Temples, Markets, and More: Your Ultimate Bangkok Itinerary 

BY  sagnika May 15, 2024

Did you know that the world's first "selfie" was invented in Australia? Did you know thatthat Australia has the world's longest fence? There are so many interesting and surprising things about Australia that will shock and surprise you. In this blog, I will share some interesting facts about Australia. You will be inspired to visit the country, especially because you will create symbiotic relationships. You can perform several adventurous activities along with beautiful landscapes. Furthermore, these are interesting facts about several states in Australia! The blog will teach you a lot about planning your itinerary to visit these interesting places. I will share several things to do in Australia related to these facts! I am sure you will be inspired to visit these places and enjoy yourself. You will also learn about various unique places in Australia! Interesting Facts about Australia that will surprise you! If you have heard a lot about Australia, what will you do when you go there? This huge country has so much to offer, from beautiful views to unique animals. It is a secure place to travel, and the beautiful locales around it are a delight. It is an interesting place because it includes several aspects that combine to create a beautiful lifestyle. There are multicultural communities, and the natural environment adds a beautiful flavour to the country, along with the diverse people, excellent food, and delicious wine. Did you know that Australia has about 60 regions that produce wine? Imagine the diverse flavors and the production process. Therefore, you cannot miss the restaurants in Australia! Let me share with you some of the interesting facts about Australia that will bring together the place's beauty and vibrancy. World's Most Unique Wildlife What do I even say when it comes to the diverse wildlife in Australia? It has the most unique animals on the global scale, as 80% of the wildlife is endemic to Australia. Can you imagine the significance of these animals, as we need to protect them? A report claims that about 87% of mammals, 94% of frogs, 45% of birds, and 93% of reptiles in Australia only exist there. From Koalas to iconic Kangaroos, wombats, and elusive echidnas, you can see various wildlife. Echidnas and Platypus are the only mammals that lay eggs, but did you know they are only found in Australia? The place is so filled with wildlife that, apart from zoos and national parks, you might encounter them in the open. The country has one of the oldest Island cultures, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, who experienced oppression and displacement at the hands of European colonization! A Country and A Continent   Did you know that Australia is both a continent and a country? Australia is the 6th largest country on the global scale. Geographically, Australia is a part of Oceania, which is inclusive of Melanesia, Polynesia, Australasia, and Micronesia. Oceania's subregions include New Zealand, New Guinea, and Australia. It is one of the smallest continents in the world, lying between the Indian and Pacific Oceans in the Southern Hemisphere. Hemisphere. If you are traveling to Australia, you also need to check out the beaches in Australia! The Majority of Uluru is Underground Uluru in Australia is known for its beautiful sunset, which is framed by a huge rock! It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it can be identified as a natural and cultural element of Australia. The place is quite sacred for the Aboriginal tribes as it is surrounded by scrubland! The rock is 2.5km underground and is believed to be related to Olgas. You will then see it emerge 16 miles away. You can also visit Uluru by railway between Adelaide and Darwin or by plane! The stark beauty of the rock against the beautiful sky with the best sunset offers an amazing view. You can also enjoy the pitch-black skies along with the several sparkling stars. If you are going from Alice Springs, you can enjoy it a lot, especially when you plan to visit Uluru. The Longest Straight Section of Train Track Did you know that Australia has the longest straight section of train tracks? Let me tell you, the rail journey between Perth and Sydney, known as the Indian Pacific, is the longest straight section! The tracks snake around the country, where you can check out the beautiful blue mountains! The train moves towards the mountainous Flinders Ranges, giving you some spectacular views! I would also suggest you stop in Adelaide. Of course, you cannot miss the gourmet food, the wide-open spaces of the city, and the art museums. Further, the train takes you across the fertile Avon Valley and into Sydney. You will receive luxury services on the train! The Largest Sand Island in the World Australia has the largest sand Island, which you can explore by hopping on a boat! Why don't you plan a trip to Queensland? The highlight of this trip will be the sandy shores of Fraser Island. There are some jumping-off points, and Hervey Bay is one of them. You must take a boat to discover this delightful place, an island paradise with white sands. Lake MacKenzie, surrounded by a white sand shore where you can swim, awaits you! You can also take a dip into the Champagne Pools, which have shallow water, and swim across the edge of the ocean. There are about 150 dingos on this island, so you can check out these wild dogs. However, keep your distance because they are wild and aggressive. Dingos, the wild dogs, are not like the local or domestic dogs and live in the national park of K'gari Island or Fraser Island! Dingos, the wild dogs, are not like the local or domestic dogs and live in the national park of K'gari Island or Fraser Island! If you love the beach, check out the beaches in Perth! No Active Volcano in Australia Can you imagine that with so many volcanoes worldwide, Australia is the only continent without any active volcanoes? If you are planning to travel to Australia, it is one of the safest countries in the world. With the wildlife which is quite notorious even though it is not deadly all the time! Of course, there is a location in Southeast Australia, also called Newer Volcanic Province, where there is a collection of about 400 volcanoes spread across 15000 square kilometers (about the area of Connecticut). The Largest Eco-System in the World Can you imagine that Australia has the largest ecosystem in the world? The Great Barrier Reef is the joy and pride of Australia, with about 2500 individual reefs. Did you know that these reefs are visible from space? Apparently, halfway down the eastern coast of the country, it is covered in it! There are several jumping-off points where you can go down into the water and check out the kaleidoscopic coral. The cities closer to these reefs are Cairns, Townsville, Airlie Beach, and Port Douglas. Several activities, namely deep-sea diving, snorkeling, swimming, and surfing can be attempted and done. Marines, like sea turtles and colorful fish, live in these reefs. The Australian Alps Receive More Snow Compared to Swiss Alps Did you know that the Australian Alps have heavy snowfall between June and September? It is shocking that it is heavier than the Swiss Alps. The Alps are across Victoria and New South Wales and are a perfect place for skiing! During the northern hemisphere summer, you can enjoy the environment, so you can go skiing. Apart from that, you can also enjoy the beautiful environment. There are two large resorts, namely Perisher and Thredbo, near Canberra. Finishing Off In short, the interesting facts about Australia will not only surprise you but also shock you! After reading the blog, you will learn how the continent has worked hard to create a sustainable and diverse ecosystem. There are many other interesting facts, but the ones mentioned are quite significant. The diverse aspects of Australia will not only interest you but also teach you a lot of things. Comment on which part of Australia you want to visit and why. Learn More About: How To Enjoy Your Night In Sydney? 6 Tips For A Luxurious Trip To Australia 8 Best Places To Live In Australia For You If You Have A Family Do You Know The Best Time To Visit Australia? Read All About It! 

BY  Sibashree Oct 29, 2025

Afternoon siesta is a cherished luxury where I come from. Thousand miles away, I did not expect to experience something similar in Chios, Greece. I was driving through Mesta, and the faint, sweet-spicy scent of mastic trees overtook me.  I noticed one strange thing! Not a single shop was open, and even the ATMs were closed, despite it being a weekday. Curious, I asked my guide, and he said,  “We loved our naptime in the afternoon. The shops are closed from 2 to 5 PM. We value our food and rest! There is nothing to rush!” This is the moment I felt at home in Chios.  Chios in the eastern Aegean was hit by one of the largest wildfires of recent times in June and August 2025. These incidents were a major blow to the mastic trees and the entire region, with many trees destroyed by the wildfire.  However, a few months down the line, Chios, Greece, is experiencing a positive rebound in its tourism landscape. Despite being a relatively new name compared to Santorini or the Amalfi Coast, it is gaining attention for its genuine charm.  Despite an increase in interest, the tourism model here is focusing more on sustainability. Also, it is avoiding mass tourism to preserve its cultural heritage.  In terms of accessibility, Chios is going to get a new airport very soon. Also, for hospitality, this eastern Aegean island depends heavily on family-run lodges. Moreover, the island is capitalizing on its natural beauty and medieval villages to stay true to the official theme of “Experience Chios.”  Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about the Chios, Greece travel guide that takes you to local artisan workshops, cooking classes, adventurous places, and more. Exploring The Local Artisan Workshops And Experiences  The mastic resin is the signature product of the region. The Pistacia lentiscus var. chia trees produce this resin. These are called the “tears” of Chios. The aroma is faint, but it lingers just like the most beautiful melody of a flute. My mastic harvesting tour was already set, and the experience I had will stay with me forever. We talk about environmental protection and sustainability. The people of Chios practice it in their lives.  Nevertheless, along with the mastic harvesting tours, attending the weaving workshops, pottery classes, and distillation plants were the best local experiences in Chios. I also enjoyed my time at the local tavernas.  1. Mastic Harvesting Tours In Mastichochoria Pyrgi, Mesta, or other villages in the south are ideal for farm tours. These have cooperatives and farms, where harvesting takes place during August and September. I was lucky to be in Chios in August.  The farmers here “wound” the trees so that they weep, and the tears are collected. Then, the tears are cleaned using a process called “Kefalari,” and watching the entire process is an immersive slow travel experience.  I talked to an old man in Mesta who was collecting the resin by hand. As I approached him, he said, “We treat the trees like family. If one dies, we plant another. We also pass on these trees to our future generations.”  Standing there, I could almost hear my grandfather, who used to say the same things about the trees he planted.  In Mesta and Pyrgi, I saw the soil getting hardened wherever the resin had fallen. Children love collecting those.  If you want to learn more about mastic harvesting in Chios, you can visit the Chios Mastiha Growers Association (CMGA). It now has around 4500 members from the 20 primary cooperatives spread across 24 villages.  2. Weaving Workshops In Pyrgi The houses in Pyrgi look wonderful, with distinct black geometric decorations. On some walls, I saw diamond shapes; others had stripes, and some even featured crisscross patterns. There is also a personalized touch in these geometrical shapes. I was standing near a house appreciating the diamond-shaped designs on the walls. An old lady peeped, and I asked her whether she had done the design or not! She started giggling like a little girl and said, “I have hidden the name of my husband in these diamond designs. It was a lot of fun when I asked him to spot his name for the first time.”  Once again, I felt that emotions are universal and the art of finding joy in little things.  The village also has a tradition of weaving. Explore the traditional looms and try your hand at the craft.  3. Pottery Classes In Armolia Armolia is the epicenter of pottery traditions in Chios, Greece. It is like a kingdom of brightly colored ceramics. Kefalakia, a one-necked Chian ceramic jug, is a must-buy.  I tried my skills at a hands-on pottery class, and I must say that I was not so proud of what I made!  4. Soap-Making And Herbal Distillation Chios has the best flowers and herbs. So, you will find many small family-run businesses here, including soap-making and herbal distillation. They also make local olive oil, mastic oil, and distilled water.  These small businesses have kept alive the heritage of natural wellness in Chios.  5. Getting Lost In The Alleys Of Mesta At Night View this post on Instagram A post shared by ᴍᴇꜱᴛᴀ ᴄʜɪᴏꜱ (@mesta.chios) It may sound a little scary, but it was fun for me. Mesta is like a labyrinth, and exploring this fortified village was like a treasure hunt. Indeed, it was planned this way to confuse the pirates who wanted to rob the town.  After my dinner at the guesthouse, I wanted to take a quick stroll around, and after half an hour, I was clueless about the road to take.  The alleys twisted and turned until I stood before a stone archway and a dead-end courtyard filled with vines. I could listen to my footsteps on the cobblestone road, and after a few minutes, I sat on a rock.  Suddenly, something magical appeared before the eyes. The stars over the Aegean were unreal, and the absence of light pollution made it look like I could reach them by stretching my arm.  I cannot tell you how long I waited there, and suddenly a call from my guesthouse broke my trance. The receptionist asked me to wait for a while and sent a guide from the guesthouse to guide me back.  6. Eating And Drinking At A Local Taverna Most tavernas I visited during my stay on Chios did not have a printed menu. That’s actually good, considering the menu is decided based on the fresh produce available on that day.  My guide used to ask “Ti echete simera?” or “What do you have today?” The waiter used to read from the list of items that were offered for the day.  Wellness And Retreat Travel In Chios, Greece  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Royal Pearl Island Chios Hotel & Spa (@royalpearlisland) Chios opened its first luxury wellness retreat, Pearl Island Chios Hotel & Spa, last year. Nevertheless, Chios has been celebrating its unique wellness tradition for years now.  1. Mastiha And The Herbs Of Chios Furthermore, Chios has been harvesting mastiha for more than 2500 years, and this natural product has medicinal properties. In fact, this knowledge of cultivating mastiha has been identified as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.  Mastiha gum has anti-inflammatory properties, it helps heal wounds, and it improves oral health and the digestive system.  However, mastiha is not the only herbal ingredient grown here. The region also has chamomile, sage, thyme, and oregano. Furthermore, Souma, a traditional fig-based spirit is a crucial element in the wellness tradition of mastic oil and mastiha, the signature of Chios.  2. Holistic Healing In Chios  The holistic healing facilities in Chios include meditation sessions near Mavra Volia beach. Furthermore, you can look for yoga retreats in secluded coastal villas and thermal spa visits in nearby Volissos.  Away from the crowd, the thermal spa visit near Amani was the ultimate rejuvenation for me after a busy day.  Cooking Classes And Culinary Tour In Chios, Greece I visited a cafe called Citrus Memories inside an old estate near Chios town. They served a citrus drink made with local fruits grown in Kampos.  The juice was not very sweet. In fact, the hint of bitterness in the drink was the kick. The garden of the old estate had orange trees and stone walls around. So, it was like being in a different era.  The citrus smell of the oranges offered the most refreshing olfactory experience, while the sound of cicadas was somehow felt healing. This was one of the best experiences of food and beverage in Chios, Greece.  1. Mastic Liqueur Tastings I tasted mastic liquor at a local taverna in Mesta. My guide told me that having the mastic liquor after food helps with faster digestion.  The one I tasted had just the right hint of anise. However, it did not overpower the drink's citrusy finish. The texture of the drink was clean, and it cleansed my palate.  2. Cheese-Making Workshops I took a guided tour of the Sinanis' family's traditional cheese workshop. You will notice a wonderful fusion of modern and traditional techniques in cheese-making. Furthermore, you will get to taste their cheese along with other local produce.  3. Traditional Bread Baking In Wood-Fired Ovens Making bread in wood-fired ovens is one of the most cherished culinary traditions of Chios. I was fortunate enough to visit the Klossas bakery in the village of Volissos.  Started in 1955, it is still run by the same family. The setup still has a traditional setup without windows, and they bake a limited variety of bread.  4. Farm-To-Table Cooking Classes With Local Chefs Many local chefs organize a farm-to-table cooking class using locally produced olive oil, citrus fruits, and seafood. I learned to make ipovrihio, a special sweet made using mastic. It is a flavored sugary paste served in cold water.  5. Festivals Celebrating The Food Of Chios  I was lucky enough to be in Chios in the month of August. I could attend many festivals celebrating the local food.  FestivalsSignificanceTimingSouma Festival• Celebrates the Souma spirit made from figs• Celebrated with local delicacies and traditional dance • First two weeks of AugustMountain and Livestock Festival• A three-day festival in Pityos• Vendors selling local produce directly to the public• July or early AugustAmateur Fishermen's Festival• Celebrated in Mesta• Kakavia, or fish soup, is served as part of the marine tradition• AugustPanagia Festival and Saint Markella Festival• Food and drink are shared at the village square • August and July, respectively Moreover, festivals celebrating local saints, such as the Feast of Agios Ioannis the Theologian, are ideal for enjoying local food and beverages. Goat or hake delicacies are served at the end of the religious ceremonies.  Adventure Activities Beyond Hiking The diverse geography of Chios makes it an ideal place for nature walks and hiking. However, it offers many unique adventures. For example, swimming in the tiny coves near Vroulidia and Agia Dynami was the best experience for me.  I started swimming at Agia Dynami early in the morning. The water was so clear that it felt like glass. I could see schools of tiny fish flickering like silver confetti.  Also, after the swim, I went to the taverna up the hill. The owner there served grilled fresh sardines. The dog under the table, taking a nap, made the picture perfect.  Nevertheless, sea kayaking, rock climbing, cave exploration, and mountain biking are some adventure activities in Chios, Greece. 1. Sea Kayaking Along Volcanic Beaches The southern coast around Emporios and Mavra Volia of the Black Pebble Beach is dramatic. The clear water here creates the perfect contrast with the dramatic volcanic beach.  I loved kayaking here and explored the surreal geological formations that we cannot reach on foot.  2. Rock Climbing In Kambia Climbing the limestone cliffs in Kambia offers serious adventure. The crowd here is smaller. Also, you will enjoy the most amazing views of the Aegean from the cliff top.  3. Cave Exploration In Olympoi Olympoi Cave is an active sinkhole. It has a unique geological formation surrounded by stalagmites and stalactites. It is a cooler retreat from the summer Sun, and every formation here tells the stories of the rich geological past of Chios, Greece.  4. Mountain Biking In The North The Amani Forest and the northern mountain ranges have many trails challenging the skills of a mountain biker. As the biker winds through the pine forests, they get to see the panoramic views of the surroundings.  Hidden Historical Sites In Chios, Greece If you are a history buff, you can explore the following locations in Chios, Greece.  • Daskalopetra (Homer’s Stone)  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hidden Chios (@hiddenchios) Daskalopetra, or the stone formation at the center of this archaeological site near Vrontados, is said to be the birthplace of Homer. The ancient poet of the Iliad and the Odyssey.  Steeped in mythology, the place looks over the sea. It offers moments of quietude and looks the most beautiful during the sunrise hours.  • Anavatos Ghost Village  The location of the Anavatos Ghost Village on a sheer granite cliff itself looks surreal. Also known as the “Mistress of the Wind,: Anavatos has been lying vacant since the 1822 Chios Massacre.  I was walking through its alleys just before the sunset hours, and I felt history coming alive and the island celebrating its resilience at the same time.  • Phanai Archaeological Site  The Phanai Archaeological Site is at the southern tip of the island. It has the ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to the God Apollo.  This site does not receive many visitors. So, exploring the remnants of the Hellenic civilization was quite thrilling. The beautiful coastal views add to its appeal.  • Byzantine Churches  Everyone talks about the UNESCO-listed Nea Moni Monastery. However, in search of something lesser known but equally meaningful, I reached Byzantine churches in the mountain villages of the north. These offer stunning iconography and architectural details, often overseen by a single, welcoming caretaker ready to share local lore. Interactive Cultural Places In Chios, Greece If you are traveling with your family, you can explore the following interactive cultural places. These are ideal for multigenerational tourists.  1. Chios Mastic Museum Hours Open: 1st March to 15th October (10 AM to 6 PM) and 16th October to 28th February (10 AM to 5 PM) Entry Fee: Standard Ticket - €3, Concession Ticket: €1.5, Free on Specific Days Such as 18th May, 5th June, and the Last Weekend of September View this post on Instagram A post shared by Çeşme - Chios Ferry Tickets (@sunrise_lines) The Chios Mastic Museum celebrates the tradition of mastic production, an intangible UNESCO heritage. Located in the Pyrgi Village, the museum is inside an eco-friendly building.  This museum focuses on the uniqueness of mastic as a versatile product. Further, it shows how cooperatives have played an important role in the production of mastic products in the recent past.  2. Chios Castle Hours Open: 8 AM to 3:30 PM (Tuesday Closed) Entry: Free View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nazli Usta Lazaris (@yunanistandannotlar) Located in the north of the town center, Chios Castle used to be the fortified core of the town, starting from the Genoese period. Spanning over an area of 180,000 m2, the castle is still inhabited.  3. Giustiniani Palace Inside the Chios Castle, the Giustiniani Palace was the headquarters of the Genoese administration. As a museum, it holds archaeological and art exhibitions.  4. Chios Archaeological Museum Hours Open: 8 AM to 7 PM (Closed on Mondays in Winter) (Temporarily Under Renovation) Entry Fee: 10€ The Archaeological Museum of Chios has art exhibits from the Neolithic period to the Roman era. Furthermore, sculptures from the Prehistoric settlements, coins, inscriptions, mosaics, and more are exhibited in the museum.  5. Chios Maritime Museum Hours Open: 9 AM to 2 PM (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday) Standard Fee: €3.00 Concession Fee: €2.00 Nestled in a neoclassical building, Chios Maritime Museum celebrates the rich maritime history of the island. It has nautical artifacts and ship models.  Beaches In Chios, Greece  Agia Dynami will always be my favorite with its calmness and the absence of any loud beach amenities.  However, Mavra Volia is a more touristy one, with its dramatic black pebbles and sapphire water.  Elinda Beach is another beach on the west of the island. It has a hidden cover, and it is famous for amazing sunset views of the Aegean.  A 5-Day Itinerary In Chios, Greece They say that 3-4 days are enough in Chios. However, for me, even the five days I spent here were not enough.  This is how I spent the days. DaysActivitiesDay 1• Mastic Harvesting Tour• Pottery Class in Armolia• Sea Kayaking near Mavra Volia• Attending the Souma Festival• Dinner at a TavernaDay 2• Early Morning Swim in Agia Dynami• Exploring Pyrgi and its Weaving Scene• Visiting the Mastic Museum• Visiting the Phanai Archaeological Site• Attending a Bread Baking ClassDay 3• A Trip to Daskalopetra and the Byzantine Churches• Visiting the Chios Castle• Exploring the Anavatos Ghost Village before Sunset Hours• Feasting at the Amateur Fishermen's Festival • An After-Dinner Stroll and Getting Lost in the Alleys of ChiosDay 4• Visiting the Chios Archaeological Museum• Mountain Biking near Kambia• Attending a Soap Making ClassTaking a tour of the Sinanis' Family's Traditional Cheese Workshop• Back to Chios in the Evening• Thermal Spa Visit near AmaniDay 5• Attending A Farm-to-Table Cooking Class• Collecting Olive Oil and Mastic Products• Off to the Airport Things To Remember For A Trip To Chios, Greece Here are some essential things you need to keep in mind for a trip to Chios, Greece.  Family Travel Tips• Visit shallow beaches like Agia Fotini• Choose kid-friendly tavernas with playgrounds.• Visit interactive museums and farms Eco-Tourism & Sustainability Tips• Stay in an eco-lodge• Visiting the Amani Forest and its protected eco trailsEco-Lodges and Sustainable Travel• Mastic Eco Retreat• Volissos Earth Homes• Amani Forest CabinsPhotography Spots & Sunrise/Sunset Locations• Sunrise at Daskalopetra• Sunset over Volissos Castle• Colorful alleys of Pyrgi• Black pebble beach of Mavra Volia• Panoramic views from Anavatos How To Reach Chios, Greece?  You have to reach Chios by air or sea. Here are the details. Also, many people include Chios as an extension of the coastal tour of Turkey, which is just a 30-45 minute ferry ride away.  Nevertheless, here are the details. By Air• Route: Direct flights from Athens International Airport (ATH).• Airlines: Aegean Airlines/Olympic Air and SKY Express.• Duration: The flight takes only 50 minutes.By Ferry• Route: Piraeus Port (Athens) to Chios Town Port (or sometimes Mesta Port)• Operator: Primarily Blue Star Ferries.• Duration: 7.5 - 10.5 Hours.From Turkey• Route: Çeşme, Turkey to Chios Town Port.• Duration: An incredibly short 30–45 minutes by high-speed ferry. Taking a car rental is the only way to explore Chios. However, if you drive, make sure that you can manage driving on the cobblestone streets.  What Is The Best Time To Visit Chios, Greece? April to October is the best time to visit Chios, Greece. Furthermore, April to June is the ideal time for adventures, and July and August are the ideal time for mastic harvesting tours, hitting the beaches, and taking part in the festivals.  September onward, the crowd becomes less, and you can enjoy the beauty of the quiet autumn here till October. November onward, the island does not have many tourists, and many facilities also shut down during these months.  Budget For The Chios Trip My trip to Chios cost me around $2000. However, that does not mean that Chios is a very expensive place. Here is a quick breakdown of the expenses.  ExpensesCostFlights$1200Accommodation for 4 Nights$180Food and Drink$150Local Transport$75Activities$150Total $1755 So, get ready to experience offbeat Greece and the most authentic Chios. Kaló taksídi! Chios Greece Travel Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Chios, Greece. 1. Is Chios A Nice Island? Less than an hour away from Turkey’s coast, Chios is the fifth-largest island of Greece. It is a nice island with a pristine vibe and a rich heritage around mastic production, natural healing, pottery, and weaving. Furthermore, its historical ruins have many stories to share about the vivid past of the island.  2. Does It Snow In Chios? No, it does not snow in Chios because the air is typically around 62% humid. However, temperatures drop significantly in the months of January and February, and the temperature is around 6 to 12 degrees Celsius.  3. What Is Chios Food? Chios food is an extension of what is available as local produce. So, you will find the use of citrus fruits such as mandarin, local cheese such as mastelo, fish, and mastic resin. Furthermore, despite its distinct culinary heritage, food here shows an influence of the nearby Asia Minor. 

BY  Nabamita Mar 7, 2024

For 38.2% of Americans, dwindling spending power has become a major deterrent that is dampening their travel plans. If economic woes and rising prices are keeping you from vacationing overseas, why not consider exploring the US for a change of pace and scenery? Its sweeping terrain provides plenty of options, whether you’re looking to unwind at a sunny beach or go skiing on a snow-covered mountain. However, traveling in the US could expose you to various risks, just like overseas destinations. So, being mindful of them and taking extra precautions will go a long way in making your vacation enjoyable and worry-free. Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Traveling in the US Here are the safety hazards you stand to encounter during your US travels. Accommodation Scams  Fraudsters often impersonate well-known hotel operators to direct travelers to malicious websites. Such sites are usually set up to steal credit card and other personal information of anyone booking a room, which scammers could later use for financial fraud. Sometimes, the deceptive acts are much more subtle yet could leave you in equal despair. Consider for a moment an accommodation ad that provides exaggerated or inaccurate details or omits critical information to mislead you. This is a prevalent trick shady accommodation owners deploy to overcharge guests and secure bookings during off-peak travel seasons. Deceptive Tour Operators Scammers may offer promotional deals via online ads, messages, emails, and telemarketing calls in a bid to attract travelers hunting for bargains. But these promotions could quickly turn your dream vacation into a nightmare if you don’t watch out. Remember, malicious actors could use fabricated travel packages to steal both your money and personal data. Taxi Meter Fraud Dishonest taxi drivers could overcharge passengers by keeping the meter switched off. Sometimes, they may have the meter on but will reset it as soon as they reach the destination, preventing you from checking the distance and fare. Luggage Theft When dropping you off at the hotel or airport, fraudulent drivers could unload only part of your luggage and drive away with the rest. This type of theft can occur when you’re distracted or not paying close attention to your belongings. Rental Service Fraud Many Americans rent cars during domestic travel. Bad actors can make this an opportunity to charge them for pre-existing damage when they return the vehicle. Without proper documentation, it becomes difficult for clients to prove that the damage was already there, resulting in unfair charges. Shady Locals There are numerous ways fraudsters could make money around popular travel hotspots. One technique is taking the guise of friendly locals offering free personal tours and recommendations. But often, these con artists will take you to expensive shops and cafés that pay them a commission for bringing paying customers. They could also get you entangled in various scams under the pretext of helping you. Wi-Fi Hacking Cybercriminals frequently hack into unsecured networks to steal useful data, such as payment information and account passwords. If you’re in the habit of using public Wi-Fi, this is a critical threat you must guard against. How Can You Ensure Your Travel Safety in the US?  The cost and hassle of experiencing a scam or other travel hazard can make anyone weary of traveling. But you can avoid many of them by following the safety tips listed below. Seek Recommendations Whether you want to reserve a hotel room or rent a car, personal recommendations are essential for selecting legitimate service providers. Today, there are many authentic reviews online that could help you assess travel services and make informed decisions. Use Reputed Online Platforms If you’re using a well-known travel platform, type its website address in the search bar to avoid visiting spoofed websites. When you don’t know much about a vendor, make the reservation through a reputed travel booking site, such as hotel.com or booking.com. These platforms typically screen individuals and businesses before accepting their listings and have safety features to protect customers. Be Cautious About Unsolicited Promotions Emails, messages, phone calls, and social media ads are popular mediums for travel scams that imitate reputed businesses. Therefore, verifying their sources is important for detecting and avoiding fraud. For instance, check whether the email addresses match the ones used earlier by the relevant organizations. Reverse search phone numbers on Nuwber to confirm they’re related to the mentioned companies.  And if there are links or attachments, it’s best not to click on them. These could download malware and compromise your financial data security. Use a Ride-Hailing App This is the easiest solution to avoid taxi scams. Uber, Lyft, and similar apps can help you secure a fair price, find a safe driver, and take the fastest route to your destination. However, if you need to take a regular taxi, check whether the meter is on. If it’s not, find another cab. Watch Your Belongings  Whether you use a taxi or public transportation, keeping an eye on your luggage and other belongings is essential. Don’t forget to pack a light and leave your valuables at home. Check Before Renting When you are renting a vehicle or any other item during your travels, inspect it carefully before signing the rental agreement and providing a deposit. If you notice any dents, scratches, or other obvious damage, point it out to the rental service provider, take photos, and put it down in writing. Use Secure Internet Connections Mobile data is the safest option to avoid cyber threats associated with unsecured networks. When you need to log into public Wi-Fi, always select one protected by passwords. Plan Ahead Doing your homework before traveling is a must to minimize dependency on strangers. Research the destination and the travel spots you want to explore and learn about entrance fees, opening times, location, and special requirements. Also, note down their official contact numbers so you won’t need to rely on others for information. To Recap  Accommodation owners, tour operators, taxi drivers, rental service providers, shady locals, and even cybercriminals can target unsuspecting travelers in the US for various deceptive schemes. Some threats may have more severe consequences than others. However, they could all sap the joy out of your much-awaited vacation. So, be mindful of common hazards and take adequate precautions for your travel safety. Read Also: Traveling To Korea? Here’s Your Must-Try Korean Food Top 15 Restaurants In Colombia You Must Visit While Traveling Top 11 Outlets In Massachusetts You Can Visit While Traveling