Closest Beach to New Orleans | A Beach Holiday Guide In Louisiana

BY  Sibashree Oct 26, 2023

Thailand's climate varies across the country, but the good news is you can visit year-round. The best time to visit Thailand is between November and early April. These months witness little to no rain, and the sky is as clear as it can be. Days are warm and ideal for going out. The beaches look stunning, and several heritage sites become easier to visit. As April rolls in, the heat becomes unbearable, and with June, the monsoon season begins. Thailand, the jewel of Southeast Asia, is also called the land of smiles, with most of its natives welcoming you warmly with world-class hospitality. The country has developed its economy mainly through tourism. This has given the country its uber-modern cities and state-of-the-art luxurious holiday destinations. Despite the urbanization, the tropical feel of this island country is untouched and held in sacred esteem. Thailand offers a perfect blend of modern and primitive, which makes it even more attractive. Mountains, beaches, islands, and more await exploration. This exotic heaven beckons to all who love the sun, sand, and nightlife alike. In this article, we will explore the best time to visit Thailand around the year. Best Time To Visit Thailand Beaches Image source: a.cdn-hotels.com Thailand has so much to offer, and you might want to plan your trip to explore the nooks and crevices of a country you can’t get enough of. Like any other country, Thailand also has seasons that you can enjoy at its best and worst. Here are the peak, shoulder, and low seasons. Peak Season (November-February) Image Source: pyt-blogs.imgix.net These months usually bring winter to the rest of the planet, but in Thailand, it is the best time for a holiday. The air gets less humid, and the sun does not get too harsh, bad enough to drench you in your own sweat within a few minutes. Evenings are cool, too, with a light sea breeze blowing in and keeping visitors comfortable. Shoulder Season (September-October) Image Source: pyt-blogs.imgix.net The weather keeps improving, but it's not peak season yet. Rainfall is sporadic, with drier days in between. The temperature and humidity also fade away. The beaches are less crowded, so if you can handle the occasional heavy downpour, these months can be a great time to visit Thailand. Low Season (April-May, July-September) Image Source: a.cdn-hotels.com Although it is said there is no bad time to enjoy Thailand, there is an inconvenient time. Two actually. April and May get extremely hot, and if you can't handle the heat, avoid holidays during those months. As July begins, the monsoon arrives, and the next three months become the worst time to visit Thailand. The streets flood, and the air feels stuffy and humid. All you can do is sit in your hotel room and watch the water glide down the building. Travel SeasonsMin/Max TemperatureSeasonMarch to July30-34 degreesSummer - Hot and humidJuly to October23-29 degreesMonsoon - Heavy rainfallNovember to February18-32 degreesWinter - Cool and pleasant Thailand In The Winter Season (November To February) Image Source: images.travelandleisureasia.com Now that you know what Thailand feels like in its peak winter season, here is a glimpse of what to expect if you plan to visit this year. Temperature Avg. high: 32 degrees; avg. low: 18 degrees. Weather Image Source: www.tripsavvy.com Winter is the best time to visit Thailand. With the monsoon gone, temperatures are moderate and perfect for an outdoor holiday. The air is drier and sunnier. It makes the surroundings warm and pleasant. The only downside is that with better weather, the crowds get thicker too. But really, with those beautiful beaches and the amazing cityscape, the more, the merrier. If you stay on the coast, the weather is warm and pleasant. But if you head up to the mountains or further inland, nights tend to get colder, so bring a light shawl or winterwear to stay warm. Events Image Source: phuketfmradio.com In winter, Thailand is pretty quiet, despite Christmas and New Year. But not when it comes to the nation’s own festivals, especially December 5th, which is the birth anniversary of the King of Thailand and a nationwide fanfare. The main festivities take place in Bangkok, with the streets coming alive with celebrations, a candlelight vigil for the king’s long life, and, if his health allows, an appearance by the king himself. You can stay through January and February to see Thailand celebrate Chinese New Year. The date changes every year because it follows the lunisolar calendar. There are lion dances, parades, fireworks, and stage shows. The experience is truly one of a kind, and you shouldn't miss it if you happen to visit then. The Chiang Mai Flower Festival is held in February and runs for 3 days at the end of the “cool season.” It features grand parades and a vibrant display of chrysanthemums and the Damask Rose varieties found only in Chiang Mai. Wrapping Up With winter just around the corner in Thailand, the festivities are creeping in. This is your chance to book your tickets and plan an unforgettable holiday in and around Thailand during the winter season. This could be the best way to celebrate Christmas and the year on the most colorful note. If you are still deciding when to take a trip to Thailand, consider a winter trip. January and February are ideal, when you can spend your winter days wearing flip-flops under the sun. If the sound of beaches does not excite you in those cold, bone-chilling winter months, we don’t know what will. So, if you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: This Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland & These Are The Things You Should Do! Maldives And Bora Bora Among Top 10 Tourists Spots In The World This Is The Best Time To Visit The Seven Magic Mountains In Vegas!

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 21, 2023

Bath is a charming city known for its rich history, breathtaking Georgian architecture, and cultural significance.   It is located in Somerset, England, in undulating hills.  The Jane Austen Museum is a must-visit location for fans of the well-loved English novelist among its numerous attractions.   Entering Bath is like entering a time capsule that transports visitors to a bygone age.   It served as the inspiration for Jane Austen's classic novels.  Bath greets you with an air of sophistication and charm from the moment you arrive.   A visual feast is the city's well-maintained Georgian architecture.   It is distinguished by Bath stone with a honey tint.   Bath boasts some of the most stunning architectural structures, including the Pulteney Bridge that spans the River Avon.   The majestic crescent-shaped terrace known as the Royal Crescent adds to the charm.  The dynamic and eclectic atmosphere of the city is created by the abundance of unique businesses, charming tearooms, and galleries of art.   They line the cobblestone streets beautifully.   Bath's attraction is enhanced by its thermal springs, which have drawn tourists for centuries.   A well-preserved set of ancient Roman bathing and convivial structures, the Roman Baths provide insight into the city's history.  We will now dive in to find things to do in Bath in this article. Overview: What Are The Things To Do In Bath? travel-assets.com Wander Bath's picturesque cobblestone streets, where gorgeous honey-colored houses recreate the sophistication of the Georgian era.   One of the things to do in Bath is to transport yourself to scenes straight out of Bridgerton.   Admire the famous Bath Abbey, a magnificent example of Gothic design, and discover the ancient Roman Baths.   They allow you to experience both Roman engineering and the world of public bathing in the past.  Bath's distinctive fusion of wellness, culture, and history ensures an amazing trip that is going to leave you feeling revived and fascinated by this part of the South West. Cuisine bathchronicle.co.uk Bath's eating and drinking scene offers a culinary adventure that pleases a wide range of palates with a fascinating blend of history and innovation.   The city is home to a variety of restaurants, ranging from chic bistros and fine dining venues to cozy tearooms and old-world taverns.   Seasonal and local ingredients are the main focus, helping to create tasty recipes that pay homage to English heritage.   They also draw inspiration from around the world.  The city's markets, such as the Bath Farmers Market, include fresh vegetables, gourmet foods, and handcrafted goods.   Bath's food scene offers a delicious experience for any palate. Whether you're looking for a modern elegance or a historic ambiance, Bath has it all.  Savor traditional afternoon teas offered with scones and clotted cream, a mainstay of the South West of England.   Or enjoy hearty pies and platters of cheeses produced locally. Bath's pubs are welcoming gathering spots for people to catch up and enjoy ales and ciders.  Culture campervantours.com Bath's charm reaches far beyond its urban boundaries, revealing a mosaic of charming cities and towns that beg to be discovered.   From a market town tucked away in the Mendip Hills, which provides a bohemian vibe, artisanal markets, and an artistic vibe!  Alternatively, head to Wells, dubbed “England's smallest city,” which will take you through its magnificent medieval streets and cathedral.   With their distinct charms, these neighboring gems weave a tale that echoes Bath's own history and attraction.   Also, it beckons you to set out on an adventure through the center of the English countryside. Jane Austen: A Bath Essential A trip to the Jane Austen Museum is a voyage into the author's universe for voracious readers and Austen fans.   It is one of the mandatory things to do in Bath.   The museum is housed in the townhouse where Jane Austen lived from 1801 to 1806.   It is located at 40 Gay Street. Also, entering the building transports you to the Regency era.   Here you may fully immerse yourself in Jane Austen's everyday existence and literary legacy.  A selection of relics, manuscripts, and private items that shed light on Austen's life and creative output is on display at the museum.   The rooms where she wrote some of her most famous books, including “Pride and Prejudice” and “Emma,” and lived are open for you to tour.   The exhibits provide a physical link to the well-known author, showcasing everything from her writing station to her stunning jewels.  In order to give visitors a true taste of Austen's world, the museum regularly hosts unique events and seminars, such as Regency tea soirees and costume dress-up sessions.   They offer a fun way to get close to Austen's characters and learn more about the prevalent social mores.  One of the main themes of Austen's works was Bath.   Also, several of her writings, including “Northanger Abbey” and “Persuasion,” were set in the city.   You may walk in the footsteps of Jane Austen's characters as you stroll through Bath, seeing locations like the Pump Room, the Assembly Rooms, and the magnificent Bath Abbey.  Read More: Discovering London’s Hidden Gems: Best Places To Visit In London All Things Austen: Regency Era In Austen's day, the Pump Room, an exquisite 18th-century social hub, was a center of social life.   Even now, guests can partake in a small meal or a cup of tea while admiring the surroundings.   Austen's elaborate dance scenes take inspiration from social events.   The Assembly Rooms, with its beautiful ballrooms, offer an insight into these festivities.  The majestic ancient church known as Bath Abbey serves as a reminder of the religious legacy of the city.   There is awe and reverence in it because of its magnificent architecture and high ceilings.   These sacred walls provided a place of refuge and contemplation for many Austen characters, giving her works a spiritual undertone.  For readers, Bath has a plethora of literary ties, along with the Jane Austen Museum.   You will find a vast collection of scholarly books and rare editions of Jane Austen at the Bath Central Library.   One can find literary jewels at bookshops such as Topping & Company Booksellers and Mr. B's Emporium of Reading Delights.  Discovering the life and writings of one of England's most renowned writers by visiting Bath and the Jane Austen Museum is an engrossing trip through time.   Both fans of Jane Austen and history buffs will find Bath's ageless charm fascinating. Also, the museum offers an immersive experience.   So, lose yourself in Jane Austen's world, and stroll along the cobblestone streets.   Take in the wonders of architecture, and allow Bath to envelop you in its enchantment.   So, explore this fascinating city to learn about the spirit of Regency England and Jane Austen's lasting influence. Best Time To Visit Bath And Getting Around Bath rewards a bit of timing.   Because so much of its appeal is outdoors, wandering the Royal Crescent, sitting in the Abbey churchyard, strolling along the Avon. When you go changes the experience almost as much as what you see.  Seasonal Weather And Crowds  Late spring (May) and early autumn (September) are the sweet spot for a Bath visit.   Temperatures sit in a comfortable mild range.  Also, during these windows, the gardens around the Royal Crescent and Royal Victoria Park are at their best.  Furthermore, it is way more relaxed than the peak summer coach-tour crowds.   Summer (June to August) brings the warmest weather and the longest daylight hours.  So, it is ideal for exploring on foot, but also the heaviest footfall at the Roman Baths and Jane Austen Museum.   Booking timed-entry tickets a few days ahead is worth doing during this stretch.   Winter is quieter and atmospheric, especially with the Bath Christmas Market taking over the streets around the Abbey in late November and December.  However, some attractions run shorter hours. The Baths are also busy with holiday visitors.  Getting Around Once You Are In Bath  Bath's compact city centre is best explored on foot.  From the Roman Baths to the Jane Austen Museum to The Lanes-style shopping streets, everything sits within a 15-20 minute walk of the Abbey.   That said, the city is on hills.  So, comfortable shoes matter more here than in flatter English towns.   For day trips to Wells or the Mendip Hills market towns mentioned above, the First Bus network covers most routes from the central bus station.  On the other hand, a rental car gives more flexibility for reaching smaller villages.   If you are arriving from outside the region, Bath Spa railway station sits a short walk from the center.  It has frequent direct trains from London Paddington (around 90 minutes) and Bristol (about 15 minutes). So, a car is unnecessary if you are focusing on Bath. How To Reach Bath? Bath is easily accessible by air via Bristol Airport due to its close proximity to the city.   It is about 45 minutes away by car or an hour away by public transportation.   Similarly, it takes two hours to get to London Heathrow Airport by vehicle or public transportation.  Also, if you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about things to do in Bath, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!  Read Also: Coastal Bliss: Top Things To Do In Bournemouth Island Paradise Unveiled: Best Time To Visit The Philippines Vietnam Vistas: A Seasonal Guide To Crafting Your Vietnamese Adventure

BY  Sibashree Jan 28, 2026

South India has been my go-to place whenever I lacked clarity about “What is Next?” After exploring the beaches in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, I wanted to continue my journey, and my destination was the Western Coast of India.  The quiet Varkala Beach or Papanasam Beach with dramatic cliffs won me over.  With golden sands, blue waters, and gentle waves, Varkala Beach is therapeutic. No wonder that it is such a popular place for outdoor Yoga practices.  Furthermore, being a west-facing beach, it offers dramatic sunset views.  Here is more about the  Location of Varkala Beach How to reach Varkala Beach Best beaches in Varkala Where to stay in Varkala Beach When is the best time to visit Varkala Beach Best things to do in Varkala Beach Places to eat and drink Is Varkala Beach worth it?  About Varakala Beach Let me introduce the Varkala Beach to you with some quick answers.  ⁍ Where is Varkala Beach? Varka Beach is in Varkala. It is a coastal town on the southwestern coast of India. ⁍ In which state is Varkala Beach situated? Varkala Beach is situated in the southern state of Kerala in India.  ⁍ Varkala Beach, in which district? The Varkala Beach is in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala.  ⁍ Varkala Beach distance: It is located at a distance of 40 km from Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala.  Varkala Beach is the place where spirituality, wellness, religious fervor, and coastal recreation meet. It is also known as the Papanasam because people believe that taking a dip here washes away all your sins.  In fact, the mineral-rich water of the Arabian Sea here has healing properties.  Furthermore, the beach stretch is long, a little over 6 kms and it is the middle ground between the red cliffs and the blue waters.  However, there are two things I did not like about the Varkala Beach. Firstly, all the eateries and shops lining the red cliffs obstruct the views.  The more alarming thing is the amount of trash and plastic on the beach. There were food wraps and food wraps everywhere. Now, this shows a lack of maintenance and the absence of civic sense.  Does The Varkala Beach Have A Shade? No, the Varaka Beach does not have any designated or constructed shade. Also, naturally, there is rarely any shaded spot with very few trees around.  Furthermore, there are some lizards in the sand here. They don’t bother anyone, but it was a big issue for me.  Finally, I rented a shade and a chair from a clifftop cafe.  However, be ready get heavily tanned as the Sun here is so strong that no amount of sunscreen can protect you.  How Safe Is Varkala Beach?  Varkala Beach is a safe place, and it is one of the best destinations for a solo trip in India. It has a laid-back vibe, typical of the coastal areas of South India.  However, I could not find any lifeguards for the longer stretch of the beach. So, swimming here is something you need to do at your own risk.  Also, the current here is very strong. So, if you have plans to swim with kids, you have to be very careful.  How To Get To Varkala? The Varkala Beach is closest to the Trivandrum International Airport (TRV). The distance is around 45 kilometers. Furthermore, the nearest railway station, Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station, is a little over 4 km away.  However, the Trivandrum Central (TVC) is at a distance of 1 hour, and the Kollam Junction (QLN) Railway Station is around 40 minutes away. Both these stations have frequent train options from different parts of India.  1. How To Get To Varkala Beach From Trivandrum Airport I booked an Uber to reach the Varkala Beach from the Trivandrum Airport, and the charge was INR 1160. This is the safest option if you are new to the place.  Local cabs and other online car rentals are also available. However, if you cannot negotiate, they will charge you between INR 1500 and INR 1600.  Furthermore, the cheapest option to travel from Trivandrum to Varkala is to take a bus run by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC). Buses are available every 15 minutes.  However, the KSRTC bus stop is around 15 km away from the beach. So, from there, you will again have to take a local bus or taxi.  2. How To Travel From The Varkala Railway Station To Varkala Beach?  You can take a local taxi to reach the beach from the Varkala Railway Station. Local buses are also available. What Are The Best Beaches In Varkala? The Varkala Beach is the main attraction in the town of Varkala. However, it has many other beaches, such as the Black Sand Beach, Odayam Beach, Kappil Beach and Beach Park, Edava Beach, and Thiruvambadi Beach.  1. Black Sand Beach View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nat Geo Traveller India (@natgeotravellerindia) The Black Sand Cliff is close to the north cliff. If the Varkala Beach is overcrowded, you can consider this one as an alternative.  2. Odayam Beach Odayam Beach is perfect if you want to enjoy a long stroll along the waters early morning or late in the evening.  It is located at the north of the main cliff.  3. Kappil Beach And Beach Park The Kappil Beach and Beach Park are further north of the Varkala town. It is the place where you will have a bit of the famous Kerala backwater experience.  Also, it is the confluence of the Arabian Sea and the Kappil River.  4. Edava Beach The Edava Beach is cleaner. Also, this quaint beach offers a delightful cultural experience. Here, you can meet the fishermen.  Though language was a barrier sometimes, a few of them knew English. Also, I must say, after the rich cultural experience in Jaffna, this was another culturally enriching moment for me.  5. Thiruvambadi Beach It is the most secluded beach in Varkala. It has black and dark sand. Also, it has a calm environment, allowing you to just relax and introspect.  Where To Stay In Varkala? You can visit the Kerala Tourism website to find out where to stay in Varkala. It has Varkala beach resort options such as the Coconut Cove Beach Resort, the Pulari Gardens Tourist Resorts, and the nearest Karthika Plaza Resort Pvt. Ltd.  Furthermore, there are hotels near Varkala Beach, such as InDa Hotel, the Lost Hostels, and Maison Sangham.  I stayed at the Bougainvillea Homestay, which is very close to the Varkala beach cliffs.  When To Visit Varkala? October to March, or the winter and spring seasons, are ideal for visiting Varkala.The rainfall is minimal in these months, and the temperature hovers around 20 to 30 degrees Celsius.  Furthermore, less rain and moderate weather conditions are ideal for watersports such as jet skiing and paragliding.  However, during my visit in February, I found the water current to be quite strong for swimming. So, check with the locals and the fishermen around before getting into the water.  What Are The Best Things To Do In Varkala Beach? The Varkala Beach is a welcome relief if you are exploring South India. It is not a place if you are planning an action-packed holiday.  However, try these watersports.  Surfing At Varkala Beach You will find places such as Soul and Surf here to camp and learn surfing. Furthermore, the ideal surfing condition for a visitor depends on their expertise level.  For Beginners: November to February For Sufers of Intermediate or Advanced Levels: October to March Advanced Surfers: The Monsoon Season or June to August  Paragliding Varkala Paragliding is the most adventurous thing you can try at Varkala Beach. You can have a hawk-eye view of the water and the golden sand by flying from one end of the cliff to another.  Also, paragliding feels magical during sunset. Varkala Beach Nightlife  The bars, restaurants, and rooftop cafes of the North Cliff are the epicenters of a happening nightlife in Varkala.  These places are ideal for candlelit dinners and enjoying a lively vibe with DJs and live acoustic music performances. What Are The Places To Visit Near The Varkala Beach? Varkala is an ideal place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, many religious and spiritual travelers combine a Varkala beach trip with a visit to Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple and the Sivagiri Mutt.  The Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple is a 2000-year-old Vishnu shrine. It is associated with the legends of Lord Brahma and Narada Muni.  On the other hand, the Sivagiri Mutt is home to the saints and sanyasins of the order started by Sree Narayana Gurudev. His primary teaching was “One Caste, One Religion, One God for Man.” Established in 1904, this Mutt practices inclusiveness.  What Are The Places For Eating And Drinking In Varkala? There are many cafes and restaurants in Varkala. I chose a humble, local place for lunch and dinner.  However, to experience the cafe culture here, I chose a few upscale places.  1. Lunch At Vinayaka Vegetarian Restaurant I ordered a veg Keralan thali at the Vinayaka Vegetarian Restaurant. The rice grains were thick, and they were filling. Furthermore, they served the rice with five types of sides, pickle, and papad. It only cost me INR 90.  2. Dinner At Chimney Restaurant At the Chimney Restaurant, it was a continuation of my great seafood experience in Jaffna. The staff here suggested that I try a Kerala fish curry.  The fish was fresh, and the curry was sharp and spicy (a little less than Jaffna). It was a perfect balance to the acidic element of rice.  You must also try the village-style chicken curry here. It is a family-friendly restaurant.  3. Cafés I was at Cafe Trip is Life during sunset. The view was amazing, and I loved the grilled prawns and mojitos there. A bit pricey, but worth it! Another café I loved here was Café Sarwaa. I was impressed with the Bohemian decor the moment I entered the place. I tried some samosas and banana pancakes there.  However, you can eat here the whole day. Their paratha and Kerala beef curry are the most famous.  Is Varkala Worth It? Should I Just Go To Goa? The only similarity between Varkala and Goa beaches is the bohemian vibe. However, both beaches offer different experiences.  Varkala is more nature-focused with the landscape of the Varkala Beach and a view of the Arabian Sea. Furthermore, it is more about relaxation and wellness thanks to the Yoga centers frequently found here.  However, despite watersports and adventure facilities such as paragliding and surfing, Varkala is not as happening as Goa. Goa offers a wider range of watersports.  Moreover, the nightlife of Goa is more vibrant.  So, if you want a spiritual and wellness retreat and some quiet beach time, Varkala is the best. The 2000-year-old Vishnu temple is an added attraction here.  For a vibe and a high-energy experience, choose Goa.  Varkala Beach: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Varkala Beach.  1. Varkala Beach Or Kovalam Beach, Which Is Best? I cannot pick a favorite between the Varkala Beach and the Kovalam Beach. The Varkala Beach, with a bohemian vibe, is more laid-back and nature-focused. On the other hand, the Kovalam Beach has the iconic crescent beaches, and it offers a diverse range of watersports and a vibrant nightlife. 2. Which Beach In Varkala Has Bioluminescence? The Varkala Beach has bioluminescence. You can especially notice the bioluminescence near the cliff and along the northern stretch of the beach. Here, tiny marine organisms emit blue and green light due to a chemical reaction. When the wave is disturbed, these organisms get scattered, and it looks like the water is glowing. Furthermore, from September to November is the best time to see the bioluminescence of the beach.  3. What Is The Varkala Beach From Bangalore Distance? The distance between Varkala Beach and Bangalore is around 670 km. You can travel by road, which takes around 14 hours. So, the easiest way to travel is to take a train from Bangalore Cantonment to Varkala. The travel time is around 13-15 hours. Furthermore, if you want to take the fastest way to travel, you must take a flight from the Bangalore Airport to the Trivandrum Airport and then take a bus or taxi to Kovalam.