Welcome To The Pecos National Historical Park: The Land Of The First American Revolution

BY  Barsha Jun 9, 2022

Are you planning a trip to the city located on the southernmost tip of the U.S. in 2022? But if you haven’t been to the United States before, how will you know where to stay in key west? But don’t you worry because I’m here to tell you all that you need to know about staying alternatives in Key West. The city of Key West blends culture, some much-needed positivity, and lots of sun with an off-the-grid vibe - yes, basically everything that you were looking for! So without wasting any more time, let’s find out a little more about the island of Key West and all the popular neighborhoods in the region that you must consider for staying!. Keep reading to find out all that you need to know about the same. Exploring Key West: Your Dream Destination For This Summer Before finding out where to stay in key west, let’s talk about the major attractions of the island and the places you simply can’t miss checking out! Key West is a small island, to be honest, even less than 8 square miles of area. In fact, I found the island pretty easy to navigate since its entirely divided into two areas, Residential, contemporary New Town, and Historic, character-rich Old Town. The historic Old Town area is precisely where a majority of tourists spend most of their time exploring a myriad of neighborhoods blending borders together, making it nearly impossible to identify borders. Keeping such considerations in mind, finding out where is the best place to stay in key west wasn’t an easy task, but once I did, there was no turning back - I had to share will everyone what I found out. But the best part? I am not just here to tell you about the areas you can reside in but also a few hotels where you can stay if you are visiting Key West for a few days! I mean, simply put, I found the Old Town the best place to reside on my visit to Key West - from finding the most charming B&B to coming across a luxurious hotel in the downtown region known as Casa Marina or even the Historic Seaport. It doesn’t matter where you end up staying - from navigating the entire city on foot to exploring the same on the free bus shuttle service by Duval Loop or the Old Town Trolley Tours that provides unlimited reboarding services throughout the day. Since parking services are a little tight in the region, it is best that you either don’t take your car or leave it wherever you are staying. After all, the island is the perfect blend of history, art, as well as a crazy waterside vibe. Locals take pride in several things the island is famous for, including the yummy Key Lime Pie! It’s best to be ready to witness epic debates on what toppings are to be used for the famous Key Lime Pie? Are you supporting whipped cream, or are you on the side of meringue? That my friend is the question! Living In Sun-City: Where To Stay In Key West? If you are still here, so it’s only fair that you want to know all that you can about living in Key West. So without wasting any further time, let's find out where to stay in Key West. But before that, let’s check out the top hotels in Key West that you can consider if you are visiting the island for a short time period!  Thus, the best hotels in Key West are as follows, Luxury Hotels: The best luxury hotels in Key West are as follows, H20 Suites Casa Marina, and Hyatt Residence Club. Boutique Hotels: The best boutique hotels in Key West are as follows, Southernmost House, Orchid Key Inn, Gardens Hotel, Weatherstation Inn, and Kimpton Lighthouse Hotel. Budget-Friendly Hotels: The best budget-friendly hotels in Key West are as follows, Seashell Motel, NYAH, and Fairfield Inn. Family Hotels: The best family hotels in Key West are as follows, Oceans Edge Key West, and Santa Maria Suites Resort. The pull of attractive key west beaches and casual, laid-back lifestyle is not the only thing that matters if you are going to stay at Key West for months or even years in some cases. In that case, if you are wondering where to stay in Key West, check out the most popular residential areas on this small island! The Heart Of Old Town: If you love walking around the neighborhood, then you must check out the residential block in the center of the Old Town. Unfortunately, this is also the area where the guidelines for preservation happen to be really strict since the area is known for its colorful wooden structures, all dating back to the 1800s. If you were wondering where to stay in key west with family, then the heart of the Old Town area is kinda perfect with its quaint B&Bs, vintage homes, and overall charming neighborhood. Ernest Hemingway would agree with me, considering his former home is located in the same area, although it has been converted into a museum. You can easily explore the museum on your own or even take a guide’s help to do the same. Fun fact? The local cemetery happens to be quite cheerful, and even though it is in full operation, tourists are allowed to visit the same! Historic Seaport: One of the most popular neighborhoods for all boating enthusiasts, Historic Seaport is a must-visit! From sailboat schooners to yachts, you can opt for any vehicle for planning exciting day trips and sunset cruises - go for a swim or snorkel with your family or just have fun spotting dolphins. In fact, the strangest thing had happened to me while I was walking along the docks. I had never been to Key West before, and I hadn’t even done proper research (it was an impulse trip, really). So I was completely off guard when I realized I hadn’t booked any activity in advance, but then I was offered discounts, and that too on spot! You could also check out Key West’s all-electric charter at the Honest Eco. You can not just enjoy a quiet ride but also benefit from fruit platters that have been hand-carved. In fact, rides on the Key West Express are also something to consider, especially for navigating along the western coast of the island to as well as from the Marco Island and Ft. Meyers. Casa Marina: Casa Marina is one of my favorite spots in Key West. Naturally, you are wondering why is it so! If the breathtakingly beautiful landscape and Casa Marina, a historic hotel, are not enough to attract you, then the fact that this area happens to be the southernmost point of not just Florida but the entire continental U.S. should just do the trick, instead! Moreover, the area happens to be pretty close to beaches on the southern end like the vast Smathers Beach or smaller beaches like the Higgs Beach or the Dog Beach. So instead of wondering where to stay in Key West on the beach, you can always stay in this region. In fact, Dog Beach is also perfect for people with pets - visit the deck located at Louie’s and sip on cocktails when you visit Dog Beach! Don’t forget to check out the western coast that is dominated by Ft. Zachary Taylor State Park Beach, which happens to be relatively more locals-friendly and isolated as compared to Smather’s Beach. Bahama Village: There are high possibilities that you might miss out on this hidden gem of Key West known as the Bahama Village. I was almost missing it out too, but something probed me to keep exploring until I found someplace that’s low-key but vibrant! And Bahama Village was just the answer! Bahama Village is not just a colorful place you must check out, but it also happens to be one of the most popular neighborhoods for having any kind of gastronomical affair! Check out Blue Heaven while you are looking for a place where you can have brunch or breakfast - from the fantastic Key Lime Pie to the equally tasty BLT Benedict, everything tastes so good! If you love Cuban culture, you can also check out El Meson de Pepe’s, located near the seaport along with the Old Town - enjoy Cuban food, celebrate Cuban art, and groove to Cuban music in this popular joint! Finally, if you love small cafés with adjoining gift shops, then you must visit Kermit’s. The theme? “key lime everything!” - from key lime pies to cookies, the options are many! Safety Is Always A Priority: Unsafe Areas In Key West One of the primary concerns that I have while traveling alone is the safety factor - if it’s not safe, then is there any point in risking your life? I don’t think so. Key West happens to be a pretty safe city for tourists or other visitors, but it’s best to stay away from the areas mentioned below, Avoid residential blocs located between Duval Street and the cemetery. Avoid the neighborhoods located between Casa Marina and the cemetery. In fact, if you don’t wanna walk around, then you can always avail the available means of transportation since these happen to be both affordable and easy to find! Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 1. Where Should I Stay In Key West For The First Time? If it’s your first time on the Key West island, you have to check out Duval Street as an alternative for taking up residence. Located in the Old Town part of the island, Duval Street is one of the best places to stay in Key West.The area is close to all major landmarks, bars, and even shops. The best hotels in this region are as follows,• Duval Gardens, and• Santa Maria Suites. 2. How Do I Decide Where To Stay In Key West? The best way you can decide where to stay in Key West is by taking into consideration four relevant factors. These factors are as follows,• Location,• Property Type,• Price, and• Design. Although the island can be easily explored either on a cycle or bike or even by walking yet, it is smarter to find out what suits you best. Of course, this involves what you technically prefer - do you want to reside in isolated areas or in the middle of the more happening Duval Street region. 3. Is Key West A Walkable City? Key West is one island city that can be pretty much explored by walking! A pretty walkable city, Key West offers several activities for visitors - check out popular tourist spots like Whitehead Street, Mallory Square, and even Duval Street. You can also hop onto the Key West Trolley to move around the region! 4. Is Staying In Key West Worth It? The very last amongst the Florida Keys region, the island of Key West is a great place to visit! Whether you are planning to stay for an entire year or just a week, the main factor is how the place happens to be a crazy place for not just enjoying yourself but also relaxing.This southernmost city in the United States is popular for its coral reefs, beaches, and cool, laid-back vibes.  Summer Of ‘69 In Key West: Are You In? The moment I landed at Key West, I couldn’t stop humming to the tunes of Bryan Adams’ famous song, Summer Of ‘69. The beautiful beaches, the stunning landscape, and the laid-back atmosphere of the island made me forget all about finding out where to stay in key west, Florida. While Bryan Adams kept singing at the back of my head, I wandered across the island, taking in the view, the people, the society! There was nothing that bothered me, and I realized this was one vacation I was going to enjoy deeply. What about you? Don’t forget to let us know your thoughts on the same in the comments section below! 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BY  Sibashree Sep 30, 2024

India is leading the dark tourism scenario With an expected CAGR of 5.1% (2024-2034),. Dark tourism in India thrives as it is the land of history and heritage. Also, travel a few miles, and you will get to know folklore or common myths related to paranormal activities.  So, dark tourism in India takes you to places associated with human tragedy or something that raises our curiosity. Endless warfare and the rule of various dynasties have drenched its soil in blood from time immemorial. Further, superstitions and oppressive customs in various parts of the country have caused human casualties that can give you a chill down your spine.  However, dark tourism in India or any part of the world is not just about people’s fascination with the macabre or its inclination to encounter the grey zone. Many dark tourism sites like the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands or Jallianwala Bagh tell the tales of a collective past.  So, these are often popular destinations for educational tourism or excursions. With endless stories and mysteries spread in every corner, India will spoil you with the choices of dark tourism spots. Here is a list of places you just can’t miss! Dark Tourism In India: These Are The Places You Need To Visit  For me, dark tourism in India is like communicating with the past. These places and the remnants there convey a message that can trigger our moral emotions such as empathy, gratitude, disgust, or sadness. Further, these moral emotions can change our perspective about ourselves, various communities, and society.  Moreover, curiosity is present in people’s love for the occult. Some categories of dark tourism, such as ghost tourism, thana tourism, and disaster tourism, especially urge many to get into the shadows. We absolutely agree with Karan Anand, the Head of Relationships at Cox & Kings. So, which places does dark tourism in India take us to? Here is a curated list! 1. Port Blair Cellular Jail | Kala Pani | The Prison Of Death Location: Andaman and Nicobar Islands  One of the most prominent witnesses of British atrocities in the country, the Port Blair Cellular Jail tops almost all the lists of dark tourism in India.  The British government made a hell of concrete in 1906 in the form of a prison, and it was almost impossible to escape or come out of it.  Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, a freedom fighter in India, was the only person who had escaped the Port Blair Cellular Jail.  The British Raj sent convicts with the highest punishment to this jail. Once, this jail housed as many as 80000 prisoners, and among them, at least a few hundred were the freedom fighters. The freedom fighters received the “Kalapani ki Saza” to lead a life of isolation.  Constructed in the shape of a starfish, the Port Blair Cellular Jail is witness to inhuman tortures and genocides. Along with the atrocities of the British Raj, it has also seen the genocides operated by the Japanese.  When at the Cellular Jail, don’t forget to attend the “Light & Sound” show in the evening. It is like time travel, giving you goosebumps.  2. Jallianwala Bagh Location: Amritsar City, Punjab The 13th of April 1919 saw one of the worst examples of British acts of barbarity in India. Innocent people had gathered at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar City to peacefully protest against British rule. Jalianwala Bagh was blocked from all sides, and Brigadier-General Dyer ordered his men to open fire at these innocent and unarmed people. The 1650 rounds of firing continued for 10-15 minutes, taking the lives of more than 500 people.  Today, when you visit Jallianwala Bagh, you can see many bullet holes struck in the structures there. In 1951, a memorial was built here to pay respect to the Indian revolutionaries. Further, in 2019, the inauguration of the Yaad-e-Jallian Museum took place. The museum depicts the most authentic account of the massacre.  A century later, in 2019, an official acknowledgment of “regret” came from British Prime Minister Theresa May on the Jalianwala Bagh massacre. This substantiates how grave and gruesome the act of mass killing was.  3. Roopkund Lake  Location: Uttarakhand Located at a 5000-meter altitude, Roopkund Lake is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Uttarakhand, India.  However, you can see hundreds of human skeletons near the lake, named  the “Lake of Skull.”  Researchers have found that around 200 pilgrims died of heavy snowfall in the place in the 9th century. So, there are so many skeletons around the lake. Roopkund Lake is also known as the “Mystery Lake,” and there are stories about the pilgrims getting turned into stones or the Goddess getting angry.  However, Veena Mushrif-Tripathy, a member of the 2004 investigation and a professor of archaeology at Deccan College in Pune, mentioned that the theory of the pilgrims was reasonable as there were no traces of weapons.  4. Shaniwar Wada Location: Pune, Maharashtra Shaniwar Wada, built in 1732 by Bajirao I, is a historically significant fort and stands out for its architectural excellence. This fort was once the seat of the Maratha Peshwas. This fort became a tourist attraction after the 2015 magnum opus of Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Bajirao Mastani. However, Shaniwar Wada is a favorite dark tourism in India destination because of a popular ghost story or folklore associated with it. Narayanrao, the son of Bajirao I, was killed by his uncle Raghunathrao in 1773 in this fort. Since then, people have experienced paranormal activities in the fort. Many have claimed to have encountered the dead prince.  5. Kuldhara  Location: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan How about visiting a village abandoned by its people around 200 years ago? Kuldhara, the cursed village of Jaisalmer, was the residence of the Paliwal Brahmins. They left the village because of water scarcity and the high taxes imposed by Diwan. Another story is about Salim Singh, the local prime minister, who wanted to marry the daughter of the village head. The villagers did not agree to his demands and vacated the place overnight. They also cursed the place, saying that no one could settle there.  Further, some even associate the overnight evacuation with paranormal activities. Whatever the reason, many people have tried but failed to spend a night in this village. Today, abandoned houses, temples, and other architecture speak of excellence, craftsmanship, and intrigue. It is also a favorite destination for movie-makers and photographers today. Films like “Agent Vinod” are shot here. Moreover, the village is now a “Protected Monument of the State Archaelogy Department.”  6. Dumas Beach Location: Surat, Gujarat Dumas Beach is one of the most haunted places in Gujarat. With its black sand and paranormal activities, this beach transforms into a hellish spot as the Moon shows up.  The beach was earlier a cremation ground. The black color of the sand comes from the ashes of those corpses. While we could not see the moving orbs or any prominent paranormal activity, I felt eerie at the beach. Also, I can’t explain, but there is something very depressing about this beach. It feels like you can hear the whispers of the lost here, and someone will suddenly appear in the shadows.  There have been reports of many tourists going missing from Dumas Beach. Also, one day, local people discovered the corpse of a man at the beach. His tongue was popping out. To date, no explanation has been found behind these tragic incidents.  7. Bhangarh Fort In the Aravallis, the Bhangarh fort has the remains of a deserted marketplace, Havelis, and temples. The architectural excellence of the fort is beyond question, and it speaks of a prosperous past.  However, Bhangarh Fort is the most haunted place in India. It has stories and myths enough to scare you to bits.  Bhangarh Fort Story: 1 The Archaeological Survey of India has banned entering or staying in the Bhangarh Fort after the Sunset. According to the local people, no one entering the fort at night has been able to come out alive. The fort becomes a site of paranormal activities in the darkness.  Bhangarh Fort Story: 2 Guru Balu Nath used to meditate at this place. When Raja Madho Singh visited him with a request to build a fort here, he agreed on one condition. He asked the king to promise that the shadow of the fort would not touch him. Despite the king’s promise, it did not happen. Furious, the hermit cursed the castle and the village.  Bhangarh Fort Story: 3 No house in the area has a roof. People believe that the roofs of those houses were destroyed due to the curse of the hermit. All attempts to rebuild the roofs went in vain. Many of those roofs also collapsed, causing human casualties.  Bhangarh Fort Story: 4 (Accidents And Deaths) Three people once decided to stay in Bhangarh Fort at night. They had a powerful torch, but one group member fell into a well. The two others rescued him and took him to the nearby hospital. However, they met with a fatal accident on the way to the hospital and lost their lives.  Do you want to explore more sites that are suitable for dark tourism in India? Visit the Taj Palace Hotel in Mumbai, Union Carbide Factory, Bhopal, Sites Of Indus Valley Civilization, Savoy Hotel, Mussoorie, and Gandhi Smriti, Delhi.  Listen to hushed murmurs and the stories these places have to share to make a journey to the past!  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  Ankita Sep 26, 2023

There's an undeniable magic in stepping out into a new city and seeing the world through fresh eyes. For the discerning traveler, every adventure brings with it a chance to explore, not just the sights and sounds, but also the styles and trends that define a place. Eyewear, often a reflection of personal style and local fashion influences, is a significant part of this exploration. You may be intrigued to know that many cities across the globe boast boutiques with collections that are a testament to both age-old tradition and cutting-edge fashion. Yes, you might stumble upon a vintage pair of cat eyeglasses in Tokyo or find a futuristic design in Copenhagen that's yet to hit the mainstream market. Let's embark on this journey to uncover the world’s most enticing eyewear boutiques in key travel destinations. Eyewear Excellence In Europe: Boutiques To Explore The cobblestone streets of Europe not only whisper tales of ancient history but also echo the dynamic shifts in modern fashion. Paris, recognized globally as the epicenter of haute couture, is home to a rich tapestry of eyewear boutiques. Among them, La Galerie Des Lunettes stands out, drawing both locals and tourists alike with its immaculate range of eyewear, from the iconic cat eye glasses to avant-garde silhouettes. Venturing to Italy, Rome's Ottica Tullino isn’t just a store; it's a celebration of Italian craftsmanship. Their collection encapsulates the romantic allure of Rome, from the classic to the edgy. As we journey further north, Sweden offers more than just its picturesque vistas. Stockholm's eyewear boutiques are a reflection of its ethos: a seamless melding of Scandinavian minimalism with global influences. These stores, often nestled in historic buildings, present a curated mix of homegrown brands and international favorites. Asian Adventures: Unique Eyewear Finds Asia, with its tapestry of traditions and rapidly evolving urban centers, is a goldmine for eyewear aficionados. In Tokyo's bustling Shinjuku District, a blend of the old and new awaits the discerning shopper. Boutiques like Megane Drug are more than just retail spaces; they’re galleries that showcase the evolution of eyewear, from the time-honored designs to the innovative. Whether it's a pair of cat eyeglasses with intricate Japanese detailing or a sleek, minimalist frame, there’s something to cater to every aesthetic. Venturing to South Korea, Seoul emerges as another hotspot in the eyewear scene. Particularly, Garosu-Gil Street in Sinsa-dong feels like a living, breathing mood board of global eyewear trends. With boutiques ranging from ultra-modern to charmingly vintage, it offers a delightful experience for anyone keen on discovering the nuances of Korean design. The eyewear here isn’t just about vision correction; it’s a statement, an extension of one’s personality. The American Aesthetic: From Coast To Coast The vast landscapes of North America are mirrored in its diverse eyewear styles. New York City, with its pulsating energy, offers boutiques that resonate with its spirit. Moscot in the Lower East Side has designs that have been celebrities' favorites for decades. San Francisco’s City Optix on Chestnut Street showcases West Coast trends, be it sustainable eyewear or avant-garde designs. Whether you’re navigating the bustling streets of Manhattan or the hilly terrain of San Francisco, the quest for a unique eyewear piece, like a pair of cat eyeglasses, is rewarding. Down Under And Beyond: Oceania’s Eyewear Offerings Australia and New Zealand, often known for their scenic beauty, also cater to the global fashionista with eyewear boutiques that combine global trends with regional nuances. Melbourne’s Bailey Nelson in Bourke Street is not just about selling eyewear; it’s about telling a story through each frame. Auckland’s Oscar Wylee brings in designs inspired by nature, capturing the essence of New Zealand's picturesque landscapes. Africa’s Understated Elegance: A Melange Of Tradition And Modernity A trip to Africa provides more than just an immersion into diverse cultures and awe-inspiring landscapes. Cities like Marrakech and Johannesburg have boutiques that beautifully marry tradition with contemporary style. Marrakech’s Maison Cristallin is where Moroccan heritage meets European design influences, creating a medley of eyewear that speaks volumes. Johannesburg's Torga Optical features vintage designs like the cat eyeglasses, while also celebrating the vibrancy of modern African style. No Matter Where You Go, There’s Great Eyewear To Be Found Every corner of our planet offers a unique eyewear shopping experience. Whether it's the allure of finding that rare vintage piece or discovering a design that speaks to the future, the journey is as rewarding as the destination itself. For the traveler with an eye for detail and a love for eyewear, the world is a boutique waiting to be explored. As you map out your next journey, remember to add these boutiques to your itinerary. After all, what better souvenir to bring back than a piece of eyewear that lets you view the world with a fresh perspective? Safe travels and happy shopping! Read Also: Puerto Vallarta: A Hidden Gem In The World Of Exotic Travel Destinations How To Be A Sensible Smoker When Traveling Car Collisions And Traveling Safely: A Guide