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BY  Sibashree Jul 10, 2024

If you are in Florida and want to give it all for your active pursuits, your path must lead to the Biscayne National Park. With the third longest coral reef, the watery wonderland is a beautiful coexistence of wildlife, water trails, hiking spots, and life under the water.   Also, did you know that as you visited Florida’s Biscayne National Park, you made a little contribution to the local and national economy? The National Park Service says,   “The South Florida national parks, comprised of Big Cypress National Preserve, Biscayne National Park, Dry Tortugas National Park, and Everglades National Park, were collectively visited by 2.9 million people who spent $242.5 million and supported over 3,250 jobs in South Florida. The cumulative benefit to the South Florida economy was over $352 million.”   So, is the allure palpable enough? Are you already invested in the wildlife, islands, water sports, and the urge to do a little good for the local community? Pack your bags and set in! Meanwhile, let me do all the legwork and make all the plans to join you at the park.   Things To Know About Biscayne National Park  Before I share the details about the kayaking and canoeing fun at the Biscayne National Park, I want to present a brief overview of the park.   A visit to this park is truly a one-of-a-kind experience, and it’s like a microcosm of the universe with the falling together of land and water ecosystems.   It’s time to know the park at a glance before you plan a visit.   Biscayne National Park (Things To Know)  Best Time to Visit  Late November to April  Address 9700 SW 328th Street, Sir Lancelot Jones Way, Homestead, FL 33033  Operating Hours  7:00 AM–5:30 PM, 7 days a week (except holidays) Size 172,971 acres Coral Reef Length  72,000 acres of the northernmost range of the Florida Reef Number of Visitors (in 2023) 571,242  Entrance Fee None Phone 305 230-1144 Alerts & Conditions  Updated regularly  Safety Concerns Mosquitoes and occasional storms Nearby Accommodation Facilities You can stay in tents and make the most of your camping experience. The camping spot is available on a first-come, first-served basis.  Otherwise, you can drive west for half an hour and find hotel chains in Homestead.  I know you can’t wait to have a slice of the national park ripe with outdoor adventure. So, let’s delve deeper into the water and have some kayaking fun and more!   Kayaking, Canoeing, And More! Exploring The Watery Wonderland Of The Biscayne National Park   95% of the Biscayne National Park has water. So, water activities and exploring the water ecosystem are the most amazing things about the place.   You can go canoeing on the open water across the coastal line and reach the stretches of mangroves. Further, you can explore the artificial islands by canoeing and kayaking.   However, to have the most amazing canoeing experience and paddle with the current, you must get a tide table for the visitor center first.   So, let’s start paddling and kayaking!  Jones Lagoon Eco-Adventure Clear Water Paddling  Fee: $109  Age Limit: 12+ for Shared Trips  Duration: 3.5 Hours  Get surrounded by the most amazing marine life during this clear water paddling trip. You will meet the sea turtles, Roseate Spoonbills, and baby sharks on your trip.   Kayakers also love the Jones Family Historic District and Lagoon because of its historic importance. It features on the National Register of Historic Places.  The Jones Family Historic District consists of Porgy Key and Totten Key. The Jones family stayed there during the 1800s and started growing limes and pineapples.   Also, in the early 20th century, they sold their property stretching over a whopping 277 acres and became millionaires. It was a rare incident then in this part of the world for an African American to have this fortune.   Debris Cleanups with Guided Jones Lagoon Paddle  Fee: $50  Age Limit: 12+  Duration: 6 Hours  How about enjoying the beauty and diversity of Biscayne National Park and contributing to its conservation simultaneously?   This debris cleanup and Jones Lagoon paddle trip involves cleaning the debris across the mangrove coastal line and enjoying a relaxing paddle through Jones Lagoon.  At the end of the trip, you will return to the Dante Fascell Visitor Center and unload the debris.   Kayak the Mangroves  Fee: $39  Age Limit: 6+ for Shared Trips  Duration: 1.5 Hours  The mangrove stretch at Biscayne National Park is home to many animals. It is also one of the longest bordering mangrove stretches on the left of the eastern shoreline of the United States.   So, it’s time to meet the tree crabs, fish, animals, and snakes residing in the mangroves. The best part of this tour is that it is partially guided.   The naturalist will guide you for the first half an hour, and from there, you can paddle on your own and take charge of how you want to enjoy the trip.   Sail, Paddle, And Snorkel At Biscayne National Park  Fee: $209  Age Limit: 8+ for Shared Trips  Duration: 6 Hours  This trip involves exploring through the mangrove forest, kayaking, and snorkeling. The trip starts from the Dante Fascell Visitor Center in Homestead.   Snorkel and Paddle  Fee: $209  Age Limit: 12+ for Shared Trips  Duration: 6 Hours  This snorkel and paddle trip at Biscayne National Park is the best to experience aquatic diversity. The rays, dolphins, and sea turtles  await to welcome you to their lives. Further, an encounter with the coral reef is going to be the best experience you can think of.   Also, if you are a birder, you cannot just miss the Roseate Spoonbills while padding. The mangrove forests stretching through the route once again speak of the biodiversity present in the park.  Your guide on the Captain of the National Park will explain the nature of the inhabitants, how they coexist, and the history of the place. It’s the best chef’s kiss you can expect on a trip.   Kayaking Through The Seagrasses of Stiltsville  Fee: $109  Age Limit: 12+  Duration: 3 Hours  Must-Have: Prior Kayaking Experience  As you paddle through the water, the Stiltsville houses on the seagrass banks will be your roadmap to history. This ride is also about the most delightful encounter with the wildlife at Biscayne National Park.   You will even learn why these seagrass banks are important for the ecosystem of the national park. Do you have this thing for everything quaint? The sunken barge on this route stands as a remarkable piece of eulogy.   For the trip, you will start from Coconut Grove and  kayak to the bay to start paddling.   You Can’t Miss The Third Longest Coral Reef At The Biscayne National Park Biscayne National Park promises you a kaleidoscopic experience with the third-longest coral reef in the world. The living coral reef, with its rhythmic movements and embrace of the pork fish and nurse sharks, presents an unforgettable visual experience. The soft corals in the reef dance to the current and create movements.   It’s mesmerizing to know how the polyps make the most beautiful structures by collecting calcium from seawater. In some parts, the coral reef looks like the most vivacious flowers, and in other parts, it will appear like elk antlers or mountains.   On and around the reef, you will also come across the following creatures:  Sea fans  Sea whips  Bright sponges  Christmas tree worms  Fish, shrimps, crabs (They visit to eat the algae gathered on the coral reef.)  Overall, it’s a rainbow of colors with red, purple, orange, and green dominating the spectrum.   How To Visit Biscayne National Park?  You can visit the Dante Fascell Visitor Center of the Biscayne National Park from the US Highway 1 (from north and south) or the Florida Turnpike (from north).   Reaching The Biscayne National Park From North  From Florida Turnpike  First, choose exit 6.  Then, reach the exit ramp and take a left turn to continue moving south to SW 328th Street.   Now, take a left turn on the 328th Street.  Further, drive for four miles to reach the end of the road.  Find the park entrance on your left.  From The US Highway 1  You have to drive south toward Homestead, take SW 137th Avenue, and turn left. You will reach SW 328th Street after a five-mile drive. From here, you will have to take a left turn and drive for four miles. Once you get to the end of the road, you will find the park entrance on your left.   Reaching The Biscayne National Park From South  You can reach the Biscayne National Park from US Highway 1 while traveling from the south.   Then, drive north and reach Homestead. There, you take a right turn on SW 344th Street. Further, continue for four miles until the road near the Homestead Speedway takes a northern turn.   Next, reach the SW 328th Street and head east. Now, you will have to drive for four miles to reach the end of the road. The entrance of the Biscayne National Park will be on your left.   Fun Facts About The Biscayne National Park   The series of sandy, low-lying, and small islands here are known as keys.  Eliott Key is the largest key or island in the Biscayne National Park.  Boca Chita Key is the most popular island here. Also, it is known for its 65-foot lighthouse constructed in the 1930s.   See You There!  Biscayne National Park is a destination that will spoil you with choices. The kayaking and canoeing activities are there, and you can also take a deep dive to have a one-on-one with the fascinating marine life.   If you want more outdoor pursuits in the water, you can try swimming and fishing.   Further, the park does not disappoint wildlife lovers and tourists who love exploring history. The Jones Family Historic District at the park features on the National Register of Historic Places.   Also, the dolphins, birds, turtles, and fish are there to offer you the most amazing wildlife experience.   And the list is endless! The things to do and see at the Biscayne National Park! So, let’s quickly wrap up my guide and plan a visit to the park. See you there soon!   Biscayne National Park FAQ  What Is Biscayne National Park?  Biscayne National Park in Florida is one of the most visited National Parks in America. It is known for its diverse ecosystem and historical importance. Further, it has the third-largest coral reef in the world.   How Do I Access Biscayne National Park?  You can reach Biscayne National Park through US Highway 1 or the Florida Turnpike if you are driving from the north. If you are traveling from the south, you will have to take US Highway 1.  What Activities Can I Do at Biscayne National Park?  At Biscayne National Park, your outdoor pursuits are going to be endless. You can enjoy the following activities.  Snorkeling  Diving   Kayaking  Paddling   Exploring the mangroves  Visiting coral reefs  The park also offers opportunities to experience the best marine life by observing manatees, sea turtles, and various marine creatures.  What Landmarks Can Be Found In Biscayne National Park?  Biscayne National Park has the following landmarks.  Maritime Heritage Trail  Stiltsville  Living Coral exhibit at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center  Is There Scuba Diving At Biscayne National Park?  Yes, you can do scuba diving in clear waters at Biscayne National Park. You will  encounter coral reefs, vibrant marine life, and shipwrecks while scuba diving.   When Did Biscayne National Park Become A National Park?  In 1968, Biscayne National Park was established as a national monument. Years later, in 1980, it got the designation of a National Park.   Also read Enjoy The Best Amusement Park In Cancun. The 4 Best Parks In Cancun You Have To Visit. From Hiking To Stargazing: The Top 10 National Parks In Utah!

BY  Sharmita Feb 6, 2019

When Pausanias, an ancient Greek traveler, penned his experiences, he became the first travel writer. Names like Paulo Coelho, Elizabeth Gilbert, and many others continued his legacy. Thanks to these writers, today, there are many options when it comes to travel books you should read in 2024.   The best way of learning about food and the people and all aspects of contemporary cultures is by reading about them. Further, reading travel books on specific destinations helps you to prepare right for the upcoming trip. Trust me! It is as important as tracking down any place on the map.   In addition, the pages of travel books will change the way you see the world. You will fall in love with the places and people you have not seen yet.   10 Travel Books You Should Be Read in 2024: Are you ready to experience a serious dose of wanderlust? Grab these travel books and travel to different parts of the world.   1. On The Road by Jack Kerouac: This book remains the best in the niche of travel books. It is classic; you may choose to read it in an English class. Even if you have read it, it is recommended that you read it once again. This book is timeless as the story follows Sal, the main character while leaving New York heading west. He rides the rail along the way, meets acquaintances and friends, and parties through the nights. The theme of the novel is the frustrations of Sal and his desires to see all things around the world. These themes resonate with many people around the world and readers of the book. 2. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho: This book is a timeless classic and an international bestseller. It was written in 1988 by Paulo Coelho and follows Santiago's life, who was an Andalusian shepherd boy. He longs to travel around the world for treasures. He moves from Spain to Egypt following his dream. He learns a lot of lessons along the way. He discovers love and understands the meaning of being alive. He finds some bits about himself along the way, which is something avid travelers relate to. If you read "The Alchemist", you will have to peruse its best quotes for purposes of inspiration. 3. Vagabonding by Rolf Potts: This book is much of the stories of a man than a novel. Rolf Potts spent ten years on the road. He walked to Israel. In his write-up, he provides tricks, insights, lessons, and tips he learned over the decade. If you are after becoming a long-term traveler, it is easily among the best travel books you can read. He shares all things from valuable lessons learned to funny stories. He also includes inspiration quotes plus practical info that can help all travelers. If you want to live on the road, you must read Vagabonding. 4. Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert: The truth of the matter is that you have read this book even if you have never read it. Or you have watched a movie adaptation with Julia Roberts. This story os great to begin with if you are looking at reading many travel books. One woman is seeking everything across Indonesia, Italy, and India. It follows the trip of the author Elizabeth Gilberts around the world after her divorce. She delves in the learned lessons along the way. She dares to step outside her comfort zone, and this story will make you desire to do the same. This book is among the best travel books if you are feeling stuck. 5. Into The Wild by Jon Krakauer: It is likely that you have heard about this travel book. This non-fiction book follows adventures of Christopher McCandless. Born in a wealthy family, he decides to leave all things behind and goes to Alaska. He gave out everything in his possession. He burnt all the money in the wallet before fleeing. After arriving in Alaska, He starts searching for a new life in the wilderness. This book touches on ways of being accepted in the society and methods of breaking from the norms the community places on you. This book challenges you to break from existing stereotypes and try something new. 6. Marching Powder by Rusty Young: In case you want great travel books, then this one is the best option for you. It was written by Rusty Young, an Australian journalist on a trip to South America. He learned of Thomas McFadden, the convicted drug trafficker running tours in San Pedro Prison. He became interested and wanted to learn a lot. He went ahead to join Thomas's illegal tours. He manages to stay inside the prison for the next three months after becoming a friend to Thomas. The resulting story shows that anything can happen while traveling. You also learn about the importance of safety while on your adventures. 7. Less by Andrew Sean Greer: Less is a novel written in 2017 by Andrew Sean Greer following his humorous journey of the Arthur Less, the gay novelist. Arthur travels the world on tour to welcome his fiftieth birthday. The career of Arthur as a novelist does not go well; neither is his life in love. The main traveling reason is to avoid his ex-lover wedding. His adventure leads him close to falling in love while in Paris. He almost falls to death in Berlin. This comedy is satirical that you can wish to read over and over again. This book is among the best travel books when you want something light-hearted. You can learn a lot from this book concerning confronting turning points, love, travel, and much more. 8. How to Travel the World On $50 A Day by Matt Kepnes? There is a possibility of traveling the world with fifty dollars a day. Matt Kepnes shows you the way to do so. It is the best book to read about adventures on a budget. For those that prefer minimalist traveling, this book goes into the details of traveling for long on a small budget. You will learn about traveling the world without spending what you do not have. He shares related stories about what he learned along the way. 9. The Geography of Bliss by Eric Weiner: This book is a humorous memoir. It came into being in the year 2008 by Eric Weiner while recounting his years of traveling around the world searching for a happy place on earth. The destinations he explores include Qatar, Moldova, Iceland, and Bhutan. He investigates how various countries pursue and define happiness. It is among the best travel books when seeking to learn the outs and ins of other cultures. 10. Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts: Shantaram by George David Roberts is a novel showing where Lin, the Australian bank robber is hiding. He passes the time running a clinic in the poorest regions in the city and working for Bombay mafia. If you fantasize India, this is your boo. This novel portrays the reality of life for the people of Bombay. Conclusion Now that you know the best travel books you should read, get ready for the most rewarding traveling experience sitting in the comfort of your home. Do you remember the Pandemic days? These travel books and some good movies were our only means of traveling.   Further, any great travel book, like actual traveling, will present the best and worst sides of civilization and life in front of you. So, pick any of these and see how the world gets unveiled in front of you.  Do you have a secret favorite among the books I have mentioned? Or do you have any other travel books on your Wishlist? Don’t forget to share!   Read Also: Travel Tips to Help You Out In Asia Top Places to Visit in Italy on your next Travel Escapade 7 Key points Remember while Planning Your Honeymoon Trip

BY  Sibashree Jul 19, 2025

Bella Collina in Orlando, Florida, caters for wedding parties of all sizes, from intimate ceremonies to grand celebrations. The way that couples celebrate their special day is changing. Bella Collina is a proud pioneer of this exciting trend, helping couples to create their perfect wedding in this stunning, Tuscan-inspired venue. While traditional weddings remain a popular option among many couples, some are seeking out innovative ways of making their wedding celebration more meaningful and personalized. This shift has led to the emergence of what Bella Collina describes as the “perfect blend” of close-knit, intimate ceremonies with all the grandeur of a luxurious celebration. At Bella Collina, couples can enjoy intimacy and luxury in abundance, exchanging their vows in the Tuscan-inspired courtyard surrounded by close friends and family before transitioning to a spectacular reception in the venue’s Formal Ballroom. For couples seeking the best of both worlds, Bella Collina can help them to create magical moments throughout their special day, each with its own atmosphere and purpose. Intimate wedding ceremonies offer certain upsides that simply cannot be replicated in larger gatherings, paving the way for meaningful interactions and personalized touches that truly convey each couple’s unique love story. An intimate wedding enables couples to enjoy genuine, unrushed moments with each guest, providing the freedom to express emotions without becoming overwhelmed. Creating more flexibility with ceremony timing and flow paves the way for opportunities to celebrate unique family and cultural traditions, as well as allowing enhanced focus on the couple’s connection when exchanging their vows. In terms of grand celebrations, Bella Collina is second to none, providing show-stopping entertainment options, stunning floral displays in magnificent spaces, and gourmet dining experiences curated by expert chefs. In addition, couples enjoy breathtaking photo opportunities against the backdrop of picturesque rolling hills, spectacular lighting and décor, and luxury amenities to wow their guests, with professional service staff to ensure seamless execution throughout. Accommodating up to 200 guests, Bella Collina’s Grand Lawn is an outdoor venue that offers an unparalleled wedding experience. Boasting panoramic views of Lake Apopka and Lake Siena, the championship golf course, and Monteverde’s rolling hills, the venue is perfect for ceremonies and receptions, with its lush landscaping, blooming gardens, and twinkling lights presenting the prime location to enjoy magical sunset celebrations. Indoors, the Formal Ballroom seats up to 170 guests, with its floor-to-ceiling windows offering spectacular views and the soaring ceiling glittering with crystal chandeliers. With flexible seating arrangements, sophisticated architectural details, and climate-controlled comfort, the ballroom is the perfect location for summer wedding receptions. With a maximum capacity of 170, the Ballroom Veranda at Bella Collina is a popular outdoor wedding venue. With romantic market lighting, the Ballroom Veranda’s seamless indoor-outdoor flow ideally positions it for twilight ceremonies, providing a fresh air dining experience as an extension of the main ballroom. Boasting breathtaking lake and golf course views, the Reflection Pool’s serene water features and towering Italian cypress trees present the perfect location for more intimate ceremonies, with the location featuring a cozy fire pit area with royal feasting tables available. Alternatively, the Wine Cellar is an intimate and unique space at Bella Collina that can cater for up to 30 guests, with its rustic brick walls and romantic candlelit setting creating the ultimate intimate ambiance. Orlando’s cultural and geographic characteristics make it an ideal wedding destination, particularly for those intending to marry outdoors. Home to a robust wedding industry, Orlando offers access to talented wedding professionals, including event planners, photographers and videographers, florists, limousine services, and make-up and hair stylists. Ranking as Central Florida’s most sought-after wedding venue, Bella Collina invites couples to step into a world of timeless elegance, providing the perfect backdrop for their unforgettable day and leaving no stone unturned in creating a truly magical experience.