The Ultimate Hotel Tipping Guide

BY  Rishab Dey Dec 30, 2023

Are the gloomy skies driving you to desperate measures? Can a massive blowout break be called desperate? You do have a choice. A secluded road trip across the globe, an incredible once-in-a-lifetime adventure, or a truly tropical beach break. If you want all three, you will need to look for warm places to visit in February. It becomes more difficult to find intense, short-haul sunshine as winter drags on. A carefully planned trip separates a reasonably priced island stay and a mild-weather city break from the US. Both of these can provide much-needed rest as well as relaxation. However, there are plenty of far-flung options that best suit this month. And don't forget to check government travel advice for every destination.  Warm Places To Visit In February  Yes, Februaries are cold. But the warmth it brings with Valentine's is hard to contend against. If you are planning to visit warm places with your special someone to get away from the biting cold of your home country, here are some of your best options. Take a peek into some of the warm places to visit in February.  Morocco  The Miami of Morocco, Casablanca is the modern center of Morocco. The nation's largest city highlights modern Morocco, a humming mix of big finance as well as creative chops. It has been overlooked for lacking Tangier's rich history of bohemian revelry or the romantic chaos of Marrakech. Even better, it's a nearby, mild winter city break. Explore the district's Art Deco area, which is home to iconic buildings like the Cinema Rialto. Indulge in freshly shucked oysters at the Central Market. Get a taste of the past in the untouristy, donkey-filled medinas. You can end the day at a chic restaurant or rooftop café. Sea views, as well as a delicious seared duck breast with honey, are served at Le Relais de Paris. Morocco is probably one of the best warm places to visit in February. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this North African country.  Koh Yao Noi  Koh Yao Noi is the Thailand island of your dreams, just a 30-minute speedboat ride from Phuket and a world apart from its boisterous tourist attractions. There are more water buffaloes, traditional rubber farms, serene beaches, as well as fewer inebriated backpackers. Phang Nga Bay's surroundings are dotted with striking limestone karsts. Boho-chic Cape Kudu, a Small Luxury Hotel of the World, features white, bright rooms and a dreamy sea view from the pool. It also has a spa designed with hanging rattan chairs. Kayaking through the mangroves and island hopping are options, too.  Kenya  Kenya has seen a decline in tourism following a spate of terrorist attacks earlier this decade. However, most beach retreats and safari destinations in the nation are generally safe. Government travel advisories, too, are not too stringent. In February, you can combine two of the best trips into one. The southern coast's whale shark swimming season is in full swing. The Masai Mara's low rainfall causes big game to congregate in large groups at rivers and waterholes.  New Zealand  Want some delicious privacy? February, the last month of summer, is the best time to see the vistas along New Zealand's eastern seaboard by car. Few landscapes are as untamed and wild as those found there. Here, a volcanic headland meets the shimmering ocean, and multiple opulent lodges bask in seclusion. The North Island's Helena Bay Lodge is spread out over a tidy lawn near the South Pacific's edge. Its exclusive beaches, coves, as well as woodland hikes only see your own footprints. Next, travel to the South Island's Banks Peninsula, a picturesque volcano skeleton ringed with glistening bays and secluded little settlements. Annandale Farm is a mystical haven offering endless views of the ocean as well as locally sourced food. It is nestled in 4,000 acres of serene coastal pasture.  Carnival  It's crazy when you stand amidst a carnival. Still, isn't that the reason you're here? The streets stay marinating in wild revelry, and the beaches teem with a hot, toned young crowd. There is also the sound of samba pulsing everywhere you go. The Rio Music Carnival, an accompanying electro-music festival, takes place alongside the Sambadrome's parades to create the biggest party on Earth. Past performers such as Afrojack, Diplo, and Tiesto have left the crowds completely insane.  Honolulu  Here is another one of the warm places to visit in February. Between its capital, Honolulu, and its more sedate northern and eastern beaches, Oahu presents a compelling blend of big-city conveniences and quintessential tropical beauty. Additionally, locals get together for banter and bragging rights during the Buffalo Big Board Surfing Classic in February. This isn't your typical Kelly Slaters competition. Instead, teams of up to seven individuals compete in historical and unique events like SUPsquatch, where they ride enormous inflatable stand-up paddle boards.  Miami  Miami isn't for the timid, but it has a vibrant art scene in addition to its nightclubs, music, and traffic. You can check out the Yinka Ilori-designed café at Superblue or the Yayoi Kusama exhibits at the Rubell Museum. There is also a fun dining scene, and we recommend Itamae, a Nikkei restaurant.  Singapore  Singapore is one of the greenest cities in Asia. Trails, lush parks, and gardens dominate the area. According to The Singapore Green Plan 2030, it even aims to become the world's green champion. Nearly half of the city is covered in greenery. Visit during a hot, dry February to take in all of this. You can also visit Chinatown's markets, immerse yourself in the culinary scene, and learn about the local way of life.  Wrapping Up  Unless you really want to, there's no reason why you should stay inside this February. There are carnivals and even New Year's celebrations that combine Chinese and Mayan customs. In the end, this list of warm destinations in February should satisfy your need for warmth. This place has beaches, hikes, mountains, caverns, and volcanoes. If these don't motivate you, you can visit animals, museums, and a lot more places without having to worry about the dress code. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about warm places to visit in February, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Florida Dreams: RV Camping Along the Sunshine State’s Shore Top 7 Places To Visit For An Asian Solo Traveler Wonders of the Waves: RV Camping Along Oregon’s Coastal Beauty

BY  Ankita Sep 6, 2023

Have you ever felt the tug of the open road, yearning for freedom and adventure on a whim? The answer to this call for many has been the travel trailer. As these versatile vehicles become an increasingly popular choice for vacations, let's dive deep into their appeal and evolution. What Are Travel Trailers? The term ‘travel trailer’ brings to mind images of vintage caravans trundling along scenic byways, offering freedom to adventurers. They are more than just a powder coating rims shop. Historically, travel trailers started as simple caravans, offering rudimentary shelter and basic amenities for travelers. Over time, they have evolved into sophisticated mobile homes equipped with modern conveniences and designed for comfort. How Are Travel Trailers Different From Motorhomes And Campervans? While all three vehicles are designed for travel, they differ in terms of design and utility. A travel trailer needs a separate towing vehicle, whereas motorhomes are self-propelled. Campervans, on the other hand, are smaller and generally offer fewer amenities compared to the other two. Another distinction is that travel trailers can be unhitched upon reaching a destination, allowing the towing vehicle to be used independently. How Have Travel Trailers Evolved Over the Years? From the simplistic designs of the early caravans, travel trailers have come a long way. Today's trailers boast luxurious interiors, cutting-edge technology, and advanced features, making them suitable for both short trips and long-term living. Their evolution reflects a blend of consumer demand and advancements in design and technology. What Are The Top Brands And Models In The Travel Trailer Market? Several trusted brands dominate the travel trailer market, each offering a range of models to cater to various needs. Brands like Black Series travel trailers have garnered a reputation for quality, durability, and luxury. Why Do People Choose Travel Trailers Over Other Vacationing Options? Travel trailers offer a unique blend of flexibility and comfort. Before diving into specific reasons, consider the rising trend of 'home on wheels.' Many travelers are looking for ways to maintain the comforts of home while exploring new terrains. Flexibility: With no fixed itinerary, travelers can change their plans on the go. Cost-effectiveness: In the long run, they can be more economical than other vacation options. Comfort: Modern travel trailers are equipped with amenities that rival luxury accommodations. Sense of adventure: Every day can be a new destination, a new experience. Customizability: Owners can modify interiors to suit their tastes and needs. What Are The Economic Benefits Of Owning A Travel Trailer? Owning a travel trailer can lead to significant cost savings. Not only do you save on hotel bills, but you also have the option to cook for yourself, further reducing vacation expenses. Moreover, a well-maintained trailer has excellent resale potential, ensuring you get a good return on your investment. How Do Travel Trailers Promote A Closer Connection With Nature? One of the undeniable perks of travel trailers is the ability to set up camp amidst nature. Whether by a serene lakeside or in the heart of a forest, these vehicles offer a direct commune with the natural world. They provide the opportunity for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, or just stargazing from your doorstep. How Do Travel Trailers Provide A Home-Like Experience? With the modern amenities available today, travel trailers are akin to moving homes. From modular kitchens to cozy sleeping areas, they offer all the comforts one would expect in a house, coupled with the freedom to change your backyard view at will. How To Choose The Perfect Travel Trailer For Your Needs? Choosing a travel trailer is a significant decision and should be based on various factors. Before making a purchase: Consider the size and capacity to ensure it meets your needs. Determine a price range you're comfortable with. Reflect on its intended use. Is it for occasional trips or full-time living? List down essential on-board amenities. Ensure it's compatible with your tow vehicle. New Vs. Used: Which Should You Buy? The choice between new and used travel trailers depends on personal preferences. New ones offer the latest features and warranties but come at a higher cost. Used trailers are more affordable but might require more maintenance. How To Maintain And Care For Your Travel Trailer? Proper maintenance of a travel trailer is crucial to ensure its longevity and to get the most out of your investment. Before delving into the specifics of care, remember that a well-maintained trailer not only provides a safe abode but also holds its value better over time. Regular cleaning: This keeps the trailer looking fresh and prevents mold, mildew, and other issues. Checking and maintaining tires: Ensuring they are in good condition and properly inflated prolongs their life and improves safety on the road. Electrical and plumbing checks: Periodic inspections can help catch potential problems early. Addressing wear and tear: Regularly inspect your trailer for signs of damage or wear, particularly after long trips. How To Prepare Your Travel Trailer For Winter? Winterizing your travel trailer is vital if you plan on using it or storing it during colder months. This process includes draining and replacing fluids to prevent freezing, checking seals and insulation, and protecting the interior from potential cold damage. What Are Common Issues Travel Trailer Owners Face And How To Solve Them? Owning a travel trailer is a joy, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Common problems include: Leaks: Regularly inspect seals and address any issues promptly. Electrical malfunctions: Ensure all wiring is intact and protected from the elements. Mechanical problems: Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can mitigate these issues. What Are The Best Destinations And Routes For Travel Trailer Vacations? The joy of a travel trailer is the freedom to explore a myriad of destinations. Based on the region or country: National parks: Experience the splendor of nature in preserved lands. Beach destinations: Wake up to the sound of waves and a horizon that stretches forever. Mountains and scenic routes: Enjoy the crisp mountain air and picturesque vistas. Travel trailer-friendly cities: Some urban areas welcome trailers, providing a unique blend of nature and city life. Are There Specific Rules Or Regulations For Travel Trailer Camping? Yes, different places have their regulations regarding where you can park your travel trailer, how long you can stay, and what you can do there. It's essential to be aware of camping etiquette, seek required permissions, and understand the legalities in the area you're visiting. How To Enhance The Travel Trailer Experience? What Are Popular Interior And Exterior Modifications For Travel Trailers? Customizing your travel trailer can make it truly feel like home. Popular modifications include: Solar panels for sustainable energy. Awnings for extended outdoor living space. Interior design tweaks to reflect personal style and optimize space. How To Plan Meals And Cooking In A Travel Trailer? Cooking in a travel trailer can be both fun and efficient with a little planning. Consider: Space-saving kitchen gadgets. Multi-purpose ingredients. Pre-trip meal planning and prep. Efficient storage solutions for perishables. How To Stay Connected And Entertained On The Road? While the idea is to disconnect, staying connected can also be essential. Solutions include: Portable Wi-Fi devices. Satellite TV for those cozy indoor days. Audiobooks, podcasts, and music playlists for entertainment. How Do Travel Trailers Impact The Environment? Travel trailers, like all vehicles, have an environmental impact. While they can reduce the environmental footprint of hotel stays and frequent air travel, they can also consume fuel and generate waste. Owners can minimize their impact by practicing sustainable waste management, optimizing fuel consumption, and choosing eco-friendly products. Conclusion Travel trailers have reshaped the way many of us perceive vacations, merging the comfort of home with the allure of the open road. Their increasing popularity isn't just a trend but a testament to their ability to fulfill our innate desire for adventure while providing all modern-day comforts. As we hitch our trailers and set off into sunsets, it's clear that this mode of travel offers not just a journey across terrains, but also a journey into our own desires and dreams. Read Also: Is It Worth It To Stay In An All-Inclusive Resort In Florida? 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BY  Sibashree Sep 30, 2024

Even if you don’t believe it, Canada has many locations and abandoned sites with ghostly stories and a dark history.  Haunted places like the Fort Edmonton Park and Princess Theatre in Edmonton or the Disaster-struck Alberta Frank Slide are a few examples of how dark tourism in Canada offers a vivid experience.  Further, sites like Asbestos (now Val-des-Sources) show how mining asbestos has caused long-term health hazards to Canadian people and victims beyond borders. Also, there is Halifax, where an explosion took the lives of around 2000 people in 1917. So, let’s explore the sites that are scary and unusual.  THESE Are The Best Sites For Dark Tourism In Canada  In 2020, the small town of Asbestos changed its name to Val-des-Sources or the Valley of the Springs. However, the name change could not wipe off the history of diseases and suffering as it once had the largest asbestos mine in the world.  So, like the nuclear plantations that pushed numerous human lives to death, Asbestos in Canada was also a town of breathing poison. Today, it is one of the most prominent destinations for dark tourism in Canada.  Regarding dark tourism, Canada has many sites that tell the tale of human tragedy or are infamous for spooky experiences. Let me share brief accounts on these sites If you want to walk into the shadows.  Asbestos  Asbestos, a town in southern Quebec, once epitomized health-hazard horrors. Asbestos mining is not done here today, but breathing problems and other hazards caused by that “magic or miracle mineral” persist in the town.  The town had an open-pit mine for mining chrysotile asbestos, and it boomed for a century. However, in 2011, the mine stopped its operations.   Unfortunately, the use of asbestos became huge by the mid-20th century. It was a chosen material for roofing, insulation, and fireproofing. Slowly, it was discovered to cause many health hazards for people working in the industry or residing near an asbestos plant or mine.  Despite the drop in global demand and many other countries banning the use, import, and export of asbestos, Canada kept at it until 2018. Justin Trudeau, the Canadian Prime Minister, banned the use, sale, import, and export of asbestos in 2016, and the ban came into effect in 2018.  Nevertheless, today, the town of Asbestos, or Val-des-Sources, is a popular dark tourism site with an abandoned mine. The mine now looks like a gigantic playground. Halifax  In June 2016, the Canadian Government designated the Halifax explosion as a “national historic event.” Halifax was a busy port for the loading and unloading of food, aid, relief, and other essentials during World War I. On an unfortunate day, 6 December 1917, the French ship SS Mont-Blanc and SS Imo, a Norwegian ship, collided. Both were carrying explosives, and the collision caused a major explosion. Almost 2000 people died, and many were injured, registering it as the biggest manmade explosion before the atomic bomb disaster.  This human tragedy, however, was a milestone in changing the medical scenario of Halifax. The improvement in pediatric surgeries and the establishment of the Canadian National Institute for the Blind were the two most prominent examples in this regard. Today, the Fort Needham Memorial Park is a prominent site for dark tourism in Canada. The commemorative plaque there gives you a brief account of the incident. Also, the Halifax Explosion Memorial Bell Tower here has an annual memorial service for the explosion on 6th December. Edmonton: The Hub Of Dark Tourism In Canada  Edmonton has many destinations for paranormal encounters, and Fort Edmonton Park is one of them. At the paranormal tours here, you can explore many paranormal equipment and encounter many experts for some otherworldly experience. You can also visit the haunted buildings of Edmonton. The stories of these buildings will scare you to the bit. Also, you never know when an unknown entity gets close to you, and you can feel the breath.  Princess Theater: The Most Haunted Place In Edmonton Another important haunted landmark here is the Princess Theater. In the 1920s, the theater was about to have an additional rental space. A bride-to-be rented that space, but her fiance left her on their wedding day.  So, she committed suicide by hanging by the neck. When the staff of the hotel found her, her body was swinging from the rope.  She was wearing a beautiful wedding gown. Legends have it that her ghostly figure is still seen at the theater. She is seen climbing down the stairs, wandering the theater halls, and moving around the projection room.  Historic Mackay Avenue School Archives & Museum: Meet The Restless Spirit Moreover, when in Edmonton to experience haunted activities,  Historic Mackay Avenue School Archives & Museum should be your destination. Many people have experienced a sense of choking, being grabbed, or disturbed at this place. It is said that a construction worker called Peter fell from a third-floor window during renovation work in 1912. His restless spirit still lives here, and many informal investigations have captured strange silhouettes and erratic electromagnetic fields recorded here, which also vouch for paranormal activities here.  The Museum of Fear and Wonder https://www.instagram.com/p/CxsrNX5L7Al/?hl=en&img_index=1 It is unusual to find a rural museum of horror in the Southern Alberta rural valleys. It is eerie to the bone with Ouija boards and ventriloquist dummies.  The little jack o’lantern dollhouse, Kiddo, leather doll, and the haunted doll, Robertina, are the most prominent collectibles here. Also, the artificial human body parts and life-like human bodywork made of wax are the creepiest things you will come across.  All the collectibles in the museum are carefully placed to create a sense of fear. The aim is to show how people emotionally react to certain things. Also, Brendan, one of the founders of the museum, does not believe that things can be haunted or they can be related to paranormal activities.  According to him, things, at the most, can cause a sense of uneasiness. Thus, all the items in the museum provoke discussion about the psychological impacts of different objects on different people. For example, an adorable doll can be an object of fear or discomfort for a person who has suffered childhood trauma.  Even dolls or toys can get old and develop an eerie appearance through wear and tear. They can look messy or dirty, creating repulsive feelings. Thus, the Museum of Fear and Wonder is not about paranormal experiences or activities. It is a place to understand the human psychology behind fear and wonder.  Saskatchewan Ghost Towns – Insinger As India has Kuldhara, Canada has Saskatchewan, where time stands still, and the deserted town lives in the shadow of the past. Unbearable winter in the Prairie region made the residents desert the place. In the 1800s, many European people came to Canada and got free land to set up a working farm within a year. Thus, this prairie became a bustling residence of farmers and their families. Visiting Saskatchewan And Its Many Wonders In Saskatchewan, you will notice a Ukrainian Orthodox Church. The old church with a domed roof stands as a witness to the bygone era. Do you know that Saskatchewan has so many ghost towns (more than 30) that there is a “Ghost Town Trail” here? You can drive around the route to explore the towns individually. As you walk through the ghost towns of Saskatchewan, you will never feel alone. There is a constant feeling of someone following or walking with you. Even looking at the most dilapidated structure, you will feel like someone will come out of it any moment. I had plans to get inside some of the structures. However, a knotty feeling in my stomach stopped me. As hours passed, I started feeling anxious and left the place. The Ghost Towns of Alberta – Rowley If I were to decide, I would name Alberta the capital of dark tourism in Canada. If the haunted places of Edmonton are not enough, you can explore Rowley.   The small hamlet of Rowley in Alberta has deserted railway cars and buildings. However, it also tells some inspiring stories. Rowley used to be a town with 500 inhabitants in the 1920s. The Great Depression hit the place, making the residents leave. A lack of rain led to the drying up of the crops.Moreover, a fire destroyed many of the small buildings.However, only eight surviving residents of Rowley did a commendable job of transforming Rowley into a heritage site in the 1980s. They transformed some of the buildings.  Very few people know that movies like Bye Bye Blues or Legends of the Fall have some of these buildings as their locations. Visit Rowley in the summer, as it offers free tours in the season. Also, the pizza parties here on the last Saturday of every month are fun! These pizza parties are fundraisers for restoring the buildings and preserving history here.  THESE Are The Places You Can’t Miss At Rowley The historical buildings to visit in the ghost town of Rowley are: Rowley Trading Post (Built in the 1920s) A Printing Press A School Now Abandoned Former Hospital Abandoned Railway Tracks A Saloon with Swinging Doors (Dedicated to the memory of a previous owner) Municipality of Starland Office Canada National Telegraphs Building Along with these historical structures, you will also find a building labeled Funeral Home and Embalming. Going inside, you will find paraphernalia and historical artifacts used in Bye Bye Blues. The only thing I find creepy about Rowley is the mannequins. The residents have used mannequins in many places to recreate the scenarios of the 1920s.  So, if you have a faint heart, avoid peeping through the glass windows of the historical buildings. It is not very pleasant to find a mannequin looking back at you.  However, overall, the experience was like being at the location of a classic Western movie.  Alberta Frank Slide  Alberta Frank Slide is one of the most tragic spots for dark tourism in Canada. 121 years ago, this place witnessed the deadliest slide in Canada. The tragic incident took the lives of 100 people. What Happened At Alberta Frank Slide? It was 4:10 am on 29th April 1903. The 600 people in the mining community were still asleep as Mount Turtle crumbled down and released 110 million metric tonnes of rock. This incident took the lives of around 100 people.  Even today, if you pass through Highway 3 of Alberta or visit Frank Slide, you will find bodies and various belongings still buried under rocks.  “It was loud enough they could hear it up by the town of Cochrane, 200 kilometers away,” said Joey Ambrosi, the facility supervisor of the Alberta Frank Slide Interpretive Center. This interpretive center, built in 1985, tells the true stories of human tragedy and dismisses the myths around it.  However, the intrigue around this biggest slide does not end here. The mountain moves a few kilometers from each other, and scientists suspect it will come down again.  Having said that, there is still time for such an incident, and it will not be as deadly as the one that happened in 1903.  When at Alberta Frank Slide, don’t forget to visit The Crowsnest Pass. A landslide and a mine explosion in 1910 badly hit the area. Again, at a stone’s throw away is the Hillcrest town where 189 miners died of a coal-dust explosion on 19th June 1914.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! [Updated 2024] Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.