Why Boot Dryers Are A Must-Have For Outdoor Enthusiasts

BY  Sibashree Sep 30, 2024

Even if you don’t believe it, Canada has many locations and abandoned sites with ghostly stories and a dark history.  Haunted places like the Fort Edmonton Park and Princess Theatre in Edmonton or the Disaster-struck Alberta Frank Slide are a few examples of how dark tourism in Canada offers a vivid experience.  Further, sites like Asbestos (now Val-des-Sources) show how mining asbestos has caused long-term health hazards to Canadian people and victims beyond borders. Also, there is Halifax, where an explosion took the lives of around 2000 people in 1917. So, let’s explore the sites that are scary and unusual.  THESE Are The Best Sites For Dark Tourism In Canada  In 2020, the small town of Asbestos changed its name to Val-des-Sources or the Valley of the Springs. However, the name change could not wipe off the history of diseases and suffering as it once had the largest asbestos mine in the world.  So, like the nuclear plantations that pushed numerous human lives to death, Asbestos in Canada was also a town of breathing poison. Today, it is one of the most prominent destinations for dark tourism in Canada.  Regarding dark tourism, Canada has many sites that tell the tale of human tragedy or are infamous for spooky experiences. Let me share brief accounts on these sites If you want to walk into the shadows.  Asbestos  Asbestos, a town in southern Quebec, once epitomized health-hazard horrors. Asbestos mining is not done here today, but breathing problems and other hazards caused by that “magic or miracle mineral” persist in the town.  The town had an open-pit mine for mining chrysotile asbestos, and it boomed for a century. However, in 2011, the mine stopped its operations.   Unfortunately, the use of asbestos became huge by the mid-20th century. It was a chosen material for roofing, insulation, and fireproofing. Slowly, it was discovered to cause many health hazards for people working in the industry or residing near an asbestos plant or mine.  Despite the drop in global demand and many other countries banning the use, import, and export of asbestos, Canada kept at it until 2018. Justin Trudeau, the Canadian Prime Minister, banned the use, sale, import, and export of asbestos in 2016, and the ban came into effect in 2018.  Nevertheless, today, the town of Asbestos, or Val-des-Sources, is a popular dark tourism site with an abandoned mine. The mine now looks like a gigantic playground. Halifax  In June 2016, the Canadian Government designated the Halifax explosion as a “national historic event.” Halifax was a busy port for the loading and unloading of food, aid, relief, and other essentials during World War I. On an unfortunate day, 6 December 1917, the French ship SS Mont-Blanc and SS Imo, a Norwegian ship, collided. Both were carrying explosives, and the collision caused a major explosion. Almost 2000 people died, and many were injured, registering it as the biggest manmade explosion before the atomic bomb disaster.  This human tragedy, however, was a milestone in changing the medical scenario of Halifax. The improvement in pediatric surgeries and the establishment of the Canadian National Institute for the Blind were the two most prominent examples in this regard. Today, the Fort Needham Memorial Park is a prominent site for dark tourism in Canada. The commemorative plaque there gives you a brief account of the incident. Also, the Halifax Explosion Memorial Bell Tower here has an annual memorial service for the explosion on 6th December. Edmonton: The Hub Of Dark Tourism In Canada  Edmonton has many destinations for paranormal encounters, and Fort Edmonton Park is one of them. At the paranormal tours here, you can explore many paranormal equipment and encounter many experts for some otherworldly experience. You can also visit the haunted buildings of Edmonton. The stories of these buildings will scare you to the bit. Also, you never know when an unknown entity gets close to you, and you can feel the breath.  Princess Theater: The Most Haunted Place In Edmonton Another important haunted landmark here is the Princess Theater. In the 1920s, the theater was about to have an additional rental space. A bride-to-be rented that space, but her fiance left her on their wedding day.  So, she committed suicide by hanging by the neck. When the staff of the hotel found her, her body was swinging from the rope.  She was wearing a beautiful wedding gown. Legends have it that her ghostly figure is still seen at the theater. She is seen climbing down the stairs, wandering the theater halls, and moving around the projection room.  Historic Mackay Avenue School Archives & Museum: Meet The Restless Spirit Moreover, when in Edmonton to experience haunted activities,  Historic Mackay Avenue School Archives & Museum should be your destination. Many people have experienced a sense of choking, being grabbed, or disturbed at this place. It is said that a construction worker called Peter fell from a third-floor window during renovation work in 1912. His restless spirit still lives here, and many informal investigations have captured strange silhouettes and erratic electromagnetic fields recorded here, which also vouch for paranormal activities here.  The Museum of Fear and Wonder https://www.instagram.com/p/CxsrNX5L7Al/?hl=en&img_index=1 It is unusual to find a rural museum of horror in the Southern Alberta rural valleys. It is eerie to the bone with Ouija boards and ventriloquist dummies.  The little jack o’lantern dollhouse, Kiddo, leather doll, and the haunted doll, Robertina, are the most prominent collectibles here. Also, the artificial human body parts and life-like human bodywork made of wax are the creepiest things you will come across.  All the collectibles in the museum are carefully placed to create a sense of fear. The aim is to show how people emotionally react to certain things. Also, Brendan, one of the founders of the museum, does not believe that things can be haunted or they can be related to paranormal activities.  According to him, things, at the most, can cause a sense of uneasiness. Thus, all the items in the museum provoke discussion about the psychological impacts of different objects on different people. For example, an adorable doll can be an object of fear or discomfort for a person who has suffered childhood trauma.  Even dolls or toys can get old and develop an eerie appearance through wear and tear. They can look messy or dirty, creating repulsive feelings. Thus, the Museum of Fear and Wonder is not about paranormal experiences or activities. It is a place to understand the human psychology behind fear and wonder.  Saskatchewan Ghost Towns – Insinger As India has Kuldhara, Canada has Saskatchewan, where time stands still, and the deserted town lives in the shadow of the past. Unbearable winter in the Prairie region made the residents desert the place. In the 1800s, many European people came to Canada and got free land to set up a working farm within a year. Thus, this prairie became a bustling residence of farmers and their families. Visiting Saskatchewan And Its Many Wonders In Saskatchewan, you will notice a Ukrainian Orthodox Church. The old church with a domed roof stands as a witness to the bygone era. Do you know that Saskatchewan has so many ghost towns (more than 30) that there is a “Ghost Town Trail” here? You can drive around the route to explore the towns individually. As you walk through the ghost towns of Saskatchewan, you will never feel alone. There is a constant feeling of someone following or walking with you. Even looking at the most dilapidated structure, you will feel like someone will come out of it any moment. I had plans to get inside some of the structures. However, a knotty feeling in my stomach stopped me. As hours passed, I started feeling anxious and left the place. The Ghost Towns of Alberta – Rowley If I were to decide, I would name Alberta the capital of dark tourism in Canada. If the haunted places of Edmonton are not enough, you can explore Rowley.   The small hamlet of Rowley in Alberta has deserted railway cars and buildings. However, it also tells some inspiring stories. Rowley used to be a town with 500 inhabitants in the 1920s. The Great Depression hit the place, making the residents leave. A lack of rain led to the drying up of the crops.Moreover, a fire destroyed many of the small buildings.However, only eight surviving residents of Rowley did a commendable job of transforming Rowley into a heritage site in the 1980s. They transformed some of the buildings.  Very few people know that movies like Bye Bye Blues or Legends of the Fall have some of these buildings as their locations. Visit Rowley in the summer, as it offers free tours in the season. Also, the pizza parties here on the last Saturday of every month are fun! These pizza parties are fundraisers for restoring the buildings and preserving history here.  THESE Are The Places You Can’t Miss At Rowley The historical buildings to visit in the ghost town of Rowley are: Rowley Trading Post (Built in the 1920s) A Printing Press A School Now Abandoned Former Hospital Abandoned Railway Tracks A Saloon with Swinging Doors (Dedicated to the memory of a previous owner) Municipality of Starland Office Canada National Telegraphs Building Along with these historical structures, you will also find a building labeled Funeral Home and Embalming. Going inside, you will find paraphernalia and historical artifacts used in Bye Bye Blues. The only thing I find creepy about Rowley is the mannequins. The residents have used mannequins in many places to recreate the scenarios of the 1920s.  So, if you have a faint heart, avoid peeping through the glass windows of the historical buildings. It is not very pleasant to find a mannequin looking back at you.  However, overall, the experience was like being at the location of a classic Western movie.  Alberta Frank Slide  Alberta Frank Slide is one of the most tragic spots for dark tourism in Canada. 121 years ago, this place witnessed the deadliest slide in Canada. The tragic incident took the lives of 100 people. What Happened At Alberta Frank Slide? It was 4:10 am on 29th April 1903. The 600 people in the mining community were still asleep as Mount Turtle crumbled down and released 110 million metric tonnes of rock. This incident took the lives of around 100 people.  Even today, if you pass through Highway 3 of Alberta or visit Frank Slide, you will find bodies and various belongings still buried under rocks.  “It was loud enough they could hear it up by the town of Cochrane, 200 kilometers away,” said Joey Ambrosi, the facility supervisor of the Alberta Frank Slide Interpretive Center. This interpretive center, built in 1985, tells the true stories of human tragedy and dismisses the myths around it.  However, the intrigue around this biggest slide does not end here. The mountain moves a few kilometers from each other, and scientists suspect it will come down again.  Having said that, there is still time for such an incident, and it will not be as deadly as the one that happened in 1903.  When at Alberta Frank Slide, don’t forget to visit The Crowsnest Pass. A landslide and a mine explosion in 1910 badly hit the area. Again, at a stone’s throw away is the Hillcrest town where 189 miners died of a coal-dust explosion on 19th June 1914.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! [Updated 2024] Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Sibashree Oct 28, 2024

Thanksgiving road trips with kids are perfect for families to hit the road and create lasting memories together. Road trips with kids are both fun and challenging,  Moreover, they require some planning to ensure a smooth journey.  From engaging activities to keep them entertained to snacks that will keep the peace, a little preparation goes a long way.  However, in this post, we'll share essential tips to help make your Thanksgiving road trip enjoyable and safe for the whole family. So buckle up and prepare for an adventure filled with laughter and gratitude! What Is Thanksgiving Day? This section is mainly for the ones who do not have much of an idea about the occasion.  Thanksgiving Day is the annual day celebrated in the United States Of America. Alsom it  is a harvest celebration.  The Thanksgiving parade day is November celebration. Families and friends share the traditional meal and express gratitude for all the good things in life.  Yes, many consider it as a service to others in this community.  However, the celebration takes place on the fourth Thursday in November. Macy's employees started this event on November 27th to promote the holiday sales. From Macy's Christmas Parade, the name was changed in 1927.  Thanksgiving Road Trips With Kids: Follow The Tips For A Safe Journey We have arrived at the main section of our article, where we shower tips and precautionary measures for safe Thanksgiving road trips with kids.  Planning Your Route And Stops A well-planned route with regular stops is crucial for a smooth road trip with kids. Map out rest areas, parks, and scenic spots where your family can stretch and take a break.  In addition, ensure these stops are child-friendly and have facilities like playgrounds or picnic areas.  If you're traveling with very young children, consider rest stops that offer amenities for changing diapers or nursing. Remember to bring carriers for babies to make short walks and sightseeing stops easier. Hence, pre-planning these details will help prevent restlessness and keep everyone in good spirits. Packing Essentials For Kids When packing for a road trip with kids, focus on essentials to keep them comfortable and entertained. Bring a mix of clothing suitable for different weather conditions and activities.  In addition, pack plenty of snacks and drinks to avoid frequent stops. Include travel-friendly toys, books, and electronics with headphones to keep them engaged.  Don't forget comfort items like blankets and pillows to make the car ride more pleasant.  However, using Method travel luggage for each family member can help organize everything efficiently, making it easy to find what you need quickly. A well-packed car ensures a smoother journey for everyone. Car Safety Tips For Traveling With Children Ensure that you install the car and booster seats properly for your child's age, weight, and height. Double-check that seat belts are securely fastened.  Also, while embarking on the  Thanksgiving road trips with kids, keep the car's back seat free of loose items that could become projectiles during sudden stops. Install sunshades on windows to protect your children from direct sunlight. Always keep a first-aid kit, emergency contacts, and essential medications easily accessible.  Also, plan for regular breaks to prevent children from becoming too restless, and make sure your vehicle is in good working order before hitting the road. Entertainment Ideas To Keep Kids Engaged Create a travel activity kit for each child with coloring books, crayons, puzzles, and small toys. Audiobooks and music playlists can be lifesavers for longer stretches. Interactive games like "I Spy," travel bingo, or trivia quizzes can engage the whole family.  Allow children to take turns choosing a podcast or song to keep them interested. For older kids, portable gaming devices or tablets with pre-downloaded educational apps can be beneficial. Rotate activities to maintain their interest and keep the journey exciting. Managing Meals And Snacks On The Road Keeping kids well-fed on a road trip is essential to a happy and peaceful journey. Opt for healthy, non-messy snacks like fruit slices, cheese sticks, and granola bars.  Also, insulated bags should be used to keep perishable items fresh. If possible, plan for meals at child-friendly restaurants with play areas to allow kids to stretch and burn off energy.  Additionally, consider packing a small cooler with sandwiches and drinks to avoid unhealthy fast food options.  Having a designated snack bag within easy reach will help minimize disruptions and keep hunger at bay. Dealing With Emergencies And Unexpected Situations Unexpected situations can arise, so it's important that you become prepared well in advance. Keep a fully stocked emergency kit in your vehicle, including a flashlight, batteries, and basic tools.  Ensure your phone is charged and you have a portable charger handy. Familiarize yourself with roadside assistance options and have their contact information easily accessible.  In addition, teach your kids basic safety procedures, like staying close to the car if you must pull over. Carry extra blankets, water, and non-perishable snacks in case of delays in the Thanksgiving road trips with kids.  If you prepare yourself well in advance, it will make a significant difference in handling emergencies smoothly. Creating A Positive Travel Atmosphere Foster a positive atmosphere by maintaining a cheerful attitude and setting realistic expectations for the trip.  Also, encourage kids to share what they're looking forward to and listen to their concerns. Create a collaborative playlist with everyone's favorite songs to boost morale. Acknowledge and praise good behavior, and stay patient during challenging moments.  Use positive reinforcement to encourage cooperation and kindness among siblings. Incorporate regular family discussions and storytelling to keep everyone connected and engaged. Arrival And Settling In After a long journey, it's important to help kids adjust to their new environment quickly. Start by unpacking essential items like comfort toys, blankets, and any necessary toiletries.  Familiarize your children with their new surroundings by giving them a quick tour. Establish a routine similar to home to provide a sense of stability in these Thanksgiving road trips with kids.  Allow some time for outdoor play or a short walk to burn off any excess energy from the trip. Engage in calming activities like reading a book together to help them unwind and feel settled. Road trips with kids during Thanksgiving day truly become a rewarding experience, creating cherished family memories that will last a lifetime.  With careful planning and a positive mindset in these Thanksgiving road trips with kids  you can navigate the challenges and make the journey enjoyable for everyone.  Flexibility is key; sometimes, plans must adjust to accommodate unexpected needs or detours. Embrace these moments as part of the adventure and focus on the quality time spent together. Safe travels, and Happy Thanksgiving! Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! [Updated 2024] Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Arnab Apr 14, 2023

Costa Rica is a tropical gem between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. This is home to various picture-perfect beaches. Beaches in Costa Rica have over 800 miles of coastline. They are as diverse as the country's lush rainforests and vibrant wildlife. This Central American paradise is perfect for families seeking unforgettable experiences. However, Costa Rica has 300 beaches. So, choosing a destination that caters to all age groups can be challenging. Fortunately, Costa Rica's beaches offer many attractions and activities. You can choose gentle waves, thrilling water sports, or pristine sands. These handpicked best beaches in Costa Rica are perfect for family vacations. Each has its unique offerings, safety, and family-friendly atmosphere. Are you ready to find the ultimate beach haven for your family? Dive into our guide and let us unveil the magic of Costa Rica's coastal treasures. Let’s get started! Criteria for Family-Friendly Costa Rica Beaches As mentioned earlier, there are tons of beaches in Costa Rica. And if you are just traveling for a short amount of time, it is impossible to go to all of them. Thus, it's essential to choose the right beach that meets the needs of every family member. This is to ensure that you’ll have an unforgettable experience. The following criteria will help you select the best beaches in Costa Rica. Safety and Cleanliness Safety should always be a top priority when planning a family vacation. Look for beaches with calm waters and gentle slopes. This is ideal for children who want to splash around without worrying about strong currents. Additionally, choose clean and maintained beaches. This will ensure a healthy environment for your family. Accessibility and Facilities Find a beach that’s accessible, with parking options and well-maintained paths. Additionally, consider beaches with essential facilities. These are restrooms, showers, changing areas, and nearby restaurants or snack bars. This will please everyone throughout the day. Activities and Attractions A family vacation is only complete with activities and attractions to entertain everyone. When selecting the best beaches in Costa Rica, consider those that offer water sports. Also, find beaches near attractions, like national parks or wildlife refuges. Top 5 Family-Friendly Beaches in Costa Rica Now that we’ve established the criteria for family-friendly beaches, let’s discover the top 5 beaches in Costa Rica. These beaches will offer a blend of natural beauty, safety, and activities for the family. 1. Playa Conchal Playa Conchal is one of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in Costa Rica. It's unique white sand and turquoise waters make it perfect for family vacations. The beach is on the northwestern coast of Costa Rica, in the province of Guanacaste. It's accessible by car, with paved roads leading to the beach. The beach is famous for its crushed-shell sand. It gives a unique and stunning appearance. Also, its crystal-clear waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Activities and Attractions Playa Conchal offers a variety of family-friendly activities. Boat Tour: You can take a boat tour to explore the Catalina Islands. It is typical to spot various marine creatures. On a good day, you'll see manta rays, turtles, whitetip reef sharks, and much wildlife on the Island. Snorkeling and Swimming: The beach has calm waters and rich marine life. This makes Playa Conchal an excellent spot for snorkeling. Kids will love spotting colorful fish and marine creatures. Nearby Resorts and Restaurants: The beach is close to several all-inclusive resorts. They offer many amenities and activities. There are also various local restaurants nearby, serving delicious Costa Rican cuisine. 2. Manuel Antonio Beach Manuel Antonio Beach is one of the best beaches in Costa Rica. It is on the Pacific coast within the renowned Manuel Antonio National Park. This beautiful beach is accessible by car or bus. This makes it a popular destination for Costa Rica vacations. The beach is also known for its white-sand shores and crystal-clear waters. Manuel Antonio Beach offers a stunning backdrop for your family vacation. The surrounding rainforest is teeming with wildlife. You’ll see monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds on a good day. Activities and Attractions Manuel Antonio Beach is a picturesque location and offers many activities. Here you can swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the shore. There is something for everyone to enjoy. Manuel Antonio National Park: This is a popular national park next to the beach. It is the perfect spot for family hikes and wildlife spotting. The park's well-maintained trails suit all ages. This makes it a must-visit destination during your Costa Rica vacation. Guided Tours and Beach Activities: Plenty of guided tours and activities are available for families. This ranges from wildlife safaris and snorkeling to zip-lining and horseback riding. Nearby Accommodations and Dining Options: Manuel Antonio boasts many accommodations. You can choose from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels. Many dining options have local and international cuisine. This will ensure a satisfying culinary experience during your stay. 3. Tamarindo Beach Tamarindo Beach is on the Pacific coast in Guanacaste province. It is one of the most accessible and popular beaches in Costa Rica. Liberia International Airport is only an hour away from the beach. Tamarindo has a long stretch of sandy beach and consistent waves. This makes it a favorite destination for beginner and experienced surfers. The wide beach also offers plenty of space for sunbathing and playing in the sand. Activities and Attractions Besides surfing, Tamarindo Beach offers a variety of activities. Examples are snorkeling, horseback riding, and canopy tours. Additionally, nearby national parks provide opportunities for wildlife watching and eco-tours. Surf Lessons for All Ages: Many surf schools in Tamarindo offer lessons for all ages and skill levels. This makes it the perfect place for the entire family to learn and enjoy surfing together. Wildlife Watching and Eco-Tours: For nature lovers, Tamarindo Beach has diverse ecosystems. It provides opportunities for wildlife watching and eco-tours. Families can explore the nearby Marino Las Baulas National Park. You can also enjoy a boat tour through the mangroves of the Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge, or even head out on one of these Tamarindo fishing charters. Variety of Restaurants and Accommodations: Tamarindo offers a wide selection of restaurants and accommodations. Nearby restaurants offer Caribbean-inspired cuisine, local seafood, and international options. 4. Playa Hermosa The beach is in Guanacaste Province. Playa Hermosa is one of the most accessible and best beaches in Costa Rica. It is only a 25-minute drive from Liberia International Airport. This tropical haven is perfect for families looking to maximize their beach time. Playa Hermosa boasts calm waters and a relaxed atmosphere. This makes it the perfect spot for a family getaway. It has gentle waves and warm, crystal-clear waters. This makes it an ideal destination for swimming and lounging on the golden sands. Activities and Attractions This Costa Rica beach offers plenty of family-friendly activities and attractions. There's no shortage of things to do. You can go kayaking and paddleboarding or play beach volleyball. If you’re adventurous, consider a snorkeling tour to explore the vibrant marine life. Beachfront Restaurants and Hotels: Families will appreciate the beachfront restaurants and hotels along Playa Hermosa's shoreline. Choose from various dining options that include local Costa Rican cuisine and fresh seafood. Many hotels also offer kid-friendly amenities. It ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay for the whole family. Nearby Adventure Parks and Wildlife Reserves: Families can venture to adventure parks and wildlife reserves for a break from the beach. Explore Rincon de la Vieja National Park. This is perfect for hiking, wildlife spotting, and volcanic hot springs. Also, Diamante Eco Adventure Park lets you zipline through the rainforest. This allows you to encounter Costa Rican wildlife up close. 5. Tortuguero Beach The beach is on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. Tortuguero Beach is an enchanting destination for families seeking a unique beach experience. This remote beach is only accessible by boat or plane. This makes it a true tropical paradise, free from the hustle and bustle of the city. Tortuguero Beach is the gateway to Tortuguero National Park. The park is home to an incredible array of wildlife. Families can enjoy the sights and sounds of the rainforest. If you’re lucky, you can see monkeys, toucans, and sloths while exploring the canals and lagoons surrounding the beach. Activities and Attractions There are plenty of family-friendly activities at Tortuguero Beach. Kids will love exploring the nearby trails and waterways. At the same time, parents can indulge in the serene beauty of the beach itself. Sea Turtle Nesting and Hatching: One of the most unforgettable experiences at Tortuguero Beach is witnessing sea turtles nesting and hatching. From July to October, families can watch as green, hawksbill, and leatherback turtles lay their eggs. Later in the season, baby turtles can be seen emerging from their nests and making their way to the ocean. Guided Tours and Educational Programs: Consider joining a guided tour or participating in an educational program. This is to make the most of your visit. These activities teach visitors about the local ecosystem. It also promotes responsible tourism and wildlife conservation. Eco-Friendly Lodges and Accommodations: There are lots of eco-friendly lodges and accommodations near Tortuguero Beach. These options blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment. It allows you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Costa Rica's best beaches. Conclusion The dazzling array of beaches in Costa Rica offers an unforgettable family vacation. These beaches in Costa Rica cater to families of all sizes and ages. Your vacation perfectly blends relaxation, adventure, and quality time. Costa Rica's natural beauty is unparalleled. It offers lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and teeming wildlife, complementing its idyllic shorelines. Immerse yourselves in this remarkable country. Discover its hidden gems and create lasting memories. So pack your bags and grab the sunscreen. Explore the incredible beaches in Costa Rica, where family vacations become treasured stories for years. 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