With Popular Wineries, Learn the Things to Do in Mudgee! 

BY  Sibashree Dec 17, 2024

The Western past and cowboy culture are still very much present in Oklahoma City (OKC) culture. So, if you and your S/O love horseback riding and every outdoor pursuit ingrained in Western culture, there will be no dearth of things to do in OKC.  So, you will fall in love with the cattle trails and ranches here, and we are already soaked in the quintessential Oklahoma charm. We have Brad Pitt as the Oklahoma boy.  Further, food tourism is the most happening in Oklahoma City. Therefore, it will be your destination for a luxury dining and beverage experience.  Moreover, the city has hotspots like Broken Bow and Love Lock Fountain, where you can lock your lips and utter those three magical words (if you have not said them already!). So, are you ready to explore the city with your special one? Check out this Tour and Travel guide soaked in romance. Things To Do In OKC For Couples | Your Date Night Cannot Get Any Better Tourism in Oklahoma City deserves all the respect if we discuss the economic scenario of the city. With a sound 24.1 million visitors in 2023, the city managed to record an economic impact of $4.5 billion.  “Our city’s vibrant tourism sector is a testament to the sales and marketing efforts of Visit OKC and our hospitality industry partners. This recent study highlights the significance of tourism in our local economy and how, ultimately, tourism is a revenue generator for the city, advancing the city’s priorities which improves quality of life for residents.”  Zac Craig, President of Visit OKC So, with the current tourism scenario in Oklahoma City, it’s the right time for you to explore the city with your partner. 1. Battling In A Pickleball Match At Chicken And Pickle https://www.instagram.com/p/Cmek__euNof/ Address: 8400 N. Oklahoma Ave, Oklahoma City Contact Number: (405) 839-7011 Good food and a lot of yard games! This is how I would love to describe Chicken and Pickle. So, this place is great for celebrating the child in you and being playful with your partner.  There are 10 pickleball courses at Chicken And Pickle. Moreover, once you are done playing, you can relax at the rooftop bar with your favorite drink and fried chicken.  2. Learning The Art Of Glass Blowing At Blue Sage Studios https://www.instagram.com/p/CQtXaAvLzVI/?img_index=1 Address: Urban Art Building, 1218-C N Western Ave, Oklahoma City Contact Number: +1 405-601-2583/405-473-0754 Charges: $35-40 Watching the artists busy in their glass crafts at Blue Sage Studios is fun. You can also attend one-on-one classes here. You can especially take part in the 2-hour long sessions taking place on Saturdays.  DayBlue Sage Studios Hours OpenMonday9 AM to 8 PMWednesday8 AM to 8 PMThursday1 AM to 8 PMSaturday9 AM to 3 PMSunday 10 AM to 5 PMTuesday and FridayClosed Furthermore, you can check out the art for sale section and grab a beautiful gift for your sweetheart.  3. Enjoying A Fun Dinner | Unique Things To Do In OKC https://www.instagram.com/p/C5lkII1sm1e/?img_index=1 The food scenario in Oklahoma is happening. Beyond the dishes served here, the food scenario celebrates locally grown veggies and farms. Here are some Tour and Travel favorite restaurants where you can cherish food made with local ingredients. Name Of The RestaurantAddressContact NumberVII Asian Bistro2900 N Classen BlvdSuite G, Oklahoma City(405) 604-2939The Red Cup3122 N Classen Blvd, Oklahoma City(405)-525-3430Paseo Grill2909 Paseo, Oklahoma City(405)-601-1079 Oklahoma is the 87th-best city in the world for exploring local food, according to TasteAtlas. It’s even better than Louisville, Boston, and Miami.  4. Exploring The Art Scenario Of Oklahoma City At Factory Obscura https://www.instagram.com/p/DB87fRwOA6U/ Open Hours: Monday-Thursday: 11 AM - 7 PM (Tuesday Closed), Friday 11 AM - 8 PM, Saturday: 10 AM - 8 PM, Sunday: 12 PM - 6 PM Address:  25 NW 9th St, Oklahoma City Contact: info@factoryobscura.com If you want an immersive art experience, Factory Obscura will be at the epicenter of places to visit in OKC. It operates with the tagline of “Future is Collaborative.” Moreover, you can attend the most interactive events here for a feeling of wonder and awe.  5. Visiting The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/DCvMEXrOu1D/?img_index=1 Open Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PM, Sunday: 12-5 PM Address: 1700 NE 63rd St, Oklahoma City Contact Number: +1 405-478-2250 Admission Fee: $12.50 for Adults, $12.50 for Children 6-12, Children Up to 5 Years - Free Admission If you are fascinated by Western Art and culture, this 1955 museum will be your instant favorite. This museum houses works of James Earle Fraser, Frederic Remington, and Charles M. Russell.  In addition, you will come across many Native American or Western equipment like saddles and spurs here.  6. Visiting The Broken Bow Broken Bow, a city in Oklahoma, is a perfect retreat for couples. You can book a private cabin there and spend some quality time. Furthermore, you can immerse in romance by the Broken Bow Lake. Located on the Mountain Fork River, this lake has crystal clear water thanks to the rock-lined floor.  The Broken Bow Lake and the city of Broken Bow are great year-round attractions. For example, you can spend the most serene and calm holiday here. Moreover, in spring, the trees are in full bloom, and in the fall season, the place has its somber beauty.  Also, if you visit the lake in summer, you can enjoy the most rejuvenating swim.  7. Romancing At Love Lock Fountain Lake Eufaula State Park Hours Open: 24 Hours Address: 111563 OK-150, Checotah, OK Contact Number: +1 918-689-5311 (Park Office), 877-657-2757 (Reservation) Have you chosen OKC as the place to propose to your sweetheart? Do you want to keep it low-key? Then, your road must lead to Love Lock Fountain at the Lake Eufaula State Park. You can fasten an engraved lock to the gate and throw the key in the air.  Furthermore, you can explore the diverse foliage and native wildlife on the park’s mountain biking trails.  8. Going On A Road Trip To The Chisholm Trail: The Most Adventurous Things To Do In OKC Chisholm Trail is crucial for the cultural landscape of western Oklahoma. With your partner, you can enjoy a cattle drive on the trail to soak in an old-world charm.  Further, this trail is associated with a rich history, and while taking a ride, you will be transported to the post-Civil War era.  Also, the red Oklahoma dirt stretched here for miles will tell you the tales of South Texas ranchers bringing and distributing beef to the Northern states.  Today, when you ride this route, you will discover many small towns.  Moreover, the trail has countless historical monuments and landmarks. Some of them are: Chisholm Trail Mural Jesse Chisholm's Gravesite Monument Hill Sansom House Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum Marlow Area Museum So, that’s pretty much from me if you are looking for unique things to do in OKC for couples. However, for some cozy, indoor fun, you can play cards at a quaint coffee shop in OKC.  Further, Perets Dessert & Coffee Bar at W Sheridan Ave and Culture Coffee on 6th Street are some of the best coffee shops here. Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

BY  sagnika Mar 13, 2025

Are you confused between Bali vs Thailand? Are you unable to choose between the two popular locations in Southeast Asia? For your next holiday, let me share with you a detailed comparison between Bali and Thailand so, that you can plan accordingly. If you are looking for warm places to travel in February, these can be good options.   Making your job easier is my responsibility, especially when I keep boasting that I love traveling. There are several categories based on which you will understand which location will satisfy your plans of traveling.   I will share with you information that will give you confidence for your next trip. Furthermore, you will gain the right experience when you plan your travel to a specific location based on your needs and requirements.   Bali vs Thailand: Which Place is Better?   If you are wondering about the perfect beach location, you will see Google will suggest places that are either in Bali or in Thailand. Well, I have been to both places and I have to say the best of both places.   Yes, there are so many similar elements in the location but there are also diversities. I will share with you several categories and explain how they are in Bali and Thailand. You will get an idea of where you want to go when you go through these factors.   Basics of Bali   Apart from the beautiful beaches, the basics of Bali also include hidden waterfalls, picturesque rice paddies, and iconic temples. The tourism industry is thriving not just because of the natural landscapes. It is one of the most exotic places to travel, especially with its beautiful landscapes and culture!   However, also because of its water sports like surfing, hikes to volcanoes like Mount Batur, and delicious food. Yes, you also need to be a little cautious when visiting Bali because there is unpredictable weather, drinking tap water is not safe and beware of scammers.   Theories of Thailand   Thailand is famous for its temples and monasteries, especially when Buddhism is an integral part of their culture. Additionally, how can we forget the beautiful sandy beaches of Thailand creating the perfect picturesque view for you?   Furthermore, the locals there are popular for their hospitality and friendliness. Let's discuss how the shopping scene is there plus, the way the food and culture of the two places differ. Then you can decide where you plan to go, Bali vs Thailand!   A Detailed Comparison between Bali and Thailand   Bali is a part of Indonesia while Thailand is a whole country, so statistically, it is much bigger. Islands that you must visit if you plan to travel to Thailand are Koh Phangon and Koh Samui for natural beauty. While, if it is all about shopping and a big city feel, go to Bangkok.   Let’s not forget Phuket and Pattaya if you are a beach lover. After all, the rice terraces in the north of the country are a perfect place if you are into photoshoots and perfect DPs for your social media profiles. Coming to Bali, it is a smaller place and easier to travel.   Be it Ubud or Kuta, the beaches are beautiful and relaxing. Let us not forget the beautiful crochet dresses you get in the local market which you can then don and visit the rice paddy fields. Beautiful volcanoes on the island have created beautiful forests and waterfalls around them.   Visa   Visiting Bali will need you to purchase your visa online or after you arrive at their airport for 500,000 IDR/AUD 50/USD 35. Additionally, if you are visiting Bali, you will need to pay a tourist tax of USD 10/AUD 15/ 150,000 IDR per person.   Paying online will help you book your visa beforehand, however; you have to use a different portal to book it. Furthermore, you can also book your visa at the airport, however, I would suggest otherwise. Going to Thailand, and getting a visa is much easier as compared to Bali.   It is also one of the places to travel without a passport! You have to pay 10,000 Thai baht for a single entry which can be extended later because they provide a Visa waiver that lasts for 30 days. However, the visa-on-arrival scheme is not quite well established.   I did it and there is a huge line with so much chaos in the airport. If you have a connecting flight from there, you are doomed especially because there is a lot of partiality going on. If you are applying for a group visa, the process is much faster as compared to an individual visa so, I will suggest applying for an online visa before traveling!   Accommodation   If you want luxury, when you are booking accommodation, Bali is a better fit than Thailand, in my opinion. There are a variety of guest houses, Airbnb, hotel resorts, hostels, and homestays available in Bali with all the comforts and warm hospitality of the local people.   You will get accommodations under a diverse range, from budget-friendly to luxurious. Thailand also has a diverse range of accommodations, especially in the big cities. The concerns arises if you like spacious living quarters because Bali will give you that while Thailand, mostly is a little cramped.   Transportation   When you plan for Bali, try to select locations that are closer to each other! For a single day, create an itinerary where you visit two to three places that fall in the same direction or district. The best option is renting a scooter because it is one of the best options to explore both popular and off-track locales.   You can also book your rides on transportation apps such as Grab and Gojek. Several places are quite traffic-prone in areas such as Canggu and Seminyak. Thailand is huge, so you select any two or three cities like Phuket, Pattaya, Bangkok, and others.   Apart from renting scooters, you can get public transport such as trains, planes, and buses in Thailand which is quite easy for you! You can select Thailand as one of the best places to travel with kids.   Beaches   Beautiful beaches in Bali offer you soft powdery sand with endless blue and green water, and waves crashing! You must visit the resort town of Nusa Dua, after all, it is one of the coolest places to check out the picturesque views.   Another beautiful view that you must not miss is the black sand beaches in Bali with its aesthetics. The Indian Ocean in all its beauty is brought to the forefront because some people are crazy about the water. Even though Thailand has more beaches than Bali, you won’t be able to cover all of them because it is a whole country! Try and visit the famous beach, Railay Beach. So, I feel Bali has more natural beach beauty as compared to Thailand.   Things to Do   If you compare geographically, Bali is a smaller island compared to Thailand, a big country. Of course, we go by numbers, Thailand might give you a larger number of things to do, however, it might become more hectic as compared to Bali. However, the locations and activities are quite far apart from each other.   Surfing, snorkeling, swimming, and parasailing are some of the water sports that you can do when visiting Bali. So, when it comes to experiencing things to the maximum, Bali is a better choice as compared to Thailand.   Starting from Uluwatu Temple, Bali Zoo, Mount Batur, Tanah Lot Temple, Goa Gajah and so much more, you will see the beauty of nature, culture, history, people, and others. Thailand offers you a beautiful view of the White House of Chiang Rai and the Grand Palace.     Safety   When it comes to safety, there are some issues in Thailand and Bali. Bali is normally quite safe and the crimes that are reported are mostly petty such as snatch and grab or pickpocketing. While Thailand’s road accidents are quite high.   From a crime perspective, Thailand is safe overall however, the nightlife districts in Pattaya, Phuket, and Bangkok attract a lot of scammers. Furthermore, there have been people who have fallen victim to occasional acts of crime and violence.   Nightlife   Thailand has better nightlife than Bali so if you are a party lover, you must either be in Bangkok, Phuket, or Pattaya in Thailand. Bali on the other hand has limited places to offer you party vibes such as Kuta Beach or Seminyak Beach!   The parties in Bali are more inclusive because of the close circle, locals mostly invite you if they connect well with you. While Thailand has a seedy side of the nightlife!   Culture   Bali is a Hindu-majority Island with a natural landscape but what is more attractive is their traditional culture. With a Hindu enclave in a Muslim country, the city has a well-defined culture with temples, rituals, festivals, offerings, arts and crafts.   Thailand on the other hand has a lot of Thai and Buddhist culture persisting creating a fascinating culture. There are several monasteries and places to worship which are quite welcoming for tourists.   Overall, both places have beautiful, warm, and welcoming cultures and you can easily vibe anywhere!   Food   With a prominent culture for food, both Balinese and Thai food are delicious. However, compared to Bali, the street food culture is quite rich with delicious and high-quality food served at a very cheap price. You will also get a range of local and international fare-based Thai restaurants.   Pad Thai, Som tam, Moo ping, Khao Soi, Khao man gai, and other items are deliciously available almost everywhere. If you are a fruit lover, you have to try their mango, papaya, and other fruits, desserts, and drinks on the street.   At Bali, there is a lot of cafe culture, and it is a bit expensive especially when it comes to offering a normal menu. Some common items that you should try in Bali are Nasi Goreng, Bali Guling, Sate, and Mie Goreng.   Shopping   Everyone loves shopping, so if this is a factor based on which you choose a location for your next vacation, then let me tell you it is quite different in Bali vs Thailand. You will find high-end products at the malls of Bangkok, and night markets at different beach towns in Thailand.   You should keep the money for shopping when visiting Thailand while in Bali, things are quite cheap. Several entrepreneurial shops and small stores are giving you a variety of local options, arts, crafts, clothing, and others.   So, Is Bali Better or Thailand?   Of course, in my opinion, I enjoyed more in Bali but that could have been because I was more experienced in traveling than when I visited Thailand. Simultaneously, the diversity I have seen in Bali is a bit more as compared to Thailand!   When you are doing Bali vs Thailand when planning your next vacation, jot down the points mentioned above. Discuss it with your travel buddies or if you are solo traveling, start your research accordingly.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit.

BY  Sibashree Sep 10, 2024

Lake Clark National Park is committed to subsistence. It’s a sincere effort not to impact the “physical and spiritual culture of Modern Alaska.” Further, the park authority wants to pass on the park’s history to the future generation and the public. So, it was not surprising when the park sought public opinion on the exploration of its mineral tracts (Johnson Tract).  Located in the Johnson River headwater, Johnson Tract is a polymetallic project, and mining of gold, silver, copper, zinc, and lead is possible here. Public comments on “transportation and port site easements” are invited so that there is better accessibility to Johnson Tract. However, the more important aspect of it is analyzing the environmental impact of the project on the park.  There will be the following activities, and the analysis report will likely be published in the fall of 2024.  Hydrological assessment Geotechnical assessment Surveys of cultural and natural resources  But that’s not all! There have been many published stories, such as “Dena'ina Ełnena,” “Canneries, Cabins, Caches,” and more on this national park. Moreover, storytelling by the Native community or the tradition of oral storytelling is still alive here as a part of the “University of Alaska Fairbanks program.”  The things I have discussed so far show how the park is focused on preserving its personal and shared identities. Now, I will delve into some related details and also talk about what makes Lake Clark National Park special in terms of places to visit and things to do.  Preserving History And Culture At Lake Clark National Park  Do you know the original name of Lake Clark? Dena’ina people call it “Qizhjeh Vena,” meaning “a place where people gathered lake.”  Further, the people of Dena’ina, or Athabascan culture, have made this region their home for thousands of years now. How they see the lake and the surrounding land as the main resource of their lives will change the common perspectives about this national park. It is not just a preserved space with wilderness, interesting landscapes, and scenic beauty! It is an account of human history.  Women were always taught to be independent in this culture. They knew how to set snares and ground squirrels. This was an important exercise so that they had to never be dependent on others for food.  Athabascan people, originally from Alaska, started residing here. Further, with time, they encountered people from Russia, the USA, Canada, and Western Europe. Thus, their way of living evolved. However, they have made an effort to preserve their old way of living, and subsistence is still the key to their lives.  I have already mentioned how the oral and written stories preserve the cultural spirit of the park for posterity. Further, the Natural and Cultural Museum of the park preserves many artifacts, geological samples, and ethnographic items so that you can learn about the physical, spiritual, and cultural transformations.  Here is a breakdown of the total 248,402 items preserved at the museum. Type of ItemNumbers Archeological Artifacts34,363Park Archive Documents202,397Historical Artifacts, Documents, And Photos4,663 Biological Specimens6,838Paleontological Specimens47Ethnographic Items16Geological Samples69Objects of Art 9 The museum specialists take special conservation measures to make these objects available for posterity.  These Are The Historically Significant Places In Lake Clark National Park And Preserve https://www.instagram.com/p/B_VbC2clywQ/ Many areas of the park have names in English and Dena’ina. The names in Dena’ina are crucial if you want to understand their significance and the story behind them. Here’s a brief list of the historical places to visit in this park.  Dena’ina Tinitun or Trails  Ancestral Telaquana Trail Tanalian Point Hnitsanghi’iy 'The Rock That Stands Alone' (Priest Rock) Qizhjeh Vena or Lake Clark Kijik (Qizhjeh) National Historic Landmark and Archeological District While the sites have historical significance, they also speak volumes about Dena’ina values and way of life. For example, the trails here show the importance of social, cultural, and ceremonial participation among Dena’ina people. Many also believe that these trails are like “geological and educational maps” for future generations.  Subsistence Is The Key At Lake Clark National Park And Preserve Dena’ina people believe that the wilderness and animals will be good. It is we, humans, who have to be respectful toward them. To adhere to this, people in Dena’ina culture develop a communal understanding, and learn how to make the most of the limited ecological resources available. To maintain the art of subsistence, the people of Dena’ina culture focus on the following aspects.  The Ethics of Taking Hunters need to donate some part of the meat to the ill, old people, and families. This exercise shows how the tribe prioritizes communal bonding. Further, along with food distribution, the exchange of knowledge and resources is equally important in this culture.  Hunting and Trapping https://www.instagram.com/p/B8M_BvyHeUx/ Hunting animals, especially caribou and moose, is important for survival. Further, the distribution of meat according to the “Ethics of Taking” also builds community cohesion.  Trapping is a year-long activity here. Small animals such as mink, river otter, and Alaska hare are trapped to support living. However, Dena’ina people learn the skills of not hurting others or non-targets while trapping small animals.  Plant Harvesting Dena’ina families use various parts of the plants for different purposes. They collect food from the plants, and some of the plants also have medicinal properties. Further, trees and plants are often sources of tools, fuel, wearable accessories, and ceremonial essentials for them.  Berries grow in abundance here. Northern black currant, crowberries, and blackberries are some common varieties. Crowberry and blackberry leaves are used to cure diarrhea. Further, the stems of crowberry have medicinal properties that cure kidney problems.  Fishing and Fish Camps Summer and fall are the seasons of salmon in the Lake Clark National Park and Reserve. During these seasons, this national park has the largest salmon migration in the world. Further, families reunite and celebrate, and tourists flock in great numbers to the park to see and catch salmon.  Pike, trout, grayling, and whitefish are other varieties of fish found here. In addition, there are Nundaltin Q’estsiq’ and other fish camps where fish is processed and a temporary community is built.  Ethnographic studies further support all these subsistence activities. These studies related to fishing and other outdoor activities and the art of Dena’ina people living around Lake Clark are crucial. These studies help the local people to respond better to the economic, environmental, and sociocultural changes.  Things To Do At Lake Clark National Park And Preserve The vast wilderness and unique geological features make Lake Clark National Park suitable for hiking, camping, boating, fishing, rafting, and many other outdoor pursuits. Make the most of your time at the park! 1. Rafting In The Wild River https://www.instagram.com/p/CeSJ6Hbo0gw/ Tlikakila, Mulchatna, and Chilikadrotna are three wild rivers in the park. All these rivers are great for rafting. However, you must adhere to the Alaska Office of Boating Safety guidelines to avoid mishaps.  2. Fishing https://www.instagram.com/p/Cvz9q0ns6ms/ May to October is the best season for fishing in the Lake Clark National Park. Lake Clark is the main fishing hub here, and you can also explore Crescent Lake and Silver Salmon Creek.  3. Hiking  https://www.instagram.com/p/CrgO6IoOATU/ Tanalian Trails are the most popular for your hiking expeditions in this park. You can walk to Tanalian Mountain, Kontrashibuna Lake, Beaver Pond, and Tanalian Falls.  Many hikers also try hiking the Lake Clark and Upper Twin Lake trails.  4. Bear Viewing  https://www.instagram.com/p/C9kRPM2OYmi/ Silver Salmon Creek, Chinitna Bay, and Crescent Lake are the best sites for bear viewing in Lake Clark National Park.  5. Camping  https://www.instagram.com/p/BCO9H6jgnnr/ The area near Hope Creek is suitable for camping. Cook Inlet Coast is another place where you can put up your camps.  Knowing The Wildlife At Lake Clark National Park And Preserve Lake Clark National Park And Preserve is the place where you will get to see a bear in the stream and coming out with a salmon between its teeth. Very few people know that this national park is home to as many as 37 terrestrial animals and 187 bird species.  Nonetheless, have a look at the table below to learn about the animals you will meet at this national park.  MammalsBrown bearsBlack bearsDall sheepCaribouWolvesMooseBirdsGolden-crowned sparrowBald eaglesGolden eaglesTrumpeter swansSea ducksOlive-sided flycatcherFishSockeye SalmonArctic GraylingRainbow troutPike Did You Know? People in the Lime Village believe that olive-sided flycatchers and golden-crowned sparrows announce the arrival of the salmon season (around 3.1 million every year).  Birds are seen around the inland lakes, mountains, and coastal areas.  Before You Set In… Lake Clark National Park is a place less trodden by. Here is a quick glance at the things you need to know.  Established: 2nd December, 1980 Area: 4,030,006 Acres Number of Visitors: 16,728 (2023) Best Time to Visit: Late Spring to Early Fall Highest Point: Redoubt Volcano (10,197ft) Visitors Center:  Port Alsworth Visitor Center  Entry Fee: Free Best Mode of Transport: Small Planes Run by Authorized Air Taxi Companies Yelp Rating: 4 Star Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.