Brighton Bliss: Crafting Your Perfect Coastal Getaway Itinerary

BY  Arnab Jun 9, 2023

Avid travel enthusiasts know the importance of finding the best flight and hotel deals. Spending profusely on accommodation and flights means you will be left with less money for recreation, fun activities, delicious meals, and shopping. Have you considered using VPN for booking flights and hotels? No? This guide tells you how VPN is ideal for helping you find out the best flight and accommodation deals. You can use this travel hack on your next trip. Doesn’t Incognito Mode Work to Lower the Prices? You may see using incognito mode as the number one travel hack. But, in reality, it is only great for hiding your browsing history from other people on the device. You cannot change the IP address in this mode, which is what most hotel, flight, and travel booking sites track. Therefore, to be completely anonymous, you must use a VPN. How VPN Helps in Lowering Flights & Hotel Prices? Airline ticket and hotel booking prices greatly vary depending on where you are booking from. Travel and airlines booking websites use a dynamic pricing model, which means the prices change according to factors such as your purchase history, IP address, ZIP code, browsing habits, demand as well as supply, the Wi-Fi network you are connected to, etc. You can save hundreds of dollars on your next trip by using VPN. You can switch your IP address using a VPN to an altogether different location, which means the websites may appear at different prices according to that location. By changing the IP address, you can receive a cheaper price on hotels and flights if the new destination consists of lower demands and is a low-income country. Furthermore, you can even avail of special discounts for the country from which you are connecting. Discounts might be offered because of country-specific holidays or for seasonal reasons. The plus point is that you can also optimize VPN to search for lower prices on car rentals. Also, using a VPN is a straightforward process. Simply choose a provider and click VPN software download. Then, follow the instructions. More information on how you can use VPN to lower flights and hotel prices is given below. A Comprehensive Guide to Using a VPN Here’s a bit-by-bit guide to learning how to optimize VPN to get cheaper flights and hotel deals on your upcoming trip. Select a premium VPN provider Choosing a reliable and safe VPN provider is the most significant step in successfully executing this travel hack. However, since they are not built in the same manner, you must be careful during a VPN selection. An ideal VPN offers server locations in several other countries, ensuring fast and stable connections. Also, it offers 256-AES encryption and other security protocols like OpenVPN and Wizard Guard. Other standout features include a no-logs policy and an automatic kill switch. A kill switch is essential as it safeguards users’ information if the VPN connection accidentally drops. A no-logs policy is a clear indication that the VPN operator does not keep records of your activities online. So, there’s no record of the IP addresses used by you or the websites you browse to plan your trip. Another essential feature is knowledgeable and responsive customer support, ready to address all your needs 24/7. Position the VPN program After selecting a premium VPN provider, the initial step is downloading and installing the software on your gadget. After that, you can visit the website of your VPN provider and select the best strategy that meets your needs. Then, follow the download and installation instructions. Most VPN providers offer a 30-day trial period with a money-back guarantee. So, you can try the top VPNs before settling for one. Connect to a server of your chosen country Connecting to a server located in a country of your choice is the next step. This step intimidates a lot of people, but it is incredibly simple. Use your VPN to connect to the server country where you wish to visit just like you are browsing the web. For instance, if you wish to book a flight or hotel while appearing as if you are in the Philippines, you need a VPN to a server located in the Philippines. This will make it seem like you are in the Philippines while you are in another country. With most premium VPN services, all it takes is a single click to connect to a server. Then, you can start browsing and find those amazingly affordable deals for your trip. If you are wondering which is the most affordable country to change your VPN server location to, there’s no firm answer. It will depend on your destination and departure date. But some destinations that have proved to be lucky are India, Argentina, Peru, Mexico, Singapore, Australia, the Philippines, etc. So, you may have to play a little by changing locations and then see what lands you the cheapest hotel and flights. Search for flights and hotels Start searching for your flights or hotels after you have connected to your desired country’s server. First, you can try searching on a travel booking site, as this will provide you with multiple flight and hotel options to choose from. Then, try the airline or hotel website directly, as sometimes the prices may differ when you’re booking through a travel site and directly from an airline or hotel website. If you do not find a reasonable price, change the VPN’s country again. Compare prices before booking After you have searched for hotels or flights, you must compare the prices before booking. It would be best if you compared the prices with other travel booking websites to guarantee you get the best detail. If you find the most affordable deal, book it immediately, as the prices may quickly change. Change the location of the VPN to your home country If you have finished booking your flights and accommodation, change the VPN location back to your country. Or, you can continue browsing, choosing any server you want. The Bottom Line If you are up for saving money, try this travel hack for your next trip.  Read Also: Use These Resources When Planning A Big Trip Kiwi Flights Review – Login, Services, And Travel Experiences The Ultimate Guide To Finding Cheap Flights To Chicago Using Google Flights

BY  Shahnawaz Oct 31, 2023

Statistics show that American travelers are likely to make 1.94 billion domestic leisure trips by the end of this year. One area that is quite popular is the Gulf of Mexico. Nestled along the southwestern corner of the United States lies an idyllic stretch of coastline. It draws families searching for memorable sun-filled adventures and lifetime memories.  The Gulf of Mexico, with its shimmering turquoise waters and warm sandy shores, serves as an oasis for beachgoers, nature explorers, beachcombers, and water enthusiasts alike. From Port Aransas beaches to Gulf Shores attractions and Biloxi's hidden gems, here is your gateway to family fun in the Gulf. Join us as we discover everything this coastal paradise has to offer. We have with us activities like building sandcastles to embarking on exhilarating boating adventures. Port Aransas: A Beach Lover's Haven Port Aransas, situated on Mustang Island, is known for its charming coastal town feel and 18-mile pristine shoreline. It is often called the Texas Treasure. It is renowned as an inviting and family-friendly vacation spot along the Gulf of Mexico shores. Port Aransas makes for an excellent coastal retreat getaway. As soon as you step onto Port Aransas' powder-white sands, you'll understand why this town is such a gem. Beach lovers will find plenty of space here for building sandcastles, flying kites, and playing beach volleyball, not forgetting the calm waves that make swimming enjoyable. And if you’re lucky enough, you might even spot dolphins swimming nearby. If you're planning a visit to Port Aransas, Texas' charming coastal town, your trip must be carefully orchestrated. Start with finding accommodation that perfectly meets your preferences. Due to its immense popularity during peak vacation seasons, Port Aransas can quickly become overrun.  As such, beginning an early search for the best Port Aransas vacation rentals is crucial to ensuring a relaxing and stress-free stay. By booking in advance, you ensure a comfortable and enjoyable place. It also makes sure that every aspect of the Port Aransas experience can be maximized during your stay there. Boating Adventures: The Heart of the Gulf One of the quintessential Gulf of Mexico experiences is taking to the water for a boating adventure. The Gulf's calm and clear waters make it a prime location for all types of waterborne activities. No matter if it is sailing, jet skiing, kayaking, or taking part in any aquatic recreational activities, the Gulf offers limitless aquatic adventure. Are you seeking an unforgettable maritime adventure? For an experience like no other, take the plunge and discover the Gulf's plentiful islands, bays, and inlets. A visit to the Florida Keys gives snorkelers and scuba divers the chance to dive or snorkel across its vibrant coral reefs, teeming with aquatic life. You can even swim alongside turtles and tropical fish in the clear, warm waters. Families interested in history will find visiting the USS Lexington museum in Corpus Christi an unforgettable experience. This World War II aircraft carrier provides visitors with the chance to explore its vessel. They can learn its story, and try their hand at flying an aircraft using the flight simulator. Biloxi, Mississippi: A Hidden Gem Biloxi, Mississippi, stands out as an often-overlooked gem in the Gulf of Mexico. It boasts expansive white-sand beaches, lively casinos, and an impressive history. Biloxi makes an attractive option for families searching for an all-encompassing vacation experience. Biloxi's beaches are an outstanding feature, providing the ideal setting for relaxation, beach games, and water activities. But the city's lively atmosphere extends beyond the shoreline, with world-class casinos offering entertainment, dining, and gaming options for adults. If you're traveling with older kids or a multigenerational group, Biloxi is an excellent choice for its diverse entertainment offerings. For a touch of history and culture, the Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art is a unique attraction, housing contemporary and historical artwork and architecture. The Biloxi Lighthouse, another historical landmark, provides an opportunity to learn about the area's maritime history and enjoy panoramic views of the Gulf. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is an essential stop for families in Gulf Shores, Alabama, looking for a fun-filled combination of education and entertainment. This world-class zoo provides visitors with an unforgettable experience by bringing animals from around the globe closer to them so that they can observe them up close. From playful lemurs to majestic lions and curious kangaroos, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo's immersive exhibits give visitors a greater understanding of animal kingdom marvels. Not only can you experience these incredible creatures in their meticulously curated habitats, but you can also engage in unforgettable encounters, such as feeding a giraffe or encountering a sloth. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo makes for an educational adventure perfect for family outings along the Gulf of Mexico coast and offers educational fun for people of all ages. Conclusion The Gulf of Mexico offers family-friendly destinations that promise sun, sand, and adventure for everyone in your group. From Port Aransas in Texas to Gulf Shores, Alabama's captivating beaches, to boating adventures on its open waters, here you can find something for every family member to enjoy. Wherever your journey leads you, the Gulf will provide an experience you won't soon forget. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and embark on an unforgettable family journey to the Gulf's sunny shores. Read Also: Spa Relaxation On A Charter Yacht In Dubai How To Save Money On A Trip To Abu Dhabi Top 12 National Parks In Florida That You Must Visit In 2023

BY  Sibashree Nov 4, 2025

I was having sticky rice with steamed hot freshwater fish cooked in banana leaves at Tamarind Restaurant. I took the first bite and I closed my eyes. It was a moment to cherish, to feel! The taste was similar yet distinctly different from what I usually have at home. Sticky rice is the soul of Lao cuisine, and it is related to community sentiment, as every village has its own rice field. And the fish was a game of perfect balance, and the spiciness was just right to titillate the taste buds, but not overpowering.  Furthermore, as I explored the villages and went a little way away from the town center, I found food cooked in bamboo hollows. Another important aspect of Lao cuisine is the art of fermentation.  From sun-dried fish and meat to fermented vegetables and salted lime, a Lunag Prabang food tour is an experience curated with love. Also, to cherish the authentic flavors of Laos, you have to try the street food here. It’s not Vietnamese, not Thai, but simply Laotian.  I will talk about these street food delicacies shortly. However, before that, let’s find out what makes the food in Luang Prabang Special.  Cooking Techniques And Ingredients That Make Food In Luang Prabang Special  Food in Luang Prabang and Laos stands out for its distinctive techniques and ingredients. Check out the table below for a brief understanding. Techniques/IngredientsUse in Luang Prabang FoodFermentation• Key to Local Laos Flavors• Used in Picked Vegetables, Soy, and Fish SauceGrilling• Grilling over Charcoal Gives the Fish or Meat a Distinct FlavorHerbsCommon Herbs Used Are:• Mint• Lemongrass• Coriander• Kaffir Lime• GalangalSticky Rice Steaming• Rice is Cooked in Bamboo Baskets over Boiling Water.  What Is The Best Street Food In Luang Prabang Laos?  Have you tried something as “interesting” as a honeycomb cooked and charred in banana leaves? I have. And the smell of charcoal and honeycomb got blended with the whiff of lemongrass and grilled fish.  This is what my senses caught first as the tuk-tuk dropped me at the morning market in Luang Prabang. Another thing I found special about the morning market was the presence of women in large numbers. Most vendors were women.  I saw a lady whose face looked like a painting with all the creases, but her smile was all about silent resilience. I went to her stall and ordered a bowl of khao soi. It was bliss with the right amount of pork, herbs, and tomatoes.  The sky was still pale pink, and I saw monks in saffron robes pass quietly collecting alms. My breakfast moment suddenly became about discovering everyday spirituality in the rhythm of food. I closely felt that breakfast is not just food for the people here, it’s about gratitude, humility, and connecting to the origin.  Now, my stories of Luang Prabang will never end. It’s like the silent river that flows and does its magic by touching the lives on its route. So, let me share with you brief details about the best street food in Luang Prabang you cannot miss. 1. Khao Soi Luang Prabang Everyone loves Khao Soi in Luang Prabang. This pork soup with fermented soy and tomatoes is the perfect breakfast delicacy here.  2. Lao Sausage (Sai Oua) It is a pork sausage delicacy. In these sausages, the pork meat is infused with lemongrass, galangal, and herbs.  3. Sticky Rice (Khao Niew) You cannot imagine a complete Lao meal without sticky rice. I love to have sticky rice with fish.  4. Grilled Mekong Fish In Luang Prabang, they use fresh riverwater fish to make this dish. They marinate the fish using local herbs and grill it on charcoal for a distinct flavor.  But do you know why grilled fish in Luang Prabang tastes even better? Mr. Somchai, a Mekong fish griller, said, “We catch fish at dawn and grill them by sunset. No freezer, just fire.” 5. Coconut Pancakes (Khanom Krok) The coconut pancakes are also the most unique in flavor. It has a crispy outer layer, which is complemented by the creaminess inside.  These pancakes are served with spring onions.  6. Papaya Salad (Tam Mak Hoong) If you love the pungency of fermented fish, this crunchy salad will be your instant favorite. The raw papayas used in the salad give the dish the right crunch.  Furthermore, the fermented fish sauce and the use of lemon add the right balance of flavors to the salad.  7. Larb (Laap) Larb is a comfort food. It’s a salad with minced meat, lime, mint, and rice powder. It has the right balance of salty, sour, and spicy flavors.  It is the national dish of Laos and a common staple in everyday food and festivals.  8. Jaew Bong Jaew Bong is more like a condiment or a side served with dishes like fried seaweed. It is a smoky chilli paste with strong flavors of garlic and buffalo skin.  9. Fried Seaweed (Khai Paen) I liked the umami flavors of the fried seaweed or Khai Paen here. It was served with roasted sesame seeds, which added just the right amount of nutty balance to the dish.  Also, the fried seaweed dish came with Jaew Bong. 10. Spring Rolls Spring rolls are my favorite, and I love the ones with fish stuffing the most. So, at Luang Prabang, a hub of freshwater fish, I had to try these spring rolls.  I had the fried ones with the vermicelli, giving the outer layer the right amount of crunch.  11. Banana Roti Traditionally, a banana roti is a flatbread with banana slices and a condensed milk topping. The bread's crispiness balances the banana filling's moisture.  The banana rotis are also served with chocolate syrup and sugar. I even tried the ones with an egg filling. 12. Grilled Chicken Skewers Now, the grilled chicken skewers here are different, mostly because of the prominent presence of lemongrass. And honestly, the amount of lemongrass used was a bit too much for my taste.  However, it’s the way the locals love it.  13. Lao Coffee Lao coffee, for me, was like the desert I could have every day and not get bored with. It is rich and sweet as it uses condensed milk.  However, the use of condensed milk does not overpower the strong aroma of coffee. 14. Fruit Shakes           View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Escaping Abroad (@escapingabroad) The food stalls in Luang Prabang have some amazing fruit shakes. I loved the dragon fruit shakes here the most. However, mango and pineapple shakes are also easily available.  15. Rice Cakes With Coconut If the morning market treated me with the best khao soi, the night market treated me with the best rice cakes with coconut.  The Sun dipped, and the night market became alive with gold and red lanterns adorning the stalls. I could smell a mix of chili smoke, coconut milk, and sticky rice roasting on bamboo skewers. At a stall, I was sitting on a wooden bench with the locals, and I was waiting for my vegetarian buffet with stir-fried greens, bamboo shoots, and pumpkin curry to be served. Suddenly, the lady vendor of the stall smiled and nodded, and handed me a few rice cakes with coconut.  The dessert was as delightful as the night air in Luang Prabang, and despite many requests, the lady did not take any money for the rice cakes. Rather, we started having conversations and shared a laugh. Some soft Lao music was being played at a distance. So, my dinner moment at the night market became an act of bonding.  Almost one year later, I read an article about the distinct nature of food in Laos in the South China Morning Post. I could relate to what Saeng Douangdara, a Lao-American chef based in Los Angeles, said,  “For Lao people, food holds a central place. It serves as a unifying force that brings people together.”  Overall, I think the way people approach food here stems from the fact that it is a Buddhist land. It’s all about gratitude and mindful consumption.  How To Take The Best Food Tours In Luang Prabang? (Some Ideas To Explore) My local guide and the tuk-tuk drivers completely curated my food exploration journey in Luang Prabang. I became friends with Seng, a local tuk-tuk driver. He said,  “The best food isn’t in restaurants—it’s in the alleyways. Follow the locals.” My morning food tour in Luang Prabang to the market became all the more special by participating in the alms-giving ceremony.  You have to experience the profound meaning behind the restraint and silence of the entire experience to understand why it is spiritually elevating. Also, the night market has a charm of its own, and the morning and night markets both need to be explored on foot.  However, if you want a more luxurious tour, you can opt for something like Marriott Bonvoy Tours and Activities. Professional food guides conduct these tours, and the tour includes more than 15 tastings. It is a movable tour with many spots around the Old City. Furthermore, Asia Tours conducts a food tour in Luang Prabang with organic farm visits and learning to cook from a local chef. Also, Thrillophilia conducts a tour with a street food walk, cultural storytelling, and exploring vegetarian-friendly options.  Street Food Map & Walking Route In Luang Prabang If you ask me, I will tell you to keep the Luang Prabang food tour spontaneous, and you must listen to your local guide.  However, you can also follow this simple walking route map for a Luang Prabang food tour.  Taking a tuk-tuk or a walk to the Morning Market near Wat Mai Heading to Ban Phanluang for grilled fish stalls Exploring the night market at Sisavangvong Road Trying local drinks and Lao Tapas at Utopia Bar Morning Vs. Evening Market Guide Luang Prabang Here is a brief comparison between the morning and night markets in Luang Prabang. CriteriaMorning MarketNight MarketTiming• Opens at 5:30 AM• Starts around 5:00 PMBest for• Fresh Produce• Herbs• Breakfast Items• Grilled Meat• Souvenirs• DessertsMust Try Items• Khao Soi• Sticky Rice• Coconut Pancakes• Lao Sausage• Banana Roti• Grilled Fish A 2-Day Luang Prabang Food Tour Itinerary  Making an itinerary for a food tour is difficult, as you cannot rush it. The idea is not to consume as much as you can. It’s about cherishing the flavors, the cultural content, the bonding, the tradition, and the people behind it.  Still, here is a 2-day itinerary for the Luang Prabang food tour.  DaysActivitiesDay 1• Exploring the morning market at Phousi Road and participating in the alms-giving ceremony• Having coffee at Le Banneton• Lunch and cooking class at Tamarind Restaurant• Exploring the Night Market Food AlleyDay 2• Mekong Breakfast Cruise• Dara Market Visit• Lunch at Khaiphaen Restaurant• Visiting Whisky Village and trying Lao Lao Whisky• Dinner at Manda de Laos Luang Prabang Food And Buddhist Rituals  The Tak Bat Ceremony, or the alms giving ceremony, makes the food tour in Luang Prabang associated with Buddhist rituals. Monks are offered fruits and sticky rice at dawn.  Furthermore, food becomes the core of community celebration during festivals such as Pi Mai Lao or Lao New Year. In these festivals, the local people prepare food for monks.  In addition, food tour organizers such as A Chef’s Tour organize a Luang Prabang Food Tour, including a Monk Blessing Ceremony. Vegetarian Options In Luang Prabang Food  The vegetarian food options in Luang Prabang are many due to its Buddhist roots. You have to just say “Bor Sai Nyam” or “No Meat” to vendors to get vegetarian food.  Here are the alternatives or vegetarian versions for the popular staples in Luang Prabang.  Common FoodVegetarian AlternativeLarb• Options with mushrooms and tofu are available. Papaya Salad• Request not to use fish sauce in the dressingSpring Rolls• Use veg fillingsFruit Shakes• Avoid dairy products in the fruit shakes Sticky rice, the staple item in the Luang Prabang food, is already a vegan item. You can have it with any veg side or fried seaweed without the chilli and buffalo skin paste.  Estimated Food Prices In Luang Prabang  The budget of your food tour will depend on the places you eat. For example, the same dish brought from a street stall will cost at least 10000 LAK when you eat at a top-grade restaurant.  Furthermore, some delicacies such as the coconut pancakes or coconut rice cakes may not be available at all restaurants.  DishStreet Stall PriceRestaurant PriceKhao Soi10,000 LAK (\$0.50)30,000 LAK (\$1.50)Lao Sausage15,000 LAK (\$0.75)40,000 LAK (\$2.00)Grilled Fish25,000 LAK (\$1)60,000 LAK (\$3.00)Larb25,000 LAK (\$1.25)70,000 LAK (\$3.50) Things To Keep In Mind For A Delightful Luang Prabang Food Tour Arrive at the morning market before 6 AM to talk to the local vendors and have freshly made coconut pancakes, steamed sticky rice, and khao soi. Arriving before the crowd helps to have authentic conversations with the local vendors.  You must follow where the locals are heading. A smart tip: Find the food stalls in the alleys near the temples. You will often notice long queues in front of those shops.  Also, most street foods cost between 5,000 and 20,000 LAK. So, carry small change.  Make sure that the vendor at the food stall you visit is wearing gloves, and use clean utensils.   Keep your behavior respectful while taking part in an alms-giving ceremony or food tours blessed by monks.  Luang Prabang Food Tour: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Luang Prabang food tour.  1. What Is The Most Famous Street Food In Luang Prabang? Khao Soi, or the pork noodle soup, is the most famous street food in Luang Prabang. It is a popular breakfast item. However, it is a wholesome dish with pork, tomatoes, and subtle flavors. Unlike traditional Thai Khao Soi, the Luang Prabang Khao Soi does not use coconut-based curry. Instead, it has fermented soybean paste.  2. Is Street Food Safe In Luang Prabang? Yes, street food is safe in Luang Prabang. However, you have to visit food stalls that locals frequent. Also, drink bottled water. Most importantly, when trying local liquors at the Whisky Village or local stalls, take your guide's suggestions.  3. Can I Join A Food Tour As A Vegetarian? Yes, you can join a food tour as a vegetarian. You can always replace the minced pork or fish in springroll stuffing or choose tofu and mushrooms in larb. Just mention, Bor Sai Nyam or no meat to the vendor. In addition, you can customize the spice level in your food with adjustments in spice levels or ingredients.