Japan Is Now Accepting Travelers: So Why Aren’t Tourists Going Back This Year?

BY  Sibashree Dec 17, 2024

Golf, desert weather, long sunshine hours, and the most luxurious resorts! Every travel enthusiast appreciates these things about Phoenix, Arizona.  Founded by Jack Swilling, the city of Phoenician is called the Valley of Sun. Further, people exploring the unique things to do in Phoenix also love to visit Glendale and Scottsdale. These two neighboring cities have their unique historical and cultural significance. For example, Glendale was the home to the famous Baskin Robbins. In addition, it always has been at the epicenter of Arizona’s entertainment landscape. Today, it has the headquarters of  The Walt Disney Company and DreamWorks Animation. Scottsdale, on the other hand, is famous for the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. It is the largest natural preserve in the country. You will also love the museums here. Liam, the local travel expert I consulted, suggested a combined tour of Phoenix, Glendale, and Scottsdale for a unique experience. He said that the package tour would cost around $100 per person each day. Further, he mentioned how Phoenix is different from Scottsdale and how the places complement each other.   “Scottsdale is more upscale. You will love its swanky resorts. Scottsdale also has 200+ golf areas. Still, with outdoor trails and a peaceful environment, it is a more tranquil retreat for people.Phoenix is about everything urban, and it’s high energy.”Liam, Local Travel Expert, Phoenix Liam was so passionate about Scottsdale that I had to stop him. Because my sole focus this time was on the unique things to do in Phoenix, and I wanted to get my insights and research approved by him. Now, this is what I found out about the best activities in Phoenix. Unique Things To Do In Phoenix, Arizona | Enjoy The Warmth And Sunshine  Thanks to the long hours of sunshine and its geographical location, Phoenix has an average highest temperature of 20-42 degrees Celsius. For the lowest temperature, the reading ranges between 7-22 degrees Celsius. Further, with golf courses, golf clubs, Mountain Park, and natural abundance, Phoenix has been enjoying a rise in its tourism landscape.  Data from Tourism Economics says that 46.7 million people visited Phoenix in 2023, and among them, 1.6 million were international tourists.  Moreover, the total economic impact caused by the people of Phoenix in 2023 was $23 billion. This economic impact consisted the following factors. Direct Impact Indirect Impact Induced Spending Naturally, the unique things to do in Phoenix Arizona have fueled this growth and economic impact of tourism in the city. So, let’s explore them. But before that, let’s quickly learn the operational hours, entry fee and contact details of these places. Phoenix HotspotAddressContact NumberHours OpenEntry FeeDesert Botanical Garden1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix+1 480-941-1225Monday-Wednesday: 8 AM to 8 PMThursday: 8 AM to 9 PMSunday: 5:30 AM to 9:30 AMFriday-Saturday: 8AM-4 PM, 5:30-9:30 PM$12–25The Phoenix Art Museum1625 N Central Ave, Phoenix+1 602-257-1880Monday-Tuesday: ClosedWednesday-Friday: 10AM to 8 PMSaturday & Sunday: 10 AM to 5 PM$0-23Free admission on Wednesday between 3-8 PMWildlife World Zoo16501 W Northern Ave, Litchfield Park+1 623-935-94539 AM to 6 PM (Zoo Hours)Below 2 Years: Free3-12 Years: $2813+ Years: $49**Phoenix Zoo455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix+1 602-286-38009 AM to 4 PMAdult (14+): $39.95Child (3-13): $29.95Heard Museum 2301 N Central Ave, Phoenix+1 602-252-884010 AM to 4 PM$7–18Chase Field 401 E Jefferson St, Phoenix+1 602-514-84001.5 Hours before the Game from Sunday to Thursday2 Hours before the Game from Saturday to Sunday$26 Onwards You must carry cash while visiting the Wildlife World Zoo. You will have to pay extra if you use debit or credit cards.  1. Visiting The Desert Botanical Garden The Desert Botanical Garden will be the first activity on the list of unique things to do in Phoenix. It will take you on a trip to the Sonoran Desert and the vegetation there.  The garden has beautiful landscapes with red rocks of the Sonoran Desert. Further, various cacti and plants add to the allure of the place. You will find as many as 50000 species of plants and cacti here. Moreover, you can collect the best living souvenirs from the plant shop and Garden’s Gift.  2. Exploring The Phoenix Art Museum The Phoenix Art Museum has 20000 brilliant pieces of art by local and internationally acclaimed artists. Further, along with the walled or static artworks, you will find many interactive artworks here.  Moreover, the museum hosts special exhibitions and events regularly and you must check the museum website before your visit.  Above all, the Phoenix Art Museum is home to the Firefly Infinity Room. Here, you can enjoy the best visually psychedelic fun.  3. Meeting Animals At The Wildlife World Zoo https://www.instagram.com/p/C_A-tzxPQSZ/?hl=en&img_index=1 The Wildlife World Zoo is a wonderful hotspot of 215 acres. Meeting the baby animals is the most fulfilling experience at the zoo. During a safari at the zoo, you will also meet rare sea animals and reptiles.  This zoo is home to 600 species of animals and along with meeting the animals, you can even attend the shows and events. Moreover, there are scopes for adorable animal encounters. So, you can get up close and personal with capybara, sea lion, and sloth.  4. Spending Time With Animals At Phoenix Zoo Phoenix Zoo is the largest privately-owned zoo in the USA. From the biggest land mammals to the marine creatures; you will find every variety in the zoo.  Further, if you are traveling with little ones and want some hands-on fun, you can visit the petting zoo. You will also love the place as an avid birder.  More than 3000 animals from over 400 species coexist here. Many of these species are also endangered or rare. You will meet African painted dogs, zebras, porcupines, Sumatran Tigers, Asian elephants, komodo dragons, etc.  5. Explore Native American Art At The Heard Museum  https://www.instagram.com/p/C_Of8WOtRbR/ Heard Museum has the biggest collection of Native American work. So, if you are lover of history and art, you know your go-to destination in the state.  The displays and presentations at the museum are stunning. Further, the museum curates the indigenous artistic excellence of American Indians and presents them at a global level. 6. Watching A Game At Chase Field  https://www.instagram.com/p/C7aotGxtuvA/?hl=en Home to the Diamondbacks, Chase Field is a beautiful ground. Being air-conditioned, this ground is ideal for watching matches in any season.  Further, the reasonable ticket prices make it an ideal destination for an outing with family or friends. Are you looking for more unique things to do in Phoenix? You can try tubing in the Salt River, visit the Arizona Science Center, watch NBA matches at the Footprint Center, or kayak in the Tempe Town Lake.  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  Nabamita Dec 8, 2022

If you are a frequent traveler, you know it can take tedious time to plan and organize travel arrangements and plane tickets. It helps if you have a reliable travel agency to do everything for you, so it becomes easier.  But I am sure you have seen that not all travel agencies are reliable or legit, so how will you know the difference without losing money? It would help if you read a thorough review of any travel agency, that's how.  So today, we are going to talk about whether it is Trip.com legit travel agency or not. Trip.com has been around for a while and still has questionable customer service and inappropriate customer reviews. So is trip.com legit? Or are we just wasting our time and money on it?  About Trip.Com Trip.com is a Singapore-based one-stop travel company listed by NASDAQ since 2003. It has over 400 million members and about 45,100 employees working in the company.  Trip.com is affiliated with about 1.4 million hotels and operates in approximately 200 countries and other regions. The company was established back in 1999. By now, they have over 2 million routes that connect over 5000 cities all over the world.  The company has a massive network and well-connected 24/7 customer service in more than 20 languages.  Recently, Trip.com, at the global partner summit, invited other travel agencies and industries to come to join them and build a future together. With the football World Cup happening in Qatar, Trip.com is taking advantage of stepping into the booming market as Qatar is becoming a travel hotspot.  Why Is Trip.Com So Cheap? While booking your tickets, you would prefer somewhere you get the best deals. Although there are several places where you can save your money while traveling, getting the best deals on plane tickets, hotels, and other travel expenses is a good thing.  And that is one of the great things about Trip.com, as they give the best deals on flights and hotels, making them a popular choice for most travelers. But how do they offer such low prices than other companies? Ever thought of that?  Since Trip.com sells to their customers directly, they can avoid other high costs from other agencies.  And another thing that Trip.com does is they give back a part of the commission taken from the hotels and all the airlines to the customers, as low fare costs. So this is how Trip.com stays ahead of its competition.  Is Trip.Com Legit? If the company's legitimacy is in question, then there is no doubt that Trip.com is a legitimate company operating worldwide. Furthermore, it's been twenty years since the company has been operable, so you can rest assured that they are here to stay and will not disappear one day.  The services offered by Trip.com through their website are safe to use, and you can easily access flights and hotels from the website if you want.  And regarding website safety issues, it is safe and secured using SSL encryption to ensure all your data privacy, like financial and personal information.  Read More: Top Trips For Travelling With A Big Group Of People Is Trip.Com Reliable? Relying on a certain travel company can be tough as hundreds of travel companies give great deals. So now the question is the trip com reliable? The easy answer is yes. The Trip.com Group is a huge multinational Chinese company that is one of the world's leading travel service providers. In addition, the company owns other travel companies, such as CTrip and Skyscanner.  Trip.Com: Customer Reviews A company that has been around for more than twenty years is sure to have a good reputation and reliability as a travel company. But the real reviews come from the customers who have already used the services of Trip.com.  So here are a few original customer reviews of Trip.com.  1. This is probably one of the worst companies I've been in contact with. I can't tell for sure whether it's unprofessional staff or deliberate sabotage, but I have not been able to rebook my flight for over 3 months already. I've been writing emails and calling literally every day, and the problem is not solved till now. Maybe this review will help save someone's nerves and, more importantly, money as it didn't save mine. Martin G. 2. If something goes wrong with your ticket they are not willing to help at all. My flight was canceled. They offered another flight, but without checking that the flight they gave to me was also canceled. When I found out from the airline and called them for help, they asked me to deal with the airline directly. I asked for a refund, but no answer from them. They don't care about customers at all. Julian R. 3. I booked a trip on Trip.com several days ago. When I went to review my flight details in the email confirmation, I realized that the outbound flight was not what I thought I had booked. Fortunately, I added a Cancellation Guarantee Package which was inexpensive. When I contacted customer service about the error, they responded quickly and explained everything in detail and clearly. They are processing a refund, and I can rebook the flight. I used Trip.com for a flight in June and was very satisfied. Great prices, great service. Will use them again for future travel. Alysa D.  Even though most of the reviews left by the customers are bad and negative, it is important to note that the company's customer service department replied. They tried to respond to almost 94% of the bad reviews and tried to solve their problems.  Not only the bad reviews. Trip.com even replied to the good reviews as well, showing their gratitude. So unlike most travel companies who ignore the negative reviews given by customers, Trip.com not only responds but tries to help them as well.  Read More: Do You Know How To Buy Cheap Air Tickets? Wrapping Up! Now that you are well aware of your question, is trip.com legit? You can decide whether you want to rely on Trip.com for your next trip plans.  But it is important to note that you shouldn't get discouraged due to the bad reviews as they are inevitable in every business. Rather it is important to know how the company deals with all those bead reviews and tries to improve itself.  So if you think Trip.com legit is worth taking a chance on, comment below on how you feel. Read Also: Vrbo.Com – Best Review By Users In 2022 Kayak.Com – Best Review By Users In 2022 Hotwire.Com – Best Review By Users In 2022 Priceline.Com – Best Review By Users In 2022

BY  Ankita Dec 26, 2023

The Smoky Mountains, a majestic range straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, evoke a sense of wonder and enchantment. Known for their mist-covered peaks, these mountains are a treasure trove of natural splendor and serenity. They beckon visitors with their captivating beauty and promise of adventure. Here Are Ten Prime Reasons Why We Love the Smoky Mountains This article explores the myriad reasons why the Smoky Mountains have captured the hearts of so many, from their stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity to their deep historical roots and breathtaking views. 1. Natural Beauty and Biodiversity One of the most compelling reasons to love the Smoky Mountains is their extraordinary natural beauty and biodiversity. Home to a vast expanse of old-growth forests, the Smokies boast a rich tapestry of plant and animal life. The diversity of ecosystems here supports a myriad of flora and fauna, some of which are endemic to the region. From the blooming wildflowers in spring to the dense green canopies in summer, the mountains offer a constantly changing panorama that never ceases to amaze. 2. Cozy Accommodations A trip to the Smokies is made all the more special by the array of cozy accommodations nestled in the heart of nature. The Great Smoky Mountains cabins are a highlight, offering a rustic yet comfortable stay amidst the scenic beauty of the mountains. These cabins range from luxurious to modest, catering to all preferences and budgets. Staying in a cabin allows visitors to immerse themselves fully in the tranquility of the mountains, whether it's waking up to the sight of fog-laden hills or relaxing by a fireplace under a starry sky. 3. Hiking and Outdoor Activities For outdoor enthusiasts, the Smoky Mountains are a paradise. The area is crisscrossed with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, each leading to its own unique discovery. Hiking in the Smokies provides an opportunity to explore the lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and stunning vistas. The Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte or the trek to Clingmans Dome are just a few examples of the memorable hiking experiences the Smokies offer. Beyond hiking, the mountains are also perfect for camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. 4. Rich Historical Heritage The Smoky Mountains are steeped in history. They tell tales of the indigenous Cherokee tribes and the early European settlers who made these mountains their home. The area is dotted with historical sites that offer a glimpse into the past. From the preserved log cabins and grist mills in Cades Cove to the remnants of old Appalachian communities, these historical landmarks provide a deeper understanding of the region's heritage and the resilience of its people. 5. Breathtaking Views and Scenery Perhaps what captivates people the most about the Smoky Mountains are the breathtaking views and scenery. There is an ethereal beauty in the way the morning mist envelops the hills, giving the mountains their smoky moniker. The views from overlook like Newfound Gap or the peaks of Chimney Tops are awe-inspiring, offering panoramic vistas of the sprawling landscape. Each season adds its own touch to the scenery, from the vibrant autumn colors to the serene snow-capped winter hills. 6. Unique Wildlife The Smoky Mountains are not just a haven for nature enthusiasts but also a sanctuary for wildlife. The diverse habitats within the park support an incredible variety of animals. Visitors might catch a glimpse of black bears, elk, white-tailed deer, and numerous species of birds. The synchronous fireflies, a rare and beautiful phenomenon, draw spectators from all over. Wildlife viewing in the Smokies is a reminder of the region's ecological richness and the importance of preserving these natural habitats. 7. Seasonal Beauty Each season in the Smoky Mountains paints the landscape with a different palette. Spring brings a burst of wildflowers, covering the meadows in vibrant colors. Summer offers lush greenery and an abundance of outdoor activities. Autumn is particularly spectacular, with the foliage transforming into brilliant hues of orange, red, and yellow. Winter, often quieter, cloaks the mountains in serene whites and grays, offering a peaceful escape. The Smokies' ever-changing seasonal beauty ensures that every visit, no matter the time of year, is unique and enchanting. 8. Recreational Activities for All Ages The Smoky Mountains cater to visitors of all ages, making it an ideal destination for families. Beyond hiking, the park offers a range of activities such as horseback riding, bicycling, and picnicking. The nearby towns provide additional entertainment with amusement parks, museums, and cultural events. The Smokies are a place where families can both enjoy adventure and create lasting memories together. 9. Tranquility and Relaxation Amidst the scenic beauty of the Smokies lies the opportunity for tranquility and relaxation. The natural surroundings offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visitors can find solace in the quiet of the forests, the soothing sounds of streams, or simply by taking in the majestic views. The Smokies provide a space to unwind, reflect, and reconnect with nature. 10. Accessibility and Visitor Facilities The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not only a natural wonder but also accessible and visitor-friendly. The park has well-maintained roads, trails, and facilities, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for all visitors. The visitor centers offer educational exhibits, guides, and information, making it easy for everyone to explore and learn about the park. This accessibility allows more people to experience the beauty and wonders of the Smokies. Conclusion The Smoky Mountains captivate the hearts of visitors for countless reasons. From their stunning natural beauty, unique wildlife, and historical significance to their tranquil ambiance and accessibility, the Smokies offer a diverse and enriching experience. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or a family getaway, the Great Smoky Mountains provide a perfect backdrop. As a cherished natural treasure, the Smokies continue to inspire and allure visitors year after year, leaving them with memories and experiences that last a lifetime. Read Also: For Adventure Lovers: 9 Exciting Things To Do In The Smoky Mountains Swiss Delights: Mountains, Lakes, And Chocolate Explore The Beauty Of The Mountains Of Kenya!