5 Best Temples To Visit In Bangkok

BY  Abdul Aziz Jan 4, 2024

Situated on the western coast of Phuket, one of the most popular tourist attractions is Patong Beach. There is a range of activities with something for everyone.  You can party, relax at a spa, sample delicious food, enjoy the shopping, or indulge in water sports. It’s all there. The 3-km golden sand strip is very popular among beach lovers.  So, if you are looking for something similar, this article is the one for you. Read till the end and discover some hidden gems in Patong and which places you should avoid going in Thailand.  When to Visit Patong? If you want ideal weather, then the best time to visit is from mid-December to the end of February. The peak month for tourism is January, when the weather is best. Another peak is in July and August when many European travelers have vacations. May has the fewest visitors, and autumn is quieter, too, but Patong sees plenty of activity all year round. May to October is the time to witness some large waves and scary swells, and nobody pays for such sights. Hence, visit it from November to April when the weather is pleasant.  Even during sunny days, it is important that you are careful on the beach and look for potential red flags.  Where To Stay In Patong? There is plenty of excellent accommodation at Patong Beach. Prices may be generally higher than in Phuket city, but there is a wider selection of budget accommodation too. Whatever your budget, you are sure to find a selection of hotels in Patong, Thailand that suit your needs and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. 1. Phuket Mariott Resort & Spa If you are in and around Merlin Beach, Phuket Mariott Resort is the one where you stay. The hotel has a mesmerizing oasis surrounded by a butterfly sanctuary and a private coral reef experience. Dive into a splash of comfort with this 5-star stay.  2. Hotel Clover Patong Phuket Free parking, an adjacent swimming pool, and easy airport accessibility- if it rings a bell to you, Hotel Clover should be your ultimate destination. This Cosmopolitan stay amidst a wondrous surfing destination offers a great view of the entire Patong Beach.  Activities On Patong Beach: Sunbathing And Swimming Patong is a great place for sunbathing, swimming, and even building sandcastles. The temperature of the water is perfect for swimming. Moreover, Patong receives bright sunny days, and it’s great for sunbathing, but don’t forget the sunscreen and take regular breaks in the shade. Beach Massage. You will find plenty of masseurs on or near the beach who offer head massage, foot massage, or a Thai complete-body massage. Moreover, you can enjoy the sounds of the waves. Your worries will disappear completely. Water Adventures. Patong is popular for a range of water sports, like windsurfing, parasailing, and even jet skiing. Licensed operators are common around Bangla Road. Always check that operators are genuine and that equipment like jet skis is licensed and insured. Snorkeling On the north side of the beach, you will find fantastic snorkeling spots and many vendors who offer equipment for snorkeling for rent. You can also go on tours to snorkeling to various reefs, caves, and also the islands located nearby. Nightlife Nightlife is mostly concentrated on Bangla Road.  There, one can find many pubs, beer bars, dance clubs, and lounges. There is so much variation in nightlife that it can be indeed difficult to understand where to initiate. Dining Patong is perfect for foodies. You can get every type of major global culinary experience here. You will find Korean, Indian, German,  Japanese, Chinese, Russian, Scandinavian, and many more international options. There are also, of course, delicious and authentic Thai restaurants amongst the international cuisine that you must also try. Shopping Visitors are often surprised at the variety of shopping options available. At night, the town transforms itself into a massive marketplace. You will find stalls selling clothing, accessories, jewelry, beachwear, and much more. Starting prices are high, so you have to negotiate hard. There are also plenty of shopping malls where you can find brand-name goods at reasonable prices. Things To Consider Before Visiting Thailand Thailand is one place laden with the most precious beauties of nature. Due to its natural and artificial marvels, it continues to woo the attention of people from different parts of the world. Here are some things you need to consider before visiting Thailand.  Let us begin with the discussion here so that you have a better understanding. The Rainy Season Varires Usually, the rainy season in Thailand ranges between June to October. It fetches heavy showers in central, north, and western Thailand. But one can experience rainfall in the Gulf of Thailand and the Southern coast a bit later, usually from October. The rainy season travel denotes lower prices and, at the same time, the smaller crowds. Look Out For The Recommended Vaccinations If you are moving to Thailand without vaccination, your initial investments before landing there will be wasted. The protocols for tourists on the vaccination are stringent. COVID-19 vaccine is a must, but at the same time, you can not leave behind vaccinations against tetanus and hepatitis. They are essential, and the authorities may ask you about them. The Thailand Tourist Visa Fetching a tourist visa for Thailand is quite simple for a listed citizen. It is because they offer a thirty-day visa exemption, mainly for countries like the USA, the UK, South Africa, Australia, and more. Be sure to check out check out the list of countries. When you arrive with the visa exemption, you need to fill out an entry form for the sake of immigration. You should have proof of exit from the country. It helps show that your stay in Thailand does not exceed thirty days. What To Pack For Thailand?  Thousands of people visit Thailand every year. But the first question that is bound to strike you is the list of packing. The internet is flooded with the same question. Thailand is one country that lives with its traditions. 1. Outfits Therefore, you should skip the tight-fitted clothing. But the smartest way to do it is to check out the weather forecasts and then strategize clothes packing. However, do not forget to keep the rain jacket under any conditions. A pair of dresses for ladies and trousers for men if you are planning to hit a fancy restaurant. Unisex polo shirts with collars.  Outfits that keep the knees and shoulders covered if you are visiting temples or archaeological sites.  Culottes/shirts. Trunks or swimming costume if you have plans for snorkeling. Sarong.  2. Footwear Just like other Asian religious sites, taking off shoes is a must when visiting Thailand’s religious shrines. Hence, pack shoes that are practical and easy to put on and off. For example, consider packing: Comfortable trainers, tennis shoes, or sketchers if you are planning to walk a lot. Flip-flops for Patong and other adjacent beaches.  Loafers for hitting dinning destinations in and around Patong.  Places Not To Visit In Thailand You may have heard a lot about the must-visit places in Thailand. But have you ever looked for the list of places that you must abstain from visiting? Some areas in Thailand are extremely crowded, and if you are not a lover of it, then you must subtract them from your list. 1. Krabi and Phi-Phi You may have heard about some hot favorite places like Phi Phi and  Krabi. Yes, these places have their popularity, but they lack the Thai authenticity you always seek when visiting Thailand. Independent travelers do not have much to explore on these islands.  2. Hua Hin Hua Hin has recently become a retreat for retired Westerners. But it is quieter than Pattaya and Phuket, with almost no tourist destinations. Apart from a few markets, you wouldn’t find too many interesting sights to visit here. Hence, there’s no point in spending all this money on a quiet destination like Hua Hin.  3. Pai This lovely destination set across rice fields was once a backpacker's paradise. But over-western influence and tourist saturation have left this place with some serious damage. You might find it difficult to find decent local food here, which is the basic criterion of traveling. Conclusion Patong Beach In Thailand has its attractions, which is why the place's popularity keeps increasing with time. The beach is indeed beautiful, with myriad attractions. But apart from the beach, if you are looking forward to an exotic Thailand tour, the aforementioned points may help you out. Having said that, here comes an end to this comprehensive guide. Patong Beach in Phuket is a must-visit destination once in everyone’s lifetime. So, what are you waiting for? Go pack your bags now! Thank you for reading this one till the end! Read Also: Things To Do When You Are In Pigeon Forge The Best Resort Spa & Wellness Island Experience! 12 Best Things To Do In Sanibel Island – Tour And Travel Guide

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 26, 2021

Are you looking for the perfect family vacation spot to take your kids this holiday season? Do your kids love swimming with the dolphins, water rides, and other safe adventure games? Have you tried looking at the fantastic resorts in the Puerto Vallarta region of Mexico, which boasts of excellent weather and resorts? The year 2020 has been tough, especially for kids. The Coronavirus pandemic has taken a toll on them in a major way. The social distancing requirements have meant that they have not been allowed to meet their friends for months on end. No school has also resulted in a lot of boredom and monotony at home. However, things are taking a turn for the better now and as a parent, you can do a lot to help raise their spirits and see them smiling again. In this article, we are going to help you pick the ideal vacation spot for your entire family. We will review the Aquaventuras Park on the Mexican Pacific Coast. We will discuss some of its star attractions and tell you why this can be the place for your next magical family vacation. Aquaventuras Park: Where is it located? Situated in the tropical paradise that is the Mexican Pacific Coast, Aquaventuras Park was formerly known as the Sea Life Park. It is situated in the tourist-friendly region of Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta and boasts of some of the world’s most scenic natural landscaping. The tropical weather also ensures that if you are traveling from the American north or Canada in the winter holidays, you and your family can still soak in the sun. Lush beaches, great tropical hills for trekking, and excellent world-class resorts make Puerto Vallarta a must-visit destination for families. Apart from the resort itself, vacationers can also check out the sights and sounds of the beautiful city, which is steeped in colonial culture and history. If you want to get your family to a paradise for the next vacation, Aquaventuras Park is as good as it gets. You can Swim with dolphins in Puerto Vallarta by the day and enjoy local cuisine at one of the small authentic restaurants in the evening. Major Attractions of the Aquaventuras Park: Why you should consider 1. Swimming with the Dolphins- Unlike other aquariums and aquatic water parks, which do not allow individuals to get up-and-close with dolphins, at the Aquaventuras Park you can come very close to these magical creatures. Our trained handlers and experts ensure that you can swim with these majestic animals on the open seas. This is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience. 2. Sea Lion Discovery- Like dolphins, sea lions are highly intelligent animals. They are very cute, adorable, and love to interact with human beings. Your kids would find this the perfect opportunity to learn more about how aquatic animals live, what they eat, and other things. It will also make them compassionate about protecting our environment and our ecosystems. 3. Water Rides- Aquaventuras is one of the leading water parks on the west coast. At last count, the park boasted of more than 100+ water rides, which are completely safe for all age groups. Yes, there are some rides, where adults might need to accompany the kids, but then again, it is tipped to be a family water ride. Trust us, you will not get bored of water rides at the park. 4. Adventure Sports- If you have teenagers who love to engage with adventures like wall climbs and zip lines, fret not, the park has got your covered. End-to-end zip lines crisscrossing the entire resort and overseeing the tropical forests is sure to take anyone’s breath away. You can also challenge one another at the rock-climbing area, or try the balancing log. 5. The Lazy River- Where else can you enjoy floating around on a raft for 160 meters? At Aquaventuras Park, if you want to engage in an activity, which is a bit on the slower and relaxing side, you should try the Lazy River. You can see most of the park’s attractions on the Lazy River, sip a beverage, and let the good times roll. This is an ideal way to unwind and relax at the resort. The Park’s Commitment to Marine Life: What Kids Can Learn Apart from all the fun and the games, as parents, we would want our kids to keep learning and picking up valuable information. When you come to Aquaventuras Park, the experts and handlers make it a point to educate the kids about how marine animals live. They also touch upon issues like pollution and show them how polluting the water can harm these beautiful marine animals. When kids get up and close with these animals, they cannot help but fall in love. At this time, the handlers impress upon kids why they should try to keep their surroundings clean, not engage in pollution, and care for their ecosystem. The Park invests heavily in the conservation and protection of marine habitats. When kids come across such issues at a young age, it influences their future development. They become more sensitive to the environment, the animals, and take steps to conserve and preserve the same. Almost all Water Parks in Puerto Vallarta have a solid commitment to marine and aquatic life protection and conservation. If you want your kids to learn something even on a vacation and help them become better human beings when they grow up, a trip to Aquaventuras should be something, which you should consider. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) How much is for Aquaventuras park admission? For visitors, it is 25 dollars for each adult and 19 for each kid. If you have participated in the dolphin function then your entry is free. What kind of foods are available in Aquaventuras park? If you have a swim adventure program then you get a hamburger with french fries and soda. They also offer combos where there are soda and french fries with which you will option like pizzas, hamburgers, chicken wings, hot dogs, Caesar salad to choose from. The amazing thing is you will get all of these in just 7 dollars.  What is the policy on children? Infants under 1 to 5 years do not have to pay for the service at all.  The infant cannot be under 1 year and must wear a life jacket that fits properly.  Children from 6 to 12 years will be given appropriate activities keep their age in mind How many people can be in the water at the same time? For the royal swim, only 10 people are allowed For swim adventure, 12 people maximum. For the Dolphin encounter, 15 to 20 people can together in the water.  The Final Word A tropical paradise, which allows you to swim with the dolphins, try adventure sports, and enjoy some of the finest cuisines, Aquaventuras Park located in Puerto Vallarta is an experience unlike any in the world. In addition to being rich in its offerings, the park is also very affordable in terms of the prices. This means that you do not have to shell out a lot of money to enjoy world-class amenities. The entire family can have the time of their lives on a very affordable budget. Do you have any other questions, which you would want us to answer Aquaventuras Park? Hit us up in the comments section below and we will try to answer as many as possible. Read Also: 10 Best Things To Do In San Diego (USA) 3 Ways To Enjoy Spring At Zion National Park The Perfect Destination For Adventure Enthusiasts In Jamaica- Yaaman Adventure Romantic Getaway Tips: 9 Romantic Tips To Celebrate Couples Vacation

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