Guide To Exploring Whistler, Canada For A Memorable Getaway

BY  Nabamita Mar 7, 2024

For 38.2% of Americans, dwindling spending power has become a major deterrent that is dampening their travel plans. If economic woes and rising prices are keeping you from vacationing overseas, why not consider exploring the US for a change of pace and scenery? Its sweeping terrain provides plenty of options, whether you’re looking to unwind at a sunny beach or go skiing on a snow-covered mountain. However, traveling in the US could expose you to various risks, just like overseas destinations. So, being mindful of them and taking extra precautions will go a long way in making your vacation enjoyable and worry-free. Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Traveling in the US Here are the safety hazards you stand to encounter during your US travels. Accommodation Scams  Fraudsters often impersonate well-known hotel operators to direct travelers to malicious websites. Such sites are usually set up to steal credit card and other personal information of anyone booking a room, which scammers could later use for financial fraud. Sometimes, the deceptive acts are much more subtle yet could leave you in equal despair. Consider for a moment an accommodation ad that provides exaggerated or inaccurate details or omits critical information to mislead you. This is a prevalent trick shady accommodation owners deploy to overcharge guests and secure bookings during off-peak travel seasons. Deceptive Tour Operators Scammers may offer promotional deals via online ads, messages, emails, and telemarketing calls in a bid to attract travelers hunting for bargains. But these promotions could quickly turn your dream vacation into a nightmare if you don’t watch out. Remember, malicious actors could use fabricated travel packages to steal both your money and personal data. Taxi Meter Fraud Dishonest taxi drivers could overcharge passengers by keeping the meter switched off. Sometimes, they may have the meter on but will reset it as soon as they reach the destination, preventing you from checking the distance and fare. Luggage Theft When dropping you off at the hotel or airport, fraudulent drivers could unload only part of your luggage and drive away with the rest. This type of theft can occur when you’re distracted or not paying close attention to your belongings. Rental Service Fraud Many Americans rent cars during domestic travel. Bad actors can make this an opportunity to charge them for pre-existing damage when they return the vehicle. Without proper documentation, it becomes difficult for clients to prove that the damage was already there, resulting in unfair charges. Shady Locals There are numerous ways fraudsters could make money around popular travel hotspots. One technique is taking the guise of friendly locals offering free personal tours and recommendations. But often, these con artists will take you to expensive shops and cafés that pay them a commission for bringing paying customers. They could also get you entangled in various scams under the pretext of helping you. Wi-Fi Hacking Cybercriminals frequently hack into unsecured networks to steal useful data, such as payment information and account passwords. If you’re in the habit of using public Wi-Fi, this is a critical threat you must guard against. How Can You Ensure Your Travel Safety in the US?  The cost and hassle of experiencing a scam or other travel hazard can make anyone weary of traveling. But you can avoid many of them by following the safety tips listed below. Seek Recommendations Whether you want to reserve a hotel room or rent a car, personal recommendations are essential for selecting legitimate service providers. Today, there are many authentic reviews online that could help you assess travel services and make informed decisions. Use Reputed Online Platforms If you’re using a well-known travel platform, type its website address in the search bar to avoid visiting spoofed websites. When you don’t know much about a vendor, make the reservation through a reputed travel booking site, such as hotel.com or booking.com. These platforms typically screen individuals and businesses before accepting their listings and have safety features to protect customers. Be Cautious About Unsolicited Promotions Emails, messages, phone calls, and social media ads are popular mediums for travel scams that imitate reputed businesses. Therefore, verifying their sources is important for detecting and avoiding fraud. For instance, check whether the email addresses match the ones used earlier by the relevant organizations. Reverse search phone numbers on Nuwber to confirm they’re related to the mentioned companies.  And if there are links or attachments, it’s best not to click on them. These could download malware and compromise your financial data security. Use a Ride-Hailing App This is the easiest solution to avoid taxi scams. Uber, Lyft, and similar apps can help you secure a fair price, find a safe driver, and take the fastest route to your destination. However, if you need to take a regular taxi, check whether the meter is on. If it’s not, find another cab. Watch Your Belongings  Whether you use a taxi or public transportation, keeping an eye on your luggage and other belongings is essential. Don’t forget to pack a light and leave your valuables at home. Check Before Renting When you are renting a vehicle or any other item during your travels, inspect it carefully before signing the rental agreement and providing a deposit. If you notice any dents, scratches, or other obvious damage, point it out to the rental service provider, take photos, and put it down in writing. Use Secure Internet Connections Mobile data is the safest option to avoid cyber threats associated with unsecured networks. When you need to log into public Wi-Fi, always select one protected by passwords. Plan Ahead Doing your homework before traveling is a must to minimize dependency on strangers. Research the destination and the travel spots you want to explore and learn about entrance fees, opening times, location, and special requirements. Also, note down their official contact numbers so you won’t need to rely on others for information. To Recap  Accommodation owners, tour operators, taxi drivers, rental service providers, shady locals, and even cybercriminals can target unsuspecting travelers in the US for various deceptive schemes. Some threats may have more severe consequences than others. However, they could all sap the joy out of your much-awaited vacation. So, be mindful of common hazards and take adequate precautions for your travel safety. Read Also: Traveling To Korea? Here’s Your Must-Try Korean Food Top 15 Restaurants In Colombia You Must Visit While Traveling Top 11 Outlets In Massachusetts You Can Visit While Traveling

BY  Sibashree Nov 11, 2024

With the nip in the air and Christmas bells ringing, the best places to travel in Europe gears up for the visitors.  Also, the “Europe Winter Tourism Market” is massive, and Austria, Italy, Germany, and Switzerland are some of the key destinations or revenue earners in this regard.  Further, winter tourism in Europe is beyond indulging in the drizzles of snow and relishing the best food. It has a deeper economic significance in the continent. Did you know that the revenue from winter tourism in Europe is 1-2% of the GDP of European countries?  So, when you visit the best places to travel in Europe in winter, you contribute to the overall economy of the place and the country.  Moreover, winter brings out the best in Europe, with glimpses of the Northern Lights, skiing in the Alps, Christmas festivities, and many more!  You Cannot Miss The Best Places To Travel In Europe In Winter  A wintry day in Europe is blissful, and it’s a great time to travel to this continent if you want to avoid the crowd.  Furthermore, the beautiful landscape of Europe looks dreamier with the blanket of snow in winter.  So, let’s take a flight to the best places to travel in Europe in winter.  1. Rovaniemi, Finland  Best Place to Stay: Santa Claus Holiday Village  Finland Tourism Package from the USA: 1100-1500€ Ho! Ho! Ho! Winter comes with the invitation to fly to the official hometown of Santa Claus. It is the best place to indulge in Christmas festivities, and you will also love the reindeer farms here. Furthermore, you can participate in the following activities when visiting Rovaniemi in winter.  Ice skating Snow sledding Northern Light Safaris However, Rovaniemi will not disappoint you even if you want to spend a quiet winter vacation here. You can cozy up by the fire and have the best glogg ever. Are you a foodie like me? You can indulge in some smoky salmon and ice cream. The chef’s kiss will be watching the snow-clad forests through the windows of your hotel room.  2. Prague, Czech Republic Best Place to Stay: Hermitage Hotel Prague Czech Republic Tourism Package from the USA: 2000-3000€ With St. Nicholas Church as the center of attraction during winter and Christmas, Prague decks up with fresh coats. The Church of Our Lady before Týn and St. Vitus Cathedral are some other popular churches to visit in Prague during Christmas. Furthermore, Christmas has a different fervor in Prague, thanks to the Christmas markets here. It supposedly has the best Christmas Market in the world outside Germany. In the upcoming winter, Prague Christmas Markets will remain open from 30th November 2024 to  6th January 2025. You will get the best wooden toys, ceramics, and candles here. Looking for some gastronomic delight? Prague has Palatschinke and mulled wine that you will cherish.  3. Vienna, Austria Best Place to Stay: Hotel Sacher Wien Austria Tourism Package from the USA: 1500-2500€ Vienna, the winner of the “Most Livable City in the World,” is one of the best places to travel in Europe this winter. BBC conferred this title to Vienna three years in a row.  Further, in winter, Vienna transforms into a site of outdoor operas and hot chocolates. Attending the operas in the freezing cold is an experience, and with thousands of people attending the event, you will feel the palpable festive energy here.  Moreover, you can appease the connoisseur in you by attending the classical musical concerts here. Also, behold the snow-clad beauty of the St. Charles Church and Schönbrunn Palace. It’s dreamy and will offer you the best frames for capturing.  4. Tallinn, Estonia Best Place to Stay: Metropol Spa Hotel  Estonia Tourism Package from the USA: Around 4500€ Tallinn has an amazing location on the Baltic Sea and the most amazing historical centers. You can explore the following historical centers when in Tallinn.   Town Hall Square Olevsite Church Great Guild Hall Further, the turreted castles of Tallin stand tall with their unmatched architecture. Toompea Castle is probably the most famous castle among them. You will also love exploring Kadriog Palace and Pikk Herman. These castles are beautiful year-round. However, they appear to be straight from the pages of fantasy tales under the wrap of snow.  5. Zermatt, Switzerland Best Place to Stay: Hotel Firefly Switzerland Tourism Package from the USA: Around 2000€ Zermatt, at the foothill of the Matterhorn, becomes the paradise of skiers in winter. The coverage of fresh snow and the best scenic views make Zermatt everyone’s favorite, even on the chilliest days.  After you have a fulfilling winter day outdoors, you can indulge in the much-needed warmth and comfort in the spa of Hotel Firefly. Also, Zermatt is the ideal place to try Alpine cuisines and lemon martini.  Moreover, if you want to try outdoor pursuits other than skiing, you can try hiking. Even if you are not interested in hiking to the higher mountains, you can explore Zermatt and the surrounding villages.  You can even take a helicopter ride around Matterhorn to have the best views of the glaciers. If you are on the verge of ending your trip to Zermatt, don’t try to collect some handmade souvenirs.  6. Zagreb, Croatia Best Place to Stay: Garden Hotel Croatia Tourism Package from USA: Around 1500€ Zagreb exudes the quintessential Central European vibe and is a favorite of dark academia fans. Winter transforms it into a wonderland with the Advent in Zagreb festival. You will find the best brandy and homemade sausages here.  You also explore the Christmas markets and appreciate the lights galore throughout the entire locality to indulge in its festive fervor.  Are you looking for more adventure in Zagreb? You can plan a trip to the Plitvice Lakes National Park. It has waterfalls and 16 terrace lakes. In winter, all these waterbodies get frozen and offer you the most surreal view.  Moreover, with the Croatian National Theatre at the epicenter, Zagreb is important for the cultural landscape of Croatia and Europe. You must make a note that Croatian National Theatre is one of the most beautiful theatres in the world.  The Croatian Museum of Naive Art, Zagreb City Museum, and Maksimir Park are some other places of interest in Zagreb.  7. Bergen, Norway Best Place to Stay: Citybox Bergen Norway Tourism Package from the USA: 2600-6500€ Bergen has the ideal Norweigan vibe with colorful wooden buildings. You can enjoy the beautiful view of the fjords and harbor from these aesthetic buildings. And who does not know of the Northern Light in Norway in winter? Late November to January is the best time to experience the magic of Northern Light in Bergen, Norway. The longest nights become bright as you observe this astronomical wonder in the sky.  With your nights becoming lit with the Northern Lights, you can spend your daytime in Norway doing winter hiking, skiing, and sledding. You can even go on a Wildlife or Wild Safari and experience the wonder of nature.  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  Subham Saha Sep 29, 2021

Are you looking for hostels in Los Angeles for affordable stays? Here is good news for you. Los Angeles, the city of angels, is famous for its Hollywood vibes. With lots of fun places to visit, this city is called the life of California. This place is a perfect mixture of education, arts, economy, culture, and also entertainment. In case you are planning a visit to Los Angeles, California, here is a staying guide got you. Here is a list of the top 10 cheapest hostels in Los Angeles with their amenities, room types, locations, and every detail. The best hostels in Los Angeles are not very costly but at this affordable price, you can avail of all the household modern amenities. Get Optimum Hardwood Flooring Toronto Services. Top 10 Affordable Hostels In Los Angeles If you’re looking for the top cheap hostels in Los Angeles then have a look at these best hostels in la. The youth hostels Los Angeles are quite popular among young solo travelers. Hostels Los Angeles downtown are full of entertainment and becoming the perfect place for young travelers. Now welcome to the Hostel world la. 1. Samesun Hollywood With a shared kitchen, this affordable hostel of Los Angeles serves a complimentary breakfast to its guests. It is situated just across the street from Highland or Hollywood metro station. All the rooms have a ceiling fan, hardwood floor, lockers, towels, and bag storage.  The shared kitchen is equipped with a microwave, rice cooker, and refrigerator. You will find vending machines with cold beverages and snacks. Guests also can enjoy playing table tennis, billiard. Among the all la hostel Los Angeles this hostel is one of the cozy places to stay. If you are searching any hostels near lax. This is the best place to stay. Facilities: Free WiFi Daily housekeeping Non-smoking rooms Laundry Air conditioning 24-hour front desk Location: This centrally located hostel of Los Angeles is 12 miles away from Los Angeles International Airport.  Nearby visits: Hollywood Boulevard’s Walk of Fame, TCL Theater, Dolby Theater Universal Studios Hollywood, is near this place. Room options: Different mixed dormitory Different female and the male dormitory Standard double room Budget double room 2. Banana Bungalow Hollywood Hotel and Hostel All the rooms have a Tv and a shared kitchen, and a shared billiards lounge. This place in Los Angeles also offers the facility to play football, table tennis, and basketball. People also can enjoy the on-site karaoke stage.  Facilities: Free WiFi Non-smoking rooms Laundry Parking Private parking On-site parking Location: This place is located 7.5 miles away from the Hollywood Burbank Airport and 701 m from Capitol Records Building.  Nearby visits: Within a distance of 1.6 miles, you can visit the Hollywood Bowl, Griffith Observatory, Hollywood Walk of Fame, and Dolby Theater.  Room options: Budget double room Double room Deluxe double room Mixed dormitory room with six beds 3. HI Los Angeles - Santa Monica Hostel This hostel is one of the best hostels in Los Angeles. With its location to the center of city bus services, you can easily take a tour of the city. You will find hundreds of shops: eating destinations, galleries around this place. Santa Monica is the best hostel downtown la. Facilities: Free WiFi Facilities for disabled  Daily housekeeping Non-smoking rooms Garden 24-hour front desk Location: This hostel is situated a few steps from Santa Monica beach.  Nearby visits: Disneyland, Magic Mountain, Universal Studios, Hollywood, Getty Center Museum, Getty Villa Museum, Knott's Berry Farm, and many more places are there to explore. Room options: This place offers a wide variety of rooms. From deluxe queen to dormitory rooms, from quadruple to family, you will get everything here.  4. Libra Hotel This hotel is located at a prime location with all the basic amenities that you can ask for. The Parking options are also available with this cheap hostel in Los Angeles. If you are searching for any hostel prices at an affordable rate this is the best one. Facilities: Free WiFi Private parking Parking Non-smoking rooms Air conditioner On-site parking Location: This is a hotel located in Los Angeles, Koreatown district, and 3.1 miles from Melrose Avenue. Hollywood Burbank Airport is 11.9 miles from this place.  Nearby visits: Within a distance of 3.6 miles of this place, there are Petersen Automotive Museum, LACMA or Los Angeles County Museum of Art, L.A. Live, Staples Center, Microsoft Theatre, and Capitol Records Building. While the Dolby Theater is 4.2 miles away.  Room options: Double room with private bathroom Family room with private bathroom Standard double room with private bathroom Shared female and dormitory room with 6 and 8 beds Mixed shared dormitory room with eight beds Also Read: Top 10 Best Travel Apps To Use In 2021 5. PodShare DTLA With a shared kitchen and free WiFi, this place offers a fridge, microwave, electric teapot, a desk, hairdryer, and shower in every room. Some guests can avail of the sitting area facility while everyone will be provided with a stovetop. All the Hostels in la California are all reflecting the Californian vibes. Facilities: Free WiFi Heating Laundry Tea and coffee maker in each room Location: It is situated in the California Region in Los Angeles. Hollywood Burbank Airport is the nearest airport with a distance of around 16 miles.  Nearby visits: The Staples Center, L.A. Live, and Microsoft Theatre is 3.9 miles away. This place is 4.2 miles away from Dodger Stadium. This place is 6 miles away from LA Memorial Coliseum and California Science Center, while the National History Museum of Los Angeles Country is 7 miles far. Room options: Mixed dormitory room with single bed Mixed dormitory room with Bunk bed Economy Quadruple room along with a shared bathroom Dormitory room with a single bed 6. DormShare Westwood DormShare Westwood is also considered one of the best hostels in Los Angeles.  A television and phone charger is available in every room. Guests are required to use a shared kitchen and a shared bathroom equipped with multiple showers.  Facilities: Free WiFi Parking Non-smoking rooms Private Parking 24-hour front desk On-site parking Location: This place is located in the Westwood district. It is 8.7 miles away from Los Angeles International Airport, which is the nearest one. Melrose Avenue is 6.2 miles away from here.  Nearby visits: LACMA or Los Angeles County Museum of Arts and Farmer’s Market Los Angeles is 5 miles away, while Getty Center is only 2.2 miles far from DormShare Westwood.  Room options: Double bedroom Mixed dormitory with single bed Mixed dormitory with eight beds Also Read: Budget-Friendly Travel Ideas In Australia 7. PodShare Venice PodShare Venice is equipped with a lounge, a garden, shared kitchen, evening entertainment, playing area for table tennis. The rooms have amenities like a kettle, microwave, oven, hairdryer, shower, desk, and flat-screen TV also. Facilities: Free WiFi Free Parking Garden Terrace Tea and coffee makers in every room Heating  Location: This hostel is located in Los Angeles. The nearest Los Angeles International Airport is 5 miles away from this place.  Nearby visits: Sunset Strip and Getty Center are 11 miles far from here. Marina Del Rey Beach is less than 0.6 miles away from PodShare Venice. Petersen Automotive Museum is at a distance of 8.1 miles, while LACMA or the Los Angeles County Museum of art is 8.7 miles away.  Room options:  6-bed dormitory room Mixed dormitory room with single bed 8. The Anderson Estates This property is built with an outdoor pool that is available year-round. You can get the services of the on-site washing machine, car hire, a TV along with a seating area.  Facilities: Free WiFi Free parking Fitness center Two swimming pools Non-smoking rooms Location: This property is stationed in the South district in Los Angeles. The nearest airport is Los Angeles International Airport, which is 7.5 miles away. Nearby visits: This place is within 6.2 miles from the city center and Hollywood. Within 9.9 miles of distance, there is Venice Beach, Universal Studios, and Santa Monica. Room options: This place offers a massive range of room options; from deluxe suites to a dormitory, holiday home, you can select anything.  9. PodShare Los Feliz If you’re looking for hostels in Los Angeles then this hostel is one of the top hostels.  PodShare Los Feliz provides continental breakfast to their guests. All the rooms have free WiFi and are equipped with a shared bathroom and hairdryer.  Facilities: Free WiFi Heating Laundry Facilities for disabled guests Location: This hostel is located in Los Angeles’ Hollywood District and 2.7 miles away from the Capitol Records building. Melrose Avenue is 3.7 miles away. Hollywood Burbank Airport, which is 8.1 miles away from here, is the nearest airport.  Nearby visits: L.A. Live and Hollywood Sign is 4.3 miles from PodShare Los Feliz. Griffith Observatory, Dolby Theater is 3.1 miles away. While the Hollywood Bowl is 3.7 miles away. Dodger Stadium, Staples Center, and Microsoft Theater are 4.3 miles away. Room options: Mixed dormitory with single bed Mixed dormitory with ten beds 10. Melrose Hostel This belongs to the cheap hostels in Los Angeles. In spite of its cheap rate, this hostel is packed with attractive amenities. It offers free WiFi throughout the whole property campus. You can watch popular shows on amazon prime and also Netflix on TV here. Hair Dryers and hair curlers are also provided to the guests in order to use on-site. Along with luggage storage space, this property also has a rooftop balcony.  Facilities:  Free WiFi Terrace Heating Air Conditioner Daily Housekeeping Non-smoking rooms Location: Melrose Hostel is situated in Los Angeles. It is 1.7 miles away from Melrose Avenue and Capitol Records Building.  Nearby visits: Hollywood Walk of Fame and Dolby Theatre is 2.2 miles away from this accommodation. The nearest airport is 8.7 miles far, and it is Bob Hope Airport. Room options:  Male dormitory room with four beds Female dormitory room with four beds Three different types of Mixed dormitory with single bed Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What are the best hostels in Los Angeles near Staples Center? Some of the best hostels in Los Angeles near Staples Center include Freehand Los Angeles, LA comfort hostels and 8th and Ardmore. What hostels in Los Angeles have nice views? LA Comfort Hostel ,8th and Ardmore, and Ahsa Oasis Hostel have received great comments from guests in Los Angeles regarding the views from these hostels. Should I stay in a hostel in Los Angeles? By staying in a  hostel, you can cut your spending on accommodations and save money for exploring the sight scenes  during your trip. You can check out the destination's cultural highlights, such as its theatres and entertainment venues. What are the best hostels in Los Angeles for solo travellers? There are several hostels that is perfect for solo travellers and one of them is Freehand Los Angeles. it is famous for its rooftop bar and Podshare Venice  which they call a social hostel. You can also try Melrose Hostel. It is a recent hostel in Los Angeles.   Some Extras Apart from the hostels mentioned earlier in Los Angeles, California, here are some more cheap places to stay in Los Angeles. They are Samesun Venice Beach Orange Drive Hostel Venice Beach Hostel Freehand Los Angeles All these are highly rated affordable and cheap hostels in Los Angeles. Opt for the one that fulfills your requirements within a budget. Have a pleasant stay.  You May Also Like: Top 11 Budget Tokyo Hostels In Japan 10 Amazing Things To Do In Medellin How To Plan A Best One Day Trip To Atlanta With Family