Best Must-See Punta Cana Neighborhoods And How To Visit

BY  Arnab May 3, 2023

Planning a big trip can be both exciting and overwhelming. From deciding on a destination to booking your flights and the necessary accommodations, there are a lot of factors to consider while you are planning a successful trip. Fortunately, there are numerous resources available to help make the planning process more manageable. In this article, we will explore some of the best resources to use when planning a big trip. Travel guidebooks Travel guidebooks are an excellent resource when planning a big trip. They offer valuable information about a destination, including its history, culture, and popular attractions. Guidebooks also provide practical information like maps, transportation options, and accommodation recommendations. Guidebooks can be purchased at bookstores, online retailers, or borrowed from a library. Some popular travel guidebook series include Lonely Planet, Fodor's, and Rick Steves. Online travel forums Online travel forums are a great resource for getting insider tips and recommendations from other travelers. Forums like TripAdvisor and Lonely Planet's Thorn Tree forum allow you to ask questions, read reviews, and get advice from experienced travelers. You can also search for threads on specific topics like budget travel, solo travel, or adventure travel. When using travel forums, be sure to read reviews and advice from multiple sources to get a well-rounded perspective. You can also contribute to the community by sharing your own travel experiences and tips. Travel blogs Travel blogs offer a more personal perspective on a destination and will usually list some of the best things to do in Lenexa, KS, as an example. These will often be written by experienced travellers or locals, or someone who is at least strongly familiar with the area. They can provide detailed information about a destination, including off-the-beaten-path attractions, restaurant recommendations, and unique experiences. Many travel bloggers also offer practical tips like how to save money or travel sustainably. You can find travel blogs by searching online or on social media platforms like Instagram or Pinterest. The best travel sites will have all the honest opinions you need to plan. Additionally, some travel blogs may incorporate a QR code to provide even more comprehensive information. Travel booking websites Travel booking websites like Expedia, Kayak, and Booking.com offer a one-stop shop for booking flights, accommodations, and activities. These websites allow you to compare the best prices from the best vendors for the things you want. When using travel booking websites, be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully and understand any restrictions or limitations. You may also want to consider booking directly with airlines and hotels, as they may offer better deals or loyalty programs. Travel insurance providers Travel insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of unexpected events like flight cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies. Many travel insurance providers offer customizable plans that can be tailored to your specific trip needs and budget. When choosing a travel insurance provider, be sure to read the policy carefully and understand what is covered and what is not. You may also want to consider purchasing insurance from a provider that specializes in travel insurance, as they often offer more comprehensive coverage. Planning a big trip can be a daunting task, but with the right resources, it can also be an enjoyable and exciting experience. Travel guidebooks, online travel forums, travel blogs, travel booking websites, and travel insurance providers are just a few of the many resources available to help you plan a successful trip. By using these resources, you can make informed decisions and ensure that your trip is both memorable and stress-free. Read Also: 7 Key Points To Remember While Planning Your Honeymoon Trip 5 Things You Can Carry For An Amazing Trip On A Budget Booking.Com – Best Review By Users In 2022

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 27, 2023

Zanzibar is known for being sloppy when wet and extremely hot in the summer. The protracted rains bring heavy torrential downpours every day, causing high humidity and silty seas to occur between March and early May. With its dry and sunny peak season from June through October on the beach (and in Tanzania's game reserves if you're on a safari first), most vacations to Zanzibar outside of these periods will be nice. While November and December offer Zanzibar's shorter spells of rain, these typically are isolated showers that won't cause holiday washouts. January to March are likewise dry and hot but a lot quieter. The year-round average temperature is roughly 30°C. Due to the warm waters, minimal wind, and high visibility, the months between March and November are typically regarded as the best for diving and snorkeling. September through December is the prime time to see whale sharks, reef sharks, and manta rays. If you want to know more details on when is the best time to visit Zanzibar, this article will help you navigate those questions. Best Time To Visit Zanzibar Image Source: gumlet.assettype.com Strictly speaking, the dry seasons of December to February and June to October are the best times to visit the Zanzibar islands. But in general, the beaches on the southern and western parts of the islands are more protected from wind during these months. On the other hand, the wind typically comes from the southwest from June to October. This makes the northern and eastern coasts ideal for holidaying. But in the end, these islands remain at the whim of the ocean, and their weather can be erratic throughout the year. Even in the “dry” seasons, afternoon showers do occur, but they usually last only a few minutes and are refreshingly cool. It is not an entirely bad idea to travel to Zanzibar during the rainy season when the number of tourists declines, and you will likely find affordable trips and lodging (among those that are still open). The sunsets are known to be stunning. The rain, although severe, is not generally consistent, and delicious pineapples come into season! You might find it tricky to navigate the roads and buses, but things eventually settle. Wet and dry seasons are Zanzibar's prominent climates, which are influenced by the movements of the Indian Ocean’s rainy season. From November/December to February/March, the northeast monsoon winds, or kaskazi (in local parlance), blow. And from June to September/October, the southwest monsoon winds, also called kusi, blow. There is a brief rainy season (the vuli) in November in addition to the main rains (the masika), which last between mid-March to the end of May. Weather Image Source: www.holidaysplease.co.uk Although it can be reduced by the winds and sea breeze, humidity is relatively high throughout the year. The average daily temperature on Zanzibar Island is roughly 26°C (80°F) from June to October and around 28°C from December to February. However, during the latter period, humidity levels are frequently greater, making temperatures feel hotter. Pemba has a milder climate with a little more rainfall than Zanzibar Island. The islands are crowded with tourists from outside and expats from Nairobi and Dar es Salaam during major holidays like Christmas and Easter. You can expect crowded flights and increased hotel prices. On the other hand, life moves more slowly as many restaurants and shops close during the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan. The annual Zanzibar International Marathon takes place in the first few days of November. This can be a good incentive for sports enthusiasts, making it the best time to visit Zanzibar. Festivals Image Source: www.gallerytours.net The majority of Tanzania's public holidays are observed on the islands as well. On these days, companies and offices are typically closed, while some tour operators are still open. Some of the public holidays with set dates observed on the island are: 1 January – New Year 12 January – Mapinduzi ‘Revolution’ Day 7 April – Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume Day 26 April – Union Day: Zanzibar and Tanganyika 1 May – Workers’ Day 7 July – Saba Saba (Seven Seven) 8 August – Peasants’ and Farmers’ Day 14 October – Nyerere Day 9 December – Independence Day 25 December – Christmas Day 26 December – Boxing Day The Muslim holidays of Idd il Fitri, which marks the conclusion of Ramadan, and Idd il Maulidi (also known as Maulidi ya Mfunguo Sita), which commemorates Muhammad's birth, are widely observed and serve as public holidays. These festivals fall 11 or 12 days early each year and have dates that are determined by the lunar calendar. If you are planning to visit Zanzibar in 2024 and want to be a part of their Ramadan, it is set to start on 10 March through 8 April. Places To Visit Image Source: zanzibardestination.co.tz Zanzibar is one of those rare treasures you keep to yourself, as a secret, as a deeply significant memory, and as the most joyful days spent. Now that you know the best time to visit Zanzibar, if you want to know a few places you can check out while visiting, here are a few: Slave Trade Image Source: pbs.twimg.com The Slave Museum is a must-see for anybody interested in learning about Zanzibar's sordid past. The last active slave market in the world was shut down in 1873. You will pass by rooms where slaves were housed before being sold as you move around the museum. To work on plantations, hoards of Africans were first transferred to this island. Slave traffickers utilized the port at Zanzibar as their center of operations to transport slaves to countries including Egypt, Arabia, Persia, and the Ottoman Empire. Sunset Dhow Show Image Source: www.tanzaniatourism.com If you miss taking a Sunset Dhow Cruise on the translucent, emerald seas of the Indian Ocean, your journey to Zanzibar will remain incomplete. The busy bustle of a busy town gradually disappears as the sunset cruise departs the coast that gets replaced finally by the musicians' melancholy ballad of lost love and found romances or a tune played on a taraab, violin, or oud. The crew will provide you with crackers and your preferred brand of beer or soda. Sip on your drink while you bask in the exotic vibe on the cruise. Mnemba Atoll Image Source: www.andbeyond.com Explore the fascinating marine life at Zanzibar, which is host to more than 400 species of fish, turtles, nudibranchs, and many rare forms of coral, while scuba diving at Mnemba Atoll. If you are lucky, you might see reef sharks, manta rays, and whale sharks. Mnemba Atoll is one of Zanzibar's top locations for water sports while being a conservation area and marine reserve. Mid-February through mid-May, as well as mid-October to mid-December, are the best times to go scuba diving in Mnemba Atoll since the sea is quiet, and there is high visibility to enjoy the experience even better. Darajani Market Image Source: upload.wikimedia.org A market is a location where we meet new folks, socialize, and engage in addition to trading and selling items. One such location in Zanzibar is the Darajani Market, which serves as the town's main market. You can find merchants selling everything from Chinese toys and other trinkets to indigenous Zanzibar spices, kofias (Zanzibari hats), and dates while you take a stroll around the streets. You will have an amazing experience wandering the market's winding streets. Wrapping Up The best time for either a rustic vacation or participation in Zanzibar activities is during the months of June and October. These are the months of spring in Africa when the weather is mild and delightful. You can also visit this island paradise in the tropics during December and February. Zanzibar experiences hot, dry weather while it is winter in other countries. Are you planning a visit and want to know when the best time to visit Zanzibar is? Or have you been to Zanzibar recently? Did you like the island? How was your experience? If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: This Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland & These Are The Things You Should Do! This Is The Best Time To Visit The Seven Magic Mountains In Vegas! THIS Is When You Should Visit Maldives!

BY  Sibashree Sep 5, 2024

What is a national park to you? For me, it is a place that brings together nature, history, culture, and outdoor pursuits. Killarney National Park, which has been recently in the news for all the good reasons, is not an exception, for sure! Also, this national park in a 300-year-old town surely has many tales to tell. It is also related to Irish folklore, as you can hear “Banshee’s Wail” in this park.  Moreover, it’s great that woodpeckers have started breeding in the national park for the first time in centuries, and the spotted chicks of woodpeckers look the cutest.   Again, the release of four white-tailed eagle chicks in the national park grabbed much attention. Further, this is an endeavor to bring back the eagles, which were extinct in Ireland.   In addition, there has been a renewed interest in the park among locals thanks to the 100th anniversary of the “Elizabeth Rose” in September 20241. This year, the Muckross Rowing Club and the Muckross Rowing Club Festival this year will celebrate the centenary of “Elizabeth Rose Killarney Six,” the first traditional racing boat to hit the Lakes of Killarney.   So, with all the focus now on Killarney National Park, let’s try to learn more about it.   Where Is The Killarney National Park?  Killarney National Park, the first national park in Ireland, is in County Kerry, southwest Ireland. Killarney town is beside County Kerry.   Further, with an extensive range of wildlife species, this park basks in exceptional ecological value. Moreover, spreading across 10,000 hectares, it has mountains, waterfalls, woodlands, and lakes.   How To Reach Killarney National Park  The cheapest way to reach Killarney National Park is to take a train to the Killarney railway station. Further, from the railway station, you must take just a 10-minute ride to the national park.   The N71 road is the main access point to the national park. However, you can also reach the park by bus or car.   Things You Cannot Miss At Killarney National Park  Killarney National Park is incomparable with its wilderness, and a large part of this national park has been unperturbed for hundreds of years. It is also home to some rare species, like red deer. In fact, the red deer herb currently residing in Killarney National Park is the last herd in Ireland.   Further, the national park has walking and hiking trails, such as the Dundag to Torc Path trail, Old Kenmare Road, and Mossy Woods. Moreover, you can climb the Mangerton and Purple mountains to explore a beautiful vista of the park and its surrounding areas.   So, let’s discuss all the activities at Killarney National Park in detail.   Exploring The Wildlife In Killarney National Park  This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (1981) is home to Reenadinna Woods and the hub of protected and rare flora. Moreover, it has many endangered and rare mammals, reptiles, and amphibian’s species.   Plants, Animals, And Other Creatures In Killarney National Park Conserved Animals/Birds Red Deer Herd Irish Cuckoo, and Eagle Rare Species of Fauna Native Kerry Cattle Herd Caddisfly Northern Emerald Dragonfly  Rare and Protected Flora St. Patrick’s Cabbage Mountain Sorrel Greater Butterwort Green Spleenwort, and Blue-eyed Grass Mammals Red Deer Wolves Irish Hare Otter Birds White-tailed Sea Eagle Barn Owl Kingfisher Woodpecker Amphibians Smooth Newt Reptiles Viviparous Lizard Other Fauna  Kerry Slug Freshwater Pearl Mussel Marsh Fritillary Atlantic Salmon  It is due to the vast presence of various plants and animals, Killarney National Park promotes responsible behaviors and activities during your outdoor pursuits. Further, you can visit the national park with dogs, but it is better to avoid bringing them to the park during breeding season.   Hiking In Killarney National Park  You will find many trails to cycle or walk in the national park. All the trails offer you the opportunity to explore the wildlife and unique geology of the national park. Here, I will briefly discuss three such hiking and walking trails, but there are plenty more.   Ross Island Mining Trail  How about visiting a 15th-century castle in its full architectural glory? The Ross Island mining trail will take you to Ross Castle. On this trail, you will also find the oldest known metal mine in Ireland. It is even the oldest in the entire Western Europe.   This 3 Km trail will take you around 1.5 hours to complete, and it is the most favorite trail for history lovers. The encampments, ruins, and mines tell the stories of human lives and the economy of a bygone era. You will even get to see some rare flora on this trail.   Knockreer Circular Walk  As the name suggests, the trail is circular, taking you to almost all accessible parts of the national park. You can walk or cycle on this trail to encounter the endangered red deer and enjoy the beauty of the MacGillycuddy Reeks and Lough Leane.   If you want to catch some refreshments, you will find Deenagh Lodge here. Some of the ascents in the hike are tricky, but the overall experience is wholesome, with good food and the company of nature.   Muckross House to Torc Waterfall Lake Loop  The Muckross House to Torc Waterfall Lake Loop trail is ideal for families. The trail is a little challenging. However, the panoramic vista of the Middle Lake and the view of the limestone cliffs make the effort worth it.  You can continue hiking through the woods and then take the stone steps to reach the woods down. Further, from the woods, you will get to behold the Torc Waterfall. Also, this 18m high waterfall is quite powerful.   An Encounter With History And Culture At The Killarney National Park Heritage Sites   Killarney National Park has many heritage sites that tell the tales of human history and life. Further, a trip to the park is incomplete without exploring these places.  Name Of The Heritage Sites Things To Know  Muckross Abbey Graveyard It has modern and old Irish graveyards.  Also, it has the graves of 17th and 18th-century Gaelic poets, such as Geoffrey O’Donoghue, Eoghan Rua O’Suilleabhain, and Aodhagan O’Rathaille.   Further, you will see the graves of many chieftains in the graveyard.  Killarney House and Gardens It is the main visitor center for the park.  Further, Formal Pleasure Gardens in the Killarney Gardens is the “longest Irish Herbaceous Border.”  Also, the 1870 red brick building was the main seat of the Kenmare estate. Ross Castle It is a tower house made in the 15th century with some myths attached to it.   O'Donoghues Mór built the castle, and people still believe that O'Donoghues Mór still sleeps under the lake water. It is said that here you can hear Banshee’s Wail. * Muckross House and Gardens  It is one of the most prominent stately homes in Ireland.  Moreover, the Tudor-style architecture of the mansion speaks of the affluent lifestyle of landowners in the 19th century.  Old Weir Bridge It is a stone-made twin-arch bridge.  Derrycunnihy Church This Roman Catholic church dates back to the late 19th century.  Further, you can see barn owls and Lesser Horseshoe Bats near this church.   Brickeen Bridge It has a pointed arch structure, and it’s an 18th-century bridge.  Innisfallen Island and Monastery The monastery here dates back to 640 AD when it was built by St.Finian the Leper.  Further, it was a place of immersive prayer and meditation for monks.  Moreover, “The Annals of Innisfallen,” written by monks here, are important accounts of Irish history.   Along with these sites, Killarney National Park has another historic area called the “Ladies View.” This was Queen Victoria's favorite place. Also, she was in love with the scenic beauty of the area.   *According to Irish folklore, Banshee is a spirit which appears as a woman and screams in a shrill voice. The appearance of Banshee is believed to bring the death summon for any of the family members.   Visiting The Habitats Of The Killarney National Park   As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this national park is full of waterbodies like ponds, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. Further, there are heaths, bogs, rock formations, and grassland.   So, do you want a brief idea about the diverse habitats of the park? Then, check the table below.   Habitats Highlights Yew Woodland Muckross Peninsula Reenadinna Wood and the Carboniferous reef and pavement of limestone Thick bryophytes blanket the limestone structures and especially the presence of “southern Atlantic liverwort Marchesinia mackaii used in labs Yew, Oak, Hazel, Alder, and Ash Trees  Wet Broadleaved Woodland Carboniferous limestone structures near the lake Waterlogged landscape Blanket Bog Bog moss hummocks Crowberry, Heath Rush, and other species Dry Broadleaved Woodland Tomies Wood Glaisín na Marbh Woodland Tracks Upper Doogary Woodland Tracks Sessile Oak Trees Rowan Trees Birch Trees Heath Deer Grass Purple Moor Grass Tormentil Mixed Woodland Game Wood Rhododendron, Sycamore and Various Exclusive Species of Plants Portuguese Laurel Flowering Plants Grassland Rare Flora Species, such as Carnation Sedge, Creeping Bent, Marsh Violet, etc.   Waterfalls, Rivers and Streams Muckross Lake Upper Lake Unique Invertebrate Species Drowned Vegetation Wetlands, Ponds And Lakes Devil’s Punch Bowl  Along with these habitats, you will find commercially established conifer plantations in the national park. You will find them on the slopes of the Muckross or Torc Mountain. These plantations have Scot pines, European larches, Sitka spruce, and many other varieties.   Does Killarney National Park Have Restaurants And Cafes?   https://www.instagram.com/p/C7Q9NLpIr5w/ Yes, you can catch some quick bites and refreshments at Killarney National Park, which has quite a few restaurants and cafes. Further, each restaurant has a standout feature of its history or commitment to a special cause.   So, let’s know the names, their locations, and specialties.   Restaurant/Cafe  Location And Operating Hours  Specialties Muckross House Garden Restaurant Near Muckross House (“Adjacent to main car parks and entrance road”)  Baked salmon Cajon-style chicken breast Rainbow trout and sea-fresh cod duo  (Also, gluten-free options, including various salads, are available here.)  Deenagh Lodge It stands opposite St. Mary’s Cathedral on Port Road. Apple tart with custard Coffee Sandwiches   (It is operated by people with Down syndrome. Also, vegan and vegetarian options are available.) Dinis Cottage Dinis Island (Take the route via N71) Homemade scones Apple pie Fresh sandwiches (It is more than 200 years old. Moreover, it has a Victorian charm.) Ross Castle Garden Cafe Ross Castle Freshly ground barista coffee Cakes and pastries are also available.  Lord Brandon’s Cottage  Gap of Dunloe’s southern end Coffee and snacks (An open-air cafe)  Along with the restaurants and cafes, there are also Muckross Traditional Farms where you will find delicious, sweet meat on these farms.   Further, you can arrange picnics at this national park, provided you do not leave any trace behind. However, BBQing and lighting campfires are not allowed in Killarney National Park.   Final Words Before You Set In For The Killarney National Park  Exploring the natural bounty and history at Killarney National Park is easy and safe, thanks to the available family facilities and first aid and emergency services. Further, you can call 112 or 999 to avail yourself of emergency services. In addition, first-aid services are offered at Muckross House and Gardens and the Killarney National Park Visitor Centre.  Also, there are public toilets in the park. Moreover, for the children, there are changing facilities and playgrounds. So, it does not matter whether you are a solo traveler or you are traveling with your family and friends.   Moreover, Killarney National Park is the go-to destination for you to encounter one of the best bio reserves in the world, an account of human history, and the most fascinating landscapes.  So, if you are planning a trip to Ireland in late spring or early autumn, don’t forget to include Killarney National Park in your itinerary. Moreover, we would love to hear from you about the experience in the comment section below.   Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Where To Stay Near Lassen Volcanic National Park? – Explore The Best Options. 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