New Orleans With Kids Vacation | Know The Fun Things To Do With Kids In New Orleans

BY  Sibashree May 16, 2025

As fantasy is a driving force in Haruki Murakami’s work, the astonishing Hokkaido Beach in Western Japan is nothing short of a dream! It is the land where snow, sand, and sea meet. It’s surreal when you see snow-covered sand dunes appearing before your eyes against the backdrop of the sea. Also, the blocks of ice or jewelry ice in the Tokachi River mouth attract a lot of visitors in the winter.  And that’s not all! The beach has sandbars, volcanoes, coasts, and valleys.  Further, located inside the San’in Kaigan Geopark (a UNESCO Global Geopark since 2010), Hokkaido beach Japan, sits pretty between the eastern Kyogamisaki Cape in Kyoto, and western Hakuto Kaigan Coast in Tottori.  Do you also want to see Hokkaido beach snow and other unique attractions? You will find all the details in this Tour and Travel Blog.  What Is The Best Time To Visit Hokkaido Beach?  Hokkaido beach weather remains pleasant throughout the year. So, it’s a year-round destination.  However, if you want to witness the golden moments where the sea, sand, and snow meet, you have to plan a trip from December to February.  And let me spill the beans for you, Hokkaido Beach is not located in Hokkaido. Moreover, if you especially want to see the phenomenon of ice, snow, and sand meeting, you have to travel to the main island of Honshu. Why Does Hokkaido Beach Have So Much Snow? Hokkaido Beach has so much snow because strong wind blows and shift ice to the beach from late January to February.  This ice comes from the frozen chunks of freshwater from the Amur River. Further, during January and February, you will find icebergs in the water and on the beach. How To Reach Hokkaido Beach From Tokyo? The distance between Tokyo and San’in Kaigan Geopark, the home of Hokkaido Beach, is around 657 km.  The best way to reach San’in Kaigan Geopark from Tokyo is by taking a bullet train.  Take a bullet train from the Tokaido Shinkansen to Shin-Osaka Station. It will take around 2 hours and 30 minutes.  Then, travel on the Super Hakuto limited express train for 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach Tottori Station. Finally, you can take a bus from the Tottori Station to Hokkaido Beach. However, if you want to really enjoy the scene of ice, sand, and sea meeting, you have to take a cruise ride from Monbetsu, Rausu, and Abashiri.  Everything will appear before your eyes as an impossible dream as you see the Hokkaido Beach from the shore or an icebreaker.  Do you want some more adventure while exploring the beautiful Hokkaido Beach? You can go for a guided ice walk from Shiretoko.  And as you walk toward the beach, you will meet the most fascinating wildlife of the area. The sea eagles and white-tailed eagles, especially, will cross your path many a time.  You will see a real-life example of how the food chain in nature works as these birds prey on fish before your eyes.  Having said that, you will have to wear a dry suit and snowshoes for the walk. You will rent snowshoes from the Shiretoko National Park Nature Center.  Shiretoko National Park Nature Center: A UNESCO World Heritage Site On Your Way To Hokkaido Beach Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national park, is a favorite of hikers. You can go for a hike through the Furepe Waterfall Trail.  The trail passes through a forest, and it opens in a meadow looked over by Mount Io, Mount Rausu, and Mount Tenchosan.  Finally, the trail ends with a fascinating cliff-side view of Furepe Waterfall. It looks the most fascinating during the winter season.  Due to extreme cold temperatures, the water of the waterfall gets transformed into blueish ice.  Exploring San’in Kaigan Geopark: Home To The Hokkaido Beach San’in Kaigan Geopark is a celebration of the Earth's heritage. Stretching over 245,844 hectares, this Geopark is also home to the Genbudo Cave, “known as the place where the term of Quaternary geomagnetic reversal polarity was first proposed with basalt.” **“The San’in Kaigan UNESCO Global Geopark is home to a diversity of geological sites related to the formation of the Sea of Japan, including granite outcrops formed when Japan was part of the Asian continent (70 million years ago), as well as sedimentary and volcanic rocks accumulated when Japan rifted away from Asia (25 to 15 million years ago) to form the Sea of Japan, a geological process still on-going today.”**- UNESCO Further, due to the unique geological features, the park is also home to diverse flora and fauna. You will find rare plant species such as Ciconia boyciana, Pseudolysimachion ornatum, and Ranunculus nipponicus here.  Moreover, you will be able to see many marine animals and avian creatures in the park. During the winter season, especially, you will spot marine animals such as: Steller sea lions Sea eagles Seals The Steller sea lions come here from the Kuril Islands in the south as the ice starts drifting toward the Hokkaido Beach.  Again, irrespective of the season of your visit, you will meet Blakiston’s fish owl in San’in Kaigan Geopark. It is an endangered species.  In addition, the nearby mountains here have some of the biggest mammals in Japan. You will find here “Ezo red foxes,” “Ussuri brown bears,” and “Ezo silka deer.” Hokkaido Beach Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and their answers about Hokkaido Beach.  Does Hokkaido Have A Beach? Yes, Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, has many beaches. The beaches and coastlines along the Sea of Japan, the Pacific Ocean, and the Sea of Okhotsk show diversity in their characters.Nevertheless, some popular beaches in Hokkaido are Shimamui Beach, Shiretoko Beach, Otsu Beach, and Otaru Dream Beach.  Why Is Hokkaido So Famous? Hokkaido is famous in the world for its milk and dairy products. It is also the land of inspiration behind many of Haruki Murakami’s work. Further, Hokkaido has a vibrant food scene with specialties such as Sapporo ramen and crab and scallop delicacies. Also, it has geological wonders such as Mount Asah volcano in the Daisetsuzan National Park and geothermal spots such as Noboribetsu Onsen.  Where Is The Beach Where Snow, Sand, And Sea Meet? Hokkaido Beach is the place where snow, sand, and sea meet. It is located in western Japan and it stretches between the eastern Kyogamisaki Cape in Kyoto, and the western Hakuto Kaigan Coast in Tottori. 

BY  Sibashree Feb 22, 2025

Shipping goods to Hawaii is a rather complicated process that requires understanding state and federal regulations. This article covers all bases on container shipping to Hawaii-whether from the shipping basics to regulations to factors affecting cost.  Understanding the Basics of Container Shipping to Hawaii  Container shipping to Hawaii of goods from the beginning to the end involves sea transportation in large shipping containers. As an island chain, Hawaii is more dependent on sea freight transport than most U.S. states, as shipping lines regularly run between the mainland and Hawaii.   Goods are usually loaded into a container at the port of origin, transported across the Pacific Ocean, and unloaded at a port in Hawaii.  To ensure your shipment is properly handled, it is important to understand the preparation and what to expect from the shipping situation.   There are regulations to be observed beyond selecting a shipping provider; should any of these regulations not be followed, your shipment might encounter delays and penalties.   Laws Affecting Shipping Containers, Permits, and Building Code Requirements in Hawaii  Shipping containers in Hawaii give rise to a different set of zoning laws, permits, or building code requirements, which can be very limited if one is interested in retrofitting or dairy goods in containers on the islands.   Good knowledge of these laws is essential because they are meant to maintain the state's safety, aesthetics, and environmental balance.  Zoning Laws  The zoning law in Hawaii would regulate the areas for placement of containers in residential, commercial, or industrial properties. Some places restrict the use of shipping containers for storage or habitation.   Local zoning ordinances differ from one county to another, and thus, it is very important for you to check on what sites have requirements for where you intend to ship or store your containers. Violating zoning law could cause you to be fined or have your containers removed.   Permits  In many instances, shipping containers need to be permitted before use on private property, specifically for commercial or construction purposes, as we have maintained.   For example, a building permit will almost certainly be necessary if containers are to be used for storage or adapted for habitation.   It is best to establish that your shipping containers require permits for usage and to be prepared to submit plans for approval with the local authority.   Building Code Requirements  Hawaii’s building codes are in place to ensure safety and guarantee that structures conform to specified environmental standards.   Shipping containers turned into living quarters and/or workplaces must abide by these codes.   Areas covered include structural integrity, ventilation, electrical wiring, plumbing, and insulation. Fines or dismantlement may come consequently if building code laws are violated.   State and Federal Regulations  Besides local regulations regarding container shipping to Hawaii, state and federal regulations govern the smooth coordination of shipping containers. They include:  USDA and APHIS Regulations  The U.S. Department of Agriculture and Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service enforces standards for preventing the introduction of invasive species. Upon entering any container in Hawaii, inspection for pests and dirt will be mandatory.   Customs and Border Protection (CBP)  The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will be able to inspect containers to ascertain whether they fit the federal import requirements.   Goods into Hawaii from any foreign country must comply with U.S. Customs. Ignoring these regulations can lead to serious legal consequences and shipment rejections.  Environmental Considerations  Hawaii is home to some of the most delicate ecosystems. Because of environmental protection laws, certain items may be prohibited from shipping here.   Tips for Compliance with Hawaii's Regulations  Additional value is given to these tips to put the shippers at ease while bypassing costly delays and fines:   Contact the Local Authorities  Interrogating the local authorities regarding arrival or intended container placement in Hawaii is also wise; it could be the county building department or the zoning office that can assist with the permits and inspections needed and requirements for shipping container use.  Prepare your Documentation  Good documentation will rule the waves. Your bill of lading, inspection records, shipping receipts, and permits should be assembled before the shipment so that no unexpected delays or issues arise on arrival.   Work with Licensed Contractors  Work with licensed contractors knowledgeable of Hawaii's building codes if you intend to convert a container into a structure, such as a house or office, to help ensure that your project follows the law and has all relevant documentation.   Factors Determining Cost of Shipping  Several factors determine the cost of shipping containers to Hawaii. An understanding of these factors would ensure proper budgeting on your part.  Origin of Shipment  The origin location of your container shipment may influence pricing. Moving cargo from the mainland United States is less expensive than moving cargo from foreign countries; this is due to distance, as well as customs necessities.  Moving/ Shipping Services Taken  The services you select, including door-to-door delivery or terminal-to-terminal shipping, will also affect the price. If you need additional services such as unpacking or installation, be ready to pay more.   Accessibility of Sites  Shipping costs may increase if your destination is in a more remote area in Hawaii or parts of the state with limited port access due to transport challenges.   Containers may need to be moved off the freight ship onto smaller vessels or trucks for delivery to the destination.  Weight of Shipment  A heavier shipment means it will be more expensive to ship. So, watch out for the weight of your container and try to minimize it by packing wisely.  Shipping Item Types  Some items may require special handling and/or permits, such as hazmat shipping and heavy-moving machinery, which costs extra. Always check restricted categories for your items.  Things You Cannot Ship in Your Container to Hawaii  Hawaii has very strict prohibitions under their regulations on certain things for environmental, health, and safety reasons. Some of the things you cannot ship:   Soils and plants: They are very strict about any invasive species; therefore, soil, plants, and plant products are strictly restricted.   Pests and insects: All the containers must be inspected for pests, and any of those that have carried insects or any other harmful organism will be refused entry.  Fresh Produce: Some fresh fruits and vegetables can also be banned because pests are introduced.  Animals and animal products: Certain animals or animal products can be very strict when imported into Hawaii.   Final Thoughts  Shipping to Hawaii involves a thorough understanding of local and federal regulations. You can smooth your shipment and any associated projects by following all zoning laws, obtaining relevant permits, and adhering to building codes.   Always seek local authorities’ assistance, prepare required documentation, and work with licensed professionals as necessary.   Remember, shipment origin, weight, and type of service will cause your costs to fluctuate, so it is wise to plan. Knowing what you can and cannot ship will help you avoid unnecessary hold-ups so your container shipment to Hawaii can go as planned. READ MORE: 7 Benefits Of Staying At A Beach Hotel The Stairway To Heaven Hawaii: Hiking Adventure’s Hidden Gem Nurturing Young Explorers: The Benefits Of Beach Camps In Nurturing Curiosity And Resilience

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 19, 2023

This outdoor oasis in the South is a solid wanderlust attraction. A scenic city that is always on the move can be your next perfect weekend getaway. The city is bustling with energy, and on a typical afternoon, you will see its locals as well as weekenders venturing into the Tennesse River along with their boards and boats. The bikers go up and down the hilly streets through the town, running and walking down the pedestrian bridge and playing with frisbees in the numerous parks. The parks look neat, being hedged by bike lanes and carefully placed benches. Public art makes the town come alive with color and socio-cultural significance. The number of things that will stay with you long after you visit this town is too many, but one of them will be the food and the restaurants. There are also a lot of adventures to be had outdoors in this character-filled city. If you are looking for some weekend fun or a short trip to feel rejuvenated, this city is close by and has to offer a lot. This is going to be the best weekend spot for you, and we have brought you the best of it. Here are some of the most fun and memorable things to do in Chattanooga. Things To Do In Chattanooga hotels.com If you have thought about going away sometime and taking a break, but you can’t think of any place so far. Chattanooga could be a great option. Here are some of the best things things to do in Chattanooga that will stay imprinted on your memory. Tennessee Aquarium tnaqua.org One of the fun things to do in Chattanooga is visiting the aquarium. This aquarium maintains two buildings. There is River Journey which showcases the freshwater habitats from around the world, and Ocean Journey, where visitors are treated to the magnificent view of sea creatures and ocean life. It is recommended to spend at least three hours while visiting to take in a good fraction of the 10,000 animals that are here. If you are looking for things to do in Chattanooga with kids, they will love the adorable macaroni penguins and dreamy sea jellies. Try visiting on a weekday, as it gets busier on weekends, for a more authentic experience. If you are looking for free things to do in Chattanooga, the city also offers a free shuttle to get here, making the experience pocket-friendly. Lookout Mountain cntraveler.com There are three scenic attractions this mountain ridge has to offer. There is the Ruby Falls, Rock City, and the Incline Railway. The Ruby Falls is the United States’ deepest and tallest underground waterfall standing at 260 feet. Rock City is where one can see seven states from the iconic Lover’s Leap. And when you hop on the Incline Railway, you will be witnessing the steepest passenger railway on Earth. You need to spend a minimum of 4 hours at these mountains to gauge the highlights of the spot. Each of the three attractions has separate expenses, and the tickets are known to sell out fast. Raccoon Mountain Caverns wikimedia.org The Raccoon Mountain Caverns are located 1.3 miles off the I-24 at the Lookout Valley exit. It is less than 10 minutes from downtown Chattanooga. This mountain offers views of a cave in its natural state that has thousands of diverse rock formations. There are stalagmites, stalactites, flowstone, delicate soda straws, rimstone pools, columns, draperies, natural bridges, and a rare shield formation. It also offers many wild cave “spelunking” expeditions for all those who want to go deeper into the caves and explore the mountain. An expedition to the waterfall dome allows visitors to get to the place with the view of the tallest underground, unassisted, naturally flowing waterfall. Walnut Street Bridge pickyourtrail.com This is one of the best examples of the Phoenix wrought-iron truss bridges dating back to the years between 1884 and 1923. Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum wp.com This nostalgic train trip will offer aesthetically restored vintage locomotives and passenger cars that encase the intricate craftsmanship of ages long gone. The ride will take you through the beautiful Tennessee countryside that has awe-inspiring views bound to make you reflect on the simpler times of the past. The museum’s exhibit has an impressive set of artifacts, old photographs, and other memorabilia that help bring the rich railroading history to life. The staff here are highly knowledgeable and will eagerly share information on railroad history while being dressed in period attire. The experience will provide you with lots of fascinating insights whether you are a history buff or otherwise. Ruby Falls simpleviewinc.com This one is the deepest and tallest underground waterfall that is open for public access in the States. There are guided tours such as the classic waterfall tour, the lantern tour, and the extended cavern experience tour. The tour will take you along its beautiful cavern trail to a gorgeous waterfall that is surrounded by old geological formations that took millenniums to form. There are also extensively picturesque views of the Cumberland Plateau, Tennessee Valley, and the Tennessee River from the top of the Lookout Mountain Tower. The tours fill up pretty quickly. You must purchase the tickets online in advance for increased availability. Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery chattanoogawhiskey.com One of the other things to do in Chattanooga for adults is visit the whiskey distillery. This distillery is the first ever to craft whiskey in Chattanooga in over a hundred years. It boasts over 100 different barrels that mature in an aging cellar. Each visit to the distillery is an ode to the past, present, and future of hand-made bourbon. You can reserve a tour & tasting trip to check out their latest craft. This can also be one of the things to do in Chattanooga for couples. You must be 21+ with a physical and valid ID. Creative Discovery Museum This museum is a hands-on children’s museum at the very heart of downtown Chattanooga. It is known to inspire children of all ages to innovate, explore, play, and create. The exhibits are designed to entertain as well as educate children on exploring the world around them. They are pushed to become inquisitive about art, science, music, water exploration, and dinosaur digging. It was rated number #7 by Trekaroo of the children’s museums in the U.S. in 2015. Wrapping Up Chattanooga sure has everything you could want for a short trip away from the hustle of the city. If you want to know about things to do in Chattanooga this weekend, we hope this article gave you a headstart. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: You Won’t Believe The Best Things To Do When In Fiji! Some Of The Best Things To Do In Navarre Beach, Florida These Are The 30+ Things To Do In Mexico City That You Must Try!