Interesting Facts about Australia that will surprise you!

BY  Sibashree Sep 30, 2024

India is leading the dark tourism scenario, with an expected CAGR of 5.1% (2024-2034). Dark tourism in India thrives as it is the land of history and heritage. Also, travel a few miles, and you'll come across folklore or common myths about paranormal activities.  Dark tourism in India takes you to places associated with human tragedy or anything that sparks curiosity. Endless warfare and the rule of various dynasties have drenched its soil in blood for centuries. Further, superstitions and oppressive customs in various parts of the country have caused human casualties that can give you a chill down your spine.  However, dark tourism in India, or anywhere in the world, is not just about people’s fascination with the macabre or their inclination to explore the grey zone. Many dark tourism sites like the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands or Jallianwala Bagh tell the tales of a collective past.  So, these are often popular destinations for educational tourism or excursions. With endless stories and mysteries spread in every corner, India will spoil you with the choices of dark tourism spots. Here is a list of places you just can’t miss! Dark Tourism In India: These Are The Places You Need To Visit  For me, dark tourism in India is like communicating with the past. These places and their remnants convey a message that can trigger moral emotions such as empathy, gratitude, disgust, or sadness. These moral emotions can also change our perspective on ourselves, different communities, and society.  Moreover, curiosity drives people’s love for the occult. Some categories of dark tourism, such as ghost tourism, thana tourism, and disaster tourism, especially draw many into the shadows. We absolutely agree with Karan Anand, the Head of Relationships at Cox & Kings. So, where does dark tourism in India take us? Here is a curated list! 1. Port Blair Cellular Jail | Kala Pani | The Prison Of Death Location: Andaman and Nicobar Islands  One of the most prominent witnesses of British atrocities in the country, the Port Blair Cellular Jail tops almost all the lists of dark tourism in India.  The British government built a concrete hell in 1906: a prison that was almost impossible to escape.  Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, an Indian freedom fighter, was the only person to escape the Port Blair Cellular Jail.  The British Raj sent convicts to this jail for the severest punishments. At one point, the jail housed as many as 80000 prisoners, and among them, at least a few hundred were freedom fighters. The freedom fighters received the “Kalapani ki Saza,” a life of isolation.  Constructed in the shape of a starfish, the Port Blair Cellular Jail is a witness to inhuman tortures and genocides. Along with the atrocities of the British Raj, it has also seen the genocides carried out by the Japanese.  When at the Cellular Jail, don’t forget to attend the “Light & Sound” show in the evening. It is like time travel and gives you goosebumps.  2. Jallianwala Bagh Location: Amritsar City, Punjab The 13th of April 1919 saw one of the worst examples of British acts of barbarity in India. Innocent people had gathered at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar City to peacefully protest against British rule. Jallianwala Bagh was blocked from all sides, and Brigadier-General Dyer ordered his men to open fire on these innocent and unarmed people. The 1650 rounds of firing continued for 10-15 minutes, taking the lives of more than 500 people.  Today, when you visit Jallianwala Bagh, you can see many bullet holes struck in the structures there. In 1951, a memorial was built here to honor the Indian revolutionaries. In 2019, the Yaad-e-Jallian Museum was inaugurated. The museum depicts the most authentic account of the massacre.  A century later, in 2019, an official acknowledgment of “regret” came from British Prime Minister Theresa May on the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. This substantiates how grave and gruesome the act of mass killing was.  3. Roopkund Lake  Location: Uttarakhand Located at a 5000-meter altitude, Roopkund Lake is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Uttarakhand, India.  However, you can see hundreds of human skeletons near the lake, named  the “Lake of Skull.”  Researchers have found that around 200 pilgrims died of heavy snowfall there in the 9th century. So, there are so many skeletons around the lake. Roopkund Lake is also known as the “Mystery Lake,” and stories say the pilgrims were turned to stone or that the Goddess grew angry.  However, Veena Mushrif-Tripathy, a member of the 2004 investigation and a professor of archaeology at Deccan College in Pune, mentioned that the theory of the pilgrims was reasonable, as there were no traces of weapons.  4. Shaniwar Wada Location: Pune, Maharashtra Shaniwar Wada, built in 1732 by Bajirao I, is a historically significant fort known for its architectural excellence. This fort was once the seat of the Maratha Peshwas. The fort became a tourist attraction after Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 2015 magnum opus, Bajirao Mastani. However, Shaniwar Wada is a favorite dark-tourism destination in India because of a popular ghost story and folklore associated with it. Narayanrao, the son of Bajirao I, was killed by his uncle Raghunathrao in 1773 in this fort. Since then, people have experienced paranormal activities in the fort. Many have claimed to have encountered the dead prince.  5. Kuldhara  Location: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan How about visiting a village abandoned by its people around 200 years ago? Kuldhara, Jaisalmer's cursed village, was home to the Paliwal Brahmins. They left the village because of water scarcity and the high taxes imposed by the Diwan. Another story is about Salim Singh, the local prime minister, who wanted to marry the village head's daughter. The villagers refused his demands and left overnight. They also cursed the place, saying that no one could settle there.  Some even associate the overnight evacuation with paranormal activity. Whatever the reason, many people have tried but failed to spend a night in this village. Today, abandoned houses, temples, and other architecture speak of excellence, craftsmanship, and intrigue. It is also a favorite destination for movie-makers and photographers today. Films like “Agent Vinod” are shot here. Moreover, the village is now a “Protected Monument of the State Archaelogy Department.”  6. Dumas Beach Location: Surat, Gujarat Dumas Beach is one of Gujarat's most haunted places. With its black sand and paranormal activities, this beach transforms into a hellish spot as the Moon shows up.  The beach was earlier a cremation ground. The black color of the sand comes from the ashes of those corpses. Although we couldn't see the moving orbs or any prominent paranormal activity, I still felt eerie at the beach. Also, I can’t explain, but there is something very depressing about this beach. It feels like you can hear the whispers of the lost here, and someone will suddenly appear in the shadows.  Reports say many tourists have gone missing from Dumas Beach. Also, one day, local people discovered the corpse of a man at the beach. His tongue was sticking out. To date, no explanation has been found behind these tragic incidents.  7. Bhangarh Fort In the Aravallis, the Bhangarh Fort has the remains of a deserted marketplace, Havelis, and temples. The fort's architectural excellence is beyond question, and it speaks of a prosperous past.  However, Bhangarh Fort is India's most haunted place. It has stories and myths enough to scare you to bits.  Bhangarh Fort Story: 1 The Archaeological Survey of India has banned entry to, or staying in, Bhangarh Fort after sunset. According to locals, no one who enters the fort at night has come out alive. The fort becomes a site of paranormal activities in the darkness.  Bhangarh Fort Story: 2 Guru Balu Nath used to meditate here. When Raja Madho Singh visited him and asked him to build a fort there, he agreed on one condition. He asked the king to promise that the fort's shadow would not touch him. Despite the king’s promise, it did not happen. Furious, the hermit cursed the castle and the village.  Bhangarh Fort Story: 3 No house in the area has a roof. People believe the hermit's curse destroyed the roofs of those houses. All attempts to rebuild the roofs went in vain. Many of those roofs also collapsed, causing human casualties.  Bhangarh Fort Story: 4 (Accidents And Deaths) Three people once decided to stay in Bhangarh Fort at night. They had a powerful torch, but one group member fell into a well. The two others rescued him and took him to the nearby hospital. However, they met with a fatal accident on the way to the hospital and lost their lives.  Do you want to explore more sites that are suitable for dark tourism in India? Visit the Taj Palace Hotel in Mumbai, the Union Carbide Factory in Bhopal, Sites of the Indus Valley Civilization, the Savoy Hotel in Mussoorie, and Gandhi Smriti in Delhi.  Listen to hushed murmurs and the stories these places have to share as you journey into the past!  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! [Updated 2024]

BY  Sibashree Jun 26, 2023

Are you considering making travel plans to visit Cabo San Lucas? The ultimate destination for adventurers can be dangerous because of the harsh weather and increasing crime rates. Want to know if Cabo San Lucas is safe? Cabo San Lucas is 20 meters above sea level, and its geographical location is 22.88 degrees North and 109.90 degrees West. Thomas Ritchie founded the place in 1828. The climate of Cabo is a tropical thorn forest. However, there is a certain desert terrain spread. A critical icon can be found in the area: The Arch. In Spanish, "El Arco" is the natural stone arch that is well known worldwide and a symbol of Cabo San Lucas. Read the article to learn more about it. Also Read: How To Find The Best Ontario Cocaine Rehab Center? Is Cabo San Lucas Safe? Let's Find Out! Cabo San Lucas is situated in Mexico with picturesque beaches. It is a popular tourist destination rich in culture and boasting sumptuous local food. Almost 2.8 million travelers visit Cabo annually, and there are repeat visitors. The coastal life experience that Cabo San Lucas offers is quite beautiful at a meager price as compared to many other popular tourist destinations. The place is more alluring than other beach destinations, and the good outweighs the bad regarding tourism. The question arises: Is Cabo San Lucas safe in recent times? The country of Mexico is going through a crisis of cartel warfare and drug-related violence. The U.S. government has issued a warning regarding travel advisories in Mexico, and Cabo has been excluded. Cabo is a popular tourist spot and is considered safe for visitors. Yet some issues might put tourists at risk in recent times. Where Is Cabo San Lucas Situated? Cabo San Lucas is situated in the Baja California peninsula on the West Coast of Mexico at the southern tip. The overall positioning of the place is in the southeast of California, USA. Tourism In Cabo San Lucas The tropical weather in Cabo is perfect for visitors. The white sandy beaches and glistening blue waters create the perfect backdrop for tourists walking barefoot. Thousands of tourists frequent Cabo every month. There are certain things that you need to consider when you are traveling to Cabo. These include buying only bottled water, always staying in groups, and not dressing too flashy. As a visitor, you must know that there are no lifeguards. Hence, you should always have local contacts who can help you. You must book with trusted sources for accommodations. How To Reach Cabo San Lucas? The time to reach Cabo San Lucas by flight from New York, Vancouver, Canada, and Chicago is 5 hours, while from Seattle and Atlanta, it takes 4 hours. Traveling from San Francisco to Cabo will take 3 hours, while from Dallas and Los Angeles, your flight will be two and a half hours long. Crime In Cabo Certain crimes are active in Cabo, and Interpol is working hard to prevent them. The Interior is performing criminal investigations and spearheading spontaneous crackdowns to stop crime. The concerns that are identified in Cabo are as follows: Drug Use and Sale Gang Activity Carjacking Scams Robbery Homicide Pickpocketing The total population of Cabo is 202,694, and most crimes are happening against the locals. The crimes are severe, so the authorities are taking a firm stand to curb crime. The crime rate has increased to 80.29% in 2023. Thus, safety is a concern. The vibrant scenery, nightlife, and natives are the attraction of Cabo, yet visitors might feel reluctant due to safety issues. Considering Cabo is right on the edge of the coastline, it is easy for drugs to pass from Mexico to other countries. It does contribute to more gang violence and drug-related crime in Cabo. It would be best if you stayed away from the coastal regions late at night as tourists and visitors. There is a higher risk of getting mugged. Venturing into tourist-habited places such as shopping centers, tourist attractions, bars, and restaurants is a better idea to enjoy your trip. The most convenient transportation choices are Uber, Lyft, and Shuttle. Safety Concerns Cabo has topped the list of scams and frauds, making it difficult for the authorities. Before and after the peak season, the issues further increase. In 2022, at least 800 reported cases of fraud and scams. Kidnapping is another concern where the perpetrators ask for money after abducting loved ones. In Cabo, there are risks of tourists getting kidnapped in vehicles that pretend to be taxis but are not. The tourist destination ranks third in the statistics of kidnapping. The municipality of Cabo San Lucas has a negative image regarding managing crime for locals and visitors. The center of Cabo has the best hotels, attractions, beaches, and accommodations where crime is controlled. Unfortunately, the back alleys and the side roads are not so safe. Los Cangrejos And Las Palmas The neighborhood has some safety concerns, with pretty high rates of crime and theft. People are constantly falling victim. Santa Rosa In San Jose Del Cabo Armed robbery, vehicle robbery, and assault crimes are common in Santa Rosa. Visitors must be careful of hot spots. This location has accommodations and tourist attractions, making it straightforward for visitors to fall victim. It would be best if you kept the windows of the cars locked. You must continue on your way if any strangers are asking for help or a lift. The reported crimes in this location are based on gas theft. Moreover, the neighborhood around the airport is primarily rural, which is considered dangerous. City Center The area is crowded, making it the perfect place for mugging and pickpocketing. Every day, twenty crimes are reported. Therefore, visitors must avoid congested areas. Also, there is a high chance of losing your belongings because theft is common. Read Also: How Safe Is Morocco For Travel? Is Spirit Airlines Safe? Get Your Answer Here! FAQ About Staying Safe With Holiday Royal Vacation Club

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 21, 2023

Bath is a charming city known for its rich history, breathtaking Georgian architecture, and cultural significance.   It is located in Somerset, England, in undulating hills.  The Jane Austen Museum is a must-visit location for fans of the well-loved English novelist among its numerous attractions.   Entering Bath is like entering a time capsule that transports visitors to a bygone age.   It served as the inspiration for Jane Austen's classic novels.  Bath greets you with an air of sophistication and charm from the moment you arrive.   A visual feast is the city's well-maintained Georgian architecture.   It is distinguished by Bath stone with a honey tint.   Bath boasts some of the most stunning architectural structures, including the Pulteney Bridge that spans the River Avon.   The majestic crescent-shaped terrace known as the Royal Crescent adds to the charm.  The dynamic and eclectic atmosphere of the city is created by the abundance of unique businesses, charming tearooms, and galleries of art.   They line the cobblestone streets beautifully.   Bath's attraction is enhanced by its thermal springs, which have drawn tourists for centuries.   A well-preserved set of ancient Roman bathing and convivial structures, the Roman Baths provide insight into the city's history.  We will now dive in to find things to do in Bath in this article. Overview: What Are The Things To Do In Bath? travel-assets.com Wander Bath's picturesque cobblestone streets, where gorgeous honey-colored houses recreate the sophistication of the Georgian era.   One of the things to do in Bath is to transport yourself to scenes straight out of Bridgerton.   Admire the famous Bath Abbey, a magnificent example of Gothic design, and discover the ancient Roman Baths.   They allow you to experience both Roman engineering and the world of public bathing in the past.  Bath's distinctive fusion of wellness, culture, and history ensures an amazing trip that is going to leave you feeling revived and fascinated by this part of the South West. Cuisine bathchronicle.co.uk Bath's eating and drinking scene offers a culinary adventure that pleases a wide range of palates with a fascinating blend of history and innovation.   The city is home to a variety of restaurants, ranging from chic bistros and fine dining venues to cozy tearooms and old-world taverns.   Seasonal and local ingredients are the main focus, helping to create tasty recipes that pay homage to English heritage.   They also draw inspiration from around the world.  The city's markets, such as the Bath Farmers Market, include fresh vegetables, gourmet foods, and handcrafted goods.   Bath's food scene offers a delicious experience for any palate. Whether you're looking for a modern elegance or a historic ambiance, Bath has it all.  Savor traditional afternoon teas offered with scones and clotted cream, a mainstay of the South West of England.   Or enjoy hearty pies and platters of cheeses produced locally. Bath's pubs are welcoming gathering spots for people to catch up and enjoy ales and ciders.  Culture campervantours.com Bath's charm reaches far beyond its urban boundaries, revealing a mosaic of charming cities and towns that beg to be discovered.   From a market town tucked away in the Mendip Hills, which provides a bohemian vibe, artisanal markets, and an artistic vibe!  Alternatively, head to Wells, dubbed “England's smallest city,” which will take you through its magnificent medieval streets and cathedral.   With their distinct charms, these neighboring gems weave a tale that echoes Bath's own history and attraction.   Also, it beckons you to set out on an adventure through the center of the English countryside. Jane Austen: A Bath Essential A trip to the Jane Austen Museum is a voyage into the author's universe for voracious readers and Austen fans.   It is one of the mandatory things to do in Bath.   The museum is housed in the townhouse where Jane Austen lived from 1801 to 1806.   It is located at 40 Gay Street. Also, entering the building transports you to the Regency era.   Here you may fully immerse yourself in Jane Austen's everyday existence and literary legacy.  A selection of relics, manuscripts, and private items that shed light on Austen's life and creative output is on display at the museum.   The rooms where she wrote some of her most famous books, including “Pride and Prejudice” and “Emma,” and lived are open for you to tour.   The exhibits provide a physical link to the well-known author, showcasing everything from her writing station to her stunning jewels.  In order to give visitors a true taste of Austen's world, the museum regularly hosts unique events and seminars, such as Regency tea soirees and costume dress-up sessions.   They offer a fun way to get close to Austen's characters and learn more about the prevalent social mores.  One of the main themes of Austen's works was Bath.   Also, several of her writings, including “Northanger Abbey” and “Persuasion,” were set in the city.   You may walk in the footsteps of Jane Austen's characters as you stroll through Bath, seeing locations like the Pump Room, the Assembly Rooms, and the magnificent Bath Abbey.  Read More: Discovering London’s Hidden Gems: Best Places To Visit In London All Things Austen: Regency Era In Austen's day, the Pump Room, an exquisite 18th-century social hub, was a center of social life.   Even now, guests can partake in a small meal or a cup of tea while admiring the surroundings.   Austen's elaborate dance scenes take inspiration from social events.   The Assembly Rooms, with its beautiful ballrooms, offer an insight into these festivities.  The majestic ancient church known as Bath Abbey serves as a reminder of the religious legacy of the city.   There is awe and reverence in it because of its magnificent architecture and high ceilings.   These sacred walls provided a place of refuge and contemplation for many Austen characters, giving her works a spiritual undertone.  For readers, Bath has a plethora of literary ties, along with the Jane Austen Museum.   You will find a vast collection of scholarly books and rare editions of Jane Austen at the Bath Central Library.   One can find literary jewels at bookshops such as Topping & Company Booksellers and Mr. B's Emporium of Reading Delights.  Discovering the life and writings of one of England's most renowned writers by visiting Bath and the Jane Austen Museum is an engrossing trip through time.   Both fans of Jane Austen and history buffs will find Bath's ageless charm fascinating. Also, the museum offers an immersive experience.   So, lose yourself in Jane Austen's world, and stroll along the cobblestone streets.   Take in the wonders of architecture, and allow Bath to envelop you in its enchantment.   So, explore this fascinating city to learn about the spirit of Regency England and Jane Austen's lasting influence. Best Time To Visit Bath And Getting Around Bath rewards a bit of timing.   Because so much of its appeal is outdoors, wandering the Royal Crescent, sitting in the Abbey churchyard, strolling along the Avon. When you go changes the experience almost as much as what you see.  Seasonal Weather And Crowds  Late spring (May) and early autumn (September) are the sweet spot for a Bath visit.   Temperatures sit in a comfortable mild range.  Also, during these windows, the gardens around the Royal Crescent and Royal Victoria Park are at their best.  Furthermore, it is way more relaxed than the peak summer coach-tour crowds.   Summer (June to August) brings the warmest weather and the longest daylight hours.  So, it is ideal for exploring on foot, but also the heaviest footfall at the Roman Baths and Jane Austen Museum.   Booking timed-entry tickets a few days ahead is worth doing during this stretch.   Winter is quieter and atmospheric, especially with the Bath Christmas Market taking over the streets around the Abbey in late November and December.  However, some attractions run shorter hours. The Baths are also busy with holiday visitors.  Getting Around Once You Are In Bath  Bath's compact city centre is best explored on foot.  From the Roman Baths to the Jane Austen Museum to The Lanes-style shopping streets, everything sits within a 15-20 minute walk of the Abbey.   That said, the city is on hills.  So, comfortable shoes matter more here than in flatter English towns.   For day trips to Wells or the Mendip Hills market towns mentioned above, the First Bus network covers most routes from the central bus station.  On the other hand, a rental car gives more flexibility for reaching smaller villages.   If you are arriving from outside the region, Bath Spa railway station sits a short walk from the center.  It has frequent direct trains from London Paddington (around 90 minutes) and Bristol (about 15 minutes). So, a car is unnecessary if you are focusing on Bath. How To Reach Bath? Bath is easily accessible by air via Bristol Airport due to its close proximity to the city.   It is about 45 minutes away by car or an hour away by public transportation.   Similarly, it takes two hours to get to London Heathrow Airport by vehicle or public transportation.  Also, if you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about things to do in Bath, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!  Read Also: Coastal Bliss: Top Things To Do In Bournemouth Island Paradise Unveiled: Best Time To Visit The Philippines Vietnam Vistas: A Seasonal Guide To Crafting Your Vietnamese Adventure