Which Is The Best Time To Visit Sikkim? – Travel Guide

BY  Abdul Aziz Jun 24, 2024

If you are planning to fly out of an airport this travel season, you need to spend a little time thinking about how you will get there. Transportation to an airport can quickly get expensive, and perhaps you do not have a whole lot of extra cash at the moment, especially if you’ve spent a lot on tickets, hotel accommodations, etc. Finding a more reasonably priced option means you can save money that will likely come in handy at another point during your trip. Maybe you need to save cash for a Los Angeles van rental or for getting into museums and other attractions once you arrive at your destination. In these circumstances, keeping as much money in your pocket as possible when heading to the airport is often crucial. We will discuss seven modes of transportation that are worth your consideration in the following article. Most Cost-Effective Way to Reach the Airport Read this article till the end to know which is the most cost-effective ride to the airport. You Can Walk Is it possible to walk to an airport? Sometimes it is, but that would have to mean you would already have to be pretty close to it. The most practical time to walk to an airport is if you stayed at a hotel adjacent to it the previous night. Most other times, it is not possible or practical. Whenever you can manage it, though, you will presumably pay nothing. It really does not get much better than that if you are attempting to conserve your money. You will even get some exercise by walking, which is nice. If you can walk to the airport, make sure to watch out for traffic and only use roads with sidewalks. Using airport access roads or ones only intended for cars is dangerous. Saving money is great, but not if it comes at the possible price of being hit by a taxi or airport shuttle. You Can Consider Hiring an Uber or Lyft In the past decade, hiring an Uber or Lyft has become a piece of common knowledge in the urban scene. You can book a ride on these rental cars within seconds with the help of apps on your phone. If you are not a very tech-savvy person, you can still get the Lyft or Uber app, order a vehicle for yourself, and ride to the airport with someone else handling the driving duties. The real drawback with either Uber or Lyft is the expense. During surge hours pricing can become quite expensive in the case of these rental cars. At certain hours when the demand for these rental cars increases, Uber or Lyft increases their pricing as well. Hiring a rideshare vehicle off hours is almost always cheaper. You Can Hire a Taxi The option of hiring a taxi can be efficient and expensive. For example, if you book a cab from Midtown Manhattan to JFK it will easily cost you $50 or more. This cost varies based on the demand of the cab, city or state, and other circumstances affecting the booking prices. If you are in a smaller city with a less busy airport, getting a taxi may not break the bank. If you are considering this option but have a tight budget, it never hurts to go online and do a little research before you flag down the nearest taxi on the street. Take a Hotel Shuttle Hotel shuttles are usually free if you are staying at that hotel, so getting to the airport that way is certainly an attractive prospect. Hotel shuttles are usually clean and well-maintained. They are also generally air-conditioned, which is nice. You should have at least a couple of dollars to tip the driver if you go this route. $5 for a tip is usually the expected amount, but the driver will likely be happy if you give them anything, since not all travelers do. Get a Public Bus or Train Cities that have public buses and trains you can take to the airport are another one of the cheaper options in most instances. These choices can save money, but they often take much longer to get to the airport because they make many stops. If you decide to grab a train or bus, make sure to leave yourself plenty of time for this reason. Rent a Town Car You might also rent a town car if you have enough money. A town car offers a VIP feeling, meaning you get a ride to the airport in style. Then this experience comes at a high cost so you will try this only when you feel like treating yourself.  Again, if you can afford the cost of renting a town car then that is a great advantage. Your advantage is that you get to enjoy the ride alone without sharing it with anyone. It will also most likely be air-conditioned and comfortable. The only danger if you decide on this option is a chatty driver. If you do not mind making small talk, though, that might not be a significant source of concern for you.   Take an Airport Shuttle Many airports operate shuttles that will pick you up throughout the city. Generally, you can find the operating routes of these airport shuttles through the airport’s website and choose the shuttle accordingly.  On the other hand, a hotel shuttle is free, unlike an airport shuttle which can be expensive. Conclusion To recap, walking is usually your only free option. Taking public transportation can keep the price down while getting a hotel shuttle is generally free.  Other options can be expensive for you such as Lyft, Uber, or hiring a taxi or town car. Then again this expense comes with an advantage of not sharing the ride with anyone. If these options don’t work for you, then just ask a family member or a friend to drive to the airport if they are available. This is only an option in cities where you know someone, though. If someone you know is willing to give you a lift, you might be obliged to buy them breakfast or something along those lines as a way of saying thank you.   Know More: How To Stay Safe In New Orleans: A Traveler’s Guide Is San Francisco Safe? THIS Is What You Should Know! Is Savannah Safe? What You Need To Know Before Visiting!

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  Ankita Mar 29, 2024

New Orleans, a city where every cobblestone whisper stories of the past, is a treasure trove of romantic escapades for couples. Embarking on a romantic adventure in New Orleans offers couples an enchanting blend of activities that are as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. That brings us to the question: what are the best things to do in New Orleans for couples? If this is something that you have been searching for, then I have you covered! So, keep on reading this blog till the end to learn more... Top 20 Things to Do in New Orleans for Couples https://www.instagram.com/p/CtwanafMqEZ/?img_index=1 New Orleans, a city brimming with charm and history, is the perfect backdrop for romance. Whether you're strolling through the French Quarter or enjoying a jazz brunch, there's no shortage of things to do in New Orleans for couples. So, let's dive into the heart of the Big Easy and discover 20 romantic activities that will make your visit unforgettable. Here are the best things to do in New Orleans for couples: 1. Sunset Cruise on the Mississippi Imagine the warm hues of sunset reflecting off the waters of the Mississippi as you and your partner glide along on a riverboat. A sunset cruise offers not just breathtaking views but also a chance to step back in time, embracing the rhythm of the river that has been the lifeblood of New Orleans for centuries. It's an intimate setting where the hustle of the city fades into the background, leaving just the two of you amidst the beauty of nature's canvas. 2. French Quarter Carriage Ride https://www.instagram.com/p/CsZEuSJrzjx/ There's something undeniably romantic about the clip-clop of hooves on cobblestone streets. A carriage ride through the French Quarter allows couples to soak in the historic charm of the district. As you pass by iconic landmarks and hidden gems, the carriage's intimate space becomes a private haven, where whispers and laughter intermingle with the tales of the city narrated by your guide. 3. Jazz Nights Music is the soul of New Orleans, and jazz is its heartbeat. For couples, spending an evening in one of the city's legendary jazz clubs is a must-do. The intimate settings, combined with the live, soul-stirring performances, create an atmosphere where love can't help but flourish. It's more than just a musical experience; it's a journey through the sounds that have shaped the city's identity. 4. Garden District Tour Take a leisurely stroll through the Garden District, where the grandeur of old mansions tells stories of a bygone era. The area's lush gardens and stunning architecture offer a serene backdrop for couples to enjoy peaceful moments together.  It's a neighborhood where the city's pace slows down, allowing you to savor each step and each other's company. 5. Cooking Class for Two They say the way to the heart is through the stomach, and in New Orleans, this couldn't be truer. Engage in a hands-on cooking class where you and your loved one can learn the secrets of Creole and Cajun cuisine. It's a fun and interactive way to bond, as you both discover the flavors and techniques that make New Orleans' food so beloved. Plus, you'll take home more than just memories; you'll bring back recipes to recreate the magic in your own kitchen. 6. Art Lovers' Retreat For couples who share a love for art, New Orleans is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. The city's art scene is as diverse as its heritage, with galleries and museums showcasing everything from classical to contemporary pieces. Spend an afternoon at the New Orleans Museum of Art, or wander through the arts district on Julia Street, where you can discover local artists and perhaps find a piece to take home as a memento of your trip. 7. Picnic in City Park City Park offers an oasis of tranquility amidst the city's lively atmosphere. With its ancient oak trees and picturesque landscapes, it's the perfect spot for a romantic picnic.  Pack a basket with local delicacies, find a quiet spot by the water, and enjoy the simple pleasure of each other's company in the embrace of nature. 8. Haunted History Tour New Orleans' history is steeped in tales of the supernatural, and a haunted history tour is a thrilling way to experience this aspect of the city together. As you walk through the French Quarter, listen to stories of ghosts and spirits that are said to inhabit the historic buildings. It's a spine-tingling adventure that will surely bring you closer together. 9. Frenchmen Street Live Music Music is the heartbeat of New Orleans, and Frenchmen Street is where the pulse is strongest. Known for its vibrant nightlife and live music venues, it's the perfect place to immerse yourselves in the sounds of jazz, blues, and funk. Dance the night away in each other's arms and let the music fuel your romance. 10. Gourmet Dining https://www.instagram.com/p/CshCB1dsJMb/?img_index=1 New Orleans is a food lover's paradise, and sharing a meal here can be a sensual experience.  The city's culinary scene is a blend of Creole, Cajun, and French influences, resulting in flavors that are as rich and complex as love itself. Indulge in a gourmet dinner at one of the city's top restaurants, where the ambiance, service, and exquisite dishes will make for an unforgettable evening. 11. Stroll Through the Sculpture Garden Nestled within the lush surroundings of City Park, the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is a haven for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Couples can meander through the garden's winding paths, hand in hand, admiring the impressive collection of modern and contemporary sculptures. The serene environment provides a perfect backdrop for deep conversations or quiet reflection together.  12. Attend a Festival Together New Orleans' calendar is dotted with festivals celebrating everything from music and food to art and culture. Attending a festival with your significant other is not just about the event itself; it's about the shared experience of discovering new sounds, tastes, and traditions. Whether it's the legendary Jazz Fest or the vibrant Mardi Gras, each festival is an opportunity to create new memories and celebrate the joy of togetherness. 13. Visit a Plantation A short drive from the city will transport couples back in time to the antebellum South. The plantations near New Orleans, with their grandiose mansions and sweeping landscapes, offer a glimpse into a bygone era. A visit to these historic sites can be both educational and deeply moving, providing a space for couples to explore and learn about the region's past together. 14. Take a Ghost Tour For those seeking a thrill, New Orleans' ghost tours provide an eerie yet exciting adventure. The city's history is rife with tales of the supernatural, and exploring the haunted streets and buildings can be a fun way to bond over shared scares and laughs. It's an unconventional date night that's sure to bring couples closer as they navigate the mysteries of the paranormal. 15. Enjoy Beignets at Café du Monde No trip to New Orleans is complete without indulging in the sweet delight of beignets at the iconic Café du Monde. The experience of savoring these warm, powdered sugar-covered treats, alongside a cup of chicory coffee, is a simple yet profound pleasure. It's a moment to savor the sweetness of life and each other's company in one of the city's most beloved spots. 16. Revel in a Rooftop Bar Imagine sipping on a craft cocktail with your loved one as you gaze at the sprawling cityscape from a rooftop bar. The gentle breeze, the soft hum of the city below, and the panoramic views create an atmosphere of seclusion above the vibrant life of New Orleans. It's a place where moments are not just made but elevated. 17. Discover the Bywater Neighborhood The Bywater, a neighborhood that dances to its own rhythm, invites couples to explore its bohemian streets. With a kaleidoscope of colorful murals, local art, and quirky shops, it's a district that encourages couples to embrace the unconventional. Cozy cafes and intimate eateries dot the area, offering spaces for couples to converse and connect. 18. Visit the Aquarium of the Americas Step into the serene world of the Aquarium of the Americas, where the wonders of marine life unfold before your eyes. It's a place where couples can walk hand-in-hand, marveling at the beauty of the underwater realm. The aquarium offers a tranquil escape from the city's hustle, allowing love to bloom amidst the tranquility of the sea. 19. Take a Bike Tour For the adventurous duo, a bike tour through New Orleans is a delightful way to discover the city. Pedal through historic neighborhoods, along the riverfront, or through lush parks. It's an active and eco-friendly way to explore, share laughs, and create memories that will last a lifetime. 20. End the Night with Live Theater Conclude your day with the drama and passion of live theater. New Orleans' performing arts scene is as vibrant as its streets, with performances that range from the classical to the avant-garde. It's an experience that stirs the emotions and sparks conversation, the perfect end to a day spent in the heart of the Big Easy. When is the Best Time to Visit New Orleans for Couples? Whether you're looking for a festive atmosphere, a quiet getaway, or a budget-friendly trip, New Orleans has something to offer every couple. With its mix of culture, history, and romance, any time can be the best time to visit this memorable city. However, there are certain times that you might prefer as a couple. I have you covered for things like that. Take a look at this: Festive Season: February to May The period from February to May is ideal for couples who want to experience New Orleans' famous festivities, such as Mardi Gras. The city is vibrant with parades, music, and cultural events, offering a lively and unforgettable experience. Quiet Exploration: Late Fall and Winter I recommend the late fall or winter months for a more relaxed visit. December and January offer cooler temperatures and a calmer atmosphere, perfect for couples who want to enjoy the city's charm at a leisurely pace. Budget-Friendly Summer: July to September The summer months of July, August, and September are best for budget-conscious travelers. Despite the heat and humidity, hotel rates are lower, and there are fewer tourists, making the city's attractions more affordable and accessible. So, When Should You Visit New Orleans? No matter when you decide to visit, New Orleans has a unique charm that caters to all tastes. Whether it's historic architecture, live jazz music, world-renowned cuisine, or the picturesque Mississippi River, the city offers countless opportunities for romance and adventure. Just remember to stay hydrated and take it slow during the hotter months, and if you're visiting Mardi Gras, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance due to the high demand. In summary, the best time for couples to visit New Orleans is during the spring for the full festive experience, or during the late fall and winter for a quieter, more intimate trip. Summer can be a great option for those looking to save money and avoid crowds. Regardless of where you go, the city's eclectic mix of culture, history, and romance will surely make your trip memorable. So, pack your bags, grab your partner, and head to the Big Easy for an experience you'll both cherish forever. Wrapping It Up! In case you were searching for the best things to do in New Orleans as a couple, I hope that this blog has been of help to you. These activities that I have mentioned in this blog offer a blend of excitement, tranquility, and culture, ensuring that every couple can find their perfect romantic moment in New Orleans. Whether it's the thrill of discovery, the joy of shared experiences, or the intimacy of a shared journey, the city's diverse offerings cater to all facets of love. If there are any other queries related to the same, please feel free to let me know! All you need to do is scroll down till you reach the bottom of the page. Then, leave your suggestions and doubts in the box below. And I will be there to answer them all for you! So, take your partner's hand and let New Orleans lead you on an unforgettable romance adventure. Read Also: 20 Things To Do In San Francisco This Weekend! Art, Architecture, And Azaleas: 24 Things To Do In Savannah A Guide To Adventure And Nature: The Best Things To Do In Moab Utah For Outdoor Enthusiasts