Topmost Family Activities In New Orleans | A Louisiana Travel Guide

BY  Sibashree Nov 11, 2024

The USA is a safe country for female solo travelers. It has secured the 37th position in the “Women Peace and Security Index” among 177 nations in 2023.  Further, the 2023 report of the TrustedHousesitters says that there is a massive increase in the number of female travelers booking solo trips. Specifically, the report registers a 193% growth in the number of solo female travelers in 2022. Now, women often find themselves solo.  It can be a breakup, a change of job, a need for some space and me-time amidst so many responsibilities…or just the much-awaited introspection time! It’s great that the best places to travel solo female in the US await you with eclectic experiences.  While Savannah in Georgia spills history and wins hearts with its architecture, Miami emerges as a stunner for its coastal fun and vibrant nightlife.  So, let’s discover the best places to travel solo female in US.  Best Places To Travel Solo Female In US: 8+ Destinations You Will Fall In Love With  “Take a break, girl!” Has this been on your mind for the longest time? It’s time to enjoy your own company and explore new places at your own pace. Solo traveling is cool in many places in the USA. However, to begin with, you can check out the following places.  I have enlisted the places based on our in-house “Solo Travel Safety Meter” scores out of 5. Further, our “Solo Travel Safety Meter” has assessed the availability of basic amenities, safety provisions, and things to do at those places.  Moreover, we have done research on online reviews to pick the best places to travel solo female in US. 1. Miami, Florida Tour and Travel Safety Meter Rating: 4.4 Best Time to Visit Miami: December to February and March to May  Miami is for the social butterflies and mermaids! You can spend the day by the famous beaches of Miami and enjoy the best nightlife at the nightclubs. Further, you will love the Latin cuisine in Miami.  Have a look at the best beaches in Miami. South Beach Haulover Naturist Beach, North Beach Haulover Dog Beach Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park Moreover, if you want to chill at nightclubs, consider exploring places like El Patio Wynwood, Tipsy Flamingo, Club Space, etc.  2. Savannah, Georgia Tour and Travel Safety Meter Rating: 4.3 Best Time to Visit: March to July If you visit Savannah between March and July, you will cherish the warm weather and flowers in full bloom. Further, Savannah is home to the Wormsloe Historic Site, William Scarbrough House, Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and many other ancient and prominent architecture. So, you can call Savannah the historical hub of the country. Savannah is also known for its warm hospitality.  3. Seattle, Washington Tour and Travel Safety Meter Rating: 4.1 Best Time to Visit: July to September Seattle or the Emerald City will offer you the best of urban and rural lives. Space Needle and Pike Place Market are some prominent places to explore when you are in Seattle.  From the Space Needle, you will enjoy a 360-degree view of Mount Rainier, the Olympic mountain ranges, Cascades, and downtown.  Moreover, in Seattle, you will enjoy a ferry ride to islands nearby and the coffee plantations of the city will mesmerize you.  4. Charleston, South Carolina Tour and Travel Safety Meter Rating: 4 Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November If you are looking for a relaxing solo traveling experience, Charleston will be your go-to destination. Further, if you are a dark academia fan, you will love taking a stroll along the cobblestone streets of the historic district. You will also come across scenic plantations in Charleston. Moreover, for the most peaceful experience, you can enjoy a short walk in Battery. You will enjoy the most beautiful view of the harbor from here.  5. Asheville, North Carolina Tour and Travel Safety Meter Rating: 3.9 Best Time to Visit: September to November The beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains graces Asheville in North Carolina. Along with being a place of great scenic beauty, it is also known as a hub of art and culture.  Further, when in Asheville, you can explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Pisgah National Forest.  Moreover, Asheville offers you the best farm-to-table dining experiences. HomeGrown, Chestnut, Vivian, and Corner Kitchen are some of the best locations for farm-to-table dining indulgence in Asheville.  6. Austin, Texas Tour and Travel Safety Meter Rating: 3.8 Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November Austin will win you over with its vibrant culture. It is the biggest draw for the music and gastronomic enthusiasts. Austin houses some of the best BBQ joints in the country. You can visit any of the following places to cherish the taste of Texas-style BBQ. Smokin' Brew-B-Q Terry Black's Barbecue The Salt Lick BBQ Did You Know?You will get the South Texas barbecue style in the eateries of Austin. Here, the smoked meat is served with molasses-based barbecue sauce. This sauce preserves the moisture of the meat. So, you enjoy a moist and flavorful delicacy. Moreover, Austin has the Colorado River. If you are an adventurous soul, you can take part in multiple outdoor activities along that river.  7. Hot Springs, Arkansas Tour and Travel Safety Meter Rating: 3.6 Best Time to Visit: April to May and September to October Are you looking for a relaxing getaway? Hot Springs, Arkansas, will be the ideal destination for you. Named “the Valley of the Vapors” by native Americans, Hot Springs has natural hot springs producing water with a temperature of “143 degrees Fahrenheit.”  Bathhouse Row and Quapaw Baths & Spa are some of the best places to indulge in the natural spa experience.  8. Alamogordo, New Mexico Tour and Travel Safety Meter Rating: 3.5 Best Time to Visit: May to October Alamogordo is home to the White Sands National Park. You will love the long stretches of gypsum sand dunes here. In fact, it is the largest gypsum dune field in the world.  However, the fossilized footprints of humans and animals are the most fascinating things in the park. These footprints are from the Ice Age.  Despite being one of the best places to travel solo female in US, Alamogordo is underrated. You will love its wine and have it with some pistachios for the best experience.  9. Anchorage, Alaska Tour and Travel Safety Meter Rating: 3.3 Best Time to Visit: March to November One of the best places to travel solo female in US, Anchorage is great for cruise trips. The cruise trips in Anchorage are great as you enjoy the bliss of solo travel and enjoy the company of a group with similar interests. The exchange of knowledge and experience always works when you are traveling to a new place.  The cruise trip in Alaska will make you meet the big five of the state: caribou, bear, Dall sheep, moose, and wolf. Further, as a solo female traveler, you will enjoy the following activities here. Dog sledding Watching the Northern Lights Visiting the Glaciers Moreover, you can stargaze and enjoy a midnight stroll in Anchorage without safety concerns. 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 30, 2024

Singapore is one of the top countries in dark tourism if you consider the market growth rate. The country, known as the “Asia Light,” was a British colony, and for them, it became a strategic commercial point. With British rule established here, it became a land of trade, fortification, and military activities. Further, in 1941, Singapore was hit by Japanese attacks. Remember, it was coordinated with the attack of Japan on Pearl Harbor. However, the British rule and the Japanese attacks are just the tip of the iceberg if you look at Singapore's war-trodden and complex political history.  Thus, you will find many sites in Singapore that tell the tales of tragic human incidents. Even if all the places for dark tourism in Singapore are not related to death, there is something mysterious or “somber” about them.  Moreover, the dark tourism sites in Singapore are the places to familiarize oneself with the history of the country, its political landscape, and human stories. THESE Are The Best Destinations For Dark Tourism In Singapore  Most sites for dark tourism in Singapore are related to WWII and Imperial Japanese attacks. Despite being a center of British fortification, it failed to protect itself from those ravages. Let’s explore the places that present Singapore when it was a British Colony fighting against Japanese invasions.  Kranji War Memorial Kranji War Memorial is a place to honor the people of the Commonwealth who died in World War II. It is heart-wrenching to see the names of the allies on the walls of the Kranji War Memorial. Can you believe that there are inscriptions of 24000 allies whose bodies were never found? Further, it is the burial of more than 4000 people who died in the Second World War.  At Kranji War Memorial, you must visit the following spots to remember the brave and lost souls.  War Graves Memorial Walls Singapore Wall State Cemetery Military Graves Singapore Civil Hospital Grave Memorial The Singapore Memorial is the highest point of this cemetery. This iconic structure has soldiers standing in attention, a plane’s wings, and the fin of a submarine.  Choa Chu Kang Cemetery | Another Dark Tourism Site Near The Kranji War Memorial  After exploring the Kranji War Memorial, you can bring out your adventurous spirit. The Choa Chu Kang Cemetery is less than 20 Kms away from the Kranji War Memorial.  The architecture of the cemetery has an eerie appeal. Further, passers-by from the area have often reported seeing women trying to board their cars.  In addition, many cab drivers have carried passengers to the cemetery. However, these passengers suddenly vanished into the air.  Pasir Ris Tower: A Ghost Tourism Site Near The Kranji War Memorial  Pasir Ris Tower, also known as the Suicide Tower, is one of the most haunted places in Singapore. According to stories, a boy with the special power to see spirits saw a person at the top of the tower. He climbed up the tower but got pushed down by someone. Even today, anyone approaching the tower has a strange feeling. The fear is so intense here that people have stopped exploring or ghost hunting.  Changi Chapel & Museum Changi Chapel & Museum is one of the best spots for dark tourism in Singapore because of its educational value. This educational center passes on the heroic stories of Changi that occurred during the Japanese occupation of the country. Further, the Changi Museum is dedicated to people who lived and died in the Changi prison during World War II.  Moreover, the Changi Chapel took inspiration from St George’s Church in its architecture. The prisoners of war (POWs) worked to furnish the church.  The Changi Chapel and Museum has a guide on wheels. Temi is a robot with the knowledge and information to help visitors navigate the museum and learn about the exhibits.  Changi, A Hub Of Dark Tourism In Singapore  Dark tourism is not just about places of tragic human history. Ghost tourism is an important category of dark tourism. When in Changi, you will come across some of the most haunted places in Singapore.  So, are you ready to walk into the shadows? Old Changi Hospital  The Old Changi Hospital was constructed for the treatment of British soldiers. However, under the Japanese troops, it became the house of the prisoners of war.  You can still hear the screams of these prisoners when you are near this hospital.  Changi Old Beach House The Changi Old Beach House is the site where the Sook Ching Massacre took place. Many visitors to this house have experienced screams, and they have seen blood stains on the walls.  Also, many have claimed to see violent paranormal activities at Changi Old Beach House.  The Battle Box The Battle Box was a British underground command center located at Fort Canning Hill. It functioned as a part of the Malaya Command headquarters. Further, the Malaya Command headquarters defended Singapore and Malaya during World War II. The site was restored in 2016. Further, it is a site that speaks about the true reasons behind the fall of Singapore during World War II. So, it is an important educational and tourist destination in Singapore today. Lieutenant-General Arthur E. Percival and Allied Forces decided to surrender to the Japanese Forces at The Battle Box. The surrender happened on 15th February 1942.  Haw Par Villa For me, Haw Par Villa is one of the scariest sites I have visited. According to Chinese mythology, there are ten hells, and Haw Par Villa mimics them.  However, the scariest thing about Haw Par Villa is that you can hear screams from this area at night. Also, many people believe that the statues here are real human beings covered in wax. Further, the local people call it one of the doors of hell.  Even if you are not up for its haunted story, you can visit this site to see the 1000 statues and dioramas. These structures are the best displays of Asian craftsmanship. Further, the stories of 10 hells presented here are the fusion of various Oriental beliefs and philosophies like Hinduism, Taoism, and Buddhism.  Haw Par Villa, or the ten courts of hell, are “the result of the mixing of four different religions and philosophies: Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, Confucianism.”Eisen Teo, the chief curator of Hell’s Museum Fort Siloso Fort Siloso gets its name from the Malayan word Siloso, meaning rock. It is the only coastal fort in Singapore and has played a significant role in the country’s defense. This fort has an on-site military museum filled with the memorabilia of World War II.  The most striking elements of the museum are tunnels, fortified military structures, interactive video documentaries, and wax figures. The wax statues at the Surrender Chambers depict British and Japanese soldiers.  Reflections At Bukit Chandu https://www.instagram.com/p/CgB2RnvOoDU/ Reflections At Bukit Chandu is an interpretative center for dark tourism in Singapore for educational and historical purposes.  Today, the Reflections at Bukit Chandu tell the tales of the Battle of Pasir Panjang in 1942. The Battle Point 226 here is a testament to how the Malay Regiment stood against the Japanese troops.  Malay Regiment began its journey only with a recruit of 25 people in 1933. Within 10 years, this “experimental company” was strong enough to combat the Imperial Japanese forces.  The Japanese killed a hundred men from the Malay Regiment, and a few more were butchered as they refused to take off their uniforms during the surrender of Singapore.  Reflections At Bukit Chandu commemorates and presents the sacrifice of the men in the Malay Regiment as they lived up to the “Ta'at Setia,” or “Faithful and true” motto.  You must explore the following collectibles at Reflections At Bukit Chandu. British .303-inch projectiles The entrenching set of the British Army Personal kit used by the British Army Bronze bust of Lieutenant Adnan Saidi Marseille roof tile Sculpture depicting the Malay Regiment You will find many publications on World War II at the visitor shop here. Moreover, don’t forget to read the poetry by Edwin Thumboo and Noorhaqmal Mohamed Noor to reflect upon the bravery of the Malay Regiment.  That’s it! Enjoy dark tourism in Singapore and explore various aspects of the country’s history. These places are beyond local or national importance as they are testaments to World War II, triggering human tragedy all over the world.  After you are done with your dark tourism in terest in Singapore, it is time for you to check some other opportunities at that place. For instance, consider tax consultancy services for all your tax requirements on a business trip in Singapore. Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! [Updated 2024]

BY  Ankita Mar 28, 2024

Welcome to New Orleans, a city of vibrant culture, rich history, and endless entertainment. Safety is likely on your mind as you plan your visit to the Big Easy. "Is New Orleans safe?" you might ask. If you have read my blog on the best time to visit New Orleans, you must have noted how I have crafted this travel guide to ensure you have a delightful and secure experience in this iconic city. So, if THAT is something that you are wondering, I have you covered! Let's dive into the safest spots and tips for a worry-free adventure. Is New Orleans Safe to Visit! New Orleans, like any major city, has areas that are safe and others that are less so. It's generally safe for travelers, especially in well-trafficked regions like the French Quarter, Warehouse District, and Uptown. However, the city does have a higher violent crime rate compared to the national average in the United States. It's important for visitors to stay aware of their surroundings, take common-sense precautions, and stay informed about the areas they plan to visit. For a safe and enjoyable trip, consider exploring neighborhoods such as Uptown, including Audubon Park and Magazine Street, and Lakeview and Lakeshore. Though petty theft can occur, the French Quarter is bustling with tourists and generally considered safe. Visiting the beautiful cemeteries with a tour guide is something that I would definitely recommend. This is due to occasional robberies and muggings. Safest Places to Visit in New Orleans Here are some of the safest places are discussed below where you can visit on your tour to New Orleans. The French Quarter: The Heart of New Orleans is Your Safe Haven The French Quarter, the pulsing heart of New Orleans, is a melting pot of history, culture, and festivity. This iconic neighborhood, also known as the Vieux Carré, is where the spirit of New Orleans comes alive with its cobblestone streets, vibrant music, and culinary delights. Historic Jackson Square At the center of the French Quarter is Jackson Square, a historic park that is a National Historic Landmark.  Significant structures like the St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in North America, and the historic Cabildo and Presbytère buildings surround it. Artists, musicians, and performers line the sidewalks, offering a glimpse into the city's creative soul. The square is a perfect starting point for any visitor, providing a snapshot of the city's rich history and contemporary culture. Bourbon Street: The Life of the Party No visit to the French Quarter is complete without a stroll down Bourbon Street. Known for its lively bars and jazz clubs, it's the epicenter of New Orleans' nightlife. It is also one of the places that is great for couples visiting New Orleans. Here, the sounds of jazz, blues, and zydeco music spill out onto the street, inviting passersby to join the dance and soak in the festive atmosphere. Culinary Adventures The French Quarter is a food lover's paradise, offering a taste of authentic Creole and Cajun cuisines. The neighborhood showcases New Orleans ' gastronomic excellence from the famous beignets and café au lait at Café du Monde to the exquisite seafood gumbo at award-winning restaurants. Royal Street: An Artistic Haven Parallel to Bourbon Street is Royal Street, a quieter but equally charming avenue known for its art galleries, antique shops, and boutiques. It's the perfect place to find unique treasures, from vintage jewelry to original artwork, and to experience the more refined side of New Orleans' culture. French Market: Shop and Savor The French Market is America's oldest public market and has been operating for over 200 years. Visitors can browse through various goods, from local crafts to fresh produce, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The market also hosts a flea market, where you can find an eclectic mix of items and souvenirs to take home. Cultural Museums The French Quarter is home to several museums that delve into the city's diverse heritage. The New Orleans Jazz Museum celebrates the birthplace of jazz. At the same time, the Voodoo Museum offers insights into the mysterious and often misunderstood religion that has been a part of the city's fabric for centuries. Riverfront Relaxation The Mississippi Riverfront is a stone's throw away from the bustling streets of the French Quarter. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the Moonwalk, enjoy a steamboat cruise, or simply sit and watch the river flow by, offering a moment of tranquility amidst the excitement of the city. Garden District: Strolling Through Elegance, Serenity, and Safety The Garden District of New Orleans is a visual storybook of Southern charm. It is a neighborhood where the beauty of the past lingers amidst the vibrancy of the present. With its lush greenery and grand antebellum mansions, the district invites visitors to step into a world of historical elegance and tranquility. Strolling Through History A walk through the Garden District is a journey back in time. The well-preserved mansions, each with its own story, are architectural gems ranging from Greek Revival to Victorian styles. The famous Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, the resting place of many notable figures, offers guided tours that reveal the history of the city through the lives of its past residents. Magazine Street: Shopper's Delight Magazine Street, the district's commercial heart, stretches six miles and is lined with boutiques, art galleries, and antique stores. It's where you can find everything from high-end fashion to quirky souvenirs, making it a perfect spot for window shopping and finding that special keepsake.  Culinary Experiences The Garden District's dining scene is as diverse as its architecture. The area boasts some of the city's best restaurants, from cozy cafes to fine dining establishments. Indulge in traditional Southern cuisine or explore contemporary dishes that tell the story of New Orleans' culinary evolution. Commander's Palace: A Gastronomic Landmark No culinary tour of the Garden District is complete without a visit to Commander's Palace, a turquoise and white Victorian marvel known for its Creole cuisine and the birthplace of the jazz brunch. This iconic restaurant has been a local favorite since 1893 and continues to be a culinary beacon in the city. Arts and Culture The district is not just about historical sights; it's also a hub for arts and culture. The Ogden Museum of Southern Art and the Contemporary Arts Center are nearby, showcasing the region's art and offering a glimpse into the creative spirit of the South. Relaxing in Audubon Park The nearby Audubon Park offers a serene escape for those seeking a natural retreat with its ancient live oaks, tranquil lagoons, and the Audubon Zoo. It's a place where locals and visitors alike come to unwind, picnic, and enjoy the outdoors. Architectural Tours Several companies offer architectural tours of the Garden District, providing insights into the history and design of the neighborhood's most famous homes. These tours are a great way to learn about the district's development and the stories behind its stately facades. Mardi Gras World: Behind the Scenes While not located within the Garden District, Mardi Gras World is just a short ride away and offers a unique experience. Here, visitors can see the artistry and craftsmanship that go into creating the floats and costumes for New Orleans' most famous celebration. City Park: Your Ultimate Family Place! City Park in New Orleans is an expansive canvas of outdoor pleasures and cultural treasures, offering diverse activities for all ages. Spanning 1,300 acres, it's one of the largest urban parks in the country, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in nature, art, and recreation. Outdoor Adventures Picturesque waterways, perfect for boating and kayaking, crisscross the park's vast green spaces. With rentals available, you can paddle through the serene bayous or enjoy a romantic ride in an authentic Venetian gondola. For those who prefer land over water, the park's biking trails offer a scenic route through its lush landscapes. Botanical Beauty The New Orleans Botanical Garden is a living exhibit of the city's floral diversity, with over two thousand plants arranged in themed gardens. Visitors can wander through the English garden's orderly beauty or find tranquility in the Japanese garden's bamboo groves. The garden is a testament to New Orleans' temperate climate, which keeps the city blooming year-round. Artistic Encounters The New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA), located within the park, houses an impressive collection of fine arts. The adjacent Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden features over 90 sculptures set against a backdrop of pines, magnolias, and live oaks, creating a harmonious blend of art and nature. Family Fun City Park is a haven for families, with attractions like Storyland, a fairytale-themed playground, and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, home to a century-old carousel. The park also hosts the Train Garden, showcasing miniature trains amidst meticulously crafted cityscapes. Recreational Activities Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the park's tennis courts, golf courses, and disc golf courses. Fishing is a popular pastime at the park's Big Lake, where you can also find walking and jogging paths for a leisurely day out. Couturie Forest For a wilder experience, Couturie Forest offers a glimpse into the region's natural state before urbanization. It's a 60-acre woodland with trails leading to Laborde Mountain, the highest point in New Orleans, though only 43 feet high. Culinary Delights No visit to New Orleans is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. City Park caters to this with various dining options, including the iconic Café Du Monde. This is the place where you can enjoy café au lait and beignets. Other food venues offer everything from casual bites to gourmet experiences. Seasonal Events City Park is also a venue for seasonal events, from farmers' markets to musical storytimes, ensuring there's always something new to experience. The park's event calendar is filled with activities that reflect the city's vibrant culture and community spirit. Staying Safe: Practical Tips to Have a Safe Stay at New Orleans! When visiting New Orleans, or any new city, staying safe is paramount to ensure a positive experience. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the Big Easy with confidence. Stay in Well-Lit Areas New Orleans is a city that comes alive at night, but it's important to stay in areas that are well-lit and populated. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas, especially if you're unfamiliar with the surroundings. Keep Valuables Secure Pickpocketing can happen in crowded places, so keep your valuables secure. Use a money belt or a cross-body bag that stays in front of you at all times. Be mindful of your belongings in busy tourist spots. Travel in Groups There's truth to the saying "safety in numbers." When exploring the city, especially at night, travel with friends or family. If you're alone, consider joining a guided tour group. Be Aware of Your Surroundings Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. If you're enjoying the nightlife, keep an eye on your drink and know your limits. It's easy to get caught up in the fun, but staying aware can prevent unwanted situations. Use Trusted Transportation When getting around the city, use trusted transportation options. Rideshare apps are a safe bet, as are licensed taxis. If you're using public transportation, plan your route ahead of time and avoid waiting alone at bus or streetcar stops late at night. Respect Local Customs New Orleans is rich in culture and tradition. Respect local customs and be mindful of your behavior, especially during festivals like Mardi Gras. Blending in and respecting the local way of life can go a long way in keeping you safe. Know Emergency Contacts Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and the locations of hospitals or police stations. In case of an emergency, knowing who to call and where to go can save valuable time. Stay Hydrated and Protected from the Sun New Orleans can get quite hot and humid. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade when necessary, especially during the summer months. Check Weather Forecasts The weather in New Orleans can be unpredictable, with sudden rain showers or intense heat. Check the forecast before heading out and be prepared with appropriate clothing and an umbrella if necessary. Use Common Sense Lastly, use common sense. If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation. Don't take unnecessary risks, like taking shortcuts through unfamiliar or secluded areas. Wrapping It Up! So, is New Orleans safe? The answer is both yes and no. The thing is it totally depends on the places that you visit. By following the tips that I have mentioned above in this blog, you can focus on enjoying the rich experiences that New Orleans has to offer, knowing you're taking the right steps to stay safe. Remember, preparation and awareness are your best tools for a safe and memorable trip. New Orleans is a city with soul, and with these tips, you'll navigate it safely and with ease. Remember, the key to a safe trip is awareness and preparation. So, pack your bags, bring this guide, and get ready to experience the Big Easy in all its glory! Read Also: Is Savannah Safe? What You Need To Know Before Visiting! Is San Francisco Safe? THIS Is What You Should Know! Is Cabo San Lucas Safe? – Let’s Find Out!