Ski Retreats And City Suites: Salt Lake City’s Hotel Gems

BY  Mashum Jan 30, 2020

With a change in tourist behaviors, New York is all set to exceed the tourism records of pre-pandemic days. This upward graph in tourism numbers has been visible since 2023. In the same year, footfalls in New York crossed the 62 million mark.  Now, regarding the must see places in New York, the iconic ones like the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the High Line continue to cast their charm.  However, breaking the tourism lulls of the pandemic days, tourists are now eager to explore beyond Manhattan. Further, they want to experience the “Real New York City,” away from maddening crowds.  So, in this Tour and Travel guide, I have highlighted the most popular destinations in New York, along with some unique hotspots. It’s like the Frank Sinatra song, “I want to be a part of it, New York, New York Your vagabond shoes, they are longing to stray And step around the heart of it, New York, New York…” Must See Places In New York | Iconic Landmarks In New York  New York remains a dynamic hub for tourism, with a significant increase in visitors and visitor spending. In 2024, the number of tourists to New York City was close to 65 million, which was the second-highest number in the city’s history. “With nearly 65 million visitors this year — the second highest figure in our city’s history — New York City has once again solidified its position as the premier destination in the nation and one of the top travel spots in the world.”Eric Adams, Mayor, New York City So, the city is ready to make a massive economic recovery, with the tourism sector making a strong and steady comeback.  Further, the following must see places in New York remain the heartbeats of the city’s tourism.  1. Central Park | A Quiet Retreat Amidst The Bustling New York City Embed: https://www.instagram.com/p/C5WYDY2IRu0/ Entry: Free Hours Open: 6 AM to 1 PM Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s “The Gates” is making a comeback to Central Park. I was just checking out the Central Park Conservancy website and was elated to find that this transcendental art installation in saffron hue is once again ready to tell the tales of a park reborn. The Shed, a non-profit cultural organization, will be hosting an exhibition called “Christo and Jeanne-Claude: The Gates and Unrealized Projects for New York City.”This exhibition will open on 12th February 2025, marking the 20th anniversary of “The Gates.”  Once home to the Indigenous Lenape people, Central Park became what it is today with the craftsmanship of Calvert Vaux and Frederick Law Olmsted. Walking, e-scooter tours or biking through the trails are the best ways to explore the manicured, yet natural-looking vistas of the park.  Moreover, Central Park is full of attractions, including the Strawberry Fields, a tribute to John Lenon, the Conservancy Garden, Bow Bridge, Belvedere Castle, etc.  2. The Statue Of Liberty | The Symbol Of Freedom  Entry Fee: Free Ferry Charges: Free for Children below 4 Years, $16.50 for Children Aged 4-12, $25.50 for the Age of 13+, $22.50 for Seniors (62+) Hours Open: 9 AM to 5 PM The Statue of Liberty was a gift by France, built-in 1886. It is among the most popular symbol of freedom and one of the greatest icons in America. Standing at 152 feet tall, it is one of the tallest statues in the world and weighs around 450,000 pounds. Battery Park offers a great view of the statue from the land. However, the best way to see this statue is by taking a short ferry trip to Liberty Island. You can get up close, take a stroll around the ground and pedestal. And, if you make advanced reservations, you can even go up to the crown. When you take the ferry, you will also stop at Ellis Island and can explore the Immigration Museum. 3. Metropolitan Museum Of Art | Housing 5000 Year Old Artwork Entry Fee: $30 for Adults, $22 for Seniors and Visitors with a Disability, $17 for Students, Free for Children below 12 Years Hours Open: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday - 10 AM to 5 PM, Saturday and Sunday - 10 AM to 9 PM, Wednesday - Closed Metropolitan Museum of Art, also famously known as MET, was established in 1870. It is one of the most popular museums in the United States of America. The center has an extensive collection of over 2 million artworks, some of which date back to 5000 years. It has three sites. However, Met Fifth Avenue is the centerpiece of the museum. If you are a fan of art and history, this is a place that you should not miss out on. American arms and armors, decorative arts, Egyptians arts, photographs, musical instruments, etc. are some of the many items that you get to explore here. 4. The High Line | The Changed West Side Elevated Line After An Ideas Competition High Line was once a rail line, which has now become a popular tourist attraction of the city. The rail line has now been transformed into a walking trail over the city streets. The linear public park has a wide range of trees and plants. Further, The High Line, or the linear public park, has a wide range of trees and plants. The High Line you visit today survived a demolition order from Mayor Giuliani in 1999. However, four years later, the “ideas competition” hosted by Friends of the High Line highlighted the potential of this “ugly eyeshore” to get transformed into one of the must see places in New York. So, today, the 1.45-mile-long greenway with over 500 species of plants reminds me of the headline on the front page of the New York Times. It read, “Frog of a Railroad to Become Prince of a Park.” Moreover, glass railings line the park, which gives it a more natural feel. From here, you get an amazing view of the bustling city of New York. You can access the high Line on different points from Gansevoort to 34th Street. Some of the access points only provide stairs, whereas others have elevators as well. 5. Times Square | At The Crossroads Of The World Exhibiting tall, bright billboards and displays, Times Square is one of the must-visit places in New York. While it is exciting at any time of the day, it truly livens up in the evening. This is the site where New York celebrates its New Year's Eve and where the Ball Drop happens at midnight. It is a busy street, which is always crowded with people, but still has a unique character to it. Bleachers are installed on the other end of where you can sit and admire the hustling scene. Time Square got its name in the year 1904, and before that, it was known as Longacre Square. Also, if you are looking to find the best food trucks in NY, then I would recommend visiting vstreetfood.com/food-trucks/new-york/. New York is considered the city that never sleeps, and it is true. No matter what time of the day it is, there is something you can do or explore here. Above are some of the places that you must visit in New York. And while you explore these destinations, you will come across a bunch of others on your way because they all are closely connected. Also, when in Times Square, you must not forget to explore the best food trucks in NY, especially vstreetfood.com/food-trucks/new-york/. The Must See Places In New York | Hidden Gems You Will Fall In Love With  As promised, here, I will discuss some hidden gems in New York. These must see places in New York are eclectic and they represent the true spirit of the city beyond the glitz and glamor of Manhattan.  Here we go! Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site https://www.instagram.com/p/DBo43aGy2u9/?img_index=1 Hours Open: Wednesday – Sunday:10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Entry Fee: Free Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site is the boyhood home of the first US president born in the USA.  Today, this historic site offers a 45-minute tour guided by a ranger or volunteer. Stone Street Historic District  In the Financial District of Manhattan, Stone Street has created a world of its own. This cobblestone street or the Stone Street is one of the oldest in New York and a simple stroll through it is an experience for the dark academia fans.  Further, Stone Street will take you back to 1658, when the residents of the area petitioned this street.  Museum At Eldridge Street https://www.instagram.com/p/DEN06khzba7/?img_index=1 Hours Open: Sunday - Friday: 10 AM – 5 PM, Saturday: Closed Entry Fee: Adults: $15, Students & Seniors: $10, Children 5 - 17: $8, ‘Pay What You Wish’ (Mondays and Fridays) Located in the historic Eldridge Street Synagogue, the Museum At Eldridge Street symbolizes the realization of immigrant dreams. The Eastern European Jewish immigrants built this synagogue in 1887, and it was the first grand synagogue (purpose-built) in the USA.  Today, the museum stands out with its architectural excellence and unique exhibits.  Morgan Library https://www.instagram.com/p/DDSHkw8o6um/?img_index=4 Hours Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10:30 Am to 5 PM, and Friday from 10:30 AM to 8 PM Entry Fee: Free for Children below 12, $13 for Students, $17 for Seniors, $25 for Adults The Morgan Library and Museum is a treasure trove of rare books, prints, manuscripts, and prints.  Located in Madison Avenue, the library and museum has an opulent setup with the collections of financier Pierpont Morgan. Ground Zero Museum Workshop https://www.instagram.com/p/CTwub4yLFU1/?img_index=1 Hours Open: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday: 12:30-2:30 PM, Sunday: 1-2:30 PM, Wednesday: 1:30-3:15 PM, Monday and Tuesday: Closed Entry Fee: Children (Ages 4-12) - $25.00, Adults (Ages 12+) - $32.00, Seniors (Ages 65+) - $25.00 Ground Zero Museum Workshop is the best place to find the most realistic account of the Ground Zero “Recovery Period.” You will find images, artifacts, and 100s of exhibits to take you through what happened at Ground Zero and how everyone recovered from that. Further, today, the Ground Zero Museum Workshop is one of the best places for dark tourism in the USA. Read Also: 12 Things That Everyone Should Try In Mexico 5 Backpacking Tips for an Unforgettable Euro-Trip

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 27, 2023

Rome's hotel industry, like Rome itself, was not built in a day. Although luxurious suites have long been a feature of Italy's capital city, the industry has just begun to gain traction. There are new establishments popping up everywhere. A few have buzzing rooftop terraces and Michelin-starred restaurants, while others have opulent spas that are modeled after traditional Roman rituals. Here are the best hotels in Rome you can check out if you are planning to visit. Rome will undoubtedly mesmerize you. Best Hotels In Rome The greatest hotels in Rome blend in with the rich mosaic of art, culture, and cuisine of the Eternal City. These accommodations range from historic palazzos converted into opulent retreats to modern, art-filled sanctuaries. Let's look at some of the best hotels in Rome accordingly: Hotel Artemide Hotel Artemide is your four-star hotel option in Rome's downtown. The Spanish Steps, the Colosseum, and the Trevi Fountain are all very close by. Artemide is located in the center of Via Nazionale, a bustling, bright street with lots of stores. The Artemide Hotel is the ideal place to begin exploring the Eternal City. The Repubblica metro station stands only 100 meters away, and Termini Train Station is conveniently close by. As amenities, they provide their visitors with a fully-stocked gym, a complimentary minibar, and Wi-Fi in each room. Don't forget to visit Artemís Spa, where you can treat yourself or a partner to a massage. Lastly, don't forget to visit the Ambrosia Rooftop Restaurant & Bar, which is located on the hotel's seventh floor and offers a breathtaking view of the Rome skyline to round out the experience. Hotel Colosseum Because of its unique location in the heart of Monumental Rome, you will be able to explore the top tourist destinations on foot. The Domus Aurea, the Colosseum, and the Basilica of S. Maria Maggiore are all located very close to the hotel. Via Cavour will lead you across to Via Urbana. Known as "Vicus Patricius" in antiquity, it is most known for the visits that, according to tradition, St. Peter made to the home of a Christian senator located here. You can also visit the Imperial Fora and the Church of St. Pietro in Vincoli. It is home to Michelangelo's well-known Moses statue. A 360° panoramic view of Rome and its surroundings is available from the magnificent, furnished terrace on the eighth floor of Hotel Colosseum, which is perched atop Esquiline Hill. Guests can take in the view while sipping cocktails from the bar. There is Wi-Fi in every room and in the hotel's common areas. There's also a useable internet point. Information about transportation within the city is available at the reception. It includes car, scooter, and bicycle rentals, guided tours, taxis, as well as bus services. Hotel Barocco Situated in a refined edifice, Hotel Barocco provides a view of Piazza Barberini Square and its renowned fountain. Baroque maestro Bernini of Rome designed the structure. In 2019, the Hotel Barocco underwent a meticulous renovation to provide guests with an exceptional level of comfort as well as style. The hotel comprises only 37 rooms and employs 22 individuals. Modern amenities, impeccable cleanliness, a throwback atmosphere, and 21st-century technology combine to make a guest's stay at the Barocco a delightfully magical Italian experience. The knowledgeable staff at the Barocco Hotel is ready to assist you as needed. The Concierge serves as your point of contact for the vast array of experiences Rome has in store for you. The Reception is open at length, around the clock. Savor the mouthwatering American-style breakfasts, expertly crafted using carefully chosen ingredients. Within a ten-minute stroll are the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, and Via Veneto. Hotel Santa Maria Situated in a 16th-century cloister, the Hotel Santa Maria is a charming hotel that underwent a complete renovation in 2000. It also managed to preserve the original construction's character. It creates a very calming and romantic atmosphere while making a very nice base. The hotel is situated in the center of Trastevere, one of the oldest and most distinctive neighborhoods in Rome, in a historically significant area. The historical and archaeological highlights of the city are a short stroll from the hotel for the guests. With parking available in the private garage next to the hotel, you can simply drive to the establishment. The hotel's rooms are connected by a monastic portico. Look out onto either the rooftop garden, surrounded by evergreen vines, or an expansive, quiet garden with orange trees, flowers, and Mediterranean plants. These are the ideal places to enjoy breakfast on warm, sunny days in Rome or to unwind after a day of sightseeing. If you want to ride a bike through the narrow streets of ancient Rome, the hotel also has a number of bicycles available. A secured wireless LAN connects the hotel to the Internet. You can use your computer in comfort anywhere you choose, whether it's in your room, the garden, or the lounge bar. In case you are not carrying your personal computer, you can use the computer in the living room, which has a free internet connection. Domidea Hotel A contemporary 4-star hotel is Hotel Domidea. Only 300 meters separate it from the hotel, and with the Tor Sapienza Railway Station connecting it to the city center, it takes just 25 minutes to get there. The private shuttle bus that travels to metro B in five minutes is only available to guests who have reserved comfort rooms. The forte is the abundant continental breakfast, featuring a variety of sweet as well as savory options. The chic lounge bar located inside the hall is where it hosts happy hours in addition to live music. The rooms are incredibly roomy, and some of them have large balconies. There is no charge for parking. Additionally, the staff at reception recommended a number of nearby attractions and bike rides along the River Aniene, which is surrounded by a natural reserve. Wrapping Up To put it simply, Rome's hotels are now an extension of the immersive experience, not merely a place to rest after a day of touring the Vatican City, the Colosseum, and dozens of basilicas. They cannot be disregarded as a consequence. But choosing a base isn't simple when there are so many options available. We have listed the best hotels in Rome in different categories to make it easier for you to choose. That is regardless of whether you're looking for a modern place to stay in contrast to the history that lies outside or a romantic getaway. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Tips For Planning The Perfect Getaway In A Rental Villa In Italy Sorting Out Christmas Vacation: 11 Best Places To Visit On Christmas This Year! The Italian Train Group FS Will Launch A New “Night Train Like Hotel”: Rome To Dolomites

BY  sagnika Feb 25, 2025

If you are planning a relaxing and luxurious vacation, you must book a cruise! Imagine having all kinds of amenities such as restaurants, pools, entertainment, and fun areas in a floating hotel or resort. Well, that is how you will feel when you book your spot on the best Mediterranean cruises 2025!   Yes, you might face some issues if you have motion sickness especially if the sea or the ocean is choppy. However, in most cases, cruise ships are so big that there is minimal movement along with recent times technology, the stabilization technology.   Let us explore more about some of the best cruises if you are making plans for February vacation ideas. Furthermore, you can choose a bit of both worlds, some adventurous activities and some leisure time!   Best Mediterranean Cruises 2025 Destinations Right Here!   If you are planning to go on a cruise vacation, nothing better than the Mediterranean cruises! Celebrity cruises bring you the perfect combination of beautiful scenery, dazzling ports, glamorous activities, and delicious cuisine in the form of Mediterranean cruises.   If you are planning to immerse yourself in the historical culture of the Greeks, Romans, Persians, and others, this is the one way to go about it. What is more? Fruits, vegetables, grains, wheat, and olive oil represent the Mediterranean like no other!   Have you always wanted to visit the Parthenon in Athens or the Colosseum in Rome? Well, what are you waiting for, book yourself a romantic holiday on the best Mediterranean Cruises. Discover the beautiful scenic views and experience the exotic locales and cuisine.   1. Greece Cruises   Want to explore the turquoise-blue waters along the white beaches? After all, Greece and the Greek Islands have some of the best views that nature can offer. Additionally, the historical and cultural heritage of the destination is known worldwide attracting visitors everywhere.   You can explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rhodes, visit the temple of Athena Lindia, or walk across the ruins of Kamiros. If you are someone who loves palaces and old historical places, you have gotta go to the Palace of Knossos and the Palace of Phaestos.   Simultaneously, how can you miss visiting the Acropolis in Athens? Of course, there are several beautiful beaches adjoining small coastal towns offering you picturesque harbors in Mykonos, Santorini, and Corfu.   2. Spain Cruises   You can visit Barcelona, a place known for its football and cuisine while on the Spain Cruise. Departing from the US, one of the cruise companies, Celebrity Cruises, will take you on the ride of a lifetime. The trip will mostly be anywhere from seven to sixteen days itinerary.   Furthermore, you can explore Portugal along with Spain on some cruises, so decide and accordingly make bookings. The cultural diversity you will experience when you get off the cruise for day trips or excursions will blow your mind.   Additionally, the architectural heritage at the Giralda in Seville and the Alhambra in Granada will win your heart. Making a memory for a lifetime, you can go on exciting hikes around the active volcanoes and the calderas in the Canary Islands.   3. Croatia Cruises   If you want both mountains and oceans together, I have the perfect destination for you, especially when you are booking some of the best Mediterranean cruises 2025. The city, Dubrovnik, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which you must visit.   With charming streets flanked by mountains on one side and on the other side, the Mediterranean. There is Modra Spilja Cave and Rector’s Palace in the location which you can visit once the cruise docks at the port.   Simultaneously, the cruise will also take you to Split, an ancient Roman city. The seafront businesses and cafes are perfect for you if you love spending time looking at beautiful views and eating local cuisine such as Arabasici, Dalmatinska Pasticada, and Soparnik.   4. France Cruises   The minimum days for which you can go on a French cruise is three days, and it can go up to seven days. There are a few companies that function in the French Riviera namely Princess, Avalon Waterways, Viking, and others.    Are you someone who enjoys architecture? Then you must go for one of these best Mediterranean cruises 2025. You must visit the 19th-century Romanesque-Byzantine Basilica, Notre Dame de la Garde, on your tour to Marseille.   If you are an art lover, how can you forget the Mona Lisa at the Louvre? You can visit when you are on the cruise with France as your destination. Apart from taking a stroll across the open-air market and art galleries in towns like St. Paul-de-Vence and Baux-de-Provence.   Lastly, you must visit the delicious bakeries offering you flaky croissants and creamy cheese-filled cakes. Known for their patisserie shops, you must try out those pastel-colored macarons.   5. Rome Cruises   Rome is known as the “Eternal City” for travelers all around the world! Starting from the port of Civitavecchia. The Rome cruise organizes beautiful trips including excursions where you will get immersed in the culture and the practices.   Whether it is the Baroque Trevi Fountain or the ancient Roman Colosseum, you must experience these beautiful places. After all, Rome Cruises is not just historically perfect but inspiring if you want to book one of the best cruises for families.   Do you know anything about the Cappella Sistina by Michelangelo? You can see that as well if you visit Vatican City with the beautiful Vatican museums! After all the place is known for its art scene. Are you someone who likes taking strolls on the streets when visiting a new place?   When your cruise docks at the port, you can take a walk along the Tiber. Additionally, you can check out the Sant'Angelo castle.   6. Israel and Egypt Cruises   One of the best Mediterranean cruises in 2025, if you have any plans to go on a cruise, this should be it for you. Nile and Egypt are known for their splendor with ancient wonders like Luxor’s Valley of Kings, Kom Ombo’s temples, and the High Dam.   There are bustling markets in Egypt and Israel where you can go for strolling! There are other exciting port cities and museums, which you can visit when you are going on the excursion from the cruise. You will be getting a relaxed environment along with diverse cuisine and a lot of activities!   7. Malta Cruises   You can book the Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) to visit Valletta, Malta, offering you a beautiful view of the world. You will fall in love with the place when exploring the museums, and historic sites such as St. John’s Co-Cathedral and check out the Baroque art.   There are several limestone architectures as the Mediterranean Sea surrounds it with the sun shining all year round. When you travel on the cruise, you will love the view along with enjoying yourself on the sandy beaches. You can go swimming, sunbathing and hiking on these beaches.   You can also visit the Grandmaster’s Palace while you can see the Grand Harbor from your cruise. If you know kayaking or want to learn about it, it can be an adventure for you when you go on a cruise trip.   8. Italy Cruises   The Mediterranean cruises that take you to Italy offer natural and cultural opportunities for all. The long coastline is one of the most beautiful places and the cruises will cover several well-known cities such as Rome, Venice, Naples, Siracusa, Genoa, and others. It is one of the best places to travel in Europe!   For example, there is a cruise company, MSC Cruises, that creates your tour package including land excursions apart from traveling by sea. So, the cruise takes you to Trieste along with Miramare Castle, Lecce, Matera, and Alberobello in Basilicata Puglia and others.   You cannot miss visiting the gateway to Florence along with Pisa. Whether you want to travel to the best places to visit in February or try to book some of the best cruises for Couples, you must include Italy in your itinerary as a destination.   Let’s Pack our Bags and Go...   After all, when you are done packing your bags and booking your cruise, I am sure you will make a list of things you want to do. When returning from any one of these continents, be it Greece France, or Italy, you will always remember them.   Comment below about which one of the cruises you are going to book when making travel plans. Additionally, you can also share with you cruise trips that have won your heart.