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BY  Sibashree Sep 12, 2024

I stood before the remnants of the South Pueblo walls, looking over the Mission Church on an autumn day last year. Looking at the archaeological site and standing below the blue fall sky, I was transported to the time of the American Revolution.  Further, I could hear the noise of a bustling trade fair with people from the Pecos Pueblo community doing business. However, the historical importance of the park is much beyond its association with the American Revolution. It is also related to the Civil War in New Mexico and the Independence of Mexico.  So, with centuries of human history etched in every corner, the Pecos National Historical Park is an intersection of past tales and nature. To be honest, The Pecos Pueblo and Santa Fe Trail were the biggest highlights for me when I was at the national park.  Therefore, my ode to the park will start with brief accounts of these places. Then, I will talk about the Glorieta Pass, again a site of historical importance in the park. Finally, you will have a quick look at the park's wildlife.  Pecos National Historical Park: A Land Of Historic Wars And Revolutions  The history of human lives in the Pecos National Historical Park goes back to the Preceramic Period or the 11,500 B.C.E. - 600 C.E. However, the Pecos Pueblo site in the park became a prominent place in the history of the American Revolution in the Early Colonial and Pre-Revolt era.  Spanish people started interacting with the Pueblo people. Further, thanks to the Franciscan Missions, the Spanish rule wanted to have command over the economic life and beliefs of the Pueblo people.  Thus, the first seeds of the American Revolution were sown. To combat the oppression of the Spanish people, the Pueblo Revolt took place on 10th August 1680. As a result, the Spanish Government and Franciscan Friars were expelled from the southwest under the leadership of  Po’pay from Ohkay Owengeh. The Spanish Mission Church, built in 1625, was also destroyed in the revolt of 1680.  However, in 1692, the Spanish People further reclaimed the Pecos Pueblo and many other pueblos. Finally, the Pueblo people declined in numbers in 1700. Before, during, and after the first American Revolution, The Pecos Pueblo emerged as an important location with significant events around it!  Further, around 200 years later (1821-1846 C.E.), another site in the park, the  Santa Fe Trail, witnessed travelers, settlers, and everyone else passing through it. The trail was opened in 1821 after Mexico gained its independence from Spain.  The remains of Pecos Pueblo stood there! By the 1830s, the migration of the Pubelo people was complete, and everyone had shifted to the Pueblo of Jemez and continued their traditions.  Moreover, in 1862, there was the “Battle of Glorieta Pass.” On 26th March 1862, this battle between the Union forces and Confederates occurred at a 700 feet elevation.  The Pecos Pueblo Site Today  https://www.instagram.com/p/Cto5MWnS5Oa/ The rise of the Pecos Pueblo site occurred between 1350 C.E. and 1838 C.E. The Pueblo site had two units, the north and south, and could accommodate around 2000 people. Further, it had 1000 rooms. Therefore, Pecos Pueblo thrived as a busy trading center with trade fairs involving people from Rio Grande Pueblos, Plains Nations, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Pacific Coast. The flint arrowheads and shells found here explain the expansive stretch of the route.  Nevertheless, with time, Pecos Pueblo became instrumental in eliminating Spanish oppression and rule. Still, a drop in the trade, Comanche attacks, and diseases deserted Pecos Pueblo. By 1838 C.E., the last resident of the Pueblo had left and joined the Pueblo of Jemez.  Today, the site stands as a relic from the past. However, it is still equally important for archaeologists and historians.  The Santa Fe Trail  Do you know what the Santa Fe Trail marker near Kozlowski's Trading Post says? It says,  Santa Fe Trail 1822-1879 Marked by the daughters of the American Revolution and the Territory of Nex Mexico.  With the independence of New Mexico and the western territories becoming an annexure to New Mexico, the Santa Fe Trail became the route or passage to the westward movement. Naturalists, journalists, travelers, aspirants, traders, and others took this passage as part of the American expansion. Colonel Henry Inman’s “Stories of the Old Santa Fe Trail,” published in 1881, describes the trail well. If you are a history buff, you must read this book well before visiting the Santa Fe Trail today!  “Kozlowski’s Stage Stop and Trading Post” is the highlight of this trail. You can spend some time here to visualize travelers from the past catching some rest after a long journey through the trail. When on the trail, you can explore the remains of the Pueblo and the Mission Church. You can even consider taking a guided tour of the Forked Lightning Ranch.  Glorieta Pass Battlefield Trail  https://www.instagram.com/p/B9xRKctnb3M/ Important Details About the Glorieta Pass Battle1. Reason for Conflict: Union forces and Confederates wanted to control the Glorieta Pass Route through the Sangre de Cristo mountains and the main supply center (Fort Union) for the passage of soldiers and supplies. 2. Contenders: The Confederates, with volunteers from Texas and under the leadership of General Shipley and the Union forces led by Colonel Canby, and soldiers from Fort Union, New Mexico, and Colorado. 3. Battle Begins: March 26, 18624. Reinforcements: 27th March, 18625. Battle Resumes: 28th March, 18626. Battle Ends: 29th March, 18627. Casualty: Death of 375 People 8. Consequence: The Union forces defeat the Confederates as they fail to ruin the Fort Union. Further, the Union forces maintain complete control over Southwest America.  The Glorieta Battlefield Trail is a popular hiking destination today in Pecos National Historical Park. It is a roundtrip loop, and you will have to cover a distance of 2.25 miles to complete your expedition. Further, the unpaved or graveled hiking route makes it moderately difficult for the hikers. In addition, there is an elevation gain of 152 meters.  You have to drive for around 7.5 miles from the main visitor center of the park. You will need to collect a gate code from the visitor center, which is your access code, to open the locked gate in front of the trail.  As you walk through the forest trail, you get to know more about the Civil War in New Mexico. Many infographics are installed throughout the trail, telling you tales from the past. In addition, there are wayside signs and 14 trail markers to explain the history of the battle on this pass in detail.  More About Hiking The Glorieta Pass Battlefield Trail  Time: Around 1 hour Refreshments (Hikers’ Favorites): Pecos Burger at El Maria Bonita (With a lot of meat and a smoky green chilly flavor!) and Chips and Salsa, of course! The Trail Guide you collect from the visitor center already keeps you hooked on the site's history. Indeed, this trail is less about hiking and more about flipping through the pages of the American Civil War in Mexico.  Let’s Hear It From Other Visitors To The Park  “Really nice park. Easy to find and it is free! Inside the visitor center, they had a really great exhibit that followed the pecos overtime. It was super informative and brought a lot more meaning to the actual park. After looking around the exhibit, you can take the trail up and around the park and church. It's amazing that the walls are still there. The view around the park is also beautiful. We spent about 2 hours here.” - Isabelle M. “I really enjoyed this park. My husband didn't care for it but I think it's really amazing what is still here. He thinks it's all recreation and I can't say if it is or not but I know the current Pecos people don't see it that way. It's pretty awesome that it's free to visit and the visitors center has a little museum that's also free! The trail starts near the restrooms. We accidentally started it from the end. But who cares. We saw everything and I recommend checking it out. Native people history is really cool.” - Lydia G. Exploring Wildlife At The Pecos National Historical Park https://www.instagram.com/p/CA-hAl8nrUW/ This historical national park is a hub of wildlife with a 6,500-acre expansion of forests, rivers, grasslands, and streams. The table below enlists the species that call the Pecos National Historical Park their home.  MammalsElk of Northern New MexicoColorado Chipmunk DeerRock SquirrelBirds*Steller’s JayMountain BluebirdBald EagleFish and AmphibiansRio Grande ChubLongnose DaceRainbow TroutBrown TroutNew Mexico Spadefoot ToadWoodhouse ToadTiger SalamanderPlains Leopard FrogReptilesShort-horned LizardNew Mexico Whiptail LizardBull SnakesGarter SnakesPrairie Rattlesnakes You will find the Prairie rattlesnakes along the trails. So, please exercise caution and inform the ranger if you come across one on your way.  A Quick Glance At Some Important Information About Pecos National Historical Park You must quickly look at the important information available about Pecos National Historical Park before you set in. Location: San Miguel County, New Mexico Established: 28th June, 1965 Area: 27 km² Highest Landscape: Truchas Peak, 3990 Meter Visitor Center: Pecos National Historical Park Visitor Center How to Reach: Via State Road 63  Entry Fee: Free Best Time to Visit: Autumn (Early September to Mid October) Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego. Kootenay National Park Or The Land Of Ice And Fire (Experiencing Nature’s Game Of Contrasts)

BY  Sibashree Dec 27, 2023

Dallas has a long history as Texas's commercial center. But there is a place to stay for every kind of visitor. The best hotels in Dallas! It includes parents with young children, art enthusiasts, and even those of us who are spa junkies. With so many excellent hotels in the city, your stay will feel like a more opulent version of home. This holds true whether you prefer dramatic design or comforting classics. Below are the best hotels in Dallas, from Uptown to Downtown, Las Colinas, the Design District, and everywhere in between. Downtown is filled with skyscrapers, the Dallas Zoo, the Museum of Art, and botanical gardens. Dallas is passionate about its historical landmarks, sports teams, the Cowboys and Mavericks, and the breathtaking views from Reunion Tower. These are a few of Dallas's most upscale hotels, which will add extra opulence to your Texas vacation. What Are The Best Hotels In Dallas? Whether it's for a business trip or one of the many things the city has to offer, Dallas is one of the most visited cities in the Lone Star State. Here are the best hotels in Dallas for your lounging pleasure. Ritz-Carlton This Texas franchise of a well-known luxury hotel brand is situated in downtown Dallas, approximately 20 minutes from DFW Airport. Among Dallas's best hotels, The Ritz-Carlton features an outdoor pool, on-site spa, and private lounge. With a sauna and a steam room, its fitness center is open 24/7. When you're ready to relax in your own space, your guest room offers a large haven with tasteful furnishings and a marble bathroom. The Privacy Wing spans 5,500 square feet, with five bathrooms featuring soaking tubs and enough space for 16 adults. It is the most lavish guest room in the five-star hotel. The on-site Fearing's Restaurant offers American fare with a southwestern flair and has a cozy atmosphere. The Highland Dallas, Curio Collection By Hilton Situated near Mockingbird Station and across the highway from Southern Methodist University, the hotel enjoys a prime location just outside of the Park Cities. This makes it a popular choice for both university parents and business travelers. Its pet- and family-friendly policies make it a great option for a wide range of travelers. It also checks all the boxes at a much more reasonable price than many downtown options. Knife, the hotel's in-house restaurant, is among Dallas's best steakhouses because of chef John Tesar's skill with dry-aged meats. The Joule One of the best hotels in downtown Dallas is the Joule on Main Street. You're close to the aquarium, museums, Reunion Tower, Dallas Convention Center, and all the excitement the city has to offer. The boutique hotel features peaceful guest rooms with minibars, premium linens, rain showers, free WiFi, and flat-screen TVs. It is tastefully and artistically decorated. A room, suite, or penthouse with 2,500 square feet of elegant space spread over three floors is your option. The contemporary penthouse features a roomy wet bar and a glass staircase that opens to your private patio. The Joule offers a wide range of dining options, including underground cocktail bars, lobby and pool bars, and local Texan and Italian cuisine. When you're ready for activities, the opulent hotel offers a fitness center with Pelotons, a rooftop pool with cabanas, and an on-site spa. The Adolphus Hotel, Autograph Collection In 2018, after several years of refinement (and a multi-million dollar investment), the first luxury hotel in downtown Dallas made a spectacular return. Although Adolphus's recent renovation preserved its historical charm, the improved amenities have us hooked. It's another of the best hotels in Dallas, and it'll have you feeling like a million bucks. The 30-minute express massage at Spa Adolphus prior to swimming makes the hotel's rooftop pool incredibly soothing. The lobby features a coffee shop, a glamorous gift shop, and a barbershop. The French Room, with its exquisite dining area, amazing food, and flawless presentation, is the true gem. Virgin Hotels Dallas Thanks to Richard Branson's audacious brand of opulent stays, a hotel with a soul located in the Dallas Design District opened its doors in December 2019. Hotel enthusiasts are captivated by many of its distinctive features. Sliding doors separate each suite into two rooms, and small touches like yoga mats add extra charm. Signature red sofas and street-level prices for minibar snacks and sodas add to the experience. Although the pool is undoubtedly elegant, the Commons Club appears to be the property's main feature. Dallas offers a member-only vibe with an open public policy. This ensures everyone enjoys a mouthwatering meal and a stunning drink. Hotel ZaZa Dallas Uptown Hotel ZaZa Dallas Uptown is conveniently located near the American Airlines Center. It is just a short stroll from the Arts District and less than five minutes away from NBA games. The upscale boutique hotel has a stylish on-site restaurant and a bustling nightlife. The Hotel ZaZa features a rooftop bar by the pool, along with well-kept landscaping, soothing fountains, and cozy lounge chairs. Couples massages are among the treatments provided by the on-site Zaspa. Visitors can also unwind in the fitness center or at the outdoor pool. At Hotel ZaZa Dallas Uptown, each guest room has a unique theme with elegant furnishings. The opulent hotel rooms come equipped with minibars, plush bedding, whirlpool tubs, and fine linens. Hotel Crescent Court Another one of the best hotels in Dallas is the Hotel Crescent Court. With easy access to downtown Dallas, the Design District, and the DFW airport, Hotel Crescent Court is located uptown. The Dallas Arts District and a range of eateries and retail establishments are all within walking distance of the opulent hotel. The guest rooms are the pinnacle of luxurious living. It has spacious, artistically designed interiors, flat-screen TVs, and charming balconies accessible through sliding glass doors. The larger suites have multiple floors, glass fireplaces, spiral staircases, marble bathrooms, and floor-to-ceiling windows. It has views of the downtown Dallas skyline and garden. The rooftop pool with a gentle waterfall, fitness center, and large spa are all just steps from your guest room. In addition to several dining options, such as the well-known Japanese restaurant Nobu, a sunny casual restaurant, and a Starbucks, Hotel Crescent Court features an on-site social club. Wrapping Up These were some of the best hotels in Dallas. First-rate service and fantastic entertainment make luxury Dallas hotels more than just a place to sleep. There are thirty-six luxury lodging options in Dallas to pick from, each offering stunning rooms along with contemporary amenities. Travelers enjoy Dallas's theater scene. You could reserve a hotel room near popular attractions like Six Flags Over Texas and American Airlines Center. You can also find a luxurious suite in a quieter area for some downtime. Hotels.com offers an amazing range of exceptional getaway options. You can choose hotels just outside Dallas or a luxurious hotel right in the middle of the city. For travelers who want to enjoy hotel amenities without booking an overnight stay, ResortPass offers day passes at select Dallas hotels and resorts. Read Also: Sin City Stays: Here Are The Best Hotels In Vegas! Eternal Elegance: A Guide To The Best Hotels In Rome Here Are The 25+ Best Hotels In Mexico City That You Must Visit!

BY  Abdul Aziz May 19, 2023

For avid travelers and investors, the Korean currency rate can be a fascinating topic of discussion. Understanding the fluctuations of the won against other currencies can give insights into its economy. Likewise, it could say much about Korea's political developments and investors' sentiment in the market. This article will explore everything about the Korean currency rate. As such, we will cover the basic conversion rates to the impact of major events on the Korean economy. History Of Korean Currency South Korean currency has rich historical data that dates back to the early dynasties of Korea. It all started with the use of cowry shells and pearls as currency. As time passed, metal coins and paper money became popular. The Japanese occupation of Korea introduced the Japanese yen as the official currency. Yet, in 1945, the Korean won was introduced and became the official currency. Interestingly, the won was initially divided into 100 jeon, but the jeon was eliminated in 1960. The won has undergone many transformations to ensure price stability and economic growth. In modern times, the South Korean won is the official currency used in South Korea. Today, the value of the South Korean won fluctuates with the global exchange rates. It’s one of the world’s top 20 currencies by value. Current South Korean Won Exchange Rate Knowing the latest exchange rate for the Korean won can be helpful in budgeting and forecasting your finances. As of January 2023, the exchange rate for Korean won is fluctuating depending on the global market and demand. Below are some of the latest conversion rates: 1 US dollar = 1,315.29 Korean won (USD to KRW) 1 Australian dollar = 893.35 Korean won (AUD to KRW) 1 Chinese yuan = 192.07 Korean won (CNY to KRW) 1 Japanese yen = 9.90 Korean won (JPY to KRW) However, exchange rates may vary depending on banks' locations and policies. Check exchange rates online through various currency converter websites to ease the currency conversion. Alternatively, download an exchange rate or currency calculator app. With these tools, you can convert your dollars to South Korean won (USD - KRW) or any other currency at the current rate. Banknotes And Coins Banknotes and coins in South Korea are not only used for daily transactions. Yet, they also hold significant cultural value. As such, these banknotes come in different denominations and colors. For instance, the 1,000-won note features a Confucian scholar. Then, the 10,000 won note features Admiral Yi Sun-sin, known for his naval victories against Japan. Meanwhile, the 50,000 won note features Shin Saimdang, a prominent female artist. Besides that, she was the mother of the famous Korean painter Yi I. These banknotes represent important historical figures and showcase various artistic designs. Similarly, Korean coins are equally fascinating, with 10, 50, 100, and 500 won denominations. Each coin features a different symbol that holds cultural significance. The 500-won coin features the portrait of King Sejong, who invented the Korean alphabet. Meanwhile, the 100-won coin features the image of a crane, symbolizing longevity and good fortune in Korean culture. When visiting South Korea, carry some local currency as most stores prefer cash transactions. Foreign exchange markets are available in major cities, but it is crucial to know exchange fees as they vary. Overall, banknotes and coins in South Korea hold monetary value and capture the country's cultural heritage. Visit the Bank of Korea to learn more about their banknotes and coins. Money-Handling And Etiquette As with any country, knowing the cultural norms when handling money in South Korea is good. As such, for Koreans, money is not just a means but a representation of energy. Below are some key points to note: Cleanliness is crucial. Many Koreans believe money represents energy and keep their bills and coins as clean as possible. Hence, you will rarely see crumpled or dirty bills in circulation. Besides that, many Koreans carry cash and coins in wallets and change purses. For them, it is not just a convenient way to have cash but a way to keep it clean and maintain the money's energy. Respectful giving and receiving. When giving or receiving money, using both hands for respect is customary. This act is particularly true when exchanging money with older people or of a higher status than you. No throwing or placing on the floor. Throwing money or putting it on the floor is considered disrespectful. If you drop a coin or bill, pick it up immediately. Likewise, people usually place money on a designated tray or hand it directly to the receiver. Cash vs. Card. Credit cards are widely accepted in Korea. Yet, having some Korean won for small transactions or in areas that only accept cash is always good. Keep this Korean currency rate information. Doing so will allow you to navigate financial transactions in South Korea with ease and respect for the country's cultural norms. Read Also: Traveling To Korea? Here’s Your Must-Try Korean Food 7 Reasons Why Phuket, Thailand Attracts Travelers Worldwide Top Hotels With Jacuzzi In Room In Las Vegas – Travel Guide