6 Tips To Stay Safe While On A Road Trip

BY  Subham Saha Sep 23, 2021

If you have opened this article, chances are you are a solo traveler. If you are looking to travel solo in Japan, this is your go-to guide. Not only will I share my experience, but I will also make some budget Tokyo hostels in Japan for your travel in 2022. I have selected these hostels based on their Location, Amenities, Prices, and Staff. Why Staying In The Hostel Is The Best Option In Tokyo? Tokyo is among the top 10 expensive cities in the world. But what I like about this city is that even though the cost of living is exceptionally high in Tokyo, there are some spectacular and budget-friendly hostels in Tokyo where you can stay at a meager price and save your money for your other expenses as a solo traveler. Many people think that Tokyo is expensive. Yes, that is a fact. However, if you are smart and intuitive and look at the right places, you will see that Tokyo has several budget-friendly options on offer. For example, you can always book a ticket on the famous Tokyo bus tours to explore the great city and all its attractions. The key is to look for these opportunities and do your online research when visiting. Top 11 Budget Tokyo Hostels In Japan For 2022 The hostels in Tokyo are extremely clean and promote Japanese culture in every possible way. They all maintain eye-pleasing decors. All of them have Wi-Fi, and some have kitchens too. The price of beds generally ranges between $18-$45 per night. They occasionally host musical events and serve a lot of tea, and have little rooms in which you can sleep.  1. Hostel Bedgasm Hostel Bedgasm is one of the best hostels in Tokyo. It is located in East Tokyo. It features a vibrant bar. Solo travelers get a drink which is in the house. They utilize good ways to make travelers get acquainted with each other to have a nice time.  When it comes to Bathrooms, they are pretty clean. There's a rooftop area where backpackers can sit and get a view of the city. The staff is very welcoming, and there is a ton of storage given to backpackers where they can store all their items.  The area surrounding is pretty quiet and has many local food outlets. The Ramen place is quite famous for its ramen. Just ask any of the staff; he/she will point it out to you. The nearby places you may consider visiting are Roppongi, Ginza, Ueno, and the Tsukiji fish market. You can get there by metro.  Price: Beds from $35/night  2. Khaosan Tokyo Origami Khaosan Tokyo Origami is located in Asakusa. It's only a few yards from Senso-Ji Temple. It is a spotless Tokyo hostel, and it's air-conditioned. They have plenty of rooms and are quite spacious, which is not typical of Tokyo hostels. The beds are very soft and big. They also have curtains placed between beds to ensure the privacy of the backpackers.    Khaosan Tokyo Origami features a shared lounge that serves tea and coffee for free. There is a shared kitchen which is open all day. They provide slippers that you can put on and toast and tea/coffee as breakfast. There is also a lounge on the eighth floor, backpackers can play video games, indulge in conversations with fellow backpackers. You can see half of Tokyo from the lounge.  Price: Beds from $30/night  3. Hostel Chapter 2 Tokyo Chapter two is another best Tokyo hostel which is run by a family. It's just a 2 mins walk from Skytree Station in Asakusa. You will find the shared kitchen and commonplace very lively. It has more of a family vibe to it, which makes you feel very comfortable. The dorms are equipped with bunker beds.  You can get a view of the Sumida River if you get a bed facing it. I would rate Chapter 2 very highly as it certainly is one of the best Tokyo hostels. Price: Beds from $38/night  4.  Sheena and Ippei It is a tiny hostel located in downtown Tokyo. I feel this is one of the best Tokyo hostels because it is very near to Ikebukuro Station. The owners of this hostel are amiable people. Everything is built-in Japanese style in this hostel. The staff are very helpful; they will suggest some right places to eat from and visit to visit.  Price: Beds from $38/night 5.  Khaosan Tokyo Kabuki Khaosan Tokyo Kabuki is just a minute away from Asakusa Temple and Asakusa Station. Even though the rooms are not that well maintained as other hostels on this list, they are comfy. You can get a good view of Skytree Tower if you manage to get a room upstairs. Price: Beds from $27/night   Also Read: Budget-Friendly Travel Ideas In Australia 6. Backpacker's Hostel K's Tokyo House They have hostels all across Japan. The one in Tokyo is one of the most famous Tokyo hostels. It has a very welcoming vibe to it. The staff is accommodating and friendly. They do not provide breakfast, but there's a shared kitchen in which you can cook. It is not precisely in the center of Tokyo, so if you want to get out of all the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, then you may consider this place.  Price: Beds from $28/night Also Read: New South Wales Southern Highland Helicopter Tour 7. Kaisu Hostel Kaisu Hostel was not always a hostel. Formerly it used to be a ryotei, which in Japanese means a traditional Japanese restaurant. This hostel is a bit on the expensive side as the building has preserved the Japanese culture very professionally. You can say that it is more of a hotel than a hostel. Consider other options if you want Tokyo hostels. Price: Beds from $40/night  8.  Citan Hostel This hostel is trendy among youngsters and hipsters. They have a massive common area on the first floor, and also, the kitchen is well maintained for cooking. There are also DJ nights on Saturdays. It does not have much of a hostel vibe to it.  Price: Beds from $28/night 9. Unplan Kagurazaka This is relatively a newer hostel, so it looks very plush. The floors are made out of wood and have simplistic decor. Both backpackers and families fit in the ambiance of this hostel. The public cafe on the first floor is an excellent place to hang out and make new friends.  Price: Beds from $39/night 10. Book and Bed Tokyo As the name suggests, if you are a backpacker who loves reading, this is the place you need to be. This hostel features a bookstore where backpackers are allowed to sleep on the shelves. You can read all sorts of books, magazines, and mangas.   Price: Beds from $37/night 11. Space Hostel Tokyo The rooftop lounge is the USP of this hostel. The rooms are spotless and well maintained. What I love the most about this hostel are its sushi-making party and origami classes. Kindly remember to carry cash as it is the only form of payment that this hostel accepts. You have to pay upfront while checking in.    Price: Beds from $29/night  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 1. Are Hostels Good In Japan? Don't get your kimono in a twist, we have a much simpler life for you and prepared a list for the best places to take rest and recover while you are in between your temple touring and sushi sampling. Hostels in Japan are generally good and there's a variety of options. 2. Can You Enter Japan Right Now? Tourists and non-resident foreign business travelers are prohibited from entering Japan.  Japanese citizens and foreign residents can reenter Japan with a  permit that is complied with strict pre-and post-travel testing  and quarantine upon arrival. 3. How Much Money Should I Bring To Japan?   Single Traveler Two Travelers Low Budget 3,500 - 7,800 yen 7,000 - 15,600 yen Medium Budget 8,800 - 18,500 yen 13,600 - 28,000 yen High Budget over 18,500 yen over 28,000 yen 4. What Is Japan Famous For? Japan is known for its traditional arts, which includes tea ceremonies, calligraphy and flower arranging. The country has typical gardens, sculpture and poetry. Japan is home to more than a dozen of UNESCO World Heritage sites and sushi is originated from Japan, one of its most famous culinary exports. Conclusion Solo traveling in Japan has been one of the best experiences in my life. The Tokyo hostels are spectacular. If you have never traveled alone before, trust me when I say it is an eye-opening experience. To travel solo, you need to keep an open mind free of prejudices and stereotypes.  Solo travel gives you a unique chance to be yourself indeed. There is no one to hold you back when you travel solo—however, certain things to keep in mind like mindfulness of your safety, loneliness, etc. With a little courage and preparation, it can make it worthwhile. You May Also Like: 10 Best Things To Do In Prague 10 Amazing Things To Do In Medellin Top 10 Affordable Hostels In Los Angeles – California

BY  Arnab Jan 20, 2023

Gatlinburg is a popular vacation destination in the state of Tennessee that offers something for every type of traveler. Situated just outside the boundary of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, this charming town is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history and culture, and enjoyable recreational activities. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or an art lover, a vacation in Gatlinburg won't disappoint you. Here Are The Eight Best Ideas For Vacationing In Gatlinburg To ensure you make the most of your vacation, we've put together a list of helpful tips to make planning easier. Here's what you need to know: 1. Plan ahead Any vacation can become a stressful experience if not planned carefully. So it's important to begin planning early to ensure you don't have trouble at the eleventh hour. And after choosing your destination, next comes selecting the accommodation. A convenient option is to stay in a condo. Condos offer an extensive array of amenities for a comfortable stay, such as a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable living space, and are ideal if you're planning a trip with family or want to enjoy a more upscale experience. Look up downtown Gatlinburg condos online, compare prices, read reviews, and book one that suits your travel needs. Be sure to book in advance to score a better deal. 2. Explore the great outdoors Gatlinburg is approximately 5 miles away from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and offers many opportunities for hiking, camping, and scenic drives. The park has hundreds of miles of hiking trails suitable for first-timers and avid trekkers. Some popular trails include Mt. Leconte, Mt. Cammerer, Charlies Bunion, the Chimney Tops Trail, and Thunderhead Mountain. So be sure to pack your hiking gear if you're up for one. The national park is also home to more than 1200 species of plants and animals, including big black bears. Be sure to follow directions and stay out of areas cordoned off for the public. Also, don't litter. 3. Indulge in local cuisine Who doesn't love food? If you long for unique flavors, there are plenty of options to tantalize your taste buds. Gatlinburg has diverse dining options, including traditional southern comfort food to continental and several popular fast-food brands. You can enjoy a finger-licking meal that you will remember for a long time. Some popular places to dine include Donut Frair, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., and Log Cabin Pancake House. Consider eating pancakes at the pancake house is a must-do. Be sure to try some of the local moonshine and barbecue. 4. Shop around Gatlinburg has many shopping options, from souvenir shops to high-end boutiques. Be sure to check out the downtown area for one-of-a-kind finds. You can shop till you drop at outlet malls and small mom-and-pop arts and crafts stores. If you visit the downtown area, you'll find a mix of unique boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops. Here, you can find exclusive dresses, artistries, and a collection of extremely rare souvenirs. Also, check out the local farmer's market for fresh produce, homemade jams, and more. 5. Relax and unwind Whether it's soaking in a hot tub or taking a leisurely walk around the town, take some time out for yourself and relax. There are several places in Gatlinburg where you can unwind and burn off stress, including hot tubs, saunas, spas, and massages. Whether you're looking to unwind after a long day of sightseeing or want to indulge in some quality self-care, Gatlinburg is worth a try. Just be sure to reserve some time for yourself during your trip. 6. Hit the slopes A vacation in Gatlinburg is a must if you are into winter sports. Gatlinburg is a great destination for winter sports, with Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort offering skiing opportunities. Even if you're not a skier, the resort has an indoor ice-skating rink designed for casuals. Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort is the only ski resort in Tennessee, and it offers a wide range of winter activities. These include skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and snow tubing. 7. Take a tour Join a guided tour to learn more about the history and culture of Gatlinburg and the surrounding area. From ghost tours to historical walking tours, you can explore some wonderful places that boast Appalachian culture and history. These tours are an excellent way to learn more about the antiquity and traditions of Gatlinburg. You'll also see some of the most famous and hidden sights and landmarks. Guided tours can help you discover new places in Gatlinburg that only a few know about. Whether you're interested in the town's history or the natural wonders of the area, you can't go wrong with a trip to Gatlinburg. 8. Visit the arts and crafts community Gatlinburg is home to a vibrant arts and crafts community, with many shops and studios showcasing the work of local artisans. Take a stroll through the community and bring home a unique souvenir. The Gatlinburg arts and crafts community is also one of North America's largest groups of independent artisans. The community offers a wide range of unique artwork and dexterities, from traditional to contemporary. Conclusion Overall, Gatlinburg offers a wonderful natural getaway destination that promises a memorable experience for tourists. Whether you're looking to explore the outdoors or simply relax and unwind, Gatlinburg has it all. Following the tips above can help you make the most of your time in this delightful town. So, don't wait any longer; plan your next vacation and experience all this beautiful place has to offer. Read Also: Crucial Hiking Tips To Ensure Your Safety While Hiking Top 8 List Of National Parks In North Carolina – Travel Guide Witness The Beauty Of Chilko Lake In British Columbia – Travel Guide

BY  Arnab Oct 28, 2022

A lot of developments have again brought Italy tourism into the limelight. One of the best places to visit in Italy, Lake Como, now allows visitors to take home the most unique souvenirs. You can now carry back 100% pure canned air from this beautiful lake.  ItalyComunica, a communication company, has started this initiative. Their Lake Como Air Cans have 400 ml of pure air from Lake Como and are now available at $11.  "A luxurious souvenir, perfect for those who wish to rediscover the peace and elegance of this heavenly corner, sealed in a tin.." - ItalyComunica Further, as you take this can of pure air home, you can open it and experience the tranquility of Lake Como.  Along with Lake Como, there are many other places to visit in Italy. Of course, everyone knows about the capital city of Rome and the beautiful Venice. However, this time, I have curated some other hotspots in the country.  Here Are The Four Best Places To Visit In Italy A lot of people like to take themselves on Italy tours to try and see it all, but with so much to see, it’s not always possible in one trip.  But if you’re planning a trip to Italy, keep reading and discover all the best places that you should visit!  1. Florence Florence is the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, and it is often said to be the home of some of the greatest art and architecture in the world. It’s often thought to be the birthplace of the Renaissance, so you can imagine just how glorious the art is. Florence proves this by having one of the most famous art galleries ever, housing the Uffizi Gallery which contains pieces from classic artists like da Vinci, Raphael, and even Michelangelo! Florence is also a little bit slower-paced than other historical cities like Rome, allowing you to really soak in your surroundings without all the hustle and bustle. If architecture is something you love to gaze at when visiting other countries, then Florence could be the answer to your dreams. With beautiful structures like the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, you’ll be blown away by just how beautiful this city really is. So, if you want to visit a place with just as much historical significance as Rome but without the tourists, head down to Florence.  2. Verona Fans of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” will have of course heard of the city of Verona, as it’s the setting for one of the greatest tragedies of all time. Verona itself may not be at the top of everyone’s list, but it definitely should be. It’s big enough that you can spend a whole day exploring, but it’s also small enough to feel like a walkable city. Verona may be a modern city with lots of stunning restaurants to visit, but it also pays homage to the star-crossed lovers with a museum in a building named “Juliet’s House”. There you’ll find different outfits from movies and plays that have been performed throughout history and all sorts of historical artefacts from the time period of the play. You can even get the perfect photo op on Juliet’s balcony and look longingly out onto the view of Verona and ask the question “Wherefore art thou Romeo?”. A little way down the road, there’s a small tomb that’s said to belong to Juliet as well, so you can pay your respects to the ill-fated lady. Travel-wise, Verona’s train station is right in the centre and has links to all the surrounding cities, allowing you to make it a simple day trip on your itinerary.  3. Praiano If you’re wanting that picturesque Italian experience, then Praiano could be your dream vacation. A small town situated on the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, you can enjoy gorgeous beach views and breathtaking architecture. There’s the 15th-century church in the middle of the town called the Church of San Gennaro which showcases the best of the baroque architecture. The beach itself is absolutely amazing, with crystal blue waters and surrounded by rocky cliffs, you’ll be able to enjoy the sun and relax in the shade at the same time. If you like an active vacation, then you might want to check out the Sentiero Degli Dei, or the Footpath of the Gods. This trail is 7km long and goes all the way from Praiano and up to Nocelle near Positano city. However, you’ll need to be prepared for the staircase that awaits you at the start, as you’ll need to climb 1,900 steps! Praiano is one of the lesser-known areas of the Amalfi Coast, but that doesn’t mean it’s lesser than any of the other areas. So, make sure you add it to your holiday plans!  4. Padua  Finally, if you want to go somewhere that’s steeped in history and gives you a truly authentic Italian experience but without all the tourists of Venice, then Padua is the place for you. Padua, or Padova in Italian, is a small city that’s just outside of Venice. Padua has a train station right in the centre that has a direct line to Venice, and all sorts of other places like Florence and Rome. This makes it a great place to stay without having to fall into the tourist traps of Venice and enjoy some tranquillity at the same time. Padua has the second oldest university in the whole of Italy, which was founded in 1222! There’s also the Basilica of Saint Anthony who was a Portuguese Catholic Priest that passed away in 1231. The Basilica is visually stunning and has a museum that you can visit inside which is dedicated to the saint as well. There’s also a gorgeous outdoor area that’s brimming is history too.  The Prato Della Valle which is the biggest square in the whole of Italy and has statues of Italy’s most renowned intellectuals. If you’re an avid foodie, then you want to head on over to Piazza Dei Signori. There you’ll find all sorts of authentic restaurants and proper Italian gelato too. It’s also home to the Torre dell’Orologio or in English, the astronomical clock. This clock tower was built in 1430 and the clock face shows the different zodiac signs. It really is a magnificent sight to see, and it looks even better when you’re enjoying a plate of good food in the beautiful afternoon sun.   Italy has some of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, but that doesn’t mean they’re the only place with beauty. In fact, there are plenty of other cities and towns within Italy that could offer you even more than places like Venice! This list just goes to show that you don’t have to only visit the tourist areas to get a real view of Italy. So, why not add some of these places to your list of places to visit? You’ll be blown away at how wonderful they all are, and you’ll find yourself wishing you were back there time and time again. 5. Lake Como Located in the Lombardy region of Italy, Lake Como is one of the deepest lakes in Europe. It looks heavenly with the Bergamo Alps surrounding it, and you can see the reflections of snow-capped peaks in the water.  Further, Lake Como looks different with changing seasons. In summer, you will find the lake surrounded by greens. In winter, of course, it’s all snowy and white as far as you can see.  6. Pompeii, A UNESCO World Heritage Site The Roman architectural site Pompeii is one of the most interesting places to visit in Italy. Such is its appeal that now managing tourism here is a challenge for the management. The first Sunday of October in 2024 had around 36000 visitors to the park. However, from 15th November, the park authority is planning to limit the number of visitors to the park on a daily basis.  Now, only 20000 people can visit Pompeii in a day. Further, you will need to pay an entry fee of €18 to visit Pompeii.  Read Also: Japan Is Now Accepting Travelers: So Why Aren’t Tourists Going Back This Year? Common Pitfalls Of Destination Wedding In Italy And How To Avoid Them Which Is The Best Time To Visit Ladakh? – Travel Guide