Studying In Manhattan – 5 Places To Visit In Your Off Time

BY  Abdul Aziz Mar 23, 2019

Sikkim borders Bhutan, Nepal, and China and has been viewed to be among the Himalayan Shangri-las. This state was an independent Kingdom till 1975 when India took over it after a period of political unrest and anti-royal riots. Sikkim is not an easily accessible area in India because it is remote and you need permits. However, it is among the most refreshing and energetic destinations in India. The ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture and the mountainous beauty of Sikkim are soothing to the soul. The distance looks short but it will take you several hours to travel through it. Below is a list of some of the best places to visit in Sikkim. 10 Best Places To Visit In Sikkim: 1. Gangtok: Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim that is constructed on a crowdy ridge, 5500 feet above the sea level. When clouds clear, you are able to see all the way to the soaring peaks of Khangchendzonga National Park that was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2016. It is a well-organized and refreshingly clean and most tourists spend several days here to see the sights and make their travel arrangements. It is an excellent base for individuals heading off on treks. 2. Rumtek: Sikkim is a fantastic mediation place and close to two hundred monasteries dote these divine hilltops. Rumtek is the most popular monasteries in West Sikkim near Pelling and Tashiding. The other monasteries that you can visit are the old Sanga-Choeling monastery, Enchey monastery in Gangtok, Karma Kagyu monastery that has two hindered year-old murals in Phodong, North Sikkim. These monasteries hold several festivals especially near Losar in February. In July, Tse Chu features the Buddhist dances at Rumtek. Enchey is the other place that hosts the Charm festival in December and January. 3. Nathu La: Nathu La is three hours on the eastern side of the Chinese border was the main passageway on the Old Silk Route between Tibet and India before being closed in 1962. The border comprises a lone barbed wire fence and you will enjoy the strange thrill of viewing the Chinese soldiers on the other side. The most unfortunate thing is that only Indians are allowed to travel this far and only on Sundays, Saturdays, Thursdays, and Wednesdays. Also, you will have to obtain a special permit through a licensed travel agency in Gangtok. 4. Flora and Fauna Sanctuaries: Sikkim is well known for having astonishing varieties of animals, birds, and even flowers. It has more than 40 species of rhododendron, 450 varieties of orchids, 400 species of butterflies, and 450 species of birds. The Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary is located in Singalila Range on Sikkim’s south-west corner and is the best place to visit during spring. You will get Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary close to Ravangla on the southern side of Sikkim. The other highlight near Lachung is the Singba Rhododendron Sanctuary. You can have an amazing butterfly, birding, and wildlife tour in Sikkim. 5. Yuksom and the Dzongri Trail: Sikkim is a trekking paradise and the historical Yuksom is a great trekking gateway towards Mount Khangchendzonga. If you are up to the challenge, you can trek to Rathong Glacier and Dzongri peak from Yuksom and even further on to the Goecha Peak. It is Sikkim’s most popular trek. You will pass through the powerful rivers of the Khangchendzonga National Park, magnificent rhododendron gardens, and the unspoiled forests. Spare ten days of trekking from Yuksom to the peak of Goecha and back. Foreigners must have additional permits for this trekking. 6. Yumthang Valley, Lachen, and Lachung: The Yumthang valley and Lachung are located on the northern part of Sikkim from Gangtok and nine thousand feet above the sea level close to the Chinese/Tibetan border. It is a dramatic pristine scenery that dazzles visitors. Lachung was a traditional post between Tibet and Sikkim before the annexation of Tibet to Chinese. Currently, it is the base camp for the famous trekking of the Rhododendron Valley from the Lachen valley to the Yumthang valley. The other attractions that you will find in this region include Yumesamdong or Zero Point, Lachung monastery, and the astonishing Guredongmar high-attitude Lake. It is among the highest lakes in the world with over 17,0000 feet above sea level. 7. Pelling: Pelling is a three to four-hour drive on the western side of Gangtok. It is a charmless tiny town but the best places to visit in Sikkim for the unapparelled viewing of Mount Khangchendzonga at dawn. You can lodge at the Ifseen Villa that has top budget homestays and guesthouses in the Indian Himalayas. In addition to these views, the other main attractions are the monasteries and the ruins of Rabdentse. Previously, it was Sikkim’s royal city from 1670 to 1814 and very little remains of Rabdentse nowadays. 8. Ravangla: Ravangla is along the way from Pelling to Gangtok and is highly notable for the Buddha park that has a 130-foot towering Buddha statue that surrounds the manicured gardens. The Monastic Palchen Choeling Institute is close to Ralong and houses a massive size of golden Buddha. It houses more than 100 monks and you will hear their chanting in the mid-afternoon and early morning. You can also visit a large number of other monasteries in this area. This is the only tea garden in Sikkim and it nests the tranquil Cherry resort amidst it. 9. Namchi: The giant statues are what make Namchi famous. Currently, it has two of them, one Hindu and the other Buddhist. Apparently, the third one is under planning. The Buddhist statue is approximately 140 feet tall and has a commanding position of 7,000 feet above sea level on the Samdrupte Hill. These two statues make Namchi the best places to visit in Sikkim. 10. Teesta River Rafting: The latest adventure activity is Sikkim is Rafting and you will get some world class opportunities at the Teesta River. The main path is Rongpo – Bardang – Sirwani – Makha. There is an interspersing of grade 2 to 4 with several white sandy beaches for camping at night. High gorges and cliffs, together with the strewn-boulder river beds increase the thrill. The Rangeet River has more turbulent waters that provide advanced rafting opportunities. The best time to rate in Sikkim ranges from October to December and March to May. Read Also: 6 Best Family Holiday Destinations in India 10 best places to visit in Argentina Top 10 Places to Visit in Singapore Discovering The 11 Most Beautiful Places Of Adventure In The World

BY  Ankita Feb 27, 2024

Tibet, often called the Roof of the World, is known for its stunning beauty and spiritual significance. Every year, travelers from around the globe are drawn to this majestic land in search of adventure and enlightenment. However, it's important to remember that Tibet's beauty is delicate and needs to be protected. So, as visitors, we must respect its traditions and environment to keep it beautiful and welcoming for generations to come. In this guide, we'll share five essential tips to help you explore this place with mindfulness and respect. These tips will ensure your visit leaves a positive impact on this incredible region. So, without further ado, let's delve right in! 1. Choose a Trusted Travel Partner When planning your trip to Tibet, selecting the right travel partner can make all the difference. However, it requires careful consideration. So, look for agencies that deeply understand and respect the region's culture and environment. Also, consider one with sustainability certifications and memberships in responsible Tibet tourism organizations. Plus, ensure they are well-versed in navigating the complexities of traveling to this place, including obtaining a Travel Permit. This is essential for regulating travel and safeguarding its resources. So, prioritize those openly discussing the tibet travel permit price, its importance, and their efforts to secure it. They should also provide information on how they support local economies and conservation efforts. Moreover, they'll also advise you on respecting local communities and religious sites while minimizing environmental impact. Overall, this way, you embark on a journey that sustainably enriches your travel experience. 2. Respect Tibetan Cultural and Religious Customs It is a land steeped in spiritual and cultural traditions. So, showing respect is essential to honoring its essence. This involves dressing modestly, especially when entering monasteries and other sacred sites. It also means understanding the importance of maintaining silence in holy spaces and following the tradition of walking clockwise around religious objects. Moreover, when taking photos, asking for permission is polite, particularly when photographing monks or pilgrims. This simple gesture demonstrates respect for their culture and traditions. Ultimately, by embracing its customs and traditions, you foster mutual respect between visitors and locals. So, take this opportunity to learn from the Tibetans. It's a precious gift that can turn your journey into a profoundly transformative experience. 3. Abide by Local Laws Understanding and adhering to local laws in Tibet is more than just compliance. It's a reflection of your respect for the region and its people.  For instance, apart from respect, there are specific regulations regarding photography. Some areas, like certain buildings or military installations, may have restrictions on taking pictures. Additionally, some locations may require special permits. So, you need to be aware of the places you're allowed to visit. By staying informed about these laws, you can ensure a smooth trip and help preserve Tibet's cultural and natural heritage. Remember, responsible Tibet tourism is all about making positive impacts and respecting local laws. So, always abide by the rules and regulations during your visit. 4. Follow Leave-No-Trace Principles While Trekking Tibet's natural landscapes are breathtakingly pristine. So, maintaining this unspoiled beauty requires adherence to Leave No Trace principles during your treks. Firstly, ensure you carry out all your trash, leaving no litter behind. This includes packaging and any waste produced during your trek. Moreover, minimize the impact of campfires by either using portable stoves or designated fire rings, if available. Doing so prevents damage to the surrounding vegetation and wildlife habitats. Additionally, treat water sources carefully to avoid contamination and maintain their purity. Besides, stick to established trails and designated campsites to minimize erosion and protect fragile ecosystems. Remember, these practices aren't just about conservation. Instead, they're about showing respect and gratitude to the natural world that graciously welcomes you. 5. Avoid Paying for Photos or Handing Out Medicine While it may seem nice, paying for photos or giving out medicine without thinking can cause problems. It might make people depend on handouts and change how the community works. Instead, focus on meaningful talks and treating people with respect. However, if you still want to help, support local businesses or trusted non-profits that work closely with the community. This helps sustain local traditions and ensures your actions make a positive difference. By avoiding paying for photos or handing out medicine randomly, you help empower local communities and promote sustainable Tibet tourism. 6. Joining A Tibet Group Tour Most travel agencies in Lhasa offer Tibet group tours that are a far more sustainable choice than individual visits. These group tours are designed to help make touring Tibet affordable while sharing the cost of the designated tour guide and the vehicle with other travelers. By avoiding the extra costs of each individual tourist and having a guide for each of them, the whole setup makes for a well-rounded experience.  These local tour guides are a great way to enhance your Tibetan experience. They have local knowledge that no other professional guides will have. Individual traveling will also not allow you to explore places that are otherwise only known to local people.  These guides will assist you with the local language so that navigating the region and understanding its culture more deeply becomes easy. The uniqueness of this region leaves every visitor feeling rejuvenated. Local tour guides also allow you to curate your experience according to your taste and desires. It will cover all your specific interests without all the added hassle.  Tips: Carry a reusable water bottle and a filter to decrease the environmental impact of your visit. Avoid littering and respect your natural surroundings. Take the public route when it comes to transportation instead of getting a private drive. Get locally sourced foods and products to minimize littering and waste.  Respect the wildlife around you and avoid all activities that harm animals. Look for eco-friendly accommodations that help you prioritize the minimization of waste and sustainability. Cultural Taboos Visitors should stay aware of the cultural taboos when choosing to travel to Tibet. Be modestly dressed and stay respectful. You must be especially mindful when visiting temples and other religious sites. As a visitor, you must also avoid touching and pointing at statues and objects of religious significance. You must also make sure to walk clockwise around prayer flags and other religious sites. It is also considered disrespectful if you step over someone’s threshold or the threshold of a religious site. Visitors must also avoid talking about sensational topics or engaging in any kind of behavior that is contrary to the cultural norms of the region.  Try researching and understanding the local customs and traditions before traveling. This will help you stay sensitized towards the expected regional culture. Final Thoughts Exploring Tibet's sustainability is an opportunity to immerse yourself in its stunning landscapes and rich cultural tapestry. By following the tips mentioned above, your journey to this place can be a model of responsible Tibet tourism. To summarize, it is important to prepare and respect the local cultural environment. If you are planning a trip to Tibet, you are advised to work with a reputable travel agency in order to obtain the necessary permits and plan a safe and enjoyable trip. Tibet is a beautiful as well as unique destination. You must not desecrate the culture of the region by being careless of its traditions and ideals. So, travel with intention, respect, and a deep appreciation for the places you visit. It will make your global footprint a positive one. Read Also: The Ultimate Guide To Everest Base Camp And Manaslu Circuit Trek Which Is The Best Time To Visit Spiti Valley? – Travel Guide Five Best Things To Do In Nepal

BY  Sibashree Jan 30, 2025

The romantic experiences in Orlando are ideal for your honeymoon or a trip where the two of you just want to spend some quality time. Of course, you have the Walt Disney World, Universal Studios Florida, and world-class Theme Parks in Orlando.  While these theme parks are ideal for family vacations, you may want to get away from the hustle and bustle of these theme parks for a quieter or more fulfilling time as a couple.  That’s why this Tour and Travel guide talks about the most romantic experiences in Orlando you must try. The tourism experiences in Orlando are eclectic with fine dining, adventure activities, relaxing massages, and whatnot!  Let’s plan your honeymoon or a couple trip in Orlando this time! Top Romantic Experiences in Orlando for Couples Imagine yourself gently floating on a swan boat with your S/O, and the Sun sets over Lake Eola Park. Goosebump moments, right?  Or you could take a hot air balloon ride, where you can see the beautiful views of Central Florida. If you want to add some creativity to your day, why not try a couple’s art class at Pinot's Palette in Winter Park?  Moreover, for a lovely night out at Walt Disney World, check out Downtown Orlando. It has live music and delicious food, so you can have a memorable dining experience together. 1. Dining At Helena Modern Riviera For A Mediterranean Escape Escape to the Mediterranean right here in Orlando at Helena Modern Riviera and Mia’s Italian Kitchen.  This stylish restaurant is located in Downtown Orlando and offers a magical dining experience. You will enjoy a classy atmosphere and tasty Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Sit back in the comfy velvet booths and enjoy your meal made from fresh, local ingredients. The menu features a variety of mouthwatering options, from juicy grilled seafood to tasty vegetarian dishes. Don’t forget to try the best cocktails and wines here!  2. Exclusive Wine Tasting At Quantum Leap Winery Enjoy a great time at Quantum Leap Winery, a stylish urban winery right in Downtown Orlando. This place is famous for its unique way of making wine. They offer special wine tastings that are just right for a memorable date night. They serve handcrafted wines from vineyards all over the globe, and the tasting experience here includes: A selection of Quantum Leap's signature wines Help from experts about tasting notes and wine pairings Small bites that go well with the wine flavors The cozy and classy atmosphere, along with the amazing wines, creates a perfect chance to relax and bond over good drinks. 3.  Horseback Riding Adventure At Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort Go on a romantic horseback ride at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort. This is a great chance to escape the busy theme parks and enjoy nature. You will explore the hidden trails of Fort Wilderness. The area is full of green plants and cute woodland animals. Skilled guides will take you on a slow ride.  They will share fun facts about the local wildlife and the beautiful sights around you. Take in the peace of the ride and make lasting memories together. After your adventure, keep the Disney World date night going with a tasty meal at one of the resort's lovely restaurants. 4. Romantic Hot Air Balloon Ride At Sunrise Experience the magic of Central Florida like never before. Take a romantic hot air balloon ride at sunrise for some unforgettable romantic date ideas. As the sun rises, you’ll float through the sky and see beautiful colors. Drift over lovely landscapes, shining lakes, and green hills. Enjoy being with each other in a calm and unforgettable place. The peaceful morning and amazing views make it a very romantic time. Celebrate this special moment with a champagne toast as you come back down to earth. Remember this magical morning forever. 5.  Evening Of Jazz And Fine Dining In Downtown Orlando Experience the lively energy of Downtown Orlando with a magical night of live music, great food, and performing arts. The city comes alive when the sun goes down, offering many romantic places to eat with soothing jazz tunes. You can choose from cozy piano bars to fun jazz clubs, each setting the right mood for your night. Enjoy a tasty dinner at one of the popular restaurants in Downtown while talented musicians play for you. This mix of yummy food, beautiful music, and the buzzing atmosphere of Downtown Orlando makes for a romantic night you won't forget. 6. Couple’s Art Class At Pinot’s Palette Unleash your creativity at Pinot's Palette in Winter Park. This special date night allows you to enjoy painting while spending time with your loved one. You will be guided by professional artists. It doesn't matter if you are a skilled painter or trying it for the first time. Pinot's Palette gives you a fun and friendly space to explore your artistic side. You can sip on a glass of wine while you create your artwork together. When the night ends, you can take home your joint masterpiece. It will be a lasting reminder of your fun experience together. Exploring More Of The Fine Dining Scenario | Romantic Experiences In Orlando  Orlando has many amazing restaurants that are perfect for a romantic dinner date, offering unique items on their menus.  You can choose from cozy settings to beautiful views. If you want a fancy evening, try the chef's table at Victoria & Albert's. This place is famous for its great food and wonderful service. If you prefer a more casual vibe but still want good food, go to Canvas Restaurant & Market. It is located by the lovely Lake Fairview. This popular spot has great sunset views and offers a menu full of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Chef’s Table Experience At Victoria & Albert’s Embark on a special dining experience at Victoria & Albert's. This award-winning restaurant is located in Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.  You can choose the chef's tasting menu or the vegetarian option. Both options use seasonal ingredients and creative cooking methods. Moreover, each dish is paired with fine wines, which brings out the flavors and offers a mix of tastes. Also, the nice atmosphere, caring staff, and top-class food come together to give a truly unforgettable dining experience. 3. Outdoor Dining With Sunset Views At Canvas Restaurant & Market Indulge in a romantic dining experience at Canvas Restaurant & Market. It is located by the beautiful Lake Fairview. This stylish restaurant has amazing sunset views, making it perfect for your evening. You can start with handcrafted cocktails and shareable appetizers while enjoying the lovely scenery. The menu features fresh, locally sourced ingredients turned into tasty and creative dishes. With its mix of great food, stunning views, and a cozy yet elegant atmosphere, Canvas Restaurant & Market gives you a special dining experience. Adventure And Thrills For Couples In Orlando For a real thrill in Orlando, try tandem skydiving. Experience the rush of freefall and enjoy stunning views of Central Florida as you glide through the air. If you prefer underwater fun during the summer months, head to Rock Springs for a swim.  Skydiving At Tandem | Bet Romantic Experiences In Orlando For Couples  Calling all adventurous couples! Elevate your love with a tandem skydiving trip.  Feel the excitement of freefall as you fly through the air, attached to a certified instructor. While you go down, enjoy the amazing views of Central Florida's beautiful landscapes, from bright lakes to green trees. Scuba Dive Together In Crystal Clear Springs Enjoy an amazing adventure date at Rock Springs. It is famous for its clear waters and interesting underwater life. You will experience the joy of scuba diving together with certified instructors with you at every step.  So, discover underwater caves, cool rock shapes, and groups of fish while moving through this ocean paradise. Relaxing And Intimate Activities | The Most Romantic Experiences In Orlando In the middle of your fun and adventures, don’t forget to set aside time to relax and refresh. Treat yourselves to a relaxing couple's massage with a view of the ocean. Moreover, for something special and unique, go to the private cabanas at Discovery Cove. Here, you can relax in your own peaceful space, with great service and nice amenities.  Enjoy swimming in cool pools, soak up the Florida sun, and sip on tropical cocktails.  Couples Massage At Mandara Spa  Enjoy a relaxing escape at Mandara Spa, which incorporates antioxidants into its treatments. It is in one of Orlando’s luxury resorts.  Enjoy the best relaxation with a couple's massage that looks out over the bright ocean. Also, here, you can choose from different massage types, like gentle Swedish or deep tissue.  Each one is ready to fit what you like. The calm atmosphere, soft music, and skilled therapists will help you forget all your stress. Further, after your massage, enjoy the peaceful relaxation area. Moreover, you can cherish the best refreshments while indulging in the stunning views. Take A Private Cabana Rental At Discovery Cove Indulge in a relaxing day with a private cabana rental at Discovery Cove, SeaWorld's special getaway. Every cabana has cozy lounge chairs, a private bathroom, and great service just for you.  So, it’s time to swim with dolphins, snorkel in the Grand Reef, or relax by your cabana in this sunny paradise. Additional Reading: Top Rated Fun Things To Do In Austin For Adults: Enjoy A Romantic Trip With Your Partner Top 10 Most Romantic Restaurants in Rome for the Perfect Date Ever!