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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 Jan 19, 2023

Mussoorie is a small and peaceful town which is quite popular for family, adventurers trips. Who wants to enjoy mountain-related leisure activities? The views are breathtaking, with the natural sounds of the wind gushing through the valley and mountain slopes.  Waking up to the sound of a thousand birds chirping and laying your feet in the cold water despite the extremely cold weather is what Mussoorie is all about! Showcasing a carpet of pristine natural beauty, Mussoorie is one of the best gateways for a memorable escape from city life. Multiple hotels in Mussoorie are located close to famous eateries making it super easy for you!  Do you want a complete gastronomic tour of Mussorie? Here are the best restaurants in Mussoorie you can visit. Top Restaurants In Mussoorie | Enjoy Your Food Tour  Mussoorie is the melting pot of traditional Uttarakhand cuisines and eclectic delicacies. So, on the one hand, you will love gorging on Sisunak Saag, Phannu, and Chainsoo.  On the other hand, you will find Tibetan staples like momos and thukpa at the best restaurants in Mussoorie. The restaurants here also serve continental and Chinese food.  Nevertheless, if you want to enjoy good food in a nice ambiance, these are the places you must visit.  1. Kalsang Address: Mall Road, Survey Colony, The Mall Road, Mussoorie Contact Number: 098973 39788 This restaurant is almost certainly on your list of Mussoorie's best non-vegetarian dining options. It is near Mall Road in the center of Mussoorie. The interiors are intricately designed to reflect both the local culture and British heritage. During your visit to Mussoorie, you should try authentic Chinese, Thai, and Tibetan at this restaurant, and the flavors are immensely delicious. Additionally, trying the well-known Tibetan method of combining equal amounts of vegetable broth and noodles with non-vegetarian dishes is the highlight of a meal here. After a delicious meal at one of Mussoorie's best restaurants, it is generally regarded as the ideal way to end the meal.  2. Urban Turban Bistro Address: 1st Floor, Kulri, Opposite Canara Bank, The Mall Road, Mussoorie Contact Number: 084492 84487 One of Mussoorie's best restaurants is Urban Turban Bistro, popular dishes like biryani and the best of north Indian meals are served. It offers superior service and is close to Mall Road. They have been regarded as one of the best non-vegetarian restaurants in Mussoorie for a number of years due to their commitment to halal dishes that are clean. The restaurant's exquisite interior design perfectly combines Indo-British heritage and art that stands out. The dishes are popular because of how well they are made and because they have a lot of local flavors in them. The lighting and interior, in addition to the dishes, are equally impressive. It provides a memorable dining experience for friends and family.  3. The Tavern Restaurant Address: Kulri, Survey Colony, The Mall Road, Mussoorie Contact Number:  0135 263 2829 A small rooftop restaurant near the Central Library, Mall Road is the Tavern Restaurant. One of Mussoorie's best restaurants offers Indo-British cuisine with a local influence. Get away from the main city's bustle and enjoy a rare pleasure. The restaurant's delicious cheese salads, roasted chicken, and desserts are some of the standouts.  Add in the desserts such as fruitcakes, lemon pie, and crepes, which are a real treat after a filling meal. The restaurant's interior is spacious, and the seating arrangements provide sufficient privacy and comfort. Do not forget to book hotels in Mussoorie for a serene getaway near such amazing eateries.  4. Paprika Restro Cafe Address: Chaar Dukaan Road Mussoorie Cantt, Uttarakhand Contact Number: 099686 15353 Numerous travel and food blogs highly recommend Paprika Restro cafe. It is, without a doubt, one of Mussoorie's best restaurants. Try their most popular dish, the Grilled Chicken and Pasta, which is regarded as one of Mussoorie's best non-vegetarian options. On a scorching summer day or a foggy winter morning, you can come here for a quick, cool, and refreshing meal. The lemon mint and ginger mocktail are one of the cafe's must-have beverages.  You can try a lot of sweets, like macarons, pastries, and fruit cakes. Slab-cut tables, Chinoise chairs, and dim lighting from refurbished lanterns and chandeliers from the 20th century complete the retro design of the interior of the cafe.  5. CharDukan Mussoorie Address: Rajmandi, Landour Although Chardukan is a smaller establishment than the others on the list, it serves authentic snacks which are favorable to the mountains. Staff at Mussoorie Hotels are sure to suggest this place to you.  Beautiful artwork that depicts Mussoorie's culture, heritage, and history line the walls. Due to the constant buzz on social media about upcoming events and shows, it is a popular spot for people of any age to hang out.  It is one of Mussoorie's best restaurants and has been featured in numerous travel blogs and magazines. Board games like monopoly, chess, Jenga, and scrabble are available at Chardukan. Lastly, Chardukan is one of the best places to spend time with your loved ones, either during the sunset or sunrise.  6. Cafe Ivy Address: Devdar Woods Sisters Bazaar, Landour, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand Contact Number: 098717 05679 One of Mussoorie's best Tibetan restaurants, Cafe Ivy in Old Town, has a lot of customers, making it a bustling place to hang out at. It ranks among the best restaurants in Mussoorie and is well-liked by tourists as well as locals. The chefs and service staff place a high value on customer satisfaction.  The vegetable pizza, pasta with pesto, and ravioli are bestsellers that consistently attract customers. In addition, you can enjoy calming beverages like iced tea, fresh juice, cold coffee, and french filter coffee, which makes your meal taste even better.  The decor is easy on the eyes and creates a serene atmosphere, making the experience more relaxing.  7. Doma's Inn Address: Ivy Cottage, Landour, Cantt, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand  Contact Number: 090127 55332 Tibetan cuisine has always been a favorite among travelers. Not only does Doma’s Inn serve mouthwatering Tibetan taste, but it also gives each dish its own distinct flavor and experience.  It is known as one of the best Tibetan restaurants in Mussoorie. It serves a wide variety of Chebureki, delicious cheesy momos, and a variety of cocktails and mocktails to suit your tastes. Check hotels in Mussoorie near this restaurant for some heavenly bites.  In Mussoorie, they offer seating overlooking the sea and a dynamic Tibetan cuisine selection. Doma’s Inn is a restaurant you must try if you want to savor the creamy, rich flavors of sausages and perfectly cooked noodles.  The meals are crispy and soft at the same time and provide a hearty finish to your meal. Doma’s Inn is one establishment that offers a variety of refined and authentic dishes when discussing elite Tibetan dining.  8. Cafe Tea Totaler Address: Tibetan Market Gali, The Mall Road, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand Contact Number: 098112 99206 To begin, Chebureki, deep-fried turnovers topped with cheese, will undoubtedly provide a Tibetan meal that is both delicious and satisfying at Cafe Tea Totaler.  You can ask the chefs to add a little brandy to your meal if you want, and the dishes are bursting with the flavor of special cheeses. After a delicious meal at one of Mussoorie's best restaurants, a classic Tibetan sweet dish is just what you need to finish it off.  There are numerous indoor and outdoor activities, including kolam making, hand art decoration, a cycle rickshaw tour of Mussorie’s unique locations, and a heritage walk around the city.  It is widely regarded as the best restaurant in Mussoorie that serves delicious traditional Tibetan cuisine. The dishes were prepared with a lot of care, and the aroma of spicy curry filled the restaurant, adding to the experience.  Try The Best Street Food In Mussoorie | Your Food Tour Cannot Get Better Than This  To know a place and its culture, you must try the local delicacies and street food. Here are some famous street foods in Mussoorie with the places where you can try them.  1. Momo You don’t need an introduction to momos. Momos Tibetan Kitchen Is the best place in Mussoorie to try this Tibetan delicacy.  This outlet is at Mall Road, Mussoorie, and you can call the owner at 0135 263 6789.  2. Kandalee Ka Saag It’s hard to believe that Kandalee Ka Saag can taste so delicious unless you try Kandalee Ka Saag in Mussoorie.  The touch of garlic and butter makes it oh-so delectable.  3. Bal Mithai Bal Mithai, a specialty of the Kumaon region, will instantly win your heart with its caramelized flavor. It has roasted khoya and a coating of sugar balls.  4. Singhori Singhori is a traditional dessert of Uttarakhand. It has reduced milk, flour dough, and a lot of dry fruits.  Rich in flavor, it tastes the best during the months of winter.  5. Gahat Ki Daal  Best Place To Have: Jheel Restaurant,  Dhobi Ghat, Mussoorie You will also hear people calling this delicacy Kulath ki daal. This is a simple Uttrakhand recipe made of horse gram lentils.  However, the flavors of local spices make it oh-so delectable.  A Trip To Mussoorie With Treebo Hotels  As you think of visiting Mussoorie, know that Treebo hotels are amazing for your stay here. With top-notch amenities and services, Treebo hotels ensure 100% satisfaction for all guests.  ●   Enjoy the complimentary breakfast Wi-Fi and other branded Treebo toiletries ●   Experience top-notch hospitality with other classic amenities in more than 800 locations across India ●   Be carefree, as all Treebo hotels follow strict guidelines and policies under the Treebo Hygiene Shield Safety  Spending time in the beauty of one of the most picturesque tourist destinations in Treebo hotels is the best thing to do in Mussoorie for couples, families, and friends. It is a beautiful destination for anyone who craves adventure, finger-licking food, and thrill.  HOTELS ●   Treebo Trend Winterland ●   Treebo Trend Mayur ●   Treebo Trend Hotel Howard International Bottomline: Have A Nice Trip In The Lap Of The Shivalik Range It is known for its tourist attractions, higher mountain points, trekkers' delight, and a paradise for witnessing high waterfalls and valleys. It is always a good idea to check for Mussoorie hotels near these restaurants for a delicious getaway.  All of these hotels are available at affordable rates. So if you are planning the trip, you can have these hotel names on your priority list. Additional: Oktoberfest Returns: Your Complete Festival Guide Which Is The Best Time To Visit Shimla? – Travel Guide Best Time To Visit Andaman – Andaman Guide Of 2023 Which Is The Best Time To Visit Uttarakhand? – Travel Guide

BY  Barsha Mar 1, 2025

Primarily, the Virgin Islands constitute three major islands - St Croix, St John, and St Thomas. But the best part is that all these destinations will offer you a unique experience and vibe.  Whether you are a shopaholic, adventure junkie, history buff, or someone who just needs to lay back and relax, there’s everything for everyone. In addition to that, the USVI offers the best experience to someone who wants to experience turquoise waters, sophisticated dining, and a laid-back vacation.  So, if you are visiting “America’s Caribbean Paradise” for the first time, you must learn about the places that are a must-see. Therefore, if you want some recommendations of places to visit in St John Islands, read on. Why St. John Rentals Are the Perfect Base for Your Adventure When you visit St John Island, the best place to stay is St. John Rentals. It will offer an ideal experience of the lush beauty and pristine beaches of the Virgin Islands. Nestled amidst turquoise waters and verdant hills, these accommodations offer more than just a place to stay. In fact, the place has something for both the explorer and the adventurer. Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves lapping at the shore. You are holding your morning coffee in hand and have an uninterrupted view of the Caribbean. Basically, rentals on St. John are crafted for travelers who want both comfort and a slice of paradise. For instance, if you are visiting on a couple’s trip to St. John, opt for a rental near Cinnamon Bay. Here, you will not only enjoy the privacy but also get the top attractions like the Annaberg Plantation ruins and some of the island’s best hiking trails within minutes of walking distance. Additionally, you will get unique opportunities to experience the island like a local. Meanwhile, you will still be enjoying world-class amenities. So, whether it’s a cozy hillside retreat or a beachfront property, there’s something for every traveler. Top Destinations in St John You Can Visit by Boat When you are staying in St. John, you will have the advantage of getting proximity to other awe-inspiring Virgin Islands. Apart from that, many rentals are conveniently located near boat charters, making day trips to nearby islands effortless. 1. Trunk Bay: A Snorkeler’s Paradise The Trunk Bay is present just minutes away from most St. John rentals. Basically, it is renowned for its underwater snorkeling trail.In addition to that, the crystal-clear waters reveal a vibrant marine world filled with coral reefs and tropical fish. Hence. it’s no wonder why this beach is often ranked among the best in the world. 2. Jost Van Dyke: The Party Island By just a short boat ride from St. John, you can experience Jost Van Dyke. This place boasts an unbeatable party atmosphere. Moreover, the place is famous for its beach bars, including the legendary Soggy Dollar Bar. Overall, it’s the perfect spot to sip on a Painkiller cocktail while you enjoy the laid-back vibes. 3. The Baths at Virgin Gorda The Baths at Virgin Gorda are a geological wonder. This is another must-visit spot that you can easily access by boat.  Primarily, these are towering granite boulders that create hidden pools and grottos. It offers the feeling as if it’s nature’s playground. So, whether you are visiting with your family or in a couple’s trip, you can rave about this unique excursion. 4. The Comfort of St. John Rentals After a Day of Exploring After a day of adventure, returning to your St. John rental feels like stepping into a sanctuary. Generally, most properties are designed to blend with the island’s natural beauty, featuring open-air layouts, private pools, and sweeping views of the ocean. Families love rentals with fully equipped kitchens, allowing them to prepare meals after a day at the beach. On the other hand, couples often seek out secluded properties with hot tubs, perfect for unwinding under the stars. During a recent visit, I stayed at a hillside villa from where you can get a great view of Coral Bay. Every evening, I would watch the sun dip below the horizon. It was actually mesmerizing to see the orange and pink colors forming on the background.Moreover, the rental had everything I needed. For instance, there was a plush king-sized bed and also a hammock where I could lose myself in a good book. Practical Tips for Choosing the Right Rental You can enhance your experience on St John’s Islands by choosing the right rental. All you need to do is keep the following tips in mind: 1. Proximity to Activities Well, if you plan to explore beaches like Hawksnest or Maho Bay, choose a rental on the north shore. This will give you quick access and better dining options. 2. Privacy vs. Accessibility The thing with hillside rentals is that they often offer unmatched privacy and breathtaking views. However, by choosing beachfront properties, you can stay steps away from the sand. 3. Group Size Are you traveling with your family or your friends? In such cases, you need a larger space with multiple bedrooms and communal spaces. Also, you need to plan a group trip differently from a couple’s trip. 4. Amenities It goes without saying that factors like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and private pools help you ensure a comfortable stay. This is where choosing St John Rentals will offer you a major advantage. Is Rental A Better Option Than Hotels? Generally, rentals offer a level of flexibility and personalization that hotels simply can’t match. Apart from that, you will also get the chance to prepare your own meals. Additionally, rentals offer ample space for the entire family. On the other hand, unlike hotels, rentals immerse you in the local lifestyle. For instance, you can wake up to roosters crowing in the distance or spend an afternoon picking mangoes from trees on the property. Make St. John Your Next Island Escape From tranquil beaches to vibrant marine life, St. John offers something for everyone. Apart from that, rentals provide the perfect launching pad to explore all that this Caribbean gem has to offer. Hence, whether you are hiking through Virgin Islands National Park or enjoying a candlelit dinner on the patio of your rental, the memories you create here will stay with you forever. Furthermore, with so many options to choose from, there’s no reason to wait. So, start planning your dream getaway to St. John today, and let the island’s magic unfold before you.