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BY  Sibashree Aug 12, 2024

Gates of the Arctic National Park is where the Brooks Range and the Tundra landscape come to life with wilderness and vivid topography. This national park is a place of topographical diversity with the coexistence of mountains, glaciers, rivers, lakes, and marshy lands.  A home to nomadic people for more than 13,000 years, the Gates of the Arctic is a prominent example of how human lives can be dependent on wilderness or nature. Many visitors love backpacking and trekking in this national park. Further, many stay in camps in the backcountry to experience its rich wildlife despite the challenges. Do you want to know why camping in the backcountry is worth the hardship? Does the national park have camping sites? Find the answers to all your questions in this guide.  Knowing The Gates Of The Arctic National Park (Why Camping Here Is A Great Experience) The Gates Of The Arctic National Park is a paradise for wilderness travelers. The intriguing land of Tundra, embraced by jungles, mountains, and rivers, makes camping in the backcountry worth all the effort.  Gates Of The Arctic Geography You can explore the arctic geography of this national park by trekking or by air. Tundra peaks and the Schwatka Mountains region of the Brooks Range ensure a humbling experience. You trek to Mount Igikpak, a glacier-carved peak with an 8,510-foot elevation. Another mountain to have glaciers in this region is Mount Arrigetch. Even backpacking and trekking to Mount Doonerak have a distinct charm, as the mountain is the quintessence of wilderness and unadulterated beauty.  Further, this national park has six designated wild rivers. Those are: Alatna River John River Kobuk River Noatak River North Fork of the Koyukuk River Tinayguk River Alatna and Noatak are great for canoeing. If you want more adventurous pursuits, you can try rafting in Nigu (to the north) and Kobuk (to the west).  Gates Of The Arctic Wildlife  The Gates of the Arctic is home to many mammals and birds. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game says,   “Forested southern foothills rise to limestone and granite peaks more than 7,000 feet high in this remote wilderness park. North of the peaks, clear water rivers run through glacier-carved valleys; and Tundra, covered with wildflowers during the brief northern summer, stretches toward the Arctic Ocean. Many of the nearly 500,000 member Western Arctic caribou herd migrate through the park each fall. Brown and black bear, wolf, Dall sheep, lynx, moose, wolverine, and red fox live here year-round. In the spring, the park hosts migratory birds from Europe, South America, Asia, tropical archipelagos, and the continental U.S.” Other animals found in this national park are grizzly bears, Dall sheep, and musk oxen. Among the birds, Tundra swans, common loons, and golden eagles are the most common.  Further, if you enjoy the playfulness of aquatic animals, watch out for graylings, trouts, sheefish and salmon.  Gates Of The Arctic And Human History  The Gates of the Arctic is a prominent place for archaeological research. The study and interpretations of the museum collections depict how people have been surviving in the Brooks Range for around 13000 years now.  Along with Inupiat, Nunamiut, and Athapaskan descendants, you will also find many non-native Alaskan people in this region. These people have always been dependent on fishing and hunting. The wilderness of the Gates of the Arctic is the foundation of their livelihood.  What Is The Best Camping Near Gates Of The Arctic National Park? With marshy lands and tussocks, Arctic Tundra has a vulnerable landscape and it is difficult to find a steady spot for setting up camps or tents. Also, the existence of wildlife in a remote location and dense vegetation make the space unsuitable for camping.  So, there is NO CAMPING SITE in the Gates of the Arctic National Park. There are designated areas in the backcountry for camping. However, you will have to strictly adhere to the rules and regulations of the national park when putting up a tent.  You must also attend the orientation program and be particular about the gear, food, and safety essentials to be carried.  With permission from the park authority and the National Park Service, you can set up tents near the Arctic Interagency Visitor Center in Coldfoot or around Wiseman and Bettles communities.  However, while camping in the backcountry, you will have to keep the following factors in mind.  Be respectful to the local communities like the Koyukon Athabascan Indians or Nunamiut. Their livelihood depends on the wilderness.  There are no provisions for running water, a dump station, or restrooms. Your phone network will be unavailable in this location. You have to carry all your trash back as you leave the camping site. You cannot adulterate the pristineness of the location.  If you have plans for camping in the backcountry near the Gates of the Arctic, summer is the best season. The temperature is a little moderate on these days, and sunnier days make all outdoor pursuits in the park easier for you.  Did You Know?  The Gates of the Arctic National Park is the second-largest national park in the USA. It stretches over 13,000 square miles. You can see aurora borealis from this park if you visit between November and March.  July and August are the best months to visit Gates of the Arctic National Park for hiking and backpacking.  Bob Marshall, a wilderness advocate, named this national park “Gates of the Arctic.” Final Words  Unlike popular national parks like the Biscayne National Park or the Kenai Fjords National Park, the Gates of the Arctic National Park does not have many visitors yearly. In 2023, only 11,045 tourists flocked to this place. (Source) With a diversity in topography and wildlife and an association with human history, this park has much to explore. However, the extreme trekking conditions and wilderness make it far from an easy excursion or trekking experience. Despite the absence of campgrounds in this park, you can camp in the backcountry at the designated spots in the fields. However, only an experienced backpacker should try it with proper orientation and extra safety measures. Have you ever been to this wild and intriguing national park? Do you have any camping experience in the backcountry? Don’t forget to share your experience with us!  Gates Of The Arctic National Park FAQs  Can You Camp In The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge? Only backcountry camping is possible in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The absence of roads, villages, or facilities makes this area unsuitable for having designated campsites. Backpacking and hiking are the best ways to explore this vast landscape with rich wildlife and geographical interests.  Can You Stay In Gates Of The Arctic National Park? You can stay or try backcountry camping near the Gates of the Arctic National Park. Undefined terrains, wilderness, and a lack of modern amenities make it risky to put up camps in the national park. Even to camp in the backcountry, you will need the highest outdoor survival skills. The arctic ecosystem, topography, and weather conditions are different, and if you are confident enough to stay in the backcountry, plan in advance and get in touch with the Park and Preserve authorities for updates and advisories.  How Much Does It Cost To Visit The Gates Of The Arctic National Park? You don’t have to pay entry fees to visit the Gates of The Arctic National Park. However, you must attend the backcountry orientation program at any of the visitor centers.  In this way, the Gates of The Arctic National Park is different from other national parks as most of them demand an entrance fee.  How Difficult Is It To Get To The Gates Of The Arctic National Park? The Gates of the Arctic is a wilderness park. So, as you enter the park, hiking is the best way to explore. Remember, it is home to the Schwatka Mountains region of the Brooks Range and the highest peak here is Mount Igikpak with an 8,510-foot elevation.  So, exploring the national park is not going to be a cakewalk. A lack of established trails further makes hiking difficult.  Further, there are six designated rivers, including Koyukuk and Dietrich, in this national park. So, you will have to pass through multiple meandering river crossings. The water levels of these rivers keep fluctuating throughout the season. They are furious throughout the spring season. Tussocks, marshy lands and dense vegetation are other hurdles to your fast movement while trekking.  Do you want to visit the backcountry? You can take a bush plane operated by permitted pilots with knowledge of the region.  What Is Special About Gates Of The Arctic? The Gates of the Arctic is special because of its geographical uniqueness, rich wildlife, and significance in human history. The glacier-carved valleys, rivers, and ancient trails make the Gates Of The Arctic a favorite destination for backpacking and hiking. Thanks to its geographical typicalness, you will meet many animals and birds. The adorable grizzly bears will be seen feeding, and the musk oxen are another unique animal you must watch out for. If you are a birder, you will love watching the golden eagles, Tundra swans, or common loons.  Near the Nigu River or throughout the park, you will find stone fences and camping rings. These are a testament to how Inland Eskimos or Nunamiut have lived in this region for thousands of years. They survived on fishing and hunting.  In addition, as I pen this guide, I must tell you that the Gates Of The Arctic National Park is going to celebrate its 45th anniversary of designation next year. First, it became a national monument on 1st December 1978. In 1980, it became a national park and preserve. Also read Italy: Is Florence flat or hilly? Ultimate Guide to Your Next Family Vacation in Israel. The Glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park: Experience The Magnificence Of Nature.

BY  Sibashree Sep 8, 2025

Santo Domingo, “The Capital” of the Dominican Republic, harbors the most happening Caribbean city life along with architecture that goes back centuries.  Further, with the whiff of cigars, the art galleries, and the most happening gastronomic scene, Santo Domingo offers the most vibrant experience.  However, in this Tour and Travel Blog, we will discuss the Zona Colonial or the Colonial City of Santo Domingo, its unique attractions, and the things to do in Santo Domingo.  The Key Areas Covered Are:What Is Santo Domingo Most Famous For? What Are The Unique Things To Do In Santo Domingo? My Ultimate Bucket List1. Visiting The Ozama Fortress2. Exploring The Colon Park3. Visiting Columbus Lighthouse4. Exploring The Ladies Street5. Feeling The Connection At Our Lady Of The Incarnation6. A Session With History At The Cathedral MuseumA Food Tour: Where To Eat In Santo Domingo?Is It Worth Visiting Santo Domingo?Things To Do In Santo Domingo: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What Is Santo Domingo Most Famous For?  Santo Domingo is most famous for its Colonial City of Santo Domingo. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990.  Christopher Columbus arrived here in 1492, and after that, it became the “site of the first cathedral, hospital, customs house and university in the Americas.”  It was established as a colonial town in 1498, and it is called the “First permanent establishment of the New World.”  Moreover, the Dominican Republic got its capital, Santo Domingo de Guzmán, from the Colonial City of Santo Domingo.  Also, with its Plaza Mayor and the unique grid pattern, it became the benchmark of new American cities. The establishments, which have especially served as the model, are: Palace of the Viceroy Real Audiencia (Royal Court of Justice) Chancery  Cathedral Moreover, Santo Domingo is the place where Leyes de Indias, or the first laws of the West Indies, were first proclaimed.  In addition, the social fabric, traditional architecture, and the symbolic value of the architecture and the Colonial City of Santo Domingo are well-preserved even today, standing the test of time.  What Are The Unique Things To Do In Santo Domingo? My Ultimate Bucket List Visiting Santo Domingo has now become easier than ever with direct flight connectivity to Las Americas International Airport (SDQ) in Santo Domingo from CDMX or Ciudad de México.  So, there will not be annoying stopovers, and the journey will be more comfortable. Nevertheless, once you reach the first city of the New World, you can explore the following iconic landmarks.  1. Visiting The Ozama Fortress A Spanish architecture built under the guidance of Fray Nicolás de Ovando, the Ozama Fortress has a quintessential medieval vibe.  Many people refer to this as the “Walled Fortress,” as it is, of course, the “first permanent military structure in America.”  The 21-meter central tower of the fortress stands tall, while the canons facing the Ozama River, which were used to drive the pirates away, are still inside the fortress.  2. Exploring The Colon Park Parque Colón or the Plaza de Mayor is the epicenter of the Colonial City of Santo Domingo. It has an impressive statue of Columbus in the middle, and it is surrounded by the iconic architecture of the Colonial City, such as the Cathedral of Santo Domingo and the Cathedral Museum. Every corner of this place is Insta-worthy.  3. Visiting Columbus Lighthouse El Faro a Colón or the Columbus Lighthouse is a 37-meters high architecture, honoring Christopher Columbus, the man who discovered America.  The cross-shape of this lighthouse refers to America’s Christianization.  John Paul II inaugurated this structure in 1992, and today it is a museum and a popular venue for conferences and temporary exhibitions.  4. Exploring The Ladies Street Las Damas Street or Ladies Street has the distinction of being the “first street of the colonial city.” The government of Nicolás de Ovando built this street.  It got its name as ladies used to walk here, and today, the street has notable locations such as the Trampolín Museum, House of Hernán Cortés, and the Cocoa Museum.  5. Feeling The Connection At Our Lady Of The Incarnation The Minor Basilica of Santa María de la Encarnación, or the Primate Cathedral of America, Our Lady Of The Incarnation Cathedral, impresses with its unique Gothic architecture.  Inside the church, you will find Pagan, Christian, and Apostolic details.  6. A Session With History At The Cathedral Museum The Cathedral Museum celebrates the history of the First Cathedral of America through exhibits and objects related to the cathedral.  This museum has candelabras, paintings, and many other exhibits dating from the 16th to the 19th century. The museum also has a souvenir shop for collectibles.  A Food Tour: Where To Eat In Santo Domingo? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ajualä (@ajualard) Santo Domingo has many cafes and eateries, especially around the Plaza Mayor. However, if you are looking for a fine dining experience, you can try the following places.  Places to Eat in Santo DomingoAddress and Contact DetailsSpecialtyMorisoñandoAddress: Las Américas Int'l Airport, Route 66, Cargo CityPhone: +1 829-659-5555 / Dominican Cuisines such as Travesía Callejera and Lambi. AjualäAddress: Calle Andrés Julio Aybar 13, Santo DomingoTelephone: +1 829-545-7503• Creole Duck• Kingfish Eyes• White Fish with Wild MushroomsLarimarAddress: Torre Altri Tempi , Av. Roberto Pastoriza 412, Santo DomingoTelephone: +1 849-449-1394• Shrimp Rice and Crab• “Black Truffle Cream with Mushroom Threads” Is It Worth Visiting Santo Domingo? Yes, Santo Domingo is worth visiting. There is something astonishing about how the city, with its colonial past in its heart, grows as one of the vibrant epicenters of Caribbean life.  Today, the Colonial City of Santo Domingo stands as the guardian angel, who watches over the city and adds wind beneath its wings to have modern infrastructure developments, the swankiest mall, restaurants, and hotels.  So, for anyone interested in the Colonial past or the history of America, Santo Domingo is a must-visit. Things To Do In Santo Domingo: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about things to do in Santo Domingo.  1. Do They Speak English In Santo Domingo? Yes, many people in Santo Domingo, especially in tourist areas, speak English. However, Spanish is the official language of the Dominican Republic.  2. Is It Safe To Walk Around Santo Domingo At Night? While Santo Domingo is not dangerous at night, there have been instances of crime against tourists at night. So, stick to exploring areas such as Zona Colonial and use apps such as Cabify and Uber for a safe ride.  3. Can You Drink The Water In Santo Domingo?  The Santo Domingo Tourism has confirmed that you cannot drink tap water in Santo Domingo. You have to drink water from packaged bottles available at local shops, hotels, and restaurants.  4. Can You Wear Shorts In Santo Domingo? The Dominican Republic Tourism says that you should wear shorts at the beach. However, for casual strolling across the city or visiting its important landmarks, you must wear regular casual daytime wear. Also, Dominicans love to dress up, and especially in the evening, you will notice everyone decked up in nice outfits.  5. Does Santo Domingo Have A Nightlife? Yes, Santo Domingo has a vibrant nightlife. The Zona Colonial, with its old heart, is the epicenter of all nighttime fun. Furthermore, you will find upscale clubs in Avenida Venezuela, and Maleco is the place where you can catch stunning live performances.  6. What Is The Best Time To Visit Santo Domingo? December to April is the best time to visit Santo Domingo. Lower humidity, less rainfall, and moderate temperatures make these months ideal for tourists.  Read Also: Unique Things To Do In Montreal: Things You Must Not Miss In Canada’s Cultural Capital Unique Things To Do In Tuscany: What Is A Must-See In Tuscany? Valladolid Mexico: Exploring The City That Was Built In 1543

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 1, 2023

For those who want to get away from city life, Scarborough's top attractions provide an amazing holiday experience. One of the most well-known coastal resort towns in England, it embodies the traditional historical charm. It is dotted with arcades, fish and chips, and waterfront parks. The essence of Scarborough is some of the nation's nicest beaches at the base of sheer cliffs. This seaside town in Yorkshire has the atmosphere of being stuck in the Victorian era. Perched atop the cliffs, the Grand Hotel commands attention from all directions. The Scarborough Spa continues to draw national visitors. The town's architecture is characterized by a lot of flamboyant buildings with a hospitable old-world charm. In this article, we will enumerate all the things to do in Scarborough you cannot miss. Things To Do In Scarborough Even with its historical vibe, Scarborough is still a lively and welcoming spot to spend a summer in England. South Bay Beach Scarborough's South Bay Beach is well-known for its soft sand, amusement arcades, donkey rides, and the Grand Hotel perched atop cliffs. Like a vacationer from the Victorian era, you can still take the historic cliff lifts from the hotel down to the beach. Though the North Sea is far less inviting, South Beach can be just as busy and enjoyable on a sunny summer's day as any beach in the Mediterranean. While it's usually acceptable to dangle your toes in, very few people go deeper than knee depth. North Bay Beach, located on the opposite side of the headland, has earned a Blue Flag designation for hygiene. Though it has fewer nearby attractions than South Bay Beach, it is usually busier on nice days. Rotunda Museum The exhibit at the Rotunda Museum covers the region's incredibly old history. The collection's highlights include a Bronze Age coffin, Stone Age tools, and dinosaur fossils. These intriguing objects are arranged in an equally intriguing and historic structure. One of the first purpose-built museums in history, the ancient circular structure with its trick-eye ceiling is just as fascinating to look at as the artifacts. The Scarborough Art Gallery, the famous Grand Hotel, the historic Spa Bridge that spans a valley with beautiful parkland, and the Rotunda Museum's distinctive exterior are all nearby. It's a major center of culture. Scarborough Market Hall & Vaults Renovated historically, the Scarborough Market Hall & Vaults houses a contemporary market with a nod to the past. There is local produce available in the main hall. It also has stalls offering handcrafted jewelry, presents, clothing, and artwork, among other items. Under the hall, in The Vaults, are more shops with a focus on antiques and handmade goods. In addition to being a place for shopping, Scarborough's market and hall also double as a cultural hub, hosting a calendar of special events. Additionally, there's a great food court with a view of the hallway. Scarborough Harbor Scarborough's historic harbor has long served as the city's center. It should come as no surprise that the harbor is home to several top-notch seafood restaurants, given that the fishermen still bring in their fresh catches on a daily basis. The classic fish and chips, which can be found at excellent establishments like Winking Willy's, First Catch, and Harbour View Café, is, of course, the dish of choice. As the name implies, Harbour View provides beautiful views of the old lighthouse across the protected moorings. You can help yourself to a traditional portion of English fish and chips wrapped in paper and savor it with a wooden fork. It is an English version of a takeout. A generous amount of vinegar gives the dish a unique tang and softens the crispy batter surrounding the flaky cod or haddock. Scarborough’s Old Town Not only do the winding old streets behind the harbor and South Bay Beach have a lovely, old-world charm, but they also have a fantastic assortment of stores and cafés. A few major high street names, such as Marks and Spencer and New Look, are present, but the bulk of the stores are tiny local businesses that sell some unusual and interesting goods. The selection of confectionery stores in Scarborough is particularly good. Seaside sticks of rock are boiled sugar candies is an English classic. There are plenty of other sweet options for you to choose from Additionally, there are a good number of casinos and amusement arcades. Stephen Joseph Theatre Scarborough boasts an active theater scene with a number of excellent locations scattered throughout the small town. The Stephen Joseph Theatre is one of the greatest. It's conveniently located next to the Scarborough Spa. They feature a combination of contemporary and classic shows, and the performances are excellent, even though it's unlikely that you'll see many well-known actors on stage. You won't have any trouble seeing or hearing the plays because of how small the theater itself is. There are several eateries close to the contemporary location, along with a decent bar and a small art gallery on the premises. When there isn't live action, the theater frequently screens old films and occasionally streams significant international events. Peasholm Park Peasholm Park offers both peaceful reflection and moments of excitement. During the summer (June to August), every Saturday at 3 p.m., model warships battle on the large lake near the beach, with the addition of aircraft and explosions to the action. You can rent a boat and go rowing around the large central island. It has a distinctive Japanese pagoda in the center when the miniature navies aren't in action. To explore the stunning hidden garden located at the other end of the park, stroll among the trees beside Peasholm Beck if you'd rather stay on dry land. Along the route, there are some exotic tree species like Chusan palms and American red oaks. Scarborough Spa Its distinctive history and location are what make this specific live music and events venue intriguing and worthwhile to visit. Constructed during the Victorian era, the spa is situated on the cliffs with a stunning view of South Bay Beach. Despite its historical appearance, it is equipped with contemporary amenities. One of the few seaside orchestras that still performs in the Spa plays lively classical music and classic oom-pah tunes under the sea breeze. It is a tradition they have brought down just like they did in the heyday of the town. It is a very memorable performance because of the setting, which can be either the Grand Hall or the suncourt. Since they only perform in the summer, make sure to schedule your travel and hotel well in advance. Wrapping Up The North Sea laps the picturesque, horseshoe-shaped bay at the heart of Scarborough. It is a seaside town, ruled over by a castle dating back to the 12th century. Over four centuries of sandy beaches, surfing, and hearty Yorkshire fare have made Scarborough a family favorite. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about things to do in Scarborough, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Things To Do In Leeds: Dive Into The Dynamic Heart Of Yorkshire Hidden Gems: Unearthing The Best Things To Do In Nottingham