Free And Cheap Things To Do In Phoenix, Arizona | Phoenix Travel Guide On A Shoestring

BY  Sibashree Aug 9, 2024

Wrangell-St. Elias, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an icy wonderland. It is a place where active volcanoes and the largest glaciers, like Malaspina, coexist, making it “A Song of Ice and Fire.”  It also has some of the greatest mountain ranges in the world and mighty rivers. Further, unique geological features and weather conditions have made the national park a land of biodiversity and wilderness with a lot of mammals, birds, fish, and plants.  Let me take you on a tour of the Wrangell-St. Elias glaciers and everything the national park has to offer.   What Are The Notable Glaciers In Wrangell-St. Elias?  Nabesna Glacier, Malaspina Glacier, and Hubbard Glacier are the most notable ones in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.   Along with these glaciers, you can also see glacier features like glacier caves, Jökulhlaups, and ice falls. Let’s briefly discuss the major glaciers and glacier features.   Malaspina Glacier Did you know that Malaspina Glacier is the “largest Piedmont glacier in the world?” Designated as a National Natural Landscape in 1968, it spans across 1,075,409 acres.   Further, its glacial mechanisms and fluctuations have made it a favorite of explorers. The glacier is also a favorite of space travelers as it looks vibrant from space.   In an article published by NASA Earth Observatory on 27th October 2023, we can find,  “The dark blueish-purple lines on the ice are moraines—areas where soil, rock, and other debris have been scraped up by the glacier and deposited along its edges. The zigzag pattern of the debris is caused by changes in the ice’s velocity. Glaciers in this area of Alaska periodically “surge” or lurch forward for one to several years. As a result of this irregular flow, the moraines can fold, compress, and shear to form the characteristic textures seen on Malaspina.”  Hubbard Glacier  Hubbard, “the sleeping giant,” is the largest when it comes to the tidewater glaciers in North America (75 miles long). The glacier gets its name from Gardiner Hubbard, National Geographic Society’s first president.   Also called the “Galloping Glacier,” it comes with tranquil blue ice. You can explore Hubbard Glacier through a cruise trip.   Visiting the Hubbard Glacier becomes more exciting as you meet the sea otters, whales, sea lions, and bears along the route.   Nabesna Glacier  With a length of 53 miles, Nabesna Glacier is the “longest interior valley glacier” in the world. However, there are concerns regarding the loss of ice mass in the glacier. A 2007 report says,  “Nabesna, the largest glacier in this region (˜1056 km2), lost mass four times faster during 2000–07 than during 1957–2000. Although accelerated, the mass change over this region is slower than in other glacierized regions of Alaska, particularly those with tidewater glaciers.”  Glacier Features In Wrangell-St. Elias  You will come across many fascinating glacier caves in Wrangell-St. Elias, especially near the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark.   Further, ice falls, or the fountains of the glacier, move very fast, and it’s fascinating to see how they form seracs or blocks.   Also, there are Jökulhlaups, or flooded glacier outbursts, adding to the various glacier features of the national park.    Amazing Glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Facts  Mount  St. Elias, the largest peak of the national park, is the second-highest in the world.  Mount Wrangell, the only active volcano here, is one of the largest active volcanoes in North America.  It has Nabesna Glacier, Malaspina Glacier, and Hubbard Glacier, three of the largest in the world.   It is a part of the “world's largest international protected wilderness.”  Mid-May to mid-September is the best time to visit this park.   Wrangell-St. Elias: A UNESCO World Heritage Site  Home to countless glaciers and many high mountains, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park enjoys the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with Kluane, Glacier Bay, and Tatshenshini-Alsek.   Also, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is a part of the “largest non-polar icefield in the world.” You will find Dall's sheep, grizzly bears, caribou, and many other animals roaming in this part of the world.   Further, certain geographical and biological factors and “protection and management requirements” make this national park a place of outstanding universal value. Let’s discuss them in detail.   Rich In Biodiversity  The scenic beauty and geological diversity in the park are outstanding. It has sea mammals and other aquatic animals. Further, you can see many land mammals, birds, and different types of trees in this park.   The table below mentions some of the most popular birds, trees, and animals you can see here.   Land Mammals Brown Bears Polar Bears Black Bears Mountain Goats Dall Sheep Bison Coyotes Wolverine Porcupine Sea Mammals and Other Marine Creatures Whales Sea Lions Porpoises Harbor Seals Sea Otters Plants (936 Vascular Plant Species) Sedge Family Grass Family Sunflower Family Trees Willows Various Introduced Species Birds Bald Eagles Canada Geese Trumpeter Swans Wilson's Warblers American Robins  Home to boreal forest, Wrangell-St. Elias has one of the largest ecosystems in the world. Diverse geological features and unique weather conditions support this sprawling ecosystem or biodiversity.   Comes With Topographical Diversity   This national park is one of the most diverse in its topographical features. It has glaciers, rivers, river canyons, volcanoes, snow-capped mountains and whatnot!   Geomorphological features like hanging valleys, moraines, craters, and calderas also make this national park unique.   A Hub Of Active Tectonic, Volcanic, Glacial, And Fluvial Natural Processes   Like the entire Alaska, Wrangell-St. Elias is also in an area where tectonic, volcanic, glacial, and fluvial natural processes are common.   So, it has active and inactive volcanoes, the largest glaciers, and some prominent fluvial landforms. It has the mighty Copper River, Rivers of Life, and braided rivers formed of glacier water.   Final Words   Wrangell-St. Elias National Park has the highest glacier coverage among all national parks in America. It also has the active Mount Wrangell volcano, rivers, and wetlands, making it a place of geological interest.   Exploring the glacier caves and the ice falls here is a one-of-a-kind experience, and it’s wonderful to see how the richest biodiversity with mammals, birds, aquatic animals, and trees thrives here.   So, come and experience the brilliance of nature as you explore the largest glaciers of the world’s largest glaciers, such as Malaspina and Hubbard.   Or have you already been to this land of volcanoes and glaciers? Don’t forget to share your experience of the glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park tours.    Wrangell-St. Elias National Park FAQs   How Many Glaciers Are In Wrangell-St. Elias National Park?  Like the entire Alaska, Wrangell-St. Elias is filled with glaciers. According to the latest count of the National Park Service (NPS), the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park has 3,121 glaciers. Further, these glaciers cover a whopping “6,757 square miles of land.”  So, Wrangell-St. Elias has glaciers that cover 60% of all the glacier coverage in American National Parks. Glacier Bay in Alaska is the distant second to Wrangell-St. Elias. The glacier coverage at Glacier Bay is just 1/5th of Wrangell-St. Elias.  In addition, Malaspina, Hubbard, and the Bering glaciers, located along the park’s southern margin, are three of the largest glaciers in the world.   Having said that, glacier coverage in Alaska is shrinking, and  Wrangell-St. Elias is not an exception. From 1985 to 2020, it has already experienced a 5% reduction in its glacier coverage.   How many People Visit Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Each Year?  The National Park Service has a record of visitors to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park since 1982. Since then, this park has been enjoying thousands of footfalls every year.  2023 was one of the topmost years in terms of number of people visiting  Wrangell-St. Elias. It had 78,305 visitors in 2023.  In 2020 (the Covid-19 era), the park had 16,655 visitors. From 2021, the number of visitors has increased consistently. (Source)  What Is Unique About Wrangell-St. Elias National Park?  With the largest glaciers and volcanoes in the world, Wrangell-St. Elias is unique because of its geographical features. It is also one of the most prominent hubs of biodiversity. Thanks to its extensive glacier and volcanic coverage and rich wildlife, it has earned the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Among glaciers, Hubbard (one of the largest in the world and the largest tidewater glacier in North America) and Malaspina Glacier demand a special mention.   The Mount Wrangell volcano in this park is still active, and some other volcanoes here are Mount Drum, Capital Mountain, Skookum Creek Volcano, etc.  Further, it has an endangered sea mammal, Steller Sea Lion, and other marine animals. Bears, mountain goats, and sheep are common land mammals roaming here.   Also, you will find birds like the American robins, Wilson's warblers, and dark-eyed junco in this national park.   What Is The Highest Peak In Wrangell-St. Elias?  Mount St. Elias is the highest peak in Wrangell-St. Elias. With a height of 18,008 feet, it is also the second-highest peak in North America.   Having said that, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park celebrates the presence of four major mountain ranges in the world. It has the eastern part of the Alaskan Range, St. Elias, Chugach, and Wrangell.   Why Is Wrangell-St. Elias Protected?  Wrangell-St. Elias is protected to “preserve and protect ecological integrity and heritage resources of a vast ecosystem in south-central Alaska, while providing for public use in a wilderness setting.”  So, it is protected to preserve the local geology and diversity of the landscape with glaciers, volcanoes, and wetlands. It is also a measure to preserve wildlife and its inhabitants. Also read Ultimate Guide to Your Next Family Vacation in Israel. Paris Transforming Historical Sites Into Olympic Venues. Whales And Sea Lions! Exploring Wildlife At Kenai Fjords National Park.

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 21, 2023

Bath is a charming city known for its rich history, breathtaking Georgian architecture, and significance in culture. It is located in Somerset, England's undulating hills. The Jane Austen Museum is a must-visit location for fans of the well-loved English novelist among its numerous attractions. Entering Bath is like entering a time capsule that transports visitors to a bygone age. It served as the inspiration for Jane Austen's classic novels. Bath greets you with an air of sophistication and charm from the moment you arrive. A visual feast that is the city's well-maintained Georgian architecture. It is distinguished by Bath stone with a honey tint. Bath boasts some of the most stunning architectural structures, including the Pulteney Bridge that spans the River Avon. The majestic crescent-shaped terrace known as the Royal Crescent adds to the charm. The dynamic and eclectic atmosphere of the city is created by the abundance of unique businesses, charming tearooms, and galleries of art. They line the cobblestone streets beautifully. Bath's attraction is enhanced by its thermal springs, which have drawn tourists for centuries. A well-preserved set of ancient Roman bathing and convivial structures, the Roman Baths provide insight into the city's history. We will now dive in to find things to do in Bath in this article. Overview: Things To Do In Bath travel-assets.com Wander Bath's picturesque cobblestone streets, where gorgeous honey-colored houses recreate the sophistication of the Georgian era. One of the things to do in Bath is transporting yourself to scenes straight out of Bridgerton. Admire the famous Bath Abbey, a magnificent example of Gothic design, and discover the ancient Roman Baths. They allow you to experience both Roman engineering and the world of public bathing in the past. Bath's distinctive fusion of wellness, culture, and history ensures an amazing trip that is going to leave you feeling revived and fascinated by this part of the South West. Cuisine bathchronicle.co.uk Bath's eating and drinking scene offers a culinary adventure that pleases a wide range of palates with a fascinating blend of history and innovation. The city is home to a variety of restaurants, ranging from chic bistros and fine dining venues to cozy tearooms and old-world taverns. Seasonal and local ingredients are the main focus, helping to create tasty recipes that pay homage to English heritage. They also draw inspiration from around the world. The city's markets, such as the Bath Farmers Market, include fresh vegetables, gourmet foods, and handcrafted goods. Bath's food scene offers a delicious experience for any palate. Whether you're looking for a modern elegance or a historic ambiance, Bath has it all. Savor traditional afternoon teas offered with scones and clotted cream, a mainstay of the South West of England. Or enjoy hearty pies and platters of cheeses produced locally. Bath's pubs are welcoming gathering spots for people to catch up and enjoy ales and ciders. Culture campervantours.com Bath's charm reaches far beyond its urban boundaries, revealing a mosaic of charming cities and towns that beg to be discovered. From, a market town tucked away in the Mendip Hills, provides a bohemian vibe, artisanal markets, and an artistic vibe. Alternatively, head to Wells, dubbed "England's smallest city," to take in its magnificent medieval streets and cathedral. With their distinct charms, these neighboring gems weave a tale that echoes Bath's own history and attraction. It beckons you to set out on an adventure through the center of the English countryside. Jane Austen: A Bath Essential A trip to the Jane Austen Museum is a voyage into the author's universe for voracious readers and Austen fans. It is one of the mandatory things to do in Bath. The museum is housed in the townhouse where Jane Austen lived from 1801 to 1806. It is located at 40 Gay Street. Entering the building transports you to the Regency era. Here you may fully immerse yourself in Jane Austen's everyday existence and literary legacy. A selection of relics, manuscripts, and private items that shed light on Austen's life and creative output are on display at the museum. The rooms where she wrote some of her most famous books, including "Pride and Prejudice" and "Emma," and lived are open for you to tour. The exhibits provide a physical link to the well-known author, showcasing everything from her writing station to her stunning jewels. In order to give visitors a true taste of Austen's world, the museum regularly hosts unique events and seminars, such as Regency tea soirees and costume dress-up sessions. They offer a fun way to get close to Austen's characters and learn more about the prevalent social mores. One of the main themes of Austen's works was Bath. Several of her writings, including "Northanger Abbey" and "Persuasion," were set in the city. You may walk in the footsteps of Jane Austen's characters as you stroll through Bath, seeing locations like the Pump Room, the Assembly Rooms, and the magnificent Bath Abbey. Read More: Discovering London’s Hidden Gems: Best Places To Visit In London All Things Austen: Regency Era In Austen's day, the Pump Room—an exquisite 18th-century social hub—was a center of social life. Even now, guests can partake in a small meal or a cup of tea while admiring the surroundings. Austen's elaborate dance scenes are inspired by social events. The Assembly Rooms, with its beautiful ballrooms, offer an insight into these festivities. The majestic ancient church known as Bath Abbey serves as a reminder of the religious legacy of the city. There is awe and reverence in it because of its magnificent architecture and high ceilings. These sacred walls provided a place of refuge and contemplation for many Austen characters, giving her works a spiritual undertone. For readers, Bath has a plethora of literary ties along with the Jane Austen Museum. A vast collection of scholarly books and rare editions of Jane Austen can be found at the Bath Central Library. One can find literary jewels at bookshops such as Topping & Company Booksellers and Mr. B's Emporium of Reading Delights. Discovering the life and writings of one of England's most renowned writers through visiting Bath and the Jane Austen Museum is an engrossing trip through time. Both fans of Jane Austen and history buffs will be fascinated by Bath's ageless charm and the immersive experience offered by the museum. So, lose yourself in Jane Austen's world, and stroll along the cobblestone streets. Take in the wonders of architecture, and allow Bath to envelop you in its enchantment. Explore this fascinating city to learn about the spirit of Regency England and Jane Austen's lasting influence. Wrapping Up Bath is easily accessible by air into Bristol airport due to its close vicinity to the city. It is about 45 minutes off by car or an hour away by public transportation. Similarly, it takes two hours to get to London Heathrow Airport by vehicle or public transportation. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask on things to do in Bath, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Coastal Bliss: Top Things To Do In Bournemouth Island Paradise Unveiled: Best Time To Visit The Philippines Vietnam Vistas: A Seasonal Guide To Crafting Your Vietnamese Adventure

BY  Sibashree Jun 28, 2025

A group of researchers from the University of Santo Tomas has prepared a full-fledged report on how sustainable tourism can be the future of Siquijor. The study, “Conservation of Sustainable Ecotourism on the Island of Siquijor through Sustainable Alternative Livelihoods, Training and Development,” has also factored in the needs of the inhabitants to promote sustainable tourism on the island. Siquijor remains a hidden gem while Bohol and Cebu, its neighbors, get more attention. However, Siquijor has the serene vibe, mystical charm, and natural beauty to be a tourism hotspot. Additionally, it enables you to be part of cultural discovery, adventure, and relaxation. So, you can be an adrenaline junkie or someone who enjoys the company of nature. Siquijor has everything for different types of travelers. Do you also feel like unwinding in Siquijor? Let’s talk about the things to do in Siquijor in this Tour and Travel Guide. However, before that, I want to discuss how to travel to Siquijor. How Do I Travel To Siquijor? Enjoy A Beautiful Ferry Ride Siquijor does not have an airport. You have to reach this island in the heart of the Philippines by ferry. You can take a ferry from Cebu or Dumaguete. Dumaguete is the closest neighbor of Siquijor, and the ferry ride will take around 1 hour. From Cebu, a ferry ride to Siquijor will take 4-5 hours. Are you traveling from Manila? Take a flight to Dumaguete or Cebu and then a ferry ride to Siquijor. Unique Things To Do In Siquijor: What Is Siquijor Famous For? March to May, or the dry season, is the best time to visit Siquijor. The sea remains calm during the dry season. So, water activities, including boat rides, become the most enjoyable in these months. Now, many people project Siquijor as a year-round attraction. However, it experiences heavy rainfall from October to June. Also, the sea becomes tumultuous during these months. However, irrespective of the time of your visit, you will love the following things to do in Siquijor. 1. Plan A Visit To The Cambugahay Falls A beautiful three-tiered waterfall in Lazi! Cambugahay Falls looks stunning with the backdrop and surroundings of lush greenery. Further, it has crystal clear water, gleaming in the Sun. The things to do here are: Swimming Relaxing Soaking in the natural beauty of the island Dipping into the natural pools And? You can live your Instagram dream by swinging from the vine rope hanging above the water. You have to take a short trek through the jungle path to reach the waterfall. 2. Visiting The Old Enchanted Balete Tree: The Spirits Are Waiting When the BBC called Siquijor “A paradise island with a reputation for witchcraft,” we all took note.   But how did it get its name? Let’s decode. Also known as the “Mystical Island,” Siquijor is also home to the Balete Tree. This ancient tree located in Enrique Villanueva town is 400 years old. In local folklore, various spirits and supernatural beings live in this tree. The tree is gigantic in size, and it is surrounded by cool and clear spring water. 3. Enjoying The Turquoise Water And White Sand Beach At Salagdoong Beach Do you want to relax at the beach? Salagdoong Beach will be your go-to destination. White powdery sand and turquoise water make it stand out. Located in Maria, this beach also offers an adventurous experience as you dive from the dramatic cliffs, with heights ranging from 8 to 15 meters. The Sun goes down, and after a day full of adventure, you need to relax. You can take the small local cottages for rent and spend the night watching the Moonlight dancing in the water. 4. Scuba Diving At Siquijor’s Best Dive Spots: Things To Do In Siquijor Siquijor has Paliton Beach, where divers can explore coral reefs, underwater caves, and vibrant marine species such as sea turtles, reef sharks, and tropical fish. Another popular dive spot is Mae’s Rock, where divers can see an abundance of underwater creatures, such as: Nudibranchs Lionfish Macro Critters Are you a beginner? Don’t worry, as the island has many diving schools that will help you start your scuba diving journey. 5. Visiting The Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary: Things To Do In Siquijor Do you want to learn about the life cycle of butterflies, their role in the ecosystem, and conservation efforts in the region? Visit the Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary in Lazi. It is also a beautiful place to take photos for your socials and stroll through the peaceful gardens. 6. Exploring The Old Churches And Historical Sites: Being Familiar With The Essence Of Siquijor St. Francis of Assisi Church in the town of Lazi is one of the most prominent historical landmarks of Siquijor. This stunning Spanish-era church was built in 1857, and its coral stone construction still evokes a sense of awe! San Isidro Labrador Church is another attraction here, and it is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, dating back to the 16th century. 7. Trekking To Mt. Bandilaan National Park: Nature And Mysticism At Its Best Hike to the Bandilaan and enjoy the most thrilling panoramic view of the island and the surrounding ocean. Also, the national park has a natural spring and a sacred grotto. Thus, trekking through this national park feels like a spiritual experience. 8. Be A Part Of The Healing Festival And Know The Island’s Spiritual Heritage In the month of May, Siquijor hosts the Healing Festival. Spiritual guides, herbalists, and local healers gather to share their knowledge in the following sectors: Energy healing Natural remedies Traditional medicine It is your chance to be a part of healing treatments and workshops on ancient practices of the island. 9. A Nighttime Firefly Tour: You Will Not Find This Experience Anywhere Else Picture a scene! You are lying on the beach, and suddenly, fireflies eradicate the darkness and light up the night sky! This is what you will see on a firefly tour in Siquijor. Quiet rivers and mangrove forests on the island are the ideal location. You can take a ride in the banca boat or kayak to spot the fireflies in the trees, around you, and everywhere! 10. Have The Most Amazing Seafood And Beach Experience When in Siquijor, don’t miss: Grilled fish Shellfish Crabs Sinigang na baboy Kinilaw You must also try the local desserts and bring some fresh produce as cherished souvenirs.