Stephen Gleave on the Best Waterfalls and Trails in Ancaster

BY  Abdul Aziz Aug 12, 2021

Ready to load the car and hit the road? Whether you’re heading off to college or taking a trip with the kids, it takes some planning. So before you get behind the wheel, make a checklist of everything you need. And while you’re at it, discover a few hacks along the way. Here are 14 hacks to make your road trip go smoothly.  14 Hacks To Organize A Smooth Road Trip A road trip is the best trip in your entire life. If you do not plan out a smooth road trip, the full enjoyment will be destroyed. For planning out a smooth road trip, you will need good robust route planning along with the essential emergency medical supplies. Here are 14 hacks to organize a smooth road trip. #1. Pack Your Cooler With Dry Ice Pack a cooler with refreshments for your road trip and make sure they stay ice cold for days — with dry ice! While it seems intimidating at first, dry ice is relatively easy to use once you understand how to handle it safely.  Plus, it will keep your food and drinks as cold as possible. Learn how to use dry ice in a cooler and discover hard coolers rugged and durable enough to transport to a campsite or be rolled to the beach.  #2. Bring An Emergency Kit Carry an emergency kit that includes necessary items such as a battery charger, a first aid kit, extra drinking water, and jumper cables. Another versatile piece of emergency equipment is a flashlight, which can be used to hail down passing cars or roadside service vehicles in an emergency.  Learn how to use all these emergency items effectively and safely — especially the jumper cables! — and you can be back on the road trip in no time.  #3. Prepare Your Vehicle For The Journey Before you put on hundreds of miles or so in your vehicle, make sure it’s up to scratch. Take it to a reliable mechanic such as those at auto repair in Lakewood CO, to have it serviced at least a week in advance. At the very least, get an oil change and check the tire pressure. While you’re on a road trip, make sure the spare tire is in good working order, too. Check the tread on the tire and the pressure in case you need it as a backup for a flat tire. Also, make sure you know how to change your own tire with a jack and lug wrench.  #4. Get A Rooftop Cargo Box A rooftop cargo box can free up interior space for passengers and provide a bit of elbow room. Fill it with compressible items and gear such as sleeping bags, backpacks, and luggage. #5. Use Travel Apps to Find Amenities and Attractions Countless travel apps are available to help you find everything from hotels to gas stations, from Trip Advisor to iExit. You can even use Roadtrippers to find unique roadside attractions and sights along the way.  All you have to do is put in your route, and you’ll find everything you need. You can even collaborate to find the perfect itinerary for a road trip. #6. Bring A Refillable Water Bottle Say no to single-use plastic and carry your own water bottle. Even better — choose a thermos or stainless steel container that can serve as both a coffee mug and water bottle.  Then, after your morning joe, just give it a quick rinse, and you’re good to go. Keeping hydrated is extremely important on the road and can even help you stay alert during a road trip. #7. Pack Strategically When packing for a road trip, don’t overdo it! Instead, think minimally and pack strategically. For example, when packing clothes, consider using an overnight backpack instead of hauling all your luggage into the hotel room every night.  Also, when it comes to loading up the car, add the nonessential items that you will only need once you arrive at your final destination, keeping essential gear and items like cameras and personal items on you.  You want to carry men bags that are capable enough to store all your essentials. At the same time, you do not want to be lugging around too much. This would simply derail your travel experience. You want something that is functional as well as stylish. Smaller items like smartphones, passports, medicines, cologne, etc, should fit in the same. #8. Keep The Car Tidy And Yourself Clean Keep your car tidy with a small trash bag, along with some wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and paper towels. That way, you can throw away granola bars and candy wrappers, wipe your hands clean, and anywhere else that might get crumbs or smears. A few extra road trip tips: Hang the trash bag on the back of a seat and compile everything in a container for accessibility. #9. Check Your Pit Stop Ratings Speaking of clean, when it comes to bathroom breaks at pit stops, it can be hit or miss. But fear not! With apps like the Bathroom Scout app or Flush, you can locate a sparkling clean restroom on your journey.  #10. Bring Plenty Of Change For Parking Meters Long gone are the days when you needed to worry about toll booths. Now, many tolls have an automated electronic system that is cashless. The same goes for parking meters, too.  However, don’t be caught without some spare change. There are still many road trips to small towns across America that use coin-operated parking meters.  #11. Use Apps To Locate Foodie Hot Spots Ever wish you could visit that diner or restaurant featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives or that Netflix culinary series? Now you can find all the foodie hotspots with apps and sites such as Roadfood.com and TVFoodMaps. Were you looking for a taste of the local flavor? Be sure to explore the Agricultural Marketing Service website to find schedules for local farmer’s markets in the area of a road trip. #12. Pick Up A Multi-Outlet Adapter Keep all your passengers plugged in with a multi-outlet adapter. This is especially true if you drive an older model car. Make sure it has enough USBs to charge all kinds of devices, from cell phones to tablets and more.  Alternatively, you could also bring a solar power charger that can rest on the dashboard. #13. Swap The Car Air Freshener With Dryer Sheets Car air fresheners can be strong, especially in a compact space like a car. So instead, swap them out with something more subtle like a dryer sheet or use an essential oil spray deodorizer. Besides, keeping items off your rearview mirror and your sightlines visible and unobstructed is simply safe driving practice for your road trip. #14. Take Frequent Breaks Don’t set unrealistic expectations and try to drive for several hours straight. Be sure to take frequent breaks each day to stretch your legs or take shifts in the driver’s seat.  Plan accordingly and take your road trip slow enough that you have time to stop for meals and take snapshots and make memories at nearby attractions. When you take shifts, get comfortable and take a nap. Hint: Neck pillows aren’t just for flights. Conclusion: These 14 tips are always effective in planning a successful road trip. When you are planning for a road trip, do not forget to check the whole route map. The best solutions are here. Then, follow these strategies and plan a successful road trip for your next vacation. Read Also: 10 Useful Tips For Planning A Trip That You Will Love Eleven Essential Tips For Students Planning To Study Abroad

BY  Abdul Aziz Jun 16, 2023

For travel enthusiasts seeking an extraordinary adventure that combines ancient traditions, futuristic cities and a tantalizing gastronomic journey, look no further than Japan - a captivating country that seamlessly blends past and present. From the vibrant streets of Tokyo to the tranquil temples of Kyoto and the breathtaking natural wonders in between, Japan offers an incomparable immersive experience. This article explores compelling trip ideas and assesses the top cities to visit in Japan that must be seen to be believed. 1. Explore Tokyo's Vibrant Cityscape It is natural to begin your journey in Tokyo, the capital city of Japan. This dynamic metropolis offers a blend of tradition and futuristic technology. Take a stroll in the historic Asakusa district, where you can visit the iconic Senso-ji Temple – one of the most ancient Buddhist temples in Tokyo. Moreover, marvel at intricate architecture and experience the bustling atmosphere of Nakamise Shopping Street, lined with traditional shops and food stalls. Next, enjoy Shinjuku’s neon lights and vibrant atmosphere, known for its entertainment and shopping districts. Lastly, experience cutting-edge technology and bustling energy in Akihabara, the center of Japan’s “Otaku” culture and immerse yourself in anime, manga, and gaming. Perhaps this may even inspire you to find out about onee-chan wa game o suruto hito ga kawaru onee-chan, or another manga series that catches your eye, once you return home. 2. Immerse Yourself In Kyoto's Rich History Travel back in time by visiting Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. This city is home to numerous temples, shrines and traditional gardens. Explore the magnificent Kinkaku-ji (known as the Golden Pavilion) adorned with gold leaves reflecting on a tranquil pond. Discover the peaceful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a mesmerizing forest with towering bamboo stalks that create an enchanting atmosphere. For an authentic cultural experience, participate in a traditional tea ceremony. Next, don a kimono and stroll through the historic streets of Gion, known for its geisha culture, and catch a glimpse of these traditional entertainers. Lastly, ensure to visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that lead to a stunning view of Kyoto from the mountaintop. Consider Kyoto Tours for a seamless extension of your adventure, offering a contrast but equally captivating experience in the bustling metropolis. 3. Experience Natural Beauty In Hokkaido Japan's northernmost island, Hokkaido, is a must for nature lovers. Renowned for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife, Hokkaido offers a plethora of outdoor activities. Visit the picturesque town of Biei, famous for its rolling hills and colorful flower fields. Moreover, explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shiretoko National Park. This pure forest is home to brown bears, eagles, and seals. Consider unwinding in the natural hot springs of Noboribetsu or hiking in scenic Daisetsuzan National Park, with stunning alpine scenery and beautiful views from the summit of Mount Asahidake. If you visit in winter, Hokkaido is renowned for its superlative skiing and snowboarding resorts. 4. Meditate On The History Of Hiroshima Pay tribute to history and visit Hiroshima, a city that emerged from tragic events in World War II. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum serve as reminders of the atomic bomb that devastated the city in 1945. Take a moment to contemplate the ruins of war and comprehend the significance of peace. Afterward, explore the nearby Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island - famous for its iconic floating torii gate and beautiful scenery. Lastly, take a calming walk along the picturesque streets of the island. 5. Indulge In Japanese Cuisine No trip to Japan is complete without indulging in its unique cuisine - Japanese food is renowned for its freshness, variety, and meticulous preparation. Indulge in sushi, a culinary art form showcasing the finest fish cuts and expertly seasoned rice. Alternatively, order a comforting bowl of steaming ramen, a beloved Japanese noodle dish with flavorful broth and toppings, and savor crispy tempura, where delicate seafood and vegetables are lightly battered and perfectly fried. It is recommended to try yakitori (grilled skewered chicken) at a traditional Izakaya (Japanese pub). Moreover, venture into lively food markets (such as Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo or Nishiki Market in Kyoto) to sample fresh seafood, street snacks, and local delicacies. Experience the art of traditional kaiseki dining, where each dish is meticulously prepared with seasonal delights to blend flavors. 6. Attend Festivals And Cultural Events Immerse yourself in Japan's vibrant culture by attending traditional festivals and events. If you visit during the cherry blossom season (sakura) in spring, the cherry blossom will be in full bloom. You can join hanami parties in parks throughout the country. Experience the excitement of summer festivals (such as Gion Matsuri in Kyoto or the Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori). It features colorful floats, traditional performances, and fireworks. During winter, catch the Sapporo Snow Festival. Here, you can marvel at magnificent ice sculptures and enjoy winter sports in the snowy wonderland. Throughout the year, various cultural events and festivities take place. They take you deeper into the traditions and customs of Japan. You May Also Like: 10 Best Things To Do In Prague 10 Amazing Things To Do In Medellin Top 10 Affordable Hostels In Los Angeles – California

BY  Abdul Aziz Sep 8, 2022

When you tell somebody, you are planning a trip to Italy. They always answer, “You must visit Florence in Tuscany!”. Florence is a typical river city developed on the two banks of the Arno, a city rich in history and art. Founded and inhabited by Italic people, Florence extends into a green plain, which is surrounded by hills dotted with cypresses, and olive trees, and also crossed by the Arno river. But above all: a city breathing art and culture everywhere!  No wonder Ginori 1735, the iconic porcelain brand, partnered with St. Regis Hotels & Resorts to present Café Ginori.  Café Ginori will blend the elegance of Italian cuisine with Italian artistry to make the tourism experience in Florence more happening.  So, what are the special attractions or the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany? This Tour and Travel blog has all the answers. Special Attractions Of Florence in Tuscany Many of the travelers are asking, is Tuscany in Florence? And what is there? In the past years, it has been awarded internationally as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. You are standing in the middle cradle of the Renaissance. The city is the hub of extraordinary literary, artistic, and scientific development that took place in the 14th-16th centuries. To visit Florence in Tuscany really means jumping back in time!  Note: Appreciated more than anything else is the urban architecture and the presence of traces of a glorious past on every street corner;  with the most iconic places such as the Duomo Cathedral, the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Pitti, etc. You Should Visit Florence For Its Art And Culture Known throughout the world for its artistic masterpieces, the colored marbles of the churches, and the high-sounding architecture, Florence is the city of the Medici, an ancient Tuscan family that became one of the most important dynasties in Italy and Europe. Nowadays, it is home to the most beautiful and important museums in the world; to name a few: the Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Vecchio, the Accademia Gallery, the Pitti Palace, Florence Cathedral and the Opera del Duomo museum, etc. Best Places To Visit In Florence, Tuscany, To Celebrate Its Art And Culture  With seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, Florence sees tourism as a key resource. Further, its average annual tourism revenue is 300 million euros, establishing its position as a global travel destination.  Further, Florence has places like San Casciano dei Bagni within 200 km that are growing as tourism hubs individually.  San Casciano dei Bagni has won the laurel of “Best Tourism Village” from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This village is growing for its rich biodiversity and culture.  “San Casciano dei Bagni receiving the ‘Best Tourism Village’ recognition is a testament to the charm and authenticity of Italy’s smaller gems. These villages showcase the excellence of our craftsmanship, gastronomy, traditions, and culture, representing the heart of our national heritage.”Daniela Santanchè, Italian Tourism Minister Nevertheless, these are the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany.  1. Piazza del Duomo Piazza del Duomo, with its bell tower, Baptistery, and cathedral, is one of the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany. Also, don’t forget to visit Ponte Vecchio.  2. Uffizi Gallery Location: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: Tuesday-Sunday (8:15 AM to 6:30 PM), Monday Closed Uffizi Gallery houses the best collection of paintings and artwork from the medieval era to the modern period.  It was built between 1560 and 1580. 3. Piazza della Signoria Piazza della Signoria is the central square of Florence. It always has a lively ambiance and is Florence's epicenter of history and art.  4. Palazzo Vecchio Location: P.za della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: Friday-Wednesday (9 AM to 7 PM), Thursday (9 AM to 2 PM) Palazzo Vecchio was built between 1299 and 1314 and was once the home and workplace of the Signoria of Florence.  5. The Accademia Gallery Location: Via Ricasoli, 58/60, 50129 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: 8:15 AM to 6:20 PM, (Monday Closed) The Accademia Gallery is home to David by Michelangelo. It is the second-most visited museum in Florence after the Uffizi Gallery.  6. Pitti Palace Location: Piazza de' Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: Tuesday-Sunday (8:15 AM to 6:30 PM), Monday Closed Once a symbol of the power of the Medicis in Tuscany, Pitti Palace, or Palazzo Pitti, was also the seat of the House of Habsburg-Lorraine and House of Savoy.  7. Florence Cathedral Location: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: 10:15 AM to 3:45 PM The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or Florence Cathedral, is the Cathedral of the Catholic Archdiocese of Florence. The church, founded in 1296, was consecrated in 1436 by Pope Eugenio IV. It stands out with its huge dome structure.  8. Opera Del Duomo Museum Location: Piazza del Duomo, 9, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: 8:30 AM to 7 PM Built in 1891 and renovated in 2015, Opera Del Duomo Museum has the original artwork of the greatest artists and sculptors across seven centuries.  Here, you will find the work of Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, Ghiberti, and many others.  9. Florence City Center Covering an area of 505 ha, the Florence City Center still has the 14th-century boundary walls.  Also, it is a symbol of the Renaissance during the early Medici rule.  10. Siena City Center Siena City Center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Tuscan Hills. It is famous for its food scene and medieval buildings.  11. Pienza The Historic Centre of the City of Pienza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is one of the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany. It is also famous for its town-planning concepts during the Renaissance period.  12. San Gimignano San Gimignano, or the Town of Five Towers, will transport you to the medieval era. A preserved hill town, it also has Civic Museums, Contemporary art, and holy art.  13. Piazza Dei Miracoli (Pisa) The Piazza Dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, an architectural wonder.  Further, located in a port city, the Piazza Dei Miracoli is an expression of human creativity.  14. Villas And Giardini Medicei  With 14 villas and gardens, Villas And Giardini Medicei is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tuscany.  One of the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany, Villas and Giardini Medicei, gives you an insight into the family that played prominent roles in the history of Italy and Europe during the 15th-18th century.  15. Val d’Orcia Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, shows the beauty of the countryside in Southern Tuscany. It is famous for its ecological uniqueness and stunning landscape. Culture Also Means Food And Wine But the only culture of Florence in Tuscany is not only art & history, and it means food and wine as well. Florence is a food city (delicious food), and you really can’t go there without trying out its local specials: that’s part of the experience!  Things you should try in Florence: 1. CHIANTI WINE  Chianti wine is a red blend of Tuscany that is made from Sangiovese grapes. These are common tasting notes which include different types of red fruits, smoke, dried herbs, balsamic vinegar, and game. Perfect for any kind of aperitivo admiring monuments or to accompany your dinners in Florence!  2. PICI Pici is a type of fresh pasta, similar to spaghetti, which is made with water, flour, and salt. A simple preparation, typical of the Tuscan culinary tradition: a "poor" dish linked to peasant cuisine. They can be combined with different condiments, thanks to their ability to adapt to various preparations: you can, in fact, make them with cheese and pepper, with crumbs, with garlic, with ragù, and in many other ways. Yummy!  3. FIORENTINA One of the most popular Italian steak dishes, Bistecca Alla Fiorentina, is made of young steer or heifer that, in combination with the specific preparations. What preparations are turning it into one of the famous dishes in Tuscan cuisine.  It is a high cut, including the bone, and also cooked on the embers or on the grill, with a degree of "blood" cooking. Try to accompany this Florence in Tuscany special dish with your Chianti wine; a perfect combo.  Visit Florence For Its Welcoming People  Florence's inhabitants are something on their own; the Fiorentini are really strong characters, very different from the typical Italians international people know. The character of the Florentines is judged in a contradictory way. They are considered polite and honest, but their thriftiness, praised for being able to make money well, is often criticized. In Florence, people tend to say things to your face, and often when they do so, they are not too pleasant things. Don’t take it personally, it’s part of the culture! Learn some useful words:  Topping | Gnocchi Ganzo | Cool Grullo | A silly person Boncitto | A good guy Chetarsi | To be silent So Why Visit Florence? For many, Florence is a city they have only heard about, and important events and things to do, such as those in Rome or Venice, are not attributed to it. Wrong! Florence Is Full Of Things To Do!  Those who know the history of the world will know that Florence, with much of Italy, was the central hub of the Renaissance, and many works of art of the period can be found in this city. One of the most iconic sites that many are likely to recognize is the Duomo, a cathedral with a dome at its top.  The Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence also exhibits Michelangelo's David, one of the most famous sculptures in the world. When it comes to art and history, no one beats Florence for masterpieces! But there are also many fun activities for those who are not very interested in art. Tourists can take a day trip out of town and explore the wonderfully varied landscape of Florence in Tuscany. You can also taste local food and wines.  And events are also an option if you want to dive into the local culture for real. Music festivals, historical reviews, sports events, and much more! To learn everything about Florence and the reasons why you should visit it, learn more at www.ciaoflorence.it Reasons To Visit Florence In Tuscany |Ciao Florence Why should you visit Florence in Tuscany? Art, culture, food, and events. All you need to know about the city of Renaissance! Visit Ciao Florence. So when are you planning to visit Tuscany? Share your opinion through the comment sections. Additionals: Tattoo Bali – Tips Before Getting A Tattoo Canary Wharf: A Mini-Guide For Your Next Visit Top 3-Week Itineraries For A Perfect Tour Of Europe: T AND TB