5 Best Temples To Visit In Bangkok

BY  Ankita Mar 26, 2024

Japan, a country steeped in tradition and culture, offers an array of sensory experiences that attract travelers from around the globe. Among these, the Japanese matsuri (festivals) stand out as a testament to the country's rich heritage, embodying the spirit of joy, community, and the spectacular interplay of light and color. For those embarking on Japan tours, the opportunity to participate in these festivals is not just a travel highlight; it's a deep dive into the heart of Japanese culture. The Essence Of Vibrant Matsuri Matsuri are integral to Japanese culture, with each festival having its unique significance, rooted in history, religion, and local lore. These events range from solemn traditional ceremonies to explosive celebrations of life, each painted with vibrant colors and illuminated by dazzling lights. The experience is a feast for the senses, offering insight into the communal spirit and the enduring traditions that define the Japanese way of life. A Kaleidoscope Of Festivals No Japan tour is complete without witnessing the spectacle of at least one matsuri. The Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, renowned for its grand procession of floats, is a spectacle of craftsmanship and community spirit that dates back over a thousand years. The Sapporo Snow Festival transforms the city into a winter wonderland of intricate ice sculptures, blending artistry with the beauty of nature. Meanwhile, the Aomori Nebuta Festival captivates with its parade of enormous lantern floats, creating a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow. Illuminating Experiences What sets these festivals apart is not just their visual appeal but the immersive experiences they offer. Participating in vibrant matsuri is to step into a living tapestry of history and tradition. Visitors can don traditional attire, partake in ancient rituals, and indulge in local delicacies. The warm welcome extended by the local communities adds to the charm, making every visitor feel part of the celebration. Seasonal Spectacles The beauty of Japan's festivals is their diversity throughout the year. Spring welcomes the cherry blossoms with hanami (flower viewing) parties, where the fleeting beauty of sakura serves as a backdrop for gatherings filled with food, drink, and song. Summer brings the explosive energy of fireworks and bon dances, while autumn and winter festivals, such as the Chichibu Night Festival, showcase breathtaking displays of light against the seasonal landscapes. Planning Your Japan Tour For travelers eager to immerse themselves in the magic of Japanese matsuri, planning is key. Many festivals occur on specific dates or seasons, and some of the most popular can draw large crowds. Engaging with a specialized Japan tours operator can provide invaluable insight, ensuring you not only witness these incredible events but also understand their cultural significance. Accommodations and logistics are also taken care of, allowing you to fully immerse in the experience without the hassle. A Journey Through Light and Color Japan's festivals are more than just events; they are a vibrant expression of life itself. They offer a unique window into the soul of Japan, where tradition and modernity dance hand in hand. For those seeking a deeper understanding of Japanese culture or simply looking to experience the extraordinary, the vibrant matsuri are a highlight of any Japan tour. As you navigate through the festivals of light and color, you're not just a spectator but a participant in a centuries-old tradition that continues to dazzle and inspire. How To Take Part In Matsuri  To take part in Matruri, a grand Japanese festival, you have to learn about Japanese culture. Many Matruri welcome tourists and visitors from around the world. Indeed, it's a great way to learn about Japanese festivities and share the most important inputs on the celebrations. Here, we discuss how you can take part in Matrusir and experience the festivities. It is usually opined that there are many, hundreds, and thousands of Matsur taking place in Japan. The is no requirement to wear traditional clothes. Watching the people in procession and parades in huge numbers is a great approach to feeling the festivity from within. Renting Traditional Japanese Costumes If you join the matsuri celebration in general clothes, there is no issue, but you may be detached from the crowd. Why not make the gathering special? No, you do not need to buy traditional wear. But you can rent it. It's a simplistic wear, yet echoes the Japanese spirit…yes we mean a Kimono called the Yukata. There are Yulta rentals. Moreover, ther are some specific costumes meant for different festivals. You can try it out and have fun. Chanting Together  Another part of the festivities and soaking in the fun is chanting together. It is one of the easiest ways to be one with the people. Chants like Washoi or Oisa, or say Rassera Rassera Rassera (in the Nebuta Festival), can help you get yourself close to the Japanese culture and the sense of unity. It is indeed a great way to join the locals and be one with the Japanese culture. Dance Together  One of the great ways to express fun, merriment, and lightness of mood is by dancing together. Dance has been an integral part of the culture of various civilizations. It is a great way to participate with the people and learn about the intricacies of the culture. The same goes in for Japan. It is a great way to embrace the warmth of the festivities and soak the cultural elements. In Japan, during the vibrantMatrusi, you can take part in a traditional Japanese folk dance called Odori. Repeat the same movements with everyone, and you will be a master of it in no time. If you find it shaky initially, then you could use YouTube videos to familiarize yourself with the steps. Don’t worry, you are new and you need some time. But there is no doubt that you will have great fun. Conclusion In conclusion, Japanese tours that include the vibrant matsuri offer an unparalleled experience of the heart of Japanese culture. Each festival, with its unique blend of history, tradition, and community, presents an unforgettable spectacle of light and color. Whether you're drawn by the history, the beauty, or the sheer joy of these celebrations, participating in a matsuri is an experience that resonates long after the lights have dimmed.

BY  Ankita May 18, 2024

There's a magical charm in circular hiking trails that arrests the attention of tourists and seasonal hikers alike. One of the most popular is Hiking the Kerry Way in Ireland. It provides waves of adventure that guide you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes Ialand has to offer you. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just a beginner in this adventure sport, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your journey. The Kerry Way is an 11-day hike providing an experience you can not forget. , Right from mist-covered mountains to the simplest charm of villages, get ready to soak in the rugged beauty. Be an adorer of the magic of Ireland's southwest coast. What Is The Kerry Way? The Kerry Way is a hiking trail that circulates the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry, Ireland.  The trail is approximately 215 kilometers long and takes 11 days to complete. Moreover, along the way, you can spot some of the most breathtaking views of the coastline, along with gigantic mountains and blue lakes. The Kerry Way offers a unique admixture of rich history, friendly local culture,, and nature's bounty. It's a chance to dip yourself in Ireland's rugged charm. Trail Length And Difficulty Level Like most of the long-distance trails, for example, West Highland Way in Scotland, or Camino de Santiago in Spain,  this one is disintegrated into several stages. Moreover, there are around nine stages in total, and all of them last  15 to 30 kilometers. While some sections are a bit difficult, the overall difficulty level is moderate. This is why the trails become accessible to hikers of diverse capabilities. Planning Your Trip Like with most walking holidays that cover long-distance trails, planning is indeed one of the major factors. You need to ensure that everything is okay before you start your journey. Remember that it's a physical challenge. You will find yourself walking for several hours a day, and soon, it turns out to steal the heart of the traveler as one accustomed to its stiffness. However, here are some key factors to keep in mind: Best Time To Hike The Kerry Way You must opt for the  Kerry Way during the spring and summer months(April to September). This is the best time to tackle the difficulty. However, the weather is friendlier for the trackers during this time of the year. But as you get closer to summer, the entire and crowded places since it's also the peak season. Accommodation Options Along The Trail There's no dearth of places to stay while hiking this trail. You can choose from the several towns along the trail based on your priorities, budget, and other requirements.  Besides, you'll find small hostels on the roads. You'll find a mix of guesthouses and hostels in abundance. Keep in mind, you must look to book in advance. It is highly recommended, especially when the season is at its peak. Packing Essentials Packing light is key, but you need to make sure to dress in layers and pack a raincoat even if it's summer and the weather is mild rain can happen from time to time. Make sure you don't forget your sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, water bottle, and a good map if you are old school. I recommend a hiking app that lets you use its features offline. Also, a first aid kit is a must! Scenic Highlights There are many highlights along the way; you'll be able to experience the stunning Killarney National Park and explore the Gap of Dunloe, Torc Waterfall, and the Lakes of Killarney within this magical park. Not only that but also the coastal cliffs and dramatic seascapes of the Dingle Peninsula section offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. History is present on these iconic trails, and you can spot several ancient ruins and historical sites and discover stone circles, ring forts, and medieval castles along the way. What Safety Measures You Should Take While You Go Out For Hiking Hiking a trail lets an individual be immersed in the sea of enthusiasm and joy.  It is one way to set free from the bondage of daily duties and surrender entirely to nature.   Hiking the Kerry Way in Ireland instills visitors with a dosage of love for nature, which remains in the soul forever. So, if you like to give it a try…cut the handcuff of 9 to 5… this is the time to listen to the call of nature.  Let your heart respond to her call with openness.  However, in this section, we discuss some of the safety measures that you must take when you set out for your adventurous journey. So, let's get started without wasting any more time. 1. Bring At Least one Friend  One of the safety measures that you ought to take is making a group while you attempt such travel. Solo trips are not good, at least when you are traveling or hiking.   According to the opinion of the National Outdoor Leadership School, there must be at least one companion who must be there in these adventurous journeys.   This can help the traveler recover from any issue that erupts during the hiking. Hence, you must have an individual who can help you out in the hour of need.  2. Agree On A Emergency Plan While you plan your hiking, you must have a clear idea of devising an emergency plan. Moreover, there is a key question that you need to answer.  Will there be a reliable call service at the place? Then, in such a case, a personal locator beacon or a satellite messaging device can help the individual.  3. Prepare For The Weather  You must have adequate preparedness when you set out for hiking. Moreover, you must talk to the ranger or thereafter consult with them on the inclement weather events at this time of the year.  Even with the best weather forecast, inclement weather conditions like thunder and lightning take over quickly and most unexpectedly.   However, in these situations, you must use the NPS counseling in a shelter while stuck amidst the wild areas. But as a basic refrain from the high and open areas. They are prone to risk and uncertainties.  Pack The Ten Essentials  The 10 Essentials is a list of emergency provisions created organically by the mountaineers.  As per their opinion, when you are looking for mountaineering, trekking, or even hiking, you must ensure that you respond to the emergency and thereafter spend at least one night outdoors.  However, here we mention the list of essential objects that you must carry with you on your journey.   They include sun protection, a first aid kit, an insulation jacket, fire starters, a lighter, repair kits, nutrition (that is an extra day's supply of nutritious food), Hydration, and the emergency shelter, that is, tents, blankets, bivy, tarp or sleeping bag.   These are the essentials that you must keep with you when you trek or hike.  Conclusion Hiking the Kerry Way has its own set of thrills, adventure,  and love. It is one of the most fascinating places for hiking in Ireland.  Have your entire planning in place and at the same time ensure that you consider the points discussed on safety. Have a great hike and hike safely. Read Also: Things To Do In Rocky Mountains National Park Tips For Vacationing In Gatlinburg Five Best Things To Do In Nepal

BY  Ankita Mar 26, 2024

Famous for the Guggenheim Museum of Modern Art and for being the center of the semiautonomous Basque country, Bilbao is a major cultural hub and one of the most underrated cities in Spain to explore. Along with fascinating Basque culture, including its unique language, you’ll encounter excellent art galleries, Europe’s largest covered market, unique food, and a revitalized urban core that has received the prestigious Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize. Also called the Nobel Prize for Urbanism, it was awarded for the urban transformation this former manufacturing city has been able to achieve. All of these factors make Bilbao a fantastic city to explore. But that’s not all it has to offer. Even from the redeveloped heart of Bilbao, you can see the fertile green mountains that are characteristic of the Basque country. And with the wild beauty of the Atlantic Ocean just a short drive away, Bilbao makes a fantastic gateway to explore more of the countryside of northern Spain. Far from the arid landscapes of the south of the country, Bilbao sits in a region of high mountains, dense forests, and regular rain sweeping in from the sea. And if you want to explore this natural environment further, you’re in luck. Leave your heavy bags behind at a luggage storage facility in Bilbao and check out some of these great natural escapes for yourself. Along the way, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the natural beauty of the Basque country. Elorritxueta / Vivero   If your time in Bilbao is limited or you just don’t want to stray too far from the city, this hilltop park is a great place to get away from it all without having to go on a long journey. Located just outside central Bilbao itself, this wooded park offers incredible views over the city and the surrounding mountains, and the picnic tables and barbecue facilities make it the ideal place for a picnic. You’ll also find plenty of walking trails both in and around this park that can lead you to other points of interest in the region. For example, there’s an old bunker and system of tunnels dating back to the Spanish Civil War just a short walk away from the park and a scenic spot that provides one of the very best views of Bilbao from above at Ganguren Mendiaren Gailurra. Easy to reach from the city itself with a drive of less than half an hour, this is a popular spot with locals that is not well-known to travelers but provides a great natural escape close to the city. Atxabiribil Beach Bilbao isn’t technically coastal itself, but it’s not at all far from the wild Atlantic, and in the summer, the beautiful beaches overlooking the Bay of Biscay become some of the most popular places in the area to hang out and enjoy nature. This beach nicknamed the Wild One for its unspoiled scenery, is a beautiful example. Huge waves roll in from the ocean, and it’s rumored that this was the first place anyone ever surfed in the Basque country. That’s a tradition that’s kept alive today, with surfers traveling here from across Spain to enjoy some of the best waves anywhere in the country. Reachable via Bilbao’s Metro system, this isn’t a place where you can expect to have the sand all to yourself, especially on a sunny day in summer. It’s also one of the most accessible beaches in the area, making it popular with families with kids. Still, if you want a beautiful beach that’s easy to reach and big enough that you can usually find some space even on the hottest day, this is a great option. Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve Just a little to the east of Bilbao, this sprawling nature reserve is the perfect place to get away from it all. Covering 22,000 hectares surrounding a coastal estuary, this park offers dense forests, towering cliffs, and secluded beaches that feel like the middle of nowhere. The park is perhaps best known for its marshlands, which provide a crucially important habitat for shorebirds and other wildlife in this ocean area. That makes this a fantastic place for birdwatching. You’ll also find tons of hiking trails in the area leading you to spectacular views over the sea. If you want to get away from it all in the Basque country, there aren’t many better places to come than this. Faro Del Caballo For a stunning encounter with the rugged coast of the Bay of Biscay, head to this lighthouse outside Bilbao. An hour’s drive from the city, the astonishing views of the bright blue ocean and the frowning cliffs above it make it worth a special trip. The lighthouse itself isn’t all that impressive, but with the surroundings, it doesn’t need to be. There is a long coastal trail that will take you up over the cliffs and reward you with exceptional views, and there are even places where you can jump into the water from the cliffs to cool off on a hot summer’s day. Gorbeia Natural Park Around an hour’s drive from the city, this natural park protects Gorbeia, the highest peak in the area and a mountain of deep significance to Basque people. Rising to 1482 meters above sea level, the mountain provides unrivaled views over the Basque country and beyond. It’s also a popular place for hiking and climbing, with a variety of trails offering everything from an easy stroll to a challenging multi-day adventure. Don’t miss the beautiful Gujuli waterfall, and if you have the stamina for it, attempt the mountain peak. Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful natural areas in the area, this is a place any outdoor lover will cherish. Enjoy Basque Country Along with its artistic and cultural treasures, Bilbao is blessed with some truly exceptional scenery. Leave your bags behind and allow yourself to explore this rich natural environment on your next trip to northern Spain. 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