Ocean Park, a hub of offshore reefs, is the highlight of Condado, the most popular beach in San Juan. Condado and all other beaches of Puerto Rico are free as those are public land. Further resorts like Condado Vanderbilt Hotel and La Concha make visiting Condado one of the best things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Moreover, you can go kitesurfing or just relax on the beach and enjoy a sunbath.  6. Paseo De La Princesa Scenic Walk Paseo De La Princesa is an esplanade. This 19th-century promenade from the cruise port to El Morro fort stands out due to its European vibe. As you take a walk along Paseo De La Princesa, just outside the city wall, you will find large trees making arches. Further, the antique street lamps will grab the attention of any connoisseur. Moreover, you will find many food vendors as you enjoy the scenic walk. Are you travelling with your partner? Visit Paseo De La Princesa during sunset for the most romantic experience.  7. Experience The Best Of Night Life At La Placita De Santurce Do you want to experience the happening nightlife of San Juan? You must visit La Placita De Santurce after 9 PM as most of the bars here open after 9 or 10 PM and remain functional till early morning. Especially on the weekend, La Placita, or the famous market square, is the most vivacious with people on the street. Enjoy the Salsa moves and the grooviest reggaeton music.  8. Take A Walk In The San Juan Botanical Garden Operating Hours: 6 AM to 6 PM The San Juan Botanical Garden is a great place for the study of local plants and animals. The botanical garden is on the University of Puerto Rico campus. You can take a free entry here, and you also don’t need to pay any charges for parking.  This is a great place to relax and exercise in San Juan. It is also perfect for a picnic. Moreover, you can explore the Japanese bridges and trails to make the most of your time here.  9. Pray At San Juan Cathedral Operating Hours: 8 AM to 4 PM (Sunday - Up to 2 PM) Mass Times: 7:25 AM and 12:15 PM on Weekdays, 7 PM on Saturdays, 9 AM and 11 AM on Sundays The Catedral de San Juan Bautista, or San Juan Cathedral, is the oldest church in the entire Western Hemisphere.  Juan Ponce de Leon rests here, and the church also houses the mummified remains of a martyr from the first century, St. Pio.  Attending the Noche Buena mass on 24th December is a one-of-a-kind experience at this church.  To make the most of these fun and free things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico, you need comfortable accommodation in the city. The table below has a list of some of the best hotels in San Juan with contact details.  Hotel In San Juan, Puerto RicoContact Number Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort+1 787-791-0404Residence Inn Isla Verde+1 787-961-1155Hyatt House San Juan+1 787-977-5000Dream Inn PR+1 787-200-6340Condado Vanderbilt Hotel +1 787-721-5500Tropica Beach Hotel+1 787-728-8119La Concha Renaissancece San Juan Resort+1 787-721-7500Dreamcatcher by DW+1 787-455-8259Hotel El Convento+1  787-723-9020AC Hotel San Juan Condado+1 787-827-7280 If you are planning to explore the best things to do in San Juan, contact any of the hotels first to book your accommodation.  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  Sibashree Aug 24, 2026

Thekkady may not have the best tourist season in 2026 due to the fall in the water level of the Periyar Lake. Still, it remains a classic Kerala experience with its unpredictable and untamed nature and wildlife. My day in Periyar started with an unexpected encounter with a majestic elephant. I was in the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, focusing my binoculars to get a glimpse of the wildlife. It was dawn time, and the elephant seemed to appear from nowhere, evading the mist. This is how Thekkady catches you off guard. However, it is not just the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary & Tiger Reserve. The Thekkady tourist places also include spice plantations, cultural centers, and some important places of religious and spiritual significance. Furthermore, the Thekkady resorts with private pool promise unmatched comfort for visitors who want a fusion of natural abundance and luxury. These focus on ecotourism and visibly function as extensions of the wild and untamed nature of Thekkady. It is no wonder that Thekkady had 757017 domestic visitors and 79736 foreign visitors in 2025. This data is from the Kerala Tourist Visits Statistics – 2025. Do you also want an immersive journey into Thekkady? I will talk about the tourist places, location, transport options, and a tentative itinerary. Where Is Thekkady? Thekkady is in the Idukki district of Kerala and close to the Tamil Nadu Border. Located in the Cardamom Hills of the Western Ghats, Thekkady is at the edge of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Kumily, around 4 km away, is the nearest town, and most visitors choose to find accommodation in this town. Furthermore, with an elevation ranging between 700 and 1800 meters, Thekkady enjoys easy road connectivity to more famous tourism destinations such as Munnar, Kochi, Madurai, and Kottayam. Also, it is located at a distance of around 204 km from Thiruvananthapuram, the state capital. How To Reach Thekkady? The nearest airport to Thekkady is Madurai, which is located at a distance of around 136 KM. Also, the nearest railway station is Kottayam, and the distance is around 110 KM. From both places, you have to reach Thekkady by road. Madurai To Thekkady From the airport, you can book a private taxi to reach Thekkady within 3.5 to 4 hours. The charges will be around ₹3500-₹7500. You can also board the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses from the M.G.R. Bus Stand to Kumily, which is just 5 minutes away from Thekkady. The travel time in these buses is around 3 hours and 20 minutes, and the ticket price is ₹154. Moreover, you can check the redBus platform for more such bus options. From Kottayam To Thekkady You can book a private car or taxi from Kottayam to Thekkady. The charges will be around ₹2600 to ₹4000. From Kottayam, you can also board KSRTC buses running from Ernakulam or Fort Kochi to Thekkady. The journey takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes, and the ticket price will be between ₹150 and ₹300. Moreover, along with Kottayam and Madurai, many urban areas in Kerala, such as Kochi, have excellent road connectivity with Thekkady. What Are The Thekkady Tourist Places? The Thekkady tourist places are eclectic, offering a mix of wildlife, spiritual, and off-beat trekking experiences. Moreover, there are cultural places and tea factories. So, here, I have presented them in different categories. Nature And Wildlife Attractions While the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is at the epicenter of the wildlife experience in Thekkady, you can also visit the Elephant Junction. Here are more Thekkady tourist places for nature and wildlife exploration. 1. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary And Tiger Reserve In 2022, Periyar Tiger Reserve won the title of the best-managed tiger reserve among the 54 reserves in the country. This is a community-based ecotourism project and is home to Bengal Tigers, Indian Elephants, leopards, gaur, barking deer, mouse deer, and many other mammals. The sanctuary remains open from 6 AM to 7 PM. The entry fee to the national park is ₹45 for Indian adults and ₹15 for Indian children. For foreigners, the charges are ₹500 (adults) and ₹180 (children), respectively. 2. Elephant Junction Elephant Junction is the place to get up-close and personal with elephants in Thekkady. I am never in for the rides or the logging activities, as I know how these can literally ruin the lives of the adorable creatures. However, I enjoyed feeding them and watching them when they were taking a bath in the nearby stream. The safari park remains open from 8 AM to 6 PM, and the packages start from ₹700. 3. Chellarkovil At a height of around 1200 meters above sea level, with a beautiful landscape and waterfall, it is an important ecotourism hub. Due to the ecotourism project here, you will come across many huts, medicinal plants, and pathways. Moreover, from the God’s Own Balcony of the Chellarkovil Watchtower, you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the neighboring Theni and Kamabam. 4. Vandiperiyar At a distance of around 18 km from Thekkady, Vandiperiyar is a scenic hill and spice town in the Idukki district of Kerala. The beautiful Periyar River forms the lush landscape here, and it is also home to the Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Garden. This farm and flower garden features a rich collection of roses, orchids, and anthuriums. Moreover, it has tea, coffee, and pepper plantations in abundance. Also Check: Natural Wonder: Top 11 Best Landscape Places In The World. Thekkady Tourist Places Offering Religious And Spiritual Experience The religious or spiritual vibe of Thekkady is not limited to designated temples. You will find the hidden and the most significant gems in a plantation town or at the top of a hill. 1. Ramakalmedu There is one famous saying about Ramakalmedu. It is the place where “the wind never stops.” However, around 40 km away from Thekkady, this mountain peak gets its name from the mythological legend of Lord Rama setting his foot on this rock. Also, once you reach the summit, you will find the Kuravan and Kurathy statues, the biggest in Kerala and inspired by local legends. It is a peaceful area, offering sweeping views of the Cumbum and Bodi villages on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats. 2. Kurisumala Kurisumala, the tallest peak in Thekkady, means the “Mountain of the Cross.” This is a pilgrimage for Christians, who climb uphill with a cross. At the top, there is a peaceful monastery. Also, on the eastern side of this Kurisumala, stands Muruganmala. It has a Murugan temple, constructed by cutting a rock. 3. Mangala Devi Temple I reached the Mangala Devi Temple after a trek of around 11 km through the forest. Kannaki, the protagonist of the Tamil Epic, Silapathikaram, is the presiding deity in this 100-year-old temple. After facing betrayal at this place, she transformed into a divine figure and blessed all the locals here. Thus, she became famous as Mangala Devi, or the deity who brings blessings. Unfortunately, the temple was closed when I visited it, and it only opens during the annual Chithrapournami festival. 4. Peermede Peermede, around 44 km away from Thekkady, is a plantation town. However, I visited it after knowing it was named after a Sufi Saint, Peer Mohammed. The town still has the mausoleum of the saint and the summer palace of the Royal Family of Travancore. After visiting these historical and spiritual places, you can also explore the rubber, cardamom, and tea plantations here. Also, for some more adventure, you can trek to Kuttikanam or Thrissanku Hills. How Many Days Are Enough To Visit Thekkady Tourist Places? Plan Your Itinerary Three to four days are enough to visit Thekkady tourist places. Here is an itinerary you can follow for a comfortable, rush-free experience. DaysFocusLocationsDay 1Wildlife and TownPeriyar Tiger Reserve  Elephant Junction ChellarkovilDay 2PlantationsVandiperiyar RamakalmeduDay 3Peaks and HeritageKurisumala and Muruganmala Peermede So, when are you planning a trip to Thekkady? Remember that October to March is the best time to visit this hill town. Read Also: What Are The Best Family Vacation Spots In The World? Here Are Our Favorites What Are The Things To Do In Unawatuna With Family? Ultimate Guide to Your Next Family Vacation in Israel

BY  Sibashree Mar 13, 2026

Amsterdam is one of the best family vacation spots in the world.  Well, the canals and bikes are legendary. However, you also get something that you probably did not expect.  Amsterdam teaches you the art of slow traveling and the thrill of “doing nothing” as a tourist looking for meaningful and authentic experiences.  So, as a believer of TheLowDownUnder Travel, the capital of the Netherlands became my instant favorite.  Furthermore, once you reach Amsterdam, you find out that nothing is superficial about it, and the layered history of the city keeps the intrigue alive.  Hence, you always want to come back to Amsterdam.  Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about the things to do in Amsterdam. Also, if you are in the Dutch capital for the first time, read my guide on Amsterdam travel tips before booking your tickets.  What Are The Things To Do In Amsterdam? (Beyond Ticking The Bucket List) The Keukenhof Gardens in Amsterdam have all the credit for being one of the best places in the world to see flowers.  Furthermore, it is home to historical and cultural landmarks such as the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum.  However, the things to do in Amsterdam are not limited to exploring these places. The real thing to do here is to soak in the history, culture, and livelihood of the city.  So, this is how I experienced Amsterdam.  1. Know A City Built On Water And Ambition A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Amsterdam’s Canal Ring was engineered in the 17th century.  The 17th century was the Dutch Golden Age, and it is no wonder that Amsterdam was one of the most powerful trade hubs in the world then.  Till today, these waterways lined with tilting canal houses continue to be the backbone of daily life.  You can cycle along the banks like a local or enjoy your time in the houseboats, which bob quietly in the morning mist. These also connect the neighborhoods.  Moreover, the city is very walkable.  The city centre has a series of concentric canals radiating outward from Central Station. Also, most of the major attractions are within cycling or walking distance.  2. Explore Culture At Every Corner The Rijksmuseum is the crown jewel in the cultural landscape of the Dutch capital.  Here, you can see all the great work from the Dutch Golden Age of painting. Furthermore, it has works of Rembrandt and Vermeer.  A short walk away, the Van Gogh Museum draws visitors from across the globe, while the Stedelijk offers a strong programme of modern and contemporary art.  For something more intimate, the smaller canal house museums like Museum Van Loon or the Willet-Holthuysen give you a glimpse into how Amsterdam's merchant elite actually lived. Then there's the Anne Frank House on the Prinsengracht, a sobering and essential visit that tells one of history's most important stories within the very walls where it unfolded. Book tickets well in advance. Beyond the museums, Amsterdam rewards wandering.  The Nine Streets district is a tangle of independent boutiques, vintage shops, and coffee bars tucked between the Herengracht and the Prinsengracht.  The Jordaan neighbourhood, once a working-class area, is now one of the most charming parts of the city, full of small galleries, brown cafés, and local markets. 3. Enjoy The Food, Drink, And The Art Of Doing Nothing Dutch food has come a long way from its reputation for simplicity.  Amsterdam's restaurant scene now spans everything from Indonesian rijsttafel, a legacy of the country's colonial history, to outstanding French bistros, modern European tasting menus, and some of the best street-level snacking in Northern Europe.  Grab a fresh herring from a harbour stall, settle into a traditional brown café for a local beer, or book ahead at one of the city's many acclaimed restaurants. The café culture here is worth embracing fully.  Amsterdam's brown cafés, or bruine kroegen, are warm, unhurried spaces designed for long conversations and slow afternoons. They are as much a part of the city's identity as the canals. Where To Stay In Amsterdam? Choose Ambassade Hotel Are you looking for accommodation that feels like an extension of the city itself? Then, the Ambassade Hotel on the Herengracht is a natural choice.  1. Live The History And Enjoy The Art It is spread across 16 historic canal houses that date back to the 17th century. So, a stay here gives you the chance to be a part of the city’s history.  Also, most rooms here look over the Herengracht canal. So, you can enjoy the streetscape of the city.  Furthermore, this hotel has a rich legacy in the field of Dutch hospitality. It has been welcoming guests since 1953, and the moment you step into this hotel in Amsterdam, you get that whiff of history and feel the warmth.  Moreover, this hotel was an informal art gallery for me as it has decorations with works from the CoBrA art movement.  Artists from Copenhagen, Brussels, and Amsterdam founded this bold post-war avant-garde school. 2. Check Its Vast Collection Of Literature  This Amsterdam hotel is also famous for its connection to literature. So, it can be a favorite stay for the dark academia fans.  Furthermore, writers and intellectuals have loved gathering here since the 1980s, and it has a Library Bar housing more than 5000 books.  Moreover, each book is signed by an author who stayed here.  So, this Dutch hotel is not just a place to stay. It is a destination in itself.  3. Indulge In The Cuisine  The Brasserie Ambassade serves French-inspired cuisine seven days a week. Moreover, if you want to explore the city more deeply, you can also join the private tours offered.  These tours cover Amsterdam's art, architecture, and canal history. Choose A Stay That Gives You The Ease To Explore  Staying at The Ambassade Hotel gives you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. It is located at Herengracht 341.  So, this hotel is located within walking distance of the major attractions in the city.  Moreover, booking directly via ambassade-hotel.nl gives you the best available rate, up to 15% lower than third-party platforms, along with seasonal offers and the possibility of a complimentary room upgrade. Overall, Amsterdam is a city that rewards travelers who take it slow and yearn for authentic experiences.  Hence, staying at a place that is imbued with the city’s character is very important for a perfect vacation.