10 Best Places To Travel In April – Travel Guide 2022

BY  Sibashree Oct 28, 2024

The Shenandoah National Park has many wonders that you just cannot miss. So, you can witness the beauty of Bearfence Mountain and its waterfalls and explore its endless hiking trails.   As a rich wildlife hub, it is also home to white-tailed deer, black bears, red-tailed hawks, Carolina chickadees, and many more.   So, to cut a long story short, the Shenandoah National Park has everything for everyone. Moreover, it does not matter whether you are a birder or an avid trekker.   However, one thing is certain: you can only enjoy the park to the fullest if you are camping here or at least spending nights at the local lodges. Therefore, I am sharing a brief guide about the campsites and other accommodation options in the park.   Shenandoah National Park Camping   https://www.instagram.com/p/CvPj7WmAt6a/ Shenandoah National Park offers you the best chance to sleep under the stars with its five functional campgrounds.   Further, these campgrounds are open from early spring to late fall. Also, you can know about their availability with a simplified alert system.   So, do you want to plan your next camping expedition at Shenandoah National Park?  Loft Mountain Campground  https://www.instagram.com/p/Bykz80iADRN/ In the southern part of the Shenandoah National Park lies the Loft Mountain. Further, it is at the top of the  Big Flat Mountain. Also, it is a large camping zone with a total of 207 sites.   Further, you will get a beautiful view of the eastern and western sides from the Loft Mountain Campground. In addition, the waterfalls and the trails to the Big Run Wilderness allow you to explore the park fully. Moreover, the table below shows the amenities available (not available) at Loft Mountain Campground.  Amenities Available  Cell Phone Network No Internet Connectivity No Recycling/Trash Collection Yes, on a seasonal basis Camp Store Seasonal availability  Food Storage Lockers  Yes Ice for Sale Yes Staff on Site Available Seasonally  Amphitheater Available Seasonally  Firewood for Sale Firewood is available. However, you must strictly adhere to the park's fire and stove policy. * Laundry Available Seasonally  Dump Station Available Seasonally  Potable Water Seasonal Availability  Shower Type Seasonal Availability (coin-operated)  *You can only use USDA-certified firewood in the park, and this is a measure to stop the unnecessary spread of emerald ash borer. However, you can also use deadwood or brunches in the park to ignite fire in the fire grates provided by the park.   Further, you must fully extinguish the fire before leaving the spot, and you cannot use charcoal.   Fees And Reservation At Loft Mountain Campground  Loft Mountain Campground has non-electric sites for tents and RVs. Further, only six people can stay at a time at a standard campsite. Moreover, a camping site can accommodate one RV at a time.   In addition, the fee for each campsite is $30.   Further, the campsites of Loft Mountain Campground come on a combination basis. Nevertheless, the best method is to reserve a site.   However, campsites are also available on a first-come, first-served basis.   Lewis Mountain Campground  Lewis Mountain Campground is the smallest in the park, with a stretch of only 57.5 miles. Also, just 7 miles away from the Big Meadows, this campground offers a quiet and more private experience.   The sites are available on self-registrations. Further, you can get a site on a first-come and first-served basis.   Amenities Available  Cell Phone Network No Internet Connectivity No Recycling/Trash Collection Yes, on a seasonal basis Camp Store Yes, on a seasonal basis Food Storage Lockers  Seasonal Availability Ice for Sale Yes, Available Seasonally Staff on Site Seasonal  Amphitheater No Firewood for Sale Available Seasonally** Laundry Available Seasonally  Dump Station No Potable Water Seasonal Availability  Shower Type Seasonal Availability (coin-operated)  **You must abide by the fire safety regulations to stop the spread of the emerald ash borer. Further, remember the following points to avoid fire-related mishaps.   You can use deadwood or dried branches to light a fire in the fire grates.  Further, make sure that you extinguish the fire properly after use.  Also, you can carry camping and backpacking stoves.  However, you cannot use charcoal grills inside the park.   Reservation And Fees At Lewis Mountain Campground  A standard, non-electric campsite at Lewis Mountain Campground will cost you $30. Further, you don’t need to reserve your campsite in advance as all sites are available on a first-come and first-served basis.   Big Meadows Campground  https://www.instagram.com/p/B4a4lAAFP52/ The 51.2-mile Big Meadows Campground is the busiest camping zone in the park, with 221 camping sites. Further, with sites available on a reservation basis, this campground offers access to the following park areas.  Big Meadows  Byrd Visitor Center, and  Dark Hollow Falls  Moreover, every campsite for a tent or RV here comes with a picnic table and fire ring.   Amenities Available  Cell Phone Network No Internet Connectivity No Recycling/Trash Collection Yes, on a seasonal basis Camp Store Seasonal availability  Food Storage Lockers  Yes Ice for Sale Yes Staff on Site Available Seasonally  Amphitheater Available Seasonally  Firewood for Sale Firewood is available. However, you must strictly adhere to the park's fire and stove policy. *** Laundry Available Seasonally  Dump Station Available Seasonally  Potable Water Seasonal Availability  Shower Type Seasonal Availability (coin-operated)  *** The fire safety policies at Big Meadows Campground include using USDA-certified firewood. Further, you can use deadwood and branches in the fire grates.   However, even if you can carry backpacking and camping stoves, using charcoal grills is prohibited.   Further, the Big Meadows Campground has standard and group camping sites. Moreover, the group camping site will cost you $75, and the fee for the standard site is $30.   Mathews Arm Campground  If you enter the Shenandoah National Park from Front Royal, you will first encounter the Mathews Arm Campground. Further, this 22.1 campground is home to 165 sites with picnic tables, fire rings, tents, and RVs.   However, this camping site has no camp store or shower facility. It also does not offer wood and ice for sale. So, you will have to walk for 2 miles to Elkwallow Wayside to collect the essentials.   Amenities Available  Cell Phone Network No Internet Connectivity No Recycling/Trash Collection Yes, on a seasonal basis Camp Store No Food Storage Lockers  Yes Ice for Sale No Staff on Site Available Seasonally  Amphitheater Available Seasonally  Firewood for Sale No Laundry No Dump Station Available Seasonally  Potable Water Seasonal Availability  Shower Type No  Reservation And Fees At Mathews Arm Campground   The Mathews Arm Campground  combines reserved and first-come, first-served based sites. Further, it has standard and group campsites.   Moreover,  standard and group campsite fees are $30 and $75, respectively.   Explore More Lodging Options At Shenandoah National Park  If you don’t want to compromise on comfort, you can explore the three Shenandoah National Park lodging options for an overnight stay.   Further, these lodges are located in the prime locations of the park, and offer the best view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Moreover, they have pet-friendly accommodation. So, if you are traveling with your canine or feline friends, you can enjoy stress-free time.   Skyland Resort  https://www.instagram.com/p/CdqQODytuCm/?img_index=1 Along the Skyline Drive, the Skyland Resort offers the most comfortable accommodation options at Skyland Resort.   Further, you can enjoy the most beautiful view of the park from the Skyland Resort. Also, this resort gives you easy access to many popular hiking trails in the park.   Lewis Mountain Cabins  Are you in for some rugged experience at Shenandoah National Park with the comfort factor intact? So, why don’t you get a place at Lewis Mountain Cabins?  Big Meadows Lodge  https://www.instagram.com/p/C-DcPBOADEx/ Built with stones from the Massanutten Mountains, the Big Meadows Lodge has a natural charm and warmth. Further, residents love spending evenings here watching the sunrise and sharing their park experience.  Exploring The Unique Geology Of Shenandoah National Park     https://www.instagram.com/p/CSwssncAg6D/ The geology of Shenandoah National Park tells ancient stories that are constantly evolving. Further, you will find many types of rocks that have formed the  park’s unique geology. So, let’s have a brief understanding of these rocks.   Basement Rocks  The basement rocks of Shenandoah National Park are older than Appalachians. Further, these rocks are the foundations of the Shenandoah Blue Ridge Mountains. These rocks are also responsible for the dramatic topography of Hogback Mountain, Old Rag Mountain, and Marys Rock.   Moreover, these rocks take you back billions of years.   Greenstone Lava Flows   Have you seen the  Hawksbill and Stony Man cliffs in Shenandoah National Park? These all are formed of greenstone lava flows at least 570 million years old.   Further, these lava flows form a staircase-like topography, and you will also find flat benches here and there. Moreover, the major waterfalls in the park cut through the greenstone lava flows and plunge into canyons.   Chilhowee Metasedimentary Rocks  These rocks come from the shores of an ocean older than the Atlantic. Further, these rocks form the park’s steep slopes and rugged terrain. Moreover, you will find these rocks in the Southern District of the park.   Further, they have transformed under pressure and have formed cliffs like the Calvary Rocks, Rocky Mountain, and Blackrock South. In addition, these rocks have formed many boulder fields.   Shenandoah National Park At A Glance  Location: Virginia, United States  Area: Around 198,000 Acres  Highest Point: Hawksbill Mountain (1,234 Meters)  Visitor Centers: Dickey Ridge Visitor Center, Harry F. Byrd, Sr. Visitor Center, and Mobile Visitor Center  Hiking Trails: 500 Miles  Moreover, Shenandoah National Park is home to more than 50 mammal and 190 bird species with amphibians, reptiles, fish, and insects. Further, this park has more than 12 waterfalls.   So, camping in the park will be a truly amazing experience. However, plan a trip to the park in the spring or fall to have the best experience of the wildlife flora and fauna.  However, the park has multiple entrance gates, and the route directions could be clearer. So, get a detailed idea from the park authority about the entrance gate and route based on your location.    Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

BY  Arnab Sep 30, 2023

If you feel like it’s time for a vacation in your life, you need to choose the best travel destination to make the most out of your respite. So why don’t you opt for a premier travel destination like California that attracts millions of tourists annually? That popularity is well-deserved, considering how much California has to offer! For one thing, nature lovers find their havens here in different aspects of natural beauty, from high mountains to stunning beaches! While you may find alluring landscapes in many tourist spots, the interesting thing about California is that the entire state is full of unique landscapes. Full of stunning natural beauty, historical sites, and theme parks like Disneyland, it’s no wonder that travel and tourism account for a significant part of California’s economic progress. To add to all that, we also have Hollywood there! People don’t want to miss the chance to get an autograph from one of their favorite stars. Given all this, it’s quite understandable why research has predicted international visits to California to increase by 31 % in 2023. Here Are Six Best Places To Visit In California If you ever make up your mind to travel there, you need to be familiar with some of the best tourist spots. The list below can help you with just that. 1. San Diego San Diego is called America’s Finest City for a reason. Living here, you get the chance to experience all four seasons! And to complement the beautiful weather, it has several beaches! You can enjoy the pleasant climate either lying at the beach or swimming and surfing on the coastal waves. If you feel this place calling you, San Diego long distance moving companies can help plan your vacation without delay! A unique feature of a vacation here is that you won’t have to worry about your pet while traveling. Many attractions like Mission Beach and Pacific Beach allow dogs during certain hours of the day. So, you can enjoy a tour with your furry friend without worrying that you’ll have to leave him behind. But water sports aren’t the only attraction here. The coastline also offers possibilities for cycling and hiking if you have an adventurer’s spirit. And there’s more yet! If you love wildlife, San Diego Zoo has got you covered. If you want to learn about the past, you can do a little time travel to one of the museums. And the best part is that you can take a day trip to Mexico with ease thanks to its proximity to San Diego. 2. Big Sur Another great spot for hiking and enjoying breathtaking views, Big Sur lives up to its name. These huge rocks stretching along the California coastline appeal to anyone who spots them from a distance. In fact, many roadside travelers end up taking a detour to these spiky cliffs. The rocks and beaches here are the epitome of mysterious natural beauty. If you stay at Post Ranch Inn, you can enjoy cozy evenings sitting by your window looking at the ocean. When you’ve had enough peace and quiet, you can then plan a trip to the hiking trails. 3. Yosemite National Park This national park provides multiple unique attractions for millions of visitors annually. Anyone who visits the park should not miss out on significant attractions like the Glacier Point and Yosemite Museum. Without a view of the Yosemite valley or an experience of the historical sites like LeConte Memorial Lodge, you can’t hope to get the most out of your visit. For those keen on sight-seeing, the park has the Yosemite Falls and Half Dome in addition to many cliffs, lakes, and streams. Moreover, outdoor sports nerds may want to try out everything from hiking and rock climbing to horse riding and camping in the Curry Village. 4. Palm Springs This is the perfect spot for you to relax in the sun and renew your strength in natural hot springs. The weather is never too cold here, so you can always remain sun-kissed. Aside from natural amenities, almost every building here, from houses to business offices, is a treat for anyone with a keen eye for architectural design. Whether it’s their buildings made in twentieth-century architectural style or celebrations like Modernism Week reflecting their spirit, the popularity of the architecture in this place cannot be denied. And of course, the nearby desert is always available if you want to go hiking. We all have some dreams as kids that get lost on the path of life somewhere. And a vacation is the best time to live some of those dreams! Palm Springs gives a chance to many who have always longed for exploration and adventure. The mighty mountains and many museums will definitely leave you feeling like an explorer! 5. Laguna Beach While other attractions are prominent in the nature and history departments, this seaside resort city is a perfect place for art lovers. In addition to the marvelous luxury beaches offering vibrant natural scenery, the community here is significantly contributing to the artistic world. They regularly hold art festivals to celebrate the talent of local artists. What’s more, their houses and streets filled with art galleries and sculptures are also a reflection of their enthusiasm and love for art. Aside from participating in art festivals, outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, cycling, and even scuba diving are available. 6. Channel Islands This archipelago of eight beautiful islands has much in store for you. Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, you can unleash your wild and free spirit and connect with life under the sea. Over 2000 species of plants and animals are found on these islands, so you’ll never get bored here. There is always something new to see! To experience the marine life closely, you can get into one of the glass bottom boats and explore the reefs and years-old shipwrecks. And if you want to add a little educational touch to your tour, the Catalina Island Museum can enlighten you with the history of the island and its citizens. Conclusion With so many attractions for all kinds of people, California deserves a spot on your list of must-visit states. Whether you’re interested in history or have a knack for hiking, whether you long for some quiet in the company of nature or wish to see your favorite celebrities in person, you will probably find something to your liking here! Read Also: Loranocarter+California: Is It Worth Visiting The Place? Top 10 Affordable Hostels In Los Angeles – California A Guide To The Most Scenic Road Trips Around The World

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 22, 2023

Embarking on your first European adventure? Brace yourself for an unforgettable journey through diverse cultures, picturesque landscapes, and historical marvels. As you plan your trip, here's a guide filled with invaluable tips for first-time visitors to Europe. Whether you're exploring the vibrant streets of Barcelona or marveling at the iconic landmarks of Paris, these insights will help you make the most of your experience. What Is So Special About Europe? travel experience. From the medieval charm of Prague to the breathtaking vistas of the Swiss Alps, Europe is a treasure trove of wonders waiting to be explored. Discover the cultural heritage, indulge in delectable cuisines, and carry Europe Packages that will create memories of a lifetime. How To Plan Your Very First Trip To Europe?  Planning a trip to Europe requires careful consideration of logistics and itineraries. Dive into practical tips on securing affordable flights, finding accommodation that suits your needs, and creating a flexible itinerary. Uncover the benefits of using Omio for seamless travel booking, offering a one-stop solution for flights, buses, and trains across Europe, Canada, and the US. When To Go To Europe?  Timing is key when planning your European vacations. Explore the advantages of visiting during different seasons, taking into account weather conditions, festivals, and crowd levels. Whether you're chasing the Northern Lights in Scandinavia or enjoying the Mediterranean sun, there's an ideal time for every European destination. What Are The Best Places To Visit In Europe?  Europe's allure lies in its diversity, with each country offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Choosing the best places to visit depends on your interests, but here are some top recommendations for first-time visitors: Paris, France: Begin your journey in the romantic ambiance of Paris, where the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum beckon. Paris, the "City of Love," offers a perfect introduction to Europe with its iconic landmarks, charming streets, and delectable cuisine. Rome, Italy: Step back in time as you wander through the ancient streets of Rome, where the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City await. Immerse yourself in the rich history, indulge in delectable Italian cuisine, and marvel at the artistry within the Sistine Chapel. Barcelona, Spain: Experience the vibrant spirit of Barcelona, where the architecture of Antoni Gaudí, including the famous Sagrada Familia, leaves visitors in awe. Stroll along picturesque beaches, explore lively neighborhoods, and savor the flavors of authentic Spanish tapas. London, United Kingdom: A city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, London beckons with its iconic landmarks such as the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace. Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of its museums, theaters, and diverse neighborhoods. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Discover the charm of Amsterdam with its picturesque canals, historic houses, and world-class museums like the Rijksmuseum. Embrace the city's unique vibe, characterized by cycling culture, vibrant nightlife, and a rich artistic heritage. Prague, Czech Republic: Step into a fairy-tale setting in Prague, where Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, and Prague Castle transport you to a bygone era. Enjoy the city's architectural wonders and immerse yourself in its rich cultural scene. Dublin, Ireland: Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality in Dublin, a city that boasts historic landmarks like Trinity College and Dublin Castle. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of traditional pubs, and savor the authentic flavors of Irish cuisine. Athens, Greece: Delve into the cradle of Western civilization in Athens, where the Acropolis, Parthenon, and ancient ruins narrate tales of a glorious past. Indulge in Mediterranean cuisine and embrace the harmonious blend of ancient and modern culture. Reykjavik, Iceland: Venture north to Reykjavik, the charming capital of Iceland, where stunning landscapes, hot springs, and the elusive Northern Lights await. Explore quirky Icelandic culture, relax in geothermal pools, and discover a city that beautifully contrasts with the traditional European experience. How Can You Travel Between Countries?  Unlock the secrets of efficient travel within Europe. While planes offer speed, delve into the comfort and scenic routes provided by buses and trains. Omio stands out as your go-to platform for booking convenient and affordable transportation, ensuring you traverse the continent with ease. Explore options like the scenic train journey from Barcelona to Paris. What Do You Need To Know Before Traveling To Europe?  Before embarking on your European adventure, arm yourself with essential knowledge. From understanding currency differences to navigating public transportation systems, these insights will enhance your travel experience. Stay informed about cultural nuances, visa requirements, and local customs to ensure a smooth and enriching journey. As you prepare to set foot on European soil, remember that every corner of the continent holds a story waiting to be discovered. Embrace the diversity and savor the moments, Whether you're captivated by the romance of Paris or enchanted by the history of Rome, Europe welcomes you with open arms. Read Also: Feast Your Way Through Europe: Best Tour Packages For Foodies 3 Of The Best European Holiday Destinations For Wintertime How To Prepare An Enjoyable Bus Tour In Europe