Top 7 National Parks in Missouri You Must Visit in 2021

BY  Barsha Dec 28, 2023

Bangkok is home to over a thousand temples. Some of these temples are historical and have cultural significance, and some others or mainly for local prayers. During a Holiday in the Capital of Thailand, booking a Bangkok temple tour is a must to explore the city’s main highlights and most beautiful temples. In this article, we will be listing the best and most recommended 5 temples in Bangkok to visit. Wat Pho  Wat Pho temple (also known as the temple of the sleeping or reclining Buddha), is one of the most important temples to visit when being in Bangkok. The temple is home to the famous sleeping Buddha statue which measures 46 meters in length and 15 meters in height. The statue is covered in gold leaf and is a unique piece of art. This temple is considered as the largest temple in Bangkok and is the birthplace for Traditional Thai massage. It was the first public university in Thailand that specialized in religion, science, and literature. Till today, It is still a center of learning for traditional Thai massage and medicine. During your visit to Wat Pho temple, you can book a traditional Thai massage session that combines stretching, pulling, and rocking techniques to relieve tension and enhance flexibility and circulation. It's often described as a combination of yoga and meditation. This Temple is very popular among Bangkok temple tours since it has a strategic location near the Chaophraya river, the Grand Palace, and other important Landmarks in Bangkok. Wat Phra Kaew Wat Phra Kaew is located inside the Grand Palace. This temple is home to the Emerald Buddha, one of the most revered Buddha images in Thailand. Despite its name, the statue is actually made of jade or jasper rather than emerald. This temple is considered as the Personal chapel of the Royal Family. Wat Phra Kaew was Constructed in 1782 when King Rama I moved the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok.  The temple's architecture is a stunning example of Thai craftsmanship, with intricate carvings, colorful mosaics, and gold-leafed figures adorning its structures. The Great thing about visiting this temple is that you will have the opportunity to combine the visit of both the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew since they are both within the same location. They are also within a very short walking distance from Wat Pho, making combining both of them in a half-day visit a very popular choice among tourists visiting Bangkok. Wat Arun  Wat Arun is Known as the temple of Dawn and it dates back to the Ayutthaya period. It has a unique design, similar to the Ayutthaya temples design and having some Khmer elements as well. The temple was renovated by King Rama II and It has been a significant symbol of the Rattanakosin Period and the shift of the capital from Thonburi to Bangkok. Wat Arun’s towers (known as prangs) are decorated with colorful porcelain and seashells, making it visually unique. The central prang is a symbolic representation of Mount Meru, the center of the world in Buddhist cosmology. The temple is located along the Chaophraya river and is often included on the same day when visiting the Grand Palace and Wat Pho. You just need to take a ferry boat to cross the river to reach the other side of the City and visit this amazing temple. Wat Arun has undergone several renovations in the past years and the last significant restoration completed was in 2017 under the supervision of UNESCO. Wat Traimit  Wat Traimit is another beautiful temple in Bangkok with unique features. It is famous for housing the world's largest solid gold Buddha image. The statue is about 3 meters tall and weighs approximately 5.5 tons. The Golden Buddha dates back to the 13th or 14th century, originating in the Sukhothai period. However, the exact origins and history of the statue are still subject to debate and research, and no one has confirmed it. Wat Traimit is one of the most sacred temples, not only in Bangkok but all around Thailand. The building is a beautiful example of modern Thai Buddhist architecture. The temple complex includes a museum where visitors can learn about the history of the Golden Buddha and the Chinatown area where the temple is located. In addition to that, it also offers insights into the Chinese community's role in Thai society. Wat Benchamabophit (Marble Temple) Wat Benchamabophit is famous for its use of white Carrara marble from Italy, which gives it a distinctly elegant appearance. This feature is unique among Bangkok's temples and of course, is the reason why it gained the name of the Marble Temple of Bangkok. This temple was built in the Late 19th Century during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), in 1899. It is a fine example of modern Thai religious architecture from the end of the 19th century. The temple's design is a fusion of traditional Thai architecture and European influences. Wat Benchamabophit is associated with the Thai royal family and has been used for numerous royal ceremonies. When you hold a five Thai baht coin, you will find the image of this temple on the back of the Coin, reflecting its importance and significance in Thai culture. The temple is home to 52 Buddha images, representing various styles and postures from different periods of Thai history. This collection offers a comprehensive overview of the evolution of Buddhist art in Thailand. The temple complex includes beautifully maintained gardens and courtyards, adding to its serene and tranquil ambiance. Read Also: Crime Rate In Florida Trending Down While California Skyrockets: Report World’s Most Famous Christmas Tree Has Reached Trafalgar Square

BY  Abdul Aziz Jan 18, 2024

Pack comfortable walking shoes for a stroll along the Inner Harbor and a visit to the Baltimore Museum of Art, which houses impressionist paintings by Matisse, Picasso, and Cézanne. If you are not that into art visit Federal Hill Park or watch a baseball game at Oriole Park at Camden Yards right before you indulge your taste buds with the city's favorite blue crabs. Off the beaten path, visit Druid Hill Park to see the Maryland Zoo and Mount Vernon to see Baltimore's Washington Monument. History buffs, art lovers, and foodies will all enjoy this city's vibrant neighborhoods. These are home to everything from modern museums to historical monuments to a thriving dining scene. Things To Do In Baltimore If you are visiting Baltimore and want to know what to do once you reach, here are a few top options you cannot miss out on. Take a peek at all the things to do in Baltimore. The Avenue The eccentric neighborhood that appeared in John Waters' films remains a popular hangout, particularly along The Avenue. It's also known for its annual festivals, including Honfest. It honors women with beehive hairstyles and The Miracle of Lights on 34th St. It is an extravagant, kitschy holiday light display held on one city block every December. Some of the city's best restaurants and bars can be found on this street. It includes Dylan's Oyster Cellar, The Food Market, Avenue Kitchen & Bar, and The Bluebird. After that, go to the Charmery for some Old Bay caramel ice cream. Baltimore Museum of Art Surprisingly, the world's largest Matisse collection is not in Paris or Nice. (Can you see where this is going?) Yes, it is on display at the Baltimore Museum of Art. More than 1,000 works by the French Fauvist painter and sculptor are on display at the museum. The elegant building designed by John Russell Pope is also a work of art, with six Doric columns adorning the front. After brunch at the museum restaurant, visit the sculpture garden, which occasionally hosts jazz concerts. Fort McHenry Fort McHenry, designed in the shape of a five-pointed star, defended the city during the Battle of Baltimore in 1814. This inspired Francis Scott Key to write The Star-Spangled Banner. The exhibits and ranger programs are informative and entertaining. The 42-acre park, which edges into the harbor, provides excellent opportunities to have fun outdoors. Take a walk on the sea wall trail or relax on a picnic bench near the water. Read More: Things To Do In Maryland – Free Places To Visit In Maryland Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park and Museum The Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park and Museum honors Frederick Douglass and other African Americans who contributed to Baltimore's shipbuilding industry. The interactive exhibits tell the story of Douglass and Myers, who established America's first African-American shipyard. The beautiful waterfront setting is a great place to start exploring the historic Fells Point neighborhood. Sandlot Sandlot is a great place to hang out on the beach with friends (just don't get in the water). Grab a boozy slushie, a local beer or cocktail, or some locally sourced munchies from James Beard Award-winning Spike Gjerde's restaurant group from the airstream trailer. Sandlot is also an excellent location for photographing Baltimore's iconic neon Domino Sugar sign. Sandlot is only available during the summer. Mount Vernon Place Mount Vernon Place, Baltimore's cultural center, is home to the Washington Monument. Climb the 227 marble steps for a breathtaking view of the neighborhood's elegant 19th and 20th-century rowhomes. They are designed in Beaux Arts, Greek Revival, and Italianate styles. The square is also a good starting point for exploring the Mount Vernon neighborhood. It is home to many architectural wonders, such as a Norman-Gothic church, the Palazzo-style Walters Art Museum, and the George Peabody Library. During the summer, the surrounding parks host outdoor events for the entire family. Inner Harbor The Inner Harbor is home to many of Baltimore's attractions. It includes the National Aquarium, the Maryland Science Center, the USS Constellation, and the major sports stadiums. With a prime location alongside the Chesapeake Bay, the Harbor has been one of the most important seaports in the country since the 18th century. Aside from the nearby attractions, you can spend the day walking around the area. You can also watch a street performance or explore the shops and restaurants. While some travelers describe the area as a tourist trap, the scenic walks and convenient location make it a must-see for any first-time visitor. The neighborhood is a great place to take a water taxi, eat a meal, and shop. In addition, there are numerous summer concerts and events in the area. Federal Hill We know that for many Baltimore visitors, the Inner Harbor is their first stop. But, before you visit the National Aquarium, Maryland Science Center, Power Plant, and Historic Ships, get a bird's-eye view of the attractions all around the waterfront at Federal Hill Park. It offers a 10-acre elevated park that was defended by the city when the War of 1812 was waged. To climb the 99 steps to the top, wear comfortable shoes. Head to Federal Hill, just south of downtown, for some of the best views of the Inner Harbor and the Baltimore skyline. During the Civil War and the War of 1812, the massive hill served as a major lookout point. Until recently, it was also known as Signal Hill, where local companies' flags were raised as their ships approached the harbor. According to previous visitors, Federal Hill has the best view in the city. You can reach the summit of Federal Hill via stairs or a rolling hill. Head up the 100 stairs on the Battery Avenue side if you prefer the stairs. Warren Avenue, on the other hand, lacks stairs but offers scenic hillside views. If you're in town for the Fourth of July, this is a great place to watch the fireworks. Artscape Artscape, an annual outdoor summer arts extravaganza, features three stages of dance, theater, and concerts. It is held on the third weekend of July. The jam-packed weekend has featured well-known musical headliners such as Wyclef Jean, Sheila E, and Common. It is billed as the largest free arts festival in the United States. More than 150 artists sell jewelry, crafts, and one-of-a-kind objets d'art for your home, as well as food and drink from local vendors. It draws more than 350,000 people. Vaccaro With a long history of treating the nation, you can be sure to find a dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth at Vaccaro's. Yes, we're talking Snickers volcanos, chocolate death, cannoli cake slices, and cheesecake topped with gelato, hot fudge, and whipped topping. Do you require a signature? If you only try one thing, wear your roomiest pants and head straight for the pastry shells filled with sweetened ricotta and chocolate chips. Wrapping Up There's more to Baltimore than The Wire, widely regarded as the greatest television show in the history of television shows (opinions differ). When you think of Charm City, your thoughts may immediately turn to the picturesque Inner Harbor or delicious steamed crabs dusted with Old Bay spice. Everyone has a different perception of Baltimore. With a fantastic restaurant scene nestled next to brilliant bars, street markets, quirky festivals, and more, the best things to do in Baltimore bridge the gap between fascinating American history and modern boutique shopping. It can take years to truly understand Baltimore, but these incredible experiences should serve as a good starting point. Read Also: Best 9 Things To Do In El Paso! Hidden Gems: Unearthing The Best Things To Do In Nottingham 7 Fun Things To Do In The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

BY  Abdul Aziz Sep 25, 2021

Family vacations may sound like a fun idea, but any parent can tell you that planning is half the battle. With the wrong plan, your reward is a chorus of “Are we there yet?” and days trapped in close quarters, instead of an opportunity to unwind. Even so, it’s clear that the right vacation can be a great way to make memories with those you love. One study even suggests that these trips can be crucial “happiness anchors,” or memories that can even help kids get through tough times. Of course, that’s only the case as long as you plan well. And choosing vacation destinations for families is a crucial part of that plan. How can you ensure that you’ve picked the right place for your getaway? If you're not sure where to start, read on for the tips you need to know. Choosing Vacation Destinations For Families | Smart Tips You Need Choosing vacation destinations for families probably starts with a big, fat family discussion. We play this paper chit game with the names of a few places written on them.  Now, those chits are shuffled, and the youngest one is asked to pick one chit. The place written on the chit becomes our holiday destination for the year.  Nevertheless, choosing vacation destinations for families may not be as fun as it sounds. You need to consider a lot of things.  So, here, we have created a Tour and Travel guide to make your travel planning easy.  Nail Down Your Budget For most families, one of the most important factors when choosing vacation destinations is budget. Take some time to figure out how much you can afford to spend on the trip upfront, as this can help you decide whether the total package will fit into that figure. From there, planning your family vacation budget can feel difficult or even overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Make sure to follow some basic budget-friendly planning tips like booking early or considering off-season dates.  You can also visit some reliable discount sites to find affordable family vacation packages and other best deals.  Suppose you’re on a tight budget. You can still find great vacation spots for your family by cutting some extras. For example, you may look for fantastic travel destinations with hotels and accommodations that offer complimentary breakfast during your stay. This will allow the entire family to save some costs on one meal each day, making the whole trip budget-friendly. Consider the Season and Climate Next, it’s time to think about the big picture: what general types of destinations are you looking for? If you’re vacationing in the winter, are you hoping to make the most of seasonal snows with some kid-friendly sledding or skiing? Or would you rather escape the cold to relax with your family on a warm beach? There’s no right or wrong answer, but having a chat with your family to gauge everyone’s preferences can help point you in the right direction. Thankfully, many beautiful destinations are worth seeing at every time of the year. For example, if your family loves to travel in the winter, you must not skip St. Moritz. It’s one of the most visited tourist spots during the cold months.   Aside from the town’s snow-capped mountains and spectacular ski resort, you and your family can enjoy many winter activities when you visit St. Moritz. From ice skating and snowshoe hiking to relaxing spa treatments, there’s something for everyone. If you’re going to St. Moritz for the first time, check out some reliable travel websites to learn more about the place and what your family can do upon arrival.   Think About Holidays and Seasonality There’s another type of season to consider when you’re planning a vacation: peak season. If you have younger kids and want to avoid the stress of a crowded trip, it might be worth it to wait until low- or shoulder season to book. On the other hand, if you want to make the most of your kids’ time off of school, summer may be the only time of year to head to their favorite theme park! Don’t forget to also think about holidays and festivals in the area in question. Are you looking to celebrate a family-friendly Mardi Gras in New Orleans or Rio, or do you want to head to your favorite mountain getaway during a local fall festival? Or do you want to spend the holidays on a private island to enjoy peace and serenity with your family alone? Make sure to consider these special dates as you plan. Factor In the Length of the Trip Whether you’re traveling within the constraints of school vacation or you have total flexibility to choose the dates, it’s important to think about the length of your trip. Even if everyone’s thrilled with the idea of camping, for example, is the area worth a week-long trip? If you’re planning a weekend getaway, will it feel too overwhelming to visit a huge city with a wide range of activities? If that’s the case, consider a vacation spot that can accommodate the length of your trip. But again, there’s no right or wrong answer here, but you’ll need to consider your trip’s timeline as you whittle down you're shortlisted. That way, you can get the most out of your family vacation without compromising work and your children’s school. Think About the Distance to Your Destination Any parent can tell you that there’s nothing worse than being trapped on a long drive or flight with bored and frustrated children. As you consider your options, make sure you’re being realistic about what travel times your kids can endure, depending on their ages. The goal is to find an area that hits the sweet spot between a solid destination and one that’s accessible enough to reach without added stress. Research Your Accommodations Even if you think you’ve found the perfect destination, it’s important to factor in the accommodations where you’ll spend most of your time. If you’re looking at major cities or if you’re booking far in advance, you may find yourself with a wide range of options to look at. On the other hand, if you’re hoping to get on a last-minute trip, a little research into the available lodgings may show that you’re out of luck!]. When booking a hotel or vacation rental, it’s important to consider the rental’s size, its proximity to your chosen activities, its rules and policies, and its site security. The last thing you’ll want is a cramped space far from your destination’s main attractions. For those looking to enjoy both relaxation and outdoor adventure, choosing accommodation that complements the destination is key. If you're heading to a mountain getaway, exploring options like Whistler Vacation Rentals can provide an ideal balance of comfort and adventure. With a range of properties offering stunning views, ski-in/ski-out access, and family-friendly amenities, Whistler makes for a fantastic holiday destination in any season. In addition, if you travel to the same common family-friendly areas—such as Orlando—on a regular basis, it might be a good idea to find a property you can return to over and over again. Check out programs like the Disney Vacation Club, for example, or take a look at resale listings for a budget-friendly alternative. Research the Activities in the Area If you haven’t consulted your kids up to this point, now is a great moment to bring them in for a quick family meeting, especially if they’re old enough to get opinionated. What kinds of activities would factor into their ideal vacation? Can you find a location that offers the historical sites you want to see as well as the theme parks or beaches they’ll love? The best destinations will strike the right balance between having plenty of activities for kids as well as great options for educational fun and physical activity. Set Aside Time For Choosing Vacation Destinations For Families Here’s the bottom line: choosing vacation destinations can be a trying process, but it’s well worth the time and effort. Finding the right place to host your next getaway is a surefire way to start the trip off on the right foot, giving you and your family ample opportunities to make long-lasting memories. Don’t forget to start as far in advance as possible for the best deals and options! Looking for more of the tips you need to make the most of your travels? Whether you’re planning to tour your city or take a trip around the world, be sure to check out our other posts for additional insights. Choosing Vacation Destinations For Families | Top  Places You Can Visit This Season  Now, you know about the tips and tricks for choosing vacation destinations. This is the time to pick the best destinations among the options available.  So, let’s explore!  1. Sri Lanka Sri Lanka is a melting pot of culture, history, wildlife, and natural beauty. It has more than 100 protected wildlife areas.  There, you can meet elephants, sloth bears, leopards, and other wild animals.  2. Austria A sound public transportation facility helps you to make your family trip to Austria easy and budget-friendly. The country has a beautiful landscape.  Further, Austria allows you to take part in various outdoor activities like skiing and hiking.  3. France  Paris in France is the ultimate family holiday destination if you have the budget. Taking a walk along the streets of Paris is an experience in itself. Further, you cannot miss iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame or the Louvre Museum. Moreover, you can explore the beautiful beaches and caves in France.  Read Also: 7 Must-Have Items For Your Summer Vacation Looking For Your Next Fun-Filled Family Vacation: Head To Aquaventuras Park