A to Z Of Shenandoah National Park Camping: Do You Know These? 

BY  Ankita Nov 20, 2023

Looking for exciting outdoor activities near Cleveland? Head to Cuyahoga Valley! Bridging the gap between Cleveland and Akron, the amazing north-south national park offers you multiple outdoor leisure options. You will be delighted to explore its waterfalls, hills, and caves. At the same time, the meandering river views create a unique background for landscape photography. Hiking, boating, biking, camping, and sightseeing available within the park won’t make you bored. Not to mention the picturesque walks through steep narrow ravines, rocky floodplains, and lush contrasting farmland. Animal life is also abundant there. The area is home to wild species such as beaver, deer, and dozens of varieties of birds, including wood duck and heron. So, cruising Cuyahoga Valley National Park is definitely on the list of the best Cleveland day trips. If you are planning such a ride, find all the necessary information below. How Did The Park Begin?  The roots go back to the mid-19th century when it was simply a popular vacation spot for city residents. However, in the 1960s and 1970s, rapid commercial development and urban expansion began to threaten the rural areas of the northeast Ohio region. Locals and environmental groups have pressured the government to preserve the scenic natural environment of the undeveloped territory between Akron and Cleveland. Based on the results of the contamination analysis, corporate giants such as Ford, Chrysler, General Motors, and 3M were forced to pay for cleanup work. The park was closed in 1987 for cleaning and was finally re-opened only in 2011. What's Interesting In The Park?  With an area of nearly 10,000 hectares, the Cuyahoga Valley includes several natural areas such as forests, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, wetlands, meadows, hills, and ravines. As a result, you can enjoy a variety of recreational activities - hiking, biking, kayaking, sledding, and cross-country skiing to mention a few. Visitors will also be pleased to take a scenic train ride through the valley. Let's look at the major things that are worth researching within the area. Nature And Wildlife In Cuyahoga Valley You probably imagine yourself leisurely strolling through the park, inhaling the morning aromas of the awakened forest. Then, you see a fox running in the distance or a turtle slowly crawling between the bushes. Luckily, this is possible in the Cuyahoga Valley. The natural vegetation of the national park consists of mixed mesophytic forests with many deciduous trees such as oak, maple, hickory, and beech. Other natural habitats such as wet grasslands, wetlands, and old field habitats alternate with these forests. According to statistics, the area between Cleveland and Akon supports more than 943 plant species. However, about 20% of them are not of local origin. 16 species of these exotic plants are considered invasive and pose a significant threat to the park's native plant communities. The wildlife in this reserve includes a variety of representatives living in the water, on land, and in the air. Starting with 8 species of frogs and 9 species of salamanders, the list of recorded inhabitants consists of about 20 species of reptiles (11 snakes, 8 turtles, and 1 skink). Not to mention over 39 species of mammals. These include coyotes, raccoons, red foxes, beavers, skunks, river otters, moles, opossums, bats, and white-tailed deer. Also, the park is home to more than 250 species of birds. Some of the famous species include peregrine falcons, bald eagles, Canada geese, great blue herons, yellow warblers, goldfinches, blue jays, woodpeckers, etc. The park’s nature potential is so big that you are sure to discover the naturalist in you while exploring the local hiking trails! Scenic Hikes In Cuyahoga Valley  Walking is the best way to thoroughly explore the local landscapes. Moreover, you have more than 125 miles of specialized hiking trails of varying difficulty levels and elevation changes. Check out the TOP-3 most popular ones below. Brandywine Gorge Trail  This 1.4-mile-long loop trail takes you to Brandywine Falls - the area's most iconic highlight. To get started, walk down to the overlook point and watch the waterfall into the 70-foot-deep gorge. Your hike may end here, but we recommend continuing along the embankment and seeing the coastal natural beauty. The entire walk takes approximately 30-40 minutes at a leisurely pace. If you want to avoid the crowds of tourists at the waterfall, plan to start your hike before 10 am. The Ledges Trail  If you're looking for a trail to explore the park as thoroughly as possible, you've found it. The 1.8-mile-long route passes ledges, the so-called flat sandstone formations jutting out of the bedrock. Nature has created a whole architectural ensemble of such formations, and now you can stroll through its labyrinths. Stones covered with moss add mysticism and a special atmosphere to this place. Icebox Cave is one more iconic place to visit along the way. Expect to spend about 50-60 minutes on this scenic hike. Blue Hen Falls Trail  Prepare your legs for a challenging route with a lot of elevation change. However, you will receive great rewards for your efforts. You'll walk about 3 miles of dirt trails, with a short section running along Boston Mills Rd. The final point of your hike is Blue Hen Falls. The route is replete with enchanting forest panoramas and you will get multiple spectacular overlooks along the way. The average time needed to complete the trail is 1 hour and 20 minutes. Waterfalls In Cuyahoga Valley National Park  The unique geological structure of the region with large differences in elevation and the presence of rivers and streams contributed to the formation of waterfalls. In total, there are about 100 waterfalls in the park, with most located in the northern section. Among the most famous are: Brandywine Falls (70 ft) Bridal Veil Falls (20ft) Blue Hen Falls (15 feet) Falls (15 feet) Great Falls of Tinkers Creek (20ft) How To Get There And Navigate Around?  Regular buses run to/from the park, but nothing is more enjoyable than exploring it on your schedule. Therefore, we recommend that you go to Rental24h.com and book a car rental at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. You get access to multiple Cleveland Airport car hire deals in different categories, allowing you to choose the perfect vehicle for your specific needs. Once you're behind the wheel, head to the Boston Mill Visitor Center. From downtown Cleveland, get on I-77 S and drive approximately 15 miles south. Then, take exit 146 toward I-80/Toledo/Youngstown and keep right to follow signs for OH-21/Richfield. After this, turn right onto OH-21 S/Brecksville Rd, and after half a mile turn left onto Boston Mills Rd. Finally, drive over Black Rd and continue onto Boston Mills Rd to arrive at your destination. The Cuyahoga Valley visitor center is open from 9:30 am to 5 pm every day and provides information on in-park routes and local activities. If necessary, the staff will help you plan your upcoming trip and show you a specialized place to stay. So, consider an outing to Cuyahoga Valley when deciding between various day excursions from Cleveland. Both you and your children will enjoy this outdoor experience. Moreover, any time of the year is excellent for your ride. The average annual temperature in the region is about 18°C (65°F) with about 528 mm of precipitation per year. The highest temperature reaches around 27°C (81°F) in July, while the lowest temperature drops to -1°C (31°F) in January. However, the period from mid-spring to mid-autumn is the most pleasant due to the comfortable weather. Read Also: 10 Best Things To Do In Prague 10 Best Things To Do In Barcelona (Spain) 10 Best Things To Do In Dublin (Ireland)

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 1, 2023

Some of the most stunning beaches in Europe can be found in Spain. Benidorm is one city that has succeeded in remaining relevant for many years. We will provide you with all the information you need to know about things to do in Benidorm. If you're from the UK and want to take a vacation in the sun, Benidorm can be a good option. It's a very entertaining and energetic place with a buzzing party scene. It is a useful substitute for the White Isle. This city receives about 5 million visitors annually. 15% of visitors to Spain make their way straight to Benidorm. Things To Do In Benidorm hotels.com The city is made more beautiful by its three beaches. Every beach has received a Blue Flag, indicating that the sand and water quality fulfills the required standards. There are well-trained lifeguards on duty at each of these beaches. If you are planning a trip and don't know where to start, here are some of the things to do in Benidorm. Levante rentalbenidorm.com This beach will make you fall in love if you're searching for one with stunning sunrises and sunsets. It gets crowded in the daytime. About 5,000 sunbeds are available for rent. There are spots where you can just relax with a beach towel. An anchored wet playground is located away from the shore. With rafts, slides, and diving boards for everyone to enjoy, it's a lot of fun. Families and teenagers swarm this beach. A wide promenade adorned with eateries, pubs, and retail establishments runs behind this beach. It's a little ways ahead to the town. Poniente arrivalguides.com This beach is less crowded because it is farther from the town. You can check out a few bars, cafes, and stores. While you can rent sunbeds, there's also plenty of room for guests to sprawl out on the sand. You can swim in the sea and enjoy some sunbathing. Mal Pas This one is a little sandy cove close to the historic town. Comparing it to the other two beaches, it is far quieter. Explore The Old Town travel-assets.com Checking out and exploring the historic town is just one of the many enjoyable things you can do while there. In the entire city, this location is the most picturesque. Views of the white-washed houses, cobblestone streets, and historic structures like the Iglesia de San Jaime y Santa Ana are available. It feels like a trip back in time to when Benidorm was just a fishing village to stroll through the Old Town. The Sierra Helada Natural Park should be on your list of things to do in Benidorm if you enjoy the outdoors. It is highly regarded for its varied landscapes and boasts the most breathtaking views of the Costa Blanca. You will be able to see caves, kayak and boat accessible fossil dunes, and picturesque coves. Hiking trails are located within the park. The Lighthouse Walk is the most well-known of them. The distance is 4,5 km one way. La Cruz de Benidorm wikimedia.org One of Benidorm's best viewpoints is this one. The Sierra Helada Natural Park borders it. You can also travel here by car if hiking is not your thing. Both the vistas and the sunsets are breathtaking. Water Sports In Benidorm eestatic.com Benidorm is a big fan of this sport. This entire section of the town has access to it. If you enjoy participating in water sports, you will adore the Water sports are popular in Benidorm, as one might anticipate. You can try anything here or in the vicinity. You'll enjoy all the water sports offered here if you're a water girl about the Globe, including windsurfing, kayaking, scuba diving, and paddle-boarding on the back of an inflatable banana. You could even give flyboarding a shot or just cruise the coast and enjoy the scenery. You can go parasailing and take in the aerial views of the city if you've never done it before. Alternatively, you could take an instructor-led jet ski tour and glide past the skyscrapers and the Sierra Helada cliffs. Theme Parks hotelesbenidorm.com There are many theme parks nearby, but Aqualandia, with its more than 20 water rides, is a great place to cool off. Popular attraction at the quirky theme park Terra Mitica is its one-kilometer wooden roller coaster. In the park's Greek, Egyptian, and Roman sections, there are more entertainment options. The Iberian and Islands sections are also open in July and August. There's a sizable spa area as well. Terra Natura, Aqua Natura, and Aqualandia are the names of the three other major theme parks. During the busiest time of year, they're all open. A combo ticket can save you money if you intend to visit Terra Mitica, Mundomar, or Aqualandia, three different amusement parks. Visit Villajoyosa aqualandia.net There are lovely little towns all around Benidorm that are well worth a visit. Villajoyosa, which is fifteen minutes' drive from Benidorm, is one of them. The town is well-known for its breathtaking beaches and vibrant architecture. If you plan a day trip to Villajoyosa, make sure to visit the beaches; however, if you go outside of the summer, you might want to check out the town museum. If you're in the mood for more sweets, visit the Valor Chocolate Museum in addition to these activities. There, you can sample various flavors and learn everything there is to know about chocolate. You can take a 5-hour sightseeing day trip that includes visits to both Villajoyosa and Altea if you would rather have a guide during your trip. Other Activities placesofjuma.com A game of golf or a stroll through the hills and mountains behind Benidorm are excellent options if you want to escape the town and experience something a little different. Additionally, there are businesses that provide other sports like riding and mountain biking. There are many charming villages and towns close by that are worth seeing. They are good places to try the local food because they are far more Spanish than Benidorm. But Benidorm itself has some excellent traditional Spanish restaurants, particularly in the old town. Tapas Alley is a great spot to go if you're craving authentic Spanish cuisine. Benidorm is well-known for its vibrant nightlife in addition to its cuisine. Benidorm has its more tacky side, too, with cabaret shows, tribute acts, karaoke, and of course, foam parties. It's definitely not as stylish or hip as Ibiza. Accommodation golfcircus.com There are many different types of lodging options in Benidorm to fit any budget. Benidorm offers a wide range of hotels across the city, including beachfront and city center properties, from affordable to opulent resorts. If you'd rather prepare meals for yourself, you can choose from self-catering apartments with kitchens or apart-hotels where you can have a studio or apartment-style room with a kitchen. The food scene in here is totally one of the must-checkout things to do in Benidorm. Hostels that are on a tight budget can provide shared dormitory-style rooms, which are perfect for solo travelers and backpackers. Alternatively, you can set up camp in one of the nearby campsites, which have shared areas, restrooms, and showers. In order to avoid disappointment during the busiest travel season, make sure to reserve your lodging in advance. Wrapping Up The neighboring towns of Altea and Calpe are great places to go if you want to get away from the bustle of Benidorm. These charming little towns provide breathtaking views of the mountains and gorgeous beaches, making them the ideal getaway from the big city. There is something for everyone in Benidorm. Benidorm offers something for everyone, whether your interests are in exploring its nightlife, beaches, mountains, or culture. So venture forth and discover Benidorm's hidden gems! If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about things to do in Benidorm, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Things To Do In Leeds: Dive Into The Dynamic Heart Of Yorkshire Hidden Gems: Unearthing The Best Things To Do In Nottingham Unforgettable Island Adventures: Things To Do In Tenerife

BY  Arnab Jun 6, 2023

Relocating to a new residence signifies an exciting new chapter for your family, yet it can also induce overwhelming stress. The process entails various tasks, including organization, packing, and selecting a suitable moving company. Nevertheless, by implementing thorough planning and adopting a proactive mindset, you can turn the house-moving checklist into a smoother and more enjoyable experience for your entire family Throughout the United States, relocations are unsurprisingly common. Most people move from one state to another for employment prospects, while others move due to inflation and several other reasons. Chicago, for instance, has been witnessing a rise in people moving out of this city, citing housing cost issues and rising inflation. Such factors are enough to make relocation even more stressful. Here Are Ten Prime Ways To Make Moving Easy For Your Family Below, we’ll share tips to streamline the process and alleviate the stress associated with moving. 1. Engage a Reliable Moving Company The first step of moving is getting in touch with a trusted moving company. Selecting a reputable and dependable moving company can significantly alleviate stress during the moving process. Research and compare moving companies in your area, for instance, Chicago. Review their credentials, customer feedback, and insurance coverage. Request multiple quotes and inquire about additional services they offer. Once you find a suitable moving company, secure their services well in advance to ensure your preferred moving date. Clear communication and a well-documented contract with the movers will guarantee a smooth and hassle-free experience on the day of the move. Leaving a big city like Chicago can be stress-inducing, especially for big families. Nonetheless, the expertise of professional movers will make the transition smoother. Looking up Chicago long distance movers near me will help you find the right movers. 2. Create a Moving Timeline A well-structured moving timeline is essential for maintaining organization throughout the moving process. Begin by creating a detailed checklist that encompasses all necessary tasks, including decluttering, packing, scheduling movers, and notifying relevant parties of your change of address. Break down these tasks into manageable chunks, assigning specific deadlines to each. By adhering to a timeline, you can avoid last-minute rushes and ensure that everything is completed systematically. 3. Downsize Moving presents an excellent opportunity to downsize and let go of items you no longer need. Assess each room and categorize your belongings into keep, donate, sell, or discard. For the disposal of unwanted junk, it can be beneficial to reach out to a dumpster rental like Waste Removal USA. If you're curious about where this company is located specifically, you can find the answer to "where does Waste Removal USA operate?" with their list of local service areas that you can explore. Most reliable dumpster removal services have their locations present on their websites which can come in handy when looking for a service near you. Consider organizing a garage sale or donating unwanted items to local charities. It not only lightens your load but also provides a sense of fulfillment while assisting those in need. 4. Employ Strategic Packing Techniques Efficient packing is key to a successful move. Gather high-quality packing supplies, including sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and tape. Label each box clearly and the room it's supposed to go in, simplifying the unpacking process. Exercise extra care when packing fragile items, providing ample cushioning materials for protection. Additionally, consider creating an "essentials" box containing necessary items such as toiletries, a change of clothes, and important documents. This box should be easily accessible upon arrival at your new home. Strategic packing saves time during the move and streamlines the unpacking process. 5. Involve the Entire Family Moving represents a significant change for the entire family, so involving everyone can help mitigate overwhelming feelings. Assign age-appropriate tasks to each family member, such as packing personal belongings or researching new schools and activities in the new neighborhood. Encourage open communication and address your children's concerns or anxieties about the move. By involving everyone, you foster a sense of unity and shared responsibility. 6. Conduct Research and Prepare for the New Neighborhood Before the move, research and familiarize yourself with your new neighborhood. Identify local amenities, schools, medical facilities, and recreational areas essential to your family. Connect with neighbors through online forums or social media groups to gather valuable information about the community and upcoming events. By acquainting yourself with the new surroundings, you can facilitate a quicker adjustment for your family. 7. Arrange Child and Pet Care on Moving Day Moving day can be chaotic, and the presence of children or pets may exacerbate the situation. To minimize stress, consider arranging childcare or looking for pet care centers on the day of the move. This way, you can oversee the moving process without worrying about their safety and well-being. Ask for help from a trusted family member or friend, or hire a professional caregiver for the day. The certainty that your loved ones are comfortable will ensure a smoother transition for everyone involved. 8. Prepare an Overnight Bag The moving day and the immediate days afterward can be physically and mentally exhausting. Packing an overnight bag for each family member with essential items such as toiletries, clothes, and bedding will make the first night in your new home more comfortable. This way, you won't have to search boxes to find what you need immediately. Additionally, include any necessary medications, snacks, and entertainment items to keep everyone occupied during the transition. 9. Update Your Address and Utilities Remember to update your address with all relevant parties to ensure you have a hassle-free transition to your new home. Notify the post office, banks, insurance providers, subscriptions, and other important organizations or institutions of your move. Additionally, arrange for the transfer or set-up of utilities such as electricity, water, and internet services in your new house before you move in with your family. 10. Allow Time for Settling In Finally, allocate time for you and your family to settle into your new home. Unpacking and organizing can be time-consuming, so don't feel pressured to accomplish everything in one day. Begin by setting up the essentials and gradually work through each room. Encourage your family members to explore the new neighborhood, visit local attractions, and engage in activities that foster a connection to the community. Conclusion Moving houses is only a stressful experience if you don't plan well. Implementing these ten practical tips simplifies the process, making it more enjoyable and less overwhelming. Remember to create a moving timeline, declutter and downsize, hire a reliable moving company, pack strategically, involve the whole family, research and prepare for the new neighborhood, arrange child and pet care on moving day, pack an overnight bag, update your address and utilities, and allow time to settle into your new home. With careful planning and a positive mindset, you can ensure a successful and positive transition for your family's move. Read Also: Moving To Paris – How To Start The Most Beautiful Places In The World Top 10 National Parks In Oregon That You Need To Explore In 2023!