Cheapest Places To Travel Around The World In 2025: Traveling On A Shoestring 

BY  Ankita Jan 12, 2024

Visions of crystal clear water lapping at pristine white sandy beaches, a glass of vintage wine on an exclusive rooftop bar overlooking a breathtaking cityscape, or perhaps a relaxing day at a world-class spa in an exotic location - luxury travel often evokes such dreamy thoughts. But alas, are such extravagant getaways limited only to the affluent? Not necessarily. Traveling in style doesn’t always have to break the bank. With the right planning, smarts, and a bit of innovation, you, too, can orchestrate a memorable and luxurious vacation, without burning a hole in your pocket. One key to success in this endeavor is leveraging modern technology, like a Travel Planning Virtual Assistant. Budget Your Journey Well The first step towards carving out your dream luxury vacation on a budget is to plan thoroughly. Define your budget and stick to it. This is where a Travel Planning Virtual Assistant can be your most valuable tool. Today's AI-based virtual assistants offer comprehensive services: finding budget-friendly flights, choosing cost-effective accommodations, searching best deals on activities, and even helping you stick to your budget during the trip. Choose Your Destination Wisely Sometimes luxury is less about the world's popular tourist spots and more about untouched, serene spots. The path less traveled can provide tranquility and exclusivity that even money can't buy. Choose destinations that aren't on everyone's bucket list, but offer immense beauty and unique experiences. Countries in Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, or South America can render a luxury experience at a fraction of the cost compared to traditional luxury destinations like Paris, Dubai, or New York. Leverage Off-Season and Mid-Week Travel Contrary to popular belief, the off-season can be a perfect time for budget luxury travel. During these times, you can snag the best hotel rooms, flights, and experiences at heavily discounted prices, without the chaotic crowds. Mid-week travel also often has cheaper airfares and accommodations. Your Travel Planning Virtual Assistant can assist in comparing offseason rates for various destinations, and set price alerts for mid-week flights. Book Well In Advance or Very Last Minute Booking flights and hotels well in advance ensures you secure the best prices. Alternatively, a last-minute booking can also land you killer deals as airlines and hotels endeavor to fill empty spaces. Try both strategies and see what works best for your travel plans. Choose Accommodation Wisely Luxe doesn't necessarily mean a 5-star hotel. Consider boutique hotels, bed and breakfasts, or vacation rentals, which often offer personalized services that rival or even exceed those of bigger chains. Many of these alternatives provide a unique experience, let you live like a local, and save money in the process. Eat Like a Local One of the most significant expenses on vacation is food. Instead of dining at expensive tourist traps, explore local markets and eat like a local. Not only can you save a ton but you also experience the authentic taste of your destination's cuisine. Take Advantage of Free Activities Every destination has activities that don't cost a cent but offer priceless experiences. Be it wandering through charming local neighborhoods, visiting free museums, exploring nature trails, or enjoying a sunset on a secluded beach. These experiences will not tax your wallet but will enrich your memory bank. Use Points and Miles If you're an avid credit card user, make sure to leverage rewards points for flights, hotels, and even dining. It could, quite literally, earn you free travel. In conclusion, luxury travel, contrary to popular belief, is not just the exclusive domain of the ultra-rich. With careful planning, making thoughtful choices, and using technology like Travel Planning Virtual Assistants to our advantage, we can all have luxury vacations while staying within our budget. Remember, luxury doesn't always come with a giant price tag. Sometimes, it is hidden in the heart of a priceless experience. So, pack your bags, plan wisely, and embark upon your dream luxury vacation without squandering your life savings. Read Also: Planning A Vacation To Bali? Read This Blog! The Reasons To Choose A Tropical Island Vacation Every Year How To Choose The Perfect Costa Rica Vacation Rental: A Step-By-Step Guide

BY  Sibashree Aug 20, 2024

Joshua Tree National Park, named after the crooked Joshua trees, is known for its endless hiking trails and desert ecosystems of the lower Colorado Desert and the Mojave Desert.  Further, the Joshua Tree is one of the few national parks in the USA to offer equally amazing daytime and nighttime experiences.  The geology of Joshua Tree is “interesting.” You will find Arch Rock and many other fascinating rock formations in the park. Wind power, erosion, and different weather forces have created many other spectacularly-formed rocks and other sculptures.  Hiking is the best way to cherish the beauty and splendor of this national park to the fullest. So, let’s know the tales from the trails!  Best Hiking Trails in Joshua Tree National Park Joshua Tree had an impressive 3,270,404 visitors in 2023, and hiking is one of the most popular activities in this park. Home to some of the best hikes in the USA, Joshua Tree also has many trails for kids and beginners.  Further, you can explore various short walking routes and nature trails like Bajada, Oasis of Mara, and Barker Dam in this park.  Here, I have curated some amazing hiking trails in the park across various difficulty levels.  Joshua Tree Hikes (Easy) The easy hiking trails in Joshua Tree are accessible in all seasons. To make the most of your hiking expeditions, you must start by 9 am in the morning.  Cholla Cactus Garden The Cholla Cactus Garden trek is easy, and even kids can explore it. It will take just 15 minutes to get completed. You will find the trailhead 20 miles north of Cottonwood Visitor Center. As you can guess from its name, the trail is named after the growing cholla cacti found in abundance here. Wear full-length clothes and closed-toe shoes and follow the trail to avoid getting hurt by the cactus thorns.  Discovery Trail You can start hiking this trail from the Skull Rock parking area. This easy hike will take you around 30 to 40 minutes. Catch a glimpse of the desert washes and boulders throughout the route.  Skull Rock  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Joshua Tree National Park (@joshuatreenps) Start hiking this trail early in the morning from the Jumbo Rocks Campground. You can even take the trailhead from the Skull Rock parking area, which is east of the Jumbo Rocks Campground. Skull Rock is one of the many unique rock formations you will see in the park, and it’s the highlight of this trekking route.  You can cover the trekking route within just one or two hours. A night-time view of the Skull Rock can offer you the perfect Halloween experience!  Moderate Hiking Trails Like the Channel Islands National Park and the Death Valley National Park, the Joshua Tree also has many moderate hiking trails. Here is a brief overview of some of the most amazing moderate Joshua Tree hiking trails.  Hi-View  The Hi-View trail, starting from the Northwest of Black Rock Campground, will require you to hike for at least an hour. However, based on the weather conditions, you may also need to walk for more than 1 hour and 45 minutes.  Once you reach the top of the steep ridges, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire park. Further, the iconic Joshua trees are found in the steeper sections of this trail.  If you feel tired in the course of your trekking, you can catch some rest on the benches across the park.  Mastodon Peak The Mastodon Peak trail starts from the Cottonwood Spring parking area, and here, you will experience an elevation change of 175 feet. To reach the granite mountain peak, you will have to pass through a rugged terrain.  You can complete the entire trek within 1.5 to 3 hours.  Split Rock Loop The Split Rock picnic area is the starting point for hiking this trail of 2.5 miles. You can complete the trek within two and a half hours. However, if you are a seasoned hiker, you can complete the safe route within 1 and a half hours.  On a spur trail of the Split Rock Loop, you will find a rock formation that looks like the profile of a human face. It is called the Face Rock.  Pine City  Go to the end of the Desert Queen Mine Road to find the trailhead of Pine City. The dense vegetation of junipers and pinyon makes this 4 miles long trail picturesque. It will take around 3 hours to complete the hike.  Strenuous Hiking Trails  These strenuous trails are not suitable for summer hiking. You can try conquering them in autumn and spring.  California Riding and Hiking Trail Stretching over 36.6 miles, the California Riding and Hiking Trail is a two-day long hike. If the weather conditions are unpleasant, the total duration of the hike can stretch up to three days.  As you hike the route from Black Rock Canyon to the park’s North Entrance, the amazing landscape of the Mojave Desert will charm you.  Ryan Mountain Hiking to the summit of Ryan Mountain is one of the most popular activities to do in Joshua Tree National Park. The trekking route has an elevation of 1,050 feet, and it stretches over 3 miles.  Despite being strenuous, this trail can be hiked in 2.5 hours. So, it is one of the most popular hiking trails in the park.  Willow Hole At the end of the Willow Hole trail, you will find the amazing willow trees. You can start hiking from the Boy Scout Trailhead located inside the park at the South end.  The sandy washes, Joshua tree vegetation, and famous boulder landscape make the trail amazing.  Short Walks And Nature Trails In Joshua Tree National Park View this post on Instagram A post shared by Joshua Tree National Park (@joshuatreenps) The short walks and nature trails of Joshua Tree are available for year-long hiking. These trails also have wheelchair facilities, offering the most inclusive experience to visitors.  It’s time to be familiar with some of these amazing nature walk trails.  Oasis of Mara (Oasis of Mara is the only trail in Joshua Tree that allows dogs. So, hiking this trail is surely one of the best things to do in Joshua Tree as a pet lover.)  Arch Rock Barker Dam Ryan Ranch  Bajada  Among these short walks and nature hiking trails, Cottonwood Spring is the shortest. You can finish the trail within just 10 minutes. Enjoy the view of cottonwood trees as you take a walk to the fan palm oasis.  Integratron: The Wonder Of The Joshua Tree National Park  Facts to Know Integratron is four stories high.Its diameter is 55 feet.It’s a 16-sided metal-free building.The construction technique used in it is called joinery.No nails or screws are used in the construction.It is made of non-ferromagnetic materials. George Van Tassel said that Nikola Tesla’s writings influenced the structure of Integratron.  The western half of the Joshua Tree National Park is on the Mojave Desert’s southern tip. UFOlogist George Van Tassel built “a time machine for basic research on rejuvenation, anti-gravity, and time travel” in the Mojave Desert in the 1950s.  This is a place where visitors are offered sound therapy that is believed to have the power to rejuvenate living tissues in human beings.  From the time it was built, this place has attracted reporters, visitors, artists, and spiritual minds.  George Van Tasse chose the Mojave Desert for building Integratron as, according to him, this place had a connection to the Great Pyramids in Giza. The proximity to magnetic vortices was another reason for choosing the site.  Final Words: Schedule Your Hike Right   March to May and October to November are the two best seasons for hiking in Joshua Tree. The park remains open throughout the year. However, the scorching and dry summer makes hiking impossible on many moderate and strenuous trails.  During summer, the daytime temperature of the park reaches around 100 degrees F, and the temperature falls to 75 degrees F at night.  Further, if you visit the park between March and May, you will see the wildflowers blooming. Also, in April, you can celebrate the National Park Week here.  In October, there are important events in the park, such as the Joshua Tree Music Festival and Pioneer Days. The temperature is also pleasant in the fall season, recording an average temperature of 80 degrees F and 50 degrees F at day and night. So, plan your visit to Joshua Tree right and share your travel stories with us as you return with the most amazing hiking experience.  Joshua Tree National Park FAQs  Is It Safe To Visit Joshua Tree At Night? Yes, it is safe to visit Joshua Tree at night. In fact, stargazing is one of the most popular activities in this national park. The roads in the park are marked, and there is strict patrolling on all roads.  However, this desert park is an important preservation hub for vulnerable ecosystems. Also, there are snakes and scorpions in the park.  So, camp in the park or explore it at night as a responsible visitor. It is safer to restrict your movements near the campsites at night.  Is Joshua Tree Worth Seeing? Yes, Joshua Tree is worth seeing, as you can hike through the California Riding and Hiking Trail, Pine City, Bajada, and many other amazing trails. As you explore these routes, you will come across a wide variety of flora and fauna.  Further, the Joshua Tree is an important preservation and conservation center for fragile ecosystems. In addition, this is a place where stargazing is an ultimate immersive experience. Other highlights of your trip to this national park will be exploring the Penguin Rock, Arch Rock, and other iconic rock formations. Moreover, indulge in a sound bath at the Integratron. Built by UFOlogist George Van Tassel, this dome-shaped place offers sound therapy that promises to rejuvenate living human cell tissues.  Can You Sleep Inside Joshua Tree?  Yes, you can sleep inside Joshua Tree, as there are nine campgrounds inside the park. The Hidden Valley, Belle, and White Tank campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. However, White Tank and Belle campsites can remain temporarily closed during summer.  For the India Cove, Ryan, Cottonwood, Jumbo Rocks, and Black Rock campsites, you will need to make a prior booking.  In addition, you can try backcountry camping and consider putting up a tent in the campsites outside the park.  Remember, there are no restaurants and modern lodging facilities inside the park.  Can You See Milky Way From Joshua Tree? The International Dark-Sky Association, or IDA, has identified Joshua Tree as an International Dark Sky Park. You can get the best view of the Milky Way here.  Joshua Tree also has the darkest nights in Southern California. So, you will get to see the passing meteors, stars, and planets from this national park.  Stargazing from any part of the park is an amazing experience. However, there are also four designated stargazing spots in the park. These are: Quail Springs parking lot Hidden Valley parking lot Cap Rock parking lot Ryan Mountain parking lot Further, you can put up tents at one of the nine camping grounds, and among them, the Cottonwood Campground demands a special mention. Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. Be Soothed And Meet History At Hot Springs National Park.

BY  Sibashree Dec 17, 2024

The Western past and cowboy culture are still very much present in Oklahoma City (OKC) culture. So, if you and your S/O love horseback riding and every outdoor pursuit ingrained in Western culture, there will be no dearth of things to do in OKC.  So, you will fall in love with the cattle trails and ranches here, and we are already soaked in the quintessential Oklahoma charm. We have Brad Pitt as the Oklahoma boy.  Further, food tourism is the most happening in Oklahoma City. Therefore, it will be your destination for a luxury dining and beverage experience.  Moreover, the city has hotspots like Broken Bow and Love Lock Fountain, where you can lock your lips and utter those three magical words (if you have not said them already!). So, are you ready to explore the city with your special one? Check out this Tour and Travel guide soaked in romance. Things To Do In OKC For Couples | Your Date Night Cannot Get Any Better Tourism in Oklahoma City deserves all the respect if we discuss the economic scenario of the city. With a sound 24.1 million visitors in 2023, the city managed to record an economic impact of $4.5 billion.  “Our city’s vibrant tourism sector is a testament to the sales and marketing efforts of Visit OKC and our hospitality industry partners. This recent study highlights the significance of tourism in our local economy and how, ultimately, tourism is a revenue generator for the city, advancing the city’s priorities which improves quality of life for residents.”  Zac Craig, President of Visit OKC So, with the current tourism scenario in Oklahoma City, it’s the right time for you to explore the city with your partner. 1. Battling In A Pickleball Match At Chicken And Pickle https://www.instagram.com/p/Cmek__euNof/ Address: 8400 N. Oklahoma Ave, Oklahoma City Contact Number: (405) 839-7011 Good food and a lot of yard games! This is how I would love to describe Chicken and Pickle. So, this place is great for celebrating the child in you and being playful with your partner.  There are 10 pickleball courses at Chicken And Pickle. Moreover, once you are done playing, you can relax at the rooftop bar with your favorite drink and fried chicken.  2. Learning The Art Of Glass Blowing At Blue Sage Studios https://www.instagram.com/p/CQtXaAvLzVI/?img_index=1 Address: Urban Art Building, 1218-C N Western Ave, Oklahoma City Contact Number: +1 405-601-2583/405-473-0754 Charges: $35-40 Watching the artists busy in their glass crafts at Blue Sage Studios is fun. You can also attend one-on-one classes here. You can especially take part in the 2-hour long sessions taking place on Saturdays.  DayBlue Sage Studios Hours OpenMonday9 AM to 8 PMWednesday8 AM to 8 PMThursday1 AM to 8 PMSaturday9 AM to 3 PMSunday 10 AM to 5 PMTuesday and FridayClosed Furthermore, you can check out the art for sale section and grab a beautiful gift for your sweetheart.  3. Enjoying A Fun Dinner | Unique Things To Do In OKC https://www.instagram.com/p/C5lkII1sm1e/?img_index=1 The food scenario in Oklahoma is happening. Beyond the dishes served here, the food scenario celebrates locally grown veggies and farms. Here are some Tour and Travel favorite restaurants where you can cherish food made with local ingredients. Name Of The RestaurantAddressContact NumberVII Asian Bistro2900 N Classen BlvdSuite G, Oklahoma City(405) 604-2939The Red Cup3122 N Classen Blvd, Oklahoma City(405)-525-3430Paseo Grill2909 Paseo, Oklahoma City(405)-601-1079 Oklahoma is the 87th-best city in the world for exploring local food, according to TasteAtlas. It’s even better than Louisville, Boston, and Miami.  4. Exploring The Art Scenario Of Oklahoma City At Factory Obscura https://www.instagram.com/p/DB87fRwOA6U/ Open Hours: Monday-Thursday: 11 AM - 7 PM (Tuesday Closed), Friday 11 AM - 8 PM, Saturday: 10 AM - 8 PM, Sunday: 12 PM - 6 PM Address:  25 NW 9th St, Oklahoma City Contact: info@factoryobscura.com If you want an immersive art experience, Factory Obscura will be at the epicenter of places to visit in OKC. It operates with the tagline of “Future is Collaborative.” Moreover, you can attend the most interactive events here for a feeling of wonder and awe.  5. Visiting The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/DCvMEXrOu1D/?img_index=1 Open Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PM, Sunday: 12-5 PM Address: 1700 NE 63rd St, Oklahoma City Contact Number: +1 405-478-2250 Admission Fee: $12.50 for Adults, $12.50 for Children 6-12, Children Up to 5 Years - Free Admission If you are fascinated by Western Art and culture, this 1955 museum will be your instant favorite. This museum houses works of James Earle Fraser, Frederic Remington, and Charles M. Russell.  In addition, you will come across many Native American or Western equipment like saddles and spurs here.  6. Visiting The Broken Bow Broken Bow, a city in Oklahoma, is a perfect retreat for couples. You can book a private cabin there and spend some quality time. Furthermore, you can immerse in romance by the Broken Bow Lake. Located on the Mountain Fork River, this lake has crystal clear water thanks to the rock-lined floor.  The Broken Bow Lake and the city of Broken Bow are great year-round attractions. For example, you can spend the most serene and calm holiday here. Moreover, in spring, the trees are in full bloom, and in the fall season, the place has its somber beauty.  Also, if you visit the lake in summer, you can enjoy the most rejuvenating swim.  7. Romancing At Love Lock Fountain Lake Eufaula State Park Hours Open: 24 Hours Address: 111563 OK-150, Checotah, OK Contact Number: +1 918-689-5311 (Park Office), 877-657-2757 (Reservation) Have you chosen OKC as the place to propose to your sweetheart? Do you want to keep it low-key? Then, your road must lead to Love Lock Fountain at the Lake Eufaula State Park. You can fasten an engraved lock to the gate and throw the key in the air.  Furthermore, you can explore the diverse foliage and native wildlife on the park’s mountain biking trails.  8. Going On A Road Trip To The Chisholm Trail: The Most Adventurous Things To Do In OKC Chisholm Trail is crucial for the cultural landscape of western Oklahoma. With your partner, you can enjoy a cattle drive on the trail to soak in an old-world charm.  Further, this trail is associated with a rich history, and while taking a ride, you will be transported to the post-Civil War era.  Also, the red Oklahoma dirt stretched here for miles will tell you the tales of South Texas ranchers bringing and distributing beef to the Northern states.  Today, when you ride this route, you will discover many small towns.  Moreover, the trail has countless historical monuments and landmarks. Some of them are: Chisholm Trail Mural Jesse Chisholm's Gravesite Monument Hill Sansom House Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum Marlow Area Museum So, that’s pretty much from me if you are looking for unique things to do in OKC for couples. However, for some cozy, indoor fun, you can play cards at a quaint coffee shop in OKC.  Further, Perets Dessert & Coffee Bar at W Sheridan Ave and Culture Coffee on 6th Street are some of the best coffee shops here. 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.