Is San Francisco Safe? THIS is What You Should Know!

BY  Sibashree Mar 11, 2026

I traveled extensively across Jaffna, the Tamil heartland of Sri Lanka. The Delft Island, a boat ride away, offered the most historically and culturally enriching experience during my entire Jaffna trip. Yes, the day trip to Delft Island was a bit rushed, as you have to catch the 8 AM boat from Kurikadduwan Jetty. Otherwise, your entire day will be ruined. However, after traveling 30 kms off the coast of Jaffna, Delft Island unfolded its mystery before my eyes. Overall, it is a limestone and coral island that has all the drama. At the same time, there is something very authentic about this island. Local history and culture exude through every corner. That is what won me over as a follower of the TravelDownUnder principles. Here is more in this travel guide. I will begin with where Delft Island is located and the modes of travel to and around Delft Island. Then, I will talk about its history, significance, and things to see. Where Is Delft Island? Delft Island is in the Palk Strait, and it separates Southern India from Sri Lanka. It is a small island with a maximum width of 6 km and a length of 8 km. With such a tiny landscape, it is surprising to find out how much the island has to offer to the visitors.  How To Visit Delft Island From Jaffna? As I have mentioned, if you include a visit to Delft Island in your Jaffna travel itinerary, you have to be very particular about your timings. You have to reach Kurikadduwan Harbour at least by 7:30 AM to catch the ferry at 8 AM. To reach the harbour, you will have to take bus 776 from the Jaffna Bus Station, or you can take a tuk-tuk.  The bus ticket costs LKR 90, and the tuk-tuk ride costs LKR 2000. Furthermore, the return ferry from Delft Island starts at 2:30 PM. Once you reach the Kurikadduwan Jetty, you will get the bus to Jaffna. The return bus was very crowded, and you must not expect the best infrastructure during the jetty ride. Still, the hassle is worth it. How To Move Around Delft Island? Once you arrive on Delft Island, you can take a tuk-tuk ride to explore the main attractions. Many tuk-tuk drivers wait for the tourists aligned with the arrival time of the ferries. You can book a tuk-tuk ride for 4-5 hours, and the cost will be around LKR 2000-2500. Why Visit Delft Island, Jaffna? The history of Delft Island goes back to the time of the Chola Dynasty. Since then, the island has gone through various reigns, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and finally the British colonial periods. As you walk through the roads graced by palm trees and the sea breeze touches your cheeks, you will find how history speaks here, through the ruins, dirt roads, coral walls, and quaint villages. You suddenly start missing your home, especially the afternoons of summer vacations, when time was simpler. There is a rustic charm here that you cannot miss. The locals here are very hospitable. However, the only thing I missed was that there were no restaurants. So, if you are planning a food tour in Jaffna, Delft Island can be a disappointment. Still, here are more reasons to visit this beautiful coral island. Delft Island: A True Hidden Gem And In Close Encounter With Nature After Lonely Planet named Sri Lanka the best travel destination in the world in 2019, Colombo and Kandy became overcrowded. That’s a big turn-off for backpackers like me. So, it’s important to find a break in the north of the country and visit Jaffna temples and other attractions, where you can experience the spirituality, understand the local people, and most importantly, experience the story of human resilience. This is because this part of the country is still rebuilding after the civil war ended in 2009. Delft Island. Jaffna takes these humane aspects and the rawness of Northern Sri Lanka to a new level. In this age of 5G, Delft Island still has 3G connections. Also, the rise in sea levels still impacts the crops, ancient sites, homes, and the entire livelihood of the island. So, when I started exploring the island, I had to walk through the ankle-deep water in the fields. I had no problems in cherishing the experience as everything reminded me of my home.  Stories That Make Delf Island Fascinating Ancient Tamil legends and forgotten colonial ambitions have intertwined in the landscape and livelihood of Delf Island. Moreover, you have to listen to the inside stories here if you enjoy a good mix of history and local folklore. 1. The Growing Stone  There is a limestone outcrop on the island that keeps growing physically. Now, scientifically, it is the calcite and coral deposits that are to be blamed for the growth. However, for local devotees and the followers of Lord Mahadeva like me, it is a Swayambhu Lingam. This self-manifested form of Lord Shiva resembles Nakathampiran, or a multi-headed cobra. I made some offerings there, following the local customs, and had my moments. 2. The Giant’s Footprint Nobody Remembers The indentation close to the Sarapiddi area grabbed my attention. It was around 40 inches in length. There is a local belief that this is the left footprint of Lord Hanuman. Some even say that it is the footprint of Lord Shiva. Nevertheless, a similar indentation, resembling the right foot of the same identity, can be found on the Neduntheevu island. 3. The Wild Ponies And Their Secret Lives The Portuguese and the Dutch brought the wild ponies here. These feral ponies are the descendants of the European mares and Arabian stallions. They grew in numbers and were celebrated during the time of Lieutenant Nolan. He conducted a huge horse-breeding program. By the end of the British Era, most of these ponies were abandoned, and today they are a protected species of the island. So, you cannot take them outside the island. 4. The King Vedi Arasan Vedi Arasan, or the King of Firecrackers, was a celebrated Mukkuvar king here. He was the helm of the pearl trade in the Palk Strait. Furthermore, local stories suggest that the Dutch Fort was built on the foundation of the king’s ancient palace. 5. The Pigeon Cote Or The Dove Cote  The Pigeon Cote or the Dove Cote near the ruins of the Dutch Hospital is a witness to the colonial past of the island. It is 2 meters in length, and it shows how pigeons used to function as the physical internet connection. They were trained, and they used to fly between the Jaffna Mainland and the Delft Island. Though the pigeons were used to carry military dispatches, they were also used for the dissemination of personal letters. 6. The Massive Baobab Tree  The Baobab Tree is a telltale of how Arab traders enjoyed supremacy in this region. The hollow in the trunk of this ancient tree is large enough to accommodate two people.  Furthermore, prisoners were often kept inside the big hollow during transition.  What Are The Things To See In Delft Island, Jaffna? Delft Island may be small in size. However, its diverse cultural and historical attractions will keep you busy. However, these are the attractions you must not miss. The Portuguese And Dutch Fort  This fort is one of the most prominent attractions on Delft Island. It is a free place to visit. The Portuguese built this fort, and then the Dutch occupied it. Moreover, this fort has a coral and limestone structure. So, it stands out because of its unique architecture. The Baobab Tree  The Arab merchants brought the giant baobab tree in the 16th century. You suddenly feel that you are in Africa. The Old Dutch Hospital And Pigeon Nest  The Dutch built this hospital, and in the early 1900s, it became an administrative center. You can still see an inscription of the British Emblem on the Courts. Furthermore, the Pigeon cote or pigeon nest near the hospital shows how pigeons used to function as messengers between Jaffna Mainland and Delft Island. Where To Eat And Drink On The Delft Island? You can eat at the Delft Hotel near the jetty. You can eat parathas, rice, wade, and dosai. Also, you will find many local vendors selling snacks. However, you will not find a hotel on Delft Island. So, carry adequate snacks and water when traveling to Delft Island.

BY  Mashum Sep 8, 2023

Cedar Creek, a captivating lake located in Texas, is a hot spot for boating devotees. It provides a comprehensive assortment of boats for rent, accommodating the tastes and requirements of those fond of boating. Whether you’re after a peaceful day sailing on the water or a heart-racing aquatic exploit, a reputed Cedar Creek boat rental service can accommodate you.  Nevertheless, in this Tour and Travel guide, we’ll explore the different types of boats you can get from the Cedar Creek boat rentals. Thus, this guide will provide a glimpse into the unique offerings that make this location a boating paradise. Different Types Of Boats You Can Rent At Cedar Creek Boat Rental  Covering the Kaufman and Henderson counties, Cedar Creek Lake is the hub of various water activities. The boat rentals Cedar Creek Lake cater to all these demands, inviting localities and visitors residing in the nearby inns, resorts, and lodges.  You can even get in touch with the best boat rental company Cedar Creek Lake, for a delightful bird-watching experience.  Moreover, don’t forget to try fishing here, as this area has schools of blue catfish, flathead catfish, hybrid striped bass, crappie, etc.  With a wide spectrum of water activities waiting for you, you can choose your favorite from the different types of Cedar Creek boats available.  Massimo Pontoon A pontoon is a versatile and family-friendly option for relaxing on the water. The Massimo Pontoon, available at Cedar Creek, offers stability, spaciousness, and comfort, making it ideal for group events or family outings. With ample space for passengers, you can enjoy the scenic views of Cedar Creek Lake Boat Rentals in the company of your loved ones. Hurricane The Hurricane boat is an exhilarating option for those craving an extra dose of excitement on the water. With its sleek design and impressive performance, this vessel enables you to swiftly glide across the lake, embracing the thrill of the experience. The Hurricane provides an exhilarating boating experience without breaking the bank. Landau Pontoon Another excellent pontoon option is the Landau Pontoon. Known for its comfort and reliability, this boat is perfect for those planning a serene day on the lake. Like other pontoons, the Landau Pontoon rents per day, offering a cost-effective way to enjoy the beauty of Cedar Creek. Manitou Pontoon The Manitou Pontoon is yet another fantastic option for groups or families. With a sturdy build and comfortable seating, this pontoon allows for a leisurely cruise around the lake, soaking in the sun and the stunning surroundings. Pontoons are generally known for their stability and roominess, ideal for larger parties or relaxed cruising. CrownLine If you want the ultimate luxury boating experience, let the CrownLine be your perfect match. This top-tier boat provides unmatched luxury for those who wish to unwind and enjoy their day on the ocean comfortably. Every cent is worth it, and with a per-day rental fee, the CrownLine boat is priced to offer tremendous value for your investment. You can't find anywhere else a lavish and opulent experience that will impress your friends with its grandeur. So don't wait; come and enjoy the experience of a lifetime with the CrownLine. There's no better way to enjoy a day or two on the water. Sea Ray 185 & 195 Sea Ray models 185 and 195 are standouts amongst boaters everywhere for their superior and timeless design. They can power their way through the waters with focused and intuitive precision. It's a boat person's dream, providing a luxurious feel, ample amenities for long and short rides, and a performance legitimized by its stellar track record; no wonder it's a popular choice to traverse the waters of Cedar Creek Lake. Starcraft With a legacy of reliability and versatility, Starcraft boats are a favorite among boaters. Whether you want to go fishing or navigate a leisurely cruise, you can count on a Starcraft boat to take you on the ride of your life. From a weekend angler pursuing the best fish to a seasoned sailor wanting the ultimate cruise, the varied selection of Starcraft has you covered. Get ready to hit the open water with comfort and satisfaction, knowing your Starcraft delivers all the boat possibilities your heart desires. Yamaha SX 210 Jet Boat & Yamaha Jet Boat 242s Limited The Yamaha SX 210 Jet Boat and the Yamaha Jet Boat 242s Limited are perfect if you crave speed. These jet boats are known for their agility and speed, guaranteeing a thrilling ride on Cedar Creek Lake. With their powerful engines and advanced navigation technology, these jet boats will take you wherever your heart desires on Cedar Creek Lake. Prepare for an exhilarating experience that will impress all your friends. Chaparral Chaparral boats boast a reputation for providing superior quality and consistent innovation. While on the water, these vessels offer an unparalleled smooth ride and plenty of room for relaxation. It's no wonder Chaparral boats are seen as a fantastic option for a perfect day out looking around any lake. They are the obvious choice for getting the most out of your time on the lake. Things You Did Not Know About Cedar Creek Lake  Cedar Creek Reservoir, or Cedar Creek Lake, has been the prime source of water for Fort Worth and many other counties of North Texas.  It comes with a length of 18 miles and it has a width of 2 miles. Furthermore, it comes with a shoreline of 220 miles. The maximum water depth at the lake is 62 feet. So, it is one of the safest water bodies in Texas for aquatic activities.  A Tour And Travel Safety Guide If You Are Seeking Boat Rentals On Cedar Creek Lake A boat wreck at Cedar Creek Lake on 6th June 2024 has been an eye-opener for the boat rentals on Cedar Creek Lake and the visitors.  The water can be dangerous after dark. So, explore the lake and the aquatic pursuits as much as you want. But you must not get into the water after sunset.  A Look At The Different Types Of Boats You Can Rent At Cedar Creek Lake Boat Rental – In Conclusion Cedar Creek is the ultimate destination for a thrilling outdoor adventure. Whether you seek a serene day sailing on the water or an exhilarating aquatic experience, Cedar Creek has a variety of boat rentals to suit your needs. Discover the unparalleled offerings that make this destination a true boating paradise. Read Also: Boat Trips And Czech Cuisine: A Taste Of Prague’s Culinary Delights 6 Reasons Why You Need To Purchase A Boat In 2022 5 Unmissable Ibiza Boat Parties In 2023

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 20, 2018

Traveling is like a continuous learning session. It does not matter whether you are traveling for the first time or a seasoned voyager. Every destination awaits a new surprise where you need to use your judgment and experience to deal with adversities. However, following the basic tips to travel always gives you an edge.   Further, when you plan a trip to a dream place and follow the tips right, your travel becomes more economical, safe, and convenient.   Best Tips to Travel Around the World:  From the moment you plan to travel around the world, there are a lot of tasks upon you. Once you have made up your mind regarding the place, you check on the available transformation, expenses, weather, safety, and amenities.  Another crucial aspect of traveling right is traveling light. You must be on-point and minimalistic about what you carry. We always tend to overpack, resulting in additional baggage charges and inconvenience.   Here, I have curated the things you need to keep in mind if you love to travel.   1. Credit cards:  These are known as handy tools for travelers and are used for various purposes. Some of the cards work out to cut airline miles to lessen the cost of air travel. And many cards include no transaction fees. This allows savings of up to a 3% fee on any purchases.  It is essential to inform the bank when any international tour is planned and when a credit card needs to be used. If there is a sudden purchase from the international market and the bank is unaware of the owner’s location, then the account may freeze, suspecting something fishy.  2. A single big plane ticket:  It costs more when it comes to buying a ticket in pieces for different places. But, if a single ticket is bought for places all around, the cost is much less.  One needs to arrange travel in one direction only. They have a time limit to complete their traveling. But, still, it is a great idea to move around the world. Try to plan to move around to places cheaper to stay in. This is one of the smartest tips to travel around the world, enabling one to visit many destinations.  3. Light luggage:  The luggage should carry only the most essential stuff required during the travel. Look for the travel backpack. It is designed especially to work as an airline carry-on bag and secure one from the possibility of missing the luggage in between the flights. It also saves us from paying for checking the bags and overweight items.  The cost of an overweight checked item is at least $100. So, limiting the weight of your luggage is one of the basic tips to travel around the world.  4. Clothes:  It is advisable to pack a few clothes that can be washed and dried easily. Also, keep clothes for different seasons. The weather changes from place to place. Buying clothes from the international market will cost a lot.  In addition, keep some layering options handy with jackets and shrugs. Accessories like scarves and bandanas also help to sport a stylish look without much effort.   5. Look for a room or hostel:  Every traveler would like to stretch it in an air-conditioned room on the soft beds. However, the cost will be high. To limit the expenses, it is preferable to look for a room or a hostel which can be enough to rest, and the washroom facilities are good.  It is assumed that hostels are usually for students. But there are international organizations that serve the purpose of hosteling for travelers.  There are many amenities that hotels offer free of cost. But it covers the cost of it in other charges. Here, one can have “its” and limited use of such amenities to save the cost.  The best option is to look for a room that can provide privacy and a cooking facility. Make me feel at home.  The best travel agencies with years of experience in arranging international trip packages keep fair ideas for such accommodation for their clients.  6. Eat locally:  Dining in the hotels and restaurants will cost too much. In such places, they charge for food plus the ambiance and added tax.  Eating street foods is affordable. However, it requires checking the surroundings and maintaining a good hygiene level. Many times, this locally served food is equal to or much better in taste compared to big hotels and restaurants.  If the accommodation place has a kitchen, then it can be used to self-serve by cooking food.  7. Travellers insurance:  This is a must. One does not need to save money over here. Many travelers find it less important. It is helpful in times when any of the expensive things get stolen and turn out to be most useful in case any medication is required.   Struggling is for every traveler to adapt to the different water easily and get comfortable with the weather easily.  8. Enjoy exploring the place on your own:  This sounds great when a group of people is traveling together. It exhilarates the group to be together and share every tune of the time together. But it sounds a little different for a solo traveler.  They solo traveler can buy the local map to help him/her. He/she can skip the transport or ask the tour guide to pay a large amount. He/she can rent the transport for short distances, and the rest can walk around to see the surroundings.  9. Work part-time:  Even after following all the above points. If a traveler runs out or feels like getting short on a few bucks, he/ she can look for part-time work in place.   There are many opportunities for such work. This can be a helping hand and even a good time pass plus he/she gets to know people from different places.  Final Words: Take Care of Yourself   As we travel around the world, we often forget to take care of ourselves. Sometimes, our travel itinerary becomes very exhaustive in the pursuit of covering everything we need to see and do. Along with the tips to travel around the world discussed here, you must ensure you are taking care of yourself.  You must get enough sleep, eat healthy food, and remain hydrated to keep going. Also, you must take care of your personal hygiene. So, have a happy journey, and be safe!