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

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 31, 2023

Dubai is tirelessly inviting visitors to immerse themselves in an exotic landscape of culture, architecture, and luxury. Dubai is an oasis of splendor hidden within the Arabian Desert. With the help of a well-chosen Dubai tour package, you'll be able to embark on an exciting adventure. You can visit some of the city's most breathtaking attractions. Learn about the city where tradition and modernity dance effortlessly together. Dubai leaves no room for the ordinary as it unveils a wide variety of tourist attractions. It ranges from the Burj Khalifa's soaring splendor to the classic charm of the Gold and Spice Souks. The sun-kissed beaches of this desert metropolis, which contrast sharply with the concrete jungles, reveal its lively personality. The Palm Jumeirah and the Mall of Emirates are two examples of man-made wonders in Dubai. It increases the list of destinations in Dubai and provides a varied itinerary for every traveler. The city's famed hospitality guarantees opulent lodging and delectable cuisine. In order to experience this desert paradise, where every moment is planned to exceed your expectations, plan your trip immediately! If you are conflicted about the weather in the “desert” city, here is the best time to visit Dubai. Best Time To Visit Dubai It is a little tricky to answer the question of when is the best time to visit Dubai. Dubai can get extremely hot, with the summer months of July and August being particularly unbearable. It is due to the high temperatures and humidity. Moreover, during May and June, the holy month of Ramadan is observed. Most malls, stores, schools, and universities remain closed during the day, giving the city a deserted look. If you want to know the best time to visit Dubai, you can plan between mid-November and early December. Or you could go in the first half of March when the temperature is around 30 degrees Celsius. It stays high during the day and drops in the evening. It allows you to take a stroll through the city after 5 p.m. Visiting during the peak tourist months of January and February for the Dubai Shopping Festival can be challenging due to the heavy crowds. The Dubai weather is hot throughout but a little caution can help make your trip less uncomfortable and restrained. Therefore, visiting in the recommended months will allow you to experience the city without the hassle of navigating through large crowds and enjoying pleasant temperatures. Places To Visit While In Dubai Once you know when to visit you should in all possibility also be aware of some of the best places you cannot miss. These spots are the highlight of Dubai and have put the city on the world map. They drip raw extravagance and missing out on them while visiting Dubai is going to be a very expensive error. Burj Khalifa Welcome to Dubai, a city where the sky truly is the limit and where wonders abound! The Burj Khalifa, which lies in the center of unparalleled magnificence, is a sight that will undoubtedly leave you speechless. It is one of the must-see tourist attractions in Dubai, rising high like a beacon of human achievement. Just picture yourself at the base of this magnificent structure, your gaze traveling up the dazzling borders of the tower to the clouds. But that's only the start! Once inside, the real magic starts to happen. As you soar into the heavens in a matter of seconds, taking an elevator might feel like traveling through time. Palm Jumeirah Travelers, pack your bags for an alluring trip to Dubai's Palm Jumeirah, one of the city's most magnificent attractions. It's a palm-leaf-shaped architectural wonder in the middle of the Arabian Sea that serves as a tribute to human ingenuity and aspiration. Why should you visit right away? Imagine yourself unwinding in a beachfront cottage with a warm breeze caressing your hair. What about rewarding your palate with a selection of culinary treats from top-notch restaurants? Here, every second is a delicious taste of luxury! Dubai Aquarium And Underwater Zoo In the center of Dubai's glittering desert city, where sparkling skyscrapers pierce the sky, an aquatic sanctuary welcomes both curious and brave spirits. Welcome to the fascinating world of the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, a world that captivates you and takes you to a place of wonder and exploration. You will be surrounded by a gigantic aquarium brimming with a colorful tapestry of marine life when you enter this aquatic wonderland. Your senses are heightened as you glide down the glass tunnel. Majestic sharks and graceful rays pass overhead, unconcerned with the wonder they elicit. Even seasoned travelers are surprised by this humble encounter. Burj Al Arab Dubai, a metropolis of breathtaking wonders, exposes The Burj Al Arab as a blank canvas for the sumptuous fantasies of the heart. It is a symbol of wealth and splendor, nestled amid the turquoise Persian Gulf and teasing the azure skies. In Dubai, it's more than just a tourist destination; it's a chance to experience magnificence itself. The story of luxury starts when your chauffeur-driven, gold-plated Rolls Royce carries you into its arms. The high tea at the SkyView Bar will lavish you with amazing views of the glittering city. You can inhale the fragrant Arabian coffee and gaze upon the golden furnishings. Dubai Marina In the beating center of the city sits Dubai Marina. It is a man-made wonderland bursting with beautiful skylines and a world of luxury. This enchanted oasis, braided with sparkling fairy lights, is one of the most alluring spots to visit in Dubai. Enjoy the Marina Walk's ethereal radiance as the dying sun playsfully on the glistening structures. The Marina is a haven for wanderers. It expertly combines the excitement of a busy metropolis with the peace of a beach getaway. Enjoy the lingering flavor of various cultures colliding at a crossroads. It will draw you in with the fragrances of international cuisines emanating from the many restaurants. Try visiting in the colder season because that is the best time to visit Dubai Marina. Dubai Frame Dubai Frame is a remarkable architectural and narrative symphony that begs for your attention. It's a huge window that connects the city's dazzling history and present, glistening against the Emirati sky. It's evidence of the fast development that propelled this oasis in the desert to the world stage. You begin your tour on the mezzanine level, where you will find a charming reminder of the past. You'll experience an exhilarating journey through Dubai's rich past. It will leave you with a renewed respect for this city of dreams and a racing heart. Global Village The Global Village, Dubai's stunning cosmopolitan oasis, is located in the center of Dubai’s desert. Here, the sun-kissed dunes of sand create a breathtaking environment. This location creates a vivid tapestry of cultures, heritage, and excitement. It is all tucked away under one starry canvas as if it were taken straight out of a fairy story. Imagine taking a quick trip around the world in a matter of hours, visiting over 75 nations, each elegantly represented by a separate pavilion. Taste the delectable culinary treats of China. Sway to the pulsating rhythms of Africa. Behold the vivid hues of India and immerse yourself in the refined elegance of Europe. Miracle Garden Walk into a magical oasis where the boundaries between reality and fantasy are skillfully blurred. Gorgeous flower displays made of vibrantly colored blooms will defy your wildest imagination. When you witness this spot, you will realize that the best time to visit Dubai is definitely the cooler months. Welcome to the aromatic kaleidoscope known as Dubai Miracle Garden, which is tucked away among the dry desert sands. It is one of the nicest spots in Dubai to visit. It invites you to immerse yourself in its spectacular beauty with its fanciful designs in full flight. Enjoy a kaleidoscope of floral formation of the Airbus A380. Witness the swirl of walkways with umbrellas over them, and the heart-shaped lanes beckoning and whispering. The garden teases the senses by fusing a flourish of natural grandeur with a sense of innocent wonder. There are numerous jewels in Dubai's tourist attractions, but this one makes you genuinely happy. It compels you to take hundreds of photos as souvenirs. Wrapping Up Chart the Burj Khalifa through the clouds, see the Atlantis, and shop til you drop at the gold souk. Dubai is a city of opposites and a kaleidoscope of adventures. Now that you know the best time to visit Dubai- plan your trip right away. As your voyage comes to a conclusion, take a stroll through Bastakia's serene lanes to commemorate your exciting experience. As you explore the city's humble beginnings, leave your mark in the sands of time. Dubai's true essence is found here- among the lovely wind towers and sand-colored homes. You're in for a unique experience when you enter the city of riches. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Spa Relaxation On A Charter Yacht In Dubai Yachting In Dubai – A Memorable Experience A Cultural Adventure: Dhow Cruise Trip In Dubai

BY  Mashum Jan 30, 2020

With a change in tourist behaviors, New York is all set to exceed the tourism records of pre-pandemic days. This upward graph in tourism numbers has been visible since 2023. In the same year, footfalls in New York crossed the 62 million mark.  Now, regarding the must see places in New York, the iconic ones like the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the High Line continue to cast their charm.  However, breaking the tourism lulls of the pandemic days, tourists are now eager to explore beyond Manhattan. Further, they want to experience the “Real New York City,” away from maddening crowds.  So, in this Tour and Travel guide, I have highlighted the most popular destinations in New York, along with some unique hotspots. It’s like the Frank Sinatra song, “I want to be a part of it, New York, New York Your vagabond shoes, they are longing to stray And step around the heart of it, New York, New York…” Must See Places In New York | Iconic Landmarks In New York  New York remains a dynamic hub for tourism, with a significant increase in visitors and visitor spending. In 2024, the number of tourists to New York City was close to 65 million, which was the second-highest number in the city’s history. “With nearly 65 million visitors this year — the second highest figure in our city’s history — New York City has once again solidified its position as the premier destination in the nation and one of the top travel spots in the world.”Eric Adams, Mayor, New York City So, the city is ready to make a massive economic recovery, with the tourism sector making a strong and steady comeback.  Further, the following must see places in New York remain the heartbeats of the city’s tourism.  1. Central Park | A Quiet Retreat Amidst The Bustling New York City Embed: https://www.instagram.com/p/C5WYDY2IRu0/ Entry: Free Hours Open: 6 AM to 1 PM Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s “The Gates” is making a comeback to Central Park. I was just checking out the Central Park Conservancy website and was elated to find that this transcendental art installation in saffron hue is once again ready to tell the tales of a park reborn. The Shed, a non-profit cultural organization, will be hosting an exhibition called “Christo and Jeanne-Claude: The Gates and Unrealized Projects for New York City.”This exhibition will open on 12th February 2025, marking the 20th anniversary of “The Gates.”  Once home to the Indigenous Lenape people, Central Park became what it is today with the craftsmanship of Calvert Vaux and Frederick Law Olmsted. Walking, e-scooter tours or biking through the trails are the best ways to explore the manicured, yet natural-looking vistas of the park.  Moreover, Central Park is full of attractions, including the Strawberry Fields, a tribute to John Lenon, the Conservancy Garden, Bow Bridge, Belvedere Castle, etc.  2. The Statue Of Liberty | The Symbol Of Freedom  Entry Fee: Free Ferry Charges: Free for Children below 4 Years, $16.50 for Children Aged 4-12, $25.50 for the Age of 13+, $22.50 for Seniors (62+) Hours Open: 9 AM to 5 PM The Statue of Liberty was a gift by France, built-in 1886. It is among the most popular symbol of freedom and one of the greatest icons in America. Standing at 152 feet tall, it is one of the tallest statues in the world and weighs around 450,000 pounds. Battery Park offers a great view of the statue from the land. However, the best way to see this statue is by taking a short ferry trip to Liberty Island. You can get up close, take a stroll around the ground and pedestal. And, if you make advanced reservations, you can even go up to the crown. When you take the ferry, you will also stop at Ellis Island and can explore the Immigration Museum. 3. Metropolitan Museum Of Art | Housing 5000 Year Old Artwork Entry Fee: $30 for Adults, $22 for Seniors and Visitors with a Disability, $17 for Students, Free for Children below 12 Years Hours Open: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday - 10 AM to 5 PM, Saturday and Sunday - 10 AM to 9 PM, Wednesday - Closed Metropolitan Museum of Art, also famously known as MET, was established in 1870. It is one of the most popular museums in the United States of America. The center has an extensive collection of over 2 million artworks, some of which date back to 5000 years. It has three sites. However, Met Fifth Avenue is the centerpiece of the museum. If you are a fan of art and history, this is a place that you should not miss out on. American arms and armors, decorative arts, Egyptians arts, photographs, musical instruments, etc. are some of the many items that you get to explore here. 4. The High Line | The Changed West Side Elevated Line After An Ideas Competition High Line was once a rail line, which has now become a popular tourist attraction of the city. The rail line has now been transformed into a walking trail over the city streets. The linear public park has a wide range of trees and plants. Further, The High Line, or the linear public park, has a wide range of trees and plants. The High Line you visit today survived a demolition order from Mayor Giuliani in 1999. However, four years later, the “ideas competition” hosted by Friends of the High Line highlighted the potential of this “ugly eyeshore” to get transformed into one of the must see places in New York. So, today, the 1.45-mile-long greenway with over 500 species of plants reminds me of the headline on the front page of the New York Times. It read, “Frog of a Railroad to Become Prince of a Park.” Moreover, glass railings line the park, which gives it a more natural feel. From here, you get an amazing view of the bustling city of New York. You can access the high Line on different points from Gansevoort to 34th Street. Some of the access points only provide stairs, whereas others have elevators as well. 5. Times Square | At The Crossroads Of The World Exhibiting tall, bright billboards and displays, Times Square is one of the must-visit places in New York. While it is exciting at any time of the day, it truly livens up in the evening. This is the site where New York celebrates its New Year's Eve and where the Ball Drop happens at midnight. It is a busy street, which is always crowded with people, but still has a unique character to it. Bleachers are installed on the other end of where you can sit and admire the hustling scene. Time Square got its name in the year 1904, and before that, it was known as Longacre Square. Also, if you are looking to find the best food trucks in NY, then I would recommend visiting vstreetfood.com/food-trucks/new-york/. New York is considered the city that never sleeps, and it is true. No matter what time of the day it is, there is something you can do or explore here. Above are some of the places that you must visit in New York. And while you explore these destinations, you will come across a bunch of others on your way because they all are closely connected. Also, when in Times Square, you must not forget to explore the best food trucks in NY, especially vstreetfood.com/food-trucks/new-york/. The Must See Places In New York | Hidden Gems You Will Fall In Love With  As promised, here, I will discuss some hidden gems in New York. These must see places in New York are eclectic and they represent the true spirit of the city beyond the glitz and glamor of Manhattan.  Here we go! Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site https://www.instagram.com/p/DBo43aGy2u9/?img_index=1 Hours Open: Wednesday – Sunday:10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Entry Fee: Free Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site is the boyhood home of the first US president born in the USA.  Today, this historic site offers a 45-minute tour guided by a ranger or volunteer. Stone Street Historic District  In the Financial District of Manhattan, Stone Street has created a world of its own. This cobblestone street or the Stone Street is one of the oldest in New York and a simple stroll through it is an experience for the dark academia fans.  Further, Stone Street will take you back to 1658, when the residents of the area petitioned this street.  Museum At Eldridge Street https://www.instagram.com/p/DEN06khzba7/?img_index=1 Hours Open: Sunday - Friday: 10 AM – 5 PM, Saturday: Closed Entry Fee: Adults: $15, Students & Seniors: $10, Children 5 - 17: $8, ‘Pay What You Wish’ (Mondays and Fridays) Located in the historic Eldridge Street Synagogue, the Museum At Eldridge Street symbolizes the realization of immigrant dreams. The Eastern European Jewish immigrants built this synagogue in 1887, and it was the first grand synagogue (purpose-built) in the USA.  Today, the museum stands out with its architectural excellence and unique exhibits.  Morgan Library https://www.instagram.com/p/DDSHkw8o6um/?img_index=4 Hours Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10:30 Am to 5 PM, and Friday from 10:30 AM to 8 PM Entry Fee: Free for Children below 12, $13 for Students, $17 for Seniors, $25 for Adults The Morgan Library and Museum is a treasure trove of rare books, prints, manuscripts, and prints.  Located in Madison Avenue, the library and museum has an opulent setup with the collections of financier Pierpont Morgan. Ground Zero Museum Workshop https://www.instagram.com/p/CTwub4yLFU1/?img_index=1 Hours Open: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday: 12:30-2:30 PM, Sunday: 1-2:30 PM, Wednesday: 1:30-3:15 PM, Monday and Tuesday: Closed Entry Fee: Children (Ages 4-12) - $25.00, Adults (Ages 12+) - $32.00, Seniors (Ages 65+) - $25.00 Ground Zero Museum Workshop is the best place to find the most realistic account of the Ground Zero “Recovery Period.” You will find images, artifacts, and 100s of exhibits to take you through what happened at Ground Zero and how everyone recovered from that. Further, today, the Ground Zero Museum Workshop is one of the best places for dark tourism in the USA. Read Also: 12 Things That Everyone Should Try In Mexico 5 Backpacking Tips for an Unforgettable Euro-Trip

BY  Ankita Jun 7, 2024

You should purchase the visit to most of the countries in the world except for a few. Saudi Arabia is encouraging international travelers to visit their country and explore the beauty of their cities and Islamic landmarks in their country with the purpose of Umrah or booking an adventurous trip because there are a lot of places where you can enjoy the most.  In fact, tourism contributes a significant portion of the Saudi economy nowadays. People from different parts of the globe plan to visit Saudi Arabia to have a good time. That's why, Saudi Arabia is focusing on providing facilities to visitors so that they can enjoy at best.  The same goes with pilgrims as well. Pilgrimage also contributes to the Saudi economy and helps the government to maintain the spirituality of the land. This is a reason the Saudi government ensures that pilgrims have a fulfilling experience during their stay. Umrah packages also help pilgrims in this regard. The purpose is to make pilgrims free from tackling management and focus on Ibadah.  However, the question is whether visitors can enter Saudi Arabia without a visa. If not, what type of visa should they consider before proceeding with their plan? Well, read ahead.  Why Do I Need a VISA When Visiting Saudi Arabia? KSA is a hub for Islamic landmarks. Because the kingdom is significant both in terms of spirituality and modernity, it has become a top priority of visitors nowadays. Some of them want to explore Saudi heritage, while others seek closeness to Allah and his house, the Kabbah.  But it requires you to have a relevant VISA anyway. A VISA document is a legal issuance certificate that outsiders need to enter a foreign country. Just like other countries, Saudi Arabia also requires you to have a VISA.  For pilgrims, it's easier to get VISA approval through Umrah packages. Providing VISA application assistance and ensuring VISA approval is part of these Umrah and Hajj deals.  The same happens with cheap plans like the 12 Nights 4 star Umrah package. You just have to arrange the required documents and enter personal details on the VISA application. Then, the travel agencies take care of application submission and approval.  Though visitors don't have to apply for VISAs through Umrah package deals, they require a VISA to enter Saudi Arabia. However, these VISA requirements and details are different under different conditions. So, let's see what type of visa you should consider according to your plans. Who Needs a VISA? Just like in other countries, entering Saudi Arabia also requires a VISA. A VISA refers to a travel document or a legal statement.  The main purpose of requiring a VISA is to define your purpose for visiting the country of Saudi Arabia. If you are a business traveller, tourist, or pilgrim, you need to apply for a specific type, for instance.  In addition, visa documents are also necessary for countries to keep checks and balances on the entry and take-off of tourists. Through a VISA, tourists can claim their rights to their respective country's government. Similarly, it also guarantees the safety and integrity of the country.  The same policy is for Saudi Arabia. You should apply for a specific type of VISA to enter the KSA. However, Saudi Arabia also has exceptions.  Our honourable customers who are living in some of the Gulf countries like Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar can enter the boundary of Saudi Arabia without a VISA. Similarly, the VISA Waiver Agreement allows some travelers to apply for a VISA on arrival in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.  In general, visitors must need a VISA to enter Saudi Arabia. However, it is better to research whether you need a VISA or not. And if so, what type of visa do you need? Types of VISA for Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia earns a lot of money from tourism. It includes pilgrims and tourists alike. Therefore, Saudi Arabia focuses on enhancing the experience of visitors. The VISA process and requirements also reflect the simplification of visiting Saudi Arabia.  For instance, Saudi Arabia issues different types of VISA documents to travellers according to their needs. This way, the process of entry into the kingdom works. In general terms, the price of all these VISA types varies depending on the purpose of the visit. For example, travellers apply for tourist VISAs and can stay in the country for up to 90 days. Tourist visas, Umrah visas, Hajj visas, business visas, and work visas are the most common types of VISAs that are availed from Saudi Embassies by global travellers. This VISA type comes with a validity of one year with multiple visits in a year.  Umrah VISA and Hajj VISA An Umrah VISA tells everything. Pilgrims apply for an Umrah VISA to perform the Umrah pilgrimage. Umrah packages also help them engage with Ziarat tours. This VISA type offers a short validity period, usually equal to the duration of the Umrah pilgrimage only.  Similarly, pilgrims get a Hajj VISA to perform Hajj. Hajj VISA also comes up with short validity, often for the duration of Hajj.  Business VISA Business VISA allows people to visit Saudi Arabia for work activities. For instance, with a business VISA, you can attend meetings or conferences in Saudi Arabia.  However, it's a dynamic type of VISA that comes up with multiple entries as well as a single entry, depending on your work requirements and duration.  Employee or Work VISA Another type of Saudi VISA is a work VISA. It's for individuals who have a job offer from Saudi Arabia and want to live there as an employee. Work VISAs remain valid up to the job contract or need renewal frequently.  In short, Saudi Arabia streamlines the process of entry into the kingdom. So, define the purpose of your visit and apply for a relevant visa. VISA Requirements Now, you will find out what type of VISA you have to get. After all, it's easier to spot until the purpose of your visit is clear to you. Here, a question hits your mind: how to you apply for a Saudi VISA?  You should collect all the necessary documents. These include:  a valid passport passport size photographs VISA application form proof of hotel accommodations in KSA non-refundable tickets. In some of cases, it is also important to avail yourself of travel insurance, health insurance, and relevant additional documents.  After making sure you have the necessary documents on hand, proceed with the application process. Note that pilgrims have to apply for an Umrah VISA through Umrah packages. The same goes for affordable deals like the 12 Nights 4-star Umrah.  However, travellers, visitors, and working employees can apply for Saudi VISAs through the eVISA portal.  To proceed, follow these steps: Go to the eVISA official page and fill out the application form with personal and travel details. Upload the necessary documents and pay the VISA fee. Submit the form and look for approval. Visitors can also apply for a VISA in person through the embassy. Take an application form and the necessary documents. Fill out the application form, attach the documents, and visit the Saudi embassy to submit the documents in person. Also, pay the fee there as they will guide you and wait for the approval. Tips to Ensure VISA Approval Applying for a Saudi VISA document is straightforward. This is because Saudi Arabia streamlines the whole process to promote tourism. However, some people still find the whole process challenging, and it has some reasons.  For instance, leaving the application form incomplete is a common mistake that ends up with a VISA rejection. To avoid it, read every section of the application form carefully and fill in all the required fields. Also, double-check the form before submitting it.  On the other hand, some people add inaccurate information to the application form, which can also cause visa rejection.  For instance, avoid spelling mistakes, wrong passport numbers, and incorrect travel dates in the application form. The best solution to avoid these mistakes is to cross-check all the information with your official documents and details.  Conclusion Following this, make sure to avoid missing documents while submitting the application form. So, be careful with your documents and make a list of required documents in the first place. After that, as you upload the document, mark that one on your list, and that's it.  Similarly, providing poor-quality photos and submitting late application forms also lead to VISA rejection. So, follow the photo guidelines beforehand and also submit the application form in advance. It will save you from approval delays all the way. Additional Reading: From Sunrise To Sunset: A Day’s Itinerary For Exploring Benidorm Viva Las Vegas: Your Ultimate Travel Itinerary For An Unforgettable Trip! Ensuring Approval: The Power Of A Well-Crafted Two-Way Itinerary For Visas