Don’t Believe Them!! This Is Actually The Best Time To Visit Barbados!

BY  Abdul Aziz Apr 17, 2019

The honeymoon is the first vacation you two are going on as a couple. So it will always hold a special place in your memories. Lone time with your partner and a lot of romance will surely spice things up and strengthen the bond between the two. You can, however, make it even more special and a truly memorable affair with a smart honeymoon travel guide. Whether you have decided to take charge of bookings and sightseeing or are looking for Kerala honeymoon packages, here are a few tips to consider in your plan to have the perfect honeymoon. “That honeymoon phase is so much fun in real life when you meet and discover somebody new and fall in love and chase them. The pursuit. And that climactic final moment of ultimate togetherness.” Honeymoon Travel Guide: 15+ Things You Must Not Miss  Honeymooners! Check out the things to do on the most romantic trips from our honeymoon travel guide. 1. Do Activities Together: The trend of doing something different with your partner is really popular. It takes place more among couples who book Andaman, Goa, and Kerala honeymoon tours. Adventure activities top the list of things to do on your honeymoon. You can do skydiving, paragliding, and scuba diving with your partner, and we are certain that memories will be cherished forever.  2. Dance the Night Away: Dancing with your partner can be the most romantic thing to do on the honeymoon. It brings hearts closer, and you will love spending intimate and quality time with each other. In for some Bridgerton moments?  Check out the most happening clubs in your honeymoon destination. Spare some time to spend with your partner on the dance floors. 3. Plan in Advance: Do you have a thorough idea of the honeymoon destination, places to visit, things to do, and how to spend each day? It is one of the things to make your vacation more fun and relaxing. It saves a lot of time to book or plan something while you are at the destination.  You can get help from Kerala honeymoon packages to learn more about the destination. Make sure that you leave some downtime during the honeymoon. 4. Plan a Surprise: It is true that a honeymoon is one of the rare times in life when you will be really free to spend all the time with your partner. Use this opportunity to follow this honeymoon travel guide to be extra romantic. You can book a table for a romantic candlelight dinner with your partner. You can also get chocolates or flowers delivered to your partner in the hotel room. Just look for a unique or new thing that will add life to your honeymoon. It can be more interesting if you understand what interests your partner the most and stick to his or her desires. 5. Choose a Bed and Breakfast This tip is for those planning a honeymoon on their own. Instead of staying in a traditional hotel, book a bed and breakfast. You will feel more pampered as these places are small and intimate.  The host will take care of even the minutest need and make the two of you feel more special. 6. Plan Some Treats at the Airport You could be flying economy, but you can pre-book an airport lounge that will allow you to escape the crowded terminal.  It can help you to get free snacks and drinks, comfy armchairs, and newspapers. The choice you make depends on the airline that you are flying. 7. Check In Early You need to avoid a last-minute rush by leaving plenty of time to check in. Gone are the days when you would find airlines upgrading honeymooners. You may find yourself sitting in a different location with your spouse because of delays in booking your flight. Therefore, do your due diligence because little can be done late, even if you are a honeymooner. You can check for the latest shopping and dining opportunities once you are done checking in. 8. Prepare a Honeymoon List Study for the best ideas on the available wedding gift lists. Instead of getting crockery and cutlery, you can request your guests to treat you to romantic add-ons and help you pay for your honeymoon.  Therefore, you can request your friends and relatives to contribute toward your honeymoon package. There are several places that can help you to learn more about wedding gift ideas. 9. Upgrade Your Transfers Upgrading your transfers will be my honeymoon travel guide for you. Instead of getting a regular minibus or taxi from the airport to the hotel, you can either upgrade to a speedboat or limousine. I have also seen some people book a helicopter transfer.  It is a fast and efficient way to move to your preferred honeymoon location. The cost will vary depending on the service provider that you choose and the distance. 10. Book a Special Room Most hotels have various categories of rooms. For instance, you may upgrade to a suite if you want rooms that are worth and truly special for your honeymoon.  You can use people who have been to these destinations previously to give you some of the best ideas for special rooms. You will need a place that will give you an uninterrupted experience. 11. Do Not Stay in One Place When you have a two-centered honeymoon, you will get the best from the destination. You will also have so many memories to carry home. You can try a beach-plus safari combination or island hopping. It is good to see the various sides of your honeymoon destination. Most experiences are two worlds apart, even if they are just a few minutes’ drive away. You can also get married on one Island and spend your honeymoon on another. 12. Get the Right Combination If you are going for a two-center honeymoon, make sure you know the best way to combine it. It is a mistake to book a relaxation or adventure combo but leave out the relaxation slice until the end. It’s advisable to start by organizing for a relaxation time to help you combat the post-wedding exhaustion.  It is a magical thing to head off for a safari. However, we don’t recommend newlyweds expose themselves to frighteningly early starts and alarm calls. You can do some tropical beach to get alerts and charge for the days that you will be in the bush. 13. Inform the Hotel If the staff at the hotel are aware that you are on honeymoon, they may request that you be upgraded to a better room. Most five-star hotels will put chocolates, a bottle of champagne, and flowers in the room upon your arrival.  You may also get some extras like the complimentary private candlelit dinner as long as you make them aware. Even the low-grade hotels try to add some extra touch, especially if you have some imagination or care. Ask them what they can do as you plan your booking and gauge their reaction. 14. No Need to Over-do it You may find yourself planning so much for a trip that happens once in a lifetime. Make sure you take your time while planning for your honeymoon. Most honeymooners find themselves moving so fast because they want to get the best from their destination. Remember, the buildup of your wedding will make you exhausted. You will also experience jet lags, and hence, you need to leave some time for leisure. You need to take time to soak up all that took place in the past few weeks or months and recover fully. 15. Book for a First-Night Restaurant If you are on a first night away, book a romantic dinner table together. It may sound simple, but it is an essential element for the perfect honeymoon. In most hotels, people book these services in advance. Therefore, it is good to go for early reservations so as to prepare your table in advance. 16. Book a Spa Treatment for Couples Even if you are not a fanatic of spas, it is good to venture into the hotel spa if there is one. These spas have come on bounds and leaps over the past few years. It is an indulging journey where you can begin with the side-by-side treatment before going for a pedal-strewn bath for the two of you. Some of the hotels offer private suites for couples to help them enjoy champagne. These suites also give couples enough space and time to relax around treatments. Do some research, and you will find something that will meet your needs with a high level of precision. Summing up our honeymoon travel guide, I must say that you should look for a tour operator who can plan a customized vacation for you. This way, you will be saved from the hassle of arranging everything independently and can focus more on wedding planning.  Honeymoon Travel Guide | Best Places To Visit With Your Spouse (Instagram Favorites) With millions (billions?) of Instagram hashtags of “Honeymoon,” the social media platform shapes the romantic interludes of Gen Z and Millennial couples. Let’s be honest! Many of our Honeymoon bucket lists are inspired by what we see on Instagram. As I pen down this article, I see that there are exactly 16,420,948  hashtags for “Honeymoon” on Instagram. Further, #honeymoondestination is a distance second with a count of 602878 posts.  Here, I have curated the coolest destinations for you (in random orders). 1. #Bali Instagram Posts: 73855347  Bali, Indonesia, is the biggest draw for honeymooners around the world. The sunset view at Seminyak is ethereal, and soaking in the red light here is the best thing you can do to ignite passion.  Further, Pura Lempuyang and the Hanging Gardens of Ubud are some other gorgeous destinations in Bali. Take selfies or snaps of the most scenic landscape to have the best captures for your socials.  2. #Maldives Instagram Posts:11714083 Visiting the Maldives for a honeymoon is a dream-come-true moment true for many young couples. The pristine beaches and beautiful lagoons here set the perfect backdrop for romance. Further, you cannot miss the sunset views for the most romantic experience.  3. #Thailand Instagram Posts: 80490105 Thailand offers the most eclectic experience based on the number of days you spend here and the kind of experience you want. The Phi Phi Islands are the biggest attractions for honeymooners and couples.  However, for couples who enjoy a whiff of history, the ancient ruins and royal places are the bigger draws.  4. #Santorini Instagram Posts: 8226044 Who does not want to visit Santorini in the Aegean Sea? This volcanic Greek Island and its white houses with blue roofs are sensations of all social media platforms.  The sunrise and sunset views at Santorini are amazing, and every house on the island is painted in the warmest shade of red.  5. #Mexico  Instagram Posts:103924218 Mexico is a wonderful fusion of the old and new worlds. It has ancient places like Chichen Itza from the Mayan Civilization and a more playful experience at the white sandy beaches. Read  More:  Planning A Hunting Trip To Africa – Here’s what you should Know 10 Useful Malayalam Words and Phrases to Learn before Traveling to Kerala

BY  Mashum Jan 30, 2020

With a change in tourist behaviors, New York is all set to exceed the tourism records of pre-pandemic days. This upward graph in tourism numbers has been visible since 2023. In the same year, footfalls in New York crossed the 62 million mark.  Now, regarding the must see places in New York, the iconic ones like the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the High Line continue to cast their charm.  However, breaking the tourism lulls of the pandemic days, tourists are now eager to explore beyond Manhattan. Further, they want to experience the “Real New York City,” away from maddening crowds.  So, in this Tour and Travel guide, I have highlighted the most popular destinations in New York, along with some unique hotspots. It’s like the Frank Sinatra song, “I want to be a part of it, New York, New York Your vagabond shoes, they are longing to stray And step around the heart of it, New York, New York…” Must See Places In New York | Iconic Landmarks In New York  New York remains a dynamic hub for tourism, with a significant increase in visitors and visitor spending. In 2024, the number of tourists to New York City was close to 65 million, which was the second-highest number in the city’s history. “With nearly 65 million visitors this year — the second highest figure in our city’s history — New York City has once again solidified its position as the premier destination in the nation and one of the top travel spots in the world.”Eric Adams, Mayor, New York City So, the city is ready to make a massive economic recovery, with the tourism sector making a strong and steady comeback.  Further, the following must see places in New York remain the heartbeats of the city’s tourism.  1. Central Park | A Quiet Retreat Amidst The Bustling New York City Embed: https://www.instagram.com/p/C5WYDY2IRu0/ Entry: Free Hours Open: 6 AM to 1 PM Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s “The Gates” is making a comeback to Central Park. I was just checking out the Central Park Conservancy website and was elated to find that this transcendental art installation in saffron hue is once again ready to tell the tales of a park reborn. The Shed, a non-profit cultural organization, will be hosting an exhibition called “Christo and Jeanne-Claude: The Gates and Unrealized Projects for New York City.”This exhibition will open on 12th February 2025, marking the 20th anniversary of “The Gates.”  Once home to the Indigenous Lenape people, Central Park became what it is today with the craftsmanship of Calvert Vaux and Frederick Law Olmsted. Walking, e-scooter tours or biking through the trails are the best ways to explore the manicured, yet natural-looking vistas of the park.  Moreover, Central Park is full of attractions, including the Strawberry Fields, a tribute to John Lenon, the Conservancy Garden, Bow Bridge, Belvedere Castle, etc.  2. The Statue Of Liberty | The Symbol Of Freedom  Entry Fee: Free Ferry Charges: Free for Children below 4 Years, $16.50 for Children Aged 4-12, $25.50 for the Age of 13+, $22.50 for Seniors (62+) Hours Open: 9 AM to 5 PM The Statue of Liberty was a gift by France, built-in 1886. It is among the most popular symbol of freedom and one of the greatest icons in America. Standing at 152 feet tall, it is one of the tallest statues in the world and weighs around 450,000 pounds. Battery Park offers a great view of the statue from the land. However, the best way to see this statue is by taking a short ferry trip to Liberty Island. You can get up close, take a stroll around the ground and pedestal. And, if you make advanced reservations, you can even go up to the crown. When you take the ferry, you will also stop at Ellis Island and can explore the Immigration Museum. 3. Metropolitan Museum Of Art | Housing 5000 Year Old Artwork Entry Fee: $30 for Adults, $22 for Seniors and Visitors with a Disability, $17 for Students, Free for Children below 12 Years Hours Open: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday - 10 AM to 5 PM, Saturday and Sunday - 10 AM to 9 PM, Wednesday - Closed Metropolitan Museum of Art, also famously known as MET, was established in 1870. It is one of the most popular museums in the United States of America. The center has an extensive collection of over 2 million artworks, some of which date back to 5000 years. It has three sites. However, Met Fifth Avenue is the centerpiece of the museum. If you are a fan of art and history, this is a place that you should not miss out on. American arms and armors, decorative arts, Egyptians arts, photographs, musical instruments, etc. are some of the many items that you get to explore here. 4. The High Line | The Changed West Side Elevated Line After An Ideas Competition High Line was once a rail line, which has now become a popular tourist attraction of the city. The rail line has now been transformed into a walking trail over the city streets. The linear public park has a wide range of trees and plants. Further, The High Line, or the linear public park, has a wide range of trees and plants. The High Line you visit today survived a demolition order from Mayor Giuliani in 1999. However, four years later, the “ideas competition” hosted by Friends of the High Line highlighted the potential of this “ugly eyeshore” to get transformed into one of the must see places in New York. So, today, the 1.45-mile-long greenway with over 500 species of plants reminds me of the headline on the front page of the New York Times. It read, “Frog of a Railroad to Become Prince of a Park.” Moreover, glass railings line the park, which gives it a more natural feel. From here, you get an amazing view of the bustling city of New York. You can access the high Line on different points from Gansevoort to 34th Street. Some of the access points only provide stairs, whereas others have elevators as well. 5. Times Square | At The Crossroads Of The World Exhibiting tall, bright billboards and displays, Times Square is one of the must-visit places in New York. While it is exciting at any time of the day, it truly livens up in the evening. This is the site where New York celebrates its New Year's Eve and where the Ball Drop happens at midnight. It is a busy street, which is always crowded with people, but still has a unique character to it. Bleachers are installed on the other end of where you can sit and admire the hustling scene. Time Square got its name in the year 1904, and before that, it was known as Longacre Square. Also, if you are looking to find the best food trucks in NY, then I would recommend visiting vstreetfood.com/food-trucks/new-york/. New York is considered the city that never sleeps, and it is true. No matter what time of the day it is, there is something you can do or explore here. Above are some of the places that you must visit in New York. And while you explore these destinations, you will come across a bunch of others on your way because they all are closely connected. Also, when in Times Square, you must not forget to explore the best food trucks in NY, especially vstreetfood.com/food-trucks/new-york/. The Must See Places In New York | Hidden Gems You Will Fall In Love With  As promised, here, I will discuss some hidden gems in New York. These must see places in New York are eclectic and they represent the true spirit of the city beyond the glitz and glamor of Manhattan.  Here we go! Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site https://www.instagram.com/p/DBo43aGy2u9/?img_index=1 Hours Open: Wednesday – Sunday:10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Entry Fee: Free Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site is the boyhood home of the first US president born in the USA.  Today, this historic site offers a 45-minute tour guided by a ranger or volunteer. Stone Street Historic District  In the Financial District of Manhattan, Stone Street has created a world of its own. This cobblestone street or the Stone Street is one of the oldest in New York and a simple stroll through it is an experience for the dark academia fans.  Further, Stone Street will take you back to 1658, when the residents of the area petitioned this street.  Museum At Eldridge Street https://www.instagram.com/p/DEN06khzba7/?img_index=1 Hours Open: Sunday - Friday: 10 AM – 5 PM, Saturday: Closed Entry Fee: Adults: $15, Students & Seniors: $10, Children 5 - 17: $8, ‘Pay What You Wish’ (Mondays and Fridays) Located in the historic Eldridge Street Synagogue, the Museum At Eldridge Street symbolizes the realization of immigrant dreams. The Eastern European Jewish immigrants built this synagogue in 1887, and it was the first grand synagogue (purpose-built) in the USA.  Today, the museum stands out with its architectural excellence and unique exhibits.  Morgan Library https://www.instagram.com/p/DDSHkw8o6um/?img_index=4 Hours Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10:30 Am to 5 PM, and Friday from 10:30 AM to 8 PM Entry Fee: Free for Children below 12, $13 for Students, $17 for Seniors, $25 for Adults The Morgan Library and Museum is a treasure trove of rare books, prints, manuscripts, and prints.  Located in Madison Avenue, the library and museum has an opulent setup with the collections of financier Pierpont Morgan. Ground Zero Museum Workshop https://www.instagram.com/p/CTwub4yLFU1/?img_index=1 Hours Open: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday: 12:30-2:30 PM, Sunday: 1-2:30 PM, Wednesday: 1:30-3:15 PM, Monday and Tuesday: Closed Entry Fee: Children (Ages 4-12) - $25.00, Adults (Ages 12+) - $32.00, Seniors (Ages 65+) - $25.00 Ground Zero Museum Workshop is the best place to find the most realistic account of the Ground Zero “Recovery Period.” You will find images, artifacts, and 100s of exhibits to take you through what happened at Ground Zero and how everyone recovered from that. Further, today, the Ground Zero Museum Workshop is one of the best places for dark tourism in the USA. Read Also: 12 Things That Everyone Should Try In Mexico 5 Backpacking Tips for an Unforgettable Euro-Trip

BY  Arnab Jun 30, 2023

Embarking on a luxurious yacht journey is an experience like no other, and behind the scenes, a dedicated crew works tirelessly to ensure guests have an unforgettable voyage. You're not alone if you've ever wondered how much these hardworking yacht crew members make. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the fascinating world of yacht crew salaries, exploring factors influencing their income, such as yacht size, experience, location, and various roles within the crew. From captains to deckhands, we'll uncover the earning potential in this alluring industry and shed light on additional compensation, like tips and bonuses. So, you may start to rent a yacht and set sail with us as we navigate the rewarding waters of yacht crew salaries. Yacht Staff Departments Their Roles and Salaries Luxury yachting is synonymous with opulence, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. However, behind the scenes, a dedicated team of yacht staff members works tirelessly to ensure that every aspect of the voyage runs smoothly. This article will explore the various departments on a yacht and each staff member's vital role in creating a seamless guest experience and their salaries. 1. Deck Department The deck department is responsible for maintaining the yacht's exterior, ensuring its safety, and assisting with navigation. Key roles within the deck department include: Captain The captain is in charge of the overall operation and safety of the yacht. They oversee the entire crew, manage the yacht's itinerary, and ensure compliance with maritime laws and regulations. Their salaries can range from $48,000 to $180,000 annually, depending on yacht size, experience, and location. Small yachts (up to 24 meters or 79 feet): $48,000 - $84,000 Medium yachts (24-50 meters or 79-164 feet): $72,000 - $120,000 Large yachts (over 50 meters or 164 feet): $96,000 - $180,000 First Officer The first officer, the chief mate or chief officer, assists the captain with navigation, safety procedures, and crew management. They are second-in-command and assume the captain's responsibilities in their absence. The size of the yacht is a significant determinant of the salary range for Chief Officers and First Mates. Small yachts: $3,100 - $6,500 per month Medium yachts: $5,000 - $9,800 per month Large yachts: $7,000 - $14,200 per month Deckhands Deckhands are responsible for the upkeep of the yacht's exterior, including cleaning, painting, and varnishing. They also handle docking procedures, assist with water sports activities, and help with tender operations. Their estimated salaries range from $24,000 to $48,000 annually. Small yachts: $24,000 - $30,000 Medium yachts: $30,000 - $42,000 Large yachts: $36,000 - $48,000 2. Engineering Department The engineering department ensures the smooth operation of all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems on board the yacht. Read this article if you are an engineer and are interested in becoming a yacht engineer. Key roles within the engineering department include: Chief Engineer and Assistant Engineer:  The chief engineer is responsible for maintaining and repairing the yacht's engines, generators, air conditioning systems, and other critical equipment. They also oversee fuel consumption and ensure the yacht complies with environmental regulations. Assistant engineers support the chief engineer by performing routine maintenance tasks and assisting with necessary repairs. The estimated salaries for engineers can range from $36,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on their role, yacht size, experience, and location. Small yachts: $36,000 - $60,000 (Assistant Engineer) Medium yachts: $48,000 - $84,000 (Assistant Engineer); $60,000 - $96,000 (Chief Engineer) Large yachts: $72,000 - $120,000 (Chief Engineer) 3. Interior Department The interior department is responsible for providing exceptional guest service and maintaining the cleanliness and presentation of the yacht's interior spaces. Key roles within the interior department include: Chief Steward/Stewardess:  The chief steward or stewardess leads the interior crew and ensures that guests receive top-notch service throughout their stay. They oversee housekeeping, laundry, and meal service, as well as manage inventory and provisioning. Stewards and stewardesses assist the chief steward/stewardess in providing exceptional guest service. Their duties include serving meals, cleaning guest cabins, and attending to guests' needs. Their estimated salaries can range from $37,000 to $84,000 annually. Small yachts: $37,000 - $48,000 Medium yachts: $42,000 - $60,000 Large yachts: $48,000 - $84,000 4. Galley Department The galley department is responsible for preparing delicious and visually appealing meals for guests and crew members. Key roles within the galley department include: Executive Chef/ Sous Chef The executive chef oversees menu planning, preparation, and ensuring that all meals meet guests' dietary requirements and preferences. They also manage the galley staff and maintain food safety standards. The sous chef assists the executive chef in preparing meals and managing the galley staff. The crew cook prepares meals for the yacht's crew members, ensuring they have nutritious and satisfying meals. Their estimated salaries can range from $36,000 to $96,000 annually. Small yachts: $36,000 - $60,000 Medium yachts: $48,000 - $72,000 Large yachts: $60,000 - $96,000 It's essential to note that these salary estimates are subject to change based on market fluctuations, individual performance, and other factors. Yacht crew members may also receive tips, bonuses, and other benefits that can significantly boost their overall income. Final Thoughts In conclusion, the estimated salaries of yacht crew members can be rewarding and vary based on factors such as experience, yacht size, and location. With the potential for additional compensation through tips and bonuses, a career in the luxury yachting industry can be financially lucrative while offering the opportunity to work in a unique and exciting environment. Read Also: Yachting In Dubai – A Memorable Experience 10 Reasons Why You Should Get A Yacht In 2022