Fun Things To Do In Pigeon Forge

BY  Sibashree Jan 22, 2026

Is Koh Tao safe? Now, this is the question everyone is asking about Koh Tao these days. The reason? This island of stunning beauty has suddenly become the “Death Island.” Since 2014, the news of foreign tourists dying or going missing on the island has been common. But this is not the season that makes Koh Tao famous. Let me share with you a fascinating story about how I felt when I visited Koh Tao for the first time. We really had our toes in the sand, and you have to be here to understand how this island is the crown jewel of the sustainable tourism and green economy initiatives of the Tourism Authority of Thailand. “What adds to Koh Tao’s success is the whole-of-society mindset shift that we have seen over the past few years. We’ve seen an evolution from just trying to raise profits and attract more tourists to creating a more sustainable and environmentally conscious tourism experience that truly makes Koh Tao unique. I am thrilled to see the results of UNDP BIOFIN’s work that has contributed to this change and will continue to support local communities in working towards Thailand’s ambitious climate priorities.” - Renaud Meyer, Resident Representative for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Thailand. BIOFIN stands for Biodiversity Finance Initiative. It has played an active role in convincing the diving and fishing communities here about the importance of protecting the biodiversity and marine life. Nevertheless, this Turtle Island is gorgeous, and it is also pristine. So, along with celebrated locations such as Raja Ampat in Indonesia, Koh Tao is also emerging as a place to encounter stunning marine life and beautiful reefs. The First Impression At Koh Tao I don’t know whether it is the “Fortune favors the brave” trick or something else. But I visited Koh Tao in July with my girl gang and found a clear sky to our greatest surprise. However, the experience at Mae Haad Pier was not that pleasant. The crowd was endless when we were trying to get off the ferry. The men were bare-skinned, and they were hauling their backpacks. Furthermore, a few Thai men kept asking, “Where are you going?” It was very confusing whether to answer them first or jump off the ferry first! I am an introvert, and suddenly there was too much energy around me. So, it took me a while to get accustomed to the crowd. But after that, it was absolutely okay. Koh Tao Is Growing: And We Saw How The Infrastructure Is Changing Do you know that the first adventure travelers arrived at Koh Tao in 1977? They took the coconut and fish transport boats to reach this island for diving. Since then, infrastructure development on Koh Tao has been significant. The concrete streets are clean. Also, many shops, restaurants, and hotels looked new. Also, the shops' advertising was quite cool, and along with the pharmacies and cafes serving espresso, there were motorbike rental shops. Now, motorbikes are the best way if you want to explore this small town at your own pace. The rental price starts at around 150-200 THB per day. Another great thing was the availability of ATMs. It was such a relief! Moreover, the crowd buzz was just right as it was the rainy season. It was enough to soak in the local culture. However, we always got our spots at the cafes and restaurants. In addition, we were using the TrueMove connection, and the coverage was quite decent throughout the island. Getting Around Koh Tao The island is walkable. Furthermore, moving around was pretty easy with the motorbikes, taxis, and ferris being frequent. Also, Koh Tao is close to the Koh Samui Airport and the Chumphon Airport on the Thai mainland. So, since it does not have its own airport, the initial transit can be challenging.  What Are The Things To Do On Koh Tao?  Scuba diving, hiking, snorkeling, and exploring the beaches are the best things to do on Koh Tao. Here are more details. 1. Scuba Diving You can get your PADI certification, and there are as many as 84 dive schools on the island. “We produce around 100000 PADI certfied divers every year. This is an affordable place and the price you get here is matchless.”  • Kim, Big Blue Diving,  Other diving companies we got to know about there were Roctopus Dive, Goodtime Adventure, and Ban’s Diving Resort. However, diving here has seasonal specialties. For example, January to May is the best time for diving. Having said that, February is the month if you want to enjoy a swim with the whale sharks. 2. Hiking Koh Tao has many beautiful viewpoints, and you can easily hike along any of them. These viewpoints are:  Two View  John Suwan Viewpoint  Chalok Viewpoint  Mango Bay Viewpoint  Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint  Love @ Khao Tao Viewpoint  We started our day early so we could enjoy the fresh air and complete the walk before it got crowded.  3. Exploring The Koh Tao Beaches We were impressed to witness the initiatives to protect the beaches of the island. Stunning is an understatement for them. Also, for lazy travelers like us, these beaches are the best things about Koh Tao. Now, you will get many beaches with palm trees, white sands, and aqua blue water. However, I have seldom seen beaches being so sincere about the recycling programs and cleanups. We relaxed in our hammocks and allowed the sea breeze to caress our cheeks and hair. Furthermore, among the beaches we visited, Ao Chalok Ban Kao and Sai Daeng were my silent favorites. Those beaches were quiet. Also, as we visited Koh Tao in the monsoon, the more touristy ones, such as Tanote Beach, Sairee Beach, and Ao Luek, were not that crowded. These are usually full during the peak months. Pro Tip The sand is beautiful on Koh Tao beaches. But it is not smooth. So, you will need your flip flops. Chaloke Harbor was an exception. But most beaches have the remains of the bleached coral. So, make sure that you don’t cut your feet.  Moreover, these beaches offer amazing sunrise and sunset views. 4. Nightlife On Koh Tao We were on Koh Tao till around 9 PM, and by then the bars had come to life, and we could hear the rock and pop music they were playing. The quiet vibe of the island is gone after sundown. The groups of divers and young tourists here get busy with tropical cocktails and local beers. Also, the fire dancers were putting up their shows. One more thing I learned from a local pub owner. You can be a part of the Pub Crawl here three times a week. Friday, Wednesday, and Monday are the days. Along with all these activities, you can also try ocean kayaking and rock climbing. Furthermore, snorkeling at Hin Wong Reef is a lot of fun.  How Is Koh Tao Making A Successful Ecotourism Movement  It was fascinating to see how all the people and local businesses of Koh Tao came together to reduce the impact on the environment. With around 500000 visitors here every year, the small island gets a lot of waste. Most wastage comes from the packaging and construction work. Food waste and bathroom waste amounts are also quite high. Now, non-profit organizations such as Trash Hero Koh Tao are working to make the island clean. They encourage the locals and the visitors to get involved in the reef and beach clean-up drives. When you clean the waste with your own hands and see what the plastic bags, bottles, and straws do to the sea and the marine animals, you will never throw them carelessly. Furthermore, the hotels here play a proactive role. We chose Ban’s Diving Resort for our stay, and they have a separate section to make detergents and soaps from organic waste. Also, they compost the fruit scraps and vegetable waste and use the gray water, along with sorting the recyclables. Moreover, the food they serve at their restaurants has vegetables from their organic gardens. Is Koh Tao Safe To Visit?  Back to where I started this article. The recent cases of tourist deaths have been a bad patch for the reputation of Koh Tao. Though it has been years now, it felt weird seeing such a scarce presence of police here. I think I last saw some officers at Mae Haad Pier. Also, it was even more alarming here to know that most officers don’t understand or speak English. However, the local people here and business owners here are so committed to maintaining the sanctity of the place that we did not have any problem during our stay. We were a bunch of women, and we never even felt unsafe. Tips To Follow If You Want To Visit Koh Tao Safely  Are you renting a motorbike? You must click all the scratches on the vehicle, and your rental agency will need a photocopy of your passport.  Furthermore, keep the international driver's permit for motorcycle driving handy and wear your helmet. Moreover, don’t forget to get travel insurance. You cannot stroll at night alone. Be with a group, and even if you are going to the bay alone in the daytime, keep your hotel staff member informed. Be mindful of how much you are drinking. The buckets can seem fun, but they are traps, and sometimes they are drugged. When you are on the speedboats, you have to wear life jackets. It does not matter if you can swim or not. Koh Tao Is Beautiful But A Bit Overhyped  Koh Tao deserves all the accolades for its sustainable tourism initiatives. However, I think it is a bit overhyped if you are not diving. For a diver, it is an excellent place to get the PADI certification and explore the coral reefs. The beaches are good, but not something that you won’t find anywhere in Bangkok or anywhere else. So, it’s a 5/10 kind of experience for me. What’s your take on this? Read Also: What Is The Ultimate Luang Prabang Itinerary Planner For Solo Travelers? What Are The Best Restaurants In Cape Town? What Are The Best São Tomé Eco-Lodges?

BY  Abdul Aziz Mar 27, 2024

In search of the best yacht charter, one must consider a balance of luxury, bespoke service, and captivating destinations. This article sets sail on that quest, guiding you through the essentials of top-tier yachts, the breadth of destinations, and the caliber of service that converts good charters into great ones. Immediate expectations? Quality vessels, unforgettable locations, and tailored experiences. Let’s unveil how to anchor down your ideal yacht charter without getting adrift in a sea of options. Key Takeaways Dream Yacht Charter provides an extensive selection of luxury yachts and tailored sailing itineraries across multiple global destinations, ensuring a customized and opulent sea voyage. An array of onboard amenities and activities, safety measures, and personalized services enhance the luxury yacht charter experience, catering to diverse preferences, including family-friendly and private intimate options. Yacht charters offer the opportunity to explore both renowned and lesser-known locales, such as the vibrant Caribbean or the tranquil hidden gems of the Mediterranean, complete with cultural tours, water sports, and gourmet dining. Decoding The Dream Yacht Charter Experience A luxury yacht charter with Dream Yacht Charter opens a door to a world of opulence and adventure. With an extensive global footprint, Dream Yacht Charter offers a variety of sailing destinations, including: Americas Asia Atlantic Bahamas Caribbean Indian Ocean Mediterranean Scandinavia South Pacific The extensive choices are available in more destinations than any other yacht charter company sets them apart, fulfilling every sailor’s dream. Their vast fleet of charter yachts and expertise facilitate the selection of the perfect yacht charter that meets individual requirements. Whether you’re planning a short-term getaway or a longer, luxurious vacation, the flexible charter options cater to all. The tailored approach to yacht charter planning ensures a stress-free process, leading to a perfect vacation on the water. Choosing Your Ideal Yacht The selection of an appropriate yacht significantly contributes to the overall luxury yacht charter experience. The diverse fleet offered by Dream Yacht Charter includes models and manufacturers suited to every type of sailor. Whether you prefer a luxury yacht, catamaran, or sailboat, you can find the perfect match for your specific trip type and group size. The fleet comprises various yachts classified as super premier, less than 12 months old, and premier, less than three years old, guaranteeing that each vessel is well-maintained and high-quality. Dream Yacht Charter enhances the charter experience by providing: Personalized provisioning lists Services and additional options, including water toys, early boarding, and delivery sailing All tailored to your preferences. Destinations To Die For Exploring chosen destinations during your luxury yacht charter can markedly enrich your sailing experience. Some of the most coveted yacht charter destinations in the Caribbean include the British Virgin Islands, St. Lucia, and the Grenadines. The British Virgin Islands, known as the boating capital of the Caribbean, offer a mosaic of protected waters and a rich cultural tapestry, from Arawak legacies to British colonial history. The verdant tropical environments and volcanic terrains of the Windward Islands allure sailors, while the Leeward Islands boast a blend of Caribbean charm and colonial European heritage, with a range of historical and cultural sites to explore. Service Beyond Sailing A remarkable yacht charter experience is not just about sailing. It’s also about the service you receive, the gourmet meals, and engaging cultural experiences. At Dream Yacht Charter, we offer: A professionally trained crew, including a skipper and a chef For larger yachts, a hostess A smooth sailing experience Exceptional service Guests aboard can indulge in a gourmet dining experience with meals that rival top-tier restaurants, with the flexibility to tailor ingredients and menus to personal tastes. The exclusive itineraries cater to guests’ preferences, providing unique destination tours and the opportunity to explore at their own pace for a one-of-a-kind yachting adventure. Crafting The Ultimate Luxury Yacht Charter Itinerary A well-crafted itinerary is key to an unforgettable yacht charter vacation. A luxury yacht charter itinerary should strategically outline the cruising time between destinations, paired with a diverse array of activities for each stop to ensure a balanced experience. While a detailed itinerary is important, it is equally vital to allow flexibility for spontaneous adventures or relaxation opportunities that can arise during the journey. Consulting with a yacht broker can provide local insights to personalize the itinerary and ensure it aligns with your preferences and interests. Tailored Trip Planning Your yacht charter vacation should mirror your personal preferences and interests. Whether you dream of snorkeling in the clear waters of the Maldives or attending exclusive events along the Adriatic Coast, your itinerary can be tailored to include your preferred destinations and activities. With the help of professional brokers and companies, your yacht charter itinerary can be expertly tailored, providing inspiration, understanding your individual requirements, and balancing luxury and adventure. Tailored yacht charters offer the following benefits: Privacy: Guests can visit exclusive anchorages and serene environments. Personalized services: Guests can enjoy customized culinary preferences and other personalized services. Specialized activities: Yacht charters offer activities such as scuba diving with on-board equipment and specially crafted kid-friendly itineraries. These benefits cater to the specific interests of children, teens, and adults alike. Onboard Amenities And Entertainment Onboard amenities and entertainment options can greatly elevate your luxury yacht charter experience. Luxury yachts feature a variety of water sports activities including jet skiing, paddleboarding, snorkeling, scuba diving, water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. Superyachts may include specialized water toys such as tenders, jet skis, water-powered jet packs, kayaks, towable inflatables, and waterslides for enhanced guest enjoyment. Onboard entertainment typically comprises flat-screen TV/DVD player entertainment centers, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and linen services in private, spacious guest suites. Some superyachts boast unexpected amenities, like a helipad, a helicopter, or a rooftop golf tee, offering a truly exclusive and luxurious charter experience. Navigating The World’s Elite Superyacht Fleet Superyachts represent the pinnacle of luxury and exclusivity in the yacht charter industry. These magnificent vessels are known for their luxurious amenities and bespoke experiences, setting them apart from regular yachts. Having access to the world’s largest superyacht fleet, managed by IYC, provides clients with a wide selection of vessels, ensuring a match for their personal preferences and charter needs. The grandeur and variety of the fleet enhance the exclusivity and opulence of a superyacht charter experience. The Superyacht Experience Boarding a superyacht, you’ll notice every minute detail is meticulously taken care of, culminating in a genuinely luxurious experience. Superyachts boast luxurious staterooms equipped with amenities like giant flat-screen TVs, fine linens, and ensuite bathrooms. Many superyachts feature onboard hot tubs and swimming pools, enhancing the luxury water-based experience even while at sea. Relaxation on a superyacht is not limited to lounging on the deck, with facilities like saunas and steam rooms for guests to unwind and detoxify. Even the dining experience on a superyacht is bespoke, catering to diverse palates with meals that can be tailored to special dietary needs and feature the chef’s specialties. Selecting a Superyacht for Your Vacation The selection of the ideal superyacht for your vacation transcends considerations of size and style. It’s about selecting a vessel that aligns with your personal preferences, from the onboard facilities to the services provided by the crew. Whether you prefer a classic style or a modern design, motorized or sailing, or tailored for expeditions, there’s a superyacht for you. Luxury superyachts boast various specific features and amenities, and the ideal choice will include those important to you, such as pools, spas, or entertainment facilities. The size of the superyacht should accommodate all guests comfortably, necessitating enough cabins in the appropriate configuration. The crew onboard a superyacht significantly shapes the charter experience, often leading guests to repeatedly choose a superyacht based on their exceptional crew. Private Yacht Charters: An Intimate Voyage Private yacht charters serve as an excellent choice for those in search of a more intimate and customizable sailing experience. Renowned for their ability to offer an intimate and highly customizable sailing experience, private yacht charters grant exclusive access to: serene and untouched locales hidden coves private marinas secluded beaches These locations are often unreachable by larger vessels. A private yacht charter ensures a high degree of privacy and personalized service, allowing guests to enjoy their voyage without intrusions on luxury yacht charters. Secluded Splendor One of the major draws of private yacht charters is the ability to explore the lesser-known corners of the world. These yachts offer personalized itineraries that can include recommendations for secluded anchorages, exclusive marinas, and specialty restaurants. The use of tenders and other auxiliary boats can extend the reach of private yacht charters, affording guests unique opportunities for intimate excursions and relaxing in tranquility away from the throngs. Personalized Service and Privacy Private yacht charters prioritize delivering personalized service and upholding privacy. These yachts often come with a dedicated crew to cater to passengers’ needs, ensuring personalized service and a high level of comfort throughout the journey. The crew can provide expert guidance, assist with activities, and offer personalized dining experiences to make the trip memorable and tailored to guests’ preferences. Private yacht charters are preferred by celebrities and VIPs due to the privacy, security, and luxury they offer, as well as the ability to accommodate specific needs while ensuring confidentiality. Family-Friendly Yacht Charters: Fun for All Ages Families considering a yacht charter have numerous factors to account for to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all age groups. Family-friendly yacht charters offer a unique opportunity for families to enjoy a luxurious and fun-filled vacation together, catering to all ages. Many yachts come equipped with child safety nets and childproofing measures to ensure the safety and security of younger guests. Special features such as kids’ cabins, game consoles, and movie libraries can be found on family-oriented yachts to enhance the onboard experience for children. Activities and Safety on Board Family-friendly yachts provide a wide range of family-oriented activities and safety measures on board. These yachts often provide: Adjoining cabins, which enhance security and convenience for guests traveling with children Extra safety rails and safety netting or gates to prevent falls Childproof areas These essential safety features ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for families on board. Choosing the Right Yacht and Destination Selecting a suitable yacht and destination plays a vital role in creating a memorable family yacht charter vacation. The perfect yacht should offer: Child-friendly accommodations such as twin or double beds Options for cribs or bassinets Convertible layouts to suit various family configurations Amenities for elderly guests or those with impairments, including lifts or accessible cabin locations In addition to the right yacht, selecting destinations known for their family appeal can ensure a plethora of activities that cater to all age groups. Some popular family-friendly destinations include: British Virgin Islands Amalfi Coast Alaska Maine Bahamas Sail the Mediterranean in Grandeur The Mediterranean, famed for its sun-soaked coasts, historic shores, and vibrant cultures, is a premier yacht charter destination. From Spain, Italy, Croatia, Montenegro, and Greece, to Turkey, each location features a mix of exciting islands, chic resorts, and stunning natural reserves, including Sardinia and Corsica renowned for places like Costa Smeralda, Cala Luna, Tavolara Island, Lavezzi Islands, and Scandola Nature Reserve. Mediterranean Marvels: Croatia and Greece Among the vast and enchanting regions of the Mediterranean, Croatia, and Greece distinguish themselves with their unique experiences and sights. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a beginner, the Dalmatian Coast and Greek Isles offer clear waters, historic sites, and vibrant cultures, suitable for yacht charter guests. The Dalmatian Coast and the Greek archipelago are celebrated for their sailing opportunities and distinctive beauty. Uncovering Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Mediterranean Spots The Mediterranean offers a wealth of hidden gems for those in search of unique sights and solitude during their yacht journey. The Adriatic Sea, particularly its northern coast, and the quaint towns of Slovenia beckon yacht charter guests with an intoxicating blend of tranquil natural beauty and rich local cultures. From the natural paradise of Dugi Otok in Croatia to the serene haven of Telendos Island in Greece, these secluded Mediterranean locales offer exclusive experiences for those willing to venture off the beaten path. Embark on a Caribbean Adventure Known for its clear blue waters and vibrant culture, the Caribbean presents a myriad of vibrant and diverse opportunities for yacht charters. With various starting points, including Belize, the Virgin Islands, and Antigua, the Caribbean offers a plethora of options for sailors of all skill levels to enjoy easy sailing conditions against a backdrop of lush, verdant hills. Island-Hopping in Paradise The journey through the Caribbean islands is an adventure unto itself. The Bahamas, known for their crystal-clear turquoise waters, are a yacht charter haven. Boasting over 700 islands, the Bahamas offer an extensive playground for island-hopping, with secluded cays and sheltered coves awaiting discovery. Water Sports and Shore Excursions Beyond its beautiful beaches and clear waters, the Caribbean also serves as a playground for water sports and land-based excursions. Kayaking and paddleboarding allow guests to explore the Caribbean’s serene bays and mangrove tunnels, showcasing regions like the Spanish Virgin Islands and the Exuma Cays of the Bahamas. Snorkeling and scuba diving in areas around the Norman Island Indians and Tobago Cays Marine Park reveal the Caribbean’s diverse aquatic life. Summary A luxury yacht charter is not just a vacation, but an opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of unparalleled experiences. Whether you’re exploring exotic destinations, sailing on world-class yachts, or enjoying bespoke services, your journey will be one to remember. So why wait? Set sail and embark on a captivating journey that promises the ultimate in luxury, adventure, and tranquility. Frequently Asked Questions What is the average cost of chartering a yacht? The average cost of chartering a yacht varies based on the base prices. Which company makes the best yacht? Based on the yachting industry, Bertram Yachts is considered one of the best choices for luxury yachts, with a history dating back to 1960. What is the most successful charter yacht? The most successful charter yacht is the Bali 4.6 and Bali 4.8, which consistently perform well and are loved by charter guests. The Bali Catspace is also a top performer in Dream Yacht Charter's lineup. What factors should I consider when choosing a yacht? Consider your trip type, group size, personal preferences, amenities, and services provided when choosing a yacht. These factors will help you make an informed decision. What is a superyacht? A superyacht is a larger and more luxurious version of a regular yacht, featuring bespoke experiences, luxurious amenities, and a full-service crew. Read Also: 3 Ways To Enjoy Spring At Zion National Park Top 11 Unique Things To Do In Flagstaff Things To Do In Maryland – Free Places To Visit In Maryland

BY  Arnab Feb 15, 2023

If you are looking for the best places to visit this holiday, look at Nepal. It is one of the most popular countries in the world today. There are a lot of exciting things that you can see in this country. It offers outstanding scenery that will give you an incredible experience in Nepal. Nepal is an excellent place for all tourists who love nature and wildlife experiences. Consider spending about 7 - 21 days exploring all the great things Nepal offers.  Checkout 5 Best Things To Do In Nepal Here are some exciting things you can do when visiting this beautiful country.  1. Trekking in Nepal Nepal offers some of the best trekking routes in the world. This place is suitable for both novice and experienced trekkers who are coming from many different countries in the world. If you only have a short visit time in Nepal, try the 4-day Poonhill trek, which offers beautiful scenery of Nepal. You can also try the Everest Base Camp Trek and also Manaslu trek. Both spots are the best adventure treks in Nepal. They offer pristine nature and an incredible trekking experience for all tourists. 2. Peak Climbing Some people are interested in climbing some famous mountains in Nepal. You can try Mera Peak or Island Peak to get the best climbing experience with minimum experience. Both peaks can reach up to 6,000 meters. They are suitable for people with minimum or even no mountaineering experience. You will enjoy one of the most challenging adventures in your lifetime. Yala peak is another interesting peak that you can visit when you are in Nepal. It offers an excellent view of Shishapangma mountain, which is about 8,000 meters. It is the highest mountain in Tibet.  3. Cultural Tours There are a lot of interesting cultural tours that are available in Nepal. You can try some of these tours to explore the beauty of the ancient traditions in Nepal. Most of these tours will bring you to some famous cities in this country, such as Kathmandu, Nagarkot, Dhulikhel, Pokhara, Lumbini, and Chitwan. They offer exciting stories that will be very interesting for most tourists coming to Nepal. You can find a lot of beautiful temples, shrines, archaeological interests, and a lot of fascinating cultural heritages of Nepal.  4. White Water Rafting You can come to Nepal now for the best whitewater rafting experience. You can take the Four Day Kayaking Clinique along the Seti River. It is an excellent way to explore spectacular views of the natural beauty and riverside scenery here. This tour will start at Phewa Lake, which is located in Pokhara. It is suitable for all beginners who want to learn how to do kayaking correctly before trying more difficult and dominant Himalayan rivers around this country.  Related: Best Places For River Rafting In India 5. Wildlife Tours This is another exciting thing that you can do when you are in Nepal. You can visit Chitwan National Park to explore some exciting wildlife tours here. There are more than 500 beautiful migratory birds and other fascinating animals, such s one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, etc. This park covers about 332 square miles. It is the best place to see some exciting animals, such as crocodiles, rhinos, elephants, tigers, bears, etc., while in Nepal. You can take about a 3 - 4 day trip to explore all the exciting things here.  Read Also: Top 7 Best Places To Visit In Darjeeling – Travel Guide Eight Outdoor Attractions In Pigeon Forge For Thrill-Seekers Vadodara Boy Viaan Makes Proud Climbing 14,000 Ft In The Himalayas