Can You Bring Cigarettes On A Plane? Know Your Answer Here!

BY  Sibashree Aug 2, 2024

Paris is the land of multiple World Heritage Sites, such as the Eiffel Tower and Château de Versailles and many other structures showing the excellence of French architecture. So, there is no wonder that Paris is transforming historical sites into Olympic venues.  However, there are multidimensional aspects behind choosing these important sites or places of tourist attractions as Olympic venues. Of course, it’s a brilliant move to boost tourism in the “World’s Most Powerful City Destination.” The Travel and Tourism Sector of Paris was worth a whopping $36BN USD in 2022.   Further, choosing these sites as Olympic venues has a sustainability aspect. It’s an endeavor to reduce the carbon footprint drastically and make the Paris Olympics the “Greenest Olympics” ever.   Are you traveling to Paris and have plans to catch up on the Olympic events? Get your travel plan right by knowing the historical places to visit, why they are significant travel destinations, and how choosing them as Olympic venues is a sustainable move.   Paris Transforming Historical Sites Into Olympic Venues (Make Changes In Your Travel Plans)  https://www.instagram.com/p/C95mF-atRPK/?img_index=1 Various historical sites in Paris have become the stage for gala Olympic events. So, know the historical places to visit if you are traveling to Paris now and want to enjoy the games and the history of the iconic city altogether.   Here, you will first see a table mentioning the historical venues and the Olympic events that will take place there. Later, you will find brief descriptions of the historical importance of these places.  1 Historical Site Olympic 2024 Event  The Seine River The Olympics Opening Ceremony Men’s Marathon Swimming Competition (Tentatively on 8th and 9th August 2024 After Postponement) Eiffel Tower Stadium  Beach Volleyball and Blind Football Pont Alexandre III Triathlon, Para triathlon, Swimming Marathon, and Individual Cycling Time Trials The Grand Palais Taekwondo and Fencing Château de Versailles Equestrian events from July 27th to August 11th and from September 3rd to 7th, 2024 The Stade Yves-du-Manoir in Colombes (92) Field Hockey Games   It All Begins On The Seine River With The Opening Ceremony   Best Time To Visit The Seine River: June-August  The 2024 Olympics has seen the most unusual opening ceremony held on the Seine River. The river is named after Sequana, a Celtic Goddess.   Further, this river has been an important bearer of French culture, identity, and life. l'école de Honfleur, one of the most prominent impressionist movements in France, was inspired by this river.   Also, as you take a boat ride in this river, you can see the most iconic monuments in the city. Looking at the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre Museum is surely going to be a lifetime experience for you. The Sainte Chapelle and Cathedral of Notre Dame are other significant pieces of architecture that can be seen from the river.   The Eiffel Tower Stadium   https://www.instagram.com/olympics/reel/C9SCB2DCNrt/ Best Season To Visit The Eiffel Tower Stadium: June to September  Are you looking for “Paris tourist sites Olympics 2024?” Visit the Eiffel Tower Stadium on the Champ-de-Mars. Beach volleyball games at this venue are already gathering a lot of attention, with tourists finding the place “Instagrammable.”   The Eiffel Tower is the stadium and is often interpreted as the tangible form of the human desire to reach the sky. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991, and today it is the most visited “paid monument” in the world.   Pont Alexandre III  Best Season to Visit: September to April  Pont Alexandre III is a bridge named after Russian Tsar Alexandre III, and it celebrates the historic alliance between Russia and France. This year, the bridge will be entering its 125th year as it was built between 1896 and 1900 for the “1900 World Fair.”   With a steel base, the bridge stands out for its gold-plated statues of bronze, cast-iron lamps, and stone pillars.   The Grand Palais  Best Season to Visit: September to June  The Grand Palais is dedicated to the “glory of French Art.” It was built in 1900 for the Universal Exhibition. Exactly 100 years after its foundation, the Grand Palais got its designation as a historic monument in 2000.   This architectural excellence was made with glass, stone, and steel. It portrays an excellent fusion of the Baroque style and classicism.   Further, the polychrome friezes in the ceramics and mosaics, iconic statutes, and embellishments tell fascinating stories about the excellence of French architecture and art.   Château de Versailles  Best Season to Visit: April to October  The Château de Versailles is a World Heritage Site (designated in 1979) with its grounds and gardens. It is the official residence of the French King and also the largest Château in the world. Further, it is the greatest outcome of the 17th century French Art.  Built by King Louis XIV, the palace today has a magnificent presence covering 63,154 m2 area. However, the Château de Versailles is not just a remarkable site for its magnanimousity. It also stands tall for its creative excellence and originality.   Moreover, the Château de Versailles was  “The absolute seat of power of the monarch, Versailles was the best formulated and best adapted crucible for French court life for a century and a half (Louis XIV perfectioned “etiquette”) and artistic creation in the domain of music, theatre and the decorative arts. Numerous scientific discoveries were presented there, encouraged by the kings, founders of royal academies.”  The Stade Yves-du-Manoir in Colombes (92)  Best Season to Visit: Any Season  The Stade Yves-du-Manoir in Colombes (92) makes history as one of the rarest venues to host two Olympic games. It was the main venue for the 1924 Summer Olympics, and this year, it will host the field hockey games.   The stadium gets its name from Yves du Manoir, a noted French rugby player.   Transforming Historical Sites Into Olympic Venues: An Important Aspect Of Sustainable Promises   Paris Olympics 2024 promotes and practices the complete use of renewable energy. The locally sourced renewable energy is a fruit of the Olympics’ goal of maintaining sustainability. If you are traveling to different Olympic venues in Paris, you will notice the following sustainable practices.  No use of diesel generators  Connection to the grid, enabling the use of sustainable energy  Solar panels in the Aquatics Centre and Olympic Village  Geothermal cooling systems in the Olympic Village (No use of traditional airconditioning system)  Use of recyclable material in building the Aquatics Centre, the only new permanent venue   More Insight Into Sustainable Transformation Of The World’s Most Iconic Tourist Sites Into Olympic Venues In 2024  Further, the International Olympic Committee and Paris are abiding by the promise of sustainability by transforming historical sites into Olympic venues. In the Paris Olympics 2024, 95% of the events will take place at existing historical sites or buildings. This is a conscious decision to practice economic and environmental sustainability.  2, 3 Overall, the Paris Olympics 2024, by transforming historical sites into Olympic venues and using renewable energy, is trying to be the “greenest Olympics ever.” The plan is to reduce the carbon emissions to half in comparison to the previous chapters in London, Rio, and Tokyo (2012, 2016, 2020).   The Committee is particular about its commitment to legacy planning. Further, the reuse of infrastructures is going to be a crucial factor in making the events carbon neutral.   In addition, by choosing the historical sites in Paris as Olympic venues, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) takes one step forward in its effort to minimize the environmental impact of the game. This IOC initiative has been going on since 2017.   Paris organizers, however, made their stance clear on converting historical sites into temporary Olympic venues in 2016. In a report to the International Olympic Committee, they wrote,   “Temporary venues in iconic locations, which will see the city’s greatest sites transformed into stunning stages for sport and embedding the Games in the public domain.”  Along with practicing sustainability, this move has been a wonderful way to impress spectators and get more advertisers and sponsors on board.   Olympics On Mind: Space Travel And The Greatest Sports Event  The frenzy for the Summer Olympics 2024 in Paris reaches the sky. The six living astronauts in the International Space Station showed that they had the Olympics on their minds.   Jeanette Epps, Mike Barratt, Sunita Williams, Tracy Caldwell Dyson, and Butch Wilmore kickstarted their mini Olympics in space by passing the Olympic torch.   In the July 26th video published by NASA, we get to see how the astronauts playfully gear up for their events. Jeanette Epps and Sunita Williams shook up their arms, and Butch Wilmore gulped a water globule roaming around his head. Then, he stretched his upper body.   Sunita Williams further showed some gymnastics moves to up the Olympic spirit in space. However, Butch Wilmore shot-putting a duct tape ball and Mike Barratt launching a discus were the highlights of the fun activities in space.   Matthew Dominick, the NASA scientist currently living off Earth, has said, “Over the past few days on the International Space Station, we've had an absolute blast pretending to be Olympic athletes.” The activities were more fun because of the weightlessness in the space.  4 Who knew that there would be a marriage of space travel and the Olympics like this?   Final Words   With Paris transforming historical sites into Olympic venues, it’s time to plan a trip to the French capital from 26th July to 11th August.  It’s time you enjoy the greatest sports events and encounter the best chapters of French history at once. These picturesque locations are also great for clicking photographs for posterity and garnering attention on your socials. Also, visiting these places this season can be a small contribution on your behalf to acknowledging the importance of sustainability in travel, tourism, and gala events.   So, are you planning to visit Paris during the Olympics? Bon voyage! Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! [Updated 2024]

BY  Ankita Mar 6, 2024

Savannah, GA is a charming city that offers a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a vibrant culture. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Savannah has something for everyone. But when is the best time to visit Savannah GA? The answer depends on what you want to see and do in this southern gem. Savannah has four distinct seasons, each with its own pros and cons. In this article, I will explore the best places to visit and the best things to do in Savannah during each season. I will also give you some tips on how to plan your trip and make the most of your time in Savannah. So, keep on reading this blog till the end to learn more... Spring: The Season of Blooms and Festivals Spring is one of the most popular times to visit Savannah, GA. The weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F. The city is adorned with colorful flowers, such as azaleas, magnolias, and dogwoods. The air is filled with the sweet fragrance of jasmine and honeysuckle.   Spring is also the season of festivals in Savannah. The most famous one is the St. Patrick's Day Parade, which is one of the largest and oldest in the country. Additionally, the parade attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors who come to celebrate Irish heritage and culture. The parade features marching bands, floats, dancers, and of course, lots of green. Another popular spring festival is the Savannah Music Festival, which showcases various musical genres, such as jazz, blues, classical, and world music. The festival features local and international artists who perform in various venues across the city. Furthermore, the festival also offers workshops, lectures, and educational programs for music lovers. Best Places to Visit in Savannah in Spring: Forsyth Park Firstly, Forsyth Park is the largest and most iconic park in Savannah. It covers 30 acres of green space and features a stunning fountain, a fragrant garden, a playground, and a cafe. It is a great place to relax, picnic, or enjoy a concert. Bonaventure Cemetery Secondly, the Bonaventure Cemetery is one of the most beautiful and historic cemeteries in the country. It dates back to the 18th century and is the final resting place of many famous Savannahians, such as poet Conrad Aiken, songwriter Johnny Mercer, and novelist Flannery O'Connor. Furthermore, the cemetery is known for its majestic live oaks, Spanish moss, and marble statues. River Street Lastly, River Street is the heart of Savannah's waterfront. It is lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and galleries. It is a great place to stroll, shop, dine, or enjoy the views of the Savannah River. Moreover, it is the site of many events and festivals, such as the First Friday Fireworks, the Savannah Craft Brew Fest, and the Oktoberfest. Best Things to do in Savannah in Spring: Take a Trolley Tour Firstly, taking a trolley tour is one of the best ways to see the highlights of Savannah. You can hop on and off at your own pace and explore the historic district, the squares, the mansions, and the museums. Furthermore, you can also learn about the history, culture, and legends of Savannah from your guide.  Visit the Wormsloe Historic Site Secondly, the Wormsloe Historic site is the oldest standing structure in Savannah. It is also one of the most famous museums in Savannah. It was built by Noble Jones, one of the original settlers of Georgia, in the 1730s. This is a colonial estate that features a tabby ruin, a museum, a nature trail, and a live oak avenue. It is a must-see for history buffs and nature lovers. Enjoy a Ghost Tour Thirdly, Savannah is known as one of the most haunted cities in America. It has a dark and mysterious past that includes wars, fires, epidemics, and murders. You can join a ghost tour and visit some of the most haunted places in Savannah, such as the Sorrel-Weed House, the Mercer House, and the Colonial Park Cemetery. You can also hear some of the spooky stories and legends that haunt Savannah. Summer: The Season of Heat and Beaches Summer is the hottest and most humid time to visit Savannah, GA. The average temperatures can reach up to 90°F, with high humidity and frequent thunderstorms. The city can feel muggy and sticky, especially in July and August. However, summer also has its perks, such as lower prices, fewer crowds, and longer days. Summer is the best time to visit Savannah GA if you love beaches and water activities. Savannah is close to several beautiful beaches, such as Tybee Island, Hilton Head Island, and Jekyll Island. You can enjoy swimming, surfing, kayaking, fishing, or boating in the Atlantic Ocean. You can also visit some of the historic lighthouses, forts, and museums on the islands. Best Places to Visit in Savannah in Summer: Tybee Island Firstly, this is the closest and most popular beach destination to Savannah. It is only 18 miles away and offers a laid-back and family-friendly atmosphere. This island has five miles of sandy beaches, a pier, a pavilion, and a marine science center. It also has a historic lighthouse, a fort, and a museum. Hilton Head Island Secondly, the Hilton Head Island is something that you should visit. It is a more upscale and resort-like island, about 45 miles away from Savannah. It has 12 miles of pristine beaches, golf courses, tennis courts, bike trails, and spas. Furthermore, it also has a wildlife refuge, a coastal discovery museum, and a harbor town. Jekyll Island Thirdly, Jekyll Island is a more secluded and natural island, about 90 miles away from Savannah. It has 10 miles of unspoiled beaches, a historic district, a turtle center, and a water park. Additionally, it also has a golf club, a tennis center, and a bike path. Best Things to do in Savannah in Summer: https://www.instagram.com/p/CwQV_W0Rc9D/?img_index=1 Visit The Savannah Botanical Gardens First one on this list is the Savannah Botanical Gardens. It is a hidden gem in Savannah that offers a tranquil and scenic escape from the heat. It covers 10 acres of land and features a rose garden, a camellia garden, a perennial garden, and a pond. Besides, it also has a historic farmhouse, a children's garden, and a nature trail. Explore The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) Museum of Art Secondly, do not forget to visit the SCAD Museum of Art. It is a modern and innovative museum that showcases the works of contemporary artists, designers, and students. It has a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, photographs, and installations. Additionally, it also hosts exhibitions, lectures, and events throughout the year. Cool off at The Savannah Rapids Park Lastly, Rapids Park is a refreshing and fun place to visit in summer. It is located along the Savannah River and features a waterfall, a canal, and a bridge. Furthermore, it also has a visitor center, a playground, and a picnic area. You can rent a bike, a kayak, or a paddleboard and enjoy the water and the scenery. Fall: The Season of Colors and Culture Fall is another great time to visit Savannah, GA. The weather is cooler and drier, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F. Moreover, during this time, the city is decorated with autumn hues, such as red, orange, and yellow. The leaves change color and create a stunning contrast with the green moss and the white buildings. Besides, fall is also the season of culture and art in Savannah. The most notable event is the Savannah Film Festival, which is one of the largest and most prestigious film festivals in the country. The festival showcases independent and international films, documentaries, and shorts. Furthermore, the festival also features celebrity guests, panel discussions, and workshops. Apart from these, another notable event in fall is the Savannah Jazz Festival. This is the oldest and largest free jazz festival in the south. The festival celebrates the legacy and diversity of jazz music, with performances by local and national artists. Besides, the festival also offers educational programs, jam sessions, and blues nights. Best Places to Visit in Savannah in Fall: City Market Firstly, the City Market should be on your list! It is a four-block area that is the center of Savannah's nightlife and entertainment. It has a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and galleries. The market is a great place to enjoy live music, comedy, and art. Additionally, it is the site of many events and festivals, such as the Oktoberfest, the Halloween Bash, and the Christmas Tree Lighting. Savannah Historic District Secondly, the Savannah Historic District is the oldest and most famous part of Savannah. It covers 2.5 square miles and features 22 squares, each with its own history and charm. Additionally, this also has hundreds of historic buildings, monuments, and museums. It is a great place to admire the architecture, learn about the history, and experience the culture of Savannah. Oatland Island Wildlife Center This is a wildlife sanctuary that houses more than 150 animals, including wolves, cougars, bobcats, alligators, and birds of prey. Furthermore, it also has a heritage homestead, a barnyard, and a forest trail. It is a great place to see and learn about the native wildlife of Georgia. Best Things to do in Savannah in Fall: Take a Carriage Ride Firstly, it is mandatory that you take a carriage ride. It is one of the most romantic and relaxing ways to see Savannah. You can ride in a horse-drawn carriage and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city. Besides, you can also choose from different themes, such as historic, haunted, or private. Visit The Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters Secondly, the Owens-Thomas House is one of the most important and impressive historic houses in Savannah. It was built in 1819 and is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture. Additionally, it also has one of the earliest and most intact urban slave quarters in the south. Besides, you can take a guided tour and learn about the lives of the people who lived and worked in this house. Enjoy a Picnic at Skidaway Island State Park This is a scenic and serene park that offers a natural escape from the city. It has six miles of trails, a boardwalk, an observation tower, and a playground. Moreover, it also has picnic areas, campsites, and cabins. You can enjoy the views of the salt marsh, the forest, and the wildlife. Winter: The Season of Lights and Holidays Winter is the coldest and least crowded time to visit Savannah, GA. The average temperatures can drop to 40°F, with occasional frost and snow. The city is quieter and more peaceful, with fewer tourists and events. However, winter also has its charm, especially during the holiday season. Additionally, winter is the best time to visit Savannah GA if you love lights and holidays. Savannah is a festive city that celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year's Eve with style and spirit. The city is illuminated with thousands of lights, candles, and decorations. The streets are filled with music, parades, and fireworks. Best Places to Visit in Savannah in Winter: Broughton Street This is the main shopping street in Savannah. It has a variety of stores, boutiques, cafes, and theaters. It is also the site of the annual Holiday Tree Lighting, which kicks off the holiday season in Savannah. The tree is a 50-foot-tall Norway spruce that is decorated with 10,000 lights and ornaments. Savannah Theatre This is the oldest continually operating theater in the country. It was built in 1818 and has hosted many famous performers, such as Oscar Wilde, W.C. Fields, and Lillian Russell. It is also the home of the Savannah Christmas Show, which is a musical extravaganza that features songs, dances, and comedy. Savannah Riverboat Cruises This is a unique and fun way to see Savannah from the water. You can board a riverboat and enjoy a cruise along the Savannah River. You can also choose from different themes, such as the Dinner Cruise, the Gospel Cruise, or the New Year's Eve Cruise. Best Things to do in Savannah in Winter: https://www.instagram.com/p/CwVs26XA1kD/ Visit The Davenport House Museum Firstly, you must visit the Davenport House Museum. It is a historic house museum that showcases the life and style of the early 19th century. It was built in 1820 by Isaiah Davenport, a prominent builder and architect. Moreover, it is also the site of the annual Holiday Evening Tours, which offer a glimpse of how the Davenport family celebrated Christmas in the 1820s. Explore The Pin Point Heritage Museum Secondly, do not forget the Pin Point Museum. It is a cultural museum that preserves and celebrates the history and traditions of the Gullah/Geechee people. The Gullah/Geechee are descendants of enslaved Africans who lived in the coastal regions of Georgia and South Carolina. The museum is located in a former oyster and crab factory and features exhibits, artifacts, and stories. Enjoy a Hot Chocolate at The Gryphon Tea Room Lastly, visit the Gryphon Tea Room. It is a cozy and elegant tea room that offers a variety of teas, coffees, pastries, and sandwiches. This tea-room is located in a former pharmacy building that dates back to 1926. It is a great place to warm up and relax after a day of sightseeing. Bottom Line: The Best Time to Visit Savannah GA is Anytime Savannah, GA is a city that has something to offer in every season. Whether you are looking for nature, culture, history, or fun, you will find it in Savannah. You can enjoy the blooms and festivals in spring, the beaches and water activities in summer, the colors and art in fall, or the lights and holidays in winter. The best time to visit Savannah GA depends on your preferences and interests. You can choose the season that suits your budget, schedule, and mood. No matter when you visit, you will be welcomed by the hospitality, charm, and beauty of Savannah. Savannah is a city that will captivate you and make you want to come back again and again. It is a city that will make you fall in love with the south. It is a city that will make you say, "Savannah, I'm in full swing.” Read Also: Island Paradise Unveiled: Best Time To Visit The Philippines Zanzibar Unplugged: Best Time To Visit Zanzibar Zesty Escape This Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland & These Are The Things You Should Do!

BY  Sibashree Jan 28, 2026

South India has been my go-to place whenever I lacked clarity about “What is Next?” After exploring the beaches in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, I wanted to continue my journey, and my destination was the Western Coast of India.  The quiet Varkala Beach or Papanasam Beach with dramatic cliffs won me over.  With golden sands, blue waters, and gentle waves, Varkala Beach is therapeutic. No wonder that it is such a popular place for outdoor Yoga practices.  Furthermore, being a west-facing beach, it offers dramatic sunset views.  Here is more about the  Location of Varkala Beach How to reach Varkala Beach Best beaches in Varkala Where to stay in Varkala Beach When is the best time to visit Varkala Beach Best things to do in Varkala Beach Places to eat and drink Is Varkala Beach worth it?  About Varakala Beach Let me introduce the Varkala Beach to you with some quick answers.  ⁍ Where is Varkala Beach? Varka Beach is in Varkala. It is a coastal town on the southwestern coast of India. ⁍ In which state is Varkala Beach situated? Varkala Beach is situated in the southern state of Kerala in India.  ⁍ Varkala Beach, in which district? The Varkala Beach is in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala.  ⁍ Varkala Beach distance: It is located at a distance of 40 km from Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala.  Varkala Beach is the place where spirituality, wellness, religious fervor, and coastal recreation meet. It is also known as the Papanasam because people believe that taking a dip here washes away all your sins.  In fact, the mineral-rich water of the Arabian Sea here has healing properties.  Furthermore, the beach stretch is long, a little over 6 kms and it is the middle ground between the red cliffs and the blue waters.  However, there are two things I did not like about the Varkala Beach. Firstly, all the eateries and shops lining the red cliffs obstruct the views.  The more alarming thing is the amount of trash and plastic on the beach. There were food wraps and food wraps everywhere. Now, this shows a lack of maintenance and the absence of civic sense.  Does The Varkala Beach Have A Shade? No, the Varaka Beach does not have any designated or constructed shade. Also, naturally, there is rarely any shaded spot with very few trees around.  Furthermore, there are some lizards in the sand here. They don’t bother anyone, but it was a big issue for me.  Finally, I rented a shade and a chair from a clifftop cafe.  However, be ready get heavily tanned as the Sun here is so strong that no amount of sunscreen can protect you.  How Safe Is Varkala Beach?  Varkala Beach is a safe place, and it is one of the best destinations for a solo trip in India. It has a laid-back vibe, typical of the coastal areas of South India.  However, I could not find any lifeguards for the longer stretch of the beach. So, swimming here is something you need to do at your own risk.  Also, the current here is very strong. So, if you have plans to swim with kids, you have to be very careful.  How To Get To Varkala? The Varkala Beach is closest to the Trivandrum International Airport (TRV). The distance is around 45 kilometers. Furthermore, the nearest railway station, Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station, is a little over 4 km away.  However, the Trivandrum Central (TVC) is at a distance of 1 hour, and the Kollam Junction (QLN) Railway Station is around 40 minutes away. Both these stations have frequent train options from different parts of India.  1. How To Get To Varkala Beach From Trivandrum Airport I booked an Uber to reach the Varkala Beach from the Trivandrum Airport, and the charge was INR 1160. This is the safest option if you are new to the place.  Local cabs and other online car rentals are also available. However, if you cannot negotiate, they will charge you between INR 1500 and INR 1600.  Furthermore, the cheapest option to travel from Trivandrum to Varkala is to take a bus run by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC). Buses are available every 15 minutes.  However, the KSRTC bus stop is around 15 km away from the beach. So, from there, you will again have to take a local bus or taxi.  2. How To Travel From The Varkala Railway Station To Varkala Beach?  You can take a local taxi to reach the beach from the Varkala Railway Station. Local buses are also available. What Are The Best Beaches In Varkala? The Varkala Beach is the main attraction in the town of Varkala. However, it has many other beaches, such as the Black Sand Beach, Odayam Beach, Kappil Beach and Beach Park, Edava Beach, and Thiruvambadi Beach.  1. Black Sand Beach View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nat Geo Traveller India (@natgeotravellerindia) The Black Sand Cliff is close to the north cliff. If the Varkala Beach is overcrowded, you can consider this one as an alternative.  2. Odayam Beach Odayam Beach is perfect if you want to enjoy a long stroll along the waters early morning or late in the evening.  It is located at the north of the main cliff.  3. Kappil Beach And Beach Park The Kappil Beach and Beach Park are further north of the Varkala town. It is the place where you will have a bit of the famous Kerala backwater experience.  Also, it is the confluence of the Arabian Sea and the Kappil River.  4. Edava Beach The Edava Beach is cleaner. Also, this quaint beach offers a delightful cultural experience. Here, you can meet the fishermen.  Though language was a barrier sometimes, a few of them knew English. Also, I must say, after the rich cultural experience in Jaffna, this was another culturally enriching moment for me.  5. Thiruvambadi Beach It is the most secluded beach in Varkala. It has black and dark sand. Also, it has a calm environment, allowing you to just relax and introspect.  Where To Stay In Varkala? You can visit the Kerala Tourism website to find out where to stay in Varkala. It has Varkala beach resort options such as the Coconut Cove Beach Resort, the Pulari Gardens Tourist Resorts, and the nearest Karthika Plaza Resort Pvt. Ltd.  Furthermore, there are hotels near Varkala Beach, such as InDa Hotel, the Lost Hostels, and Maison Sangham.  I stayed at the Bougainvillea Homestay, which is very close to the Varkala beach cliffs.  When To Visit Varkala? October to March, or the winter and spring seasons, are ideal for visiting Varkala.The rainfall is minimal in these months, and the temperature hovers around 20 to 30 degrees Celsius.  Furthermore, less rain and moderate weather conditions are ideal for watersports such as jet skiing and paragliding.  However, during my visit in February, I found the water current to be quite strong for swimming. So, check with the locals and the fishermen around before getting into the water.  What Are The Best Things To Do In Varkala Beach? The Varkala Beach is a welcome relief if you are exploring South India. It is not a place if you are planning an action-packed holiday.  However, try these watersports.  Surfing At Varkala Beach You will find places such as Soul and Surf here to camp and learn surfing. Furthermore, the ideal surfing condition for a visitor depends on their expertise level.  For Beginners: November to February For Sufers of Intermediate or Advanced Levels: October to March Advanced Surfers: The Monsoon Season or June to August  Paragliding Varkala Paragliding is the most adventurous thing you can try at Varkala Beach. You can have a hawk-eye view of the water and the golden sand by flying from one end of the cliff to another.  Also, paragliding feels magical during sunset. Varkala Beach Nightlife  The bars, restaurants, and rooftop cafes of the North Cliff are the epicenters of a happening nightlife in Varkala.  These places are ideal for candlelit dinners and enjoying a lively vibe with DJs and live acoustic music performances. What Are The Places To Visit Near The Varkala Beach? Varkala is an ideal place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, many religious and spiritual travelers combine a Varkala beach trip with a visit to Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple and the Sivagiri Mutt.  The Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple is a 2000-year-old Vishnu shrine. It is associated with the legends of Lord Brahma and Narada Muni.  On the other hand, the Sivagiri Mutt is home to the saints and sanyasins of the order started by Sree Narayana Gurudev. His primary teaching was “One Caste, One Religion, One God for Man.” Established in 1904, this Mutt practices inclusiveness.  What Are The Places For Eating And Drinking In Varkala? There are many cafes and restaurants in Varkala. I chose a humble, local place for lunch and dinner.  However, to experience the cafe culture here, I chose a few upscale places.  1. Lunch At Vinayaka Vegetarian Restaurant I ordered a veg Keralan thali at the Vinayaka Vegetarian Restaurant. The rice grains were thick, and they were filling. Furthermore, they served the rice with five types of sides, pickle, and papad. It only cost me INR 90.  2. Dinner At Chimney Restaurant At the Chimney Restaurant, it was a continuation of my great seafood experience in Jaffna. The staff here suggested that I try a Kerala fish curry.  The fish was fresh, and the curry was sharp and spicy (a little less than Jaffna). It was a perfect balance to the acidic element of rice.  You must also try the village-style chicken curry here. It is a family-friendly restaurant.  3. Cafés I was at Cafe Trip is Life during sunset. The view was amazing, and I loved the grilled prawns and mojitos there. A bit pricey, but worth it! Another café I loved here was Café Sarwaa. I was impressed with the Bohemian decor the moment I entered the place. I tried some samosas and banana pancakes there.  However, you can eat here the whole day. Their paratha and Kerala beef curry are the most famous.  Is Varkala Worth It? Should I Just Go To Goa? The only similarity between Varkala and Goa beaches is the bohemian vibe. However, both beaches offer different experiences.  Varkala is more nature-focused with the landscape of the Varkala Beach and a view of the Arabian Sea. Furthermore, it is more about relaxation and wellness thanks to the Yoga centers frequently found here.  However, despite watersports and adventure facilities such as paragliding and surfing, Varkala is not as happening as Goa. Goa offers a wider range of watersports.  Moreover, the nightlife of Goa is more vibrant.  So, if you want a spiritual and wellness retreat and some quiet beach time, Varkala is the best. The 2000-year-old Vishnu temple is an added attraction here.  For a vibe and a high-energy experience, choose Goa.  Varkala Beach: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Varkala Beach.  1. Varkala Beach Or Kovalam Beach, Which Is Best? I cannot pick a favorite between the Varkala Beach and the Kovalam Beach. The Varkala Beach, with a bohemian vibe, is more laid-back and nature-focused. On the other hand, the Kovalam Beach has the iconic crescent beaches, and it offers a diverse range of watersports and a vibrant nightlife. 2. Which Beach In Varkala Has Bioluminescence? The Varkala Beach has bioluminescence. You can especially notice the bioluminescence near the cliff and along the northern stretch of the beach. Here, tiny marine organisms emit blue and green light due to a chemical reaction. When the wave is disturbed, these organisms get scattered, and it looks like the water is glowing. Furthermore, from September to November is the best time to see the bioluminescence of the beach.  3. What Is The Varkala Beach From Bangalore Distance? The distance between Varkala Beach and Bangalore is around 670 km. You can travel by road, which takes around 14 hours. So, the easiest way to travel is to take a train from Bangalore Cantonment to Varkala. The travel time is around 13-15 hours. Furthermore, if you want to take the fastest way to travel, you must take a flight from the Bangalore Airport to the Trivandrum Airport and then take a bus or taxi to Kovalam.