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BY  Sibashree Sep 30, 2024

Even if you don’t believe it, Canada has many locations and abandoned sites with ghostly stories and a dark history.  Haunted places like the Fort Edmonton Park and Princess Theatre in Edmonton or the Disaster-struck Alberta Frank Slide are a few examples of how dark tourism in Canada offers a vivid experience.  Further, sites like Asbestos (now Val-des-Sources) show how mining asbestos has caused long-term health hazards to Canadian people and victims beyond borders. Also, there is Halifax, where an explosion took the lives of around 2000 people in 1917. So, let’s explore the sites that are scary and unusual.  THESE Are The Best Sites For Dark Tourism In Canada  In 2020, the small town of Asbestos changed its name to Val-des-Sources or the Valley of the Springs. However, the name change could not wipe off the history of diseases and suffering as it once had the largest asbestos mine in the world.  So, like the nuclear plantations that pushed numerous human lives to death, Asbestos in Canada was also a town of breathing poison. Today, it is one of the most prominent destinations for dark tourism in Canada.  Regarding dark tourism, Canada has many sites that tell the tale of human tragedy or are infamous for spooky experiences. Let me share brief accounts on these sites If you want to walk into the shadows.  Asbestos  Asbestos, a town in southern Quebec, once epitomized health-hazard horrors. Asbestos mining is not done here today, but breathing problems and other hazards caused by that “magic or miracle mineral” persist in the town.  The town had an open-pit mine for mining chrysotile asbestos, and it boomed for a century. However, in 2011, the mine stopped its operations.   Unfortunately, the use of asbestos became huge by the mid-20th century. It was a chosen material for roofing, insulation, and fireproofing. Slowly, it was discovered to cause many health hazards for people working in the industry or residing near an asbestos plant or mine.  Despite the drop in global demand and many other countries banning the use, import, and export of asbestos, Canada kept at it until 2018. Justin Trudeau, the Canadian Prime Minister, banned the use, sale, import, and export of asbestos in 2016, and the ban came into effect in 2018.  Nevertheless, today, the town of Asbestos, or Val-des-Sources, is a popular dark tourism site with an abandoned mine. The mine now looks like a gigantic playground. Halifax  In June 2016, the Canadian Government designated the Halifax explosion as a “national historic event.” Halifax was a busy port for the loading and unloading of food, aid, relief, and other essentials during World War I. On an unfortunate day, 6 December 1917, the French ship SS Mont-Blanc and SS Imo, a Norwegian ship, collided. Both were carrying explosives, and the collision caused a major explosion. Almost 2000 people died, and many were injured, registering it as the biggest manmade explosion before the atomic bomb disaster.  This human tragedy, however, was a milestone in changing the medical scenario of Halifax. The improvement in pediatric surgeries and the establishment of the Canadian National Institute for the Blind were the two most prominent examples in this regard. Today, the Fort Needham Memorial Park is a prominent site for dark tourism in Canada. The commemorative plaque there gives you a brief account of the incident. Also, the Halifax Explosion Memorial Bell Tower here has an annual memorial service for the explosion on 6th December. Edmonton: The Hub Of Dark Tourism In Canada  Edmonton has many destinations for paranormal encounters, and Fort Edmonton Park is one of them. At the paranormal tours here, you can explore many paranormal equipment and encounter many experts for some otherworldly experience. You can also visit the haunted buildings of Edmonton. The stories of these buildings will scare you to the bit. Also, you never know when an unknown entity gets close to you, and you can feel the breath.  Princess Theater: The Most Haunted Place In Edmonton Another important haunted landmark here is the Princess Theater. In the 1920s, the theater was about to have an additional rental space. A bride-to-be rented that space, but her fiance left her on their wedding day.  So, she committed suicide by hanging by the neck. When the staff of the hotel found her, her body was swinging from the rope.  She was wearing a beautiful wedding gown. Legends have it that her ghostly figure is still seen at the theater. She is seen climbing down the stairs, wandering the theater halls, and moving around the projection room.  Historic Mackay Avenue School Archives & Museum: Meet The Restless Spirit Moreover, when in Edmonton to experience haunted activities,  Historic Mackay Avenue School Archives & Museum should be your destination. Many people have experienced a sense of choking, being grabbed, or disturbed at this place. It is said that a construction worker called Peter fell from a third-floor window during renovation work in 1912. His restless spirit still lives here, and many informal investigations have captured strange silhouettes and erratic electromagnetic fields recorded here, which also vouch for paranormal activities here.  The Museum of Fear and Wonder https://www.instagram.com/p/CxsrNX5L7Al/?hl=en&img_index=1 It is unusual to find a rural museum of horror in the Southern Alberta rural valleys. It is eerie to the bone with Ouija boards and ventriloquist dummies.  The little jack o’lantern dollhouse, Kiddo, leather doll, and the haunted doll, Robertina, are the most prominent collectibles here. Also, the artificial human body parts and life-like human bodywork made of wax are the creepiest things you will come across.  All the collectibles in the museum are carefully placed to create a sense of fear. The aim is to show how people emotionally react to certain things. Also, Brendan, one of the founders of the museum, does not believe that things can be haunted or they can be related to paranormal activities.  According to him, things, at the most, can cause a sense of uneasiness. Thus, all the items in the museum provoke discussion about the psychological impacts of different objects on different people. For example, an adorable doll can be an object of fear or discomfort for a person who has suffered childhood trauma.  Even dolls or toys can get old and develop an eerie appearance through wear and tear. They can look messy or dirty, creating repulsive feelings. Thus, the Museum of Fear and Wonder is not about paranormal experiences or activities. It is a place to understand the human psychology behind fear and wonder.  Saskatchewan Ghost Towns – Insinger As India has Kuldhara, Canada has Saskatchewan, where time stands still, and the deserted town lives in the shadow of the past. Unbearable winter in the Prairie region made the residents desert the place. In the 1800s, many European people came to Canada and got free land to set up a working farm within a year. Thus, this prairie became a bustling residence of farmers and their families. Visiting Saskatchewan And Its Many Wonders In Saskatchewan, you will notice a Ukrainian Orthodox Church. The old church with a domed roof stands as a witness to the bygone era. Do you know that Saskatchewan has so many ghost towns (more than 30) that there is a “Ghost Town Trail” here? You can drive around the route to explore the towns individually. As you walk through the ghost towns of Saskatchewan, you will never feel alone. There is a constant feeling of someone following or walking with you. Even looking at the most dilapidated structure, you will feel like someone will come out of it any moment. I had plans to get inside some of the structures. However, a knotty feeling in my stomach stopped me. As hours passed, I started feeling anxious and left the place. The Ghost Towns of Alberta – Rowley If I were to decide, I would name Alberta the capital of dark tourism in Canada. If the haunted places of Edmonton are not enough, you can explore Rowley.   The small hamlet of Rowley in Alberta has deserted railway cars and buildings. However, it also tells some inspiring stories. Rowley used to be a town with 500 inhabitants in the 1920s. The Great Depression hit the place, making the residents leave. A lack of rain led to the drying up of the crops.Moreover, a fire destroyed many of the small buildings.However, only eight surviving residents of Rowley did a commendable job of transforming Rowley into a heritage site in the 1980s. They transformed some of the buildings.  Very few people know that movies like Bye Bye Blues or Legends of the Fall have some of these buildings as their locations. Visit Rowley in the summer, as it offers free tours in the season. Also, the pizza parties here on the last Saturday of every month are fun! These pizza parties are fundraisers for restoring the buildings and preserving history here.  THESE Are The Places You Can’t Miss At Rowley The historical buildings to visit in the ghost town of Rowley are: Rowley Trading Post (Built in the 1920s) A Printing Press A School Now Abandoned Former Hospital Abandoned Railway Tracks A Saloon with Swinging Doors (Dedicated to the memory of a previous owner) Municipality of Starland Office Canada National Telegraphs Building Along with these historical structures, you will also find a building labeled Funeral Home and Embalming. Going inside, you will find paraphernalia and historical artifacts used in Bye Bye Blues. The only thing I find creepy about Rowley is the mannequins. The residents have used mannequins in many places to recreate the scenarios of the 1920s.  So, if you have a faint heart, avoid peeping through the glass windows of the historical buildings. It is not very pleasant to find a mannequin looking back at you.  However, overall, the experience was like being at the location of a classic Western movie.  Alberta Frank Slide  Alberta Frank Slide is one of the most tragic spots for dark tourism in Canada. 121 years ago, this place witnessed the deadliest slide in Canada. The tragic incident took the lives of 100 people. What Happened At Alberta Frank Slide? It was 4:10 am on 29th April 1903. The 600 people in the mining community were still asleep as Mount Turtle crumbled down and released 110 million metric tonnes of rock. This incident took the lives of around 100 people.  Even today, if you pass through Highway 3 of Alberta or visit Frank Slide, you will find bodies and various belongings still buried under rocks.  “It was loud enough they could hear it up by the town of Cochrane, 200 kilometers away,” said Joey Ambrosi, the facility supervisor of the Alberta Frank Slide Interpretive Center. This interpretive center, built in 1985, tells the true stories of human tragedy and dismisses the myths around it.  However, the intrigue around this biggest slide does not end here. The mountain moves a few kilometers from each other, and scientists suspect it will come down again.  Having said that, there is still time for such an incident, and it will not be as deadly as the one that happened in 1903.  When at Alberta Frank Slide, don’t forget to visit The Crowsnest Pass. A landslide and a mine explosion in 1910 badly hit the area. Again, at a stone’s throw away is the Hillcrest town where 189 miners died of a coal-dust explosion on 19th June 1914.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! [Updated 2024] Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Arnab Nov 1, 2023

Switzerland is a must-visit destination for captivating your senses and creating lifetime memories. With breathtaking mountain ranges, glistening lakes, and mouth-watering chocolate, the country has something to offer everybody, and we’ll give you a taste of the Swiss trifecta to help you plan your trip. But if the thought of planning overwhelms you, fear not. Exoticca offers a seamless solution—a vacation where you don't worry about flights, accommodations, or even your breakfasts. With Exoticca's best of Switzerland tours, all you need to do is pack your bags and show up. Swiss Mountains When you think of Switzerland, it's almost impossible not to conjure images of soaring, snow-capped mountains. These majestic peaks are the true heart and soul of the country. The Swiss Alps are an iconic wonder, a natural masterpiece that inspires awe and reverence. Standing at the foothills of these towering giants, you'll feel a sense of insignificance, yet at the same time, an overwhelming connection to nature. The air is crisp, and the vistas are simply breathtaking. These mountains, including the famous Eiger and Matterhorn, are a playground for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Hiking is one of the most popular activities in the Swiss mountains. With a network of well-marked trails, you can explore alpine meadows, cross pristine streams, and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Swiss countryside. The sound of cowbells in the distance is a reminder of the country's pastoral charm. In the winter, the Swiss Alps transform into a snow-covered wonderland. Ski resorts like Zermatt and Verbier offer some of the finest skiing and snowboarding experiences in the world. You'll glide down pristine slopes, surrounded by stunning alpine scenery, and savor the adrenaline rush that only the mountains can provide. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, Switzerland's cable cars and cogwheel railways offer a convenient way to reach higher altitudes. As you ascend, you'll witness the landscape gradually changing from lush valleys to rocky terrain and, ultimately, the world of snow and ice. The views from the summit are a reward for the journey, providing a sense of tranquility and appreciation for the world's natural wonders. Swiss Lakes Switzerland isn't just about mountains; it's also home to some of the most serene and picturesque lakes in the world. These bodies of water, nestled amid the alpine landscape, offer a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Lake Geneva, surrounded by the cities of Geneva, Lausanne, and Montreux, is a gem of Western Switzerland. It's a place where you can relax by the shore, enjoying the play of sunlight on the water and the cool breeze in your hair. The promenades are perfect for leisurely strolls, and the lakeside cafes offer a delightful setting for a nice cup of joe or chocolate or a glass of local wine. Lake Lucerne, with its striking blue waters and the charming town of Lucerne at its heart, is another Swiss marvel. You can take a relaxing boat ride across the lake, passing picturesque villages, while the backdrop of the Swiss Alps creates a captivating scene. For those seeking adventure, Swiss lakes offer numerous water activities. You can paddleboard or a kayak, try your hand at windsurfing, or even go for a refreshing swim. Some lakes have diving spots where you can explore the underwater world. Fishing is also a popular pastime on Swiss lakes, with the opportunity to catch trout and other native species. If you're an angler at heart, you'll appreciate the tranquility and the simple joy of waiting for a nibble from the depths. Swiss Chocolate No journey through Switzerland would be complete without indulging in the country's most famous treat – chocolate. Swiss chocolate is renowned worldwide for its quality and flavor. It's a delightful experience that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Switzerland has a long history of chocolate making, dating back to the 17th century. The secret of Swiss chocolate lies in the meticulous craftsmanship and the use of high-quality ingredients. Swiss chocolatiers take pride in their art, and every piece of chocolate is a work of culinary excellence. The best way to savor Swiss chocolate is to visit one of the many chocolate factories and shops that dot the country. In cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Lausanne, you can take guided tours of these chocolate wonderlands, where you'll learn about the chocolate-making process from bean to bar. During these tours, you'll have the chance to sample a wide variety of chocolates. From creamy milk chocolate to rich dark chocolate and everything in between, the flavors are diverse and decadent. Swiss chocolate often features fillings like hazelnuts, caramel, and praline, adding layers of texture and taste that will leave you craving for more. Swiss chocolate isn't just a treat for your palate; it's also a feast for your eyes. The craftsmanship involved in creating chocolate sculptures and figurines is truly astonishing. At Swiss chocolate shops, you'll find a wide array of chocolate creations, from delicate truffles to intricately designed chocolate bars. In Switzerland, chocolate isn't just a sweet treat; it's a cultural icon. Swiss chocolate brands like Lindt, Toblerone, and Nestlé have gained international acclaim. As you explore the local shops, you'll have the chance to pick up these renowned brands as well as artisanal chocolates crafted by local chocolatiers. Swiss Trifecta: Mountains, Lakes, and Chocolate As you traverse the Swiss landscape, you’ll find yourself falling in love with the simplicity of life amid breathtaking natural beauty. Indeed, the Swiss have mastered the art of living in harmony with their environment, and this is a lesson they willingly share with visitors. In addition, it’s a destination that promises adventure, relaxation, and a taste of culinary heaven. Hiking in the Alps, cruising on a Swiss lake, and savoring a piece of Swiss chocolate are some of the must-dos in this charming country. Apart from your adventure, you can also apply for finma license to set up a business in the Swiss financial industry if you are interested. So, when planning your next adventure, put Switzerland at the top of your list. Create memories you won’t soon forget. Read Also: Which Is The Best Time To Visit Uttarakhand? – Travel Guide 10 Best Places To Travel In October – Travel Guide 2022 Sizzling Summer Road Trip Destinations

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 30, 2023

Colorado is the RV heaven of America. With its undiscovered side roads, untrammeled mountain pathways, and wealth of unexpected discoveries, the Centennial State was made for RVers. Whether you're an experienced camper or a novice, Colorado offers a wide range of excellent RV camping locations, from luxurious spas to adventure camps that are perfect for families. The good news is that RVers will find Colorado to be friendly right away. Unless you want to park in specific locations, you won't require a special permit. Similarly, check local laws before visiting, as certain cities (like Colorado Springs) have particular bans on parking in residential and urban areas. RV campers in Colorado have some of the best options at privately owned-campgrounds. In addition to complete electric hookups, Wi-Fi, bathrooms, showers, swimming pools, general stores, and recreational facilities, they usually provide a wide range of amenities. Furthermore, they are frequently situated close to some of Colorado's most breathtaking natural landmarks as well as well-liked hiking routes and rivers, all within short walking distance. RV Camping Colorado: What To Expect  There are 42 state parks in Colorado that have complete electrical hookups in addition to other facilities like potable water and restrooms. Similarly, there are plenty of RV-friendly campgrounds in its four national parks, some of which even have electrical hookups. Check before you book because many national parks have length restrictions on RVs and don't permit generators. Numerous free RV camping spots can be found all over Colorado on the 8.3 million acres of state land. Make sure you research the locations before you go. Some areas, like Fruita's Rabbit Valley Motorized Area, only permit RV parking in approved camping areas. Others, however, permit parking anywhere. In these popular camping locations, the majority of RV sites provide a variety of amenities, such as fire pits and potable water. In addition, some offer Wi-Fi and electrical hookups, along with kid-friendly activities for the whole family. RV Camping Colorado  If you are looking for options for RV camping Colorado is a great place to start. Here are the top RV parking and camping areas in Colorado. Mountain Dale Cabins & RV Resort  Just a short drive away in Manitou Springs, you can get cozy with the magnificent Pike's Peak, nestled among some of Colorado's highest peaks. You can camp in the shadow of this famous mountain at Mountain Dale Cabins & RV Resort. It offers facilities like showers, complete electrical hookups, and access to fantastic hiking trails and wildlife viewing spots. Similarly, Mueller State Park nearby provides 136 campsites (of which 99 have electric hookups), magnificent hiking trails, and an abundance of opportunities to observe wildlife. Estes Park  With its stained wood chalets and coffee shops, Estes Park, the entry point to the breathtaking Rocky Mountain National Park, resembles a European ski resort town. However, it's actually a popular destination for RVers, campers,, rafters, anglers, and hikers from all over the world. Numerous RV parks are available here, all within close proximity to river activities, golf courses, and horseback riding. Elk Meadow Lodge & RV Resort is a well-liked RV park with live music, miniature golf, and a swimming pool. Rocky Mountain National Park  Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), the center of Colorado's most magnificent mountain range, has a lot to offer. There are stunning hiking trails, rivers for rafting, kayaking, and fishing, vast meadows of wildflowers, and amazing wildlife viewing. RVs are welcome at four of its five campgrounds (tents only at Longs Peak). Check the length restrictions for RVs at each park before visiting, though.  Tiger Run Resort This all-seasons RV resort outside Breckenridge is as high as it gets. Tiger Run Resort is an RVer's dream come true at 9,300 feet. After a day of hiking, you can unwind in the hot tub or cool off in the pool. Other features include a laundry room and hiking trails that are close by. They have some of the most breathtaking scenery in Colorado. They also have a golf course and recreation center that are only five minutes away. If you are looking for RV camping Colorado, Tiger Run is a great option. How To Prepare For RV Camping In Colorado Because Colorado's weather is so unpredictable, make sure to pack appropriately. It can get freezing at night in these high altitudes, so pack plenty of insulating layers, warm blankets, cozy pajamas, and head wear. You can take the warmers layers off as needed. When you're this high up, you're closer to the sun, so wear sunglasses, a sun hat, and lots of sunscreen. People are always able to identify newcomers because they typically have excellent Colorado sunburns. Bring lots of extra water because you'll need to hydrate much more than usual in this dry climate. It helps avoid altitude sickness in addition to preventing dehydration. Speaking of altitude sickness, descend to a lower altitude if you begin to feel symptoms. If symptoms don't go away, see a doctor. Remember that altitude sickness is a serious issue that has ruined numerous camping trips in Colorado. Safety Issues To Keep In Mind  Keep your RV door closed! A door ajar invites hungry (or inquisitive) creatures to stop by and say hello. Regarding wildlife, always maintain a safe distance. Only take pictures from a distance, store disposables in bear-proof containers, and save them to discard later in a secure location. If not, unwanted guests will be robbing your campsite. Camping is usually allowed in Colorado's designated areas. But there are some locations (like Indian Peaks Wilderness) where an overnight permit may be needed. Obtaining a fishing license is mandatory if you intend to go fishing in Colorado. The weather in Colorado can be very harsh. Keep your heat on and open the cabinet doors to allow the heat to reach the pipes in your RV. This will prevent them from freezing (heat tape helps too). Use shade and roof vent covers, close your windows first thing in the morning, and make sure your A/C filters are clean. This will keep your RV cool during the summer. RC camping Colorado sounds fun and gets even better when you stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Wrapping Up  If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about RV camping Colorado, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Florida Dreams: RV Camping Along the Sunshine State’s Shore Wonders of the Waves: RV Camping Along Oregon's Coastal Beauty