The Maryland Tourism & Travel Summit 2024, which took place from November 6th to 8th, saw the Maryland Tourism Coalition (MTC), like in the last 50 years, unite all segments of the state’s tourism and 300 delegates to develop Maryland tourism.
This event is likely to impact tourism and the state’s economy. We can expect many developments in amenities and infrastructure, with names like American Airlines, United Airlines, Quality Inn, and Holiday Inn Express Easton, an IHG Hotel, participating in the event.
Further, thanks to proximity to airports like the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), Maryland remains accessible to tourists across the globe.
Moreover, the free things to do in Maryland, like Exploring the Battle Creek Cypress Swamp or visiting the Salisbury Zoo, make Maryland a tourist’s delight. So, despite being considered one of the more expensive states of the USA, you can plan a budget-friendly itinerary here.
If you are ready to travel like a local and pick budget-friendly activities, the pocket pinch (flight and hotel) will be around $270-350 per person. However, if you are not already aware of the free and cheap things to do in Maryland, this Tour and Travel guide will be of great help.
Free And Cheap Things To Do In Maryland | Traveling On A Shoestring
In this blog, I will tell you about what I have explored in Maryland and what all things can be done in Maryland. We will also discuss the food of Maryland attractions that you must try when you are visiting Maryland. We will cater to you about all the possible information about Mary’s land and tourist attractions in Maryland which you can follow up.
So let’s start to take a glimpse of the famous places in Maryland.
There are a lot of things to do in Maryland but before that, I will tell you tips for first-time New York visitors. Most people whovisit New York, tend to confine themselves to Manhattan only. But the real beauty of New York lies when you leave Manhattan.
I think the best way to convey this to you is to first tell you about the things to do in Maryland. While telling you about that I will also give you some tricky insights about New York.
I would like to start by saying that New York is a secret city in the United States. New York has surprised me quite a little there are so many things to do in new york. All you have to know is when to visit New York to enjoy the most.
There are a lot of things to do in Maryland but before that, I will tell you tips for first-time New York visitors. Most people who visit New York, tend to confine themselves to Manhattan only. But the real beauty of New York lies when you leave Manhattan.
I think the best way to convey to you is to first tell you about the things to do in Maryland. While telling you about that I will also give you some tricky insights about New York.
April to June and late August to October are two ideal seasons to try the free things to do in Maryland. However, during these two seasons, the cost of accommodation shoots up due to a tourist influx.
So, you really need to pick the activities or visit the places that will cost you less when traveling on a shoestring.
Here, we will provide you with all the possible information about Maryland so you can visit these places without hassle.
1. Visiting The Calvert Cliffs State Park
Location: 0540 H G Trueman Rd, Lusby, MD
Contact Number: +1 443-975-4360
Vehicle Fee: $5 for State Residents, $7 for Residents of Other States, $10 for Small Bus, $20 for Large Bus
Hours Open: 7:30 AM to 5 PM
Exploring the fossil-bearing Calvert Cliffs is one of the best things to do in Maryland. I loved the atmosphere and the place.
Here, the large collection of fossiliferous is known as the Chesapeake Group. Further, the cliff contains Miocene fauna.
Fossil Hunting | Know The Things To Do In Maryland Park
At Calvert Cliffs State Park, you can go to the end of the red trail. There, you will find the open beach area for fossil hunting.
Here, you will find fossils from the Miocene era, covering more than 600 species. Some common variations here are Miocene-era oyster shells, shark teeth, and Chesapectens, which you can hunt using shovels and sieves.
The Calvert Cliff in Maryland is mostly forested, with some ponds and wetlands. Moreover, the things to do here are hunting turkey, deer, and bird watching. You can also stroll along the beautiful flora-fauna-rich beach in Calvert.
2. Exploring The Washington County Museum Of Fine Arts
Location: 401 Museum Drive, Hagerstown, MD
Contact Number: (301) 739-5727
Hours Open: 10 AM – 5 PM (Tuesday to Sunday), Monday – Free
Admission and Parking: Free
The Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, the hub of many exhibitions and events, houses more than 6,500 permanent collectibles. Mr. and Mrs. William Henry Singer, Jr founded the museum, and they donated the initial exhibits.
Currently, the museum has sculptures, decorative arts, drawings, and prints. Further, the collectibles here are cosmopolitan, with a focus on 19th-century European art and American art.
Some of the most prominent collections in the museum are the European Old Masters, The Singer Memorial Gallery, American Narratives: 1700-1920, and The Eight to Abstraction: Modernism & Innovation.
3. Spending A Day At Assateague Island National Seashore
Entry Fee: Standard Pass – $0.00–$25.00, Annual Pass – $45.00, America the Beautiful Pass (includes Senior Passes) – Free–$80.00
Hours Open: 24*7
The United States Park Service and Fish and Wildlife Service manage Assateague Island National Seashore. You will find feral ponies walking and galloping across the island and the surrounding waters.
Further, the Assateague Island National Seashore is for everyone. You can go fishing, catch crabs, take a bike ride, or hike through the barrier island.
Moreover, you can collect a permit and enjoy the most adventurous ride in Over Sand Vehicles or OSVs. Also, for a wonderful outdoor experience, you can camp at the Assateague Island National Seashore.
4. Sightseeing At Ego Alley
Location: 1 Dock St, Annapolis, MD
Hours Open: 24 Hours
Entry: Fee
Ego Alley is a narrow waterway that spills out into Spa Creek. This narrow waterway got its name from the expensive boats parading in the evenings and during the weekend.
A visit to Ego Alley is one of the free things to do in Maryland. Here, you can soak in the Sun while gorging on local delicacies.
Further, people gather in large numbers at Ego Alley for St. Patrick’s Day in March, the Annapolis Spring Sailboat Show in April, or the Independence Day Celebration in July.
5. Visiting The Beautiful Sculpture Gardens, Baltimore Museum Of Art
Location: 10 Art Museum Dr, Baltimore, MD
Hours Open: Monday and Wednesday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM, Tuesday: Closed
Entry: Free
As you take a walk along the Beautiful Sculpture Gardens, you will discover close to 33 sculptures.
The sculptures here are a good mix of old and new sculptures of the last 100 years.
6. William British Planetarium
Location: 820 Commonwealth Avenue, Hagerstown, MD
Hours Open: Monday-Friday (8 AM to 3:30 PM), Special Shows: Second And Fourth Saturdays (5:30-7 PM)
Entry Fee: $3.75 for Adults, $2.75 for Children and Students
If you love to see the stars, moon, Milky Way, and galaxy, then William British Planetarium is the place you must visit.
Enjoy an immersive planetarium show that looks back at rare classes of eruptions that have marshaled the energy that lurks.
You will also be able to witness the details of the space. I enjoyed this place thoroughly because it took me back to my childhood.
7. National Aquarium
Location: 501 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD
Hours Open: Monday-Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday – 9 AM-6 PM, Friday: 9 AM to 9 PM
Entry Fee: Free for Children below 4 Years, $24.95 or Half Price on Fridays from 5-9 PM
When you visit Maryland, you cannot miss the National Aquarium, especially its wide variety of sea creatures, such as sharks, dolphins, living reefs, and jellyfish.
It is a non-profit public aquarium known as the Baltimore Aquarium, by the locals.
The aquarium’s water capacity is more than 2.2 million gallons, and it ranks as one of the top three aquariums in the country. It features amphibians, reptiles, fish, mammals, and birds.
8. Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Park
Location: 4068 Golden Hill Road, Church Creek, MD
Hours Open: Tuesday-Sunday (10 AM to 4 PM), Monday Closed
Entry Fee: Free
Another activity that must be included in your list of things to do in Maryland is visiting the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Park!
The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Park commemorates the life of the activist Harriet Tubman, who was formerly enslaved during the American Civil War.
The national park encompasses 480 acres and is managed by the US National Park Service Unit.
The state of Maryland is responsible for the park’s upkeep. Throughout the park, exhibits are dedicated to Tubman, who operated the Underground Railroad after she was free from slavery.
9. Exploring The Battle Creek Cypress Swamp
Location: 2880 Grays Road, Port Republic, MD
Hours Open: Monday-Friday (9 AM to 4:30 PM), Saturday (10 AM to 4:30 PM), Sunday: 1-4:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Battle Creek Cypress Swamp is home to bald cypress trees and is the first preserve of The Nature Conservancy in Maryland.
You will also find pink lady’s slipper and May apple plants here.
Moreover, the Battle Creek Cypress Swamp has Warblers and Kentucky.
10. Visiting The Salisbury Zoo
Location: 755 S Park Dr, Salisbury, MD
Hours Open: 9 AM to 4:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Salisbury Zoo is home to a wide range of animals, including guinea pigs, great horned owls, gopher tortoises, painted turtles, box turtles, and burrowing owls.
Salisbury Zoo is accessible, and it has wheelchair facilities to offer more inclusivity to visitors.
Don’t Miss The Local Food | Best Things To Do In Maryland
My best experience in Maryland was trying local food like Steamed Crabs.
The place is popular in the United States for fishing and its blue crabs. The dish of steamed crabs combines spices, herbs, beer, and blue crabs.
Remember to add butter along with different blends of seasoning so you will get both a spicy and savory taste.
Another great thing I had was the Crab Cake. Also, don’t forget to try the Roasted Pit Beef.
Raising A Toast At Flying Dog Brewery | Best Things To Do In Maryland
The next on my ‘things to do in Maryland’ list is a visit to the Flying Dog Brewery. What can be a better place for a connoisseur than the Flying Dog Brewery as they believe “Beer is Art.”
Flying Dog Brewery has a good mix of year-round gems and some seasonal attractions. The Double Dog Juicy Double IPA is my favorite among the year-round attractions.
Again, the Deep Fake Non-Alcoholic is the best seasonal offering here.
The Flying Dog Brewery’s tasting room is open from Thursday to Sunday. I had a great time tasting different seasonal beers there.
However, don’t forget to carry your ID, as they only serve beer to 21+ visitors.
Sagnika Sinha is a content writer who is passionate about writing travel vlogs, entertainment and celebrity articles and literature-based pieces. With a 4 years experience in teaching, she loves reading books. A procrastinator by nature, she loves travelling, listening to music, planting and gardening.
Cosmetic tourism in Thailand offers an enticing blend of high-quality medical services and a beautiful travel destination. Renowned for its advanced healthcare facilities and skilled practitioners, Thailand is a top choice for those seeking cosmetic enhancements at reasonable prices. Here's a guide to help you plan a successful and enjoyable trip.
Understanding Cosmetic Services In Thailand
One of the sought-after treatments among travelers is to get treatment for facial wrinkles in Bangkok. Known for its advanced dermatological techniques, Bangkok's clinics provide a range of options from minimally invasive procedures like Botox to more comprehensive facelifts. When considering such services, it's important to research the qualifications of the practitioners and the reputation of the clinics to ensure you receive the best care.
Research And Choose The Right Clinic
With a variety of clinics available, choosing the right one is crucial. Look for facilities accredited by reputable organizations and read through patient reviews and testimonials. Don't hesitate to reach out to the clinics directly with any questions about their services or the experience of their medical staff.
Set Realistic Expectations
Before deciding on a procedure, make sure you understand what it entails and what results to expect. Thailand offers a wide range of cosmetic procedures, and being clear about your goals is essential for satisfaction.
The Importance Of Consultations
Arrange consultations with potential clinics or hospitals. Many offer virtual consultations, which can be a great way to discuss your needs and medical history with professionals.
Plan For Recovery
Your itinerary should take into account the necessary recovery time after your procedure. Plan any sightseeing or leisure activities in Thailand accordingly, either before your procedure or after you have recovered.
Budgeting For Your Trip
While the cost of procedures in Thailand is often lower than in many Western countries, it's important to budget for all aspects of your trip. This includes the procedure itself, accommodation, travel expenses, and any additional activities.
Legal And Ethical Considerations
Familiarize yourself with the legal and ethical standards of medical practice in Thailand. Ensure that the clinic you choose adheres to these standards and understands your rights as a patient in a foreign country.
Cultural Sensitivity
Respecting Thai culture and customs enhances your experience. It’s also beneficial in your interactions with medical staff and locals.
Communication Is Key
While English is commonly spoken in medical facilities, there can still be language barriers. Consider using translation services if necessary.
Post-Procedure Care
Adhering to post-procedure care instructions is crucial for a successful outcome. Make sure you understand these instructions and follow them closely.
Comfortable Accommodation
Choose accommodations that will provide comfort during your recovery, preferably ones that cater to medical tourists and are close to your chosen medical facility.
Insurance And Documentation
Ensure your insurance covers overseas procedures and has all necessary documentation, including medical records and travel documents.
Emergency Preparedness
Have a plan for emergencies, including knowing the location of the nearest hospital and having important contact numbers at hand.
Enjoying Thailand
Apart from the medical aspect, Thailand is a vibrant and beautiful country with much to offer. Take time to explore its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine.
Conclusion
A cosmetic tourism trip to Thailand can be a fulfilling experience if planned carefully. By prioritizing your health and safety, while also taking time to enjoy the unique offerings of Thailand, you can have a successful and memorable journey.
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Japan, a country steeped in tradition and culture, offers an array of sensory experiences that attract travelers from around the globe.
Among these, the Japanese matsuri (festivals) stand out as a testament to the country's rich heritage, embodying the spirit of joy, community, and the spectacular interplay of light and color.
For those embarking on Japan tours, the opportunity to participate in these festivals is not just a travel highlight; it's a deep dive into the heart of Japanese culture.
The Essence Of Vibrant Matsuri
Matsuri are integral to Japanese culture, with each festival having its unique significance, rooted in history, religion, and local lore. These events range from solemn traditional ceremonies to explosive celebrations of life, each painted with vibrant colors and illuminated by dazzling lights. The experience is a feast for the senses, offering insight into the communal spirit and the enduring traditions that define the Japanese way of life.
A Kaleidoscope Of Festivals
No Japan tour is complete without witnessing the spectacle of at least one matsuri. The Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, renowned for its grand procession of floats, is a spectacle of craftsmanship and community spirit that dates back over a thousand years. The Sapporo Snow Festival transforms the city into a winter wonderland of intricate ice sculptures, blending artistry with the beauty of nature. Meanwhile, the Aomori Nebuta Festival captivates with its parade of enormous lantern floats, creating a mesmerizing dance of light and shadow.
Illuminating Experiences
What sets these festivals apart is not just their visual appeal but the immersive experiences they offer. Participating in vibrant matsuri is to step into a living tapestry of history and tradition. Visitors can don traditional attire, partake in ancient rituals, and indulge in local delicacies. The warm welcome extended by the local communities adds to the charm, making every visitor feel part of the celebration.
Seasonal Spectacles
The beauty of Japan's festivals is their diversity throughout the year. Spring welcomes the cherry blossoms with hanami (flower viewing) parties, where the fleeting beauty of sakura serves as a backdrop for gatherings filled with food, drink, and song. Summer brings the explosive energy of fireworks and bon dances, while autumn and winter festivals, such as the Chichibu Night Festival, showcase breathtaking displays of light against the seasonal landscapes.
Planning Your Japan Tour
For travelers eager to immerse themselves in the magic of Japanese matsuri, planning is key. Many festivals occur on specific dates or seasons, and some of the most popular can draw large crowds. Engaging with a specialized Japan tours operator can provide invaluable insight, ensuring you not only witness these incredible events but also understand their cultural significance. Accommodations and logistics are also taken care of, allowing you to fully immerse in the experience without the hassle.
A Journey Through Light and Color
Japan's festivals are more than just events; they are a vibrant expression of life itself. They offer a unique window into the soul of Japan, where tradition and modernity dance hand in hand. For those seeking a deeper understanding of Japanese culture or simply looking to experience the extraordinary, the vibrant matsuri are a highlight of any Japan tour. As you navigate through the festivals of light and color, you're not just a spectator but a participant in a centuries-old tradition that continues to dazzle and inspire.
How To Take Part In Matsuri
To take part in Matruri, a grand Japanese festival, you have to learn about Japanese culture. Many Matruri welcome tourists and visitors from around the world. Indeed, it's a great way to learn about Japanese festivities and share the most important inputs on the celebrations. Here, we discuss how you can take part in Matrusir and experience the festivities.
It is usually opined that there are many, hundreds, and thousands of Matsur taking place in Japan. The is no requirement to wear traditional clothes. Watching the people in procession and parades in huge numbers is a great approach to feeling the festivity from within.
Renting Traditional Japanese Costumes
If you join the matsuri celebration in general clothes, there is no issue, but you may be detached from the crowd. Why not make the gathering special? No, you do not need to buy traditional wear. But you can rent it. It's a simplistic wear, yet echoes the Japanese spirit…yes we mean a Kimono called the Yukata. There are Yulta rentals. Moreover, ther are some specific costumes meant for different festivals. You can try it out and have fun.
Chanting Together
Another part of the festivities and soaking in the fun is chanting together. It is one of the easiest ways to be one with the people. Chants like Washoi or Oisa, or say Rassera Rassera Rassera (in the Nebuta Festival), can help you get yourself close to the Japanese culture and the sense of unity. It is indeed a great way to join the locals and be one with the Japanese culture.
Dance Together
One of the great ways to express fun, merriment, and lightness of mood is by dancing together. Dance has been an integral part of the culture of various civilizations. It is a great way to participate with the people and learn about the intricacies of the culture. The same goes in for Japan. It is a great way to embrace the warmth of the festivities and soak the cultural elements.
In Japan, during the vibrantMatrusi, you can take part in a traditional Japanese folk dance called Odori. Repeat the same movements with everyone, and you will be a master of it in no time. If you find it shaky initially, then you could use YouTube videos to familiarize yourself with the steps. Don’t worry, you are new and you need some time. But there is no doubt that you will have great fun.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Japanese tours that include the vibrant matsuri offer an unparalleled experience of the heart of Japanese culture. Each festival, with its unique blend of history, tradition, and community, presents an unforgettable spectacle of light and color. Whether you're drawn by the history, the beauty, or the sheer joy of these celebrations, participating in a matsuri is an experience that resonates long after the lights have dimmed.
Los Angeles is a bustling, multifaceted city that provides visitors with a wide range of activities to discover and relish. Everything from iconic parks to hidden gems, LA has something for everyone. We'll look more closely at some of the must-do things in this article that should be on every traveler's itinerary when visiting the City of Angels.
Best Activities For Travelers In LA
1. Visit The Hollywood Walk Of Fame
No trip to LA is complete without a visit to the world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame. Stretching along Hollywood Boulevard, this iconic attraction features more than 2,600 brass stars embedded in the sidewalk, honoring celebrities from the entertainment industry. Take a leisurely stroll along the Walk of Fame and see if you can spot the stars of your favorite actors, musicians, and entertainers.
2. Exploring LA Skatepark Adventures
For skateboarding lovers and novices alike, exploring iconic LA skateparks is a quintessential experience. One such iconic destination is the Venice Beach Skatepark, nestled along the picturesque shores of Venice Beach. This sprawling concrete jungle features a diverse array of ramps, bowls, and rails, attracting skaters from around the globe. Whether you're perfecting your ollies or simply soaking in the vibrant skate culture, Venice Beach Skatepark promises an exhilarating experience against the backdrop of palm trees and ocean breezes.
3. Explore Griffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory, located atop Mount Hollywood, provides stunning views of the Los Angeles cityscape and the renowned Hollywood sign. Visitors may explore interactive astronomy displays, view celestial objects through telescopes, and watch captivating planetarium programs. The observatory also acts as an entrance to Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States, which has miles of hiking trails and breathtaking views.
4. Tennis Enthusiastic
Tennis in Los Angeles offers the ideal combination of skill development and pleasure for those looking for a more sophisticated sporting experience. With an abundance of world-class facilities and professional coaches, LA provides an unmatched tennis experience in stunning surroundings. You can also take private tennis lessons to improve your abilities and techniques.
5. Exploring LA And Indulge In Culinary Delights At Grand Central Market
Located in the heart of downtown LA, Grand Central Market is a culinary mecca that showcases the city's diverse food scene. From artisanal tacos to gourmet burgers and handcrafted ice cream, the market offers a tantalizing array of dining options to satisfy every palate. Grab a bite to eat, soak in the bustling atmosphere, and sample flavors from around the world.
6. Exploring LA Arts District
Explore LA's lively Arts District, which is home to galleries, street art, and creative spaces. Stroll around the bright streets and enjoy the beautiful murals created by local and international artists. Don't miss the opportunity to see Hauser & Wirth, a contemporary art gallery built in a former flour mill that exhibits cutting-edge works by established and upcoming artists.
7. Hike To The Hollywood Sign
For outdoor enthusiasts, a hike to the Hollywood Sign is a must-do activity in LA. Several trails lead to prime viewpoints where you can capture Instagram-worthy photos of the iconic landmark against the backdrop of the city skyline. Choose from routes ranging in difficulty, including the popular Hollyridge Trail or the more challenging Brush Canyon Trail, and enjoy panoramic vistas of Los Angeles along the way.
8. Experience The Magic Of Disneyland
No trip to Los Angeles is complete without a visit to Disneyland, the Happiest Place on Earth.
Located in nearby Anaheim, this iconic theme park provides a fantastic experience for guests of all ages, with thrilling rides, fascinating attractions, and beloved Disney characters around every corner. Spend a day exploring the various themed lands, from Fantasyland to Tomorrowland, and create unforgettable memories with family and friends.
9. Exploring LA: Take A Studio Tour
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the magic of Hollywood by taking a studio tour at one of LA's famed film studios. From Warner Bros. to Paramount Pictures, several studios offer guided tours that take visitors through iconic sets, soundstages, and backlots where some of the world's most beloved movies and TV shows were filmed. Learn about the history of filmmaking in Los Angeles and gain insight into the inner workings of the entertainment industry.
10. Catch A Sunset At Santa Monica Pier
End your day in Los Angeles by visiting Santa Monica Pier, where you can watch the sun fall below the horizon in a blaze of color. Take a leisurely stroll down the landmark pier, enjoy a ride on the ancient carousel, and marvel at the magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean. Santa Monica Pier, with its vibrant ambiance and breathtaking views, is the ideal place to relax and enjoy the beauty of a Southern California sunset.
11. Los Angeles Has Multiple City Inside
Los Angeles is a confluence of diverse cultures, and people from different places come and join there. There are different neighborhoods in these regions. Let us give a few examples. You have Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and West Hollywood.
Even the same idea persists for some of the valley cities. There, you have the bustling Manhattan Beach and the different communities within the San Gabriel Valley, like Alhambra, Monterey Park, and others. There are areas where you can find far-flung spots like Malibu and Pasadena, which are part of Los Angeles. If you speak culturally, Los Angeles is a bustling city within the city.
12. Los Angeles Have Public Transit Option
The life of a thriving city is determined by its hustle, bustle, and movement of people from one corner of the city to the other. The same goes in for Los Angeles.
Though it does not have an extensive subway system like that of London, Paris, and New York, the city has six metro lines and many efficient bus routes, which builds a solid communication network in the city. Therefore, if you are visiting Los Angeles, do not think you can easily hover from one part of the city to another, meaning you will not find metro systems on the west side, except for St. Monica.
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