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BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 28, 2023

At heart, I'm a backpacker. Despite having traveled extensively for more than ten years, I still enjoy taking inexpensive trips and value the experiences more than opulent lodging and transportation. I still enjoy meeting people from the community, eating as much local food as I can, and staying in hostels. Despite what the general public believes, backpacking is about finding value, not about saving every penny. You must budget your money carefully if you want to travel in style and authenticity without going over budget. Getting travel insurance is also one of the best decisions you can make if you plan to go on an international backpacking trip. I understand that purchasing travel insurance may seem like just one more thing to eat into your budget. It was a thought I had as well. However, in the unlikely event that something goes wrong during your trip, it could also save you thousands of dollars. That, if you have a backpacker travel insurance. Furthermore, I can tell you with confidence that something will go wrong because I have spent more than twelve years traveling the world. Here is all the information you need to know about purchasing backpacker travel insurance to help you stay safe on your next trip. Why Do You Need A Backpacker Travel Insurance? You should purchase travel insurance because mishaps do occur. Things go wrong whether you're in the country or overseas. You probably have access to trustworthy medical facilities and medical care when you're at home. That isn't always the case when you are on the road. Serious injuries do occur, despite their rarity. And it's always preferable to err on the side of safety. However, insurance isn't limited to urgent medical care. It also discusses a number of incidents that are far more frequent than you might imagine! I've had my bags stolen, had to visit a hospital abroad, and even had a stabbing while visiting South America. Even though thinking about these things all the time is unpleasant, you really should be ready for anything. Although it is ideal that you will never need to use your insurance plan, you should make sure you have the necessary coverage in case you do. What Does A Backpacker Travel Insurance Cover? Here's a brief summary of the following items your backpacker insurance should cover: Coverage for the majority of global nations Emergency medical situations (hospitalization costs for surgery, medical evacuation to the closest hospital) Flight cancellations and delays Trip cancellations (caused by a family member getting hurt or dying) Emergency evacuation (caused by harm or a natural disaster) Dental emergencies Misplaced or pilfered luggage Death overseas I understand that you like to travel light as a backpacker. After all, insurance isn't free, which makes it appear like a burdensome and pointless expense. However, paying a few dollars a day is far less risky than losing your entire life savings in the event of an emergency while you are uninsured. What Does A Backpacker Travel Insurance Not Cover? Travel insurance typically covers most medical expenses and accidents related to travel, but it's crucial to understand what it does and does not cover. After all, knowledge is power. The majority of policies for backpackers do not cover: Incidents that occur when engaging in extreme adventure sports, such as bungee jumping, hang gliding, or paragliding Drug and alcohol-related incidents Negligence or carelessness (like if you leave your bag unattended and it gets stolen) General examinations or pre-existing conditions Cash that has been stolen If your government hasn't issued an evacuation order due to civil unrest but your destination becomes unsafe (unless you have more advanced coverage from a company like Medjet) You will not be eligible for trip cancellation coverage if you change your mind about the trip or break up with your travel companion or unfriend them. You won't receive reimbursement if you choose to postpone your travel if your visa to a destination is denied. As a backpacker, there are only two companies that are worth using. Safety Wing and Insure My Trip. Safety Wing This is the first and my personal favorite backpacker travel insurance. Safety Wing was founded by Norwegian digital nomads who live in California. They serve low-cost travelers and remote workers by providing basic plans at incredibly low costs. Their $250 USD debit keeps the monthly fee low, and you can renew your plan while traveling abroad, making them the best option for frequent travelers. Although their coverage isn't as extensive as that of other companies, it still covers the essentials, which makes them a good option for budget-conscious travelers. Here is a brief overview of Safety Wing: Incredibly cheap plans (with a deductible) Able to buy and renew plans while traveling Online claim submission is available. $250,000 USD for urgent medical attention Amiable and accommodating customer support You retain your medical coverage in your home country for 30 days after returning from a 90-day trip (15 days if you live in the US). Ideal for thrifty travelers and digital nomads Insure My Trip Insure My Trip is the second option. With the aid of a policy aggregator called Insure My Trip, you can evaluate insurance providers and plans to find the one that best suits your needs and price range. Plans from more than 20 different insurance companies are available for comparison, and there are many reasonable options for travelers. Retirees and other senior adventurers turn to Insure My Trip because they offer comparisons from insurance companies that cover older travelers (many travel insurance companies do not cover travelers over the age of 65). The main advantage of using Insure My Trip is their promise that you won't find a better deal on the same policy anywhere else! Here is a brief overview of Insure My Trip: Low prices assured Protection for elderly passengers over 65 "Anytime Advocates": If you believe your claim was wrongfully rejected, ask the insurer to review it again. Evaluates 23 different providers to guarantee you receive the greatest deal Reviews of every policy to see what other passengers have to say Wrapping Up I always have travel insurance when I leave the house. I know firsthand how beneficial it can be. Over the years, it has prevented me from having to spend thousands of dollars on headaches. The whole point of backpacking is to experience incredible, life-changing adventures without going over budget. Additionally, purchasing backpacker travel insurance is the best way to protect yourself from high (and unnecessary) expenses (keep in mind that Safety Wing is my top choice!). Read Also: A Backpacker’s Guide: Must-Have Camping Essentials Secrets Of Forest Camping: Tips For An Unforgettable Getaway Sorting Out Christmas Vacation: 11 Best Places To Visit On Christmas This Year!

BY  Barsha Dec 10, 2022

There’s something so beautiful about the beaches in Gloucester, Massachusetts - so much so that you have to visit all of these beaches. From small, isolated charmers accompanied by soft, silky sand to larger, pebbly beaches boasting kaleidoscopic sunsets and impressive views, Gloucester's most popular beaches have everything you love! Located comfortably on the gorgeous and captivating Cape Ann, the diverse Gloucester beaches are perfect for every season! Most Boston residents love to visit these beaches during weekends, soaking up some Vitamin C and enjoying the fresh air in the charming atmosphere. So, if you are planning to visit during Summer or on weekends, you can expect some crowds.  The rest you can find out by scrolling down - and don’t forget to stick around till the end!  Top 10 Beaches In Gloucester In Massachusetts - Travel Guide! So you are planning to check out the beaches in Gloucester MA! That’s great. In fact, if you are planning to go for a swim, you can visit during the Summer months or even between the Memorial and the Labor Days! This is the time when you will find lifeguards on duty, relatively less frigid water temperatures, and welcoming ice cream trucks.  Pack that picnic, pick your swimsuit, get hold of your umbrella, and find the perfect beach in Gloucester! Don’t forget your sunscreen - for now, keep reading to find out about all the hidden gems on the Gloucester shore.  1. Good Harbor Beach: Image Source: kubrick.htvapps.com Do you love digging your feet into silky soft, and velvety sand? Then this Gloucester beach will definitely impress you with its spectacular sunsets and sugar-white base. One of the prettiest beaches in Gloucester, the Good Harbor Beach will make you feel like you are sitting on some exotic Caribbean island! The Gloucester beach is perfect for playing volleyball, body surfing, and walking especially during low tide. There are always lifeguards on duty from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day! Try not to trash the place considering it will also pollute the sea. Insider's tip: Flotation devices, inflatables, and surfboards are all banned between Memorial Day and Labor Day. But boogie boards made from Styrofoam are allowed.  2. Wingaersheek Beach: Image Source: lyndsayhannahphotography.com One of the most beautiful beaches in Gloucester, Massachusetts, Wingaersheek Beach doesn’t have a vast expanse of sand. It measures only about half 0f one mile in terms of length. But don’t make up your mind based on the size of this beach - instead, consider the sheer beauty of the beach! The beach is 0.6 mile long where people can stroll around. The name of the beach has been derived from the Dutch name ‘Wyngaerts Hoeck’. The beach parking reservation system creates opportunities for tourists and visitors to enjoy their beach experience especially if they are non-resident. Insider's tip: Visit Wingaersheek Beach during low tide. The low tide not just increases the size of the beach dramatically, but you will also get to spot clams and hermit crabs. 3. Half Moon Beach: Image Source: a.travel-assets.com You don’t have to google ‘half moon beach Gloucester’ - instead, just pack your beach and check out this golden horseshoe surrounded by lush green nature and giant boulders. The crescent shape of the beach is responsible for its name. Perfect for couples, you must visit this beach if you have been seeking an isolated beach experience. In the city of Gloucester, there are many beautiful beaches and if you visit this one, it will be a memorable experience. The beach is hidden and if you come really close, only then will you be able to see the beach. Insider's tip: You must not miss out on the Sunset. The sky will display hues of orange, pink, and yellow - don’t forget to carry your camera! 4. Pavilion Beach: Image Source: cdn-cms.bookingexperts.nl Located close to Gloucester downtown, Pavilion Beach is one of our favorite beaches in Gloucester! After an exhausting day of shopping and stuffing our mouths with local delicacies, Pavilion Beach appears like a respite with its clean water and pretty views. We loved how relaxing the atmosphere was in and around this beach! Insider's tip: In the month of June, residents here celebrate St. Peter's Fiesta, an event that was started in 1927 for honoring the ‘patron saint of fishermen.’ 5. Plum Cove Beach: Image Source: atlanticcoastaldiscoveryhome.files.wordpress.com One of the Gloucester beaches that's a favorite amongst locals, Plum Cove Beach is perfect for families. Ideal for kids and young adults, this mini slice of sandy paradise is all you need this weekend - it’s practically impossible for kids to get lost here! You will find your stress washed out and all your worries lulled by the waves.  Insider's tip: Lifeguards are not on duty starting from the weekend after Father’s Day, and it continues till Labor Day weekend. 6. Cressy's Beach: Image Source: arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-bostonglobe.s3.amazonaws.com The beaches in Gloucester are so different from each other. If you are not a fan of typical beach activities like running around, comfortable lounging, or even sandcastle building, then Cressy's Beach is ideal for you! Don’t forget your water shoes since the waters are peppered with rocks, even the shallow waters!  Insider's tip: Picnic tables and outdoor grills are permitted here - so you can settle down with some food and enjoy the same with the spectacular views! 7. Niles Beach: Image Source: goodmorninggloucester.files.wordpress.com You thought the perfect Gloucester beach MA doesn’t exist. But then you come across Niles Beach, and the silver sand accompanied by high tides will welcome you! Located in eastern Gloucester, this is one of those secluded spots that are the perfect welcome getaway from the common bustling beaches. The beach is limited to vehicles; however, it is well situated across East Main Street in Gloucester. The beach is not allowed to everyone and residents mostly enjoy the place. Insider's tip: Since the beach is so beautiful, naturally, you will face problems with parking. If you manage to get hold of some beach stickers, then you can save yourself from the traffic. 8. Long Beach: Image Source: media.vrbo.com One of the best beaches in Gloucester, Long Beach is literally that - a really long beach stretching from Gloucester to Rockport. The picturesque beach is known for its soft, silky, and white sand - and how can you even ignore the captivating Thacher Island, accompanied by two historic lighthouses? This is one the favourites among the locals! It has a private parking lot along with showers for swimmers or divers. There are also beautiful cottages libing up the beach looking like the perfect picturesque. Insider's tip: Check the parking signs really carefully. You will find that certain areas on the beach have the ‘resident-only’ sign, which means you will need beach stickers for lounging in those areas. 9. Norwood Heights Beach: Image Source: cdn.photos.sparkplatform.com One of the best parts of Gloucester MA beaches are the local gems that are completely hidden from tourists. And Norwood Heights Beach is exactly that - a local gem, albeit hidden. A charming mixture of rocks and sand, Norwood Heights Beach is ideal for everyone who is seeking a little more than ordinary! Don’t forget to visit the Annisquam Lighthouse. The beach is even more beautiful with the lighthouse on it called the Annisquam lighthouse. There are also resorts on the beach so you can book your stay there and enjoy the food. Insider's tip: If you love listening to music, then you must use headphones on this beach since open speakers are banned on the beach. 10. Singing Beach, Manchester-By-The-Sea: Image Source: lh5.googleusercontent.com Although Singing Beach is not technically located in Gloucester, there’s no way we can miss out on this one! One of the most beautiful beaches in Gloucester, Singing Beach, is located in the downtown area of Manchester-By-The-Sea. And it’s not just the sheer beauty of the beach that attracts visitors, it’s also the musical experience you will find here. The beach also has a beautiful summertime bathhouse where you can stay and enjoy your vacation. There is also a snack bar behind the house. The sand on the beach makes noise when it dries! Insider's tip: Parking can be quite challenging especially if its a really busy weekend in Summer. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Check out the most frequently asked questions about the different beaches in Gloucester.  1. Which Beach Is Better, Good Harbor Or Wingaersheek? Ans: Wingaersheek is known for its calm and beautiful water, perfect for all beachgoers who aren’t seeking any waves. In fact, if there’s anyone looking for waves, then Good Harbor is what you need, not Wingaersheek. And if you are a lover of long walks by the beach, then you can’t miss out on Crane Beach, located in Ipswich.  2. What Is The Best Beach To Go To In Massachusetts? Ans: The best beaches to visit in Massachusetts are as follows,➊ Madaket Beach located in Nantucket.➋ Crane Beach located in Ipswich. ➌ Wingaersheek Beach located in Gloucester.➍ Mayflower Beach, located in Dennis.➎ Wellfleet Kettle Ponds located in Wellfleet. 3. What Beaches Are In Gloucester, Massachusetts? Ans: The top three beaches in Gloucester are as follows,➊ Wingaersheek Beach,➋ Good Harbor Beach, and➌ Half Moon Beach. 4. What Is The Clearest Beach In Massachusetts? Ans: The clearest beaches in Massachusetts are as follows,➊ Lake Dennison,➋ Morses Pond,➌ Long Pond, ➍ Upper Goose Pond, and➎ Coast Guard Beach. And It’s A Wrap! So we have arrived at the end of our curated list of the best beaches in Gloucester. If you are planning a trip to Boston, we suggest taking the weekend off from the city and heading over to Gloucester! And if you are already visiting Massachusetts, there’s no way you can miss out on Gloucester or its charming beaches.  So plan your next beach trip - and don’t forget to share your experiences with us in the comments below! Read Also: 10 Best Nude Beaches In The World Why Myrtle Beach Is The Ideal Summer Destination Top 7 Nantucket Beaches For Tourists In Massachusetts

BY  Barsha Dec 21, 2022

Are you sitting in Sydney desperately looking for some halal food? Are you sick of all the confusing answers Google is giving to your basic ‘halal food near me’ search? Guess what? We have been there, doing exactly that! But we were determined to find all the many halal restaurants in and around Sydney.  It was a great experience, and later, we realized there were many people like us looking for the best halal food in Sydney. So without wasting any more time, check out the best Halal restaurants in Sydney.  15+ Best Places For Halal Food Near Me In Sydney: While searching ‘halal food near me’ or even ‘halal restaurant near me’ is a pretty good idea, the problem starts when Google comes up with way too many options leaving you spoilt for choice and subsequently extremely confused. This is why the best thing that you can do is save this article, keeping it for future use.  We have done some extensive research for you - so scroll down to check out all the places you can visit the next time you are looking for halal restaurants in Sydney!  1. Cafe Birkenhead: Stop your ‘halal food near me’ search because we are here to help you with the same, and the first place on our list is Cafe Birkenhead! It’s a pretty cool place with good food, great service, and even better reviews.  Review By MV: “Lovely cafe with large windows overlooking the boats and water! Natural light makes you feel instantly relaxed as soon as you step into the space. The staff is all so friendly and all smiley! :) Yummiest bacon and egg sandwich I’ve ever eaten, and good coffee! Highly recommend!” 2. Zinger Taj Indian Restaurant: Are you typing ‘Indian halal restaurant near me’ on Google because you are craving some spicy Indian food? In that case, Zinger Taj Indian Restaurant is the place to be - go, check it out today!  Review By Elena Gelbling: “Excellent! From the service, food and ambience - we truely enjoyed our dining experience and would highly recommend the Zinger Taj Indian Restaurent :)” 3. Shaahi Tandoori: Another Indian halal restaurant in Sydney; if you are a sucker for Indian spices, then visiting Shaahi Tandoori is a must. But if you aren’t used to Indian spices, then be a little cautious with your choices. Review By M0: “Shaahi Tandoori is great value authentic Indian/Pakistani food in Enmore. The portions are quite small but it’s a good chance to try extra dishes. The butter chicken and goat biryani were standouts but every dish we tried was nice.” 4. No1 Halal Beef Noodles And Kebab: Are you still doing the ‘halal food near me’ search? Stop, really! Instead of wasting your time on your smartphone, if you are up for some tasty beef noodles, then you have to visit NO1 Halal beef noodles and kebab today!  Review By Lutfur Rahman: “Nice halal place in the city. Staff's friendliness can improve. Foods not as tasty as expected. Wanted to order lamb fried rice with vegetables but they didn't have it. Requested to do it with beef but they didn't give much importance. Poor customer service.” 5. It's Time For Thai: Are you in the middle of ‘halal Thai food near me’ search? Then stop doing so right now and instead check out It’s Time For Thai! A great Thai restaurant, you will simply love the delectable Thai dishes here.  Review By Erick T: “I only visit this place for their crispy chicken and having it in the restaurant. Occasionally i would have an entree too. The chicke is a standard battered chicken, but just cooked perfectly every time. Crispy on the outside and soft in the inside. Nothing special, but just great chicken.” 6. Lal Qila Darling Harbour: Sydney is home to more than one or two Indian halal restaurants - Lal Qila Darling Harbor is yet another Indian halal restaurant. This place was perhaps one of the best results that came out of doing the ‘halal foods near me’ search. Read More: Top 15 Restaurants In Colombia You Must Visit While Traveling Review By Babar Khan: “Delicious food, professional staff, overall ambiance was great, food arrived quickly and all together which was great. I wish they had a branch in Melbourne. Highly recommended. Slightly pricey but totally worth it.” 7. Mamak Haymarket: What’s the point of doing any type of ‘halal restaurants near me’ search on the internet when you can simply visit places like Mamak Haymarket? The restaurant serves mouthwatering dishes and never disappoints!  Review By Abbie Love: “Haven’t been in years, so went back again last this weekend. The roti is as delicious as I remember, and the noodles were full of flavour. Everything is cooked fresh and comes out quick. Was less impressed by the curry and satay, but it was still good. Be prepared for a queue, but it moves relatively quickly. It’s also BYO.” 8. Taste Of Turkey: We were so done with the whole ‘near me’ search that e just stepped out and did some research on foot. And trust us, you will never find places like the Taste of Turkey by typing something like ‘halal restaurants gold coast’ on Google - go, check out today! Review By Jane D: “Lovely authentic Turkish flavours and lovely customer service. Would look forward to visiting again to try out the lunch / dinner menu as I only got to experience the breakfast menu. P.S. The Turkish Tea was amazing.” 9. Neptune Palace Restaurant: The Neptune Palace Restaurant was so good that we kept visiting this restaurant multiple times during our trip to Sydney. If the food is good, then we don’t have any complaints. Both their food and service were excellent, making us really happy!  Read More: Top 12+ Block Island Restaurants For You – Travel & Food Guide Review By Zain Abbas: “Loved the experience, from booking table online to being served. Waiter was nice and helped with all our needs(being with kids). Food was amazing. Ordered chicken corn soup, Sze Chuan Chicken, sweet n sour chicken, Chicken Hokkin Mee noodles and steam rice. Loved every dish, especially Sweet and Sour chicken was amazing, loved by all.” 10. Jounieh Walsh Bay: After spending quite some time doing the ‘halal food near me’ search and following it up with practical research, we stumbled upon Jounieh Walsh Bay. And we didn’t have to regret our decision even for a moment - the place wa perfect, and the food was even better.  Review By Fiza Mughal: “A great place for a celebratory meal or just for some really good food regardless of the occasion. The fish croquettes stole the show. I also particularly really loved the extra touch on the hummus with crispy chickpeas.” 11. Cairo Takeaway Newtown Cairo Takeaway Newtown might just be a takeaway joint but understand it’s the only takeaway joint featured on this list. This is because the place might not have had dining options, but the food was so good that we couldn’t have left the place off our lists.  Review By Alfred Tao: “Food was delicious and tasted very authentic. Tastes like you are in the streets of Egypt. The food is cheap/reasonable, and there are vegetarian options. The staff is great, and the service is pretty quick. The place is fairly small, but they do have some seating out the back” 12. Ipoh Town On York: One of our favorite results that came out of the ‘halal food near me’ search is Ipoh town On York - it’s that one perfect place you have been looking for! The food is pretty great, and the place definitely deserves more than one visit.  Review By Yee Sin: “So good to have a bowl of hot chicken and prawn hor fun. The soup tastes good, and it is a good portion. Although it is a long cue, ordering is fast and organized. But seats are limited; try to come earlier during lunch time.” 13. Zahli Located at 529 Elizabeth St. Surry Hills, Sydney in New South Wales, Australia, this restaurant is open from 12 pm to 10 pm. It is a well-known restaurant from which the customers always leave satisfied. The Restaurant caters food like Middle Eastern, Lebanese, Arabic, and Mediterranean along with healthy yumminess! On Tripadvisor, the restaurant has been rated as 4.5 out of 5 based on 752 reviews. Customers are quite satisfied with the option of Halal food as it is respectable to a lot of culture and religion! The restaurant is rated as one of the top ten restaurants in Sydney. Review by Nathalie F: “A grand feast of fine Lebanese foodEating here was just grand! The owner helped us pick a beautiful mix of Lebanese bites. We had a great mix of fish, meat and veggies, and good wine. The only point of criticism would be that everything came at once.” 14. Anason - Turkish Restaurant If you are craving Turkish or Mediterranean food while in Sydney, go for Anason especially when the option of Halal food is still there. The restaurant is located at Barangaroo Anandara Shop at 5/32 Barangaroo Ave Barangaroo in New South Wales, Australia. The restaurant was open from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Based on 576 reviews, people have rated the restaurant as 4.5 out of 5. The customers in the review appreciated the service, food and value of the restaurant. The ambience of the restaurant is pretty good! Review by 872remat: “We went on a Sunday evening and hadn’t booked a table. This wasn’t a problem. Two of our guests were an hour late and the staff were very understanding about us waiting for them before ordering food. The food and drinks were excellent. The staff were very friendly and helpful about the food. All traditional Turkish meals and very delicious. Highly recommend if you want to experience food that is not mainstream. The Lamb shank was a favourite.” 15. Kadmus In this restaurant, the food is pretty affordable along with delicious halal food available. The reviews rate the restaurant 4 out of 5 based on 212 customers stating what they feel of the restaurant and its quality of food. This is one of the restaurants for Halal Food near me! It is located at 105 Thompson St, Drummoyne at Sidney, Australia. Customers go ga ga over the food of the restaurant, the service is quiet while the atmosphere is quite enigmatic. Apart from halal food, you will also get Vegan and vegetarian options at the restaurant. Review by jamh99:“ WOW how good is this placeBy far the best Lebanese food in Sydney I have been to so many times over the years and I have never been disappointed by the food or the hospitality.” Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Check out the most frequently asked questions related to the ‘halal food near me’ search trend mentioned below.  1. What Fast Foods Are Halal In Australia? Ans: The fast food chains that are halal in Australia are as follows,➊ KFC,➋ McDonald's,➌ Subway,➍ Domino’s, and➎ Hungry Jacks. 2. What Popular Foods Are Halal? Ans: The popular food items that are considered to be halal are as follows, ➊ Chicken,➋ Lamb,➌ Vegetables,➍ Fruits and➎ Fish. 3. What Cannot Be Eaten Halal? Ans: Food items that cannot be eaten halal are as follows,➊ Amphibians,➋ Reptiles,➌ Insects,➍ Pork, and➎ Shellfish. 4. What Are The Three Rules Of Halal? Ans: The three rules of Halal are as follows,➊ You cannot consume pork or even any of its by-products. ➋ Any animal that has not been slaughtered properly.➌ Any animal that died before it could be slaughtered.  And It’s A Wrap! So that’s a wrap on the ‘halal food near me’ search based in Sydney - because we have come up with the ultimate list of halal restaurants in Sydney. All 15 restaurants on this list are known for the high-quality food they serve - so what are you waiting for? Stop searching for places, and instead, check out the places listed above.  Meanwhile, tell us what you think about these restaurants. Also, don’t forget to share your past experiences with halal food in the comments below. Read Also: How To Enjoy Your Night In Sydney Budget-Friendly Travel Ideas In Australia Factors To Consider When Hiring A Boat In Sydney