Stephen Gleave on the Best Waterfalls and Trails in Ancaster

BY  Arnab Mar 9, 2023

Spring is an epic time to be in Pigeon Forge. From soaring above the Smoky Mountains on a zip line to admiring the stars from your cabin's patio, you can't beat the scenic beauty of this mountain town. And what if you bump into your favorite celebrity on the Parkway? Now that's dreamy. Moreover, Pigeon Forge is perfect for a spring getaway. It has everything you're looking for, from waterfalls cascading down riverbeds to inviting hiking trails and thrilling adventures. But if you're still inconclusive about whether you should visit Pigeon Forge this spring, here are some convincing reasons. Eight Prime Reasons To Spend Your Spring Vacation In Pigeon Forge 1. Perfect Weather for Outdoor Fun Spring vacations aren't complete without some outdoor fun. But you can easily get your daily dose of Vitamin D in Pigeon Forge. The temperature ranges between 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit, making it ideal for various activities. Whether you want to kayak down the river or stroll in a park on a lovely spring day, Pigeon Forge is the ultimate outdoor paradise. Hiking is especially popular in the spring and summer as flora and fauna come to life. There are plenty of trails that provide stunning views of the majestic Smoky Mountains, and you can also explore caves, go fishing, and ride a horse – perfect for the whole family. However, please note that spring and summer are Pigeon Forge's peak seasons. So, book your tickets and accommodation early. 2. Exciting Dinner Shows This town also hosts one of the best dinner shows in Pigeon Forge, Dolly Parton's Stampede. It is more than just a dinner show; it's a lively and interactive experience that immerses guests in the heart of friendly competition. As soon as you enter the arena, the atmosphere shifts, and you feel as though you've been transported back in time. The show is a dazzling spectacle of horsemanship, music, and dancing, with talented performers dressed in authentic costumes. Highlights of the evening are undoubtedly the thrilling horse riding stunts, live animals, musical productions, and celebration of American patriotism. As you watch, you can also enjoy a delicious feast of Southern-style cuisine. 3. The Thrill of Amusement Parks Dollywood - the star attraction of Pigeon Forge - needs no introduction. It is Tennessee's biggest-ticketed tourist spot that'll leave you humming Dolly Parton's tunes for days. The park has a charming mix of southern hospitality and thrill rides that'll get your heart racing faster than a rodeo bull. The Wild Eagle roller coaster is a must-ride, a steel beast that sends you soaring through the mountains at 61 mph. And so is the FireChaser Express, which takes you on a wild ride of twists and turns. If speed isn't your cup of sweet tea, you can ride on the Dollywood Express, a steam engine train that winds through the park's picturesque landscape. 4. Vibrant Festivals and Events Pigeon Forge is abuzz with excitement as its current events and festivals bring together locals and tourists alike. If you’re planning to explore Pigeon Forge’s blooming springtime, you can’t miss Dollywood Flower and Food Festival. Horticulturists display stunning large flower sculptures that will surely leave you in awe. Similarly, the Spring Rod Run showcases vintage cars and hot rods, revving up the engines of auto enthusiasts. It'll be car heaven in the city this season. Or, you could visit the Blooms and Tunes at Anakeesta, a spectacular live music event featuring local bands. 5. Breathtaking Views Everywhere You Look Soothe your eyesight with spectacular views in Pigeon Forge. From the majestic mountaintops to the panoramic overlooks of the Smoky Mountains, there's no shortage of natural beauty in town. You can also visit Clingmans Dome to get up close and personal with the region's stunning vistas. It's the highest mountain at an hour-long drive from Pigeon Forge. Whether you go up for a romantic sunrise or watch the fiery sunset, it's the perfect spot to take pictures and admire Mother Nature's beauty. The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel at The Island provides an amazing bird's eye view of the city. The 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel is illuminated with thousands of LED lights, creating a breathtaking spectacle in the night sky. 6. Family-Friendly Activities Brimming with family-friendly fun, Pigeon Forge is the ideal getaway for families with kids. You can walk the red carpet at the Hollywood Wax Museum or enjoy a meal with live animals in Big Top Arcade & Fun Park. The city also has some great waterparks and go-kart tracks. Downtown Flavortown is the perfect place to test your skills if you're into bowling. Ripley's Aquarium is another great option. Stroll through the Shark Lagoon, Turtle Bayou, and other fascinating exhibits as you learn about undersea life. This watery wonderland will keep your kids entertained for hours. 7. Food for Every Palate The selection of restaurants in Pigeon Forge is second to none. You will surely be well-fed, from traditional Southern specialties to gourmet pizza. Fried chicken and steaming BBQ are two of the best must-try dishes in town. But that's not all. Pigeon Forge restaurants offer mouth-watering steaks, filling burgers, and delicious seafood options. The city has plenty of international cuisines to savor if you want something more exotic. Some must-visit restaurants in Pigeon Forge include The Old Mill, Log Cabin Pancake House, and Big Daddy's Pizzeria. For a truly unique culinary experience, head to the Apple Barn & Country Store. Here you can try delicious apple fritters, pies, and ciders. Or how about a cup of their famous apple butter? 8. Pigeon Forge is Pet-Friendly Some of us have furry travel companions, and Pigeon Forge is a pet-friendly destination. That means your four-legged friends can join you on vacation – how cool is that? Be sure to check the pet policies of your accommodation before your visit. There are plenty of dog-friendly parks, restaurants, and attractions in town, so your furry pal can have a great time too. If you're looking for exciting places to take your pup, The Island in Pigeon Forge has several pet-friendly spaces. There are even special dog treats and snacks available at the shops. Wild Bear Tavern, Blue Moose Burgers & Wings, and Hard Rock Cafe are all great options for dining with your pet. You can also take them out shopping. The Big Dog Sportswear, for instance, is a pet-friendly store where you and your pup can pick up some cool gear. Conclusion It certainly looks like Pigeon Forge is a promising destination. Attractive and scenic, the city has something for everyone. From majestic mountains to incredible attractions and family-friendly activities, Pigeon Forge will surely make your spring vacation a blast. But before you load your car, pack all the essentials. You'll need layers, even during springtime. The mountains can get chilly, so be prepared. Read Also: 6 Best Family Holiday Destinations In India Tips to Help You Plan your Holidays to Morocco Top 10 Hot Springs Near Denver You Can Visit In Winter

BY  Abdul Aziz Jun 17, 2021

Visitors to San Francisco quickly learn that parking is difficult to find and expensive. Because of this, many tourists conclude that a walking tour is probably the best way to see the city.  This blog covers some of the top walking tours that provide rich history and the opportunity to see some fantastic sights. Are you planning to explore San Francisco on foot? Undoubtedly this is the best way to fancy the heavenly scenic views. The exciting experiences make your whole tour unforgettable. 5 Top Places In San Francisco To Explore By Foot Traveling and exploring means you start packing your bag and go to travel. San Francisco traveling is just like that. You only have to pack your bag then you do not have to take any headaches about the city travel and the travel convenience. Just start exploring. San Francisco is the best place for walking freak adventure-loving travelers. Let’s see the five most striking places in San Francisco. Draw your plan to explore San Francisco on foot. 1. Chinatown Walking Tour No visit to San Francisco is complete without visiting one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in the United States. People can choose to start at the gate of Chinatown on their own or walk with a tour guide.  The best Chinatown walking tours explore hidden alleys and backroads that most people would not discover on their own. This is the best way to discover how the several thousand residents of the 24-block Chinatown live. 2. Golden Gate Bridge Walking Tour Erected in 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most photographed icons in the world. Joining an official walking tour will allow visitors to San Francisco to explore underneath and around the Golden Gate Bridge as well as walk on the bridge itself. Walking tour participants will learn the entire history of the bridge, including how many people said it would be impossible to build. By the end of the tour, participants will understand the conception and building process of the Golden Gate Bridge. They will also hear how it became so famous. 3. Golden Gate Park Walking Tour The east end of Golden Gate Park contains landmarks such as the Music Concourse and the National AIDS Memorial Grove. Visitors will have the chance to learn about the history of the park itself and the landmarks within it.  San Francisco City Guide puts on the free tour, but people are welcome to make a voluntary donation. Walking through Golden Gate Park involves navigating stairs and small hills. After you explore the Middle Drive East, the arrow signs will lead you to the Shakespeare Garden. And explore the Strybing Arboretum and Botanical Gardens at the end of the walking tour. 4. Victorian Home Walking Tour San Francisco still contains more than 200 original Victorian homes. Visitors to the city have the option to participate in an official Victorian home walking tour and see the inside of a home decorated in Queen Anne style. As people pass through the Pacific Heights neighborhood, they will see filming locations for movies such as Mrs. Doubtfire and The Princess Diaries. The tour goes over mostly flat ground, which can be a plus for people with mobility issues who do not have to navigate the city’s famously steep hills. 5. Explore Grant Avenue to Clay Street Independently The intersection of Grant Avenue and Clay Street is approximately two blocks from the Sing Chong Building. This location is ideal for tourists who want to check out traditional Chinese markets and souvenir shops. Clay Street contains several large murals painted on one or both sides of the street. A new mural of actor Bruce Lee will be available for the first time in the summer of 2021. These walking tours represent only a tiny portion of what San Francisco has to offer. While most people will not have time to walk through the whole city, choosing several areas of interest and devoting half a day to exploring them is the next best thing. Conclusion: San Francisco is one of the most popular tourist destinations, and all sites are very close to each other. The helpful local people and good hospitality make this place a perfect place to explore through self-guiding. Only you will need the route and the San Francisco walking travel map as the guide. If you need any help, the local traffic police will always help you and direct you in the right direction. Read Also: Things To Do In Maryland – Free Places To Visit In Maryland Why Myrtle Beach Is The Ideal Summer Destination Top 7 Nantucket Beaches For Tourists In Massachusetts

BY  Ankita Dec 8, 2023

Embarking on a road trip is an exciting adventure that promises freedom, exploration, and the thrill of the open road. Whether you're planning a cross-country journey or a weekend getaway, a successful road trip requires a bit of careful preparation and consideration. Here are 12 handy road trip tips to help you have an enjoyable time on your next adventure 1. Plan your route It can be a good idea to plan the route you're going to take before you hit the road. Familiarising yourself with the route can help you avoid wrong turns and added time, reducing stress and the fuel bill. Consider scenic routes, interesting stops to visit, and potential detours. Navigation apps or GPS devices can provide assistance in staying on track, while also informing of any road closures or construction updates along the way. A well-planned route adds structure to your trip while allowing for flexibility. 2. Perform vehicle maintenance Before you embark on any road trip, it's important to ensure your vehicle is in good condition and ready for the journey. This includes checking tire pressure, oil, fluid levels, and lights, and ensuring the car is equipped with a spare tire, jumper cables, and a basic toolkit. You may also consider getting your car serviced by a mechanic or dealership in preparation for the trip. Being prepared can prevent breakdowns and ensure a safer journey - better to be safe than sorry! 3. Pack smart Efficient packing is key to maximizing space and comfort, and ensuring everyone's entertained on the trip. Create a checklist of essentials, including clothing, toiletries, medications, and any necessary documents. Pack snacks, water, and entertainment to keep everyone satisfied during the drive (including the kids!). Utilise storage containers and organizers to maintain order in your vehicle. 4. Choose the right travel companions There's nothing worse than being stuck on the open road with someone you just can't stand! The people you travel with significantly impact the overall experience - whether positively or negatively, so pick wisely. Choose companions who share your sense of adventure, have a similar travel style, and are willing to compromise when needed. Good company enhances the journey and creates lasting memories. 5. Reduce the risk of vehicle break-ins It's important to keep the vehicle you'll be road-tripping in safe and secure. Recent research from Compare the Market found that one in ten Australians (8.7 percent) experienced their car being broken into in the 12 months to September 2023. Traveling with your possessions in a vehicle could make it more of a target for opportunistic thieves. When leaving your car, be sure to take valuable possessions with you, and keep other items out of view where possible. Always lock the vehicle when unattended, and park in a secure space (such as a locked garage) where possible. 6. Budget wisely Establish a budget for your road trip to avoid financial stress. Account for fuel, accommodation, meals, and any planned activities along the way or at your intended destination. Look for cost-effective options and consider camping or cooking your own meals to save money. Having a clear budget ensures you can enjoy your trip without worrying about overspending. 7. Schedule breaks Long stretches of driving can be exhausting, both mentally and physically. The Department of Transport and Main Roads recommends taking a 15-minute break every two hours, as a minimum. Plan regular breaks to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy the surroundings. Use rest areas, parks, or scenic viewpoints to break up the monotony of the drive, while also experiencing new sights. 8. Be flexible While planning is essential, it's equally important to be flexible when heading out on the road. Unexpected events or interesting discoveries may lead you to alter your route or extend your stay in a particular location. Embrace spontaneity and be open to new experiences along the way. After all, the journey itself is part of the adventure! 9. Capture the moments No road trip is complete without capturing those special memories. Bring a camera or use your phone to document your adventure. Take photos of scenic views, unique landmarks, and memorable experiences with your travel companions. You may also like to write in a travel journal or document your exploration through a blog. If you wish to keep others updated with what you're doing, consider creating a social media account to share your experiences with friends and family. These memories will serve as a lasting reminder of your adventure for the years to come. 10. Stay connected Ensure you have a reliable means of communication, especially if you're traveling through remote areas or alone. Where possible, keep your phone well-charged, and consider investing in a car charger and a portable power bank for additional power. Inform someone about your itinerary and check in regularly, providing peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. If traveling in a group in areas of poor coverage, establish communication protocols and have a designated meeting point in case of separation. 11. Respect the environment Travel responsibly and leave the environment as you found it. This includes disposing of waste properly, respecting the local wildlife, and adhering to any environmental guidelines of the places you visit. Stick to established trails and roads to prevent unnecessary damage to the local ecosystem, and keep noise levels to a minimum (especially when in natural and residential areas). By being mindful of your impact, you contribute to the preservation of natural beauty for future road trippers. 12. Learn as you go Road trips offer an excellent opportunity to learn about the places you visit. Take advantage of guided tours and talk to locals, who can offer valuable insights into the area's history, culture, and lifestyle. Visit museums, landmarks, and other points of interest to gain a deeper understanding of your surroundings. Many exciting local places are free or inexpensive, and provide a unique perspective on the places you visit. A successful road trip is a harmonious blend of preparation, flexibility, and a positive mindset. From packing efficiently to staying safe and respecting the environment, taking the time to plan and prepare can help ensure your journey is smooth, enjoyable, and memorable for all the right reasons. There are always new roads and destinations waiting to be discovered - so why not start planning your next adventure today? Safe travels! Read Also: Journey To Joy: Unleash The Potential Of Your Road Trip With These Tips Record-Breaking Holiday Travel Anticipated As TSA Prepares For Busy Season! The Italian Train Group FS Will Launch A New “Night Train Like Hotel”: Rome To Dolomites Chinese And US Presidents Have Come To A Common Ground Regarding Tourism Facilitation!