“A river of grass flowing imperceptibly from the hinterland into the sea.” That’s Everglades National Park, a paradise exuding the most pristine and tranquil vibe.
You know, you always don’t need something out-of-the-box to have an ever-lasting impression. The spiritual ones know that being present in the moment and soaking the energy can be the most fulfilling experience.
Similarly, Everglades National Park does not need snowclad mountains or glaciers to draw millions of visitors annually. A diverse ecosystem and the conservation of natural lives here thrive amidst the National Park’s quiet hub.
President Harry S Truman rightly pointed out, “Here is land, tranquil in its quiet beauty, serving not as the source of water, but as the last receiver of it. To its natural abundance we owe the spectacular plant and animal life that distinguishes this place from all others in our country.” (Source)
So, if you are heading to Florida and want the most immersive experience, plan a trip to Everglades National Park, a swampland just outside Miami. You will have sea turtles, alligators, manatees, Roseate spoonbills, and fish to welcome you.
Everglades National Park: Know The UNESCO World Heritage Site
In the Brief Synthesis of Everglades National Park and its outstanding universal value, the UNESCO World Heritage Convention says,
“Everglades National Park is the largest designated sub-tropical wilderness reserve on the North American continent.
Its juncture at the interface of temperate and sub-tropical America, fresh and brackish water, shallow bays and deeper coastal waters creates a complex of habitats supporting a high diversity of flora and fauna.
It contains the largest mangrove ecosystem in the Western Hemisphere, the largest continuous stand of sawgrass prairie and the most significant breeding ground for wading birds in North America.”
There are many other interesting factors adding to the outstanding value of this place. Let’s have a look at them.
The Everglades has limestone substrate, which is one of the most active modern carbonate sedimentation areas.
It is home to more than 400 species of birds.
It is a major migration corridor for birds.
Around 20 threatened, endangered, or rare species live in the Everglades.
The Everglades was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Today, various federal, global, local, and tribal governments manage the Everglades, and they work in agreement to restore the sanctity of the place.
An Encounter With The Most Fascinating Wildlife At Everglades National Park
Spanning across 1.5 million acres over Florida’s southern part, Everglades National Park attracted 1,155,193 visitors in 2022 and 810,189 in 2023. Diverse wildlife is the major crowd-puller for this park.
About the Everglades, the UNESCO World Heritage Convention says,
“The mixture of subtropical and temperate wildlife species is found nowhere else in the United States.”
Animals You Will Encounter At Everglades National Park
Roseate spoonbill Black-bellied whistling-duck Eurasian Wigeon American Wigeon
Insects
Arachnids Mosquitoes Biting flies Centipedes
Reptiles
Lizards Snakes American alligators American crocodiles
Mammals
Short-finned pilot whale Atlantic bottlenosed dolphin White-tailed deer West Indian manatees
The biodiversity of the Everglades is very crucial for Flordia’s ecological benefits. The Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan has been there since 2000 to restore the ecosystem of the National Park.
** The table does not furnish exhaustive details of the animals found in the Everglades. Only a few species are mentioned.
What’s More At Everglades National Park?
Along with having an encounter with the most diverse wildlife, you can take part in boating, camping, and guided tours at the Everglades. Let’s make the most of it.
Enjoy Guided Tours & Other Services
You cannot help falling in love with the following guided tours at the Everglades.
Shark Valley Tram Tour
Everglades Institue Tours
Permitted Tour Guides
You can also take airboat tours to Coopertown, Everglades Safari Park, and Gator Park.
Are you in for boating tours? Go for Backcountry boat tours, Florida Bay boat tours, and Ten Thousand Islands boat tours.
Glamping Everglades Style
You cannot just miss “glamping Everglades style” if you visit the National Park between November and April. Enjoy the best of wildlife with modern comfort during your stay in these tents equipped with fans, electricity, and other amenities.
Did you know that the Flamingo Eco-tents of Everglades National Park, Florida, was featured on the list of Best Glamping Spot of 2022, published by USA Today?
Glamping service here begins at $109 per night.
Enjoy A Serene Boating Experience
Being in the water at the Everglades will offer you the most versatile experience. As you paddle through the water, you will also meet amazing birds and fish.
Further, when you pass through narrow channels of mud and seagrass cut through the long banks, you will surely catch a whiff of adventure.
In addition, once you reach Ten Thousand Islands, you will be at a loss for words meeting the oyster reefs and sandbars.
Everglades National Park has well-chalked safety guidelines, including encounters with wildlife, managing your pets and children, and risks related to mosquitoes and poisonous plants. Don’t forget to check the National Park Service website to know and address safety concerns.
Further, the park provides detailed safety guidelines regarding your visit to the park in dry and wet seasons.
Staying Safe In Wet Season
Afternoon downpours and heavy thunderstorms are common
Mosquito bites and the attacks of flying bees will be more
Weather will be hot (>100-degree F) and humid (over 90%)
Wear loose-fitting, full-sleeved/full-length clothes and remain hydrated to beat uncomfortable heat and humidity. Also, use mosquito nets or repellents to avoid mosquito and insect bites.
Staying Safe In Dry Season
The temperature in the dry season is around 53-77 degrees F.
Freezing conditions may occur occasionally.
Biting flies and mosquitoes will still be present in some parts of the park.
Bring a warm jacket, head nets, bug jackets, or mosquito repellents to avoid mosquito and insect bites. Also, wear lightweight and comfortable clothes to explore the place freely during the daytime.
Are You In?
Everglades National Park, the largest subtropical wilderness, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It stretches over a massive two million acres across central and south Florida.
It’s a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, with various species coexisting there and contributing to biodiversity. It is also a “noteworthy example of viable biological processes.”
In addition, as one of the oldest national parks in America, it was designated in 1934 by the U.S. Congress.
So, are you ready to surf through miles of water and witness how a tranquil wetland can emerge as the goldmine of natural vegetation and wildlife ecstasy? Pack your bag and count me in!
Everglades National Park FAQs
Why Is Everglades National Park So Famous?
Everglades National Park is known for its extraordinary wildlife. It is the hub of rare birds, reptiles, amphibians, mammals, sea turtles, and other aquatic animals.
It also has Florida Panthers, one of the most endangered mammals. Further, you will meet the endangered West Indian manatee and the most adorable bottlenose dolphin.
The place even has a diversity of vegetation. You will get to see sawgrass, cypress, mangrove trees, and orchids.
Why Is It Called Everglades National Park?
The Everglades had vast, grassy fields or glades. If you decipher the name, you will find it to be a combination of two words, “Ever” and “Glades.” Together, these two words mean open grass fields.
What Is The Best Month To Visit Everglades National Park?
November to April, or the dry season, is the best or the safest time to visit the Everglades. The temperature at this place remains moderate in this season, and there are fewer attacks by insects and mosquitoes.
Thanks to the lack of rainfall in Florida during this season, you can also explore the wildlife better during this period.
Who Found The Everglades?
John Gerard de Brahm, a British surveyor, found the Everglades while mapping the Florida coasts in 1773. He called them River Glades, and it was 1823 when the name “Everglades” first appeared on the map.
From 1851, everyone started calling it “Ever Glades.”
Is The Everglades Salt Water?
You will have fresh water and saltwater at Everglades National Park. Once you surf through the fresh water for hundreds of miles, you will reach salt water.
Earlier, this meeting of saltwater and freshwater used to form coastal bodies with partial enclosures. These places were dynamic and had the most productive environments.
What To Wear In The Everglades?
You have to pick your outfits and shoes based on the season in which you are visiting the Everglades. If you are at the National Park during summer or the rainy season, you must wear full-length pants and full-sleeve shirts to avoid mosquito bites and contact with poisonous plants. Don’t forget your rain jacket and shoes or boots you wear during rainy seasons.
In winter, you will need warm jackets, closed-toe shoes and full-length trousers.
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!
Review #1
I paid cash for my $100 incidental payment. And stayed there for one night from October 13 to October 14. I never write reviews like this, but what the black women with big bodies who worked on 10/14/22 did was basically theft. I told the night lady that my room smelled like smoke, and she told me that most rooms smell like smoke and it's fine. When I checked out, the morning clerk told me she wouldn't return my cash deposit because the room smelled like smoke. I told her I don't smoke and what the night lady said, but she was rude and didn't care about what I had to say. Heard that if you pay cash as a deposit, they will make up reasons to keep it and share it with the people who clean the room.
They did not make me sign anything saying they were keeping my $100. I'll talk to corporate about this because I've been traveling for work for 9 years and never had a problem like this. The woman at the front desk basically stole my deposit, and I might have to go to court over this. I'll do just that. Check out the people who pay cash for a deposit. Heard that the black woman who worked at the front desk on 10/14/22 had been accused of the same thing many times before. When you make $10 to $14 an hour, I'm sure that stealing that $100 deposit helps you pay your bills.
Review #2
The folks at the Motel 6 down the street gave me a recommendation to park at Quality since they said it was the safest overnight option in town because to the plenty of lighting and frequent police patrols.
The check-in process was lengthy due to the slowness of the desk staff. Another visitor convinced me to call in for the lowest rate, but I was stuck listening to a vacation package sales pitch from an extremely persistent agent for what felt like 30 minutes. In the end, I decided that the points weren't worth the discomfort, but I did it for the experience. It left me pretty irritated by the end, and it still does to this day. Not even after all that effort did I get a better rate!
After I checked in, I noticed how well-kept the room was (kudos to Natasha at reception for her attention to detail). The cleanliness of the tub was unparalleled; it appeared to be brand new. However, the bottle's stopper was missing, rendering it useless. In addition, the room was unexpectedly roomy. It seemed like the only negative aspect was an old chair sitting at the desk.
When I showed up early for a free breakfast, I was told that it was grab-and-go only and that they didn't actually start serving breakfast until Friday. The convenient snack pack included a blueberry muffin, a yogurt cup, and a croissant sandwich made with sausage, eggs, and cheese that had previously been frozen.
Although one of the treadmills in the exercise room was broken, the facility was otherwise adequate.
Unfortunately, once I had settled into my room, I read some quite unsettling comments about the hotel online. Except for a slightly off-putting hallway odor and some dubious carpet stains, I couldn't find any physical manifestations of the issues highlighted in the previous complaints. The reports of bedbugs were the most alarming. Thankfully, my thorough search turned up no evidence of such odors, but hearing about them from other guests tainted my overall impression of the hotel.
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The lush wilderness, untouched by the hyper modernization, has a bewitching charm to it. The breathtaking scenery, the heavenly water bodies, and the canopy of rainforest all paint a mesmerizing picture, and they all speak about the splendors of Costa Rica.
However, despite the serenity and soulful vibe in the country, the question of “Is Costa Rica safe for traveling?” refuses to go away.
There is no denying that amidst the simplicity of life lies the risks of petty and sometimes severe crimes. In fact, the government of the USA and the Canadian Government have created detailed safety guidelines for traveling to Costa Rica.
Here, I will talk about the major safety concerns in the country and the tips to avoid them.
Is Costa Rica Safe for Traveling?
Is Costa Rica Safe for traveling? As mentioned, keep in mind the intimidating crime rate that is looming in the country. Despite the best efforts of the government and additional safety measures in tourist spots, the homicide rate in Costa Rica has seen around 40% rise in 2023.
As a Latin American country, Costa Rica is also taking proactive measures to fight drug consumption and related activities.
However, it’s great that Rodrigo Chaves, the Costa Rica President, has taken El Salvador as a reference and has introduced strict legislation to fight crime in the country.
Having said that, the tourism industry is getting a major lash due to the rise of crimes in the country. Even the smallest incidents affecting the local communities are making the travelers concerned. They are now skeptical about what to end and where to roam around. So, there are a lot of self-imposed restrictions on the things to do in Costa Rica due to rising criminal activities in the country.
So, the bottom line is that despite being a favorite destination for tourists across the globe, Costa Rica today is struggling to maintain a delightful picture in tourism.
Is Costa Rica Safe for Women?
Yes, Costa Rica is safe for women. Even during rising crimes, the country remains a safe place for women as the crimes occurring there are not gender specific.
In fact, the well-known Solo Female Travelers Club has termed Costa Rica one of the safest countries for women who want to go on a solo trip.
Further, the Costa Rican Tourism Board, along with the National Institute of Women and the National Tourism Security Commission, has started a program to establish “gender equality in the tourism industry.” This program called “RED SOFIA” wants to establish a safe space for women solo travelers in Costa Rica and end violence against women travelers.
Is It Safe to Drink Water in Costa Rica?
Now, it depends. If you are in the city, tap water is safe to drink. However, the more you move towards the Caribbean and are closer to the ocean, the better it is to stick to bottled water.
Tourism is crucial for Costa Rica's economy. So, the government is very particular about ensuring the safety of the tourists. In San Jose and other urban areas, you will get clear water from the taps, and the water is filtered multiple times before it reaches you.
However, if you have a sensitive stomach, you may have problems drinking tap water in some parts of Costa Rica. Water in some areas may be rich in chlorine and minerals. The water here does not have fluoride, and it’s hard.
If you are concerned about the quality of water, it is better to drink bottled water. You will usually get a 300 ml (about 10.14 oz) bottled water for $1 here. Further, if you need to spend a longer span in the country and drink water from the same source every day, you must check the source and buy a water filter when needed.
Some Basic Tips to Remain Safe While Traveling
Some of the major dangers you will face as a tourist in Costa Rica are common muggers, petty thefts, and car breakers. Now, a car is not something you will be traveling with. So, there is no chance of a break.
To avoid theft and muggers, carry simple weapons like pepper spray, and it is best not to travel with any valuables like jewelry or gold. Keep a vigilant look at all your electronics, as you won’t be able to travel without them. Stay safe!
Costa Rica’s dangers regarding nature are earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. But there are very few chances of you experiencing such disasters.
What Should I Avoid in Costa Rica?
Rather than asking, ‘is Costa Rica safe for traveling?’ You should better be prepared with the question asked above.
Again, no valuables.
Don’t visit the braces at night. Crime rates are high with the area and the time.
Do not buy drugs in Costa Rica. Even avoid marijuana.
Swim near the shore to avoid ripping tides.
Avoid a dip in the river to avoid deadly creatures like crocodiles and bull sharks. They are also not the cleanest place.
Don’t stay out in the sun for too long. Your tan will look more like a burn.
What Part of Costa Rica Is Safest?
If you constantly ask, ‘Is Costa Rica safe for traveling,’ you must know about the safer places in the country.
Puerto Viejo, Drake Bay, and Tamarindo are some of the best places to visit in Costa Rica for safety. They have the lowest crime rate.
Bon Voyage!
Is Costa Rica safe for traveling? This question will keep going until the alarming concerns about crime are resolved. However, the initiative of the Costa Rican government to take additional safety measures in the tourist spots and initiatives about introducing stricter legislation look like the silver linings.
Having said that, even if you are smitten by the beauty of Costa Rica and want to explore it, you must follow the safety tips and guidelines mentioned here. I hope you have a safe and satisfying experience there. Happy and safe traveling!
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Travelers play an important role in the overall growth and economic development of San Francisco! According to a report by the San Francisco Travel Association in 2023, travelers contributed about $522 million in tax revenues and tourism-generated fees to San Francisco.
About 21.9 million visitors visited San Francisco in 2022, which is 29% higher than 2021 reports. Now, you know why it is important to know whether San Francisco is safe for tourists. What about the people who live in the city?
Read the blog in detail to learn more about the safety tips necessary for you if you are planning to explore the city. Additionally, you will see all types of culture across the city hence, to make your memories forever flourishing try to be cautious. You also get to learn all about things to do in San Francisco in this blog!
Learn More About San Francisco: Is San Francisco Safe?
One of the most beautiful cities, San Francisco is America’s jewel! Starting from Golden Gate Park to the vibrant Chinatown, Alamo Square Park to Golden Gate Bridge, cafes of North Beach and others hold all that is beautiful in the city.
A hub for rock and roll music, San Francisco brings technology, financial, and shipping services together. If you are planning to travel to San Francisco, know that the highest number of travelers are business travelers. It is one of the exotic places to travel though if you love national parks and museums.
In the past few decades, the city has struggled with drug addiction and crime, which has led to travelers asking, “is San Francisco Safe?” However, is it only about the city being unsafe? Or is it about enjoying the place, San Francisco being a perfect mix of nature and technology!
Safety Tips when Visiting San Francisco
When you are planning to visit San Francisco, you must be cautious. Even though it is not a place that is unsafe consistently, however, as an individual you need to be aware of your surroundings wherever you travel. The city is also one of the cheapest places to travel right now in the USA!
Traveling is fun but it is also important for you to be responsible. It is quite a common experience to face petty theft or property crime, be it in a major or a small city. So, when you visit San Francisco, you need to carry your bags cautiously.
Keep your documents safe, especially the ones that are needed for traveling. Make sure that you keep all your electronics carefully, arranging them in your package, thus ensuring that you will have the safest trip possible.
Safe Accommodation Options in San Francisco
Several San Francisco neighborhoods are quite safe especially if you are trying to explore the city, stay out late, or enjoy yourself alone. Let me share with you some of the significant accommodation options in San Francisco:
Outer Sunset – a residential area, this place is quite close to Golden Gate Park where the rate of crime is quite low. Several budget-friendly options start from $150 per person, quite cozy. The SeaScape Inn is close to the beach, creating a perfect place for you to stay.
Nob Hill – starting from $400 per night, this area is known for its historical relevance. You can book your room at the Fairmont San Francisco Hotel which brings panoramic views along with offering plush rooms.
Pacific Heights – The place is perfect as a safe place, especially with clean streets, and no property crimes along mansions. You can book rooms at Hotel Drisco which costs about $500 per night. There is room service, delicious breakfast along with elegant and luxurious rooms.
Cultural Callouts in San Francisco
Considering there are several cultures in San Francisco, there are some tips to be aware of them. This will ensure that you do not end up hurting anyone’s sentiments along with being comfortable.
If you keep an eye out for these variations, it will help you be ready for anything that comes. Let me share with you some of the tips to prepare you for the cultural variations:
“Karl the Fog” this phrase is not about any celebrity instead; it is the local people talking about how it might be time to wear a jacket. Furthermore, it will get chilly, the natives know when the weather is changing accordingly, and they talk about it. It is just their way of staying safe.
This is an important callout, especially for smokers! Did you know that smoking is banned in restaurants, bars and parks, basically all public spots? Try to leave a tip when you eat at a restaurant, it is common practice. 15 to 20% of the meal is expected as a tip and the servers look forward to receiving it.
Most people of San Francisco are nice and friendly; however, they lead a busy life. What is more important is they might not have the energy or the time to talk to you for long, especially if you are a stranger. However, over time, they warm up to you.
Safely Navigate the City
Fraudsters and scammers often hang around various gas stations! They try to act fancy, but they claim to not have any cash to fill their gas and request you to pay them cash.
This is where they offer you a watch or an accessory, which they claim is expensive. You think you are getting the better side of the deal as you take the watch and pay money to them.
You later realize the watch or an accessory cost just a couple of bucks thus scamming you for money. Petty theft is also a part of the city; hence you need to navigate the city by keeping your minds about you! If you have travel cards, especially if you have one of the best travel credit cards with you, you need to keep it safe.
There is also an application, Bounce, where you can keep your luggage while you explore the city! Several local businesses also use their services. This is a pro tip especially if you are a lone traveler. Keeping your luggage with them will help you travel without any tension!
Is San Francisco Safe?
At times, San Francisco is overall a safe place to be, however, with a few things to keep in mind. If you are still questioning, whether is San Francisco safe, you need to always be aware of your surroundings. You must keep your purses, cell phone, and other important belongings.
You also need to know more about the places, the streets, the hotels and restaurants. When visiting San Francisco, you need to know the navigation of the city in detail so that you can stay safe.
Comment below if you think I have missed anything when it comes to safety tips necessary to visit San Francisco. Enjoy yourself along with being happy and safe!
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