From Munich With Beer: Oktoberfest Revelry

BY  Abdul Aziz May 19, 2023

For avid travelers and investors, the Korean currency rate can be a fascinating topic of discussion. Understanding the fluctuations of the won against other currencies can give insights into its economy. Likewise, it could say much about Korea's political developments and investors' sentiment in the market. This article will explore everything about the Korean currency rate. As such, we will cover the basic conversion rates to the impact of major events on the Korean economy. History Of Korean Currency South Korean currency has rich historical data that dates back to the early dynasties of Korea. It all started with the use of cowry shells and pearls as currency. As time passed, metal coins and paper money became popular. The Japanese occupation of Korea introduced the Japanese yen as the official currency. Yet, in 1945, the Korean won was introduced and became the official currency. Interestingly, the won was initially divided into 100 jeon, but the jeon was eliminated in 1960. The won has undergone many transformations to ensure price stability and economic growth. In modern times, the South Korean won is the official currency used in South Korea. Today, the value of the South Korean won fluctuates with the global exchange rates. It’s one of the world’s top 20 currencies by value. Current South Korean Won Exchange Rate Knowing the latest exchange rate for the Korean won can be helpful in budgeting and forecasting your finances. As of January 2023, the exchange rate for Korean won is fluctuating depending on the global market and demand. Below are some of the latest conversion rates: 1 US dollar = 1,315.29 Korean won (USD to KRW) 1 Australian dollar = 893.35 Korean won (AUD to KRW) 1 Chinese yuan = 192.07 Korean won (CNY to KRW) 1 Japanese yen = 9.90 Korean won (JPY to KRW) However, exchange rates may vary depending on banks' locations and policies. Check exchange rates online through various currency converter websites to ease the currency conversion. Alternatively, download an exchange rate or currency calculator app. With these tools, you can convert your dollars to South Korean won (USD - KRW) or any other currency at the current rate. Banknotes And Coins Banknotes and coins in South Korea are not only used for daily transactions. Yet, they also hold significant cultural value. As such, these banknotes come in different denominations and colors. For instance, the 1,000-won note features a Confucian scholar. Then, the 10,000 won note features Admiral Yi Sun-sin, known for his naval victories against Japan. Meanwhile, the 50,000 won note features Shin Saimdang, a prominent female artist. Besides that, she was the mother of the famous Korean painter Yi I. These banknotes represent important historical figures and showcase various artistic designs. Similarly, Korean coins are equally fascinating, with 10, 50, 100, and 500 won denominations. Each coin features a different symbol that holds cultural significance. The 500-won coin features the portrait of King Sejong, who invented the Korean alphabet. Meanwhile, the 100-won coin features the image of a crane, symbolizing longevity and good fortune in Korean culture. When visiting South Korea, carry some local currency as most stores prefer cash transactions. Foreign exchange markets are available in major cities, but it is crucial to know exchange fees as they vary. Overall, banknotes and coins in South Korea hold monetary value and capture the country's cultural heritage. Visit the Bank of Korea to learn more about their banknotes and coins. Money-Handling And Etiquette As with any country, knowing the cultural norms when handling money in South Korea is good. As such, for Koreans, money is not just a means but a representation of energy. Below are some key points to note: Cleanliness is crucial. Many Koreans believe money represents energy and keep their bills and coins as clean as possible. Hence, you will rarely see crumpled or dirty bills in circulation. Besides that, many Koreans carry cash and coins in wallets and change purses. For them, it is not just a convenient way to have cash but a way to keep it clean and maintain the money's energy. Respectful giving and receiving. When giving or receiving money, using both hands for respect is customary. This act is particularly true when exchanging money with older people or of a higher status than you. No throwing or placing on the floor. Throwing money or putting it on the floor is considered disrespectful. If you drop a coin or bill, pick it up immediately. Likewise, people usually place money on a designated tray or hand it directly to the receiver. Cash vs. Card. Credit cards are widely accepted in Korea. Yet, having some Korean won for small transactions or in areas that only accept cash is always good. Keep this Korean currency rate information. Doing so will allow you to navigate financial transactions in South Korea with ease and respect for the country's cultural norms. Read Also: Traveling To Korea? Here’s Your Must-Try Korean Food 7 Reasons Why Phuket, Thailand Attracts Travelers Worldwide Top Hotels With Jacuzzi In Room In Las Vegas – Travel Guide

BY  Shahnawaz Sep 6, 2022

Despite the “Mind Your Own Business” video going viral and the debate between tourists and locals about using trash bins becoming the latest buzz, Nainital remains one of the most popular hill stations in India.  While overtourism can be a concern in this hill station or the state of Uttarakhand, you cannot ignore the fact that Taluka in Nainital introduced astrology tourism with the Nakshatra Sabha event in December 2024.  It was the fourth chapter of the first-ever astroturism campaign in India, organized by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board and Starscapes, a leading astrotourism company in the country.  Thanks to clear weather conditions, December is the best time to visit Nainital for stargazing. However, is it the best time to visit Nainital for a family trip? In this Tour and Travel blog, we will discuss the ideal time for a Nainital trip with family and the places to visit every season.  Before that, let’s briefly overview Nainital as a travel destination.  Why Visit Nainital: Know The Lake District Of India Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (Distance: 40 Km) Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (Distance: 35 Km) Nestled in the Kumaon Himalayas, Nainital is surrounded by Sapta-Shring or Seven Hills. The seven hills around this Lake District are: Sher-Ka-Danda Lariya-Kanta Handi-Bandi Naina Alma Deopata Ayarpata Further, this hill station, at an elevation of 2000 meters, is associated with the stories of Lord Shiva and Mata Sati.  It is said that the Lake was formed when Mata Sati's eyes fell during the Tandava Nritya, or the Dance of Destruction of Lord Mahadeva. The Naina Devi temple at the lake's edge is a popular religious site.  Also, the city has buildings and bungalows, a telltale of British colonial architecture. It was the summer capital of the United Provinces during the British Rule in India.  Moreover, the attractions in Nainital are endless. So, from a church in the wilderness to a bird-watching haven, you will find everything in Nainital. What Is The Best Time To Visit Nainital? Nainital is a year-round destination. However, April to June is the best time to visit Nainital while traveling with your family.  Further, if you want to see snowfall in Nainital, the best time to plan a visit is December to January. In 2025, Nainital had its first snowfall on 11th January, resulting in a tourist boost to areas like Pangot Marg, Himalaya Darshan, Kilbury and China Peak.  Nevertheless, I have shared a table below with the month-wise temperature and precipitation possibilities in Nainital.  You can check that out to decide the best time to visit Nainital. Then, I will discuss the best attractions and places to visit in each season. MonthsMaximum TemperatureDegree/Celsius) Lowest TemperatureDegree/Celsius)Rainfall/Precipitation (MM)January15448February17665March21950April 261340May271660June2819255July2520569August2419490September2417266October221348November2098December17620 So, as you can see, July, August, and September are the months with the highest rainfall in Nainital.  Heavy rainfall may cause landslides, road blockages, and many outdoor attractions or activities may not be operational in the monsoon season.  However, the monsoon is the best time to visit Nainital if you want to explore the quiet beauty of the hill station and its decor with shades of lush green. What's So Attractive About Summer In Nainital? I could give you more than one reason why you should visit between March to June. Nainital is like a pure place on earth wrapped around by gorgeous mountains and lakes. The time between march to June is mostly spring and summer, and it is doubtlessly the best time to visit Nainital. The mountains are always awake, watching and talking to you. Although the streets don't stay up so late, the clear night sky at Nainital makes up for the best place to watch stars at night. The months from March to June are the ideal time for that. There are lakes so pristine and the pine tree so pretty waiting to welcome you. 1. Temperature Between March To June Here, the summer temperature fluctuates between 11°C to 28°C in Nainital if you are visiting from March to June. 2. Warm Weather In the summer, the town remains so warm and bright. You can take plenty of good photos. The sun wakes up the town with a good morning kiss, and the mountains are always awake and smiling. Mornings are warm, with the cool wind blowing every now and then. The evening and the nights are slightly chilly.  3. Events To Take Part In Yes, you can go paddling in the lake and do lots of other activities as well. However, the main reason for choosing summer is because of the events. Ever heard of the Phool Dei? It is an event in Uttarakhand to celebrate a good harvest expecting a good harvest. Little children decorate the thresholds of their homes with freshly plucked flowers. Locals, at this time, stay in a festive mood. You can taste the ceremonial pudding which is very famous at this point in time in Nainital. People go out on the street and perform their local folk songs and dance in Joy. 4. Places To Visit The festive mood here will keep you cheered up. However, summer also makes up for the best time to visit the tourist spots here. You can go to Naini Lake, Land's End, Caves Garden and.  Tiffin Top can be a great location if you want a recreational moment with your loved one or your family. You can enjoy the fresh look of the mountainscape and enjoy the sunrise there. Just four kilometers away from the main town, Tiffin Top can also be a good opportunity if you are up for trekking.  Can You Visit Nainital In The Monsoon? Yes, you obviously can. I told you that it is a year-round travel destination. The months from July to September mark the stay of the monsoon. If you want to see the green mountains drenched in rain and clouds swirling up from deep within the mountains, then this is the best time to visit Nainital. Although you can choose whether in Nainital and make your visit, the summer, according to most visitors, is the best time. But, my personal preference is monsoon. Moreover, Nainital celebrates the Nanda Devi Festival in September. King Kalyan Chand of Chand Dynasty started this fair in the 16th century.  Further, Khatarua is another monsoon festival in Nainital, which is celebrated in mid-September. On this day, children dance and throw cucumbers to the fire to celebrate the destruction of evil spirits.  Moreover, Gheeya Sankranti, or Olgia, is celebrated in Nainital in mid-August. It is a festival to exchange gratitude between landowners and farmers.  5. Is Winter The Best Time To Visit Nainital?  Winter is the best time to visit Nainital if you are looking for adventures in the snow-covered hills.  Further, during the winter months, the Naini Lake promenade becomes a bustling hub for ice skating, scenic walks, and snow trekking. Also, during winter, you can visit places like Bhimtal Lake, Kainchi Dham, Snow View Point, and China Peak. Moreover, Nainital celebrates Sharadotsav in October and the Uttrayani Festival in mid-January.  Both festivals have distinct rituals and many visitors, including foreigners. Further, they are great to experience the local culture.  In addition, Christmas is the most happening event in Nainital, with many outdoor activities, such as paragliding, camping, horse riding, and zoo visits. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Most of your questions are answered through the sections above. However, I have offered some additional questions and answers just to make sure that you get clean and complete information. 1. Which Weather Is Best For Nainital? From March to June is a long span. But, if you want me to specify the best months to visit Nainital, I will suggest a time between May to June. The temperature is pleasant, and the weather is clean and simple for a good tour. 2. How Many Days In Nainital Is Enough? You will need three minimum days to explore and relax in the beautiful hill destination known as Nainital. If you want to visit all the popular locations here, then a three days trip would be enough. 3. How Much Does A Nainital Trip Cost? If you are planning a short trip of four days and three nights, then you can expect your budget to be around 14,799. Bottom Line! If you want to experience Snowfall in Nainital, I will suggest you go there during the winter. January will be the best time. The monsoon makes the place look green, saturated, and fresh, and the summer is all about vibrance and joy. So, if you are looking for the best time to visit Nainital, then I will suggest you go wherever your heart wants. Did you find the answer you were looking for? Tell us what you think about it. We are also open to questions. Read Also : Top 10 famous Wonders of India 10 Best Places for Honeymoon in India

BY  Sibashree Aug 9, 2024

Wrangell-St. Elias, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an icy wonderland. It is a place where active volcanoes and the largest glaciers, like Malaspina, coexist, making it “A Song of Ice and Fire.”  It also has some of the greatest mountain ranges in the world and mighty rivers. Further, unique geological features and weather conditions have made the national park a land of biodiversity and wilderness with a lot of mammals, birds, fish, and plants.  Let me take you on a tour of the Wrangell-St. Elias glaciers and everything the national park has to offer.   What Are The Notable Glaciers In Wrangell-St. Elias?  Nabesna Glacier, Malaspina Glacier, and Hubbard Glacier are the most notable ones in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.   Along with these glaciers, you can also see glacier features like glacier caves, Jökulhlaups, and ice falls. Let’s briefly discuss the major glaciers and glacier features.   Malaspina Glacier Did you know that Malaspina Glacier is the “largest Piedmont glacier in the world?” Designated as a National Natural Landscape in 1968, it spans across 1,075,409 acres.   Further, its glacial mechanisms and fluctuations have made it a favorite of explorers. The glacier is also a favorite of space travelers as it looks vibrant from space.   In an article published by NASA Earth Observatory on 27th October 2023, we can find,  “The dark blueish-purple lines on the ice are moraines—areas where soil, rock, and other debris have been scraped up by the glacier and deposited along its edges. The zigzag pattern of the debris is caused by changes in the ice’s velocity. Glaciers in this area of Alaska periodically “surge” or lurch forward for one to several years. As a result of this irregular flow, the moraines can fold, compress, and shear to form the characteristic textures seen on Malaspina.”  Hubbard Glacier  Hubbard, “the sleeping giant,” is the largest when it comes to the tidewater glaciers in North America (75 miles long). The glacier gets its name from Gardiner Hubbard, National Geographic Society’s first president.   Also called the “Galloping Glacier,” it comes with tranquil blue ice. You can explore Hubbard Glacier through a cruise trip.   Visiting the Hubbard Glacier becomes more exciting as you meet the sea otters, whales, sea lions, and bears along the route.   Nabesna Glacier  With a length of 53 miles, Nabesna Glacier is the “longest interior valley glacier” in the world. However, there are concerns regarding the loss of ice mass in the glacier. A 2007 report says,  “Nabesna, the largest glacier in this region (˜1056 km2), lost mass four times faster during 2000–07 than during 1957–2000. Although accelerated, the mass change over this region is slower than in other glacierized regions of Alaska, particularly those with tidewater glaciers.”  Glacier Features In Wrangell-St. Elias  You will come across many fascinating glacier caves in Wrangell-St. Elias, especially near the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark.   Further, ice falls, or the fountains of the glacier, move very fast, and it’s fascinating to see how they form seracs or blocks.   Also, there are Jökulhlaups, or flooded glacier outbursts, adding to the various glacier features of the national park.    Amazing Glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Facts  Mount  St. Elias, the largest peak of the national park, is the second-highest in the world.  Mount Wrangell, the only active volcano here, is one of the largest active volcanoes in North America.  It has Nabesna Glacier, Malaspina Glacier, and Hubbard Glacier, three of the largest in the world.   It is a part of the “world's largest international protected wilderness.”  Mid-May to mid-September is the best time to visit this park.   Wrangell-St. Elias: A UNESCO World Heritage Site  Home to countless glaciers and many high mountains, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park enjoys the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with Kluane, Glacier Bay, and Tatshenshini-Alsek.   Also, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is a part of the “largest non-polar icefield in the world.” You will find Dall's sheep, grizzly bears, caribou, and many other animals roaming in this part of the world.   Further, certain geographical and biological factors and “protection and management requirements” make this national park a place of outstanding universal value. Let’s discuss them in detail.   Rich In Biodiversity  The scenic beauty and geological diversity in the park are outstanding. It has sea mammals and other aquatic animals. Further, you can see many land mammals, birds, and different types of trees in this park.   The table below mentions some of the most popular birds, trees, and animals you can see here.   Land Mammals Brown Bears Polar Bears Black Bears Mountain Goats Dall Sheep Bison Coyotes Wolverine Porcupine Sea Mammals and Other Marine Creatures Whales Sea Lions Porpoises Harbor Seals Sea Otters Plants (936 Vascular Plant Species) Sedge Family Grass Family Sunflower Family Trees Willows Various Introduced Species Birds Bald Eagles Canada Geese Trumpeter Swans Wilson's Warblers American Robins  Home to boreal forest, Wrangell-St. Elias has one of the largest ecosystems in the world. Diverse geological features and unique weather conditions support this sprawling ecosystem or biodiversity.   Comes With Topographical Diversity   This national park is one of the most diverse in its topographical features. It has glaciers, rivers, river canyons, volcanoes, snow-capped mountains and whatnot!   Geomorphological features like hanging valleys, moraines, craters, and calderas also make this national park unique.   A Hub Of Active Tectonic, Volcanic, Glacial, And Fluvial Natural Processes   Like the entire Alaska, Wrangell-St. Elias is also in an area where tectonic, volcanic, glacial, and fluvial natural processes are common.   So, it has active and inactive volcanoes, the largest glaciers, and some prominent fluvial landforms. It has the mighty Copper River, Rivers of Life, and braided rivers formed of glacier water.   Final Words   Wrangell-St. Elias National Park has the highest glacier coverage among all national parks in America. It also has the active Mount Wrangell volcano, rivers, and wetlands, making it a place of geological interest.   Exploring the glacier caves and the ice falls here is a one-of-a-kind experience, and it’s wonderful to see how the richest biodiversity with mammals, birds, aquatic animals, and trees thrives here.   So, come and experience the brilliance of nature as you explore the largest glaciers of the world’s largest glaciers, such as Malaspina and Hubbard.   Or have you already been to this land of volcanoes and glaciers? Don’t forget to share your experience of the glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park tours.    Wrangell-St. Elias National Park FAQs   How Many Glaciers Are In Wrangell-St. Elias National Park?  Like the entire Alaska, Wrangell-St. Elias is filled with glaciers. According to the latest count of the National Park Service (NPS), the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park has 3,121 glaciers. Further, these glaciers cover a whopping “6,757 square miles of land.”  So, Wrangell-St. Elias has glaciers that cover 60% of all the glacier coverage in American National Parks. Glacier Bay in Alaska is the distant second to Wrangell-St. Elias. The glacier coverage at Glacier Bay is just 1/5th of Wrangell-St. Elias.  In addition, Malaspina, Hubbard, and the Bering glaciers, located along the park’s southern margin, are three of the largest glaciers in the world.   Having said that, glacier coverage in Alaska is shrinking, and  Wrangell-St. Elias is not an exception. From 1985 to 2020, it has already experienced a 5% reduction in its glacier coverage.   How many People Visit Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Each Year?  The National Park Service has a record of visitors to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park since 1982. Since then, this park has been enjoying thousands of footfalls every year.  2023 was one of the topmost years in terms of number of people visiting  Wrangell-St. Elias. It had 78,305 visitors in 2023.  In 2020 (the Covid-19 era), the park had 16,655 visitors. From 2021, the number of visitors has increased consistently. (Source)  What Is Unique About Wrangell-St. Elias National Park?  With the largest glaciers and volcanoes in the world, Wrangell-St. Elias is unique because of its geographical features. It is also one of the most prominent hubs of biodiversity. Thanks to its extensive glacier and volcanic coverage and rich wildlife, it has earned the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Among glaciers, Hubbard (one of the largest in the world and the largest tidewater glacier in North America) and Malaspina Glacier demand a special mention.   The Mount Wrangell volcano in this park is still active, and some other volcanoes here are Mount Drum, Capital Mountain, Skookum Creek Volcano, etc.  Further, it has an endangered sea mammal, Steller Sea Lion, and other marine animals. Bears, mountain goats, and sheep are common land mammals roaming here.   Also, you will find birds like the American robins, Wilson's warblers, and dark-eyed junco in this national park.   What Is The Highest Peak In Wrangell-St. Elias?  Mount St. Elias is the highest peak in Wrangell-St. Elias. With a height of 18,008 feet, it is also the second-highest peak in North America.   Having said that, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park celebrates the presence of four major mountain ranges in the world. It has the eastern part of the Alaskan Range, St. Elias, Chugach, and Wrangell.   Why Is Wrangell-St. Elias Protected?  Wrangell-St. Elias is protected to “preserve and protect ecological integrity and heritage resources of a vast ecosystem in south-central Alaska, while providing for public use in a wilderness setting.”  So, it is protected to preserve the local geology and diversity of the landscape with glaciers, volcanoes, and wetlands. It is also a measure to preserve wildlife and its inhabitants. Also read Ultimate Guide to Your Next Family Vacation in Israel. Paris Transforming Historical Sites Into Olympic Venues. Whales And Sea Lions! Exploring Wildlife At Kenai Fjords National Park.