Sky Harbor Airport Parking Made Easy: Insider Tips For A Smooth Journey

BY  Sibashree Jan 17, 2025

The next location we planned to cover during a USA tour was New Orleans. This time, we discovered how a city with a rich culture cares so much about children.  Along with its heritage, architecture, and a culture that feels like a warm embrace, the kid-friendly activities also make this Louisiana city a popular tourist destination.  However, this time as I pen the things to do in New Orleans with kids, my heart feels heavy. A deadly terror attack on Bourbon Street and the police shoot-out following that have taken the lives of at least 14 people on 2nd January 2025.  Still, the city is on the mend, and everyone is hoping high for the stability of the tourism economy of the city. It’s difficult, considering the city has yet to recover in tourism and finances since the COVID-19 days fully.  Apologies for the grim start! However, as travelers, you cannot disassociate so easily, especially when you have just visited a place. Nevertheless, it’s time for some cheer, and shifting focus to the best things to do in New Orleans with kids can greatly help. So, let’s discuss it.  Fun Things To Do With Kids In New Orleans | Enjoying The Graceful Embrace December to January and February to May are the best times to try fun things to do with kids in New Orleans. And guess what! There are a lot of free activities awaiting your little ones here. I have discussed them in a different Tour and Travel guide.  Nevertheless, here, let’s focus on the unique things to do with kids in New Orleans.  1. Audubon Zoo Visit https://www.instagram.com/p/C4qRCaVrNPe/?img_index=1 Location: 6500 Magazine Street, New Orleans Contact Number: (504) 861-2537 Hours Open: 10 AM to 5 PM (Tuesday and Wednesday Closed) Audubon Zoo Admission: $35 for Adults and $25 for Children Audubon Zoo is one of the topmost family attractions in New Orleans. It is a wonderland of Audubon animals and birds. The place is filled with mammals, reptiles, and birds. From the majestic African Lions and Asians Elephants to the Aldabra Tortoise, you will find everything here.  However, for me, the most delightful creatures in the zoo are the Caribbean Flamingos. They are as colorful as their country of origin.  I also loved the Malayan Sun Bears. They are adorable with the cutest expressions. You will even find Malayan tigers here.  Furthermore, we thoroughly enjoyed The Dinosaurs at the Audubon Zoo section. I was not willing to visit the section at first. Yes, I know! I am in my thirties, and I still have my phobia!  Nonetheless, my kids insisted, and I had to take them to the section with 50 life-like dinosaurs growling and making moves. However, this special exhibit program has now ended.  Moreover, if you are in New Orleans for a long span or have plans of staying here, you can allow your kid to be a camper at the Audubon. They can become young experts in animals and they will love to spend some time with their favorite creatures. 2. A Day at Jackson Square | Best Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids Jackson Square gets its name from Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the USA and a New Orleans battle hero. So, a visit to Jackson Square at the heart of the French Quarter is like taking a walk down memory lane.  Here, you will also find Pontalba Apartments and many other oldest buildings in the city. Rented places are easily available in these buildings.  As you appreciate the old-yet-young vibe of the space or recall the history of New Orleans, let your little one enjoy the jazz music, live performances, and entertainment events here.  Moreover, if you are lucky enough, you can be a part of the art festivals here.  A stone’s throw away from Jackson Square is the St. Louis Cathedral. It is the oldest cathedral church in North America, and its steeples watch over the French Quarter.  3. A Ghost Tour | Exciting Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids Well, if your little one loves Halloween and everything spooky, you can definitely take them on a family-friendly ghost tour. These tours are especially popular among adventurous children in their pre-teens.  Tour Organizers like Viator, offer Spooky Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in New Orleans in the French Quarters.  Now, these ghost tours are very much ingrained in the spirit of New Orleans. The LaLaurie Mansion or the New Orleans French Quarter was infamous for the mistreatment of slaves. Supernatural activities and the stories around them started flowing after a neighbor saw a troubling incident. The neighbor saw a lady chasing a slave girl, who jumped from the roof of the mansion as an escape.  Despite the presence of modern boutiques, quaint restaurants and a reimagined and bustling French Market, the spooky vibe simply refuses to go away!  4. Spending Time By The Mississippi River There is something special about New Orleans. And as they say, the Mississippi River is the manifestation of the heart of New Orleans. It’s welcoming and embracing, and its culture and heritage surpass the geographical boundaries.  Further, like the Mississippi River which destroys, restores and builds the banks, New Orleans believes in making a forward move even in the toughest conditions. The recent terror attacks and the means of recuperation are burning examples.  So, if you want your little one to know about the true spirit of New Orleans, allow them to sit and relax by the Mississippi River for a while.  They will love sitting on the steps and watching the boats passing in the water. It is very close to the French Quarter, but a complete contrast in its spirit.  Moreover, your little ones will be elated to have beignets here. You will find the best beignets at Café Du Monde Riverwalk (Contact Number: +1 504-218-7993) here. The coffee there was good and just the way I like it.  5. A Visit To The Louis Armstrong Park  Location: 835 N. Rampart St, New Orleans Hours Open: 8 AM to 6 PM Entry Fee: Entry is Free for a Walk in the Park A visit to Louis Armstrong Park is not ideal for very young children. However, kids in their teens or growing up years with an interest in Jazz music will love this place. It is very close to the French Quarter, and inside the park, you will find Congo Square.  Congo Square is the place where slaves used to unite during the 1800s. Furthermore, your kids will love looking at the ducks in the pond of Louis Armstrong Park.  Moreover, the Mahalia Jackson Theater inside Louis Armstrong Park is a popular place to visit for artists and music lovers. It gets its name from Mahalia Jackson, a gospel singer of New Orleans.  Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

BY  Mashum Feb 12, 2019

Brace yourselves – the storm of starry-eyed romantics, displaying affection in public, is coming. For people who are in a relationship, this Valentine’s Day might be the perfect time to express their love for their partners. But for other folks who are single, this occasion may seem a bit, well, cringe-worthy. It doesn’t have to be. Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love in different forms. It can be love for a spouse. It can be love for parents, siblings, kids, and friends. It can be a love for the community. Lastly, it can be love for yourself. Traveling is one of the best things you can do to show how much you love yourself. Just because you’re single doesn’t mean you’ll be stuck at home, binge-watching series and avoiding social media. Go out. Explore. Visit places and do activities that spark joy. Where to go and what to do this Valentine’s Day? Here are travel tips ideally suited for singles this season of love. 1. Travel to a nearby off-season getaway for the weekend Take a weekend trip to somewhere near yet away from the city – somewhere close to your heart. Just make sure to go “off-peak” to enjoy cheaper rates and less crowd (unless you’re ready to mingle.) If you don’t want smooching couples to rain on your parade, there are utterly cheesy, thus crowded destinations and activities to avoid. Skip fancy flower and chocolate shops, candlelit restaurants, secluded resorts, tall towers, malls, bay view parks, and romantic hotels. Avoid travel packages that say something like “romantic champagne dinner for two.” Instead, go hiking.Search for underrated beach resorts with exciting daytime activities and great nightlife. Visit museums and historical destinations with interesting architectures. Don’t forget to bring a tripod or mono pod to take beautiful photos. 2. Try blood-rushing travel activities for the first time When was the last time you did something daring for the first time? Take advantage of the freedom you have and do something you've been dreading to try. There are travel activities that don’t need a partner to enjoy. Find a hiking trail and explore with strangers and take great pictures along the way. Don’t just chill by the shore – learn surfing, paddle boarding, and other waterspouts. Go skydiving. If that’s too nerve-racking (and expensive) for you, you may try zip line. 3. Fall in love…with animals It’s amazing how an animal can change your life – and make you feel like you’re not alone in this world. Aside from bonding with your pet, you may enjoy visiting an animal sanctuary, a safari, or an octogenarian. You can also drink coffee at a pet cafe nearby. 4. Go have a relaxing staycation in the city Can’t travel far? Book a hotel room in the city all for yourself. Enjoy the view of the skyscrapers from your balcony. Use hotel amenities including in-room television with free movies, roof deck swimming pool, spas, and buffet. You can also go out to nearby establishments, like restaurants, cafes, and pubs, malls, cinemas, and museums have the time of your life. 5. Give yourself a wellness retreat Devote the entire day, or even a weekend to relaxing to treat your body, mind, and senses, at someone special like The Aerial BVI – you deserve it after a long week of working non-stop. The wellness retreats at The Aerial BVI can be booked exclusively for your entire family or group so you can enjoy the private beach, activities, and amenities whether you stay for the day or a week! If hotel accommodation is too expensive, go to a spa for a rejuvenating massage. Get facial treatment. Go to a hair and nail salon for a quick makeover. Go shopping. At the end of the day, pamper yourself with a glass of wine or champagne. Or hot chocolate or tea, if you don’t drink. 6. Master the art of solo dining Avoid candlelit restaurants, they say, for they’ll be packed with lovers this Valentine’s Day. But what if you want to treat yourself to a juicy steak at the best steakhouse in Omaha (or wherever you're traveling), and a glass of wine? Here are the tips for enjoying yourself at a restaurant. Rule number one: Don’t mind them and go treat yourself with your favorite dish and liquor. Avoid encountering couples by going for lunch instead of dinner. If you’re in a fancy restaurant with no entertainment or whatsoever, make sure to bring any reading material or any source of entertainment. You can also take out your phone, take great photos, and edit them like a pro. You may also go to casual coffee joints where you can enjoy your alone time at peace. Check out night markets for interesting food offerings, which may suit your palate. If you’re at a bar, choose a counter seat. Chat with service people. You can even chat with another solo diner. 7. Go to bars/clubs with entertainment Dining places with live performances are perfect for solo travelers, who are sick of looking bored and lonely when dining alone. They also provide great value for time and money, since you can enjoy great food and entertainment at the same time. Find a bar with stand-up comedy acts, jazz, rock, or acoustic band performances, spoken poetry, and other forms of performing arts which suit your taste. 8. See your favorite musicians live Music buff? Celebrate V-Day with your favorite artists. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a pricey concert – it can be a music festival, free outdoor shows, or gigs at a local bar. 9. Attend day workshops Do you want to learn how to make chocolates? Or be your own bartender by learning how to mix cocktails? Do you want to take your skills in photography or painting to the next level? A day of learning more about something you're passionate about and/or something new and exciting pays off in the long run. 10. Travel with friends and/or family Just because you’re single doesn’t mean you have to travel alone. Gather your single friends, guys, and girls, and plan a getaway. Rent out a vacation home, a huge hotel room, or go camping with a bonfire on. Make music, drink, play games, and be merry. Okay, so your friends have other plans. Don’t fret – spend time with your family. You can go third-wheeling with your parents or plan a family getaway out of town. Having fun doesn't have to be expensive and far. A plus point: It’ll be cheaper since you get to share the expenses. Read Also:  Romantic Getaway Tips: 9 Ways to Celebrate Love without Special Occasions Tips For Improving Your Holiday Experience

BY  Mashum Mar 3, 2019

We all love traveling and exploring places that are known and unknown all over the world. Besides, all of us are aware of the hassles of carrying heavy bags throughout the trip. It is one of the things that will make your trip look complex.  Therefore, you have to put a few things into consideration while planning for your trip. This article will make sure that you have a good time when carrying your luggage. It is one of the essential things when planning for a tour.    Every tourist tries to deal with the luggage issue in one way or the other. Some carry only small bags so that they can end up with a small and light package. Some don’t carry travel bags at all and buy what they require while on the trip!   A few others even go as far as to plan trips only to tropical places. Such a choice allows them to take only small and light stuff like swimwear, shirts and cargo pants. The decision that you make depends on your interests.   However, letting your bag issues dictate where you should be going and for how long, is unacceptable for travel addicts. You need the freedom to go wherever you wish without the limitation of packaging.   So how do we pack expertly, without running the risk of carrying a heavy bag everywhere? Some tricks can help you through this journey.   A lot of travel experts share their stories and the techniques they use to travel light. The secret is to prevent over-packing and yet be able to carry all essential items.  You need to carry all that you will need during your trips. So here are some of the tips from former tourists that we can all benefit from:  1. Choose Your Clothes Wisely  Materials like cotton and wool are quite heavy, and they take a long time to dry. If you are traveling to places where you can expect the climate to be cold, you can always wear something like a Polartec quarter-zip instead of cotton sweaters.   The secret is trying to look for a light thing that will serve you well. Synthetic clothes will also dry up faster after a quick wash. The fact that you can carry synthetic garments with a lot of ease, and they dry fast will motivate you to take them along with you.  Select your clothes wisely, and you will not have a hard time during your trip. The most important thing is to make sure that whatever you choose will give you maximum comfort during travel.   2. Choose a suitable luggage It is extremely important to select the right luggage type for your trip. If you plan on going for a travel vacation with family for a long stay, you would better opt for spacious luggage. In case you plan to go for a short trip, then small carry-ons, backpacks, and light bags can be a suitable option. If you don’t want to carry your luggage, consider suitcases that you can easily move with you wherever you go. For example, opt for options like a softshell suitcase with wheels to be able to effortlessly move your suitcase. In any case, don’t forget to pick a durable option, with secure locks and a telescopic handle. 3. Choose wearable items that are versatile If you are carrying shoes, you might want to pack something that you can wear anywhere. Shoes take up quite a lot of space in your travel bag. Therefore, you have to be as you make the choices of the wearable items to carry.   You can buy functional boots that are not only perfect for hiking but can also be worn to dinner somewhere. It means that you will be using one stone to kill two birds.   If you still insist on carrying more than one pair of shoes, make sure you stick them in the side pouches of your backpack. The worst thing would be to dump them inside with all your clothes. You need some form of organization when packing shoes for your next trip.   4. Pack clothes for seven days, even if your trip lasts longer  We all try to minimize the hassle of washing and drying our clothes while we are traveling. Who wants to waste time doing such abysmal chores while they could be touring a new city?   While it is an excellent idea to want to have as much fun as possible during the trip, packing for seven days will mean that you won’t end up carrying too many clothes. You will not fail to get someone to wash your clothes even if you dint have enough time for such a task.   And if you pack clothes that are easy to wash, you won’t have to spend a lot of time to clean them up. You can also wear merino wool shirts, which can be worn for a couple of days before they require washing. The only thing that you need to do is learn how you can make smart decisions when it comes to laundry work.   5. Packing cubes  One of the reasons why we end up with heavy bags is because we often throw our things into them pell-mell. You should not try to stuff everything inside without organizing or folding them well.   Packing cubes are the perfect solution in such a case. The reason is that you can make your compartments in your bag. This option allows you to sort out your things by categories hence bringing a lot of order.  Packing cubes can keep your clothes separated from toiletries. These bags also protect your possessions if your shampoo or soap bottle spills. It is the best way to make sure that all your luggage is safe and secure.   Amazon has some of the best packing cubes you can find in the market. The most expensive ones are quite durable and will last for several years. It is advisable to invest in a durable bag that will serve you on several trips and for an extended period.   Also, once you sort everything into packing cubes, you can easily find them when you need them. There is no need to take everything out of your bag in a hurry looking for things. It will help you when you want to use something while in transit.   6. Place your clothes vertically  One of the mistakes we make while packing is that we place clothes on top of each other. This way, it can become a bit time-consuming to take out all the clothes lying on top only to get to the bottom of the pile.  It is advisable to pack your clothes vertically if you want to have an easy time while on travel. It is a tip that most people who are going for a vacation don’t know.   Think of your packing bag as a filing cabinet. You need to place all your folded clothes vertically so you can see them easily. It will help you to pull out what you need with a lot of ease.   7. Don’t pack things you can easily buy  If you are not very picky about the toiletry products you use, you can always buy shampoo, soap, and other necessary items in the place you are going to. Depending on the area you are visiting, you can decide to leave some things out of your carry bag.   If you are going on an adventure trip, you won’t find a lot of toiletry products, so it is better to pack them separately. However, you should not burden yourself with the things that you can purchase from the destination.   These tips are quite handy to use when the time comes to pack up your bags and go traveling. You can always find some smart way to reduce bag weight so that your vacation becomes more comfortable and more fun!  Read More: 5 Must Visit Offbeat Destinations Near Delhi. 5 Immensely Popular Travel Applications that India Loves. Expert Tips for Earning Frequent Flyer Points for Travelling in Business Class Flights.