5 Reasons To Travel When You Retire

BY  Sibashree Jan 22, 2025

The land of the Grand Canyon! The Grand Canyon State! Ask anyone about what is Arizona known for, or search #Arizona on Instagram. With 26.1m posts on Instagram, you will find the Saguaro National Park, Grand Canyon, and desert landscape ruling the scenario.  However, if you are done with #desertdreaming in Arizona, it’s time to check out how the desert delights are making their presence felt on your plate.  #arizonafood is doing well on socials, and I get to see a lot of steaks, honey garlic shrimp, fried chicken, street tacos, and BBQ. This vividness in Arizona food, of course, comes from the most eclectic Mexican, Native American, and Sonoran desert influences.  Again, Arizona is known for its farm-to-table cuisine. Places like Scottsdale and Flagstaff are celebrating this food mantra of Arizona to the fullest, and last November, we had Chef Tamara Stanger coming back to Shift in Flagstaff, Arizona. ShiftAddress: 107 North San Francisco St, #2, Flagstaff, AZ 86001Contact Number: (928) 440-5135 So, this is the best time to visit Shift and other celebrated eating points in Arizona to indulge in the ultimate desert delight. This Tour and Travel blog is a humble food tour and a guide on what Arizona is known for food. What is Arizona Known For Food | History Of Arizona Cuisine If we want to decode what Arizona is known for food, we must learn its history. Food in Arizona has three major influences: Native American, Spanish, and Mexican. Of course, modern evolution is there in making Arizona food what it is today. Tucson in Arizona is the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the USA. It earned the designation in 2015. This shows how the state of Arizona fuses the history of at least 4000 years with the most innovative or new takes.   "One thing visitors will notice is that this deep food heritage is not frozen in the past, but is very much alive. Not only can they sample outstanding versions of traditional dishes of the region, but in our many chef-driven restaurants they can also taste new takes on old favorites and creative new dishes using heritage ingredients.” Jonathan Mabry, Executive Director, Tucson City of Gastronomy Organization 1. Native American Influence On Arizona Food https://www.instagram.com/p/C340jn5reSW/ Native American people like Hopi, Navajo, and Apache brought the use of corn, squash, and beans. They even introduced using desert plants and their various parts in their cuisine. For example, the fruits of prickly pear cactus were widely loved and even those were used as cooking pads.  Again, flour for bread came from grinding mesquite pods. Moreover, saguaro cactus fruits were used in making wines and syrups.  Further, today, when you have Navajo tacos, you must know that the origin goes back to many years. The Native American tribes made these fried breads for survival during the reservation days.  With the passage of time, these fried breads have emerged as the cultural symbol of the state.  Hope's Frybread is a happening place for having Navajo Taco in Arizona. It is located at 144 S Mesa Dr E Ste E Mesa, and you can contact them at (480) 465-2666.  The Stand, on N Alma School Road, Scottsdale, is another great place for having Navajo tacos. Call them at (480) 519-1108 before your visit. 2. The Mexican Influence On Arizona Food Today, everyone swoons over Sonoran Hot Dog. This one and many other Sonoran Desert delicacies came to Arizona and grew in popularity with the Mexican fusion.  The use of carne seca and a lot of cheese, the signature of Mexican topping, changed the cuisine of Arizona for the better.   3. Spanish Influence On Arizona Food Spanish influence became prominent in Arizona Food via the Mexico route. In other words, when Spanish people came to Mexico in the early 20th century, they brought a lot of layering techniques.  Further, they introduced the use of citrus fruits and wheat in food. What is Arizona Known For Food | Famous Dishes You Must Try  Arizona food comes with quintessential Southwestern influences! So, the flavors are bold, and a touch of spice gives that extra zing.  Again, when the peppers and spices add that heat, the desert elements like cactus pads balance the dishes with their neutral taste.  Nevertheless, these are some of the must-try dishes if you want to know what is Arizona known for food. 1. Sonoran Hot Dog https://www.instagram.com/p/ClWlwH0N9sF/ Best Place To Have: Jack in the Box Address: 1194 E Florence Blvd Casa Grande Contact Number: (520) 836-0304 If Chicago has deep-dish pizza, Arizona has Sonoran hot dogs. The dish's origin goes back to the 1940s, and the twist lies in the use of bolillo (a roll with a split top) instead of a bun.  The filling of pinto beans in the blanket of bacon tastes out of the world with jalapenos, mayo, tomatoes and onions. The ultimate desert delight, it is!  2. Chimichanga https://www.instagram.com/p/CnkAGonpYH_/ Best Place To Have: Rito's Mexican Food - Mesa Address: 1033 N Dobson Rd Ste 101 Mesa Contact Number: (480) 264-0966 A burrito, when deep fried, becomes chimichanga. Here, the wrap of golden brown tortilla comes with a filling of beans, meat, and cheese.  The toppings of these delicacies have sour cream, cheese sauce, and guacamole. Can you imagine the delicacies, just melting in your mouth? 3. Prickly Pear Delicacies Prickly pear delicacies encompass many beverages, desserts, and mains in Arizona. Using prickly pear fruits in the dishes adds a subtle flavor and taste. Further, the bright pink color of the fruits makes the dish look more tantalizing.  The fruits, thanks to their “sweet-tart flavor,” are also popular in ice cream, jellies, and candies. Even wines and tonics get flavors from these fruits.  4. Cheese Crisp Best Place To Have: Ghost Ranch: Modern Southwest Cuisine Address: 1006 E Warner Rd Ste 102-103 Tempe Contact Number: (480) 474-4328 Do you love quesadilla? You will love cheese crisp, its open-faced form even more. The roasted and crisp tortilla in this dish tastes heavenly with layers of cheese. If you want it a little spicy, you can always ask to add some green chilies.  Cheese crips are cut into slices before serving. They are like a simpler form of pizza.  5. Pie Best Place To Have: Pie Snob Chandler Address: 250 S Arizona Ave Ste 4 Chandler Contact Number: (480) 855-1019 If you want to try desserts from the desert, you must try the classic pie. It has seasonal fruits and has a distinct Spanish influence.  Other desserts you can have in Arizona are sopapillas (with honey) and chocolate chili cakes.  6. Green Chili Stew A lot of roasted green chilies and chunks of pork simmered in it! That’s green chili for you. This is another prominent example of how Mexican influence is massive on the food of Arizona.  You can have green chili stew with tortilla or bread on a winter day and feel the warmth. It’s a comfort food and you can have it better at any Arizona home than restaurants.  7. Steak And BBQ Best Place To Have: Maddie Jo’s BBQ Address: 5388 E Skyline Dr, San Tan Valley Contact Number: (480) 625-1131 When it comes to southern or southwestern BBQ, we all know that the rub makes all the difference. Paprika, garlic and onion powder, chili powder, brown sugar, and a hot of herbs infuse the right flavors and taste into the steaks and BBQs.  The steakhouses and BBQ joints in Arizona await with all these smoky delicacies if you are ready to taste the best of Arizona.  Trying The Best Of Farm-To-Table Cuisine In Arizona | Living What Is Arizona Known For Arizona has a reputation for its farm-to-table culture. This state enjoys year-round production of fresh veggies and fruits. There are dedicated farmers’ markets and restaurants to celebrate the farm-to-table food culture of Arizona.  Some popular farm-to-fresh restaurants in Arizona are: RestaurantAddressContact NumberFarm Provisions148 N Montezuma St Prescott(928) 776-3001Farm & Craft4302 N Scottsdale Rd Scottsdale(480) 568-8980Arcadia Farms Cafe7025 E 1st Ave Scottsdale(480) 941-5665 Overall, the farm-to-table concept makes the food experience in Arizona truly unique!  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Sibashree Dec 20, 2024

Things to do in Nashville TN: Nashville is the “Music City” of the USA. Also, many people call Nashville the place where music calls home. Housing close to 200 music clubs and venues of all sizes, Nashville is a wonderland for people preferring all genres of music.  So, when in Nashville TN, you cannot avoid a visit to the places associated with the musical excellence and history of the city.  Further, tourism in Nashville is growing continuously in the city. By the end of 2024, the number of visitors to this city is expected to be over 17.1 million. In 2025, the same number is likely to hit 17.5 million. Of course, the unique things to do in Nashville TN are behind this boost in tourism. So, let’s explore them. Unique Things To Do In Nashville To Travel Like A Local | 7+ Activities You Cannot Miss Nashville is a year-round tourist destination. Summer and winter are the best seasons to visit Nashville if you want to soak in the musical vibe here.  However, spring and fall are the seasons to enjoy a mild temperature here with fewer crowds. Nevertheless, irrespective of the time of your visit, you can explore the following activities in Nashville. 1. Visit The Ryman Auditorium Address: 116 5th Ave N, Nashville Contact Number: +1 800-733-6779 Ryman Auditorium is the place from where you will start your journey if you are interested in knowing about the musical history of Nashville.  It was once the home of the Grand Ole Opry. Further, along with hosting the greats of country music, it has also been graced by John Mulaney and Paul Simon. Don’t miss the “Soul of Nashville” screening here to see real footage of the performers and have a multidimensional experience.  2. Exploring The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Address: 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville Contact Number: +1 615-416-2001 For anyone interested in American vernacular music, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is the Mecca. A visit to this museum feels like an up close and personal interaction with the likes of Patsy Cline and Alan Jackson. However, the highlight of this museum is the “Sing Me Back Home: A Journey Through Country Music" exhibit. Take a self-guided tour through it and also see the gold and platinum records of country music here.  3. Enjoy The Best Entertainment Scenario Of Nashville At Broadway When traveling on a shoestring budget, a visit to Broadway will be one of the best things to do in Nashville. It is the hub of entertainment in Tennessee.  As you take a walk through the Honky Tonk Highway here, you will come across many artists showing their musical brilliance. So, if you want to soak in the musical brilliance of the city, Broadway is the place to visit for you.  4. Plan A Visit To The National Museum Of African American Music https://www.instagram.com/p/CZiNTONpEhM/ Address: 510 Broadway, Nashville Contact Number: +1 615-301-8724 Nashville is synonymous with country music. However, the musical scenario here is much more versatile. Opened in 2021, the National Museum Of African American Music here shows the prominent influence of Latin American music in jazz, hip-hop, and other genres.  As you explore the galleries of the museum, you will notice the evolution of African American music. The biggest draw here, of course, is the “Wade in the Water” gallery. The “Call and response spirituals of the 1600s” are here to offer you a surreal experience. Similarly, if you love Blues music, you must visit the Crossroads gallery. It showcases the introduction of this particular genre of music.  5. Spend Some Time In Nature At The Centennial Park Address:  2500 West End Ave, Nashville, TN Contact Number: +1 615-862-8400 If you are traveling on a budget and looking for free things to do in Nashville TN, you must plan a trip to Centennial Park. It is a 132-acre space with many historical monuments. Further, you will find the following amenities at the park. Sportsplex Volleyball courts Bandshell Walking trail Dog park Lake Art Center During spring and autumn, the park has free concerts on Saturdays. Furthermore, you can see the Parthenon here and enjoy a relaxed walk.  6. Visit The Historic RCA Studio B Contact Number: +1 615-416-2001 Address: 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S The Historic RCA Studio B is one of the greatest landmarks in Nashville if you are a fan of country music. Also, it is the place where the likes of Elvis Presley and Everly Brothers recorded their songs.  Famous for the “Nashville Sound,” this studio was once famous in the entire world as a recording center.  Now, you can take a tour of the studio and learn engaging information from the guides. It’s close to the Country Music Hall of Fame. So, you can also plan a combined tour.  7. Explore The Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery https://www.instagram.com/p/C71sKsNuc-b/ Address: 1414 Clinton St, Nashville Contact No: +1 615-913-8800 Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery is the place where one must stop to have the best bourbon and Tennessee whiskey. The history of this distillery will take you back to the late 1800s. Charles Nelson from Germany started the Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery.  Unfortunately, it had to shut its doors after a successful run till 1909. However, after 100 years, Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery had a resurrection thanks to the descendants of Charles Nelson.  They brought the distillery to Nashville. Visiting this place is one of the best things to do in Nashville TN, for the alcohol connoisseurs. It serves the best wines.  8. Spend Some Time At Cheekwood Estate & Gardens Address: 1200 Forrest Park Drive Contact Number:  +1 615-356-8000 Time To Spend: 3 Hours To Half a Day The Cheekwood Estate & Gardens has its unique charm in every season. For example, in spring, you will find the place smiling with the best flowers. Further, in the fall, pumpkins and their shades of orange take you on a nostalgic trip. Moreover, in winter and festive seasons, you will find dazzling lights here.  This 55-acre space is a quiet retreat for people looking to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. You will love the greenhouses and display of chromatic flower arrangements here.  Further, for the ones in love, the beautiful rose garden is great for kindling romance. Moreover, the small amphitheater here hosts some engaging literal events.  Want to try more unique things to do in Nashville TN? You can visit the Radnor Lake State Park, The Johny Cash Museum, or the Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Ankita Jan 12, 2024

Visions of crystal clear water lapping at pristine white sandy beaches, a glass of vintage wine on an exclusive rooftop bar overlooking a breathtaking cityscape, or perhaps a relaxing day at a world-class spa in an exotic location - luxury travel often evokes such dreamy thoughts. But alas, are such extravagant getaways limited only to the affluent? Not necessarily. Traveling in style doesn’t always have to break the bank. With the right planning, smarts, and a bit of innovation, you, too, can orchestrate a memorable and luxurious vacation, without burning a hole in your pocket. One key to success in this endeavor is leveraging modern technology, like a Travel Planning Virtual Assistant. Budget Your Journey Well The first step towards carving out your dream luxury vacation on a budget is to plan thoroughly. Define your budget and stick to it. This is where a Travel Planning Virtual Assistant can be your most valuable tool. Today's AI-based virtual assistants offer comprehensive services: finding budget-friendly flights, choosing cost-effective accommodations, searching best deals on activities, and even helping you stick to your budget during the trip. Choose Your Destination Wisely Sometimes luxury is less about the world's popular tourist spots and more about untouched, serene spots. The path less traveled can provide tranquility and exclusivity that even money can't buy. Choose destinations that aren't on everyone's bucket list, but offer immense beauty and unique experiences. Countries in Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, or South America can render a luxury experience at a fraction of the cost compared to traditional luxury destinations like Paris, Dubai, or New York. Leverage Off-Season and Mid-Week Travel Contrary to popular belief, the off-season can be a perfect time for budget luxury travel. During these times, you can snag the best hotel rooms, flights, and experiences at heavily discounted prices, without the chaotic crowds. Mid-week travel also often has cheaper airfares and accommodations. Your Travel Planning Virtual Assistant can assist in comparing offseason rates for various destinations, and set price alerts for mid-week flights. Book Well In Advance or Very Last Minute Booking flights and hotels well in advance ensures you secure the best prices. Alternatively, a last-minute booking can also land you killer deals as airlines and hotels endeavor to fill empty spaces. Try both strategies and see what works best for your travel plans. Choose Accommodation Wisely Luxe doesn't necessarily mean a 5-star hotel. Consider boutique hotels, bed and breakfasts, or vacation rentals, which often offer personalized services that rival or even exceed those of bigger chains. Many of these alternatives provide a unique experience, let you live like a local, and save money in the process. Eat Like a Local One of the most significant expenses on vacation is food. Instead of dining at expensive tourist traps, explore local markets and eat like a local. Not only can you save a ton but you also experience the authentic taste of your destination's cuisine. Take Advantage of Free Activities Every destination has activities that don't cost a cent but offer priceless experiences. Be it wandering through charming local neighborhoods, visiting free museums, exploring nature trails, or enjoying a sunset on a secluded beach. These experiences will not tax your wallet but will enrich your memory bank. Use Points and Miles If you're an avid credit card user, make sure to leverage rewards points for flights, hotels, and even dining. It could, quite literally, earn you free travel. In conclusion, luxury travel, contrary to popular belief, is not just the exclusive domain of the ultra-rich. With careful planning, making thoughtful choices, and using technology like Travel Planning Virtual Assistants to our advantage, we can all have luxury vacations while staying within our budget. Remember, luxury doesn't always come with a giant price tag. Sometimes, it is hidden in the heart of a priceless experience. So, pack your bags, plan wisely, and embark upon your dream luxury vacation without squandering your life savings. Read Also: Planning A Vacation To Bali? Read This Blog! The Reasons To Choose A Tropical Island Vacation Every Year How To Choose The Perfect Costa Rica Vacation Rental: A Step-By-Step Guide