7 Best National Parks In Ohio You Should Know Before Going

BY  Sharmita Feb 6, 2019

When Pausanias, an ancient Greek traveler, penned his experiences, he became the first travel writer. Names like Paulo Coelho, Elizabeth Gilbert, and many others continued his legacy. Thanks to these writers, today, there are many options when it comes to travel books you should read in 2024.   The best way of learning about food and the people and all aspects of contemporary cultures is by reading about them. Further, reading travel books on specific destinations helps you to prepare right for the upcoming trip. Trust me! It is as important as tracking down any place on the map.   In addition, the pages of travel books will change the way you see the world. You will fall in love with the places and people you have not seen yet.   10 Travel Books You Should Be Read in 2024: Are you ready to experience a serious dose of wanderlust? Grab these travel books and travel to different parts of the world.   1. On The Road by Jack Kerouac: This book remains the best in the niche of travel books. It is classic; you may choose to read it in an English class. Even if you have read it, it is recommended that you read it once again. This book is timeless as the story follows Sal, the main character while leaving New York heading west. He rides the rail along the way, meets acquaintances and friends, and parties through the nights. The theme of the novel is the frustrations of Sal and his desires to see all things around the world. These themes resonate with many people around the world and readers of the book. 2. The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho: This book is a timeless classic and an international bestseller. It was written in 1988 by Paulo Coelho and follows Santiago's life, who was an Andalusian shepherd boy. He longs to travel around the world for treasures. He moves from Spain to Egypt following his dream. He learns a lot of lessons along the way. He discovers love and understands the meaning of being alive. He finds some bits about himself along the way, which is something avid travelers relate to. If you read "The Alchemist", you will have to peruse its best quotes for purposes of inspiration. 3. Vagabonding by Rolf Potts: This book is much of the stories of a man than a novel. Rolf Potts spent ten years on the road. He walked to Israel. In his write-up, he provides tricks, insights, lessons, and tips he learned over the decade. If you are after becoming a long-term traveler, it is easily among the best travel books you can read. He shares all things from valuable lessons learned to funny stories. He also includes inspiration quotes plus practical info that can help all travelers. If you want to live on the road, you must read Vagabonding. 4. Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert: The truth of the matter is that you have read this book even if you have never read it. Or you have watched a movie adaptation with Julia Roberts. This story os great to begin with if you are looking at reading many travel books. One woman is seeking everything across Indonesia, Italy, and India. It follows the trip of the author Elizabeth Gilberts around the world after her divorce. She delves in the learned lessons along the way. She dares to step outside her comfort zone, and this story will make you desire to do the same. This book is among the best travel books if you are feeling stuck. 5. Into The Wild by Jon Krakauer: It is likely that you have heard about this travel book. This non-fiction book follows adventures of Christopher McCandless. Born in a wealthy family, he decides to leave all things behind and goes to Alaska. He gave out everything in his possession. He burnt all the money in the wallet before fleeing. After arriving in Alaska, He starts searching for a new life in the wilderness. This book touches on ways of being accepted in the society and methods of breaking from the norms the community places on you. This book challenges you to break from existing stereotypes and try something new. 6. Marching Powder by Rusty Young: In case you want great travel books, then this one is the best option for you. It was written by Rusty Young, an Australian journalist on a trip to South America. He learned of Thomas McFadden, the convicted drug trafficker running tours in San Pedro Prison. He became interested and wanted to learn a lot. He went ahead to join Thomas's illegal tours. He manages to stay inside the prison for the next three months after becoming a friend to Thomas. The resulting story shows that anything can happen while traveling. You also learn about the importance of safety while on your adventures. 7. Less by Andrew Sean Greer: Less is a novel written in 2017 by Andrew Sean Greer following his humorous journey of the Arthur Less, the gay novelist. Arthur travels the world on tour to welcome his fiftieth birthday. The career of Arthur as a novelist does not go well; neither is his life in love. The main traveling reason is to avoid his ex-lover wedding. His adventure leads him close to falling in love while in Paris. He almost falls to death in Berlin. This comedy is satirical that you can wish to read over and over again. This book is among the best travel books when you want something light-hearted. You can learn a lot from this book concerning confronting turning points, love, travel, and much more. 8. How to Travel the World On $50 A Day by Matt Kepnes? There is a possibility of traveling the world with fifty dollars a day. Matt Kepnes shows you the way to do so. It is the best book to read about adventures on a budget. For those that prefer minimalist traveling, this book goes into the details of traveling for long on a small budget. You will learn about traveling the world without spending what you do not have. He shares related stories about what he learned along the way. 9. The Geography of Bliss by Eric Weiner: This book is a humorous memoir. It came into being in the year 2008 by Eric Weiner while recounting his years of traveling around the world searching for a happy place on earth. The destinations he explores include Qatar, Moldova, Iceland, and Bhutan. He investigates how various countries pursue and define happiness. It is among the best travel books when seeking to learn the outs and ins of other cultures. 10. Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts: Shantaram by George David Roberts is a novel showing where Lin, the Australian bank robber is hiding. He passes the time running a clinic in the poorest regions in the city and working for Bombay mafia. If you fantasize India, this is your boo. This novel portrays the reality of life for the people of Bombay. Conclusion Now that you know the best travel books you should read, get ready for the most rewarding traveling experience sitting in the comfort of your home. Do you remember the Pandemic days? These travel books and some good movies were our only means of traveling.   Further, any great travel book, like actual traveling, will present the best and worst sides of civilization and life in front of you. So, pick any of these and see how the world gets unveiled in front of you.  Do you have a secret favorite among the books I have mentioned? Or do you have any other travel books on your Wishlist? Don’t forget to share!   Read Also: Travel Tips to Help You Out In Asia Top Places to Visit in Italy on your next Travel Escapade 7 Key points Remember while Planning Your Honeymoon Trip

BY  Barsha Jan 4, 2023

You would be shocked to know that we take over 25 thousand selfies in our lifetime. And that is data collected in 2017 - this is 2023! So, it’s highly likely that you are slated to take more than 25,000 selfies in your entire life. Selfies are not just about nailing the perfect Kim K pout. They’re also about the location. Have you ever wondered where is the most popular spot in the world to take a selfie? Yes, there’s a popular selfie spot, and we shall talk about it, but that’s not the only spot we will talk about in this context. Read on to find out about the most popular selfie spots in the whole world.  Where Is The Most Popular Spot In The World To Take A Selfie? You might wonder why it is important to know where is the most popular spot in the world to take a selfie. But have you realized why? Nobody really wants to see thousands of gym mirror selfies - even Kim’s wax statue at Madame Tussaud's knows that.  Kim’s golden rule is to never actually take any more than three selfies at the same location - sounds smart, right? Unfortunately, her wax figure has a backdrop that keeps changing locations at Madame Tussaud's museum!  So, let’s find out about the most popular spot in the world to take a selfie.  Have you ever thought about what is so extraordinary about a selfie? What actually makes people click on the ‘like’ button and show their selfies with love?  What’s that ‘it’ factor which makes people fall in love with a selfie?  It’s definitely not just your face from different angles doing the ‘viral magic’ unless you are Ellen and you can manage to take a selfie with stars like Julia Roberts, Brad Pitt, Jared Leto, and others.  It’s definitely not your shiny new iPhone or even that aesthetic mirror at the gym.  Actually, it’s your backdrop, and that, too, some very specific backdrops - SURPRISE! And apparently, there’s only one location that pops up when you ask where the most popular spot in the world is to take a selfie. You guys guessed it right. Yes, we are talking about one of the most beautiful wonders of the world - the Eiffel Tower! There’s no point calling it mainstream and knocking it off, guys! Yes, the beauty of the Himalayas or even Dubai is something that we can die for, but if there was one reigning selfie spot, then that’s the Eiffel Tower. After all, who can ever beat those gorgeous views from the 1000-foot-tall tower? Bonus Section: Most Popular Selfie Spots In The World So, now you know where is the most popular spot in the world to take a selfie? - every year, thousands of tourists and even locals flock to the famous selfie spot and take the coveted selfie. But enough about the Eiffel Tower and Paris, let’s talk about some of the best selfie sites in the world. 1. The Great Wall Of China (Huairou District, China): wordpress.com Of course, this is one of the best selfie spots in the world. The place is called the Great Wall Of China for one logical reason. The location has to be one of the most kickass architectural feats of all time. Some people even say you can see the wall even from the Moon - maybe that’s just a myth, but why not take your chances and visit anyway?  2. Trolltunga (Vestland County, Norway): azurewebsites.net Norway is home to so many kickass rock formations and mountain ranges - the Trolltunga is one of these famous rock formations, and the name literally translates into ‘troll tongue.’ While you might not believe us, seeing is literally believing - so check it out for yourself. Plus, it’s exactly like Lion King’s Pride Rock - geddit?  3. Taktsang Monastery (Paro, Bhutan): azurewebsites.net Bhutan might just be a small country in South Asia for most of us, but the little country is famous for some of the most beautiful views of the Himalayas. While Bhutan is home to several monasteries, Taktsang Monastery is one of the most iconic monasteries here. Come on, it’s built right on the edge of the mountains, and the views? Simply breathtaking!  Other Famous Selfie Spots: Some of the other famous selfie spots in the entire world are as follows, Burj Khalifa (Dubai, United Arab Emirates). The Colosseum (Rome, Italy). Manarola Village (La Spezia, Italy). The Pyramids Of Giza (Giza, Egypt). Big Ben (Longdon, England). Corcovado Mountain (Rio De Janeiro, Brazil). Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Check out the most frequently asked questions related to the ‘where is the most popular spot in the world to take a selfie?’ search query mentioned below.  1. Where Is The Most Selfied Place In The World? Ans: The most selfied places in the world are as follows,Disneyland (Florida and Paris),Burj Khalifa (Dubai),Eiffel Tower (Paris),Taj Mahal (Agra), andTower Bridge (London).  2. Where Is The Best Place To Look When Taking A Selfie? Ans: While taking a selfie, the trick is to never look directly at your device camera. Instead, look at your camera lens and watch the difference in your selfies. It does not matter where you are taking your selfie or what you are wearing - but what matters is whether you are maintaining eye contact with your device lens.  3. Is Selfies Still A Trend? Ans: While it started as a trend, it's no longer a trend. Instead, it’s a staple at the moment. Selfies came into existence one fine morning suddenly, and for the time being, it was such a huge trend. But while nobody noticed, the selfie trend only kept evolving. And today, it’s so much more than just a trend.  4. What Is The Most Famous Picture In The World? Ans: The most famous pictures in the world are as follows, Earthrise (taken by William Anders),D-Day (taken by Robert Capa),Tank Man (taken by Jeff Widener),Burning Monk (taken by Malcolm Browne), andAfghan Girl (taken by Steve McCurry). And It’s A Wrap! So, you know, where is the most popular spot in the world to take a selfie! What next? Are you planning on finally visiting the most romantic city in the world? Are you already planning to take a selfie with the love of your life in front of the biggest symbol of love? If Paris is not yet on your bucket list, there are some other top selfie spots, too - why not check those out for a change?  Tell us what you think. While doing so, don’t forget to share your other related experiences in the comments below. Read Also: Travel Advice For Different Countries Around The World 5 Reasons Why People Love Morning Desert Safari In Dubai? Rejection Of China Tourist Visa In Atlanta – Some Possible Reasons

BY  Abdul Aziz Feb 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. If you find yourself severely dehydrated or in need of quick hydration recovery, mobile IV therapy in Houston or at any needed location can be a lifesaver. These services offer on-site hydration solutions that can help replenish your body's fluids and electrolytes efficiently while you're still enjoying your outdoor activities 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