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BY  Arnab Jan 20, 2023

Gatlinburg is a popular vacation destination in the state of Tennessee that offers something for every type of traveler. Situated just outside the boundary of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, this charming town is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history and culture, and enjoyable recreational activities. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or an art lover, a vacation in Gatlinburg won't disappoint you. Here Are The Eight Best Ideas For Vacationing In Gatlinburg To ensure you make the most of your vacation, we've put together a list of helpful tips to make planning easier. Here's what you need to know: 1. Plan ahead Any vacation can become a stressful experience if not planned carefully. So it's important to begin planning early to ensure you don't have trouble at the eleventh hour. And after choosing your destination, next comes selecting the accommodation. A convenient option is to stay in a condo. Condos offer an extensive array of amenities for a comfortable stay, such as a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable living space, and are ideal if you're planning a trip with family or want to enjoy a more upscale experience. Look up downtown Gatlinburg condos online, compare prices, read reviews, and book one that suits your travel needs. Be sure to book in advance to score a better deal. 2. Explore the great outdoors Gatlinburg is approximately 5 miles away from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and offers many opportunities for hiking, camping, and scenic drives. The park has hundreds of miles of hiking trails suitable for first-timers and avid trekkers. Some popular trails include Mt. Leconte, Mt. Cammerer, Charlies Bunion, the Chimney Tops Trail, and Thunderhead Mountain. So be sure to pack your hiking gear if you're up for one. The national park is also home to more than 1200 species of plants and animals, including big black bears. Be sure to follow directions and stay out of areas cordoned off for the public. Also, don't litter. 3. Indulge in local cuisine Who doesn't love food? If you long for unique flavors, there are plenty of options to tantalize your taste buds. Gatlinburg has diverse dining options, including traditional southern comfort food to continental and several popular fast-food brands. You can enjoy a finger-licking meal that you will remember for a long time. Some popular places to dine include Donut Frair, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., and Log Cabin Pancake House. Consider eating pancakes at the pancake house is a must-do. Be sure to try some of the local moonshine and barbecue. 4. Shop around Gatlinburg has many shopping options, from souvenir shops to high-end boutiques. Be sure to check out the downtown area for one-of-a-kind finds. You can shop till you drop at outlet malls and small mom-and-pop arts and crafts stores. If you visit the downtown area, you'll find a mix of unique boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops. Here, you can find exclusive dresses, artistries, and a collection of extremely rare souvenirs. Also, check out the local farmer's market for fresh produce, homemade jams, and more. 5. Relax and unwind Whether it's soaking in a hot tub or taking a leisurely walk around the town, take some time out for yourself and relax. There are several places in Gatlinburg where you can unwind and burn off stress, including hot tubs, saunas, spas, and massages. Whether you're looking to unwind after a long day of sightseeing or want to indulge in some quality self-care, Gatlinburg is worth a try. Just be sure to reserve some time for yourself during your trip. 6. Hit the slopes A vacation in Gatlinburg is a must if you are into winter sports. Gatlinburg is a great destination for winter sports, with Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort offering skiing opportunities. Even if you're not a skier, the resort has an indoor ice-skating rink designed for casuals. Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort is the only ski resort in Tennessee, and it offers a wide range of winter activities. These include skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and snow tubing. 7. Take a tour Join a guided tour to learn more about the history and culture of Gatlinburg and the surrounding area. From ghost tours to historical walking tours, you can explore some wonderful places that boast Appalachian culture and history. These tours are an excellent way to learn more about the antiquity and traditions of Gatlinburg. You'll also see some of the most famous and hidden sights and landmarks. Guided tours can help you discover new places in Gatlinburg that only a few know about. Whether you're interested in the town's history or the natural wonders of the area, you can't go wrong with a trip to Gatlinburg. 8. Visit the arts and crafts community Gatlinburg is home to a vibrant arts and crafts community, with many shops and studios showcasing the work of local artisans. Take a stroll through the community and bring home a unique souvenir. The Gatlinburg arts and crafts community is also one of North America's largest groups of independent artisans. The community offers a wide range of unique artwork and dexterities, from traditional to contemporary. Conclusion Overall, Gatlinburg offers a wonderful natural getaway destination that promises a memorable experience for tourists. Whether you're looking to explore the outdoors or simply relax and unwind, Gatlinburg has it all. Following the tips above can help you make the most of your time in this delightful town. So, don't wait any longer; plan your next vacation and experience all this beautiful place has to offer. Read Also: Crucial Hiking Tips To Ensure Your Safety While Hiking Top 8 List Of National Parks In North Carolina – Travel Guide Witness The Beauty Of Chilko Lake In British Columbia – Travel Guide

BY  Sibashree May 17, 2025

Japan will have already exceeded the 10 million visitor mark by April 2025. The number is 10.54 million, specifically, as the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) data states.  JNTO had also stated earlier that 2024 was the year of the highest tourist footfall, with the number shooting up to 36.8 million.  Now, Tokyo, as the cultural, economic, and commercial epicentre of Japan, is, of course, experiencing the most tourism boom.  However, around 1300 km apart, Hokkaido also contributes to the country's tourism growth.  So, this time, we decided to make a Tokyo to Hokkaido journey, and our Tour and Travel blog has all the details as always! What Is The Tokyo To Hokkaido Distance? The distance between Tokyo and Hokkaido is 1,281.5 km. Traveling this distance by car takes around 20 hours.  However, taking a flight or a bullet train is the best option for traveling between these two destinations.  What Is A Good Month To Visit Hokkaido? Hokkaido is a year-round travel destination. However, the best times to visit are March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn). Mild weather conditions and moderate rainfall make these months ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and exploring the nearby attractions.  Further, Spring or Sakura is the cherry blossom season in Hokkaido and all parts of Japan. Similarly, Koyo, or the autumn foliage in yellow, orange, and red, makes Hokkaido look like a painting.  Again, the summer season in Hokkaido is pleasant and cooler than Japan's main island, and it is ideal for hiking and exploring the scenic flower fields. Also, in winter, Hokkaido has a lot of visitors for skiing and snowboarding.  Nevertheless, the table below provides a detailed idea of the weather conditions of Hokkaido by month.  MonthAverage Temperature (Degree Celsius)Rainfall (Inches)Hours of SunJanuary-958February-849March-3410April5212May121.915June181.715July20316August22514September165.812October94.811November34.610December-54.99 How Do I Go From Tokyo To Hokkaido? There are four ways to travel from Hokkaido to Tokyo. You can take a flight, Shinkansen bullet train, ferry or car.  Take A Tokyo To Hokkaido Flight Duration: 1.2-1.5 Hours Cost: 5500 Japanese Yen (One Way) Route: Narita or Haneda Airport in Tokyo to Sapporo Chitose Airport Best for: Quick Traveling If you want to reach Hokkaido from Tokyo in the blink of an eye, you can take a flight to Sapporo from Narita or Haneda Airport. These two airports are close to Tokyo Station.  Traveling In Tokyo To Hokkaido Bullet Train Duration: 7-7.5 Hours Cost: 26990 - 35860 Japanese Yen (for Adults) Route: Tokyo Station to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station to Sapporo Station Best for: Exploring the Scenic View and Food Scene Taking the Tokyo to Hokkaido train is the way to cover the distance. The Shinkansen bullet train journey is long and expensive.  However, it is the best way to explore the attractions on the route.  Further, the train journey is divided into two stages.  Bullet train or Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Limited express train from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto to Sapporo The first stage of the journey takes around 4-4.5 hours, and the second stage of the journey will take close to 3.5 hours.  Moreover, if you have plans to explore various parts of Japan by train, you can buy a JR or Japan Rail Pass for 50000 Japanese Yen. It remains valid for 7 days.  Ferry Ride From Tokyo To Hokkaido Duration: 20-22 Hours Cost: 26990 - 12000 Japanese Yen Route: Tokyo to Oarai Port to Tomakomai Port to Sapporo Best for: Patrons of Slow Traveling Evening Ferry Timing: Departure - 7:45 PM, Arrival - 1:45 PM Next Day Night Ferry Timing: Departure - 1:45 AM, Arrival: 7:35 PM Next Day The journey from Tokyo to Hokkaido is divided into three stages.  First, you have to travel to Oarai Port from Tokyo Station after a train journey of 1 hour and 45 minutes.  Then, you will have to take the Sunflower Ferry from Oarai Port to Tomakomai Port. Finally, you will need to take a train ride or ride a car to reach Sapporo from Tomakomai Port. Road Trip From Tokyo To Hokkaido Duration: 20-23 Hours Cost: 15000 Japanese Yen for Tolls, 15000-26000 Japanese Yen for Ferries, and Car Rental Route: Tokyo, Aomori City, Hakodate, Sapporo Best for: Travelers Willing to Explore the Tohoku Region and other Areas A car trip from Tokyo to Hokkaido is a lifetime experience. However, the journey also consists of various stages. Driving from Tokyo to Aomori City Ferry Ride from Aomori to Hakodate or Tomakomai Driving to Sapporo Tokyo To Hokkaido Journey: Places To Visit There are multiple places to visit during the Tokyo to Hokkaido journey. Let me briefly introduce these stopovers to you.  • Otaru Otaru basks in its unique charm as a port city. You will see historical canals and old warehouses here.  It also has many sushi bars if you want to try the best of Japanese flavors.  • Sapporo Sapporo has a palpable urban energy as the capital of the Hokkaido region. However, it is also the gateway to the Northeastern mountains.  • Hakodate It is a coastal city located at Hokkaido’s southwestern tip. It is often referred to as the gateway between Hokkaido and Honshu.  • Tohoku Region The Tohoku Region has historical attractions like Sendai. The Aomori prefecture is a cultural hub of the region.  However, for me, Kakunodate is the most fascinating place here. It is well-preserved, and this feudal town is home to Samurai residences.  • Shiretoko National Park Shiretoko National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its colorful wildlife and pristine ambiance.  • Daisetsuzan National Park It is the largest national park in Hokkaido. With its diverse landscape and trails, it is a favorite of hikers.  Lake Toya, Nikko, Furano and Biei, and Lake Akan are other popular places to visit on the Tokyo to Hokkaido journey. Tokyo To Hokkaido: Where To Eat?  If you love ramen and soup curries, the Tokyo to Hokkaido journey will be the ultimate gastronomic delight. You cannot miss the seafood, grilled lamb, or Jingisukan.  Further, Aomori and Sendai will be your stopovers on the route. These cities in the Tohoku region are known for their regional delicacies such as Kiritanpo Hot Pot, Hachinohe Senbei Soup, and Kitakata Ramen.  See why we all prefer bullet train rides over flights! 😋😋😋😋😋😋 Further, once you reach Sapporo in Hokkaido, your choices will be as vivid as they can get.  Sapporo DelicaciesWhy So Special?Sapporo RamenThick noodlesRich brothDiverse in toppingsJingisukanSignature-style grilled lambTastes amazing with beerSoup CurryA flavor bomb with a fusion of Indian and Japanese flavors. Fresh SeafoodSushiNemuro Hanamaru and other crab delicaciesSteak or YakinikuSignature Hokkaido-style grilled beefSweetsYogurts ParfaitMango Parfait Is Hokkaido Worth Visiting? Yes, Hokkaido is a place worth visiting. It is a melting pot of unique cultures, outdoor activities, and natural wonders. Also, Hokkaido has some real surprises for Murakami fans, and I will spill the beans if you are not already aware! First, have a look at the table below for a sneak peek into why Hokkaido is so popular among tourists. Reasons Why You Must Visit HokkaidoThe HighlightsCultural and Historical Experiences• Hakodate Historical Town• Onsen culture or hot spring experiences in Noboribetsu• Exploring the indigenous Ainu Culture at Lake AkanGastronomic delight• Fresh seafood at the Sapporo fish market• Trying Sapporo ramen, soup, and dairy products**• Exploring Ramen Alley or Ganso Ramen Yokocho in the Susukino nightlife area(It is the birthplace of miso ramen.)Exploring Wildlife• A visit to the Shiretoko National Park• Spotting bears, deer, and foxesDiverse Landscapes• Mountains such as Asahi-dake, Mount Rausu, etc. • Forest areas such as Mt. Daisetsu and the Hidaka Mountains• Hokkaido is home to 22% of the entire forest land in Japan. • Beaches in Hokkaido, such as Otsu Beach, Shimamui Beach and Aso Beach Ishikari• Volcanic areas such as the Akan Volcanic Complex, Shikotsu-Toya National Park, and Daisetsuzan Volcanic GroupWinter Sports• Skiing• SnowboardingSummer Outdoor Activities• Biking• Hiking• Cycling ** Hokkaido is world-famous for its milk and dairy products. Hokkaido milk is creamy, rich, and full-bodied. It has been a favorite among chefs and connoisseurs since the 19th century after the western farming technique became popular in Japan.** Why Is Hokkaido A Murakami Lover’s Dream Destination? Have you heard of the Matsuyama Farm, located in the remote north of Hokkaido? It is an annual meeting ground for Murakami lovers from all corners of the world.  Further, Hokkaido is THE LOCATION of the Oscar-winning film Drive My Car. It was based on Haruki Murakami's stories.  Also, be it the Men Without Women story collection or the surreal novel A Wild Sheep Chase, Hokkaido has been an important element in Murakami’s work.  Moreover, prominent places mentioned in Murakami’s work are: Keio Plaza Hotel in Sapporo (the inspiration behind the Dolphin Hotel in Dance Dance Dance) Nakatonbetsu (the hometown of the young chauffeur in Drive My Car) Bifuka (the inspiration behind the town of Junitaki in A Wild Sheep Chase.  Also, Lake Shikotsu, despite not being directly related to the work of Murakami, is a place you cannot miss in Hokkaido. Is 3 Days Enough In Hokkaido? The second-largest island in Japan, Hokkaido, cannot be explored in three days. However, here, we have tried making a compressed itinerary if you are staying here for three days.  On the first day, you can tour Sapporo and visit places such as the Sapporo TV Tower, Hokkaido Jingu Shrine, and Moerenuma Park.  Further, on day 2, you can explore the history of Hokkaido by visiting coastal cities such as Otaru (known for its historic canals) and Otoyama Sake Brewery Museum. Also, don’t forget to try the seafood here. On day 3, you can enjoy the best of Hokkaido’s natural wonders such as Nopporo Forest Park, Lake Shikotsu, and Mount Tarumae.  Mount Tarumae is an active volcano and a popular hiking spot. On the other hand, Lake Shikotsu is the second-deepest lake in Japan.  Are you tired of exploring all the outdoor attractions in Hokkaido? Relax at hot springs such as Jozankei, Noboritbetsu, and Asahidake and enjoy the ultimate Japanese experience.  Tokyo To Hokkaido Distance Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)  Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Tokyo to Hokkaido distance. How Long Is The Bullet Train From Tokyo To Hokkaido? The Hayabusa Shinkansen is the fastest bullet train running from Tokyo to Hokkaido. This journey from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto takes around 3 hours and 57 minutes. You can book a reserved seat at 26990 Japanese Yen or a Green Seat for 35860 Japanese Yen (for adults). Is It Better To Fly Or Train From Tokyo To Sapporo? If you want to travel quickly, you must take a Tokyo to Sapporo flight, which will take around 1 hour and 35 minutes. New Chitose Airport near Sapporo serves as the key entry point. On the other hand, if you want a more scenic experience, you can take a two-stage train journey.Bullet train or Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Hakodate-HokutoLimited express train from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto to SapporoThe total journey will take around 7.5 hours. How Long Is A Flight From Tokyo to Hokkaido? The flight from Tokyo to Sapporo in Hokkaido takes from 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes. It is one of the busiest air routes in the world, and hence, you will get many flight options. 

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 27, 2023

Rome is unlike any other place. Here are some of the best things to do in Rome, as recommended by locals, whether this is your first or 20th visit. This is a city where narrow streets lead to stunning temples, the mound serves pasta, and there are endless opportunities to people-watch. There's a reason it's one of the most well-known cities in the world, but you can only truly appreciate its allure if you visit. Things To Do In Rome It's important to have a plan because Rome is much larger than you may have imagined. Archaeological finds, famous art collections, and an abundance of culture can all be found here, making you want to visit again and again. But don't worry, you still have plenty of time to enjoy an aperitif outside in the warm sunshine and digest your lunchtime pasta. Vatican Museums And Sistine Chapel Across 54 galleries, courtyards, and hallways, the Vatican Museums, established by Pope Julius II in the sixteenth century, are home to one of the greatest and most significant art collections in the world. The Sistine Chapel is home to thousands of prehistoric sculptures, Raphael pieces, and, of course, Michelangelo's frescoes. Get tickets to explore the Vatican Gardens, which are home to fountains, plants, and a recreation of the Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto, as well as the Vatican Necropolis, which is beneath St. Peter's Basilica, if you have the time and can arrange well in advance. The Colosseum The Colosseum is a must-see when visiting Rome, of course. Rome's crown jewel is this magnificent building—you know, the kind of thing you see on postcards—and it's even more amazing in person than you could have imagined. It is the world's largest amphitheater, with a capacity of 80,000 people, and was constructed between 72 and 80 AD. This used to be much more peaceful, with local Romans coming to watch animal hunts or bloody gladiator fights. Because of the sometimes insane lines, we advise purchasing tickets in advance. However, the 360-degree view over the theater on the fifth level makes it well worth the climb. Castel Sant’Angelo Hadrian, the Roman Emperor, constructed the striking cylindrical fortification known as Castel Sant'Angelo, or "The Castle of Angels," on the banks of the Tiber River in the second century AD. The popes used it as a castle and fortress after it was first inaugurated as a mausoleum for Hadrian and his family. It even has a hidden escape route connecting the building to Vatican City. These days, it's a museum featuring rooms decorated with frescoes, a display of medieval weapons, and expansive views of Rome and the neighboring St. Peter's Basilica. Inside is a small cafe where you can have a drink or some snacks while taking in views of the Vatican. The Pantheon One of the best-preserved ancient structures is the Pantheon, which was constructed by Emperor Hadrian in 125 AD. With a diameter of 142 feet, its dome is the biggest in the entire globe. This is a must-see in Rome, and if you're visiting the city over Pentecost weekend, you're in for a treat. This tops every tourist's list of things to do in Rome. To commemorate the occasion, tons of rose petals are dropped from the oculus during Sunday Mass. It's quite a sight. The Pantheon is free to enter as of the time of publishing (May 2023), but there are plans to charge visitors an admission fee of €5. Galleria Borghese Originally built in the sixteenth century, Cardinal Scipione Borghese showcased his extensive art collection under its roof. It is still regarded as one of Rome's top museums. Expect to find extraordinary creations within, as the Cardinal was an ardent art collector who was also a big fan of Caravaggio's works and an early patron of Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Highlights of the museum include Caravaggio's Boy with a Basket of Fruit, Canova's Paolina Bonaparte, and Bernini's Apollo and Daphne. Take a stroll through the park after your visit to the "pleasure palace," which was once a suburban villa submerged in the vast gardens of Villa Borghese. Domus Aurea The opulent Domus Aurea (Golden House) of Emperor Nero is a rare window into Rome's underground world and is regarded as one of the most magnificent homes of its era. It was constructed as an opulent amusement venue close to the Colosseum between 64 and 68 AD, covering numerous historic hills in Rome. It was then devastated by the city's destructive fire in 64 AD. Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, guests can participate in guided tours. A virtual reality tour is also available, which helps recreate the villa's former splendor. Read Also: Eternal Elegance: A Guide To The Best Hotels In Rome Capitoline Museums The Capitoline Museums are housed in three buildings on the trapezoidal Piazza del Campidoglio, which Michelangelo created in the sixteenth century. Known as the world's first public museums, they hold Renaissance marble statues and Roman bronzes, including the Capitoline Wolf, a symbol of Rome's founding, and the Equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius. An underground tunnel through the Galleria Lapidaria connects the two buildings of the museum. Visitors can also enjoy a superb view of the Roman Forum. Make time to spend a few hours perusing the collection, and don't forget to pay a visit to Piazzale Caffarelli's hidden garden, which is tucked away right behind the square. Gianicolo Rome sometimes referred to as the "city of seven hills," is renowned for its picturesque viewpoints and abundance of terraces that provide breathtaking views of the cityscape. Gianicolo, the highest point in Rome with a panoramic view over the Eternal City, is worth the trek even though it isn't technically one of the fabled hills. It is situated above the Trastevere neighborhood. Nearby is the magnificent Fontana dell'Acqua Paola, which was featured in La Grande Bellezza's opening scene. Its majesty will astound you. Testaccio Market The Testaccio neighborhood is the epicenter of Rome's culinary traditions, making it a must-visit destination for foodies and daring diners alike. The region was once home to the biggest slaughterhouse in Europe, and workers were typically compensated with leftover animal parts, known as the “quinto quarto,” or fifth quarter. The Testaccio Market, a bright and modern structure full of enticing stalls, serves everything from freshly made pasta and craft beers to tripe stews and artichoke sandwiches. It is one of the best things to do in Rome while enjoying the varied cuisine and delicious street food. Wrapping Up Rome, with its two millennia of architecture, art, and culture, is an outdoor museum and one of the most visited cities in the world for good reason. You can lose hours discovering historical marvels, traveling between sites, or searching for the best gelato, but insiders use guided tours and skip-the-line entrance tickets to beat the crowd. Hop-on, hop-off tours let travelers quickly check off items on their lists of things to do, but group excursions to the Vatican Museums, Roman Forum, and Colosseum provide a deeper experience. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about things to do in Rome, please comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: The Italian Train Group FS Will Launch A New “Night Train Like Hotel”: Rome To Dolomites Tips For Planning The Perfect Getaway In A Rental Villa In Italy How Much Time To Spend In Italy