Eternal Elegance: A Guide to The Best Hotels in Rome

BY  Rishab Dey Dec 30, 2023

Are the gloomy skies driving you to desperate measures? Can a massive blowout break be called desperate? You do have a choice. A secluded road trip across the globe, an incredible once-in-a-lifetime adventure, or a truly tropical beach break. If you want all three, you will need to look for warm places to visit in February. It becomes more difficult to find intense, short-haul sunshine as winter drags on. A carefully planned trip separates a reasonably priced island stay and a mild-weather city break from the US. Both of these can provide much-needed rest as well as relaxation. However, there are plenty of far-flung options that best suit this month. And don't forget to check government travel advice for every destination.  Warm Places To Visit In February  Yes, Februaries are cold. But the warmth it brings with Valentine's is hard to contend against. If you are planning to visit warm places with your special someone to get away from the biting cold of your home country, here are some of your best options. Take a peek into some of the warm places to visit in February.  Morocco  The Miami of Morocco, Casablanca is the modern center of Morocco. The nation's largest city highlights modern Morocco, a humming mix of big finance as well as creative chops. It has been overlooked for lacking Tangier's rich history of bohemian revelry or the romantic chaos of Marrakech. Even better, it's a nearby, mild winter city break. Explore the district's Art Deco area, which is home to iconic buildings like the Cinema Rialto. Indulge in freshly shucked oysters at the Central Market. Get a taste of the past in the untouristy, donkey-filled medinas. You can end the day at a chic restaurant or rooftop café. Sea views, as well as a delicious seared duck breast with honey, are served at Le Relais de Paris. Morocco is probably one of the best warm places to visit in February. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this North African country.  Koh Yao Noi  Koh Yao Noi is the Thailand island of your dreams, just a 30-minute speedboat ride from Phuket and a world apart from its boisterous tourist attractions. There are more water buffaloes, traditional rubber farms, serene beaches, as well as fewer inebriated backpackers. Phang Nga Bay's surroundings are dotted with striking limestone karsts. Boho-chic Cape Kudu, a Small Luxury Hotel of the World, features white, bright rooms and a dreamy sea view from the pool. It also has a spa designed with hanging rattan chairs. Kayaking through the mangroves and island hopping are options, too.  Kenya  Kenya has seen a decline in tourism following a spate of terrorist attacks earlier this decade. However, most beach retreats and safari destinations in the nation are generally safe. Government travel advisories, too, are not too stringent. In February, you can combine two of the best trips into one. The southern coast's whale shark swimming season is in full swing. The Masai Mara's low rainfall causes big game to congregate in large groups at rivers and waterholes.  New Zealand  Want some delicious privacy? February, the last month of summer, is the best time to see the vistas along New Zealand's eastern seaboard by car. Few landscapes are as untamed and wild as those found there. Here, a volcanic headland meets the shimmering ocean, and multiple opulent lodges bask in seclusion. The North Island's Helena Bay Lodge is spread out over a tidy lawn near the South Pacific's edge. Its exclusive beaches, coves, as well as woodland hikes only see your own footprints. Next, travel to the South Island's Banks Peninsula, a picturesque volcano skeleton ringed with glistening bays and secluded little settlements. Annandale Farm is a mystical haven offering endless views of the ocean as well as locally sourced food. It is nestled in 4,000 acres of serene coastal pasture.  Carnival  It's crazy when you stand amidst a carnival. Still, isn't that the reason you're here? The streets stay marinating in wild revelry, and the beaches teem with a hot, toned young crowd. There is also the sound of samba pulsing everywhere you go. The Rio Music Carnival, an accompanying electro-music festival, takes place alongside the Sambadrome's parades to create the biggest party on Earth. Past performers such as Afrojack, Diplo, and Tiesto have left the crowds completely insane.  Honolulu  Here is another one of the warm places to visit in February. Between its capital, Honolulu, and its more sedate northern and eastern beaches, Oahu presents a compelling blend of big-city conveniences and quintessential tropical beauty. Additionally, locals get together for banter and bragging rights during the Buffalo Big Board Surfing Classic in February. This isn't your typical Kelly Slaters competition. Instead, teams of up to seven individuals compete in historical and unique events like SUPsquatch, where they ride enormous inflatable stand-up paddle boards.  Miami  Miami isn't for the timid, but it has a vibrant art scene in addition to its nightclubs, music, and traffic. You can check out the Yinka Ilori-designed café at Superblue or the Yayoi Kusama exhibits at the Rubell Museum. There is also a fun dining scene, and we recommend Itamae, a Nikkei restaurant.  Singapore  Singapore is one of the greenest cities in Asia. Trails, lush parks, and gardens dominate the area. According to The Singapore Green Plan 2030, it even aims to become the world's green champion. Nearly half of the city is covered in greenery. Visit during a hot, dry February to take in all of this. You can also visit Chinatown's markets, immerse yourself in the culinary scene, and learn about the local way of life.  Wrapping Up  Unless you really want to, there's no reason why you should stay inside this February. There are carnivals and even New Year's celebrations that combine Chinese and Mayan customs. In the end, this list of warm destinations in February should satisfy your need for warmth. This place has beaches, hikes, mountains, caverns, and volcanoes. If these don't motivate you, you can visit animals, museums, and a lot more places without having to worry about the dress code. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about warm places to visit in February, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Florida Dreams: RV Camping Along the Sunshine State’s Shore Wonders of the Waves: RV Camping Along Oregon’s Coastal Beauty

BY  Sibashree Jan 16, 2026

Most of us think of the Nadi resort buffets when we are in Fiji. However, if you want to know the real food and soul of Fuji, you have to be in Suva. It is the “Melting Pot of the Pacific.” So, the food stalls and shops you find here are not tourist traps. With the fragrant smoke of BBQ everywhere, you always crave more. Furthermore, the sweet smell of pineapples and the earthy aroma of turmeric here are addictive. Also, there is a brilliant fusion of cooking techniques here. The food here blends the bold spices of India with the stir-frying technique of Canton. So, in Suva, staying cooped up in the hotel for breakfast would be a waste of time. So, let’s lace up the shoes and eat our way through the real Fiji. For more practical tips on exploring the Fiji capital like a local, you must read my Suva travel itinerary. Stop 1: Morning At Suva Municipal Market  The Suva Municipal Market is the place where you breathe and feel the city. If you have the right Suva market guide and you arrive here by 8 AM, you will find the freshest produce here. Exploring the Municipal Market is also very crucial if you want to explore the culture of Suva. • Try Tropical Fruit Tasting In Suva  The Fiji Gold pineapples are different. These fruits are sweeter and smaller compared to the alternatives found in Western supermarkets.  Other tropical fruits you will find here are Fijian chestnuts or Ivu nuts and Soursop. Soursop has a creamy custard flavor. • The Spicery Head to the spice floor of the market, and it’s okay if you feel sneezy with the aroma of coriander and cumin. Here, you will find authentic Garam Masala, so you can take the spice mix as souvenirs. Also, for the most authentic Fiji experience, get some Kava or Yaqona roots. Kava is the national drink of Fiji. It has an earthy taste and smell, and it’s a little numbing. • Have A Bean Cart Experience  Do you love Indian snacks? You can look for the glass wooden carts. You will find a snack mix or Bhujia here. This snack has fried noodles, peanuts, and peas. It is the ideal Suva snack. These snacks are the Suva Fiji hidden gems when we talk about an authentic food experience. Stop 2: The "Roti Parcel" Lunch  For a backpacker or a solo traveler, the Roti Parcel can be the ultimate convenient food. It tastes delicious, and it is a filling and affordable snack. Have you ever tried handmade Indian Rotis? These are the bases of Roti Parcel. These buttery Rotis are wrapped around a filling of dry curry. The dry curry is usually made of chicken, potato, and pumpkin. It is so convenient that you can do it even when you are on a walk. The Suva Bus Stand is the best area to try these Roti Parcels. There are many small kiosks and "holes-in-the-walls.” These places serve hundreds of Roti Parcels daily. Want to try the freshest Rotis? You must look for places where the queue of the office goers is the longest. Stop 3: The Curry Trail  Indo-Fijian cuisine has Indian spices. However, the dishes here are different. In the food here, you will use more local root vegetables. Furthermore, the dishes are spicier, and various cooking techniques are used in making them. Try eating at the following places to try vegetarian and non-vegetarian Indo-Fijian food. Indiana Curry House & Bar is the best place here to have lamb chops, tandoori chicken, and chicken butter masala. Govinda Vegetarian is the place to have Samosas, Barfi and Gulab Jamun. Stop 4: Indigenous Flavors You Must Try  To understand Fiji, you must eat Lovo (earth oven) style or stews thickened with coconut milk. It is the best local food to try in Suva Fiji. Kanalevu Kitchen or The Old Mill Cottage are the places to try Lovo in Suva. These places have an authentic vibe, and you will feel like being in your grandma’s kitchen. Another indigenous delicacy is Kokoda. This is Fiji’s take on ceviche. You can marinate the Spanish Mackarel in lime juice and then serve it with onions and chillies, and of course, a bowl of fresh coconut cream. The combination is heavenly, and it has the right balance of flavor punch and texture. Now, it’s getting really grand. Rourou Mutton is the ultimate Fijian comfort food. In this dish, the Taro leaves (Rourou) are simmered. After a while, they have a spinach-like consistency. You can cook tinned fish or mutton in this mix. Also, you must add plenty of coconut milk for the rich, creamy texture. Stop 5: Sunset And Seafood  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tiko's Floating Restaurant 🇫🇯 (@tikos_fj) End your day where the city meets the sea. You can have the most unique experience at Tiko’s Floating Restaurant. It is a converted ship docked at the harbor, and you will have the best mud crabs and grilled lobster here. Another place is the Grand Pacific Hotel (GPH), which also has the nickname of the Grand Old Lady. It is a colonial-era hotel and has hosted Queen Elizabeth II. You will love sitting on the veranda here and enjoying the sunset with a high tea or sunset cocktail. Food Intensity Guide: A Note For Travelers On A Suva Food Tour Fijian hot is not the same as Western hot. So, if you are in Fiji and a local tells you that the curry is medium spicy, you must know that it’s hot.  If you are not a local, your brows are going to sweat. The small Fijian chilies or the Bongo chilies are powerful. So, it is always safe to ask for a mild spice level. Furthermore, indigenous Fijian food relies heavily on root vegetables such as Cassava and Dalo, or Taro. These veggies are starchy, and the gravies made with them are dense. So, be mindful of the quantity of these dishes while eating. Practical Tips To Follow On A Suva Food Tour Hygiene: Stick to busy stalls where the turnover is high.  Water: Stick to bottled water or "Fiji Water" (which is actually cheaper here!).  Cash is King: While hotels take cards, the market vendors and roti shops are strictly cash-only (Fijian Dollars).  What Are The Best Expert Tips For Your Suva Food Tour?  A food tour is not just about what to have. You must understand the flavor, texture, and richness of the dish you are having. Furthermore, you have to be aware of the right time to have them. The local market stalls and street vendors do not accept cards. So, you have to carry $5 and $10 FJD bills. You will notice a heavy crowd at the curry houses between 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM. So, if you want a seat, you must visit between 11 AM and 2 PM. You will have the tropical fruits or the roti parcels in your hands. So, you will need to wash your hands before and after eating. So, carry wet wipes and avoid public sinks. Don’t eat the fruits collected from the market without washing them. However, pineapples and bananas are safe. Is the tap water looking yellowish? There is rust in your water. So, it’s best to choose an Island Chill or Fiji water.  Fijian curry has meat with bones. So, be careful while chewing. The vegetarian and non-vegetarian division is followed strictly in Fiji. So, if you want to have pure veg food, you must look for the same sign. Tipping is not mandatory in Suva, Fiji. But you must leave a small change ($2-$5). It is a kind gesture in small eateries.  The Fiji dishes with Lolo or coconut milk are heavy and rich. So, you must not plan any heavy outdoor activity, such as hiking, after having these gravies. Suva Food Tour: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Suva food tour. 1. Is Street Food Safe In Suva? Yes, street food is usually safe in Suva. The specialties, such as the BBQ or Roti, are served fresh and hot. Also, the locals have them regularly, and when you see a long queue outside an eatery, you know that the food is safe. Avoid having cold and creamy salads that have been in the glass cabinets before you arrive there. Ask the vendor to make it fresh for you. 2. How Much Does A Meal Cost In Suva? If you want to eat like a local, you can try a roti parcel. The Roti Parcel costs $3-$5 FJD. However, you can also have a sit-down curry meal at $15-$25 FJD.  Furthermore, if you combine the breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals, the average expense of a person will be between $45 and $50. 3. Do I Need To Book Restaurants When Eating In Suva, Fiji? You don’t always need to book the restaurants and hotels for eating out in Suva. These lunch spots are walk-in. However, if you are having dinner at places such as GPH or Tiko’s, you have to book the place. 4. Can I Drink The Tap Water In Suva? Tap water is usually safe in Suva because it is chlorinated. However, if you are a tourist and have a sensitive stomach, you may fall sick.Also, sometimes, the tapwaters (especially in old buildings) have a yellowish color. This color comes from the rust, and you must not have it.Choose bottled water. 5. Are There Vegan Options In Suva? Yes! The Indian influence means Dhal (lentils) and vegetable curries are everywhere. Furthermore, the people here are very particular about the veg and non-veg contamination.So, you must look for the label Pure Vegetarian before having food at an eatery. 6. What Time Do Restaurants Close? The lunch spots in Suva close by 3 PM, and the dinner places close around 9:30 PM.The best time to have lunch is around 2 PM.Have dinner between 8:30 PM and 9 PM. 7. Is Alcohol Served In Curry Houses? Many traditional curry houses (especially Muslim or Hindu-owned) do not serve alcohol. Check first. However, some places, such as Indiana Curry House & Bar, also operate as a bar. So, you will find alcohol there.

BY  Sibashree Feb 16, 2023

Sikkim is a state in northeastern India, bordered by Bhutan to the east, Tibet to the north, and Nepal to the west. It is the second smallest state in India but is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diverse landscape It has the Himalayas, rolling hills, and lush forests.  Some of the popular tourist destinations in Sikkim include the capital city of Gangtok. Gangtok has vibrant street markets, delicious street food, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.  Other popular destinations include the famous Nathula Pass. It offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the surrounding landscapes. Moreover, it has the Tsomgo Lake, a high-altitude glacial lake surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Sikkim is also home to a number of historic monasteries and temples, including the Rumtek Monastery. It even has the famous Tashiding Monastery, which is one of the holiest sites in Sikkim. Overall, Sikkim is a must-visit destination on Northeast tour packages for those interested in natural beauty, culture, and history. Sikkim Travel Guide: The Best Places To Visit  Before I get into the key destinations of Sikkim, I must highlight how Sikkim is standing at the verge of a new era in tourism.  This beautiful hill station in the Eastern Himalayas is going to become accessible with the Sevoke–Rangpo railway line at the verge of completion.  When completed, this 44.96-kilometre railway route will run from Sevoke in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal to Rangpo in Sikkim.  This railway route is about to be completed by 2027.  For now, Sikkim enjoys excellent connectivity through its roadways, and the Sikkim Express has reported the arrival of 17,12,360 people in 2025, compared to 16,25,241 people in 2024.  1. Gurudongmar Gurudongmar Lake is a high-altitude freshwater lake. It is one of the highest lakes in the world and one of the most sacred sites in the region by both Hindus and Buddhists. The lake is at an altitude of over 17,000 feet and is surrounded by the stunning peaks of the Himalayas. Despite its high altitude and harsh climate, the lake remains a popular destination for both tourists and pilgrims. Gurudongmar Lake is named after Guru Padmasambhava, a revered Tibetan Buddhist saint who is said to have blessed the lake and made its waters holy. According to local legend, the lake never freezes, even in the harshest of winters, due to the blessing of Guru Padmasambhava. Visitors to the lake can take a challenging but rewarding trek through the mountains to reach the lake, or they can take a drive along a rough road to reach the lake's shores.  2. Yumthang Valley The Yumthang Valley is a stunning mountain valley. It also has the nickname of “Valley of Flowers” due to its lush and colorful landscape.  The Yumthang Valley is at an altitude of over 11,000 feet and is surrounded by the towering peaks of the Himalayas. During the spring and summer months, the valley has a vibrant carpet of wildflowers, including rhododendrons, primulas, and poppies. The valley is also home to the Yumthang Hot Springs, which are believed to have healing properties and therapeutic benefits.  Additionally, the valley offers a variety of outdoor activities, including trekking, hiking, and horseback riding. 3. Namgyal Institute Of Tibetology The Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is a research center and museum. It is dedicated to the study and preservation of Tibetan culture, religion, and history, and is considered one of the leading institutions of its kind in the world. Founded in 1958, the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is home to a vast collection of Tibetan manuscripts, artifacts, and works of art, including ancient texts, religious objects, and rare manuscripts. The museum also houses a large collection of Tibetan religious masks, sculptures, and paintings. In addition to its museum, the institute also operates a library and research center for the study of Tibetan culture, religion, and history. The library has one of the most comprehensive collections of Tibetan literature. So, it is an important resource for scholars and researchers from around the world. Visitors to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology can take a guided tour of the museum and view the incredible collection of artifacts, as well as attend lectures and workshops on Tibetan culture and history.  4. Zuluk Zuluk is a small village located in the Eastern Himalayas in the Indian state of Sikkim. It is at an altitude of around 10,000 feet, and it stands out with its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and rolling hills. Furthermore, Zuluk is becoming a popular destination among tourists and adventure-seekers. The village is on a historic trade route that was once used by traders traveling between Tibet and India. Moreover, its winding roads offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes. One of the main attractions in Zuluk is the Zuluk Loop, a stunning mountain road. The loop is a popular destination for road trips. Visitors can take a drive through the mountains to experience the incredible scenery and views of the Himalayas. Zuluk is also home to a number of historic monasteries and temples, including the Tukla Monastery. Tukla Monastery is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in the region.  Visitors can attend prayer ceremonies and learn about the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the area.  Overall, Zuluk is a must-visit destination for its natural beauty, culture, and history. 5. Do-Drul Chorten Do-Drul Chorten, also known as the Stupa of Reality, is a Buddhist stupa located in the city of Gangtok. It is one of the most important religious and cultural landmarks in the region. Also, it is a sacred site for the local Buddhist community. The Do-Drul Chorten was built in 1945 by the head of the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism. Furthermore, it is one of the most important centers of Buddhism in Sikkim.  Moreover, 108 prayer wheels surround this stupa. The Do-Drul Chorten is also home to a number of Buddhist shrines and statues.  The most prominent are the images of the Buddha, Guru Rinpoche, and other important figures in Buddhist history. Visitors can attend prayer ceremonies and learn about the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the area.  Sikkim Travel Guide: How The State Is Transforming Into A Hub Of Digital Nomads Sikkim is rapidly transforming into a premier hub for digital nomads. It gains more prominence with the launch of Yakten, India’s first official Digital Nomad Village.  This initiative is a collaboration between the Pakyong district administration and the NGO Sarvahitey. It also bridges the gap between rugged Himalayan beauty and modern professional needs.   Sikkim has solved the primary hurdle for remote work in the mountains. It has become possible with the installation of dual high-speed internet lines, village-wide Wi-Fi, and consistent power backups,  Beyond infrastructure, the state offers a unique "Work from Homestay" culture. Thanks to this culture, nomads enjoy organic, farm-to-table meals and deep cultural immersion.  This sustainable model provides locals with year-round income. Thus, it proves that the future of work isn't just in the city; in fact, it’s in the clouds. Read Also: Life Is Enjoyable: Incorporate 7 Best Unique Treks In The World Which Is The Best Time To Visit Sikkim? – Travel Guide What Is The Best Time To Visit Ladakh? – Travel Guide