6 Things Boutique Hotels Do that Makes Them Unique

BY  Abdul Aziz Jan 6, 2022

Today, organizing dog-friendly vacations is easier than ever. There’s no denying how important dogs are to their owners. With that in mind, more places all over the world are becoming open to accommodate dogs. Some places are taking it a notch further and offering activities exclusively for dogs. All you need to do is to pack a bag - ensure you have some of your dog's favorite food with you too (check out these Badlands Ranch Superfood Complete reviews), pick your ideal location, and you are good to go! Vacations with dogs are meant to be super fun. So say goodbye to tiresome and frustrating holidays with a look at some amazing travel destinations. 1. Bar Harbor, Maine If you love hiking, this 5,500-person town on Mount Desert Island is one of the best places to travel with dogs. Together, you can conquer the Acadia National Park and enjoy being close to nature. The island offers you a scenic view, replete with sandy beaches within the park and mountains all around. You are sure to enjoy the trails of this small town with your dog. If you're heading back to town, Bar Harbor has pet-friendly patios so your dog can enjoy meals with you. The locals love pampering their four-legged visitors. ALSO READ: A Complete Guide To Maine National Parks 2. San Diego, California Thanks to its many open spots, sunny San Diego is one pet-friendly vacation getaway destination you can consider. There are plenty of beaches and off-leash doggie parks around SoCal city that you and your dog can explore. Plan a visit to Morley Field Dog Park in Balboa Park or the Fiesta Island in Mission Bay. But if both of you enjoy the beach more, head to San Diego’s coastal places and spend the day on a rented boat (or yacht). Both of you will love feeling the wind in your hair. If you and your pet still have some energy left, go to Petco Park and watch a Padres baseball game. Chill during the rest of the day at “The Backyard,” the park's special viewing for pets and their humans. 3. Bend, Oregon You won’t find another town that loves dogs more than Bend. Dogs are almost permitted anywhere in this 100,000-people town. You and your canine bud can discover plenty of dog-friendly hiking trails at Cascade Mountain Range. Within the city, outdoor food carts, breweries, and food trucks are your best options when your dog is in tow. Don't worry. Your dog will be warmly welcomed in these outdoor dining areas and is sure to get spoiled with pets and treats from the locals. 4. Plant City, Florida Don’t miss visiting Dinosaur World in Plant City, one of the dog-friendly vacations Florida offers. This is an appealing and popular choice for families with kids and dogs. And the theme park has no dog weight restrictions, and all dogs are welcome as long as they are on a leash. Dinosaur World is full of prehistoric dinosaurs and also where you can meet some of the friendliest dog breeds. You will be occupied and amazed by the display of animatronic dinosaurs like the Brontosaurus, Stegosaurus, and T-Rex. While in Plant City, schedule a day trip to Alderman’s Ford Preserve. If your dog is a high-energy retriever, flusher, or setter, it will surely enjoy the challenging inclines among the marshes and trees of this 1,000 acres of natural space. 5. Grand Haven, Michigan A picturesque travel destination, Grand Haven offers many beaches and green spaces, making it one of the best dog-friendly vacations. During the summers, you and your dog can spend the day at Haven City Beach. Or you can opt to let your dog free at Kirk Park's off-leash dog beach and enjoy an afternoon hiking on the area's on-leash hiking trails. If the weather gets too much, treat your dog to this vacation town’s Must Love Dogs Boutique and Spa. This is a famous shopping center where Fido can come with you to sniff and shop. 6. Charleston, South Carolina Charleston should be part of your dog-friendly vacations list. Pegged as one of the most dog-friendly states, it has plenty of local establishments that will pamper your dog. Restaurants like the Poogan’s Porch and Brown Dog Deli allow dogs inside so you can eat your meals with gusto, knowing that your pooch is just beside you, enjoying its meal. If you want to indulge your dog while learning about the town's past, book a historical tour with Charleston Carriage Works. You can get your dog to sit on your lap or buy a child's ticket if he is too big! Sit back and relax as you go around exploring the community. Thanks to Charleston's Morris Island and Sullivan's Island, you also have plenty of fun water options. If the weather doesn't permit some natural fun, let your dog take a dip at Wag-n-Splash’s indoor dog pools. 7. Lake Placid, New York Lake Placid is totally safe for you and your dog, and it's social media-worthy appeal makes this your ultimate winter destination. It has lots of dog-friendly places. You can rest at the Saranac Waterfront Lodge after a whole day's adventure. This hotel accommodates dogs weighing up to 75-pounds and comes with a complimentary dog treat, a plush dog bed, and a small toy that your dog can take home. When you stay here, you also do an act of kindness because, for each dog that stays, the lodge shares $40 to the Tri-Lakes Humane Society, a no-kill shelter registered in New York.  8. Wimberley, Texas Looking for dog-friendly vacations in Texas? Wimberley offers a relaxing and close-to-nature adventure for you and your dog. This town is one of Texas's idyllic and dog-friendly vacations, especially if you stay in Getaway. And your dog will have a grand time running free on a long leash. With a minimal fee, Getaway can provide your dog with food and water bowls, a long outdoor lead to leash your dog, and some puppy s'mores kits. During the day, get busy and conquer the Hike Old Baldy, a hill that can reward you with a beautiful view of the city. You can also spend the day getting wet at Cypress Falls and go kayaking, swimming, and tubing. ALSO READ: 6 Outdoor Activities You Can Have In Arizona 9. South Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada With its pristine waters and magnificent mountain peaks, this destination gives you the best of Mother Nature's offerings. This tourist destination that straddles the borders of California and Nevada is also known to have a plethora of activities for its canine visitors. If your dog is a rockstar, then there's no better place to stay than in Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Lake Tahoe. Everything about this hotel is dog-friendly—their amenities, rooms, and restaurants. While in Tahoe, have fun on your vacation by visiting the FiRE + iCE Interactive Grill & Bar. This bar welcomes all dogs of all sizes and has complimentary water bowls for their canine patrons.  10. Indianapolis, Indiana Another vacation destination where you can conveniently bring your dog is in Indianapolis. It has plenty of excellent places that welcome dogs, including breweries and outdoor restaurants. You can also plan a day at White River State Park and enjoy the park's open spaces. Vacations are meant to energize you and your dog, so make the most of what Indianapolis has to offer. Create a schedule that includes the Fountain Square and Fletcher Place, Monon Trail, Downtown Canal, Mass Avenue, and Garfield Park. Conclusion Leading a busy lifestyle requires you to take a break occasionally. However, your dog misses you when you're away and, no doubt, you're thinking about them. Now you can get the best of both worlds with these dog-friendly vacations and recharge with your best bud right beside you! Read Also: Make Your Honeymoon a Truly Memorable Affair: Here’s How Glow your New Year at these Bangalore Events What Can You Expect from the New Year’s in Mexico

BY  Ankita Apr 25, 2024

Is Barcelona your next dream destination? Plan your trip so that you can gain the most positive experience from it. Here’s a list of the most assorted destinations you need to visit in Barcelona and activities you can enjoy in this 'City of Counts.'  Dive deep into this guide, as we have also provided you with the best time to travel to Barcelona. How To Reach Barcelona? You can get from the airport to the city center by metro. The train stops right at the terminal. The branch line connecting El Prat Airport to the center of Barcelona was opened in 2016. Only automatically operated trains run on it. Driverless trains follow a set route with a programmed speed, which depends on passenger traffic. You can buy a one-time ticket, but it is more profitable to take a card for ten trips. The Main Attraction One of the main attractions of the city is the statue of Jesus Christ, perched on top of the temple on Mount Tibidabo. It is Barcelona's highest point, located 512 meters above sea level. The slope can be approached by cable car, but many tourists prefer hiking routes. As legend says, the heart of a person who overcomes the path to the top of Tibidabo on foot will become open to boundless love. Another way to explore the Statue of Christ, the surroundings of Mount Tibidabo, and other sights of the capital of Catalonia is to take a helicopter trip of Barcelona. You will be able to enjoy stunning views with your loved one, take unique photos and videos, and have an unforgettable experience. When traveling to Barcelona, one of the best times to enjoy the majestic statue of Jesus Christ is during the spring and summer months. From April to June, you can visit the statue around 9 am to avoid crowds.  You can visit the statue any other time, but you might find it crowded. After all, it's a main attraction. Along with the statue view, enjoy the exceptional view of the 'City of Counts.' A City Of Contrast: Best Places to Visit In Barcelona Barcelona is a city of contrasts. Ancient cathedrals and temples here peacefully coexist with noisy bars full of young people. Such diversity attracts a lot of tourists. So, which places can you visit after visiting the main attraction of Jesus Christ in the 'City of Counts?' The Montjuic Mountain Are you a fan of unusual excursions? Then definitely give the Montjuic Mountain a visit. Here, you will find a park and cemetery on Montjuic Mountain. Montjuic Cemetery is called the city of the dead.  Here, you can rent a "dwelling" for a deceased relative for 15, 25, or 50 years. More than 150 thousand people are buried in the "city of the dead." Here, you can find the graves of great musicians and artists.  On Montjuic Mountain, you can also visit the castle built in the 17th century. It has several thematic expositions, cafes, and observation decks.  Admission is paid, but there is a 50% discount for young people. The best time to travel to Barcelona to get the best experience of The Montjuic Mountain is from April to July. You can also visit this place during the autumn months, from September to November. Parc del Laberint d’Horta The Labyrinth of Horta in Barcelona is the oldest park in Catalonia. In the center of the labyrinth, there is a small square where the statue of love is located. There are eight paths leading from it in different directions.  Wandering through the labyrinth, you can meet travelers from different countries. This place is very much loved by tourists. By the way, this is where the 2006 film "The Labyrinth of Faun" was shot.  The best time to travel to Barcelona to visit the Labyrinth of Horta is during the springtime or during the fall. The reason is the climate, which is much milder during these two seasons, so you can enjoy exploring the labyrinth. Basilica Of The Sagrada Familia Are you aware of the fact that the Basilica Of The Sagrada Familia has been listed on UNESCO's list of unconventional churches?It is among those places that will fill your heart with immense pleasure. The church has 18 colossal spindle towers encompassing it, thus crafting a gothic appeal.  You are bound to leave awestruck not only by the exteriors of the church but the interiors as well. The decorative ceiling and the Crucifix all tell you the story of Jesus Christ and his life of birth, death, and resurrection. The best time to travel to Barcelona to visit the Basilica of The Sagrada Familia is in the mornings or during sunsets. It's less crowded during the mornings, usually at 9 am. You will get the best sunset view reflected in the interiors of the church at 5 pm. Click the magical pictures of the church during this time. Palau De La Musica Catalana Palau De La Musica Catalana is a popular opera hall from the 19th century created by Lluis Domenech i Montaner. The latter is an infamous architect and artist.  This beautiful structure will mesmerize you with its intricate, detailed mosaic work. The opera hall boasts decorated columns and exteriors influenced by Catalan Modernism. The best time to travel to Barcelona to see the 19th century opera hall is from 10 am to 3 pm. Your entry fee will be around 16 Euros per head. Best Foods You Can Try In Barcelona Sweet lovers should definitely try the popular Catalan desserts: Crema Catalana, a delicate caramelized cream, and Turrón, a nut and honey nougat. The most popular drink in Barcelona is sangria. This is a low-alcohol fruit wine. It tastes very good, but it's better not to abuse it on a hot day. Jamon is a traditional snack in Barcelona. It consists of thin slices of dry-cured ham. Unexpectedly, Catalans prefer to serve jamon with slices of fresh melon. Conclusion Now that you are aware of all the things you can explore and visit in Barcelona, tell us which place you will start your tour from. Also, the best time to travel to Barcelona necessarily means you have to visit the city at that specific time.  You can also visit the 'City Of Counts' whenever you wish based on your preference. However, the traveler should be very careful. Pickpocketing is not uncommon in the city, especially in crowded areas for holidaymakers. Read Also: First-Time In Spain? Try These 5 Insider Tips To Enjoy The Experience Nature Escapes Near Bilbao: Mountains, Beaches, And Coastal Beauty Day Trips From Cleveland: Discovering Cuyahoga Valley National Park

BY  Abdul Aziz Feb 27, 2024

So, you've decided to take the plunge and trade the grey skies of Britain for the sun-drenched beaches of Australia? Congratulations! Making the move Down Under can be an exhilarating adventure, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges and uncertainties. Fear not, though, because I'm here to guide you through the process every step of the way. 1. Visa Essentials: Crossing The First Hurdle Understanding Visa Options Before you start packing your bags, you'll need to navigate the often perplexing world of Australian visas. Here's a brief rundown of some common visa options for Brits: Skilled Visas - If you possess skills that are in demand in Australia, you may be eligible for a skilled visa. Working Holiday Visa - Ideal for young Brits looking to explore Australia while also working part-time. Family Visas - If you have family members in Australia, you might be able to obtain a family visa. Seek Professional Advice Navigating the Australian visa system can be a daunting task, so don't hesitate to seek professional advice. Immigration consultants or migration agents can help you understand your options and guide you through the application process. And don't forget, once you're in Australia, you'll need to renew your passport every 10 years still. Good news; there are experts to help you renew a British Passport in Australia too! 2. Financial Planning: Budgeting For Your Big Move Cost Of Living Australia isn't exactly known for being a budget-friendly destination, so it's essential to crunch the numbers and budget accordingly. Keep in mind factors such as accommodation costs, transportation expenses, and healthcare costs when planning your budget. Exchange Rates And Currency Conversion With the pound sterling being stronger than the Australian dollar, you'll want to keep a close eye on exchange rates and factor in currency conversion fees when transferring money between accounts. 3. Finding Your Dream Home Down Under Researching Different Suburbs Australia is a vast and diverse country, with each city boasting its unique vibe and culture. Take the time to research different suburbs and neighborhoods to find the perfect place to call home. Renting Vs. Buying Deciding whether to rent or buy a property in Australia is a big decision that depends on various factors such as your budget, long-term plans, and lifestyle preferences. Navigating The Rental Market If you're planning to rent, be prepared for stiff competition in Australia's rental market, especially in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Start your search early, and be ready to act fast when you find a property you like. 4. Healthcare Matters: Staying Healthy Down Under Understanding The Healthcare System Australia boasts a world-class healthcare system, but it operates differently from the NHS in the UK. Familiarize yourself with the Australian healthcare system and consider taking out private health insurance for added peace of mind. Medicare: Australia's Public Health Insurance As a permanent resident or eligible visa holder, you may be entitled to access Medicare, Australia's public health insurance scheme. Medicare provides coverage for essential medical services, but you may still need private health insurance for additional benefits and services. 5. Embracing The Aussie Lifestyle: Tips For Settling In Embracing The Outdoors With its stunning natural landscapes and year-round sunshine, Australia is the perfect place to embrace the great outdoors. Take advantage of the countless beaches, national parks, and outdoor activities on offer. Getting Involved In The Community One of the best ways to settle into your new life in Australia is by getting involved in the local community. Whether it's joining a sports team, volunteering, or attending community events, making connections with fellow Aussies can help you feel at home. Cultivating Work-Life Balance Australians are known for their laid-back attitude and emphasis on work-life balance. Take a cue from your Aussie counterparts and prioritize leisure time and relaxation alongside your professional pursuits. 6. Dealing With Homesickness: Coping Strategies For Brits Abroad Stay Connected With Loved Ones Moving to the other side of the world can be tough, but thanks to modern technology, staying connected with friends and family back home has never been easier. Schedule regular video calls, send care packages, and plan visits to help ease feelings of homesickness. Explore Your New Surroundings Combat homesickness by immersing yourself in your new surroundings and embracing all that Australia has to offer. Whether it's exploring a new city, trying out local cuisine, or embarking on weekend getaways, there's always something new to discover Down Under. Seek Support When Needed If feelings of homesickness become overwhelming, don't hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or professional counselors. Remember that it's entirely normal to feel homesick when adjusting to life in a new country, and there's no shame in asking for help when you need it. Conclusion: Your Australian Adventure Awaits! Making the move from Britain to Australia is a thrilling and life-changing experience, but it's essential to approach it with careful planning and preparation. By understanding the visa requirements, budgeting wisely, and embracing the Aussie lifestyle, you'll be well on your way to making a smooth transition to your new home Down Under. So, what are you waiting for? Your Australian adventure awaits! Read Also: 6 Outdoor Activities You Can Have In Arizona Unique Pigeon Forge Activities For The Ultimate Adrenaline Rush 9 Fun Activities You Should Add To Your Pigeon Forge Bucket List