A Step By Step Guide On Planning A Luxury Travel Vacation

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 27, 2021

Are you a nature lover? Then, Ohio is the best place for the travel enthusiast. Ohio has hundreds of natural cliffs, hiking trails, and camping parks. Further, all the federal parks in Ohio are irresistibly beautiful and are full of natural beauty.  When you look at the map of Ohio, you will acquire knowledge about how many national parks are there in Ohio. The number of national parks in Ohio is eight. Further, the national parks in Ohio are the best tourist spots for national and international travelers. They are also the most popular camping spots. So, at Tour and Travel, we have decided to give you a brief idea about all the Ohio national parks. These places are great as budget-friendly tourist destinations and explore the nature and culture of Ohio at its best. List Of All 8 National Parks In Ohio If you are living nearby Ohio and still do not have ideas of camping in federal parks in Ohio. You have missed the beautiful view of nature. All the national parks in Ohio are becoming the best hanging-out spot for every adventure sports-loving person. Here are the names of the seven most popular Ohio national and state parks. 1. Cuyahoga Valley National Park Address: Ohio, USA Hours Open: 24 Hours Contact Number:  +1 440-717-3890 Fees: Free Cuyahoga Valley National park is one of the best national parks in Ohio. This national park lies between Cleveland and Akron. And it is situated along the Cuyahoga River. With the natural preserving beauty of the national park, the rich history of the place makes the park a unique tourist place. This national park is carrying the history of 19th-century waterway Canal exploration. On the north side of the park, a canal exploration center is present to deliver historical impressions to the visitors.  The Cuyahoga Valley railroad runs through the park, making the place more unique. This wildlife park is the home of amazing native wildlife and plants. Where to get a national parks access pass in Ohio? You only have to Buy the American annual pass and enjoy the park. The annual pass system has a special discount for military professionals and children. 2. John Bryan State Park Address: 3790 OH-370, Yellow Springs, OH 45387 Hours Open: One and a half hours before Sunrise to half an hour after Sunset Contact Number:  +1 937-767-1274 Fees: Free John Bryan state park is an extensive 752-acre state national park in Ohio. You hear about the Miami River, and This large green park is just right below the yellow spring and the Clifton. This park is a prevalent clamp ground among the local people. Apart from the beautiful scenic beauty, the long industrial history of the United States is adding more points. In the 19th century, industrial activity increased; therefore, water is no longer the economic source of water. For this reason, many of the factories are getting abandoned. And no longer in use. But the Clifton mill, which was built in 1802. This mill is now becoming a popular visiting place among tourists. 3. Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park Address: 12440 OH-282, Garrettsville, OH 44231 Hours Open: 7 AM to 7 PM Contact Number:  +1 330-235-0030 Fees: Free This park is a 167-acre public recreation park. When you are near Nelson township, this place is the best hiking spot for you. The Ledge park is full of hiking trails and camping spots. Beautiful waterfalls and native green plants are making this park look like heaven. This park is one of the best hiking spots for travelers as well as the national parks in Ohio. Nelson Kennedy ledges state park has a 3 miles long hiking trail.  As the park is situated on the natural landscape. Many dangerous paths are present in the park, but the marked hiking trails are guiding the right path of hiking. 4. Mohican-Memorial State Forest Address: 975 O D N R Mohican Road 51, Perrysville, OH 44864 Hours Open: 24 Hours Contact Number: +1 419-938-6222 Fees:  Free Have you seen the movie "The Last of The Mohican"? The natural beauty of the shooting spot is still getting most of the viewer’s attention. This state forest is situated in Ashland country, Ohio. This forest is quite popular among forest researchers. This large 4525 area of forest area is carefully looked over by the Ohio Division Of Natural Resources. This is the third most popular tourist destination in the United States. The Clear Fork River and Pine’s major streams are the two major rivers of the park.  The park’s best feature is 32 miles hiking, 22 miles bridle, 8 miles snowmobile, and 24-mile mountain biking trails. 5. Hueston Woods State Park Address: 6301 Park Office Rd, College Corner, OH 45003 Hours Open: 24 Hours Contact Number: +1 513-523-6347  Fees: Free This park lies in oxford city Ohio. The park belongs in the Butler and Pable country of Ohio city. It covers nearly 3000 acres of area and has 625 acres of a human-made lake. The state was bought in 1941. Initially, it was a prison camp, and after 1957 the park was open to regular visitors. And now, this is one of the best national parks in Ohio. This park has 12-mile long hiking trail and 19 miles of bridle trails along with 20 miles of mountain biking trails. The place’s camping facility is very organized, along with the hiking trails, golf course, and lodging facility. Also Read: Best National Parks In Hawaii 6. Hocking Hills State Park Address: Logan, OH 43138 Contact Number: +1 740-385-6842 Hours Open: 10 AM to 5 PM Entry Fee: Free Are you searching for any national parks near Columbus, Ohio? Hocking Hills State Park is a good choice for you. This park belongs in the hocking hills region. A big part of Hocking state forest belongs in the hocking hills state park. This park has seven separate types of hiking areas, including different hiking trails. Cantwell Cliffs, Ash Cave, Conkle's Hollow, Old Man's Cave, Rock House, Cedar Falls, and a popular hiking route Hemlock Bridge Trail to Whispering Cave Also Read: Best National Parks In Missouri 7. Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers Address: 120 US-42, Wilberforce, OH 45384 Hours Open: 9 AM to 4:30 PM (Monday Closed) Contact Number:  +1 937-352-6757 Fees: Entry Free Do you want to see a national monument in Ohio? Visit this park, and you can see monuments along with enjoying the beautiful natural view. Charles Young Buffalo is one of the historical figures in his first days of life. He was an escaped slave. He was the first afro American soldier in the United States army. The house of the Buffalo soldier is one of the famous historical destinations among travelers. This is one of the most popular iconic monuments in Wilberforce, Ohio. When you plan to visit the Ohio parks, do not forget to visit this monument because the American civil war history was attached to this monument. 8. Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park https://www.instagram.com/p/CjxhlbMMIAw/?img_index=1 Address: 16 S Williams St, Dayton, OH 45402 Contact Number: +1 937-225-7705 Hours Open: 9 AM to 4 PM (Monday Closed) Entry Fee: Free For all the literary enthusiasts and dark academia fans, Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park in Ohio is one of the best places to visit. It remembers Paul Laurence Dunbar, an eminent poet and author.  The park also honors the aviation pioneers Orville and Wilbur Wright. A tour of this park will be a fulfilling and educational experience. Throughout the park, you will come across the following important spots: Carillion Historical Park Wright Cycle Shop Huffman Prairie Flying Field Paul Laurence Dunbar House Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center Huffman Prairie Interpretive Center You can even opt for a ranger-guided tour of this best national park in Ohio. The only disadvantage of the park is that it does not have a camping ground. So, you cannot stay here.  However, you can always put up your tent in the private and public campgrounds near the park. So, check out the website of the Greene County Convention & Visitors Bureau to locate and reserve the campgrounds.  Frequently Asked Questions On National Parks In Ohio (FAQs) Q1: What is the newest state park in Ohio? A: Jesse Owens state park is the newest state park in Ohio. it is named after a world-famous athlete. It was created in the year 2018 out of a coal mining land that was owned by American Electric Power.  Q2: Which is the smallest state park in Ohio? A: Oak Point state park is known to be the smallest one in Ohio. Measures at 1.5 acres, despite being the smallest state park, it still offers a wide range of facilities for boaters, sightseers, and picnickers.  Q3: Are state parks free in Ohio? A: Ohio is one of the few states in the country that do not charge general admission and parking fee at its 74 state parks.  Wrapping It Up: All the Ohio state parks camping is the most favorite for the fitness enthusiast. The collection of these places are the most popular tourist destination among local and international travelers. National parks in Ohio list quite a long list. But these seven parks and sites are the best places where you can enjoy the hiking trails and camping.  If you are planning to visit Ohio parks for adventurous hiking, do not skip these popular parks. So what is your plan to visit? Do not forget to comment back to us. 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BY  Sibashree Sep 30, 2024

Singapore is one of the top countries in dark tourism if you consider the market growth rate. The country, known as the “Asia Light,” was a British colony, and for them, it became a strategic commercial point. With British rule established here, it became a land of trade, fortification, and military activities. Further, in 1941, Singapore was hit by Japanese attacks. Remember, it was coordinated with the attack of Japan on Pearl Harbor. However, the British rule and the Japanese attacks are just the tip of the iceberg if you look at Singapore's war-trodden and complex political history.  Thus, you will find many sites in Singapore that tell the tales of tragic human incidents. Even if all the places for dark tourism in Singapore are not related to death, there is something mysterious or “somber” about them.  Moreover, the dark tourism sites in Singapore are the places to familiarize oneself with the history of the country, its political landscape, and human stories. THESE Are The Best Destinations For Dark Tourism In Singapore  Most sites for dark tourism in Singapore are related to WWII and Imperial Japanese attacks. Despite being a center of British fortification, it failed to protect itself from those ravages. Let’s explore the places that present Singapore when it was a British Colony fighting against Japanese invasions.  Kranji War Memorial Kranji War Memorial is a place to honor the people of the Commonwealth who died in World War II. It is heart-wrenching to see the names of the allies on the walls of the Kranji War Memorial. Can you believe that there are inscriptions of 24000 allies whose bodies were never found? Further, it is the burial of more than 4000 people who died in the Second World War.  At Kranji War Memorial, you must visit the following spots to remember the brave and lost souls.  War Graves Memorial Walls Singapore Wall State Cemetery Military Graves Singapore Civil Hospital Grave Memorial The Singapore Memorial is the highest point of this cemetery. This iconic structure has soldiers standing in attention, a plane’s wings, and the fin of a submarine.  Choa Chu Kang Cemetery | Another Dark Tourism Site Near The Kranji War Memorial  After exploring the Kranji War Memorial, you can bring out your adventurous spirit. The Choa Chu Kang Cemetery is less than 20 Kms away from the Kranji War Memorial.  The architecture of the cemetery has an eerie appeal. Further, passers-by from the area have often reported seeing women trying to board their cars.  In addition, many cab drivers have carried passengers to the cemetery. However, these passengers suddenly vanished into the air.  Pasir Ris Tower: A Ghost Tourism Site Near The Kranji War Memorial  Pasir Ris Tower, also known as the Suicide Tower, is one of the most haunted places in Singapore. According to stories, a boy with the special power to see spirits saw a person at the top of the tower. He climbed up the tower but got pushed down by someone. Even today, anyone approaching the tower has a strange feeling. The fear is so intense here that people have stopped exploring or ghost hunting.  Changi Chapel & Museum Changi Chapel & Museum is one of the best spots for dark tourism in Singapore because of its educational value. This educational center passes on the heroic stories of Changi that occurred during the Japanese occupation of the country. Further, the Changi Museum is dedicated to people who lived and died in the Changi prison during World War II.  Moreover, the Changi Chapel took inspiration from St George’s Church in its architecture. The prisoners of war (POWs) worked to furnish the church.  The Changi Chapel and Museum has a guide on wheels. Temi is a robot with the knowledge and information to help visitors navigate the museum and learn about the exhibits.  Changi, A Hub Of Dark Tourism In Singapore  Dark tourism is not just about places of tragic human history. Ghost tourism is an important category of dark tourism. When in Changi, you will come across some of the most haunted places in Singapore.  So, are you ready to walk into the shadows? Old Changi Hospital  The Old Changi Hospital was constructed for the treatment of British soldiers. However, under the Japanese troops, it became the house of the prisoners of war.  You can still hear the screams of these prisoners when you are near this hospital.  Changi Old Beach House The Changi Old Beach House is the site where the Sook Ching Massacre took place. Many visitors to this house have experienced screams, and they have seen blood stains on the walls.  Also, many have claimed to see violent paranormal activities at Changi Old Beach House.  The Battle Box The Battle Box was a British underground command center located at Fort Canning Hill. It functioned as a part of the Malaya Command headquarters. Further, the Malaya Command headquarters defended Singapore and Malaya during World War II. The site was restored in 2016. Further, it is a site that speaks about the true reasons behind the fall of Singapore during World War II. So, it is an important educational and tourist destination in Singapore today. Lieutenant-General Arthur E. Percival and Allied Forces decided to surrender to the Japanese Forces at The Battle Box. The surrender happened on 15th February 1942.  Haw Par Villa For me, Haw Par Villa is one of the scariest sites I have visited. According to Chinese mythology, there are ten hells, and Haw Par Villa mimics them.  However, the scariest thing about Haw Par Villa is that you can hear screams from this area at night. Also, many people believe that the statues here are real human beings covered in wax. Further, the local people call it one of the doors of hell.  Even if you are not up for its haunted story, you can visit this site to see the 1000 statues and dioramas. These structures are the best displays of Asian craftsmanship. Further, the stories of 10 hells presented here are the fusion of various Oriental beliefs and philosophies like Hinduism, Taoism, and Buddhism.  Haw Par Villa, or the ten courts of hell, are “the result of the mixing of four different religions and philosophies: Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, Confucianism.”Eisen Teo, the chief curator of Hell’s Museum Fort Siloso Fort Siloso gets its name from the Malayan word Siloso, meaning rock. It is the only coastal fort in Singapore and has played a significant role in the country’s defense. This fort has an on-site military museum filled with the memorabilia of World War II.  The most striking elements of the museum are tunnels, fortified military structures, interactive video documentaries, and wax figures. The wax statues at the Surrender Chambers depict British and Japanese soldiers.  Reflections At Bukit Chandu https://www.instagram.com/p/CgB2RnvOoDU/ Reflections At Bukit Chandu is an interpretative center for dark tourism in Singapore for educational and historical purposes.  Today, the Reflections at Bukit Chandu tell the tales of the Battle of Pasir Panjang in 1942. The Battle Point 226 here is a testament to how the Malay Regiment stood against the Japanese troops.  Malay Regiment began its journey only with a recruit of 25 people in 1933. Within 10 years, this “experimental company” was strong enough to combat the Imperial Japanese forces.  The Japanese killed a hundred men from the Malay Regiment, and a few more were butchered as they refused to take off their uniforms during the surrender of Singapore.  Reflections At Bukit Chandu commemorates and presents the sacrifice of the men in the Malay Regiment as they lived up to the “Ta'at Setia,” or “Faithful and true” motto.  You must explore the following collectibles at Reflections At Bukit Chandu. British .303-inch projectiles The entrenching set of the British Army Personal kit used by the British Army Bronze bust of Lieutenant Adnan Saidi Marseille roof tile Sculpture depicting the Malay Regiment You will find many publications on World War II at the visitor shop here. Moreover, don’t forget to read the poetry by Edwin Thumboo and Noorhaqmal Mohamed Noor to reflect upon the bravery of the Malay Regiment.  That’s it! Enjoy dark tourism in Singapore and explore various aspects of the country’s history. These places are beyond local or national importance as they are testaments to World War II, triggering human tragedy all over the world.  After you are done with your dark tourism in terest in Singapore, it is time for you to check some other opportunities at that place. For instance, consider tax consultancy services for all your tax requirements on a business trip in Singapore. Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! [Updated 2024]

BY  Sibashree Jul 18, 2024

Is it your dream to climb Denali in Denali National Park? Standing at 6,190 meters height from sea level, the highest peak of North America is surely going to give you a tough time. However, the toughest routes in the world are the most alluring for travelers. So, its remote location and the deadliest terrains attract mountain lovers across the globe. As the monumental centerpiece, Denali adds to the popularity of Denali National Park.  Are you also planning a climb on Denali or Mount McKinley? Here are the things you must know before you make an attempt. Many people talk about the magnificence of the peak and its beauty. I will primarily discuss how you will prepare and conduct yourself for the pain-stricken journey and sail through it.  Climbing Denali in Denali National Park (How You Will Prepare Yourself) Many people find climbing Denali in Alaska’s Denali National Park more difficult than climbing Mount Everest. Extreme weather conditions, steep terrains, and fixed lines make this exotic peak one of the deadliest in the world.  So, we must be particular about our preparations, and these are the areas where we need to prepare ourselves.  Physical Preparedness And Endurance Physical preparedness and endurance are the most crucial things while climbing Denali. Your training activities will include the following.  Fitness Test  VO₂ Max Test Carrying Packs Weighing around 55lbs Hike Training at Sea Level Strength Building While attending a training session for physical strength and endurance, take a step-by-step approach to success.  Working On Team Dynamics And Preparations Traveling solo is not a great idea when it comes to conquering Denali. Maintain clear communication, mutual respect, trust, and a supportive environment within the team. Trust me! Denali will challenge you in every possible way. You don’t want to add to it by having a discord within the team.  Make Sure To Have The Correct Mental Training Reaching the Denali summit is going to be tough. The weather conditions and the routes will throw endless challenges. So, you have to be mentally resolute to keep at it. Train yourself mentally and learn to push limits during your physical training sessions for the Denali trek. Staying positive and being persistent is very crucial in your journey.  Work On Your Technical Proficiency Climbing Denali in Denali National Park is a demanding task. Things are not going to be as easy as visiting Biscayne National Park,  Everglades National Park, or any other national park.  You can attend courses on the following prior to joining a trip to Denali. Ice and snow travel Crevasse rescue Self-rescue Fixed line climbing Self-arrest techniques These technical climbing skills will prepare you for adverse conditions.  Be Particular About Food And Hydration  Planning food and nutrition before and during climbing Denali has two aspects. You have to eat healthy and nutritious food that keeps you in shape. If you are on a guided tour, you will have a proper diet and nutrition plan that you need to follow.  At the same time, having good food is crucial when it comes to climbing a height. You may face appetite issues at a higher altitude. However, you must ensure that you finish your meal properly. There will be no scope for overpacking snacks.  Further, nutrition is different for each person. So, your primary diet will be rich in healthy fats and high protein. However, for the instant energy kick, you must also carry some energy food items and chocolate bars.  The “Diet, Supplementation and Nutritional Habits of Climbers in High Mountain Conditions” report featured in the National Library of Medicine shows the food choices of climbers. Check the table below.  Food Choices Of Climbers Canned Meat3.6%Fruit Mousses7.1%Canned Fish7.1%Halvah7.1%Dry Smoked Pork Sausage10.7%Sandwiches10.7%Dried Fruits10.7%Nuts 10.7%Instant Dishes10.7%Dried Meat28.6%Salty Snacks32.1%Jelly Beans35.7%Energy Gels39.3%Chocolate71%Freeze-dried Dishes86.8%Bars100% Data Source: Diet, Supplementation and Nutritional Habits of Climbers in High Mountain Conditions This study was conducted on 28 men, and the average age group was “33.12 ± 5.96 years.” Take Care Of Hydration  Your body needs more hydration as you climb up the mountain. Water boosts the efficiency of our red blood corpuscles, which collect oxygen in the lungs. So, for proper breathing at a high altitude like Denali, you will have to keep drinking water.   You also need water to stay away from body aches and injuries and preserve your energy level. Water further helps in digesting your food.  Moreover, as you climb up, the air starts getting dry, and rapid breathing and an increased heartbeat promote faster loss of water from our bodies.  Along with drinking 3-4 liters of water every day, you will need to take multivitamins, electrolytes, and hyperhydration solutions available in sachets.  Work On Gear Selection And Preparation Pick and prepare your gear right for climbing Denali in Denali National Park. You will need to pack layered clothing, insulated boots, sleeping bags (-20 F), and mountaineering jackets. Further, if you are on a guided tour, you will be handed over a detailed kit list. Be particular about procuring the following items. Climbing helmet Balaclava Glacier glasses  Goggles Crampons Ice axe Harness Climbing rope Carabiners, etc. These gears ensure that you can navigate through the hard terrain comfortably and remain connected to your team.  Acclimatize With The Condition  With Denali, you are going to make a trek on harsh terrains under extreme weather conditions. So, you cannot plan a successful trip to Denali without devoting some time to acclimatization.  Join a group or guided expeditions that have acclimatization built into their itineraries.   Did You Know?  Mount Denali was renamed Mount McKinley on 28th August 2015.  Denali is the third-highest peak among the Seven Summits or the tallest peaks in seven continents. Denali means “the tall one,” and its name is derived from a Native Alaskan language, Koyukon.  Harry Karstens, Hudson Stuck, and their team of climbers first conquered Mount Denali in 1913.  Galen Johnston became the youngest climber to Mount Denali in 2001. He was 11 years old, and he climbed the peak with his parents.  Final Words  Climbing Denali in Denali National Park is going to be a one-of-a-kind experience. Reaching the summit can be the ultimate reward for your years of training and preparations.  Also, when your road leads to the highest peak in North America, you have to be physically and mentally fit and proficient in technical skills related to mountaineering.  In addition, respect the wonder of nature and be humble so that the wonder of nature embraces you with open arms and paves your way to the summit. Have you ever been a part of a climbing team to Denali? Do you have plans to make a trip to this steep mountain soon? What do you think is most important to prepare yourself for this arduous trek? Don’t forget to share your insights with us!  Denali National Park FAQs How Difficult Is Denali To Climb?  Climbing Denali in Denali National Park is a serious affair. You will at least need intermediate-level expertise or advanced expertise to climb the highest peak in North America.  If you are a serious climber and want to climb Denali, you must get your preparations right and acclimatize to difficult situations with some prior ventures. For preparations, you can climb the Cascades of Washington or the European Alps before your attempts to climb Denali. Further, you need to have the fitness and the agility to survive at all altitudes. You also need to be experienced in knots and hitches, rope work, and fixed-line climbing. In addition, you have to know about glacier travel, crampon techniques, and crevasse rescue.  What Is The Cost Of Climbing To Denali? The cost of climbing Denali for each person will be around $400 per day. Overall, the cost of climbing Denali will be around $12000. In addition, you will have to pay the NPS climbing registration fee. The National Park Service offers a detailed breakdown of the expenses you will need to bear when climbing Denali.  The expenditure includes guides, meals, and transportation costs to reach the kick-off point.  What Is The Hardest Part About Climbing Denali? Climbing the north face of Denali is the hardest, as there will be encounters with avalanches at Wickersham Wall. The Wickersham Wall extends 4,572 m upward from the glacier to the northern peak of Denali.  Another deadliest route for climbing Denali is the West Buttress route. Since the 1980s, there have been reports of at least 14 people dying on this route. (Source) What Is The Best Time To Climb Denali? Late April to mid-July is the best Denali climbing season. However, if you want to experience a milder temperature, you must visit the mountain in June and July. The weather is also less windy in June and July.  Traveling in late July is not a great idea, though, as the snow bridges over the crevasses will start melting. Further, it will be difficult for you to reach the base camp by airplane.  Climbing Denali in any season is not going to be a cakewalk for you. So, daily weather observations are crucial in determining the right time to climb the highest peak in North America. Also, it is always to be a part of guided expeditions to avoid fatal consequences and casualties.  Can I Die While Climbing Denali?  It would be harsh to say that you will die while climbing Denali. However, climbing the highest peak in North America is an arduous journey. You at least need an intermediate-level skill and glacier experience for the trek.  However, a solo climber to Denali died recently, just as the summer climb season this year kickstarted. The body of the deceased climber was found on 20th May 2024. (Source) So, commit to the climb only if you have the desired mental and physical fitness, have the expertise and experience, and have proper safety measures in place. Also read From Hiking To Stargazing: The Top 10 National Parks In Utah! 7 Fun Things To Do In The Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Plan A Day Trip To Dry Tortugas National Park: This Is How You Will Do It.