Tips for Choosing the Best Accommodation for Your Travel Needs

BY  Sibashree Mar 9, 2026

In India, I have seen the Godavari Arch Bridge in Andhra Pradesh and the Coronation Bridge on the Teesta River in West Bengal. In Sri Lanka, I found their equivalent in the Nine Arch Bridge.  This colonial-era bridge stands across a massive green gorge. Also, the tea plantations and a dense jungle flank this stone bridge. So, it’s beautiful, and it is located in the iconic Colombo-Kandy-Ella-Badulla railway between the Ella and Demodara railway stations. From Lonely Planet to the BBC, everyone has hailed this route, also known as the Ella Odyssey, for its unmatched scenic appeal. Also, on a misty day, when the clouds kiss the valley and the blue trains arrive, tearing the veils of the mist, it feels surreal and like a painting by Dali or a movie scene by Andrei Tarkovsky. So naturally, a visit to the Nine Arch Bridge will be the most beautiful frame from my Sri Lanka trip.  How To Visit The Nine Arch Bridge? After a visit to Kandy, I took a train to Ella. The journey was beautiful, as expected. From Ella Town, I took a Tuk-Tuk to the Nine Arch Bridge. Then, I walked for around 5-10 minutes to the bridge. The Tuk-Tuk cost me around LKR 300. However, if you want some more adventure, you can take a walk along the Ella-Passara Road and turn left near the Sri Kanaser Temple to reach the beach. I found many local food stalls near the temple. Moreover, if you want to go back to your childhood days, you can follow the train tracks to reach the bridge from Ella Town.  What Is The History Of The Nine Arch Bridge? The Nine Arch Bridge is a prominent example of colonial-era construction, and it shows architectural excellence. The British built this bridge in 1921, and it played an important role in the war efforts of the British during World War I. Even today, this stone and concrete bridge stands strong without any steel structure. It is 91 meters in length and 24 meters in height. What Is The Best Time To Visit The Nine Arch Bridge?  Sunrise on the Nine Arch Bridge is the best time you can think of. Also, if you want a picture-perfect frame, wait for the trains to arrive. You will love the quiet ambiance if you make it really early. The crowd starts gathering here as early as 7 AM, and by 10 AM, you will hardly find a place for yourself. Also, trains usually pass through this at the following hours. 9:30 AM  11:30 AM  3:30 PM  4:30 PM  5:30 PM  The Best Months To Visit The Nine-Arch Bridge January to May is the best time to visit the Nine-Arch Bridge. Modest temperatures and fewer chances of rainfall make these months great for enjoying a clear view of the bridge and the train.  It is also the peak tourist season in the Western Region of Sri Lanka. However, if you want to experience mysticism, you can plan a trip in July. Having said that, the wet season, from September to December, is not suitable for a visit to this bridge. What Are The Best Viewpoints Of The Nine Arch Bridge? The misty slopes on both sides of the bridge or the hills offer amazing views of the Nine Arch Bridge. However, you can explore the following viewpoints to get the most amazing perspectives of the bridge.  1. The Nine-Arch Bridge Itself  The Nine-Arch Bridge offers an amazing view of the railway track. However, you have to be careful while taking photographs from the bridge. Keep the train timings in mind. 2. The Tea Plantations Toward Demodara  My Jaffna food tour was about spicy Tamil food. However, in the Western region, especially in areas such as Demodara, tea reigned supreme. I walked toward the northern side of the bridge. There, I found some tea plantations below the bridge, a little far away from the tunnel. You will get amazing views of the bridge from these plantations. However, these are usually muddy, and there can be leech attacks. Also, as they are private lands. So, seek permission before entering the tea plantation. 3. The Beautiful Hills Toward Ella Station  As you get down from the Tuk-Tuk or walk from Ella Town to the bridge, you will find the tunnel. Now, take the left and follow the winding path to the verdant hills. These offer the best viewpoints, especially if you want to take photographs of the bridge. 4. The Viewpoint From Asanka Cafe Asanka Cafe is at the northern end of the Nine Arch Bridge. As the cafe is perched above, it offers amazing views of the entire track and a clear view whenever a train visits. Also, if you are visiting the bridge in the wet season or there is a sudden rainfall, this cafe will be your refuge. Spend some hours there. They make amazing sweet tea. Things To Keep In Mind For Visiting The Nine Arch Bridge As mentioned before, you have to be very alert when you are on the bridge. Furthermore, you have to be a responsible traveler. You cannot litter or leave waste on the railway track or bridge. Moreover, the bridge does not have safety barriers. So, you have to be very careful while taking photographs. 

BY  Sibashree Jan 24, 2025

Luxury Antarctica holidays or Antarctica tourism is in focus for so many reasons! The Antarctica travel market is about to reach 3.5 Billion by 2032. If you compare it with the tourism market of 2023, it’s a steady 9% growth every year.  Diversity is one of the key factors that makes luxurious Antarctica travels unforgettable. Your next trip to Antarctica can be about exploring wildlife, enjoying a cruise ride, or getting familiar with the diverse ecosystem of Antarctica.  Further, in Antarctica, you can make the most of guided expeditions, helping you explore even the southernmost corner of the continent safely while enjoying all the amenities. So, are you ready for a trip to Antarctica and understand how it plays an important role in the global climate? Let me introduce the places to visit in Antarctica in this Tour and Travel Guide. However, as travelers and enthusiasts about unknown lands, we must find out the best time to visit Antarctica.  Luxury Antarctica Holidays At A Glance | A Year That Was In 2023-24, 43,224 people visited Antarctica for cruise-only trips. The number of landed visits was 80,251. The number of deep field visits was 787.  What Is The Best Time For Luxury Antarctica Holidays  Meeting the wildlife can be the biggest reason why you want to embark on your next adventure with luxury Antarctica holidays. So, you must plan a trip when the wildlife in Antarctica is the most active.  In other words, November to March is the best time for Antarctica holidays. It is the summer period in Antarctica. So, you can expect milder temperatures (above 0 degrees Celsius) in these months. Moreover, daylights are longer these days, making cruising and expeditions all the more fun.  Also, if you want to meet whales and penguins in Antarctica, this is the ideal season. In these months, the penguins visit the shore and they lay eggs there.  Furthermore, April to September is the coldest in Antarctica. In these months, the temperature at the South Pole hovers around -60 to -70 degrees Celsius. October onwards, there is a little hike in the temperature, with the mercury reaching around -50°F. Wonders That Await On Luxury Antarctica Holidays | Why A Trip To Antarctica Is Special  The Antarctic travel season awaits you with a lot of exciting things. From the moment you learn about Antarctica from your Geography or natural science book, this place creates a sense of intrigue and fantasy.  Antarctica almost feels like a world away or you may feel like walking on another planet.  "The first time I went there, it's like walking on another planet. It's just ice and rock - no trees, no plants, no anything else.”Gabrielle Walker, Author, and Environmental Scientist  Furthermore, Antarctica is filled with scientific wonders, with places like Paradise Bay. Paradise Bay is the place you must visit if you want to know about global climate change.  Do you need more reasons to plan a trip to Antarctica? This is what I feel as a traveler and travel writer are the biggest draws.  Are You Ready To Travel A World Away?  Imagine you have reached Antarctica in a sheep. You only have the co-travelers with you. As Antarctica does not have any indigenous population, only a vast land or a space of emptiness will lie before your eyes.  The feeling is elevating, eerie, or the way you want to put it!  A Wildlife That Is Fearless  It is difficult to imagine Antarctica without penguins. These adorable creatures are fearless, and they are unbothered by the presence of human beings.  Furthermore, you will meet the seals and whales in Antarctica. Overall, Antarctica, with its wildlife, is the biggest natural zoo or aquarium anyone can visit.  Antarctica Is The Place Of Great Scientific Wonder  Now, Antarctica is a place of excitement, discovery, and a lot of scientific wonders. Paradise Bay is, of course, the crown jewel here.  The place makes the term “climate change” visible before your eyes. Further, you get to see how the climate change impacts the entire world.  Moreover, it is a favorite spot for astronomers to keep a watch on the celestial bodies. The South Pole is devoid of light and air pollution.  So, even if you want the best stargazing experience under the darkest and cleanest sky, Antarctica will be your go-to destination.  Places You Cannot Miss On Luxury Antarctica Vacations  Visiting the South Pole, of course, will be the biggest attraction for your next Antarctica holidays. However, the Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands, Drake Passage, and South Georgia are some other places that promise a lifetime experience.  So, let me introduce these places briefly to you.  Antarctic Peninsula The Antarctic Peninsula, the home to chinstraps, penguins, and Adelies, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Antarctica.  Further, it is a great place for spotting whales during the migration season in summer. In addition, this is the place where you will find the glaciers falling upon the towering mountains.  Exploring through the narrow passageways here is an experience you will find in your fairy tales.  Drake Passage The Drake Passage between the Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel is a little rough when compared to the other places in Antarctica.  However, it is a great place for all adventure lovers. You can cruise to the Drake Passage or enjoy a Hawkeye view from the helicopter. This is also the place to spot whales and dolphins.  South Shetland Islands It is an archipelago on the south of the Drake Passage, and it’s great for wildlife viewing. Further, it is the place that exudes the whiff of Antarctic history.  Moreover, King George Island, the largest one here, houses many scientific research stations.  South Georgia  If you want to explore the best wildlife of Antarctica, South Georgia will be your go-to destination. It is a long mountainous island, often referred to as the Alps in the mid-ocean.  Weddell Sea The Weddell Sea is probably the most beautiful part of Antarctica. The northernmost colony of Emperor Penguins lives here.  It separates the East Antarctica's Coats Land from the Antarctic Peninsula. Read Also: Astronaut Holidays: Unparalleled Experiences in Space 7 Things To Take Care Of To Ensure Peaceful Holidays Abroad

BY  Ankita Jan 2, 2024

Cosmetic tourism in Thailand offers an enticing blend of high-quality medical services and a beautiful travel destination. Renowned for its advanced healthcare facilities and skilled practitioners, Thailand is a top choice for those seeking cosmetic enhancements at reasonable prices. Here's a guide to help you plan a successful and enjoyable trip. Understanding Cosmetic Services In Thailand One of the sought-after treatments among travelers is to get treatment for facial wrinkles in Bangkok. Known for its advanced dermatological techniques, Bangkok's clinics provide a range of options from minimally invasive procedures like Botox to more comprehensive facelifts. When considering such services, it's important to research the qualifications of the practitioners and the reputation of the clinics to ensure you receive the best care. Research And Choose The Right Clinic With a variety of clinics available, choosing the right one is crucial. Look for facilities accredited by reputable organizations and read through patient reviews and testimonials. Don't hesitate to reach out to the clinics directly with any questions about their services or the experience of their medical staff. Set Realistic Expectations Before deciding on a procedure, make sure you understand what it entails and what results to expect. Thailand offers a wide range of cosmetic procedures, and being clear about your goals is essential for satisfaction. The Importance Of Consultations Arrange consultations with potential clinics or hospitals. Many offer virtual consultations, which can be a great way to discuss your needs and medical history with professionals. Plan For Recovery Your itinerary should take into account the necessary recovery time after your procedure. Plan any sightseeing or leisure activities in Thailand accordingly, either before your procedure or after you have recovered. Budgeting For Your Trip While the cost of procedures in Thailand is often lower than in many Western countries, it's important to budget for all aspects of your trip. This includes the procedure itself, accommodation, travel expenses, and any additional activities. Legal And Ethical Considerations Familiarize yourself with the legal and ethical standards of medical practice in Thailand. Ensure that the clinic you choose adheres to these standards and understands your rights as a patient in a foreign country. Cultural Sensitivity Respecting Thai culture and customs enhances your experience. It’s also beneficial in your interactions with medical staff and locals. Communication Is Key While English is commonly spoken in medical facilities, there can still be language barriers. Consider using translation services if necessary. Post-Procedure Care Adhering to post-procedure care instructions is crucial for a successful outcome. Make sure you understand these instructions and follow them closely. Comfortable Accommodation Choose accommodations that will provide comfort during your recovery, preferably ones that cater to medical tourists and are close to your chosen medical facility. Insurance And Documentation Ensure your insurance covers overseas procedures and has all necessary documentation, including medical records and travel documents. Emergency Preparedness Have a plan for emergencies, including knowing the location of the nearest hospital and having important contact numbers at hand. Enjoying Thailand Apart from the medical aspect, Thailand is a vibrant and beautiful country with much to offer. Take time to explore its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Conclusion A cosmetic tourism trip to Thailand can be a fulfilling experience if planned carefully. By prioritizing your health and safety, while also taking time to enjoy the unique offerings of Thailand, you can have a successful and memorable journey. Read Also: This Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland & These Are The Things You Should Do! Maldives And Bora Bora Among Top 10 Tourists Spots In The World This Is The Best Time To Visit The Seven Magic Mountains In Vegas!