Seaside Splendor: Unveiling The Hidden Charms of Hotels in Brighton

BY  Abdul Aziz Feb 22, 2024

It's likely that when people think of Park City, they picture world-class skiing. Or, on snowy sidewalks, celebrities mingle while donning designer winter attire, hidden from the prying eyes of the media and the public. Given that it hosted the Winter Olympics in 2002 and is still the yearly location of Sundance, the biggest independent film festival in the country, it has a well-earned reputation. But this picture-perfect mountain town is home to much more activity that is not widely known. To begin with, Park City is a worthwhile trip in any season. Perched at an elevation of 7,000 feet amidst the undulating peaks of the Wasatch Range, it offers unparalleled opportunities for springtime hiking, summertime mountain biking, and autumn foliage viewing in the American West. Yes, this place's shoulder season is arguably its best-kept secret. Whatever time of day you arrive, though, you'll find a friendly and hospitable community that's far more diverse than its 10,000 or so residents would indicate. Downtown offers a wide variety of dining experiences, from sophisticated Michelin-starred omakase to rustic, farm-raised cuisine. The only ski-in restaurant in the world serves drinks. Alternatively, just relax in front of a fire in the lobby of a five-star luxury hotel and take in the breathtaking scenery. The closest ocean is more than a thousand miles away from this specific area of Utah. However, Park City is entirely your oyster. Additionally, access to this region of the world is now simpler than ever, thanks to the completion of enormous new additions to the nearby Salt Lake City International Airport. Here are some of the best things to do in Park City Utah. Things To Do in Park City Utah If you are curious about Park City, we have a list of details about all the things to do in Park City Utah that you cannot miss. Check them out and add them to your list when packing for the trip. Picnic Fun Maggie Alvarez is a Park City native and co-founder of Tupelo, one of the best farm-to-table dining concepts. As such, she has extensive experience finding delicious food. She wants to enjoy it outside as well, though. She enjoys taking her meal outside to enjoy the perfect mountain picnic on particularly lovely days. Additionally, there are many locations throughout the city where she can get the kind of quick lunch she needs for her job. Reputable mixologist Xania V. Woodman creates a wide range of inventive drinks at two different locations in the city: Sip & Stir and Handle. She enjoys using the torch at Red Flower Studios when she isn't working behind the bar. Winter Sports In many resorts across the nation, skiing is still an intimidating experience for individuals with disabilities. Fortunately, the National Ability Center (NAC) in Park City proves to be an exception to that rule. This nonprofit organization offers outdoor adventures and adaptive recreation to people with disabilities. It recently opened a brand-new, cutting-edge facility with a focus on inclusive winter sport access for guests with developmental, physical, and cognitive disabilities. Dine in a Yurt Have you ever desired to savor chef-driven cuisine at 10,000 feet (about the height of Mount St. Helens) above sea level in an elegant tent? The Viking Yurt provides you and your loved ones with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The adventure starts on time at 5:45 p.m. with a 25-minute sleigh ride to Park City's highest point. As you settle in for a 3.5-hour dining experience, you are greeted with a glogg mug upon entering the yurt. Dinners must be booked in advance and start at $280 per person, tax and gratuity included. Shots at the World’s Longest Shot Ski High West offers something a little stronger if that's what you're craving. Opening along Main Street in 2007, the massive saloon boasted its own stillhouse and a distinct Old West feel. The brand relocated the majority of its production to a distillery up the road in Wanship, which is currently accessible for public tours, as its whiskey gained popularity across the nation. But there's still a lively restaurant and bar at this original location. It holds the World's Longest Shot Ski event every October. In an attempt to break the previous record, the bar served 1,340 people a group shot of spirit by arranging 528 skis end to end. Haunted History Stories If you're looking for a different kind of spirit, Park City Ghost Tours departs every night at 7 p.m. in the winter and 8 p.m. in the summer. Park City apparently takes its history seriously, as the mining camp as well as a boomtown that almost became a ghost town. The Park City Museum offers pre-planned hikes to historic locations, lectures, and local cemetery tours. It also has a top-notch Main Street exhibition that requires several visits to fully appreciate. Main Street Escapade Escape Room Park City, situated along the lower portion of Main Street, provides four unique experiences, one of which is a Mine Trap with a distinctly Western vibe. They start at $39 per person and can be reserved for up to ten players. Families will have a wonderful afternoon out. This is one of the cooler things to do in Park City Utah. Local Vino Sommelier-led wine tastings are available at the bar and lounge called Old Town Cellars. You can take pleasure in a custom assortment of pours made to your exacting requirements. Alternatively, you can accept the dealer's selection of products. It may contain wines that are skillfully blended in this very town. Whatever goes into your glass, you'll have a deeper understanding of the craft of oenology after reading this. Bakeries To Check Out Although Slovakia and Utah may not seem like the most obvious geographic partners, one adventurous expat has made the connection delicious. During the two-hour hands-on cooking class, "Bake with Lenka," guests arrive at the home of the namesake chef and learn the art of perfecting the Eastern European pastry. Reservations are accepted year-round at a rate of $115 per person. Luxurious Hotels Park City offers several choices when it comes to five-star lodging. For those who wish to stay as close to the mountain as possible, the St. Regis, the Montage, and the Pendry are all great choices. They all have heated pools, a variety of dining options, and extensive spa services. It's not unusual to get into any of these properties for about $350 per night during shoulder season. You can anticipate those rates to double come ski season. Scenic Drives Enjoying the sights and the clean mountain air of Park City can be achieved by biking. For those who are unfamiliar with the ups and downs of alpine cycling, it can be difficult terrain, particularly at high altitudes. An enjoyable and reasonably priced workaround is e-bikes. Renting yours from Pedego will cost you $85 for a half-day. Get a good workout without becoming too intoxicated. Consider making a quick trip up the Guardsman Pass Scenic Backway if you're arriving in the summer or early fall. You'll see a ton of views along the road, even though it requires driving up winding pavement for just under seven miles. All around you will be aspens, evergreens, and expansive fields dotted with wildflowers. And as you reach the 9,717-foot crest of the Wasatch Range, those views only get bigger.  Alpine Coasters In all of Utah, the Park City Mountain Coaster is the longest of its kind. When you visit outside of the winter, you can reach up to 30 miles per hour as you zoom down the track's mile length. Although each ride at the top costs $30, the views are incomparable. If you like coasting, this is one of the best things to do in Park City Utah. Art and Culture For a small town of its size, Park City has a surprisingly vibrant arts scene. Over 20 galleries, featuring everything from black-and-white nature photos to bronze sculptures, line the streets. The last Friday of every month is when the Park City Gallery Association hosts its three-hour gallery stroll, when each venue's unique aesthetic is on full display. The public is welcome to attend for free. For art lovers this should be one of the best things to do in Park City Utah. Ski Deer Valley Resort In addition to providing the most opulent amenities and top-notch customer service, Deer Valley is renowned for its excellent skiing. Only skiers are permitted on the mountain; snowboarders are not permitted. Additionally, the resort only allows 7,500 skiers per day, so even during the busiest holiday seasons, the hill is never overcrowded, and you can always count on getting the most vertical. With terrain spanning four mountains, there is something for every skill level of skier. The resort caters to novice and intermediate skiers, but that doesn't mean the terrain isn't difficult. Skiers with more experience should visit Lady Morgan Mountain, as it offers excellent powder stashes and untracked glade runs. There are 6,570 feet at base elevation. Ski Park City Mountain Resort Park City Mountain Resort is a vast ski area featuring an almost infinite variety of runs. Before you ever run out of places to ski, your energy will run out. The resort features more than 330 runs, is distributed across 17 peaks, and tops out at 10,026 feet. With a good assortment of intermediate and beginner runs, the resort caters to families. In addition, while there are soft greens and expansive blue groomers, there are also black diamonds that will make your pulse race. Park City Mountain and Canyons Ski Resort combined to become one resort, but there are still two primary base areas. The largest parking area is found in the first area, which is just outside of town. The second area is in town and is mainly for guests staying at neighboring hotels. On busy days, arrive early if you want a spot because parking is extremely limited here. Vail Resorts owns Park City Mountain Resort, which is included in the Epic Pass network. In the summer, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, riding the mountain coaster, taking a gondola ride to take in the scenery, and other entertainment options like the summer concert series. Sundance Film Festival Every year, during the final ten days of January, Park City hosts the renowned Sundance Film Festival. This is your opportunity to see famous people. During the festival, the town is lively and bustling, making it a great place to be. Along with other locations around town, the renowned Egyptian Theater screens movies. While lodging can be expensive and hard to come by during the festival, keep in mind that Salt Lake City is only 45 minutes away, and free shuttle buses are provided by the festival from the various parking lots. In actuality, the Sundance Film Festival is a fantastic time to ski at Park City Resort and Deer Valley Resort. It tends to discourage people from going skiing during the festival because of the thought of crowds and parking in town. There will probably be excellent snow and a few lines. It's possible to spot a celebrity zipping down the hills or riding the chairlift next to you. For most people, this is one of the most exciting things to do in Park City Utah. Park City Museum Constructed in 1884, the original Park City Hall now houses the Territorial Jail and Museum. Although it may not appear large from the outside, the museum is home to a sizable collection and is spread across multiple floors totaling 12,000 square feet (about twice the area of a basketball court). Numerous interactive exhibits about Park City and the surrounding area's history are available at the museum. Exhibits include a mining exhibit where you can try riding in an old elevator and set off an explosion. Additional activities that are ideal for family outings include a visit to the Smith and Brim grocery store after a descent into the original, dank, and dark territorial jail. A synopsis of the history of downhill skiing is also provided. Egyptian Theatre Show Arts enthusiasts should visit the renowned Egyptian Theatre to see a play, comedy act, musical, or film. Additionally, the Sundance Film Festival's initial screenings took place in this theater. The theater has been restored to its former splendor after being around for more than a century. It is easy to find on Main Street. Just look for the neon-lit marquee and the bright red doors below. Throughout the year, performances happen. If you are into old stuff, this will be one of the best things to do in Park City Utah. Wrapping Up Park City offers free usage of its city buses. The buses travel all the way to lower Deer Valley properties, and taking the bus is frequently more convenient than trying to find Park City public parking. The two main ski resorts are also accessible by bus. The historic street is traversed by the Main Street trolley. Most of the stores, galleries, and restaurants are located along the trolley's route. The trolley operates between 10 and 11 p.m. In the city, ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available. There shouldn't be a long wait for these services because Park City is a popular place to get them. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about things to do in Park City Utah, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: The 4 Top Reasons You Should Visit Les Deux Alpes During Your Ski Break From Museums To Parks: The Top Attractions In St George Utah Ski Retreats And City Suites: Salt Lake City’s Hotel Gems

BY  Sibashree Jul 29, 2024

Kenai Fjords National Park is a place rich in biodiversity. Like the Dry Tortugas National Park, it also harbors a diverse marine ecosystem and a wide range of birds.   Further, it is an elusive land of glaciers, icy lands, rocky mountains, and green canopies. It is also the park where you can take part in activities like hunting, fishing, petting at Exit Glacier, boating, and kayaking. However, the most fascinating activity to do here is watching wildlife.   Here, I will be your entourage in finding how the wilderness becomes alive at the Kenai Fjords National Park.   Exploring Kenai Fjords National Park Wildlife   The Kenai Fjords National Park has one of the highest footfalls among the national parks of America. In 2023, 387,525 people visited this National Park thanks to its wildlife and the most dramatic landscape with glaciers, mountains, ocean, and valleys. (Source)   Further, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game explains why and how the geographical features of the National Park make it rich in wildlife and biodiversity. About the habitat, it says,   “The park contains shallow bays and estuaries, and deeper marine habitats. Regional currents drive nutrients into outer Resurrection Bay, making that area especially rich in fish and an early location for spring bloom of plankton and algae. Cliffs and rocky shores create nesting sites for birds and haul-out areas for marine mammals.”  Do you want a slice of wildlife at this park where whales and mountain goats cohabit in the most amazing way? Let’s explore.   However, if you are more interested in amphibians and reptiles, the Everglades National Park will be your go-to destination.   Whales At Kenai Fjords National Park Wildlife  Watching the whales is one of the best activities to do at Kenai Fjords National Park. You can see the whales here throughout the year.   The table below presents a sneak peek into the different species of whales and their best viewing time.  Type of Whale  Best Viewing Time  Humpback Whale Mid-May to August Orca or Killer Whale Mid-May to June Gray Whale Mid-April to May Fin Whale May to September  You can easily spot whales on the surface of the water. As they spout, fluke dive, breach, or spy hop in the water, you will get to know about their playful nature.   The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) ensures that cruising companies and visitors maintain respectful behavior when they are on whale-watching trips.   Other Sea Mammals At Kenai Fjords  Kenai Fjords is home to many sea mammals along with various species of whales. Don’t forget to catch a glimpse of Dall’s Porpoises, harbor seals, sea otters, and sea lions.   Dall’s Porpoise  Dall’s Porpoises look like orcas but are faster. They eat lanternfish, octopus, and squid.   Harbor Seals  You will find these cute sea mammals resting around active glaciers. They also stay on ice floes. They love to eat shellfish and fish.   Sea Otters  You will spot the playful sea otters swimming on their back in the water. They love fish, crabs, sea urchins, and squids.  They are furry, and the funniest thing is to see them using their bellies as tables. For sure, you will want to grab a soft toy version of these sea mammals.   Stellar Sea Lions   Stellar sea lions are an endangered species, and they stay on the icy shore of the sea. They have reddish fur, and they are 6-8 in height.  These mammals survive on fish and mollusks.   Birds At Kenai Fjords  From the NPS archive, a historical document on Kenai Fjords National Park says,   “Kenai Fjords provides habitat for at least 191 species of birds. The black oystercatcher spends most of its time feeding in the rich intertidal zone. Tufted and horned puffins nest in rock crevices along the coast. Bald eagles patrol the waters in search of salmon and other fish.”   It’s time we meet the birds and learn briefly about them.   Horned Puffins  These beautiful birds have unique black horn-like markings over their eyes. The touch of red on the tip of their beaks further makes them easily distinguishable.  You must visit the Kenai Fjords from mid-May to August to catch a glimpse of these birds.   Bald Eagles   You may catch bald eagles preying on fish and waterfowl. They get their name from their white-feathered head.   Peregrine Falcons  Known for excellent hunting abilities, peregrine falcons have a vibrant touch of yellow around their eyes and on their beaks.   Along with these birds, you can also see birds like the common murre, black-legged kittiwake, and cormorant at Kenai Fjords National Park.   Land Mammals At Kenai Fjords  Mountain goats and brown and black bears are common at Kenai Fjords. The mountain goats have split hooves for a better grip on the mountains and on the snowy land.   Further, many people visit the Kenai Fjords only to meet black and brown bears. These bears love eating fish, berries, and other vegetation.   Final Words   Global temperature changes and glacier melting have challenged the vast wilderness at Kenai Fjords National Park. Further, the movements of crustal plates beneath the Earth's surface make the landscape and its ecosystem volatile.   So, there is nothing permanent about the animals found in this park, stretching over 1000 square miles of water and land. Also, it is impossible to know about all the species habituating here thanks to the geographical nature and dramatic differences in weather conditions across seasons.  Nevertheless, as you take a tour of this rich national park on a cruise or explore its various parks, make sure to abide by the safety norms. Respect nature and its inhabitants!  This is the best way to experience the natural abundance the park is known for.   Do you have plans to visit the Kenai Fjords anytime soon? What do you find the most amazing thing about it? Don’t forget to share your ideas with us!   Wildlife At Kenai Fjords National Park: FAQs  What Animals Can You See In Kenai Fjords National Park?  Kenai Fjords wilderness is vivid. As you take a cruise trip or explore the National Park, you will notice the seals first, comfortable on the floating ice in the sea. Further, the male and female sea lions make their presence felt on the icy seashore.   Kenai Fjords is home to many notable species of marine and land mammals. Also, you will find various birds here.  Whales, sea otters, Dall's porpoise, gray wolves, minks, and mountain goats are common animals here.   Birds such as puffins, bald eagles, and peregrine falcons will greet you as you visit this beautiful national park.   Can You See Bears In Kenai Fjords National Park?   Located at the edge of the Kenai Peninsula, Kenai Fjords has black and brown bears. Black bears are easily spotted, and they are more timid than brown bears.   The National Park Service has a set of safety guidelines, including not attracting bears with food and garbage and avoiding their personal spaces. Follow the norms to make your interaction with the bears delightful.   Can You See Northern Lights In Kenai Fjords National Park?   Yes, you can see the Northern Lights in Kenai Fjords National Park during the autumn and winter seasons. The night sky of Kenai Fjords looks like the most amazing melange of green, purple, blue, and green shades.   If you are a religious soul, you must visit the Virgin Mary Russian Orthodox Church with the Northern Lights dancing in the sky. It’s the most divine experience.   For a spiritual journey, watch the lights over the Seward boat harbor.   When To See Whales In Kenai Fjords National Park?  You can see whales in Kenai Fjords National Park throughout the year. However, if you want to watch a specific species of whale among the varieties seen here, you must plan a trip according to the right season.   The best time for watching gray whales is March and April. In these months, gray whales migrate to this part of the world through the Gulf of Alaska.  Do you want to watch the humpback whales? You can see them from May to October. They flock in large numbers from Mexico and Hawaii. They live in the water here as they can find nutrient-rich food for them throughout the summer.   In addition, Orcas or the killer whales are seen in mid-May and June. Moreover, if you are lucky enough, you will also see minke whales and fin whales in this area.   What Is Special About Kenai Fjords?   Your Alaska trip is incomplete without a visit to Kenai Fjords National Park, where you can see the best of the marine world. Also, it is the home to Northwestern, Aialik, and Holgate tidewater glaciers. Glaciers move relentlessly into the sea.   Further, it is the most picturesque landscape where mountains, an ancient icefield, valleys, cascading falls, forest canopies, and the great Pacific Ocean coexist. Thanks to this coexistence, Kenai Fjords National Park is rich in biodiversity. You will find humpback whales, sea otters, mountain goats and many species of birds in the National Park.   Designated as a National Park in 1980, Kenai Fjords National Park also protects various archeological and historical remains. The park has many prehistoric, protohistoric, and historic sites.   Archeologists still conduct surveys in this park to learn more about the human way of living and why it has changed over the years.   Also read Things To Do In Rocky Mountains National Park. Top 10 National Parks In Oregon That You Need To Explore In 2023! What Is The Best Time To Visit Glacier National Park? Find The Answer Here!

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 27, 2023

Mauritius! I had the amazing experience of going to this island country recently, and let me tell you, it was an experience of a lifetime. Initially, I was confused about which time to plan it out for. The temperatures and weather in Mauritius are at odds with the rest of the world because of its position in the middle of the ocean. But, when I got there, lucky as I was, I had arrived just before peak season. I got to know about their culture, their food, and most importantly, the best time to visit Mauritius. Here I will describe to you what Mauritius has to offer in each of the months of the year. If you want to know about Mauritanian weather the year around, make sure to stick it out to the end. Plan your trip then on, accordingly. The Best Time To Visit Mauritius Image Source: images.news18.com Mauritius is known for its sunny beaches and beautiful nature treasures. I am here to give you a season-by-season breakdown of the island. Keep reading! January To March Image Source: www.lexpressproperty.com In Mauritius, January is considered one of the hottest and wettest months of the year. Despite the high rainfall, the island is still quite busy due to the influx of tourists from the Christmas period. You can expect heavy rainfall during late afternoons, and there is a possibility of torrential storms during this month. Similarly, February is also quite hot, humid, and rainy in Mauritius. However, the rain usually doesn't last long and clears up after a few hours. Though not perfect for a beach vacation, February has fewer crowds than January. It is important to note that there is still a chance of cyclones during this month. March marks the Holi Festival, also known as the 'Festival of Colours' on the island. This annual celebration is held in honor of Lord Krishna, a Hindu deity. During the festivities, people line up on the streets and cover themselves with vibrantly-colored powder, creating a jovial atmosphere. Despite being a humid month, March sees less rainfall than January and February. April To June Image Source: media1.thrillophilia.com The month of April is a hot and humid season, making it an ideal time for sun-seekers. However, the Easter holidays make the island quite busy. If you prefer a quieter beach vacation, it's better to plan your trip outside of this period. April is also the beginning of the best time of the year to indulge in surfing or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. May is officially the start of winter in Mauritius, but the temperature remains comfortable, and the humidity drops. This month is popular among tourists as there are reasonable travel specials on Mauritius accommodations. The evenings can get chilly, so it is recommended to pack some warmer clothes. June is a cooler month in Mauritius compared to the humid weather at the beginning of the year. If you prefer hot weather, then June may feel much cooler. The trade winds start to increase, and like in May, the evenings can become a little colder. It's the perfect time for kite surfers. July To September Image source: www.eventsmauritius.mu July is also considered a cooler month in Mauritius. If you want to enjoy the best possible weather during this period, it's recommended to visit the North of the Island. Despite the lower temperatures, July is still a popular time of the year due to school holidays in the Northern Hemisphere. I visited Mauritius in August. In Mauritius, August is a month with mild temperatures and no rainfall, making it perfect for sunny days without the scorching heat. I would recommend you stay on the west or north coast during August as these areas provide more shelter from the wind. This month marks the Ganesh Chaturthi Festival, a festival honoring the God Ganesh, and you can see statues of the Elephant God all around the island during the celebration. September is considered the unofficial beginning of peak season in Mauritius. At this time, the strong trade winds start to die down, and the temperatures rise, ushering in the summer months and longer days of sunshine. Despite this, September still offers some quiet beaches, good deals on flights, exciting tours in Mauritius, and discounts on accommodations. October To December Image Source: www.mauvillas.com October is the driest month of the year in Mauritius, and it tends to be a busy time at the most popular destinations on the island. This month is also significant as it is the time for the Hindu festival of Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights. During this festive period, candles and lamps light up the island in a soft glow, making it a beautiful sight to behold. November is characterized by a significant increase in humidity and temperature. The month offers more sunshine, but it's also associated with an increase in rainfall. It's a perfect time for scuba diving enthusiasts who want to catch a glimpse of the seasonal turtles, particularly the Green turtle and the Hawksbill turtle, which are commonly spotted during this period. In December, the last month of the year, Mauritius experiences a surge in global activities, and the island is no exception. Humidity levels rise, and heavy rainfall is expected, mostly in the afternoons. The sea temperature is warmer, making it ideal for water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking, and scuba diving. However, it is advisable to plan your beach holiday well in advance to avoid the high demand during the festive season. Things To Do When Visiting Mauritius Image Source: planetofhotels.com Mauritius is absolutely gorgeous most of the time, and visiting it is a must, whether solo or with family. Here are some things you can try once you decide to try this island country for your next trip: Snorkeling At Blue Bay Marine Park Image Source: static2.tripoto.com If you're interested in witnessing the beautiful marine life of Mauritius, snorkeling is an excellent way to do so. By snorkeling at Blue Bay Marine Park, you'll have the opportunity to closely observe the amazing underwater world of Mauritius that has been hidden for centuries. This excursion will transport you to a different world, allowing you to explore something that is beyond your imagination. Cave Sea Kayaking At Albion Caves Image Source: images.squarespace-cdn.com Kayaking in Mauritius offers a unique and adventurous experience. One such experience is kayaking across the cave sea, providing you with an exclusive opportunity to witness the beauty of the caves. If you are fascinated by caves and enjoy exploring their hidden stories and interesting designs, then you should definitely try a kayaking tour at Albion Caves. Walks With Lions At Casela Park Image Source: toursmauritius.mu Have you ever considered taking a walk with the king of the jungle? If so, Casela Park in Mauritius offers an opportunity to experience the wild side of the jungle by taking a thrilling walk with lions. This excursion in Mauritius promises to give you an adrenaline rush and an unforgettable experience that you may have never imagined! Wrapping Up If you are planning to visit Mauritius and want to know more I hope this article helped. My Experience of Mauritius and knowledge of it will help you select your trip timing better. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! Read Also: This Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland & These Are The Things You Should Do! 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