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

The travel scene in the world has not evolved since the Pandemic – people have now realized that countries around the world have their doors to tourists again in the absence of strict covid travel guidelines. In fact, the summer of 2022 has witnessed so many stories about overcrowding, travel mishaps, and even dangerous heat waves at major tourist destinations across the world, especially in Europe.

However, things in Asia have been a little different. As Asian countries are taking more time to open their doors to tourists with far lesser reports of flight cancellations or lost luggage, it has been seen tourists are not really coming back. One of the biggest examples of this strange travel phenomenon is Japan.

Japan Is Open To Tourists Now: So Why Aren’t They Coming Back?

Japan opened its doors to tourists in the summer of 2022 to a whole lot of fanfare, and that too at a time which is generally considered to be peak tourist time for travellers in this country. However, according to the Japanese Immigration Services Agency, only a meagre 1,500 tourists visited the country between June 10th and July 10th.

The data points out how the numbers have gone down by a solid 95% as compared to data obtained during the same period of time before the Pandemic. Perhaps one of the possible reasons for the sharp decrease in tourists is because the country is only allowing leisure tourists and those too tourists who visit with ‘organized groups’ and not individually.

Melissa Musiker, a PR professional based in New York City, commented in this context, “We don’t need to be babysat” – Melissa used to be one of the frequent travellers to Japan before the Pandemic.

So is Japan ruining its tourism industry because of its own rules, or is it because of some other strange reason nobody is aware of yet? Only time will tell us – till then, we can only speculate.

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Barsha Bhattacharya is a senior content writing executive. As a marketing enthusiast and professional for the past 4 years, writing is new to Barsha. And she is loving every bit of it. Her niches are marketing, lifestyle, wellness, travel and entertainment. Apart from writing, Barsha loves to travel, binge-watch, research conspiracy theories, Instagram and overthink.

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From Hiking to Stargazing: The Top 10 National Parks in Utah! [A Travel Checklist]

BY Sarmind SafiFeb 23, 2024

Welcome to the country of red rock canyons, expansive views framed by arches and sandstone spires. Spreading national forests, vast wilderness areas, quaint state parks, and five national parks in Utah make up more than seventy-five percent of its land area that is open to the public. The southern portion of Utah is home to all the state's national parks. The "Mighty Five" are worth the hype, from the breathtakingly steep yet sublime Zion Canyon to the mind-blowing hoodoos of Bryce and the famous Delicate Arch. Additionally, these parks offer at least a dozen hidden gems, peaceful trails, and less-traveled roads for every must-see highlight. How, then, can one outwit the masses? The easiest solution is to leave when other people aren't. This may mean a trip in the winter, when the temperatures are much more bearable than in the sweltering summer, and the snow adds an extra magical quality to the hoodoos. Since all national parks in Utah are accessible year-round, you can schedule a stargazing expedition or a sunrise tour. However, bear in mind that the hours of local eateries and visitor centers change if you visit during the off-season, which runs roughly from November to February. Despite this, you can find cheaper lodging during this time. Here, being proactive pays off very well. Popular hikes have permits that sell out months in advance. The most sought-after lodges and campgrounds (particularly those inside the park) frequently have a year-long waiting list. You can make a lot of these reservations at www.recreation.gov. The top attractions of the national parks in Utah, listed from east to west, include must-see locations, undiscovered treasures, and insider advice for maximizing each trip. National Parks in Utah How many national parks in Utah, you ask? The answer is easy because they call it the “Mighty 5” for a reason. Here, we are listing all the state parks in Utah that you could plan a visit to. We are also going to help you with all the stuff you must pack when planning a trip. Zion National Park With its soaring canyon walls and hanging gardens, Zion National Park, the first of the national parks in Utah and the 13th in the United States, is a popular destination on many people's bucket lists. The park's main road now closes to private vehicles during peak season (March to October) due to its increasing popularity, requiring visitors to take a shuttle. One advantage is that you can bike this almost flat, picturesque drive. You can rent bikes and e-bikes in nearby Springdale (check out Zion Cycles). Two to six months in advance of your trip, you must apply for a permit if you plan to hike the popular Angels Landing trail. If possible, stay at Zion Lodge or in neighboring Springdale. Make reservations up to 13 months in advance for any lodging in or around Zion. Explore the park's Kolob Canyons area or the more sedate paths off Kolob Terrace Road when you're ready to forgo the tourist traps. Bryce Canyon National Park At Bryce, the main draw is the bizarre spires that have been formed over millions of years. Ultimately, this location has the highest concentration of these hoodoos worldwide. The best (and quickest) way to satisfy your thirst for hoodoo views is to take the main park drive and take the Navajo Loop from Sunset Point or the Queen's Garden Loop from Sunrise Point. Try a portion of the 23-mile Under-the-Rim Trail or one of those trails down to Fairyland Loop for a more immersive hike. Take the back entrance into Bryce Amphitheater via Tropic Trail from the small town of Tropic to have some hoodoos all to yourself. While there, you can also have lunch at i.d.k. Barbecue a state favorite. Bike the dirt Thunder Mountain Trail or the paved Red Canyon Path to discover a more sedate hoodoo landscape. The historic Lodge at Bryce Canyon is the perfect base camp for exploring the park; however, if reservations are unavailable, consider lodging at one of the nearby hotels in Bryce Canyon City. We also think Under Canvas Bryce's campsites are great. Capitol Reef National Park The quietest of the national parks in Utah boasts a magnificent environment that is attributed to the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile geologic wrinkle in the earth. Petroglyphs and the historic Fruita Orchards, which the park still cares for, are two of the area's unique attractions. Try the fresh pies at Gifford Homestead, which is close to the park entrance and made with local fruit, such as apples or peaches.  Take a leisurely stroll along the former main highway through Capitol Gorge. Or brave the steep trail to Cassidy Arch, where there are rumors, that Butch Cassidy escaped the law. If you have a decent 4WD car, you, too, can escape (from other travelers). Notom-Bullfrog Road intersects with Burr Trail Road, another backcountry route, and leads to Lake Powell. Burr Trail leads to Boulder, the starting point for Grand-Staircase Escalante National Monument and the location of Hell's Backbone Grill, possibly the best restaurant in Utah. It stays open in spring through fall. You should make reservations in advance. If you stay in one of the lodges in this small town that is only five minutes from the park, Boulder is close, but Torrey is closer. Canyonlands is divided into five distinct districts, each providing a unique experience. Island in the Sky is a place of expansive vistas. Don't miss Mesa Arch or Shafer Trail Viewpoint. The Needles District is a great place to go hiking. It's only about 20 miles south of the Island in the Sky as the crow flies (two hours drive). One of the best hiking routes is the action-packed Cave Spring Trail. It features a replica of an 1880s cowboy camp and mushroom-like rock formations. Canyonlands National Park Get lost in the Maze. Other worthwhile stops in this backcountry district are Chocolate Drops and the Land of Standing Rocks. See amazing petroglyphs, including floating "holy ghosts," by traveling to the non-contiguous Horseshoe Canyon unit. For a rafting adventure, head to the River District, which is at the base of the canyons formed by the Colorado and Green Rivers. The best place to stay for most of the park's district is Moab, which provides quick access to the park's rivers, the Needles, and Island in the Sky. Arches National Park Arches, the inspiration behind Ed Abbey's famous Desert Solitaire, has evolved significantly since 1968. Because of its increased activity, the park service is currently testing a timed entry system that will require reservations in advance from April to October 2023. However, it is possible to avoid a Disneyland experience. If you arrive before sunrise or remain past sunset, you will be rewarded with quieter trails and golden light that casts a glow over the arches. Be an early bird or a night owl. This is feasible because Moab's closest lodging options are situated sufficiently near the park's entrance. If you would prefer not to get up early, reserve a campsite at Devils Garden up to six months in advance or take a ranger-led tour to see the Fiery Furnace area, which is accessible only with a permit. Travel Checklist When Visiting the National Parks in Utah Planning a trip to the national parks in Utah is as fun as it is a massive plan to come up with. You must be well prepared for the weather you will be subject to both in the day as well as night. The few days that you will spend here will be nothing short of an adventure. Here is a list of things that you must have with you if your destination includes the national parks in Utah. Hardy Water Shoes The red desert dirt in Utah can be extremely sticky. You should invest in good water shoes if you intend to go river rafting, canoeing, or kayaking. When participating in water activities, flip-flops are not advised. They will become stuck in the mud and either break or get sucked down the river.  Your feet will be safe if you hike the rocky Virgin River through the Narrows in Zion National Park wearing rubber-toed shoes covered with firm soles. (Near Zion's Springdale entrance, you can rent an entire dry gear outfit, including shoes.) Blacklight Flashlight Scorpios are nocturnal creatures that hide during the day. Use your black light to identify them; the light from it causes these odd creatures to glow. Don't worry too much about scorpions because there is only one species in the Southwest that is thought to be deadly. Sun Protection The strength of the Utah sun only needs to be experienced once, especially in the desert, where there isn't much shade to be found. There will be certain hikes you take or picnic tables you sit at where there isn't a single spot to hide from the sun and heat of the desert. If possible, bring a wide-brimmed hat to cover your entire face. That would be better than a baseball cap. Next, cover all exposed skin, including the back of your neck, with sunscreen. Don't forget to wear sunglasses for eye protection. Polarized lenses will improve your vision and shield your eyes from burns. Recall that at 8,000 feet, you are closer to the sun than you are at sea level. If you're going to be on the water, get some sunglasses straps. It's annoying to watch your new shades drift away with you. Rain Jacket You might wonder, who takes rain jackets into the desert? Yes, we do. Each time we come to town. Even the desert experiences occasional, albeit brief, bursts of rainfall. You want a jacket that will keep you dry and warm when it pours, and the temperature drops. Hiking Boots Bring a pair of supportive, water-resistant, and breathable hiking boots to maximize your experience. These will make it easy for you to travel both dry and wet trails, allowing you to go farther than you otherwise could have. They also shield your feet from trail stones, cactus needles, and maybe even snakebites. Here's a staff member who can't stop gushing about his Sportiva Synthesis Mid GTX to get you started on your research. Vasque Skywalks GTS was highly appreciated by our friends at Backpacker.   Water Bottle Carry a sizable water bottle that you can fill with your garden hose prior to packing if you intend to go camping. With the jug, you can travel with water wherever you go. This means you can cook, stay hydrated, and make coffee in the morning even if you find yourself at a campsite without water. A water pump is typically available at campsites so you can replenish as needed. Hydration The air in the desert is so dry that perspiration quickly evaporates. Often, sweating is invisible to you. By staying hydrated, you can prevent dehydration, which can cause headaches as well as more severe ailments like heat stroke and cramps. Make a drinking plan of 5 to 1 liter for each hiking hour. Make sure to continue drinking even when you are not recreating. You are hydrated if your urine is clear. We adore carrying our CamelBak with us so we can continue to sip while we're out and about.  Warm/Cool Clothes Temperatures in the national parks in Utah desert can vary by up to 30 degrees in a single day. So, pack light clothing for the day and warm clothing for the evenings. Include a winter hat for when the sun sets, and the cooler air moves in. As for national parks in Utah, this is particularly crucial in the fall, winter, and spring. Temperatures here can drop sharply after precipitation and sunset. Maps There are an amazing variety of trails and overlooks in each of Utah's five national parks. Having a map is beneficial. You can either get your maps in advance and get them now, or you can wait until a park ranger hands you one at the entrance station. Get the NatGeo Utah National Parks Map Pack, which includes detailed topographic maps, at REI.com or download free PDF maps. Star Chart/App The national parks in Utah have some of the darkest skies. You can recognize some of the formations you might not have noticed otherwise with the help of a star chart. Particularly so if you are traveling from an urban area. Alternatively, you can make use of technology and download the SkyView app for Android or iPhone. This app allows you to point your phone at objects to identify stars and other objects. In contrast to the 500 stars in an urban sky, you might be able to see up to 15,000 stars in a desert. It's a long way off! Tablecloth The little things add up to a significant impact. Pull out your tablecloth when you stop for lunch at the weathered picnic table by the side of the road, and you'll go from rustic to elegant in an instant. Additionally, by avoiding leaning against the table, you'll prevent difficult-to-remove splinters. Bug Spray Rather than swatting insects, spend more time taking in the beauty. These days, there are many bug sprays made from natural ingredients that are safer for kids to use if you don't want to use harsh chemicals. Our choice is the Sawyer 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent, which is great for families. According to Consumer Reports, this formula offers the best defense against mosquitoes. In addition to being highly effective against ticks and biting flies, Sawyer's insect repellent won't harm tools or equipment. Wrapping Up The national parks in Utah serve as a living example of the amazing natural beauty and geological marvels that abound in the American Southwest. These protected landscapes preserve the natural heritage of the area. They also provide an opportunity for visitors to engage with the profound forces that have shaped the Earth over millions of years. The terrain ranges from the majestic red rock formations of Arches and Canyonlands to the captivating canyons of Zion and Bryce Canyon. The national parks in Utah invite us to discover, value, and safeguard the delicate wonders that make our planet truly remarkable. They serve as entry points to adventure, education, and environmental stewardship. In addition to creating lifelong memories, experiencing Utah's breathtaking scenery also helps to continue the legacy of conservation, guaranteeing that these natural treasures will be appreciated for many years to come. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about national parks in Utah, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: From Festivals To Spas: The Top Things To Do In Park City Utah From Museums To Parks: The Top Attractions In St George Utah A Guide To Adventure And Nature: The Best Things To Do In Moab Utah For Outdoor Enthusiasts

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World’s Legendary Locations That Will Mesmerise You

BY Ariana SmithDec 22, 2021

Every traveler dreams of a World tour at least once in a lifetime and what could be better if you could visit the world’s legendary locations for free. Some unbelievable locations on earth which are hard to believe that they actually exist are reachable. We are not aware but there are plenty of breath-taking legendary locations undiscovered.  We humans mostly use terms like ‘legendary locations’, ‘mystical locations’, ‘magical locations’, 'legendary places'  when we wish to define something unreal or unbelievable or too beautiful to believe in our own eyes. Often writers have made these legendary locations a part of their story to make them more significant. We might not be even aware of what all could be such possible locations that can be legendary.   There are some beautiful existing places on earth that exist but we are not aware of those places. What could be better if you could visit these places for free? This means that there will not be any extra expenditure for visiting these legendary locations.  Also Read: Must Visit Places in New York  Top 10 Legendary Locations in the World It is very unrealistic to visit legendary locations in real but they do exist and you can visit them at least once in your lifetime.   1. Pink Lake Hillier, A Legendary Location in Australia The sight of the pink Hillier lake is just mesmerizing and it is very hard to believe that it exists. A Royal navy explorer had found out about this legendary lake which is a strawberry milkshake in color. Many must have found this legendary location in fairytale stories but nobody must have believed that it actually exists.   2. Haiku Stairs, A Legendary Location in Hawaii This legendary location is also known as a stairway to heaven which is found in Oahu in Hawaii. This is the greatest attraction on Hawaii island, whose specialty is the beauty of the location along with all possible risks. There are 3922 stairs in this Haiku Stairs of Hawaii, which is vertically inclined to a mountain ridge. There is only one handrail which would be your support if you are about to fall. These Haiku stairs were built for a purpose in 1942, by the US navy as a top-secret facility through which they would transmit radio signals to the ships in the Pacific Ocean.  3. Mont Saint-Michel, A Legendary Location in France More than 2.5 million visitors visit this place in France every year. This legendary location is one such location that is often used in many Fairytales and many Hollywood movies. This historical monument is clear evidence of the mastery and expertise of the builders of several generations. Mont Saint-Michel of France has been built over a period of 1300 years, hence several generations worked for this place. This monument is placed on a tidal island which means that only during tides this place becomes a tide.  4. Ajanta and Ellora Caves, A Legendary Locations in India Ellora Caves of India is another legendary vision that one must visit at least once in a lifetime. This cave is a world-recognized cave because it is the largest monolithic excavation in the world. This cave also represents the epitome of Indian rock-cut architecture. A number of Indian movies and Indian novels have a clear mention this legendary place. This model has 34 caves constructed together in disguise.  5. Underwater City in Shicheng, A Legendary Location in China A legendary ancient city that was established at least 1300 years ago is currently placed 26-40m underwater. This city was constructed on a valley in China, which was flooded in 1959. Very few people know about the history of this place, and many of the Chinese are not aware of this place. Long ago there was a mountain in China named “Wu Shi Mountain” which means 5 Lions and a city was built at the foot of this mountain named, “Shi Cheng” which means Lion City. Now, this legendary location has become an underwater exploration location.  6. Chefchaouen, A Legendary Locations in Morocco  This is a small town in Morocco that has been often a film shooting location for romantic scenes or merrymaking scenes in movies or music videos. The most interesting thing is the blue walls of the town. The blue color represents the blue sky according to the Jewish community. Hence the Jewish residents of morocco painted the town blue.   7. Perito Moreno Glacier, A Legendary Location in Argentina The most interesting fact about this legendary location is that Perito Moreno Glacier is not located in Perito Moreno town. So you might know why is the glacier named Moreno? It is named after the famous explorer Fransisco Moreno. The word “Perito” means a specialist. This glacier covers100 sq.miles and it is 3 miles wide being the largest freshwater lake in the world. When scientists all over the world are worried about all the glaciers melting due to global warming, this Perito Glacier is a surprise to humankind. This glacier is expanding at least 2 meters per day. This is one of the most adventurous trekking locations and is unbelievably beautiful.  8. Cappadocia, A Legendary Location in Turkey This place is not only mystical but also magical and the beauty of this legendary location is unbelievable. Cappadocia is a semi-arid region in Turkey and this place is famous for the “fairy chimneys” of this place. This place gives a feel of whether Mars is on earth or specifically in Turkey. It is also often called “Moonscape” not just because it looks like a moon but because it is actually wonderful.   9. Moraine Lake, A Legendary Location in Canada This lake is a glacially-fed lake that is 14 km outside the village of Lake Louise. The place is a valley named Ten Peaks. The interesting fact about this lake is that this lake is 6000+ feet above sea level. The surface area of Moraine Lake is at least 50 hector. The image of this lake is also in the $20 dollar and many other such significant items. This lake does not allow swimming due to the presence of a large number of flora and fauna in it.  10. Dark Hedges, A Legendary Location in the UK  This place has been photographed most number of times, there is nothing much unique about this place but still, the place is considered to be very legendary just the way nature has designed it. The famous show: Game of Thrones has been featured on this location quite many times in different scenes. The Dark Hedge is very famous for the road that runs in between the woods and driving could be the best activity there.  Bonus: Transfagarasan Road, Romania Named by Top Gear the best driving road in the world, a road trip on Transfagarasan Road in Romania will be a memorable experience! The road offers spectacular scenery with every twist and turn. At the top, you'll see 2,500m high mountains on both sides and Transylvania's plains in the distance - jaw-dropping landscapes you'll want to take your time to enjoy fully and take lots of pictures! If you're planning to visit Romania this legendary place should be on your list of places to see! There are many such mesmerizing legendary locations in the world that you might visit, we have listed some of them for you. Make sure you add all these places to your checklist while you visit any of these places on earth. Also Read: Never Miss These Places in Mexico

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Prepping For Your Winter Trip To Salt Lake City

BY Barsha BhattacharyaSep 21, 2023

When the temperatures drop and the first snowflakes begin to blanket the mountains, every winter enthusiast knows it's time to prep for a thrilling snowboarding season. And if you're aiming for the cream of the crop in snowboarding destinations, Salt Lake City (SLC) should be at the top of your list. But, as with every great adventure, preparation is key. So, whether you're a seasoned boarder or a newbie looking to catch your first drift, here's a detailed guide to make your winter trip to SLC unforgettable. 1. Gear Up Before you hit the slopes, ensure you've got the right gear. Depending on your skill level, you may want to buy or rent your equipment: Snowboard and Boots: A snug fit is crucial for boots. For boards, if you're starting, opt for a softer board for flexibility. Seasoned snowboarders can pick as per their preference. Clothing: Layering is essential. Invest in moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof and windproof outer layers. Make sure to skimp on a good pair of gloves, snow socks, and a beanie. Protective Gear: Helmets are a must. Additionally, consider wrist guards, padded shorts, and even knee pads. 2. Get Fit Snowboarding isn't just about the right gear; it's physically demanding. Consider adding some fitness prep to your routine. Incorporate strength training, balance exercises, and cardiovascular workouts to ensure you're slope-ready. 3. Research The Resorts SLC boasts multiple world-class resorts. Do your homework: Brighton: Known for its welcoming vibe to beginners. Snowbird: Challenging terrains that promise adrenaline-pumping sessions. Park City: Offers a blend of slopes for all, plus a lively town atmosphere. 4. Book In Advance. Winter in SLC is peak season. To get the best deals and ensure you're included in the cold, book your accommodation, snowboarding lessons (if needed), and any other experiences well in advance. 5. Limousine: Ride In Style Now, let's address the most luxurious part of your trip – arriving in style in a limousine. Why opt for a regular car when you can elevate your travel experience with a limo ride? Here's why a limousine is perfect for your ski resort experience. Space Galore: With all your gear, luggage, and maybe even a group of fellow snowboarding enthusiasts, a limo ensures ample space without cramping anyone's style. Comfort and Luxury: After a tiring day on the slopes, there's nothing like sinking into the plush seats of a limousine, sipping on a warm drink, or maybe even watching a movie on the built-in entertainment system. Safety: Limousine services prioritize safety. In the icy conditions of SLC's winter, trust a professional driver to navigate the roads while you relax. Making a Statement: Arrive at your resort with panache. Only some days, do you get to make an entrance that people remember! 6. Explore Beyond Snowboarding While snowboarding will be your primary activity, SLC offers more. Try ice skating or snowshoeing, or indulge in hot cocoa in one of the city's cozy cafes. Explore the historic Temple Square or catch a renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir performance. 7. Respect The Environment Remember, the pristine white landscapes aren't just for our enjoyment. Respect the environment. Stick to marked trails, dispose of waste responsibly, and maintain a safe distance from wildlife. 8. Stay Updated On Weather Conditions. Mountain weather is unpredictable. Always keep an eye on the forecast. Being caught off-guard in a snowstorm is not just inconvenient but can be dangerous. 9. Bond And Make Memories The best part of any trip is the memories you make. Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or with friends, cherish the moments. Capture photos, make snow angels, indulge in snowball fights, and above all, let loose and have fun! In Conclusion A winter trip to Salt Lake City offers adventure, relaxation, and sheer beauty. As you glide down its powdery slopes, with the backdrop of the majestic mountains and the city lights in the distance, you'll realize why this preparation was all worth it. And, as you round off your day, stepping into a luxurious limousine, you'll truly appreciate the blend of thrill and luxury that only SLC can offer. Safe travels and happy snowboarding! Read Also: Best Restaurants In Honduras To Visit While Traveling Indian Buffet Near Me In Florida – Best Buffets For You Top 15 Restaurants In Colombia You Must Visit While Traveling