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BY  Sibashree Aug 20, 2024

The Arkansas Hot Springs National Park is a place where stories and histories are intertwined with natural abundance and unique geological features.  Home to 47 hot springs, this national park has been a place of healing and relaxation. These springs offer the ultimate spa treatment after you complete arduous hiking through the trails.    Are you ready to indulge in a therapeutic experience at this national park known as the American Spa? Let’s take a deep dive.  Also, I have grabbed this opportunity to talk about the rich history of the park.  Know The Hot Springs National Park History And Culture  The 5,500-acre landscape of the Hot Springs National Park tells us many tales from the trails and springs. This park has seen novaculite extraction by American Indians for thousands of years, as well as The Great Fire of 1878.  Even before the park’s designation as a Hot Springs Reservation in 1832, historic events like the Dunbar-Hunter Expedition took place here. Many historic places in the park, including the Hot Springs Mountain Tower, Arlington Lawn, and Stonebridge Area, have been narrating the stories of this park for centuries.  Hot Springs Mountain Tower Built in 1983, Hot Springs Mountain Tower is a great place for visitors to enjoy the panoramic view of the park and the surrounding area from a 1,256 ft height.  Don’t miss to catch a glimpse of the Ouachita Mountains from the open-air upper deck of the tower. The air-conditioned lower observation deck offers you the opportunity to explore exhibits related to the history of the locality and the park. Also, if you want to collect souvenirs, you can visit the gift shop at the base of the Hot Springs Mountain Tower. This tower was first built as a wooden structure in 1877 by Enoch Woolman. Further, in 1906, a new steel tower was built, and it was known as Rix Tower after Charles N. Rix, the then-president of Arkansas National Bank. However, the Rix Tower was taken down in 1971.  Bathhouse Row The Bathhouse Row is probably the most iconic and visited place in the Hot Springs National Park. It has 8 bathhouse buildings, all of them built between 1892 and 1923, adding to the historic and architectural value of the park. These eight bathhouses are: Lamar Bathhouse Buckstaff Bathhouse Ozark Bathhouse Quapaw Bathhouse Fordyce Bathhouse Maurice Bathhouse Hale Bathhouse Superior Bathhouse In 1987, Bathhouse Row with Grand Promenade became a National Historic Landmark District. Arlington Lawn https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t5e9eL9qM5Y The Arlington Lawn gets its name from the presence of the first two luxurious versions of the Arlington Hotel present here.  The first version of the hotel was built in 1875, and a second or grander version replaced it in 1893. The second version had a glorious run until 1923 when a fire broke it down. In 1925, the third Arlington Hotel (which you can see now) came up an unbelievable 500-room accommodation.  Whittington Park  Whittington Park got its name from Hiram Abiff Whittington, an early resident of Hot Springs. The greenway stretches along Whittington Creek, which stands between Sugarloaf Mountain and West Mountain.  Constructed in the late 1890s, Whittington Park was initially called Whittington Lake Reserve. You can enjoy a relaxing walk through this tree-shaded greenway.  Stonebridge Area  The Stonebridge Area is the best spot in the National Park to watch turtles. You will also see a waterfall area carving through step-like structures in the rocks.  Further, Lake Lillian, now known as Ricks Pond, is here with its tranquil beauty and turtles floating in the water.  What Is Hot Springs National Park Famous For?  Known as the American Spa, Hot Springs National Park has 47 natural hot springs. Since the early 1800s, people have been visiting this park to soak in the hot and cold springs here. Further, thanks to the healing geothermal waters here, bathhouses and a full-fledged bathing industry were built here. The average temperature of the bath springs water here is 143° Fahrenheit. You can soak in the springs in the Buckstaff and Quapaw bathhouses, as there are no opportunities for soaking in the water outdoors. You can even drink the water from these springs, and the geothermal water of the springs has healing properties.  Hot Springs In The National Park  Here are some of the hot springs in the national park. You will find hot springs In front of the Libbey Memorial Physical Medicine Center and the National Park Service Administration Building on Reserve St. Visit the Bathhouse Row and find the hot springs between the Hale and Maurice Bathhouses.  You will find the Noble Fountain at the Grand Promenade south entrance on Reserve St. If you want to touch the geothermal water of the springs, you can visit the shallow pool where the Display Spring falls.  Cold Water Spring Fountains  Happy Hollow and Whittington Spring are two cold water spring fountains in the national park. The origin of the Whittington Spring is the West Mountain, and the Hollow Spring comes from the North Mountain. Hiking And Camping In Hot Springs National Park Camping and hiking are two of the most fascinating things to do in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas.  Hiking In Hot Springs National Park  Hot Springs and North Mountain Trails and West Mountain Trails are the two most popular destinations in the park for trekking. However, there is also a Sunset Trail, which is longer and passes through the remote areas of the park. Hot Springs And North Mountain Trails Along with the most amazing scenic view, these trails have highlight points such as Stephen’s Balustrade or the Grand Staircase, Gulpha Gorge Campground, Hot Springs Mountain Drive, and Fordyce Bathhouse.  West Mountain Trails If you want to explore the vivid wildlife of the Hot Springs, you will have to take the West Mountain Trails. Find the trails through the Canyon Trailhead and Whittington Park.  Sunset Trail The longest in the Hot Springs, the Sunset Trail, is a straight 10-mile hike. Also, if you want to complete the loop, you will have to cover 15-17 miles.  The best thing about this trail is that it takes you to places less trodden by in the park. Further, hiking in the long trail will be broken into three sections: West Mountain, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Stonebridge Road.  Camping In The Gulpha Gorge Campground This campground is most suitable for tents and RVs or recreational vehicles. Basic amenities like water, electricity, and sewage are available at the campground.  Further, there are facilities like pedestal grills and picnic tables.  You can stay for a maximum of 14 days at a stretch in the camp. In addition, the park authority does not allow camping for more than 30 days in a calendar year.  Final Words  The Hot Springs National Park has been consistently getting more than 2 million visitors for the last few years. In 2023, 2,502,967 people paid a visit to this park to indulge in the therapeutic experience of the hot springs, explore wildlife, and enjoy hiking. (Source) Further, you can never forget how significant this park is from the perspective of history and culture. Exploring the Stonebridge Area and spending some time in Whittington Park or other historic places in the park will help you learn how American Indians extracted novaculite from this park and made their tools and accessories.  In addition, prominent names in American history, such as Dr. Timothy L. Bottoms, Samuel Wesley Fordyce, and Robert Radcliff Stevens, are associated with this popular national park. So, you must visit this national park to enjoy nature at its best and see some pages of history unfurling before your eyes. What do you think of the other national parks in America, like the Biscayne National Park or the Everglades National Park? Don’t forget to share your ideas with us!  Hot Springs National Park FAQs  How Is Hot Springs National Park Wildlife? The Hot Springs is a crucial sanctuary for vivid animals. The “novaculite outcrops” and “lush creek valleys” make this national park a safe harbor for animals and birds.  Overall, this park has more than 50 species of mammals, over 100 bird species, 50+ fish species, and more than 70 species of reptiles and amphibians. The Copperhead snake is the most venomous reptile here, along with other venomous snakes. The park is also replete with lizards, frogs, salamanders, and turtles.  Bluegill and banded darter are some common fish in this national park. Further, this park is home to mammals like groundhogs, white-tailed deer, and squirrels. Moreover, pigeons, doves, falcons, herons, vultures, owls, and many other birds make this park delightful.  Also, watch out for the colorful butterflies and fireflies in the park. By the way, did you know that Arkansas has more than 5,000 species of moths and butterflies? What Are The Best Hot Springs National Park Activities? The most amazing thing to do at Hot Springs National Park is to soak in the hot springs and indulge in a therapeutic experience. The Buckstaff Bathhouse and The Quapaw Bathhouse offer you the most relaxing time.  Further, you can explore 26 miles of hiking trails in the park and enjoy biking to the North and West Mountains. You can take these rides on bicycles or e-scooters.  Also, if you are a birder, you will get to see great blue herons, vultures, falcons, and many other birds in the national park.  Shopping and exploring the Mid America Science Museum are some other activities to do when you are at the Hot Springs.  What Is The Hot Springs National Park Size? The Hot Springs National Park stretches across 5550 acres. As one of the oldest national parks in the USA, this national park was designated in 1921.  You will find many hiking trails and as many as 47 natural hot springs in the national park. The campground, visitor center, and gift shop further make it a place of versatile encounters with nature and history. Hot Springs and North Mountain Trails, and the West Mountain Trails are the most concentrated trekking zones in the park. However, if you want to explore more remote parts of the park, you can surely take the longer Sunset trail. Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

BY  Ankita Jan 10, 2024

Embarking on a food adventure while traveling is like opening a book full of exciting stories, each chapter flavored with unique tastes and culinary traditions. Imagine yourself walking the streets of different cities, each turn bringing you face-to-face with dishes that tell tales of history, culture, and the local community.  In Gatlinburg, for example, the experience might start with a visit to a local steakhouse, where the smoky aroma of grilled meats fills the air, offering a taste of the region's culinary heritage. Gatlinburg, nestled in the Smoky Mountains, is not just a scenic retreat but a haven for food lovers. Its blend of traditional Southern cuisine with unique local twists makes it a must-visit for any foodie traveler. This article will guide you through various ways to enhance your culinary journey, whether you're savoring a steak in Gatlinburg or exploring street food markets in far-flung corners of the world. It's about more than just eating; it's about experiencing the world through its flavors and connecting with places through their food.  So pack your bags and prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable journey into the delicious and diverse world of culinary travel. Savoring Local Flavors Gatlinburg, nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, is a culinary treasure trove renowned for its diverse and delicious food offerings. When traveling, one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture is by indulging in its culinary specialties. Take, for instance, if you want to visit the finest steakhouse Gatlinburg is the perfect destination, offering a range of options like Alamo Steakhouse, The Peddler Steakhouse, Bullfish Grill, Greenbrier Restaurant, and Cherokee Grill & Steakhouse, each offering their unique take on classic and innovative steak dishes. These establishments not only offer delicious cuts of meat but also provide a taste of the local flavors and cooking styles. To find the best steakhouses, look for places crowded with locals, as they often know the top spots for authentic and tasty food. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations from local residents or your hotel staff. Remember, part of the adventure is discovering hidden gems that aren't always in the guidebooks. Street Food Adventures Street food is the heart and soul of many cuisines around the world. It's where you'll find the most authentic, traditional, and often innovative dishes. From the bustling markets in Asia to the colorful food trucks in the Americas, street food provides an unfiltered experience of a country's culinary essence. However, it's important to eat street food safely.  Always choose stalls where the food is prepared fresh in front of you, and the turnover of customers is high – it's a good sign of freshness and quality. Also, follow the locals — they know where the best and safest food can be found. Food Markets Food markets are vibrant hubs of activity and the epicenter of local cuisine. These markets offer a variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other artisanal goods. They are ideal places to sample a range of dishes and ingredients unique to the region. Engage with local vendors to learn more about the food you're buying — many will be happy to share recipes or cooking tips. Markets are not just about food; they're cultural experiences that engage all your senses. Food Tours and Cooking Classes Participating in organized food tours and cooking classes is a fantastic way to delve deeper into a region's culinary traditions. These tours, often led by local experts, take you off the beaten path to try the best food that you might not find on your own.  Cooking classes, on the other hand, offer a hands-on experience, teaching you how to prepare local dishes, which is a skill you can take home. These activities provide not only culinary delights but also insights into the local way of life. Dietary Restrictions and Allergies Traveling with dietary restrictions or food allergies can be challenging, but with a bit of planning, it's entirely manageable. Research the local cuisine beforehand to identify dishes that meet your dietary needs. Learning key phrases in the local language to communicate your dietary restrictions can be incredibly helpful.  Additionally, consider carrying allergy cards written in the local language to convey your dietary needs clearly. Many restaurants are now accustomed to handling special dietary requests, so don't hesitate to communicate your needs. Pairing Food with Local Beverages A great meal becomes exceptional when paired with the right beverage. When traveling, seize the opportunity to taste local drinks that complement the cuisine. In wine-producing regions, visiting a vineyard can offer insights into pairing local wines with regional dishes. In places known for their breweries, a craft beer might be the perfect match for a hearty meal.  Non-alcoholic options, such as traditional teas or coffees, also play a significant role in some cultures. The key is to ask locals or your server for recommendations, as they can guide you to pairings that elevate your dining experience. Documenting Your Culinary Journey Documenting your food adventures enriches the experience and lets you share it with others. Start a travel food blog or use social media to post your culinary discoveries. When photographing food, try to capture the essence of the dish and the atmosphere of the place. Sharing stories behind the dishes can make your content more engaging. This not only creates a personal memento of your journey but can also guide other food enthusiasts in their travels. Sustainable and Ethical Eating As a foodie traveler, it's important to consider the impact of your dining choices. Opt for restaurants that source ingredients locally and practice sustainable methods. This supports the local economy and reduces the environmental impact. Additionally, being mindful of food waste and respecting local customs and cuisines are crucial aspects of ethical eating. In some cultures, certain foods may be considered delicacies, and trying them can be a way of honoring local traditions while also being conscious of ethical considerations. Budget-Friendly Foodie Travel Enjoying a world of flavors doesn't have to break the bank. Look for local eateries off the beaten path, as they often offer delicious food at lower prices than tourist hotspots. Street food is another affordable option that provides authentic taste experiences. Planning your meals and setting a daily budget can also help manage expenses. Remember, some of the best food experiences come from simple, humble places. Conclusion Exploring the world through taste is not just about indulging in different cuisines; it's about connecting with diverse cultures and traditions. Each dish tells a story, and each flavor opens a new window to understanding a place and its people. As you embark on your culinary journeys, remember to embrace local traditions, respect sustainable practices, and cherish the memories you create. So, pack your appetite and let your taste buds lead the way to unforgettable experiences. Read Also: From Sunrise To Sunset: A Day’s Itinerary For Exploring Benidorm Things To Do In Leeds: Dive Into The Dynamic Heart Of Yorkshire Hidden Gems: Unearthing The Best Things To Do In Nottingham

BY  Mashum Oct 21, 2021

In these difficult times as well as the world where it has become so busy with work. People barely have time to chill and have some adventurous fun with friends. Running only behind money and work will not keep you healthy mentally.  For that, you have to hang out with your friends and do thrilling things that you can later tell your children, while you all sit in the same room. The most important thing you need for yourself is when you can say in the end after doing something crazy “ I am glad I did this, it was so cool”. Life is not all about serious things, they are part of life. The other part is where you can enjoy yourself with your favorite people and do incredible things like fly in a spitfire over some incredible landscapes. Let’s dive into the article where I will mention 25 crazy, adventurous things you can try with your friends. Go get a vacay and enjoy! Here are some adventure Ideas To Go With Your Friends 1. Go Ice-Cross Karting The chilling ice, provoking you to take the challenge of riding a kart, crisscrossing your way through. Imagine zooming down a smooth road. What is the fun in that? The real thrill is when the road will be full of frozen lakes. You and your friends waving at others saying ‘I'll race you is an amazing feeling. Though frozen lakes are pretty dangerous and can cause an accident anytime, that doesn't mean you will not take risks in life. This activity falls under adventure ideas. If you are up for the adventure. Continue reading. 2. Megavalanche Bike Racing Remember the song by Kaleo? ‘Way down we go’. There is only one way you can while participating in the Megavalanche bike ride….DOWN!. Imagine the freezing sharp pin-like air hits your face as you are on your bike just forward towards the bottom of the mountain.  The Megavalanche race is held every year in the French Alps at the Alpe D’Huez ski resort. Make a plan with your friends for fun adventures like this. Go ride that bike! 3. Upper Antelope Canyon When you think of American Canyon there is a usual picture that pops up in your mind, but if you are thinking something precise. The Upper Antelope Canyon in Arizona is the place you and your friends must visit. It has a narrow slot and a petrified sand dune. The sand dune got its beauty from the wind and water that has carved her for millennia. Get the guide of Navajo, they hold tours seven times a day. This is most desirable adventure ideas with your friends.  The best time is the morning when the rocks come alive by the kiss of the bright gleam of light. 4. World’s Largest Video Screen  Leave it to Las Vegas when it comes to doing the craziest thing. It has the biggest video screen turned into a giant disco where the Fremont Light Tunnel is about 460 meters long. Go get theta crazy sound and light show with your pals. They change the program every day but there is still a chance where you might find yourself in the world’s coolest and craziest LED block party!  5. Drinks And Axes Most of the beer bars have dart boards in there, but not in Louisville! They have something better and bigger, axes to throw at a dart-board-shaped board.  It is located in a warehouse, a huge space to do this activity as well as drink several beers.  Think of this scenario: you and your friends drinking beer and throwing axes on the dartboard! How crazy is that?. Don’t worry it’s a safe place, people don’t die there They have a strict ‘ no drunk people policy’, if they see that you are way too drunk, you won’t be allowed to do the activity.  Be careful about it and one of you from the gang, keep checking on others. 6. Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad For more than 120 years a tiny engine has been puffing through canyons of Colorado.  You and your friends can easily be on board and enjoy the beautiful jaw-dropping scenario of the one and only Durango and the railroad. This steam engine is the only engine in America that runs the Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, in the San Juan Mountains. Just like it used to in 1882. 7. Kayak With Orcas Kayaking in Johnstone Strait on Vancouver Island, Canada for weekend adventure ideas is going to be the best decision ever.  If you and your friends are into dolphins and orcas then better not leave this place out.  It is the most beautiful place to watch orcas in their natural habitat. Kayaking is the best way to explore the place as you will witness dolphins, seals, curious orca, and minke whales. 8. New River Gorge Bridge  It was established in 1977 and at that time it was the highest bridge in the world. Now, the world has many other high bridges to compare. So what, if the Gorge bridge is no longer the highest one? I am sure it has the same impressive sight. The bridge’s steel beams are nearly 300m upwards. Imagine standing together, holding hands, and promising each other to always live life to the fullest. You can’t appreciate the construction unless you are standing right under it. 9. Camp In Siberia The stunning nomadic tribe of reindeer herders named Nenet has lived for centuries. It is just above the Arctic circle on the Yamal Peninsula. 2018 was the first of the reindeer’s life when they allowed human interactions, they invited more travelers upon their land.  Plan a camp in the village of Labrovaya. Spend the entire night under the starry sky and find the beautiful beast just outside your tents, when you wake up.   10. Nepal’s Nubra Valley  Have friends and carry a bigger camera. Visiting Ladakh is not a big deal, it's just a tiny kingdom located in the Himalayas.  This compact scenario makes the Nubra Valley a special place that is surrounded by boulders and mountain peaks that also has a sandy expanse. There are few companies that provide the service of camels riding past tiny habitats and clear mountain streams. Together with friends, you can enjoy the place to its best. 11. Taiwan’s Sun-Moon Lake The location of sun-moon lake is just epic, it is nested high in Taiwan’s central mountain range. It is protected by jungle-covered slopes. But the magic begins at dawn, the blue water turns to gold because of the sun. Sitting there and talking about life among friends would be such a stress reliever. No wonder why CNN has ranked this place as one of the best on the entire planet. 12. Hang Son Doong This place is famous for its cave which is the biggest one in the world. No one actually knows the size of it. The cave has its own world inside of it, it owns a river and a jungle.  So huge that it can easily fit a 40 storey skyscraper inside. This place was not known by anyone until the British cave searchers found it in 2009.  You and your friends yelling each other's names which echoing, this feeling is like ‘top of the world’. This is worthful adventure ideas with your buddies. 13. Ras al-Jinz Have a love for animals? And curious about the endangered species? Pack your bags and Ras al-Jinz. Sea turtles are the main focus here. Hawksbill, Green and Loggerhead turtles call this place their home. They come to the sand from the sea, dig holes and lay eggs there. To watch this beautiful process of nature even in a better way, the Ras al-Jinz sanctuary is the best place to visit. Click pictures of the turtles and your gang together. 14. The Omo Valley  While many city people are busy in their fast-forward life, the tribes of Omo valley live their traditional way in peace. Goats are still herded on the dry, rough savannah scrub, the famous jumping of the bulls ceremony happens here as well as the Mursi warriors stretch their lips with lip palates.  This is one of the best adventures to go on with friends. On market days the tribes exchange goods using a barter system. This kind of scenario should not be missed, because we don’t have any traditional way to live life anymore.  15. Spirits In Chile A spiritual place is always a bit more exciting for adventure ideas. It’s normal for a group of friends planning to visit the mystical Chiloe.  The place has its own way of showing beauty, once you are in there it won’t feel like the rest of the world.  The morning starts with dense fog. The countryside can be heard whispering about myths, ghost ships, legends, and forest gnomes, Wow!. The place is so spiritual that the energy is very different there, so most people can’t connect with the place and therefore there is no crowd.  Conclusion  The article is for a bunch of friends who are planning a vacation together. It is no crime to ditch your work for a bit and enjoy life with the people you trust most. Here I am share top 15 adventure ideas. These are the places for an adventurous trip and adventures to have for sure. Forget the crowded world and dive into peace. ‘Keep your circle small and beer cold’. Leave a comment below and share your experience with us. Read More: Why You Should Move To San Diego Why You Should Travel as a Couple How to Fund the Cost of Travelling 10 Travel Tips For Singles At This Valentine’s Day How To Plan A Best One Day Trip To Atlanta With Family?