Unique Things To Do In Richmond Indiana: Travel Like A Local | An Indiana Travel Guide

BY  Ankita Oct 13, 2023

Winter vacations come packed with numerous fun activities. If you like skiing, this is the best time for you. The season is cold, allowing you to wear the warm clothes you have stuck away for a long time. You get to enjoy the warm coffee and cozy evenings. You can also enjoy watching the starry sky at night as you keep warm around a fire. Those who love being outdoors during the winter have the opportunity to plan a fantastic winter vacation. A successful vacation begins with proper planning. So, develop a checklist and prioritize the important things. Part of planning is packing all the items you will need during your winter trip, and there are several things to remember.  Here Are Ten Important Things For Winter Vacation  This article will present ten must-have things for winter vacation. This checklist will allow you to plan your winter holiday and enjoy the experience. 1. Medicines Carrying your medicines is a vital thing when going on a winter vacation. It is cold, meaning you could get the flu. Carry an anti-fungal cream, a cold and cough syrup, a balm for the headache, and flu medicines. Because of the abrupt change in temperatures, you may experience various issues, hence the importance of being prepared for minor illnesses. It is also crucial to carry your menstrual pads and tablets. 2. Thermal Wears It is vital to carry high-quality thermal wear when going on a winter vacation. The thermals maintain the warmth in your body during severe temperature drops. They are must-haves when packing for winter travel. Remember, thermal wear protects the entire body. It is allowed if you feel you cannot wear more clothes over the thermals, and the thermal wear will keep you warm. 3. Winter Jacket Winter jackets are the most essential items for a winter holiday. The jacket forms an outer layer over your sweater or thermal wear, insulating you from the cold. A great winter jacket provides warmth throughout the trip. It is a vital addition to the packing checklist. So, choose down jackets or army-type jackets for more comfort. If you want a carry-on bag only, it will be wise to wear some bulkier items like the winter jacket. This will free up space for other things. Furthermore, if you wear bulky items like boots and coats, you can bring more layers in the bag to keep yourself warmer. 4. Shoes No matter the time of the year you are traveling, carrying several pairs of shoes can be challenging and takes up space in the bag. Especially when traveling in the winter, packing several boots will only take up most of the space in the bag. You are not going to spend the whole holiday indoors. That means you will need quality winter shoes for the vacation. Your holiday will involve walking around and traveling.  So, pack winter shoes with warm socks to keep your feet warm. Wear high winter boots for more protection if snow is in your destination. Select a boot that works when working on the snow and a clear road. If you must pack several shoes, stuff them with gloves, hats, socks, and scarves to utilize the space inside. 5. Gloves and Socks Ensure your hands are warm throughout by wearing gloves. It is easy to ignore feet and hands essentials when packing for a winter vacation. If you don’t pack gloves and socks, you leave your hands and feet vulnerable to colds and infections. If you are going away with kids, ensure you carry woolen mittens to keep their tiny arms warm. By packing several gloves, hats, and scarves, you will change your daily looks without needing too much space in the bag. 6. Backpack Choosing a quality backpack or suitcase to keep your items is also essential. It should be light and enough to accommodate all your belongings. Choose a travel bag with several pockets to keep your things organized and categorized. It is advisable to avoid carrying a heavy load because managing it is tough, and you may miss the chance to have fun. Sometimes, you must pack bulky and thick items when traveling in cold weather. Fortunately, you can utilize packing cubes and compression bags to reduce the space hoarders in the luggage. These items can help maintain small luggage and keep your carry-on organized. 7. Sweaters A winter vacation packing list is not complete without packing sweaters. They are crucial because they provide warmth by adding protective layers to your thermal wear and jacket. If possible, it is better to carry a thick sweater for more warmth. 8. Thermo Flask Or Water Bottle Another crucial item on your packing checklist is a thermo flask or a water bottle. You will need to carry water or something warm like coffee in case there are no coffee shops in the area. Taking warm coffee, tea, or water in the flask will give you the warmth you need to relieve the cold. 9. Sunglasses Sunglasses may be an unlikely option for winter vacation, but they are also essential for packing. The morning sun and snow cause a reflection that could damage your eyes. Furthermore, just because the sun is not hot does not mean it doesn’t have UV rays. Therefore, sunglasses are essential items on the travel checklist. 10. Scarves And Caps Make sure your head and neck are well-protected from the cold. So, you need to pack some caps and scarves for this. Carry monkey caps since they provide warmth for the head and neck. Even though they may seem unattractive, these caps are the best to protect the whole head region from the cold. Ensure you also pack woolen scarves for the same purpose. Related: Must Pack Business Travel Packing List Along With Tips Enjoy Your Winter Vacation Going on a beach vacation during summer may be the easiest to pack. You only pack light-weight clothes, a swimsuit, and flip-flops, and you are good to go. However, packing for a winter vacation comes with some challenges. For starters, you must carry everything you need to keep yourself warm. You may also have a space problem because most winter clothes are bulky, and you must squeeze them in the carry-on. However, having a checklist is helpful since it helps you pack enough items in the bag. Read Also: Must Pack Business Travel Packing List Along With Tips Why Travel Trailers Are The New Vacation Norm

BY  sagnika Aug 5, 2023

Is your heart craving some natural beauty that will help you relax? Why don't you visit Fiji, situated in the middle of nowhere, not exactly nowhere! You will forget all your worries with the endless South Pacific around you. Want to know what are the things to do in Fiji? A travel destination that is nothing short of heaven, Fiji is home to 333 tropical islands. It is in the middle of the South Pacific, with authentic flavors, enticing culture, and beautiful nature. Read the article to learn more about what to do when in Fiji! There are a variety of activities that travelers can experience with the abundant collection of flora and fauna. There is also the tribal culture for you to experience unique and thrilling events. You Won't Believe When I Say About The Best Things To Do In Fiji! Fiji is more than just a travel destination. Instead, you will experience an authentic culture when you visit Fiji. If you are traveling from the US, you do not need a visa; your stay can be as long as four months. You can book tickets on the 10 hours long direct flight from Los Angeles to Fiji. The destination in Fiji is Nadi International Airport; hence, if you live closer to Los Angeles, you are in luck. However, if you live elsewhere, you must travel to Los Angeles and then fly. Fiji Airways and Air New Zealand are two airlines that operate in Fiji, and they both offer regular flights daily if you travel from the USA, Europe, or the UK. You could visit Fiji between May and September to experience clear blue skies. You can go between October to April if you want to experience the rain. However, you do stand at the risk of experiencing a storm or cyclone. Some of the best resorts in Fiji are Sheraton Resort & Spa, situated on Tokoriki Island, InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay, and others. 1. Go For A Safari To The Sigatoka River! The Sigatoka River Safari is very entertaining. It takes you around the Sigatoka River Valley, where you can visit villages, eat Fijian delicacies, drink Kava or Yaqona, a sedative and narcotic Figian drink, and dance. The drink is made with the crushed root of Yaqona and further strained with water. The safari also includes coastal Inland Tours, including a river cruise, The Cannibals Cave Tour, or visiting a waterfall. The river safari lasts 4 hours, including the Kava ceremony in the local villages, where people drink from a big communal bowl. A busy market is situated at the banks of the Sigatoka River across 4 km inland! You can visit this hub which gives glimpses of urban life in the provinces of Fiji. The market has small-scale shops creating a strong and bustling network of sellers and curry restaurants. There is also the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park to visit if you want something exciting. The dunes are spread across 650 hectares while stretching across 3 km at the mouth of the river. You can have some fantastic views, especially when the dunes rise to 80m in some places. 2. Visit Kula Wild Adventure Park One of the largest collections of native wildlife is boasted by Kula Eco Park, situated in a temperate forest. Tourists can use boardwalks to walk around and explore the wilderness. The collection of water birds, doves, patrons, and reptiles is to look for! There are reptile enclosures, a reef fish aquarium, and aviary cages where the huge crested iguanas are the highlight considering they are only found in limited islands in Fiji such as Yasawa and Vanua Levu. Marine displays such as soft and hard corals, tropical fish, and ocean turtles exist. 3. Stroll Around The Garden Of The Sleeping Giant! The Garden of the Sleeping Giant is 35 acres of rainforest that acts as an adventure park. There are zip wires which are used by travelers, mostly adventure junkies, who can fly across the jungle through these at a speed of 60 km per hour. Also, there are ropes for swinging, pools for swimming, and you can also spot parrots. There are waterfalls to which you can walk around, or you can also get a 1 hour guided walk, a part of the package when you buy the entrance tickets. The adventure park was founded by the actor Raymond Burr, also known as Perry Mason! A collection of flowering plants, orchids, and trees spread across the gentle trails across the landscape. The park is situated just north of Nadi, so you can also take a guided tour to Nadi to experience the culture there. You can also take a dip in the thermal pools, which are pretty restorative! 4. Explore Nadi One of the most authentic places to visit in Fiji is Nadi, a multicultural town with the perfect feel of the vibrant culture. You can enjoy the place, explore the shops, relish some authentic and native drinks, and eat delicious cuisine. So to answer, things to do in Nadi Fiji, read along! A live tourism spot, Nadi creates opportunities for some of the most exciting things to do in Fiji. You can try the zip lining experience with Zip Fiji's newest ziplining expertise, which only lasts 35 minutes and creates a beautiful and exciting adventure. There are 5 km of zip lines across the canyons, mountain tops, and caves. If you like speed, you will love this experience as they create a jaw-dropping experience where you can take in the breathtaking ocean views and the limestone cave exploration. What can be more exciting than experiencing 3 diverse ecosystems? There is also the Tifajek Mud Pool & Hotspring and Sabeto Hot Spring Mud Pool and Tours for you to dip and relax! Further, you can explore the souvenir market, which is open-air, where you will find cannibal forks, hand-painted clothes, wooden kava bowls, and others. 5. Try Sea-Kayaking! Sea-Kayaking is one of the best things to do in Fiji! Sea-Kayaks are available in every resort for the guests to experience the beautiful sea and are usually addressed as a complimentary activity. It is important to inform someone of your attempting the activity and wear a life jacket because it is important that you are safe. A sudden squall storm or dangerous current might be a risk. Hence, informing your resort regarding your activities would be best. One of the best experiences you can get for Kayaking is visiting the Lavena Coastline, situated on Taveuni within the Bouma National Heritage Park. You will need to make a half-day trip to the coastline. You can also access packages inclusive of camping on the beaches, snorkeling at the lagoons, overnight visits at villages, and Kayaking offered by two companies Tamarillo Tropical Expeditions and South Sea Ventures. The packages will give you a wholesome experience, along with helping you save some money. 6. Enjoy A Stunning View After Hiking The Waya Island If you are in Fiji for stunning views of nature, worry not! We have got you covered. Waya Island is one of the most beautiful locales to offer spectacular views with its photogenic views and amazing hiking trails. Hiking is one of the things to do in Fiji island. You will find rock protrusions, fantastic collections of flora and fauna, and ridges with knife edges, creating a beautiful view of the island. These elements create a picture where it seems as if a giant is peering from the island, floating in the sea, and slanting back! There is the Octopus Resort situated on the northwest coast, where you can start your walking trails along the hills with or without a guide exploring the interiors of the island. There is also a beautiful, unguided coastal walk you can enjoy with your partner or family. It is completely safe and offers a wonderful experience. 7. Walk Through The Fijian Markets Wondering what to do in Fiji? If you are a people person, you must visit the Fijians Market as it is a mesmerizing place with exotic seafood, vegetables, and fruit collection. Due to heavy import duties, you might not find fashion and expensive lifestyle products. Isolation is another factor that might make you feel that there is a lack of fashion and design, yet you must visit the urban municipal markets. Filled up to the brim with local produce, designs, and native culture, you will experience a mix of character, authenticity, and exoticism. If you are one of those travelers who love connecting with the place when you visit, the handicrafts and local produce will steal your heart and money! (wink) 8. Live At Savusavu The significant tourist center in Vanua Levu, Suvasavu, is the place to be if you want to experience rolling hills, sunsets, and a chilling beer. There is a perfect place for scuba diving in the Namena Lagoon while Yachts anchor around Savusavu, creating the ideal locale for experiencing a social hub. Many bars and restaurants on the waterfront create a perfect place for a romantic dinner or family outing. so, it is one of the best places to visit in Fiji! You can also take a peaceful walk around the Savusavu hills. Good options for fishing in the bay can also be attempted. 9. Attempt Snorkeling! Have you ever tried snorkeling? It is one of the best experiences to have if you are an adventure lover. With vibrant coral reefs across most of Fiji islands, you should try snorkeling and scuba diving to explore diverse fish species. Diving is available the whole year. However, it is the best experience, especially during October and November. The corals across Fiji are world known, especially due to their nutrient-rich channels spread between the larger islands such as Beqa Lagoon, Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Taveuni, and the rainbow reef. 10. Turn Up At The Fijian Meke Dance Night! If you visit Fiji, you must attend the classic Figian night out, where the feast is complete with the underground oven-roasted pig. There is a song and traditional dance involved, which is called make. The tradition has been passed down through generations, thus, creating specific artistic expressions for Fijians. The music that people enjoy on the dance night includes rhythmic clapping and chanting and the addition of Lali drum hits and bamboo sticks. Lali is a hollowed wood that is used in creating the rhythm. Recently, ukulele and guitar have also been introduced at dance nights. Group dancing includes males or females; however, in recent times, the pakalolo dance has been introduced, where both males and females can dance together. 11. Take A Dive In Beqa Lagoon With The Sharks! Do you want to check out tiger and bull sharks? Visit Beqa Island, situated south of Pacific Harbour, some 12 km away, and experience the shark-feeding dive-off. You will see some mean-looking sharks, such as Silvertips, sickle-fin lemon sharks, bull sharks, reef sharks, and tawny nurse sharks. If you want one of the safest experiences, go with the Beqa Adventure Divers and Aqua Trek Beqa, as they claim the highest safety records. Apart from the sharks, you can also have a peaceful diving experience in the lagoons when Shark-feedoff is closed. 12. Try Skydiving! Want to experience an adrenaline rush? Go and try skydiving in Fiji! Jump off the planes to ride the waves of the clouds and experience the beautiful view of Fiji from up above! Free fall and experience Fiji's sandy beaches, coral reefs, and turquoise waters, creating a grandiose visual experience. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you must not miss at any cost. You will be charged somewhere around $300, which can go up to $650. The Skydive Fiji was established in 2004, and its safety record is among the highest. Have an exhilarating experience with supporting staff on the ground and in the air. There are licensed pilots and instructors who ensure that people have an understanding of a lifetime of collecting priceless memories. 13. Have A Go At Birdwatching! Carry your binoculars and travel feet! Fiji has a collection of exotic bird species, including the red-throated lorikeet and rare collared lory. Some endangered bird species can also be found; hence, lovers of aviaries or bird enthusiasts, plan that trip and explore the thick Kula WILD Adventure Park! Conclusion Fiji is never disappointing! Do you think you can be bored with such a variety of things to do in Fiji? It is a haven for travelers, especially the ones who are easily inspired by nature, attracted to the sea, and in love with mountains. I have often realized that places with diverse ecosystems are perfect for people who are wanderers by nature. Fiji embraces travelers with all its beauty and diverse culture, so do not miss out on it! Start planning and comment below to let us know about your choice of thing to do in Fiji! Read Also: Top 12 National Parks In Florida That You Must Visit Is Machu Picchu Closing In 2023? Know It All Here! Best 10 National Parks In New Mexico To Visit

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 30, 2023

Visiting Bangkok? Looking for things to do in Bangkok? Bangkok, one of the most visited cities in Southeast Asia, is a vibrant, dynamic metropolis. It offers much more than just mouthwatering street food (though there is plenty of it). Engulfed in a hazy mixture of motorbike exhaust, incense, and charcoal grills, this chaotic city is also home to luxury hotels. Michelin-starred restaurants, quaint cocktail bars, and an abundance of good times together creates magic. Of course we cannot forget to mention culture and history. Feeling overwhelmed? Its okay. Visit Chinatown for some of the best bars in the city and historic architecture after a day of touring temples. Alternatively, take a stroll through some of the city's most stylish parks. Plan this before dining on a multi-course meal inside a chophouse. It probably dates back a century or on an antique barge. This Bangkok mainstay doesn't have an incredibly convenient location, in contrast to many of its competitors. The picture-perfect sights require a boat transfer, and the majority of the best tables are more than a 30-minute taxi ride away. But that's the point for me and the hordes of other devoted admirers of this monochromatic masterwork by hotel guru Bill Bensley. Situated on a verdant riverbank property in the peaceful Dusit neighborhood, The Siam evokes memories of a bygone era in Bangkok. Though it opened ten years ago, it's easy to picture it as a luxurious playground for the city's former big guns, the mid-century movers and shakers whose heirlooms, which adorn the marble-floored hallways, include vintage Pan Am posters, tattered travel trunks, and chipped ceramics.  Things To Do In Bangkok  Bangkok is the dream destination for most people who want it all on a budget. If you want to know about the best things to do in Bangkok, take a peek. Here is a list of a few things you can look forward to when you are visiting.  Chatuchak  The official name, Chatuchak, is pronounced with a J sound. Locals refer to it as JJ Market. This market is the oldest of all markets. It's one of the biggest outdoor markets in the world, with 15,000 stalls. Everything is available for purchase, ranging from useful items like artwork, cooking supplies, apparel, accessories, and home décor. There are also trinkets and oddities like fake iPhone covers, Beats by Dre and Nike sneakers. The market is extremely well organized despite its enormous size, with items sorted by kind and a sizable map displayed close to the entrance.  Pak Khlong Talat  Pak Khlong Talat is the best place to witness Bangkok's vibrant nature—one of the world's most vivid cities. A dazzling kaleidoscope of colors and the sweet, all-encompassing scent of thousands upon thousands of fresh flowers can be found in this lively flower market. Look through booths brimming with roses, orchids, marigolds, and more. The flower market is open 24 hours a day, which is great if you are suffering from jet lag and need something to do late at night.  Le Normandie by Alain Roux  In addition to its thriving street food scene, Bangkok has about 30 restaurants with Michelin stars. Le Normandie by Alain Roux, a fine-dining establishment at the renowned Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, is one to be particularly aware of. This elegant dining room with its stunning view of the Chao Phraya River is the perfect setting for this white-glove experience. Make sure to reserve a window seat to enjoy the exquisite and creatively prepared French cuisine while taking in the sunset and the colorful boats on the river.  Thai Spa  It's no secret that Bangkok offers the best spa and wellness experiences – all you need to do is select your favorite atmosphere. Bangkok has a monopoly on the wellness market, whether it's a lavish spa palace or a simple shop tucked away down a tiny alley. Thai massages are different from other massage styles in that they don't use oils or aromatherapy. Instead, they concentrate on acupressure, passive stretching, and expanding your muscles' range of motion. Bangkok is a great place to try a Thai massage if you've never had one.  Wat Arun  Wat Arun is among the most well-known of the more than 37,000 temples, or wats, that can be found all over Thailand. The temple complex glows golden at night, and the 269-foot-tall prahng, a Khmer-style tower, protrudes from the banks of the Chao Phraya River. One of the rare temples in Thailand that you can climb, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding temple complex and river after making your way up the steep and narrow stairs.  Smiling Albino  You can be sure that the people behind Smiling Albino are knowledgeable because they have been in the business since 1999. They provide trips to neighboring villages, cultural excursions, and private experiences in Bangkok, all under the umbrella of custom luxury. They also plan week-long motorcycling tours in Vietnam, cycling tours in Nepal, and trekking excursions in northern Thailand. Every trip is tailored to your interests. There are no microphone-screamed explanations from coaches, just in-person drivers and guides.  Fine Dining  This six-course meal, which is served on a vintage wooden rice barge, serves as a great introduction to Thai cuisine and some of Bangkok's must-see riverside attractions. Make a reservation so you can decide what to see during the day while enjoying delicious dishes like a creamy coconut and turmeric soup with charcoal-cooked chicken. There is also a dry-ice performance on mango sticky rice, and a curry amuse bouche topped with gold leaves. The experience is ideal for a laid-back, romantic evening on the water, and the friendly service is on par with any fine-dining establishment on land.  Bangkok Art & Cultural Centre  Once you've visited the major tourist attractions, you might want to take a closer look at Bangkok by going somewhere a little less well-known. The Bangkok Art & Cultural Centre provides just that. This open area supports local and global exhibitions of art and culture. This is the best gallery in the city to check out if you're interested in seeing the work of young Thai artists. As an art fanatic this could easily be one of the coolest things to do in Bangkok.  Chao Phraya River  The Chao Phraya River is Bangkok's lifeblood, and the city's most prestigious luxury hotels, most historic neighborhoods, and most popular tourist destinations are located along its banks. The best way to introduce yourself to the famous Bangkok skyline and get a peek of everyday life in the area is to take a cruise down the Chao Phraya. There are numerous ways to access the river, ranging from daytime sightseeing trips to dinner cruises in the evening. Take the Chao Phraya Express Boat, though, if you truly want to travel like a local. The public water taxi goes all the way up to the nearby province of Nonthaburi, making stops at busy docks along the river.  Ayutthaya  Train travel to Ayutthaya from Bangkok takes about one hour, making it an ideal day trip destination. This is one of the best things to do in Bangkok. Ayutthaya offers visitors a window into Thailand's past as the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam. Gorgeous 14th-century palaces and temples can be found in the capital of the preserved kingdom. The temple ruins offer a unique glimpse into the past of this region of the world for those who choose to explore them.  Wrapping Up  There you have it, a summary of my experiences and the best things to do in Bangkok! Leave a comment below if you have any more advice or recommendations. You are in the best position to see everything else this amazing country has to offer from Bangkok. You could travel south to the notorious Thai islands, or you could head north to the more laid-back tourist destinations of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Pai. If you have thoughts to share or questions on things to do in Bangkok please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! 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