You Won’t Believe The Best Things To Do When In Fiji!

BY  Sibashree Sep 10, 2024

Connemara National Park has been an important Irish national park, having won the Green Flag Award in 2018. This international benchmark shows its worth as a green space and park. Further, in 2021, it also sought the New Heritage Site Accreditation, which shows the quality of the national park and how it is maintained in a sustainable way.   Moreover, this park is even rich in geology and houses many historical and archaeological sites. In addition, as an outdoor enthusiast, you can explore its various hiking and walking trails.   So, want to tour this Irish national park, which has a dash of history, culture, natural abundance, and more? Here is a complete guide for you.   Important Information About Connemara National Park  Visiting Time: 9 am to 5:30 pm  Entry Fee: Free  Closed On Christmas Day, St. Stephen’s Day, and Red and Orange Weather Alert Days  Amenities: Education Center, Visitor Center, Playground, Cafe, Toilets and Picnic Areas  How to Reach: You can reach this national park by train, car, or bus. You have to reach Galway City first and then take a bus (or private car) to reach the park.  Main Access Point: Near Letterfrack along the N59  Pet Friendliness: Dogs are Welcome to Walk the Trails   Fascinating Geology Of Connemara National Park  The national park is a part of the Twelve Ben area. So, the park also has underlying metamorphic rocks. The sediments forming these rocks are aged between 700 to 550 million years.   Further, you will find schists and gray marbles around the edges of the rocks. Moreover, at the top, you will see quartzite. In addition, it is astonishing to know that the final shaping of the park took place around 10000 years ago or during the last ice age.  The park has a rocky formation with boulder clay and a deposit of sand and gravel. The distinct geological features have contributed to the type of vegetation found in this area.   What Animals Are In Connemara National Park? Which Plants Does This Park Have?  The International Union for Conservation of Nature, or IUCN, has marked Connemara National Park as a Category II Protected Area. So, there is a constant endeavour to safeguard the landscape, wildlife, and ecology of the park unadulterated.   The park has many heritage breeds along with a wide range of protected flora and fauna. In addition, there are some conservation projects to protect the flora and fauna. The table below shows the details.  Birds* Stonechats Wrens Robins Peregrine Falcon Merlin Sparrowhawk Kestrel Mammals Nocturnal Animals  Pine Marten Bats Foxes Badgers  Diurnal Animals   Pygmy Shrews Red Deer Wood Mice Otters Hares Stoats Connemara Ponies Other Fauna Freshwater Pearl Mussel Salmon Trout Smooth Newt Common Frog Rare and Protected Plants and Other Flora Sundews Butterwort Purple Moor Grass Roseroot Purple Saxifrage Starry Saxifrage Pale Butterwort Lesser Twayblade Mountain Sorrel St. Patrick’s Cabbage St. Daboec’s Heath Heritage Breeds Connemara Ponies Cladoir Sheep Moiled Cattle Old Irish Goats Galway Sheep Conservation Projects** Control of Rhododendron Mweelin Exclosure New Found Wood Connemara Pony Cladoir Sheep Preservation Committee Irish Moiled Cattle & Conservation Grazing  *The national park has a large number of birds in the winter. Many native birds of Ireland, such as woodcock, song thrush, mistle thrush, snipe, and starling, increased in numbers in this season.   Moreover, fieldfare, redwing, and many other birds from Northern Europe flock to this park in great numbers during winter.   **The conservation projects in the park are designed to maintain biodiversity. These also try to eradicate the negative impacts on the rare and protected flora and fauna of the park.   Habitats Of Connemara National Park  Connemara National Park has wet boglands and uplands as its habitats. Further, the extremely wet boglands are the hubs of various vegetation. However, the uplands have drier mountain bog communities.  Boglands   Boglands are found in the low-lying areas of the park. Further, in these wet boglands, you will find the western blanket bog. In addition, purple moor grass surrounds this western blanket bog, and thus, it has a grass-like appearance.   In the national park, you will find these boglands near the pool surface, slope inclines, flat lands, and flushes. However, these boglands can appear on your route if you're hiking off trails, and there can be swallow pools. So, be careful!  Uplands   The mountainous and rocky uplands also house a wide variety of vegetation. The grasslands and heather here are also home to some rare and endangered animals, such as red deer and Old Irish Goats.  Moreover, the heathlands here are drier due to a higher altitude.  Hiking And Walking At Connemara National Park  For hikers, all roads in the Connemara National Park lead to the Diamond Hill summit. , panoramic views of Letter Hill or Tully Mountain. Twelve Bens and Kylemore Abbey are also visible from the mountain summit. However, the national park has three more major hiking trails. Check out the table below.  Name of the Trail Difficulty Level Distance (in Km) Upper Diamond Hill Difficult 3.7 Lower Diamond Hill Moderate 3 Sruffaunboy Trail Easy 1.5 Ellis Wood Nature Trail  Easy 0.5  If you are planning to complete a multi-day hiking trip in the national park, you can consider camping here. However, you have to abide by the Wild Camping Code and the regulations related to the Camping Exclusion Zone.   Moreover, you can take a walk (self-guided) through the Tree Trail in the park. It begins from the Car Park Kiosk, and throughout the trail, you will meet tree varieties such as holly, hazel, oak, and Scots’ Pine.   Did You Know?  Through the Connemara National Park West Center and the Letterfrack Village, you can have a thought-provoking walk. The trail you will take is known as the Poetry Trail. Further, in various locations along the path, you will find nine poems by eminent Irish poets like Mary O’Malley and Moya Cannon, which are placed on plaques.   In addition, it is a one-of-a-kind experience for poetry lovers. Some of these nine poems talk about the park and its importance in Irish history. Further, the remaining ones are more generic in nature.   Exploring History At Connemara National Park  The archaeological and historical sites at Connemara National Park tell the tales of human lives and the history of the park for thousands of years. The park’s two megalithic tombs (West and East Tomb) in the park were already popular. However, thanks to the surveys of Helen Riekstins, an archaeologist and national park guide, we have 13 other sites that add to the importance of the park.   Among these 13 sites, six further have been visited by NMS or the National Monuments Service and Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. Here are the visited sites.  A standing stone  A cairn  Enclosures  A pre-bog wall  Nearby hut  A house  Further, the other seven sites are to be a part of the Record of Monuments and Places (RMP) review for inclusion.   The pre-bog wall is likely to be associated with neolithic farming. On the other hand, the hut sites and standing stones are believed to be from the Bronze Age.   Connemara National Park has sites that are 10000 years old. These sites existed as coastal middens and belonged to the Mesolithic or Stone Age.  Many archaeological and historical sites are found near Diamond Hill, Letterfrack, and Mweelin.   The megalithic tombs in the park are around 4000 years old.   Connemara National Park is a twin historic site with Terra Nova National Park in Newfoundland. These twinning sites speak for the cultural bond between Ireland and Canada.  Guglielmo Marconi, who received the patent for two-way radio in 1912, is associated with the place. Between Diamond Hill and Mweelin, he suspended the wires, and the current site of Bunaboghee Bog and Park Office had the second line. Here, he invented the first Full Duplex Radio.   So, the presence of various archaeological sites and the association with famous personalities make this park a delightful site for history lovers. Moreover, the Letterfrack Industrial School (1890) is a site important in modern history. Further, the school’s graveyard here tells the grave tales of injustices to the boys resting there.   Final Words   Located in County Galway, Connemara National Park covers around an area of 2,000 hectares. The park opened its door to visitors in 1980, and since then, it has been a place of attraction with its scenic beauty, geological variety, rich wildlife, and hiking trails.   The park also hosts many events like the Summer Evening Lecture Series and Heritage Week Celebration. Moreover, stargazing has become a popular activity in the park, and adults and children over 7 years of age can participate in the star-watching event. You can also check the National Parks website for the latest events at Connemara National Park.  So, are you planning a visit to this historically and naturally rich Irish national park anytime soon? Or have you already been to this wonderful place? Don’t forget to share your experience with us!  Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego. Lake Clark National Park And Preserve: Very Few Know How It Preserves The Alaskan Spirit And Culture.

BY  Soumava Jul 24, 2021

In the last few years, the small island of Mykonos has emerged as the hottest luxury travel destination in the world. It has attracted the attention of the wealthiest celebrities, billionaire businessmen, and other rich and famous individuals. When it comes to vacations in Mykonos, you will find that the city attracts everyone from large families to honeymooners. You will also see a lot of bachelor parties happening with all-guy and all-girl gangs occupying large villas overlooking the ocean. Mykonos is blessed with some of the world’s most scenic shorelines, beaches, sunlight, and natural beauty. It is also home to the glitziest hotels, luxury villas, and some amazing restaurants. Whether you want to spend the entire day sunbathing, or hit some clubs at night, Mykonos has something for everyone. In this article, we are going to help individuals and families who are looking at luxury Mykonos villas. We are going to discuss the following- List down some factors that you should consider before deciding on the villa Advantages of selecting a villa vis-à-vis a luxury hotel The Final Analysis If you are someone who is traveling to Mykonos in the next few weeks or months, you should read the article till the end. Factors You Should Consider Before Choosing A Luxury Villa In Mykonos 1. The Location Of The Luxury Villa If you want to stay in Mykonos Town itself, you have a choice of wide-ranging options when it comes to hotels. If you want to stay somewhere near the beach, a luxury villa might be the better option. Decide on what kind of place you would want to live in. If you want a laid-back kind of set-up, a luxury villa in Agios Ioannis or Platis Gialos, or Ornos would do wonderfully. Consider talking to a luxury travel advisor if you need inspiration, or you just want to know where the best place to stay is. 2. The kind Of Environment And Design Of The Villa If you want to enjoy traditional Greek architecture, then a scenic villa dating back some decades should be on the top of your list. These villas herald back to the golden age of Greek civilization. However, you will be getting all of the modern and technological amenities. If we are investing in our luxury vacation plans, we should be staying in something that is picturesque. 3. The Number Of Travellers That will Be Staying In The Villa If there are six or eight of you, you do not need a villa that has ten bedrooms! This will not only set you back financially, but you will not be able to enjoy the property as well. You should also consider what kind of a group you are traveling in. Whether it’s all friends, or family members, or even couples. This will help you in making the selection between the villas. 4. The Amenities On Offer At the Luxury Villa At the end of the day, you want to enjoy every possible luxury amenity there is to enjoy on the property. Whether you are talking about an outdoor jacuzzi or heated infinity pools overlooking the shoreline, a luxury villa has to have the very best of what is possible. You should also look at whether the villa has on offer chefs that can be hired or come with the booking package. 5. The Distance From The Town’s Center Or the Beach (depending on the location) If you are booking a luxury villa in Mykonos, you would want it to be conveniently located. In other words, if the villa is on the beach, you would want to go into the town and enjoy a drink or two at some clubs or restaurants. On the other hand, if the property is in the town, you might want to travel down to the beach and enjoy some warm sunbathing activities. Major Advantages Of A Luxury Villa In Mykonos Over A Hotel In this section, we are going to look at some of the major benefits a villa has over a hotel in Mykonos- In terms of facilities, a luxury villa will far surpass any hotel or guest house. It comes with everything from decked-out kitchens to individual internet connectivity, movie rooms, infinity pools, and more. These are things that might not be in hotels. A luxury villa definitely has some extra security when you compare the same with a hotel. You get private security for your guests at all times. Many of the villas are themselves located inside large estates. A hotel is a very ‘public place’. This means that you will be sharing all the amenities and facilities with all the other guests. In a villa, it is only for you and your friends or family members. This exclusivity breeds luxury in more ways than one. Following from the above point, the sense of extra space in a villa has to be felt to be believed. You can travel anywhere on the large property and do whatever you like. You cannot do the same in a hotel as you are bound by so many different rules and laws. Luxury villas in Mykonos have retained their connection with tradition and culture. Whether it is the structure itself or the location where it is set, you will find yourself in an environment that is dreamy, pristine, and takes you back to a past era. The Final Analysis If you are able to select the best luxury villa in Mykonos, you can rest assured that this vacation will be one of the most memorable ones in your life. Mykonos has everything for everyone, and staying in a luxury villa is the best way to experience the same. If you have any other questions on any of the points mentioned in the article or would like us to guide you on the different villas you can choose from, then please let us know in the comments section below. Read Also: Top 10 Famous Wonders Of India Batista Restaurant Las Vegas – Restaurant Info, Ratings & Reviews Best Time To Visit New York – Know All About New York Weather

BY  Ankita Nov 10, 2023

Traveling is an enriching experience, allowing you to explore new cultures, and landscapes, and create lasting memories. However, alongside the excitement of international adventures, there is also the possibility of facing a medical emergency abroad. While no one wants to think about such situations, being prepared and knowing how to respond can make a crucial difference. Here Are 15 Prime Steps To Deal With A Medical Emergency Abroad In this article, we'll explore essential steps to deal with a medical emergency while traveling abroad, ensuring your safety and well-being. 1. Purchase Travel Insurance Before embarking on your journey, make sure to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. This should include coverage for hospitalization, doctor visits, and medical evacuations, if necessary. Verify the coverage limits and details in your policy to ensure you are adequately protected. Keep a copy of your insurance policy and contact information with you at all times during your trip. 2. Research Local Healthcare Options Before traveling to your destination, research the local healthcare system. Learn about the nearest hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Some countries may have advanced medical facilities, while others may have limited access to healthcare. Knowing where to find medical assistance can be crucial in a time of crisis. 3. Carry a First-Aid Kit Pack a compact first-aid kit that includes essentials like bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you need. In case of minor injuries, a well-stocked first-aid kit can provide immediate relief. Familiarize yourself with the contents and their uses before your trip. 4. Learn Basic Phrases If you're traveling to a foreign country where you don't speak the local language, learning basic medical phrases can be immensely helpful. Phrases like "I need a doctor," "I have an allergy to [specific allergen]," or "I need help" can bridge the language barrier in a medical emergency. Carry a small phrasebook or use the translation apps on your phone. 5. Register with Your Embassy Many countries offer registration services for their citizens traveling abroad. Registering with your embassy or consulate allows them to contact you in case of emergencies and provide assistance when needed. It's a simple but crucial step that can make a significant difference in a medical crisis. 6. Create an Emergency Medical Information Card Prepare an emergency medical information card that includes your name, blood type, allergies, existing medical conditions, and emergency contacts. Keep a copy in your wallet, luggage, and smartphone. This card can be instrumental in providing essential medical information to healthcare providers. 7. Emergency Contact List Compile a list of emergency contacts, including family members, close friends, and your primary care physician back home. Share this list with a trusted companion or keep it in a secure place. In the event of a medical emergency, these contacts can provide guidance and support. 8. Know Your Allergies and Medications If you have allergies or are taking prescription medications, it's vital to know the names, dosages, and usage instructions. In the event of a medical emergency, accurate information about your medications and allergies is crucial for healthcare providers to deliver appropriate treatment. 9. Contact Your Insurance Provider In the event of a medical emergency, contact your travel insurance provider immediately. They can guide you on the best course of action, whether it's seeking medical care locally or arranging for medical evacuation if necessary. Ensure you have your insurance policy number and contact information readily available. 10. Seek Immediate Medical Care If you or someone you're traveling with experiences a medical emergency, the most critical step is to seek immediate medical care. Do not delay in the hope that the situation will improve on its own. Call local emergency services or go to the nearest hospital or clinic. Timely medical attention can prevent a minor issue from escalating into a major crisis. 11. Communicate with Loved Ones Once you've secured medical care, it's essential to communicate with your loved ones back home. This will keep them informed about your situation and alleviate their concerns. Regular updates can also help in coordinating support and decision-making if necessary. 12. Maintain a Copy of Medical Records Request a copy of your medical records, including test results and treatment notes, from the healthcare facility. Having these records can be invaluable if you require further treatment or follow-up care upon returning home. 13. Keep Your Travel Companion Informed If you're traveling with someone, make sure they are aware of your medical history, allergies, and any specific health concerns. In the event of a medical emergency, they can assist in communicating your needs to healthcare providers. 14. Preventative Measures While it's impossible to predict and prevent all medical emergencies, taking precautions can minimize risks. Practice good hygiene, follow local health advisories, and consider vaccinations or prophylactic medications recommended for your travel destination. The West Palm beach personal injury attorneys at GOLDLAW encourage travelers to be prepared for all types of potential emergencies while abroad.  15. Stay Calm and Informed During a medical emergency, staying calm and informed is essential. Panic can exacerbate the situation and impede clear decision-making. Follow the advice of healthcare providers and trust in their expertise. Facing a medical emergency while traveling abroad is a daunting prospect, but being well-prepared can mitigate the risks and ensure a swift and effective response. Remember, being informed and prepared is the key to addressing any unforeseen challenges that may arise while exploring the world. Read Also: How To Fund The Cost Of Travelling 5 Tips To Protect Your Passport While Travelling Abroad Vacationing Without Travel Insurance? Here’s What Might Happen If You Need It!