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

BY  Sibashree Sep 20, 2023

Does Tennessee have a beach? No, it does not.  For the longest time, I have been planning a long beach holiday. And something or else will always turn up ruining the plan.  The kids have their exams and there are family commitments. So, our beach vacation was always limited to Douglas Lake or Cherokee Lake.  However, I had done my research on the closest beach to me and this time, we had a long weekend.  So our road led to Sullivan’s Island, the closest beach to Knoxville, TN. Having said that, there are many beaches near Knoxville TN.  For example, Myrtle Beach in South Carolina is one of the most popular ocean beaches near Tennessee. We also have Folly Beach in South Carolina and Oak Island in North Carolina.  In today’s Tour and Travel blog, we will talk about the beaches close to Knoxville TN, and tell you why they are most suitable for the ultimate Tennessee beach vacation. What Is The Closest Beach To Knoxville Tennessee?  Our journey to the closest beaches to Knoxville TN will start from Sullivan’s Island, as promised.  However, before taking you on a tour of these beaches, I wanted to share the best time to visit the closest beach from Knoxville TN.  Knoxville primarily has two tourist seasons. You can visit the closest beach to Knoxville, TN between March and June and September to November.  So, let’s begin the ultimate Knoxville beach journey. Here we go!  1. Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina Distance from Knoxville: 380.4 Miles Travel Time: 6 Hours I was looking for ocean beaches within 6 hours of me, and I found out Sullivan’s Island. It is a barrier island with an area of around 8.91 km².  Further, Sullivan’s Island, the closest beach to TN, stands out with its local history. It has Fort Moultrie, built in 1776 and it still tells the story of how it protected the city from the cannonball attacks of the warships.  Moreover, Sullivan’s Island is important in the history of literature. Edgar Allan Poe was stationed at Fort Moultrie between November 1827 to December 1828. 2. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Distance from Knoxville: 412 Miles Travel Time: 6 Hours 46 Minutes Sitting in Knoxville, I was looking for beaches within 7 hours of me. I found the name of Myrtle Beach in South Carolina.  Myrtle Beach is nothing short of a fantasy island and it was once the hub of pirates. Further, Myrtle Beach is associated with the Indigenous people and roaming ghosts.  A visit to Myrtle Beach is incomplete without exploring the Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach. Further, you must spend some time at the Myrtle Beach State Park, and Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum.  3. Folly Beach, South Carolina Distance from Knoxville: 383 Miles Travel Time: 6 Hours 35 Minutes  Folly Beach, one of the closest beaches to Knoxville, is the ultimate destination to stay, eat, play. and explore!  Further, life on Folly Beach revolves around outdoor activities. From a casual stroll on the beach to more adventurous activities like surfing, boating, kayaking, and biking, Folly Beach offers you the opportunity to enjoy the best beach vacation.  Moreover, Folly Beach is a wonderful melting pot of modern entertainment and exploring wildlife. You can attend the Annual Folly Festivals and take part in birdwatching and exploring wildlife.  Blu Restaurant And Bar, Bert's Market, and Bounty Bar are some popular places to eat on Folly Beach.  4. Kiawah Island, South Carolina Distance from Knoxville: 396.5 Miles Travel Time: 6 Hours 30 Minutes Kiawah Island with a majority of marshland, is located at a distance of 6 hours and 16 minutes by car from Knoxville.  To emphasize the adventure, let me tell you that the beach is often used for native wildlife watching! Several locations across the beach are perfect if you are looking for wildlife spotting! The two locations popular for this purpose on the beach are Canvasback Duck Pond and Marsh Island Park. What’s more, there are two scenic observation towers in Kiawah where you will get a 360-degree view of the sea and land!  If you are a hiker or like to bike, this beach is perfect! They have natural paths for these types of adventures. For accommodation, there is a private 2nd story deck that you can rent to enjoy some stunning ocean views.  There is one popular restaurant called Jasmine Porch where you can splurge on good food, especially the Low-country favorites such as shrimp and grits, she-crab bisque, fresh seafood, po’boys, and burgers! 5. Isle Of Palms, South Carolina Distance from Knoxville: 383 Miles Travel Time: 6 Hours 30 Minutes There is a playground for children, so this is the perfect destination if you have kids.  There is also a picnic area, so if you plan to spend the whole day out, you can go to this beach. For accommodation, there is a single-family cottage which is well decorated! Food is another important part of the vacation, so I suggest the Sea Biscuit Cafe! Try out the seafood omelets, shrimp, and gravy because these are the low-country options. 6. Hilton Head, South Carolina Distance from Knoxville: 411 Miles Travel Time: 6 Hours 32 Minutes You have to visit this beach for the best sunsets across the water! In a distance of 6 hours, 26 minutes from Knoxville, the coastal paradise is someplace to be visited.  If you are planning on staying the night, there is a resort rental that you can book. You can enjoy the outdoor and indoor pool, a tiki bar, etc. You must catch the coastal area food, especially crab cakes, sandwiches, shrimp, grits, and salads.  7. Oak Island, North Carolina Distance from Knoxville: 441.5 Miles Travel Time: 7 Hours 14 Minutes If you are looking for a scenic beach, Oak Island is the place to visit for all adventurous activities.  Water sports are quite famous here, along with that, you can see Fort Caswell, used in the 1800s and 1900s. This is one of the beaches near Knoxville TN! You will take 7 hours and 8 minutes to reach the beach and can visit the island lighthouse, which is situated just beside the fort.  There is a perfect walk to enjoy Oak Island Nature Center at the beach, so if you are a nature lover, you know where to go! Further, adventures such as kayaking are the thing to do as an outdoor adventure sport. Many family homes and rentals are at a distance of the March beach, providing incredible views across the beach. If you visit the beach, you must try out scrumptious food items such as steak, chicken, and pasta, apart from the delicious seafood. 8. Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina Distance from Knoxville: 442 Miles The beach is a little farther from Knoxville, TN, as it takes about 7 hours and 23 minutes.  There are three beaches in Wilmington: Kure, Carolina, and Wrightsville. All the beaches qualify as some of the best beaches near Knoxville. Apart from common activities such as shopping and dining, there are interesting activities to perform, such as going on catamaran cruises, visiting the History Museum, and attending fairs and seasonal festivals. The Fred and Alice Stanback Coastal Education Center organizes educational programs and treasure hunts for children.  IIn terms of food, you will find some of the best cheeseburgers at this closest beach to Knoxville, TN! If you are a picky eater, you will find various options, from steaks to seafood platters. 9. Kure Beach, North Carolina, Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN Distance from Knoxville: 449.5 Miles Travel Time: 7 Hours 30 Minutes The beach at Kure is beautiful, apart from the North Carolina Aquarium, which is situated at Fort Fisher.  Significant features are located at the beach, such as a nature play area, an adventure reef, and touch tanks. This beach is located at a distance of 7 hours and 31 minutes.  Apart from the beach, you can also visit places such as the historical site of the Civil War Museum, the Fort Fisher State Site, beach cruises, a dog park, and a playground in front of the beach. You cannot miss the food such as burgers, sandwiches, seafood and pasta! I am already drooling! 10. Tybee Island, Georgia: Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN Distance from Knoxville: 434 Miles Travel Time: 7 Hours The beach is located at a distance of 6 hours and 55 minutes by road from Knoxville. Some of the place’s main attractions are the restaurants and the quaint little shops.  The beach is popular for people finding their relaxing haunt near Tennessee. Considering, it is the closest beach to Tennessee! It is a low-key beach situated just outside of Savanah! Apart from relaxing on the beach, you can also access different amenities in Savanah, such as museums, historic architecture, upscale shops, ghost tours, and other attractions perfect for family outings. Beautiful rentals are close to the beach and a 1-minute distance from where you can enjoy some stunning visuals.  The food available in and around the place is quite popular! One such restaurant is located near the waterfront called Bubba Gumbo. The seafood Gumbo is their signature dish! You can also order fried fish, jambalaya, burgers, and crab cakes. They also popularly serve shrimp. 11. Simon’s Island, Georgia: Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN Distance from Knoxville: 491.2 Miles Travel Time: 7 Hours 32 Minutes The beach is situated at a distance of 7 hours and 42 minutes from Knoxville, TN! The beach Oasis is a perfect place to relax, especially with all the amenities present to make your life easier.  The Neptune Park Fun Zone here is for family attractions. You can also find a store to rent accessories for water sports restaurants, and several shops provide you with good food and the necessary equipment for the beach vacation, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and others. There is one family beach rental along with its private swimming pool. The rental can host a family, which is pretty close to the lighthouse.  You cannot miss the delicious food available on this closest beach to Knoxville, TN! Once such a restaurant opens, Porch offers fried catfish, shrimp, and fried chicken. Read Also: Top 8 List Of National Parks In North Carolina – Travel Guide Closest Beach To Nashville – Top 10 Beaches You Can Visit Top 10 Beaches In Gloucester In Massachusetts – Travel Guide The Perfect Getaway: Discovering The Closest Beach To Disney World!

BY  Nabamita Mar 7, 2024

For 38.2% of Americans, dwindling spending power has become a major deterrent that is dampening their travel plans. If economic woes and rising prices are keeping you from vacationing overseas, why not consider exploring the US for a change of pace and scenery? Its sweeping terrain provides plenty of options, whether you’re looking to unwind at a sunny beach or go skiing on a snow-covered mountain. However, traveling in the US could expose you to various risks, just like overseas destinations. So, being mindful of them and taking extra precautions will go a long way in making your vacation enjoyable and worry-free. Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Traveling in the US Here are the safety hazards you stand to encounter during your US travels. Accommodation Scams  Fraudsters often impersonate well-known hotel operators to direct travelers to malicious websites. Such sites are usually set up to steal credit card and other personal information of anyone booking a room, which scammers could later use for financial fraud. Sometimes, the deceptive acts are much more subtle yet could leave you in equal despair. Consider for a moment an accommodation ad that provides exaggerated or inaccurate details or omits critical information to mislead you. This is a prevalent trick shady accommodation owners deploy to overcharge guests and secure bookings during off-peak travel seasons. Deceptive Tour Operators Scammers may offer promotional deals via online ads, messages, emails, and telemarketing calls in a bid to attract travelers hunting for bargains. But these promotions could quickly turn your dream vacation into a nightmare if you don’t watch out. Remember, malicious actors could use fabricated travel packages to steal both your money and personal data. Taxi Meter Fraud Dishonest taxi drivers could overcharge passengers by keeping the meter switched off. Sometimes, they may have the meter on but will reset it as soon as they reach the destination, preventing you from checking the distance and fare. Luggage Theft When dropping you off at the hotel or airport, fraudulent drivers could unload only part of your luggage and drive away with the rest. This type of theft can occur when you’re distracted or not paying close attention to your belongings. Rental Service Fraud Many Americans rent cars during domestic travel. Bad actors can make this an opportunity to charge them for pre-existing damage when they return the vehicle. Without proper documentation, it becomes difficult for clients to prove that the damage was already there, resulting in unfair charges. Shady Locals There are numerous ways fraudsters could make money around popular travel hotspots. One technique is taking the guise of friendly locals offering free personal tours and recommendations. But often, these con artists will take you to expensive shops and cafés that pay them a commission for bringing paying customers. They could also get you entangled in various scams under the pretext of helping you. Wi-Fi Hacking Cybercriminals frequently hack into unsecured networks to steal useful data, such as payment information and account passwords. If you’re in the habit of using public Wi-Fi, this is a critical threat you must guard against. How Can You Ensure Your Travel Safety in the US?  The cost and hassle of experiencing a scam or other travel hazard can make anyone weary of traveling. But you can avoid many of them by following the safety tips listed below. Seek Recommendations Whether you want to reserve a hotel room or rent a car, personal recommendations are essential for selecting legitimate service providers. Today, there are many authentic reviews online that could help you assess travel services and make informed decisions. Use Reputed Online Platforms If you’re using a well-known travel platform, type its website address in the search bar to avoid visiting spoofed websites. When you don’t know much about a vendor, make the reservation through a reputed travel booking site, such as hotel.com or booking.com. These platforms typically screen individuals and businesses before accepting their listings and have safety features to protect customers. Be Cautious About Unsolicited Promotions Emails, messages, phone calls, and social media ads are popular mediums for travel scams that imitate reputed businesses. Therefore, verifying their sources is important for detecting and avoiding fraud. For instance, check whether the email addresses match the ones used earlier by the relevant organizations. Reverse search phone numbers on Nuwber to confirm they’re related to the mentioned companies.  And if there are links or attachments, it’s best not to click on them. These could download malware and compromise your financial data security. Use a Ride-Hailing App This is the easiest solution to avoid taxi scams. Uber, Lyft, and similar apps can help you secure a fair price, find a safe driver, and take the fastest route to your destination. However, if you need to take a regular taxi, check whether the meter is on. If it’s not, find another cab. Watch Your Belongings  Whether you use a taxi or public transportation, keeping an eye on your luggage and other belongings is essential. Don’t forget to pack a light and leave your valuables at home. Check Before Renting When you are renting a vehicle or any other item during your travels, inspect it carefully before signing the rental agreement and providing a deposit. If you notice any dents, scratches, or other obvious damage, point it out to the rental service provider, take photos, and put it down in writing. Use Secure Internet Connections Mobile data is the safest option to avoid cyber threats associated with unsecured networks. When you need to log into public Wi-Fi, always select one protected by passwords. Plan Ahead Doing your homework before traveling is a must to minimize dependency on strangers. Research the destination and the travel spots you want to explore and learn about entrance fees, opening times, location, and special requirements. Also, note down their official contact numbers so you won’t need to rely on others for information. To Recap  Accommodation owners, tour operators, taxi drivers, rental service providers, shady locals, and even cybercriminals can target unsuspecting travelers in the US for various deceptive schemes. Some threats may have more severe consequences than others. However, they could all sap the joy out of your much-awaited vacation. So, be mindful of common hazards and take adequate precautions for your travel safety. Read Also: Traveling To Korea? Here’s Your Must-Try Korean Food Top 15 Restaurants In Colombia You Must Visit While Traveling Top 11 Outlets In Massachusetts You Can Visit While Traveling

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 27, 2023

Mauritius! I had the amazing experience of going to this island country recently, and let me tell you, it was an experience of a lifetime. Initially, I was confused about which time to plan it out for. The temperatures and weather in Mauritius are at odds with the rest of the world because of its position in the middle of the ocean. But, when I got there, lucky as I was, I had arrived just before peak season. I got to know about their culture, their food, and most importantly, the best time to visit Mauritius. Here I will describe to you what Mauritius has to offer in each of the months of the year. If you want to know about Mauritanian weather the year around, make sure to stick it out to the end. Plan your trip then on, accordingly. The Best Time To Visit Mauritius Image Source: images.news18.com Mauritius is known for its sunny beaches and beautiful nature treasures. I am here to give you a season-by-season breakdown of the island. Keep reading! January To March Image Source: www.lexpressproperty.com In Mauritius, January is considered one of the hottest and wettest months of the year. Despite the high rainfall, the island is still quite busy due to the influx of tourists from the Christmas period. You can expect heavy rainfall during late afternoons, and there is a possibility of torrential storms during this month. Similarly, February is also quite hot, humid, and rainy in Mauritius. However, the rain usually doesn't last long and clears up after a few hours. Though not perfect for a beach vacation, February has fewer crowds than January. It is important to note that there is still a chance of cyclones during this month. March marks the Holi Festival, also known as the 'Festival of Colours' on the island. This annual celebration is held in honor of Lord Krishna, a Hindu deity. During the festivities, people line up on the streets and cover themselves with vibrantly-colored powder, creating a jovial atmosphere. Despite being a humid month, March sees less rainfall than January and February. April To June Image Source: media1.thrillophilia.com The month of April is a hot and humid season, making it an ideal time for sun-seekers. However, the Easter holidays make the island quite busy. If you prefer a quieter beach vacation, it's better to plan your trip outside of this period. April is also the beginning of the best time of the year to indulge in surfing or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. May is officially the start of winter in Mauritius, but the temperature remains comfortable, and the humidity drops. This month is popular among tourists as there are reasonable travel specials on Mauritius accommodations. The evenings can get chilly, so it is recommended to pack some warmer clothes. June is a cooler month in Mauritius compared to the humid weather at the beginning of the year. If you prefer hot weather, then June may feel much cooler. The trade winds start to increase, and like in May, the evenings can become a little colder. It's the perfect time for kite surfers. July To September Image source: www.eventsmauritius.mu July is also considered a cooler month in Mauritius. If you want to enjoy the best possible weather during this period, it's recommended to visit the North of the Island. Despite the lower temperatures, July is still a popular time of the year due to school holidays in the Northern Hemisphere. I visited Mauritius in August. In Mauritius, August is a month with mild temperatures and no rainfall, making it perfect for sunny days without the scorching heat. I would recommend you stay on the west or north coast during August as these areas provide more shelter from the wind. This month marks the Ganesh Chaturthi Festival, a festival honoring the God Ganesh, and you can see statues of the Elephant God all around the island during the celebration. September is considered the unofficial beginning of peak season in Mauritius. At this time, the strong trade winds start to die down, and the temperatures rise, ushering in the summer months and longer days of sunshine. Despite this, September still offers some quiet beaches, good deals on flights, exciting tours in Mauritius, and discounts on accommodations. October To December Image Source: www.mauvillas.com October is the driest month of the year in Mauritius, and it tends to be a busy time at the most popular destinations on the island. This month is also significant as it is the time for the Hindu festival of Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights. During this festive period, candles and lamps light up the island in a soft glow, making it a beautiful sight to behold. November is characterized by a significant increase in humidity and temperature. The month offers more sunshine, but it's also associated with an increase in rainfall. It's a perfect time for scuba diving enthusiasts who want to catch a glimpse of the seasonal turtles, particularly the Green turtle and the Hawksbill turtle, which are commonly spotted during this period. In December, the last month of the year, Mauritius experiences a surge in global activities, and the island is no exception. Humidity levels rise, and heavy rainfall is expected, mostly in the afternoons. The sea temperature is warmer, making it ideal for water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking, and scuba diving. However, it is advisable to plan your beach holiday well in advance to avoid the high demand during the festive season. Things To Do When Visiting Mauritius Image Source: planetofhotels.com Mauritius is absolutely gorgeous most of the time, and visiting it is a must, whether solo or with family. Here are some things you can try once you decide to try this island country for your next trip: Snorkeling At Blue Bay Marine Park Image Source: static2.tripoto.com If you're interested in witnessing the beautiful marine life of Mauritius, snorkeling is an excellent way to do so. By snorkeling at Blue Bay Marine Park, you'll have the opportunity to closely observe the amazing underwater world of Mauritius that has been hidden for centuries. This excursion will transport you to a different world, allowing you to explore something that is beyond your imagination. Cave Sea Kayaking At Albion Caves Image Source: images.squarespace-cdn.com Kayaking in Mauritius offers a unique and adventurous experience. One such experience is kayaking across the cave sea, providing you with an exclusive opportunity to witness the beauty of the caves. If you are fascinated by caves and enjoy exploring their hidden stories and interesting designs, then you should definitely try a kayaking tour at Albion Caves. Walks With Lions At Casela Park Image Source: toursmauritius.mu Have you ever considered taking a walk with the king of the jungle? If so, Casela Park in Mauritius offers an opportunity to experience the wild side of the jungle by taking a thrilling walk with lions. This excursion in Mauritius promises to give you an adrenaline rush and an unforgettable experience that you may have never imagined! Wrapping Up If you are planning to visit Mauritius and want to know more I hope this article helped. My Experience of Mauritius and knowledge of it will help you select your trip timing better. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! Read Also: This Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland & These Are The Things You Should Do! 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