The Role Of Self Storage In Extended Cruise Travels

BY  Sibashree Jan 28, 2026

South India has been my go-to place whenever I lacked clarity about “What is Next?” After exploring the beaches in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, I wanted to continue my journey, and my destination was the Western Coast of India.  The quiet Varkala Beach or Papanasam Beach with dramatic cliffs won me over.  With golden sands, blue waters, and gentle waves, Varkala Beach is therapeutic. No wonder that it is such a popular place for outdoor Yoga practices.  Furthermore, being a west-facing beach, it offers dramatic sunset views.  Here is more about the  Location of Varkala Beach How to reach Varkala Beach Best beaches in Varkala Where to stay in Varkala Beach When is the best time to visit Varkala Beach Best things to do in Varkala Beach Places to eat and drink Is Varkala Beach worth it?  About Varakala Beach Let me introduce the Varkala Beach to you with some quick answers.  ⁍ Where is Varkala Beach? Varka Beach is in Varkala. It is a coastal town on the southwestern coast of India. ⁍ In which state is Varkala Beach situated? Varkala Beach is situated in the southern state of Kerala in India.  ⁍ Varkala Beach, in which district? The Varkala Beach is in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala.  ⁍ Varkala Beach distance: It is located at a distance of 40 km from Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala.  Varkala Beach is the place where spirituality, wellness, religious fervor, and coastal recreation meet. It is also known as the Papanasam because people believe that taking a dip here washes away all your sins.  In fact, the mineral-rich water of the Arabian Sea here has healing properties.  Furthermore, the beach stretch is long, a little over 6 kms and it is the middle ground between the red cliffs and the blue waters.  However, there are two things I did not like about the Varkala Beach. Firstly, all the eateries and shops lining the red cliffs obstruct the views.  The more alarming thing is the amount of trash and plastic on the beach. There were food wraps and food wraps everywhere. Now, this shows a lack of maintenance and the absence of civic sense.  Does The Varkala Beach Have A Shade? No, the Varaka Beach does not have any designated or constructed shade. Also, naturally, there is rarely any shaded spot with very few trees around.  Furthermore, there are some lizards in the sand here. They don’t bother anyone, but it was a big issue for me.  Finally, I rented a shade and a chair from a clifftop cafe.  However, be ready get heavily tanned as the Sun here is so strong that no amount of sunscreen can protect you.  How Safe Is Varkala Beach?  Varkala Beach is a safe place, and it is one of the best destinations for a solo trip in India. It has a laid-back vibe, typical of the coastal areas of South India.  However, I could not find any lifeguards for the longer stretch of the beach. So, swimming here is something you need to do at your own risk.  Also, the current here is very strong. So, if you have plans to swim with kids, you have to be very careful.  How To Get To Varkala? The Varkala Beach is closest to the Trivandrum International Airport (TRV). The distance is around 45 kilometers. Furthermore, the nearest railway station, Varkala Sivagiri Railway Station, is a little over 4 km away.  However, the Trivandrum Central (TVC) is at a distance of 1 hour, and the Kollam Junction (QLN) Railway Station is around 40 minutes away. Both these stations have frequent train options from different parts of India.  1. How To Get To Varkala Beach From Trivandrum Airport I booked an Uber to reach the Varkala Beach from the Trivandrum Airport, and the charge was INR 1160. This is the safest option if you are new to the place.  Local cabs and other online car rentals are also available. However, if you cannot negotiate, they will charge you between INR 1500 and INR 1600.  Furthermore, the cheapest option to travel from Trivandrum to Varkala is to take a bus run by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC). Buses are available every 15 minutes.  However, the KSRTC bus stop is around 15 km away from the beach. So, from there, you will again have to take a local bus or taxi.  2. How To Travel From The Varkala Railway Station To Varkala Beach?  You can take a local taxi to reach the beach from the Varkala Railway Station. Local buses are also available. What Are The Best Beaches In Varkala? The Varkala Beach is the main attraction in the town of Varkala. However, it has many other beaches, such as the Black Sand Beach, Odayam Beach, Kappil Beach and Beach Park, Edava Beach, and Thiruvambadi Beach.  1. Black Sand Beach View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nat Geo Traveller India (@natgeotravellerindia) The Black Sand Cliff is close to the north cliff. If the Varkala Beach is overcrowded, you can consider this one as an alternative.  2. Odayam Beach Odayam Beach is perfect if you want to enjoy a long stroll along the waters early morning or late in the evening.  It is located at the north of the main cliff.  3. Kappil Beach And Beach Park The Kappil Beach and Beach Park are further north of the Varkala town. It is the place where you will have a bit of the famous Kerala backwater experience.  Also, it is the confluence of the Arabian Sea and the Kappil River.  4. Edava Beach The Edava Beach is cleaner. Also, this quaint beach offers a delightful cultural experience. Here, you can meet the fishermen.  Though language was a barrier sometimes, a few of them knew English. Also, I must say, after the rich cultural experience in Jaffna, this was another culturally enriching moment for me.  5. Thiruvambadi Beach It is the most secluded beach in Varkala. It has black and dark sand. Also, it has a calm environment, allowing you to just relax and introspect.  Where To Stay In Varkala? You can visit the Kerala Tourism website to find out where to stay in Varkala. It has Varkala beach resort options such as the Coconut Cove Beach Resort, the Pulari Gardens Tourist Resorts, and the nearest Karthika Plaza Resort Pvt. Ltd.  Furthermore, there are hotels near Varkala Beach, such as InDa Hotel, the Lost Hostels, and Maison Sangham.  I stayed at the Bougainvillea Homestay, which is very close to the Varkala beach cliffs.  When To Visit Varkala? October to March, or the winter and spring seasons, are ideal for visiting Varkala.The rainfall is minimal in these months, and the temperature hovers around 20 to 30 degrees Celsius.  Furthermore, less rain and moderate weather conditions are ideal for watersports such as jet skiing and paragliding.  However, during my visit in February, I found the water current to be quite strong for swimming. So, check with the locals and the fishermen around before getting into the water.  What Are The Best Things To Do In Varkala Beach? The Varkala Beach is a welcome relief if you are exploring South India. It is not a place if you are planning an action-packed holiday.  However, try these watersports.  Surfing At Varkala Beach You will find places such as Soul and Surf here to camp and learn surfing. Furthermore, the ideal surfing condition for a visitor depends on their expertise level.  For Beginners: November to February For Sufers of Intermediate or Advanced Levels: October to March Advanced Surfers: The Monsoon Season or June to August  Paragliding Varkala Paragliding is the most adventurous thing you can try at Varkala Beach. You can have a hawk-eye view of the water and the golden sand by flying from one end of the cliff to another.  Also, paragliding feels magical during sunset. Varkala Beach Nightlife  The bars, restaurants, and rooftop cafes of the North Cliff are the epicenters of a happening nightlife in Varkala.  These places are ideal for candlelit dinners and enjoying a lively vibe with DJs and live acoustic music performances. What Are The Places To Visit Near The Varkala Beach? Varkala is an ideal place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, many religious and spiritual travelers combine a Varkala beach trip with a visit to Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple and the Sivagiri Mutt.  The Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple is a 2000-year-old Vishnu shrine. It is associated with the legends of Lord Brahma and Narada Muni.  On the other hand, the Sivagiri Mutt is home to the saints and sanyasins of the order started by Sree Narayana Gurudev. His primary teaching was “One Caste, One Religion, One God for Man.” Established in 1904, this Mutt practices inclusiveness.  What Are The Places For Eating And Drinking In Varkala? There are many cafes and restaurants in Varkala. I chose a humble, local place for lunch and dinner.  However, to experience the cafe culture here, I chose a few upscale places.  1. Lunch At Vinayaka Vegetarian Restaurant I ordered a veg Keralan thali at the Vinayaka Vegetarian Restaurant. The rice grains were thick, and they were filling. Furthermore, they served the rice with five types of sides, pickle, and papad. It only cost me INR 90.  2. Dinner At Chimney Restaurant At the Chimney Restaurant, it was a continuation of my great seafood experience in Jaffna. The staff here suggested that I try a Kerala fish curry.  The fish was fresh, and the curry was sharp and spicy (a little less than Jaffna). It was a perfect balance to the acidic element of rice.  You must also try the village-style chicken curry here. It is a family-friendly restaurant.  3. Cafés I was at Cafe Trip is Life during sunset. The view was amazing, and I loved the grilled prawns and mojitos there. A bit pricey, but worth it! Another café I loved here was Café Sarwaa. I was impressed with the Bohemian decor the moment I entered the place. I tried some samosas and banana pancakes there.  However, you can eat here the whole day. Their paratha and Kerala beef curry are the most famous.  Is Varkala Worth It? Should I Just Go To Goa? The only similarity between Varkala and Goa beaches is the bohemian vibe. However, both beaches offer different experiences.  Varkala is more nature-focused with the landscape of the Varkala Beach and a view of the Arabian Sea. Furthermore, it is more about relaxation and wellness thanks to the Yoga centers frequently found here.  However, despite watersports and adventure facilities such as paragliding and surfing, Varkala is not as happening as Goa. Goa offers a wider range of watersports.  Moreover, the nightlife of Goa is more vibrant.  So, if you want a spiritual and wellness retreat and some quiet beach time, Varkala is the best. The 2000-year-old Vishnu temple is an added attraction here.  For a vibe and a high-energy experience, choose Goa.  Varkala Beach: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Varkala Beach.  1. Varkala Beach Or Kovalam Beach, Which Is Best? I cannot pick a favorite between the Varkala Beach and the Kovalam Beach. The Varkala Beach, with a bohemian vibe, is more laid-back and nature-focused. On the other hand, the Kovalam Beach has the iconic crescent beaches, and it offers a diverse range of watersports and a vibrant nightlife. 2. Which Beach In Varkala Has Bioluminescence? The Varkala Beach has bioluminescence. You can especially notice the bioluminescence near the cliff and along the northern stretch of the beach. Here, tiny marine organisms emit blue and green light due to a chemical reaction. When the wave is disturbed, these organisms get scattered, and it looks like the water is glowing. Furthermore, from September to November is the best time to see the bioluminescence of the beach.  3. What Is The Varkala Beach From Bangalore Distance? The distance between Varkala Beach and Bangalore is around 670 km. You can travel by road, which takes around 14 hours. So, the easiest way to travel is to take a train from Bangalore Cantonment to Varkala. The travel time is around 13-15 hours. Furthermore, if you want to take the fastest way to travel, you must take a flight from the Bangalore Airport to the Trivandrum Airport and then take a bus or taxi to Kovalam.

BY  Nabamita Nov 30, 2023

When the chill of winter sets in, the allure of warm weather destinations becomes irresistible. From sun-drenched beaches to lush tropical forests, the world is brimming with spots perfect for shedding layers and basking in warmth.  In our roundup of the 10 best warm weather vacations, we explore diverse corners of the globe where the sun shines bright, the waters beckon, and the warm breeze carries the promise of unforgettable experiences. These destinations promise a respite from the cold and an adventure into the heart of warm weather bliss. 1. Seychelles Seychelles is a dreamy destination, known for its warm climate and stunning natural beauty. This archipelago in the Indian Ocean boasts 115 islands. Each is a slice of paradise with turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. The lush tropical forests are home to rare wildlife, enhancing its allure. Among the must-visit spots is Mahe Island, the vibrant heart of Seychelles. This island also attracts foreign entrepreneurs who come here to open offshore companies and trusts. Praslin Island offers the unique Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve. For a picturesque retreat, La Digue Island is unmatched with its iconic Anse Source D'Argent beach. 2. Anguilla Anguilla is a captivating warm weather destination, renowned for its serene beaches and crystal-clear waters. This Caribbean gem is a haven of tranquility, offering a perfect escape from the hustle of everyday life. Its coastline is dotted with over 30 stunning beaches, each with its unique charm. Shoal Bay East is a world-class beach known for its soft, white sands. Rendezvous Bay offers breathtaking sunsets and gentle waves, ideal for relaxation. For a touch of history, visit the Heritage Collection Museum. 3. Ibiza A jewel in the Mediterranean, Ibiza is famed for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches. This Spanish island attracts sun-seekers and party-goers alike with its warm climate and lively atmosphere. Its coastline is a mosaic of hidden coves and expansive sandy stretches, perfect for relaxation and water sports. Notable attractions in Ibiza include the bustling Ibiza Town, rich in history and culture. Playa d'en Bossa is renowned for its beach clubs and music scenes. For a quieter experience, visit the tranquil Cala Comte. Ibiza's blend of historical charm, natural beauty, and dynamic nightlife makes it a top warm weather destination. 4. Bali With its lush tropical climate, Bali is a premier destination for warm weather enthusiasts. This Indonesian island is famous for its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches. Its diverse environment ranges from volcanic mountains to tranquil rice paddies, offering a unique experience. Popular attractions in Bali include Ubud, the cultural heart, known for its art and traditional crafts. Seminyak boasts trendy beaches and upscale boutiques. For breathtaking natural beauty, visit the Tegallalang Rice Terraces. 5. Menorca Menorca is a serene Balearic Island known for its idyllic beaches and crystal-clear waters, This Spanish island offers a tranquil alternative to its busier neighbors. Its landscape is adorned with charming coves and lush greenery, creating a peaceful retreat. Ciutadella is a picturesque and historic city on the western coast of Menorca with charming old town, Gothic architecture, and beautiful harbor. Cala Macarella is famous for its turquoise waters and scenic beauty. The island's capital, Mahon, offers a rich cultural experience with its Georgian architecture. 6. Morocco Diverse landscapes and rich culture make Morocco a fantastic warm weather destination. It offers sun-drenched beaches, vast deserts, and vibrant cities. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the serene Sahara Desert, each location presents a unique experience. The coastal city of Essaouira contains windy beaches and historic medina. The blue city of Chefchaouen enchants visitors with its picturesque streets. For a desert adventure, Merzouga is the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. Morocco's mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm climate make it an intriguing and exciting vacation spot. 7. Panama Panama is the bridge between Central and South America. It’s a top choice for vacationers because of its warm climate and diverse landscapes. It offers lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and vibrant city life. The Panama Canal, an engineering marvel, attracts visitors globally, while the capital, Panama City, blends modern skyscrapers with historic colonial architecture. For beach enthusiasts, Bocas del Toro is a must-visit with its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs. The San Blas Islands offer an authentic experience with indigenous communities. Boquete is perfect for nature lovers, with its coffee plantations and cloud forests. 8. Croatia Croatia is a stunning warm weather destination, celebrated for its crystal-clear Adriatic Sea and historic coastal towns. Its landscape is a picturesque blend of beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and lush national parks. The country's unique culture and Mediterranean cuisine add to its charm. Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," Dubrovnik, enchants with its well-preserved medieval walls. The Plitvice Lakes National Park offers breathtaking natural beauty with its cascading lakes and waterfalls. Hvar Island is famous for its sunny beaches and vibrant nightlife.  9. Moskito Island Moskito Island, nestled in the British Virgin Islands, is an exclusive and luxurious warm weather haven. Known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, it offers an unparalleled private retreat. The island boasts lush landscapes, providing a backdrop for relaxation and adventure. Top attractions include private villas with breathtaking ocean views, offering ultimate privacy and comfort. Activities range from snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs to exploring secluded coves by kayak. Moskito Island's fusion of exclusivity, natural beauty, and serene environment makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a high-end, tranquil warm weather vacation. 10. Necker Island Necker Island is a private oasis in the British Virgin Islands. This 74-acre island is enveloped by turquoise waters and coral reefs, offering a paradisiacal escape. It's famed for its commitment to conservation and sustainability, hosting diverse wildlife including flamingos and giant tortoises. The island features sumptuous accommodations, each with unique, opulent designs that blend seamlessly with the natural environment. Guests can indulge in activities like windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing in the clear waters. The Great House, perched on a hilltop, offers panoramic views of the Caribbean. It's the social hub for exquisite dining and entertainment. Read Also: Island Paradise Unveiled: Best Time To Visit The Philippines I Had No Idea When To Visit Mauritius Till I Went There THIS Time! Best Time To Experience Dubai: The City Of Gold

BY  sagnika Jun 26, 2023

Are you considering making travel plans to visit Cabo San Lucas? The ultimate destination for adventurers can be dangerous because of the harsh weather and increasing crime rates. Want to know is cabo san lucas safe? Cabo San Lucas is 20 meters above sea level, while the geographical location is 22.88 degrees North and 109.90 degrees West. Thomas Ritchie founded the place in 1828. The climate of Cabo is a tropical thorn forest. However, there is a certain desert terrain spread. A critical icon can be found in the area, The Arch. In Spanish, "El Arco" is the natural stone arch that is well known worldwide and a symbol of Cabo San Lucas. Read the article to learn more about it. Also Read: How To Find The Best Ontario Cocaine Rehab Center? Is Cabo San Lucas Safe? Let's Find Out! Cabo San Lucas is situated in Mexico with picturesque beaches. It is a popular tourist destination rich in culture and boasting sumptuous local food. Almost 2.8 million travelers visit Cabo annually, and there are repeat visitors. The coastal life experience that Cabo San Lucas offers is quite beautiful at a meager price as compared to many other popular tourist destinations. The place is more alluring than other beach destinations, and the good annul the bad regarding tourism. The question arises Cabo San Lucas is safe because in recent times. The country of Mexico is going through a crisis of cartel warfare and drug-related violence. The U.S. government has issued a warning regarding the travel advisories in Mexico, and Cabo has been excluded. Cabo is a popular tourist spot and is considered safe for visitors. Yet some issues might put tourists at risk in recent times. Where Is Cabo San Lucas Situated? Cabo San Lucas is situated in the Baja California peninsula on the West Coast of Mexico at the southern tip. The overall positioning of the place is in the southeast of California, USA. Tourism In Cabo San Lucas The tropical weather in Cabo is perfect for visitors. The white sandy beaches and glistening blue waters create the perfect backdrop for tourists walking barefoot. Thousands of tourists frequent Cabo every month. There are certain things that you need to consider when you are traveling to Cabo, such as you should only buy bottled water, always staying in groups, and don't dress up too flashy. As a visitor, you must know that there are no lifeguards. Hence, you should always have local contacts who can help you. You must book with trusted sources for accommodations. How To Reach Cabo San Lucas? The time to reach Cabo San Lucas by flight from New York, Vancouver, Canada, and Chicago is 5 hours, while from Seattle and Atlanta, it takes 4 hours. Traveling from San Francisco to Cabo will take 3 hours, while from Dallas and Los Angeles, your flight will be two and a half hours long. Crime In Cabo Certain crimes are active in Cabo, and Interpol is working hard to prevent them. The Interior is performing criminal investigations and spearheading spontaneous crackdowns to stop crime. The concerns that are identified in Cabo are as follows: Drug Use and Sale Gang Activity Carjacking Scams Robbery Homicide Pickpocketing The total population of Cabo is 202,694, and most crimes are happening against the locals. The crimes are severe, so the authorities are taking a solid stand to curb the crime. The crime rate has increased to 80.29% in 2023. Thus, safety is a concern. The vibrant sceneries, nightlife, and natives are the attraction of Cabo, yet visitors might feel reluctant due to safety issues. Considering Cabo is right on the edge of the coastline, it is easy for drugs to pass from Mexico to other countries. It does contribute to more gang violence and drug-related crime in Cabo. It would be best if you stayed away from the coastal regions late at night as tourists and visitors. There is a higher risk of getting mugged. Venturing into tourist habited places such as shopping centers, tourist attractions, bars, and restaurants is a better idea to enjoy your trip. The most convenient transportation choices are Uber, Lyft, and Shuttle. Safety Concerns Cabo has topped the list of scams and frauds, making it difficult for the authorities. Before and after the peak season, the issues further increase. In 2022, at least 800 reported cases of fraud and scams. Kidnapping is another concern where the perpetrators ask for money after abducting loved ones. In Cabo, there are risks of tourists getting kidnapped in vehicles that pretend to be taxis but are not. The tourist destination ranks third in the statistics of kidnapping. The municipality of Cabo San Lucas has a negative image regarding managing crimes for locals and visitors. The center of Cabo has the best hotels, attractions, beaches, and accommodations where crime is controlled. Unfortunately, the back alleys and the side roads are not so safe. Los Cangrejos And Las palmas The neighborhood has some safety concerns, which are pretty high for crimes and theft. People are constantly falling victim. Santa Rosa In San Jose del Cabo Armed robbery, vehicle robbery, and assault crimes are common in Santa Rosa. Visitors must be careful of hot spots. This location has accommodations and tourist attractions, making it straightforward for visitors to fall victim. It would be best if you kept the windows of the cars locked. You must continue on the way if any strangers are asking for help or a lift. The reported crimes in this location are based on gas stealing. The neighborhood around the airport is primarily rural, which is considered dangerous. City Center The area is crowded, making it the perfect place for mugging and pickpocketing. Every day, twenty crimes are reported. Therefore, visitors must avoid congested areas. There is a high chance of losing your belongings because stealing is common. Conclusion Please read the article to learn the answer to is cabo san lucas safe and why you should be careful before you visit it. Comment below regarding your traveling preferences and whether you would like to visit Cabo someday. Read Also: How Safe Is Morocco For Travel? Is Spirit Airlines Safe? Get Your Answer Here! FAQ About Staying Safe With Holiday Royal Vacation Club