Tropical Island Vacation: Reasons To Choose One Every Year

BY  Sibashree Mar 9, 2026

Almost a year ago, on 26th March 2025, Xinhua shared a photo of the fishing trawlers in Negombo. Those further gave us an idea about the lives of the fishermen in Negombo.   On a personal level, that photo took me back to my days in Negombo.  Now, many often miss the cultural insights Negombo offers. I mean, if you consider the Tamil culture in Jaffna, or the cultural things to do in Kandy, you also need to experience what Negombo has to offer.   Otherwise, you will not understand how it has kept the soul of a fishermen’s port city alive beyond the glitz and glamor of the prominent international hotels and shops.   Also, Negombo is very close to the Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport. The distance is less than 9 km, and the travel time is around 20 minutes.   So, as expected, it has all the amenities for tourists. However, as always, luxurious facilities have never been the draw for me while visiting a place.   I am the happiest exploring the Ritigala Forest Monastery or climbing the Sigiriya Rock and finding the history at every corner.   So, my reason for a visit to Negombo was not what people usually think of. And in today’s blog, I will introduce Negombo to you through my lens.   How Did I Reach Negombo From Colombo?   I took a tuk-tuk to reach the Colombo Fort railway station from my hostel. Then, I got a train ticket for 80 LKR.   The train was not overly crowded, and traveling solo, and as a believer in the LowDownUnder travel philosophy, I quite enjoyed the train ride.   However, if you want to avoid the hassle, you can also take a bus from Colombo to Negombo.   Where Are The Things To Do In Negombo?   First, I want to highlight that traveling to Negombo has now become easier if you are traveling from India.   The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has started a package called “SHRI RAMAYANA YATRA EX MUMBAI.”   From 21st March 2026 to 27th March 2026, it will be a 6-Night and 7-day package.   The package tour conducted in association with the Sri Lankan Airlines will cover destinations such as Colombo, Dambulla, Trincomalee, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya.   This tourism package starts from Rs. 71,800/ for adults and Rs. 30,100/ for children.   Now, with traveling becoming easier, you can plan the things to do in Negombo better.  1. Exploring The Negombo Fish Market  I was up at 5 AM as I had to visit the local fish market.   I got into a minivan with my guide, and as we entered the market, the sight of bright silver fish and their smell occupied my senses.   My guide took me through the stalls of tuna, machete, and shark. Then, he drew my attention to the ships filled with fish reaching the market and the heavy bargaining game.   A fish market may not be the most attractive place to visit when you are in Negombo.   However, if you want a true cultural experience and understand the livelihood of the local people, it is the go-to place.   From the fish market, my guide took me to a beach used primarily for drying fish. The intense smell is not for everyone, but many times, I had a similar experience back home.   2. Visiting The Dutch Fort At Negombo  The Dutch Fort was close to the “fish drying beach.” Now, the Dutch Fort is used as a prison.   The fort is constructed with coral stone and granite.   And around the fort, I found many wildflowers blooming.   This simple scene was a moment of learning for me. I once again understood how the universe functions.   It does not matter whether it’s a prison or a temple. A flower can bloom anywhere, and it will always be beautiful.   However, I wanted to have a better view of the Dutch Fort. I climbed up the old clock tower and got a better perspective and better shots of the fort.   3. Visiting The Angurukaramulla Temple  After a trek to the Sigiriya Rock and the Pidurangala Rock, I visited the Angurukaramulla Temple. Like the Sigiriya Rock, for this Buddhist Temple, you also need to make an entry through the mouth of a lion.   The lion rests below the 6-meter-tall Buddha statue.   The temple has magnificent statues and beautiful murals. Also, it has a rich library with scriptures and murals.   So, it is a great place to visit in Negombo if someone is studying the Buddhist religion and literature.   However, walk carefully as you may come across snakes (rat snakes).   4. Birdwatching On The Dutch Canals  I ended my morning at the Dutch Canal. It was relaxing and enriching at the same time to look over the lagoons.   I decided to make more of the moment and got into a boat.   It was surprising to say the least. Also, I did not expect to meet so much wildlife immediately after leaving the dry land.   I saw a huge monitor lizard resting on the shoreline, and then kingfishers, cormorants, and herons in flocks kept accompanying me throughout the journey.   However, it was not just the wildlife. I saw a reflection of my home and country during the boat ride.   People were attending to livestock, children were bicycling, and some were even playing cricket.   Again, there were some abandoned hotels and buildings, standing as a witness to the civil unrest and the stories of human resilience in Sri Lanka.    5. Exploring The City On Foot  Negombo is very walkable, and it reminded me of my days in Jaffna. I used to randomly pick a direction along the main coastal road and just walk.   You may call wandering aimlessly in a lesser-known place unsafe. However, I think that you have not seen a city until you have walked through it.   Also, after visiting Jaffna and other places of historical and cultural significance, Sri Lanka felt like home to me.   They spoke a different language. However, they were warm and welcoming, just like anyone I would randomly come across in India.   Also, after years of experience, I can say that walking is the only way to find those hidden gems, the best bakery around the corner, or the eatery that has been around for around 100 years.   This was more evident during my Jaffna food tour.   Moreover, while walking across the streets of Negombo, I got to interact with the local fish sellers and food vendors. In addition, I found a big mosque near the backstreet. 

BY  Sibashree Jun 17, 2025

Is Yokohama Bay an active place for spirits? Lopaka Kapanui of Mysteries of Hawaii claims so! “It’s this limestone. It’s an unusual shape, and it’s the leaping place of spirits. So if you’re there at a certain time of the month, you may be able to witness a procession of people who have recently passed away who are walking toward that. Literally, you’ll see them climb on top of it, and you’ll see them run and take this leap. According to some witnesses, this window opens, receives them, and then shuts.” We are not sure whether Yokohama Bay houses the mystery of Hawaii or not! However, we are definitely interested in traveling to Yokohama Bay for its beautiful beaches, flora, and fauna. Where Is Yokohama Bay? Yokohama Bay Directions Yokohama Bay is located on the Island of Oahu. The bay, featuring a long stretch of sandy beach, is located at the western tip of Oahu, and it begins at Kaena Point. The area is also known as Keawaula Bay, and the entire bay features a coastline lined with white sand beaches and breathtaking scenic beauty. Yokohama Bay Hours To Travel & Exact Location Yokohama is located approximately one hour from the closest major city, Honolulu. The place has several parking spaces, which are ideal for parking your vehicles. To travel to Yokohama Bay first, then continue your journey on the Farrington Highway. The total distance from Honolulu to Yokohama Bay is approximately 40-42 Miles. The beach, which is located at the end of the Farrington Highway, is Yokohama Beach. Why Is Yokohama Bay Famous? The place offers some of the most unique terrains. The island is full of eroded shield volcano remnants, which have been formed over the course of millennia. The Island of Oahu is a place where volcanic mountains meet the ocean, creating some of the most breathtakingly beautiful scenery. The entire Island of Oahu is full of beaches, and Yokohama Bay is one of the most popular ones. The region is renowned for its stunning shores, where visitors can find some of the largest waves, making it an ideal spot for surfing. Where Did Yokohama Bay Get Its Name From? The place is known as Keawaula Bay. The word Keawaula refers to a red harbor in Hawaii. The locals say that once upon a time, massive schools of squids gathered in the shallow waters of the bay, and the locals call them muhee. Don’t you wonder why a Hawaiian place has a Japanese name? Well, there is an interesting story behind it. The place was named Yokohama, and a Japanese fisherman used to visit the place during the 1900s. Locals began casually referring to it as Yokohama Bay, and since then, the area has gained popularity under that name. Things To See In Yokohama There are multiple things to see and explore in Yokohama Bay, as the area offers one of the most incredible terrains and geographical features, making it an ideal destination for those who wish to explore:   1. The Diverse Flora and Fauna Of Yokohama Bay: The region provides sustenance for some of the world's finest flora and fauna. The place offers the basking grounds for the Hawaiian Monk Seals, one of the two remaining Monk Seal species, apart from the Mediterranean monk seal. The third species of Monk Seal is known as the Caribbean Monk Seal. The Monk Seals differentiate themselves with their unique looks. The Hawaiian Monk Seals are endemic to the Islands and are a highly endangered species; getting a sight of them can be a memorable moment. The beaches of the Yokohama Bay provide nesting grounds for the Green Sea Turtles. The turtles lay their eggs on the silver-sand beaches of Yokohama Bay. The island also holds the nesting grounds for other species, like albatross and several other birds and animals. Visitors should be especially careful to avoid harming the natural flora and fauna of the region. Human beings in the place often act irresponsibly, which damages the natural flora and fauna of the region. Why Is It Important To Care For The Flora And Fauna, Understanding With A Recent Example: Tourists should visit Yokohama and explore the flora and fauna of the region, but at the same time, it is important for them to care for nature and the species inhabiting the place. Here is an example of what can go wrong if human beings interact with nature irresponsibly: The Incident Of Two Women Cutting The Umbilical Cord Of A Newly Born Hawaiian Monk Seal Pup: Ironically, On The Same Day, The Pup Got Killed By Their Dogs. Two women working with the federal wildlife response team tamper wrongly with a newly born monk seal pup. The two women conducted a wrong medical procedure on a newly born pup, cutting its umbilical cord in the wrong way. Experts and advocates from around the world raise questions about the legitimacy of the action. The dogs of one of the women, later the same day, ironically kill the endangered seal pup. The incident took place in the north of Oahu Island. Yokohama Bay is also located on the same Island of Oahu. 2. Unique Geographic Features Of Yokohama Bay Yokohama Bay showcases some of the world's unique geographic features. When the millennia-old volcanic mountains meet the oceans, it becomes a scenic delight for your eyes. Visitors who enjoy both the ocean and the mountains will likely find this place to be their preferred destination. Travelers can hike as well as swim in the region. The Bay provides silver sand beaches, which are the perfect tropical paradise. The unique geographical features of the region provide the ideal conditions for the formation of tide pools. Marine life gets trapped in the tide pools during the low tides. Visitors, hence, should explore them. What To Do In Yokohama? It’s time for some serious adventure at Yokohama Bay! 1.  Yokohama Bay Snorkeling The shores of the Island provide some of the best snorkeling experiences. The place is full of vibrant underwater fauna, which gives you a memorable snorkeling experience. The shallow waters of multiple tide pools trap several kinds of sea life during the low tides and are one of the best places to explore diversity.          Yokohama is famous for several things, but most importantly, the place is well-known among surfers who want large waves. The place also provides silver sand beaches, and the underwater life of the region is the best for snorkeling and other activities. Tourists engage in several activities, including flying drones, kite surfing, and enjoying with friends and family in the region.  2)  Yokohama Bay Water Sports And Adventures The rough terrain and the shallow waters of Yokohama Bay create the largest waves in the ocean. These waves create the ideal conditions for successful water sports and other adventures. Yokohama Bay provides some of the best opportunities for adventure sports, where many can be seen kite surfing, jet skiing, and several other activities. Kayaking is also one of the most common activities for people. Tourists rent out the things from the local service providers. 3) Fishing At Yokohama Bay The Shallow waters of the tide pools of Yokohama Bay provide the ideal conditions for fishing. Fishers find some of the most unique species of fish in the oceans, and it is perfect for people to visit. Visitors should bring fishing equipment with them to enjoy the experience to the fullest. 4) Hiking At Yokohama Bay The region provides hiking trails with wonderful and unique views. One of the most popular hiking trails near Yokohama Bay is the trail to Ka’ena Point. The trail follows an old railroad bed and goes through a dirt road. The trail is an exciting and adventurous path to the western point of Oahu. Tourists should take the trail to reach Ka’ean Point Natural Area Reserve. The reserves contain sand dune habitats, which are unique to the islands. The reserves serve as homes to some of the native and unique plants and seabirds on the Islands. Tourists visiting the trail in the winter months can see the whales frequently visiting the shorelines. Visitors explore limestone reefs and sand dunes throughout the coastline, which are raised from the mostly flat shoreline. Is Yokohama Worth A Visit? Yokohama Bay is one of the most ideal places for you, and tourists of all kinds can visit the place irrespective of whether they like to relax at the beach or wish to explore hiking trails. Tourists can do anything they choose. Things To Keep in Mind While Visiting Yokohama Bay Yokohama Bay is located in a remote place from Oahu, and it can be difficult to find a network in the region. The place has a very limited number of places to eat. Tourists, hence, should pack their food. We at Tour & Travel encourage our guests to visit these places responsibly. We expect the members of the Tour & Travel to be vigilant regarding the environment. Tourists traveling to places like Yokohama Bay shall act responsibly, as these places are home to various species. The Earth does not belong to us, but we share it with other species, and it is crucial to care for all. Tourists visiting places like Yokohama Bay and other parts of Oahu should not harm the natural flora or fauna. We at Tour and Travel believe that we have not inherited this planet from our ancestors, but we have borrowed it from the next generation.  The dwellers of Earth, hence, should keep everything intact for the next generations. Yokohama Bay Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS) Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about Yokohama Bay. Can I Swim At Yokohama Bay? Yes, Yokohama Bay is perfect for swimming. However, during high tides, the ocean produces massive waves, making it essential to exercise caution. Why Is It Called Yokohama Bay? Around the 1900s, a Japanese man would come to the place to fish. The locals, therefore, began calling Yokohama casually from then on. The place is originally known as Keawaula Bay. The word Keawaula refers to a red harbor. Once upon a time, massive schools of squids gathered in the shallow waters of the bay; hence, it is called  Keawaula Bay.   Can You Drive To Yokohama Bay, Oahu? Yes, Yokohama Bay is located more than an hour's distance from Honolulu. Travelers should take the Farrington Highway to reach Yokohama from Honolulu. Is Yokohama Good For Tourists? Yokohama Bay is one of the most suitable places for tourists. The region provides tourists with the opportunity to explore some of the most iconic and unusual terrains. Tourists, therefore, can engage in various activities, including Snorkeling, surfing, and many others. However, tourists should be respectful of the local flora and fauna. Does Yokohama Have A Beach? Yokohama Bay has the largest beach on the entire island of Oahu and, hence, is one of the most popular destinations for visitors. Is Yokohama Expensive? According to the Tour & Travel Research Team, a budget of $1,400 to $1,600 per person is suitable for a week-long trip to Yokohama Bay and the surrounding areas in Oahu. Is Yokohama Friendly To Foreigners? Yes, people from different countries can visit the place Are there Yokohama Bay Restaurants? Yokohama Bay is located remotely. Travelers, therefore, often struggle to find places to eat due to the remote location of the area. However, tourists can find several eating spots throughout the Island. Tourists often find it challenging to access a reliable mobile network in the region due to a shortage of mobile towers in certain areas.The restaurants around the area are fewer in number. However, it is located a one-hour drive from Honolulu, and people can find good food there. Does It Snow In Yokohama Bay? No, it does not snow in Yokohama Bay, Hawaii. Located at Oahu’s Western Tip, Yokohama Bay enjoys a tropical climate. Snowfall is limited to the Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea peaks. Is The Yokohama Bay Sunset Beautiful? The Sunset from Ka‘ena Point in Yokohama Bay is beautiful and mesmerizing. Tourists should definitely visit Ka’ena Point. Read Next.. What is the Best Time to Visit Fiji for your Next Vacation?  Enjoying Your Holiday at the Bay of Biscay: 7 Considerations to Enjoy the Incredible Bilbao Hawaii Vs Bahamas Vacation: Which One Is The Better Spot For The Ultimate Tropical Experience?

BY  Sibashree Sep 22, 2021

Missouri, a state in the central-western United States, is one of the most visited places in the country. national parks in Missouri make it even more interesting. People often stop here while passing through to enjoy and appreciate its beauty. If you are an adventurer or an admirer of nature, then visiting Missouri is worth every of your penny. Parks have long fascinated many travellers. Missouri features some of the world's most popular national parks. Let's take a look at the beauty these Missouri national parks offer. Most Beautiful National Parks In Missouri Missouri's beautiful land is home to some of the most mesmerizing national parks. Missouri's best parks are among the state's top tourist attractions.  If you are planning a short vacation with your family, don't forget to explore Missouri's national parks and the historic trails that pass through the state.  Ready to learn about Missouri's national parks and their key details? Here is a Tour and Travel guide. 1. Gateway Arch National Park Location: St. Louis Among Missouri's national parks, Gateway Arch National Park is the most popular and iconic landmark in the state. The arch was established in 1960 as a memorial to Thomas Jefferson, Dred Scott, and others representing the spirit of western expansion in the US.  The construction of this 630-foot-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 features a monumental structure and a memorial honoring George Washington Carver. He was regarded as a great man because of his expertise as an educator, agronomist, and humanitarian.  Tourists visiting this site can enjoy a great hiking experience in the dense forests surrounding it. 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 through sixteen states. The expedition led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark from 1804-1806 explored this trail. The trail is considered one of the best national parks in Missouri.  Visitors can view this site 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, gather historical information, and learn about the trail's impacts.  4. Ozark National Scenic Riverways Location: Van Buren One of the most mesmerizing places that you can visit in Missouri is the Ozarks. This site comprises the Current and Jackfork Rivers, which are 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 range of adventurous outdoor activities, including canoeing, hiking, swimming, and fishing. Adventurers are surely going to love it here. The summers are the best time to take a trip out here. Various shopping centers, indoor attractions, and natural caves make 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. This historically significant route 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 travelers who want to cover the entire path need to set aside plenty of time. However, the route is accessible by car, and you can enjoy an exquisite journey along the way.  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 was built to remember the first major Civil War battle fought west of the Mississippi in 1861.  However, the Confederate Army won the battle. So, Missouri remained in the Union. The legendary battle was won by the Confederate Army, which kept Missouri in the Union. A museum, an automobile tour, and the preserved Ray House are some of the top attractions of this site. History connoisseurs should not forget to visit 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 was established in memory of Harry S. Truman, who was the 33rd President of the US. This national site preserves President Truman's house, which covers over 7 acres.  The house has been converted into a museum-like place. Inside, you can see displays of historical items and learn about the site's history. It is located east of Kansas City, and travelers can take time to explore nearby places.  Do You Also Want To Know About The National Parks Near Missouri? You may already know how many national parks Missouri has. If you are willing to travel a few extra miles, you will also find many national parks near this U.S. state.  Missouri shares its borders with many states. Iowa borders it to the north, and Arkansas to the south. Illinois, Kentucky, and Tennessee border it to the east, while Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska border it to the west.  Here, we introduce you to national parks near Missouri that you can visit in 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 amazing geological features, including natural hot springs, mountains, and other views.  It's 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. It's also an 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 includes Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is divided into two halves.  Further, it has many campgrounds, picnic areas, rivers, and scenic byways. Also, did 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 are 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. Beyond these well-known parks, several other Missouri State Parks have also attracted 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 you can already imagine the beauty of these places. You must be patient until you set foot there!