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BY  Sibashree Dec 13, 2024

Bearing a rich native American history, Oklahoma is one of the tourist hotspots in the USA. It is also a city bearing the memories of frontier life.  Further, with many things to do in Oklahoma, the American Bus Association has identified Oklahoma City as the Rising Star in Tourism. Furthermore, the American Bus Association has appreciated the city for the record economic impact of its tourism.  Moreover, the city authorities are investing heavily in building its infrastructure and amenities. Also, all the efforts have been paid of in the economic boom of the city in 2023.  The 2024 Visit OKC Economic Impact Report has mentioned that tourism in Oklahoma City has contributed $3.7 billion to the local economy. Moreover, tourism yields a major benefit for the local people in terms of tax revenues and employment. “Today’s visitors become tomorrow’s residents. Tourism impacts perceptions of our city which intersects with economic development as new businesses look to relocate here. The more we promote OKC as a tourism destination, the more jobs we can support, the more city revenue is paid by visitors, and additional positive awareness is generated about Oklahoma City.”  Christy Gillenwater, Greater OKC Chamber President and CEO  So, what are things to do in Oklahoma to boost tourism in the city? Here is a brief guide for you.  Unique Things To Do In Oklahoma | Try These Unusual Activities  The tourism sector in Oklahoma is vibrant. No wonder that the Forbes Advisor has ranked Oklahoma City as one of the most budget-friendly cities in the world for family vacations.  Nevertheless, when you are in Oklahoma, you can try the following activities.  1. Visit The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/C-IhjmLsKQS/ Address: 620 N Harvey Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73102, United States Contact: +1 405-235-3313 Hours Open: Monday to Saturday (9 AM to 5 PM), Sunday (12-5 PM) Oklahoma witnessed the worst domestic terrorism on 19th April 1995. Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols were behind this attack.  The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is a tribute to the people who survived and lost their lives in this attack. You will find the biographies of the survivors, photos and stories of the survivors here.  2. Explore The Oklahoma City Museum Of Art https://www.instagram.com/p/DDATrbqNBSF/?img_index=1 Address: 415 Couch Dr, Oklahoma City, OK 73102 Contact: +1 405-236-3100 Hours Open: Wednesday - Saturday (10 AM to 5 PM), Sunday (12-5 PM), Monday & Tuesday Closed The Oklahoma City Museum of Art is famous for its collection of glasswork and artwork collected from the globe. However, this museum is the go-to place if you want to know about American art. It also introduces you to postwar abstraction. Don’t miss the glasswork of Dale Chihuly at this museum.  3. Visit The Five Civilized Tribes Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/BWfvtLUltKo/ Address: 1101 Honor Heights Dr, Muskogee, OK 74401 Contact: +1 918-683-1701 Hours Open: Monday - Friday (10 AM to 5 PM), Saturday (10 AM to 2 PM), Sunday Closed The Five Civilized Tribes Museum is the best place to visit if you are willing to know about the Chickasaw, Cherokee and Creek nations. The name of the music celebrates how the native Americans of five different nations became a part of the Anglo-American culture.  The artifacts, artwork, and historical detailing are intriguing.  4. Visit The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/C8DMPQesysh/?img_index=1 Address: 1700 NE 63rd St, Oklahoma City Contact: +1 405-478-2250 Hours Open: Monday - Saturday (10 AM to 5 PM), Sunday (12 PM to 5 PM) The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum is famous across the globe. The interactive exhibits here are out of the world, and you will find here many artefacts and artwork.  Each element in the museum exudes a unique charm, and it reminds you of life in the Old West. You will also get to know about Victorian-era firearms, American cowboys and rodeos here.  5. Be A Part Of The Entertainment And Dining Scene At Bricktown https://www.instagram.com/p/C8KLlErx5n_/?hl=en In Downtown Oklahoma City, Bricktown will introduce you to the most happening entertainment and dining scene of the city. Bricktown is on a canal that links Bricktown with the Oklahoma River and Downtown. Taking a ride in the water taxi here is one of the most unique things to do in Oklahoma. Further, you can explore the 40+ restaurants, pubs and bars here.  6. Make The Most Of The Unique Experiences At Gathering Place https://www.instagram.com/p/C9LZoqxyd9U/?img_index=1 The Gathering Place in Tulsa is a place for unique things to do in Oklahoma. Currently, it is a space of 65 acres, and soon, it will be a happening activity area of 100 acres. You can explore the following sections of Gathering Place for adventurous activities.  Adventure playground Climbing structures Slides Puzzles Sensory garden Picnic grove Reading tree You can spend an entire day at the park and the eateries at the park have decent refreshment options. So, you can visit here with your kids or family.  7. Enjoy The Art Experience At Factory Obscura Mix-Tape https://www.instagram.com/p/DBrqbZVxggN/ Address: 25 NW 9th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73102, United States Contact Number:  +1 405-367-1578 Hours Open: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday (11 AM to 7 PM), Saturday (10 AM to 8 PM), Sunday (12–6 PM), Tuesday Closed If you want an interactive and immersive art experience, you must visit the Factory Obscura Mix-Tape. This 6,000-square-foot area of art and entertainment was created by musicians, muralists, and local volunteers.  The art objects here are crafted for people with vision or hearing problems. Further, the sensory room is here is a great place for visitors with autism.  8. Encounter Wildlife At Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve https://www.instagram.com/p/C_S_AhztVt7/ Address: 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Rd, Barnsdall, OK 74002, United States Contact Number: +1 918-336-0307 Hours Open: Wednesday - Sunday (10 AM to 5 PM), Monday and Tuesday (Closed) Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve is located in the North of Tulsa. Visiting this 3,700-acre area is one of the unique things to do in Oklahoma for wildlife lovers.  Frank Phillips, an oil baron, built the Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve in 1925 as a ranch retreat. However, with time, it became a massive wildlife preserve and museum. Today, you can meet many cattle, including elk and bison, here. In addition, true to the native American spirit of the city, the Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve has an elaborate collection of Western Art. In addition, the old photographs and collections, including a Colt firearm, will transport you to the lands of cowboys. So, that’s for now from me about the unique things to do in Oklahoma. If you want to explore more places, you can visit the Beavers Bend State Park, Six Flags Frontier City, Oklahoma Route 66 Museum, etc.   Also read Ultimate Guide to Your Next Family Vacation in Israel. Boat Charter Miami: Essential Tips for a Great Experience. Is Houston A Party City? Know The Fun Things To Do In Houston For A Happening Nightlife.

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 5, 2023

Going on a hike up the infamous Stairway to Heaven Hawaii on the island of Oahu calls for in-depth preparation on your part. It is one of the most dangerous hiking trails. It is also known as the Haiku Stairs. In this article, you will find information on the hike’s history, current status, alternate routes, incline, security, distance, best weather conditions, helpful gear, and a guide to get there. History Of The Stairway To Heaven Hawaii lifeonearth.com In 1942, contractors for the U.S. Navy began the construction of the Haiku Radio Station. It was a top-secret facility that transmitted radio signals to Navy ships that were operating in the Pacific. To get the right altitude for the antennae, they stretched them across the haiku valley, which is like a natural amphitheater. You might still see the remnants of the wooden ladder beside the new metal steps. The radio station was commissioned in 1943. A stronger transmitter that could relay powerful signals was necessary. This could not be done with the vacuum tube technology used at the time. So they chose to go with an Alexanderson alternator, which uses a huge device that can generate powerful yet low-frequency radio signals. It would need a large antenna. When the Naval Air Station Kaneohe Bay was transferred to the Marine Corps around the 1950s, the U.S. Coast Guard used the Haiku Radio Station site for an Omega Navigation System station. In the mid-1950s, the wooden stairs were replaced by sections of metal steps and ramps. The total number of stairs stood at 3,922. The Coast Guard did not stop hikers in the 1970s but had to stop after it featured in the Magnum P.I. movies, which increased the number of visitors. The station as well as the trail have both been closed to the public since 1987. Recent History In 2003, plans were made to reopen the stairs to the public, and the cost incurred to repair the stairs was $87,500. The public access being shut down, residents found themselves surrounded by unknown faces of hikers and tourists and litter all around. In early 2018, the City and County of Honolulu released a statement to not open the stairs to the public, showing liability concerns. Some hikers, however, continued to trespass, which only strengthened the local community’s resolve to keep the structure closed to the public. The Friends of Haiku Stairs, a volunteer group that aims to preserve the trail, pitched that there could be an alternative to a no-trespass, safe public access to the trail without taxpayer costs. The trail now is a disputed one with all its beauty and thrill. However, it has not stopped the locals, hikers, and travelers from stealing past the guards posted at the bottom of the stairs. This hike is a strong dose of adventure, climbing nearly 4,000 steps along an 18-inch wide staircase to reach an elevation of more than 2,000 ft. Incidents squarespace-cdn.com The hiking trail is not a site for any major injuries or accidental Stairway to Heaven Hawaii deaths on the stairs. There have only been minor incidences in the last decade. However, between 2021 and 2022, there have been more number of injuries and rescues of hikers trying to get to the top of the stairs. The rescues have mostly taken place for hikers going through the Moanalua Ridge, which is the longer and more difficult of the trails. Many hikers are rescued “near the Haiku Stairs” and not the Hawaii Stairway to Heaven itself. In 2014, 6 people were arrested, and 135 were quoted to have climbed the stairs. According to the City Prosecutor's Office, a criminal trespass in the second degree carries a $1000 fine. The Stairway To Heaven Hike Hawaii: My Experience The Stairway To Heaven hike on Oahu, Hawaii, is possibly the biggest attraction on the entire island. A grueling number of 3,922 stairs go up to the imposing mountain ridge. Most of the time, the incline is vertical, with only a handrail to save you from falling into the valley below. It sounds dramatic, but it is what it is. But it isn’t too dangerous if you are prepared for it. Distance: 2 miles or 3 km round trip Elevation Gain: 2,630 feet or 800m Duration: 2-3 hrs up, 1-2 hrs down We started out by being dropped off in the neighborhood at 2 am in the morning. It was a clear night with just a few light clouds hovering over the mountains. As soon as we got out of our car, a resident came rushing out of his front yard, yelling at us. Thus, startled by the old man, we hurried away to the “main entrance” to get our eyes fried with a beaming flashlight. The Trail We silently went off in the opposite direction toward an alternate entry point, keeping in mind that the old man quite possibly called the guard or the police to warn them about us. We were thrilled by the idea of being caught and afraid of being caught, actually. Walking through the neighborhood as quietly as possible, the barking of dogs totally blew our cover, making our presence known. We ran down the street to a small alley that led up to the hill. We had to cross over the barbed wire fence, which was close to a residential area. It is understandable why the residents are so annoyed with trespassers. From here, we had to steal past the knee-high undergrowth as quietly as we could go. We were nervous when approaching the guard, understanding that we had trespassed multiple sites that were strictly no-go. As we approached the red car of the guard, we found that no guard was around. We walked past it and towards the stairs. As we ascended the stairs, we finally felt relieved to think that the police or guards didn’t go after the trespassers on the stairs. On The Stairs change.org We felt much safer, and we could now enjoy our 3 a.m. hike along the Stairway to Heaven. In 2015, a storm damaged many parts of the stairs to the point where they could not support use. It is not dangerous per se, but it makes your ascension more thrilling. A few of the steps were loose, and we had to keep that in mind while treading on each of them. We did not have headlamps. We followed the full moon up the narrow and damp stairway. I managed to keep looking back to see the highway, which kept getting smaller as we went higher in order to reach platform one. Grasping the slippery railing tightly, we made our way to the second platform, where an abandoned cabin lay with old machinery inside. It looked straight out of a post-apocalyptic movie. Another two hours went by, and we almost reached the summit. The final section of the hike consists of boards instead of stairs, which make it a catwalk at 2000 ft. in the air on top of a sharp ridge. At The Top squarespace-cdn.com At the summit, we found an old cabin with huge antennae on top. We moved around the space on top among the clouds. We then returned to the bunker to wait for the spectacular sunset this place always has. Putting on a fresh pair of dry shirts and jackets made the experience much more comfortable while at the summit. The sky became a pale blue and then shades of purple. With that, the sun came tearing through the haze. It shone yellow and gold over the Haiku Hawaii Valley. Many others witnessed the sunrise along with us, who began their descent once the spectacle of the sunrise was over. One of the trails downward is the Moanalua trial, which is a 6-mile route, but you can miss out on the views. It also helps you avoid the guards if that is your main issue, but it is 3 to 4 times longer than other routes. The hike down was a treat for photographers. We were in no rush, so we got down at our own pace, taking in the views and shots for our socials. It feels amazing to have ascended in the dark and then descending in broad daylight. It took less than 2 hours to reach the bottom. We saw the guard’s red car where it was in the morning, but this time, we took the risk and did not avoid it. The Guard Below .journeyera.com Meeting guard, he joked, saying, “I’ve called the cops, they must not have come,” as he began laughing to himself. His sense of humor eased our anxiety. He gave us the look of get-out-of-here-before-you-get-caught, and we crept away on queue. The situation has become much more serious in the recent past, so the guards may not be as friendly as they were. Be careful if you go in 2023. At the final gate, we saw no signs of police or angry residents. We were free! We could not believe we had just hiked the Stairway to Heaven Hawaii! This is truly a place for one and all. It looks like the real version of Jurassic Park. It is dreamy as well as eerie. You can totally attempt this hike if you visit Oahu. Try to have someone who has visited before guide you through this hike if you visit here for the first time. Alternate Route thatadventurelife.com The alternate route is the Moanalua Trail. The route is 9.3 miles in length. It gets you all muddy and is not the easier option, either. It can help you avoid the guards at the beginning of the trail. But it is not hassle-free. It all depends on when you go and how well-prepared you are for any kind of situation. Things To Pack For The Stairway To Heaven Oahu Hawaii Hike Going unprepared for the hike is one of the biggest mistakes you will make. You must have the basics and stay prepared for bad weather. Here is a list of essentials you must consider among everything else. Arcteryx BETA AR Rain Jacket: This is the rain jacket of your dreams. They are super light. They will fold into the tiniest ball and save you from the harshest storm. Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots: For better ankle support on that 400-step long hike, waterproofing and toughened exterior are necessary for your boots. These Solomons can easily be your best buddy. Black Diamond Head Torch: In case you return incredibly late from your hike and it gets dark, a headlamp will help you as nothing else will. Keep this one handy for sure. Darn Tough Socks: These will be the most comfortable hiking socks you will own. They don’t wear out easily, either. They have a lifetime warranty. You simply send them with any sign of wear and tear, and they will replace it without further questions. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Here are some common questions people ask about this hike, take a peek: 1. How Did The Stairway Come About?   The stairs were originally built in 1942 by the U.S. Navy as a top-secret facility to transmit radio signals to ships that were sailing in the Pacific Ocean. The stairs went public, deeming it fit until 1987, when it became dangerous due to disrepair. Residents of Oahu have fond memories of hiking up the stairway to heaven legally a long time ago.The city of Honolulu reportedly spent almost a million dollars in renovating the stairs and considered re-opening the stairs to the public in 2002. Resident complaints and safety concerns halted the re-opening, and the stairs have stayed closed ever since. 2. What Are Some Of The Other Places To Visit In Oahu? You could take a helicopter flight tour without the doors. The view from above will blow you away. A shark cage tour can ensure you don’t talk about thrilling adventures for another year or so. It will give the adrenaline rush like no other. Ecofriendly dolphin and snorkel tours are also available. Wrapping Up The Stairway to Heaven Hawaii trail is dangerous when seen from below. It is only when you undertake the hike (with proper planning and preparedness, of course) that you understand it is not as daunting as it looked. All you need is a thirst for thrill and sharp wit that comes in handy when you go face to face with adversity. There is also the added fear of strict laws around the hike, which will keep you on your toes. Let us know if you visit this amazing trail. And if you have questions or thoughts to share, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Portals To The Unknown: Exploring Natural Gravity Vortex! The Perfect Getaway: Discovering The Closest Beach To Disney World! Walking On Sunshine: Exploring The Magic Of Vietnam’s Golden Hand Bridge!

BY  Rishab Dey Oct 30, 2023

In this article, we will explore the exquisite health and spa facilities that grace the magnificent decks of cruise ships. Far from being a mere floating hotel, these vessels are an oasis of serenity and tranquillity. They offer a holistic approach to well-being amidst the ocean. Prepare to embark on a journey of decadence and self-care as we unravel the secrets of the plentiful amenities. They bring harmony and wellness to passengers sailing the high seas. Types of Health and Spa Facilities on Cruise Ships Cruise ships like Silversea cruises are renowned for their exceptional health and spa facilities. They are designed to cater to the diverse needs and desires of passengers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. These floating sanctuaries provide a haven for both body and mind. It has state-of-the-art gyms equipped with top-of-the-line exercise equipment to luxurious spa retreats offering a wide range of treatments. One of the highlights of health and spa facilities on cruise ships is the variety of treatments available. Passengers can indulge in massages, facials, body wraps, and much more, all performed by highly trained professionals. These treatments enhance physical well-being and promote mental and emotional relaxation. In addition to the rejuvenating therapies, many cruise ships offer extensive wellness programs, including yoga classes, meditation sessions, and nutritional consultations. Whether you're looking to unwind with a soothing massage, break a sweat in the fitness centre, or simply bask in the luxurious atmosphere of the spa, cruise ships have it all. Fitness Classes and Programs on Cruise Ships Fitness classes and programs on cruise ships are an integral part of the wellness experience offered to passengers. These classes cater to all fitness levels and provide various options, including yoga, Pilates, spinning, and cardio workouts. Whether you are a beginner looking to kickstart a new fitness routine or an experienced fitness enthusiast, these classes provide a fun and effective way to stay active while on board. Cruise ships also offer state-of-the-art fitness facilities equipped with the latest exercise equipment. These facilities are usually spacious and offer panoramic ocean views, creating a serene and inspiring environment to work out. In addition to fitness classes, passengers can also use personal training services. They can also participate in fitness challenges or boot camps, all under the guidance of certified professionals. The fitness programs on cruise ships are designed to cater to the holistic well-being of passengers. In addition to physical fitness, there is also a focus on mental and emotional well-being. Many cruise ships offer wellness seminars, workshops, and activities. For example, there are meditation and mindfulness sessions aiming to provide a well-rounded wellness experience for passengers. These fitness programs ensure that passengers can access a wide range of options. They aim to help maintain their health and well-being while enjoying their cruise vacation. This is regardless of whether you participate in group fitness classes or prefer to work out independently. Integrating Wellness into Daily Cruise Activities Cruise ships have recognized the importance of promoting well-being and have incorporated various wellness activities into their daily schedule. Passengers can now embark on a self-care journey while sailing the high seas. It offers services ranging from yoga and meditation classes to fitness workshops and spa treatments. Cruise ships have integrated wellness into daily activities by offering a wide range of fitness options. Passengers can start their day with a refreshing sunrise yoga session on the deck and a workout at the state-of-the-art gym facilities. If you prefer more adventurous activities, there are opportunities for rock climbing and swimming. You can also participate in a friendly onboard sports tournament. These activities not only promote physical well-being but also provide an opportunity for passengers to connect with like-minded individuals and create lasting memories. In addition to physical activities, cruise ships have also focused on providing holistic relaxation experiences. Spa facilities onboard offer a sanctuary of tranquillity, where passengers can indulge in various treatments and therapies catering to their individual needs. From therapeutic massages to facials and body wraps, these wellness activities allow passengers to unwind and rejuvenate amidst the soothing sounds of the ocean. Cruise ships are also incorporating educational workshops and seminars on nutrition, mindfulness, and stress management. It will ensure that passengers can learn about developing healthy habits for their daily lives even after the cruise. Read Also: You Won’t Believe The Best Things To Do When In Fiji! Some Of The Best Things To Do In Navarre Beach, Florida These Are The 30+ Things To Do In Mexico City That You Must Try!