Is Phe Phe Falls Worth Visiting? 

BY  Pijus Maity Jul 17, 2024

Summer in Rome: Every traveller knows Rome is one-of-a-kind; no wonder it is widely recognised as the Eternal City.  Aside from the timeless architecture and history that lives in all of its paths, one cannot get over its ethereal beauty. And can you blame? The city is charmed with an eternity of times you may explore and still discover something new for yourself. You never know what you will find in its most notable landmarks because there’s so much to see and do. Let us now start our guide on things to do, locations to see, and spots you may enjoy during your Roman summer break. Exploring Rome: It All Begins With A Plan… First, we will explore the remains of the Roman Forum and visit the Colosseum. It is the most famous symbol of the city of Rome worldwide.  Both the Pantheon, which is well-known for its dome, and St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City offer a panoramic view from its dome. These are evergreen destinations that never fail to leave a lasting impression and have a strong and timeless historical aura.  1. The Sistine Chapel The Sistine Chapel, which is housed at the Vatican Museums, is another must-visit ​​location. However, pay attention – reservations are required in advance. Then, take in the views from the Spanish Steps and see the Trevi Fountain. Art lovers might visit the Galleria Borghese, which features paintings by Bernini and Caravaggio, and the Capitoline Museums, which are home to antique Roman artefacts. The National Gallery of Ancient Art is situated at Palazzo Barberini as well.  2. Catacombs of San Callisto For an experience like no other, visit the Catacombs of San Callisto and walk or ride along the Appian Way. The Orange Garden will offer breathtaking sunset views of Rome, and the Baths of Caracalla will provide insight into ancient Roman public baths. Rome also has an outstanding food scene. Crispy and thin Roman pizza and classic pasta dishes like carbonara, cacio e pepe, amatriciana, and gricia are examples of its traditional cuisine. Notable dishes are Carciofi alla Romana, or Roman-style artichokes, and Supplì, fried rice balls filled with cheese.  3. Relish The Roman Delicacies Also, take a chance to savour Saltimbocca alla Romana, which is veal cooked in butter and white wine with prosciutto and sage. Desserts not to be missed are classic tiramisù and maritozzo, a sweet bun filled with cream.  Take a chance to enjoy a meal at classic trattorias like Da Enzo al 29 or Armando al Pantheon, or venture to Michelin-starred restaurants like Il Pagliaccio or La Pergola for a premium experience.  4. Extraordinary Stays Of course, there are plenty of places to stay in Rome. For reasons related to transit, goods, and services, we advise selecting places close to the city centre.  Furthermore, the majority of the most well-known, highly regarded lodging options with top-notch service are found in Rome's historic centre. You may, for instance, consider the wonderful VRetreats hotels.  Rome may be chaotic, so pay attention to this step to ensure that you have the greatest holiday possible with excellent service and the ability to see all the places you want to see in less time. Here’s Your Rome Itinerary… Whether you are in the city for three days, five or a week, you need an itinerary to visit places that deserve priority. If I were to give an honest opinion, three days is fine for a tour of this ethereal destination. Here’s why: 1. Day 1 at the Palatine Hill Are you back from the Colosseum already? If so, it’s time to visit Palatine Hill and, of course, the Roman Forum. Count on me when I say this: Palatine Hill is absolutely unmissable!  Sure thing, everyone loves the Colosseum, and they’re most likely to hit their destination when they reach Rome. But why not go that extra mile to discover a not-so-hidden-gem? If you are dying for some epic views across the forum, this one destination should be on your bucket list. Welcome, home Christmas card photos dwelled with tour images.  2. Day 2 at Pane e Salame It is obvious that you should stop at a food destination with all that extra vacation stress you are carrying. I have found an incredibly amazing lunch spot in Rome, Pane e Salame. It is a paradise for those looking to gulp fresh cheese and delectable meats.  I saved some serious money on their charcuterie tray, which was the wanderer’s reward! It has got so many delicacies that you can share without feeling guilty to your friends. Also, add Aperol Spritz for that extra kick! While Venice and other north Italian cities are quite popular for their finger food-serving styles, this place does something unique. Have an amazing time at Pane e Salame and taste the authentic Italian culture in the form of food.  3. Day 3 is for a Walking Tour I will not immediately name the places, but nothing pays off like an accomplished walking tour of Rome. Art flows through every single vein of the city, and you are never going to be secluded! On this walking tour, you are most likely to cover Piazza Navona, the Spanish Steps, Campo de Fiori, the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon. This tour shouldn’t take you more than an hour!  Important Consideration: These places are jam-packed with tourists. So, you can book your tickets for months with fewer tourists arriving, say during winter or autumn. Follow these tips, and you’ll be good to go! The Bottom Line So, what’s stopping you from discovering the gem of Italy? There’s literally so much to see and do in the city that boasts of art and culture.  Get ready to see something special and dine in the best places in Rome. Thank you for reading this article till the end!  We really hope we were helpful on your way to planning your vacation. Wishing you the best stay in Italia! Also read Roman Revelations: Unforgettable Things To Do In Rome, The Heart Of Italy! Find Hotels Near Rome’s Top Attractions And What Parts Of The City To Stay In. The Italian Train Group FS Will Launch A New “Night Train Like Hotel”: Rome To Dolomites.

BY  Sibashree Jul 16, 2025

All the major airports in Japan, including Haneda and Narita Airports, are in the limelight now for having a new one-stop entry gate.  This development will streamline immigration checks with joint kiosks and reduce the waiting time for flyers by at least 20 minutes.  While both these airports now have similar facilities for faster immigration checks and both play a significant role in the domestic and international air connectivity, they often draw comparisons for the difference in their routes, facilities, and distance from Central Tokyo.  So, Haneda Vs Narita Airport, which one is better for your next Tokyo Trip? We will try to find the answers in this Tour and Travel Blog. Haneda Vs Narita Airport: Which One Will I Fly To For My Next Tokyo Trip? Do you want to compare Haneda and Narita Airports based on passenger traffic? Then, Haneda will be the clear winner, as it has been the fourth-busiest airport in the world in terms of passenger traffic.  Also, according to a report published by the Airports Council International (ACI) World, Tokyo Haneda Airport welcomed 85.9 million passengers in 2024. It was a 9.1% rise from the numbers of 2023.  On the other hand, Narita Airport saw a 22% increase from 2023, considering the passenger footfall of 2024. The total number of tourist footfall in the Narita Airport was 39,807,651 in 2024. However, despite the traffic footfall being a parameter of the amenities and standards of an airport facility, it does not determine which one will be the most suitable for you.  So, let’s begin the Haneda Vs Narita Airport comparison as promised.  1. Haneda Vs Narita Airport: Distance From Central Tokyo And Typical Travel Times The distance between Central Tokyo and Haneda Airport is just 18.5 km. You can take the Tokyo Monorail as the fastest way to travel the distance. It takes just around 13 minutes.  On the other hand, the distance between the Narita Airport and Central Tokyo is close to 78.6 km. For the fastest travel, you must take the Narita Express, and the journey time is 53 minutes.  So, if you are looking for the airport closer to Central Tokyo, Haneda Airport, formerly known as the Tokyo International Airport, is a clear winner.  From Tokyo, you can embark on a cultural journey to Kyoto or visit the second-largest island in Japan, Hokkaido. How To Travel From Central Tokyo To Haneda Airport? You can travel by a train or a limousine bus to reach Haneda Airport from Central Tokyo. However, if you have the budget and time, you can choose private airport transfers or reserve a car or taxi.  Travel From Central Tokyo To Haneda Airport By Train The best way to travel from Central Tokyo to Haneda Airport is by taking a train. If you are traveling from another country, you will reach Terminal 3 and find the railway station on the second floor.  On the other hand, if you are on a domestic flight, you will reach Terminal 1 or 2, and from there you will have to go to Basement 1 to find the railway station.  Now, while traveling by a train, you have two options. You can either take the Tokyo Monorail or choose the Keikyu Airport Line.  1. Tokyo Monorail To Haneda Airport Here is the timetable of the Tokyo Monorail. For further details, check out the table below.  Tokyo Monorail Ticket Price¥500Frequency3-15 MinutesJapan Railway Pass (JR Pass) Applicable?YesFirst Train Departs from Haneda Airport Terminal 35:18 AMLast Train Departs from Haneda Airport Terminal 311:48 PMFirst Train Departs from Hamamatsucho Station4:59 AMLast Train Departs from Hamamatsucho Station11:45 PM 2. Keikyu Airport Line Find the timings for the Keikyu Airport Line train here. Furthermore, check out the following details.  Keikyu Airport Line Ticket Price¥330Frequency5-10 MinutesJapan Railway Pass (JR Pass) Applicable?NoFirst Train Departure from Haneda Airport Terminal 35:26 AMLast Train Departure from Haneda Airport Terminal 311:51 PMFirst Train from Shinagawa Station5:02 AMLast Train from Shinagawa Station11:59 PM Travel From Central Tokyo To Haneda Airport By Limousine Bus Take an airport limousine bus from any of the airport terminals to reach Central Hokyo, and the journey takes around 45 minutes.  Travel From Central Tokyo To Haneda Airport By Private Airport Transfers, Car Rental, Or Cab You will get 24/7 taxi services from Haneda Airport, and the charges are between ¥5,000 and ¥10000.  The pricing of car rental is also ¥5,000 per day. Moreover, if you are traveling with your family, you can book a private transfer service.  How To Travel From Central Tokyo To Narita Airport? You will also get limousine bus services, private transfers, cabs, and taxi services from Narita Airport. However, due to the distance between the Narita Airport and Central Tokyo, traveling by train is the fastest mode of transportation. Also, for a taxi ride or private transfers, the cost can be around 7000-30000 Yen.  Here are the details of a train ride between Central Tokyo and Narita Airport.  Train Services from Central Tokyo to Narita AirportFareTravel TimeNarita Express3,070 Yen53 MinutesKeisei Skyliner2,310 Yen41 MinutesKeisei LineKeisei Rapid Limited Express: 1,030 YenKeisei Access Express: 1400 Yen1 Hour 20 Minutes to 1 Hour 30 MinutesJR Sobu Line1,340 Yen90 Minutes 2. Haneda Vs Narita Airport: Flight availability (International And Domestic Routes) In the Haneda Vs Narita Airport comparison of flight availability to international destinations, Narita Airport has the edge.  However, in terms of the total routes, Haneda Airport fares better.  In the Haneda Vs Narita Airport comparison of flight availability to international destinations, Narita Airport has the edge. However, in terms of the total routes, Haneda Airport fares better. Haneda Airport Flight Availability And RoutesNarita Airport Flight Availability And Routes• 44 Airlines• Flights to 101 Airports• Flights to 25 Countries• All Nippon Airways (ANA) Operates Flights to 73 Destinations• Japan Airlines (JAL) Operates 59 Routes• 83 Airlines• Flights to 115 Airports• Flights to 44 Countries• All Nippon Airways (ANA) Operates Flights on 28 Routes• Japan Airlines (JAL) Operates 26 Routes 3. Haneda Vs Narita Airport: Facilities, Amenities, And Services Both airports offer world-class facilities. Especially, both airport offers mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi services for business travelers and digital nomads, ensuring uninterrupted workflow.  Furthermore, upon arrival at Haneda Airport, you can pick up a pocket Wi-Fi device. Thanks to the Japan Mobal Wifi facility, you can stay connected while traveling in a group.  You can connect multiple devices to the same Wi-fi device. You can even pre-order the device online before departure for the airport.  However, along with the Wi-Fi facilities, you can get the following services at both airports.  Facilities at Haneda AirportFacilities at Narita Airport• Currency Exchange• Insurance• Cash Withdrawal• Baggage and Delivery Services• Clinics• Drug Stores• Toilets• Tourist Information• Currency Exchange• Insurance• Cash Withdrawal• Baggage and Delivery ServicesClinics• Automated External Defibrillators (AED)• Tourist InformationToilets 4. Haneda Vs Narita Airport: Which One Offers Better Convenience For Connecting Flights? Haneda Airport offers better convenience for connecting flights when it comes to transportation within the country.  On the other hand, Narita Airport offers better convenience for connecting flights internationally. It operates flights to 44 countries compared to Haneda Airport, which offers services to 25 countries.  In this regard, you must also know that Haneda and Narita Airports are well connected to each other through train lines and limousine buses.  Here are the details. Haneda And Narita Airport ConnectivityTravel TimeFareTrains• Keikyu Line• Toei Line• Keisei Line90-115 Minutes1,760-3080 YenLimousine Bus65-85 Minutes3600 Yen 5. Haneda Vs Narita Airport: Which One Is More Suitable For Different Types Of Travelers? Haneda Airport is more suitable for business travelers, as it is less than 20 minutes away from Tokyo’s business district. On the other hand, Narita Airport, with a bigger area, has more lounges and better accommodates non-first-class travelers. So, if you are traveling on a budget from a different country, Narita Airport will be a better choice for you.  Haneda Vs Narita Airport: And The Winner Is… Keeping the convenience of traveling to Tokyo or the proximity to Central Tokyo aside, Haneda and Narita airports are at par in amenities, facilities, and services.  Furthermore, Haneda, despite being the fourth-busiest airport in the world, lags behind Narita Airport in terms of international connectivity.  So, the one you choose depends on the place you are traveling from and the part of Japan you want to explore.  For example, if you want to explore old Japan, you must choose Narita Airport. On the other hand, if Tokyo is the epicenter of your tour, Haneda will be a better choice. 

BY  Pijus Maity Mar 27, 2025

A few flowers can capture the overall essence of spring, and tulips are one of them. The vibrant colors, elegant shapes, and rich history make tulips the ultimate symbol of renewal and beauty.  Even though the tulip mania significantly contributed to the 17th—17th-century Dutch economic bubble, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is the prime example that the mania is still alive.  Imagine this: You are walking through an endless field filled with red, purple, yellow, and pink tulips! The fields stretch as far as your eyes can see! That’s the feel!   This is a dream come true for photographers, a paradise for nature lovers, and a perfect place to breathe some fresh air.  So, as you start your journey, you must read this guide to the 2025 Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. In this guide, we will talk about the best time to visit the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, where you can find the tulip gardens and enjoy your trip as much as possible.  Here’s The Guide To The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival  The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is the ultimate way to celebrate spring. Want to enjoy it to the fullest? Check out the following guide to experience the beauty of tulip gardens with friends and family.  Pick the Right Time to Visit It is always necessary to choose the travel time, no matter where you go. Regardless of the dependency on the weather, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival runs for the entire month of April.  In the earlier month of April, you may catch a few daffodils. The tulips start to bloom somewhere between mid to late April.  Thus, you must check the blooming status to avoid disappointment once you go there! This will help you plan your trip accordingly, especially when the colorful flowers are at their best!  Also, I would suggest you visit the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival on the weekdays since the weekends are very busy and crowded. You should see the field early in the morning. This way, you will be able to experience a quieter and relaxed landscape.  Dress for the Weather In the Pacific Northwest, spring weather can change quickly. One moment, it's warm and sunny; the next, it could turn cool and rainy.  That's why I think wearing layers would be a smart move. This way, you can add or remove clothing based on the temperature shift.  Next, you must think about your shoes. The fields often get muddy, especially if it rains. So, waterproof shoes or boots keep your feet dry and help you walk comfortably. In contrast, flip-flops and dress shoes make moving hard and can easily get ruined. Choose Your Tulip Farms The festival is spread across several tulip farms throughout the valley. Each farm has its charm. Thus, you must explore more than one because it gives you a fuller experience. Before you head out, check each farm's website for hours and ticket details. Some locations, especially on busy weekends, require advance tickets. Here’s a breakdown of the key farms and gardens  Roozengaarde: This is famous for its 50-acre display with numerous tulips and a huge variety of tulips. Roozengaarde is the ultimate destination for spring lovers.  Tulip town: This specifically features various tulips across 5 acres of fields.  Tulip Valley Farms: The only U-pick tulip farm located in Skagit Valley. You can have a great time there with your friends and family.  Garden Rosalyn: This 7-acre garden of tulips also includes ponds with ducks and geese, making it more attractive.  Skagit Acres: A new addition to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival in 2025. The field will include 3-acre tulip fields.  Enjoy Local Food and Shops The nearby towns add even more to your visit. You can visit places like Mount Vernon, La Conner, and Burlington. These places are excellent places to dine in the Pacific Northwest.  Moreover, you'll find local spots serving fresh meals, sweet treats, and unique finds. You'll also see food vendors set up near the Tulip Valley farm. You can visit there, between farm visits.  So, you can grab a warm drink or a quick bite while you take a break! Some stands even offer tulip-themed gifts or fresh bouquets, which are probably great souvenirs to take home. Plan for Traffic and Parking The roads around Mount Vernon can be crowded during the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, which happens more often on weekends and when the weather is nice. On top of that, many roads near the farms are narrow. So getting where you're going can take longer. I suggest you give yourself extra time to stay on track. Moreover, you might face poor network challenges. Before your trip, you can download maps and directions.  Once you get there, you can try to look for signs or volunteers to guide you. Most farms have free parking, but a few might charge a small fee. Bring Your Camera, But Be Respectful The Tulip fields are perfect for photos. Whether you use your phone or a camera, you'll find many great spots to capture the view. When you are exploring, you must stay on the marked paths. If you step into the rows, you can damage the flowers and spoil the experience for others. It's also crucial to protect the work of the farmers. Treat the fields with care so everyone can enjoy their beauty. If you plan on using a drone, check the rules first. Most farms don't allow them, so it's better to know before you go. Bring Your Family The festival is a fun outing for all ages, making it one of the best places to travel with kids. Still, you might face a few challenges if you're bringing little ones,  Strollers can be hard to push through muddy ground. A baby carrier often works better in the fields of tulips. You'll likely be outside for a while, so pack snacks, drinks, and a few wipes for comfort. Many farms also offer things for kids to enjoy, like play zones or tractor rides, which makes the experience even better for them. The Best Way To Plan Your Visit: Here’s How You Can Purchase The Tickets So, are you ready to experience the beauty of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival from up close? In the following section, I will provide you with all the details about the tickets for the tulip gardens. Read on… RoozenGaarde The ticket price for RoozenGaarde from Monday to Thursday is $16. The same ticket price from Friday to Sunday is $20.  Further, it remains open from 9 AM to 7 PM from Monday to Friday. The visiting hours on Saturday and Sunday are 9 AM to 7 PM.  Tulip Valley Farms The ticket prices for entry to Tulip Valley Farms vary based on your age and the group you belong to.  For example, the ticket price for children aged 3 to 15 is $10. For adults (16+), it is $16 from Monday to Thursday and $18 from Friday to Sunday.  Again, for seniors and military persons (with IDs), the ticket price is $15 from Monday to Thursday and $17 from Friday to Sunday.  Tulip Valley Farms opened on 1 April 2025 and will remain open until 30 April 2025. During the season, it is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, 7 days a week.  Tulip Town The online ticket prices for visitors aged above 12 are $18. You can also make an in-person booking for $20.  Further, Tulip Town will remain open from 1st to 30th April 2025, seven days a week during the spring season.  The hours of operation are Monday through Thursday, 10 AM to 6 PM, and Friday through Sunday, 9 AM to 7 PM.  Garden Rosalyn You can book the tickets for Garden Rosalyn in person and online at $17. It will remain open from 1st to 30th April 2025 on all days of the week.  Skagit Acres Skagit Acres offers online and in-person booking facilities. The ticket prices for children aged 6 to 12 are $10, and for adults, they are $18.  Seniors above 65 years and Military persons will get tickets at $15.  Further, the garden center of Skagit Acres remains open year-round. However, the tulip field is only open from the 1st to the 30th of April.  Booking tickets for the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is pretty straightforward! Visit https://tulipfestival.org/garden-tickets/  and select the garden according to your preferences. The site also provides the location and directions for the garden.  Ways to Reach the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival  There are multiple ways to visit the Skagit Tulip Festival. However, walking is not recommended. By Bike The valley roads are pretty flat. So, travelling by bike can be much easier for you to access the tulip fields, events, and attractions.  However, you must stay prepared for rainy and windy weather conditions. Before traveling, you can check out self-guided bike tours to learn the do’s and don’ts.  By Car  If you decide to drive a four-wheeler, then you must take state route 20 to enter the tulip area. You can find plenty of free parking at RoozenGaarde, Tulip Valley Farms, Garden Rosalyn, and Tulip Town. Roadside parking is pretty limited due to weather conditions and traffic safety. Law enforcement might issue a ticket for parking in the no-parking zone, so stay aware of it!  By Bus Skagit Valley transient services have several routes across the valley. If you arrive in Mount Vernon, you can ride the Skagit Transit Route 615 to visit the tulip fields. All of the transports depart from the Skagit Valley Station.  By Train  Amtrak Cascades travels to Mount Vernon. However, there is no shuttle available from the station. You just have to make reservations, as the trains are small and fill up pretty quickly.   Conclusion The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is a springtime experience like no other. If you can make the right planning, the right gear, and a flexible mindset, you can enjoy a day surrounded by endless color and beauty.  Whether you're snapping photos, walking hand-in-hand with a loved one, or watching your kids run through the vibrant tulips, the memories you make here will last long after the flowers fade.  So grab your boots, charge your camera, and prepare for one of Washington's most beautiful tulip garden adventures!