The Ultimate Guide To Things To Do In Salt Lake City!

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 22, 2023

When you think of romance, a few classic images might come to mind: candlelit dinners, walks under the stars, and, of course, the enchanting allure of the Roman opera. Rome, with its rich history and cultural heritage, provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening. To make your trip to the Roman Opera truly memorable, it’s essential to immerse yourself in the experience, allowing the blend of music, history, and ambiance to transport you and your loved one to a world of romantic elegance. Embracing the Magic of a Roman Opera Concert A Roman opera concert is not just a musical event; it's a gateway to a bygone era. To enhance your experience, consider dressing for the occasion. Traditional evening attire adds an element of sophistication and helps set the mood before a Roman opera concert. Why not indulge in a sumptuous Italian dinner at one of Rome’s finest restaurants? Preferably one with a view of an iconic landmark like the Colosseum or the Trevi Fountain? This dinner will serve as the perfect prelude to the night’s main event. Let’s delve deeper into some amazing performances along with their budget so that you don’t waste any moment. Opera da Camera di Roma:  Starting at an unbelievable price of $35.59, this opera has always remained the center of attraction. Tourists cannot not visit it if they are in and around Rome. What’s even better is their free cancellation policy if done 24 hours before the opera.  Palazzo Santa Chiara Opera:  Getting a concert ticket at Palazzo Santa is a dream come true for many. The tickets start at a whopping price of $39.93 and also let you cancel without charging anything extra. It has a rating of 5 on most social sites.  Selecting the Perfect Performance The choice of the opera can significantly impact your experience. Classics like Puccini's "Tosca," which is set in Rome itself, or Verdi's "La Traviata," can be particularly enchanting. Researching the storyline beforehand will enhance your appreciation of the performance. Additionally, booking seats with a good view not only ensures a better appreciation of the spectacle but also fosters a more intimate experience. Check out some top-notch performances taking place in Rome’s famous opera houses:  Teatro Dell’ Opera di Roma, which is located very close to Piazza Beniamino Gigli, Italy.  Teatro di Marcello is your ultimate destination if you are looking forward to a historical and more intimate backdrop.  Parco della Musica when all you want is a versatile venue. It is located at Via Pietro de Coubertin, Roma RM, Italy.  Villa Medici, which has close proximities to Viale della Trinita dei Monti puts forward performances belonging to the Renaissance era. Baths Of Caracalla presents some jaw-dropping opera performances which was constructed back in the 3rd century AD. Exploring the Venue’s Historical Significance Many opera houses in Rome are steeped in history, such as the Teatro dell'Opera di Roma. Taking a moment to appreciate the architecture and history of the venue adds depth to your experience. A quick tour or reading about the venue's history can be both enlightening and romantic. Not only it connect you to the centuries of art and culture, but it also has unfolded secrets in these spaces. It was October 1600 when the first opera survived in Italy, and it is still going strong. Thus, Peri’s Euridice has no less fan following to this date. One thing that we can understand is that every opera house has a bit of historical touch to it.  Savoring the Moment with Post-Opera Activities After the opera, take a leisurely stroll through Rome's cobblestone streets. The city at night, especially after an opera, has a magical ambiance. Find a quiet café for a late-night espresso or gelato. This time allows you and your partner to discuss the performance and soak in the romantic atmosphere of Rome at night. Experience the grandeur of the Flavian Amphitheater. In the city of art, the Colosseum stands erect with much pride to show off. After a nice opera show, do visit it and discover the beauty of its interior walls and historical designs.  If you want to discover Rome’s central square, visit the great Piazza Navona. It is constructed for public gatherings and people can have a great time here.  For religious tribes, nothing is as great as offering prayers at St. Peter’s Basilica. It is one of the most significant churches for Romans.  Creating Lasting Memories To immortalize your romantic opera experience, consider purchasing a souvenir from the opera house, like a program or a small piece of merchandise. These items will serve as tangible memories of your special night. Additionally, capturing a few photographs in your elegant attire against the backdrop of the historic opera house can be a beautiful way to remember the evening. If you are a travel enthusiast, a vist to Rome should be definitely on your bucket list. From mesmerizing fountains to tons of beautiful streets, there’s nothing less wondrous about this culturally rich destination. Do not forget to create a budget and head over to this drool-worthy location the next time.  Concluding Thoughts: Explore Rome In A Way That’s Uniquely Yours! Finally, personalize the experience. Whether it's a surprise bouquet of flowers, a handwritten note expressing your feelings, or planning a specific piece to be played that holds special meaning for you both, these personal touches can transform a beautiful evening into an unforgettable romantic experience. In conclusion, a trip to the Roman opera is not just about witnessing a musical performance; it's an opportunity to step into a world of timeless romance and elegance. So, save this itinerary and ensure you have leisure time in Rome. By carefully planning your evening, dressing for the occasion, and engaging with the rich cultural and historical context of the opera, you can create a deeply romantic and unforgettable experience. Remember, it’s the attention to detail and personal touches that will make your evening truly special. Read Also: Romantic Weekend Breaks Scotland 5 Backpacking Tips For An Unforgettable Euro-Trip Romantic Getaway Tips: 9 Romantic Tips To Celebrate Couples Vacation

BY  Sibashree May 12, 2023

It's almost that time again! Coachella is just around the corner. Get ready for a vibrant 3-day music and arts festival in Indio, CA that takes over two weekends every spring. It's famed for its trendy outfits, celebrity guests, and incredible line-up of artists. While the festival exudes that glamorous "LA" vibe, I remember attending for the first time two years ago and being genuinely taken aback by how down-to-earth the atmosphere was. Everyone was simply there to enjoy themselves!  Sure, the pool parties and stunning photos of models in their festival gear can make it feel larger than life, but when you get there, you see the reality.  Around 100,000 people from all walks of life, each sporting their unique looks and vibing to different music sets. It's much more accessible than it might seem!  Since I wouldn't have known any of this without my own experience, I want to share what I learned from my last trip and how I'm preparing for this year's festival. My goal is to make everything logistically smooth so I can focus all my energy on having a blast! What Are The Different Fun Things To Do In Coachella? Coachella is an experience rather than merely a music event, to sum it up. Everyone can find something to enjoy at Coachella thanks to the incredible art displays, mouthwatering food selections, and unforgettable after-parties. Examine the art installations: Coachella is about more than simply music. Your imagination will be blown by a number of the festival’s huge art exhibits. There is something for everyone, from immersive installations to interactive sculptures. Sample the cuisine: Coachella is renowned for its incredible dining options. With more than 100 food vendors, you can find anything from veggie tacos to gourmet burgers. Be sure to sample some of the regional specialties, including the Coachella dog and spicy pie. After-Parties: The good times don’t finish when the music does. Numerous after-parties are held at various venues throughout the festival grounds at Coachella. These events are a terrific way to keep the party going all night long and include some of the top DJs and musicians in the world. What Not To Do: Thousands of people travel from all over the world to attend the thrilling gatherings known as music festivals. But in order to guarantee a risk-free and enjoyable experience, it is critical to exercise caution and be aware of potential threats. Don’t Get Dehydrated: First and foremost, it is critical to drink plenty of water and use sunscreen. Dehydration and heat exhaustion are frequent during music events, particularly in the summer. I will advise bringing a reusable water bottle and putting on sunscreen to avoid being burned. Don’t Lose Things: Second, it is critical to be conscious of one’s environment and possessions. There may be more potential for theft and pickpocketing in large groups. I will advise you to protect your belongings and observe personal space. Don’t Get Into A Fight: If you get into a fight or make a scene, you are likely to be thrown out of the festival. Imagine wasting all those days preparing to see your favorite celebrities, only to be thrown out for a stupid fight. You don’t want to waste your time and money. One Of The Best Things To Do In Coachella: Get A Musical High!  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Coachella (@coachella) Marijuana has become a common sight at music festivals, often associated with the vibrant atmosphere and carefree spirit of these events.  While it's still illegal in many places, you'll find that many attendees believe that smoking weed enhances their festival experience, making the music feel richer and creating a more relaxed vibe. For those who struggle with anxiety in large crowds, weed can offer some much-needed relief, allowing them to feel more at ease. Plus, there's something special about sharing a joint with fellow festival goers. It can spark conversations and foster a sense of community, bringing people together through their shared love for music and the joy of the moment. Where Can You Stay In Coachella?  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marco Zamora (@want.zamora) Deciding whether to camp at Coachella is a big choice for festival-goers. I have never camped there myself, but friends who have say it gets cold at night. If you plan to camp, check out Coachella's camping guide for details. Be ready for chilly nights and keep your belongings safe!  For those who won’t camp, there are many lodging options if you plan ahead. Everything sells out quickly, so gather your friends and start looking for places as soon as you know you’re going. We booked an Airbnb in September to secure a nice place for our group.  Indio has hotels and timeshares, which are the closest to the festival grounds. Two years ago, we stayed in Indio and enjoyed relaxing by the pool rather than spending time on the road.  Palm Springs is about a 30-minute drive from the festival. It’s a charming town with plenty of day parties. You can find various options in Palm Springs, from entire homes to cozy hotels like The Saguaro, as well as higher-end options if your budget allows. I’ll be staying there this year and I’m really looking forward to it!  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  1. Is Coachella 18+?  No. However, children under five can attend for free in General Admission areas, and you must be at least 18 to camp.  2. What Is Coachella Famous For? Coachella is known for its varied music lineups, featuring top artists from around the world. It showcases large art installations and has become a cultural event that attracts many celebrities. Coachella is also recognized for its unique and influential fashion scene.  3. Where Is Coachella 2026 Going To Be?  Coachella 2026 will take place at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, on the weekends of April 10-12 and April 17-19, 2026. 4. How Much Does Coachella Cost?  General admission starts at $599 for weekend one and $549 for weekend two. Shuttle combo tickets cost $729 for the first weekend and $679 for the second.  Read Also: Unique Things To Do In Montreal: Things You Must Not Miss In Canada’s Cultural Capital What Are The Unique Things To Do In Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic? Discovering London’s Hidden Gems: Best Places To Visit In London

BY  Sibashree Sep 30, 2024

India is leading the dark tourism scenario With an expected CAGR of 5.1% (2024-2034),. Dark tourism in India thrives as it is the land of history and heritage. Also, travel a few miles, and you will get to know folklore or common myths related to paranormal activities.  So, dark tourism in India takes you to places associated with human tragedy or something that raises our curiosity. Endless warfare and the rule of various dynasties have drenched its soil in blood from time immemorial. Further, superstitions and oppressive customs in various parts of the country have caused human casualties that can give you a chill down your spine.  However, dark tourism in India or any part of the world is not just about people’s fascination with the macabre or its inclination to encounter the grey zone. Many dark tourism sites like the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands or Jallianwala Bagh tell the tales of a collective past.  So, these are often popular destinations for educational tourism or excursions. With endless stories and mysteries spread in every corner, India will spoil you with the choices of dark tourism spots. Here is a list of places you just can’t miss! Dark Tourism In India: These Are The Places You Need To Visit  For me, dark tourism in India is like communicating with the past. These places and the remnants there convey a message that can trigger our moral emotions such as empathy, gratitude, disgust, or sadness. Further, these moral emotions can change our perspective about ourselves, various communities, and society.  Moreover, curiosity is present in people’s love for the occult. Some categories of dark tourism, such as ghost tourism, thana tourism, and disaster tourism, especially urge many to get into the shadows. We absolutely agree with Karan Anand, the Head of Relationships at Cox & Kings. So, which places does dark tourism in India take us to? Here is a curated list! 1. Port Blair Cellular Jail | Kala Pani | The Prison Of Death Location: Andaman and Nicobar Islands  One of the most prominent witnesses of British atrocities in the country, the Port Blair Cellular Jail tops almost all the lists of dark tourism in India.  The British government made a hell of concrete in 1906 in the form of a prison, and it was almost impossible to escape or come out of it.  Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, a freedom fighter in India, was the only person who had escaped the Port Blair Cellular Jail.  The British Raj sent convicts with the highest punishment to this jail. Once, this jail housed as many as 80000 prisoners, and among them, at least a few hundred were the freedom fighters. The freedom fighters received the “Kalapani ki Saza” to lead a life of isolation.  Constructed in the shape of a starfish, the Port Blair Cellular Jail is witness to inhuman tortures and genocides. Along with the atrocities of the British Raj, it has also seen the genocides operated by the Japanese.  When at the Cellular Jail, don’t forget to attend the “Light & Sound” show in the evening. It is like time travel, giving you goosebumps.  2. Jallianwala Bagh Location: Amritsar City, Punjab The 13th of April 1919 saw one of the worst examples of British acts of barbarity in India. Innocent people had gathered at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar City to peacefully protest against British rule. Jalianwala Bagh was blocked from all sides, and Brigadier-General Dyer ordered his men to open fire at these innocent and unarmed people. The 1650 rounds of firing continued for 10-15 minutes, taking the lives of more than 500 people.  Today, when you visit Jallianwala Bagh, you can see many bullet holes struck in the structures there. In 1951, a memorial was built here to pay respect to the Indian revolutionaries. Further, in 2019, the inauguration of the Yaad-e-Jallian Museum took place. The museum depicts the most authentic account of the massacre.  A century later, in 2019, an official acknowledgment of “regret” came from British Prime Minister Theresa May on the Jalianwala Bagh massacre. This substantiates how grave and gruesome the act of mass killing was.  3. Roopkund Lake  Location: Uttarakhand Located at a 5000-meter altitude, Roopkund Lake is one of the most popular trekking destinations in Uttarakhand, India.  However, you can see hundreds of human skeletons near the lake, named  the “Lake of Skull.”  Researchers have found that around 200 pilgrims died of heavy snowfall in the place in the 9th century. So, there are so many skeletons around the lake. Roopkund Lake is also known as the “Mystery Lake,” and there are stories about the pilgrims getting turned into stones or the Goddess getting angry.  However, Veena Mushrif-Tripathy, a member of the 2004 investigation and a professor of archaeology at Deccan College in Pune, mentioned that the theory of the pilgrims was reasonable as there were no traces of weapons.  4. Shaniwar Wada Location: Pune, Maharashtra Shaniwar Wada, built in 1732 by Bajirao I, is a historically significant fort and stands out for its architectural excellence. This fort was once the seat of the Maratha Peshwas. This fort became a tourist attraction after the 2015 magnum opus of Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Bajirao Mastani. However, Shaniwar Wada is a favorite dark tourism in India destination because of a popular ghost story or folklore associated with it. Narayanrao, the son of Bajirao I, was killed by his uncle Raghunathrao in 1773 in this fort. Since then, people have experienced paranormal activities in the fort. Many have claimed to have encountered the dead prince.  5. Kuldhara  Location: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan How about visiting a village abandoned by its people around 200 years ago? Kuldhara, the cursed village of Jaisalmer, was the residence of the Paliwal Brahmins. They left the village because of water scarcity and the high taxes imposed by Diwan. Another story is about Salim Singh, the local prime minister, who wanted to marry the daughter of the village head. The villagers did not agree to his demands and vacated the place overnight. They also cursed the place, saying that no one could settle there.  Further, some even associate the overnight evacuation with paranormal activities. Whatever the reason, many people have tried but failed to spend a night in this village. Today, abandoned houses, temples, and other architecture speak of excellence, craftsmanship, and intrigue. It is also a favorite destination for movie-makers and photographers today. Films like “Agent Vinod” are shot here. Moreover, the village is now a “Protected Monument of the State Archaelogy Department.”  6. Dumas Beach Location: Surat, Gujarat Dumas Beach is one of the most haunted places in Gujarat. With its black sand and paranormal activities, this beach transforms into a hellish spot as the Moon shows up.  The beach was earlier a cremation ground. The black color of the sand comes from the ashes of those corpses. While we could not see the moving orbs or any prominent paranormal activity, I felt eerie at the beach. Also, I can’t explain, but there is something very depressing about this beach. It feels like you can hear the whispers of the lost here, and someone will suddenly appear in the shadows.  There have been reports of many tourists going missing from Dumas Beach. Also, one day, local people discovered the corpse of a man at the beach. His tongue was popping out. To date, no explanation has been found behind these tragic incidents.  7. Bhangarh Fort In the Aravallis, the Bhangarh fort has the remains of a deserted marketplace, Havelis, and temples. The architectural excellence of the fort is beyond question, and it speaks of a prosperous past.  However, Bhangarh Fort is the most haunted place in India. It has stories and myths enough to scare you to bits.  Bhangarh Fort Story: 1 The Archaeological Survey of India has banned entering or staying in the Bhangarh Fort after the Sunset. According to the local people, no one entering the fort at night has been able to come out alive. The fort becomes a site of paranormal activities in the darkness.  Bhangarh Fort Story: 2 Guru Balu Nath used to meditate at this place. When Raja Madho Singh visited him with a request to build a fort here, he agreed on one condition. He asked the king to promise that the shadow of the fort would not touch him. Despite the king’s promise, it did not happen. Furious, the hermit cursed the castle and the village.  Bhangarh Fort Story: 3 No house in the area has a roof. People believe that the roofs of those houses were destroyed due to the curse of the hermit. All attempts to rebuild the roofs went in vain. Many of those roofs also collapsed, causing human casualties.  Bhangarh Fort Story: 4 (Accidents And Deaths) Three people once decided to stay in Bhangarh Fort at night. They had a powerful torch, but one group member fell into a well. The two others rescued him and took him to the nearby hospital. However, they met with a fatal accident on the way to the hospital and lost their lives.  Do you want to explore more sites that are suitable for dark tourism in India? Visit the Taj Palace Hotel in Mumbai, Union Carbide Factory, Bhopal, Sites Of Indus Valley Civilization, Savoy Hotel, Mussoorie, and Gandhi Smriti, Delhi.  Listen to hushed murmurs and the stories these places have to share to make a journey to the past!  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! [Updated 2024]