A Guide To National Parks In Alabama – Latest Guide

BY  Sibashree Dec 29, 2025

Timing is not just a tip to remember for divers in Raja Ampat. A change of season and the difference? It’s as big as having a glass boat ride to a Manta cleaning station and a bumpy trek through monsoon winds.   Known as the "Last Paradise," Raja Ampat sits at the heart of the Coral Triangle. Here, the seasons do not just mean the weather. The seasons also dictate the challenges the waters will throw at you and the giants you will meet.   In this guide on Raja Ampat diving season tips, I will start with a short answer about the diving seasons and then give you the details.   The Short Answer: Peak Vs. Off-Peak Season For Diving In Raja Ampat   Feature Peak Season (October – April) Off-Peak Season (May – September) Sea Conditions Calm, glassy water Choppy in the South, calm in the North Visibility Excellent (15m–30m) Variable (can be lower near islands) Marine Life Manta Rays, Whale Sharks, and Dolphins Resident Reef Life, Macro, "Walking" Sharks Crowds High (Book 12-18 months early) Low (Peaceful dive sites) Price Premium Potential discounts (10-20% off)  Have you already booked your dates? Check our guide on Raja Ampat diving trips for a detailed itinerary planning.   The Two Main Seasons Of Diving In Raja Ampat: A Detailed Breakdown  The character and conditions of the dive sites in Raja Ampat change in dry and wet seasons.   The Dry Season (October to April) The Wet Season (May – September)  • Low Winds  • Calm Water  • Ultimate Raja Ampat Liveaboard Season  • Ideal for Spotting Reef and Oceanic Mantas • High Southern Winds  • Misool Becomes Inaccessible  • Dampier Strait is Accessible  • Ideal for Spotting Snapper and Barracuda  Raja Ampat Marine Life Calendar  For you, the best diving season in Raja Ampat Indonesia depends on the kind of marine animal you want to encounter. Here, I will give you details about the Oceanic and Reef Manta Ray season, the whale and dolphin migration season, and the season for walking sharks and macro life.   1. Manta Ray Season (Oceanic Vs. Reef)  December to March is the best season for spotting these marine animals.   Manta Sandy cleaning station is great for Reef Manta sightings. Magic Mountain in Misool is one of the sites where you will find Oceanic and Reef Mantas together.   Furthermore, Dr. Setyawan, in a report published by Conservation International on 9th October 2024, has shared some interesting facts about the Reef Mantas. He mentioned that   “...reef manta rays can travel hundreds of kilometres, and there aren’t any obvious barriers to movement between these three regions in Raja Ampat.”  2. The Whale And Dolphin Migration (November – December)  You will find Pilot Whales and different dolphin species in the deep channels of the Dampier Strait in November and December.   3. Walking Sharks & Macro Life (Year-Round)  The endemic Walking Sharks, or Raja Ampat Epaulette Sharks, are visible in the water year-round. Night dives are the best to watch these marine creatures in action.   You will also spot the Pygmy Seahorses and Nudibranchs across all seasons.   Regional Differences: The Misool Vs Dampier Strait Season  Let’s check out the regional differences in Raja Ampat across seasons. 1. Dampier Strait (North/Central)  Sheltered by large islands, the Dampier Strait offers safe diving conditions even when the wind is high.  So, you can dive here safely in all seasons.   2. Misool (South)  Thanks to the southern monsoon, crossing Misool is dangerous in the wet season. The frotier is wilder than the north and central zones.   Raja Ampat Diving Season Tips For Liveaboard Vs. Resort  There is no "bad" time to visit Raja Ampat, only the "wrong" region for the season. If you want Mantas and luxury liveaboards, aim for January. If you want solitude and budget-friendly resort stays, June in the Dampier Strait is a hidden gem.  1. The Komodo Switch And The liveaboard Season   In May, about 80% of the liveaboard fleet sails west to Komodo National Park to follow the dry weather. If you want a luxury boat experience, you must visit Raja Ampat between October and April.  2. Choose Diving Resorts For Off-Peak Season Diving   If you are traveling in the summer, between June and August, you must choose the land-based resorts in the Dampier Strait. These resorts offer stability, and you can take shorter boat rides to reach the dive sites. Enjoy the low-season pricing.   What Are The Expert Tips For the Raja Ampat Diving Season?  You cannot fear the rain when you are diving in Raja Ampat. Also, the consistent temperature of the water in Raja Ampat makes diving possible, especially in the Dampier Strait sites.  Here are some other things to remember if you are diving in Raja Ampat.   Expert Tips What It Means Don't Fear the Rain It is a rainforest; it rains even in the dry season. The fish don't mind, and you're already wet.  The "Green Water" is Good Lower visibility often means plankton, and dense plankton is the "dinner bell" for Manta Rays. Book Christmas Early This is the busiest window, and some boats sell out 2 years in advance.  Currents and Moons For the most intense fish action, book your trip during the New or Full Moon.  Surface Intervals Use sun protection in the dry season and bring a windbreaker for the wet season boat rides.  Water Temp is Constant It stays 28 to 30 degrees Celsius all year. A 3mm wetsuit is plenty.  Check Boat Locations Ensure your preferred boat hasn't already moved to Komodo for the summer. Flight Reliability Pad your travel schedule in July/August, as wind can delay small island hops or ferries.  Raja Ampat Diving Season Tips For Photographers: The Lens Guide  Seasons  Ideal Lens What to Capture  October to April Wide Angle • Perfect for Capturing Mantas  • Sweeping Schools of Fish  Split Shots with Blue Skies  May to September Macro Lens • Fluctuating Visibility  • Perfect to Focus on Pygmy Seahorses, Blue-ringed Octopus, and Ornate Ghost Pipefish.  Late April and Early October (The Shoulder Season Secret) Macro Lens  • These are Sweet Spots, and You Get to Frame the Calm Transition of the Marine Animals.   • Still, the Crowd of the Big 5 is Not Intense as the December and January Holidays.   Raja Ampat Diving Season Tips: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Raja Ampat diving season tips.   1. What Is The Absolute Best Month To Dive Raja Ampat?  January is the absolute best or the prime month to dive in Raja Ampat. You get peak visibility, around 25 to 30 meters in the water, and it is the ideal month to spot Reef and Oceanic Mantas due to plankton increases.  Furthermore, all the regions, the south, the central, and the north, remain accessible this month.   2. Can I Dive Raja Ampat In August? Yes, you can dive in Raja Ampat in August. In fact, August is a great month if you want to explore Cape Kri and Blue Magic without the crowd. However, if you are diving in Raja Ampat in August, stick to the sites in Waigeo, Gam, and Mansuar and along the Dampier Strait in the North and Central zones. 3. When Is The Best Time For Whale Sharks In Raja Ampat? October to April is the best time to see Whale Sharks in Raja Ampat. You can find them in Misool and the Dampier Strait sites. However, for a better and more certain visibility of Whale Sharks, you must visit Triton Bay, south of Raja Ampat. The Full Moon Nights are ideal for spotting Whale Sharks.  4. Is The Wet Season Cheaper In Raja Ampat? Yes, the wet season is cheaper in Raja Ampat as it is the off-peak season for diving. In the diving resorts, mostly concentrated around the Dampier Strait Region, you will get a discount of around 10-15%. There is also a hefty discount on the diving packages. On the other hand, the liveaboards will offer around 20-30% discount in the wet season.  5. What Is The Water Temperature Like Year-round In Raja Ampat? The year-round water temperature in Raja Ampat is around 28 to 30 degrees Celsius. One of the best things about diving in Raja Ampat is the incredibly stable, bathtub-warm water. Because the archipelago is located just one degree from the equator, you won't experience the dramatic temperature drops or "thermoclines" found in other parts of Indonesia, like Komodo or Bali.  6. Do I Need A Dry Suit Or A Thick Wetsuit In The Off-season? No, you don’t need a dry suit or thick wetsuit to dive in Raja Ampat, even in the off-season. It is because the temperature of the waters here hovers around 28 to 30 degrees Celsius throughout the year. A 3mm thick wetsuit is enough if you are doing deep diving. It ensures that your body does not lose temperature rapidly. It also protects you from the irritants in the water and helps in buoyancy. 7. Does Visibility Change With The Seasons In Raja Ampat? Yes, visibility changes with the seasons in Raja Ampat. However, remember that having clear water does not mean the ideal condition for spotting the marine life in Raja Ampat. In the dry season, from October to April, the visibility is around 15 to 30 meters. Still, from December to March, nutrient-rich currents flood the archipelago. This creates "green" or "particulate" water. While this might frustrate wide-angle photographers looking for a pure blue background, it is the "dinner bell" for Manta Rays and Whale Sharks.Furthermore, during the wet season, from May to September, the visibility is 10 to 20 meters. However, this is an ideal time for many photographers as the water is clearer due to the lack of plankton blooms. 8. When Do The Liveaboards Move To Komodo? The famous Indonesian Switch, or the transition of liveaboards to and from Komodo, happens twice a year. In April and May, the peak diving season in Raja Ampat approaches its end. So, 80% of the liveaboards in Raja Ampat move toward the Komodo National Park. These liveaboards often pass through the Banda Sea and the Forgotten Island, where you can spot hammerhead sharks in late April and May. Again, these liveaboards return in September and October as Komodo starts getting heavy rainfall, but the water of Raja Ampat becomes still. On the way, you can spot deep-sea pinnacles and incredible whale shark encounters in Triton Bay or the Banda Sea.  9. Is It Safe To Visit Raja Ampat During The Monsoon? Yes, the rainy season does not mean a complete shutdown for tourists to Raja Ampat. In fact, the central zone (Dampier Strait) and areas such as Waigeo/Gam remain quite accessible even in high winds due to the protection of huge land masses. However, the diving sites in the southern zone of Misool are risky in these months.  10. When Is The Best Time For Underwater Photography In Raja Ampat? The best time for underwater photography in Raja Ampat will depend on the kind of backdrop you want. The waters of Raja Ampat always amaze you with an impressive marine life. October to November is the time for the best all-round photography experience. You will get calm seas, returning Mantas, and massive schools of baitfish. Great for wide-angle and split shots. Also, for a truly unique photographic subject, aim for the Full Moons in October and November. This is when the reefs often experience mass coral spawning. It is a spectacular nighttime event that turns the water into a "snow globe" of biological activity.Again, January and February are ideal for framing the Manta action. Plankton blooms can create "green" water, but offer world-class Manta displays. These are the months for macro specialists. The months of March and April offer peak visibility. You will now find the clearest water of the year (30m+). Ideal for large reefscapes and blue backgrounds.Finally, June to September is ideal for shooting the empty reef and macros in action. 

BY  Abdul Aziz Jun 24, 2024

If you are planning to fly out of an airport this travel season, you need to spend a little time thinking about how you will get there. Transportation to an airport can quickly get expensive, and perhaps you do not have a whole lot of extra cash at the moment, especially if you’ve spent a lot on tickets, hotel accommodations, etc. Finding a more reasonably priced option means you can save money that will likely come in handy at another point during your trip. Maybe you need to save cash for a Los Angeles van rental or for getting into museums and other attractions once you arrive at your destination. In these circumstances, keeping as much money in your pocket as possible when heading to the airport is often crucial. We will discuss seven modes of transportation that are worth your consideration in the following article. Most Cost-Effective Way to Reach the Airport Read this article till the end to know which is the most cost-effective ride to the airport. You Can Walk Is it possible to walk to an airport? Sometimes it is, but that would have to mean you would already have to be pretty close to it. The most practical time to walk to an airport is if you stayed at a hotel adjacent to it the previous night. Most other times, it is not possible or practical. Whenever you can manage it, though, you will presumably pay nothing. It really does not get much better than that if you are attempting to conserve your money. You will even get some exercise by walking, which is nice. If you can walk to the airport, make sure to watch out for traffic and only use roads with sidewalks. Using airport access roads or ones only intended for cars is dangerous. Saving money is great, but not if it comes at the possible price of being hit by a taxi or airport shuttle. You Can Consider Hiring an Uber or Lyft In the past decade, hiring an Uber or Lyft has become a piece of common knowledge in the urban scene. You can book a ride on these rental cars within seconds with the help of apps on your phone. If you are not a very tech-savvy person, you can still get the Lyft or Uber app, order a vehicle for yourself, and ride to the airport with someone else handling the driving duties. The real drawback with either Uber or Lyft is the expense. During surge hours pricing can become quite expensive in the case of these rental cars. At certain hours when the demand for these rental cars increases, Uber or Lyft increases their pricing as well. Hiring a rideshare vehicle off hours is almost always cheaper. You Can Hire a Taxi The option of hiring a taxi can be efficient and expensive. For example, if you book a cab from Midtown Manhattan to JFK it will easily cost you $50 or more. This cost varies based on the demand of the cab, city or state, and other circumstances affecting the booking prices. If you are in a smaller city with a less busy airport, getting a taxi may not break the bank. If you are considering this option but have a tight budget, it never hurts to go online and do a little research before you flag down the nearest taxi on the street. Take a Hotel Shuttle Hotel shuttles are usually free if you are staying at that hotel, so getting to the airport that way is certainly an attractive prospect. Hotel shuttles are usually clean and well-maintained. They are also generally air-conditioned, which is nice. You should have at least a couple of dollars to tip the driver if you go this route. $5 for a tip is usually the expected amount, but the driver will likely be happy if you give them anything, since not all travelers do. Get a Public Bus or Train Cities that have public buses and trains you can take to the airport are another one of the cheaper options in most instances. These choices can save money, but they often take much longer to get to the airport because they make many stops. If you decide to grab a train or bus, make sure to leave yourself plenty of time for this reason. Rent a Town Car You might also rent a town car if you have enough money. A town car offers a VIP feeling, meaning you get a ride to the airport in style. Then this experience comes at a high cost so you will try this only when you feel like treating yourself.  Again, if you can afford the cost of renting a town car then that is a great advantage. Your advantage is that you get to enjoy the ride alone without sharing it with anyone. It will also most likely be air-conditioned and comfortable. The only danger if you decide on this option is a chatty driver. If you do not mind making small talk, though, that might not be a significant source of concern for you.   Take an Airport Shuttle Many airports operate shuttles that will pick you up throughout the city. Generally, you can find the operating routes of these airport shuttles through the airport’s website and choose the shuttle accordingly.  On the other hand, a hotel shuttle is free, unlike an airport shuttle which can be expensive. Conclusion To recap, walking is usually your only free option. Taking public transportation can keep the price down while getting a hotel shuttle is generally free.  Other options can be expensive for you such as Lyft, Uber, or hiring a taxi or town car. Then again this expense comes with an advantage of not sharing the ride with anyone. If these options don’t work for you, then just ask a family member or a friend to drive to the airport if they are available. This is only an option in cities where you know someone, though. If someone you know is willing to give you a lift, you might be obliged to buy them breakfast or something along those lines as a way of saying thank you.   Know More: How To Stay Safe In New Orleans: A Traveler’s Guide Is San Francisco Safe? THIS Is What You Should Know! Is Savannah Safe? What You Need To Know Before Visiting!

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 4, 2023

Are you currently sitting at your desk in the office, looking out the window, and wishing you were on a tropical island? At your feet, the waves of blue and white would froth and foam, and the breeze would teasingly run past you, making you giddy with joy. Your arms would be gently brushed by the sun. The people would be warm and hospitable, while lush foliage would sway in the backdrop. It may sound like a fantasy, but the island paradise of your dreams is real. To be precise, there are more than 7,500 such tiny drops of tropical heaven dispersed over the fascinating western Pacific Ocean. If you want to know where to start and go about your dream trip, then here is a guide we have created for you. So, if you have already been making arrangements, then start by considering the most relevant question: when is the best time to visit the Philippines? The weather, festivals, as well as activities that are experienced by the land as well as the waters that surround the Philippines during each season vary. If you have just begun arranging for your trip, then you should choose a time ideal for you. Let’s get started! Best Time To Visit Phillippines Image Source: www.state.gov In the Philippines, the seasons can be divided into two categories: rainy and dry. Peak Season: December to April Shoulder Season: May and November Off-Season: June to October Travel SeasonMin/Max TemperatureSeasonNovember - February24-30°CCool-DryMarch-May25-33°CHot-DryJune-October26-32°CRainy  Hands down, the best time to visit the Philippines islands is the cool-dry season. In November, the Philippines welcomes the dry season officially. The sun peeks out after months of downpours, bringing warm weather to people all around the country. At this time, humidity levels also start to reduce. The temperature dips throughout December, with the Northern regions experiencing the coldest weather. The days enjoy sunlight, and it doesn't rain very often. The abundance of nice weather in January counteracts the chilly atmosphere. This is the height of the Phillippines season. You might anticipate a spike in temperature in February. Though the days are becoming more lovely as the season draws to a close, the sea temperature is still rising. Festivities There are several celebrations at this period of the year. The Philippines observes the Grand Cordillera Festival and the vibrant Feast of San Clemente in November. Following the Feast of the Immaculate Conception is the tribal holiday of Pagdidiwata, a celebration modeled after Christmas called Bicol Pastores, Christmas, as well as New Year. In addition to the Ati-Atihan Festival in Aklan, January is also the month of Sinulog, the largest festival in Cebu. The Black Nazarene monument is also worshipped in January in central Manila. Panagbega, a flower festival in Baguio City, brings flowers to life in February. During the annual Hot Air Balloon Festival in Pampanga, you can also take a hot air balloon trip. If you really want to do this, then this is the ideal time to visit the Philippines. The weather permits you to reach many of the outlying islands in the Philippines during January, the busiest month of this season, which is not possible at other times of the year. There are ferry as well as flight options to choose from if you want to visit. Places To Visit In The Philippines Image Source: image.cnbcfm.com Before making a reservation, do some research on prices and transportation options. Booking with reputable and secure ferry operators is essential because some of these journeys can be uncomfortable with a low-cost choice. The Philippines is home to many natural wonders, a rich cultural history, and friendly people. It is no surprise that the Philippines has grown to be a popular travel destination for tourists from all over the world with its clean beaches, verdant highlands, dynamic cities, and hospitable natives. The Philippines' top tourist destinations include: Boracay Image Source: images.lifestyleasia.com Boracay is a tropical paradise that draws both sunbathers and partygoers because of its famed fine-grained white sand beaches and energetic nightlife. The island's extensive selection of water sports opportunities, mouthwatering cuisine, and lively beachside ambiance will keep you occupied day and night. Siargao Image source: www.backpackerbanter.com Siargao, sometimes known as the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines," is one of the top tourist destinations in the country and a paradise for surfers and explorers. This tear-shaped island is known for its top-notch surf breaks, immaculate beaches, and laid-back island atmosphere. Don't pass up the opportunity to visit the charming Sugba Lagoon and see the stunning Magpupungko Rock Pools. Palawan Image Source: www.travelandleisure.com The magnificent tropical beauty of Palawan, also known as the "Last Frontier," never fails to enthrall visitors. It's a paradise location for beach lovers and wildlife lovers alike with its stunning limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and lagoons. Beautiful island hopping tours may be found in El Nido and Coron, while Puerto Princesa's Underground River is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bohol Image Source: res.klook.com Bohol is a fascinating travel destination that features the extraordinary Chocolate Hills, cuddly tarsiers, and historic churches. Visit the spotless beaches of Panglao Island, go on a picturesque boat down the Loboc River, and explore the fascinating underwater world of Balicasag Island. Davao Image Source: content.r9cdn.net Davao, a bustling metropolis in Mindanao, is the starting point for exhilarating activities. Visit the Philippine Eagle Center to get up close and personal with the critically endangered Philippine eagles, or climb Mount Apo, the highest point in the nation. Visit the pristine Samal Island, which is renowned for its gorgeous beaches and opulent resorts, as soon as possible. Batanes Image Source: www.momondo.in For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, Batanes is a must-visit. Offering the most beautiful landscapes, these islands have it all dramatic cliffs to rolling hills. You can explore the old stone houses, get lost in the rich cultural fiesta of Batanes, and become witness to the grand beauty of the lighthouses of Basco. Siquijor Image Source: lp-cms-production.imgix.net The "Island of Fire," Siquijor, is a matter of legend and mystery. Explore the island's pristine beaches, freshwater springs, and ethereal woodlands while soaking in the enchanting ambiance. Visit the famous Balete Tree, cool off in the captivating Cambugahay Falls, and take in the breathtaking Salagdoong Beach sunset while you're there. Ilocos Norte Image Source: blog.tours4fun.com One of the best destinations to visit in the Philippines is the historical province of Ilocos Norte. Travel back in time and discover it. Learn about Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exquisite Spanish colonial architecture. Explore the mysterious Paoay sand dunes and the imposing Bangui windmills, You will also discover the intricate political history of the nation at the Marcos Museum. Wrapping Up We hope now you have some sort of clarity on when is the best time to visit the Philippines. Are you excited? Does the prospect of this trip enchant you? You ought to be! A journey to the Philippines is full of scenic beauty and joyful experiences. What are you still holding out for? If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, then please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Don’t Believe Them!! This Is Actually The Best Time To Visit Barbados! I Had No Idea When To Visit Mauritius Till I Went There THIS Time! Best Time To Experience Dubai: The City Of Gold