Family Fun In The Gulf Of Mexico: Beaches, Boating, And More

BY  Barsha Jun 9, 2022

Are you planning a trip to the city located on the southernmost tip of the U.S. in 2022? But if you haven’t been to the United States before, how will you know where to stay in key west? But don’t you worry because I’m here to tell you all that you need to know about staying alternatives in Key West. The city of Key West blends culture, some much-needed positivity, and lots of sun with an off-the-grid vibe - yes, basically everything that you were looking for! So without wasting any more time, let’s find out a little more about the island of Key West and all the popular neighborhoods in the region that you must consider for staying!. Keep reading to find out all that you need to know about the same. Exploring Key West: Your Dream Destination For This Summer Before finding out where to stay in key west, let’s talk about the major attractions of the island and the places you simply can’t miss checking out! Key West is a small island, to be honest, even less than 8 square miles of area. In fact, I found the island pretty easy to navigate since its entirely divided into two areas, Residential, contemporary New Town, and Historic, character-rich Old Town. The historic Old Town area is precisely where a majority of tourists spend most of their time exploring a myriad of neighborhoods blending borders together, making it nearly impossible to identify borders. Keeping such considerations in mind, finding out where is the best place to stay in key west wasn’t an easy task, but once I did, there was no turning back - I had to share will everyone what I found out. But the best part? I am not just here to tell you about the areas you can reside in but also a few hotels where you can stay if you are visiting Key West for a few days! I mean, simply put, I found the Old Town the best place to reside on my visit to Key West - from finding the most charming B&B to coming across a luxurious hotel in the downtown region known as Casa Marina or even the Historic Seaport. It doesn’t matter where you end up staying - from navigating the entire city on foot to exploring the same on the free bus shuttle service by Duval Loop or the Old Town Trolley Tours that provides unlimited reboarding services throughout the day. Since parking services are a little tight in the region, it is best that you either don’t take your car or leave it wherever you are staying. After all, the island is the perfect blend of history, art, as well as a crazy waterside vibe. Locals take pride in several things the island is famous for, including the yummy Key Lime Pie! It’s best to be ready to witness epic debates on what toppings are to be used for the famous Key Lime Pie? Are you supporting whipped cream, or are you on the side of meringue? That my friend is the question! Living In Sun-City: Where To Stay In Key West? If you are still here, so it’s only fair that you want to know all that you can about living in Key West. So without wasting any further time, let's find out where to stay in Key West. But before that, let’s check out the top hotels in Key West that you can consider if you are visiting the island for a short time period!  Thus, the best hotels in Key West are as follows, Luxury Hotels: The best luxury hotels in Key West are as follows, H20 Suites Casa Marina, and Hyatt Residence Club. Boutique Hotels: The best boutique hotels in Key West are as follows, Southernmost House, Orchid Key Inn, Gardens Hotel, Weatherstation Inn, and Kimpton Lighthouse Hotel. Budget-Friendly Hotels: The best budget-friendly hotels in Key West are as follows, Seashell Motel, NYAH, and Fairfield Inn. Family Hotels: The best family hotels in Key West are as follows, Oceans Edge Key West, and Santa Maria Suites Resort. The pull of attractive key west beaches and casual, laid-back lifestyle is not the only thing that matters if you are going to stay at Key West for months or even years in some cases. In that case, if you are wondering where to stay in Key West, check out the most popular residential areas on this small island! The Heart Of Old Town: If you love walking around the neighborhood, then you must check out the residential block in the center of the Old Town. Unfortunately, this is also the area where the guidelines for preservation happen to be really strict since the area is known for its colorful wooden structures, all dating back to the 1800s. If you were wondering where to stay in key west with family, then the heart of the Old Town area is kinda perfect with its quaint B&Bs, vintage homes, and overall charming neighborhood. Ernest Hemingway would agree with me, considering his former home is located in the same area, although it has been converted into a museum. You can easily explore the museum on your own or even take a guide’s help to do the same. Fun fact? The local cemetery happens to be quite cheerful, and even though it is in full operation, tourists are allowed to visit the same! Historic Seaport: One of the most popular neighborhoods for all boating enthusiasts, Historic Seaport is a must-visit! From sailboat schooners to yachts, you can opt for any vehicle for planning exciting day trips and sunset cruises - go for a swim or snorkel with your family or just have fun spotting dolphins. In fact, the strangest thing had happened to me while I was walking along the docks. I had never been to Key West before, and I hadn’t even done proper research (it was an impulse trip, really). So I was completely off guard when I realized I hadn’t booked any activity in advance, but then I was offered discounts, and that too on spot! You could also check out Key West’s all-electric charter at the Honest Eco. You can not just enjoy a quiet ride but also benefit from fruit platters that have been hand-carved. In fact, rides on the Key West Express are also something to consider, especially for navigating along the western coast of the island to as well as from the Marco Island and Ft. Meyers. Casa Marina: Casa Marina is one of my favorite spots in Key West. Naturally, you are wondering why is it so! If the breathtakingly beautiful landscape and Casa Marina, a historic hotel, are not enough to attract you, then the fact that this area happens to be the southernmost point of not just Florida but the entire continental U.S. should just do the trick, instead! Moreover, the area happens to be pretty close to beaches on the southern end like the vast Smathers Beach or smaller beaches like the Higgs Beach or the Dog Beach. So instead of wondering where to stay in Key West on the beach, you can always stay in this region. In fact, Dog Beach is also perfect for people with pets - visit the deck located at Louie’s and sip on cocktails when you visit Dog Beach! Don’t forget to check out the western coast that is dominated by Ft. Zachary Taylor State Park Beach, which happens to be relatively more locals-friendly and isolated as compared to Smather’s Beach. Bahama Village: There are high possibilities that you might miss out on this hidden gem of Key West known as the Bahama Village. I was almost missing it out too, but something probed me to keep exploring until I found someplace that’s low-key but vibrant! And Bahama Village was just the answer! Bahama Village is not just a colorful place you must check out, but it also happens to be one of the most popular neighborhoods for having any kind of gastronomical affair! Check out Blue Heaven while you are looking for a place where you can have brunch or breakfast - from the fantastic Key Lime Pie to the equally tasty BLT Benedict, everything tastes so good! If you love Cuban culture, you can also check out El Meson de Pepe’s, located near the seaport along with the Old Town - enjoy Cuban food, celebrate Cuban art, and groove to Cuban music in this popular joint! Finally, if you love small cafés with adjoining gift shops, then you must visit Kermit’s. The theme? “key lime everything!” - from key lime pies to cookies, the options are many! Safety Is Always A Priority: Unsafe Areas In Key West One of the primary concerns that I have while traveling alone is the safety factor - if it’s not safe, then is there any point in risking your life? I don’t think so. Key West happens to be a pretty safe city for tourists or other visitors, but it’s best to stay away from the areas mentioned below, Avoid residential blocs located between Duval Street and the cemetery. Avoid the neighborhoods located between Casa Marina and the cemetery. In fact, if you don’t wanna walk around, then you can always avail the available means of transportation since these happen to be both affordable and easy to find! Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 1. Where Should I Stay In Key West For The First Time? If it’s your first time on the Key West island, you have to check out Duval Street as an alternative for taking up residence. Located in the Old Town part of the island, Duval Street is one of the best places to stay in Key West.The area is close to all major landmarks, bars, and even shops. The best hotels in this region are as follows,• Duval Gardens, and• Santa Maria Suites. 2. How Do I Decide Where To Stay In Key West? The best way you can decide where to stay in Key West is by taking into consideration four relevant factors. These factors are as follows,• Location,• Property Type,• Price, and• Design. Although the island can be easily explored either on a cycle or bike or even by walking yet, it is smarter to find out what suits you best. Of course, this involves what you technically prefer - do you want to reside in isolated areas or in the middle of the more happening Duval Street region. 3. Is Key West A Walkable City? Key West is one island city that can be pretty much explored by walking! A pretty walkable city, Key West offers several activities for visitors - check out popular tourist spots like Whitehead Street, Mallory Square, and even Duval Street. You can also hop onto the Key West Trolley to move around the region! 4. Is Staying In Key West Worth It? The very last amongst the Florida Keys region, the island of Key West is a great place to visit! Whether you are planning to stay for an entire year or just a week, the main factor is how the place happens to be a crazy place for not just enjoying yourself but also relaxing.This southernmost city in the United States is popular for its coral reefs, beaches, and cool, laid-back vibes.  Summer Of ‘69 In Key West: Are You In? The moment I landed at Key West, I couldn’t stop humming to the tunes of Bryan Adams’ famous song, Summer Of ‘69. The beautiful beaches, the stunning landscape, and the laid-back atmosphere of the island made me forget all about finding out where to stay in key west, Florida. While Bryan Adams kept singing at the back of my head, I wandered across the island, taking in the view, the people, the society! There was nothing that bothered me, and I realized this was one vacation I was going to enjoy deeply. What about you? Don’t forget to let us know your thoughts on the same in the comments section below! Read Also: Top 10 Best Travel Sites For Tour In 2022 Booking.Com – Best Review By Users In 2022 Priceline.Com – Best Review By Users In 2022

BY  Arnab May 15, 2023

Planning a memorable family vacation that combines thrilling wildlife encounters with idyllic beach relaxation? Well, you have arrived at the right place. Because we have sorted all the information that you potentially need to know. From the vast plains of Africa to the exotic islands of the Indian Ocean, these destinations offer unforgettable experiences. It also offers a chance to create lasting memories. We want your safari and beach holiday to be one-of-a-kind. Which is why we have curated a list with the best spots to explore. Here Are The Four Best Safari And Beach Holiday Destinations For Families This article will walk you through the best safari and beach holiday destinations for families to embark on an adventure altogether. 1. Kenya Family Safari & Beach Holiday When talking about the best safari alongside the tranquillity of a beach holiday, nothing beats Kenya. The country offers a blend of both. One that’s filled with the classic Kenyan Safari in the renowned Masai Mara National Reserve. The moment you step into the reserve, you get to bask in nature’s true beauty. The mesmerizing landscape, paired with the eclectic beauty of the wildlife in their natural habitat, is a treat to watch.  Getting to witness the wildlife right in front of you is something you are never going to regret. Also, sighting the famous Big Five is another must-explore spot when in Kenya. Additionally, the thrilling game drives are supervised by professional guides. This means that you will remain safe and get to bask in the beauty of the spot around you. Once you are done exploring the wildlife and the safari experience, head over to Diani Beach. Bask in the beauty of the turquoise waters and the gleaming white sandy beaches.  For the adventure enthusiasts out there, there are water activities and sports available around the beach. You can consider checking them out for the ultimate fun. What’s great is that there’s something for every age. So no one in your family will feel left out. You can take a stroll along the beach and seashore guilt-free. 2. Northern Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Beach Moving on from the Kenyan safari and beach experience, this one is a must-visit. This next one on the list is Northern Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Beach.  Northern Tanzania is a treasure trove and is filled with some of the most iconic spots. It includes Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. What’s great is that if you visit during the peak migration season. You will get to witness the beauty of the Great Migration. It is a breathtaking spectacle of millions of wildebeests and zebras crossing the plains. Once you are done exploring the safaris through Northern Tanzania, head over to the exquisite Zanzibar Island, which has a blend of rich culture and heritage and breathtaking beaches. You can lay down and tan along the seashore, try out some local snacks, interact with people around, or simply try out a few adventure water sports to pump your adrenaline to the peak. One quick tip while you are exploring the Zanzibar beach, ensure that you also include Stone Town in your itinerary. Besides that, soak up the sun on idyllic beaches or go around and snorkel or scuba dive to explore the underwater world. 3. Cape Town, Kruger, and Mauritius Now, this might seem a little confusing to begin with. But hang in there because we have just the itinerary that you need to follow through for the most exhilarating safari and beach vacation packed into one trip. This particular itinerary is ideal for honeymooning couples who want to have a trip that’s memorable, fun, and filled with a whole lot of unique experiences that you can’t swap for anything else. Cape Town You can start your trip at Cape Town, where you can explore spots like Table Mountain and even get to visit the penguins at Boulders Beach. Also, while you are on top of Table Mountain, take in the rewarding and breathtaking panoramic views of the city from the top. Kruger As you make your way through Cape Town, the next stop in the trip is the famous Kruger National Park, where you can encounter the beauty of wildlife in their natural habitat in the African Bush. This iconic wildlife reserve is home to an abundance of wildlife, including the famous Big Five (elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, and rhinoceros). Also, the game drives through this national park are guided, meaning that you can learn about the flora and fauna. Mauritius The last stop on the trip is Mauritius, which is often termed a tropical paradise and beach bliss. While the previous two spots are typically more focused on safari and wildlife, Mauritius gives you the dose of beaches that you need to complete your trip. Not just for couples, these tree places are perfect for family vacations as well. The enchanting island of Mauritius is nothing short of tropical heaven. The pristine white sand beaches and the luxurious resorts are perfect for a memorable vacation. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Mauritius by exploring its vibrant markets and historical sites and indulging in its flavorful cuisine influenced by Indian, French, and Creole traditions. 4. Selous and Fanjove Island Another popular spot around Tanzania that needs to be on your travel list is the Selous and Fanjove Islands. The Selous Game Reserve is one of Africa’s largest protected areas, where you can embark on game drives and boat safaris for an experience like no other. Also, Selous has a very diverse landscape, including wetlands, savannahs, and forests. It makes for a perfect Safari expedition with your family. Moving on to Fanjove Island, which is another popular tourist attraction. This is a private island retreat located in the Seychelles archipelago. While Selous is perfect for taming your nature and wildlife-loving side, Fanjove Island is for the beach bodies. The serene and exclusive backdrop of the pristine white beaches and the lapping sound of the waves against the shore is an experience like no other. The coral reefs are breathtaking and there are snorkeling activities available, which contributes to the fun even further. You can also witness the endangered sea turtles nesting phenomenon, which is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience.  Conclusion This pretty much concludes some of the best safari and beach vacation spots that you can explore while on a family vacation. All of these spots are exclusive and very different from one another, meaning that you get to pick the spot that you know would work the best for your family. Embark on this extraordinary adventure, create lasting memories, and discover the wonders of these remarkable destinations. Read Also: Five Tips To Staying Sober On Your Vacation Best Beaches In Costa Rica For Family Vacation What To Look For When Purchasing A Beach Tent For Vacation

BY  Abdul Aziz Mar 6, 2024

When you apply for a visa application when traveling to any country of the world, you have to submit certain documents. Hence, among them, a two-way itinerary is a must. This will show the embassy of the target country that you have planned your entire trip. Moreover, it will also disclose that you fulfilled your purpose of visiting the state and coming back to the origin.  Apart from this, when applying for various types of visas, you need other documents. Therefore, you must show your passport, photos, visa application form, cover letter, invitation letter, proof of stay, and enough financial sources. Consequently, be sure to check the guidelines of the concerned embassy through which you are applying. This article will explain everything you need to know about the two-ways itinerary for visa application. Therefore, hold on and read the following blog post. What is a two-way itinerary for a Visa Application? Its alternative names are transport booking, round-trip itinerary, or confirmed flight itinerary. This is a document the embassy needs during the visa application process. Moreover, you have to fill out a visa application form and there is a section in that form that asks you for your travel plans. This means that you have to disclose your exit and arrival countries along with other details. An itinerary is of two kinds, one-way and two-way itinerary. The one-way itinerary is when you leave for your target country and have no intention of coming back to your hometown. However, the embassy may ask for a return or two-way itinerary to show that you will be back home soon. Furthermore, it acts as evidence to present that you won't start staying illegally there after your visa expires. Besides, a two-way itinerary unfolds your flight details. This may include the place you are going, the date and time when you are departing, and how long are you planning to stay. Moreover, it is also important to share whether you will stay in a hotel or at the house of a host, such as a friend or a family member. What is proof of itinerary? You need an itinerary when applying for a visa application. This may fall into two categories. However, it is important to have a proof of itinerary to show it to the respective personnel. A POI is a confirmed ticket. The embassy gives you a confirmation code or approves your itinerary at the time of your visa application. This means that you have booked or reserved your tickets. Importance of Two-Way Itinerary: Why It Is Essential The importance of a two-way itinerary is beyond the horizon. However, it is not a real ticket. When applying for the visa application, you have to prove to the embassy that you have purchased your flight tickets. However, the officials are aware of the fact that buying an actual ticket upfront may cause you more money to lose. There are many reasons for getting a dummy ticket instead of an actual one. For instance, your visa application may get rejected or delayed due to some obvious reasons. Moreover, you are unable to have a tentatively scheduled trip. Therefore, buying an actual ticket is a bit risky especially when you have to lose a huge amount of money before your trip. On the other hand, a two-ways itinerary for visa application will save you from the trouble of the ‘no refund’ or ‘no cancellation’ policies of some embassies. Therefore, it is advisable to go with a round-trip itinerary or fake flight ticket when submitting the documents. If your visa gets approved, you can buy the actual ticket and start your journey. There are also other alternate methods through which you can compensate for this segment of your visa application process. They are mentioned beneath in detail. Related: 5 Leading Golden Visa Programs For Wealthy Investors Step-by-step Guide to Get a Round-Trip Flight Itinerary When applying for a visa to a Schengen or any other country, you need to fill out a form. Moreover, the form may have several sections that you need to complete. One of them is putting your round-trip flight itinerary information. Therefore, be sure to follow the steps mentioned below to get the procedure right. The first step is to provide information related to your flight reservation and hotel booking. This will help the embassy confirm the sites you are visiting and the place of your stay. Therefore, you need to include this information in the form as well as in the itinerary. What is the itinerary for the US visa? The itinerary for the US visa is the same as for other countries. Moreover, it may also show your inner flights scheduled. For instance, you are headed from the US to India. The inner flights may disclose where you will be traveling in India such as Mumbai, Delhi, or Agra. Secondly, you have to show your return ticket. This is especially important if you want to commute by other means instead of a flight. For instance, if you have any plans to come back on a train or want to experience the road adventure. It is one of the most important requirements of the process to provide proof of onward travel. Irrespective of the information listed above, you can also briefly discuss your travel plans. For example, this may include your daily activities or the events or business meetings you intend to attend. The second last step is to submit your visa application, along with all the other supporting documents. For instance, the flight reservation document, place of stay or invitation letter, and daily schedule of the trip. Lastly, wait patiently for the response from the embassy. It may usually take fifteen days. However, in rare cases, the embassy may take a month to reject or approve your application. Always seek a logical reason if your application is rejected. Besides this, you can look for other methods to get an itinerary. You can buy cheap flight tickets or search for airlines that offer refundable tickets. However, all these methods come with their pros and cons.  Read Also: From Sunrise To Sunset: A Day’s Itinerary For Exploring Benidorm Viva Las Vegas: Your Ultimate Travel Itinerary For An Unforgettable Trip! Temples, Markets, And More: Your Ultimate Bangkok Itinerary