Best Cruises for Families: Vacationing with Kids! 

BY  Abdul Aziz May 12, 2023

London is the capital city of England and the United Kingdom, located in the southeast of the country. With a population of over 9 million people, it is one of the most populous cities in Europe and the world. London has a rich and diverse history, dating back to its founding by the Romans over 2,000 years ago. Throughout the centuries, it has been a center of trade, commerce, culture, and politics, and has played a pivotal role in shaping the modern world. With London Attraction tickets, you can explore London which is a global hub for finance, business, media, and the arts. It is home to some of the world's leading universities, museums, and cultural institutions, as well as numerous iconic landmarks and attractions. Some of the best places to visit in London include Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Big Ben, the London Eye, and the Houses of Parliament. It is also home to some of the world's leading museums, including the British Museum, the National Gallery, and Tate Modern. In addition to its history and culture, London is also a vibrant and diverse city with a thriving food scene, nightlife, and fashion. From traditional fish and chips to trendy street food markets, there's something to suit every taste. The British Museum The British Museum is one of the world's greatest museums, with a vast collection of over 8 million objects from all corners of the globe. The museum is home to the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, and the mummies of Ancient Egypt, as well as countless other treasures. Admission to the museum is free, although some special exhibitions may require a fee. The Tower Of London The Tower of London is a historic fortress located on the north bank of the River Thames. It was founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century and has served as a royal palace, a prison, and a treasury over the centuries. Today, visitors can take guided tours of the Tower's various buildings and learn about its fascinating history. Be sure to see the Crown Jewels, housed in the Jewel House, which are some of the most valuable objects in the world. The National Gallery The National Gallery is one of London's premier art museums, with a collection of over 2,300 paintings dating from the 13th century to the 19th century. The museum's highlights include works by Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh, as well as many other masterpieces. Admission to the museum is free, although some special exhibitions may require a fee. Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the British monarch and has been the London home of the royal family since 1837. Visitors can take a tour of the State Rooms, which are used for official occasions and receptions, and see the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place daily during the summer months and every other day during the winter. The Tate Modern The Tate Modern is a modern art museum which is located on the south bank of the River Thames. The collection of the museum includes works by Picasso, Warhol, Dali, and many other contemporary artists. Admission to the museum is free, although some special exhibitions may require a fee. The West End The West End is London's theater district and is home to some of the city's best-known musicals, plays, and other performances. From long-running shows like The Phantom of the Opera and Les Misérables to new productions, there's always something to see in the West End. Be sure to book tickets in advance, as shows often sell out. The London Eye The London Eye, a huge Ferris wheel, is located on the southern bank of the River Thames. This place offers great views of the city skyline and is one of London's most popular attractions. Tickets can be purchased in advance online, and it's a good idea to book a time slot to avoid long waits. Hyde Park Hyde Park is one of London's largest and most beautiful parks, with over 350 acres of green space to explore. It's a popular spot for picnics, jogging, and relaxing, and it's also home to many famous landmarks, including the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain, the Serpentine Lake, and the Speakers' Corner. The British Library The British Library is the largest library in the world, with over 170 million items in its collection. It's home to some of the most important literary and historical documents in existence, including the Magna Carta, the Gutenberg Bible, and manuscripts from authors such as Shakespeare, Jane Austen, and Charles Dickens. Visitors can explore the library's exhibitions and attend talks and events, as well as access the library's reading rooms for research purposes. St. Paul's Cathedral St. Paul's Cathedral is a historic church located in the heart of London. Designed by Sir Christopher Wren in the 17th century, it is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cathedral's interior, including the Whispering Gallery, which offers stunning views of the nave and climb to the top of the dome for breathtaking views of the city. London is a city full of history, culture, and excitement, and there are countless other places to explore beyond this list. From the colorful streets of Notting Hill to the trendy neighborhoods of Shoreditch and Dalston, there's always something new to discover in this vibrant city. Read Also: 6 Things To Do At The Beach This Fall 10 Best Days Out In London For Football Fans 10 Best Places To Travel In June – Travel Guide 2022

BY  Mashum Dec 29, 2021

Are you like me? Who loves the wilderness and the solitude. I am a solo traveler and I have visited a lot of national parks in the USA, the best of them according to me is Maine National Parks. If we share the same interest then Maine is the perfect getaway from everything.  The state is considered to be the place where the beautiful rocky coastline, pine forests, lighthouses, and the Appalachian Trail await you!.  When we talk about National Parks in Maine, there is only one National Park in Maine, but there are four sites that have been affiliated with the National Park services along with these there is also one National Trail that starts from Maine itself.  Acadia National Park is the main park in Maine. Maine National Parks that are affiliated are:  Maine Acadian Culture Centre. Katahdin Woods And Waters National Monument. Saint Croix Island International Historic Site.  Roosevelt Campobello International Park.  In this article, I will be giving you a complete guide on how to enjoy Maine National Parks. Stay tuned! Acadia National Park Acadia National park is where the mountains meet the ocean. This beautiful spot is located southwest of Bar Harbor, Maine. This park embraces 47,000 acres that include half of Mount Desert Island, known to be the section of the Schoodic Peninsula. There are several small islands in between as well.  Acadia is known to be one of the 10 top National Parks in America, which attracts a lot of tourists.  Things To Do In Acadia National Park  Hiking hiking is the most popular and fun activity in Acadia National Park. For hikers they have 158 miles that are marked as hiking trails and your pets can accompany you there too. It is a great place to take your family with you and while walking you will be watching the ocean, flora, and wildlife.  Wildlife For many species, Acadia National Park is their home. Look out for otters, eagles, seals, painted turtles, deer, peregrine falcons, moose, black bears, and porcupines. Not just these but there are 338 species of birds that visit this place throughout different times of the year.  Water Activities To enjoy the ocean to the fullest, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, boating as well as exploring the tide pools are the right and fun choices to spend your afternoon. To spend some time with yourself you can also think about paddling around all the islands or maybe cam at some primitive sites. Solo Tours You can always explore the place by auto tours, or bus tours after a week of hiking when you just want to look around to find new interesting things. you can enjoy your own company as solo traveling. The night sky in Acadia gets stunning for being pitch black and some stars playing hide and seek. Other than this, in winter you can go ice fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snow bowling, and dog sledding.  How To Get To Acadia National Park? From Mount Desert Island or Schoodic Peninsula, by car, it is really easy to drive to Acadia. The Rv campers must know that the historic bridges have high restrictions on roads. The rest of the roads do allow buses and long vehicles.  There are RV campsites that have a convenient bus system to drive tourists around the park. Therefore to explore po[ular locations you don’t need to hire a vehicle for that. Maine National Parks As I mentioned in the beginning, there are four affiliated sites that can somehow be considered National Parks in Maine. Let's see what they have to offer. Maine Acadian Culture Centre Maine Acadian Culture Centre is located in the U.S side of Saint John Valley. It shows the depth of the history of the Acadian settlers.  There are places for tourists to explore the intriguing architecture of the early 1900’s church, which is now home to Musee Culturel du Mont-Carmel. You can also just wander around all your own among the seventeen buildings of the indigenous Acadian settlement.  For those who would rather just stay outdoors than indoors and build memories to carry back home, have the Allagash Wilderness Waterway where angling, hunting, and canoeing are available.  Katahdin Woods And Waters National Monument  Possessing over 87,000 acres of Maine wilderness, this spot offers opportunities for outdoor roamers. This place is considered to be the hub for bird-watching and hiking. Katahdin is nominated as the international dark sky sanctuary.  Among the Maine National Parks, Acadia National park has a pristine National Monument whose location is perfect for date gazers and campers. To those who look for adventure during the wintertime as well, snow bowling is allowed in many areas,  and there are well-maintained trails for cross-country skiing. Hunting and fishing are also allowed here.  Saint Croix Island International Historic Site This place attempted to have a French Colonization, which now reminds historical events dating back to 1604. The trail is fine for visitors to leisurely walk and enjoys guiding themselves while they pass the bronze statues set in homage to French settlers and admire them.  There is a huge bird population and birdwatchers can easily report if they come across a new species of bird. Informal birds taking shadows are held through the entire summer.  Roosevelt Campobello International Park  This international park is to show respect to Franklin D. Roosevelt and his family.  This 2,800-acre island is full of forests, bogs, and beaches that offer an idyllic area, slow walks, and get-togethers.  People come across many cottages in the park including Roosevelt Cottage. This cottage is open to all tourists and provides guides that know how to answer the guests with politeness and information.  Appalachian National Scenic Trail  This Trail contains 2200 miles of habitual foot track. 281 of them are located in the state of Maine. It has ecosystems in the mountains that are quite picturesque. The tallest mountain in Maine, Katahdin, blemishes the starting of the trail and is the difficult mile on the route which is Mahoosuc Notch.  As the spot has a unique climate, it is also a hub for scientific research and studies. Workshops are available to educate people who wish to join the journey. There are plenty of exploration options for all skill levels, from friendly treks to thru-hikers. All the hikers that come from far places have to get a permit before starting their adventure.  Wrapping It All Up Here you go with everything you need to know before visiting the Maine National Parks. The place is considered to be the most beautiful National Park in America.  All ages can enjoy the view as well as the environment. You just have to take some time out of your busy schedule and visit the place with your family. I assure you the experience is going to be so good.  Read More: A Guide To National Parks In Alabama - Latest Guide A Guide To National Parks In Virginia - Latest Guide A Guide To National Parks In Wisconsin - Latest Guide Best Time To Visit Grand Canyon East National Park

BY  Sibashree Sep 10, 2024

Lake Clark National Park is committed to subsistence. It’s a sincere effort not to impact the “physical and spiritual culture of Modern Alaska.” Further, the park authority wants to pass on the park’s history to the future generation and the public. So, it was not surprising when the park sought public opinion on the exploration of its mineral tracts (Johnson Tract).  Located in the Johnson River headwater, Johnson Tract is a polymetallic project, and mining of gold, silver, copper, zinc, and lead is possible here. Public comments on “transportation and port site easements” are invited so that there is better accessibility to Johnson Tract. However, the more important aspect of it is analyzing the environmental impact of the project on the park.  There will be the following activities, and the analysis report will likely be published in the fall of 2024.  Hydrological assessment Geotechnical assessment Surveys of cultural and natural resources  But that’s not all! There have been many published stories, such as “Dena'ina Ełnena,” “Canneries, Cabins, Caches,” and more on this national park. Moreover, storytelling by the Native community or the tradition of oral storytelling is still alive here as a part of the “University of Alaska Fairbanks program.”  The things I have discussed so far show how the park is focused on preserving its personal and shared identities. Now, I will delve into some related details and also talk about what makes Lake Clark National Park special in terms of places to visit and things to do.  Preserving History And Culture At Lake Clark National Park  Do you know the original name of Lake Clark? Dena’ina people call it “Qizhjeh Vena,” meaning “a place where people gathered lake.”  Further, the people of Dena’ina, or Athabascan culture, have made this region their home for thousands of years now. How they see the lake and the surrounding land as the main resource of their lives will change the common perspectives about this national park. It is not just a preserved space with wilderness, interesting landscapes, and scenic beauty! It is an account of human history.  Women were always taught to be independent in this culture. They knew how to set snares and ground squirrels. This was an important exercise so that they had to never be dependent on others for food.  Athabascan people, originally from Alaska, started residing here. Further, with time, they encountered people from Russia, the USA, Canada, and Western Europe. Thus, their way of living evolved. However, they have made an effort to preserve their old way of living, and subsistence is still the key to their lives.  I have already mentioned how the oral and written stories preserve the cultural spirit of the park for posterity. Further, the Natural and Cultural Museum of the park preserves many artifacts, geological samples, and ethnographic items so that you can learn about the physical, spiritual, and cultural transformations.  Here is a breakdown of the total 248,402 items preserved at the museum. Type of ItemNumbers Archeological Artifacts34,363Park Archive Documents202,397Historical Artifacts, Documents, And Photos4,663 Biological Specimens6,838Paleontological Specimens47Ethnographic Items16Geological Samples69Objects of Art 9 The museum specialists take special conservation measures to make these objects available for posterity.  These Are The Historically Significant Places In Lake Clark National Park And Preserve https://www.instagram.com/p/B_VbC2clywQ/ Many areas of the park have names in English and Dena’ina. The names in Dena’ina are crucial if you want to understand their significance and the story behind them. Here’s a brief list of the historical places to visit in this park.  Dena’ina Tinitun or Trails  Ancestral Telaquana Trail Tanalian Point Hnitsanghi’iy 'The Rock That Stands Alone' (Priest Rock) Qizhjeh Vena or Lake Clark Kijik (Qizhjeh) National Historic Landmark and Archeological District While the sites have historical significance, they also speak volumes about Dena’ina values and way of life. For example, the trails here show the importance of social, cultural, and ceremonial participation among Dena’ina people. Many also believe that these trails are like “geological and educational maps” for future generations.  Subsistence Is The Key At Lake Clark National Park And Preserve Dena’ina people believe that the wilderness and animals will be good. It is we, humans, who have to be respectful toward them. To adhere to this, people in Dena’ina culture develop a communal understanding, and learn how to make the most of the limited ecological resources available. To maintain the art of subsistence, the people of Dena’ina culture focus on the following aspects.  The Ethics of Taking Hunters need to donate some part of the meat to the ill, old people, and families. This exercise shows how the tribe prioritizes communal bonding. Further, along with food distribution, the exchange of knowledge and resources is equally important in this culture.  Hunting and Trapping https://www.instagram.com/p/B8M_BvyHeUx/ Hunting animals, especially caribou and moose, is important for survival. Further, the distribution of meat according to the “Ethics of Taking” also builds community cohesion.  Trapping is a year-long activity here. Small animals such as mink, river otter, and Alaska hare are trapped to support living. However, Dena’ina people learn the skills of not hurting others or non-targets while trapping small animals.  Plant Harvesting Dena’ina families use various parts of the plants for different purposes. They collect food from the plants, and some of the plants also have medicinal properties. Further, trees and plants are often sources of tools, fuel, wearable accessories, and ceremonial essentials for them.  Berries grow in abundance here. Northern black currant, crowberries, and blackberries are some common varieties. Crowberry and blackberry leaves are used to cure diarrhea. Further, the stems of crowberry have medicinal properties that cure kidney problems.  Fishing and Fish Camps Summer and fall are the seasons of salmon in the Lake Clark National Park and Reserve. During these seasons, this national park has the largest salmon migration in the world. Further, families reunite and celebrate, and tourists flock in great numbers to the park to see and catch salmon.  Pike, trout, grayling, and whitefish are other varieties of fish found here. In addition, there are Nundaltin Q’estsiq’ and other fish camps where fish is processed and a temporary community is built.  Ethnographic studies further support all these subsistence activities. These studies related to fishing and other outdoor activities and the art of Dena’ina people living around Lake Clark are crucial. These studies help the local people to respond better to the economic, environmental, and sociocultural changes.  Things To Do At Lake Clark National Park And Preserve The vast wilderness and unique geological features make Lake Clark National Park suitable for hiking, camping, boating, fishing, rafting, and many other outdoor pursuits. Make the most of your time at the park! 1. Rafting In The Wild River https://www.instagram.com/p/CeSJ6Hbo0gw/ Tlikakila, Mulchatna, and Chilikadrotna are three wild rivers in the park. All these rivers are great for rafting. However, you must adhere to the Alaska Office of Boating Safety guidelines to avoid mishaps.  2. Fishing https://www.instagram.com/p/Cvz9q0ns6ms/ May to October is the best season for fishing in the Lake Clark National Park. Lake Clark is the main fishing hub here, and you can also explore Crescent Lake and Silver Salmon Creek.  3. Hiking  https://www.instagram.com/p/CrgO6IoOATU/ Tanalian Trails are the most popular for your hiking expeditions in this park. You can walk to Tanalian Mountain, Kontrashibuna Lake, Beaver Pond, and Tanalian Falls.  Many hikers also try hiking the Lake Clark and Upper Twin Lake trails.  4. Bear Viewing  https://www.instagram.com/p/C9kRPM2OYmi/ Silver Salmon Creek, Chinitna Bay, and Crescent Lake are the best sites for bear viewing in Lake Clark National Park.  5. Camping  https://www.instagram.com/p/BCO9H6jgnnr/ The area near Hope Creek is suitable for camping. Cook Inlet Coast is another place where you can put up your camps.  Knowing The Wildlife At Lake Clark National Park And Preserve Lake Clark National Park And Preserve is the place where you will get to see a bear in the stream and coming out with a salmon between its teeth. Very few people know that this national park is home to as many as 37 terrestrial animals and 187 bird species.  Nonetheless, have a look at the table below to learn about the animals you will meet at this national park.  MammalsBrown bearsBlack bearsDall sheepCaribouWolvesMooseBirdsGolden-crowned sparrowBald eaglesGolden eaglesTrumpeter swansSea ducksOlive-sided flycatcherFishSockeye SalmonArctic GraylingRainbow troutPike Did You Know? People in the Lime Village believe that olive-sided flycatchers and golden-crowned sparrows announce the arrival of the salmon season (around 3.1 million every year).  Birds are seen around the inland lakes, mountains, and coastal areas.  Before You Set In… Lake Clark National Park is a place less trodden by. Here is a quick glance at the things you need to know.  Established: 2nd December, 1980 Area: 4,030,006 Acres Number of Visitors: 16,728 (2023) Best Time to Visit: Late Spring to Early Fall Highest Point: Redoubt Volcano (10,197ft) Visitors Center:  Port Alsworth Visitor Center  Entry Fee: Free Best Mode of Transport: Small Planes Run by Authorized Air Taxi Companies Yelp Rating: 4 Star 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.