A Day At Olympic National Park: Making The Most Of The UNESCO World Heritage Site

BY  Sibashree Jan 22, 2025

McGhee-Tyson Airport in Knoxville is the closest international airport to Gatlinburg, TN. It offers general, commercial, and military aviation services. Further, six airlines operate here, and they have flight services to as many as 25 destinations.  The airport is equipped with the following modern-day amenities. Free Wi-Fi Power Plug-In Sports SmartCart Service Animal Relief Area Lactation Station ATMs Food & Retail Information Booth Free Phone & Wait Parking Classic Shoe Shine Customer Service Furthermore, the airport promotes the artwork of regional artists in its Art in the Airport Exhibit section on the right of the TSA Security checkpoint. Moreover, the airport is compliant with ADA or the American Disability Act.  So you will get wheelchair assistance at the airport, and for the same, you must contact customer service at (865) 342-3180. Where Is The Closest International Airport To Gatlinburg, TN? The Closest International Airport To Gatlinburg, TN, McGhee-Tyson Airport is located at a 12 miles distance from downtown Knoxville. The airport is south of downtown. Further, the distance between the McGhee-Tyson Airport and Gatlinburg is 40 miles.  It is a premium air service connecting East Tennessee to other parts of the world. Its complete address is 2055 Alcoa Highway, Alcoa, TN 37701.  Need A Ride At The Closest International Airport To Gatlinburg, TN? McGhee-Tyson Airport has dedicated car rental counters. These counters are near the baggage claim of the airport terminal building’s lower level.  You will get taxis, hotel shuttles, charters, car rentals, and ride shares from these counters. Uber and Lyft offer ride-share services here.  Further, the car rental companies include: Alamo (Reservation: 1 (800) 342-3210) Avis (Reservation: 1 (800) 342-3210) Budget (Reservation: 1 (800) 342-3210) Enterprise (Reservation: 1 (800) 342-3210) Dollar Car Rental (Reservation: 1 (800) 342-3210) Car Rental Payless (Reservation: 1 (800) 342-3210) National (Reservation: 1 (800) 342-3210) Hertz (Reservation: 1 (800) 342-3210) Moreover, the taxi services here are Sunday Taxi ((865) 518-1223), Tennessee Transportation ((865) 242-9719), and Discount Taxi ((865) 317-0554).  In addition, Fairfield Inn & Suites ((865) 409-5950), Hilton Knoxville Airport ((865) 970-4300), etc., are some hotel shuttle services available at the airport.  Economic Importance Of The Closest International Airport To Gatlinburg, TN McGhee-Tyson Airport, the closest international airport to Gatlinburg, TN, is crucial for local tourism and the entire tourism scenario of East Tennessee. It keeps Gatlinburg and East Tennessee connected to other states of the USA and the rest of the world.  Further, this airport has a significant economic impact on East Tennessee. At least 2,700 people work here, and the annual benefit of the airport is around $1 billion. Moreover, it indirectly supports the local economy through commercial aviation services.  In addition, there are several tourist attractions near McGhee-Tyson Airport. You can visit them to learn more about East Tennessee. Places To Visit Near McGhee-Tyson Airport Along with being the closest international airport to Gatlinburg, TN, McGhee-Tyson Airport is also near a lot of tourist places.  So, if you are planning a day out, you can visit the following places.  1. Bicentennial Greenbelt Park Address: 122 McCammon Ave, Maryville Distance from McGhee-Tyson Airport: 6.3 Kms The Bicentennial Greenbelt Park will be your go-to place if you want to explore Maryville-Alcoa Greenway. In the heart of downtown Maryville, this park is an oasis of tranquility. This park has wide-open areas and benches to sit and talk with your friends. Further, this park houses the Greenbelt Lake Loop and Maryville-Alcoa Greenway. 2. Louisville Mercantile Address: 2940 Topside Road, Louisville Contact Number: 8657243195 Hours Open: 10 AM to 5 PM (Monday-Friday). 10 AM to 4 PM (Saturday), Sunday Closed Distance from McGhee-Tyson Airport: Around 3.3 Kms If shopping is the therapy you need and you are near the closest international airport to Gatlinburg, TN, you must visit Louisville Mercantile.  Here, you can buy the best jams, jellies, gift items, and recycled paper. 3. Lakeshore Park Address: 5930 Lyons View Pike, Knoxville Contact Number: +1 865-215-1722 Hours Open: 6 AM to 10 PM Distance from McGhee-Tyson Airport: Around 12 Kms Lakeshore Park, with the tagline “It’s Your Park,” is a go-to spot for a family day out. Here, you can enjoy the tranquility of a marshland with more than 1000 trees and birds chirping around.  Further, it has many sports and fitness facilities like baseball, practice lawns, soccer grounds and fitness centers. Very soon, the park is going to have pickleball and basketball amenities.  However, the best activity here is taking a walk down the miles of trails here. You can get the best view of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Tennessee River from here.  Moreover, you can take your furry friends on a walk at Lakeshore Park. Having said that, you have to ensure that your pet is on the leash and you are leaving no trace behind after their walk.  4. Maryville Farmers Market Address: 306 E Broadway Avenue, Maryville Contact Number: +1 865-268-9614 Hours Open: 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM Distance from McGhee-Tyson Airport: Around 7 Kms With the concept of farm-to-table cuisine becoming more popular, places like the Maryville Farmers Market are growing in importance. Here, the producers, or the farmers, grow crops, vegetables, and other produce, bringing those straight to you.  It is a great initiative to boost sales and improve the livelihood of local farmers. Further, it helps to throw light on the agricultural traditions of Tennessee through a direct farmer and consumer relationship.  Moreover, when you get fresh produce from the farmers, the essentials have better nutritional value, flavors, and taste. 5. Capitol Theatre Address: 127 W Broadway Avenue, Maryville Contact Number: +1 865-980-1966 Hours Open: 1-9 PM (Monday to Thursday), 1-10 PM (Friday-Saturday), Sunday Closed Distance from McGhee-Tyson Airport: 6.6 Kms Capitol Theatre, near the closest international airport to Gatlinburg, TN, is a premium entertainment spot in Maryville. The history of this place goes back to 1934. Further, it was completely renovated in 2008. The ambiance here exudes the quintessential old Hollywood vibe. Moreover, it is used as a venue for corporate events, weddings, and other celebrations today.  Are you looking for more attractions near the McGhee-Tyson Airport? Visit the Blount County Historical Museum, Brackins Blues Club, Resurrected Relics, etc.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Sibashree Nov 14, 2024

Savannah has recently been in the limelight for great reasons. At the just-concluded 2024 Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TNQ) Tourism Industry Excellence Awards, Savannah in the Round has been conferred the Outstanding Commitment to the Industry award. Savannah in the Round is a popular music and arts festival and with it winning the laurel, Savannah will get a great kick in the city’s art tourism.  However, the unique things to do in Savannah are much beyond only nurturing the musical and arty aspects. For the longest time, it has been a hub of history enthusiasts, especially the ones eager to know about American history. There is no wonder that Savannah and Chatham County have created an economic impact of $4.7 billion, thanks to tourism in 2023.  "What we are most pleased about is our visitors are staying longer and spending more money when they are here. That tells us that the overall Savannah visitor experience, when it comes to lodging, dining, and other activities, is meeting the needs and expectations of our customers. A goal the hospitality community strives for every day."Joseph Marinelli, President and CEO, Visit Savannah So, do you want to explore the promising tourism landscape of Savannah? Try the following activities on your first visit. Most Unique Things To Do In Savannah (Don’t Miss Out On The Tour And Travel Tips) Tourism in Savannah is crucial for the community as it has sustained 30,000 jobs annually in the tourism and hospitality sectors. Further, the insights from locals and industry insiders have confirmed that the tourists now choose local businesses and hotels in the city. To be more specific, tourists here prefer to eat at locally-owned restaurants and buy stuff from local retail businesses. “With two-thirds of respondents intentionally favoring locally-owned restaurants and retail offerings, we as industry leaders must acknowledge and harness this trend.”Todd Costin, General Manager Hyatt Regency Savannah and Visit Savannah Chair So, are you ready to explore the true flavors of Savannah while visiting the iconic landmarks? Here are the best things to do in Savannah, curated and approved by the Tour and Travel expert team.  1. A Day Trip To Tybee Island A day trip to Tybee Island is one of the best things to do in Savannah if you want a relaxing holiday. The Little Tybee Island is the hidden gem of this trip, with only boats taking you to this pristine destination.  Along with being a picturesque beach destination, Tybee Island also has places of attractions like the Tybee Island Light Station, Marine Science Center, etc. When on Tybee Island, don’t miss a visit to Fort Pulaski, a place of great historic significance between Tybee Island and Savannah.  2. Visiting The Bonaventure Cemetery Operating Hours: 8 AM to 5 PM The 100-acre Bonaventure Cemetery is among the best attractions for literary and music enthusiasts. Names like Johnny Mercer and Conrad Aiken rest here. Further, the neighboring Greenwich Cemetery has the grave of Danny Hansford. For the uninitiated, the murder of Danny Hansford was the main inspiration behind Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, the bestseller by John Berendt. Tour And Travel Tips Wear comfortable shoes and carry a water bottle and bug spray while visiting this cemetery.  3. Visiting The River Street River Street in the Waterfront District of Savannah is one of the most prominent travel destinations in the city. It runs along the Savannah River and many people also take a cruise ride from Hilton Head to River Street to take a stroll and explore the city’s history. However, the main attractions here are the souvenir shops. Further, you can enjoy serious gastronomic delights at the local restaurants.  Moreover, sipping your favorite drink at the old cotton warehouses while enjoying the river view is the most relaxing experience one can expect.  4. Visiting The Old Sorrel Weed House https://www.instagram.com/p/C0igAyIMSLe/?img_index=1 Operating Hours: 11 AM to 11 PM (Monday to Saturday), 11 AM to 3 PM (Sunday) This villa, built in 1840, stands proudly on Harris Street with its unique Greek revival style. Francis Sorrel built the villa, and with time, it became home to Moxley Sorrel, the brigadier general and an important figure in the Civil War. Did You Know?The second wife of Francis Sorrel committed suicide at the Old Sorrel Weed House along with one of the slave workers.Old-Sorrel Weed House was also featured in one of the episodes of HGTV’s Ghost Adventures. However, today, along with being a place of architectural and historic importance, it is also a popular destination for ghost tours in Savannah. So, if you are interested in ghosts and spirits, a Ghost Tour on Paranormal Investigations here will be one of the best things to do in Savannah. Tour And Travel Notes Don’t miss a visit to Chippewa Square, near the Old Sorrel Weed House. It was the location of the famous Tom Hanks movie, Forest Gump. In the movie, the actor sits on a bench at Chippewa Square and narrates his life stories.  5. A Tour Of Fort Pulaski National Monument Operating Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM The 19th-century Pulaski National Monument gets its name from Casimir Pulaski, a Revolutionary War Hero. Originally built as a watchpoint to save Savannah from coastal attacks, the fort slowly became a part of the history of slaves in Savannah. Slaves escaping through the Underground Railroad used to take refuge in Fort Pulaski. So, visiting this historic fort is one of the most important things to do in Savannah and learn about the city’s relation with the history of slavery.  6. Exploring The Savannah African Art Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/C23I31agi7y/ Operating Hours: 11 AM to 5 PM The Savannah African Art Museum is home to over thousand artworks from central and west Africa. You can visit the spiritual and ceremonial collectibles from the 19th and 20th centuries. These objects are crafted from ceramics, metals, wood, etc. The museum’s mission is to "provide engaging experiences that educate and start conversations about the power, diversity, and spirituality of African art.” Tour And Travel Note Savannah African Art Museum is a hidden gem and a great conversation starter for people interested in African culture. Further, you will see many sculptures, textiles, masks, and other objects on display with the guide explaining their significance to you. You can attend the 1-hour tours of the collectibles from Wednesday to Saturday. These tours start every 30 minutes.  7. Visiting The Wormsloe State Historic Site Operating Hours: 9 AM to 4:45 PM Are you up for a stroll with towering oak trees gracing the pathways? The dressing of Spanish moss makes these oak trees appear as a witness to the changes in nature and human histories related to this place. This is a great place for photography enthusiasts. However, as you pass the entryway, you will encounter the oldest standing structure of Savannah, the Wormsloe Ruins. Noble Jones, a carpenter and one of the first-generation settlers from England built an estate here in the 1750s. He recruited slaves to plant cotton and vegetables and run the estate as a profitable business. Today, you can visit the ruins and a small museum tour will help you find the artifacts unearthed here. Tour And Travel Tips   Don’t miss a walk on the interpretative trail at the Wormsloe State Historic Site. This trail along the Skidaway River marsh has interpreters in costumes. They interpret the colonial history of this estate and Georgia.  8. Introspection At The First African Baptist Church The first African Baptist Church of 1773 is the longest-running Black church in North America. Rev. George Liele organized the church. He was a slave, but the British released him and he became the pastor of this church. Andrew Bryan became the church’s second pastor as George Liele left for Jamaica. You can attend a service at the church or visit the following things, bearing the church’s architectural features and histories. Original light fixtures Balcony pews Baptismal pool Stained-glass windows Underground Railroad You can complete a tour of this church within 1 hour. So, visiting this church will easily fit into your list of things to do in Savannah.  Also read Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Sibashree Aug 27, 2025

In Singapore, design doesn’t hide in galleries. It’s in your path all day. You see it in a row of shophouses painted like a colour wheel, or in the quiet precision of a new building that still nods to its neighbours.  Even your morning coffee might come in a café where the light, the tiles, and the chairs feel as considered as the beans. If you travel for good spaces, the city greets you at every corner. Also, choosing the best places to stay in Singapore is crucial for designers for the right dose of inspiration.  In this Dream and Travel Guide, we will talk about these places to stay in Singapore and why they are so special. What Are The Places To Stay In Singapore For A Design Lover?  Diverse cultural influences and the city’s commitment to design excellence have made Singapore a dream destination for design lovers. Singapore also hosts prominent events such as the Singapore Design Week.  But where to stay in Singapore? Check out the following tips.  1. Sleeping Inside A Piece Of The City Follow the river along Robertson Quay and you’ll spot The Warehouse Hotel. The name is literal.  It began life in 1895 as a warehouse when the Singapore River was the main artery for trade. Coffee, spices, and other cargo passed through here long before the glass towers rose.  In the ’80s, the music got louder, and the building transformed into one of Singapore’s biggest nightclubs. The Lo & Behold Group took it on in 2017, working with what was already there. The timber trusses stay overhead, and the pitched roof still frames the lobby.  Louvred windows filter in the tropical glare, while copper accents and bespoke furniture add warmth without covering the bones. There are just 37 rooms, so it feels calm. Inside, details matter. The linen is good to sleep in, and the lighting is soft but purposeful.  Bang & Olufsen speakers are bath products that don’t try too hard. Step out, and the riverfront walkway leads you past bars and small galleries.  Step back in, and the bar is waiting. The cocktails reflect the building’s trading history and wilder nights. 2. Neighbourhoods That Keep You Walking Kampong Glam instantly improves your mood. Narrow roads are dotted with murals. Patterned bolts are spilled onto the pavement by fabric retailers. The Sultan Mosque's gold dome shines above all. While the district's history is preserved, it coexists peacefully with modest design firms and modern cafés. Tiong Bahru reduces the tempo. It is an Art Deco neighbourhood. The low-rise buildings and curved balconies constructed in the 1930s mirror history.  Here, you will pass bakeries with lines outside. The bookstores have a subtle yet irresistible coffee and paper scent, and galleries hidden in ground-floor apartments. With the serene ambience, you get to indulge in the subtleties. Do you crave both tradition and innovation? It happens to coexist on Chinatown's block. Temples and markets continue the traditional rhythms. But behind certain facades are galleries and minimalist tea houses experimenting with contemporary Chinese patterns. 3. Where The Ideas Live Start at the National Gallery Singapore to see the layout of the city's design concept. It is located in City Hall and the former Supreme Court, which are connected by a steel and glass atrium.  The structure itself serves as a balance lesson. You go from 19th-century pieces to striking modern Southeast Asian art within. More petite galleries and museums narrow the focus. Ceramics are fresh from local kilns, hand-printed textiles, and furniture built with heritage skills, but for modern rooms.  The line-up changes often enough that you can visit twice a year and have two completely different experiences. Independent spaces are the wild cards. One weekend, it’s street photography; the next, it's abstract sculpture or experimental craft. These places make the city’s design scene feel alive. 4. Meeting The People Who Make It Happen Weekend markets are the easiest way to meet makers. These creative geniuses are the potters, jewellers, and textile artists.  Their stalls are set up and stand ready to talk. You pick up a cup, and the potter tells you about the clay. You try on a necklace and hear where the stone was found.  These exchanges turn an object into a story. Workshops take you one step further. You might paint batik in a studio where the air smells faintly of wax, or shape a lump of clay into a bowl under the eye of someone who’s done it a thousand times.  You leave with something you made and a memory that sticks. 5. Eating And Drinking In Style Singapore's cafés are known not only for their kopi but also for their kopi. They're famed on how to set a scene. Do you love Terrazzo counters? Are you fascinated with cane chairs and patterned tiles? It's all here and more. You'd love to linger in these spaces even after emptying the cup. Rooftop bars add to the skyline, but also think about the atmosphere. Lighting shifts as the evening goes on, music feels tuned to the room, and some bring in art or live performances. They’re places to stay a while, not just stop in. 6. Timing Your Visit The design hums peacefully in the background all year long. Yet certain weeks increase the volume. Such is the Singapore Design Week. It is the headline event. With talks, tours, and installations, you will see incredible colour and artistry spilling into galleries, studios, and public spaces. In between, smaller fairs and pop-ups keep things interesting. See The Little Red Dot's surprising art, especially when you plan your trip right. 7. Walk, Don’t Rush The real surprises show up when you’re on foot. A doorway framed in patterned tiles. A mural glimpsed down an alley. An old shop sign is still hanging above a modern boutique. Maps are fine. But leave room for detours, and you might thank yourself later. Enjoy The Perfect Fusion Of Heritage And Modern-World Charm At The Best Places To Stay In Singapore In Singapore, heritage and modern life aren’t kept apart. They meet harmoniously in the same streets. Oftentimes, in the same buildings. Staying in a hotel with a warehouse theme drops you right in the middle. You wake under beams over a century old. You get to spend the day in districts where history meets fresh ideas. Plus, even return to a bar that pours a little of both into your glass. For a traveller drawn to design, that’s reason enough to come. And to come back.