How to Plan Your Trip to New Orleans: The Best Time to Go for Your Budget and Interests

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  Ankita Nov 24, 2023

Understanding the industry's complexities can seem overwhelming in the dynamic realm of travel. Yet, with the appropriate resources like an efficient travel agent website, you can transform this intimidating task into an exhilarating adventure. A travel agent website is not merely a portal for arranging journeys; it is an all-encompassing tool that can steer your professional path in the travel sector. It offers exclusive access to deals, avenues for professional growth, and a supportive community, among other benefits. Let's explore what elements to consider when considering joining a travel agency and the significant role a top-tier company like Boardwalk Travel Agency plays in this decision. Exclusive Access To Deals As an aspiring travel agent, the initial aspect to consider in a travel agency is the provision of exclusive deals via their online platform. In the current era of digitalization, a travel agent website that presents exclusive offers leads the race in the fiercely competitive travel sector. These unique deals enable you to deliver exceptional service and distinctive packages that distinguish you from other industry players. Moreover, these exclusive deals offer a competitive advantage, guaranteeing your clients always receive the most excellent value for their investment. Commission Earnings Earning potential is a significant factor in any job search, and the travel industry is no different. When assessing a potential agency, consider how they structure their commission earnings. A well-structured travel agent website will clearly outline the commission structure, enabling you to understand your potential earnings. This transparency is vital as it builds trust between you and the agency, ensuring you are adequately rewarded for your hard work and dedication. Professional Development Opportunities In the ever-evolving travel industry, professional development opportunities are a must. A forward-thinking travel agency will offer resources through its website to help you grow in your role. These resources could include webinars, online courses, or articles on the latest travel trends. Learning is a continuous process, and the ability to adapt to new trends and changes is crucial in maintaining your relevance in the industry. A travel agent website that prioritizes professional development shows commitment to its agents' growth and success. Support Network Working in the travel industry can sometimes feel overwhelming, given the many details that go into planning the perfect trip. Therefore, a supportive network is an invaluable resource for any travel agent. Some agencies offer community features on their website where agents can share experiences, advice, and insights. This collaborative environment fosters a sense of camaraderie, providing practical support when you need it most. Reputation The reputation of a travel agency can significantly impact your career trajectory. A reputable travel agent website will feature positive client testimonials and high ratings. These testimonials assure both you and your potential clients that the agency is trustworthy and consistently delivers on its promises. When choosing an agency, look for one whose reputation precedes it. Training Training is another critical aspect to consider when choosing a travel agency. The world of travel is complex, and having the right skills and knowledge is vital to navigating it successfully. A robust travel agent website will offer comprehensive training resources to equip you with the necessary skills. These could range from making bookings, understanding travel insurance, and dealing with unforeseen circumstances. An agency that invests in training its agents will likely be committed to providing excellent service to its clients. Resources In today's digital age, having the right resources can give you an edge over your competitors. An agency that provides marketing materials through its website is committed to its agents' success. These resources can help you attract and retain clients, ultimately growing your business. Flexibility Lastly, consider the flexibility that the agency offers. In a world where remote work is becoming increasingly popular, a good travel agent website will have features enabling you to work from anywhere, anytime. This flexibility lets you maintain a healthy work-life balance while serving your clients effectively. Harnessing The Power Of A Travel Agent Website: Concluding Thoughts In conclusion, when looking for a job at a travel agency, consider these factors: exclusive access to deals, commission earnings, professional development opportunities, a supportive network, reputation, training, resources, and flexibility. By paying attention to these elements, you'll be well-positioned to find an agency that aligns with your career goals and meets your personal needs. Remember, a well-structured travel agent website benefits not only the clients but also the travel agents who use it daily to provide exceptional service. We hope this information has been helpful, and thanks so much for reading. Read Also: Brighton Bliss: Crafting Your Perfect Coastal Getaway Itinerary Hidden Gems: Unearthing The Best Things To Do In Nottingham Things To Do In Leeds: Dive Into The Dynamic Heart Of Yorkshire

BY  Ankita Nov 29, 2023

Nestled amid stunning Appalachian Mountain landscapes, Pigeon Forge provides endless options for adrenaline-filled outdoor recreation beyond notable music venues and dinner shows. From outdoor snow tubing to towering ziplines, this destination proves ideal for thrill-seekers craving gorgeous panoramic settings across adventures. Here Are Seven Best Outdoor Adventures In Pigeon Forge You Can't Miss The area offers outdoor activities for all interests, skill levels, and ages beyond regional tourist draws. This comprehensive guide showcases seven exciting outdoor pursuits enticing any visitor to deeply experience Pigeon Forge’s admirable natural splendor legacy from new awe-inspiring angles. 1. Pigeon Forge Snow: Year-Round Indoor Snow Tubing In the heart of Pigeon Forge lies a unique attraction that promises year-round winter fun: Pigeon Forge Snow. This one-of-a-kind facility brings the excitement of snow tubing indoors, allowing visitors to enjoy the thrill of sliding down snowy slopes regardless of the season. The magic of this place is in its ability to maintain a winter wonderland atmosphere all year, offering an excellent escape from the summer heat or a winter adventure without the chill. What sets Pigeon Forge Snow apart is its climate-controlled environment and suitability for all ages, making it an ideal destination for family outings or even a snow tubing birthday party. Imagine celebrating a special day whizzing down snow-covered lanes, followed by laughter-filled snowball fights, without worrying about weather conditions. This venue merges the joy of snow sports with the convenience of an indoor setting, ensuring every visit is filled with memorable and exhilarating experiences. 2. Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains The crowned jewel of Pigeon Forge’s wealth of outdoor adventure options is undoubtedly the magnificent Great Smoky Mountains National Park, covering over 500,000 protected acres filled with rugged Appalachian Mountain landscapes and terrain. Choose from over 800 miles of diverse scenic trails spanning tranquil lush rainforests, panoramic mountain peaks, and breathtaking roaring waterfalls perfect for hikers of every age and skill level. Both casual travelers and avid peak baggers find plenty of hiking adventure in the park. Classic routes like the Laurel Falls Trail, Abrams Falls, and a walk to historic Cades Cove showcase stunning nature payoffs available after just a few miles. Meanwhile, fitness die-hards can challenge stamina by hiking 16 long miles roundtrip to summit impressive Mount LeConte's towering 6,593 feet. Wandering through this environmentally rich biodiverse wonderland area never disappoints in terms of sweeping views. From plentiful wildlife sightings across fields to stumbling upon hidden wildflower meadows, the diversity continues impressing visitors for decades and decades to come through well-maintained trails. 3. Ziplining Adventures For high-flying thrills, experience Pigeon Forge's gorgeous vistas alongside steep vertical descents across the thick verdant tree canopies with area ziplining adventures. Strap securely into climbing harnesses and helmets to safely soar down elevated steel lines, allowing you to masterfully navigate multiple adrenaline-pumping ziplines showcasing glorious Smoky Mountain forest, river, and ravine landscapes 2,000 feet up through breathtaking unobstructed panoramic angles. Between ziplines, elevated sky bridges transport you effortlessly between courses across jaw-dropping scenic platforms surrounded by mountainous valleys as expert guides share fascinating details about the ecology and terrain. The result feels daring yet comfortably smooth under the assurance of trained climbing professionals dedicated fully to maximizing your rich environmental views and exhilarating emotive sensations sliding with regulated speeds. 4. White Water Rafting on the Pigeon River For those bold, adventurous souls still seeking extra extreme outdoor thrills during their Pigeon Forge getaway, consider facing 12 miles of rowdy swelling Class III and Class IV rapids by signing up to tackle rafting daily expeditions along the winding Pigeon River! Groups of 6 to 12 participants paddle inflatable rafts as teams work together across the gorgeous river terrain, bobbing and weaving between spectacular boulder outlooks and stunning Blue Ridge Mountain backdrops. This water activity lets you dive right into the action, witnessing East Tennessee's natural majestic mountain waters from engaging new low-altitude angles. While providing a thrilling ride, reputable rafting tour companies like Raft One employ only the most experienced, fun-loving guides to man the paddling commands and expertly steer rafts straight through the most challenging rapids and tight passages along the cliffs safely with their knowledge of the river. 5. Horseback Riding For travelers desiring more gentle and intimate interaction experiencing Pigeon Forge’s exquisite wilderness independently, saddle up for a delightful afternoon escaping into the forests and countryside by horseback. Various local outfitters offer visitors guided horseback riding exploration trips winding at calming paces through sun-dappled alpine forests, verdant meadows, and the sprawling foothills of the glorious Smoky Mountains to feel completely transported, experiencing iconic Appalachian nature at smooth equestrian speeds. From beginner-friendly wilderness rides in secluded oak woodlands like those gently offered by Blanton Forest Horseback Rides to hour-long weekend Smoky Mountain guided tours better suited for intermediate-level riders and equestrians, Pigeon Forge stables like Five Oaks Ranch provide quintessential smoky mountain vacations centered on 40+ years respectfully showcasing the region's spectacular environmental legacy and local horsemanship at its finest. Related: Exploring Pigeon Forge As A Weekend Getaway 6. Mountain Coaster Rides A uniquely exhilarating alternative to traditional rollercoasters, round up your family or circle of friends visiting Pigeon Forge to experience tackling the staggering 4,000-foot precipitous near vertical elevation drop racing straight down alongside rocky scarps and beautiful streams aboard the impossibly fun mountain monster thrill coaster located directly within town limits. Riders feel intensified coaster forces directly by manually “driving” individual coaster cars completely independently, personally controlling faster acceleration speeds or braking cautiously through each sharp turn's plunging dips, numerous 360° corkscrews, and countless free-falling camelback moments all dictated by your selected adrenaline-chasing comfort across 3,500 cumulative thrilling feet of gravity-driven monorail track hovering through the dense forest. Mountain coasters like this bring many nonstop grins across most age groups and orientations. 7. Dollywood Lastly, no extensive guide of quintessential iconic attractions found within Pigeon Forge itself feels entirely complete without discussing the enormously popular thrilling theme park Dollywood located just minutes from downtown. People travel incredibly far distances just to experience their award-winning outdoor rides like Tennessee Tornado, Mystery Mine, and Dragonflies rollercoasters, deliberately designed masterfully to whip riders daringly through the authentic towering Smokies themselves! With additional shows, art demonstrations and concerts continually happening routinely across the park, even long waits next to various roller coasters continue rousing fun and local connections. Neighboring water park Dollywood’s Splash Country provides necessary summer heat relief while continuing friendly Appalachian-themed thrills through numerous towering slippery slides slicing through refreshing waterfalls. Combined, both flagship Dollywood parks offer families and outdoor thrill-seekers nearly endless amounts of entertainment possibilities fully immersed just steps away from the gorgeous natural forests and wilderness that have characterized the signature Smoky Mountain region since the frontier days. It's no wonder crowds return happy year after year! Conclusion In conclusion, Pigeon Forge and the surrounding vista-rich Appalachian Mountain landscapes deliver unlimited options supporting active thrill-seeking and challenging outdoor recreation rivaling any major global destination. From tranquil wildflower-lined hiking trails to daring whitewater rafting expeditions navigating Class 4 rapids, this eastern Tennessee vacation hub offers exhilarating excursions featuring renowned southern hospitality. Ultimately, balancing these physically demanding adventures with equal amounts of relaxing downtime, enjoying stellar comfort foods, regional arts and crafts demonstrations, plus live music performances, all reflecting local cultures and traditions. Pigeon Forge continues growing into the ideal quintessential family outdoor vacation destination that visitors return to faithfully enjoy year after year as annual traditions, always finding new hidden gems and welcoming surprises along the way. Start planning your own Smoky Mountain adventures exploring untamed wilderness now while basking in expedient modern conveniences! Read Also: Your Guide To The Perfect Pigeon Forge Vacation 6 Tips For Experiencing The Best Of Pigeon Forge 4 Tips To Enjoy A Comfortable Stay In Pigeon Forge