For Adventure Lovers: 9 Exciting Things To Do In The Smoky Mountains

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 16, 2021

You must be wondering why watches and hunting are being mentioned in the same line without any apparent connection. If you ever did take a part in hunting, you would understand how easy it is to lose track of time and even get lost when you get caught up in the moment. For many hunters, it is all about connecting to nature, so they rarely carry their smartphones with them. Therefore, the only contraption they may have, aside from hunting weapons, is a wrist watch. For this reason, some watches have been designed for hunting, and they include the following. Here are The Top 5 Wrist Watches for Hunting: A good quality hunting watch is not only  necessary for hunting, rather you can use the watch for tracking and hiking purposes. The multifunctionality and the tough nature of these watches are making them popular among many travelers and adventure sport lovers. Don't be put off by the possible price of these watches. If you do your research on websites like Raise, you can find some great deals on not just watches, but all hunting gears! Here are the five top picks hunting watches for you. 1. Suunto Traverse Alpha This tough hunting watch is made for harsh conditions. It is made out of glass reinforced with the composite case, a knurled bezel made out of stainless steel, a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, a water-resistant textile strap, and can be perfectly okay even when you dive 100m deep into the water. Suunto Traverse Alpha is a military standard watch that can withstand anything that is thrown at it.  Features It has an “Automatic Shot Detection” that records data of when and where you shoot. It has an accelerometer that analyzes your motions and gun recoil. It Has sunset and sunrise time alerts to notify you in case you lose track of time. It Has a state-of-the-art navigation system. It is night vision goggle compatible. 2. Garmin Fenix 5X Plus This is a sporty hunting watch that is designed for people who love spending most of their time outdoors hunting. It is small and light, you can barely feel it on your wrists, yet it has a rugged built that makes it tough enough to go through anything in the wild. The Garmin Fenix 5X Plus has a titanium bezel, a fiber-reinforced polymer case, and a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal lens. Features It has an Altimeter for checking the exact altitude that you are operating from. It has an in-built barometer. It has a compass for keeping track of direction. It has GPS and a TOPO map for good measure. If you want your watch to really shine during your hunting trip, you can go for personalization options. Credible brands like Mobile Mob, offer personalized design solutions for Garmin hunting watches, which are durable, attractive, and will allow you to blend form and function to a supposedly rugged hunting watch. You can choose between a range of watch strap options according to what you prefer appeals the most to you. 3. Casio Pro Trek WSD-F20-RGBAU The Casio Pro Trek is another military standard Casio hunting watch that comes with a strap made out of resin, a crystal mineral dial, and a water-resistant case that can handle 50 meters of water. The watch is available for Android and IOS, and it is built for durability. Features It comes equipped with an Altimeter. It has a barometer for checking humidity. It has a full-color map on top of having a location memory. It has GPS and a compass. 4. LBJ Outdoor Compass Watch Just as the name implies, this hunting watch is built with a specialized focus on providing the most accurate directions during hunting trips. It has a PU silicone strap, a Hardlex dial window that is enclosed in a tough plastic case that can resist water to a depth of 50 meters. Features It has an Altimeter. It comes bundled up with an in-built thermometer. It has a very advanced compass. It has an alarm that gives you hourly notifications to help keep track of time. 5. Garmin Tactix Bravo Another Garmin hunting watch makes it into the list, a true testament to how reliable a brand they are. Available for both IOS and Android, the Garmin Tactix Bravo has a steel bezel with a DLC coating, a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal surface, a nylon strap that makes the watch be water-resistant to a depth of 100m. Features It has an Altimeter. It has a barometer. It is equipped with a 3-axis compass. It has an Omni-directional EXO antenna. It has a state-of-the-art GLONASS GPS. It has a real-time breadcrumb trail that helps you retrace your footsteps if you are lost. It also has a TrackBack feature. It has support for night goggles. The screen has Garmin’s Chroma Display that makes it possible to read the screen even in direct sunlight. What to Consider When Choosing a Hunting Watch When looking for a hunting watch, there are some things you have to pay attention to, features that will make your hunting much easier. They include the following; The hunting watch must have a GPS and a compass. The reason for this is straightforward, you may get lost, and without any network coverage, getting back on track can be hard. Unless you have extensive knowledge of the woods you are hunting on, get a watch that can help with directions when you need it. It must be water-resistant. Hunting is an intense activity that takes you through tough terrain. You may find yourself needing to wade through water, or you may find yourself at the mercy of heavy rain. A water-resistant hunting watch should be able to withstand all that without any problem.   It must have a sunset and sunrise alarm feature that will help you keep track of time. It is easy to get engrossed in hunting, and you may lose your sense of time, and that could be disastrous if darkness finds you in a place you are not very familiar with.   The battery has to be durable and reliable. The last thing you would want is to end up with a dead watch on your wrist with no other means of navigating. Get a watch whose battery can last for days. Or better yet, a solar-powered one that will never go flat and takes a shorter time to recharge.   Lastly, a good hunting watch must have an in-built barometer. Keeping track of weather changes is vital for a hunter as it not only affects the accuracy of the weapons but also affects the availability of animals. Once it starts raining heavily, animals hide in places that are hard to be found. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: What is the best watch for hunters? A: The SUUNTO Traverse Alpha, is the best watch for hunting. It has GPS, Shot Technology, Storm Alarms, sunrise, sunset features,, full battery life, scratch resistant, an app to record your trips.  Q2: Does Suunto Traverse Alpha have a heart rate? A: This watch tracks the daily activity, with calories and steps and turns into a heart beat rate monitor. This comes with an optional chest or wrist belt. They are resistant to 330 feet.  Q3: How long does it take Suunto 5 to get charged? A: It takes 2 to 3 hours to fully charge an empty battery. A tip for you to keep the battery life, fix the GPS interval while recording.  Q4: Where is Suunto Based? A: Suunto Oy is a Finland company that makes and markets sports watches, dive computers, precision instruments and compasses. The Headquarter is in Vantaa, Finland.  Conclusion There is enough watch supply for every function known to man. It doesn't matter the line of work you are in or the kind of activity you spend your free time engaging in. Hunting watches are just but a small fraction of what watches in the modern world can do. They have gone beyond the traditional role of telling time. If you are a hunting enthusiast, it is time you got yourself a hunting watch. Read Also: Top Ten Southern Africa Off-The-Beaten-Path Adventures Best Time To Visit New York – Know All About New York Weather Your Next Road Trip: 4 Tips Before You Depart

BY  Subham Feb 9, 2022

As parents, you naturally want to make the most of the time you spend with your kids. After all, they won't stay young forever. Every opportunity you have to go on family trips should be taken advantage of. Thankfully, there are various activities, hobbies, and interests you can try with your family. You can go to the beach, plan a weekend hike, or book an out-of-country trip. If your family likes going on adventures and thrills, a ski trip will fit the bill. It's an excellent way to enjoy the winter season while also bonding over ski boards, sleds, and other outdoor pursuits you can do in the mountains. Just thinking about all the wonderful times you'll have is already making you all giddy and excited. However, don't forget that, like other vacations you have as a family, a courageous ski trip will require a great deal of planning and preparation. First-timers like you may find the planning stage pretty intimidating. Don't let that get in the way of piecing together a fantastic trip that every member of your family will enjoy. First Order Of Business: Choosing A Ski Resort Being new to skiing is tricky because you don't have the slightest idea of where to go or how the trip will go. Your best bet is to rely on your research skills, starting with the resort where you'll be skiing and staying. Since you'll be with your family, it's crucial that you pick a spot that suits everyone's needs and preferences. You can begin your search by identifying the different ski spots in the country or where you plan to go. You can ask your friends who've been on a ski trip before, or you can also browse the internet to get an idea of the best ski locations. Be sure to check out the best ski slopes in the US that suit first-timers like you. Look into the amenities, rates, and other related information you need to know. Smaller ski resorts may be ideal if you don't consider yourselves seasoned skiers. Such areas are relatively less crowded and have lower rates and fees. Once you've narrowed down your choices, it'll be easier to decide on a final pick. You can ask your family about their opinion or even vote on a resort to ensure you'll go with the majority's choice. Scheduling Your Trip After picking a ski location and resort, another decision you need to make is when you'll be scheduling the trip. Before anything else, you need to check with the family first about their availability. Some may need to file for a leave from work, while others need to consider their school calendar before going on a vacation. If you're after lower accommodation rates and airfares, you might want to consider avoiding holidays and school breaks. However, if the budget isn't an issue, you can plan your trip according to your preference or based on your family's availability. Up Next: Packing Your Stuff When you've pinned down your desired destination and ski resort, you should also go ahead and book your accommodation, plane tickets, and other fees you need to pay for. That way, you no longer need to worry about forgetting anything. Once you've secured those aspects, you can start packing your luggage. You may assume that since you've been on countless family trips before, you're already a pro at packing everything you need. However, don't forget that you're going skiing, and that requires a different set of items that you need to prepare and fit into your bags. To give you an idea, here are some tips you could use when packing for your first family ski trip: Prepare or shop for enough winter clothes for every member of the family. Dressing in layers is the best way to go if you want to stay warm throughout your trip. Aside from clothes, think of headwear, footwear, and other accessories such as gloves, scarves, neck gaiters, underwear, and socks. For extra cold weather, a balacava may also come in useful. This will protect your ears and cheeks, which can both suffer from frostbite if left uncovered. In addition, consider investing in thermal layers to keep your body protected against the elements. You could also check out these heated gloves for women and men for an added boost of warmth. Bring enough food and water that'll last at least until you've reached your destination. If you have babies or toddlers on formula feeding, make sure you pack all their essentials too. Ensure there's enough space for all your ski gear and accessories, including snowboards, ski gloves and goggles, and helmets. If you plan on renting your gear, make it a point to reserve it early on. There should also be a separate bag where you'll put your essential belongings, such as passports, plane tickets, IDs, wallets, and credit cards. Creating An Itinerary You may be going on a family ski trip, but that doesn't mean all you'll be doing in the mountains is skiing. Of course, you need to take breaks and alternate other activities for a well-spent holiday with your family. That's why choosing a family-friendly destination is important. You can create your own itinerary based on the activities and amenities that the resort has. For example, kids and young adults can enjoy snowmobiling, skating, dog sledding, ice climbing, and snowshoeing. They can do those in the morning before skiing or after lunch when they're fully rested. Plan the activities based on the number of days you'll be spending at the resort. Of course, you also need to consider the kids' interests and what they find exciting. On the flip side, adults can go on food and wine tours or try cross-country skiing. Don't forget to include relaxing activities such as spa treatments and other fitness or wellness features available in the area. At night, you can swim in hot tubs, enjoy a bonfire, or gather around the fireplace with hot cocoa mugs in your hands. Final Words Deciding to go on your first-ever family ski trip is one thing, but planning and preparing for it is another. You might find the process tricky, which is normal. You're not alone in such a predicament. But as they say, there's always a first time for everything. Don't worry, though, because you can surely make it through the planning and execution if you arm yourself with enough tricks and intelligent moves. You don't have to wait for another year or a few more months before you can experience the holiday of a lifetime. With the tips mentioned above, you can have a fun, memorable, and worth-all-the-fuss skiing adventure. Read Also: 7 Key Points To Remember While Planning Your Honeymoon Trip Spinnaker Resorts & How Do You Get Out Of A Spinnaker Timeshare How To Turn Your Tulum Trip Into An Unforgettable Adventure Best Sailing Holiday Locations For Enjoying Wildlife And Adventure Most Exciting Places To Visit In Bulgaria In 2022

BY  Arnab Feb 6, 2024

Bali, ah, the mere mention of this enchanting island conjures images of pristine beaches, swaying palm trees, and vibrant sunsets. But let me tell you, there's more to Bali than meets the eye. While the beaches are undeniably stunning, the real magic lies in the hidden gems waiting to be discovered beyond the coastline. So, read on to discover why you should consider Bali tour packages from a Singaporean tour agency in 2024. Unraveling Ubud: The Cultural Heart of Bali Nestled amidst lush rainforests and terraced rice paddies lies Ubud, the beating heart of Bali's cultural scene. Here, time seems to stand still as ancient temples peek out from verdant foliage and the sounds of gamelan music fill the air. Take a stroll through the bustling Ubud Market, where you'll find an array of handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Balinese souvenirs. Don't forget to visit the majestic Ubud Palace, adorned with intricate carvings and steeped in history. Embracing Serenity: The Sacred Temples of Bali Bali is home to a plethora of sacred temples, each shrouded in myth and mystique. One such temple is Tanah Lot, perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop amidst crashing waves. Witness a breathtaking sunset here as the sky erupts into a riot of colors, casting a magical glow over the ancient sea temple. For a spiritual experience like no other, head to the serene water temple of Pura Tirta Empul, where locals come to cleanse their bodies and souls in the holy spring waters. Chasing Waterfalls: Nature's Hidden Treasures Escape the hustle and bustle of the tourist trail and venture into Bali's lush hinterlands in search of cascading waterfalls. Sekumpul Waterfall, with its seven majestic tiers, is a sight to behold, accessible only by a scenic trek through the jungle. Tucked away in the northern highlands lies Gitgit Waterfall, surrounded by verdant foliage and serenaded by the symphony of nature. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear pools beneath the falls or simply bask in the tranquility of your natural surroundings. Culinary Delights: A Gastronomic Journey No trip to Bali would be complete without indulging in its tantalizing cuisine, a harmonious blend of flavors influenced by Chinese, Indian, and Indonesian culinary traditions. Sample the aromatic delights of nasi goreng (fried rice), sate lilit (spiced minced meat skewers), and bebek betutu (slow-cooked duck). For an authentic Balinese dining experience, head to a local warung (eatery) and feast on a mouthwatering spread of traditional dishes served with a side of warm hospitality. Island Adventures: Exploring Bali's Untamed Beauty For adrenaline junkies and nature enthusiasts alike, Bali offers a myriad of outdoor adventures waiting to be experienced. Dive into the depths of the ocean and discover a kaleidoscope of marine life at the vibrant coral reefs surrounding Menjangan Island. Hike to the summit of Mount Batur and be rewarded with panoramic views of the sunrise illuminating the island below. For those seeking a thrill, brave the rapids of the Ayung River on a white-water rafting expedition through Bali's lush jungle. Finding Serenity: Yoga and Wellness Retreats Bali has long been a haven for those seeking solace and spiritual rejuvenation, with its myriad of yoga and wellness retreats set amidst tranquil surroundings. Immerse yourself in the ancient practice of yoga as you salute the rising sun amidst lush rice fields or meditate on the soothing sounds of nature in a secluded jungle retreat. Indulge in luxurious spa treatments using indigenous ingredients such as volcanic clay and frangipani flowers, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and revitalized. Savoring Sunset: Bali's Best Sunset Spots As the golden hour approaches, Bali transforms into a canvas painted with hues of orange, pink, and purple, casting a spellbinding glow over its picturesque landscapes. For the ultimate sunset experience, head to the iconic clifftop temple of Uluwatu, where you'll witness the sun sinking into the horizon amidst dramatic ocean vistas. Alternatively, stake out a spot on the pristine sands of Jimbaran Beach and indulge in a romantic beachfront dinner as the sky erupts into a kaleidoscope of colors. Whether you choose to watch the sunset from a lofty perch or with your toes buried in the sand, one thing's for certain – Bali's sunsets are a sight to behold and an experience you'll never forget. Insider Tips: Navigating Bali Like a Pro Travel Off-Peak: Avoid the crowds and experience Bali's hidden gems during the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October. Rent a Scooter: Navigate Bali's winding roads with ease by renting a scooter, the preferred mode of transport for locals and travelers alike. Respect Local Customs: Embrace the spirit of Bali by dressing modestly when visiting temples and participating in traditional ceremonies. Stay in Homestays: Immerse yourself in Balinese culture by staying in a traditional homestay, where you'll receive a warm welcome and insider tips from your gracious hosts. Discovering the Essence of Bali As you bid farewell to the sun-kissed shores and verdant landscapes of Bali, you'll carry with you not just memories, but a profound sense of connection to this enchanting island. Read Also: Tattoo Bali – Tips Before Getting A Tattoo Top 7 Places To Visit For An Asian Solo Traveler A Detailed Guide On Malaysia Bay – From Traveling To Outing