Things You Need to Know to Do the Mawryngkhang Trek!

BY  sagnika Sep 7, 2023

Summers are warm. However, Scorching heat in certain places has highlighted them as heat wave zones. With heat wave temperatures across many areas worldwide, we are reminded that climate change is a global phenomenon. A significant health risk, heat wave zones make it difficult for people to travel, stay, enjoy or perform professional liabilities. I will identify certain important factors that influence travel plans, health risks and ways in which you can be safe from heat waves. The conditions that are being observed across the world in some beautiful vacation-worthy locations are serious! They can impact your health and lifestyle, so read the article to learn about the dangerous conditions that will likely affect your travel plans. Things To Keep In Mind While Traveling To Heat Wave Zones! Across the world, many places are currently heating up! Several tourist destinations and other places in Asia, Europe and the United States have heat wave temperatures. Officials in countries like France and Italy in Europe have issued health warnings. I am not saying it is highly risky, but the probability of the situation becoming risky is high! If you are visiting one of the heat wave zones, you may not be able to stick to your original plan, be it for vacation or professional liabilities. Let's explore further the precautions you might take to be safe when you visit or have to visit a heat wave zone! What Are Heat Waves? The increasing global temperature worldwide has led to people experiencing some of the hottest days! According to the weather reports, the heat intensifying in several countries worldwide has led to people fainting, sunburns and health concerns such as sunstroke. It is identified as a heat wave, especially when the temperature from June 2023 has been recorded as the warmest in the global records. The increasing heat wave temperature has succinctly impacted water supplies, agriculture, ecosystems, energy, human health and economies. One of the major reasons for heat waves has been greenhouse gas emissions, which need to be cut off as soon as possible. Climate change is a serious threat; we must take it that way to survive and help our future generations. What Are The Regions With Heat Wave Zones? In Europe, the temperature in Rome reached 104°F in July, while in Sardinia, it was 112°F. In at least 23 cities in Italy, there have been red alerts for the weather as the heat wave is potentially becoming a threat in recent times. Tourists have been passing out, creating an awareness towards global climate change and crisis. Now, Death Valley in Nevada, running along a section of the border of Central California, is identified as the "hottest place on earth"! The National Weather Service reported that the temperature reached 128°F in July 2023, a clear cause for concern. People living in Los Angeles heat wave are having serious health issue concerns! According to the weather forecast, the capital of Arizona, Phoenix, has seen a rise in temperature to 114°F while Florida and Texas are equally heating up! La Palma, located in the Canary Islands, has been riddled with wildfires recently, leading to the evacuation of 4,000 people from their homes. The popular tourist destination, the Acropolis in Athens, was shut down at the beginning of July this year during midday! It is peak time for tourist visits, but because the authorities informed us the temperature could rise to 111.2°F within a week, it was closed! In China, the recorded temperature in northwestern Xinjiang province was 126°F. Places worldwide have been hampered by the heat wave temperatures, impacting people's lifestyles, tourism and the country's economy. Is It Safe To Travel To Heat Wave Zones? As travelers, you should check the upcoming weather and climate of the location that you are visiting! If you visit one of the places I have stated regarding increasing temperature, you must keep a tab on the everyday temperature. Your sightseeing might go differently than planned if a situation occurs when one of the monuments or places you will be visiting is shutdown due to increasing temperature. If you suffer from chronic health conditions, you should not go out, especially in the scorching heat! If you are visiting from professional liability, you must carry out certain steps to cope with the heat. Remember that the temperature starts building from 11 a.m.; hence, try to enter a building or where your work is within that time frame. Read along further to learn about your steps to stay safe! What Are The Things To Do If You Travel To Heat Wave Zones? In the evening, the temperature will come down. Hence, it would be best to keep yourself cool in the daytime. The first thing is to wash your face and arms, including your armpits and wrists, so your body temperature can feel a bit of semblance. You can repeat the action as much as possible the whole day! If you are visiting Europe, you've got it easy! There are fountains in Europe. Apart from that, you need to take cool showers and air-dry yourself! It will keep the temperature of your body down. In some countries, such as Italy, residents are asked to stay in an air-conditioned environment for at least 3 hours a day. Try to find a cool restaurant, gallery or museum if you are visiting one of these countries to stay in air conditioning for some time. Try to wear clothing that is made of cool fabric, such as cotton! It is even better if the material is light and loose from your clothing. Try to use sunscreen as much as possible. Recently, people have been using manual and electric handheld fans to keep the face and body cool as much as possible. Another important thing that you must do is use heat wave sunglasses when outside! Drink more beverages and filled food, such as fruits, salads, and veggies! Also, ensure that you must have insurance covering all your medical expenses before traveling. What Are The Health Risks? Heatwave zones have several health risks, such as heatstroke or sunstroke! In this condition, your body cannot maintain a safe temperature, especially when exposed to hot weather. The body temperature must not exceed 103 Fahrenheit, but in sunstroke, it does. There is also a chance of getting pale skin, muscle cramps, sweating, and exhaustion. Currently, the US heat wave is one of the serious concerns for business travelers! You might get red and blotchy skin if you stay in the sun for too long! You have to take fluid regularly. Chances of dizziness, headaches, and sweating when visiting heat wave zones are high! Finishing Up… Overall, climate change has led to health risks along with issues where people cannot avoid these situations. With increasing temperatures in certain places across the world, people, children, and senior citizens cannot cope with the increasing temperature. People with chronic health conditions such as allergies to skin, asthma, upset stomachs, and headaches are facing more issues, especially when traveling to heatwave zones. I suggest following the tips and consulting a doctor if the situation worsens. Let us know your thoughts about this situation and how to be safe in heat wave temperatures! Read Also: Spring Travel And Eye Health Tips Sizzling Summer Road Trip Destinations 7 Tips For Planning The Perfect Summer Camp For Kids

BY  Sibashree Jul 25, 2024

The wild heart of Katmai National Park harbors 14 active volcanoes. This national park of around 5 million acres surpasses the magnificence of the Grand Canyon National Park, and kayaking, canoeing, and hiking here are one-of-a-kind experiences.  One of the oldest national parks, Katmai National Park, was established in 1918. Novarupta Volcano eruption on 6th June 1912 was destructive, and preservation of the habitation around Mount Katmai was crucial.   The National Park Service website says,  “Lasting three days, the largest volcanic eruption of the twentieth century exploded June 6, 1912, from a new volcano, Novarupta. In the process, it created Katmai caldera and the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. Not only have the 1912 events remained scientifically important ever since, but also the 1912 deposits continue to provide insights about volcanic and magmatic processes that impact us and the land we live in.” (Source)  Today, this national park is a living account of human history, and it is the home for brown bears and salmons. It is also one of the most popular destinations for volcanologists because it’s still active. Further, it has a handsome number of visitors every year, and in 2023, the number of footfall was 33,763. (Source)  Do you also want to explore this magnificent volcanic landscape? Let me be your guide.  Why Are So Many Volcanoes In Katmai National Park?   With “50 discrete volcanic vents,” Katmai National Park is the center of attention of many. But why does it have so many volcanoes?  Volcanoes in the Aleutian volcanic arc and Katmai National Park are part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. “The Ring of Fire is home to 75% of the world's volcanoes and 90% of its earthquakes.” (Source)  Many call the Ring of Fire the Circum-Pacific Belt, and many tectonic plates meet here. Due to the constant movements of these plates (especially the subduction of the Oceanic Pacific Plate under the North American Plate every year), volcanic eruptions and earthquakes take place here.   Along with the eruption of  Novarupta-Katmai in 1912, there are also records of the eruption of Mount Trident from 1953 to 1974.   The latest volcanic eruption in Katmai happened with the venting of Fourpeaked Volcano in 2006. Here is an excerpt from a report published on the 2006 volcanic eruption of Fourpeaked Volcano.   “On September 17, 2006 Fourpeaked Mountain, a glacier-clad stratovolcano with no known Holocene activity, produced a plume of steam, ash, and SO2, which rose to 6000 m above sea level. The plume was observed by eye-witnesses, seen on weather radar, and also appeared in SO2-sensitive satellite imagery. Concurrent with the plume, regional seismic stations recorded a swarm of volcano-tectonic earthquakes while an atmospheric infrasound signal was recorded 800 km away. Air and ground reconnaissance revealed a linear series of vigorously steaming vents in the summit glacier, stretching about 1 km down the north flank of the volcano.”  So, are you ready to know about the active and rugged volcanoes in Katmai National Park. The next section gives you a detailed overview.   Know The Volcanoes In Katmai National Park  Volcanoes erupt for a short span if you study the entire timetable of a volcano. However, the eruption is only the outcome of activities that take place for years or even centuries. Similarly, the volcanoes in Katmai National Park have faced long intermittent periods between the occurrences of small and big eruptions.   Further, the volcanic activities and earthquakes taking place in Katmai due to tectonic movements have a major impact on human lives across generations.   Here, I present a brief overview of a few volcanoes out of the 14 in Katmai.  Mount Katmai  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UF79ozS_kFA&t=33s Mount Katmai has recorded the highest explosive incidents in the Katmai volcanic cluster. Active for over 70,000 years, the two cones of Mount Katmai were beheaded due to the caldera collapse in 1912.    The eruptive products of Mount Katmai are varied in their compositions, including basalt and rhyodacite.   Mount Griggs Mount Griggs, the tallest peak in the district, is 2,530 m tall. Despite having young lava flows, some of the deposits in Mount Griggs are 290,000 years old.   The volcano is still active and you will get to see the yellow sulfurous steam around its summit.   Trident Volcano https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rQVsdsWsIA Trident Volcano is one of the older volcanoes in Katmai. From 1953 to 1974, Trident Volcano had many eruptions. However, the highest and the central volcanic cone of Trident Volcano has been lying dormant for around 10000 years.   Mount Mageik  Mount Mageik has four discrete eruptive centers covered with snow. However, glaciers have caused severe decay in three of these lava centers. It is a younger volcano in Katmai, with its lava aged between 4,000 and 93,000.   The last eruption of Mount Mageik happened 2500 years ago. It caused a crater between two Mount Mageik summits. Today, the crater is filled with an acid lake, exuding steam curls.   Alagogshak Volcano  Alagogshak stands at the southwesternmost corner of the Katmai volcanic cluster. It is also the oldest in the Katmai family of volcanoes. The lavas in this volcano are 40,000-680,000 years old.   Peak 6875, Snowy Mountain   Peak 6875 is a young dome made of dacite lava. The scoop-shaped peak looks like a natural amphitheater.    Spectacular Landscapes Created By Volcanic Activities In Katmai National Park   The volcanoes in Katmai have created some interesting landscapes, and their activities have encouraged geologists to explore the possibilities. Nonetheless, the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes is the most prominent volcanic landscape in Katmai.   It is the work of the largest volcanic eruption in the 20th century. The Novarupta Volcano eruption on 6th June 1912 created this valley.   There are various exciting destinations in the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. For the geologists and people studying volcanoes, Novarupta is the ultimate destination. The dome causing the massive eruption in 1912 still carries warm steam.   It is also the most colorful place in the valley, thanks to its kaleidoscopic views caused by the deposition of ash, pumice, and other minerals.   Another popular destination in the valley is the Buttress Range Ridge. Here, you will catch a glimpse of the extensive wildlife in Katmai. Along with the bears, you will also find ptarmigan, ground squirrels, and caribou.   Other fascinating spots to explore in this valley are Katmai Pass, Southwest Trident Lava Flows, Knife Creek Glaciers, Mount Katmai Caldera, Mageik Lakes, etc.   Did You Know?  Katmai has the largest population of protected brown bears in North America.  It is home to around 2000 creatures.  Robert F. Griggs, a botanist who named Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, played an active role in designating Katmai as a national park.  Dumpling Mountain offers the best view of Katmai National Park.  The annual Fat Bear Week in Katmai is a tournament-style competition, and online visitors can choose the winner of the tournament through voting.  Katmai National Monument was established in 1918. The redesignation of the protected and expanded area as a National Park happened in 1980.   Final Words   Active volcanoes add to the spectacle of Katmai National Park, and they attract the most adventurous souls across the globe.   The volcanoes are part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, and they have an eruptive history, with the last incident occurring in 2006.   AOV, or the Alaska Volcano Observatory, is in charge of monitoring the activities of these volcanoes. It also records the incidents of eruptions from dedicated monitoring stations. Two webcams are also installed at Fourpeaked and Katmai for continuous vigilance of the volcanic landscape.   So, are you ready to visit Mount Griggs, Mount Katmai, and other volcanoes in Katmai National Park? Do you want to have an exciting encounter with wildlife? Don’t forget to share your experience with us!   Katmai National Park FAQs   How To Explore Katmai National Park?  You cannot reach Katmai National Park by road. You can take a floatplane from Kodiak, Anchorage, or Homer. Further, you can take a boat or floatplane from King Salmon.  Both routes lead to the Brooks Camp shore.   What Is Special About Katmai National Park?  Katmai National Park is known for its active and extensive volcanic landscape. It has 14 volcanoes. Further, it is the home to around 2000 species, including brown bears.   You can enjoy your time here by hiking through the trails or boating or canoeing.   What Type Of Volcano Is Katmai Mountain?  Katmai Mountain is a stratovolcano and it had two big cone-shaped volcanoes. The caldera collapse in 1912 beheaded the two cones.   What Wildlife Is In Katmai National Park?  Brown bears are the most popular animals in Katmai National Park. In fact, the national park has the largest population of protected brown bears in North America.   Moose, gray wolves, sea otters, and humpback whales are fascinating animals here. Overall, it is home to around 2000 species of creatures.   What Type Of Trees Are In Katmai National Park?  Sitka spruce, alder thickets, and willow are popular trees in Katmai. You will also find plants like lowbush cranberry, cow parsnip, labrador tea, and watermelon berries here.   Reference:  National Park Service: “Since 1916, the National Park Service has been entrusted with the care of our national parks. With the help of volunteers and partners, we safeguard these special places and share their stories with more than 318 million visitors every year. But our work doesn't stop there.”  Harvard University: “Harvard experts, researchers, and leaders all around the globe make contributions—from public health to conflict resolution—that transcend borders, forge connections, and strengthen communities.”  National Geographic: National Geographic is a “world leader in geography, cartography and exploration.”  Also read Plan A Day Trip to Dry Tortugas National Park: This Is How You Will Do It. Everglades National Park: The UNESCO Heritage Site With Its Quiet Beauty. Welcome To Biscayne National Park: Enjoy Kayaking and Canoeing At This Watery Wonder.

BY  Sibashree Nov 11, 2024

The USA has much to offer with its natural abundance, wildlife, and historic and archaeological sites. National parks are the cheapest places now in USA. However, the USA also has beaches and small towns, allowing you to enjoy many marine activities and a quiet holiday. Further, the most affordable travel destinations in the USA are perfect for all types of tourists. You can be a solo traveler eager to soak in the unmissable energy of the country, or you can even be on a much-awaited family vacation.  So, let’s explore the options and hit the locations you will love! Cheapest Places To Travel Now In USA: Know The Budget-Friendly Destinations The tourism market in the USA is growing. By 2029, the tourism market in the USA is expected to reach a whopping revenue of US$214.40.  After COVID-19 impacted the tourism scenario of the USA and all other countries, these new figures are more than promising. Further, the USA has generated its tourism revenues through online sales, and it is likely to leave all other countries behind in the sales figures.  It’s time for you to experience the best tourism experiences the USA offers. Further, the cheapest places to travel now in USA are available for everyone, eliminating the budget hiccups.  1. Grand Teton National Park Location: Wyoming Nearest Airport: Jackson Hole Airport The U.S. News list for the cheapest places to travel now in the USA has Grand Teton National Park at the top. You can travel to this park from various parts of the USA by car.  You can fly to the Jackson Hole Airport and take a car ride from there. At this national park, the pocket pinch per person is just $35 in the form of entry fees.  The Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center tells you about the unique history and geology of the park while you can indulge in the wonderful view of the Teton Range. At Grand Teton National Park, you can also participate in outdoor pursuits like hiking, mountain climbing, and kayaking.  2. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Nearest Airport: Philadelphia (PHL) Airport Best Place to Stay in Philadelphia: The Logan Philadelphia, Curio Philadelphia, one of the cheapest places to travel now in USA, will introduce you to the history of the country. Taking a walk down Philadelphia’s Old Town is an experience that triggers goosebumps.  Further, Old Town is the first Heritage City in the USA, and it is the “birthplace of the nation.” Your budget here is not a constraint at all. You must explore the following activities to learn much with spending less than one can expect. The Liberty Bell The President's House (It was the original White House before the one now in Washington, DC.) Elfreth's Alley Further, Philadelphia is famous for its beer. You can tour the local breweries and beer gardens to cherish the best beverage.  3. Yosemite National Park Location: California Nearest Airport: Yosemite International Airport (FAT) Yosemite National Park stands out due to its rich geological features. You will find amazing glacier features complemented by large granite domes here.  May to September is the best time to visit Yosemite National Park. Further, hiking is the most popular outdoor activity in Yosemite National Park.  The hiking trails will take you to beautiful waterfalls, lakes, and mountain summits. As you take a walk through these trails, you will also encounter the wonderful wildlife in the park. While in Yosemite National Park, you can explore the following hiking trails. Upper Yosemite Falls Trail Nevada Fall via the Mist Trail Lower Yosemite Falls Trail  Mirror Lake Loop Moreover, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this national park is famous for rock climbing and stargazing.  4. Arches National Park Location: Utah Nearest Airport: Moab (CNY) Airport and Grand Junction Airport  As the name suggests, Arches National Park has some of the most amazing natural geological formations in the world. Further, the formation of these stone formations has a history of 65 million years.  Once you enter the national park, you will find more than 2000 stone formations. Further, these arches look surreal, bathed in sunrise and sunset lights.  You will love the following arches in the park. Delicate Arch North And South Windows Landscape Arch Navajo Arch Turret Arch However, Double Arch, the tallest natural rock formation in the park, collapsed in August 2024. It was one of the important geological landmarks in Utah and the USA.  5. Yellowstone National Park Location: Wyoming  Nearest Airport: Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport Yellowstone National Park, one of the cheapest places to travel now in USA, offers you the best wildlife experience. It is also a place to learn about human history as it tells the tales of Native Americans who lived here around 11000 years ago.  Moreover, Yellowstone National Park has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its unique geothermal properties. You can visit the following spots and get drenched in geothermal water with healing properties. Old Faithful Castle Geyser Riverside Geyser Steamboat Geyser Furthermore, the most prominent wild animals you will meet here are elks, black and grizzly bears, American bison, bighorn sheep, etc.  6. Joshua Tree National Park Location: California Nearest Airport: Palm Springs International Airport Joshua Tree National Park is a great place to travel in the USA on a budget because 85% of this national park is still pristine wilderness. Further, with a history of human lives of 15000 years, Joshua Tree National Park has spiritual significance.  The Joshua trees, with their raised branches, reminded the Mormon pioneers about Joshua. Joshua stretched his arms to the sky and prayed for the Israelites. He also led Israelites to the promised land.  Moreover, being a pristine landscape, Joshua Tree National Park is great for stargazing. Pinto Basin, Hidden Valley, and Quail Springs are the best spots in the park for gazing at the night sky.  7. Glacier National Park Location: Montana Nearest Aiport: Glacier Park International Airport Sharing its border with Canada, this national park in the USA is a priceless mine of wildlife, fossils, and geological wonders. There is a reason why Glacier National Park is called the “Crown of the Continent.”   With 1,583 square miles of wilderness and 700 lakes, this park also boasts many hiking trails. To explore the best of the park, you must hit trails like the Avalanche Lake Trail, Highline Trail, Siyeh Pass, and Hidden Meadow.  8. Sequoia National Park Location: California Nearest Airport: Fresno Yosemite International Airport As you can know from the name, the giant sequoia groves are the main attractions of Sequoia National Park. Further, the landscape of Sequoia National Park is varied, and you can encounter a variety of wildlife creatures like mountain lions, bears, bobcats, and gray foxes.  You must pay $35 to enter the national park with a vehicle. Further, hiking through the trails and participating in the ranger-led programs will more than makeup for the fees.  9. Olympic National Park Location: Washington Nearest Airport: Seattle-Tacoma International With an area of 1 million acres, Olympic National Park has the best vistas of “glacier-capped mountains.” Further, it is the hub of outdoor activities like fishing, stargazing, and hiking.  However, the biggest attraction of the Olympic National Park is the different species of whales you get to see. The best months for watching whales in Olympic National Park are April and May and October and November.  10. Bar Harbor Location: Maine Nearest Airport: Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport Bar Harbor, one of the cheapest places to travel now in USA, is a quiet seaside destination for anyone looking for a relaxing holiday on a budget. It is also the gateway to the Acadia National Park.  You will love the scenic views here while taking a stroll along the Shore Path. In addition, you can enjoy a family picnic at waterfront Agamont Park.  Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.