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BY  Sibashree Jul 10, 2024

If you are in Florida and want to give it all for your active pursuits, your path must lead to the Biscayne National Park. With the third longest coral reef, the watery wonderland is a beautiful coexistence of wildlife, water trails, hiking spots, and life under the water.   Also, did you know that as you visited Florida’s Biscayne National Park, you made a little contribution to the local and national economy? The National Park Service says,   “The South Florida national parks, comprised of Big Cypress National Preserve, Biscayne National Park, Dry Tortugas National Park, and Everglades National Park, were collectively visited by 2.9 million people who spent $242.5 million and supported over 3,250 jobs in South Florida. The cumulative benefit to the South Florida economy was over $352 million.”   So, is the allure palpable enough? Are you already invested in the wildlife, islands, water sports, and the urge to do a little good for the local community? Pack your bags and set in! Meanwhile, let me do all the legwork and make all the plans to join you at the park.   Things To Know About Biscayne National Park  Before I share the details about the kayaking and canoeing fun at the Biscayne National Park, I want to present a brief overview of the park.   A visit to this park is truly a one-of-a-kind experience, and it’s like a microcosm of the universe with the falling together of land and water ecosystems.   It’s time to know the park at a glance before you plan a visit.   Biscayne National Park (Things To Know)  Best Time to Visit  Late November to April  Address 9700 SW 328th Street, Sir Lancelot Jones Way, Homestead, FL 33033  Operating Hours  7:00 AM–5:30 PM, 7 days a week (except holidays) Size 172,971 acres Coral Reef Length  72,000 acres of the northernmost range of the Florida Reef Number of Visitors (in 2023) 571,242  Entrance Fee None Phone 305 230-1144 Alerts & Conditions  Updated regularly  Safety Concerns Mosquitoes and occasional storms Nearby Accommodation Facilities You can stay in tents and make the most of your camping experience. The camping spot is available on a first-come, first-served basis.  Otherwise, you can drive west for half an hour and find hotel chains in Homestead.  I know you can’t wait to have a slice of the national park ripe with outdoor adventure. So, let’s delve deeper into the water and have some kayaking fun and more!   Kayaking, Canoeing, And More! Exploring The Watery Wonderland Of The Biscayne National Park   95% of the Biscayne National Park has water. So, water activities and exploring the water ecosystem are the most amazing things about the place.   You can go canoeing on the open water across the coastal line and reach the stretches of mangroves. Further, you can explore the artificial islands by canoeing and kayaking.   However, to have the most amazing canoeing experience and paddle with the current, you must get a tide table for the visitor center first.   So, let’s start paddling and kayaking!  Jones Lagoon Eco-Adventure Clear Water Paddling  Fee: $109  Age Limit: 12+ for Shared Trips  Duration: 3.5 Hours  Get surrounded by the most amazing marine life during this clear water paddling trip. You will meet the sea turtles, Roseate Spoonbills, and baby sharks on your trip.   Kayakers also love the Jones Family Historic District and Lagoon because of its historic importance. It features on the National Register of Historic Places.  The Jones Family Historic District consists of Porgy Key and Totten Key. The Jones family stayed there during the 1800s and started growing limes and pineapples.   Also, in the early 20th century, they sold their property stretching over a whopping 277 acres and became millionaires. It was a rare incident then in this part of the world for an African American to have this fortune.   Debris Cleanups with Guided Jones Lagoon Paddle  Fee: $50  Age Limit: 12+  Duration: 6 Hours  How about enjoying the beauty and diversity of Biscayne National Park and contributing to its conservation simultaneously?   This debris cleanup and Jones Lagoon paddle trip involves cleaning the debris across the mangrove coastal line and enjoying a relaxing paddle through Jones Lagoon.  At the end of the trip, you will return to the Dante Fascell Visitor Center and unload the debris.   Kayak the Mangroves  Fee: $39  Age Limit: 6+ for Shared Trips  Duration: 1.5 Hours  The mangrove stretch at Biscayne National Park is home to many animals. It is also one of the longest bordering mangrove stretches on the left of the eastern shoreline of the United States.   So, it’s time to meet the tree crabs, fish, animals, and snakes residing in the mangroves. The best part of this tour is that it is partially guided.   The naturalist will guide you for the first half an hour, and from there, you can paddle on your own and take charge of how you want to enjoy the trip.   Sail, Paddle, And Snorkel At Biscayne National Park  Fee: $209  Age Limit: 8+ for Shared Trips  Duration: 6 Hours  This trip involves exploring through the mangrove forest, kayaking, and snorkeling. The trip starts from the Dante Fascell Visitor Center in Homestead.   Snorkel and Paddle  Fee: $209  Age Limit: 12+ for Shared Trips  Duration: 6 Hours  This snorkel and paddle trip at Biscayne National Park is the best to experience aquatic diversity. The rays, dolphins, and sea turtles  await to welcome you to their lives. Further, an encounter with the coral reef is going to be the best experience you can think of.   Also, if you are a birder, you cannot just miss the Roseate Spoonbills while padding. The mangrove forests stretching through the route once again speak of the biodiversity present in the park.  Your guide on the Captain of the National Park will explain the nature of the inhabitants, how they coexist, and the history of the place. It’s the best chef’s kiss you can expect on a trip.   Kayaking Through The Seagrasses of Stiltsville  Fee: $109  Age Limit: 12+  Duration: 3 Hours  Must-Have: Prior Kayaking Experience  As you paddle through the water, the Stiltsville houses on the seagrass banks will be your roadmap to history. This ride is also about the most delightful encounter with the wildlife at Biscayne National Park.   You will even learn why these seagrass banks are important for the ecosystem of the national park. Do you have this thing for everything quaint? The sunken barge on this route stands as a remarkable piece of eulogy.   For the trip, you will start from Coconut Grove and  kayak to the bay to start paddling.   You Can’t Miss The Third Longest Coral Reef At The Biscayne National Park Biscayne National Park promises you a kaleidoscopic experience with the third-longest coral reef in the world. The living coral reef, with its rhythmic movements and embrace of the pork fish and nurse sharks, presents an unforgettable visual experience. The soft corals in the reef dance to the current and create movements.   It’s mesmerizing to know how the polyps make the most beautiful structures by collecting calcium from seawater. In some parts, the coral reef looks like the most vivacious flowers, and in other parts, it will appear like elk antlers or mountains.   On and around the reef, you will also come across the following creatures:  Sea fans  Sea whips  Bright sponges  Christmas tree worms  Fish, shrimps, crabs (They visit to eat the algae gathered on the coral reef.)  Overall, it’s a rainbow of colors with red, purple, orange, and green dominating the spectrum.   How To Visit Biscayne National Park?  You can visit the Dante Fascell Visitor Center of the Biscayne National Park from the US Highway 1 (from north and south) or the Florida Turnpike (from north).   Reaching The Biscayne National Park From North  From Florida Turnpike  First, choose exit 6.  Then, reach the exit ramp and take a left turn to continue moving south to SW 328th Street.   Now, take a left turn on the 328th Street.  Further, drive for four miles to reach the end of the road.  Find the park entrance on your left.  From The US Highway 1  You have to drive south toward Homestead, take SW 137th Avenue, and turn left. You will reach SW 328th Street after a five-mile drive. From here, you will have to take a left turn and drive for four miles. Once you get to the end of the road, you will find the park entrance on your left.   Reaching The Biscayne National Park From South  You can reach the Biscayne National Park from US Highway 1 while traveling from the south.   Then, drive north and reach Homestead. There, you take a right turn on SW 344th Street. Further, continue for four miles until the road near the Homestead Speedway takes a northern turn.   Next, reach the SW 328th Street and head east. Now, you will have to drive for four miles to reach the end of the road. The entrance of the Biscayne National Park will be on your left.   Fun Facts About The Biscayne National Park   The series of sandy, low-lying, and small islands here are known as keys.  Eliott Key is the largest key or island in the Biscayne National Park.  Boca Chita Key is the most popular island here. Also, it is known for its 65-foot lighthouse constructed in the 1930s.   See You There!  Biscayne National Park is a destination that will spoil you with choices. The kayaking and canoeing activities are there, and you can also take a deep dive to have a one-on-one with the fascinating marine life.   If you want more outdoor pursuits in the water, you can try swimming and fishing.   Further, the park does not disappoint wildlife lovers and tourists who love exploring history. The Jones Family Historic District at the park features on the National Register of Historic Places.   Also, the dolphins, birds, turtles, and fish are there to offer you the most amazing wildlife experience.   And the list is endless! The things to do and see at the Biscayne National Park! So, let’s quickly wrap up my guide and plan a visit to the park. See you there soon!   Biscayne National Park FAQ  What Is Biscayne National Park?  Biscayne National Park in Florida is one of the most visited National Parks in America. It is known for its diverse ecosystem and historical importance. Further, it has the third-largest coral reef in the world.   How Do I Access Biscayne National Park?  You can reach Biscayne National Park through US Highway 1 or the Florida Turnpike if you are driving from the north. If you are traveling from the south, you will have to take US Highway 1.  What Activities Can I Do at Biscayne National Park?  At Biscayne National Park, your outdoor pursuits are going to be endless. You can enjoy the following activities.  Snorkeling  Diving   Kayaking  Paddling   Exploring the mangroves  Visiting coral reefs  The park also offers opportunities to experience the best marine life by observing manatees, sea turtles, and various marine creatures.  What Landmarks Can Be Found In Biscayne National Park?  Biscayne National Park has the following landmarks.  Maritime Heritage Trail  Stiltsville  Living Coral exhibit at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center  Is There Scuba Diving At Biscayne National Park?  Yes, you can do scuba diving in clear waters at Biscayne National Park. You will  encounter coral reefs, vibrant marine life, and shipwrecks while scuba diving.   When Did Biscayne National Park Become A National Park?  In 1968, Biscayne National Park was established as a national monument. Years later, in 1980, it got the designation of a National Park.   Also read Enjoy The Best Amusement Park In Cancun. The 4 Best Parks In Cancun You Have To Visit. 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BY  Abdul Aziz May 14, 2021

Himachal Pradesh is blessed with plenty of gigantic mountains, Himalayas, mesmerizing waterfalls, captivating forests, and flawless landscapes that can be explored altogether when you are going trekking. Despite being a popular mountaineering destination, many treks in Himachal are still unexplored or less trodden by.   Let’s know about these exceptional trekking destinations in Himachal that are awe-inspiring.  The Best Unexplored Treks in Himachal   Have you ever wondered what you can expect while visiting the unexplored treks in Himachal? You can soak in the pristine of nature. Further away from the hustle-bustle of tourists, trekking on these lesser-known routes ensures an immersive or spiritual experience.   In addition, despite being off-beat locations, these places offer exciting activities like skiing and paragliding. So, get ready to hit the trails.   1. Chanshal Pass, Shimla  Duration: 5-6 hours  Chanshal Pass, the highest peak in Shimla district, is situated at an altitude of 4600 meters (about half the height of Mount Everest). It is a rare, very unforeseen place for trekking. A few years ago, no one knew about this place, as there was not an appropriate road to reach this hidden paradise in Himachal.  Now it is easy to visit this place. If you are looking for such exciting trekking, this is perfect for you. A night stay can be a problem as Larot has very few guest houses. From Larot, you can start trekking towards Chanshal Pass. It offers thrilling views around the valley, suggested for anyone interested in trekking or photography.  May to October is the best time to go on this trek when the route remains open. The small town of Rohru connects the villages of Dodra and Kawar. Here, you can camp overnight, and away from the sounds of the city, you will glimpse many stunning scenic vibes found during the trek that cannot be described in words or sentences! You must stay here and feel this fascinating destination's vibes.  2.Ting-Ting Pathar at Kufri  Duration: One Hour Hike  The Ting-Ting Pathar is a place for those who want to experience the unrivaled and offbeat. So, if you are craving to explore such unexplored destinations, this could be one of your possibilities.  Apart from all the popular treks of Kullu-Manali, the Kufri trek is unique. It is the shortest trek in the Kullu Manali valley of Himachal Pradesh, which is open for the whole year from January to December.  The treks have lush greenery meadows that make the adventure exciting during the summer season from April to August. When you go trekking during the winter season, it gives you completely different vibes, and you can see snowy mountain canals all around.  So, whether you go in winter or Summer, both seasons provide different views and experiences of Ting-Ting Pathar in Kufri.  Your trek starts from Kufri and takes one hour to get there. You will reach a place in the meadows with big rocks called Tin Tin Pathar, which echo like a bell when they hit each other. So, its name is Tin Tin Pathar. If you hit these rocks with each other, it sounds like metal.  3. Manatali Lake Trek, Parvati Valley  Duration: 6-7 Days  Situated at an altitude of 4200 meters (about half the height of Mount Everest), Mantalai Lake is a high-altitude trek in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh. One of the unexplored treks in Himachal, the Manali Lake Trek, continues alongside the Parvati River.   This trek can be considered a moderate to difficult trek, and you need some sort of basic trekking experience before you attempt it.  The trek can be done within 6-7 Days, depending upon one’s fitness. The trek starts from Bhuntar, which is approximately 30 kilometers (about 18.64 mi) away from the famous village of Kasol.  The best time to visit Mantalai Lake is mid-September till the first week of October after Monsoon. The trek is not feasible in winter due to heavy snowfall and zero supplies in the upper region.  4. Miyar Valley Trek, Lahaul Spiti Valley  Duration: 4to 5 Days  A less well-known destination, trekking the Miyar Valley in Himachal is a dream come true.  Miyar valley trek is one of the Himalayan treks which mainly consists of a flat walking path.  The Miyar Valley trek starting point is Lahaul, Gumpa. From Yosemite in the Himalayas, the stunning Miyar Valley trekking from Shuoto Village.  Here, you can explore the surrealistic side of nature with the Miyar River in vast pastures. During this trek, you will have a chance to glance at medicinal plants, snow leopards, Himalayan brown bears, and countless migratory birds, along with sapphires, ruby rocks, and seven crystal green glacial lakes.  During this trek, you have to follow the Miyar River, which reunites with the ChandraBhaga River near the Udaipur village. The open valley supports several glacier systems.  The best time to visit Miyar Valley is May to June and September to October. It is ideal for trekkers who want to explore something completely different. The difficulty of this trek is considered moderate to Difficult. Therefore, you need some sort of trekking experience to make this trek.  5. Churdhar Trek, Sirmour District  Duration: 3 days  If you are a person who is always craving for something unexplored and exceptional trekking, then this 48 km long trek is worth your time and energy.  Located in the Sirmour district of Himachal, Churdhar Treks offers you a sight that will never leave your eyes or heart. May to November is the ideal time to trek to this place. It is one of the tallest peak treks, and its height is around 12,000 feet (about the height of Mount St. Helens) above sea level.  It's easily visible from Shimla, Kasauli, and Kufri due to its own height.  There are three main routes for trekking up to Chudhar Peak. The Chopal is the first and shortest route, with a trek distance of 7 km, located in the Shimla district. Nohra Dhar is another best route for trekking, which is 20 km (about twice the height of Mount Everest) from it. Haripurdhar in Sirmaur district has the longest trekking distance, with a trek distance of 50 km (about 31.07 mi). It is a magnificent trek where you can find solitude in the mountains at every point during this trek.  6. Mural Danda Trek Near Shimla  Duration: 1 Day  The Mural Danda trek is another rare, well-known, but one of the best short winter treks in the  Pabbar Valley, which has a maximum altitude of 14,000 ft (about half the height of Mount Everest).  Mural Danda is the hilltop of Singuri, mostly famous for its medicinal herbs with different abilities to cure injuries.  There are various routes to trekking this place, but the most beautiful and approachable is from Sungri. Sungri is a small village situated in the Pabbar valleys. The amazing trek near Shimla is trans-Himalayan, which is the endpoint of the Baspa ranges.  The trek takes you through contrasting colors of the snowy trail, Rhododendrons, Oak forests, and open meadows, making it a stunning trek. Starting from the scenic view of a Singuri village, every mountain range looks amazing while trekking.  This region is unique for its exotic plants and Herbs. You can also get to explore famous caves on the way to the Peak. Enjoy the raw and gorgeous Mural Danda winter trek, which is best visited between December and March due to its magical snow-clothed landscapes.  Bon Voyage!  At various altitudes, the unexplored treks in Himachal offer a chance to see nature, wildlife, and biodiversity. However, you need to consider some extra preparations before you start to trek as these places are less trodden by. You must be careful about the gear you pick and work more on developing your physical and mental endurance levels.  So, are you ready to hit any of the trekking routes I have mentioned here? Or have you been to these less-explored places already? Don’t forget to share your insights with us!   Read Also: 15 Interesting Facts About India That Every Traveller Should Know The Easy Way To Travel In India

BY  Ankita Dec 30, 2023

Step into a world where inhibitions are left at the door, and the freedom to embrace nature in all its glory takes center stage. In 2024, the allure of nude resorts beckons adventurous souls seeking an extraordinary escape. This curated list has the top 10 clothing-optional nude resorts across the globe, promising an unforgettable blend of relaxation, adventure, and camaraderie. From the sun-kissed shores of Mexico's Hidden Beach Resort to the vibrant atmosphere of Jamaica's Hedonism II, each destination on this list offers a unique twist on the traditional vacation. Whether you're a seasoned nudist or a curious explorer, join me as I delve into the liberating world of the best nude resorts, where the only dress code is the freedom to be yourself. Let the journey to self-discovery and ultimate freedom begin! Top 10 Nude Resorts in 2024 Around The World! Ah, the allure of basking in the sun, feeling the warm breeze against your skin, with the freedom to shed the confines of clothing. Clothing-optional resorts provide the perfect escape for those seeking a liberating vacation experience. In 2024, the world boasts a plethora of options for those who dare to bare. So, let's dive into the top 10 clothing-optional nude resorts across the globe, embracing the carefree spirit of nude travel. 1. Hidden Beach Resort - Riviera Maya, Mexico Nestled along the pristine beaches of the Riviera Maya, Hidden Beach Resort offers a secluded paradise for nudists. With an intimate atmosphere and luxurious accommodations, this resort provides an ideal escape for couples seeking a clothing-optional retreat. Explore the nearby ancient Mayan ruins during the day, and at night, indulge in the gourmet dining options available on-site. The cost per night ranges from $400 to $600, making it a premium yet worthwhile experience. 2. Desire Riviera Maya Resort - Puerto Morelos, Mexico For a more adventurous experience, Desire Riviera Maya Resort caters to couples looking to spice up their vacation. This adults-only resort features a clothing-optional beach and an open-minded atmosphere, creating an unforgettable and sensual escape. Explore the vibrant coral reefs just offshore or take a short trip to the nearby town of Puerto Morelos for a taste of local culture. The cost per night starts at $350, offering a tantalizing blend of luxury and excitement. 3. Hedonism II - Negril, Jamaica Known for its lively and vibrant atmosphere, Hedonism II in Negril, Jamaica, is a legendary destination for those embracing the naturist lifestyle. The resort hosts themed parties, offers a nude beach, one of the best nude beaches in the world, and encourages guests to let loose and enjoy the uninhibited ambiance. Visit the famous Seven Mile Beach or explore the Negril Cliffs during the day, and return to the resort for nightly entertainment. The cost per night ranges from $250 to $400, providing an affordable yet unforgettable escape. 4. Cypress Cove Nudist Resort - Kissimmee, Florida, USA Venture into the heart of Florida and discover Cypress Cove Nudist Resort, a family-friendly haven for nudists. With a laid-back vibe, this resort offers a range of activities, from nude yoga to naked volleyball, ensuring a wholesome and liberating experience. Visit the nearby Walt Disney World or explore the Kennedy Space Center during the day. The cost per night starts at $180, making it an accessible option for nudist families. 5. Caliente Club & Resorts - Land O' Lakes, Florida, USA Florida continues to be a hotspot for clothing-optional resorts, and Caliente Club & Resorts is no exception. This luxurious retreat caters to a diverse crowd, providing a mix of relaxation and excitement with its pools, bars, and themed events. Explore the cultural scene in Tampa Bay during the day or take a short drive to the pristine beaches of the Gulf Coast. The cost per night starts at $250, offering a blend of sophistication and entertainment. 6. Cap d'Agde Naturist Village - Cap d'Agde, France Cap d'Agde Naturist Village in France is a must-visit for the European naturist enthusiast. This sprawling village offers a complete naturist experience, with nude beaches, shops, and even a nude city center. It's a haven where clothing is truly optional in every aspect of daily life. Explore the historic city of Montpellier during the day and return to the village for a vibrant nightlife. The cost per night ranges from $150 to $300, making it a reasonable choice for those seeking a unique European adventure. 7. Terra Cotta Inn - Palm Springs, California, USA Escape to the desert oasis of Palm Springs and indulge in the tranquil surroundings of Terra Cotta Inn. This nudist-friendly resort offers a relaxed environment with beautiful mountain views, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a serene, clothing-optional getaway. Explore the nearby Joshua Tree National Park during the day or take a stroll through the vibrant downtown area. The cost per night starts at $150, offering a budget-friendly option in a picturesque setting. 8. Orient Beach - Saint Martin While not a traditional resort, Orient Beach in Saint Martin deserves a spot on this list. Known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Orient Beach features designated nude areas, allowing visitors to enjoy the freedom of a clothing-optional beach day. Explore the eclectic markets of Marigot or indulge in the vibrant nightlife on the Dutch side of the island. Accommodations in the nearby resorts vary, with prices starting from $100 per night, providing an affordable beachfront option. 9. The Natural Curacao - Willemstad, Curacao Embrace the laid-back Caribbean vibe at The Natural Curacao. This resort, located on the beautiful island of Curacao, offers an intimate and authentic naturist experience. Enjoy the freedom of swimming, sunbathing, and socializing without the constraints of clothing. Explore the vibrant Willemstad during the day, known for its colorful architecture and rich history. The cost per night ranges from $120 to $200, offering a mid-range option in a tropical paradise. 10. Sunland Holiday Village - South Australia Venture down under to Sunland Holiday Village in South Australia. Surrounded by native bushland, this nudist retreat provides a peaceful escape for those seeking a connection with nature. Explore the hiking trails, take a dip in the pool, or simply unwind in this serene, clothing-optional haven. Discover the nearby wineries of the Barossa Valley or visit the picturesque beaches along the Southern Ocean. The cost per night starts at $100, making it an affordable choice for nature-loving nudists. Choosing Your Nude Adventure Whether you're a seasoned nudist or a curious first-timer, these top 10 clothing-optional resorts cater to various preferences and comfort levels. From the lively atmosphere of Hedonism II to the serene landscapes of Sunland Holiday Village, each destination offers a unique blend of relaxation, freedom, and camaraderie. As you embark on your clothing-optional adventure, remember to embrace the liberating spirit of these resorts. Shedding your inhibitions along with your clothes, you'll find a community of like-minded individuals and a world of unforgettable experiences. So, pack light, leave your worries behind, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and ultimate freedom at the top nude resorts of 2024. 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