Is Machu Picchu Closing In 2023? Know It All Here!

BY  Sibashree Nov 29, 2024

When it comes to family vacations in the USA, San Francisco will, of course, be among the toppers. The museums, cultural hotspots, and a lot of green space make it ideal for tourists of all ages.  So, naturally, the San Francisco Travel Association is expecting a decent growth in the number of visitors and tourism revenue in 2024. The association expects a footfall of 23.22 million in 2024, which will record a revenue of $9.24 billion. Further, San Francisco is a cool place if you want to go on a family vacation or spend holidays with your little ones. San Francisco is also great as a weekend getaway from other parts of the country.  However, chalking out the perfect travel plan for kids is always difficult. So, I thought of sharing a 48-hour itinerary of things to do in San Francisco with kids.  Things To Do In San Francisco With Kids In 48 Hours  You need a proper plan in place to maximize your 48 hours in San Francisco with kids. Here are the places you can cover during your two days of stay in the city. Day 1: Things To Do In San Francisco With Kids  Take an early flight to San Francisco irrespective of the corner you are traveling from. Union Square has many hotels, and you can take a cab from the airport to reach the place you will be staying.  However, don’t waste much of your time checking in or the formalities. Ideally, you should check in, grab a quick bite, keep your luggage in the hotel room, and get yourselves and the backpack ready for the city exploration. There are a lot of things to see, and these are the things to do in San Francisco on day 1 of your visit.  1. Visit The Union Square Union Square in San Francisco bears a rich history associated with the American Civil War. It is the place where pro-Union rallies used to grace the roads.  The bright lights and big shops have a vibe similar to Times Square in New York. However, it is much more low-key with less crowd. So it is manageable for kids.  Here, you can explore shops like Bloomingdale, Macy’s, and Sak’s Fifth Avenue. Moreover, Union Square gives you easy access to the cable lines of San Francisco.  The Union Square Gets Ready For ChristmasMacy’s 35th Annual Christmas tree lighting at Union Square has announced the arrival of Christmas in San Francisco. The  85-foot-tall artificial Christmas tree has been a big draw to Macy’s signature store and Union Square. “It attracts people to come to San Francisco. The mayor was here and this starts the holiday season, the shopping, it brings families here. It’s a good time where everyone can feel, ‘Hey, Christmas is coming!”Lt. Mariano Elias, Public Information Officer, San Francisco Fire Department 2. Enjoy Cable Car Rides Trying cable car rides is one of the best things to do in San Francisco with kids. Along with the fun, the cable car ride is also a great way to avoid expensive car rentals while exploring the city.  The cable cars move up and down steep hills. So, the ride is thrilling, and the route covers many major attractions in San Francisco.  You can choose from three lines to enjoy a cable car ride in San Francisco. Cable LinePickup FromCalifornia LineMarket Streets or CaliforniaPowell MasonPowell Street Cable Car turnaround off, Market Street, Union SquarePowell HydePowell Street Cable Car turnaround All these lines also cover major attractions in the city like Union Square, Fisherman’s Wharf, Nob Hill, Chinatown, etc.  3. Visit Boudin Museum Your little one and you will need some quick bites after the cable car ride. Boudin Museum and Bakery will be your go-to place.  The sandwiches and soups here are excellent. However, exploring the bakery and the small museum is more fun here. You will watch expert chefs making bread and the crafting of sourdough in the shape of bears and other animals.  5. Visit Fisherman’s Wharf  You can conclude your day 1 in San Francisco with a visit to the Fisherman’s Wharf. It is a fun neighborhood with street performers and activities for your kids.  Some hotspots for children at Fisherman’s Wharf are: Umbrella Alley  Musée Mécanique Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Sea Lion “Sealebrities” PIER 39 Fisherman’s Wharf also has the Madame Tussauds’ Wax Museum. But it has closed its operations since 3rd August, 2024. Further, once your kids are done exploring Fisherman’s Wharf, you can take them to Ben & Jerry’s at the Argonaut to have the best ice cream. It remains open every day from 10 AM to 11 PM, and it will cost you around $5 per serving.  If your kid is more up for something savory, take them to The Codmother Fish & Chips on 496 Beach Street. It welcomes guests from 11:30 AM to 7 PM, except Wednesdays. Here, the pocket-pinch will be around $10-20 per meal.  Day 2: Things To Do In San Francisco With Kids In 48 Hours  You really need to make an early start to your day to make the most of your day 2 in San Francisco. On day 2, our focus is on the Palace of Fine Arts, Presidio, and Alcatraz. 5. A Visit To Alcatraz Your day 2 will begin with an “Early Bird Tour of Alcatraz.” You will start at 8:45 AM from Pier 33.  Alcatraz is the Spanish translation of the word “Pelican,” the first dwellers of the Rocky Island. However, Alcatraz is more famous (notorious) for housing Alcatraz Prison, one of the most notorious in the history of America. So, today, Alcatraz is a popular spot for dark tourism. George "Machine Gun" Kelly and Al Capone are the two most renowned captives of the Alcatraz Prison.  6. A Visit To The Palace of Fine Arts – Presidio The Palace of Fine Arts is one of the most beautiful historical monuments of San Francisco. The Greco-Roman rotunda is a striking feature of the Palace of Fine Arts. You will also love the arches, gigantic columns, and sculptures here.  If you still have time left for your flight and you want to try more things to do in San Francisco with kids, visit the Aquarium of the Bay, the Sea Lions at K-Dock, and the USS Pampanito. Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit [Updated 2024] Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Sibashree Dec 17, 2024

The Western past and cowboy culture are still very much present in Oklahoma City (OKC) culture. So, if you and your S/O love horseback riding and every outdoor pursuit ingrained in Western culture, there will be no dearth of things to do in OKC.  So, you will fall in love with the cattle trails and ranches here, and we are already soaked in the quintessential Oklahoma charm. We have Brad Pitt as the Oklahoma boy.  Further, food tourism is the most happening in Oklahoma City. Therefore, it will be your destination for a luxury dining and beverage experience.  Moreover, the city has hotspots like Broken Bow and Love Lock Fountain, where you can lock your lips and utter those three magical words (if you have not said them already!). So, are you ready to explore the city with your special one? Check out this Tour and Travel guide soaked in romance. Things To Do In OKC For Couples | Your Date Night Cannot Get Any Better Tourism in Oklahoma City deserves all the respect if we discuss the economic scenario of the city. With a sound 24.1 million visitors in 2023, the city managed to record an economic impact of $4.5 billion.  “Our city’s vibrant tourism sector is a testament to the sales and marketing efforts of Visit OKC and our hospitality industry partners. This recent study highlights the significance of tourism in our local economy and how, ultimately, tourism is a revenue generator for the city, advancing the city’s priorities which improves quality of life for residents.”  Zac Craig, President of Visit OKC So, with the current tourism scenario in Oklahoma City, it’s the right time for you to explore the city with your partner. 1. Battling In A Pickleball Match At Chicken And Pickle https://www.instagram.com/p/Cmek__euNof/ Address: 8400 N. Oklahoma Ave, Oklahoma City Contact Number: (405) 839-7011 Good food and a lot of yard games! This is how I would love to describe Chicken and Pickle. So, this place is great for celebrating the child in you and being playful with your partner.  There are 10 pickleball courses at Chicken And Pickle. Moreover, once you are done playing, you can relax at the rooftop bar with your favorite drink and fried chicken.  2. Learning The Art Of Glass Blowing At Blue Sage Studios https://www.instagram.com/p/CQtXaAvLzVI/?img_index=1 Address: Urban Art Building, 1218-C N Western Ave, Oklahoma City Contact Number: +1 405-601-2583/405-473-0754 Charges: $35-40 Watching the artists busy in their glass crafts at Blue Sage Studios is fun. You can also attend one-on-one classes here. You can especially take part in the 2-hour long sessions taking place on Saturdays.  DayBlue Sage Studios Hours OpenMonday9 AM to 8 PMWednesday8 AM to 8 PMThursday1 AM to 8 PMSaturday9 AM to 3 PMSunday 10 AM to 5 PMTuesday and FridayClosed Furthermore, you can check out the art for sale section and grab a beautiful gift for your sweetheart.  3. Enjoying A Fun Dinner | Unique Things To Do In OKC https://www.instagram.com/p/C5lkII1sm1e/?img_index=1 The food scenario in Oklahoma is happening. Beyond the dishes served here, the food scenario celebrates locally grown veggies and farms. Here are some Tour and Travel favorite restaurants where you can cherish food made with local ingredients. Name Of The RestaurantAddressContact NumberVII Asian Bistro2900 N Classen BlvdSuite G, Oklahoma City(405) 604-2939The Red Cup3122 N Classen Blvd, Oklahoma City(405)-525-3430Paseo Grill2909 Paseo, Oklahoma City(405)-601-1079 Oklahoma is the 87th-best city in the world for exploring local food, according to TasteAtlas. It’s even better than Louisville, Boston, and Miami.  4. Exploring The Art Scenario Of Oklahoma City At Factory Obscura https://www.instagram.com/p/DB87fRwOA6U/ Open Hours: Monday-Thursday: 11 AM - 7 PM (Tuesday Closed), Friday 11 AM - 8 PM, Saturday: 10 AM - 8 PM, Sunday: 12 PM - 6 PM Address:  25 NW 9th St, Oklahoma City Contact: info@factoryobscura.com If you want an immersive art experience, Factory Obscura will be at the epicenter of places to visit in OKC. It operates with the tagline of “Future is Collaborative.” Moreover, you can attend the most interactive events here for a feeling of wonder and awe.  5. Visiting The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/DCvMEXrOu1D/?img_index=1 Open Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PM, Sunday: 12-5 PM Address: 1700 NE 63rd St, Oklahoma City Contact Number: +1 405-478-2250 Admission Fee: $12.50 for Adults, $12.50 for Children 6-12, Children Up to 5 Years - Free Admission If you are fascinated by Western Art and culture, this 1955 museum will be your instant favorite. This museum houses works of James Earle Fraser, Frederic Remington, and Charles M. Russell.  In addition, you will come across many Native American or Western equipment like saddles and spurs here.  6. Visiting The Broken Bow Broken Bow, a city in Oklahoma, is a perfect retreat for couples. You can book a private cabin there and spend some quality time. Furthermore, you can immerse in romance by the Broken Bow Lake. Located on the Mountain Fork River, this lake has crystal clear water thanks to the rock-lined floor.  The Broken Bow Lake and the city of Broken Bow are great year-round attractions. For example, you can spend the most serene and calm holiday here. Moreover, in spring, the trees are in full bloom, and in the fall season, the place has its somber beauty.  Also, if you visit the lake in summer, you can enjoy the most rejuvenating swim.  7. Romancing At Love Lock Fountain Lake Eufaula State Park Hours Open: 24 Hours Address: 111563 OK-150, Checotah, OK Contact Number: +1 918-689-5311 (Park Office), 877-657-2757 (Reservation) Have you chosen OKC as the place to propose to your sweetheart? Do you want to keep it low-key? Then, your road must lead to Love Lock Fountain at the Lake Eufaula State Park. You can fasten an engraved lock to the gate and throw the key in the air.  Furthermore, you can explore the diverse foliage and native wildlife on the park’s mountain biking trails.  8. Going On A Road Trip To The Chisholm Trail: The Most Adventurous Things To Do In OKC Chisholm Trail is crucial for the cultural landscape of western Oklahoma. With your partner, you can enjoy a cattle drive on the trail to soak in an old-world charm.  Further, this trail is associated with a rich history, and while taking a ride, you will be transported to the post-Civil War era.  Also, the red Oklahoma dirt stretched here for miles will tell you the tales of South Texas ranchers bringing and distributing beef to the Northern states.  Today, when you ride this route, you will discover many small towns.  Moreover, the trail has countless historical monuments and landmarks. Some of them are: Chisholm Trail Mural Jesse Chisholm's Gravesite Monument Hill Sansom House Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum Marlow Area Museum So, that’s pretty much from me if you are looking for unique things to do in OKC for couples. However, for some cozy, indoor fun, you can play cards at a quaint coffee shop in OKC.  Further, Perets Dessert & Coffee Bar at W Sheridan Ave and Culture Coffee on 6th Street are some of the best coffee shops here. Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

BY  Abdul Aziz May 23, 2023

Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is an idyllic vacation destination in Tennessee that captivates the hearts of millions each year. Encompassing enchanting landscapes, rich heritage, and a broad spectrum of activities, Gatlinburg caters to the interests of all people. The tourism statistics for 2022 reveal that its allure draws in over 12 million visitors annually. What makes this picturesque town delightful is its unique natural beauty. Furthermore, its mixture of cultures and traditions makes it a necessary stop for anyone who loves to travel. Gatlinburg never disappoints with its exceptional vacation experience, whether you're someone who loves outdoor activities, enjoys learning about history, or just wants to unwind. This destination has options suitable for everyone. Planning Your Itinerary Crafting the perfect itinerary for Gatlinburg is all about embracing its diverse offerings. From the panoramic vistas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the lively Gatlinburg arts and crafts community, many experiences are waiting to be explored. Begin by listing your interests and matching them with Gatlinburg's attractions. You may be drawn to the allure of nature, the vibrancy of local art, or the thrill of adventure sports. Once you've identified your preferences, distribute these activities across your vacation days evenly. Remember, a balanced itinerary is vital to experiencing the essence of Gatlinburg without feeling rushed. After all, a vacation should be a symphony of memorable moments, not a race against time. Accommodation One of the most enticing aspects of a Gatlinburg trip is the opportunity to stay in the cozy, delightful cabins that embellish the mountainside. You can find many cabins in Gatlinburg TN, which offer an experience that combines privacy, scenic views, and comfort. These cabins are often conveniently located, providing easy access to local attractions while ensuring a tranquil retreat. These cabin rental services offer various options for every preference and budget. With their exceptional customer service and additional facilities such as hot tubs, fireplaces, and game rooms, they elevate the cabin experience, making your stay in Gatlinburg truly unforgettable. The Great Outdoors Immersing yourself in the natural splendor of Gatlinburg is an absolute must. The Smoky Mountains' breathtaking scenery, with lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, offers a perfect setting for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, or picnicking. The ideal times to visit are during the fall for a stunning display of autumnal colors or in the spring when wildflowers blanket the mountainside. Pack comfortable clothing, sturdy footwear, and essential gear to enjoy your outdoor adventures fully, regardless of the season. With some preparation, you're ready to answer the call of Gatlinburg's great outdoors and create lasting memories. Exploring Local Culture And Heritage Immersing yourself in Gatlinburg's vibrant culture and rich heritage adds a unique dimension to your vacation. The town's history echoes through its local museums, showcasing the region's past. The art galleries display the creativity of local artisans. To truly understand Gatlinburg's essence, take advantage of the Gatlinburg History Museum, where you can delve into the town's roots, and the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts, a hub of local creativity. Also, a stroll through the Historic Ogle Cabin is a must-do. Remember, embracing the local culture and heritage is not just about visiting sites. It's about connecting with the heart of Gatlinburg. Family-Friendly Activities A family playground, Gatlinburg offers numerous educational and entertaining activities. It is a place where the forests echo with the laughter of children and where the spirit of adventure brings families closer. To fully appreciate the Smokes, you should visit the Gatlinburg Skylight Park and take a ride on its scenic chairlift to enjoy panoramic views. For a hands-on educational experience, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies provides a captivating glimpse into marine life. And if your family loves puzzles and challenges, the Gatlinburg Escape Game offers fun-filled, family-friendly escape rooms. Each day in Gatlinburg brings new adventures that create memories to last a lifetime, making it an ideal family vacation destination. Shopping And Souvenirs Gatlinburg provides a shopping experience that's as unique as its mountain setting. Wander through the town's quaint boutiques and eclectic shops to find one-of-a-kind stuff. The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is a haven for handcrafted goods, from pottery and paintings to hand-woven baskets and quilts. Consider locally produced honey, traditional mountain music CDs, or hand-carved wooden bears for a local memento. Remember to drop by the Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen, where watching taffy being made is as enjoyable as tasting it. Shopping in Gatlinburg is more than retail therapy. It's a way to bring a piece of your unforgettable vacation back home. Gatlinburg Cuisine A journey through Gatlinburg is incomplete without indulging in its delicious local cuisine. The town boasts a diverse food scene that intertwines with its Appalachian heritage, offering dishes as comforting as the Smoky Mountain backdrop. Here, you can savor mouth-watering barbecue, crisp apple fritters, or cornbread, a Southern staple. If you're a fan of pancakes, you're in for a treat, as Gatlinburg is famous for its pancake houses. For the more adventurous palate, regional specialties like locally caught trout or whiskey-infused dishes offer a unique taste of Gatlinburg. Each bite is a testament to the area's rich culinary tradition, adding an extra flavor to your vacation. Unusual Attractions While Gatlinburg is renowned for its famous tourist sites, it also harbors a collection of hidden gems that offer a unique perspective of this mountain town. For a touch of the mystical, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum offers a quirky peek into the seasoning world. If you're intrigued by the paranormal, the Mysterious Mansion is an old-school haunted house that sends chills. For nature enthusiasts, the Quiet Walkways of the Smoky Mountains provide secluded trails often overlooked by tourists. Embark on an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Gatlinburg, and you'll uncover facets of the town that make your vacation truly distinctive. Conclusion An extraordinary vacation in Gatlinburg is all about embracing its diverse attractions, soaking in the beauty of the great outdoors, finding comfort in the cozy cabins, exploring the rich local culture, and sharing joyful moments through family activities. It includes hunting for unique souvenirs, savoring the local cuisine, and discovering unusual attractions. This picturesque town in the Smoky Mountains is a canvas painted with the colors of nature, culture, and adventure. Each day unfolds a new scene, adding to the joys of your vacation. Gatlinburg is more than just a travel destination. It's a journey into a world where every experience is worth cherishing. Read Also: Tips For Vacationing In Gatlinburg Great Vacation Ideas For Adventurers 4 Fun Trip Ideas To Plan For This Year