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

BY  Barsha Dec 30, 2023

Bali is unquestionably among the most magical places to travel. There are breathtaking temples that literally number in the tens of thousands. It is accompanied by almost daily ceremonies that are loud, colorful, and multi-sensory, with the clanging gamelan paired with chanting. In addition, there are countless beaches with waves that are constantly curling and pulsating with dancing surfers, all trimmed in aquamarine. There are endless stretches of lush rice terraces that are incredibly neat. Not to mention canang sari, the abundant offerings of flowers that are blessed and positioned seemingly everywhere every day on the so-called "Island of Gods." Bali has an allure that draws in equal amounts of wellness enthusiasts, design aficionados, and wild Gen Z travelers, as well as enthusiastic surfers, spiritual travelers, yogis, beachcombers, and a plethora of celebrities and influencers. The most rewarding as well as exciting Bali vacation takes you to as many locations as possible. Savor the island experience and the incredibly kind, giving, as well as sincere people who live there. Taking everything into account, it's practically hard to leave Bali feeling anything but happier, healthier, and unquestionably more tan than when you arrived. Bali offers activities for every kind of traveler, making it feel like an endless adventure! It's understandable why so many people choose Bali as their travel destination from all over the world. This magnificent island paradise offers endless idyllic beaches, enticing spiritual energy, terraced rice fields, and exotic sunsets. There is so much to see and do! Enjoy yoga, meditation, surfing, hiking, mouthwatering cuisine, and a vibrant nightlife. Bali has seen tourist influence in some areas, where there are clusters of photogenic cafes, trendy bars, and vegan eateries. However, some regions retain their distinctive Balinese beauty and charm despite being desolate, remote islands. Bali Vacation: Things To Look Forward To Bali, a tropical destination covered in breathtaking scenery, is genuinely a paradise on Earth. It is one of the world's best places for a honeymoon. It has amazing beaches, lively culture, historic temples, and friendly locals. Temples There are over 300 temples on the Island of Gods. Some of the most important ones to see while setting off for a Bali vacation are the Tanah Lot, Tirta Empul, Uluwatu, Goa Gajah, Taman Ayun, Besakih, and Pura Lempuyang Luhur temples. Beauty Bali is popular for its breathtaking scenery. In addition to the breathtaking views of Kintamani Village, Mt. Batur, and the Tegallalang Rice Terrace, Bali's verdant mountains are home to some stunning waterfalls. You can swim in the natural pools created by waterfalls like Tegenungan Waterfall, Gitgit Waterfall, Nungnung Waterfall, and Sekumpul Waterfall as you hike up the picturesque mountains. Culture Explore Bali's dynamic culture by stopping by the Ubud Palace, where you can take in the breathtaking architecture and discover the palace's fascinating history. Seeing the Balinese barong dance and the traditional kecak dance allows you to delve even further into the island's culture. Beaches Bali's tranquil beaches are practically paradisaical. You can swim in the glistening water, take in the vibrant underwater life, soak up the sun, and engage in a variety of water sports. Seminyak Beach, Jimbaran Beach, Kuta Beach, Blue Lagoon Beach, Broken Beach, and Kelingking Beach, are the top beaches in Bali that you can visit. Best Time To Visit Bali Bali's dry season is the ideal time to visit the island. You will not have to worry about sudden rain ruining any outdoor activities from May to October, and summertime humidity is low. The fact that it's the most popular time to go is the only drawback. During this time, flights are more costly, and reservations for your top hotel option must be made well in advance. If you can tolerate brief downpours, plan your Bali Vacation between November and April. It's the cheapest time to travel, and there are still lots of things to do! Cost Of Food In Bali Depending on your preferred experience and the area of the island you choose, food and drink prices will differ considerably. Should you be in the mood to sample some of the best Indonesian cuisines around, Seminyak and Uluwatu typically have pricey dining options. There are less expensive options in other places like North Bali, Ubud, and Canggu. If your Bali vacation is on a tight budget, try Warungs. They are tiny neighborhood eateries. You can get a good meal there for as little as $1–$3 per serving. Meals at mid-range restaurants cost $5 to $10 per person, while beach clubs or upscale dining establishments charge $14 to $50 per person. Due to local taxes, wine and beer can be somewhat pricey, so don't be shocked if you see alcohol marked up 300%. Remember to drink plenty of water! The temperatures are usually high in Bali, so don't forget potable water. In most places, you can purchase bottled water as well, provided you're willing to pay the tourist tax. Things To Keep In Mind Language: English, Balinese, and Indonesian are the three primary languages spoken in Bali. Currency: The Indonesian Rupiah is the currency used in Bali. Credit cards and ATMs: Bali's major cities, such as Ubud and Canggu, have an abundance of ATMs. You can use your credit card to pay for your meal as long as you are not at one of the neighborhood "warung" restaurants but do carry cash. Plugs: Bali uses type C and F plugs. 50 Hz is the standard frequency, and 230 V is the standard voltage. For hot tools like hair dryers, I advise using a converter and purchasing a universal adapter (be sure to check for surge protection). Safety: Bali is among the safest places for women traveling alone! The most important thing to be aware of is traffic safety, particularly if you are renting a motorcycle. If you are not a confident rider, get a taxi. It will never be more expensive than a hospital bill. Wrapping Up It takes a lot of work and effort to plan a Bali vacation. With any luck, this guide will provide you with some useful information to help you get ready for your next trip to Bali! Bali is the ideal place to go on vacation. Nothing compares to spending a leisurely trip lounging on Kuta Beach, dining by candlelight at Jimbaran, or indulging in a soothing spa treatment in Ubud. See the sunrise and sunset in Bali from various locations and be in awe of the scenery.

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 30, 2023

Visiting Bangkok? Looking for things to do in Bangkok? Bangkok, one of the most visited cities in Southeast Asia, is a vibrant, dynamic metropolis. It offers much more than just mouthwatering street food (though there is plenty of it). Engulfed in a hazy mixture of motorbike exhaust, incense, and charcoal grills, this chaotic city is also home to luxury hotels. Michelin-starred restaurants, quaint cocktail bars, and an abundance of good times together creates magic. Of course we cannot forget to mention culture and history. Feeling overwhelmed? Its okay. Visit Chinatown for some of the best bars in the city and historic architecture after a day of touring temples. Alternatively, take a stroll through some of the city's most stylish parks. Plan this before dining on a multi-course meal inside a chophouse. It probably dates back a century or on an antique barge. This Bangkok mainstay doesn't have an incredibly convenient location, in contrast to many of its competitors. The picture-perfect sights require a boat transfer, and the majority of the best tables are more than a 30-minute taxi ride away. But that's the point for me and the hordes of other devoted admirers of this monochromatic masterwork by hotel guru Bill Bensley. Situated on a verdant riverbank property in the peaceful Dusit neighborhood, The Siam evokes memories of a bygone era in Bangkok. Though it opened ten years ago, it's easy to picture it as a luxurious playground for the city's former big guns, the mid-century movers and shakers whose heirlooms, which adorn the marble-floored hallways, include vintage Pan Am posters, tattered travel trunks, and chipped ceramics.  Things To Do In Bangkok  Bangkok is the dream destination for most people who want it all on a budget. If you want to know about the best things to do in Bangkok, take a peek. Here is a list of a few things you can look forward to when you are visiting.  Chatuchak  The official name, Chatuchak, is pronounced with a J sound. Locals refer to it as JJ Market. This market is the oldest of all markets. It's one of the biggest outdoor markets in the world, with 15,000 stalls. Everything is available for purchase, ranging from useful items like artwork, cooking supplies, apparel, accessories, and home décor. There are also trinkets and oddities like fake iPhone covers, Beats by Dre and Nike sneakers. The market is extremely well organized despite its enormous size, with items sorted by kind and a sizable map displayed close to the entrance.  Pak Khlong Talat  Pak Khlong Talat is the best place to witness Bangkok's vibrant nature—one of the world's most vivid cities. A dazzling kaleidoscope of colors and the sweet, all-encompassing scent of thousands upon thousands of fresh flowers can be found in this lively flower market. Look through booths brimming with roses, orchids, marigolds, and more. The flower market is open 24 hours a day, which is great if you are suffering from jet lag and need something to do late at night.  Le Normandie by Alain Roux  In addition to its thriving street food scene, Bangkok has about 30 restaurants with Michelin stars. Le Normandie by Alain Roux, a fine-dining establishment at the renowned Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, is one to be particularly aware of. This elegant dining room with its stunning view of the Chao Phraya River is the perfect setting for this white-glove experience. Make sure to reserve a window seat to enjoy the exquisite and creatively prepared French cuisine while taking in the sunset and the colorful boats on the river.  Thai Spa  It's no secret that Bangkok offers the best spa and wellness experiences – all you need to do is select your favorite atmosphere. Bangkok has a monopoly on the wellness market, whether it's a lavish spa palace or a simple shop tucked away down a tiny alley. Thai massages are different from other massage styles in that they don't use oils or aromatherapy. Instead, they concentrate on acupressure, passive stretching, and expanding your muscles' range of motion. Bangkok is a great place to try a Thai massage if you've never had one.  Wat Arun  Wat Arun is among the most well-known of the more than 37,000 temples, or wats, that can be found all over Thailand. The temple complex glows golden at night, and the 269-foot-tall prahng, a Khmer-style tower, protrudes from the banks of the Chao Phraya River. One of the rare temples in Thailand that you can climb, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding temple complex and river after making your way up the steep and narrow stairs.  Smiling Albino  You can be sure that the people behind Smiling Albino are knowledgeable because they have been in the business since 1999. They provide trips to neighboring villages, cultural excursions, and private experiences in Bangkok, all under the umbrella of custom luxury. They also plan week-long motorcycling tours in Vietnam, cycling tours in Nepal, and trekking excursions in northern Thailand. Every trip is tailored to your interests. There are no microphone-screamed explanations from coaches, just in-person drivers and guides.  Fine Dining  This six-course meal, which is served on a vintage wooden rice barge, serves as a great introduction to Thai cuisine and some of Bangkok's must-see riverside attractions. Make a reservation so you can decide what to see during the day while enjoying delicious dishes like a creamy coconut and turmeric soup with charcoal-cooked chicken. There is also a dry-ice performance on mango sticky rice, and a curry amuse bouche topped with gold leaves. The experience is ideal for a laid-back, romantic evening on the water, and the friendly service is on par with any fine-dining establishment on land.  Bangkok Art & Cultural Centre  Once you've visited the major tourist attractions, you might want to take a closer look at Bangkok by going somewhere a little less well-known. The Bangkok Art & Cultural Centre provides just that. This open area supports local and global exhibitions of art and culture. This is the best gallery in the city to check out if you're interested in seeing the work of young Thai artists. As an art fanatic this could easily be one of the coolest things to do in Bangkok.  Chao Phraya River  The Chao Phraya River is Bangkok's lifeblood, and the city's most prestigious luxury hotels, most historic neighborhoods, and most popular tourist destinations are located along its banks. The best way to introduce yourself to the famous Bangkok skyline and get a peek of everyday life in the area is to take a cruise down the Chao Phraya. There are numerous ways to access the river, ranging from daytime sightseeing trips to dinner cruises in the evening. Take the Chao Phraya Express Boat, though, if you truly want to travel like a local. The public water taxi goes all the way up to the nearby province of Nonthaburi, making stops at busy docks along the river.  Ayutthaya  Train travel to Ayutthaya from Bangkok takes about one hour, making it an ideal day trip destination. This is one of the best things to do in Bangkok. Ayutthaya offers visitors a window into Thailand's past as the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam. Gorgeous 14th-century palaces and temples can be found in the capital of the preserved kingdom. The temple ruins offer a unique glimpse into the past of this region of the world for those who choose to explore them.  Wrapping Up  There you have it, a summary of my experiences and the best things to do in Bangkok! Leave a comment below if you have any more advice or recommendations. You are in the best position to see everything else this amazing country has to offer from Bangkok. You could travel south to the notorious Thai islands, or you could head north to the more laid-back tourist destinations of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Pai. If you have thoughts to share or questions on things to do in Bangkok please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! 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BY  Ankita Nov 7, 2023

One of the most enjoyable jobs on the planet is being a tour guide. If you love to travel and enjoy sharing that love with others, as well as the knowledge you have gleaned about the destinations you are guiding them to, then you should consider building a career based on that passion, and become a tour guide! There are lots of options out there, walking guides for the city sights, cruise and bus tour guides, and museum or special attraction guides. Finding work is fairly easy as there is always a demand, and when that tour operator payment gateway sends you your reward you will feel great knowing you earned it doing something that brought a smile to people's faces! The best tour guides have a certain set of skills in place that suit their profession, here are some of the most important: Knowledge –                     A tour guide needs to know a lot about where they are taking their group, and what they are showing them. They should have an in-depth knowledge of the area and its attractions that they can share with their group in order to give them the best experience possible. They are always prepared to answer unexpected questions, and ready to give pertinent insights and recommendations. A knowledgeable tour guide is one the tourist never forgets, and they will recommend you to their friends. Communication – t's important for tour guides to have excellent communication skills, they should be able to speak clearly and informatively, with proper pronunciation in order to facilitate easy-to-understand directions and information sharing, and to avoid any potential misunderstandings. They should also have a loud enough voice to carry across a crowd without the aid of a microphone or bullhorn and be able to command the attention of many people at the same time. Charisma – Being a tour guide is very much a people-oriented profession, one must be able to share their passion for the experiences they are guiding people to, share information in an informative yet fun and engaging manner, and build a cheerful rapport with their group. A successful tour guide has enough charisma to bring repeat customers back, not just to see the sights again, but for the pleasure of their company! Understanding And Empathy – People sometimes experience difficulties, even when they are out on a pleasant excursion. A tour guide must be sensitive to the individual's needs, and be able to handle any problems their charge is having with sincerity, kindness, and grace, as well as be accommodating as possible. The best tour guides are quite simply put, nice people! Flexibility - Things don't always go as planned, and in the event of a course change, the tour guide has to be able to think on their feet and make adjustments on the fly. Always have a Plan B in place! Check out the Tourism Australia website for more useful information for both guides and tourists. Good luck with your tour guide career Read Also: Budget-Friendly Travel Ideas In Australia Top 5 Used Japanese Vehicles In Australia Top Ten Southern Africa Off-The-Beaten-Path Adventures A Beginner’s Guide To Island-Hopping In Greece