The Reasons To Choose A Tropical Island Vacation Every Year

BY  Ankita Jun 12, 2024

Are you planning a trip with your pet? Searching for a quiet retreat or an exciting escapade to places that cater to both you and your pet? Then this article might have some of the best destinations you can travel to with your pet. Most pets are great travel companions for you but not all places in the world are welcoming to your pets. Some places might avoid pet travel due to the spread of diseases while other places don't have proper amenities to accommodate your pets. So in this article, we have focused on places that can accommodate both you and your pets. Now let's explore some of the best destinations for pets across the globe. The Best Pet-Friendly Destination In the Globe Increasingly people have started traveling with their pets all across the globe. This is because several places have started to loosen their rules regarding pets in their cities and added services that cater to pets and pet parents. Even transports are allowing pets to travel with their owner across the globe. Therefore, now you can travel easily to these places with your pets. So, here are the destinations where you can travel with your pets. 1. Malibu, California, USA Does your pet love water? Then the beach city of California, Malibu can be a great destination to travel to with your pet. Malibu is commonly known for being the hotspot where you can view celebrities. But what you might not know is that it is a paradise for your pets as well. Your pets get to enjoy the clean beaches of Malibu and swim in the Pacific Ocean. Some places might require you to leash your pets so that you can control them when required, otherwise Malibu is a great place to travel with your pet. Several hotels and cafes in this city are pet-friendly. The best part of this place is that you can enjoy yourself as well as with your pets. We will recommend you to visit the Leo Carrillo State Beach, Malibu Creek State Park, and Malibu Seafood when in the city. In these places, you can enjoy drives or walks on the scenic routes and trails with your pets. You can also relish seafood with your pet in Malibu Seafood place with the ocean view. 2. Lake District, England If you wish to travel to England and are looking for a pet-friendly destination then visit the Lake District. In Lake District, you will find a pet-friendly ambiance with mesmerizing scenery that you and your pet can explore. From going on runs or walks along the trails of the Lake District region to experiencing stunning landscapes in the region with your pet, it's bound to be an unforgettable experience for you. Don’t miss out on this destination if you love outdoor activities with your active dog. You will find plenty of accommodations for pets and yourself when in this region so that your stay is comfortable. After a day of sightseeing and running your pet will get a good night's sleep with its owner. 3. Paris, France It may come as a surprise, but Paris is quite pet-friendly despite its city vibe. You will often find dogs relaxing beside their owner in bistros and cafes. In Paris, you will find that some places don't even require you to put leashes on your dogs. These sports where leashes are optional are the Seine River, the Montmartre district, and the Bois de Boulogne. You can visit Le Cimetière des Chiens with your furry companion to get a unique experience in Paris. In fact, in Paris, you will find several hotels that cater to pet parents' needs and pets. So, Paris might be a great pick for a fun vacation with your pet. 4. Banff, Alberta, Canada For pets who love nature, Banff is a wonderful destination. You will find the Banff National Park in the heart of the Rockies offering several campgrounds and trails for activities. Take your pet along with you to explore nature together and then spend a night in nature. The Banff town is also pet-friendly with several restaurants and stays offering comfortable dining and resting options. 5. Tokyo, Japan Another pet-friendly destination you can visit to create memories with your pets is Tokyo, Japan. There is more to the capital city of Japan than skyscrapers, bustling crowds, and lights. You can visit numerous pet-friendly cafes in this city and book your stay at pet-friendly hotels. Take your pet to numerous parks in Tokyo especially Yoyogi Park if you are traveling with your furry companion. This park is a dog-friendly park where your furry friend will meet several other dogs. This place is a great option too for travelers who miss their pets at home. You can just visit the numerous pet cafes to spend some quality times with cats, dogs, squirrels, bearded dragons, otters, and many more animals. 6. San Diego, California, USA Another pet-friendly location in the state of California is San Diego. If you are looking to travel within the U.S. with your pets, then this place is a great pick. You will experience pleasant weather and a pet-friendly atmosphere where you can enjoy with your pets. You can visit places like Ocean Beach Dog Beach where your dogs can run free. Even your cats will love the weather in this place and can relax on the beach with you. From several pet-friendly spots to dining in ensuring you have the best time with your pet companion, San Diego is a great place to travel with your pet. a wonderful time for both you and your pet. 7. Rome, Italy Rome allows your pets to explore landmarks with you. Many of the city's sites like the beautiful Villa Borghese gardens are pet-friendly. Italians have a spot for dogs, so finding accommodations and eateries that welcome pets is easy in Rome. 8. Sydney, Australia Sydney offers several parks and beaches that are open to both pets and their parents. Again some beaches allow pets on certain days of the year like Bondi Beach. Sydney loves dogs, and many cafes and restaurants in Sydney are happy to accommodate companions as well. 9. Amsterdam, Netherlands Amsterdam embraces an attitude towards life that includes being welcoming towards pets. Several establishments throughout the city are welcoming towards pets. The city, with its canals and historic cobblestone streets, is known for being very welcoming to dogs. You can even travel with your pets on most public transportation for free. However, there may be a fee for dog day tickets on long-distance trains. Take a stroll with your dogs in Amsterdam’s beautiful parks, like the Vondelpark. Then visit some pet-friendly bars and restaurants in the city to relax with your furry friend. You can even enjoy a meal together with your pet at some of these accommodations. 10. Cape Town, South Africa Cape Town in South Africa is a suitable travel destination for outdoor enthusiasts and their equally enthusiast pets. This place not only offers breathtaking landscapes but also a wide range of outdoor activities suitable for adventurous pets and their owners.  You can take your furry, four-legged friend to hiking trails like the Pipe Track and Lions Head. Here you can enjoy stunning views of the city with your pets. If you are looking for beach exploration then head to Clifton 1st Beach or Sunset Beach.  Here you will get ample opportunities for your pets to frolic in the waves or take a stroll with your pet on the beaches. You will not be required to put a leash on your pets during these times in Cape Town. Cape Town offers several accommodations and dining options that are pet-friendly. So, you can enjoy a welcoming stay with your pets. Final Words Taking your pets along with you on your travels can make your trips more fulfilling, adding happiness and companionship on your adventures. These destinations not only provide attractions and activities for tourists but also ensure a friendly reception for pets. Of course, before embarking on a trip, make sure you prepare accordingly and get your pet all their necessary vaccinations. Whether it’s exploring the trails of the Lake District, walking the pathways of Rome, or enjoying the sunny shores of Malibu, there's no need to leave your beloved animal companions behind. Read Also: Reasons To Book Cottages For Your Honeymoon! 10 Best Places To Travel In July – Travel Guide 2022 5 Fascinating And Fun Travel Destination Ideas In Africa For Vacation

BY  Sibashree Jan 15, 2026

The common visuals about Fiji have sun-soaked resorts in Nadi and Denarau. Manicured lawns! The warm “Bula greetings!” And the polished facilities! However, if you want to experience the authentic Fijian life or feel the pulsating soul of the nation, you will have to travel east. It is the cultural heartbeat of the South Pacific. It is a sharp contrast if we compare the tourist polish of the West. You will feel that raw energy and colonial grandeur here. Also, it has a truly inclusive scenario with the Indo-Fijians and the indigenous Fijians constituting the majority of the population. Also, you will find part-Europeans, Chinese, and Caucasians. In this Suva cultural guide, I will talk about the raw energy of the city, its ancient seafaring legacy, vibrant markets, and living traditions. These are far from the poolside cocktails.  For more practical tips for a trip to Suva, you can read my Suva travel itinerary. Why Does Suva Claim The Cultural Capital Status?  Suva, despite being one of the most happening urban centers, has preserved its colonial history. Multiculturalism is another major factor in the cultural capital. Here is a deep dive into its history and transformation. Historical Shift To Powerhouse  Suva has not always been the seat of power. In 1882, the colonial leaders chose Suva as the capital over Levuka. The constraints for Levuka were the sea and the steep mountains. It was the beginning of the rise of a small and modest village as a power hub. However, the city, beginning its journey as an administrative epicenter, has now become a land with a multicultural tapestry. It has the headquarters of many regional organizations. It also has the University of the South Pacific, and a site where indigenous iTaukei traditions, Indo-Fijian commerce, and Chinese and European influences coexist. This diversity has solidified its status as the intellectual and artistic heart of the Pacific.  What Are The Top Cultural Attractions In Suva, Fiji? With the Suva Municipal Market, allowing everyone to have a slice of the Fijian life, the city also has many prominent cultural attractions. Also, the city is so particular about preserving its culture that there have been multiple acts and regulations surrounding it. 1. Fiji Museum And Thurston Gardens  View this post on Instagram A post shared by FIJI MUSEUM (@fijimuseum) The lush Thurston Gardens has the Fiji Museum, which preserves the 3700 years of Pacific history. The Fiji Museum Act (Cap 263) governs the operations and administrations of the museum for the curation and preservation of these artefacts. It also complements the Preservation of Objects of Archaeological and Palaeontological Interest Act (Cap 264), covering over 10,000 national heirlooms like traditional items central to Fiji's identity. Nevertheless, Ratu Finau, a massive 13-meter double-hulled canoe (drua), is the main attraction of the museum. It is a telltale of the rich maritime history of the nation. You will even find the Lapita pottery, the distinctive, stamped earthenware that allows archaeologists to trace the migration of the first Pacific Islanders.  Furthermore, the garden was built in the 1880s, and it has over 100 species of lilies and palm trees. 2. Suva Municipal Market  With the right Suva market guide, you will see how Suva comes to life from Thursday to Saturday. The Yaqona or Kava section on the second floor is the place where the city gets Kava roots and powders. Now, Kava is not just a drink. It is a social glue. When buying Kava (Yaqona) as a gift, ask for "Waka" (roots) rather than "Lewena" (stem) for higher respect/potency. On the other hand, the ground floor offers a kaleidoscope of taro (dalo), cassava, and jackfruit. These celebrate the city's Indo-Fijian roots. Furthermore, the air here smells of cumin and turmeric. Arrive from 6 AM to 10 AM on a Saturday to immerse yourself in a beautiful story of Fiji’s daily sustenance. 3. Government Buildings And Parliament Complex  The government buildings and parliament complex, showing the quintessential Art Deco style of the 1930s, face Albert Park. Albert Park is the place where Charles Kingsford Smith landed his Southern Cross in 1928. Here, you will also find the statue of Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna, the founding father of modern Fiji, whose legacy of land reform and indigenous rights still shapes the nation today.  Furthermore, the striking design of the parliament (after 1987) symbolizes unity. The National Trust of Fiji plays an important role in preserving these government buildings and the parliament complex. Suva Cultural Guide Of The Hidden Gems Off The Path  The Suva Fiji hidden gems are the telltale of the rich cultural and artistic legacy of the South Pacific. These are the places you need to explore. 1. USP Oceania Centre For The Arts  At USP, Epeli Hau'ofa's legacy lives. Catch Oceania Dance Theatre rehearsals, mesmerizing meke dances with stomping feet and ulu chants, or Red Wave Collective's bold canvases challenging colonial narratives. Live music, theatre, and talks pulse here, bridging ancient oral lore with contemporary fire. Free events draw locals and visitors alike. The Department of Heritage and Arts in Fiji plays a key role in safeguarding the nation's intangible cultural heritage, including traditional dances and music.  2. Draiba Cemetery And Sacred Heart Cathedral  Suva's Old Cemetery on Queen's Road whispers of pioneers and chiefs, graves oriented east for resurrection. It is a syncretic blend of Christianity and custom. Nearby, Sacred Heart Cathedral's French-imported sandstone vaults and stained glass offer humid respite. Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), remove hats, and absorb the choral echoes that define Fijian worship. 3. Fiji Arts Council Handicraft Centre  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Asia Pacific Region Crafts (@worldcraftscouncil_asiapacific) You will find certified "Fijian Made" masi barkcloth, kava bowls, and war clubs here. The Fiji Arts Council ensures authenticity, bolstering local artisans against imports. Perfect for ethical souvenirs tying into Heritage Department efforts. Cultural Etiquette: Honoring The Vanua  The Vanua, meaning the land and the kin, is sacred. In villages, offer sevusevu kava to the Turaga ni Koro for entry blessing. Wrap a sulu sarong modestly, men and women alike. Taboos: No head-touching (sacred seat of spirit), no hats indoors, ask before taking photos. The Department of Heritage and Arts safeguards these intangibles, such as dances, music, and pageantry, via UNESCO-aligned inventories, policies, and community revivals despite funding hurdles. A Flavorful Day: 1-Day Itinerary  Morning: Dawn at Municipal Market for produce frenzy, then Fiji Museum for historical grounding (allow 2 hours).  Lunch: Savor lovo, an earth-oven feast of taro, chicken, and palusami or fiery Indo curry at a hole-in-the-wall.  Afternoon: Oceania Centre for Art Pulse, then Colonial Walk: Government Buildings, Albert Park, Grand Pacific Hotel.  Evening: Kava bowl with locals, reflecting on Suva's layers. Total cost: Under $20 FJD sans taxis.  The Taste Of Suva  A Suva food tour will help you know how history flavors every plate of Suva. Fijian lovo buries sustenance in earth ovens; Indo-Fijian curries fuse cumin-heat with dalo; Chinese woks stir-fry cassava. Try kokoda (citrus-marinated fish) or fresh market seafood. Each bite traces the Girmitiya laborers, chiefly feasts, and fusion resilience.  Language Basics: A Suva Cultural Guide Bula! Hello/welcome.  Vinaka. Thank you.  Moce. Goodbye.  Tulou. Excuse me.  Ia bula vinaka? All good? (Ice-bo-la vi-nacka)  Sustainable Travel Tips  Fiji battles plastics  Bring reusables to markets  Support Heritage Department goals by choosing artisan crafts, minimizing footprint in rain-lashed paradise.  Expert Tips For Suva Cultural Travelers  Buy Authentic: Check the "Fijian Made" stamp at the Handicraft Centre.  Taxi Meter: Always ask the driver to turn on the meter. A ride within the city should rarely cost more than $5-$7 FJD.  Umbrella is Essential: Suva is the "rain capital." So, you will need an umbrella.  Respect Sundays: Sunday is a strict church/family time. Most shops are closed. So, you can plan a Suva Nature tour on Sundays.  Ask Before Clicking: Always ask permission before photographing locals, especially vendors in the market.  Suva Cultural Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Suva cultural guide. 1. What Is The Best Way To Get Around Suva For Cultural Sites? Suva is very walkable. So, take a walk and explore the downtown heritage buildings. However, if you don’t want to walk and have a more relaxing experience, you can take a taxi, which is easily available and is cheap. 2. Is Suva Safe For Tourists? Yes, Suva is safe for tourists. According to Numbeo, it has a crime rate of 58.60. However, like any capital city or tourist place, it has its own share of challenges. You have to keep your valuables safe. Also, do not walk alone at night. 3. Do I Need Guide For The Fiji Museum? You can go for a self-guided tour of the Fiji Museum. It will take around 1-2 hours. However, if you want to know about human history and behind the scenes here, you will of course need a guide.For an overseas visitor, an entry to the museum costs around $20, and with an added guided tour, it will be $30. 4. What Should I Wear To The Sacred Heart Cathedral? You have to remove your hat while entering the cathedral, and your knees and shoulders must be covered.You can wear the traditional sarong or a maxi dress. Overall, your dress must be modest. 5. Can I Drink The Kava Offered To me? Yes, it is polite to accept. Clap once, say "Bula," drink in one go, and clap three times after. If you are trying the Kava for the first time, you must choose a low-tide of half a cup instead of a high-tide or a full cup.At first, you may feel like having peppery muddy water. However, the taste grows on you, and it has a mild sedative effect. 6. Where Can I See Traditional Fijian Dancing (Meke)? The Oceania Centre at USP often has rehearsals, or major hotels host distinct cultural nights. Furthermore, the Fiji Museum, being the cultural preservation hub, often hosts Meke. 7. What Currency Is Used At The Markets? Fijian Dollars (FJD) are used at the markets. Cash is king as local vendors do not take cards. However, you can shop with cards at TappooCity, and other large supermarkets accept cards. Also, many locals use an app called M-PAiSA for digital payments. 8. Is The Government House Open To The Public? No, the government house is not open to the public as it is the President's residence, but you can view the changing of the guard from the gate. The changing of the guard ceremony takes place in the first week of every month. 9. How Far Is Colo-I-Suva Forest Park From The City? Colo-I-Suva Forest is about a 15-20 minute taxi ride from the CBD. The journey through the Princes Road covers a distance of around 12 kilometers.You can also take a bus. However, it will take longer because of the multiple stops. 10. What Is The Significance Of The Tabua (Whale's Tooth)? It is the highest cultural token of respect in Fiji, often seen in museum displays but rarely handled by tourists. It is the polished tooth of the sperm whale, and in weddings, it is often the price offered to the family of the bride for asking her hand in marriage. Read Also: A Tucumán Historical Sites Guide: Independence, Incas & Jesuits In Northern Argentina Tucumán Nature Guide: Exploring The Yungas Rainforest And High Andes Tucumán Food Guide: The Capital Of The Empanada And Milanesa

BY  Subham Saha Sep 22, 2021

Missouri, a state located in the central-western part of the United States, is one of the most visited places in the country. People often make a stop while passing through this region to enjoy and appreciate the beauty of this place. People on vacation can have an exuberant experience visiting the national parks in Missouri.  If you are an adventurer or an admirer of nature, then visiting Missouri is worth every of your penny. Parks have always been a source of fascination for many travelers. The Missouri map entails some of the most favored national parks in the world. Let us have a look at what beauty these parks behold.  The Missouri map entails some of the most favored national parks in the world. Let us have a look at what beauty these Missouri national parks behold. Most Beautiful National Parks In Missouri The beautiful land of Missouri is gifted with some of the most mesmerizing national parks. The best parks in Missouri are among the top tourist attractions of the state.  If you are planning on a short vacation with your family, do not forget to explore the National Parks in Missouri along with the historic trails that pass through the county.  Are you ready to know about what national parks are in Missouri and their important details? Here is a Tour and Travel guide. 1. Gateway Arch National Park Location: St. Louis Among the National Parks in Missouri, the Gateway Arch National Park is the most popular and iconic landmark in the state. The arch was established in 1960 in the memorial of Thomas Jefferson, Dred Scott, and others representing the spirit of western expansion in the US.  The construction of this 630 feet tall arch called for two separate structures to be raised from the ground and then welded together. A museum, a tram ride, and beautiful landscapes are what tourists can have an experience of here.   2. George Washington Carver Location: Diamond  Located just 12 miles southeast of Joplin, the George Washington Carver is a national park in Missouri that is open throughout the year. The park consists of a monumental structure, a memorial in remembrance of George Washington Carver. He was regarded as a great man because of his expertise as an educator, agronomist, and humanitarian.  Tourists planning to visit this site can have a great hiking experience in the dense forests present all around. There is no entry fee here, and several cultural activities are held occasionally.  3. Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail Location: Various This National Historic Trail extends for about 4900 miles and passes over through sixteen states. The expedition conducted by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark from  1804-1806 led to the exploration of this trail. The trail is considered among the best national parks that pass through Missouri.  This site can be viewed from several places in Missouri. The main motive behind the Lewis and Clark expedition was, however, to explore north-western America and a convenient water route to the Pacific Ocean. Vacationers can plan to cover the entire trail and gather historical information and learn about the impacts of the trail.  4. Ozark National Scenic Riverways Location: Van Buren One of the most mesmerizing places that you can visit in Missouri is the Ozark. This site comprises the Current and Jack Forks Rivers which are the two of America’s clearest spring-fed rivers. The Ozark National Scenic Riverway was among the first national parks in  Missouri to preserve a wild river system.  This park offers tourists a number of adventurous outdoor activities such as canoeing, hiking, swimming, and fishing. Adventurers are surely going to love it here. The summers are the best time to take a trip out over here. The presence of various shopping centers, indoor places, and natural caves makes it more enjoyable for you and your family.  5. Oregon National Historic Trail Location: Various Considered one of the best national parks in Missouri, this National Historic Trail connects the Missouri rivers to the valleys in Oregon. It is a route of historical significance that involved military action, exploration, and even migration.  This trail offers some of the most beautiful landscapes and forests that visitors can get to see. The route covers about 2,170 miles, and if travelers want to cover the entir e path, they need to save some time for it. However, the route is accessible by car, and one can experience an exquisite journey while traveling.  6. Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield Location: Republic A national battlefield or a national park in Missouri, Wilson’s Creek is situated in the southwest region of Springfield. This memorial had been built in remembrance of the first major Civil War, which was fought west of Mississippi in 1861.  This memorial had been built in remembrance of the first major Civil War, which was fought west of Mississippi in 1861.  However, the Confederate Army won the battle. So, Missouri remained in the Union. The legendary battle was, however, won by the Confederate Army, which resulted in keeping Missouri in the Union. A museum, an automobile tour, the preserved Ray House are some of the top attractions of this site. History connoisseurs must not forget to pay a visit to this place.  7. Harry S. Truman National Historic Site Location: Independence Missouri This national park in Missouri is one of the most visited and popular historic sites in the country. It had been established in the memory of Harry S. Truman, who was the 33rd President of the US. This national site preserves the house of President Truman that is laid over 7 acres of area.  The house has been converted into a museum-like place. Inside, you can observe various displays of historical items and get information about the entire history of that place. It is located east of Kansas City, and travelers can take out some time and go around the places in the vicinity.  Do You Also Want To Know About The National Parks Near Missouri? You already know how many national parks are there in Missouri. If you are willing to travel some extra miles, you will also find many national parks near this US state.  Missouri shares its borders with many states. It has Iowa on its north and Arkansas on its south. Furthermore, states like Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee are on its East, and the state has Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska on the west.  Here, we will introduce you to the national park near Missouri you can visit in the neighboring states.  US State Near Missouri National Park ArkansasHot Springs National ParkKentuckyMammoth Cave National ParkCumberland Gap National Historical ParkTennesseeCherokee National Forest So, states like Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska, and Iowa do not have any national parks. However, you will come across many national monuments and historic sites in these states.  1. Hot Springs National Park Hot Springs National Park is the melting pot of history and nature. It has the most amazing geological features with natural hot springs, mountains, and other views.  It is literally the national park that bathes the entire world. So, soak in the thermal spring fountains and cold spring fountains here.  2. Mammoth Cave National Park As you can see in the name, the Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the longest cave systems in the world. It is also a hub of outdoor pursuits like biking, hiking, and horseback riding.  Stargazing is also one of the most relaxing activities at Mammoth Cave National Park.  3. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park The Cumberland Gap National Historical Park tells the tales of Native Americans. Further, it is the most amazing spot for nature lovers, with 14,000 acres of wilderness and 85 miles of trails.  Moreover, if you are ready to indulge in the most relaxing activity, like stargazing, you can visit Hensley Settlement in this national park.  4. Cherokee National Forest The Cherokee National Forest houses the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which divides the park into two halves.  Further, it has many campgrounds, picnic areas, rivers, and scenic byways. Also, do you know that you can explore 700 miles of trails here?  You can even take a relaxed walk along the backcountry trail and explore wildlife. Moreover, at night, you can enjoy some immersive stargazing experience.  Frequently Asked Questions. Which National Park is a must see? The top must-see national parks in the US are 1.Grand Canyon National Park, 2.Arizona.  3.Glacier National Park, 4.Montana.  5.Yosemite National Park What 5 states have no national parks? States that are without National Parks are Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho ,Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin. Name the only two U.S national parks loacted within three states? Most of the parks of appointed wilderness is in Montana. Yellowstone is not the only national park that is in three different states. Final Thoughts There you go with all the information you needed to know about the national parks in Missouri. Apart from these most well-known parks, there are several other Missouri State Parks that have been quite an attraction for tourists.  From my personal experience, I can tell you that not only these sights, but the entire city is mesmerizing and soulful. I am sure that you can already fantasize about the beauty of these places. You must keep your patience till you land your foot there!  Read Also: Top 6 Most Popular Wendover Hotels In West Wendover In 2021 Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try A Guide To National Parks In Georgia