Navigating The Unseen: Exploring The Most Dangerous Country in The World

BY  Sibashree Sep 30, 2024

High in the mountains, Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming harbors a great ecosystem for wildlife viewing. It is just south of Yellowstone, another great destination for exploring diverse wildlife.  Further, as you indulge in the exotic beauty of the Teton Mountain Range and the Snake River, you will meet bison, bears, mountain lions, red squirrels, and even wolves. It is also home to the most colorful western tanager, bald eagles, and many other adorable birds. Are you charmed by the stealthy nature of reptiles and vipers? You can find garter snakes and rubber boa snakes here.  Fascinating! Isn’t it? Let me share a complete overview of wildlife at Grand Teton National Park. Don’t Miss Your “Spot” To Watch The Grand Teton National Park Animals You may not be a fan of Sheldon Cooper (from Big Bang Theory) and his obsession with his favorite spot. At Grand Teton National Park, you must know about the right spots for wildlife viewing.  Here, I have curated the best spots within the park where you can meet wildlife without causing any disturbance in the space wild creatures demand.  Oxbow Bend Oxbow Bend is one of the most beautiful vistas of the Grand Teton National Park. You often see a grizzly mother bear (grizzly No. 399) taking a stroll with her cubs. Further, the wetlands are mooses.  Oxbow Bend also attracts thousands of colorful birds and reptiles who graze around or visit to drink water here.  Moose Wilson Road The Moose Wilson Road stretches between the Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center and the entrance of Granite Canyon Park.  It is hard to resist taking adorable snaps of bears indulging in berries here. You will also find moose in the wetlands.  National Elk Refuge Spanning 25,000 acres, the National Elk Refuge has 7,000 elk. The best time to visit the National Elk Refuge is between mid-December and early April. Take a horse-driven sleigh ride to meet Elks from a close distance.  The National Elk Refuge also has bison, mountain lions, bald eagles, and bears. Moreover, if you are lucky enough, you can meet wolves here.  Kelly Loop and Antelope Flats Kelly Loop and Antelope Flats are like a hidden gem in Grand Teton National Park. Look at the sagebrush to find a pronghorn or bison passing by.  Grand Teton National Park Animals (Mammals, Birds, Reptiles, Unusual Ones And More) Grand Teton National Park is a perfect coexistence of various species and a wonderful depiction of dependence in the food chain. Let’s find out who has made a home in this beautiful wilderness. Mammals At Grand Teton National Park As you explore the Grand Teton National Park, a small or big mammal will always be around you. Grizzly and black bears are the most prominent animals in the park, and you will also meet bison, moose, bighorn sheep, or elks.  Also, this park has wolves, wolverines, and mountain lions.  Small mammals in the park include red squirrels, chipmunks, Uinta ground squirrels, and long-tailed weasels.  Further, yellow-bellied marmots and squirrels will be your companion as you hike through the trails in the park.  Are you looking for mammals in the water? You will find the adorable muskrats, river otters, and beavers swimming around.  Do you know that moose is the largest antlered animal in the world? A moose can store 100 pounds of food in their stomach.A male moose can weigh as much as 1400 pounds.  Birds At Grand Teton National Park https://www.instagram.com/p/CgNiUMRMfpW/ The vibrant feathers of the western tanagers here are a treat to the eyes. Further, you will meet the calliope hummingbird, trumpeter swans, bald eagles, ospreys, and sage grouse in the park.  Do you know that Grand Teton National Park is the home to The calliope hummingbird? It is the smallest bird in North America and weighs even less than 1/10th ounce. Also, the largest waterfowl in North America, The trumpeter swan, lives here near spots like Swan Lake, Oxbow Bend, National Elk Refuge, and Flat Creek.  Do you want to watch birds romancing with their mates? Find out trumpeter swans moving in pair with their mate for life and sage grouses displaying their courtship in the sagebrush.  Reptiles At Grand Teton National Park https://www.instagram.com/p/CDlzaa-oYU5/ This nation is home to snakes such as rubber boa, valley garter snake, and wandering garter snake. These reptiles are found near the waterbodies in the park. You will also find the northern sagebrush lizard here. It is the only lizard species living in the park.  Amphibians At Grand Teton National Park  Despite a high elevation, cold temperature, and a dry climate, this national park has five species of amphibians. These are: Columbia spotted frogs Western tiger salamanders Western toads Bullfrogs Boreal chorus frogs Northern leopard frogs were found earlier in this area but have become extinct. If you want to spot these amphibians, you must visit Taggart Lake or String Lake.  Native Fish At Grand Teton National Park https://www.instagram.com/p/CgnT_ImrdGZ/?img_index=1 The native and non-native fish at Grand Teton National Park are vivid. Some (for example, mountain suckers) survive on mountain algae, while others (for example, cutthroat trouts) eat small fish and insects. For many animals and birds, like bald eagles, fish is the primary food source in the park. Further, fish is a secondary food source for the local inhabitants. In addition, by eating insects and algae, a fish keeps the spread of these elements in check.  Native Fish At Grand Teton National ParkUtah suckerFine spotted cutthroat trout of Snake RiverMountain suckerSpeckled daceUtah chubBluehead suckerNon-Native Fish At Grand Teton National ParkRainbow troutBrown troutLake troutGuppiesGoldfishGreen swordtail You will also find many aquarium species at Grand Teton National Park.  Species At Risk At Grand Teton National Park Grand Teton National Park is home to many species at risk and species of concern. Further, it has whitebark pine trees, which are up for listing.  Whitebark Pine Trees: Up For Listing  The invasive disease of blister rust and mountain pine beetles greatly harms these trees.  Alarmingly, an NPS Survey (2018) says that 57% of the trees were affected by blister rust, while the beetles harmed 30%. In addition, 40% of the total vegetation died.  Only 15% of the trees were able to produce cones. The pine nuts and seeds are an important food source for grizzly bears, squirrels, nutcrackers, black bears, and other animals in the area. Further, these trees play a crucial role in trapping and retaining snow, as well as in preventing the melting of snow. Thus, they prevent the erosion of steep slopes in the park. Do you know that grizzly bears eat whitebark pine nuts during hyperphagia? Hyperphagia refers to overeating before going into hibernation. These nuts are rich in protein and fat.  Species Of Concern After a magical recovery, Grand Teton National Park’s bald eagles are no longer endangered. However, these birds still fall into the category of the species of concern. Other species of concern in the national park are greater sage grouse and grey wolves. You will find the bald eagles near the Gros Ventre and Snake Rivers. They love eating fish and sometimes prey on carrion, waterfowl, and other small mammals. Greater sage grouse here are known for the most poetic display of their mating in the spring season every year. You will find them in spaces in the sagebrush.  Species At Risk  As a part of the Greater Yellow Ecosystem, Grand Teton National Park is home to around 800 grizzly bears. It has made a recovery from the list of endangered species after a long conservation endeavor and is now a species at threat or risk. Other species at risk at this national park are: Canada lynx Yellow-billed Cuckoo Western glacier stonefly The park gets filled with the knocking call of the yellow-billed cuckoo in the spring.  Small Creatures At Grand Teton National Park Insects play a very crucial role in the food chain system. They help pollinate flowers, function as nutrient recyclers, and feed many animals. So, when you see a violet lupine in Grand Teton National Park, you must know bees are around.  Along with bees,  Grand Teton National Park also has small and mighty ones, such as the Army Cutworm Moth (the food of grizzly bears during the fall season), Bark Beetles, carrion beetles, etc. Beetles are very important for the ecosystem of Grand Teton National Park. They break down woody plants and help return the nutrients to the soil. Further, carrion beetles recycle the minerals found in the corpse of an animal. Thus, these insects help with the decomposition and recycling of essential nutrients.  Over three million people visit Grand Teton National Park every year. Along with wildlife viewing, you can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, climbing and mountaineering, and backcountry camping here. So, gear up for the best experience in the wilderness.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! 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BY  Abdul Aziz Apr 28, 2023

As the winter season comes to an end, it's an excellent opportunity to plan a trip to a spectacular destination around the world. Europe offers a diverse selection of breathtaking locations for the spring season, catering to every preference and taste. If you're looking to travel in beautiful European towns, the most efficient mode of transportation is by bus. It not only saves time, but it also allows you to see more of the beauty Europe has to offer. However, organizing a bus tour in Europe can be a daunting task for an event planner. You must take into account various factors, such as selecting the right destinations and ensuring the safety and comfort of your passengers. Yet, with meticulous planning and keen attention to detail, you can orchestrate an enjoyable and unforgettable bus tour experience for everyone involved. For those interested in preparing an enjoyable bus tour in Europe, continue reading as we explore some of the best tips. So, do you want to know more about the tips for making your European bus journey special in detail? This guide can be of help. Further, I will share brief accounts of the bus tours you will enjoy the most.  Let the fun begin! THESE Are The Things You Need To Follow To Make Your Bus Tour In Europe More Enjoyable  If you assess the Tourist Bus Market in the world, you will find Europe to be one of the key players in the market. To be more specific, market data shows that Europe has the second-largest Tourist Bus Market globally. It is just behind North America. This market data shows that tourists prefer exploring the continent in buses. Furthermore, the Tourist Bus Market of the UK is the fastest growing in the entire bus tourism scenario of Europe.  However, despite the favorable scenario of a bus tour in Europe, you need to keep the following tips in mind to make the experience more enjoyable.  One of the best ways to plan an enjoyable bus tour in Europe is to get an Europe bus tour operator. An experienced tour operator can provide valuable insights into the best destinations, routes, and transportation options. They can also help you plan activities, accommodations, and dining options that are tailored to your group's interests and budget. Additionally, they can assist you in securing permits, visas, and insurance, which can be overwhelming for first-time organizers. 1. Determine The Interests Of Your Group Before you start planning your itinerary, it's essential to determine the interests of your group. Are they history buffs, nature lovers, or foodies? Knowing your group's interests will help you plan activities and attractions that they will enjoy. For example, if your group is interested in history, you might want to include visits to some of the best museums in Europe and historical landmarks. If they are nature lovers, consider including a hike or a visit to a national park. If they are foodies, include visits to local markets, food festivals, and restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines. 2. Allocate Time Effectively When planning your itinerary, it's important to allocate time effectively. Don't try to cram too many activities into a short period. Allow enough time for your group to explore at their own pace and have some free time to relax. Be mindful of the time of day and avoid scheduling activities during rush hour. Remember that not everyone in your group will have the same level of energy, so plan activities that are suitable for all ages and fitness levels. 3. Prioritize Comfort And Safety To Enjoy Your Bus Tour In Europe Last but not least, comfort and safety should be a top priority when planning a bus tour in Europe. Choose a reliable and comfortable bus company that can provide you with good accommodation when it comes to your group's size. They should also be able to ensure an enjoyable and safe ride. Make sure the bus is equipped with air conditioning, comfortable seats, and a restroom. Consider booking accommodations that are centrally located, easily accessible, and offer amenities like free Wi-Fi and breakfast. Ensure that your group is aware of safety protocols and emergency procedures, and provide them with the necessary contact information in case of an emergency. 4. Get An Experienced Tour Operator An experienced tour operator can provide valuable insights into the best destinations, routes, and transportation options. They can also help you plan activities, accommodations, and dining options that are tailored to your group’s interests and budget. Additionally, they can assist you in securing permits, visas, and insurance, which can be overwhelming for first-time organizers. Bus Tour In Europe: Places To Visit! 1. Florence And Pisa Bus Tour In Europe  Pocket Pinch: 25-40€  The Florence and Pisa bus tour is one of the best in Italy, and this is a great opportunity to see one of the seven wonders of the world on a budget. You will find multiple bus tourism packages, and they often include a visit to the Piazza dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other important places included in these tours are Siena, Tuscany, and San Gimignano. Moreover, you can include a delightful wine and food tour in your plan to visit Florence and Pisa on a bus tour.  2. Barcelona Bus Tour Pocket Pinch: 36€ For Adults And 15€ For Kids Barcelona Bus Turistic and other tourist bus services in Barcelona make exploring this intercultural city delightful. Especially, with Barcelona Bus Turistic, you can enjoy a ride in an open-top double-decker bus. Further, you can ask if the bus service has a day pass or not. The places of attractions on this tour are Park Güell, Passeig de Gràcia, Barcelona’s Stadium, etc.  3. Tour Of The Famous Grindelwald Pocket Pinch - 235-310 Swiss Franc Grindelwald Bus and other tourist bus services offer you a comfortable detour to the famous Grindelwald. The bus network here covers the local and mountain lines. The highlights of the tour are First Cliff Walk, Glacier Canyon, Mount First, etc.  4. Terceira Island Pocket Pinch: Around 42€  A half-day bus tour in Terceira Island, Portugal, is enough to discover the best viewpoints, including Serra do Cume, here.  Further, you will love the pristine white beach of Praia da Vitória.  5. The Ruins Of The Ancient City Of Pompeii Pocket Pinch: 95€ Pompeii is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and this ancient city was engulfed by ash with the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. 1748 and 1763 were two important years in the history of Pompeii, with Spanish engineering discovering the site and an inscription being found about the name. Today, the remains of Pompeii stand as the telltale of the best days of Imperial Rome.  More Bus Tours In Europe The options for bus tours are endless in Europe. You can even visit the following places by booking a tourist bus pass or ticket. Lake Myvatn Stockholm Castle And Gripsholm Castle Ireland Britain France Switzerland Spain Italy Balkan Valley For a traveler in Europe, bus services are one of the best modes of communication. Along with booking a tourist bus, you can also take an intercity bus service to visit one state from another. Eurolines, National Express, OUIBUS, etc., have the largest intercity bus networks in Europe.  Read Also: Top 5 Travel Tips For Your Next Trip To China 9 Things Every Traveler Should Know When Visiting Shanghai

BY  Sibashree Nov 29, 2025

Hostels run by local families are the most budget-friendly accommodation in Kotor, Montenegro. Like the cats protect the city, these hostels offer tourists a place to relax and rest.   However, as I mentioned in my Kotor Montenegro budget travel guide, the hostel I stayed in was not the most famous one. The humble place of my pen-friend (or email-friend 📧) was more than an accommodation for me.   First of all, he has a lovely family, with his wife, a CA, and his business partner in this venture, and his children, kindergarten students. They were very warm, and I grew especially close to the children, and we played with cats.   Furthermore, I saw a humble hostel turning into a most happening social hub in the evening. Everyone, from hikers to local business owners and artists, gathered there to talk about life, the next hiking trip, and what’s new in the city.   Now, Kotor is replete with such hostels, and some of them are so famous that people know them by name. In this Kotor, Montenegro, hostel guide, I will discuss these hostels, their rates, and some essential tips.   Why Did I Stay In A Hostel?   First things first. For me, Montenegro was a trip of more than 1000 kms. And I thought about visiting Montenegro mostly because I learned about it from my friend there. So, staying at my friend’s hostel, while traveling solo, was the safest option for me.   The next thing was the budget. It was $20 per night and well within my budget limit. Furthermore, as Petar, my friend, had promised, I met many people with common interests there. It was like an annual meet for backpackers and digital nomads.   Also, almost everything about the hostel stay was spontaneous. Somebody would say, “Let’s go for a walk on this route tomorrow,” and everything would get planned accordingly. The next day, I would discover that I was hiking on one of the most beautiful routes near Kotor, Vrmac Ridge.   Someone else would bring hot pastries and share them with all the hostel members. So, my Kotor, Montenegro travel itinerary was like a community activity, where locals and visitors met for the first time, with the common goal of indulging in the most immersive experience in Kotor, Montenegro.   A Kotor Montenegro Hostel Guide: Top Budget Hostels In Kotor  If you want to know about the most amazing Kotor Montenegro free activities, the hostels can function as the best information centers. These will also help you know about the best local eateries and transport tips.   Nevertheless, here are the top budget-friendly hostel options in Kotor, Montenegro, that you must try.  1. Old Town Hostel  Address: Stari Grad 284, Kotor 85339, Montenegro  View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝕆𝕝𝕕 𝕋𝕠𝕨𝕟 ℍ𝕠𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕝 𝕂𝕠𝕥𝕠𝕣 🇲🇪 (@oldtownhostelkotor) The Old Town Hostel offers the perfect fusion of budget-friendly living and historical charm. Being housed in a 13th-century building, this hostel will win you over with its stunning exterior and interior.   The location of the hostel in the heart of Kotor’s Old Town further makes it a popular choice. The price of staying at this hostel is around $15-25 per night.   Furthermore, the amenities at this hostel include pub crawls, a kitchen, and free Wi-Fi.  In addition, it conducts tours of North and Great Montenegro.   2. Montenegro Hostel 4U  Address: Dobrota Donji Put BB, Kotor 85330, Montenegro  If you want a quiet accommodation from the hustle and bustle of city life, Montenegro Hostel 4U offers the best vibe. It has a beachfront location. So, you will have to walk for just 5 minutes from the hostel and reach the beach to soak in the Sun.   Also, the nearby bakeries, supermarkets, and restaurants ensure that you have access to everything you need. This hostel has amenities such as bike rentals and a community kitchen for Kotor Montenegro cheap eats.   The tariff for staying at this hostel is around $12-22 per night.   3. Hostel Pupa  Address: 254 Njegoševa, Kotor 85330, Montenegro  View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝙃𝙊𝙎𝙏𝙀𝙇 𝙋𝙐𝙋𝘼 𝙆𝙊𝙏𝙊𝙍 (@hostelpupakotor) How about staying in a hostel inside a 150-year-old stone house? It was renovated in 2017, and today, it has six big bedrooms, two large shared bedrooms, and two lounge areas.   This hostel is especially suitable for couples and solo travelers. Furthermore, it is a favorite among foodies, as it is close to six restaurants serving the best seafood and authentic local cuisine.   Moreover, the hostel has free air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. In addition, you will love the bay views from the outdoor terrace of this hostel.   4. Freedom Hostel Budva  Address: 21, Old Town, 85310 ME, Cara Dušana, Budva, Montenegro  View this post on Instagram A post shared by FREEDOM HOSTEL, BUDVA (@freedomhostelbudva) Freedom Hostel Budva stands out with its rustic charm. I was taking a stroll and found it beside the fourth gate of the Old Town of Budva.   The hostel comes with a bicycle rental facility. Also, the guy at the reception told me that they offer tours of the Old Town and the nearby beach. The tariff here is around $15-20 per night.   5. Centrum Hostel  Address: Stari Grad 458, Kotor 85339, Montenegro  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Centrum Hostel Kotor (@centrumkotor) Centrum Hostel is a popular choice if you are a Dark Academia fan or a history buff who wants to enjoy the views of the Medieval Town Square.   It is most suitable for digital nomads as it has stable Wi-Fi connectivity, and it exudes a fun coworking vibe. The price for staying at this hostel is $14-22 per night.   The hostel offers special amenities such as live music nights, bike tours, and AC rooms.   6. Stranger Tides Hostel  Address: Dobrota 220, Kotor 85330, Montenegro  Stranger Tides Hostel is one of the most family-friendly hostels in Kotor, Montenegro. You will love the most beautiful view of the Fjord of Boka Bay from this hostel. Its quaint charm is hard to avoid as it is located inside a 1000-year-old stone house.   Furthermore, walking to the beach from the hostel, with a downhill journey of around 150 meters, is a delightful experience. The famous beaches located near this hostel are Bajova Kula, Plavi Horizonti, and Orahovac.   The price of staying at this hostel is around $12-20 per night.   7. Montenegro Backpackers Home  Address: 390 TRG OD Muzeja, Kotor 85330, Montenegro  The Montenegro Backpackers Home is all set to welcome travelers after a full renovation in the 2026 season. The dormitories of the hostel are air-conditioned, yet they never fail to exude the most authentic vibe.   A shared kitchen, adequate luggage storage, and organized walking tours are the main amenities offered by the hostel.   The tariff of the hostel is around $15-23 per night.   8. Old Town Homestel  Address: Stari Grad, Kotor, Kotor Municipality, Montenegro  Old Town Homestel is a unique boutique-style hostel perfect for couples. The tariff of this hostel is around $16-24 per night.   The hostel is located near St. John's Fortress and other major attractions of the city. It is also close to the Kotor Bay. St. Tryphon Cathedral and the Maritime Museum.   9. Guesthouse STEP  Address: Put I Bokeljske Brigade, Dobrota, Montenegro  It is a party-friendly location and famous for hosting BBQ nights. The stay price at this hostel is around $14-$21 per night.   Also, it has a beautiful terrace and a communal kitchen, which is like the heart of the hostel.   10. Kotor Nest Coliving  Address: 444, Kotor 85330, Montenegro  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kotor Nest | Coliving (@kotornest) With networking events, a dedicated workspace, and fast internet, Kotor Nest Coliving is the ultimate hostel designed for remote workers.   The tariff here is $20-$30 per night.   What Are Basic Amenities Offered By The Hostels In Kotor, Montenegro?   Free Wi-Fi  Lockers.  Shared Kitchens  Common Lounges  Some hostels also have rooftop terraces, and they offer bike rentals and organized tours.   What Are The Best Neighborhoods For Hostel Stays?  The most suitable locations for the hostels depend on the kind of experience you want. The Old Town of Kotor is ideal for history lovers.   On the other hand, the Dobrota area is ideal for beach access. Finally, the Muo area, with its quiet charm and scenic beauty, is an ideal location for hostels.  What Is The Seasonal Pricing & Booking Hacks For Kotor Hostels?  Pricing and Booking Hacks Details  Average Price Range • Dorm Beds: $14–$25 Per Night • Private Rooms: $35–$70 Per Night.  (The Price May Vary During High Seasons and Holidays.) High Season • June to August  • Price is 30–50% Higher in the Summer Season.  • Reserve at least 4-6 Months Before Your Visit Shoulder Season • April to May and September to October  • Price is 20–30% Less than the Summer Season.  Off-Season • November to March  • Price is $10-$15 Per Night.  • Look for Lon-Stay Discounts.  What Are The Booking Hacks For Kotor Montenegro Hostels?   Explore platforms such as Hostelz.com to compare hostel prices.   Book hostels with free cancellation policies.  Try to find and use promo codes or seasonal codes for hostel booking.   Last-minute booking, especially during the peak season, can cost more. Insider Tips For Budget Travelers   Eat at local bakeries for cheap meals.  Use public buses for day trips.  Join hostel-organized tours for discounts.  Safety Tips For Solo Travelers  Kotor, Montenegro, is safe for women and solo travelers. However, to remain safe, you must choose hostels with lockers and 24-hour reception.   Check reviews of the hostel you are planning to stay at, and do not leave your valuables in the common area.   Kotor Montenegro Hostel Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Here are the frequently asked questions and answers related to the Kotor, Montenegro hostel guide.  1. Are Hostels In Kotor Open Year-Round?  Yes, hostels in Kotor, Montenegro, are open year-round. However, during the winter months, November to March, many of these hostels remain open.  So, you must check with the hostel you are planning to stay at over the phone.    2. How Far Are The Hostels From The Bus Stand?  The popular hostels of Kotor, Montenegro, are located around the Old Town. So, most of these hostels are around 10 to 15 minutes away from the bus stand.   3. What Is The Best Time To Book A Hostel In Kotor?  The best time to book a hostel in Kotor is around 4-6 weeks before your arrival. Following this timeline ensures that you get the best rates.  If you are making a booking 48 hours before or after, you may even have to pay extra prices.