The year 2023 fall saw the return of Lake Manly or the Death Valley National Park lake. The Badwater Basin is the lowest point in the Death Valley, as well as the entire North America. It is located 282 feet below sea level, and today, the world knows it as a dry and salted flat.
However, a massive downpour caused by Hurricane Hilary in fall 2023 and the “Atmospheric River Effect” this year made the dried lake appear magically. Lastly, the lake had a resurrection in 2005, and suddenly, this trace of life in the barren land looks and feels surreal.
But why did this lake appear all of a sudden? Will it stay? What can you see while exploring the area near Lake Manly? This article tries to find answers to all your questions.
Further, there is a sneak peek into what NASA shows about the ghostly and ancient lake at Death Valley National Park.
Has The Ancient Death Valley National Park Lake Returned?
Yes, the ancient Death Valley National Park lake made a comeback. Hurricane Hilary hit Death Valley on 19th-21st August 2023, and its remnants caused more rainfall than the average yearly rainfall (2 inches) at the national park.
Further, a Californian storm or the atmospheric river effect on 4th-7th February 2024 caused 1.5 inches of rainfall. Altogether, the amount of rainfall in this park from the second half of 2023 and the first half of 2024 was 4.9 inches.1
This sudden and unprecedented rainfall caused the rise of Death Valley National Park Lake. In mid-February 2024, the lake had one-foot deep water. Further, it was 6 miles long and 3 miles wide.
NASA has published a series of three images of Lake Manly. The pictures showed the difference between the barren, salted land in July and the waterlogged area in August after the rampage of Hurricane Hilary and Atmospheric River. Further, the pictures also depicted that the lake was almost the same size in August 2023 and February 2024.
Moreover, according to the latest update in April 2024, the lake is getting a steady number of visitors. The reflection of the surrounding peaks looks out of the world in the tranquil water of the lake.
In addition, thanks to the rainfall and the resurgence of the lake, the national park had an abundance of wildflowers this season.
Elyscia Letterman2, an interpretive park ranger with the National Park Service (NPS), has mentioned,
“It’s quite beautiful, especially at sunrise and sunset when you have these beautiful reflections from the mountains around the lake. There’s some snow on the mountaintops. So, the reflection of the snow-capped mountains on the water is very beautiful. It doesn’t feel like you’re in Death Valley.”
Again, the Amargosa River keeps feeding the Badwater Basin area from the south. With its increased water level, it can help the Death Valley National Park lake to stay.
Having said that, let’s discuss a few details about how Hurricane Hillary and the atmospheric river effect impacted the lake formation and overall national park.
The Death Valley National Park experienced flooding after a massive downpour started at Gower Gulch near Zabriskie Point. The rainfall took place on 20th August 2023, and the crew started assessing the havoc in the park on 21st August 2023.
Thanks to the flooding, Lake Manly made a comeback. However, some of the backcountry roads were completely washed. In addition, there was a major loss of pavements and undercutting.
“The lake was deep enough to kayak for a few weeks after Hurricane Hilary, but unfortunately people couldn’t come enjoy it then. Every road in the park was damaged by flash floods, and it took two months to open the first road into the park. Now most of the main roads are open, so it’s a great time to come visit!”
– Ranger Abby Wines on the return of the Death Valley National Park Lake after Hurricane Hillary
Atmospheric River Effect In Death Valley National Park
The Death Valley National Park was already recovering from the impact of Hurricane Hilary. Suddenly, in February 2024, a Californian storm or the atmospheric river effect hit the national park. The storm fed the Badwater Basin with water, which enhanced the temporary lake.
This storm also pulled down snow from the mountain peaks, and it came down to around 4000 feet in the park.
Will The Ancient Death Valley National Park Lake Stay?
Despite the endorheic nature of the Badwater Basin, the Death Valley National Park Lake is transitional or ephemeral in nature. The evaporation rate here is higher than the water feed it gets.
However, the downpours caused by the August 2023 and February 2024 natural calamities have brought all the changes. We now have a lake that shows some potential to stay.
Again, the Amargosa River has flowing water at a high level. So, the basin is getting constantly fed by water from the south. As a result, the lake still stands in the driest place for a span of more than 6 months. In 2005, when the lake reappeared for the last time, it only lasted a week. This time, there is a new scenario around the lake and how long the water will last.
Having said that, nothing specific can be mentioned about how long the lake will stay as the rate of evaporation is still high. Even as I write this article, I realize that the lake may not remain fit for kayaking for long. Still, the lake is likely to exist for some time, offering visitors a renewed site of attraction in the national park.
Overall, the resurgence of the lake and its stay is an “extremely rare event,” as mentioned by the National Park Service authority.
Exploring The Death Valley National Park Lake Area
There is no denying that all roads in the Death Valley National Park lead to the ancient lake, which has come to life. Once you are done taking photographs or seeing the reflection of the surrounding peaks in the water, you can take a walk around the area.
The shores of the lake have a white boundary wall, which is formed because of a high concentration of salt. Further, the Panamint Range, Black Mountains, and barren land surrounding the lake offer you an other-worldly experience.
Moreover, you can explore the nearby looking points in the park to have diverse views of the place. Enjoy your time at the oasis of Death Valley!
What NASA Found About The Death Valley National Park Lake? (April 2024)
NASA showed the change in the Death Valley National Park Lake from February to March using SWOT, a U.S.-French Surface Water and Ocean Topography satellite. In just six weeks, the water level came down to 1.5 feet from 3 feet.
The NASA report has further highlighted the temporary nature of the lake and the fact that a gust of a strong wind can move this lake by a couple of miles.
Final Words
With “billions of gallons of water,” the Death Valley National Park lake is alive again. The sapphire blue water in the midst of a barren land shows the magic of nature. In February 2024, the lake became a go-to destination for kayaking, thanks to its 1-foot-deep water.
However, by March, the lake was closed to opening, and in April, the lake was transformed into a waterbody of a few inches’ depth.
This has also become a tourist attraction thanks to the most amazing sunrise and sunset views.
Further, there is no assurance or specific information available about how long the lake will last. So, make it to the Death Valley National Park till the lake lasts.
Also, don’t forget to share your experience as you explore the Badwater Basin area around the ghostly (now alive) lake.
Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!
Trips are healthy for the soul. So, whenever you feel stressed up with office work, make sure you organize a trip. Planning the whole thing can be stressful, especially when you are clueless about where to start. But don’t worry anymore because this article shall provide you with some of the ways that you can put into consideration to plan your vacation successfully.
Here are 4 Ways of Preparing an Enjoyable Retreat:
1. Choose a Place to Tour and Decide the Activities You Will Do:
Prior to organizing your trip, ensure you have a list of places that you may want to visit. You may decide to go abroad or visit other nearby cities. If you can afford to go for a vacation in another country, then ascertain that you have a good plan.
There are a lot of things that you can take part in once you are at your destination. Among the activities that you may consider include hiking, swimming, and playing soccer. While on your vacation, you can meet new folks who you can associate with. Interacting with one another can open new opportunities for you. Hence, if you are ready to take an adventure, consider Bookmundi to have a striking trip.
2. Estimate the Amount You Will Spend:
Going for a vacation does not imply that you spend all your savings. You need to think about tomorrow and avoid spending a lot of money. The best way to avoid spending a lot of money is to estimate the total amount of cash you will need. If you are going to spend $200, then don’t exceed that limit.
You may also come up with a list of the supplies that you will require during the trip. Include the costs of these supplies to avoid overspending. But if you want to have the fun of your lifetime, you should be ready to spend.
3. Know Everything About the Area That You Want to Go to:
It can be devastating to go to a place that you have never toured to. You probably don’t know the history and other facts of that place. For instance, you may not know the weather conditions, security, and culture, among others. Hence, it would be best if you take your time to investigate a little bit to learn everything about the place you are touring.
You may investigate online or ask friends for help, especially those who have visited the place before. Collect all the facts you require before you embark on the trip.
4. Get Further Details on the Transport Means You Will Use:
If you want to tour overseas, using an airline will be convenient for you. The means of transport is fast and suitable for people who have business meetings abroad. But if you are touring to the next town, a bus will be ideal.
Whichever means you pick, ensure you get further details from the traveling agency. Know about the departure time to avoid missing your flight or bus.
Conclusion:
People travel for various reasons. Some will take a trip to attend international conferences, while others may travel to adventure. So, whichever reason you have, ascertain that you use these ways to plan everything properly.
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Why should you obtain a second passport? In fact, this is a key that can open many doors for you, your business, and your family. The most straightforward way to become a second passport holder is to apply for citizenship by investment.
Unfortunately, the world is becoming a much less stable place than it used to be, which makes investment migration more popular than ever.
You can go to Malta to open a business in different fields, such as fiduciary services, real estate, tourism etc.
Under these circumstances, we can no longer call a second passport a luxury item. It's your practical protection against instability that gives you the opportunities you need.
What Is Citizenship by Investment?
In fact, this is a deal: you donate a certain amount to support the country’s economy and obtain a passport in return. The obvious benefit is the speed, as you will not have to spend years to meet naturalization requirements.
The investments vary:
Donations to government development funds,
Purchases of real estate,
Investments in bonds, shares, or approved businesses.
Eligibility requirements are straightforward. If you are 18 or older and have no criminal history, you will pass the checks. You should also have proof that the funds you will contribute come from legal sources. You can include your family members in the application in the majority of cases.
Why Consider a Second Passport?
Here are the main reasons why CBI programs are so popular:
Global Mobility: Visa-free or visa-on-arrival travel to key regions, including the Schengen Zone, the UK, and, in some cases, China or Japan.
Business Expansion: A new citizenship often comes with entry into regional economic unions, streamlining operations and trade.
Financial Security: Many CBI jurisdictions offer tax-friendly systems with no capital gains or inheritance taxes.
Family Protection: Multi-generational inclusion ensures security for spouses, children, and parents.
A Plan B: A stable safe haven if political or economic crises hit at home.
Healthcare and Education: Access to international hospitals and universities, strengthening long-term family prospects.
Best Citizenship by Investment Countries in 2025
Programs differ in price, speed, and travel benefits. Some destinations are more popular than others.
Caribbean Programs
The Caribbean is where stunning landscapes go hand in hand with cost-effective CBI programs.
Dominica: Known for affordability, requiring $200k in donations or real estate. Processing takes only three to six months, with visa-free access to 140+ countries.
St. Lucia: Offers flexible choices—donations, real estate, bonds, or business starting at $240k. The program is family-friendly and requires no residency.
Grenada: Distinctive because it enables eligibility for the US E-2 visa. Costs begin at $235k, with access to 150+ destinations including the EU, UK, and China.
Antigua & Barbuda: Attractive for larger families. A $230k donation covers wide family inclusion, though it requires five days of physical presence within five years.
St. Kitts & Nevis: The oldest and one of the most progressive programs, now even allowing cryptocurrency as an investment source. Investment begins at $250k, with fast-track processing available.
Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA)
These programs combine prestige with economic opportunity.
Malta: The EU’s only CBI program. Though costly at €715k+, it grants full EU rights and visa-free travel to 180+ countries, including the US and Canada. Residency of 12–36 months is required.
Turkey: A popular middle-tier option. Real estate investment starts at $400k, with citizenship processed in 6–9 months. Turkish passports also connect to the US E-2 visa.
Egypt: One of the most affordable in the region, starting with a $250k donation. Citizenship can be achieved in just six months.
Jordan: At $750k+, this program is designed for serious business investors creating jobs or backing local companies.
Oceania
Vanuatu: Famous for speed. Citizenship can be obtained in as little as two months with a $145k contribution. Travel benefits cover 95+ countries.
Nauru: A newcomer linking citizenship to climate resilience projects. Starting at $130k, it offers visa-free entry to nearly 90 destinations.
At this point, you may want to stop and compare the programs. There are excellent offers for those who need fast approval. However, if it is prestige you are after, the shortlist will be different. For more details, please explore global second passport options, where you will find all you need to know.
Investment Routes to Citizenship
Different programs allow for different styles of participation:
Government Fund Donation: The simplest path, often the cheapest and quickest.
Real Estate Investment: Grants tangible assets that may generate rental income, though usually subject to minimum holding periods.
Business Investment: For job creators—ideal for investors aiming to tie citizenship to long-term business ventures.
Government Bonds: A low-risk option offered by select programs such as St. Lucia.
Fund Investments: Available in Malta and Turkey, suitable for those comfortable with higher-risk, higher-reward strategies.
Choosing the right route depends on your priorities, such as speed or long-term financial gain.
Application Requirements
Across programs, the paperwork looks similar:
Valid passport and ID,
Birth and marriage certificates,
Proof of residence,
Police clearance,
Medical records (sometimes),
Proof of investment and financial statements.
Documents typically need notarization and official translation. Some countries, such as Malta, require in-person residence, while others, like Vanuatu, process everything remotely.
Safeguards & Regulations
Programs operate under strict global standards. They prevent any cases of misuse or money laundering by complying with FATF guidelines. It means that you must be prepared for thorough diligence and background checks. The trend is to tighten the criteria you must meet before your application is approved. For example, Saint Kitts and Nevis has introduced even tougher screenings recently. However, it will also mean that the passport you get will be a more reputable document.
Navigating the Choices in 2025
Choosing the best program is like working your way through shifting waters. If you choose the cheapest one, it may be unsuitable for your travel needs. And if you opt for the quickest one, it may not be in line with your family's goals. If you want to easily navigate this landscape and strike the balance you want, you can rely on Offshore Pro experts.
The right program is the one that aligns with your personal strategy, which will determine whether you will land on a Caribbean beach or run for the prestige of a European passport. From $130k in Nauru to over €715k in Malta, the spectrum is wide. What unites them all is a door you open to the wider world.
Let’s Look Forward
If you look around globally, you will easily see why citizenship programs are becoming more popular and relevant. A second passport can give you reliable protection and become your golden ticket to new opportunities. Offshore Pro experts will provide all the necessary support to make your journey to a second passport effortless. Right now, citizenship by investment is not about paperwork. It's about a plan B for your family that will give you peace of mind.
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I travel often, and I know many of you do, too. Recently, I tried Play Airlines, a new budget airline popular with Gen Z.
Founded in 2019, Play Airlines follows the motto "pay less, play more." It offers flights from major East Coast cities in the US to destinations like London and Copenhagen.
Also, all these flights are hundreds of dollars less than those of other airlines. This is why it appeals to travelers looking to save money.
The airline carriers are among the best that offer ultra-low fares when traveling to Europe. So the new entrant in the market has appeared in the search results for Transatlantic flights after April 2022. The airline aims to bring visitors to Iceland and connect North America and Europe.
The airline started flying in 2021 in Iceland; however, in North America, the service began in April 2022.
Do you want to know more about the PLAY Airlines reviews? I will tell you about the airline, its foundation, and my experience? Keep reading!
This Is My Experience With Play Airlines!
When the airline carrier was first inaugurated, Play Airlines and Baltimore Airport collaborated to create a good impression in the form of a water cannon salute when the first plane of Play Airline pulled up to the gate. Overall, the first impression was quite well made by Play Airlines.
The staff is helpful and interactive. Another added advantage of a low-budget carrier airline. It is unheard of for a low-budget carrier airline to be perfect concerning its services.
I would also like to discuss certain shortcomings that I identified. Do give it a go before you book tickets on Play! The flight I traveled on was spacious, clean, and memorable because I was finally traveling to Paris, one of my dream destinations.
What Is Play Airlines?
Play Airlines is addressed as the Ultra Low-Cost Carrier (ULCC), which is not completely uncommon. However, many carriers have additional charges based on transportation, which ULCC still needs! These airlines are perfect for passengers traveling on a budget like me!
My travel plans are concrete, and I am not free to have flexible dates and timings because I have a job! I am also one of those who do not care about luxury or frills added to necessities.
Therefore, I am functional when it comes to services such as Wi-Fi and entertainment charging points. Ultimately, I can adjust this much if I am traveling to a destination, especially for a vacation.
Play is the successor of Wow Air, a low-cost airline carrier that ran out of service in 2019. So, if you question, is Play Airlines safe? It is.
PLAY Airlines Reviews 2025: Did I like It?
So I was traveling to Paris from Boston and was charged $292 for a roundtrip. To begin with, this is quite a cheap deal that I have got on Play Airline. Another significant thing I noticed and did not expect was a comfortable seat and 34 inches of legroom.
Isn't that amazing? Finding another airline that gives 34 inches of leg space might be challenging! It is quite unheard of in a budget carrier. The seats are Delta Comfort Plus, which is comfortable, and I was very relaxed throughout the flight. The chairs are tall enough for you to rest your head.
As a frequent flier, half of your problems are solved if the seat is comfortable! According to my Play Airlines review, it is quite comfortable to travel with this airline. The space for the leg also helps in extending the tray table. There was no charging extension or plug-ins in the Play flights, which is usually there in transatlantic carriers and U.S. airlines.
I found the crew very supportive and helpful. I had a very positive experience while interacting with the crew. No food or snack is free; however, this is one of the side effects of low-budget carriers. I did not see any food or water services throughout the flight except at the beginning and end.
What I Found Beneficial?
In A321neo, headrests were present in each seat with extra padding and adjustable wings. When you fly Play Airlines, you will get better seating comfort than most of the low-budget flying airlines. The setting does help in creating a more comfortable sleeping position.
I also noticed that every seat had its lights and dedicated air vents. It helped me a lot because I am an avid reader, so there was no issue with my entertainment as I almost finished a book on the flight.
A significant advantage I found on Play Airlines is that there was no bundling, nor was the fare made complicated concerning overall expenditure. I also found the timings of the flights to be mostly punctual. The connecting flights to Europe via Keflavik are conveniently set.
Their food and drink collection is quite decent; you can order based on your requirement. There is also no connectivity, such as Wi-Fi, messaging, or entertainment.
What Did I Find Negative?
I have heard that the seat arrangements are a mixed bag, such as seats with 34 inches of leg space, while some seats give you a meager 28 inches of leg space.
So, as a traveler, you should search on Google Flights regarding the space of the specific flights of Play Airlines before you book tickets. Make sure to check the legroom extension to have some wiggle room.
Another significant shortcoming that I noticed on the flight was that there needed to be more power. As a traveler, one thing that is essential in today's time is charging your phone, which I wasn't able to do because of no power.
You will not be getting any refund; hence, in case of cancellation from your side, you will need clarification with the services. Another thing that might look like a chore to you is creating an account to view or book seats and baggage fees.
The complete itinerary or any schedule based on base fare will only be accessible if you have an account on the official website, www.flyplay.com.
PLAY Airlines Reviews: Why Should You Go For It?
If you're on the hunt for a budget-friendly way to travel, Play Airlines might just be the perfect fit.
I recently flew with them to Iceland, and I have to say, I was genuinely impressed with the comfort and cleanliness of the experience—especially given how affordable their fares are.
I’m already looking into booking another trip to Europe with them this fall! For those of us who prefer a more laid-back travel style, Play Airlines is ideal.
They get you where you need to go without the extra costs that typically come with mainstream airlines.
On my trip to Iceland, the money I saved on airfare allowed me to explore more once I got there.
I treated myself to a bus tour along the stunning southern coast and even checked out the unique Lava Show in Reykjavík, all without feeling like I was stretching my budget too thin.
Honestly, flying with a low-cost airline like Play opened up more opportunities for me and truly enhanced my overall travel experience.
How To Book On Play Airlines?
You have to visit their official website, but before that, search Google Flights. Accordingly, select flights and seats based on your preferences and make your payment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Play Airlines vs Icelandair: Which one is better? Play Airlines for the cheapest fares on a no-frills flight, but expect to pay extra for amenities like bags, food, and seat selection. Opt for Icelandair if you prioritize comfort, want complimentary amenities such as Wi-Fi and in-flight entertainment, and are willing to pay more for the added services. 2. How Much are PLAY Airlines baggage fees? PLAY Airlines offers a pay-as-you-go model for baggage. Every fare includes one free personal item. However, you will need to pay for checked baggage and additional services like seat selection. For complete details on baggage fees, visit the PLAY Airlines Terms and Conditions page. 3. Is There Food On PLAY Airlines? Yes, you can purchase food and drinks onboard all PLAY Airlines flights from their onboard menu, but it is not complimentary
Play Airlines Reviews 2025: Should You Go For It?
My overall experience on Play Airlines was mostly positive. However, some of the shortcomings are quite significant. Having no power to charge your mobile phone devices can seriously put travelers who are traveling long distances at risk.
The only solution to this problem is carrying a power bank. You must be aware of these issues before you book a flight!
There are limited options to travel to Iceland if you cancel the flight you have booked, or if the authorities have delayed it.
Comment below regarding your choice of place to visit in Iceland and why!
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