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BY  Sibashree Sep 12, 2024

I stood before the remnants of the South Pueblo walls, looking over the Mission Church on an autumn day last year. Looking at the archaeological site and standing below the blue fall sky, I was transported to the time of the American Revolution.  Further, I could hear the noise of a bustling trade fair with people from the Pecos Pueblo community doing business. However, the historical importance of the park is much beyond its association with the American Revolution. It is also related to the Civil War in New Mexico and the Independence of Mexico.  So, with centuries of human history etched in every corner, the Pecos National Historical Park is an intersection of past tales and nature. To be honest, The Pecos Pueblo and Santa Fe Trail were the biggest highlights for me when I was at the national park.  Therefore, my ode to the park will start with brief accounts of these places. Then, I will talk about the Glorieta Pass, again a site of historical importance in the park. Finally, you will have a quick look at the park's wildlife.  Pecos National Historical Park: A Land Of Historic Wars And Revolutions  The history of human lives in the Pecos National Historical Park goes back to the Preceramic Period or the 11,500 B.C.E. - 600 C.E. However, the Pecos Pueblo site in the park became a prominent place in the history of the American Revolution in the Early Colonial and Pre-Revolt era.  Spanish people started interacting with the Pueblo people. Further, thanks to the Franciscan Missions, the Spanish rule wanted to have command over the economic life and beliefs of the Pueblo people.  Thus, the first seeds of the American Revolution were sown. To combat the oppression of the Spanish people, the Pueblo Revolt took place on 10th August 1680. As a result, the Spanish Government and Franciscan Friars were expelled from the southwest under the leadership of  Po’pay from Ohkay Owengeh. The Spanish Mission Church, built in 1625, was also destroyed in the revolt of 1680.  However, in 1692, the Spanish People further reclaimed the Pecos Pueblo and many other pueblos. Finally, the Pueblo people declined in numbers in 1700. Before, during, and after the first American Revolution, The Pecos Pueblo emerged as an important location with significant events around it!  Further, around 200 years later (1821-1846 C.E.), another site in the park, the  Santa Fe Trail, witnessed travelers, settlers, and everyone else passing through it. The trail was opened in 1821 after Mexico gained its independence from Spain.  The remains of Pecos Pueblo stood there! By the 1830s, the migration of the Pubelo people was complete, and everyone had shifted to the Pueblo of Jemez and continued their traditions.  Moreover, in 1862, there was the “Battle of Glorieta Pass.” On 26th March 1862, this battle between the Union forces and Confederates occurred at a 700 feet elevation.  The Pecos Pueblo Site Today  https://www.instagram.com/p/Cto5MWnS5Oa/ The rise of the Pecos Pueblo site occurred between 1350 C.E. and 1838 C.E. The Pueblo site had two units, the north and south, and could accommodate around 2000 people. Further, it had 1000 rooms. Therefore, Pecos Pueblo thrived as a busy trading center with trade fairs involving people from Rio Grande Pueblos, Plains Nations, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Pacific Coast. The flint arrowheads and shells found here explain the expansive stretch of the route.  Nevertheless, with time, Pecos Pueblo became instrumental in eliminating Spanish oppression and rule. Still, a drop in the trade, Comanche attacks, and diseases deserted Pecos Pueblo. By 1838 C.E., the last resident of the Pueblo had left and joined the Pueblo of Jemez.  Today, the site stands as a relic from the past. However, it is still equally important for archaeologists and historians.  The Santa Fe Trail  Do you know what the Santa Fe Trail marker near Kozlowski's Trading Post says? It says,  Santa Fe Trail 1822-1879 Marked by the daughters of the American Revolution and the Territory of Nex Mexico.  With the independence of New Mexico and the western territories becoming an annexure to New Mexico, the Santa Fe Trail became the route or passage to the westward movement. Naturalists, journalists, travelers, aspirants, traders, and others took this passage as part of the American expansion. Colonel Henry Inman’s “Stories of the Old Santa Fe Trail,” published in 1881, describes the trail well. If you are a history buff, you must read this book well before visiting the Santa Fe Trail today!  “Kozlowski’s Stage Stop and Trading Post” is the highlight of this trail. You can spend some time here to visualize travelers from the past catching some rest after a long journey through the trail. When on the trail, you can explore the remains of the Pueblo and the Mission Church. You can even consider taking a guided tour of the Forked Lightning Ranch.  Glorieta Pass Battlefield Trail  https://www.instagram.com/p/B9xRKctnb3M/ Important Details About the Glorieta Pass Battle1. Reason for Conflict: Union forces and Confederates wanted to control the Glorieta Pass Route through the Sangre de Cristo mountains and the main supply center (Fort Union) for the passage of soldiers and supplies. 2. Contenders: The Confederates, with volunteers from Texas and under the leadership of General Shipley and the Union forces led by Colonel Canby, and soldiers from Fort Union, New Mexico, and Colorado. 3. Battle Begins: March 26, 18624. Reinforcements: 27th March, 18625. Battle Resumes: 28th March, 18626. Battle Ends: 29th March, 18627. Casualty: Death of 375 People 8. Consequence: The Union forces defeat the Confederates as they fail to ruin the Fort Union. Further, the Union forces maintain complete control over Southwest America.  The Glorieta Battlefield Trail is a popular hiking destination today in Pecos National Historical Park. It is a roundtrip loop, and you will have to cover a distance of 2.25 miles to complete your expedition. Further, the unpaved or graveled hiking route makes it moderately difficult for the hikers. In addition, there is an elevation gain of 152 meters.  You have to drive for around 7.5 miles from the main visitor center of the park. You will need to collect a gate code from the visitor center, which is your access code, to open the locked gate in front of the trail.  As you walk through the forest trail, you get to know more about the Civil War in New Mexico. Many infographics are installed throughout the trail, telling you tales from the past. In addition, there are wayside signs and 14 trail markers to explain the history of the battle on this pass in detail.  More About Hiking The Glorieta Pass Battlefield Trail  Time: Around 1 hour Refreshments (Hikers’ Favorites): Pecos Burger at El Maria Bonita (With a lot of meat and a smoky green chilly flavor!) and Chips and Salsa, of course! The Trail Guide you collect from the visitor center already keeps you hooked on the site's history. Indeed, this trail is less about hiking and more about flipping through the pages of the American Civil War in Mexico.  Let’s Hear It From Other Visitors To The Park  “Really nice park. Easy to find and it is free! Inside the visitor center, they had a really great exhibit that followed the pecos overtime. It was super informative and brought a lot more meaning to the actual park. After looking around the exhibit, you can take the trail up and around the park and church. It's amazing that the walls are still there. The view around the park is also beautiful. We spent about 2 hours here.” - Isabelle M. “I really enjoyed this park. My husband didn't care for it but I think it's really amazing what is still here. He thinks it's all recreation and I can't say if it is or not but I know the current Pecos people don't see it that way. It's pretty awesome that it's free to visit and the visitors center has a little museum that's also free! The trail starts near the restrooms. We accidentally started it from the end. But who cares. We saw everything and I recommend checking it out. Native people history is really cool.” - Lydia G. Exploring Wildlife At The Pecos National Historical Park https://www.instagram.com/p/CA-hAl8nrUW/ This historical national park is a hub of wildlife with a 6,500-acre expansion of forests, rivers, grasslands, and streams. The table below enlists the species that call the Pecos National Historical Park their home.  MammalsElk of Northern New MexicoColorado Chipmunk DeerRock SquirrelBirds*Steller’s JayMountain BluebirdBald EagleFish and AmphibiansRio Grande ChubLongnose DaceRainbow TroutBrown TroutNew Mexico Spadefoot ToadWoodhouse ToadTiger SalamanderPlains Leopard FrogReptilesShort-horned LizardNew Mexico Whiptail LizardBull SnakesGarter SnakesPrairie Rattlesnakes You will find the Prairie rattlesnakes along the trails. So, please exercise caution and inform the ranger if you come across one on your way.  A Quick Glance At Some Important Information About Pecos National Historical Park You must quickly look at the important information available about Pecos National Historical Park before you set in. Location: San Miguel County, New Mexico Established: 28th June, 1965 Area: 27 km² Highest Landscape: Truchas Peak, 3990 Meter Visitor Center: Pecos National Historical Park Visitor Center How to Reach: Via State Road 63  Entry Fee: Free Best Time to Visit: Autumn (Early September to Mid October) Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego. Kootenay National Park Or The Land Of Ice And Fire (Experiencing Nature’s Game Of Contrasts)

BY  sagnika Mar 11, 2025

A great city to visit, New Orleans is vibrant, sweeping you off your feet with its diverse beauty! The Mardi Gras events, colorful jewelry, delicious cuisine, world-class musicians, amazing architecture, and rich history of the place bring together an amazing experience.   But with that beautiful culture, there is also a hint of fear, especially with the crimes and history of violence the place carries. You need to pay attention to the people around you, and the surroundings, manage your expenses, check your alcohol consumption, and walk across high-trafficked areas.   Additionally, you will be charmed by the place but do not forget to be aware of your environment. You can also book accommodation at New Orleans family hotels! Additionally, you can also go on free walking tours, and food tours, and adhere to the safety tips shared with you.   Is New Orleans Safe as a Solo Traveller: Shared Experience!   The city is a mix of art, tradition, culture, and a lot of Gangsta! Yes, New Orleans experiences a lot of negative press especially when violence in the city is over-advertised. While the strong sense of community is not highlighted as much.   People look after each other in New Orleans, especially with the cultural exchange and festivities. If you live in the city, of course, you will love it, after all, it is your place. However, if you are a tourist, you will fall in love. One of the best exotic places to travel, you must visit New Orleans once in your lifetime!   Yes, the place has its issues, every place in the world does. There might be a little concern when it comes to violence along with the drug crisis. It is, therefore, important to understand why you need to be cautious when roaming alone in the city.    Let's explore the places you must visit, eat food at, or stay at which are safe for a solo traveler. Additionally, I will also offer you tips on how you can stay safe in New Orleans. Even though most of the areas where tourists stay, or visit is quite safe.   Tips to Stay Safe in New Orleans   The areas such as the Garden District, the French Quarter, the Warehouse District, and the Central Business District where the tourists frequent a lot are quite safe. Yet, it is important to have basic common-sense practices that you must engage in to be safe.   If you see any family in New Orleans with kids, know that there are enough fun things to do with them too. It is not just perfect for young or solo travelers. Furthermore, there are several family activities in New Orleans such as visiting the museums, national parks, and others.   Book Accommodations at a Busy Place   Try to book your well-lit accommodation, especially if you like wandering around at night. If you are someone who likes to experience the nightlife of a place, it is better if you book your rooms in an area with heavy traffic.   Try to book rideshare with Lyft or Uber when you are returning late at night. An extra layer of security is when you have the option to request a female, or a male driver based on your preference. It is not always safe to get on public transport, especially late at night when you might not get any help if a crisis arose.   Be Careful of What You Drink and Where   New Orleans is a party, creating a vibrant and fun vacation for you. Alcohol is an important part of this vacation and of course, you can drink when you are out enjoying yourself. Yes, you can visit the closest beach to New Orleans to experience the relaxed but vibrant vibe of the place.   However, I would suggest trying to control the amount. Please do not leave your drink unattended so, even when going to the bathroom, take it with you. Cover your drink when you are in a crowded bar, and this advice is for both men and women.   Petty Crime   When you go out in New Orleans, try to keep your expensive watches, jewelry bags, or cameras in the safety of your hotel room. This way, you will not attract any unwanted attention from people by ill means.   In a crowded street, you need to keep your wallet, money, and other essentials in your front pockets. Be aware and careful of your surroundings, also try to wear your bags across your shoulder so it is not that easy to snatch them while passing.    Beware of the Scammers   If you look like a tourist, you are done! There are scammers everywhere and if you look like a tourist, you are an easy target. If you are visiting the city during carnival time or festivities, a lot of scammers can try to sell things as souvenirs at a high price.   Additionally, try not to be too polite because scammers take advantage of your nature. They identify you based on your behavior and stalk you to learn your ways so that they can take advantage of your weaknesses.   Try not to engage with anyone, whether it is about money, time, conversation, or smile especially if they are strangers. Keep walking if anyone is repeatedly trying to engage you and also say no to drinks or food coming from strangers.    Things You Can Do in New Orleans Alone   I travel alone frequently, and if you are planning to travel to New Orleans alone, let me share with you some of the top places to visit. A colorful city, New Orleans has a rich history where you can view beautiful architecture along with delicious cuisine.   How can you forget the lively music scene that is available on most streets of New Orleans? Try to follow the common practices when out in the street so that you don’t seem out of place for fraudsters. Let's explore the top things you have to do to be safe and still enjoy your vacation alone!   Top Places to Visit   These are some of the places you must visit if you are traveling to New Orleans. Especially as a solo traveler, if you are wondering if is New Orleans safe, you should visit these places to experience the beauty of it all.   Take a walk across the French Quarter: One of the most popular places in New Orleans, the vibrant history of the place along with the buildings and their architecture will take your breath away. If you are traveling alone, it is better if you take a guided walking tour or else you might miss things!   Visit the Whitney Plantation Tour: If you want to learn more about the history of Louisiana’s slavery, you should visit the Whitney Plantation. You will gain a profound understanding when you see all the preserved buildings along with powerful exhibits. These exhibits tell the stories of enslaved people who used to live there.  https://www.instagram.com/p/C0kJjreMV8y/?ref=badge Go to a Jazz National Historical Park: If you are a music lover, you will fall in love with this park because it offers you live music. Additionally, some exhibitions and performances will educate you about the rich jazz heritage of New Orleans.   Book a Swamp Tour: Are you a wildlife enthusiast? If so, you gotta go experience the swamp tour where you can sport wild boars and alligators in their natural habitat. Furthermore, you also get to learn more about how these places are maintained.   Top Restaurants and Bars   Several restaurants, pubs, and bars offer you delicious southern cuisine along with trademark drinks. One of the coolest places you can visit if you are traveling solo, Cochon is your go-to. Offering comfortable Southern food, you can enjoy diverse flavors.   Sazerac Bar is another place that you cannot miss, especially when it is known for its historical watering hole. It is known for its chilled atmosphere along with art deco interiors.   Travel Insurance   It is quite important to keep in mind that travel insurance is an important part of staying safe and secure, whether you are traveling solo or with family. The destination does not matter as long as travel insurance is a non-negotiable aspect when you are traveling.   If you face any unforeseen incidents, it is the travel insurance that helps you in weird situations. In the US, healthcare is expensive, so if you have travel insurance, you can manage any Healthcare insurance thus, footing the bill easily.   Yes, initially, Healthcare might be expensive but once you get it, your medical emergencies, lost baggage, and travel delays can be easily dealt with.   Places to Avoid in New Orleans   If you are traveling to New Orleans alone and wondering is New Orleans safe, I have the perfect answer for you. The place is perfect for solo travelers as long as you are a little aware and careful of your surroundings.   Additionally, there is also a possibility that you might be in a crisis, so for that, we have shared tips that will ensure that you enjoy yourself to the fullest. Read the blog and let us know how these tips have helped you.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit.

BY  Barsha Sep 18, 2023

Saving money with your trips can be your plan for the last five years, but you may have missed the opportunity all the time. Well, this might not be true for your condition but sure you have tension with travel costs for your next trip. Don't worry! We have got you covered this time! While booking flight tickets comes with crazy costs, we have the craziest deal for you. Black Friday is no longer a secret for the world; this time, you can grab the best vpn black friday deals online. Why is it important? Your search history and cache may increase flight costs every time, and you need to use a VPN. A secure VPN that you may have this black Friday can be your main saving partner. Use it while booking tickets and ensure that the price is low. We love to travel, and no doubt we want it as much as possible. Unfortunately, we do not get many long leaves in a singular calendar year. However, work is permanent, and we cannot skip it. Thinking of skipping work is dangerous as it may lead to mental frustration and a lack of dignity. By considering your skills and expertise, it's better to be agile with your working process. We cannot skip our working process and daily boring life, but we can take a break from it. How? Traveling to your favorite places by taking leaves once or twice a year can be a fundamental choice for your professional career without stress. Here, we will focus on your savings while traveling and have already considered one trick for you. Best Ways To Save Money On Your Trip Traveling can be expensive, but it doesn't have to be. With the right planning and a few simple tricks, you can save money on your trip without sacrificing fun or comfort. Whether you are a budget traveler or simply looking to cut costs, there are plenty of ways to save on everything from flights and accommodations to food and activities. Here, we will try to explore some of the best ways to save money during your trip and make the most of your travel budget. Save Money On Flight Booking Though we have already shared this idea with you earlier, let's explore it in detail. So, you have to plan ahead for your trip no matter how busy you are with your work. The more you plan, the better you can manage things on your budget. Well, if you are still not decided on your budget, consider it right now. We know that no one can ensure any particular budget right now, but at least you can go with the estimation. You must consider the advance deal if you want to go for a perfect trip without any headaches. However, it's crucial to prioritize safety alongside saving money. Opt for reputable airlines that prioritize passenger safety through investment in aircraft maintenance, whether it is by purchasing equipment like aircraft jacks or investing in rigorous maintenance schedules and procedures. Additionally, consider flight timings, layovers, and the airline's reputation to ensure a smooth and secure travel experience. While saving money on flight bookings is beneficial, it shouldn't come at the expense of compromising safety and comfort. Go For Rental Cars If you want to save money on your next trip, renting a car might be a good option. It can be more cost-effective than taking taxis or ride-sharing services and gives you more flexibility and freedom to explore your destination at your own pace. With a rental car, you can avoid the hassle of public transportation and the costs associated with parking in big cities. Additionally, you can make spontaneous stops and detours whenever you want without worrying about schedules or routes. So, if you are planning a trip soon, consider renting a car to make the most of your experience while keeping your budget in check. Avoid Hotels And Consider Airbnb Yes! You have heard it right. Hotels will give you rooms on the count, but if you get the whole house of a person? What about that? Well, Airbnb offers better houses at almost the same price as hotels. Apart from that, you will also get a caretaker while you are there at the house. How did it become possible? Well, people who often get out of their homes try to consider Airbnb for their house on rent while they are not home for a long time. This will allow you to search for a better property to stay within and also enjoy a home-like interior and care. It will save you money because you are paying for the whole house with rooms depending on the size, and that will fit all your members in the travel group. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons It is a no-brainer to understand that off-peak seasons come with cost-less visits. The more you pick these seasons, the better you can do more on a budget. Everything will be cheaper than you have imagined, from hotel prices to transport. Plan ahead and plan for the off-season tours. The more you try to indulge yourself in planning in advance, the better you can ensure budget-friendly trips. Don’t Be Afraid To Haggle When planning a trip, it's important to keep costs in mind. One way to save money is by haggling with vendors for a better price. Don't be afraid to negotiate, as it's a common practice in many countries. You may be surprised at how much you can save simply by asking for a lower price. Just be respectful and polite in your approach, and you may end up with a great deal on your trip expenses. Stay Off The Beaten Path When planning a trip, most people tend to stick to popular tourist destinations, which can often come with a high price tag. However, if you are looking to save money on your next adventure, it may be worth considering straying from the beaten path. By exploring lesser-known destinations, you not only have the opportunity to experience a more authentic and unique trip, but you may also find that prices for accommodations, activities, and food are significantly lower. Plus, you will likely encounter fewer crowds and have a more peaceful and relaxing vacation. To find these hidden gems, research online or ask locals for recommendations. Consider traveling during the off-peak season, as prices for flights and accommodations tend to be lower. And don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and explore areas that may not be as well-known. You never know what amazing experiences you may discover. Overall, staying off the beaten path can be an excellent way to save money and have a more memorable travel experience. So why not give it a try on your next trip? Read Also: Top 10 Best Travel Apps To Use In 2019 6 Expert Packing Tips That Will Make Your Trips More Fun Top Places To Visit In Italy On Your Next Travel Escapade