Everglades National Park: The UNESCO Heritage Site With Its Quiet Beauty

BY  Sibashree Jan 27, 2025

The Pokagon State Park in Indiana is famous for deer hunting. However, things went haywire on 7th July 2024 when the police received a phone call from the park regarding the shooting at the park.  Shots were fired near the toboggan run, and at least three people were injured. Nevertheless, despite Pokagon State Park being in the news for the wrong reasons, we cannot deny its charm as a year-round camping ground.  With its inns and cabins and endless activities to do in the park, it is even a popular staycation spot for the people of Indiana.  So, are you also ready for camping and fun at Pokagon State Park? This Tour and Travel guide is here to help you! However, let’s know this state park at a glance. Pokagon State Park At A Glance | Things You Need To Do Pokagon State Park’s location is around 10000-15000 years old. The Wisconsin glacier has been transformed into this park thanks to nature forces and factors. Further, it has more lakes than any other Indiana state park today.  All the lakes here are formed after the meltdown of glaciers, and Lake James, with an area of 1000 acres, is the largest among them. Moreover, it is home to over 200 species of birds and diverse ecosystems.  In addition, the land of the state park belonged to the Potawatomi tribe. After procuring the land from them, it was named Pokagon, after the tribe chief. The table below has more details you need to know about the park. Year Of Establishment1927EcosystemsMarshesLakesSwampsFensPine GrovesMeadowlandsOld FieldsDeciduous WoodlandsEntry Fee$7.00 (noncommercial vehicles with Indiana number plates)$9.00 (noncommercial vehicles with non-Indiana number plates)$2:00 for 5 years and older. $1:00 Programming Fees$50 Annual Entrance Permit for Residents$70 Annual Entrance Permit for Non-Residents$25 Golden Hoosier PassportBest Time To VisitWinterLocation450 Lane, 100 Lake JamesAngola, IndianaHours Open7 AM to 11 PMContact NumbersPokagon State Park Office: (260) 833-2012Nature Center: (260) 833-3506 Pokagon State Park has pleasant weather conditions throughout the year. During the summer months, the highest temperature hovers around 80 degrees F.  Further, in winter, you can expect a temperature between 1-18 degrees F.  Pokagon State Park Camping | Get Ready For Year-Round Attractions Indiana people love outdoor time, and Pokagon State Park best matches their interests. It has abundant nature, with various ecosystems and over 200 species of birds. Further, the lakes in the park allow you to enjoy an immersive time there.  On the other hand, it has all modern-day amenities. Moreover, irrespective of the visiting season, the campers always have some fun activities to engage in.  Things To Do At Pokagon State ParkBoatingFishingHikingHorse RidingPicnicWinter SportsToboggan Run For example, if you are at the park in summer, you can swim in the lakes and cool off. You can even visit the bathhouse. Further, in winter, you can enjoy toboggan runs, cross-country skiing, and sledding, with the entire park transformed into a snowy wonderland.  Moreover, the park has the best wildflowers in spring and the fiery reds of the autumn foliage are magical here. So, are you all set for camping at Pokagon State Park? Let’s discuss the camping grounds and facilities.  Electric Sites (Class A) At Pokagon State Park Camping Nightly Rate: $23 (Sunday-Wednesday), $30 (Thursday to Saturday), $33 (Holiday Weekends) Campgrounds 1,3, 4, and 5 of the state national park have electric or Class A camping sites. Among them, a few sites in Campground 3 have ADA-accessible 366, 368, 374, and 376 camping sites.  These sites have electrical hookups and other amenities here, including drinking water, showers, restrooms, parking spurs, picnic tables, and fire rings.   Non-Electric Sites (Class B) At Pokagon State Park Camping Nightly Rate: $16 (Sunday-Wednesday), $19 (Thursday to Saturday), $22 (Holiday Weekends) At the Campground 2 of the state park, you will find 73 non-electric campsites. These are equipped with fire rings, parking spurs, restrooms, showers, and drinking water facilities.  Youth Tent Area Campsites Nightly Rate: $20 ($2 Each for 10 People, Additional $2 Per Person) The Youth Tent Area has 5 campsites, and they only allow tents. Here, the campers should be below 21 years old, and there can be 10 members in a group, guided by an adult leader.  Moreover, these campsites have pit toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Campground 5 and Spring Shelter will also have a drinking water supply.  Group Camp Site Nightly Rate: $480 This group campsite is ADA-accessible. It can accommodate a total of 78 people in 12 cabins. There is another counselor cabin where 14 people can stay.  Moreover, the two bunkhouses at Pokagon State Park are ideal for 36 people (18 each). Other amenities in the park include: A commercial-style kitchen Basketball court Dining hall Craft room Picnic tables Volleyball court Charcoal grills Seasonal dock Parking facility for 21 vehicles In addition, the Group Camp Site offers the most amazing lake view.  Camp Store Summer Season Hours: Monday-Saturday (9 AM to 9 PM) and Sunday (11 AM to 7 PM) You will find the camp store close to the Campground Gatehouse of the state park. The camp store remains open seasonally.  If you are camping in the park, you can collect food, drinks, wood, ice, and other essentials from the camp store. You can also collect souvenirs from here.  Pokagon State Park | Cabins, Hotels And Inns If you are not in parking at Pokagon State Park, you can stay at the hotels, inns, and cabins here. The Potawatomi Inn is the best among them and it has a whiff of history in its name.  This inn has 126 hotel rooms, 8 cabins, and 4 cabin suites. Further, you will love the Lakeview Restaurant or the Sauna Bath Corner here. You can contact The Potawatomi Inn at 1-877-768-2928 for booking.  Moreover, for a rustic experience, you can plan a stay at the historic Pokagon State Park cabins. Eight of the cabins are remodeled and they come with proper HVAC systems.  In addition, Ramada by Wyndham Angola/Fremont Area (Contact No: +1 260-624-4402) and Hotel Quality Inn Fremont (Contact No: (419) 332-0601) are some hotels near the state park. Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Sibashree Dec 17, 2024

The Western past and cowboy culture are still very much present in Oklahoma City (OKC) culture. So, if you and your S/O love horseback riding and every outdoor pursuit ingrained in Western culture, there will be no dearth of things to do in OKC.  So, you will fall in love with the cattle trails and ranches here, and we are already soaked in the quintessential Oklahoma charm. We have Brad Pitt as the Oklahoma boy.  Further, food tourism is the most happening in Oklahoma City. Therefore, it will be your destination for a luxury dining and beverage experience.  Moreover, the city has hotspots like Broken Bow and Love Lock Fountain, where you can lock your lips and utter those three magical words (if you have not said them already!). So, are you ready to explore the city with your special one? Check out this Tour and Travel guide soaked in romance. Things To Do In OKC For Couples | Your Date Night Cannot Get Any Better Tourism in Oklahoma City deserves all the respect if we discuss the economic scenario of the city. With a sound 24.1 million visitors in 2023, the city managed to record an economic impact of $4.5 billion.  “Our city’s vibrant tourism sector is a testament to the sales and marketing efforts of Visit OKC and our hospitality industry partners. This recent study highlights the significance of tourism in our local economy and how, ultimately, tourism is a revenue generator for the city, advancing the city’s priorities which improves quality of life for residents.”  Zac Craig, President of Visit OKC So, with the current tourism scenario in Oklahoma City, it’s the right time for you to explore the city with your partner. 1. Battling In A Pickleball Match At Chicken And Pickle https://www.instagram.com/p/Cmek__euNof/ Address: 8400 N. Oklahoma Ave, Oklahoma City Contact Number: (405) 839-7011 Good food and a lot of yard games! This is how I would love to describe Chicken and Pickle. So, this place is great for celebrating the child in you and being playful with your partner.  There are 10 pickleball courses at Chicken And Pickle. Moreover, once you are done playing, you can relax at the rooftop bar with your favorite drink and fried chicken.  2. Learning The Art Of Glass Blowing At Blue Sage Studios https://www.instagram.com/p/CQtXaAvLzVI/?img_index=1 Address: Urban Art Building, 1218-C N Western Ave, Oklahoma City Contact Number: +1 405-601-2583/405-473-0754 Charges: $35-40 Watching the artists busy in their glass crafts at Blue Sage Studios is fun. You can also attend one-on-one classes here. You can especially take part in the 2-hour long sessions taking place on Saturdays.  DayBlue Sage Studios Hours OpenMonday9 AM to 8 PMWednesday8 AM to 8 PMThursday1 AM to 8 PMSaturday9 AM to 3 PMSunday 10 AM to 5 PMTuesday and FridayClosed Furthermore, you can check out the art for sale section and grab a beautiful gift for your sweetheart.  3. Enjoying A Fun Dinner | Unique Things To Do In OKC https://www.instagram.com/p/C5lkII1sm1e/?img_index=1 The food scenario in Oklahoma is happening. Beyond the dishes served here, the food scenario celebrates locally grown veggies and farms. Here are some Tour and Travel favorite restaurants where you can cherish food made with local ingredients. Name Of The RestaurantAddressContact NumberVII Asian Bistro2900 N Classen BlvdSuite G, Oklahoma City(405) 604-2939The Red Cup3122 N Classen Blvd, Oklahoma City(405)-525-3430Paseo Grill2909 Paseo, Oklahoma City(405)-601-1079 Oklahoma is the 87th-best city in the world for exploring local food, according to TasteAtlas. It’s even better than Louisville, Boston, and Miami.  4. Exploring The Art Scenario Of Oklahoma City At Factory Obscura https://www.instagram.com/p/DB87fRwOA6U/ Open Hours: Monday-Thursday: 11 AM - 7 PM (Tuesday Closed), Friday 11 AM - 8 PM, Saturday: 10 AM - 8 PM, Sunday: 12 PM - 6 PM Address:  25 NW 9th St, Oklahoma City Contact: info@factoryobscura.com If you want an immersive art experience, Factory Obscura will be at the epicenter of places to visit in OKC. It operates with the tagline of “Future is Collaborative.” Moreover, you can attend the most interactive events here for a feeling of wonder and awe.  5. Visiting The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/DCvMEXrOu1D/?img_index=1 Open Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PM, Sunday: 12-5 PM Address: 1700 NE 63rd St, Oklahoma City Contact Number: +1 405-478-2250 Admission Fee: $12.50 for Adults, $12.50 for Children 6-12, Children Up to 5 Years - Free Admission If you are fascinated by Western Art and culture, this 1955 museum will be your instant favorite. This museum houses works of James Earle Fraser, Frederic Remington, and Charles M. Russell.  In addition, you will come across many Native American or Western equipment like saddles and spurs here.  6. Visiting The Broken Bow Broken Bow, a city in Oklahoma, is a perfect retreat for couples. You can book a private cabin there and spend some quality time. Furthermore, you can immerse in romance by the Broken Bow Lake. Located on the Mountain Fork River, this lake has crystal clear water thanks to the rock-lined floor.  The Broken Bow Lake and the city of Broken Bow are great year-round attractions. For example, you can spend the most serene and calm holiday here. Moreover, in spring, the trees are in full bloom, and in the fall season, the place has its somber beauty.  Also, if you visit the lake in summer, you can enjoy the most rejuvenating swim.  7. Romancing At Love Lock Fountain Lake Eufaula State Park Hours Open: 24 Hours Address: 111563 OK-150, Checotah, OK Contact Number: +1 918-689-5311 (Park Office), 877-657-2757 (Reservation) Have you chosen OKC as the place to propose to your sweetheart? Do you want to keep it low-key? Then, your road must lead to Love Lock Fountain at the Lake Eufaula State Park. You can fasten an engraved lock to the gate and throw the key in the air.  Furthermore, you can explore the diverse foliage and native wildlife on the park’s mountain biking trails.  8. Going On A Road Trip To The Chisholm Trail: The Most Adventurous Things To Do In OKC Chisholm Trail is crucial for the cultural landscape of western Oklahoma. With your partner, you can enjoy a cattle drive on the trail to soak in an old-world charm.  Further, this trail is associated with a rich history, and while taking a ride, you will be transported to the post-Civil War era.  Also, the red Oklahoma dirt stretched here for miles will tell you the tales of South Texas ranchers bringing and distributing beef to the Northern states.  Today, when you ride this route, you will discover many small towns.  Moreover, the trail has countless historical monuments and landmarks. Some of them are: Chisholm Trail Mural Jesse Chisholm's Gravesite Monument Hill Sansom House Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum Marlow Area Museum So, that’s pretty much from me if you are looking for unique things to do in OKC for couples. However, for some cozy, indoor fun, you can play cards at a quaint coffee shop in OKC.  Further, Perets Dessert & Coffee Bar at W Sheridan Ave and Culture Coffee on 6th Street are some of the best coffee shops here. Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

BY  Sibashree Sep 20, 2025

Modern families seek more from ski holidays than just pistes, and they want entertainment for non-skiers, activities for young children, convenient downtime options, and excellent safety standards.  You’ll want to discover more than just the slopes, if you are planning on visiting Val Thoren’s for a ski holiday.  There are plenty of non-ski activities in Val Thorens for families to enjoy that make all the difference.  Val Thoren’s has improved its facilities in recent months to tailor towards families who need childcare services, indoor leisure centre facilities, and a diverse range of entertainment options. What Is Val Thorens? If you're new to the ski scene or haven't heard of Val Thorens before, let me give you a quick rundown. Val Thorens is renowned for being the highest ski resort in the Alps, and it's no surprise that it boasts an impressive snow record.  The village sits at an elevation of 2300 meters, and many of the main ski areas soar above 3000 meters, with plenty of north-facing slopes and a couple of small glaciers to boot. However, it's worth noting that the runs coming down from Méribel and those in the Orelle sector can face some challenges.  Since they face south or west, they can get a bit slushy later in the season. There are also many Non-ski activities in Val Thorens that you will enjoy.  That said, the resort does a great job of snow-making, so overall, Val Thorens remains one of the most reliable spots for snow in the Alps. What Are Some Non-Ski Activities In Val Thorens That You Must Check Out? These are some really popular non-ski activities you can enjoy when you visit Val Thorens:  1. Childcare, Nurseries & Snow Gardens Val Thoren’s offers great childcare from early infancy through school age. If you need a daycare for babies from three months old, the ESF daycare provides both full and half-day care options, including meals and multilingual staff that can guarantee safety and comfort.  There are also snow gardens that are catered for toddlers ages 18 months to three years that combine indoor play with an easy snow introduction.  Mini clubs accommodate children aged three to six, offering structured activities whilst parents enjoy the slopes.  For more personalised care, you can hire private nanny services like Little Peaks Childcare. These provide bespoke support with a flexible booking service for parents who wish to book with them on certain days.  For British families, there are English-speaking carers who can understand family preferences and requirements. 2. Indoor Amenities & Leisure Centres If you fancy visiting a leisure centre for the day and enjoying the indoor amenities that the resort has to offer, there is a main sports centre for that. It features heated swimming pools with fun water features and slides for families to enjoy.  It also has a separate children’s soft play area for the kids to enjoy and be entertained during the afternoon breaks.  For older children, there are trampolines and climbing walls to keep them entertained if they enjoy taking on a physical hobby.  Parents can enjoy the wellness facilities that the resort has to offer, such as a sauna and hammam, whilst the children are happily occupied with their activities nearby. When the weather deteriorates, the cinema screens English-language films and subtitled releases.  Bowling facilities and games rooms provide evening entertainment. You get most amenities within walking distance of accommodation, and operate extended hours during peak seasons. 3. Outdoor & Adventure Alternatives There are lots of thrilling non-skiing activities that Europe’s highest ski resort has to offer. Val Thoren’s maintains almost all its terrain above 2,000 metres, according to recent statistics. This provides the perfect snow conditions for alternative activities. There are plenty of activities that range from toboggan runs, night sledding, and husky sledding. Moreover, you will get snowshoeing expeditions that explore mountain landscapes, and zip-lining. 4. Family-Friendly Amenities Val Thorens is a fantastic destination for families, boasting the Famille Plus certification. This means you can expect a variety of family-friendly amenities and services throughout the resort.  You’ll find restaurants that offer kids' menus and highchairs, creating a welcoming atmosphere for families to enjoy meals together. For parents looking to relax, many of the major hotels feature wellness centers with spa treatments and serene areas to unwind.  While you take a moment for yourself, your kids can join in on organized activities designed just for them. If you need any practical items during your stay, worry not! There are plenty of medical services available on-site for those minor scrapes and sniffles. Additionally, you will also find shops that stock all the essentials, like baby supplies and children’s equipment. So you’ll never feel overwhelmed. Plus, the resort’s central booking service is a real lifesaver for busy families. It can help you easily: Arrange accommodations Plan activities So, this makes your vacation much more enjoyable and organized. With the range of facilities available that extend beyond skiing, you’re truly spoilt for choice at Val Thoren’s as it ensures that every family member has a memorable experience. Enjoy All The Non-ski activities in Val Thorens Today!  In today’s fast-paced world, modern families are looking for more than just traditional ski holidays.  They want experiences that cater to everyone's interests and needs. Skiing is fantastic. But it's equally important to find a destination that offers entertainment and activities for those who prefer not to hit the slopes. Additionally, it is also important to consider engaging options for young children.  Additionally, families appreciate convenient downtime options and a focus on safety to ensure a worry-free trip. Val Thorens stands out as a fantastic family-friendly destination. It offers a variety of non-ski activities that can make your holiday truly memorable.  In recent months, the resort has made significant improvements to its facilities, catering specifically to families.  Parents can take advantage of childcare services that allow them to enjoy a few hours on the slopes or relax, knowing their little ones are in good hands. The indoor leisure center is a gem! It features a range of activities that can keep both kids and adults entertained.  There's something for everyone to enjoy, regardless of age, such as: Swimming pools Play areas Family-friendly games In essence, Val Thorens has evolved into a destination that truly understands the needs of modern families. They ensure that both skiers and non-skiers have an unforgettable holiday experience amidst the stunning alpine backdrop.