THESE Romantic Destinations Makes Best Cruises for Couples!

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 4, 2023

Are you currently sitting at your desk in the office, looking out the window, and wishing you were on a tropical island? At your feet, the waves of blue and white would froth and foam, and the breeze would teasingly run past you, making you giddy with joy. Your arms would be gently brushed by the sun. The people would be warm and hospitable, while lush foliage would sway in the backdrop. It may sound like a fantasy, but the island paradise of your dreams is real. To be precise, there are more than 7,500 such tiny drops of tropical heaven dispersed over the fascinating western Pacific Ocean. If you want to know where to start and go about your dream trip, then here is a guide we have created for you. So, if you have already been making arrangements, then start by considering the most relevant question: when is the best time to visit the Philippines? The weather, festivals, as well as activities that are experienced by the land as well as the waters that surround the Philippines during each season vary. If you have just begun arranging for your trip, then you should choose a time ideal for you. Let’s get started! Best Time To Visit Phillippines Image Source: www.state.gov In the Philippines, the seasons can be divided into two categories: rainy and dry. Peak Season: December to April Shoulder Season: May and November Off-Season: June to October Travel SeasonMin/Max TemperatureSeasonNovember - February24-30°CCool-DryMarch-May25-33°CHot-DryJune-October26-32°CRainy  Hands down, the best time to visit the Philippines islands is the cool-dry season. In November, the Philippines welcomes the dry season officially. The sun peeks out after months of downpours, bringing warm weather to people all around the country. At this time, humidity levels also start to reduce. The temperature dips throughout December, with the Northern regions experiencing the coldest weather. The days enjoy sunlight, and it doesn't rain very often. The abundance of nice weather in January counteracts the chilly atmosphere. This is the height of the Phillippines season. You might anticipate a spike in temperature in February. Though the days are becoming more lovely as the season draws to a close, the sea temperature is still rising. Festivities There are several celebrations at this period of the year. The Philippines observes the Grand Cordillera Festival and the vibrant Feast of San Clemente in November. Following the Feast of the Immaculate Conception is the tribal holiday of Pagdidiwata, a celebration modeled after Christmas called Bicol Pastores, Christmas, as well as New Year. In addition to the Ati-Atihan Festival in Aklan, January is also the month of Sinulog, the largest festival in Cebu. The Black Nazarene monument is also worshipped in January in central Manila. Panagbega, a flower festival in Baguio City, brings flowers to life in February. During the annual Hot Air Balloon Festival in Pampanga, you can also take a hot air balloon trip. If you really want to do this, then this is the ideal time to visit the Philippines. The weather permits you to reach many of the outlying islands in the Philippines during January, the busiest month of this season, which is not possible at other times of the year. There are ferry as well as flight options to choose from if you want to visit. Places To Visit In The Philippines Image Source: image.cnbcfm.com Before making a reservation, do some research on prices and transportation options. Booking with reputable and secure ferry operators is essential because some of these journeys can be uncomfortable with a low-cost choice. The Philippines is home to many natural wonders, a rich cultural history, and friendly people. It is no surprise that the Philippines has grown to be a popular travel destination for tourists from all over the world with its clean beaches, verdant highlands, dynamic cities, and hospitable natives. The Philippines' top tourist destinations include: Boracay Image Source: images.lifestyleasia.com Boracay is a tropical paradise that draws both sunbathers and partygoers because of its famed fine-grained white sand beaches and energetic nightlife. The island's extensive selection of water sports opportunities, mouthwatering cuisine, and lively beachside ambiance will keep you occupied day and night. Siargao Image source: www.backpackerbanter.com Siargao, sometimes known as the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines," is one of the top tourist destinations in the country and a paradise for surfers and explorers. This tear-shaped island is known for its top-notch surf breaks, immaculate beaches, and laid-back island atmosphere. Don't pass up the opportunity to visit the charming Sugba Lagoon and see the stunning Magpupungko Rock Pools. Palawan Image Source: www.travelandleisure.com The magnificent tropical beauty of Palawan, also known as the "Last Frontier," never fails to enthrall visitors. It's a paradise location for beach lovers and wildlife lovers alike with its stunning limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and lagoons. Beautiful island hopping tours may be found in El Nido and Coron, while Puerto Princesa's Underground River is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bohol Image Source: res.klook.com Bohol is a fascinating travel destination that features the extraordinary Chocolate Hills, cuddly tarsiers, and historic churches. Visit the spotless beaches of Panglao Island, go on a picturesque boat down the Loboc River, and explore the fascinating underwater world of Balicasag Island. Davao Image Source: content.r9cdn.net Davao, a bustling metropolis in Mindanao, is the starting point for exhilarating activities. Visit the Philippine Eagle Center to get up close and personal with the critically endangered Philippine eagles, or climb Mount Apo, the highest point in the nation. Visit the pristine Samal Island, which is renowned for its gorgeous beaches and opulent resorts, as soon as possible. Batanes Image Source: www.momondo.in For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, Batanes is a must-visit. Offering the most beautiful landscapes, these islands have it all dramatic cliffs to rolling hills. You can explore the old stone houses, get lost in the rich cultural fiesta of Batanes, and become witness to the grand beauty of the lighthouses of Basco. Siquijor Image Source: lp-cms-production.imgix.net The "Island of Fire," Siquijor, is a matter of legend and mystery. Explore the island's pristine beaches, freshwater springs, and ethereal woodlands while soaking in the enchanting ambiance. Visit the famous Balete Tree, cool off in the captivating Cambugahay Falls, and take in the breathtaking Salagdoong Beach sunset while you're there. Ilocos Norte Image Source: blog.tours4fun.com One of the best destinations to visit in the Philippines is the historical province of Ilocos Norte. Travel back in time and discover it. Learn about Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exquisite Spanish colonial architecture. Explore the mysterious Paoay sand dunes and the imposing Bangui windmills, You will also discover the intricate political history of the nation at the Marcos Museum. Wrapping Up We hope now you have some sort of clarity on when is the best time to visit the Philippines. Are you excited? Does the prospect of this trip enchant you? You ought to be! A journey to the Philippines is full of scenic beauty and joyful experiences. What are you still holding out for? If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, then please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Don’t Believe Them!! This Is Actually The Best Time To Visit Barbados! I Had No Idea When To Visit Mauritius Till I Went There THIS Time! Best Time To Experience Dubai: The City Of Gold

BY  Arnab Feb 20, 2023

Traveling is one of the most exciting and pleasurable activities, especially when you go on long-awaited holidays. But the holiday will not eventuate without a long distance locomoting. If you choose to drive by car, you will probably come across some paid highways or interstates, which means, you will have to pay tolls. What exactly are toll roads? How can you pay a toll? Check it out! What Are Toll Roads?  Toll roads are highways or express lanes that need to be paid a fee in order to drive on them. This fee is named a toll. The users pay tolls for road repairs, improvements, and building new road facilities. That is why toll roads are, in most cases, fast, well-maintained, and high-quality roads. The toll roads are easy to spot. When you enter this road, you must slow down and stop by the toll plaza (toll booth) to pay a fee. Only then, you can be allowed to travel further. The toll system is popular in some European countries, and in most of the US states.  The Long History Of Toll Roads  Toll roads are visible not only in recent history but also in ancient mythologies and treatises. The most well-known reference could be found in Greek mythology. Charon, a boatman who transported the souls of the dead to Hades, was to be paid by putting a coin into the deceased man's mouth. Well then, paying for passage is nothing new. In the Middle Ages, tolls were paid to cross bridges. In the 17th century, turnpikes were introduced, ad since then, they were constantly used. Up to the 1980s, the tool booths were operated by people. But in 1987, the first electronic tool booth was introduced. Since then, electronic toll collection only increases. In the 1990s, the toll highways started to be privately owned, and the state departments lost their monopoly. From 2010, you can pay tolls completely cashless. Distance-based systems boosted significantly in 2020 due to the Covid-19 outbreak.  The Toll Road - What Kind Of Tolls You Can Come Across? Toll booths can be found on almost any road but there are many types of tolls, which were classified by the payment method. These are: Open system (barrier system): road users need to pay a toll when they pass through the ramp toll plaza or mainline toll booth.  Closed system (ticket system): the vehicle’s license plate is scanned, and the vehicle owner is charged upon the entry toll gantry and exit toll gantry combination. Annual toll: frequent drivers can pay for an annual toll pass, which allows them to travel through all toll routes with a valid toll pass.  How Can You Pay Tolls? When you enter the toll road, you need to be prepared, that you have to pay the fee. Depending on the country and road, you can have different toll facilities to pay a fee. What payment methods you can choose? Cash, credit, or debit card: you can pay using the toll booths. Toll booths accept all the most popular payment types. Pay online: the electronic toll pass plaza allows you to drive through without paying. In order to avoid a toll violation fee, you need to settle the payment online within 14 days. If you don't check the pay-by-plate site, you can also pay a traditional invoice that comes by mail.  How Much Will You Pay? The toll roads are not very expensive and they provide motorists with an optimal traffic flow and great road conditions. The fee depends on the category of vehicle you drive. The average toll for two axes vehicle is approximately $5. Motorcycles will pay an even lower fee. The toll for transfer trucks will be the most expensive. If you want to know more about traveling in the US, check out the Uproad blog at www.uproad.com/blog/what-are-toll-roads Read Also: Sizzling Summer Road Trip Destinations 10 Best Places To Travel In January – Travel Guide 2022 5 Tips To Protect Your Passport While Travelling Abroad

BY  Nabamita Jul 23, 2022

Welcome to the “Queen Of The Hills!” Darjeeling is one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. Hidden beneath the Lesser Himalayas, Darjeeling is an “abode of god.” Situated among the serenity of nature, it is a must places to visit in Darjeeling for some intoxicating time in nature’s lap. Travel Guide About Darjeeling NicknameThe Queen of the HillsDarjeeling Whole  Area3149 sq.kmLanguage SpokenNepali, Hindi, and BengaliPopular Places to VisitBatasia Loop, Tinchuley, Darjeeling Rock Garden,  Lepchajagat, Darjeeling Ropeway, Happy Valley Tea Estate, Tiger Hill, etc. Best Time to VisitApril-June to experience summer, October-January to experience winter. Popular Places to visit for couplesMirik, Love Road, Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Mall, Observatory Hill, Darjeeling Ropeway, Tea Gardens, Mahakal Temple, and Glenburn Estate. Top Religious Places Ghoom Monastery, St.Andrew’s Church,  Dali Monastery, Dhirdham Temple, Aloobari Monastery, etc.Top Things To DoTrekking, Shopping, River Rafting, Toy Tain Ride, Visit the Tea Garden, Camping, Explore the wildlife and flora, Mountaineering, etc. Darjeeling: Why Even Go There? Darjeeling is one of the biggest tourist destinations in India. Its natural beauty, perfect climate, and captivating mountain view are a few of the reasons to visit here. Darjeeling is a part of West Bengal and is located at a height of 2134 meters. It is a proud possession of West Bengal Tourism. The exotic flora, fauna, and chilly weather are a few reasons why it is named the “Queen of the Hills.” It is a perfect abode for trekkers and mountaineers. The view of the Kanchenjunga is spectacular from here. This spectacular view is what attracts a lot of tourists year-round in Darjeeling. However, Darjeeling has a lot more to offer tourists. From Darjeeling, you have access to most other hill stations such as Gangtok, Kalimpong, and many more. There are great places to visit in Gangtok, and Darjeeling is your starting point for that. Here is a list of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. 1. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute And Darjeeling Zoo The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute of Darjeeling is one of the best in the country. It exhibits the mountaineering gears from the early days along with certain artifacts. The Institute was built here in honor of Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa who accompanied Sir Edmund Hillary to climb Mt. Everest. They were the first to climb the tallest mountain in the world for the 1st time in 1953. All the mountaineering gear that the men used is also here in the Institute itself. There are souvenirs and a restaurant here on the premises for the tourists. Located beside the Institute on the same premises is the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. Here you can experience the best wildlife Darjeeling has to offer. Here you will find a number of exotic animals such as the Siberian Tiger, snow leopard, goral, Tibetan wolf, Himalayan black bear, and red panda. Timings: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm in Summer & 8:30 am to 4:00 pm in Winter. 2. Darjeeling Ropeway Opened in 1968, known as the Rangeet Valley Passenger Cable Car; from here, you can have the best view of Darjeeling. This was the first cable car system ever built in India. From the beautiful Tea Gardens to the majestic peak of the Kanchenjunga and the dense forest beneath it. You will be able to experience everything Darjeeling has to offer at once. Timings: 10:00am to 4:00pm (Winter and Monsoon), 10:00am to 2:00pm (Summer and Autumn). 3. Happy Valley Tea Estate Enjoy the lush greenery and the sweet taste of Darjeeling Tea. This is a 150 years old Tea Estate, one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. Although this is only the second oldest tea estate in Darjeeling, built in 1854, situated 2100 meters above sea level. Timings: Tuesday to Saturday- 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. 4. Senchal Lake And Wildlife Sanctuary This is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in India, set up in the year 1915. Situated about 11 kms away from Darjeeling town, it is a must-visit place in Darjeeling. Senchal Lake, which is situated within the wildlife, has the most beautiful picturesque view. For nature lovers and photographers, this is an ideal place. Here you will find a number of wildlife such as leopards, rhesus monkeys, and Himalayan black bears. Along with that, here, you will see a wide variety of exotic birds. 5. Shrubbery Nightingale Park If you are someone who loves flowers and exotic flora, then you must visit Shrubbery Nightingale Park. Here you will find beautiful flowers along with a majestic view of the Kanchenjunga mountain.  The park was totally destroyed during a massive earthquake in 1934; it was rebuilt to its former glory. It has pebblestone pathways, a musical fountain and benches to sit on. This park is among the best places to visit in Darjeeling. Timings: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Blooming Seasons: October and November. 6. Dhirdham Temple Another gorgeous tourist attraction is the Dhirdham Temple; it is a Hindu temple in Nepalese style. This is located just below the Toy Train station. This temple was built by the King of Nepal, Purna Bahadur Pradhan, in the year 1936. The temple has the idol of Lord Shiva. The idol is of white color, and Shiva is represented to have various expressions with his third eye. This temple has the architectural design of the Pashupatinath Temple of Kathmandu. Aarti Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Note That: Inside the temple premises, cameras are not allowed. 7. Darjeeling Mall And Chowrasta At the heart of Darjeeling town are the Darjeeling Mall and the Chowrasta. This is one of the best places to visit in Darjeeling. It is the best places to hang out for both tourists and localities. Here you will find the best restaurants, shops, boutiques and cafes. This is a must-visit place in Darjeeling for anyone to visit. During the evening, you will find a lot of entertainment options here. Few of the best shops around here are Nathmulls Tea & Sunset Lounge, Curio Corner, Habeeb Mullick & Sons and the Jolly Arts & Bhutan Tibetan Art Shop. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 1. What Are The Nearest Railway Station And Airport To Darjeeling? The nearest railway station to Darjeeling is Darjeeling Railway station and Siliguri Railway Station. And the nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, located 70 km from Darjeeling. 2. What Is The Best Time To Plan A Holiday To Darjeeling? Depending on the season, you need to plan your trip here. If you are planning to visit during the summer for pleasant sightseeing you can visit from April-June.But if you are willing to experience the cold and with it wildlife, you can visit from October-December. 3. How Are The Accommodation Facilities For Tourists In Darjeeling? Darjeeling has a huge number of good quality accommodation facilities for tourists. No matter how you are traveling, big group, solo, as couple, or with family, there are options for all.From 5-star hotels to luxury resorts, pocket-friendly hotels, and even homestays, everything is present here in Darjeeling. Visit Now! Here I have pointed out the 7 best places in Darjeeling to visit, but there are more than 25 places to visit in Darjeeling, and Gangtok should be your next destination of choice. Darjeeling is a staple tourist destination for every Indian. It is the first place our parents took us to. It has a different emotion on my part. Read Also: Which Is The Best Time To Visit Auli? – Travel Guide Which Is The Largest Freshwater Lake In India? 10 Best Places To Visit In Sikkim