Summer In Rome: Sleep, Do, See

BY  sagnika Feb 21, 2025

When I write this blog, I have already had an experience with some of these cruise ships! A combination of comfort and luxury, having kids with you might not be as relaxing as you thought it would be.   So, what do we do? You need to plan destination inspirations along with creating a travel itinerary. Do you need to know about some of the exotic places to travel?   This will ensure that each member of your family can enjoy themselves to the best of their ability. Each of these cruises gives you some of the best resources available!   Best Cruises for Families: Vacationing with Kids   Vacationing with kids can be difficult, especially when it comes to managing the kids. It is quite difficult to teach your kids to enjoy a certain event, especially if they need patience.    However, if you are one of those parents who have taught their kids to read, and have patience to study, well here we are! I am going to make you a list of the best cruises for families! Making memories with parents, partners, and kids is something that not everyone can boast of.   A lot of us might have lost one of our parents or might not have kids! So, if you are one of those lucky few, let me share with you these amazing cruises that create the perfect combination of entertainment, fun, growth, and love.   1. Adventures by Disney   https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy6u-uAPJ6r/ Snaking across the river Rhine, the cruise will cover Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands, and France. Can you imagine the collaboration between Adventures by Disney and Ama Waterways creating the perfect break for your family and kids?   With giant chess boards, and a huge library well stocked with books and heated pools, it is the perfect trip to take your kids on their summer break. Additionally, these cruise companies make sure that you are safe and yet make memories for a lifetime.   Apart from the Disney-trained guides, there are also parades organized! Furthermore, you will have family trivia nights, Karaoke sessions, and movie nights where you can bond better with your kids. Whether they are young or teenagers, they will enjoy it, I am sure.   2. Uniworld   https://www.instagram.com/p/C_gcQ3RSO0U/ Are you planning to take a cruise trip on one of the coolest rivers in the world? The Uniworld takes you on a seven-night trip across the Nile bringing together local language classes, desert-making sessions, family shore excursions, local cuisine, and exploring trails!   The trip has further expanded to include Egypt in the itinerary. You will enjoy the 84-passenger cruise where there are 42 suites, with two dining venues and a top-deck swimming pool. What a perfect way to plan one of the February vacation ideas!   Further, you can have movie nights and PlayStation game sessions with your kids when you are on this cruise. I would say, you must take a trip on this cruise once so that you can have the best time of your life. One of the best cruises for families, I would say.   3. Abercrombie & Kent   https://www.instagram.com/p/DC9Tcg6NRjj/?hl=en&img_index=4 These cruise trips mostly start between June to November. If you are a wildlife enthusiast or your kids love animals, this is the cruise trip you can choose. Starting from marine iguanas, giant tortoises, and blue-footed boobies are some of the species you can check out.   You will board the 20-passenger motor yacht with natural-themed lectures when reaching a specific port or a destination. There are plush cabins with rooms that are interconnected for families accommodating members, 5 to 8.   You will be visiting these dramatic islands, beautiful and exotic together making memories of a lifetime:   Rabida   Fernandina   Isabela   Santa Cruz   Genovesa   San Cristobal   4. Hurtigruten Expeditions (HX)   https://www.instagram.com/p/DBq19CzNPe5/?img_index=1 If you are traveling as a family, you must take this mind-blowing trip with 500-passenger seating. The cruise is a hybrid battery-powered ship taking you to Antarctica, crossing the Drake Passage. After all, it is one of the best places to visit in February!   You have to fly to Ushuaia to board the cruise! Your children will forever worship you once they get enrolled in the Young Explorer’s program. This way, various families can meet each other and make new friends, both adults and children.   The cruise is five days with three restaurants that are cozy and aesthetic. Furthermore, it is quite cold around, so there are several warming nooks for reading and board games for you and your kids.   With sparkling icebergs, an abundance of wildlife, and colossal glassier are a must when you visit the landscape of Antarctica! It is a must especially if you want to go on one of the best cruises for families.   5. Norwegian Cruise Line   https://www.instagram.com/p/DFNxRZNvSYn/ If you are traveling with your family and you want to experience something casual, this cruise line is for you. It covers Santorini and Rhodes & Mykonos in its itinerary with no dress codes and flexible dining.   If you are traveling with teens, this cruise is the perfect option, especially with the adrenaline-pumping attractions. The seating capability of the passengers is 3219 as you can go for a 10-story free fall dry slide!   There are several virtual reality experiences that your teen can enjoy. You will also get dedicated play spaces for kids including Splash Academy, Entourage, and Guppies Open Play.    When we talk about outdoor activities, you can check out the beautiful sparkling beaches! If you get down on the port of the Greek Isles, you must check out the Acropolis in Athens. I feel it is one of the best cruises for couples!   6. Carnival Cruise Lines   https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp5BO8LsnsN/ This cruise line is active year-round and easily is one of the best in the business. The play areas are all Dr. Seuss-themed along with family-friendly accommodations. Furthermore, the dining venues are all safe and comfortable for you and your children, making your vacation just perfect.  The cruise started in 2023, with a set of 5362 passenger seats. It is one of the biggest cruises with a huge playground, the Carnival Cruise Lines has a roller coaster, BOLT which boasts of a track along with eye-popping high ropes, a splash park, waterslides, and mini golf.   There is a large central pool and there is a Guy’s Burger Joint near it where you can see huge crowds during the daytime. Furthermore, there are babysitting services for single parents or parents who might want to spend some time alone.   You will get spacious suites and family cabins with snacks, games, and leisure activities available at the family lounge! Come on, you have to accept it is one of the best cruises for families!   7. Disney Cruise Line   https://www.instagram.com/p/DFn3ScjzflP/?img_index=5 Departs from Port Canaveral, the cruise line sails towards the Caribbean and the Bahamas. The Disney Cruise Line hosts various festive voyages during holiday seasons such as “Halloween on the High Seas” and “Very Merrytime”.   The festivities of Dia de los Muertos are the perfect background for families to spend time together. The dining experience is Coco-themed at the Plaza de Coco while there is an exclusive Disney the Tale of Moana stage show for you.   Furthermore, you can also attend the musical performance of Beauty and the Beast. Plus, there is also the Marvel Super Hero Academy, both adults and kids will have some fun there. The food experience is also themed, the Marvel dining experience.    You will also get to experience the floating magic carpet, on which impressive statues of Aladdin and Princess Jasmine! If you and your child love outdoor experiences, you can go snorkeling when visiting the tropical lagoon in the Bahamas. Simultaneously, you can attend the beach barbecues for food!   8. Royal Caribbean International   https://www.instagram.com/p/DGD5IxLx2i6/ From Auckland to Alaska, Royal Caribbeans takes you everywhere! Some of the largest ships are owned by Royal Caribbean International, especially the 1198-long, Icon of the Seas runs on liquified natural gas (LNG).   A perfect escape for your family, the Miami-based ship will take you to a private island in the Bahamas. The ship can carry about 5610 passengers, kids will love the grand settings, especially with the largest waterpark at sea.   With six coiling slides, one of them the 282-foot Frightening Bolt, free fall flume and pressure drop, additional activities in the park. Imagine your child having the best of times when going on one of the best cruises for families!   There is also a merry-go-round, zip line, aqua theater, escape room, and laser tag, just imagine how your kids will go haywire with these activities. Yes, there is some space for adults, a mini golf area, a sports court, rock climbing walls, and multiple pools.   Furthermore, some of the best dining venues are available on this cruise ship! The rooms are cabins dedicated to each family. One of the biggest rooms is the Family Infinite Ocean View Balcony with 1772 square feet accommodating 8 people!   Perfect Itinerary for Family Cruise...   When you were young, going on a vacation with your family, did you ever dream of taking your family the same way? Or when you grew up, did you want to pamper your family to enjoy the luxuries on a cruise? I feel the above cruises are some of the best cruises for families!   These cruises will make all those dreams and wishes come true! You can make reservations on any one of these cruises and give your parents, partner, and kids the best time of their life.   Comment below on which one of the cruise trips you want to go on and why! You can share one of the cruise options too, if you think it is one of the best.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit.

BY  Sibashree Oct 28, 2024

Yosemite National Park comes with great news for the explorers. The park has ended its reservation season early in 2024. So, for the rest of the year, you can enjoy a drive through the park without reservation.  In a social media post, Yosemite National Park authority has mentioned “ending the 2024 reservation season after this weekend (October 13)."  With no stress about getting a reservation, Yosemite National Park will surely be the destination for trekkers and wildlife lovers. However, before you plan a trip to the park, you must have a detailed idea of what to do there.  Best Things To Do At Yosemite National Park Yosemite National Park allows you to explore many activities, from camping to hiking. Therefore, setting the itinerary right can be a little taxing, with many options available.  So, here, I will discuss the outdoor pursuits in the park, with special emphasis on hiking, wildlife exploration, and stargazing.  Yosemite National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1984.  Hiking In Yosemite National Park This park has more than 750 miles of hiking trails. Further, if you want to explore the park’s ecology, wildlife, and geological formations closely, hiking is the best way out.  So, you can try these most popular hiking trails in Yosemite National Park.  Upper Yosemite Falls Trail Trekking Length: More than 10 Kms Difficulty Level: Hard Pet Friendly: No Time Of Trekking: Around 6 Hours  How about exploring a hiking trail that takes you to the top of the tallest waterfall in America?  You will also love the best views from Columbia Rock as you advance in your expedition.   Mirror Lake Loop Trekking Length: 8 Km Difficulty Level: Easy Pet Friendly: Yes  Time Of Trekking: 2 Hours The beautiful trekking route takes you to Mirror Lake and Tenaya Creek. Further, the calm water of the lake shows the most beautiful reflections of the surrounding cliffs.  However, often, the lake does not have adequate water, and then it looks like a meadow with sandy areas and grasses. So, it is also known as Mirror Meadow.  Nevada Fall Via The Mist Trail Trekking Length: Around 10 Km Difficulty Level: Hard Pet Friendly: No Time Of Trekking: 4 Hours   Nevada Fall Via The Mist Trail is a signature hike, allowing you to explore many spectacular views scattered around it.  Located on the Merced River, the water in the fall has a misty appearance. Further, falling from a height, the water of the cascade looks like an avalanche.  Lower Yosemite Falls Trail  Trekking Length: 2 Km Difficulty Level: Easy Pet Friendly: Yes Time Of Trekking: 30 Minutes   A deafening sound of water will fill your ears as you complete the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail trek and stand on the footbridge. This hiking trail is the best for enjoying beautiful views of Yosemite Falls and creeks. Further, throughout the trek, you will learn about the park’s culture and history.  Exploring Wildlife At Yosemite National Park “Approximately 95% of the park is designated wilderness. The entire park is surrounded by four national forests, several adjacent portions of which are designated wilderness areas, thereby providing connectivity with the larger landscape.” - UNESCO World Heritage Convention. Surrounded by forests and extensive wilderness, Yosemite National Park is home to around 90 mammal species. Further, this park has many amphibians, reptiles, birds, insects, and fish. I will talk about the birds and fish in detail shortly. So, here is a brief overview of the mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and insects found here.  Mammals Black BearsBighorn SheepPacific FisherRed FoxBatsMountain LionsDeerGrizzly BearAmphibians Sierra NewtPacific TreefrogCalifornia Red-Legged FrogYosemite ToadsReptilesSierra Fence LizardSierra Alligator LizardsWestern Pond TurtleSierra GartersnakeSierra Mountain KingsnakeNorthern Pacific Rattlesnake (It is the only venomous snake out of the 13 species of snakes found here.)InsectsElderberry Longhorn BeetleCaddisfliesGrasshoppersBristletails Among the species found here, grizzly bears, foothill yellow-legged frogs, and California red-legged frogs are the ones on the verge of extinction. Fragmentation of habitat, air pollution, and the invasion of non-native species are the primary reasons behind this process of eradication.  Stargazing In Yosemite National Park  The minimal light pollution and extensive wilderness make Yosemite National Park a great space for stargazing. Further, from July to October, this park is a great space to observe the Milky Way.  In addition, there are multiple hotspots in the park for stargazing. So, check out the table below to know where to enjoy the starry affair the most. Stargazing Location In The ParkBest Spots Yosemite ValleyEl Capitan MeadowCook's MeadowSwinging BridgeTunnel ViewGlacier PointGlacier Point OverlookWashburn PointTioga RoadTenaya LakeOlmsted Point Wawona is another popular stargazing location in the park, and it offers a peaceful experience.  Stargazing Experiences You Cannot Miss As you set out to stargaze in Yosemite National Park, you will encounter many unique sights. However, watching the moonbows or climber’s headlamps are the two most common stargazing experiences in the park.  Climber’s Headlamps During spring and fall, many climbers spend their nights on the cliffs of Yosemite Park. As they notice the first star coming out, they turn on their headlamps.  Moonbows April to June is the waterfall season in the park. On full moon nights in that season, the moonlight creates a rainbow in the mist of Yosemite Falls.  Even if your eyes cannot catch the colors, your camera surely will.  Birdwatching In Yosemite National Park  This national park is a favorite of birders, considering the presence of 262 species. Among them, 165 are habitat and migratory species, while the remaining one are transient species.  Further, the elevation of the park ranges between 2000 to 13000 feet. So, you will notice massive changes in the behaviors and features of the birds found here.  Yosemite Conservancy birdwatching outing and Christmas Bird Count are some of the programs that you can join if you want to locate the local, migratory, and transient ones.  Some common species of birds found here are the Great gray owl, American dipper, spotted owl, and Western tanagers.  A park-wide census of willow flycatchers has been conducted in the park. The report shows that these species do not breed in the park anymore.  Rock Climbing In Yosemite National Park  Yosemite National Park is a hub of rock climbers. Rock climbing here is beyond big wall climbs or conquering the cliffs. Further, almost every big wall in the park has a distinct ecosystem for you to explore.  Some popular rock climbing spots in the park are Merced River Canyon and Tuolumne Meadows. However, climbing the El Capitan is the most adventurous outdoor pursuit you can try in the park. The Oscar-winning movie Free Solo has further put this rock-climbing destination under the spotlight.  Water Activities At Yosemite National Park  Swimming, boating, rafting, and fishing are the best water activities in Yosemite National Park.  Swimming You can swim in almost any water body in the park. However, swimming is prohibited in the following water bodies. Dana Fork of the Tuolumne River Lake Eleanor Reservoir Wawona Domestic Water Intake Hetch Hetchy Reservoir Emerald Pool  Silver Apron Further, for the best cooling-off experience, you can try swimming in the Merced River.  Boating And Rafting  The best locations for boating and rafting in Yosemite National Park are Merced River, South Fork Merced River, and Tenaya Lake.  Rafting in the Merced River is a popular summer activity in the park. So, you can rent a raft or try kayaking here.  Further, you must wear a personal floatation device for kayaking and rafting in the South Fork Merced River or Tenaya Lake.  Fishing In Yosemite National Park  Are you over 16? Then, you will need a California fishing license to fish in the park. Further, you must abide by the California and Yosemite Park regulations about fishing.  Nevertheless, the best places for fishing in the park are: Merced River South Fork Merced River  Frog Creek Adair Lake Hanging Basket Lake Sacramento pikeminnow, California roach, and riffle sculpin are some native fish species in the national park. Furthermore, trout is the most common non-native species in the region.  Yosemite National Park At A Glance Location: California, United States Highest Point: Mount Lyell (3,997 Meters) Area: Around 1,200 Square Miles Operating Hours: 24*7 Origin of Name: Uzumate, meaning Grizzly Bear Visitor Centers: Yosemite Valley Welcome Center, Yosemite Exploration Center, Valley Wilderness Center, etc. How To Reach: Visit the park from the west through Highways 41, 140, and 120. However, to reach the park easily, you will have to take Highway 120. Further, please note that the Tioga Pass Entrance remains closed from November to May or June.  Best Time to Visit: May to June Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Travelling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

BY  Sibashree Mar 22, 2025

The holiday season is around the corner, and we’re already planning holidays. If you are heading to your family, going on a holiday, or elsewhere, pre-booking will help you make the journey easier and more enjoyable.  This is the full guide on assisting you with holiday travel, including expert tips and practical advice for preparing for holidays easily.  1. Prepare in Advance for an Easy Journey  The sooner you book, the more likely you will get what you want. When traveling, it is best to go during holidays and reserve rooms and seats in advance.  Don’t leave it late; arrange transportation and accommodation ahead of time. Put together tickets, accommodation, and transport on a list.  Be sure to look at the weather forecast in your destination to be able to pack suitably. You do not want to be caught in a snowstorm or heatwave with the wrong equipment!  2. Intelligent Holiday Travel Budgeting  Holiday travel costs can easily exceed budget, especially during peak holiday seasons. Setting a realistic budget when making holiday plans will prevent overspending.  Budget your expenses under allocations to pay for your airfare, accommodations, travel, restaurants, tour fare, and shopping.  Utilize discounts online, compare prices, and hostels, Airbnb, or travel off-season. No need; forward reservation can also assist. It’s also smart to have some ready money for emergencies such as tips or impulsive shopping.  3. Pack Smart and Light  Intelligent packing will save the day and avoid inconvenience. Pack only the necessities and try to keep it light.  Use multi-functional clothing that you can interchange to reduce the amount of clothing to carry.  Don’t spare any space in your luggage to purchase souvenirs or new clothes during travel. Don’t exceed your baggage allowance limits so that you can have additional charges to pay at the airport.  If your journey is short, a carry-on flight would do. A physician’s kit containing medicine, a first aid kit, and photocopies of the documents that will be needed should be kept handy in case of an accident.  4. Travel with Pets  If a pet is being taken along on a holiday vacation, find out if your hotel is pet-friendly and look up the travel rules in advance.  Some airlines and other carriers also require health certificates for pets, so have your vet issue one.  Be prepared by bringing along the basics, such as pet food, water, a leash, toys, and medication if prescribed.  When traveling, consider your pets' safety and comfort as well. Plan in advance for pet care requirements.  5. Insure Yourself with Travel Insurance  Unexpected events like flight delays, lost luggage, or illness can spoil your tour and leave you stranded. Travel insurance helps by giving you confidence through reimbursement of unexpected costs.  Depending on your holiday, you can decide to buy an upgraded policy that includes trip cancellation, illness, or even flight delay. Make sure to read the cover details before buying so that it will be worth it.  6. Create a Flexible Schedule  Planning never hurts, but flexibility is the key to enhancing your holiday experience. See where you are required to go, check their opening time, and write down their holiday hours.  Adopt a flexible approach in the event your arrangements are foiled or in case you wish to insert unplanned encounters on your path.  The holiday season means large numbers of people, and flexibility will avoid getting agitated if matters fail as expected.  7. Travel Checklist  Ensure you have all the documents and essentials with you before you go out to your destination. A list of essentials is as follows:  • Genuine travel documents (passport, visas, etc.)  • Cash and debit/credit cards (both are recommended)  • Travel insurance information  • Medication prescribed and first aid kits  • Phone chargers for electronic devices and adapters  • Rain or weather-specific footwear and clothing  • Toilet and personal items  8. Protect Your Belongings  It’s always exciting to travel to a new place, but protecting your belongings is equally important.  Stealing and pickpocketing can occur anywhere, particularly in crowded places such as airports or sightseeing sites.  Store your valuables in a money pouch or safe belt, and don’t carry all your money or cards at the same time.  It is also wise to have photocopies or digital copies of important documents (such as your passport, travel insurance, and emergency contacts) just in case they are stolen or lost.  9. Be Frugal with Your Holiday Money  Over-spending on your holiday can cause anxiety once the holiday season is over.  To prevent this, keep track of your spending once in a while on holiday. Have a budget for everyday activities and meals and prioritize substances over goods when spending.  If you tend to mindless shopping, place restrictions before eating out or shopping beforehand. The most memorable aspects of your vacation are likely the experiences, not the trinkets!   10. Foreign Currency Exchange & Financial Planning  If you are traveling abroad, it’s convenient to get used to the foreign currency and exchange rate.  Don’t exchange a large amount of money at the airport, where they offer less favorable exchange rates. Rather, use local ATMs and withdraw your money when you arrive.  It is also advisable to notify your bank of your travel so you won’t have any issues transacting on foreign grounds. Finally, for added convenience, bring a credit card with no foreign transaction fee.   11. Stay Connected for Safety & Convenience  You will require a functional phone or device to communicate with others and utilize in emergencies on the road.  If you are traveling abroad, buy an international SIM card or international data plan so that you can call.  Also, let a trustworthy friend or relative know your travel plans so that they can trace you. This is an extra precaution and convenient in the event that you need help on the road.  Final Words!  Vacation travel, if well planned, can be smooth sailing and hassle-free. Whether you are a frugal traveler, security-aware adventurer, culture-aware traveler, or packing expert and one.  Like any of them, the following is the best advice for hassle-free and successful travel.  Considering all this, you should remember that quality planning will ensure that you’re carefree during travel. Safe and happy holidays!