Things To Do In Dallas In Winter: Travel Like A Local And Make This Weekend Happening

BY  Ankita Aug 11, 2023

For food enthusiasts, Europe is a gastronomic wonderland that promises an exquisite journey of flavors and culinary delights. From hearty Italian pasta to delicate French pastries, each country in Europe offers a unique and delectable culinary experience. If you're a foodie at heart and dream of savoring the best dishes the continent has to offer, look no further. In this blog post, we will explore the best Europe tour packages for foodies, curated by the experts at Guide to Europe, to help you embark on a mouthwatering adventure through the flavors of Europe. The Art of Italian Cuisine: A Taste of Italy Italy, with its rich culinary heritage, is a paradise for food lovers. From the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked pizza in Naples to the indulgence of creamy gelato in Florence, Italy captivates taste buds like no other. The "A Taste of Italy" tour package takes you on a gastronomic journey through iconic cities like Rome, Venice, and Milan. Sample authentic pasta dishes, feast on sumptuous seafood along the Amalfi Coast, and raise a toast with fine wines from Tuscany. With the "A Taste of Italy" package, every meal becomes a celebration of the art of Italian cuisine. Flavours of France: A Culinary Odyssey France, renowned for its culinary prowess, offers a feast for the senses that will leave foodies spellbound. The "Flavors of France: A Culinary Odyssey" tour package takes you on a delectable adventure through Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux. Indulge in buttery croissants for breakfast, savor velvety escargot for lunch, and delight in a gourmet dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant. From wine tastings in Bordeaux to a boulangerie tour in Paris, this package allows you to immerse yourself in the refined art of French cuisine. Tapas and Tempranillo: Spain's Culinary Delights Spain's vibrant culinary scene is a celebration of bold flavors and regional specialties. The "Tapas and Tempranillo" tour package showcases the best Spanish cuisine in cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville. Treat your taste buds to an array of tapas, from sizzling patatas bravas to succulent jamón ibérico. Discover the magic of paella in Valencia and sip on velvety Tempranillo wines in the picturesque vineyards of La Rioja. With the "Tapas and Tempranillo" package, Spain's culinary delights are yours to savor. Greek Gastronomy: A Mediterranean Culinary Odyssey For a taste of the Mediterranean, Greece beckons with its wholesome and flavorful dishes. The "Greek Gastronomy: A Mediterranean Culinary Odyssey" tour package whisks you away to Athens, Santorini, and Crete, where you can indulge in the simplicity and goodness of Greek cuisine. Feast on tangy tzatziki, delight in fresh seafood by the Aegean Sea, and taste the beloved moussaka. This package also offers the opportunity to learn the art of traditional Greek cooking from local chefs, ensuring you bring home the tastes of Greece to savour forever. A Journey through the Spice Route: Moroccan Delicacies Morocco is a culinary gem that beckons foodies with its intoxicating blend of spices and aromatic dishes. The "A Journey through the Spice Route" tour package takes you on a culinary adventure through Marrakech, Fes, and Chefchaouen. Immerse yourself in the vibrant souls, where the air is infused with the scent of exotic spices. Savour the iconic tagine, try delicate pastries like baklava and sip on refreshing mint tea. The "A Journey through the Spice Route" package offers a sensory journey through the flavors of Morocco. European Delicacies: A Continental Sampler If you're torn between the delectable cuisines of multiple European countries, the "European Delicacies: A Continental Sampler" tour package is the perfect choice. This package allows you to savour the best dishes from Italy, France, Spain, Greece, and more in one delectable journey. Indulge in pasta in Rome, enjoy a leisurely wine tasting in Bordeaux, experience the lively atmosphere of tapas bars in Barcelona, and embrace the Mediterranean charm of Santorini. The "European Delicacies: A Continental Sampler" package is a whirlwind culinary adventure that caters to the diverse palates of foodies. How to Choose the Best Europe Tour Package for Foodies Selecting the ideal Europe tour package for foodies depends on your culinary preferences, budget, and the countries you wish to explore. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice: Cuisine Preference: Consider which European cuisine excites you the most. If you're a pasta lover, Italy is a must; for seafood enthusiasts, Spain and Greece offer delightful options. Activities and Experiences: Look for packages that include culinary activities, such as cooking classes, wine tastings, and food tours, to enhance your gastronomic journey. Duration and Itinerary: Review the duration and itinerary of the package to ensure it aligns with your travel preferences and available time. Local Expertise: Check if the package offers the guidance of local experts who can provide insights into the culinary culture and hidden gems of each destination. Budget and Inclusions: Compare the cost of each package and the inclusions, such as accommodations, meals, and guided tours, to find the best value for your money. Conclusion Feasting your way through Europe is a dream come true for foodies, and the best Europe tour packages from Guide to Europe make it all possible. From the art of Italian cuisine to the flavours of France and the Mediterranean delights of Greece and Spain, each package promises a delectable journey through the continent's culinary treasures. Whether you crave pasta in Rome, tapas in Barcelona, or the aromatic spices of Morocco, there's a tour package designed to tantalize your taste buds and create unforgettable memories. So, pack your appetite and embark on a gastronomic adventure that will leave you savoring the flavors of Europe long after your journey comes to an end. Bon appétit! Read Also: Feast Your Way Through Europe: Best Tour Packages For Foodies 3 Of The Best European Holiday Destinations For Wintertime How To Prepare An Enjoyable Bus Tour In Europe

BY  Ankita Mar 28, 2024

One of the things that most people who are into history and architecture ask me is: “Which place should I visit? Where will I get to see museums that will blow my mind?” And one of my staple answers is, “You know what? You must take a tour of the museums in New Orleans. They will blow your mind!” And yes, I mean it with my everything. You see, I am someone who is a sucker for great architecture. I love old buildings and the sheer magnificence and grandeur of them. Last year, when I visited New Orleans, one of the most important American cities, I had the opportunity to visit almost all the major museums in the city. Therefore, if you have been searching for the best museums in the city, I have you covered! Keep on reading this blog till the end to plan your travel bucket list… Best Museums in New Orleans That You MUST Visit! As I have already mentioned, New Orleans is a place that screams of old charms. The city houses some of the world-class museums. While you must have heard of some of them, like the World War II museum and the NOMA, these are not the only ones. But, if you like to have some quirky options, this place also has you covered. For instance, the Museum of Death and the Backstreet Cultural Museum are some of them. Wondering what they might be about?  Well, to know that, you need to take a look at the following list of the best museums in New Orleans. So, without further ado, let us get started! 1. National World War II Museum The National World Way II Museum in New Orleans is definitely one of the most popular ones in the city. And there are reasons for it to be popular. Located in the Central Business District, this one offers a deeper dive into the tasks and contributions made by the forces of the United States in emerging victorious in the Second World War. While it is true that this museum covers it all, one of the major focuses of the building is on Operation Overload or the Battle of Normandy. https://www.instagram.com/p/C2vFumkP6FI/?img_index=1 With its vast collection of several original and replicas of the materials used in the war, the display boards of the museum offer an in-depth look at the war. Through the help of these replicas, the visitors can get a tangible view of the past and the contributions of the US Army. 2. Museum of Death https://www.instagram.com/p/CrTsbEaOJH4/ While it is true that this museum in New Orleans is not for everyone, it will be a great one for people with a dark sense of humor. Yes, you heard that right! The Museum of Death will appeal to those with macabre fascinations. The visitors are often amused by the building, which looks rather vulgar. Or, as Conde Nast Traveler rightly points out, the building “almost looks like a set of a B-movie with it garish colors and cartoon-like imagery.” https://www.instagram.com/p/C25YVbsR1zB/ So, what do you get here? All things gory. Serial killers and macabre art are what this museum is popular for. If you are a true crime fan, this is the place that will blow your mind. Just remember, when you are here, you MUST get something from the gift shop (no compulsion, though). Get yourself some morbid souvenirs from the gift shop, and thank me later! 3. New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) Thirdly, and probably one of the most important on the list, is the New Orleans Museum of Art, also known as NOMA. This Museum, as the name suggests, boasts a massive collection of objects that offers a range of artistic styles. With nearly 50,000 artistic objects, the prime focus of NOMA is French and American art, glass, and photography. Apart from that, African and Japanese works that showcase the periods and artistic styles of the places are some of the things that the visitors can explore. https://www.instagram.com/p/C4niRvyu-og/?img_index=1 And hey, once you are done exploring the museum, you can probably spend time with your friends and family at the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. This is a huge, lush green park with several sculptures all over. If you are looking for some outdoor art experience, this is something that you should look forward to! 4. Mardi Gras World https://www.instagram.com/p/B8zTC_BHlnH/ Of course, this HAS to be on the list, right? The Blaine Kern's Mardi Gras World, or simply the Mardi Gras World, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world. If you have ever seen the iconic floats of the Mardi Gras parades online and wondered where they make these things, this is the place you need to visit! THIS is where they are created. https://www.instagram.com/p/CFfDB_Sn_3p/?img_index=1 As a visitor, you can look at the creation of the beautiful and vibrant floats and the behind-the-scenes at the warehouse. Additionally, it also serves as a great tourist attraction because of its location. Its location near the Mississippi River makes it easily accessible to tourists. And if you are in the mood to click pictures for the Gram, the backdrop is a great option! 5. New Orleans Jazz Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/C1Xupy0s6jS/ Next on this list of the best museums to visit when you are in the city is the New Orleans Jazz Museum. This museum houses one of the most important buildings in the city, the New Orleans Mint. However, that is not the only significance that the museum holds. The building was used as a nuclear shelter. Moreover, it also served as the Analysis Office, which was a warehouse for the US Coast Guard. Now, you might be wondering why it is known as the Jazz Museum, right? https://www.instagram.com/p/C4WXWqHxWDK/ Well, in 2015, the museum started expanding its exhibits. It now includes several instruments that were once the property of significant and influential jazz musicians. You can find posters and photographs of the same. 6. Ogden Museum of Southern Art https://www.instagram.com/p/C1PeOHHuX-e/ If you are looking for a Smithsonian-affiliated museum, the Odgen Museum is the one you should visit. This one is exactly what the name suggests: a museum that not only showcases but also celebrates the culture and works of Southern artists. With nearly 5,000 pieces of work from several southern states, the Odgen Museum offers the world a great collection of Southern art. Some of its popular exhibits include photography, handicrafts, paintings, and sculptures. https://www.instagram.com/p/C4rHmIcP9VK/?img_index=1 Additionally, it also showcases works of both historical as well as contemporary artists from the South. You can also shop for art books and other artistic handicrafts that are pretty affordable. So, if you are a sucker for classic times, this museum should definitely be on your bucket list! Read More: Romance In The Big Easy: 20 Things To Do In New Orleans For Couples 7. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas The next one on this list of the best museums in New Orleans is the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas. This place is the home to a vast range of marine life. Located right on the banks of the River Mississippi, there are more than five hundred species of animals in this museum. The visitors to the museum can not only explore the animals but also learn about them and the rich biodiversity of the marine world. https://www.instagram.com/p/B-aGpzUBIm2 One of the best exhibits of the museum is the Mississippi River Gallery. This consists of several marine animals like alligators, catfish, and spoonbills. Apart from that, the Caribbean Reef and the Gulf of Mexico exhibits allow the tourists to observe other animals. 8. Contemporary Arts Center of New Orleans (CAC) https://www.instagram.com/p/C1pN-_ZOhpl/?img_index=1 Ever since 1976, this building has been the focal point of the Warehouse Art District. With several experiments on performance art, painting, music, theatre, photography, and more forms of art, the CAC or the Contemporary Arts Center is something you must visit when you are in the city. This museum was renovated in 1990, and its foundation dates back to the early 1900s. With its sleek modern galleries, studios, and warehouse spaces, the center is near about 30,000 sq. ft in area. Massive, isn't it? https://www.instagram.com/p/Cqx4dqvu1Dm/ If I have to name a few things, let me just say that the rotating visual arts exhibitions held here are one of the most important things you simply cannot miss! 9. The Historic New Orleans Collection The next one on this list of the best museums in the city is the Historic New Orleans Collection. And Just like its name suggests, this one is here to showcase everything historic about the city. Founded in the year 1966, the Historic New Orleans Collection is a free museum, a publisher for the culture and history of the city, as well as a research center. Located in the French Quarter, this museum is in the middle of a magnificent campus with nearly ten buildings on the property. https://www.instagram.com/p/BpM2JRsFIMY/ One of the most popular buildings that you can visit here is the Seignouret-Brulatour Building. For most people, this building is nothing more than a gateway to the actual museum. However, I saw great architecture and the fusion of the same with modern technology. 10. The Cabildo Last on the list is The Cabildo. This museum was once an important seat of the Spanish Colonial city hall. But with the change of time, it has now evolved into the State Museum Cabildo of Louisiana. Currently, it is a building that showcases the rich culture of the city’s history. Located right next to the St. Louis Cathedral, The Cabildo has transitioned impressively from being a place of governance. And the location of the museum makes it even more accessible for tourists to explore the heart of the city. https://www.instagram.com/p/BnymoAuDHqD/ At present, the monument preserves the history and significance of being the site of the transfer ceremonies of Lousiana Purchase which took place in the early 1800s. The visitors can get insights of the numerous ethnic groups from the times of the early settlement to the Reconstruction era. Wrapping It Up! In case you wanted to know about the best museums that you can visit in New Orleans, I hope that this blog has been of help to you. If you have any further queries, please feel free to let me know. All that you need to do is scroll down till you reach the end of the page. Then leave your comments in the box. And I will be there to answer them all for you! Read Also: Time Travelers’ Haven: Savannah’s Top Museums And Your Itinerary From Museums To Parks: The Top Attractions In St George Utah Explore The Top 15 Free Museums In DC! Must Visit Museums Understand More About The Vatican’s Museums

BY  sagnika Aug 11, 2023

Want to learn more about the mountains of Kenya? A geographically and topographically diverse country, the Republic of Kenya has beautiful mountains that are more than just a geographical feature! Please read this article to learn about the features of the mountains, their cultural significance, as well as their beauty. There are almost 3888 mountains, out of which 3856 are named mountains. Mount Kenya is the highest peak of all these mountains, with an elevation of 5199 meters. It is one of the second-highest mountains in Africa and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kenya is located in the eastern part of Africa, more towards the southern horn of Africa, with diverse geographical features ranging from towering alpine peaks to mangrove swamps. The mountains' beauty adds to the country's natural features, making it a perfect place to visit! Explore The Beauty Of The Mountains Of Kenya! As a country with a topographical contrast, Kenya is located in the eastern section of Africa. The equator crosses the country across Nanyuki, Maseno, and Timboroa. These features highlight Kenya as a stunning destination that many wish to visit! Being a topographically diverse country where the forests offer diverse wildlife, it is perfect to visit if you love taking safaris. There are also coasts and grasslands, making the location more diverse. The nation is also highly agricultural, with diverse produce, including vegetables, fruits, and animals, even though the location is remote and can be difficult for regular travel. An African safari holiday is a dream for every hodophile, and Kenya offers the perfect backdrop. With spectacular wildlife, astounding landscapes, and a melting pot of culture, Kenya ranks at the top of the travel list of everyone! Moreover, the beautiful mountains play an important role in making Kenya a fascinating place! The country borders nations such as South Sudan, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda, and Somalia. So want to know more about the up-warped giants of the earth? Read along! Highest Mountains Of Kenya The total area of Kenya is 586,000 square kilometers, with high-rising regions such as high plateaus, mountains, arid deserts, and low-lying coastal areas, including islands and coral reefs. 7 freshwater and salt lakes are creating the Great Rift Valley cutting the country in half! Kenya has two of the tallest mountains on the continent. There are several other mountains, most inactive or extinct volcanoes. The landscape is diversified, yet the mountains are as beautiful as ever! Read more on some of the noteworthy mountains in Kenya. Mount Kenya The highest mountain in Kenya is Mount Kenya, located in the center of Kenya, approximately 100 miles northeast of the Capital, Nairobi. The mountain has several summits. Nelion, Lenana, and Batian are some. Bastian is the highest, with 17,058 feet, indicating the mountain's peak. The mountain formed about 3.5 million years ago. A well-known tourist destination, the Mount Kenya National Park surrounds Mount Kenya at the base. You can see elephants, buffalo, as well as colobus monkeys in the park. You can trek the mountain's peak of Lenana Summit as it is feasible without any mountaineering expertise. The rock kente is only available on Mount Kenya as well as the Antarctic, situated at the South Pole. The Spiritual Connection Of Mount Kenya Riuki is found on Mount Kenya, which in a spiritual context is considered the symbolization of the throne of God. Riuki is regarded as the pathfinder by the Gikuyu medicine men. They also believe it therapeutic as they put pebbles at risk as seers. The history of Mount Kenya is interconnected with the Egyptians, Jews, and Ethiopians. Mount Kenya is called Ta-Neteru by the Egyptians, which means the abode of the gods. The God Hapi or lotus, the gods of the Nile Floods, lived on the mountain. The farming communities that settled in Egypt in 7000 BC before the inundation of the Nile corresponded with "Isis," the heliacal rising of the star. It was after the water from the Nile flooding receded, leading to rich dark silt across the Central African countries and highlands. The land is called "Kemet," which is fertile land ready for planting. They consider the lands around Mount Kenya as one of the fertile lands. It also believed that the goddess Isis hid her son, her husband Horus, to raise him from the dead. They say the mountain has medical properties, and the locals consider it amazing. They pray to the mountains for protection and safety. Communities such as Maasai and Samburu are semi-nomadic people who use the northland of the mountain as a paying ground. Mount Elgon The second tallest peak in Kenya is Mount Elgon, located on the country's western side, closer to the Kenya-Uganda border. The mountain has distinguishing characteristics, such as having one of the largest volcanic craters. The top of the mountain is a flat-topped plateau made of basalt. The total height of the mountain is 13,852 feet, with lava tube tunnels across the mountain. Elephants and buffaloes often visit the lava tube tunnels. A national park surrounding Mount Elgon also has rhinos, eagles, leopards, and duikers. Mount Longonot Mount Longonot is an inactive volcano that last erupted in the 1860s but is not completely extinct. The height of the mountain is 9108 feet, and the mountain's slopes are filled with ridges. Mount Longonot is a mountain in Kenya. A park nearby has plenty of wildlife, such as zebras and giraffes. The mountain is situated approximately 60 kilometers northwest of Nairobi. Travelers can visit the park by car, and the base of Mount Longonot has a lot of forest, even around the top crater. Compared to many stony mountains, this one is thickly wooded across the slopes and the summits. Satima Mount Satima is also "Ol Donyo Satima," which roughly translates to "Mountain of the bull calf." It is one of the Kenya mountains! It is the highest mountain across the Aberdare range, with a height of 13,127 feet, and is located on the northern side of the mountain range. The mountain has tussock grass and rocks in some areas and rainforests. There are bamboo forests and Moorland across a section of the mountain. The mountain has a collection of 150 species of plants, such as Podo and Cedar. The mountain is part of the water catchment area for both the Sasumua and Ndakaini dams. The two dams for Nairobi City are the primary source of water. Kinangop Kinangop is a dormant volcano in the Great Rift Valley and the west of the Kinangop Plateau. It is also situated in the Aberdares, with extensive bamboo forests across the mountain in the lower portion. The height of the mountain is 12815 feet. Moreover, the higher sections of the mountain are covered with tussock grass. The top of the mountain is rocky with open moorlands. The top of the mountain is quite chilly and turns freezing at night. Ngiro Mount Ngiro is located in the northern region of Kenya, with a height of 9344 feet. The mountain is part of the Great Rift Valley to the west overlooking the Suguta Valley. The upper slopes have forests, while the mountains is popular for cultivating bees. The mountain falls under the territory of the Samburu people, while the Lmasula phratry performs bee cultivation. The clan claims exclusive rights to the water and the land. Several other mountains and hills are situated in the nation, creating an exciting place for vacationing. If you are a hiking person, Kenya is the perfect place to visit as there are several advantages. There are enough mountains in Kenya for you to go hiking, as well as trails. It is a perfect spot to share holidays as well as weekends with your hiking partners. Some of the tallest mountains are situated in East Kenya. Kulal The mountain Kulal is identified as a biosphere reserve with lava fields, and the origin of the mountain is a volcano. The moisture in the biosphere leads to rain as well as mist, providing hydrological services to the people in northern Kenya. The mountain is located in the middle of East Africa, with steep slopes while deep canyons go across the mountain. It is also one of the driest places in Africa. There are forests across the mountain, a habitat for black rhinoceroses and elephants. Marsabit Mount Marsabit is surrounded by Mt. Marsabit National Park and Reserve, with a height of 1703 meters above sea level. The mountain has many craters, while the hills around it highlight the mountain. Across the mountain are many low-lying arid plains with elliptical shapes 70 km long on the northeast-southwest as well as 45 km wide on the northeast-southwest. The mountain comprises weathered lava flow. Mogila Mogila is one of the mountains of Kenya with a height of 1698 meters. A local relief of 300 meters, steep slopes, and a small summit area characterize the mountain. Moreover, it is located in the Turkana, creating the Great Dividing Range. Namanga Hills The mountain is in the southern part of Kenya. It is located on the borders of Tanzania, with the highest point being 2548 meters. The Great Rift Valley has four peaks: Suswa, Paka, Namarunu, and Menengai. The hills have a collection of hyenas, zebras, ostriches, as well as Antelopes. Cultural Relations Of The Mountains Of Kenya According to the Kikuyu tribe, they say the local Kikuyu god, N'gai resides at the summit of Mount Kenya. Mount Kenya is one such place that the local cultures worship. They consider these mountains the home of spirits as well as gods. Mount Kenya is a spiritual mountain, as the local communities think of it as the residence of God. Ethiopians also consider it the home of God and revered in its presence. The belief gains further confirmation because of the snow at the top of the mountain. The mountain is very close to the equator. Hence, it is quite surprising that there is snowfall at the top. There are thick forests around the mountain, and initially, the military dug the woods to flush the Maumau freedom fighters. According to the traditional version of Mount Kenya in Kikuyu, a star fell on the ground with a bang and formed the mountain. The mountain has volcanic ashes and oozing magma which forms the Kenyte. Mount Longonot has its Masai name, "Oloonong'ot," meaning "mountain with many spurs." The mountains are important as well as are traditional sites for worship by the local populations. Some vow in the mountain's name, while some send prayers based on cultural traditions. Both visitors and the natives join in collaborative activities such as mountain climbing and hiking. Are The Mountains Of Kenya A Cult? The high places in Kenya, especially mountains with snow caps, high mountain ranges, and island mountains, are cults. There are psychological roots of the communities who believe that mountains act as a heavenly ladder. Besides the spiritual connection for the community, mountains are also helpful natural elements for humans as they bring rain, while they also have volcanoes. Volcanoes have a fiery side to them, representing the element of earth. According to the myths based on the world's origin, mountains are the first natural element from ancient water. The indigenous people believe mountains are a great phenomenon of the earth, symbolizing cosmic connection. The local communities consider the mountains as shrines or altars for the Gods and worship them. For example, people in Africa often blame an earth deity when there is an earthquake. They also consider snakes to be culprits, a belief that their cult teaches in the cultural practices of Africa. Conclusion Did you notice something unique about the mountains of Kenya? Most of these mountains have physical features giving an Alpine appearance. There are many ridges across the mountains, giving it a ragged nature. So now you know about the beauty of the mountains, especially when it comes to the cultural aspect of it. People worshiping mountains is one tradition that integrates respect and protection of the natural elements. People from different cultures in Kenya believe in spirituality and offer prayers to the mountains. Let us know in the comments below if you see any culture where people worship mountains too! 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