Tropical Island Vacation: Reasons To Choose One Every Year

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 23, 2023

If you imagine yourself traveling to a warm, sunny place, you probably envision yourself at a beach. The ideal temperatures would be in the 80s or even 90s. But you definitely don’t imagine it to be in a desert that is notoriously hot. The hottest places on Earth range from crowded cities to breathtaking desert landscapes. Its temperatures routinely rise above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Thanks to its record-breaking temperatures, Death Valley in California is widely regarded as the hottest place on Earth. But you might be surprised by some of the other places on this list. Some of these locations are notorious for their year-round intense heat. Others have mild winter temperatures that rise to extremes as the weather warms. What Are The Hottest Places In The World? If you are looking to travel to these countries or just want to stay in the know, the heat will be real. Here are some of the hottest places in the world. Here, I will start with a round-up table and then get into the details.   A Round-Up  Location Average Temperature Notable Heat Record / Key Detail Khartoum, Sudan 36.6°C (Average daytime) Thermometer readings consistently register 40°C or higher from April to June. Assab, Eritrea 34.7°C (Average annual high) Hottest city on Earth when combining day and night temperatures.  Nighttime stays around 30°C in July and August. Qurayyat, Oman 33.1°C (Average daytime) Held the world's highest minimum daily temperature on June 26, 2018, never falling below 42.6°C. Kuwait City, Kuwait 32.1°C (Average daytime) Relentlessly rises above 46°C from May to September.  The temperature here reached 50°C in 2021. Ouargla, Algeria 29.1°C (Average daytime) Set an undisputed record of 51.3°C in 2018, though winter days can drop below freezing. Kebili, Tunisia 26.6°C (Average daytime) Holds Africa's highest recorded temperature of 55°C (set in 1931) due to El Azizia's disqualification. El Azizia, Libya 26.1°C (Average daytime) Officially disqualified from its previous heat record. Dallol, Ethiopia 25.6°C (Average daytime) Averaged an annual temperature of 34.4°C between 1960 and 1966 in the Danakil Depression. Lut Desert, Iran 24.0°C (Average daytime) NASA satellites recorded a staggering land surface ("land skin") temperature of 70.7°C in 2005. Comodoro Rivadavia, Argentina 49.0°C (Average daytime) Recorded South America's highest ever temperature of 49°C during a 1905 heatwave. Death Valley, USA 33°C •Experienced the highest temperature ever recorded worldwide of 56.7°C (134°F) in 1913. •The temperature reached 54.5°C (130°F) in 2020. Ahvaz, Iran 32.8°C (Average) Mentioned as the hottest city on Earth, located near the comparison context for Khartoum.  El Azizia, Libya Average daytime temperature 26.1°C  In 1913, Death Valley experienced the highest temperature ever recorded worldwide, reaching 134 degrees Fahrenheit (56.7 degrees Celsius).   The World Meteorological Organization's Global Weather & Climate Extremes Archive announced the record.   While some scientists question the accuracy of historical temperature records, it is widely accepted that Death Valley is among the hottest places on Earth. There are reports of temperatures reaching 130 degrees Fahrenheit (54.5 degrees Celsius) in the summer of 2020.  Kebili, Tunisia Average daytime temperature: 26.6°C  Due to El Azizia's disqualification, the town in central Tunisia remains the site of Africa's highest temperature ever recorded. It was 55 degrees Celsius in 1931.   Kebili, one of the oldest cities on the continent, was a major slave hub and briefly came under Roman rule.   Its southerly palm-tree oasis is accessible via an appealing mud-brick arch.   Beyond that opens up the enormous Chott el Djerid, the largest salt pan in the Sahara. Summers are still scorching, with many days reaching 40°C.  Lut Desert, Iran Average daytime temperature: 24°C  NASA satellites measure land surface (also known as land skin) temperatures in hard-to-reach, remote locations. This provided an additional metric for actual hotspots.   Dasht-e Lut, or the “Plain of Emptiness,” an inhospitable desert plateau in Iran, recorded 70.7°C in 2005.   As a result, even bacteria cannot withstand that. Three types of habitats coexist in the desert: sand dunes, wind-sculpted ridges, ravines, as well as broad salt-flat plateaus. Average daytime temperature: 29.1 °C Some meteorological historians dispute Kebili's record as well. This affluent university city is emerging as the winner with 2018's unquestionable 51.3C record. However, strangely, days can drop below freezing here during the winter. It is located adjacent to an oasis in the Saharan region of southern Algeria. Ouargla once enticed travelers in search of sand roses, or clusters of gypsum crystals, at its traditional souk. Before the Algerian War, it even served as the inspiration for a boogie-woogie song by Memphis Slim. Production of gasoline is currently its primary industry. Dallol, Ethiopia Average daytime temperature: 25.6 °C The isolated Danakil Depression in northern Ethiopia is famous for two reasons. Firstly, it is thought to be the place where humans first evolved (many hominin fossils have been found there). Secondly, it is the hottest place on Earth, with an average annual temperature of 34.4C between 1960 and 1966. It was cut down at its remote village of Dallol, which was mainly abandoned after salt miners first settled there. White salt lakes, sulfurous hot springs, and erupting gas-belching geysers can be found in the surrounding volcanic depression. Khartoum, Sudan Average daytime temperature: 36.6°C  Sudan's large, ostentatious capital is located near the sultriest city on Earth, Ahvaz, Iran, with an average temperature of 32.8°C.   The capital is photogenically located at the confluence of the Blue and White Niles.   Thermometer readings consistently register 40°C or higher from April to June.  January, the coolest month, is still hotter than a UK summer.   Tourists can visit camel markets, see whirling dervishes at Hamed el-Nil Tomb, and explore the enormous Souq al-Arabi. They can even view 3,500-year-old artifacts at the National Museum beneath gleaming glass skyscrapers.  Assab, Eritrea Average annual high: 34.7°C  When you add together the average yearly temperature of Assab during the day and at night, it becomes the hottest city on Earth.  Even at 3 AM in July and August, you will be sleeping in 30-degree heat.   Since Assab normally receives just three rainy days annually, sweat is probably going to be the only precipitation on display as well.   Although Ethiopia and Eritrea are frequently at odds along their borders, you would be far better off exploring other parts of the Red Sea. The coast is the region's primary tourist attraction.  Kuwait City, Kuwait Average daytime temperature: 32.1 °C In the massive Kuwaiti capital, cars melt in the oven-like five-month summers, sandstorms swirl in, and the streets go eerily empty. Most people wisely only venture outside their houses to visit blissfully cool shopping centers. Every month from May to September, it relentlessly rises above 46C. In 2021, it rose to 50C. Similar problems are reported in other Gulf locations, probably because of the exact angle at which the sun shines. Winter days can, however, only be one-seventh as warm. Qurayyat, Oman Average daytime temperature: 33.1 °C The world's highest daily temperature is in Qurayyat. On June 26, 2018, for instance, the temperature in this location never fell below 42.6°C in 24 hours. Qurayyat, also known as Quriyat, is a small fishing town on the Gulf of Oman, southeast of Muscat. It has lovely beaches, a mangrove swamp, and a picturesque dam that provides much-needed water. Most remarkably, it has a 200-year-old crenellated fort with large wooden doors. Does anyone remember Indiana Jones and the Nights of Calefaction? Comodoro Rivadavia, Argentina Average daytime temperature: 49°C  This is probably the hottest place in the world, being home to Comodoro Rivadavia.   During the 1905 heatwave, this port city in Patagonia recorded the highest temperature ever recorded in South America, 49°C.   2022 was scorching once more, despite the fact that it was distinctly out of the ordinary for a place prone to cold winters.  Even Argentina's capital, Buenos Aires, which is located 900 miles north, could withstand a 41.6°C day in January.   Comodoro, a center for crude oil, also has a National Museum of Petroleum and is surrounded by beach resorts.  How To Stay Safe When Traveling To Extremely Hot Destinations  Visiting any of the destinations on this list requires more preparation than a typical beach holiday. Temperatures at this extreme carry real health risks if you are not careful.   Heat-related illness can develop quickly. Also, knowing how to prevent it is far more useful than simply knowing which cities hold the temperature records.  Stay Hydrated  Hydration is the single most important factor. The amount most travelers normally drink at home is rarely enough in places like Kuwait City or Khartoum.   Aim to drink water consistently throughout the day rather than waiting until you feel thirsty. Thirst is already a sign of mild dehydration.   Electrolyte tablets or oral rehydration salts are worth packing, particularly if you will be spending time outdoors.   Sweating heavily without replacing lost salts can lead to painful muscle cramps and, in severe cases, heat exhaustion.  Make The Right Clothing Choices  Clothing choices matter just as much as water intake.   Loose-fitting, lightweight, breathable fabrics in light colors reflect sunlight better than dark, tight clothing.  Also, a wide-brimmed hat combined with UV-protective sunglasses reduces the strain of direct sun exposure on your face and eyes.   Long sleeves might seem counterintuitive in extreme heat. However, many desert cultures rely on light, loose layers specifically to shield skin from direct sun while still allowing airflow.  Time Your Activities Well  Timing your activities around the hottest hours of the day makes an enormous difference.   In places like Qurayyat or Comodoro Rivadavia, locals often shift their schedules entirely.  Rest indoors during the early afternoon. Then, save markets, museums, and outdoor sightseeing for the early morning or evening hours when temperatures are more bearable.   Visitors are wise to adopt the same rhythm rather than fighting it.  Know The Early Warning Signs Of Heat Exhaustion  It is also important to recognize the early warning signs of heat exhaustion. It includes heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, headache, and an unusually rapid pulse.   If you or a travel companion experience these symptoms, move to shade or air conditioning. Also, loosening clothing and sipping cool water immediately can prevent progression to heat stroke.  Wear Sunscreen  Sunscreen deserves a mention as well, since intense UV exposure at these latitudes and altitudes can cause severe burns far faster than travelers expect.   Reapplying every two hours, and more frequently if you're swimming or sweating heavily, is essential even on days that feel overcast. Read Also: From Sunrise To Sunset: A Day’s Itinerary For Exploring Benidorm Things To Do In Leeds: Dive Into The Dynamic Heart Of Yorkshire Hidden Gems: Unearthing The Best Things To Do In Nottingham

BY  Sibashree Jan 30, 2026

“Mera kaat kaleja dilli Mera kaat kaleja dilli Lai gayi kaat kaleja dilli Mui dilli le gayi…” Though the context is different, for me, this No One Killed Jessica song sums up Delhi these days. Even if “Incredible India” calls Lodhi Garden “A green oasis in the heart of Delhi,” the official CPCB report marks the AQI at 283, or poor.  Furthermore, in a YouTube video published on the “Newslaundry” channel, the vlogger recorded an AQI between 336 and 340, meaning the air quality was very poor.  Amidst this, the good news is that the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has launched a waste management and cleanliness drive in Lodhi Garden. This initiative will help maintain the cleanliness of the garden without impacting its ecology.  Nevertheless, the Lodhi Garden has always been a public place in Delhi, offering respite from the noise and traffic of Delhi.  Here’s to a calm day in Delhi at the Lodhi Garden and nearby Khan Market.  Lodhi Garden: Location, Entry Fee, Timing, Official WebsiteAddressMain Lodi Road, Beside India International Centre, New Delhi, Delhi – 110003Entry FeeNilPhotography Fee NilTimings6:00 AM – 7:30 PMOfficial WebsiteDELHI TOURISMPhotography AllowedYesNearest Metro StationJLN Metro Station What Is The Lodhi Garden? The Lodi Garden is a green escape on the Lodi Road in South Delhi. It is between Safdarjung’s Tomb and Khan Market.  Covering an area of 90 acres, this Garden is home to many tombs from the Lodi, Sayyid, and Mughal dynasties.  However, it is more than a place where history breathes through the Indo-Islamic architecture. With gardens, exercise machines, walking paths, and running tracks, it is a popular place for outdoor fitness activities.  Also, it is a paradise for art lovers, thanks to its stunning sculptures and art installations. What Is The History Of The Lodhi Garden? The history of this beautiful garden goes back to the 15th century. It was the burial ground of the Lodhi lords. The most significant tombs here are those of Sikandar Lodhi and Mohammed Shah.  The tombs and ruins were earlier scattered around the village of Khairpur till 1931. However, in 1936, the villagers were moved from the village, and this monument was created. The tombs had exotic and native trees around.  Furthermore, the garden got its name from Lady Willingdon Park after the name of the British Viceroy’s wife.  It was named the Lodhi Garden in 1947 after India’s independence, in memory of the tombs present here.  However, the current form we see today is the work of American architects Joseph Allen Stein and Garrett Eckbo in 1968. They added the rose garden, bonsai park, the lake with a fountain, and a glasshouse.  A Brief Historical Timeline Of The Lodhi Garden  1414–1451 (15th Century)• Becomes a burial site for the Sayyid Dynasty• The Tomb of Muhammad Shah was built in 1444. 1451–1517• The Lodhi Dynasty (1451–1526) used the tomb.• Included the Sheesh Gumbad and Bara Gumbad. 1517–1518• Ibrahim Lodi built the tomb of his father, Sikandar Lodi, after his death in 1517. 1936• The Khairpur Village was cleared, and a landscaped park called Lady Willingdon Park was constructed. 1947• India became independent, and Lady Willingdon Park was renamed Lodhi Garden. 1968• J.A. Stein and Garrett Eckbo enhance the Lodhi Garden as a public place with various additions. Present Day• The Archaeological Survey of India protects it for the preservation of its Sultanate-era architecture and diverse flora.  Visiting The Lodhi Garden: The Tombs And Architecture To See Whenever I am in Delhi, I make a point to visit the Lodhi Garden. I love the calming effect and the scent of history here.  I also take random walks in the park, and each time, the park surprises me with something new. Even if it is nothing else, a wildflower that I have not seen before will smile at me. Or a squirrel will greet me and then will be gone in a blink.  Also, irrespective of the direction of your entrance (East, West, North, and South), you will find ancient buildings here.  1. The Tomb of Sikandar Lodi To The North The magnificent Tomb of Sikandar Lodi is to the north. It is one of the oldest garden tombs of India.  Furthermore, it has an octagonal structure. Also, despite its Indo-Islamic architecture, it has small domed pavilions or Chattris, which were a signature of Rajput architecture.  Also, the Overhanging Eaves or Chajjas and supporting brackets seen here come from the Rajput legacy.  2. The Sheesh Gumbad In The Centre The Sheesh Gumbad stands like a witness to time amidst the greenery of the park. It is a domed building with a cube shape.  The interior of the dome ceiling is decorated. Furthermore, from the arched openings on the four sides of the tomb, you will get amazing views of the park.  The only problem I feel is the presence of selfie-obsessed visitors. They somehow ruin the mood and do not understand the somberness of the place.  I even found some pre-wedding shots going on there.  Call me old-school! But these things irritate me.  3. Bada Gumbad Or Bara Gumbad To The South Bada Gumbad has an architecture similar to the Sheesh Gumbad. However, living up to its name, this tomb is bigger than Sheesh Gumbad.  It is also one of the oldest full-domed buildings in the country, and it serves as a beautiful entrance to the adjacent Jama Masjid.  4. The Jama Masjid Or The Friday Mosque  This mosque was built in the 15th century, and it has the typical red sandstone architecture, which was a signature of the Lodhi era.  Furthermore, here you will notice amazing geometric designs and calligraphy on the arches and columns.  5. The Tomb Of Muhammed Shah On The Southern End  The Tomb of Muhammad Shah is the oldest in the garden, and it is located on the southern end of the park.  You have to walk through a covered walkway to reach this tomb in an octagonal shape.  Along with these major tombs and architecture, the park also has many old tombs, structures, and ruins.  Furthermore, with the recent expansions, there are dedicated Yoga lawns, herb gardens, rose gardens and a glasshouse. Moreover, there are exercise machines.  Also, the trees here are home to a handsome population of squirrels, chipmunks and various species of birds. You will especially notice eagles spiralling over the park.  Some Practical Tips For Visiting The Lodhi Garden The Lodhi Garden is a free public space with the richest diversity of plants, historic architecture, and ruins. So, it is a budget-friendly place to visit.  It is easily accessible by autos and metro routes. Here is more on how to reach the park, basic amenities, and nearby attractions.  How To Reach The Lodhi Garden? The Lodhi Garden is close to four metro stations.  Station NameMetro LineDistance Jor BaghYellow Line1.4 KmKhan MarketViolet Line1.6 KmJangpuraYellow Line4.2 KmJLN StadiumViolet Line2.6 Km From these metro stations, you can take autos. If you are coming from Jangpura or the JLN Stadium, you can even book an Uber to avoid negotiations with the local drivers.  How Much Time Is Required At The Lodhi Garden?  I don’t have an answer to that. From an hour to the entire day, the time you spend here will depend on your intent of visit.  It takes around 20 minutes to complete a walk around the park. However, if you want to appreciate the tombs and their architecture, it will take longer.  Also, the rich community of trees here always asks you to stay a little longer. Moreover, the Lodhi Garden is a popular picnic spot. Is There A Toilet At Lodhi Garden?  Yes, there are toilets at Lodhi Garden, and they are well-maintained.  Are Food And Drinks Available At Lodhi Garden?  There is no permanent stall of official setup for food and drinks at Lodhi Garden. However, you will find vendors selling snacks, drinks, ice cream, and the famous chats of Delhi at the entrance.  Furthermore, inside the park, you will find many wandering vendors. They set up their stalls on a tripod instantly and make mouthwatering chaats and snacks for you.  You can even pack your food and have it at the Lodhi Garden for a picnic vibe. Irrespective of where you get the food from, please be careful about waste disposal.  However, if you are really hungry and want to gorge on proper Delhi food, head to the nearby Khan Market.  What Are The Places To Visit Near The Lodhi Garden? You can combine your day in the Lodhi Garden with a visit to the Safdarjung Tomb and the Khan Market. Also, you can explore the nearby Lodhi Art District.  1. The Safdarjung Tomb It is the tomb of the Mughal Empire's Vazir Safdarjung, and it shows a mix of Persian and Indian styles of architecture.  It has beautiful marble and red stone architecture. Moreover, built in 1754, it was the last monumental Mughal garden tomb in Delhi.  2. The Khan Market  You will find all the designer and branded clothes at Khan Market. It is a high-end shopping district, and it brings you back to the present after a date with history in the Lodhi Garden.  Furthermore, it is the place to have a posh coffee date, an upscale luncheon, or an artisan cake tasting. You must try the wood-fired pizzas at the restaurants here.  Moreover, if you really want to enjoy the evening in South Delhi, Khan Market is the place to be. The bars and lounges here come to life after sundown.  How To Reach Khan Market? You can walk for ten minutes from the north entrance of the Lodhi Garden, or you can take an auto from the south entrance.  Moreover, there is a metro station called Khan Market on the Violet Line.  3. The Lodhi Art District The Lodhi Art District is a few blocks south of the Lodhi Garden. It was the last housing estate the British had built in India.  However, today, it is a place that belongs to the Indian artists. You will find more than 50 street artworks and murals here.  Take an auto or walk for 15 minutes to reach the Lodhi Art District from Lodhi Garden.  Where To Stay Near Lodhi Garden? If you want a luxury experience, you can stay at The Lodhi. Furthermore, there are many budget-friendly accommodations near Lodhi Garden.  These are Hotel O Maharaja Inn and Evergreen Delhi Bed and Breakfast. Finding A Place To Relax In The Heart Of Delhi  Delhi, the capital of India, has endless attractions in the true sense. From the Jantar Mantar to Humayun’s Tomb, it is a living tapestry of history and human culture.  However, whenever you feel overwhelmed by the bustling crowd and noise of Delhi, you can visit the Lodhi Garden and catch your breath.  Read Also: Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit [Updated 2024] Dark Tourism in India Exploring Shadows and Must-Visit Sites Varkala Beach: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

BY  Sibashree Jul 22, 2023

Welcome to the sunny shores of San Diego. It is the perfect holiday destination for those seeking a memorable and rejuvenating getaway. Nestled in Southern California, San Diego offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and endless recreational opportunities. Whether you're planning a family vacation or a solo adventure, this coastal gem has something for everyone. San Diego boasts miles of pristine beaches where you can soak up the sun and feel the warm sand between your toes. Visit popular spots like Mission Beach and La Jolla Cove, plus hidden gems like Coronado Island. You'll find plenty of picturesque places to relax and unwind. 1. Explore The Beautiful Beaches And Coastal Trails Beach hopping is a popular pastime in San Diego, as each beach has its own unique charm and atmosphere. From the lively, bustling Mission Beach to the tranquil, secluded La Jolla Cove, you'll find endless options to explore. For those seeking adventure on the waves, San Diego's surf scene is second to none. It has consistent year-round swells and breaks suitable for all skill levels. So, it is no wonder that surfing in San Diego is a favourite activity among locals and visitors alike. Beyond the beaches, San Diego boasts breathtaking coastal trails with panoramic Pacific Ocean views. So, you can walk along the iconic Sunset Cliffs or explore Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. These trails let you immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the coastline's beauty. 2. Discover The Vibrant Town Scenes On A Motorcycle Ready for an exhilarating adventure through San Diego's vibrant town scenes? Look no further than a bike ride in San Diego to unlock the true essence of this captivating city. With the wind in your hair and the freedom to explore, you'll discover hidden gems and experience San Diego like never before. When you search for motorcycle rentals in San Diego, you'll find a unique perspective. It lets you navigate bustling streets, picturesque neighborhoods, and breathtaking coastal roads at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and lively atmosphere as you cruise through iconic landmarks such as Balboa Park, Gaslamp Quarter, and Old Town. So why wait? Grab your helmet, hop on a rented motorcycle, and set out to discover San Diego's vibrant town scenes. Uncover hidden treasures, indulge in local cuisine, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Experience the true essence of this captivating city like never before with a thrilling motorcycle ride through its streets. 3. Immerse Yourself In The Rich Cultural Heritage Of Old Town Step back in time and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural heritage of Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. This charming neighborhood is a treasure trove of Mexican heritage and offers a truly immersive cultural experience. As you stroll through the cobblestone streets, you will be transported to another era. The historic landmarks here tell San Diego's rich past. From adobe buildings to beautifully preserved homes, each structure holds a piece of history waiting to be discovered. Take a guided tour or wander at your own pace to explore the museums, shops, and restaurants lining the streets. Learn about the early settlers who shaped this community and gain insight into their way of life. 4. Get Up Close With Marine Life At Seaworld And Birch Aquarium Experience the wonders of the ocean and get up close with marine life at two iconic attractions. SeaWorld San Diego and Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography. These renowned destinations offer an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the fascinating world beneath the waves. SeaWorld San Diego is a marine life theme park that offers a variety of thrilling animal shows and exhibits. From majestic killer whales to playful dolphins, visitors can witness these incredible creatures in action. Dive into the mesmerizing world of sea turtles, penguins, and sharks as you learn about their habitats and conservation efforts. With interactive experiences and educational presentations, SeaWorld San Diego provides an unforgettable adventure for all ages. By experiencing these unique ways to enjoy your holiday in San Diego, you will create unforgettable memories. It has the best that Southern California has to offer. So pack your bags and get ready for an amazing vacation! Read Also: Five Tips To Staying Sober On Your Vacation Best Beaches In Costa Rica For Family Vacation What To Look For When Purchasing A Beach Tent For Vacation