Ohio Attractions: What There Is To Attract Us To Ohio

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 7, 2023

Are you attracted to Agoda for its alluring airfare and hotel offers? However, you are a wise traveler and are aware that appealing offers frequently have exorbitant fees. This could put your hard-earned money at risk of being lost. So the question remains: is Agoda legit? Let's investigate! Is Agoda Legit? Since Booking Holdings is the largest online travel company in the world, Agoda is unquestionably legitimate. If something goes wrong or you need to make changes, cancel, or receive a refund, Agoda can make things more difficult. In essence, Agoda serves as a go-between for you and airlines and lodging. As an intermediary, Agoda manages your reservation and takes payment on your behalf. The payment does not go to the hotel or airline you booked with. Because your contract is with Agoda and not the hotels or airlines directly, they will not be responsible for providing you with assistance. You will have to contact Agoda in the event that something goes wrong and you need help. They will then get in touch with the airline or hotel in question on your behalf and give you the information you need. In a similar vein, Agoda is the entity you will need to contact for any modifications, cancellations, or refunds. And because of this—the involvement of a third party, Agoda—things could be challenging. Especially in the event that something goes wrong or you need to cancel, make changes, or get a refund, especially when it comes to flights. Reservation Tips Bear the following in mind before making a reservation on Agoda: It is true that booking through Agoda can save you money compared to making direct reservations. There is a significant risk involved: it can make any mishap more difficult to handle. Additionally, you should be aware of the following three significant risks and disadvantages of using Agoda for reservations: Reservation Issues Your hotel reservation through Agoda or any other online travel agency can be at risk of cancellation. Occasionally, Agoda forgets to let the hotel know about a guest's reservation, which leads to either no reservation at all or an overbooking of the same room. However, occasionally, the hotels will also "bump" the least expensive visitors who booked through an internet travel company like Agoda. They will proceed to resell their room to a more direct buyer. Additionally, they lie to the guest by pretending that their reservation never happened when they got to the hotel. There's no guarantee that this problem will cease to exist. Even though Agoda might try to talk to your hotel about it—especially if it's an urgent one. No Control Over The Standard Of Hotels Since Agoda and other online travel agencies are merely middlemen, they have little control over the quality of the hotels. This is another risk or disadvantage of using them to book a room. Even though Agoda offers hotel listings, it's crucial to remember that the listing and the actual hotel might not always match. Therefore, there is nothing you can do if the hotel you reserved does not match the listing. Having made the booking through Agoda, you have limited powers to question the quality. It's crucial to set reasonable expectations when contacting Agoda about these kinds of problems because there's no assurance that they'll issue a refund, make another reservation at a nearby hotel, or provide any other kind of resolution. Likewise, since the hotel is not directly in charge of your reservation, do not anticipate receiving a refund or any other kind of resolution from them. This kind of scenario raises the possibility that Agoda will push things onto the hotel and that the hotel staff will then push things back onto Agoda, trapping you in the middle. Consequently, you will be forced to accept the hotel as it is. No Refunds For Non-Refundable Bookings It's crucial to know that Agoda normally does not issue refunds for non-refundable reservations. This is regardless of any unforeseen events that might affect your trip arrangements. However, it is definitely a legitimate online travel agency in terms of legitimacy. How? Personally, I've used Agoda to book hotels, and I haven't had any problems. In fact, when I want to book a hotel, I always use it. It is important to note that Agoda is owned by Booking Holdings, the global leader in online travel. Not only does Booking Holdings own Agoda, but it also possesses a wide range of well-known online travel companies, such as Booking.com, Priceline, Kayak, OpenTable, and others. You should always book directly if there is little to no price difference between booking through Agoda and directly. Agoda may be providing you with a far better deal than making a direct reservation with a hotel or airline. It all depends on your level and willingness to accept specific risks. Some of them are: Book Directly Or Through Agoda? You will have to consider the price difference between the two options. If Agoda does offer a cheaper rate, there are certain risks to consider, like: Difficulties and delays in resolving the issues and making changes, cancellations, and getting refunds, particularly in the case of flights. No reservation with the hotel. Accepting the hotel as it is. No refunds (in most cases) for non-refundable reservations, regardless of any circumstances that may arise. I personally strongly advise against using Agoda to book flights. The reason is that using Agoda to book flights makes it very difficult to make any changes. If you're willing to accept the aforementioned risks and drawbacks and the price difference is substantial, I would only suggest using Agoda to book hotels. Wrapping Up While using Agoda to make a reservation complicates, the website is a reputable source for travel arrangements. Agoda is a reliable source for bookings and typically offers lower prices than direct bookings. Does this imply that Agoda is the best place to book? Well, as previously stated, it mostly boils down to personal preferences. But to close out this piece, here are some passing recommendations I have: Avoid using Agoda to book anything, especially flights. The exception would be hotels, and that too only if: You can get a far better deal on Agoda than if you book directly with the hotel. You accept the dangers and disadvantages outlined above. If you adhere to the previously mentioned advice, you can reduce those risks and disadvantages. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: This Is My Experience With Play Airlines! Here’s What I Found Out About Aha Airlines! Condor Airlines: Is Booking Tickets On Condor Worth It?

BY  Ankita May 1, 2024

India has some historical monuments that are not only wonders of India but also wonders of the world. Further, from Rishikesh in the north to Pondicherry in the south, India has many spiritual hubs scattered across the country.  In addition, due to the diverse landscape, it has Himalayan peaks, lush jungles, and the coastal life of the Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean, and the Bay of Bengal.  So, as a first-time tourist or even the most seasoned traveler, finding the wonders of India can be overwhelming for you. Here is an attempt to curate eclectic destinations that cover the preferences of all tourists.  Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India: India is full of cultural and historic heritages, monuments, and national parks. Here is the list of the top 10 wonders of India that you must visit. Some of them are also marked as UNESCO world heritage sites. Further, thanks to numerous government schemes and a development in the infrastructure, India has shown significant progress in the worldwide tourism scenario. The Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024 shows India's 39th position among the 119 countries. It is a proud moment, considering how it has advanced by 15 positions in respect to the 54th rank in 2021.  1. Taj Mahal Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It is also a famous monument in India by Shah Jahan. Visiting India and failing to visit the Taj Mahal means that missing great opportunities to explore India. The architectural styles and the marble work of the Taj Mahal attract tourists from all over the world. Millions of people visit this destination every year. Taj Mahal is well-known for its attractions of color changing and a beautiful garden, among others. Talk to your tour guard about the slot for you the best time touring the Taj Mahal. You will have an excellent opportunity to experience one of the great wonders of the world. Direction: The nearest airport of Agra is Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport. Agra is only 200 km away from the IGI airport. You can avail cab from the airport or rent a car. 2. Red Fort Red Fort is a great edifice by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan.  It is one of the best architectural wonders in India. When visiting India, you should not allow the Ref Fort to be out of your list of the top places to visit in India. This architectural marvel was constructed with red andstone which makes it look like a red aura that is nice to see. Most people who visit India don’t want to miss out on this excellent opportunity of visiting Red Fort. It will be more beautiful during Independence Day that is full of decorations and has a royal appearance. There is a Sound & Light show at Red Fort that is held every evening. It describes the history, tradition, and culture of the Mughal Emperor. Who will not want to make a feel of this when visiting India? No wonder it falls among the top 10 famous wonders of India. Direction: The nearest metro station is Chandni Chowk, and the nearest railway station is old Delhi. However, the nearest bus stand is Kashmiri Gate Bus Stand. 3. Sanchi Stupa Sanchi Stupa is a famous Buddhist architectural and cultural monument in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the most popular tourist attraction sites that should not miss out on your list when touring India. It is a beautiful wonder in India with decorative images, designs, etc. Under the rule of Shunga, this monument was added with some more modifications like a beautiful harmonica on the top and stairways. It is excellent scenery for anyone who is visiting Australia. Direction: The nearest airport is Raja Bhoj in Gandhi Nagar. Sachi stupa is only 55 k.m away from the airport. 4. Gateway of India This famous Indo-Saracen-style monument was built by British architect George Wittet in the year 1911. Gateway of India was completely made of concrete and yellow-colored basalt rock which attracts a large number of people. This glorious architectural marvel adds glory to Mumbai city with its massive structure. You can be sure of having a good time when touring the Gateway of India. Most of that person who has stepped on this ground will tell you that it’s an amazing experience. Direction: Central Secretariat metro station is the nearest metro station. From the metro station is the only 3k.m.  5. Khajuraho Temples Khajuraho's group of temples are very famous for its architectural style and exotic sculptures. These temples are mainly dedicated to Jain and Hindu religions by the Rajput Chandela Dynasty. By visiting this wonderful monument, you can experience the skill of architects of the 10th century back time. It will give you an exclusive opportunity to learn about the great wonders of India. Direction: Lucknow is the nearest airport to Khajuraho Temple. In Khajuraho, there is a single terminal airport that connects the Lucknow airport. Flights to Khajuraho are available from Lucknow, Delhi, and Varanasi. 6. Qutub Minar Qutub Minar is a five-storied famous monument in Delhi by Qutub-Ud-Din Aibak that shows his victory over Hindu rulers. This beautiful wonder was designed in complete Afghan style, and it will be very interesting to experience this place. It has several destroyed monuments and tombs that are a must-watch for the visitors. It is an excellent opportunity for anyone who would like to experience the top 10 famous wonders of India. Along with the Qutub Minar, you can see the non rusted iron pillar of Delhi within the same campus. Direction: The nearest metro station is the Qutub Minar metro station. And Mehrauli Bus stand is the nearest Bus stand of the Qutub Minar. 7. Ajanta And Ellora Caves Ajanta and Ellora caves are the best examples of beautiful paintings, sculptures, and murals at the time of the 2nd century BC and 6th century AD. This destination also has so much to talk about the history of India. The art effects are dating between 600-1000 CE. Each and every cave are carrying significant art effects and all the time periods are different. These magnificent caves are dedicated to Jainism, Buddhism, and Hinduism. However, these monuments are the best places to experience the arts of the bygone era. Most of the people get an opportunity to visit Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Direction: Aurangabad is the nearest city to the Ajanta Ellora Cave. From Mumbai, you are getting the train, bus, and flight facility to travel to Aurangabad. 8. Amer Fort Amer Fort is a famous majestic monument. Maan Singh built it in Jaipur. It is a marvelous architectural wonder with Hindu and Muslim architectural styles.  Amer Fort gives those visiting this place an excellent opportunity to enjoy the land's beauty. It is a unique monument with attractions such as Diwan-e-Aam, Sheesh Mahal, and Sukh Mandir and a light show in the evening. Ensure you request the tour guard include this site on the list of places you will be visiting while in India. Direction: Jaipur is the nearest airport. Pick a cab from the Jaipur airport or railway station if you want to reach the Amer fort.  From New Delhi station, you get many options to reach Jaipur, and from New Delhi, you will get the Jaipur connecting flights. 9. Charminar In one word, Charminar is the pride of Hyderabad. In a real sense, the monument is a sacred mosque built by Mohammad Quli Qutub Shah in 1591. It is some of the historical sites that are still defining the wonders of India. Due to the rapid growth of the population, it has remained in the center of traffic. The four minarets of Charminar symbolize the first four caliphs of the Islam religion. Get an opportunity to experience this beauty by slotting Charminar on your Indian trip. Direction: Charminar metro station is the nearest metro. Mahatma Gandhi Bus station is the nearest bus station from Charminar. And Charminar is just 2.6 km away from the Mahatma Gandhi Hyderabad Bus stand. 10. Konark Sun Temple Sun Temple in Konark is a famous temple in India.  The temple exists in the form of a huge chariot that is dedicated to Lord Surya Deva in the 13th century. A major attraction of this temple was depicting the mythological figures and images of animals when the first sun rays touch. It is an excellent place for anyone who wants to enjoy the beauty of India.  Direction: From Puri, only 32 km away from the Konark Sun Temple. You can simply book a cab from Puri and reach the Sun Temple within one hour. 11. Gomateshwara Gomateshwara, located in Karnataka, is a monolithic statue dedicated to the Jain god Baahubali. Voters chose the massive work of art in Karnataka’s Shravanabelagola as one of India’s seven wonders.  The magnificent structure, one of the world’s largest freestanding statues, appears extremely tranquil and peaceful. To keep the rock’s luster and shimmer, the figurine is polished and washed with milk, saffron, and ghee during this celebration. The Mahamastakabhisheka festival takes place here once every 12 years at the temple. And THIS is a sight that you cannot miss! It took place in February 2024. So, it is going to be held again in 2036.  Direction: You can drive from Bangalore for a distance of 144 km through the National Highway 75. This place is also located nearly 95 km from the Mysore airport. 12. Golden Temple The most important Sikhism shrine is Harmandir Sahib, also known as Durbar Sahib and the Golden Temple. It is one of India's most visited religious sites, decorated both inside and out with portions of the Holy Granth Sahib.  The gold-plated structure has copper domes and walls made of sparkling white marble that look like floral patterns from the Islamic style. It is one of India's most well-known wonders due to its tranquility, charm, clean and sanitary environment, and spiritual solace. Direction: The Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (ATQ) is 11 kilometers from the center of the city. There are daily flights from several international and Indian cities. You can also take a cab from Amritsar Railway Station to reach the temple. 13. Hampi One of India's most well-known historical sites is Hampi, which is in Karnataka and is on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. One of India's Seven Wonders, Hampi is renowned for its historical ruins and relics of the grand Vijaynagar Kingdom. Its magnificent art display has also made it one of India's Seven Wonders. The stunning architectural ruins of temples and monuments make up the charming location, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Direction: Through NH 48 and NH 50, the driving distance from Bangalore is 343 kilometers. The Hospet railway station is 13 kilometers away. 14. India Gate Pardon me for mentioning the India Gate so late in the list. However, India Gate is the monument you must visit first in the country. Sir Edwin Lutyens designed this famous landmark in India, and the construction was open to the public in 1931.  Earlier, this monument was called the All India War Memorial, and it commemorates the Indian soldiers who fought in World War I as part of the British Army and lost their lives. It also pays respect to the soldiers of the Third Anglo-Afghan War. You can also see the Amar Jawan Jyoti at the India Gate. Conceptualized after the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971, this forever-burning torch is a tribute to the country's armed forces.  India Gate is open to visitors throughout the day. However, you can visit the India Gate between 7-9 pm as it looks radiant in the floodlight.  Direction: The Central Secretariat Metro Station is the closest to the India Gate. Further, you can take a metro to Udyog Bhawan and take an auto to the India Gate.  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Now that you are aware of the wonders of India, it is time for you to learn about the most asked questions related to this topic. Check these out before you leave! 1. What Is The 8th Wonder Of The World In India? Ans: Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi outlines 10,000 years of Indian history in all its breathtaking charm, grace, erudition, and joy. It showcases brilliantly the fragrance of India's antique architecture, beliefs, and timeless spiritual messages. 2. Who Decided The Seven Wonders Of The World? Ans: The original Seven Wonders of the World (also known as Ancient Wonders) are often connected to Greek writer Antipater of Sidon. He gathered a list of the seven most remarkable constructions recognized by man. This list was created to be based upon what was widespread among travelers. 3. Why Seven Wonders Are Called Seven Wonders? Ans: The unusual works of art and architecture are known as the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World toil as a testament to the ability, insight, and sheer hard work of which human beings are capable. The first list comes from a work by Philo of Byzantium written in 225 B.C. called On The Seven Wonders 4. Is The Taj Mahal Removed From The Seven Wonders Of The World? Ans: Ultimately, in 2007, an informal list of the new seven wonders was published. The Taj Mahal in Agra, India, breaks the ice. Recognized as an architectural masterpiece, the 17th-century white marble mausoleum draws up to eight million vacationists a year. Conclusion These are the top 10 famous wonders of India that you must visit on your India tour. Each of them will leave a memorable experience in the back of your mind.  All these historical or mythological monuments are touristy because of the attractions of architectural styles and interesting facts. It will be very enthusiastic and enjoyable to visit these places.  You can be sure that you will have the best experience by visiting any of them. Besides, each of them will give you the best value for your money. Do your homework well so that you have no regrets after you visit India.   Read Also: Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try 10 Things To Do In Bogota – You Must Know Before Going Top 7 Nantucket Beaches For Tourists In Massachusetts Top 7 Places To Visit For An Asian Solo Traveler

BY  Ankita Nov 30, 2023

Pizza is more than just a food, which resonates with the establishment of so many pizza restaurants around the world. It's a global sensation that has captivated the hearts and appetites of people worldwide. Its journey, from humble beginnings in Naples, Italy, to its widespread acclaim today, represents an extraordinary culinary evolution. In this comprehensive exploration, we will trace the fascinating history of how a pizza restaurant conquered our hearts and appetites. Further, we shall also examine the transformation of this delectable dish from its origins to the modern pizzerias that have made it a beloved icon. Pizza Restaurants In Melbourne Melbourne, renowned for its diverse culinary scene, has a thriving pizza culture. It caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. The city's pizza establishments reflect its multicultural population. Hence, it offers a variety of pizza styles influenced by Italian, American, and other international cuisines. Melburnians are particularly known for their appreciation of artisanal and gourmet pizzas, often featuring unique and high-quality toppings from local producers. Additionally, Melbourne has a significant presence of pizzerias that cater to specific dietary needs, including vegan and gluten-free options, making it an inclusive and accessible choice for all residents and visitors. The city also hosts various pizza festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating the love for pizza and showcasing the culinary creativity of local pizzaiolos. These events allow pizza enthusiasts to explore new flavors and indulge in their favorite slices. Melbourne's love for pizza is an example of its diverse as well as inclusive food scene. Thereby offering a wide array of pizza options that go beyond traditional styles and cater to the ever-evolving tastes of its residents and tourists The Birth Of Pizza The story of pizza originates in Naples, Italy, during the 18th century when it was known as "pizza Margherita." It was a straightforward dish consisting of flatbread topped with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil. The legend has it that it earned its name in honor of Queen Margherita of Italy, who was enchanted by this delightful amalgamation of flavors and colors. Immigration And The Spread Of Pizza In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, waves of Italian immigrants arrived in the United States, bringing their culinary traditions, including pizza, with them. Pizzaiolos (pizza makers) opened small, neighborhood pizzerias in cities like New York and Chicago, catering primarily to the growing Italian-American community. These early pizzerias served traditional Neapolitan-style pizza. These are characterized by a thin, crispy crust cooked in coal-fired ovens and sold by the slice. The Rise Of Convenience As pizza gained popularity in Australia, it underwent a transformation to meet the demands of a fast-paced society. Pizza restaurants began offering delivery services, revolutionizing the way people enjoyed pizza. The introduction of the pizza box made it even more convenient to order and transport this delicious dish. The ability to savor pizza in the comfort of one's home quickly became a cherished tradition, particularly during gatherings with family and friends. Pizza Chains And Mass Production The 1950s witnessed the emergence of the first pizza chains, such as Domino's and Pizza Hut. These chains revolutionized the pizza-making process, implementing assembly-line techniques and standardized recipes using pre-packaged ingredients. The result was consistent, affordable pizza delivered quickly to homes across the nation. This shift towards mass production played a pivotal role in cementing pizza's status as a staple of American cuisine. Variety And Innovation As pizza continued to evolve, so did its toppings. Pizzerias embraced experimentation with a diverse range of ingredients. Thus leading to the creation of a myriad of pizza styles and flavors. While the classic pepperoni and cheese combination remained a favorite, gourmet options like BBQ chicken, spinach, and feta, or prosciutto and arugula, began to grace menus. Pizza had become a canvas for culinary creativity, catering to a wide range of palates. The Advent Of The Pizzeria The concept of the pizzeria, a sit-down restaurant specializing in pizza, gained prominence in the mid-20th century. These establishments offered a more upscale dining experience, complete with a menu featuring an array of pizza options, appetizers, and desserts. Pizzerias became places where families, friends, and couples could gather for a casual yet enjoyable meal, often accompanied by a bottle of wine or a cold beer. Pizza's Global Appeal Today, pizza is not confined to the United States or Italy; it has spread to every corner of the globe. In nearly every country, you can find pizzerias offering local twists on this international favorite. In Japan, for example, you might encounter pizzas topped with unconventional ingredients like squid and mayo, while in India, a tandoori chicken pizza could tantalize your taste buds. Pizza's adaptability to local tastes and preferences has contributed to its worldwide popularity. The Role Of Social Media The rise of social media has played a substantial role in perpetuating the love affair with pizza. Instagram, in particular, has emerged as a platform for food enthusiasts. They can share their adventures in multiple pizza restaurants, showcasing mouthwatering photos of cheesy slices and perfectly charred crusts. The viral nature of these images has only served to fan the flames of pizza's popularity, cementing its status as a beloved food on a global scale. Pizza's Role In Popular Culture Beyond its culinary significance, pizza has left an indelible mark on popular culture. From iconic pizza-loving characters like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to memorable catchphrases like "Pizza, Pizza!" From the Little Caesars commercials, pizza has become a symbol of fun, indulgence, and togetherness. It often features prominently in movies, television shows, and even music, further solidifying its place in the hearts of people around the world. Conclusion Pizza restaurants have come a long way since their humble beginnings in Naples. From the streets of Italy to the bustling pizzerias of New York and the global phenomenon it is today, pizza has captured the hearts and appetites of people worldwide. Its adaptability, convenience, and sheer deliciousness have made it a timeless favorite. Moreover, it continues to bring people together! Whether it's for a casual weeknight dinner, a special celebration, or a cultural experience in a foreign land. You May Also Like:  Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try Batista Restaurant Las Vegas – Restaurant Info, Ratings & Reviews 8 Best Bachelor Party Destinations To Visit In 2021