The Ultimate Business Traveler’s Guide To Bangkok

BY  Abdul Aziz Mar 23, 2019

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

BY  Abdul Aziz Sep 29, 2020

Since the UK government eased restrictions on travel, many holidaymakers were thrilled at the prospect of returning to their favorite overseas party and holiday destinations. Unfortunately, travel restrictions and constraints are still present across the world, limiting the choices for tourists looking to take a break. The good news is that some of the world’s most iconic party destinations have partly opened their doors to UK partygoers. Here are some of the places that are now accepting visitors. The COVID-19 Pandemic has brought the world of travel and tourism to a virtual world. However, very slowly many places are opening up following all the important safety and sanitation protocols. With millions of people stuck at home for many months, it is time that you start planning your next vacation. In this article, we are going to look at the top party destinations for safety-conscious tourists. Primarily, we will be covering the top three global party destinations. However, before we begin, let us look at some important things safety-conscious tourists should keep in mind before traveling to party destinations. Party Destinations for Safety-Conscious Tourists: Things to Check Before you make travel arrangements to visit any of these destinations, be sure to research what rules tourists will need to follow when entering or leaving different regions. It is also advised that tourists check what rules will apply for tourists who may need to stop off in other areas on their way to their destination as these stopovers may have additional requirements. It would also be wise for any holidaymakers to ensure that they have adequate travel insurance for trips both in and out of their home countries. When looking at taking out insurance for your next holiday, be sure to choose a reputable insurance agent such as Staysure. With Staysure’ssingle trip travel insurance, holidaymakers can be assured that they will have access to emergency medical cover abroad, 24-hour medical emergency support, as well as cancellation cover, legal protection cover, and more. It is important to be a safety-conscious tourist in these uncertain times. This is because you need to be sure that the places you are traveling to be safe. You might also be traveling with your family and should not risk the infection contracting any one of your family members. This is why in addition to following all the safety protocols, you need to be certain that the hotels to are following the same. List of Top 3 Party Destinations for Safety-Conscious Tourists While there are many global party destinations, which tourists can visit, we have compiled a list of three destinations, we feel are sure to get your heart racing. 1. Florida Keys After being closed since March 22, the Keys were reportedly opened to visitors once more on June 1 with the region taking additional measures to ensure that outbreaks are avoided. These measures include health screenings at airports, the implementation of disinfection stations at tourist destinations, and social distancing rules that are being enforced. While many bars and restaurants are now open in the region, it must be noted that regular entertainment such as live music has yet to pick up in the areas most known for their nightlife such as The Parrot in Key West. The Keys have also implemented limitations on lodging occupancy to ensure that social distancing guidelines are being adhered to. The Florida Keys has great tropical weather, which remains the same right through the year. This is because of its proximity to the ocean. You can relax, unwind and party like you never have at one of the thousands of great pubs, bars, and lounges at the party destination. 2. Italy After imposing one of the earliest and strictest lockdowns during the coronavirus pandemic, Italy is now welcoming British visitors. While the country, which was the third most visited country by UK residents in 2018, is freely open to most UK citizens, the Italian tourist board has released an extensive list of guidelines that tourists to the region will have to follow. In some areas, such as Sicily and Sardinia, tourists are required to register in advance to book accommodation. Tourists across the country also need to wear masks in all indoor public spaces. Masks do not need to be worn outdoors, except in Lombardy, unless there is an event that involves a gathering where social distancing rules cannot be strictly enforced. Tourists in this region have access to a host of tourist-focused locations with most beaches now being fully open to the public. In the Tuscan Versilia region, an area famous for its nightlife and gorgeous beach parties, many hotels, campsites, and beach resorts is open for bookings. However, tourists should always confirm their bookings before departing for their destination. Most bars, restaurants, cafes, and gelaterias are also now open for business, though with some special guidelines in place to ensure social distancing regulations are kept. 3. Greece Another contender on the 2018 list of most visited places by UK tourists, Greece is now also open to UK tourists. Similar to other destinations on this list, Greece has implemented several restrictions for tourists. Masks must be worn while using public transport or while in closed spaces such as in shops, cafes, and airports and while bars and nightclubs are open, there are capacity limits. This is especially important to note for visitors to Mykonos, which is often dubbed the Ibiza of Greece thanks to the many nightclubs and bars that frequently play host to local celebrities. Beaches and parks are also open for tourists looking to spend some time in the sun and some of the most famous tourist hotspots, such as the Acropolis in Athens, are also taking visitors. The Final Word With so much gloom and negativity all over the world, it is important that we bring some happiness into our lives by traveling to a party destination. However, you should always ensure that you are following all protocols of safety-conscious tourists. Holidays should be a time for rest and relaxation, as well as a good party, but it is important that tourists always keep their health and safety at top of the mind to ensure that it’s not the last party they get to attend. Can you help us with some more global party destinations, which can be added to the list? Let us know in the comments section below. Read Also: 5 European Destinations Negatively Impacted By ‘Over-Tourism Puerto Vallarta: A Hidden Gem In The World Of Exotic Travel Destinations The Perfect Destination For Adventure Enthusiasts In Jamaica- Yaaman Adventure  

BY  Abdul Aziz Jan 3, 2024

We need to get the notion out of our heads that tropical island holidays are only for the rich and famous. These are destinations that are available to everyone. It doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg to get there. It is true to say that these are islands out in the ocean. So, we need a particular form of transport to get to them. I suppose it would be fair to say that the rich and famous do charter speedboats. They actually own them themselves to get to where they want to go. However, this doesn’t restrict the rest of us from enjoying the Tropical Island Vacation experience. Getting Started With Your Tropical Paradise Vacation We can always take advantage of the Koh Samui to Koh Phangan ferry. In other words, it will it take us and our family members but our vehicles as well. This means we save significant amounts of money when you want to travel around the islands. Therefore, we have our very own transport. If you’ve never really considered a tropical island vacation before now. Yet, this has piqued your interest then the following are just some of the reasons. Due to this, you need to choose such a destination this year and every year. 10 most common tropical islands you must definitely consider visiting in 2024 are:  Rottnest Island, Australia Trobriand Islands, Papua New Guinea Australia’s Normanby Island Savaii Island in Samoa Fitzroy Island in Australia Australia’s Bruny Island Philipines’ Boracay Island Maui in Hawaii Solomon Islands Okinawa in Japan The Beaches Are Amazing  The downside of going to a standard beach is that it is usually full of people and there isn’t any space to sit down and relax. The wonderful thing about beaches on a tropical island is that they are incredibly secluded and so there is lovely white sand and a pristine beach on which to put down your towel and rid your body of any of the stress and anxiety that it is currently carrying around. From enjoying the mesmerizing beach view to experiencing a nomadic lifestyle, there’s so much more to enjoy on this vacation. So, make the most of it! The Weather Is Great One of the main selling points of taking a vacation in Thailand is that the climate is generally good all year round. Even in the rainy season, the heat is fantastic, so even if you get wet, you will be dry in just a matter of moments.  We all know that sunshine is good for the immune system, so your body will get everything it needs to stay fit and well. Between 20 to 40℃ or 70 to 105℉, the weather is pretty much pleasurable.  You can literally bask in the sun for an entire day without worrying about getting a sunburn. July to October are the best months to travel on these islands. There Are Many Different Activities To Enjoy Because the island is surrounded by water, many of the activities involve the ocean itself and so you can learn to be a scuba diver or maybe you would just like to take part in some snorkeling to see the beautiful coral reefs and the fish below the water level. There are many different kinds of activities to choose from and so you will not be bored. From wildlife patrolling on a mini safari to playing archery at the campsite- there are literally endless fun activities to do here. Do not forget to rent a bicycle and explore every nook and corner.  Tropical Islands You Must Visit Once In Your Lifetime Remember how I talked about 10 tropical islands that deserve a trip in 2024? Well, adding to that, here’s a comprehensive list to give you a much better idea:  1. Trobriand Islands Located in Papua New Guinea, the Trobriand Islands are every traveler’s paradise. Dive deep into a tribal life where subsistence farming is the way of life.  Best time to visit: Mid-May to October. Estimated expenses: $6,224 approx. for each person.  2. Rottnest Island, Australia There’s no reason not to visit this hidden gem in Australia. From cute quokkas roaming all around the island to pleasant weather all through the year- Rottnest Island is loved by all.   The best time to visit: is June to August. Estimated expenses: Trips start from $5,000/ person. 3. Egadi Island, Italy’s Camouflaged Jewel Egadi Island is the epitome of Italy’s culture and traditions. It is a collection of three islands spreading across Sicily’s western coast. From snorkeling to basking in the sun, there’s so much more to do in this strategic location. Best time to visit: May-September.  Estimated expenses: Egadi is actually cheaper than its other counterparts. 4. Bohol, Philippines Unlike other commonly visited Philippian islands, Bohol is not frequently visited. Firstly, because it is not very easil accessible. Secondly, it is a bit deserted.  But it can be one of your choices if you prioritize serenity over everything else.  The best time to visit: is November to April. Estimated expenses: Php 5,000.00 – 6,000.00. 5. Anami Oshima Islands Wanna see Japan from a different angle? Anami Oshima’s tropical retreat calls you out! Unless you visit it, you can never discover what it’s like to sit in the lap of nature- 1000 kms away from the hustle-bustle.  Best time to visit: Spring (March to April), Autumn (October to November) Estimated expenses: 30,070 yen · 34,840 yen Now you have some reasons to justify booking you and your family a tropical island holiday this year and every year. You only get one family vacation every single year so make the most of it and be sure to visit the beautiful Koh Samui and Koh Phangan and see what many don’t. Concluding Words Now, you have some reasons to justify booking a tropical island holiday for you and your family this year and every year. You only get one family vacation every single year, so make the most of it.  Be sure to visit the beautiful Koh Samui and Koh Phangan and see what many don’t. So, what’s stopping you from booking your flight and traveling to an unknown land? This comprehensive guide has all the details you will need. So, save it up, read it later, and start planning your trip now! Thank you for reading.  Read Also: Check Out These Beaches That Are Closest To Tennessee’s Knoxville! 7 Best National Parks In Ohio You Should Know Before Going Closest Beach To Nashville – Top 10 Beaches You Can Visit