5 Reasons to Consider Solo Travel

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] Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Nabamita Apr 4, 2023

With the beginning of summer, more and more people are gonna look for fun ways to beat the heat. And the easiest answer for that is to find the best water park or splash pad near me. These water parks are a great way to cool down on a hot summer day. And as an added bonus, if you are living in Florida, you very well know how hot it can actually get during the summer, and the need to cool down is very urgent as well. So if you are new in Florida or are traveling to Florida for summer vacation, then you won’t know the hotspots to cool down for the summer. And that is why we are here to guide you through that and help you navigate. Top 8+ Splash Pad Near Me In Florida: 1. Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park, Lake Buena Vista amazonaws.com Address - 1801 West Buena Vista Drive, Orlando, FL 32830-8436 Disney World here in Florida is a great place you can relax and unwind during the holidays. To cool it off in the summer, the best place to visit is the Blizzard beach and the ski resort here at Disney World. So get your swimsuits and ski suits ready as you are going to have a great time here at the splendid Mount Gushmore. 2. Aquatica Orlando, Orlando floridastateparks.org Address - 5800 Water Play Way, Orlando, FL 32821 If you are looking for a splash pad near me for a day visit to have fun, then the best place you can go to is Aquatica Orlando. The place is full of water slides, floating rivers, and unlimited fun in the water, with tides, geysers, and drop slides. The fun of the Dolphin Plunge is a great way of giving the visitor a chance to experience the speed through a clear tube like a dolphin. 3. Buccaneer Bay, Weeki Wachee Springs, Spring Hill widen.net Address - 6131 Commercial Way, Spring Hill, FL 34606 While you are in Tampa, there is if you are searching for a splash pad park near me, then you will find the Weeki Wachee Springs and also the Buccaneer Bay. Not all visitors know about this, as it is more of a hidden gem. This spring-fed water park with absolutely crystal clear blue water the whole year. There are many rides, like, as always, a lazy river, with Pirate’s Plunge water flume and a kid's area to play. Although it is not free, you will enjoy different shows and performances, like mermaid acts. 4. Adventure Island, Tampa travel-assets.com Address - 10001 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612-6401 If you are visiting Tampa, then just opposite Busch Gardens, you will see Adventure Island, which is their water park. The main attraction of the park, which is the 70 feet tall Colossal Curl is what attracts visitors. The curl is filled with 622 feet of maze twirls, with dips, turns, and the feeling of weightlessness. And if you are not an adrenaline junky, then lazy rivers and gentle slides are there as well for you. 5. Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, Lake Buena Vista Address - 1145 Buena Vista Drive, Orlando, FL 32830 If you thought that Disney had only one water park then you are wrong, their other popular water park is the Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, which is in Buena Vista. Here you will find a 6-foot tall wave surfing area, along with a surf pool, saltwater reef, and typhoon lagoon. At the saltwater reef, you can go snorkeling and look for exotic fish. 6. Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park, Destin miamionthecheap.com Address - 1007 Highway 98 E, FL 32541-2901 Right in Florida’s panhandle, if you search for a park with splash pad near me, then you will find the Big Kahuna’s water & adventure park in Destin. This adventure park is filled with loads of rides and attractions, at least about 40 different attractions that will surely pump you up for the summer. 7. Rapids Water Park, Riviera Beach visitcentralflorida.org Address - 6566 N Military Trl 1620 Sw, West Palm Beach, FL 33407-1228 Located quite close to West Palm Beach, here the nearest splash pad you will find is the Rapid water park. There are about 35 slides, and it also has two drop slides which are seven-story tall. Another impressive attraction there is the 45-degree drop slide into complete darkness, here, you will experience absolute weightlessness. And for the kids and the younger generation to feel zero gravity, there is Barefootin Bay, where you enjoy sprays and super splashes. 8. LEGOLAND, Water Haven travelandleisure.com Address - 1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven, FL 33884, United States Built as an extra entertainment zone with LEGOLAND, the water park is among the favorites for families with kids. So if you are here at Water Haven, then you should definitely visit the LEGOLAND water park. Here you will find great attractions like two giant slides, along with a water play area and also a lazy river. Since it is LEGOLAND, here you can create your own raft on the Build-A-Raft River. 9. Sun Splash Family Waterpark, Cape Coral travelandleisure.com Address - 400 Santa Barbara Blvd, Cape Coral, FL 33991, United States Looking for a budget-friendly splash pad near me, then you are in luck as Sun splash family waterpark is the place for you in Cape Coral. With only a $20 entry fee, you are getting a 14-acre water park for you to enjoy. There is a tot play area for the kids to enjoy with mini slides, and for the older kids. There is a 30 feet long dark water tunnel with a five-story slide and a steep drop at the end. 10. Universal’s Volcano Bay, Orlando travelandleisure.com Address - 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819-7640 This is yet again a wonderful splash pad near me in Orlando. Here you will find beautiful resorts and living areas with an amazing view of the lagoon and a volcano with a cascading waterfall. There are many different types of slides that will surely impress you and your family at the same time. Like the Krakatau Aqua Coaster, Kopiko Wai Winding River, or even Waturi Beach. For the kids, there is the Tot Tiki Reef, where they can splash in the water fountain and also in the mini volcano. Wrapping Up! Now that you are aware of the best splash pad near me, now you can easily make plans to take a trip there this summer. Although it is less likely that you will get to go to all the water parks, you can still try if you want to. If you think that this article was helpful, then give it a like and comment down below. Read Also: Indian Buffet Near Me In Florida – Best Buffets For You Best Asian Restaurants In Florida – A Must Visit For Food Lovers What To Consider When Choosing Vacation Destinations For Families

BY  Sibashree Dec 13, 2024

Bearing a rich native American history, Oklahoma is one of the tourist hotspots in the USA. It is also a city bearing the memories of frontier life.  Further, with many things to do in Oklahoma, the American Bus Association has identified Oklahoma City as the Rising Star in Tourism. Furthermore, the American Bus Association has appreciated the city for the record economic impact of its tourism.  Moreover, the city authorities are investing heavily in building its infrastructure and amenities. Also, all the efforts have been paid of in the economic boom of the city in 2023.  The 2024 Visit OKC Economic Impact Report has mentioned that tourism in Oklahoma City has contributed $3.7 billion to the local economy. Moreover, tourism yields a major benefit for the local people in terms of tax revenues and employment. “Today’s visitors become tomorrow’s residents. Tourism impacts perceptions of our city which intersects with economic development as new businesses look to relocate here. The more we promote OKC as a tourism destination, the more jobs we can support, the more city revenue is paid by visitors, and additional positive awareness is generated about Oklahoma City.”  Christy Gillenwater, Greater OKC Chamber President and CEO  So, what are things to do in Oklahoma to boost tourism in the city? Here is a brief guide for you.  Unique Things To Do In Oklahoma | Try These Unusual Activities  The tourism sector in Oklahoma is vibrant. No wonder that the Forbes Advisor has ranked Oklahoma City as one of the most budget-friendly cities in the world for family vacations.  Nevertheless, when you are in Oklahoma, you can try the following activities.  1. Visit The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/C-IhjmLsKQS/ Address: 620 N Harvey Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73102, United States Contact: +1 405-235-3313 Hours Open: Monday to Saturday (9 AM to 5 PM), Sunday (12-5 PM) Oklahoma witnessed the worst domestic terrorism on 19th April 1995. Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols were behind this attack.  The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is a tribute to the people who survived and lost their lives in this attack. You will find the biographies of the survivors, photos and stories of the survivors here.  2. Explore The Oklahoma City Museum Of Art https://www.instagram.com/p/DDATrbqNBSF/?img_index=1 Address: 415 Couch Dr, Oklahoma City, OK 73102 Contact: +1 405-236-3100 Hours Open: Wednesday - Saturday (10 AM to 5 PM), Sunday (12-5 PM), Monday & Tuesday Closed The Oklahoma City Museum of Art is famous for its collection of glasswork and artwork collected from the globe. However, this museum is the go-to place if you want to know about American art. It also introduces you to postwar abstraction. Don’t miss the glasswork of Dale Chihuly at this museum.  3. Visit The Five Civilized Tribes Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/BWfvtLUltKo/ Address: 1101 Honor Heights Dr, Muskogee, OK 74401 Contact: +1 918-683-1701 Hours Open: Monday - Friday (10 AM to 5 PM), Saturday (10 AM to 2 PM), Sunday Closed The Five Civilized Tribes Museum is the best place to visit if you are willing to know about the Chickasaw, Cherokee and Creek nations. The name of the music celebrates how the native Americans of five different nations became a part of the Anglo-American culture.  The artifacts, artwork, and historical detailing are intriguing.  4. Visit The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/C8DMPQesysh/?img_index=1 Address: 1700 NE 63rd St, Oklahoma City Contact: +1 405-478-2250 Hours Open: Monday - Saturday (10 AM to 5 PM), Sunday (12 PM to 5 PM) The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum is famous across the globe. The interactive exhibits here are out of the world, and you will find here many artefacts and artwork.  Each element in the museum exudes a unique charm, and it reminds you of life in the Old West. You will also get to know about Victorian-era firearms, American cowboys and rodeos here.  5. Be A Part Of The Entertainment And Dining Scene At Bricktown https://www.instagram.com/p/C8KLlErx5n_/?hl=en In Downtown Oklahoma City, Bricktown will introduce you to the most happening entertainment and dining scene of the city. Bricktown is on a canal that links Bricktown with the Oklahoma River and Downtown. Taking a ride in the water taxi here is one of the most unique things to do in Oklahoma. Further, you can explore the 40+ restaurants, pubs and bars here.  6. Make The Most Of The Unique Experiences At Gathering Place https://www.instagram.com/p/C9LZoqxyd9U/?img_index=1 The Gathering Place in Tulsa is a place for unique things to do in Oklahoma. Currently, it is a space of 65 acres, and soon, it will be a happening activity area of 100 acres. You can explore the following sections of Gathering Place for adventurous activities.  Adventure playground Climbing structures Slides Puzzles Sensory garden Picnic grove Reading tree You can spend an entire day at the park and the eateries at the park have decent refreshment options. So, you can visit here with your kids or family.  7. Enjoy The Art Experience At Factory Obscura Mix-Tape https://www.instagram.com/p/DBrqbZVxggN/ Address: 25 NW 9th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73102, United States Contact Number:  +1 405-367-1578 Hours Open: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday (11 AM to 7 PM), Saturday (10 AM to 8 PM), Sunday (12–6 PM), Tuesday Closed If you want an interactive and immersive art experience, you must visit the Factory Obscura Mix-Tape. This 6,000-square-foot area of art and entertainment was created by musicians, muralists, and local volunteers.  The art objects here are crafted for people with vision or hearing problems. Further, the sensory room is here is a great place for visitors with autism.  8. Encounter Wildlife At Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve https://www.instagram.com/p/C_S_AhztVt7/ Address: 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Rd, Barnsdall, OK 74002, United States Contact Number: +1 918-336-0307 Hours Open: Wednesday - Sunday (10 AM to 5 PM), Monday and Tuesday (Closed) Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve is located in the North of Tulsa. Visiting this 3,700-acre area is one of the unique things to do in Oklahoma for wildlife lovers.  Frank Phillips, an oil baron, built the Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve in 1925 as a ranch retreat. However, with time, it became a massive wildlife preserve and museum. Today, you can meet many cattle, including elk and bison, here. In addition, true to the native American spirit of the city, the Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve has an elaborate collection of Western Art. In addition, the old photographs and collections, including a Colt firearm, will transport you to the lands of cowboys. So, that’s for now from me about the unique things to do in Oklahoma. If you want to explore more places, you can visit the Beavers Bend State Park, Six Flags Frontier City, Oklahoma Route 66 Museum, etc.   Also read Ultimate Guide to Your Next Family Vacation in Israel. Boat Charter Miami: Essential Tips for a Great Experience. Is Houston A Party City? Know The Fun Things To Do In Houston For A Happening Nightlife.