Feast Your Way Through Europe: Best Tour Packages For Foodies

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 5, 2023

For the longest time, Air Canada and WestJet have been dominating the Canadian airline industry, which has led to the prevalence of high airfare. However, with the emergence of new contenders, things are finally changing. Flair Airlines is one such competitor of the legacy airlines that have a strong hold on the Canadian Airline industry. It is a low-cost carrier that has been expanding its operations during the pandemic to include U.S. travel hotspots like Arizona, Florida, California, and Nevada, continuing to operate on an extensive Canadian route network that covers most major cities in the country. Here is my brief take on the Flair Airlines experience I had. Keep reading because this is going to be very useful. My Experience Of Flair Airlines Image Source: assets.bwbx.io Here is a first-hand experience or a Flair Airlines review of the recent travel I had flying from Toronto to Montreal. Read on to know if it was worth it. Booking Image Source: thepointsguy.global.ssl.fastly.net I booked my flight on Google Flights, searching for the cheapest flight from Toronto to Montreal. On my date of flight, both Flair and Air Canada had early morning flights, and yet Flair was priced at half of the Air Canada ticket. There was, of course, the added benefit of a full-size carry-on bag but even on a standard fee, Air Canada would be charging for seat selection. Flair is a solid selection if you are traveling light, even if it includes seat selection. The Flair Airlines baggage policy is a little icky if you are traveling heavy instead. A one-way flight on December 15 via Flair costs 40. Whereas WestJet’s and Air Canada’s cheapest flights are $135. I had to pay a minimum of $7.90 for seat selection. Check-in Image Source: thepointsguy.global.ssl.fastly.net It was a simple experience checking in at the Toronto Pearson International Airport. All of Flair’s Toronto flights depart from Terminal 3, so that is where I did my check-in. Flair has a few baggage drops and check-in counters located in the center of the terminal. Ground Experience Image Source: thepointsguy.global.ssl.fastly.net My flight was supposed to depart from Gate B38. I cleared my security in under 10 minutes. The airport was mostly empty, given the wee hours we were departing (7:30 a.m.) There were some shops open despite the timings, so I got a coffee and yogurt from Starbucks and sat away from the crowd for some uninterrupted breakfast. Flair does not have its own lounges. Cabins And Seats Image Source: thepointsguy.global.ssl.fastly.net The flight was one of Flair’s three 737-800 (read tiny) aircraft. The airline operates with economy-only cabins suited for its ultra-low-cost carrier. The interiors were nondescript and spotless. It is simply designed without any frills like over or seatback displays. The flight was made with the intention of taking a passenger from point A to point B. The seats were comfy enough at the cost I paid. They did not recline, but they were not as slim as other similar carriers in the U.S. The extra padding on the seats helped ease the other small space. The leg room was commendably larger than its other similarly ranged carriers. It also had a full-size tray that could easily fit a 16-inch Macbook Pro. Spirit Airlines offers only a small drink tray. Flair Airlines Amenities Image Source: thepointsguy.global.ssl.fastly.net There are no inflight amenities or entertainment. There is no wifi, streaming services, or outlets on the 737-800. Keeping that in mind, have your devices on a full charge and make sure to get a window seat to keep yourself entertained for these otherwise short flights. The food and beverage services could get you to pay $2.75 for a soda and $5.50 for a Molson beer. A coffee would cost $2.35. All that after currency conversion. My Verdict Image Source: runwaygirlnetwork.com I did not have much qualms about flying with Flair. It was a regular journey from one place to another. The airline’s internet service is also set to launch soon so that too can be an attraction for travelers. Flair’s rapid expansion is on its way to breaking through the expensive air carrier industry with its budget-friendly approach. Flair Airlines Tripadvisor Reviews Image Source: media.flyflair.com I told you what I felt from my experience. But if you want to know what others are saying about Flair Airlines, here are some of the Flair Airlines reviews left by real flyers on Tripadvisor. In case you are asking yourself, “Is Flair Airlines good” or “Is Flair Airlines safe,” here are all your answers: "My mom and I traveled to edmonton in the beginning of July to a convention, it was my first time on plane and was understandably nervous. The folks when I arrived at the gate was friendly and welcomed us! Everything was on time and found our seats okay, we will definitely upgrade next time but being it was only an hour 1/2 flight it was fine. If you are flying and bringing more than 1 bag and carry on, one thing I recommend to save $ is to purchase a package online and pre book. It's the one thing I wish I knew before hand. Otherwise baggage is pricey. Coming back from Edmonton it was a great experience too! Given the option I will choose Flair again to travel within Canada. Prices are good and the staff are very friendly. Even better, our flights to and from were 10 minutes early. So bonus!" Ashley P "After reading some questionable reviews about Flair i was convinced i was not going to have a good experience. I am blown away by the level of kindness and overall attentiveness of the flight attendants, along with the customer service i had received over the phone. Had bought our seats prior to both flights and we had no problems with keeping those seats unlike some other airlines that tend to mess that up every time. I highly recommend this airline to everyone and will gladly be returning!" Stefanie b "I am tired of people complaining in this industry. Covid changed many things, but I am grateful to travel again. We took a family trip out to Vancouver Island with Flair. Captain Tyler McDermot was wonderful and after the flight, I was invited for a picture with him. The crew were wonderful, check in was quick and our flight on time. Great job Flair!!!" Gail G "Booked online and purchased carryon only. Checked in online to avoid paying checkin fee at airport. Downloaded movies and brought my own snacks. People need to realize that Flair base prices only include your seat. Their website clearly states all extra costs. It would be great if Flair continues their Windsor to BC route throughout the whole year. I booked taking a chance, after reading all of the negative reviews about cancelling, I guess I was one of the lucky ones. It's nice to have a direct flight to BC from Windsor and avoid paying three times more, with other airlines and having connections, at either Pearson or Metro.” monicahumenny Wrapping Up Have you taken a Flair flight recently? How was your experience? Do you like how budget-friendly it is? Or do you feel like they could add something more to their services? If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: This Is My Experience With Eva Air! This Is What I Felt About Aruba Airlines! Fly In Style: Your Ultimate Guide To Lot Polish Airlines Adventures! Journey To The Skies: Exploring The Legacy Of Northwest Airlines!

BY  sagnika Jul 26, 2023

Craving an indulgent and immersive travel experience and yet cannot travel? We have got Velvet Escape Travel Blog to satisfy your visual and mental cravings! This blog is the ultimate example of perfection, branching out in diverse ways related to tourism and travel. As a Blog, it encapsulates a complete version of all travel aspects, such as the interests of tourists, trending travel destinations, promoting different marketing aspects, and others. In this article, you will find a discussion of detailed elements that highlight the Velvet Escape Travel Blog. This site addresses and answers all your concerns. It has detailed travel stories about city trips, adventure sports, offbeat locations, leisure experiences, and much more. You will find the blog a refreshing and welcoming website for travel plans and advice compared to others in the market. Overview Award-winning luxury travel website Velvet Escape Travel Blog offers a selection of destination guides, travel schedules, hotel and tour reviews, and motivational travel narratives to help you have luxurious yet immersive travel experiences. Velvet Escape is founded and published by Amsterdam, Netherlands-based Keith Jenkins. He had a prosperous ten-year career in investment and corporate banking. He quit his job in the business world in 2008 to pursue his passions for writing, travel, and photography. As a result, in December 2008, the blog Velvet Escape was founded. Velvet Escape Travel Blog: Why Should You Check It Out? The writings of Jenkins are detailed regarding getting an overview of the travel experiences. He is detailed about his knowledge and uses blogs to connect with his readers by answering their questions in the comments. He makes it a point to inform travelers about buildings, notable structures related to history, and other educational content. The blog details sustainable travel experiences and how Jenkins explores the world by visiting different destinations. The blogs also help connect with other travelers, find deals on booking tickets and accommodations, and learn about people's experiences. You get to know a lot, especially about locations and how to visit them. What Is A Velvet Escape Travel Blog? The Velvet Escape Travel Blog has the logo "Go explore. Experience. And be inspired." which presents a fresh perspective on traveling. The new generation of travelers considers travel in a different light where it is more of part of lifestyle instead of just a little break. Here comes a beam of light as an inspiration for travelers for adventure or leisure. The unique element of storytelling is comprehensive information, personal experience, and guidance for diverse travel experiences. The blogs on Velvet Escape Travel Blog create an immersive travel experience with stunning visual images, detailed backgrounds of the locations, and adventure. They also make customized travel experiences regarding the personal experience of the travelers who write the blog. Founder The founder of the Velvet Escape Travel Blog website is Keith Jenkins, also the Chief Executive Officer of Ambassador. The Ambassador is a leading network for content creators and professional travel bloggers worldwide. He is also the publisher of the Velvet Escape Travel Blog website. The website is an award-filming site and has successfully influenced millions of people across the globe. Jenkins is based in Amsterdam, Netherlands. He has been an investment and corporate banker for a decade; however, it was in 2008 that he embarked on a new journey. His journey consisted of pursuing his passion for traveling by traveling, photography, and writing about it. In 2008, he founded the blog called Velvet Escape Travel because it created diverse avenues for travelers like him. Services Available On Velvet Escape Travel Blog Various services are available on the blog founded by Jenkins because it focuses on writing detailed, fun, and inclusive articles. He also tries to create an experience for the readers so they can use it as their guide. The significant features of the blog are services, shops, as well as ambassadors. In relevance to services, you will find a variety of marketing and advertising services. Velvet Escape has made a significant contribution to different travel experiences and approaches. iambassador is a premier travel blogger network connecting bloggers worldwide based on content services and digital marketing. The product or the destination of travel is essential. Hence, it is through this network encourages and advises tourists and travelers to take on that dream trip. The Velvet Escape blog is also a store that sells travel accessories and travel souvenirs. The different products you can buy from it connect you further with travel experiences and destinations. Why Is The Velvet Escape Travel Blog Different? The blog makes travel an inclusive experience with a wealth of propitious information. The articles written on the website are a collection of hotel experiences, travel itineraries, tour reviews, destination guides, as well as luxury stays. As a practical resource, blogs are for thoughtful travelers seeking advice and travel ideas. The articles have a lot of details for a month-long or a week-long vacation, which is quite an idea for people who want a customized itinerary instead of just following tours and trip packages available in the market. The blog is also successful in highlighting offbeat locations so that travelers seeking a unique experience can develop an idea. Topics related to food and wine, nature, beaches, travel stories, culture & history, plane views, and city trips are all there on the website. Types Of Blogs On The Website The collection of articles is diverse on the website, especially concerning the features related to travel destinations and experiences. Offbeat and stunning locations are highlighted in the articles written by Jenkins. History & Culture The range of destinations this site covers under history and culture is diverse. The man's personal experience on this platform, along with practical guidance and advice for the people, is immensely helpful. The articles are compelling from the perspective of travel bloggers who love traveling. Luxury & Wellness The articles are written by Jenkins and sponsor products related to wellness and luxury. You will find guidance when affiliating with different businesses and brands. Some blogs inform about the writer's personal choices and how they can guide others. Nature The blogs about nature are pretty descriptive and help readers understand visitors' preferences in different locations. It is essential to identify how the writer highlights the significance of nature in his blogs. Whenever he visits different places, he discusses nature and the way it influences nature. It is unique because many travel blogs do not share their personal experiences. City Trips The blogs talk about the trips concerning the locations and how you can go around the city. A detailed description of the town, the transportation, and the local resources are shared by the author. How Does Velvet Escape Travel Generate Content? Among the most often asked questions about travel are beaches, city trips, food and wine, luxury and wellness, culture and history, nature, plane views, road trips, and travel stories, especially from first-time visitors. This is a friendly and helpful guide for travelers to use while planning their vacation. The Velvet Escape travel blog covers a variety of locations, price points, and leisure pursuits. Some of the most well-liked tourist destinations in the world are briefly described in his writings. Everybody has occasionally yearned for a change of scenery. You have to get away from the stresses and anxieties of everyday urban life, even if only for a day or a few weeks. You should go to one of the many breathtaking places if beaches and the ocean are part of your idea of the perfect vacation. A trip to a city to see some famous buildings and structures is something you should do if you're interested in culture and history. Discovering new places, learning about different cultures, and experiencing different lifestyles are all made possible by travel. This fantastic resource for travelers uses the author's personal experience to create interesting and educational content. One method of creating content is to write about one's own travel experiences. In addition, he offers advice, recommendations, and anecdotes about travel based on his expertise and experience. He takes his own pictures, films, and footage in order to produce content. In addition, research is done to gather data from different sources. Furthermore, he works with numerous companies and brands. Conclusion Please read the article to learn about the Velvet Escape Travel Blog and the features of the blog. Comment below regarding your favorite blog article in the Velvet Escape Travel Blog. Read Also: Lifestyle Blog For Women Family Fashion Food Travel: Why You Should Follow Them! Things To Know About Glasgow Foodie: Foodie Explorers Food Blog Travel Blog Momondo Flights: Should You Try This Platform For Booking Flights?

BY  Sibashree Sep 10, 2024

The year 2023 fall saw the return of Lake Manly or the Death Valley National Park lake. The Badwater Basin is the lowest point in the Death Valley, as well as the entire North America. It is located 282 feet below sea level, and today, the world knows it as a dry and salted flat.   However, a massive downpour caused by Hurricane Hilary in fall 2023 and the “Atmospheric River Effect” this year made the dried lake appear magically. Lastly, the lake had a resurrection in 2005, and suddenly, this trace of life in the barren land looks and feels surreal.   But why did this lake appear all of a sudden? Will it stay? What can you see while exploring the area near Lake Manly? This article tries to find answers to all your questions. Further, there is a sneak peek into what NASA shows about the ghostly and ancient lake at Death Valley National Park.   Has The Ancient Death Valley National Park Lake Returned?  Yes, the ancient Death Valley National Park lake made a comeback. Hurricane Hilary hit Death Valley on 19th-21st August 2023, and its remnants caused more rainfall than the average yearly rainfall (2 inches) at the national park.   Further, a Californian storm or the atmospheric river effect on 4th-7th February 2024 caused 1.5 inches of rainfall. Altogether, the amount of rainfall in this park from the second half of 2023 and the first half of 2024 was 4.9 inches.1   This sudden and unprecedented rainfall caused the rise of Death Valley National Park Lake. In mid-February 2024, the lake had one-foot deep water. Further, it was 6 miles long and 3 miles wide.   NASA has published a series of three images of Lake Manly. The pictures showed the difference between the barren, salted land in July and the waterlogged area in August after the rampage of Hurricane Hilary and Atmospheric River. Further, the pictures also depicted that the lake was almost the same size in August 2023 and February 2024.   Moreover, according to the latest update in April 2024, the lake is getting a steady number of visitors. The reflection of the surrounding peaks looks out of the world in the tranquil water of the lake. In addition, thanks to the rainfall and the resurgence of the lake, the national park had an abundance of wildflowers this season.   Elyscia Letterman2, an interpretive park ranger with the National Park Service (NPS), has mentioned,   “It's quite beautiful, especially at sunrise and sunset when you have these beautiful reflections from the mountains around the lake. There's some snow on the mountaintops. So, the reflection of the snow-capped mountains on the water is very beautiful. It doesn't feel like you're in Death Valley.”   Again, the Amargosa River keeps feeding the Badwater Basin area from the south. With its increased water level, it can help the Death Valley National Park lake to stay. Having said that, let’s discuss a few details about how Hurricane Hillary and the atmospheric river effect impacted the lake formation and overall national park.   Hurricane Hillary Hits Death Valley National Park  https://www.instagram.com/p/C2AgKKwLHMn/ The Death Valley National Park experienced flooding after a massive downpour started at Gower Gulch near Zabriskie Point. The rainfall took place on 20th August 2023, and the crew started assessing the havoc in the park on 21st August 2023.   Thanks to the flooding, Lake Manly made a comeback. However, some of the backcountry roads were completely washed. In addition, there was a major loss of pavements and undercutting.   “The lake was deep enough to kayak for a few weeks after Hurricane Hilary, but unfortunately people couldn’t come enjoy it then. Every road in the park was damaged by flash floods, and it took two months to open the first road into the park. Now most of the main roads are open, so it’s a great time to come visit!”   - Ranger Abby Wines on the return of the Death Valley National Park Lake after Hurricane Hillary  Atmospheric River Effect In Death Valley National Park  The Death Valley National Park was already recovering from the impact of Hurricane Hilary. Suddenly, in February 2024, a Californian storm or the atmospheric river effect hit the national park. The storm fed the Badwater Basin with water, which enhanced the temporary lake.  This storm also pulled down snow from the mountain peaks, and it came down to around 4000 feet in the park.   Will The Ancient Death Valley National Park Lake Stay?   Despite the endorheic nature of the Badwater Basin, the Death Valley National Park Lake is transitional or ephemeral in nature. The evaporation rate here is higher than the water feed it gets. However, the downpours caused by the August 2023 and February 2024 natural calamities have brought all the changes. We now have a lake that shows some potential to stay.   Again, the Amargosa River has flowing water at a high level. So, the basin is getting constantly fed by water from the south. As a result, the lake still stands in the driest place for a span of more than 6 months. In 2005, when the lake reappeared for the last time, it only lasted a week. This time, there is a new scenario around the lake and how long the water will last.  Having said that, nothing specific can be mentioned about how long the lake will stay as the rate of evaporation is still high. Even as I write this article, I realize that the lake may not remain fit for kayaking for long. Still, the lake is likely to exist for some time, offering visitors a renewed site of attraction in the national park.   Overall, the resurgence of the lake and its stay is an “extremely rare event,” as mentioned by the National Park Service authority.   Exploring The Death Valley National Park Lake Area   There is no denying that all roads in the Death Valley National Park lead to the ancient lake, which has come to life. Once you are done taking photographs or seeing the reflection of the surrounding peaks in the water, you can take a walk around the area.   The shores of the lake have a white boundary wall, which is formed because of a high concentration of salt. Further, the Panamint Range, Black Mountains, and barren land surrounding the lake offer you an other-worldly experience.   Moreover, you can explore the nearby looking points in the park to have diverse views of the place. Enjoy your time at the oasis of Death Valley!   What NASA Found About The Death Valley National Park Lake? (April 2024)  NASA showed the change in the Death Valley National Park Lake from February to March using SWOT, a U.S.-French Surface Water and Ocean Topography satellite. In just six weeks, the water level came down to 1.5 feet from 3 feet.   The NASA report has further highlighted the temporary nature of the lake and the fact that a gust of a strong wind can move this lake by a couple of miles.  Final Words   With “billions of gallons of water,” the Death Valley National Park lake is alive again. The sapphire blue water in the midst of a barren land shows the magic of nature. In February 2024, the lake became a go-to destination for kayaking, thanks to its 1-foot-deep water. However, by March, the lake was closed to opening, and in April, the lake was transformed into a waterbody of a few inches’ depth.   This has also become a tourist attraction thanks to the most amazing sunrise and sunset views.  Further, there is no assurance or specific information available about how long the lake will last. So, make it to the Death Valley National Park till the lake lasts. Also, don’t forget to share your experience as you explore the Badwater Basin area around the ghostly (now alive) lake. Also read Connemara National Park: Where Guglielmo Marconi Invented The First Full Duplex Radio. You Can’t MISS These Best Songs for Instagram Travel Reels (Real People, Real Choice 2024) Lake Clark National Park And Preserve: Very Few Know How It Preserves The Alaskan Spirit And Culture.