4 Tips To Enjoy A Comfortable Stay In Pigeon Forge

BY  Abdul Aziz Sep 8, 2022

When you tell somebody, you are planning a trip to Italy. They always answer, “You must visit Florence in Tuscany!”. Florence is a typical river city developed on the two banks of the Arno, a city rich in history and art. Founded and inhabited by Italic people, Florence extends into a green plain, which is surrounded by hills dotted with cypresses, and olive trees, and also crossed by the Arno river. But above all: a city breathing art and culture everywhere!  No wonder Ginori 1735, the iconic porcelain brand, partnered with St. Regis Hotels & Resorts to present Café Ginori.  Café Ginori will blend the elegance of Italian cuisine with Italian artistry to make the tourism experience in Florence more happening.  So, what are the special attractions or the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany? This Tour and Travel blog has all the answers. Special Attractions Of Florence in Tuscany Many of the travelers are asking, is Tuscany in Florence? And what is there? In the past years, it has been awarded internationally as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. You are standing in the middle cradle of the Renaissance. The city is the hub of extraordinary literary, artistic, and scientific development that took place in the 14th-16th centuries. To visit Florence in Tuscany really means jumping back in time!  Note: Appreciated more than anything else is the urban architecture and the presence of traces of a glorious past on every street corner;  with the most iconic places such as the Duomo Cathedral, the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Pitti, etc. You Should Visit Florence For Its Art And Culture Known throughout the world for its artistic masterpieces, the colored marbles of the churches, and the high-sounding architecture, Florence is the city of the Medici, an ancient Tuscan family that became one of the most important dynasties in Italy and Europe. Nowadays, it is home to the most beautiful and important museums in the world; to name a few: the Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Vecchio, the Accademia Gallery, the Pitti Palace, Florence Cathedral and the Opera del Duomo museum, etc. Best Places To Visit In Florence, Tuscany, To Celebrate Its Art And Culture  With seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, Florence sees tourism as a key resource. Further, its average annual tourism revenue is 300 million euros, establishing its position as a global travel destination.  Further, Florence has places like San Casciano dei Bagni within 200 km that are growing as tourism hubs individually.  San Casciano dei Bagni has won the laurel of “Best Tourism Village” from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This village is growing for its rich biodiversity and culture.  “San Casciano dei Bagni receiving the ‘Best Tourism Village’ recognition is a testament to the charm and authenticity of Italy’s smaller gems. These villages showcase the excellence of our craftsmanship, gastronomy, traditions, and culture, representing the heart of our national heritage.”Daniela Santanchè, Italian Tourism Minister Nevertheless, these are the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany.  1. Piazza del Duomo Piazza del Duomo, with its bell tower, Baptistery, and cathedral, is one of the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany. Also, don’t forget to visit Ponte Vecchio.  2. Uffizi Gallery Location: Piazzale degli Uffizi, 6, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: Tuesday-Sunday (8:15 AM to 6:30 PM), Monday Closed Uffizi Gallery houses the best collection of paintings and artwork from the medieval era to the modern period.  It was built between 1560 and 1580. 3. Piazza della Signoria Piazza della Signoria is the central square of Florence. It always has a lively ambiance and is Florence's epicenter of history and art.  4. Palazzo Vecchio Location: P.za della Signoria, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: Friday-Wednesday (9 AM to 7 PM), Thursday (9 AM to 2 PM) Palazzo Vecchio was built between 1299 and 1314 and was once the home and workplace of the Signoria of Florence.  5. The Accademia Gallery Location: Via Ricasoli, 58/60, 50129 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: 8:15 AM to 6:20 PM, (Monday Closed) The Accademia Gallery is home to David by Michelangelo. It is the second-most visited museum in Florence after the Uffizi Gallery.  6. Pitti Palace Location: Piazza de' Pitti, 1, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: Tuesday-Sunday (8:15 AM to 6:30 PM), Monday Closed Once a symbol of the power of the Medicis in Tuscany, Pitti Palace, or Palazzo Pitti, was also the seat of the House of Habsburg-Lorraine and House of Savoy.  7. Florence Cathedral Location: Piazza del Duomo, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: 10:15 AM to 3:45 PM The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, or Florence Cathedral, is the Cathedral of the Catholic Archdiocese of Florence. The church, founded in 1296, was consecrated in 1436 by Pope Eugenio IV. It stands out with its huge dome structure.  8. Opera Del Duomo Museum Location: Piazza del Duomo, 9, 50122 Firenze FI, Italy Hours Open: 8:30 AM to 7 PM Built in 1891 and renovated in 2015, Opera Del Duomo Museum has the original artwork of the greatest artists and sculptors across seven centuries.  Here, you will find the work of Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, Ghiberti, and many others.  9. Florence City Center Covering an area of 505 ha, the Florence City Center still has the 14th-century boundary walls.  Also, it is a symbol of the Renaissance during the early Medici rule.  10. Siena City Center Siena City Center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Tuscan Hills. It is famous for its food scene and medieval buildings.  11. Pienza The Historic Centre of the City of Pienza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is one of the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany. It is also famous for its town-planning concepts during the Renaissance period.  12. San Gimignano San Gimignano, or the Town of Five Towers, will transport you to the medieval era. A preserved hill town, it also has Civic Museums, Contemporary art, and holy art.  13. Piazza Dei Miracoli (Pisa) The Piazza Dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, an architectural wonder.  Further, located in a port city, the Piazza Dei Miracoli is an expression of human creativity.  14. Villas And Giardini Medicei  With 14 villas and gardens, Villas And Giardini Medicei is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tuscany.  One of the best places to visit in Florence, Tuscany, Villas and Giardini Medicei, gives you an insight into the family that played prominent roles in the history of Italy and Europe during the 15th-18th century.  15. Val d’Orcia Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, shows the beauty of the countryside in Southern Tuscany. It is famous for its ecological uniqueness and stunning landscape. Culture Also Means Food And Wine But the only culture of Florence in Tuscany is not only art & history, and it means food and wine as well. Florence is a food city (delicious food), and you really can’t go there without trying out its local specials: that’s part of the experience!  Things you should try in Florence: 1. CHIANTI WINE  Chianti wine is a red blend of Tuscany that is made from Sangiovese grapes. These are common tasting notes which include different types of red fruits, smoke, dried herbs, balsamic vinegar, and game. Perfect for any kind of aperitivo admiring monuments or to accompany your dinners in Florence!  2. PICI Pici is a type of fresh pasta, similar to spaghetti, which is made with water, flour, and salt. A simple preparation, typical of the Tuscan culinary tradition: a "poor" dish linked to peasant cuisine. They can be combined with different condiments, thanks to their ability to adapt to various preparations: you can, in fact, make them with cheese and pepper, with crumbs, with garlic, with ragù, and in many other ways. Yummy!  3. FIORENTINA One of the most popular Italian steak dishes, Bistecca Alla Fiorentina, is made of young steer or heifer that, in combination with the specific preparations. What preparations are turning it into one of the famous dishes in Tuscan cuisine.  It is a high cut, including the bone, and also cooked on the embers or on the grill, with a degree of "blood" cooking. Try to accompany this Florence in Tuscany special dish with your Chianti wine; a perfect combo.  Visit Florence For Its Welcoming People  Florence's inhabitants are something on their own; the Fiorentini are really strong characters, very different from the typical Italians international people know. The character of the Florentines is judged in a contradictory way. They are considered polite and honest, but their thriftiness, praised for being able to make money well, is often criticized. In Florence, people tend to say things to your face, and often when they do so, they are not too pleasant things. Don’t take it personally, it’s part of the culture! Learn some useful words:  Topping | Gnocchi Ganzo | Cool Grullo | A silly person Boncitto | A good guy Chetarsi | To be silent So Why Visit Florence? For many, Florence is a city they have only heard about, and important events and things to do, such as those in Rome or Venice, are not attributed to it. Wrong! Florence Is Full Of Things To Do!  Those who know the history of the world will know that Florence, with much of Italy, was the central hub of the Renaissance, and many works of art of the period can be found in this city. One of the most iconic sites that many are likely to recognize is the Duomo, a cathedral with a dome at its top.  The Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence also exhibits Michelangelo's David, one of the most famous sculptures in the world. When it comes to art and history, no one beats Florence for masterpieces! But there are also many fun activities for those who are not very interested in art. Tourists can take a day trip out of town and explore the wonderfully varied landscape of Florence in Tuscany. You can also taste local food and wines.  And events are also an option if you want to dive into the local culture for real. Music festivals, historical reviews, sports events, and much more! To learn everything about Florence and the reasons why you should visit it, learn more at www.ciaoflorence.it Reasons To Visit Florence In Tuscany |Ciao Florence Why should you visit Florence in Tuscany? Art, culture, food, and events. All you need to know about the city of Renaissance! Visit Ciao Florence. So when are you planning to visit Tuscany? Share your opinion through the comment sections. Additionals: Tattoo Bali – Tips Before Getting A Tattoo Canary Wharf: A Mini-Guide For Your Next Visit Top 3-Week Itineraries For A Perfect Tour Of Europe: T AND TB

BY  Sibashree Mar 21, 2025

Nepal has remained one of the best trekking destinations in the world, catering to every kind of adventurer. From the famous Everest Base Camp to the famous Annapurna Circuit and the much-demanding Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek, the trekking routes in Nepal are also the litmus taste for the most seasoned trekkers.  So, preparation is very crucial to make your trekking expedition safe and enjoyable. In this Tour and Travel Blog, we will quickly touch upon some helpful tips for your treks in Nepal. Best Tips For Trekking In Nepal: Approved By Local Guides And Seasoned Trekkers  Trekking in Nepal is like a dream come true moment for mountain lovers and adventure seekers.  Further, with a renewed focus on sustainability, Nepal is now committed to offering the best trekking experience that aligns with environmental values.  Along with the beauty of the mountains, the trekking routes here are pathways to learning about local culture, heritage, and diverse wildlife.  Nevertheless, the bounty or the fruit of the treks does not come easily to you. In fact, the trekking routes will throw you challenges.  So, you need to do the following preparations before you hit the mountains.  1. Choose The Right Trek Trekking in Nepal is ideal for trekkers across all expertise ranges. They welcome beginners and the ones with years of experience.  However, if you are a beginner, the Everest Base Camp Trek helicopter return and the Annapurna Circuit treks are not for you. These are for the most seasoned and the fittest hikers.  Rather, you can focus on the Langtang Valley treks, Helambu Trek, and Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek.  So, assess the altitude, trek duration, and difficulty of a trek route to make the right choice.  2. Train Before You Go For Trekking In Nepal Physical and mental training can make your body used to the long hours of travel and walking for days or weeks. Further, you must start training for the trek at least two to three months before you start trekking. During physical training, you must focus on your muscles and leg strength.  Also, you must practice carrying extra weight so that trekking with your backpack becomes easier.  These exercises or practices will help you adjust to what you’ll experience on the trails.  Moreover, working on your weight and getting in better shape will reduce fatigue and make your trek much more enjoyable. 3. Pack Smart And Light For Trekking In Nepal Packing light and wise is the ultimate tip for trekking in Nepal. Make sure that you only carry the things you need to avoid carrying extra baggage.  Check out the table below to have some ideas about the things you need. ClothingFootwearWeather ProtectionWarmthAdditional ItemsBreathable, long-sleeved shirtsLightweight trekking pantsFleece pullover or jacketThermal socks for colder areasStrong, waterproof hiking bootsGaiters for snowy or muddy trailsWaterproof jacketFleece or wool beanieSunglasses with side shieldsSleeping bag and linerInner gloves or thermal glovesNotebook and penSun hatLip balm SunscreenTowel In addition to the essentials mentioned in the table, you need to carry a small kit with bandages, blister treatment, pain relievers, and personal medications. Further, you will need soft flasks or reusable water bottles. You can even choose insulated water bottles, and don’t forget to keep the purification filters and tablets handy.  Moreover, you will need a headlamp with extra batteries, and your backpack must have a solid frame with multiple compartments and adjustable straps.  4. Get The Necessary Permits When you plan a trek in Nepal, you have to bring the right permits.  Most trekking routes require a Trekking Information Management System (TIMS) card. You’ll also need entry permits for national parks or conservation areas like Everest, Annapurna, or Langtang.  These permits not only ensure your safety but also support local communities.  Further, If you’re heading to restricted areas such as Upper Mustang or Dolpo, a special permit is mandatory.  Get these permits, carry your passport, visa copies, and passport-size photos. Moreover, hire a guide from a registered agency if you are doing solo trekking in Nepal.  5. Hire A Guide Or Porter For Trekking In Nepal A local guide shares valuable knowledge about the culture and trails, and porters can help by carrying heavy loads, allowing you to trek comfortably. Further, on remote and high-altutde routes, you will need a guide and porter for safety.  Moreover, by hiring a guide or porter, you can support the community and promote sustainable tourism. Overall, having a guide or porter enhances your trekking experience while positively impacting the region. 6. Acclimatize Properly When Trekking In Nepal Trekking in Nepal comes with the risk of altitude sickness. To stay safe, you have to follow the ‘climb high, sleep low’ rule. The rule means ascending during the day and sleeping at a lower altitude. This is essential for a successful peak climbing experience. For example, during your Everest Base Camp trek, you can acclimatize at Namche Bazaar and ensure a successful peak climbing experience. Further, staying hydrated is crucial while trading the high-altitude routes. So, drink four liters of water every day.  7. Respect Local Culture When Trekking In Nepal As you pass through the local villages during trekking, you must be respectful of local traditions. Greeting people with “Namaste” is a warm and respectful way to say hello!  Be polite and show interest in their in their way of life. Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, especially in religious areas. Further, always ask for permission before photographing locals or sacred sites. Respect customs such as removing shoes to enter temples and walking clockwise around stupas.  These small acts of respect go a long way in your relationship with the locals.  8. Be Environmentally Responsible Keep Nepal’s trails clean and beautiful, and follow simple eco-friendly habits. Always carry a reusable water bottle to cut down on plastic waste.  Further, you must dispose of trash and use biodegradable soap to protect water sources. Stick to marked trails to avoid harming plants and animals. Also, avoid using single-use plastics and choose lodges that support sustainable practices.  In addition, you have to be respectful to the local community by preserving cultural sites and keeping the noise levels low. 9. Prepare For Unpredictable Weather Trekking in Nepal will surprise you with changing weather conditions. A moment you can see bright sunlight and the next moment everything can be covered in snow, fog and rain, making it very difficult for you to trek.  The change of weather conditions is also crucial if you want to go for a mountain view helicopter tour. Further, to stay warm, you must dress in layers and carry a rain jacket.  10. Enjoy The  Trekking Journey Enjoy your journey to the fullest when trekking in Nepal. Indulge in the scenic views and immerse in the local culture and hospitality.  Make the trek or the journey all about acquiring meaningful experiences and just being present in the moment. 

BY  Sibashree Mar 21, 2025

If you wish to come here, book slots for any time between Autumn and Spring. The season lasts from September to November and from March to May. That’s the Best Time to Go Trekking in Nepal.  If you're here, only for the climate and the peaks, come anytime. Barring the rains. Otherwise, Nepal always offers mild temperatures, good food, and cozy retreats along with marvelous nature.  The Himalayas  Nepal is the doorway to the Himalayas for you. What’s best- Nepal suffers the least of abrupt snowfalls and rains. So, you can surely enjoy a delectable trekking experience here. The clear skies and soothing weather will assist you.  Ideals Times for Trekking in Nepal (Autumn and Spring)  Do you know which is the Best Time to Go Trekking in Nepal? The autumn and spring for sure. What else? Autumn (September to November)  This post-monsoon season is considered the best trekking period in Nepal. This season rewards you with stable weather that is perfect for trekking. In addition, the skies are clear, offering great views of the snowy peaks. The autumn air is fresh and cool. The post monsoon landscapes in this season are lush green which is phenomenal to trek. There are no dusk cloaks. So, the visibility would never be an issue. You will also get a magnified view of the ranges that stand tall before your eyes. Meanwhile, an exceptional view of the unfrozen alpine lakes waits for you in Nepal.  In essence, you can book the popular Gokyo Lake Trek. The trek is best during the autumn. At this time of the year, you get the best view of the clean and vibrant Gokyo Lakes. Likewise, you can also opt for the Annapurna Circuit Trek, this month.  Choose this trek if you want to see the virgin beauty of the Gangapurna lake here. At the same time, try completing the Tilicho Lake Trek at a go! The Ranges in Sight  Other than lakes, the mountain peaks are there to amaze you. If you’ve selected the Langtang Trek, you can enjoy the retreat of the popular Kyanjin Ri. Then, there is the glamorous Langtang Lirung and other peaks in front of you. Trot some kilometers from there and you can see Naya Kanga. That and many other amazing ranges can be accessed from this vantage point.  Other Peaks  Simultaneously you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Gurja, Tukuche, and most importantly the Annapurna in Nepal. When you climb the Poon Hill, you can see all these peaks and much more at a stretch.  But, here’s the catch. To view these beauties, you have to go to the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. With all these, the exceptional Kala Patthar and Mt. Everest are also visible during the trek.  If you wish to see these peaks and treat yourself, come during the autumn. At other times, the weather is overcast. Or snows impair your visibility.  During treks, you may be caught between high winds or heavy rainfall too. So, it is better to avoid the random seasons. For an uninterrupted journey, choose the two seasons I spoke of.  Spring (March to May) During Spring, you can witness Nepal 2.0. Surely, this is another best Time to Go Trekking in Nepal. Most importantly, the weather is fine and the temperature is moderate. Moreover, clear skies will welcome you. Therefore, you can witness warm and often breezy mountain views.  Trekkers say that it is an ideal climate to trek the Base Camp. or you may also go for the Manaslu Circuit Trek.  Additional treats  If you are trekking during Spring, these are some of the pleasurables you will come across. Don’t miss the rhododendrons. The rest of the flora is also surreal. No wonder, more than 50% of the trekkers choose springtime treks in Nepal. But you can come here and amaze yourself with something else.  The daylight lasts till 8 p.m. during Springs. So you can trek for a long. Or view the serenity of the trekking paths for a long time.  But the peaky areas may be still frozen. So, you can’t miss your woolen and trekking jumpers when you visit Nepal during spring. But with time, the temperatures gradually rise. During later May, you may witness rain showers too. So, don’t miss out on rain gears, if you are planning to stretch your stay.  Reservation The Spring is one of the most popular travel seasons in Nepal. So, you must book your slots in advance. You may book teahouses while trekking. But you need to make booking if you need to get hold of the popular ones along the track.  The Annapurna base camp trek has a lot of them along the way. And almost all of them accept advance online booking. You may also book your teahouse from Kathmandu city offices.  Trekking in Off-Seasons  Off-season treks may be your thing if you want to see another side of Nepal. How’s the weather and what are the challenges of coming here during these months?  Winter Season (December to February) Winter trekking is serene but it is also challenging. During this season, the trails of high-altitude areas are covered with a thick layer of snow. In addition, the temperature drops significantly during this time.  Therefore, trekking can be challenging for those who are not accustomed to the cold weather in the mountains. While moderate-altitude treks can be completed smoothly, high-altitude treks require proper planning, support from expert guides, and thoughtful packing. It is essential to check the weather regularly before heading out for the treks during the winter months. The high altitude passes like Larkya La of Manaslu Circuit and Thorong La of Annapurna Circuit Trek can be impassable or difficult to navigate. The heavy snowfall poses all the challenges.  In addition, the accommodation may not be available at the higher zones as locals shift to lower elevations because of the bitter cold. Thus, it is essential to inquire about the availability of accommodation before making plans for high-altitude treks. Even though there are significant challenges, the winter landscapes are ethereal. You can witness the beauty of winter wonderland and feel the serenity of nature as there are fewer people on the trails. In addition, the adventurers who are experienced can be thrilled to traverse the snowy winter paths. The views of peaks covered with dense snow in this season are majestic. As higher altitudes are bitterly cold, it is essential to pack down jackets, sweaters, gloves, socks, warm caps, sleeping bags, and layers of insulated clothing. If you are well prepared and navigate with caution, then you will have a wonderful time trekking in Nepal this season. Monsoon/ Summer Season (June to August) In the Monsoon/ Summer season, the trekking regions in Nepal receive heavy rainfall. The trails of the different trekking trails are slippery and muddy, making navigating challenging. In addition, at the forest areas of the trekking sites, leeches may be found which makes the journey unpleasant.  The weather is unpredictable during monsoon/ summer months, with frequent rain showers, which may obstruct visibility and make traversing difficult. In addition, the trails can be blocked, because of landslides interrupting the trek.  However, monsoon trekking also presents some unique rewards. The views of misty mountains and ethereal cloud formations are fascinating. The landscape gets nourished by rainfall turning it into a green paradise.  Even the trails of popular treks are serene as fewer trekkers embark on this time. So, it can be a good choice for those who are seeking a tranquil journey in the Himalayas.   There are indeed some good sides to trekking in this season. However, it is important to consider the challenges. You need to be well prepared for the trek and check the weather forecast. Being flexible and cautious helps you ensure a smooth journey during this time. The Final Call The climatic conditions influence the overall trekking experience. When you know the best Time to Go Trekking in Nepal,  you can complete the trek with maximum safety and comfort. In addition, the primary goal of most trekkers is to witness exceptional mountain scenery and connect with nature.  The best times to visit Nepal are autumn and spring. The other seasons offer some challenges for tourists. But these two seasons come with decent weather, moderate clime, and visible trekking trails. So, go on and enjoy your trekking experience.