A Guide To The Most Scenic Road Trips Around The World

BY  Sibashree Oct 28, 2024

Yosemite National Park comes with great news for the explorers. The park has ended its reservation season early in 2024. So, for the rest of the year, you can enjoy a drive through the park without reservation.  In a social media post, Yosemite National Park authority has mentioned “ending the 2024 reservation season after this weekend (October 13)."  With no stress about getting a reservation, Yosemite National Park will surely be the destination for trekkers and wildlife lovers. However, before you plan a trip to the park, you must have a detailed idea of what to do there.  Best Things To Do At Yosemite National Park Yosemite National Park allows you to explore many activities, from camping to hiking. Therefore, setting the itinerary right can be a little taxing, with many options available.  So, here, I will discuss the outdoor pursuits in the park, with special emphasis on hiking, wildlife exploration, and stargazing.  Yosemite National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1984.  Hiking In Yosemite National Park This park has more than 750 miles of hiking trails. Further, if you want to explore the park’s ecology, wildlife, and geological formations closely, hiking is the best way out.  So, you can try these most popular hiking trails in Yosemite National Park.  Upper Yosemite Falls Trail Trekking Length: More than 10 Kms Difficulty Level: Hard Pet Friendly: No Time Of Trekking: Around 6 Hours  How about exploring a hiking trail that takes you to the top of the tallest waterfall in America?  You will also love the best views from Columbia Rock as you advance in your expedition.   Mirror Lake Loop Trekking Length: 8 Km Difficulty Level: Easy Pet Friendly: Yes  Time Of Trekking: 2 Hours The beautiful trekking route takes you to Mirror Lake and Tenaya Creek. Further, the calm water of the lake shows the most beautiful reflections of the surrounding cliffs.  However, often, the lake does not have adequate water, and then it looks like a meadow with sandy areas and grasses. So, it is also known as Mirror Meadow.  Nevada Fall Via The Mist Trail Trekking Length: Around 10 Km Difficulty Level: Hard Pet Friendly: No Time Of Trekking: 4 Hours   Nevada Fall Via The Mist Trail is a signature hike, allowing you to explore many spectacular views scattered around it.  Located on the Merced River, the water in the fall has a misty appearance. Further, falling from a height, the water of the cascade looks like an avalanche.  Lower Yosemite Falls Trail  Trekking Length: 2 Km Difficulty Level: Easy Pet Friendly: Yes Time Of Trekking: 30 Minutes   A deafening sound of water will fill your ears as you complete the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail trek and stand on the footbridge. This hiking trail is the best for enjoying beautiful views of Yosemite Falls and creeks. Further, throughout the trek, you will learn about the park’s culture and history.  Exploring Wildlife At Yosemite National Park “Approximately 95% of the park is designated wilderness. The entire park is surrounded by four national forests, several adjacent portions of which are designated wilderness areas, thereby providing connectivity with the larger landscape.” - UNESCO World Heritage Convention. Surrounded by forests and extensive wilderness, Yosemite National Park is home to around 90 mammal species. Further, this park has many amphibians, reptiles, birds, insects, and fish. I will talk about the birds and fish in detail shortly. So, here is a brief overview of the mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and insects found here.  Mammals Black BearsBighorn SheepPacific FisherRed FoxBatsMountain LionsDeerGrizzly BearAmphibians Sierra NewtPacific TreefrogCalifornia Red-Legged FrogYosemite ToadsReptilesSierra Fence LizardSierra Alligator LizardsWestern Pond TurtleSierra GartersnakeSierra Mountain KingsnakeNorthern Pacific Rattlesnake (It is the only venomous snake out of the 13 species of snakes found here.)InsectsElderberry Longhorn BeetleCaddisfliesGrasshoppersBristletails Among the species found here, grizzly bears, foothill yellow-legged frogs, and California red-legged frogs are the ones on the verge of extinction. Fragmentation of habitat, air pollution, and the invasion of non-native species are the primary reasons behind this process of eradication.  Stargazing In Yosemite National Park  The minimal light pollution and extensive wilderness make Yosemite National Park a great space for stargazing. Further, from July to October, this park is a great space to observe the Milky Way.  In addition, there are multiple hotspots in the park for stargazing. So, check out the table below to know where to enjoy the starry affair the most. Stargazing Location In The ParkBest Spots Yosemite ValleyEl Capitan MeadowCook's MeadowSwinging BridgeTunnel ViewGlacier PointGlacier Point OverlookWashburn PointTioga RoadTenaya LakeOlmsted Point Wawona is another popular stargazing location in the park, and it offers a peaceful experience.  Stargazing Experiences You Cannot Miss As you set out to stargaze in Yosemite National Park, you will encounter many unique sights. However, watching the moonbows or climber’s headlamps are the two most common stargazing experiences in the park.  Climber’s Headlamps During spring and fall, many climbers spend their nights on the cliffs of Yosemite Park. As they notice the first star coming out, they turn on their headlamps.  Moonbows April to June is the waterfall season in the park. On full moon nights in that season, the moonlight creates a rainbow in the mist of Yosemite Falls.  Even if your eyes cannot catch the colors, your camera surely will.  Birdwatching In Yosemite National Park  This national park is a favorite of birders, considering the presence of 262 species. Among them, 165 are habitat and migratory species, while the remaining one are transient species.  Further, the elevation of the park ranges between 2000 to 13000 feet. So, you will notice massive changes in the behaviors and features of the birds found here.  Yosemite Conservancy birdwatching outing and Christmas Bird Count are some of the programs that you can join if you want to locate the local, migratory, and transient ones.  Some common species of birds found here are the Great gray owl, American dipper, spotted owl, and Western tanagers.  A park-wide census of willow flycatchers has been conducted in the park. The report shows that these species do not breed in the park anymore.  Rock Climbing In Yosemite National Park  Yosemite National Park is a hub of rock climbers. Rock climbing here is beyond big wall climbs or conquering the cliffs. Further, almost every big wall in the park has a distinct ecosystem for you to explore.  Some popular rock climbing spots in the park are Merced River Canyon and Tuolumne Meadows. However, climbing the El Capitan is the most adventurous outdoor pursuit you can try in the park. The Oscar-winning movie Free Solo has further put this rock-climbing destination under the spotlight.  Water Activities At Yosemite National Park  Swimming, boating, rafting, and fishing are the best water activities in Yosemite National Park.  Swimming You can swim in almost any water body in the park. However, swimming is prohibited in the following water bodies. Dana Fork of the Tuolumne River Lake Eleanor Reservoir Wawona Domestic Water Intake Hetch Hetchy Reservoir Emerald Pool  Silver Apron Further, for the best cooling-off experience, you can try swimming in the Merced River.  Boating And Rafting  The best locations for boating and rafting in Yosemite National Park are Merced River, South Fork Merced River, and Tenaya Lake.  Rafting in the Merced River is a popular summer activity in the park. So, you can rent a raft or try kayaking here.  Further, you must wear a personal floatation device for kayaking and rafting in the South Fork Merced River or Tenaya Lake.  Fishing In Yosemite National Park  Are you over 16? Then, you will need a California fishing license to fish in the park. Further, you must abide by the California and Yosemite Park regulations about fishing.  Nevertheless, the best places for fishing in the park are: Merced River South Fork Merced River  Frog Creek Adair Lake Hanging Basket Lake Sacramento pikeminnow, California roach, and riffle sculpin are some native fish species in the national park. Furthermore, trout is the most common non-native species in the region.  Yosemite National Park At A Glance Location: California, United States Highest Point: Mount Lyell (3,997 Meters) Area: Around 1,200 Square Miles Operating Hours: 24*7 Origin of Name: Uzumate, meaning Grizzly Bear Visitor Centers: Yosemite Valley Welcome Center, Yosemite Exploration Center, Valley Wilderness Center, etc. How To Reach: Visit the park from the west through Highways 41, 140, and 120. However, to reach the park easily, you will have to take Highway 120. Further, please note that the Tioga Pass Entrance remains closed from November to May or June.  Best Time to Visit: May to June Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Travelling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

BY  Subham Saha Sep 29, 2021

Are you looking for hostels in Los Angeles for affordable stays? Here is good news for you. Los Angeles, the city of angels, is famous for its Hollywood vibes. With lots of fun places to visit, this city is called the life of California. This place is a perfect mixture of education, arts, economy, culture, and also entertainment. In case you are planning a visit to Los Angeles, California, here is a staying guide got you. Here is a list of the top 10 cheapest hostels in Los Angeles with their amenities, room types, locations, and every detail. The best hostels in Los Angeles are not very costly but at this affordable price, you can avail of all the household modern amenities. Get Optimum Hardwood Flooring Toronto Services. Top 10 Affordable Hostels In Los Angeles If you’re looking for the top cheap hostels in Los Angeles then have a look at these best hostels in la. The youth hostels Los Angeles are quite popular among young solo travelers. Hostels Los Angeles downtown are full of entertainment and becoming the perfect place for young travelers. Now welcome to the Hostel world la. 1. Samesun Hollywood With a shared kitchen, this affordable hostel of Los Angeles serves a complimentary breakfast to its guests. It is situated just across the street from Highland or Hollywood metro station. All the rooms have a ceiling fan, hardwood floor, lockers, towels, and bag storage.  The shared kitchen is equipped with a microwave, rice cooker, and refrigerator. You will find vending machines with cold beverages and snacks. Guests also can enjoy playing table tennis, billiard. Among the all la hostel Los Angeles this hostel is one of the cozy places to stay. If you are searching any hostels near lax. This is the best place to stay. Facilities: Free WiFi Daily housekeeping Non-smoking rooms Laundry Air conditioning 24-hour front desk Location: This centrally located hostel of Los Angeles is 12 miles away from Los Angeles International Airport.  Nearby visits: Hollywood Boulevard’s Walk of Fame, TCL Theater, Dolby Theater Universal Studios Hollywood, is near this place. Room options: Different mixed dormitory Different female and the male dormitory Standard double room Budget double room 2. Banana Bungalow Hollywood Hotel and Hostel All the rooms have a Tv and a shared kitchen, and a shared billiards lounge. This place in Los Angeles also offers the facility to play football, table tennis, and basketball. People also can enjoy the on-site karaoke stage.  Facilities: Free WiFi Non-smoking rooms Laundry Parking Private parking On-site parking Location: This place is located 7.5 miles away from the Hollywood Burbank Airport and 701 m from Capitol Records Building.  Nearby visits: Within a distance of 1.6 miles, you can visit the Hollywood Bowl, Griffith Observatory, Hollywood Walk of Fame, and Dolby Theater.  Room options: Budget double room Double room Deluxe double room Mixed dormitory room with six beds 3. HI Los Angeles - Santa Monica Hostel This hostel is one of the best hostels in Los Angeles. With its location to the center of city bus services, you can easily take a tour of the city. You will find hundreds of shops: eating destinations, galleries around this place. Santa Monica is the best hostel downtown la. Facilities: Free WiFi Facilities for disabled  Daily housekeeping Non-smoking rooms Garden 24-hour front desk Location: This hostel is situated a few steps from Santa Monica beach.  Nearby visits: Disneyland, Magic Mountain, Universal Studios, Hollywood, Getty Center Museum, Getty Villa Museum, Knott's Berry Farm, and many more places are there to explore. Room options: This place offers a wide variety of rooms. From deluxe queen to dormitory rooms, from quadruple to family, you will get everything here.  4. Libra Hotel This hotel is located at a prime location with all the basic amenities that you can ask for. The Parking options are also available with this cheap hostel in Los Angeles. If you are searching for any hostel prices at an affordable rate this is the best one. Facilities: Free WiFi Private parking Parking Non-smoking rooms Air conditioner On-site parking Location: This is a hotel located in Los Angeles, Koreatown district, and 3.1 miles from Melrose Avenue. Hollywood Burbank Airport is 11.9 miles from this place.  Nearby visits: Within a distance of 3.6 miles of this place, there are Petersen Automotive Museum, LACMA or Los Angeles County Museum of Art, L.A. Live, Staples Center, Microsoft Theatre, and Capitol Records Building. While the Dolby Theater is 4.2 miles away.  Room options: Double room with private bathroom Family room with private bathroom Standard double room with private bathroom Shared female and dormitory room with 6 and 8 beds Mixed shared dormitory room with eight beds Also Read: Top 10 Best Travel Apps To Use In 2021 5. PodShare DTLA With a shared kitchen and free WiFi, this place offers a fridge, microwave, electric teapot, a desk, hairdryer, and shower in every room. Some guests can avail of the sitting area facility while everyone will be provided with a stovetop. All the Hostels in la California are all reflecting the Californian vibes. Facilities: Free WiFi Heating Laundry Tea and coffee maker in each room Location: It is situated in the California Region in Los Angeles. Hollywood Burbank Airport is the nearest airport with a distance of around 16 miles.  Nearby visits: The Staples Center, L.A. Live, and Microsoft Theatre is 3.9 miles away. This place is 4.2 miles away from Dodger Stadium. This place is 6 miles away from LA Memorial Coliseum and California Science Center, while the National History Museum of Los Angeles Country is 7 miles far. Room options: Mixed dormitory room with single bed Mixed dormitory room with Bunk bed Economy Quadruple room along with a shared bathroom Dormitory room with a single bed 6. DormShare Westwood DormShare Westwood is also considered one of the best hostels in Los Angeles.  A television and phone charger is available in every room. Guests are required to use a shared kitchen and a shared bathroom equipped with multiple showers.  Facilities: Free WiFi Parking Non-smoking rooms Private Parking 24-hour front desk On-site parking Location: This place is located in the Westwood district. It is 8.7 miles away from Los Angeles International Airport, which is the nearest one. Melrose Avenue is 6.2 miles away from here.  Nearby visits: LACMA or Los Angeles County Museum of Arts and Farmer’s Market Los Angeles is 5 miles away, while Getty Center is only 2.2 miles far from DormShare Westwood.  Room options: Double bedroom Mixed dormitory with single bed Mixed dormitory with eight beds Also Read: Budget-Friendly Travel Ideas In Australia 7. PodShare Venice PodShare Venice is equipped with a lounge, a garden, shared kitchen, evening entertainment, playing area for table tennis. The rooms have amenities like a kettle, microwave, oven, hairdryer, shower, desk, and flat-screen TV also. Facilities: Free WiFi Free Parking Garden Terrace Tea and coffee makers in every room Heating  Location: This hostel is located in Los Angeles. The nearest Los Angeles International Airport is 5 miles away from this place.  Nearby visits: Sunset Strip and Getty Center are 11 miles far from here. Marina Del Rey Beach is less than 0.6 miles away from PodShare Venice. Petersen Automotive Museum is at a distance of 8.1 miles, while LACMA or the Los Angeles County Museum of art is 8.7 miles away.  Room options:  6-bed dormitory room Mixed dormitory room with single bed 8. The Anderson Estates This property is built with an outdoor pool that is available year-round. You can get the services of the on-site washing machine, car hire, a TV along with a seating area.  Facilities: Free WiFi Free parking Fitness center Two swimming pools Non-smoking rooms Location: This property is stationed in the South district in Los Angeles. The nearest airport is Los Angeles International Airport, which is 7.5 miles away. Nearby visits: This place is within 6.2 miles from the city center and Hollywood. Within 9.9 miles of distance, there is Venice Beach, Universal Studios, and Santa Monica. Room options: This place offers a massive range of room options; from deluxe suites to a dormitory, holiday home, you can select anything.  9. PodShare Los Feliz If you’re looking for hostels in Los Angeles then this hostel is one of the top hostels.  PodShare Los Feliz provides continental breakfast to their guests. All the rooms have free WiFi and are equipped with a shared bathroom and hairdryer.  Facilities: Free WiFi Heating Laundry Facilities for disabled guests Location: This hostel is located in Los Angeles’ Hollywood District and 2.7 miles away from the Capitol Records building. Melrose Avenue is 3.7 miles away. Hollywood Burbank Airport, which is 8.1 miles away from here, is the nearest airport.  Nearby visits: L.A. Live and Hollywood Sign is 4.3 miles from PodShare Los Feliz. Griffith Observatory, Dolby Theater is 3.1 miles away. While the Hollywood Bowl is 3.7 miles away. Dodger Stadium, Staples Center, and Microsoft Theater are 4.3 miles away. Room options: Mixed dormitory with single bed Mixed dormitory with ten beds 10. Melrose Hostel This belongs to the cheap hostels in Los Angeles. In spite of its cheap rate, this hostel is packed with attractive amenities. It offers free WiFi throughout the whole property campus. You can watch popular shows on amazon prime and also Netflix on TV here. Hair Dryers and hair curlers are also provided to the guests in order to use on-site. Along with luggage storage space, this property also has a rooftop balcony.  Facilities:  Free WiFi Terrace Heating Air Conditioner Daily Housekeeping Non-smoking rooms Location: Melrose Hostel is situated in Los Angeles. It is 1.7 miles away from Melrose Avenue and Capitol Records Building.  Nearby visits: Hollywood Walk of Fame and Dolby Theatre is 2.2 miles away from this accommodation. The nearest airport is 8.7 miles far, and it is Bob Hope Airport. Room options:  Male dormitory room with four beds Female dormitory room with four beds Three different types of Mixed dormitory with single bed Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What are the best hostels in Los Angeles near Staples Center? Some of the best hostels in Los Angeles near Staples Center include Freehand Los Angeles, LA comfort hostels and 8th and Ardmore. What hostels in Los Angeles have nice views? LA Comfort Hostel ,8th and Ardmore, and Ahsa Oasis Hostel have received great comments from guests in Los Angeles regarding the views from these hostels. Should I stay in a hostel in Los Angeles? By staying in a  hostel, you can cut your spending on accommodations and save money for exploring the sight scenes  during your trip. You can check out the destination's cultural highlights, such as its theatres and entertainment venues. What are the best hostels in Los Angeles for solo travellers? There are several hostels that is perfect for solo travellers and one of them is Freehand Los Angeles. it is famous for its rooftop bar and Podshare Venice  which they call a social hostel. You can also try Melrose Hostel. It is a recent hostel in Los Angeles.   Some Extras Apart from the hostels mentioned earlier in Los Angeles, California, here are some more cheap places to stay in Los Angeles. They are Samesun Venice Beach Orange Drive Hostel Venice Beach Hostel Freehand Los Angeles All these are highly rated affordable and cheap hostels in Los Angeles. Opt for the one that fulfills your requirements within a budget. Have a pleasant stay.  You May Also Like: Top 11 Budget Tokyo Hostels In Japan 10 Amazing Things To Do In Medellin How To Plan A Best One Day Trip To Atlanta With Family

BY  Sibashree Mar 22, 2025

The holiday season is around the corner, and we’re already planning holidays. If you are heading to your family, going on a holiday, or elsewhere, pre-booking will help you make the journey easier and more enjoyable.  This is the full guide on assisting you with holiday travel, including expert tips and practical advice for preparing for holidays easily.  1. Prepare in Advance for an Easy Journey  The sooner you book, the more likely you will get what you want. When traveling, it is best to go during holidays and reserve rooms and seats in advance.  Don’t leave it late; arrange transportation and accommodation ahead of time. Put together tickets, accommodation, and transport on a list.  Be sure to look at the weather forecast in your destination to be able to pack suitably. You do not want to be caught in a snowstorm or heatwave with the wrong equipment!  2. Intelligent Holiday Travel Budgeting  Holiday travel costs can easily exceed budget, especially during peak holiday seasons. Setting a realistic budget when making holiday plans will prevent overspending.  Budget your expenses under allocations to pay for your airfare, accommodations, travel, restaurants, tour fare, and shopping.  Utilize discounts online, compare prices, and hostels, Airbnb, or travel off-season. No need; forward reservation can also assist. It’s also smart to have some ready money for emergencies such as tips or impulsive shopping.  3. Pack Smart and Light  Intelligent packing will save the day and avoid inconvenience. Pack only the necessities and try to keep it light.  Use multi-functional clothing that you can interchange to reduce the amount of clothing to carry.  Don’t spare any space in your luggage to purchase souvenirs or new clothes during travel. Don’t exceed your baggage allowance limits so that you can have additional charges to pay at the airport.  If your journey is short, a carry-on flight would do. A physician’s kit containing medicine, a first aid kit, and photocopies of the documents that will be needed should be kept handy in case of an accident.  4. Travel with Pets  If a pet is being taken along on a holiday vacation, find out if your hotel is pet-friendly and look up the travel rules in advance.  Some airlines and other carriers also require health certificates for pets, so have your vet issue one.  Be prepared by bringing along the basics, such as pet food, water, a leash, toys, and medication if prescribed.  When traveling, consider your pets' safety and comfort as well. Plan in advance for pet care requirements.  5. Insure Yourself with Travel Insurance  Unexpected events like flight delays, lost luggage, or illness can spoil your tour and leave you stranded. Travel insurance helps by giving you confidence through reimbursement of unexpected costs.  Depending on your holiday, you can decide to buy an upgraded policy that includes trip cancellation, illness, or even flight delay. Make sure to read the cover details before buying so that it will be worth it.  6. Create a Flexible Schedule  Planning never hurts, but flexibility is the key to enhancing your holiday experience. See where you are required to go, check their opening time, and write down their holiday hours.  Adopt a flexible approach in the event your arrangements are foiled or in case you wish to insert unplanned encounters on your path.  The holiday season means large numbers of people, and flexibility will avoid getting agitated if matters fail as expected.  7. Travel Checklist  Ensure you have all the documents and essentials with you before you go out to your destination. A list of essentials is as follows:  • Genuine travel documents (passport, visas, etc.)  • Cash and debit/credit cards (both are recommended)  • Travel insurance information  • Medication prescribed and first aid kits  • Phone chargers for electronic devices and adapters  • Rain or weather-specific footwear and clothing  • Toilet and personal items  8. Protect Your Belongings  It’s always exciting to travel to a new place, but protecting your belongings is equally important.  Stealing and pickpocketing can occur anywhere, particularly in crowded places such as airports or sightseeing sites.  Store your valuables in a money pouch or safe belt, and don’t carry all your money or cards at the same time.  It is also wise to have photocopies or digital copies of important documents (such as your passport, travel insurance, and emergency contacts) just in case they are stolen or lost.  9. Be Frugal with Your Holiday Money  Over-spending on your holiday can cause anxiety once the holiday season is over.  To prevent this, keep track of your spending once in a while on holiday. Have a budget for everyday activities and meals and prioritize substances over goods when spending.  If you tend to mindless shopping, place restrictions before eating out or shopping beforehand. The most memorable aspects of your vacation are likely the experiences, not the trinkets!   10. Foreign Currency Exchange & Financial Planning  If you are traveling abroad, it’s convenient to get used to the foreign currency and exchange rate.  Don’t exchange a large amount of money at the airport, where they offer less favorable exchange rates. Rather, use local ATMs and withdraw your money when you arrive.  It is also advisable to notify your bank of your travel so you won’t have any issues transacting on foreign grounds. Finally, for added convenience, bring a credit card with no foreign transaction fee.   11. Stay Connected for Safety & Convenience  You will require a functional phone or device to communicate with others and utilize in emergencies on the road.  If you are traveling abroad, buy an international SIM card or international data plan so that you can call.  Also, let a trustworthy friend or relative know your travel plans so that they can trace you. This is an extra precaution and convenient in the event that you need help on the road.  Final Words!  Vacation travel, if well planned, can be smooth sailing and hassle-free. Whether you are a frugal traveler, security-aware adventurer, culture-aware traveler, or packing expert and one.  Like any of them, the following is the best advice for hassle-free and successful travel.  Considering all this, you should remember that quality planning will ensure that you’re carefree during travel. Safe and happy holidays!