The Reasons To Choose A Tropical Island Vacation Every Year

BY  Ankita Jan 20, 2024

Nestled amidst the picturesque Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, Gatlinburg is a charming destination. It is a promises a memorable family vacation, attracting about 12 million visitors per year. With its stunning natural beauty and an array of exciting attractions, Gatlinburg offers an ideal setting. It is for quality time with your kids. In this article, we'll explore some tips to ensure you and your little ones have an unforgettable adventure in Gatlinburg. Outdoor Adventures In The Great Smoky Mountains: Gatlinburg is renowned for its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. If your family enjoys the great outdoors, go on a family-friendly hiking adventure amidst the lush forests and scenic trails. There are numerous hiking trails suitable for all ages and skill levels. Before heading out, ensure that you're well-prepared with comfortable footwear, snacks, water, and safety essentials like sunscreen and bug repellent. Exploring the great outdoors together fosters a sense of adventure and creates lasting memories. Gatlinburg Candy Store Delight: One of the first things that may catch your kids' attention in Gatlinburg. It is the tantalizingly sweet aroma wafting from the candy stores that line the streets. To kickstart your family vacation, take your kids to a Gatlinburg candy store. There they can indulge their sweet tooth to their heart's content. Among the various candy stores in Gatlinburg, you'll find a plethora of confectionery delights. It is from classic favorites to unique, locally-made sweets. The joy on your kids' faces, as they savor these delectable treats, will set the tone for a sweet vacation. Ripley's Aquarium Of The Smokies: For an underwater adventure that both kids and adults will relish, make your way to Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. Located in the heart of Gatlinburg, this popular attraction is home to an impressive array of marine life and interactive exhibits. Here, your kids can get up close and personal with fascinating sea creatures, including sharks, stingrays, and playful penguins. Be sure to check the schedule for animal encounters and feeding times, as these experiences can provide valuable insights into marine biology and conservation. Visit Gatlinburg Amusement Parks: When it comes to family fun, visiting an amusement park is a must-visit destination. You can find an array of thrilling rides, activities, and attractions with breathtaking mountain views as a backdrop. Kids can enjoy a variety of rides suitable for different age groups. There is no enjoyment for kids like amusement parks, so make sure to keep it in your itinerary! Arts And Crafts Community Exploration: Gatlinburg isn't just about natural beauty and thrilling attractions; it's also home to a thriving arts and crafts community. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots and immerse your family in the world of creativity and craftsmanship. You and your kids can try your hand at pottery, candle-making, and other artisan crafts. It's a fantastic opportunity to create personalized souvenirs that will serve as cherished mementos of your Gatlinburg vacation. Wildlife Encounters At Cades Cove: For a dose of wildlife and natural beauty, plan a visit to Cades Cove, a scenic valley in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. This idyllic spot offers an excellent opportunity for your family to observe and connect with nature. Cades Cove is renowned for its diverse wildlife population. To increase your chances of spotting these magnificent creatures, consider taking a slow drive along the Cades Cove Loop Road early in the morning or near dusk. Be sure to remind your kids to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals in their natural habitat. Family-Friendly Dining Spots: Exploring Gatlinburg's culinary scene is an integral part of your family vacation, and the town is a haven for food lovers of all ages. Fortunately, Gatlinburg boasts a diverse array of family-friendly restaurants that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. When dining out with your kids, look for establishments that go the extra mile by offering dedicated kid-friendly menus and creating a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. From Southern barbecue joints that serve up mouthwatering ribs with all the fixings to charming diners renowned for their homemade pies bursting with flavor, Gatlinburg offers a cornucopia of culinary delights. Sharing these meals as a family not only provides nourishment but also creates invaluable bonding experiences, fostering laughter and memories that will be cherished long after your Gatlinburg vacation comes to an end. So, don't miss the chance to savor the town's delicious offerings together. Evening Entertainment At Dollywood: Wrap up your Gatlinburg adventure with a visit to Dollywood, a renowned theme park located just a short drive away in Pigeon Forge. While not strictly in Gatlinburg, Dollywood is a must-visit for families seeking evening entertainment. Dollywood offers an array of family-friendly shows, thrilling rides, and immersive attractions that will keep your kids entertained for hours. Whether your little ones are adrenaline junkies who love roller coasters, aspiring performers who enjoy live entertainment, or curious minds eager to explore interactive exhibits, Dollywood has something to captivate every member of your family. Don't forget to check the park's schedule for special events, parades, and nighttime shows, as they often add an extra layer of magic and excitement to your Dollywood visit. Conclusion: Gatlinburg, with its stunning natural beauty and diverse range of family-friendly attractions, provides an ideal backdrop for a memorable vacation with your kids. From exploring candy stores to immersing yourselves in nature, observing wildlife at Cades Cove, and enjoying delicious meals, Gatlinburg offers an array of experiences that will create lasting memories for your family. As you savor the sweetness of homemade candies, soak in the mountain views from the Space Needle, and revel in the excitement of amusement parks and wildlife encounters, remember that Gatlinburg's charm lies not just in its attractions but in the precious moments spent together as a family. These ten tips are your guide to ensuring that your Gatlinburg vacation is fun. It isalso filled with love, laughter, and cherished family bonds. So pack your bags, start your adventure, and make Gatlinburg your family's next unforgettable destination. Read Also: 10 Best Things To Do In Prague 10 Best Things To Do In Barcelona (Spain) 10 Best Things To Do In Dublin (Ireland)

BY  sagnika Oct 12, 2021

The Maryland Tourism & Travel Summit 2024, which took place from November 6th to 8th, saw the Maryland Tourism Coalition (MTC), like in the last 50 years, unite all segments of the state’s tourism and 300 delegates to develop Maryland tourism.  This event is likely to impact tourism and the state's economy. We can expect many developments in amenities and infrastructure, with names like American Airlines, United Airlines, Quality Inn, and Holiday Inn Express Easton, an IHG Hotel, participating in the event.  Further, thanks to proximity to airports like the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), Maryland remains accessible to tourists across the globe. Moreover, the free things to do in Maryland, like  Exploring the Battle Creek Cypress Swamp or visiting the Salisbury Zoo, make Maryland a tourist’s delight. So, despite being considered one of the more expensive states of the USA, you can plan a budget-friendly itinerary here.  If you are ready to travel like a local and pick budget-friendly activities, the pocket pinch (flight and hotel) will be around $270-350 per person. However, if you are not already aware of the free and cheap things to do in Maryland, this Tour and Travel guide will be of great help.  Free And Cheap Things To Do In Maryland | Traveling On A Shoestring In this blog, I will tell you about what I have explored in Maryland and what all things can be done in Maryland. We will also discuss the food of Maryland attractions that you must try when you are visiting Maryland. We will cater to you about all the possible information about Mary’s land and tourist attractions in Maryland which you can follow up.  So let’s start to take a glimpse of the famous places in Maryland.  There are a lot of things to do in Maryland but before that, I will tell you tips for first-time New York visitors. Most people who visit New York, tend to confine themselves to Manhattan only. But the real beauty of New York lies when you leave Manhattan.  I think the best way to convey this to you is to first tell you about the things to do in Maryland. While telling you about that I will also give you some tricky insights about New York.  I would like to start by saying that New York is a secret city in the United States. New York has surprised me quite a little there are so many things to do in new york. All you have to know is when to visit New York to enjoy the most.  There are a lot of things to do in Maryland but before that, I will tell you tips for first-time New York visitors. Most people who visit New York, tend to confine themselves to Manhattan only. But the real beauty of New York lies when you leave Manhattan.  I think the best way to convey to you is to first tell you about the things to do in Maryland. While telling you about that I will also give you some tricky insights about New York.  April to June and late August to October are two ideal seasons to try the free things to do in Maryland. However, during these two seasons, the cost of accommodation shoots up due to a tourist influx. So, you really need to pick the activities or visit the places that will cost you less when traveling on a shoestring.  Here, we will provide you with all the possible information about Maryland so you can visit these places without hassle.  1. Visiting The Calvert Cliffs State Park Location: 0540 H G Trueman Rd, Lusby, MD Contact Number: +1 443-975-4360 Vehicle Fee: $5 for State Residents, $7 for Residents of Other States, $10 for Small Bus, $20 for Large Bus Hours Open: 7:30 AM to 5 PM Exploring the fossil-bearing Calvert Cliffs is one of the best things to do in Maryland. I loved the atmosphere and the place.  Here, the large collection of fossiliferous is known as the Chesapeake Group. Further, the cliff contains Miocene fauna.  Fossil Hunting | Know The Things To Do In Maryland Park At Calvert Cliffs State Park, you can go to the end of the red trail. There, you will find the open beach area for fossil hunting. Here, you will find fossils from the Miocene era, covering more than 600 species. Some common variations here are Miocene-era oyster shells, shark teeth, and Chesapectens, which you can hunt using shovels and sieves.  The Calvert Cliff in Maryland is mostly forested, with some ponds and wetlands. Moreover, the things to do here are hunting turkey, deer, and bird watching. You can also stroll along the beautiful flora-fauna-rich beach in Calvert.    2. Exploring The Washington County Museum Of Fine Arts  Location: 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown, MD Contact Number: (301) 739-5727  Hours Open: 10 AM  - 5 PM (Tuesday to Sunday), Monday - Free Admission and Parking: Free The Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, the hub of many exhibitions and events, houses more than 6,500 permanent collectibles. Mr. and Mrs. William Henry Singer, Jr founded the museum, and they donated the initial exhibits.  Currently, the museum has sculptures, decorative arts, drawings, and prints. Further, the collectibles here are cosmopolitan, with a focus on 19th-century European art and American art.  Some of the most prominent collections in the museum are the European Old Masters, The Singer Memorial Gallery, American Narratives: 1700-1920, and The Eight to Abstraction: Modernism & Innovation.  3. Spending A Day At Assateague Island National Seashore Entry Fee: Standard Pass - $0.00–$25.00, Annual Pass - $45.00, America the Beautiful Pass (includes Senior Passes) - Free–$80.00 Hours Open: 24*7 The United States Park Service and Fish and Wildlife Service manage Assateague Island National Seashore. You will find feral ponies walking and galloping across the island and the surrounding waters. Further, the Assateague Island National Seashore is for everyone. You can go fishing, catch crabs, take a bike ride, or hike through the barrier island.  Moreover, you can collect a permit and enjoy the most adventurous ride in Over Sand Vehicles or OSVs. Also, for a wonderful outdoor experience, you can camp at the Assateague Island National Seashore.  4. Sightseeing At Ego Alley Location: 1 Dock St, Annapolis, MD  Hours Open: 24 Hours Entry: Fee  Ego Alley is a narrow waterway that spills out into Spa Creek. This narrow waterway got its name from the expensive boats parading in the evenings and during the weekend.  A visit to Ego Alley is one of the free things to do in Maryland. Here, you can soak in the Sun while gorging on local delicacies.  Further, people gather in large numbers at Ego Alley for St. Patrick's Day in March, the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show in April, or the Independence Day Celebration in July.  5. Visiting The Beautiful Sculpture Gardens, Baltimore Museum Of Art Location: 10 Art Museum Dr, Baltimore, MD Hours Open: Monday and Wednesday to Sunday - 10 AM to 5 PM, Tuesday: Closed Entry: Free As you take a walk along the Beautiful Sculpture Gardens, you will discover close to 33 sculptures.  The sculptures here are a good mix of old and new sculptures of the last 100 years.  6. William British Planetarium  Location: 820 Commonwealth Avenue, Hagerstown, MD Hours Open: Monday-Friday (8 AM to 3:30 PM), Special Shows: Second And Fourth Saturdays (5:30-7 PM) Entry Fee: $3.75 for Adults, $2.75 for Children and Students If you love to see the stars, moon, Milky Way, and galaxy, then William British Planetarium is the place you must visit.  Enjoy an immersive planetarium show that looks back at rare classes of eruptions that have marshaled the energy that lurks. You will also be able to witness the details of the space. I enjoyed this place thoroughly because it took me back to my childhood. 7. National Aquarium Location: 501 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD Hours Open: Monday-Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday - 9 AM-6 PM, Friday: 9 AM to 9 PM Entry Fee: Free for Children below 4 Years, $24.95 or Half Price on Fridays from 5-9 PM When you visit Maryland, you cannot miss the National Aquarium, especially its wide variety of sea creatures, such as sharks, dolphins, living reefs, and jellyfish.  It is a non-profit public aquarium known as the Baltimore Aquarium, by the locals. The aquarium's water capacity is more than 2.2 million gallons, and it ranks as one of the top three aquariums in the country. It features amphibians, reptiles, fish, mammals, and birds. 8. Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Park Location: 4068 Golden Hill Road, Church Creek, MD Hours Open: Tuesday-Sunday (10 AM to 4 PM), Monday Closed Entry Fee: Free Another activity that must be included in your list of things to do in Maryland is visiting the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Park! The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Park commemorates the life of the activist Harriet Tubman, who was formerly enslaved during the American Civil War.  The national park encompasses 480 acres and is managed by the US National Park Service Unit. The state of Maryland is responsible for the park's upkeep. Throughout the park, exhibits are dedicated to Tubman, who operated the Underground Railroad after she was free from slavery. 9.  Exploring The Battle Creek Cypress Swamp Location: 2880 Grays Road, Port Republic, MD Hours Open: Monday-Friday (9 AM to 4:30 PM), Saturday (10 AM to 4:30 PM), Sunday: 1-4:30 PM Entry Fee: Free Battle Creek Cypress Swamp is home to bald cypress trees and is the first preserve of The Nature Conservancy in Maryland.  You will also find pink lady’s slipper and May apple plants here.  Moreover, the Battle Creek Cypress Swamp has Warblers and Kentucky.  10. Visiting The Salisbury Zoo Location: 755 S Park Dr, Salisbury, MD Hours Open: 9 AM to 4:30 PM Entry Fee: Free Salisbury Zoo is home to a wide range of animals, including guinea pigs, great horned owls, gopher tortoises, painted turtles, box turtles, and burrowing owls.  Salisbury Zoo is accessible, and it has wheelchair facilities to offer more inclusivity to visitors. Don’t Miss The Local Food | Best Things To Do In Maryland My best experience in Maryland was trying local food like Steamed Crabs. The place is popular in the United States for fishing and its blue crabs. The dish of steamed crabs combines spices, herbs, beer, and blue crabs. Remember to add butter along with different blends of seasoning so you will get both a spicy and savory taste. Another great thing I had was the Crab Cake. Also, don’t forget to try the Roasted Pit Beef. Raising A Toast At Flying Dog Brewery | Best Things To Do In Maryland  The next on my ‘things to do in Maryland’ list is a visit to the Flying Dog Brewery. What can be a better place for a connoisseur than the Flying Dog Brewery as they believe “Beer is Art.”  Flying Dog Brewery has a good mix of year-round gems and some seasonal attractions. The Double Dog Juicy Double IPA is my favorite among the year-round attractions.  Again, the Deep Fake Non-Alcoholic is the best seasonal offering here.  The Flying Dog Brewery's tasting room is open from Thursday to Sunday. I had a great time tasting different seasonal beers there.  However, don’t forget to carry your ID, as they only serve beer to 21+ visitors.  You May Also Like:  Top 7 Nantucket Beaches For Tourists In Massachusetts Make Your Honeymoon A Truly Memorable Affair: Here’s How Luxurious Wedding Venues – Make Your Destination Wedding Glamorous

BY  Barsha Mar 1, 2025

Primarily, the Virgin Islands constitute three major islands - St Croix, St John, and St Thomas. But the best part is that all these destinations will offer you a unique experience and vibe.  Whether you are a shopaholic, adventure junkie, history buff, or someone who just needs to lay back and relax, there’s everything for everyone. In addition to that, the USVI offers the best experience to someone who wants to experience turquoise waters, sophisticated dining, and a laid-back vacation.  So, if you are visiting “America’s Caribbean Paradise” for the first time, you must learn about the places that are a must-see. Therefore, if you want some recommendations of places to visit in St John Islands, read on. Why St. John Rentals Are the Perfect Base for Your Adventure When you visit St John Island, the best place to stay is St. John Rentals. It will offer an ideal experience of the lush beauty and pristine beaches of the Virgin Islands. Nestled amidst turquoise waters and verdant hills, these accommodations offer more than just a place to stay. In fact, the place has something for both the explorer and the adventurer. Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves lapping at the shore. You are holding your morning coffee in hand and have an uninterrupted view of the Caribbean. Basically, rentals on St. John are crafted for travelers who want both comfort and a slice of paradise. For instance, if you are visiting on a couple’s trip to St. John, opt for a rental near Cinnamon Bay. Here, you will not only enjoy the privacy but also get the top attractions like the Annaberg Plantation ruins and some of the island’s best hiking trails within minutes of walking distance. Additionally, you will get unique opportunities to experience the island like a local. Meanwhile, you will still be enjoying world-class amenities. So, whether it’s a cozy hillside retreat or a beachfront property, there’s something for every traveler. Top Destinations in St John You Can Visit by Boat When you are staying in St. John, you will have the advantage of getting proximity to other awe-inspiring Virgin Islands. Apart from that, many rentals are conveniently located near boat charters, making day trips to nearby islands effortless. 1. Trunk Bay: A Snorkeler’s Paradise The Trunk Bay is present just minutes away from most St. John rentals. Basically, it is renowned for its underwater snorkeling trail.In addition to that, the crystal-clear waters reveal a vibrant marine world filled with coral reefs and tropical fish. Hence. it’s no wonder why this beach is often ranked among the best in the world. 2. Jost Van Dyke: The Party Island By just a short boat ride from St. John, you can experience Jost Van Dyke. This place boasts an unbeatable party atmosphere. Moreover, the place is famous for its beach bars, including the legendary Soggy Dollar Bar. Overall, it’s the perfect spot to sip on a Painkiller cocktail while you enjoy the laid-back vibes. 3. The Baths at Virgin Gorda The Baths at Virgin Gorda are a geological wonder. This is another must-visit spot that you can easily access by boat.  Primarily, these are towering granite boulders that create hidden pools and grottos. It offers the feeling as if it’s nature’s playground. So, whether you are visiting with your family or in a couple’s trip, you can rave about this unique excursion. 4. The Comfort of St. John Rentals After a Day of Exploring After a day of adventure, returning to your St. John rental feels like stepping into a sanctuary. Generally, most properties are designed to blend with the island’s natural beauty, featuring open-air layouts, private pools, and sweeping views of the ocean. Families love rentals with fully equipped kitchens, allowing them to prepare meals after a day at the beach. On the other hand, couples often seek out secluded properties with hot tubs, perfect for unwinding under the stars. During a recent visit, I stayed at a hillside villa from where you can get a great view of Coral Bay. Every evening, I would watch the sun dip below the horizon. It was actually mesmerizing to see the orange and pink colors forming on the background.Moreover, the rental had everything I needed. For instance, there was a plush king-sized bed and also a hammock where I could lose myself in a good book. Practical Tips for Choosing the Right Rental You can enhance your experience on St John’s Islands by choosing the right rental. All you need to do is keep the following tips in mind: 1. Proximity to Activities Well, if you plan to explore beaches like Hawksnest or Maho Bay, choose a rental on the north shore. This will give you quick access and better dining options. 2. Privacy vs. Accessibility The thing with hillside rentals is that they often offer unmatched privacy and breathtaking views. However, by choosing beachfront properties, you can stay steps away from the sand. 3. Group Size Are you traveling with your family or your friends? In such cases, you need a larger space with multiple bedrooms and communal spaces. Also, you need to plan a group trip differently from a couple’s trip. 4. Amenities It goes without saying that factors like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and private pools help you ensure a comfortable stay. This is where choosing St John Rentals will offer you a major advantage. Is Rental A Better Option Than Hotels? Generally, rentals offer a level of flexibility and personalization that hotels simply can’t match. Apart from that, you will also get the chance to prepare your own meals. Additionally, rentals offer ample space for the entire family. On the other hand, unlike hotels, rentals immerse you in the local lifestyle. For instance, you can wake up to roosters crowing in the distance or spend an afternoon picking mangoes from trees on the property. Make St. John Your Next Island Escape From tranquil beaches to vibrant marine life, St. John offers something for everyone. Apart from that, rentals provide the perfect launching pad to explore all that this Caribbean gem has to offer. Hence, whether you are hiking through Virgin Islands National Park or enjoying a candlelit dinner on the patio of your rental, the memories you create here will stay with you forever. Furthermore, with so many options to choose from, there’s no reason to wait. So, start planning your dream getaway to St. John today, and let the island’s magic unfold before you.