10 Best Places To Travel In April – Travel Guide 2022

BY  Ankita Oct 26, 2023

Paraguay, the landlocked gem of South America, is a country that boasts not only natural beauty but also a rich and diverse culinary heritage. From hearty soups to sweet desserts, Paraguayan cuisine has something to offer every palate. As you take on a culinary adventure through Paraguay, it's important to keep safety in mind, and having travel insurance from a trusted provider like Allianz Travel can provide the peace of mind and protection from unforeseen events you need. In this blog, we'll take you on a journey through the flavors of Paraguay. Fun facts you should know about Paraguay Before we dive into the delightful world of Paraguayan cuisine, let's take a moment to explore some intriguing facts about this unique South American country. Fact 1. It's Home To The World's Largest Water Reserve Paraguay is not only a land of rich culinary traditions but also the guardian of a remarkable natural resource. Beneath the surface of Paraguay, Uruguay, Brazil, and Argentina lies the vast Guarani Aquifer, the world's largest water reserve. Covering a staggering 1.2 million square kilometres with a volume of approximately 40,000 cubic kilometres, this aquifer can supply fresh drinking water to the world for around 200 years. Fact 2. A Bilingual Nation Paraguay's harmonious coexistence of two languages is a testament to its rich cultural diversity. Most Paraguayans are fluent in both Guaraní and Spanish, making it one of the few countries in South America where the native tongue remains an official language alongside Spanish. Guaraní is a unique language that goes beyond mere words; it is onomatopoeic, with many of its words imitating the natural sounds of animals and the surrounding environment, creating a linguistic connection to the country's lush landscapes and wildlife. Fact 3. It's A Bit Isolated, Like An Island Paraguay's history is marked by a long period of self-containment. The country's first encounter with the Western world occurred in 1525 when Portuguese explorer Alejo Garcia ventured into its territory. However, after gaining independence in 1811, Paraguay adopted a policy of isolation and sealed its borders. Author Augusto Roa Bastos once poetically referred to Paraguay as "an island surrounded by land," highlighting the nation's historical detachment from its neighbors. Paraguay's Palate-Pleasing Delicacies Kivevé - A Creamy Delight Let's begin our culinary exploration with Kivevé, a dish that blurs the line between a main course and dessert. This creamy and light delicacy is crafted from andai, a juicy pumpkin, combined with cornmeal, Paraguayan cheese, milk, and sugar. The result is an orangish delight that's often enjoyed lukewarm. Whether for breakfast, as an evening snack, or side dish, Kivevé is a typical Paraguayan food you can't miss. Sopa Paraguaya - More Than A Soup Despite its name, Sopa Paraguaya is far from being a traditional soup. It's Paraguay's national dish, resembling a thick, cakey bread. Crafted from cornflour, cheese, milk, eggs, onions, and pork fat, it has a soft, crumbly texture. Sopa Paraguaya is reserved for special occasions and typically serves as a side dish. Bori Bori - A Nutritious And Flavourful Soup Bori Bori, or Vori-Vori, is a thick and nutritious soup with flavours. Made from vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, this soup is enriched with meat, either chicken or beef and dumplings crafted from cornmeal and cheese. The aromatic notes of bay leaves, cloves, and parsley make this hearty broth even more enticing. Served piping hot, it's a comforting choice, especially during Paraguay's winters. Soyo - A Meaty Delight Soyo is another beloved Paraguayan dish, a thick, unstrained soup that packs a punch of flavours. It's a wholesome meal with pounded beef, rice, and vegetables like green peppers, onions, and tomatoes. The dish is seasoned with garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. The name "Soyo" is derived from the Guarani phrase "so’o josopy," meaning crushed meat. This hearty bowl is a calorie-rich delight. Pira Caldo - A Fish Lover's Dream Pira Caldo, a favoured Paraguayan dish, is a light fish stew featuring freshwater catches like surubi, many, and Carey. These meaty-textured fishes have a subtle saltiness that enhances the overall flavour. The stew begins with frying vegetables such as onions, tomatoes, leeks, celery, bell peppers, and carrots in pork or beef fat, followed by adding spices. It thickens with milk and soft white cheese, creating a delectable and hearty meal. Chipa - A Staple Bread Roll Chipa, a simple bread roll, is special in Paraguayan cuisine. In the 18th century, indigenous people invented Chipa made from manioc or cassava flour, lard, anise, beaten eggs, and cheese. There are regional variations of Chipa, but one thing remains constant - its crunchy crust and soft, unique-flavored interior. This bread is a household staple, enjoyed by locals and travellers alike. Mbeju - The Paraguayan Pancake Mbeju, translating to "cake" in the Guarani language, is a simple yet essential Paraguayan food. This starchy pancake is made with cassava flour, salt, oil, milk, eggs, crumbled cheese, and sometimes pork fat. The dough is kneaded and rolled out thick before being fried to perfection. Mbeju is a common breakfast item, occasionally enjoyed with bitter herbal tea or coffee at dinner Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance! As you plan your delectable journey through Paraguay's culinary wonders, it's important not to overlook an essential ingredient for a safe and worry-free adventure: travel insurance. While savouring the flavours of this vibrant South American country, ensuring your well-being and peace of mind should be a top priority. One reliable option to consider is Allianz Travel. Our comprehensive travel insurance packages provide protection and peace of mind, ensuring your taste adventure remains worry-free. Here are some of our travel insurance packages to explore before you embark on your food adventure in Paraguay: Please note any claims eligibility is subject to the terms and conditions of the travel insurance product you are purchasing. The reasons stated in this article are indicative and not binding. It is highly recommended to read our terms and conditions to see the exclusions, limits and conditions of our products. You can see all of the steps regarding making claims in the Allianz Travel Terms & Conditions. Single-Trip Insurance Our single-trip insurance packages are designed for people who travel once a year. They offer more benefits than required for a Schengen visa and have worldwide coverage. The coverage includes: Emergency Medical Expenses Emergency Medical Evacuation Dental Expenses Loss of Travel Documents Hospital funds Personal accident Annual Multi-Trip Insurance Allianz Travel created this travel insurance product for frequent flyers as it is a convenient and more cost-effective way to travel any time of the year. Our Annual multi-trip product covers all trips below 92 days within a year. The coverage includes the following: Emergency Medical Expenses Emergency Medical Evacuation Dental Expenses Loss of Travel Documents Hospital funds Personal accident, About Allianz Travel Get covered by Allianz Travel and Assistance before you fly off to Paraguay. Allianz Travel has been around for over 30 years, so we know what travel insurance you'll need. When travelling internationally, it is essential to have insurance that covers medical emergencies, the loss or theft of travel documents and baggage, and other mishaps. Trust us to provide you with exactly that and more. Read Also: How To Fund The Cost Of Travelling How To Apply For A Passport Online In This Pandemic, And Which Countries Allow You To Travel Now?

BY  Abdul Aziz Sep 16, 2021

Have you heard the term tattoo tourism? It is the practice of getting a design inked on your body as a souvenir of the place you have visited. Bali is a popular hub for tattoo tourism, fusing cultural symbolism with artistic expressions. Further, reputed tattoo parlors, experienced artists, and an affordable cost attract many ink aficionados to this picturesque and culturally rich country. So, do you want to get tattooed in Bali? Here are some tips before getting a tattoo in Bali. Best Tips Before Getting A Tattoo In Bali: Tattoo Tourism At Its Best Aren’t we all fascinated with those beautiful strokes on our skin? No matter how painful it is, we all are big fans. Further, something is thrilling about visiting a country (for tattooing) that exudes a mystical charm.  So, before you start scratching your head and finding the best tattoo place near me, here are a few helpful tips. Tattoo Bali – Tips Before Getting A Tattoo: Aren’t we all fascinated with those beautiful strokes on our skin? No matter how painful it is, we all are big fans of it. So, before you start scratching your head finding the best tattoo place near me, here are a few helpful tips: 1. Search The Best Tattoo Artist In Bali: Everyone has their own set of ideas and opinions about who is the best tattoo artist. Just like not anyone country is the best vacation spot or one kind of dish is the best food. Similarly, the ideals of the best tattoo artist also vary from one person to the other. It may happen that the tattoo artist who was the best for your friend may not prove as good for you or vice versa. So, do not depend on just hear and say. Search thoroughly, go through a number of online reviews and ratings to know more about the style and skill of the tattoo artist. In the end, your mission is just to find a tattoo artist who meets your specific requirements, like a specific style of tattoo Bali that you wish to have or someone who is available on the dates and prices that you want and soon. However, the thing you must not compromise with while selecting a Bali tattoo artist is that you must ensure that the artist works with tattooing practices that are safe and hygienic. Also, you must also make sure that the tattoo shop where the artist works is a nice place and you are comfortable getting inked there. 2. Look For Hygienic Tattoo Studios In Bali: Tips Before Getting A Tattoo In Bali Finding a hygienic and safe tattoo studio or shop is one of the most critical steps in getting a tattoo done.  You must be comfortable in a particular studio besides tattoo design and tattoo artist. Also, you must ensure the studio is entirely safe and uses hygienic tattoo practices. So, you need to thoroughly search for the ideal tattoo studio in Bali. If you want to search for the best tattoo studios in Bali’s regencies, Badung is where you need to get inked.  Other than that, the borders of Badung house the complete southwest coast of tattoo Bali, which the tourists love to explore. For more options, you can also go through over 200 tattoo parlor options in areas like Kuta, Canggu, and Seminyak. Many roadside tattoo artists and tattoo shops in Bali will make your tattoo for 5-10 bucks, but you never make your tattoo from them. This is one of the most crucial tips before getting a tattoo in Bali.  They use poor-quality tattoo equipment, and there is little concern about hygiene and safety.  They use inexpensive, unsafe tattoo inks. This can lead to tattoo infection and other kinds of complications. Always go to reputed tattoo shops, as they use high-quality sterilized equipment and natural and safe tattoo inks. Have a hygienic and safe environment. However, they charge you. Here Are The Names of Few Popular Tattoo Parlors in Bali Are you looking for the best tattoo studios in Bali? Let’s know about the studios creating the buzz. Mex Tattoos https://www.instagram.com/p/CgeYDrUr_rC/?img_index=1 “Was my first ever tattoo, these guys were great. Can be very confusing choosing a place in Bali, there are so many. Very reassuring, hygienic. Walked me through every step of what was going to happen. Even my wife and sister in law decided to get one they were so impressed.” - Eric Moss Bali Tattoo Studio https://www.instagram.com/p/BhV97XDhy4Z/ “An easy choice for tattoos. The talent these guys have is unreal. I am extremely happy with my tattoo and was impressed with their professionalism and friendly atmosphere. I even drank with them after we were finished and learned more about Balinese culture. If you want quality and a reasonable price, definitely check these guys out” - David Kim Two Guns Tattoo https://www.instagram.com/p/DBLaGPdTHO1/?img_index=1 “Awesome studio & artists. Dodo is amazing, I get all my work in Bali done by him, and have for a few years now. Highly recommend Two Guns & Dodo 🔥” - Isaac S. Tattoo Hut Bali https://www.instagram.com/p/DBU5zhPyzLH/ “Booked my tattoo in January and it was such an easy process. When we arrived in Bali the tattoo hut team was able to check sizing and design to ensure I was happy with the tattoo. All the tattoo hut members were extremely friendly and funny which made the experience much more enjoyable. Jony was my artist and he did such an amazing job. He is very professional and his style is impeccable. My whole arm sleeve only took 2 days! I highly recommend to go to tattoo hut!!” - James Fernandez Addicted Ink Tattoo Studio Bali https://www.instagram.com/p/C9W7-Uip1j6/?hl=en “The artists were so friendly and professional. We came in with simple standard outline designs, but for a couple of them, the artists asked if they could spend more time to elevate the concept (with shading or definition etc). It was wonderful that their priority was to ensure that our tattoos came out looking the best, regardless how long it took. I highly recommend Addicted Ink :)” - Sheridan K Bali Family Tattoo Studio “This is my second time getting inked here in 3 years. They did an amazing job with all my requests. I had numerous small pieces done and two bigger intricate ones also. highly detailed, patient and friendly. Very affordable prices. Definitely one of the best around in Kuta.” - Ashwin C. M. Paradise Ink Tattoo https://www.instagram.com/p/DADnJyWvgYM/?hl=en “Excellent services. Award winning artiste is very patient and takes time to understand the whole designing process. Studio is clean and neat. Equipments are new so you don't have to worry about hygiene. Location is easy to find. Check out their portfolio. Awesome works.” - melvin lee 3. Know About The Tattoo Prices In Bali: Another critical concern people usually have before getting inked is that pleasurable tattoos come at what cost? People concerned about getting an appointment with a tattoo artist or studio must know they can do so online or in person. However, many tourists schedule their tattoo Bali appointments in the last days of Bali vacation things to do, because of following the precautions. Up to two weeks of getting a tattoo, you can’t go underwater, surfing, or swimming.  You can only pay at Bali Tattoo Parlors with Indonesian Rupiah because many studios do not accept other currencies or have credit card machines. There is no need to schedule an appointment for a small tattoo, which can be done in a few minutes. Usually, in Bali, the price for most Bali tattoos is calculated per hour, and the rate varies depending on the tattoo artist, tattoo design, and the tattoo studio.  However, the average Bali tattoo price in 2024 was around 1,500,000 IDR, approximately 150 Australian dollars. When making an appointment with the tattoo Bali studio or artist, you will probably also be expected to pay a deposit.  After getting inked, if you are satisfied with the artist's work and the tattoo design, you can give away a generous tip to the artist any day. 4. Know The Meaning Of The Tattoo Design: Tips Before Getting A Tattoo In Bali With tattoo tourism on the rise in Bali, there is a tendency to disrespect a design's religious and philosophical significance. However, in most cases, it happens because of ignorance, and at the same time, no two travelers are the same.  You must learn and appreciate the cultural significance of a tattoo design before getting it inked on your body.  You can discuss this with your local tattoo artist or an expert in Balinese culture to learn about the design you are getting inked.  In addition, these tattoos are more than memories. The body art is an expression of the island’s spirit. So, enjoy the excitement, but be respectful of the tradition.  Did You Know?Mencocoh is the term for traditional tattoo art in Bali. Further, in conventional Balinese tattoos, only black ink needles were used. Also, only the clergies, rulers, and the “elite of shamans” used to wear these tattoos. So, tattooing was only allowed for the people in power and those considered closer to god. Though you will find many secular tattoo designs in Balinese culture today, traditionally, these designs draw inspiration from nature and Hindu gods and goddesses. Further, you will notice the presence of Balinese weapons like chains, daggers, maces, and axes in the design. Moreover, Ongkara, Ung, Ang, and Mang are symbolic Balinese scriptures popularly depicted in tattoos. In addition. Rangda, Kala Raksa, Kala, and other evil figures were common in traditional Bali tattoos.  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Is it safe to get a tattoo in Bali? If you are careful enough, getting a tattoo in Bali is safe. This means you have to do your research when choosing an artist. Get proper information about the studio and the artist. Ensure you have a good design and look for hygiene in the studio. Above all, looking after the tat is the big challenge. How much do tattoos cost in Bali? Well, it depends upon the size, and so do tattoos worldwide. If it’s small, it will cost $30 to  $85.  The cost will be $80-$850 for medium to large tattoos. Half and full sleeves will cost  $600  to $1.450 and $1.200 to $3.000. What is a tattoo blowout? A tattoo blowout is a tattoo artist pressing too hard while applying the ink to the skin. The ink goes below the top layers of the skin where tattoos belong. The ink spreads out below the skin’s surface on a layer of fat. This starts the blurring associated with a tattoo blowout. Is Bali cheaper than Thailand? Thailand is an expensive place, but it is, overall, a place of high standards. On the other hand, Bali is almost always cheaper in everything. So, if you want tattoos, wait no longer and book the Bali holiday packages from Delhi. Other than just getting a tattoo, have an amazing vacation there! Read Also: 10 Best Things To Do In San Diego (USA) Top 10 Places To Visit In Singapore Vacationing In Florence

BY  Ankita Jan 5, 2024

For parents, the opportunity to explore the world with their children is invaluable. Not only does it open the door to new experiences for the kids, but it also offers a chance for the family to grow closer together. Family-friendly destinations like Pigeon Forge, TN, are perfect examples of places that cater to the interests and needs of both children and adults. These locations provide a diverse range of activities and experiences that can enrich a family vacation, making every moment memorable. In this article, we will delve into six reasons why parents should consider traveling the world with their kids. Diverse Experiences  When speaking of diverse experiences, Pigeon Forge is definitely going to top the list. Pigeon Forge, TN, is home to The Island, an entertainment complex that epitomizes the kind of diverse experience ideal for family travel. This location is more than an entertainment center; it's the ultimate attraction offering fun and learning. With an array of shops, restaurants, and attractions like The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, The Island offers something for everyone in the family. The variety of experiences available at The Island means that parents and children can enjoy a range of activities together. From exploring unique shops to dining at family-friendly restaurants, and from enjoying the spectacular views from the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel to staying at the on-site hotel, the experiences are tailored to create lasting memories. The Island’s mix of attractions ensures that every family member’s interests are catered to, making it an enjoyable part of any visit to Pigeon Forge. Such destinations showcase how travel can be both entertaining and educational for children as they learn through engaging and interactive experiences. Given the popularity of family-friendly attractions like The Island Pigeon Forge sees an influx of vacationers every year. Educational Opportunities Traveling provides children with invaluable educational opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. As families explore new places, children are exposed to different cultures, languages, and historical contexts. This exposure is not only educational but also eye-opening, providing real-life context to lessons learned in school. For instance, visiting historical sites offers a tangible connection to history, making it more relatable and interesting for kids. Encountering different cultures fosters a sense of global awareness and understanding, teaching children about diversity and tolerance. Participating in language exchanges or trying new foods can also be fun, interactive ways to learn. These experiences contribute to a well-rounded education, where children learn about the world in an immersive and interactive way. Building Stronger Family Bonds Traveling together as a family is an excellent way to strengthen family bonds. Shared experiences, whether the excitement of exploring new destinations or overcoming the challenges of travel, bring families closer together. These shared memories become a foundation for stronger relationships. Activities that encourage teamwork, like hiking or navigating a new city, enhance family bonds. Children and parents learn to rely on and support each other in different situations. Involving children in travel planning also increases their sense of involvement and investment in the trip. They feel valued and heard, which is important for their self-esteem and the overall family dynamic. Family vacations are not only fun; they are an opportunity for deeper connection and understanding among family members. Developing Adaptability And Resilience In Kids Traveling is an excellent way for children to develop adaptability and resilience. When families explore new environments, children learn to adapt to different situations, whether it's navigating a new city, trying unfamiliar foods, or interacting with people from diverse backgrounds. These experiences teach kids flexibility and problem-solving skills as they learn to handle unexpected challenges and changes in plans. The ability to adapt and bounce back from difficult situations is a crucial life skill. Travel exposes children to minor setbacks or changes, like delayed flights or weather changes, in a safe and controlled environment. Handling these situations helps children build resilience, equipping them with the ability to cope with bigger challenges in life. Moreover, overcoming these obstacles can boost their confidence and self-esteem, making them more willing to take on new challenges in the future. Encouraging Curiosity And Creativity Traveling with kids can significantly boost their curiosity and creativity. Being in a new place with different sights, sounds, and smells stimulates children’s senses and piques their curiosity. This natural curiosity can lead to a deeper interest in learning about the world around them. Different travel experiences, whether visiting museums or exploring natural landscapes, provide opportunities for creative thinking. Children are inspired to think outside the box and view the world from different perspectives. This exposure can lead to creative problem-solving and innovation. Additionally, these experiences can ignite a passion for new hobbies or interests, such as photography, art, or history, further enriching their lives. Promoting Physical Activity And Health Travel often involves a variety of physical activities that can be beneficial for both children and adults. Activities like hiking, swimming, or simply exploring a city on foot encourage physical movement, which is essential for maintaining good health. For children, engaging in physical activities while traveling can instill a lifelong appreciation for exercise and an active lifestyle. Outdoor activities, in particular, have numerous health benefits. They provide fresh air, help in vitamin D absorption, and reduce stress and anxiety. These activities also present an opportunity for families to spend quality time together, away from the distractions of technology and daily routines. Encouraging an active lifestyle through travel not only promotes physical health but also contributes to mental well-being. Conclusion It's time to explore the world with your kids, as it offers far more than just a break from the routine. It's an enriching experience that contributes significantly to their development and strengthens family bonds. From developing adaptability and resilience to fostering curiosity and creativity and promoting physical activity and health, the benefits of traveling with children are immense. These experiences not only create lasting memories but also lay a strong foundation for a well-rounded, healthy, and fulfilling life. As parents, taking the opportunity to travel with your kids is one of the greatest gifts you can give them – a world of learning, discovery, and togetherness. Read Also: 10 Best Things To Do In San Diego (USA) Cooking In Dublin: 7 Restaurants To Dine In With Your Family The Ultimate Guide To Travelling When You Have No Money Make Your Honeymoon A Truly Memorable Affair: Here’s How