Saddle Up For The Adventure Of A Lifetime: Horseback Riding Vacations For Every Rider

BY  Sibashree Dec 19, 2025

Do “Cheap” and “Free” ring similarly to you? Not to me, at least! I was researching free activities for my visit to Kotor, Montenegro. Every guide, trust me, every guide, was a random mix of cheap and free activities. And it’s almost 2026, the same problem lies with the so-called guides of Kotor Montenegro free activities. Everyone is actually discussing the cheap activities, or they are not giving the true picture and updates about free activities like the Kotor Fort through the Ladder of Kotor route. Did anyone tell you that the “Window” section for a free jump into the fort premises no longer exists? It has been blocked, and there is a turnstile at the entry point. You can still go for a free hike on that route, but it will no longer be a trek to the fort. So, if you are expecting a free sneak into the Kotor Fort, I would say, “Don't hike for 2 hours expecting to sneak in.” However, if you want to enjoy a free view of the Kotor Bay or the fort from outside the walls, I will say, “Go ahead!” Also, the bus rides in Kotor are never “Free!” They are cheap, yes, costing around 1 to 3 Euros for local transfers. However, one delightful thing that is absolutely free in Kotor is the cat therapy. I had the most adorable time with the cats of Kotor. These adorable animals are indeed the guardians of the city. In this Tour and Travel Blog, I will talk about the Kotor Montenegro free activities in detail. I will also touch upon the cheap activities to do in Kotor, Montenegro, and budget travel hacks. What Are The Kotor Montenegro Free Activities? Kotor is so walkable and welcoming that you can have fun outdoors and explore the historical and cultural landmarks of the city free of cost. 1. Hiking The Free And Big Walls Of The City  The history of Kotor speaks through the Kotor Fortress. Furthermore, the abandoned Austro-Hungarian Fort, built in the 19th century, stands out today with its mysterious monk paintings. You can include a hike to these big city walls as a free activity in your Kotor, Montenegro travel itinerary.  Hiking The Kotor Fort For Free  You can visit the Kotor Fort via the city entrance, which costs 15 Euros. However, you can avoid this cost by taking the alternative route, which begins behind the Old Town of Kotor. You can access this trekking route via Tabačina Street. This route, beginning near the River Gate exit, is popular among locals for a free hike to the Kotor Fortress or the San Giovanni Fortress. After walking for 20 to 30 minutes on the route with loose rocks and steepness, there is a place called “Window.” Earlier, locals and tourists used to get into the fortress through this window. However, the window is now blocked with strict vigilance from the fort authority. So, you cannot reach the fort through this hiking route anymore. But hiking through this route itself is an experience. Also, if you are looking for cheap eats in Kotor, Montenegro, that offer the most authentic experience, let me tell you that you will find the best cured ham here. The hiking route leads to Njegusi, and it has some amazing family-run taverns. Hiking The Fort Vrmac For Free  I did not know that so close to Kotor, Montenegro, I would find the ruins of an Austro-Hungarian Fort. The hiking route is easy, and it passes through a quiet forest, offering multiple vantage points and amazing views. The trailhead is just 15 minutes away from the Kotor Old Town and near the town of Muo. Also, the stone path of 6.5 kilometers can be completed within 3 to 4 hours. On my way, I came across pomegranate trees and spotted turtles with yellow and black spots. The only difficulty I faced on this route was the lack of any clear direction. The route was a bit random and can get confusing if you are hiking alone. After I reached the top, I found an abandoned military outpost. It was like a ghost town. The ghost town and the Vrmac Fort of 1894, which suddenly emerged before my eyes like something surreal, seemed eerie to me. I could hear the rifles firing. The fort played a vital role in the World Wars and was later used by the Yugoslav army.  Expanding The Free Hike To Fort Vrmac  Once you are done exploring the fort, you will find many trails leading to different destinations from the top of the hill. You can choose to continue your hike to Tivac or take an alternative and longer trek route to Kotor Town. Hiking The Fort Gorazda For Free  Fort Gorazda is another Austro-Hungarian Fort, and it is a popular free hiking destination near the Old Town of Kotor. This fort, built between 1884 and 1886, is located at an altitude of 452 meters. Once you reach the hilltop, you must climb up the metal dome. This armored metal dome was one of the main elements, offering a strategic advantage to the fort. From the top of this dome, you will get a 360-degree view of Herceg Novi, Lustica Peninsula, and Tivat. For a free hike, you must start at the Trg od Oruzja or the Main Square of Kotor. Then, walk to the Old Town and make an exit at the Vrata od Kampa or North Gate. Turn left and continue on the Jadranska magistrala or coastal road to find the signs for Skaljari. Chill at the cafes and shops along the way and have some refreshment. Then, walk for around 20 minutes to reach the Skaljari Village. Walk straight and on the right, you will find a steep path that takes you uphill. At the end of this road, you will find Fort Gorazda. The hike is moderately challenging, and a round trip will take around 5-7 hours. An Alternative Route To Fort Gorazda  If you are short on time and don’t want to walk so much, I want to share some Kotor transport tips to reach Skaljari.   The bus ride will take around 10 minutes, and once you reach Skaljari, you can walk for 15 to 20 minutes to the route leading to the fort atop a hill.   This combination of bus ride and hike is also a budget-friendly option, considering the bus tickets only cost around 1 to 2 Euros.   2. Free Historical And Cultural Exploration  When you have the alleys of a UNESCO World Heritage Site to be explored, you know that a rich cultural and historical experience awaits you.   It’s time to soak in the medieval atmosphere.   Walking The Old Town (Stari Grad): A Self-Guided Route  The Old Town or Stari Grad of Kotor allows you to get lost intentionally in the cobblestone mazes and alleys.   • Walk Starts At Gurdić Gate  Anyway, I started from the Gurdić Gate, or the southern entrance to Kotor. From there, my walk continued through Craftsmen Street.   I met and talked with the carpenters, goldsmiths, blacksmiths, and shoemakers there. I bought two model boats from a shop here as souvenirs.   • The Famous River Gate And Meeting The Cats Of The Town  Then, I reached the famous River Gate. I crossed the bridge there and got an amazing view of San Giovanni’s Fortress.   Then, I came back to the town, and near the Leafy Square, I found many cats, the guardians of the city. Also, St Mary’s Church, built in 1221, was one of the main attractions during my Strai Grad walk.   • St Lucas’ Square  My next stop was St Lucas’ Square, home to the Orthodox Church of St Nicholas. However, I found St Lucas’ Church here more interesting, with the history of this Byzantine church going back to 1195.   The St Lucas’ music school was opposite the church, and I could hear the sound of the piano and the full orchestra.   • Museum Square   I took the little lane to the Museum Square, and just before reaching the square, I found Karampana in a small courtyard on my right. It is the oldest public well in Kotor.   On the left, there is the Gregorina Palace, home to the famous Maritime Museum of Kotor. • St Tryphon’s Square   With beautiful mountain views and guarded by ramparts, St Tryphon’s Square is a place filled with many iconic landmarks of the Old Town. In a clockwise direction, you will find the following places at St Tryphon’s Square.   ⁍ The Old Town Hall  ⁍ Drago Palace  ⁍ Bishop’s Palace  ⁍ St Tryphon’s Cathedral  Venetian traders brought some of the relics inside St Tryphon’s Cathedral from Constantinople to Kotor in 809. There is also an altarpiece made by the goldsmiths of Kotor in the 15th century.   • Square Of Four   I took the road running between the Old Town Hall and the restaurant and reached the Square of Four.   Pima Palace and the Buča Palace are two important architectural and historical landmarks of the Square of Four.   • Square Of Arms   After I reached the Square of Arms, I visited Café Forza. I had an amazing Dobrotska Torta and coffee here, while cherishing the view of the Bizanti Palace, Venetian Arsenal, the Prince’s Palace, and more.   Finally, I bid goodbye to the Old City and made an exit through the Sea Gate. Which Churches Are Actually Free?  Kotor, Montenegro, has many churches, and they are often mentioned while discussing the Kotor Montenegro free activities.   However, not all the churches in Kotor offer a free entry. For example, you will need to pay 3 Euros for an entry to the St. Tryphon Cathedral Church.   • St. Nicholas Church   The St. Nicholas Church in Kotor is one of the free churches to visit in Montenegro. This orthodox church, built in 1909, has a lavish interior. You can buy candles from the small shops nearby for praying at the church.  • St. Tryphon Cathedral  St. Tryphon Cathedral, or Kotor Cathedral, built in 1166, does not offer free entry. You have to pay 3 Euros for the entry.   The church has the relics of St. Tryphon, the patron saint of the city, and a museum. Its architectural style shows eclectic influences, including the Baroque, Renaissance, Byzantine, and Roman styles.  • St. Luke Church, Kotor   The best thing about this 1195 church is that it does not have a clear Catholic or Orthodox identity. So, it was my favorite in Kotor. Anything that does not create differences for religion!  Furthermore, the church has one Catholic altar and an Orthodox altar. It remains open to all and offers a free entry during the summer season. However, it remains closed in the winter season.   • St. Claire’s Church, Kotor  Adjacent to the Franciscan Monastery, St. Claire Church, built in the 18th century, stands out with its grand altar and stunning interior.   Have a look at its wooden ceiling before leaving the church. It offers a free entry.   The Hidden Gem: St. Clare’s Franciscan Monastery, Church & Library  Once again, let’s talk about the St. Claire’s Church, Monastery, and Library, one of the few Catholic churches in Kotor, Montenegro, and a true hidden gem.   Made of brick and stone, the exterior of the church is humble. However, once you enter the church, the main altar, made of red and white marbles and exuding a Baroque style, will immediately steal your attention.   This altar was made by Francesco Cabianca in 1708. The side altars also have a Baroque style with paintings by Venetian artists. Later, Špiro Đuranović, a local painter, added a picture of St. Clare and four evangelists.   Among the many other collectibles, ancient books and manuscripts preserved by the church and its library, the Ecce Homo painting by the Spanish painter Morales, or El Divino, is the most famous.   Walking The Lower City Walls & Kampana Tower  You can start this walk of the Kampana Tower and the lower city walls from the Sea Gate.   Enter the Old Town.  Walk toward the northwest corner of the city walls to find the Kampana Tower.  Enjoy the views of the Scurda River and the harbor.  Walk toward the North Gate.  3. Free Swimming Spots In Kotor Bay  The rocky shores of the Kotor Bay offer many free swimming spots. Once you reach a beach, look for the public access areas for a free swim and directly into the water.   Free Swimming Spots Experiences  Dobrota Promenade • Find the hidden spots for swimming from the rocky shores directly Kotor Waterfront • Choose a public access spot with small pebbles Perast Waterfront • Expect charming town views Bajova Kula Beach • Beautiful pebble beach • Clear water  4. Free Events And Festivals In Kotor  Have a look at the table below to know about the free festivals and events of Kotor, their timing, and specialties.  Free Events and Festivals in Kotor Timing Free Elements The Tripundanski Days or the Days of St. Tryphon 3rd February Cultural exhibitions, parades, and concerts at Kotor Old Town Kotor Carnival February/March • Masks  • Parades  • Free Street Parties Boka Night Or Bokeljska Noć August  • Boat Parade  • Fireworks  • Concerts in Old Town Camellia Days March to May • Celebrating Camelia Flowers and Local Flavors  • Free Cultural Activities Kotor Festival of Theatre for Children 2nd to 10th July • Street Performances • Festive Decor in the Streets of Kotor Bay  5. Free Activities That No One Talks About   You can go through the best of lists about free activities in the “XYZ” place. However, you will never know where the real magic lies until you visit the place.   • Watching Sunset At Mount Vrmac  People still talk about a hike to Mount Vrmac and Fort Vrmac. However, only a local knows that the ideal time to start this hike is late in the afternoon.   Then, you will reach the Sveti Ilija Peak, the highest viewpoint, by sunset.   • The Gurdić Spring Or The Gurdić Bastion  This is a free attraction near the South Gate of the Old Town to learn about the resilient defense system of the city. Here, water bubbles from underground and flows into a moat system.   • The River Gate  Built in the 16th century, the River Gate or the North Gate is an entrance to the Kotor Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.   The bridge crosses the Škurda River. Thus, you can enjoy amazing views of the mountains, rivers, and the entire Kotor Bay from the bridge.   What Are The Cheap Activities To Do In Kotor, Montenegro?  Now comes the cheap activities in Kotor, and you can choose between short trips to nearby towns such as Perast and Budva, or exploring the former submarine tunnel entrance.  1. The Perast Bus Adventure  A Perast bus ride from Kotor will cost around 1.5 Euros. You will come across stunning Baroque architecture, such as the Zmajević and Bujović palaces.   It is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, and as a historic seafaring town, it has a rich maritime history.   2. A Bus Trip To The Budva Old Town  One of the oldest urban centers in the Adriatic, the Budva Old Town has a history of more than 2500 years. It stands with its fortification and Venetian walls.   Furthermore, it has iconic landmarks such as the Church of St. John the Baptist and the Holy Trinity Church of the 19th century.   3. Visiting The Former Submarine Tunnel Entrance  The former submarine tunnel entrance near Kotor is an abandoned historical spot. It goes back to the Yugoslav era. The Yugoslav Navy used it as a secret military base for hiding submarines and boats.   From Kotor, you can take a bus to Kumbor and then follow the signs leading to the submarine tunnel entrance. The bus ticket price from Kotor to Kumbor will be around 1 to 3 Euros.   Also, if your budget permits, you can combine a visit to the former submarine tunnel entrance with a private speed boat tour to the Our Lady of the Rocks and the Blue Cave. The ticket price will be around 35 to 50 Euros.   4. Exploring The Kotor Farmer's Market  The open-air market just outside the Old Town walls of Kotor offers a delightful sensory experience. It is the place where you will experience authentic Montenegrin life and the best local flavors.   Buy cheese, honey, and local produce from this market and cook your meal at your hostel or homestay kitchen to budget your food expenses.   How Can A Student Explore Kotor On A Budget? The Ultimate Hack For Kotor On A Shoestring   I can give you a five-point solution to survive in Kotor and explore the city as a student on a shoestring budget.   1. The €1 Museum Hack  If you have the International Student Identity Card or a valid student identity card, you will have to pay just 1 Euro, instead of 5 Euros for an entry to the Maritime Museum of Kotor.   Also, an entry to the Kotor Cat Museum costs just 1 Euro for everyone.   2. Hostels With "Free" Social Lives  In my Kotor Montenegro hostel guide, I have mentioned how the cheap hostels in Kotor are more than accommodations. You don’t just get a bed, but become a part of the social calendar. The Old Town Hostel and Montenegro Hostel 4U are some of the most famous names, offering you free value additions.   Furthermore, you can be a part of the Sunset BBQs and get rakija shots and food there for a small fee.   3. The €2.50 Lunch Strategy  I know it’s tempting, but when you are a student or someone traveling on a budget, you will have to give the sit-down restaurants in the Old Town squares, including areas such as the Arms Square or the St. Tryphon Square, a miss.   Instead, you can visit the local bakeries, or Pekara. Order a Burek there with a hearty meat filling and have it with yogurt. This lunch combo under €2.50 will keep your tummy filled for hours.   4. Bus Discounts  When you are in Kotor, you can use your International Student Identity Card (ISIC) card or a valid card from any university to get 20–30% discounts on bus tickets.   Book tickets from platforms like BusTicket4.me to get the discounts.   5. Make The Most Of The Free WiFi Zones  The "Square of Arms" area and the area in Old Town just in front of the Sea Gate offer free public Wi-Fi facilities. These are local municipal connections.   Furthermore, use platforms such as Coworker.com to locate coworking places near Budva or Tivat. However, before you use any public Wi-Fi connection, you must have a VPN installed on your phone or computer.   What Are The Best Expert Tips For Free Things To Do In Kotor Montenegro?  Want to make the Montenegro free activities more fun? Give these expert and insider tips a good read.  1. Use The "Maps.me" App For Hiking  Though Kotor is a happening remote-working destination and internet connectivity is overall stable and consistent, you may face connectivity issues while exploring the hiking trails or the nearby villages.   Also, trail routes such as the Ladder of Kotor or the Fort Vrmac do not have clear markings. So, it is always a better option to download an offline map from Maps.me.   It is a more trustworthy option than Google Maps for local trails.   2. Choose Park Slobode For Swimming  Take left after the Port Authority building to find Park Slobode. It is not as crowded as the main beach.   You can get into the water from these concrete steps for a free swim. The water here is cleaner and suitable for swimming.   3. Visit The Markets Around The Closing Time  The Green Market outside the city walls is a wonderful free market to browse. Furthermore, the vendors usually pack up between 1 and 2 PM.   Many vendors give away free fruits during these hours.   4. The View From Kampana Tower Can Beat Any Mountain View  If you are too lazy to climb the mountains for a wonderful view of the Kotor Bay, you can walk to the Kampana Tower at the northwest corner of the wall.   You can climb up the stairs to reach the top of this bastion for free. From there, you will get wonderful photo opportunities.   5. Don’t Miss The Bokeljska Night  If you are visiting in late August, do not miss "Bokeljska Noć." It is a massive boat parade with fireworks. It is completely free to watch from the harbor wall.  6. Choose The "Mu" Walk  If you find the roads toward Dobrota very crowded, you can choose a quieter alternative, Muo. Here, you will have to walk along the waterway through a flat and scenic route.   You will love the reflection of the city walls in the water.   7. Don’t Miss The St. Nicholas Liturgy On Sundays  Visit the St. Nicholas Church on Sundays to attend the Liturgy. The most delightful element of this Liturgy is the Orthodox choral singing. You can listen to it completely free.   8. Avoid The Window Fines  Once again, you must not try to jump the turnstiles or force the blocked window at the fortress. If a park ranger catches you crossing the barrier, you will be charged a fine.   Kotor Montenegro Free Activities: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Kotor Montenegro free activities.   1. Is The Kotor Fortress Free Before 8 AM?  No, there is no official rule for a free entry to the Kotor Fortress before 8 AM. The trick is that in the winter and spring seasons, from November to March, the guards do not reach the fort before 8 AM. So, you can try entering the fort for free.   However, guards reach earlier in the summer months. So, if you get caught, you may have to pay 15 Euros. So, this is more of a trick or gamble.   2. Which Churches In Kotor Are Free To Enter?  The free churches to visit in Kotor are the Church of St. Nicholas, an Orthodox Church, the Romanesque Church of St. Luke, the Church of St. Mary or Our Lady of the Rocks, and the Church of St. Anne.   Furthermore, as you explore the Old Town Squares, you will find many small chapels, which are free to enter.   3. Are There Free Sandy Beaches In Kotor?  Kotor does not have sandy beaches. The Kotor Beach in Dobrota, close to the Old Town, is filled with pebbles. Galebova's Rock, on the other hand, has a concrete beach.   However, if you want to visit a sandy beach, you will have to travel around 21 kms to reach Mogren Beach in Budva.   You can even visit the Island of Flowers or Ostrvo Cvijeca, around 11 kms away. It is in Tivat Bay.   4. Is The "Ladder Of Kotor" Hike Free?  Yes, the Ladder of Kotor hike, starting just behind the Old Town, is a free hike. It has been an alternative to entering the fort with a hiked fee.   After a walk for a few kilometers, there used to be a section or opening known as the Window. People used to get into the castle through this window.   However, the window is now blocked. Still, you can hike through this route for a view of the fort and amazing sunset scenes.   5. Is Water Free In Kotor?  Yes, water is free in Kotor. There is a historic well, Karampana Well and there are taps around the city where water comes from the mountains. This water is potable.   So, you must carry reusable bottles and fill them at the refill stations. Thus, you can save money and reduce plastic wastage.    6. Can I Walk The City Walls For Free?  You can walk around the lower perimeters of the city walls near the harbor and water for free. However, you cannot walk the higher perimeter of the city walls for free.  Early morning or late evenings are the best times for a free walk around the city walls.   7. Is The Hike To Fort Vrmac Free?  Yes, a hike to Fort Vrmac is free. However, this Austro-Hungarian fort is in a dilapidated condition. Also, I felt some eerie vibe there.   The hiking route to the fort ruins is easy and it is considered beginner-friendly. So, it is popular among locals and travelers on a budget as an alternative to the Kotor Fortress hike.   8. When Is The Kotor Carnival?  Kotor has two main carnivals. The International Summer Carnival takes place in July-August. Furthermore, the grand Winter Carnival takes place in February and March.   The Winter Carnival has Venetian mask dances, a grand parade with majorettes, grand feasts, the burning of an effigy symbolizing the troubles of the last year.   On the other hand, the Summer Carnival has colorful parades and street parties.  9. Is Parking Free In Kotor?  There are no designated free parking areas in Kotor, especially near the Old Town. However, Dobrota, Škaljari, or other residential areas allow free parking on the streets.  You will have to walk for at least 1.5 kilometers to find these parking places.  10. Are There Free Toilets In Kotor Old Town?  No, there are no free toilets inside the Kotor Old Town. You will have to pay around 0.6 to 1 Euro to use the public toilets.   However, you can use free facilities at the Shopping Center Kamelija near the North Gate or the restrooms at the Kotor Cable Car Station.  

BY  Sibashree Jan 17, 2025

The next location we planned to cover during a USA tour was New Orleans. This time, we discovered how a city with a rich culture cares so much about children.  Along with its heritage, architecture, and a culture that feels like a warm embrace, the kid-friendly activities also make this Louisiana city a popular tourist destination.  However, this time as I pen the things to do in New Orleans with kids, my heart feels heavy. A deadly terror attack on Bourbon Street and the police shoot-out following that have taken the lives of at least 14 people on 2nd January 2025.  Still, the city is on the mend, and everyone is hoping high for the stability of the tourism economy of the city. It’s difficult, considering the city has yet to recover in tourism and finances since the COVID-19 days fully.  Apologies for the grim start! However, as travelers, you cannot disassociate so easily, especially when you have just visited a place. Nevertheless, it’s time for some cheer, and shifting focus to the best things to do in New Orleans with kids can greatly help. So, let’s discuss it.  Fun Things To Do With Kids In New Orleans | Enjoying The Graceful Embrace December to January and February to May are the best times to try fun things to do with kids in New Orleans. And guess what! There are a lot of free activities awaiting your little ones here. I have discussed them in a different Tour and Travel guide.  Nevertheless, here, let’s focus on the unique things to do with kids in New Orleans.  1. Audubon Zoo Visit https://www.instagram.com/p/C4qRCaVrNPe/?img_index=1 Location: 6500 Magazine Street, New Orleans Contact Number: (504) 861-2537 Hours Open: 10 AM to 5 PM (Tuesday and Wednesday Closed) Audubon Zoo Admission: $35 for Adults and $25 for Children Audubon Zoo is one of the topmost family attractions in New Orleans. It is a wonderland of Audubon animals and birds. The place is filled with mammals, reptiles, and birds. From the majestic African Lions and Asians Elephants to the Aldabra Tortoise, you will find everything here.  However, for me, the most delightful creatures in the zoo are the Caribbean Flamingos. They are as colorful as their country of origin.  I also loved the Malayan Sun Bears. They are adorable with the cutest expressions. You will even find Malayan tigers here.  Furthermore, we thoroughly enjoyed The Dinosaurs at the Audubon Zoo section. I was not willing to visit the section at first. Yes, I know! I am in my thirties, and I still have my phobia!  Nonetheless, my kids insisted, and I had to take them to the section with 50 life-like dinosaurs growling and making moves. However, this special exhibit program has now ended.  Moreover, if you are in New Orleans for a long span or have plans of staying here, you can allow your kid to be a camper at the Audubon. They can become young experts in animals and they will love to spend some time with their favorite creatures. 2. A Day at Jackson Square | Best Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids Jackson Square gets its name from Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the USA and a New Orleans battle hero. So, a visit to Jackson Square at the heart of the French Quarter is like taking a walk down memory lane.  Here, you will also find Pontalba Apartments and many other oldest buildings in the city. Rented places are easily available in these buildings.  As you appreciate the old-yet-young vibe of the space or recall the history of New Orleans, let your little one enjoy the jazz music, live performances, and entertainment events here.  Moreover, if you are lucky enough, you can be a part of the art festivals here.  A stone’s throw away from Jackson Square is the St. Louis Cathedral. It is the oldest cathedral church in North America, and its steeples watch over the French Quarter.  3. A Ghost Tour | Exciting Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids Well, if your little one loves Halloween and everything spooky, you can definitely take them on a family-friendly ghost tour. These tours are especially popular among adventurous children in their pre-teens.  Tour Organizers like Viator, offer Spooky Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in New Orleans in the French Quarters.  Now, these ghost tours are very much ingrained in the spirit of New Orleans. The LaLaurie Mansion or the New Orleans French Quarter was infamous for the mistreatment of slaves. Supernatural activities and the stories around them started flowing after a neighbor saw a troubling incident. The neighbor saw a lady chasing a slave girl, who jumped from the roof of the mansion as an escape.  Despite the presence of modern boutiques, quaint restaurants and a reimagined and bustling French Market, the spooky vibe simply refuses to go away!  4. Spending Time By The Mississippi River There is something special about New Orleans. And as they say, the Mississippi River is the manifestation of the heart of New Orleans. It’s welcoming and embracing, and its culture and heritage surpass the geographical boundaries.  Further, like the Mississippi River which destroys, restores and builds the banks, New Orleans believes in making a forward move even in the toughest conditions. The recent terror attacks and the means of recuperation are burning examples.  So, if you want your little one to know about the true spirit of New Orleans, allow them to sit and relax by the Mississippi River for a while.  They will love sitting on the steps and watching the boats passing in the water. It is very close to the French Quarter, but a complete contrast in its spirit.  Moreover, your little ones will be elated to have beignets here. You will find the best beignets at Café Du Monde Riverwalk (Contact Number: +1 504-218-7993) here. The coffee there was good and just the way I like it.  5. A Visit To The Louis Armstrong Park  Location: 835 N. Rampart St, New Orleans Hours Open: 8 AM to 6 PM Entry Fee: Entry is Free for a Walk in the Park A visit to Louis Armstrong Park is not ideal for very young children. However, kids in their teens or growing up years with an interest in Jazz music will love this place. It is very close to the French Quarter, and inside the park, you will find Congo Square.  Congo Square is the place where slaves used to unite during the 1800s. Furthermore, your kids will love looking at the ducks in the pond of Louis Armstrong Park.  Moreover, the Mahalia Jackson Theater inside Louis Armstrong Park is a popular place to visit for artists and music lovers. It gets its name from Mahalia Jackson, a gospel singer of New Orleans.  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  Abdul Aziz Dec 28, 2023

Houston provides its visitors with a refined assortment of places to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing, regardless of whether they are in the city for business or pleasure. And may we offer location as a tried-and-true starting point if you're unsure of even where to start your search? These hotels, which provide amenities and experiences to enhance your stay, have shaped the distinct personalities of each area of The Space City. Read on for our list of the best hotels in Houston, which includes the trendiest new hotels in downtown, accommodations close to the Astros stadium, and hip neighborhoods like Montrose. Best Hotels In Houston Here are some of the best hotels in Houston that you simple can't miss: Four Seasons Entering the Four Seasons is akin to entering a private club that has been in existence for a very long time. The interior, which is entirely composed of marble and mahogany, successfully blends traditional and contemporary Texas design elements. The hotel is incredibly kid-friendly, offering activities like mommy-and-me yoga, movies by the pool, and pizza-making classes. The recently renovated gym is open 24 hours a day. The Four Seasons is the best hotel in The Bayou City with regards to staff, amenities, and accommodations, so it makes sense that business travelers frequent this prime downtown location that is only a short distance from the convention center. Post Oak Hotel Billionaire and businessman Tilman Fertitta of Houston put his heart and soul into creating the 250-room Post Oak Hotel. He filled it with hundreds of original artworks and meticulously crafted each element, down to the custom chocolates served at turndown and the flip-flops at the pool with the hotel's logo emblazoned on them. A few people exclaimed, "It is by far the most beautiful hotel I've visited," and "the finest in luxury living." Nevertheless, readers gave the "first-class" service the most appreciation. One person remarked, "You are treated like a VIP guest from the moment you walk in." One more person described a "unforgettable experience" that can only be had with five-star accommodations: “They upgraded my room at no additional charge — and service was above and beyond my expectations.” Lancaster Hotel The famed Lancaster Hotel in Houston is redefining contemporary hospitality. The Lancaster emanates a cozy, classic elegance, from its collection of more than 200 pieces by well-known contemporary Texans to its prime location in the center of the city's renowned Theater District. The historic boutique hotel from the 1920s era was recently voted Houston's best hotel by Conde Nast Readers. It has a rich history of serving a diverse and illustrious clientele that includes writers, poets, actors, musicians, dancers, business and leisure travelers, newlyweds, circus and rodeo performers, and even a horse. The Lancaster Hotel would be delighted to have the chance to treat you to our special brand of hospitality and service. Hotel ZaZa Nestled near the Houston Museum of Fine Art, Hotel ZaZa is an elegant and seductive venue that seamlessly blends business and pleasure. One of ZaZa's so-called Concept Suites, the Houston We Have a Problem suite, goes all out with a moon-inspired couch and a life-size astronaut statue dominating one corner. The room is enormous—it is over 1,000 square feet—and has a large executive-style table that can accommodate up to eight people. ZaSpa's Have No Mercy deep-tissue massage is to die for, and the fitness machines have individual TVs (hallelujah); an extensive poolside menu offers adult popsicles and drinks by the pitcher. Meanwhile, the restaurant's terrace offers good views of the Mecom Foundation and the Museum of Fine Arts, drawing a mix of locals and hotel guests. St. Regis The opulent St. Regis, which is sandwiched between The Galleria and the affluent River Oaks neighborhood, resembles a glitzy high-rise condominium. Junior suites feature floor to ceiling windows overlooking River Oaks and the pool, as well as a separate sleeping area. No, this isn't your normal Houston hotel; the bathrooms are appointed with marble and granite, and the king-size beds have pillow tops. Observe that The St. Regis, wherever it may be, has a long-standing tradition of serving afternoon tea. JW Marriott Situated in one of Houston's most popular business districts, the JW Marriott draws a discerning clientele of business travelers looking for first-rate amenities and service without the fuss that boutique hotels sometimes bring. The rooms are remarkably modern and roomy, with free wifi, an iPad for booking spa treatments or ordering room service, and Nespresso machines as amenities. The Spa by JW provides a variety of intriguing treatments, such as massages, facials, and foot soaks. How Hotels Are Judged? Readers are asked to rank their favorite hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. The 2023 survey was completed by nearly 165,000 readers, a nearly 25% increase over pre-pandemic voting levels. Across more than 8,500 distinct properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.), more than 685,000 votes were cast. Based on their location and amenities, hotels were categorized as either safari lodges, city hotels, or resort hotels. They were also evaluated according to the following criteria: Rooms/facilities Location Service Food Value Respondents could select an option for excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor for each characteristic. These responses are averaged to determine the final scores. Wrapping Up Located in the center of Houston, Texas, and only a short distance from Discovery Green Park and the George R. Brown Convention Center, the Marriott Marquis boasts an outdoor pool that is open year-round and a lazy river shaped like a Texas. The hotel has a 24-hour fitness center, a full-service spa, and six restaurants on the premises. A flat-screen TV with premium channels and cable is provided in every room. There is a refrigerator, coffee maker, and ironing facilities available. A hair dryer and complimentary toiletries are provided in the private bathroom. A few rooms offer views of Discovery Green Park or the lazy river. Diners can choose to eat at Biggio's, which serves American cuisine, or at Xochi, which serves Mexican food and drinks under the direction of award-winning chef Hugo Ortega. Around 200 varieties of wine and tapas are served at Cueva Wine Bar. Walker Street Kitchen and Texas T Coffee House both serve breakfast. The Marriott Marquis Houston is only 250 meters from Minute Maid Park, which is home to the Houston Astros baseball team. It takes five minutes to walk to Toyota Center and BBVA Compass Stadium. William P. Hobby International Airport is the closest airport, located 15 kilometers away. Read Also: Luxe Living: The Best Hotels In Dallas Sin City Stays: Here Are The Best Hotels In Vegas! Taste Of Houston: A Culinary Adventure In Diversity