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BY  Ankita Jan 2, 2024

Canada, with its vast and diverse landscapes, offers some of the most stunning and unique boating experiences in the world. From the enchanting archipelago of the Thousand Islands in Ontario to the remote and majestic Great Slave Lake in the Northwest Territories! There is a boating adventure waiting for every kind of traveler. Let’s embark on a journey through Canada’s most picturesque waterways. Sailing Through The Thousand Islands, Ontario The Thousand Islands region, set on the Saint Lawrence River, is a boater's dream. This region is a mosaic of over a thousand islands, each with its own character. Boaters can navigate around these islands, discovering hidden coves and quaint island communities. The Thousand Islands Marina is the ideal starting point for this exploration. Here is an interesting tidbit. The region is home to the famous Boldt Castle, a symbol of the area’s rich history. Great Slave Lake, Northwest Territories: A Northern Adventure Heading north, Great Slave Lake beckons with its deep, clear waters and stunning scenery. Known for its tranquility and vastness, it’s a perfect spot for those seeking a more solitary boating experience. The Hay River Marina is your gateway to this northern paradise. As you sail, remember you’re on North America’s deepest lake, with depths reaching over 2,000 feet. Tranquil Waters Of Lake Louise, Alberta In the heart of the Canadian Rockies lies Lake Louise, a gem known for its turquoise waters set against a backdrop of majestic mountains. The serene environment here is ideal for a peaceful day of boating. The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Boathouse provides access to these pristine waters. Fun fact: the lake was named after Princess Louise Caroline Alberta, the fourth daughter of Queen Victoria. Navigating The Gulf Islands, British Columbia Off the coast of British Columbia, the Gulf Islands offer a temperate climate, vibrant wildlife, and a strong artisan community. Cruising through these islands, you might spot orcas, seals, and bald eagles. Straddling the border of Ontario and Manitoba, Lake of the Woods is a captivating destination with its waterways, islands, and diverse wildlife. With over 14,500 islands, it offers endless exploration possibilities. Northern Harbour in Kenora is the perfect launch point for your journey across this vast lake. Our journey starts at Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park on Galiano Island, a popular launch spot for many explorers. The Majestic Bras d'Or Lake, Nova Scotia On the east coast, the large saltwater Bras d'Or Lake in Nova Scotia is a haven for boaters. Known for its beautiful landscapes and excellent sailing conditions, Bras d'Or Lake has inspired many. The famous inventor Alexander Graham Bell had a summer home here. For easy lake access, head to the Baddeck Marine. Georgian Bay, Ontario: A Freshwater Wonderland Part of Lake Huron, Georgian Bay is celebrated for its rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters. Boaters here can explore thousands of islands along the bay. Beacon Bay Marina is a popular choice for starting this adventure. A remarkable feature of Georgian Bay is that it contains the world’s largest freshwater archipelago, the Thirty Thousand Islands. Lake Of The Woods, Ontario/Manitoba: A Boater’s Labyrinth Straddling the border of Ontario and Manitoba, Lake of the Woods is a captivating destination with its waterways, islands, and diverse wildlife. With over 14,500 islands, it offers endless exploration possibilities. Northern Harbour in Kenora is the perfect launch point for your journey across this vast lake. Canada’s diverse waterways offer an unparalleled experience. These destinations not only provide stunning natural beauty but also a chance to connect with Canada’s rich maritime heritage. Remember, when exploring these beautiful waters, it's important to prioritize safety and respect the local environment. This ensures that these magnificent destinations continue to be enjoyed for generations to come. So, grab your license and life jacket and set sail on an unforgettable journey through Canada's most picturesque waterways! Read Also: 10 Best Things To Do In San Diego (USA) 10 Useful Tips For Planning A Trip That You Will Love

BY  Mashum Oct 12, 2021

The Maryland Tourism & Travel Summit 2024, which took place from November 6th to 8th, saw the Maryland Tourism Coalition (MTC), like in the last 50 years, unite all segments of the state’s tourism and 300 delegates to develop Maryland tourism.  This event is likely to impact tourism and the state's economy. We can expect many developments in amenities and infrastructure, with names like American Airlines, United Airlines, Quality Inn, and Holiday Inn Express Easton, an IHG Hotel, participating in the event.  Further, thanks to proximity to airports like the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), Maryland remains accessible to tourists across the globe. Moreover, the free things to do in Maryland, like  Exploring the Battle Creek Cypress Swamp or visiting the Salisbury Zoo, make Maryland a tourist’s delight. So, despite being considered one of the more expensive states of the USA, you can plan a budget-friendly itinerary here.  If you are ready to travel like a local and pick budget-friendly activities, the pocket pinch (flight and hotel) will be around $270-350 per person. However, if you are not already aware of the free and cheap things to do in Maryland, this Tour and Travel guide will be of great help.  Free And Cheap Things To Do In Maryland | Traveling On A Shoestring In this blog, I will tell you about what I have explored in Maryland and what all things can be done in Maryland. We will also discuss the food of Maryland attractions that you must try when you are visiting Maryland. We will cater to you about all the possible information about Mary’s land and tourist attractions in Maryland which you can follow up.  So let’s start to take a glimpse of the famous places in Maryland.  There are a lot of things to do in Maryland but before that, I will tell you tips for first-time New York visitors. Most people who visit New York, tend to confine themselves to Manhattan only. But the real beauty of New York lies when you leave Manhattan.  I think the best way to convey this to you is to first tell you about the things to do in Maryland. While telling you about that I will also give you some tricky insights about New York.  I would like to start by saying that New York is a secret city in the United States. New York has surprised me quite a little there are so many things to do in new york. All you have to know is when to visit New York to enjoy the most.  There are a lot of things to do in Maryland but before that, I will tell you tips for first-time New York visitors. Most people who visit New York, tend to confine themselves to Manhattan only. But the real beauty of New York lies when you leave Manhattan.  I think the best way to convey to you is to first tell you about the things to do in Maryland. While telling you about that I will also give you some tricky insights about New York.  April to June and late August to October are two ideal seasons to try the free things to do in Maryland. However, during these two seasons, the cost of accommodation shoots up due to a tourist influx. So, you really need to pick the activities or visit the places that will cost you less when traveling on a shoestring.  Here, we will provide you with all the possible information about Maryland so you can visit these places without hassle.  1. Visiting The Calvert Cliffs State Park Location: 0540 H G Trueman Rd, Lusby, MD Contact Number: +1 443-975-4360 Vehicle Fee: $5 for State Residents, $7 for Residents of Other States, $10 for Small Bus, $20 for Large Bus Hours Open: 7:30 AM to 5 PM Exploring the fossil-bearing Calvert Cliffs is one of the best things to do in Maryland. I loved the atmosphere and the place.  Here, the large collection of fossiliferous is known as the Chesapeake Group. Further, the cliff contains Miocene fauna.  Fossil Hunting | Know The Things To Do In Maryland Park At Calvert Cliffs State Park, you can go to the end of the red trail. There, you will find the open beach area for fossil hunting. Here, you will find fossils from the Miocene era, covering more than 600 species. Some common variations here are Miocene-era oyster shells, shark teeth, and Chesapectens, which you can hunt using shovels and sieves.  The Calvert Cliff in Maryland is mostly forested, with some ponds and wetlands. Moreover, the things to do here are hunting turkey, deer, and bird watching. You can also stroll along the beautiful flora-fauna-rich beach in Calvert.    2. Exploring The Washington County Museum Of Fine Arts  Location: 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown, MD Contact Number: (301) 739-5727  Hours Open: 10 AM  - 5 PM (Tuesday to Sunday), Monday - Free Admission and Parking: Free The Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, the hub of many exhibitions and events, houses more than 6,500 permanent collectibles. Mr. and Mrs. William Henry Singer, Jr founded the museum, and they donated the initial exhibits.  Currently, the museum has sculptures, decorative arts, drawings, and prints. Further, the collectibles here are cosmopolitan, with a focus on 19th-century European art and American art.  Some of the most prominent collections in the museum are the European Old Masters, The Singer Memorial Gallery, American Narratives: 1700-1920, and The Eight to Abstraction: Modernism & Innovation.  3. Spending A Day At Assateague Island National Seashore Entry Fee: Standard Pass - $0.00–$25.00, Annual Pass - $45.00, America the Beautiful Pass (includes Senior Passes) - Free–$80.00 Hours Open: 24*7 The United States Park Service and Fish and Wildlife Service manage Assateague Island National Seashore. You will find feral ponies walking and galloping across the island and the surrounding waters. Further, the Assateague Island National Seashore is for everyone. You can go fishing, catch crabs, take a bike ride, or hike through the barrier island.  Moreover, you can collect a permit and enjoy the most adventurous ride in Over Sand Vehicles or OSVs. Also, for a wonderful outdoor experience, you can camp at the Assateague Island National Seashore.  4. Sightseeing At Ego Alley Location: 1 Dock St, Annapolis, MD  Hours Open: 24 Hours Entry: Fee  Ego Alley is a narrow waterway that spills out into Spa Creek. This narrow waterway got its name from the expensive boats parading in the evenings and during the weekend.  A visit to Ego Alley is one of the free things to do in Maryland. Here, you can soak in the Sun while gorging on local delicacies.  Further, people gather in large numbers at Ego Alley for St. Patrick's Day in March, the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show in April, or the Independence Day Celebration in July.  5. Visiting The Beautiful Sculpture Gardens, Baltimore Museum Of Art Location: 10 Art Museum Dr, Baltimore, MD Hours Open: Monday and Wednesday to Sunday - 10 AM to 5 PM, Tuesday: Closed Entry: Free As you take a walk along the Beautiful Sculpture Gardens, you will discover close to 33 sculptures.  The sculptures here are a good mix of old and new sculptures of the last 100 years.  6. William British Planetarium  Location: 820 Commonwealth Avenue, Hagerstown, MD Hours Open: Monday-Friday (8 AM to 3:30 PM), Special Shows: Second And Fourth Saturdays (5:30-7 PM) Entry Fee: $3.75 for Adults, $2.75 for Children and Students If you love to see the stars, moon, Milky Way, and galaxy, then William British Planetarium is the place you must visit.  Enjoy an immersive planetarium show that looks back at rare classes of eruptions that have marshaled the energy that lurks. You will also be able to witness the details of the space. I enjoyed this place thoroughly because it took me back to my childhood. 7. National Aquarium Location: 501 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD Hours Open: Monday-Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday - 9 AM-6 PM, Friday: 9 AM to 9 PM Entry Fee: Free for Children below 4 Years, $24.95 or Half Price on Fridays from 5-9 PM When you visit Maryland, you cannot miss the National Aquarium, especially its wide variety of sea creatures, such as sharks, dolphins, living reefs, and jellyfish.  It is a non-profit public aquarium known as the Baltimore Aquarium, by the locals. The aquarium's water capacity is more than 2.2 million gallons, and it ranks as one of the top three aquariums in the country. It features amphibians, reptiles, fish, mammals, and birds. 8. Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Park Location: 4068 Golden Hill Road, Church Creek, MD Hours Open: Tuesday-Sunday (10 AM to 4 PM), Monday Closed Entry Fee: Free Another activity that must be included in your list of things to do in Maryland is visiting the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Park! The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Park commemorates the life of the activist Harriet Tubman, who was formerly enslaved during the American Civil War.  The national park encompasses 480 acres and is managed by the US National Park Service Unit. The state of Maryland is responsible for the park's upkeep. Throughout the park, exhibits are dedicated to Tubman, who operated the Underground Railroad after she was free from slavery. 9.  Exploring The Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Location: 2880 Grays Road, Port Republic, MD Hours Open: Monday-Friday (9 AM to 4:30 PM), Saturday (10 AM to 4:30 PM), Sunday: 1-4:30 PM Entry Fee: Free Battle Creek Cypress Swamp is home to bald cypress trees and is the first preserve of The Nature Conservancy in Maryland.  You will also find pink lady’s slipper and May apple plants here.  Moreover, the Battle Creek Cypress Swamp has Warblers and Kentucky.  10. Visiting The Salisbury Zoo Location: 755 S Park Dr, Salisbury, MD Hours Open: 9 AM to 4:30 PM Entry Fee: Free Salisbury Zoo is home to a wide range of animals, including guinea pigs, great horned owls, gopher tortoises, painted turtles, box turtles, and burrowing owls.  Salisbury Zoo is accessible, and it has wheelchair facilities to offer more inclusivity to visitors. Don’t Miss The Local Food | Best Things To Do In Maryland My best experience in Maryland was trying local food like Steamed Crabs. The place is popular in the United States for fishing and its blue crabs. The dish of steamed crabs combines spices, herbs, beer, and blue crabs. Remember to add butter along with different blends of seasoning so you will get both a spicy and savory taste. Another great thing I had was the Crab Cake. Also, don’t forget to try the Roasted Pit Beef. Raising A Toast At Flying Dog Brewery | Best Things To Do In Maryland  The next on my ‘things to do in Maryland’ list is a visit to the Flying Dog Brewery. What can be a better place for a connoisseur than the Flying Dog Brewery as they believe “Beer is Art.”  Flying Dog Brewery has a good mix of year-round gems and some seasonal attractions. The Double Dog Juicy Double IPA is my favorite among the year-round attractions.  Again, the Deep Fake Non-Alcoholic is the best seasonal offering here.  The Flying Dog Brewery's tasting room is open from Thursday to Sunday. I had a great time tasting different seasonal beers there.  However, don’t forget to carry your ID, as they only serve beer to 21+ visitors. 

BY  Abdul Aziz Jan 3, 2024

Who isn’t fond of traveling? Most of us love to scrape out different parts of the world. But apart from selecting a dream destination, selecting a good hotel is another big headache.  When it comes to places like Manila, you need to enhance the overall travel experience. This is exactly why we recommend choosing a 5-star hotel in this vibrant city.  A hotel in Manila that offers you close proximity to major tourist destinations is always better. Check out this comprehensive guide till the end that carries all the necessary requirements for choosing a hotel.  So, let’s get started without further ado… Three Essential Considerations While Choosing A Manila Hotel Who likes to travel without any proper plans? And when it comes to hotels, there are a handful of things to consider. For example, some people prioritize the location, while others are much more thoughtful about the price. Here are the 3 major things everyone must address:  1. Choose An Appropriate Location For Your Hotel First things first, the location of your chosen 5-star hotel rooms! The location matters a lot when it comes to shaping your experience in any city. And Manila, particularly, is something else! Moreover, opting for a hotel in a prime location allows you to explore the city’s numerous attractions and landmarks conveniently.  The city is also quite popular for its rich history and cultural diversity, which shouldn’t go unnoticed. It has proximity to key destinations such as Intramuros, Rizal Park, and the vibrant Makati district.  Furthermore, a strategically located hotel can provide you with numerous benefits. From saving time on transportation to gaining easy access to both business and leisure activities- there’s so much more! 2. Range Of Amenities Secondly, the range of amenities that are offered by a 5-star hotel in Manila contributes to the overall comfort and satisfaction of your stay. Beyond the luxurious setting, it will also provide you with a diverse array of amenities for all your needs.  As a result, you must look for a hotel that boasts state-of-the-art fitness facilities, spa services, and a variety of dining options, ensuring that your stay is not only comfortable but also indulgent.  Regardless of whether you will be traveling to the city of Manila for business or leisure, a well-equipped hotel can enhance your overall experience. Get a seamless blend of relaxation and convenience within the confines of the accommodation. 3. Quality Of Customer Service Lastly, the quality of customer service is the final fundamental factor that distinguishes a good hotel from an exceptional one.  Similarly, a 5-star hotel in Manila will be able to go far beyond meeting your basic needs and expectations. It provides a personalized and attentive service.  From the moment you arrive until your departure, the hotel’s commitment to ensuring your satisfaction should be evident at all times.  Likewise, attentive concierges, along with prompt room service and a courteous reception team, also matter for a memorable experience. Sites and Attractions In Manila To Visit Now that we know the essential considerations of settling in for a great hotel in Manila, next comes the list of attractions. After all, it’s all about traveling and discovering new places. So, here it goes: Rizal Park Rizal Park is the biggest public park in the city, which owes tribute to national hero, Jose Rizal. The park is 140 acres in length and is ornamented with mesmerizing gardens.  It is also widely regarded as Luneta Park, and more than 5,000 tourists visit it every day.  Location: Manila, Malate, Roxas Blvd, 1000 Metro Manila Entry Charges: INR 26 (2024) Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM. Fort Santiago At Metro Manila, Fort Santiago is a must-visit. It is nestled in Intramuros’ ancient walled city, the construction of which ended in 1593. The fort will certainly give you a rich, historical vibe. If you are looking forward to a unique experience with your friends or family, make sure you visit it at least once.   Address: Intramuros, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila Entry Charges: INR 100 Timings: 8 AM to 9 PM Manila Ocean Park Are you much of a marine lover? Hit the Manila Ocean Park if you wish to see the rich biodiversity underlying Manila’s water bodies. The Oceanarium creates all the hype since it boasts over 14,000 animals and 270+ marine species.  Get ready to see some exciting animal shows where Penguins, Birds, and Seal Lions perform various activities.  Address: 666 Behind Quirino Grandstand, Manila Entry Charges: Starting from INR 530 Timings: 10 AM to 8 PM.  San Agustin Church This Church, for a long time, has remained the center of attraction for all the good reasons. Not only is San Agustin the most primitive church in the Philippines, but it is also a UNESCO world heritage site.  Tourists come here to taste the authentic Filipino culture. And if you are lucky enough, you might get to see the traditional wedding process from your hotel in Manila.  Address: General Luna St, Manila, 1002 Metro Manila  Entry Charges: INR 132 When to visit: 8 AM to 6 PM. Casa Manila Casa Manila is a very old and popular museum in Intramuros. Imelda Marcos constructed the castle, keeping in mind the exquisite Spanish Colonial architecture.  It, more or less, replicated San Nicolas House, offering a detailed insight into the Filipino lifestyle.  Address: General Luna St, Intramuros, Manila Entry Charges: Free When to visit: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.  The Bottom Line With that, we slowly proceed towards the end of this itinerary. But make sure you carry the important tips with you while heading to Manila.  This fun-filled destination has a lot in store for you. All it takes to make the journey smoother is a set of rightful ideas. From location to hotels, there’s not much to worry about if you have read this through. When traveling to a strange land, do not forget to consider your safety. After all, no traveler should ever compromise that! Having said that, I wrap up my words. If there’s something you would like to share about your hotel experiences in Manila, do comment below and let us know! Thank you for reading. 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