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

BY  Sibashree Oct 24, 2025

I was standing near the mouth of the Rewa River to the east of the city. I was looking at the mangrove trees and how the villages nearby woke up with the first rays of the Sun touching the earth. People were busy collecting firewood, and some had already sailed in search of fish. Despite having such a distinct livelihood in Fiji, it also takes inspiration from multiple cultures and ethnicities. So, Fiji is said to have a culture of fruit salads. You will find people of Indian, Samoan, Micronesian, Solomon Island, Chinese, and Rotuman origins.  Furthermore, Fiji, fondly called Mini India, has taken another step to strengthen the connection. The Indian ship Kadmatt reached Suva in September 2025, and there have been ongoing discussions about maritime collaboration between the two countries.  With so many cultural aspects to explore, Suva, Fiji, also has many offbeat destinations. Here, we will discuss the Suva Fiji hidden gems, local cultural experiences, the nightlife, art scene, and more! Local Cultural Experience In Suva, Fiji: Know The Suva Fiji Hidden Gems I was at the Suva Curio Handicraft Center in Suva’s CBD area. I found the most amazing Fijian handicrafts and carvings.  The woven mats were beautiful. Furthermore, the wood earrings and necklaces, and the traditional Fijian clothes, or Tapa, caught my attention. However, these were not just souvenirs. Packed with symbolism, those told stories of Fijian traditions and Fijian families.  Along with this handicraft center, I also explored the Namosi Highlands, attended local storytelling events, and customs.  1. Village Visits And Attending Traditional Ceremonies  My cultural exploration in Suva, Fiji, started with Namosi Highlands. As I reached there, the villagers welcomed me with the Sevusevu custom. My guide has already told me. So, I carried some powdered kava root and handed it over to the chief, requesting an entrance to the village.  Then, I attended the vibrant meke dance performance. The male and female dancers in the performance depicted many historical and ancient legends.  Furthermore, the village chief asked me to be a part of the underground feast, or the Lovo. Here, the vegetables and meat were cooked in the ground using white-hot stones. I experienced the true magic of slow cooking there.  2. Kava Rituals Or Storytelling Events View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lomani Island Resort & Spa (@lomaniisland) A visit to Suva’s Cultural Center is another deep cultural encounter I had in Suva, Fiji. The elders here tell stories of Fijian values and myths. Thus, the oral tradition of storytelling remains alive in Fiji.  3. The Local Festivals In Suva, Fiji  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fiji Sun (@fiji_sun) Music, food, religious ceremonies, community celebrations! The festivals in Suva, Fiji, are vibrant, and they give insights into the multicultural nature of the place. Here is a brief calendar of the major festivals in Suva, Fiji, with their timings.  Major Festivals in Suva, FijiTimingHibiscus FestivalAugustSouth Indian Fire Walking FestivalJuly-AugustDiwaliOctober-NovemberFiji Day:10th OctoberEasterGood Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday 4. Art & Creative Spaces In Suva Fiji View this post on Instagram A post shared by FIJI MUSEUM (@fijimuseum) There are many underrated places to visit in Suva Fiji, for cultural travelers. For example, the Fiji Museum Art Annex shows the work of the local artisans on a rotational basis.  Furthermore, the Veiqia Project Studio is a space to showcase the work of the indigenous women artists and tattoo traditions.  5. Street Art & Artisan Workshops View this post on Instagram A post shared by Asia Pacific Region Crafts (@worldcraftscouncil_asiapacific) I enjoyed a walk along Victoria Parade and saw the Fijian legends come to life through beautiful murals. Furthermore, if you want to learn the art of pottery and weaving, you can visit the Makoi Women’s Handicraft Centre.  6. Nightlife & Entertainment In Suva Fiji Traps Bar and O’Reilly’s became my favorite nighttime destinations in Suva, Fiji. They had amazing reggae music and the island jazz performances.  Also, the Fijian folk music and dance at O’Reilly’s was the biggest highlight.  7. Cultural Performances At Night The Pacific Cultural Nights at the Civic Centre were brilliant. These performances included fire shows, storytelling, and fire dance.  8. Food And The Hidden Eateries In Suva, Fiji  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Robinson Crusoe Island Fiji (@robinsoncrusoeislandfiji) I was bowled over by the Lovo feast at Namosi Highlands. Food in Fini is flavorful, and the culinary scene here is a wonderful fusion of local produce and multicultural culinary influences. Furthermore, the use of exotic tropical fruits adds the right amount of zest to the dishes.  Nevertheless, during my last visit to Suva, Fiji, I had a great time at these cafes and eateries. Café Thirty-One, just behind the Suva Library, made my day with the best coconut latte and banana bread.  My guide also took me to the Greenhouse Café, a vegan-friendly restaurant, serving amazing smoothie bowls made from local fruits. I loved the garden seating there.  However, if you want to try Fijian fusion cuisine and enjoy live music, you must visit the Bad Dog Café. Moreover, Cloud 9 Lounge is an ideal spot for sunset lounging and partying. 9. Suva Municipal Market View this post on Instagram A post shared by Phil Sami (@philsami) Suva Municipal Market, built in the 1950s, is the biggest market in the country. On a busy day, the market accommodates around 3500 vendors, and it is the best place to buy local specialties such as breadfruit, taro, and tapioca.  There is also a dedicated section for seafood and mussels. However, you must visit the market in the early hours. In the late hours, the market is rushed.  10. Take A walking Anti-Tour Of Suva, Fiji If you want to experience Suva beyond the typical “Bula”- fied version, you can join the “anti tour” walk of Peter Sipeli, a poet, LGBTQ+ activist, and cultural guide.  The tour he conducts is critical, and it does not match the glossy vibe of Fiji. Coming out as gay at the age of 17 and fighting for his rights after his return to Suva has given him enough stories to add layers of anecdotes and humor to this walking tour experience.  He conducts the tour through the city streets and the bustling markets so that you can see the beauty and inequality simultaneously.  Family-Friendly Hidden Gems In Suva, Fiji  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jessy (@rocketjess) Suva Botanical Gardens and the Fiji Museum are two family-friendly hidden gems in Suva. The Botanical Gardens have easy hiking trails and are ideal for relaxing picnics.  On the other hand, the Fiji Museum's interactive exhibits are ideal for children and adults alike.  Suva Municipal Market in the early hours can be another family-friendly location for accessibility. It has wide aisles and ramps.  Seasonal Hidden Gems In Suva, Fiji View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nicole Golonka (@nicole.golonka) The dry and wet seasons in Suva, Fiji, give you the chance to explore the following hidden gems.  May to October, or the dry season, is ideal for hiking in Colo-i-Suva Forest Reserve and attending festivals such as the Hibiscus Festival, Fiji Day, and Diwali.  On the other hand, the wet season from November to April is ideal for visiting the lush forests and waterfalls and taking photographs.  Here is a breakdown of seasonal hidden gems in Fiji. MonthsSuitable Activities January-February• Rainforest Hikes• Waterfall ToursMarch-April• Kava Rituals• Cultural WorkshopsMay-June• Hiking• Art FestivalsJuly-August• Hibiscus Festival• Street ParadeSeptember-October• Snorkeling• Staying in Eco LodgesNovember-December• Diwali• Christmas• Easter Adventure & Sports Activities in Suva, Fiji Explore these lesser-known spots in Suva, Fiji, and try adventure activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and advanced biking.  ActivitiesLocations• Kayaking with Mangrove ViewsLami Bay• Vibrant coral reef• SnorkelingNausori Reef• Colo-i-Suva TrailsAdvanced biking through rainforest terrains Offbeat Shopping Experiences In Suva, Fiji View this post on Instagram A post shared by Guided Walks Suva (@guided_tours_fiji) Suva Handicraft Centre is the best place for authentic masi (tapa cloth), wood carvings, and woven baskets. Furthermore, TappooCity Suva is home to local designers such as Rako Designs and KuiViti.  Furthermore, you will find ethically sourced jewelry and crafts in Suva.  Suva Fiji Hidden Gems Associated With Mythical Stories And Folklore  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mai TV Fiji (@maitvfiji) Ratu Sukuna Park is a popular place in Suva, associated with mythical stories. The park is said to be protected by ancestral spirits.  Mount Korobaba is another place that was once a tribal outpost. Hiking to Mount Korobaba, the tallest mountain in Fiji (422 meters), is quite challenging due to its steep trails. However, the view from the top is rewarding.  Furthermore, you can ask your guide to coordinate a Suva ghost walk. There is no official ghost tour in the city. So, this tour will take you to places associated with mysteries or supernatural incidents.  Top Tourist Places You Should Avoid In Suva, Fiji (And Where To Go Instead) When it’s about the hidden gems, the touristy and “popular” spots are sheer disappointments. Also, you don’t want to waste your money, time, and resources visiting an overcrowded place.  Here are the tourist places you should avoid and their alternatives.  1. Suva Flea Market View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Journey FJ (@thejourneyfj) Suva Flea Market is often overcrowded. Thus, it often fails to offer the cultural shopping experience it promises. You will find mass-produced souvenirs here, and the inflated prices for tourists are a big turn-off.  You will get so busy bargaining that you will not notice anything taking place around you.  Makoi Women’s Handicraft Centre is a quieter, community-run space offering authentic, handmade crafts with fair pricing and cultural storytelling. 2. Colo-i-Suva Forest Park (Unguided) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mike Duin (@mike_duin) Colo-i-Suva Forest Park has reported incidents of theft and assault on unguided trails. So, solo trips and late visits are risky here.  Get in touch with eco-certified guides for safety and provide cultural insights into the flora and fauna. 3. Victoria Parade At Night Victoria Parade is a popular nightlife strip. However, it can become unsafe after sundown due to petty crime, intoxicated crowds, and occasional scams targeting tourists. Cloud 9 Lounge or Traps Bar offers a more secure, well-managed nightlife with live music and local cocktails. 4. Suva Municipal Market (Late Hours) View this post on Instagram A post shared by DJKiwi (@djkiwinz) In the late afternoon, the Suva Municipal Market gets overcrowded. So, there are risks of overcrowding and overpricing.  Visit the market early in the morning and take a local guide with you to know where to shop safely.  Practices To Avoid While Exploring The Hidden Gems In Suva, Fiji Here are some more dos and don’ts while visiting Suva, Fiji.  Things to AvoidAlternativesTaking unlicensed taxi servicesHotel-booked or metered taxisOverpacked itinerariesFocus on 2–3 meaningful experiences per dayOver-negotiating at local shopsVisit fair trade shops such as Handmade Fiji and TappooCity Suva. Ignoring cultural etiquette at religious sitesJoin a cultural tour to learn about the spiritual and religious customs and beliefs of FijiMissing out Fiji’s rich culinary heritage and local food Try Kokoda, Lovo, and Roti Parcels Eco-Friendly Accommodations In Suva, Fiji Colo-i-Suva Eco Lodge: Nestled in the rainforest, this lodge uses solar power and rainwater harvesting. Rainforest Eco Retreat: Offers guided nature walks and supports local conservation efforts. Sustainable Travel Practices Use reusable water bottles and support community-based tourism. Choose locally owned transport services and farm-to-table eateries. A Hidden Gem Itinerary For Suva, Fiji View this post on Instagram A post shared by FIJI MUSEUM (@fijimuseum) Here are flexible 1, 3, and 5-day itineraries for exploring the hidden gems of Suva, Fiji.  Table 1: 1-Day Itinerary MorningVisiting Suva Market & Café Thirty-OneAfternoonExploring Fiji Museum & Thurston Gardens (Suva Botanical Gardens)EveningAttending a kava ceremony at the Cultural Centre Table 2: 3-Day Itinerary Days Activities Day 1• Colo-i-Suva hike• Eco-lodge stayDay 2• Art gallery tour• Dinner at a rooftop barDay 3• Village visit• Storytelling night Table 3: 5-Day Itinerary Days Activities Day 1• Colo-i-Suva hike• Eco-lodge stayDay 2• Art gallery tour• Dinner at a rooftop barDay 3• Village visit• Storytelling nightDay 4• Snorkeling at Nausori Reef• Folklore tourDay 5• Shopping at TappooCity A Budget Breakdown For Exploring Suva’s Hidden Gems An average 3-day trip in Suva, Fiji, will cost around FJD 500–800 or $220-352. Here is a quick breakdown of the expenses.  CategoryCost (FJD)NotesAccommodation80-150 (Per Night)• Boutique Hotels• Eco LodgesFood30-60 (Per Day)• Markets• Local CafesTransport20-40 (Per Day)• Buses• TaxisActivities50-100• Tours• WorkshopsSouvenirs30-70• Handicrafts• Art Travel Smart And Travel Deep: Exploring The Hidden Gems Of Suva, Fuji  Suva is a living museum of Fijian heritage, creativity, and community. Furthermore, it is a city of contrasts, with modern malls, colonial buildings, and bustling markets coexisting with serene gardens.  Furthermore, it is a melting ground of Indian, Chinese, Samoan, and other cultures. So, if you can keep your curiosity alive and respect the local culture, Suva will surprise you at every turn.  Suva Fiji Hidden Gems: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Suva Fiji hidden gems. 1. Is It Safe To Walk Around Suva At Night? The crime level in Suva, Fiji, is moderate. According to Numbeo, the cost of living here is 58.60. However, the rate of crime increase in the last 5 years is 70.12, which is high. So, it is better to avoid walking in Suva at night.  2. Why Is Fiji Called Mini India? The British brough indentured laborers from India in the 19th and early 20th centuries for working in sugar plantations. They stayed here for generations and preserved the Indian culture. Furthermore, today, a significant population here comes from the Indian origin. So, Indian festivals such as Diwali are celebrated here with great pomp.  3. Where Does Oprah Stay In Fiji?  The Laucala resort is a place frequented by the likes of Oprah Winfrey and George Clooney. Dietrich Mateschilz, the co-founder of Red Bull, has designed this resort.  Read Also: How To Plan A Kotor Montenegro Budget Travel? Cheap Ways To Travel To Kotor Montenegro For Backpackers  Luang Prabang Travel Guide: Why I Loved It? (Activities, Attractions, History, Itinerary, And More) Tucumán Argentina itinerary: What To See In The Smallest Province Of Argentina?

BY  Mashum Apr 19, 2022

If you want to lend your heart to sunshine, pack your bags for a May trip! Human beings often lend their hearts to several worldly materials or some better, other hearts. However, they forget to lend it to nature. Now, travelers are quite different. They know how to lend their hearts to nature. So, are you the one who desires to lend your heart to sunshine? Well, get ready for a May trip then. No matter whether you head to a destination in the northern or southern hemisphere, you can expect to get sunshine everywhere in May. The season would just change a bit but the excitement remains the same. Here is the list of the best places to travel in May. Go through them real fast and set up a tour plan. So, time to check out some cool destinations now. Get going! Top Ten Best Places To Travel In May 2022 You Should Know About All the entries in this list are the best places to travel to in May. So, if you are planning to go for one this year, be pretty fast in planning. Just check out the entries below: 1. Pokhara, Nepal Overview Nepal is a small Himalayan country and it homes a darling summer destination, Pokhara. It is basically a hill station that has got some lakes, temples and a lot of friendly people. In May, you can reach Pokhara for a budget trip from the US. Reaching Pokhara is simple but can be time-consuming. First, you need to reach New Delhi and then catch a flight to the Tribhuvan Airport in Kathmandu. Pokhra is some 2 hours drive from the national capital of Nepal.  Why Visit In May? Pohara turns into heaven during May. It is summer and you can enjoy the vibrance of nature. However, being very near to the snowcapped mountains, the temperature always remains on the cooler side. Activities To Do Get a clear view of the Annapurna Range. Indulge in boating in the Begnas, Rupa, and Phewa Lakes. Spend some time in the aesthetic pagoda temples in the city. Places To Stay Hotel Lake Paradise, Zostel, Hotel Pokhara View, Homestays in the city. Popular Dishes Locally roasted fishes, Local wines, Dumplings 2. Bali, Indonesia Overview If you are not into the best places to travel in May in USA, you can head to Bali this May. Always remember that Bali turns into a heater during the month of May but the serene ocean blues balance everything up. So, you can always put it on the list of the best places to travel to in May. Reaching Bali can be easy as there are a lot of one-stop flights. These give a stop at airports like Doha, Hong Kong, etc. You can catch the flights from LA and NYC. Why Visit In May? May is the peak season to visit Bali. You can expect to see busy beaches and some isolated ones too. Spending time by the pristine blues can freshen up your mind. Activities To Do Check out all the beaches of Bali. Indulge in different kinds of water activities.   Places To Stay Sun Sung Eco Village, Padi Bali Eco Villas, Bali Bohemia Popular Dishes Babi Guling, Sate Lembat, Ikan Bakar, Bebek Betutu 3. Lofoten Island, Norway Overview If you cannot bear much heat and crave a travel destination with a pleasant summer, the Lofoten Island is your place. So, you can pack your bags with some clothes and light winter gear and head towards the Lofoten Islands in Norway. No direct flights to Svolvaer are present from the US. However, you can get connecting flights to both Svolvaer and Bodo. The local ferry services can further help you travel around the archipelago. Why Visit In May? May is the summer season in Norway and you can indulge in a lot of activities in the country. Moreover, you can take part in the activities during this time. Activities To Do Check out the midnight sun and click pictures as it shines all day long. Witness the breathtaking peaks and highlands. Do not miss going for a hike. Places To Stay Hostels, Reine Rorbuer Hotel, Lofoten Links Popular Dishes Stockfish, Salted Codfish 4. Rome, Italy Overview Rome is a famous European city, the capital of Italy, and the one that has an enriching history. Well, you can consider it one of the best places to travel in May 2022. Obviously, it would still be the same this year. So, if you are looking for a summer destination where you can indulge in a lot of sightseeing, Rome is the right place for you. If you are concerned about reaching Rome from the US, consider it to be very easy. There are a lot of direct flights from the main airports in the country. Why Visit In May? The main reason you should visit Rome in May is the pleasant weather and a lot of sunshine. As it is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, you can enjoy its vibrancy every second. Activities To Do Go for a walking tour of the city. Witness the mighty Sistine Chapel. Spend some time by the Trevi Fountain. Places To Stay Hotel Mosaic Rome, YellowSquare Rome,  Nelopean Hotel Roma Popular Dishes Carbonara, Gelato, Cacio e Pepe 5. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Overview Cabo San Lucas in Mexico is one of the best places to travel in May. It is a place where you can visit for even a weekend. During May, you can expect a light crowd in the city. So, you can take a good place to stay and just sit back to relax. Apart from it, there are a few places where you can visit for sightseeing.   Reaching the Cabo San Lucas can be a simple job as there are a lot of direct flights to this city. So, all you have to do is buy an affordable ticket. Why Visit In May? The Cabo San Lucas turns empty in May and you can both enjoy good weather and its vibrancy during this time. Moreover, it helps you to indulge in different kinds of activities. Activities To Do Explore the entire city during the day and night. Indulge in surfing or shopping according to your wish. Visit the farmer’s market if you get a chance. Places To Stay Sofia Hostel Cabo, Solmer Resort, Dos Mares Hotel Popular Dishes Smoked Marlin, Shrimp and fish tacos, Mexican chocolate calm. 6. Burgundy, France Overview If you are reluctant to search for the best places to travel in May in the USA  and want a foreign destination, choose Burgundy. It is a city in France and again, one of the best places to visit in May. You should reach out to this place if you are a dedicated wine lover. Moreover, there is a unique vibe of a small city in Burgundy that you can enjoy while staying here for a few days. If you are up for planning a trip to Burgundy, you need to reach Paris first. So, take a direct or one-stop flight to the capital city of France. later you can take a car ride to Burgundy. Why Visit In May? Like all the other European cities, the summer in Burgundy turns quite exotic. This is one of the prominent reasons why you should visit this city in May. There are a lot of places to see in the city and some alluring activities to try out, so you can expect to do them while visiting the place. Activities To Do Do taste varieties of wine while in Burgundy during the month of May. Do not forget to witness the locations like La Roche De Solutre and Prac De I’ Auxois. Try spending some time at the roadside cafes of Burgundy. Places To Stay Hostellerie Cedre and Spa, Domaine de la Pierre Ronde, Domaine de Chaligney Popular Dishes Beef Bourguignon, Coq Ay Vuin, Vaseline, Cote-de-Nuits. 7. Ibiza, Spain Overview If you are the one who has already covered some parts of Europe, probably you would agree with the fact of unique beauty that each country gives. Well, so you can pack your bags and head towards Ibiza this May. It is an island that many travelers desire to visit at least once in their lifetime. Reaching Ibiza is simple from the US as there are some regular airlines who serve with direct flights to Ibiza airport. You can get the flights from NYC, LA, and other important airports in the country. Why Visit In May? Ibiza has backed a place in the list of the best places to travel in May due to the natural beauty it gets at this point. Moreover, you can check out the alluring nightlife of the place. Activities To Do Witness the sunshine from the hotel. Reach out to the beach for some fun. Enjoy the edge in the clubs of Ibiza at night. Places To Stay Hard Rock Hotel, Acora Ibiza, Grupotel Ibiza Beach Resort Popular Dishes Tortilla, Flao Paella de Marisco 8. Sonoma County, California Overview Are you just not willing to plan much but still desire to escape for a trip in the next month? Well, then Sonoma County in California can be one of the best places to travel in May in the USA. You can either visit here on a solo trip or on a couple of trips. You can take the highway or a flight to reach California as per your wish. Just consider the distance and select the means. Remember, there are a lot of domestic flights to the state. Why Visit In May? Sonoma County has pleasant weather in the month of May.  You can expect bright sunny days and a pleasant breeze this month. So, it would be easier for you to explore this place. Activities To Do Check out the local cuisine at Sonoma County. Explore the wineries in this place and taste some excellent wine. Rejuvenate yourself by sitting quietly for some time in the meadows in this county. Places To Stay Wildhaven Sonoma Glamping, Sonoma Coast Villa, Highlands Resort, Popular Dishes Harissa Fries, Layer Lasagna, Spicy Tan Tan Ramen 9. Newport, Rhode Island Overview The Newport of Rhode Island can be one of the best places to visit in May. You can expect to enjoy a peaceful summer here. In case you are planning to escape from the daily mundane city life, Newport can be one of the best places to travel in May. One primary thing you can expect from the place is the presence of some gorgeous mansions. You can take a car and simply reach Newport, New England. However, after reaching, you can explore the entire area on foot. There are excellent highway connections from the cities like New York in the US. Why Visit In May? The weather of the Newport, Rodhe Island area remains much pristine during May. Here, you can rejuvenate a lot. Moreover, you can admire the natural beauty of the place with all your soul. Even, you can consider it as one of the best places to travel in April too. Activities To Do Indulge in the mansion tours while in Newport. Go for a  cliff walk Sit a while and rejuvenate by the sea or mansions. Places To Stay The Newport Harbour Hotel And Marina, The OceanCliff Hotel. The Newport Beach Hotels and Suits. Popular Dishes Summer Sushi, Homemade Ice Cream, Atlantic Salmon 10. Casablanca, Morocco Overview If you are into cruising during the summertime, Casablanca can be one of the best places to travel in May. However, you should remember that the temperatures can reach dramatic highs during the day. In case you have proper sun gears, it would be, however, easy to be outdoors. Morocco can be one of the best places to travel in June too as the weather remains clean apart from the slight rains. Reaching Casablanca from the US can be a child’s play. You would just need to catch a direct flight from the NYC airport or the Washington D.C Airport. Why Visit In May? You can visit Casablanca in May to enjoy the vibrancy of nature. Moreover, you can also get a pass on a cruise and spend a good time on it. Activities To Do Walk and explore Casablanca City. Check out the strands and the mosques. Go for a Crusie ride. Places To Stay LHOSTEL a Casablanca, Imperial Casablanca Hotel & Spa, Radisson Blue Hotel Popular Dishes Seafood, Harira, Zaalouk, Tagine Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 1. Where Is Best To Travel in May? In May, you can travel to any country in Europe or a hill station that nears the Himalayas. 2. Which Country Is Best In May? Sonoma County is best in May. 3. What City Has The Best Weather In May? Pokhara, a city in Nepal has the best weather in May. 4. Is May A Good Month For Vacation? Yes, May can be a good month for summer vacation. Final Take Away So, here you get an entire list of ten best places to travel in May trip. As a friendly warning, I would always suggest you avoid visiting the countries that are far in the southern hemisphere. The main reason is the drop in the temperature as May marks the onset of Winter. Lastly, if you have both budget and time constraints, you can choose a destination that is properly accessible from the US. Try to avoid faraway destinations that you can only reach by connecting flights. Read Also: 10 Best Places To Travel In February – Travel Guide 2022 10 Best Places To Travel In March – Travel Guide 2022 A Guide To National Parks In Georgia – Latest Guide

BY  Ankita Feb 7, 2024

Are you dreaming of exploring Canada’s majestic mountains, vibrant cities, and charming small towns? Look no further! The country has so much to offer. But before you pack your bags and head off on an airplane, there are insider tips you can't miss. This guide is here to help you discover the real Canada beyond the famous tourist spots you see in pictures. Let's explore how you can truly experience Canada like a local. Explore Beyond the Cities While cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are must-visits, Canada's true beauty lies in its vast wilderness. To truly discover the beauty, consider renting a car or taking a local bus to explore the scenic countryside, national parks, and charming small towns. Let's talk about these cities one by one: 1. Vancouver The city is known for its breathtaking landscapes and greenery. You can hike in the nearby mountains or stroll along the stunning Stanley Park Seawall, offering ocean views and lush forests.  Vancouver Island is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. With its pristine waters, it is perfect for kayaking and canoeing. Also, it is home to an abundance of wildlife. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, black bears, seals, and sea lions.  To enhance your experience of the Vancouver Island getaway and make it even more relaxing, consider planning your stay at a resort. You can enjoy various amenities and facilities like a swimming pool, Gym, business areas, and the town’s tasty cuisine. Also, you can avail of special offers if you book online and get an incredible experience of staying. 2. Toronto In Toronto, there are awesome adventures waiting for you. You can visit the famous CN Tower, where you'll get amazing views of the city. Or you can ride on a ferry to Toronto Islands. At the place, you'll find sandy beaches and the most beautiful skyline views. It's a great place to chill and have fun. It is also home to cool neighborhoods like Kensington Market, where you can explore colorful streets filled with unique shops and tasty food. Also, enjoy the walk along the waterfront at Harbourfront Centre, where you can enjoy live performances and art exhibitions. 3. Montreal In Montreal, you can dive right into the lively culture. One of the best parts is trying out yummy food in the busy markets. There are all sorts of delicious things to taste. You can also wander around Old Montreal, like stepping into the past with its cobblestone streets and charming buildings. The place is full of incredible art and music events so that you can catch some fantastic shows and exhibitions. And if you like outdoor fun, there are parks and green spaces to enjoy. Participate in Local Festivals Canada's calendar is packed with festivals celebrating everything from music and film to food and heritage. Participating in these events is a fantastic way to experience local culture and meet nationals.  Join the vibrant festivities of the Calgary Stampede, where you can get in on the action and feel like a cowboy or cowgirl for a day. If you're into movies, the Toronto International Film Festival is the place to be. You can watch cool films and soak up the artsy vibe. It's a fantastic way to experience culture and make new friends while having a wonderful time. Uncover Hidden Gems Exploring hidden gems during your Canada adventure enhances your traveling experience. You can ask locals for tips on where to find hidden beaches, peaceful hiking trails, or cool hangout spots in town.  Discover the charm of lesser-known neighborhoods, like the artistic alleys of Toronto's Kensington Market. The historic streets of Old Town Lunenburg in Nova Scotia often offer a more authentic and personal experience than the crowded tourist spots. Essential Tips for a Smooth Journey Understanding a few essentials can make your adventure more enjoyable: Weather: Canada's weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers to adapt to changing conditions, especially if you're exploring the great outdoors. Tickets: Book tickets online in advance to avoid long lines for attractions. You will even get special offers and discounts that save you money.  Local Transport: Familiarize yourself with public transport options. Biking is also a popular way to explore Canadian cities. Currency:  While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, having some Canadian dollars on hand is useful for smaller establishments or rural areas. Where Locals Eat To set the gastronomy in motion, check out Celebrity Chef Lynn Crawford’s Ruby Watchco in Leslieville. The menus change on a weekly basis with locally sourced ingredients. The servings are family-style, and they encourage you to stay back. Take their bait and hang out in this famous neighborhood that has sustained young, creative minds and families from across the city. Their spots, such as the restored Broadview Hotel, are meticulously chosen. You can choose to savor the city from The Rooftop Terrace, or you can check in to one of the grand 58 eclectic guest rooms. If you want to try a refreshing breakfast, check out Bonjour Brioche, where locals enjoy fresh pastries and lattes. All this so far covers a single neighborhood! Across the city, you will find different opportunities to munch on whatever you desire. If you are in the mood for tapas-style treats, you may hit the all-time staple Bar Raval. If you are craving nouveau Caribbean, check out Chubby’s Jamaican Kitchen. And at the end of it all if you are craving some dessert, the city’s favorite, Rosen’s Cinnamon Buns on College Street, will not disappoint. If you are into vegetarian options, your options are growing that way, too. One of the more refined options is Planta or even the more trendy new Vegandale chain of restaurants and breweries in Parkdale, which will leave you feeling super satisfied. Photo Spots Since its arrival in 2015, the Toronto Sign at Nathan Phillips Square has become a selfie spot for locals as well as tourists alike. Remember to take a peek at all the artwork or get a selfie in Graffiti Alley, but that is not all. There is The Falcon Skybar at Hotel X, the Kost rooftop bar perched on top of the 44th-floor of Bisha Hotel, and the Thompson Toronto’s Rooftop Lounge offer a spot to nibble and sip with some highly Instagrammable views. Final Thoughts Experiencing Canada like a local opens up a world of possibilities typical travel guides might overlook. It's about diving into the community, understanding their way of life, and discovering the country's soul. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, and get ready to explore the country beyond the surface. Read Also: Winter Camping In Canada: Tips For Cold-Weather Adventures Guide To Exploring Whistler, Canada For A Memorable Getaway How To Enjoy Your Journey After You Book Flight Tickets From Canada To India?