BY SumonaJan 6, 2022

Today, organizing dog-friendly vacations is easier than ever. There’s no denying how important dogs are to their owners. With that in mind, more places all over the world are becoming open to accommodate dogs. Some places are taking it a notch further and offering activities exclusively for dogs. All you need to do is to pack a bag - ensure you have some of your dog's favorite food with you too (check out these Badlands Ranch Superfood Complete reviews), pick your ideal location, and you are good to go! Vacations with dogs are meant to be super fun. So say goodbye to tiresome and frustrating holidays with a look at some amazing travel destinations. 1. Bar Harbor, Maine If you love hiking, this 5,500-person town on Mount Desert Island is one of the best places to travel with dogs. Together, you can conquer the Acadia National Park and enjoy being close to nature. The island offers you a scenic view, replete with sandy beaches within the park and mountains all around. You are sure to enjoy the trails of this small town with your dog. If you're heading back to town, Bar Harbor has pet-friendly patios so your dog can enjoy meals with you. The locals love pampering their four-legged visitors. ALSO READ: A Complete Guide To Maine National Parks 2. San Diego, California Thanks to its many open spots, sunny San Diego is one pet-friendly vacation getaway destination you can consider. There are plenty of beaches and off-leash doggie parks around SoCal city that you and your dog can explore. Plan a visit to Morley Field Dog Park in Balboa Park or the Fiesta Island in Mission Bay. But if both of you enjoy the beach more, head to San Diego’s coastal places and spend the day on a rented boat (or yacht). Both of you will love feeling the wind in your hair. If you and your pet still have some energy left, go to Petco Park and watch a Padres baseball game. Chill during the rest of the day at “The Backyard,” the park's special viewing for pets and their humans. 3. Bend, Oregon You won’t find another town that loves dogs more than Bend. Dogs are almost permitted anywhere in this 100,000-people town. You and your canine bud can discover plenty of dog-friendly hiking trails at Cascade Mountain Range. Within the city, outdoor food carts, breweries, and food trucks are your best options when your dog is in tow. Don't worry. Your dog will be warmly welcomed in these outdoor dining areas and is sure to get spoiled with pets and treats from the locals. 4. Plant City, Florida Don’t miss visiting Dinosaur World in Plant City, one of the dog-friendly vacations Florida offers. This is an appealing and popular choice for families with kids and dogs. And the theme park has no dog weight restrictions, and all dogs are welcome as long as they are on a leash. Dinosaur World is full of prehistoric dinosaurs and also where you can meet some of the friendliest dog breeds. You will be occupied and amazed by the display of animatronic dinosaurs like the Brontosaurus, Stegosaurus, and T-Rex. While in Plant City, schedule a day trip to Alderman’s Ford Preserve. If your dog is a high-energy retriever, flusher, or setter, it will surely enjoy the challenging inclines among the marshes and trees of this 1,000 acres of natural space. 5. Grand Haven, Michigan A picturesque travel destination, Grand Haven offers many beaches and green spaces, making it one of the best dog-friendly vacations. During the summers, you and your dog can spend the day at Haven City Beach. Or you can opt to let your dog free at Kirk Park's off-leash dog beach and enjoy an afternoon hiking on the area's on-leash hiking trails. If the weather gets too much, treat your dog to this vacation town’s Must Love Dogs Boutique and Spa. This is a famous shopping center where Fido can come with you to sniff and shop. 6. Charleston, South Carolina Charleston should be part of your dog-friendly vacations list. Pegged as one of the most dog-friendly states, it has plenty of local establishments that will pamper your dog. Restaurants like the Poogan’s Porch and Brown Dog Deli allow dogs inside so you can eat your meals with gusto, knowing that your pooch is just beside you, enjoying its meal. If you want to indulge your dog while learning about the town's past, book a historical tour with Charleston Carriage Works. You can get your dog to sit on your lap or buy a child's ticket if he is too big! Sit back and relax as you go around exploring the community. Thanks to Charleston's Morris Island and Sullivan's Island, you also have plenty of fun water options. If the weather doesn't permit some natural fun, let your dog take a dip at Wag-n-Splash’s indoor dog pools. 7. Lake Placid, New York Lake Placid is totally safe for you and your dog, and it's social media-worthy appeal makes this your ultimate winter destination. It has lots of dog-friendly places. You can rest at the Saranac Waterfront Lodge after a whole day's adventure. This hotel accommodates dogs weighing up to 75-pounds and comes with a complimentary dog treat, a plush dog bed, and a small toy that your dog can take home. When you stay here, you also do an act of kindness because, for each dog that stays, the lodge shares $40 to the Tri-Lakes Humane Society, a no-kill shelter registered in New York.  8. Wimberley, Texas Looking for dog-friendly vacations in Texas? Wimberley offers a relaxing and close-to-nature adventure for you and your dog. This town is one of Texas's idyllic and dog-friendly vacations, especially if you stay in Getaway. And your dog will have a grand time running free on a long leash. With a minimal fee, Getaway can provide your dog with food and water bowls, a long outdoor lead to leash your dog, and some puppy s'mores kits. During the day, get busy and conquer the Hike Old Baldy, a hill that can reward you with a beautiful view of the city. You can also spend the day getting wet at Cypress Falls and go kayaking, swimming, and tubing. ALSO READ: 6 Outdoor Activities You Can Have In Arizona 9. South Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada With its pristine waters and magnificent mountain peaks, this destination gives you the best of Mother Nature's offerings. This tourist destination that straddles the borders of California and Nevada is also known to have a plethora of activities for its canine visitors. If your dog is a rockstar, then there's no better place to stay than in Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Lake Tahoe. Everything about this hotel is dog-friendly—their amenities, rooms, and restaurants. While in Tahoe, have fun on your vacation by visiting the FiRE + iCE Interactive Grill & Bar. This bar welcomes all dogs of all sizes and has complimentary water bowls for their canine patrons.  10. Indianapolis, Indiana Another vacation destination where you can conveniently bring your dog is in Indianapolis. It has plenty of excellent places that welcome dogs, including breweries and outdoor restaurants. You can also plan a day at White River State Park and enjoy the park's open spaces. Vacations are meant to energize you and your dog, so make the most of what Indianapolis has to offer. Create a schedule that includes the Fountain Square and Fletcher Place, Monon Trail, Downtown Canal, Mass Avenue, and Garfield Park. Conclusion Leading a busy lifestyle requires you to take a break occasionally. However, your dog misses you when you're away and, no doubt, you're thinking about them. Now you can get the best of both worlds with these dog-friendly vacations and recharge with your best bud right beside you! Read Also: Make Your Honeymoon a Truly Memorable Affair: Here’s How Glow your New Year at these Bangalore Events What Can You Expect from the New Year’s in Mexico

BY Ariana SmithDec 2, 2021

Are you an avid traveler looking to undertake a tour of one of the most mystical travel destinations in the world? Do you know how the Middle-East is slowly becoming one of the most sought-after travel destinations on any traveler’s bucket list? Have you heard about the beauty of destinations like Petra at Jordan, Isfahan, Ajman, and the very popular Dubai? In the past few years, millions of travelers from all over the world are heading to exotic Middle-Eastern destinations. With histories and cultures spreading hundreds of centuries, these travel locations are now being preferred by individuals and families alike. Plus, with a wealth of accommodation options available, from this hostel Tel Aviv to the luxury hotels of Dubai, budgets of all sorts can be catered to in this particular part of the world. Historically, the Middle-East has been a misunderstood destination thought to be closed and cut-off from the world. However, the advent of the internet and social media has shed light on the unexplored beauty of the region. In this article, we are going to look at the top 5 tourist destinations in Middle-East. Before we head to the list, let us briefly discuss the region itself. Middle-East: The Undiscovered Jewel When it comes to the world’s top historical destinations, the Middle-East ranks as high as Greece and Rome. It is one of the earliest cradles of civilization and the region’s countless monoliths, monuments, and cultures are a testament to that fact. According to Almosafer, a leading Middle-East travel portal, individuals who love historical places should visit the region. If you love visiting century-old bazaars, enjoy different cuisines, and want to immerse yourself in the finest hospitality, then this place should be on your bucket list. Some of the major countries that are part of the Middle-East region are- Syria Lebanon Turkey Iraq Saudi Arabia United Arab Emirates Kuwait Qatar Iran Israel Bahrain Oman Egypt The land of mighty cities and birthplaces of religions like Islam, Christianity, Judaism, and more, and the land of unending rivers (Nile and Euphrates), Middle-East represents history and culture on a never-before-seen level. Traveling to these destinations is very easy given the easy flight routes and transportation avenues open. Flight booking can be done in almost all major cities in the world. Major airline carriers offer direct and connecting flights to the above destinations. List of Top 5 Tourist Destinations in Middle-East 1. Petra, Jordan If you have seen the Michael Bay, modern legend, Transformers, you will note that the same has been shot in Jordan’s Petra. Petra is a World Heritage Site that does not need a lot of introduction. The ancient archaeological wonder was created in 300 BC and has been referred to as the world’s most ancient city. When planning your trip to Petra, Jordan make sure to check out the guided Petra tours, which can provide you with insights into the historical wonders of this ancient city. Petra was part of the Nabatean territory and benefitted from being one of the world’s first trade routes, linking the Middle East to the coast of Damascus. Al-Khazneh, the Siq, The Theatre, and the Tombs are some of the must-visit destinations in Petra, Jordan. According to experts, you should at least look to spend five days to see the length and breadth of Petra. 2. Giza. Egypt The Pyramids of Giza are probably one of the single greatest manmade marvels on the planet. In fact, conspiracy theorists suggest a number of extra-terrestrial stories about the Pyramids. One thing is for sure, you are definitely going to be awestruck the first time you get to see the Pyramids at Giza, Egypt. The Tombs of the Pharaohs, who at one point in time were the masters of the universe can tell us a lot about how our world came into being. The sheer scale and size of the Pyramids in an age when modern engineering was conspicuous by its absence goes on to show the marvel builders of the time. 3. Esfahan, Iran Esfahan is undoubtedly Iran’s most famous tourist and travel destination. The site of the world’s most beautiful gardens, expansive blue-tiled mosques, palaces, tea houses, and more shed light on the glories of the heydays of the Persian empire. The creativity and finesse of the artisans go to present a city, that many believe has been created in the likeness of God. Over the past few years, Esfahan has developed into a bustling trade and commercial region of Iran. You have a number of steel industries in the outer regions of the city. However, travelers should instead focus on the inner-city realms to be truly mesmerized by beautiful Persian monuments, food culture, and hospitality. 4. Cappadocia, Turkey If you look at some images of Cappadocia online, you would be forgiven for thinking that it looks straight out of some Disney fairy tale. Yes, Cappadocia is that handsome of a destination. The hills, mountain places, and boulders have made the region, one of the most traveled tourist destinations in the world. While people visit Turkey’s Istanbul for different reasons, it is Cappadocia, which gives a sense of escape from the humdrum reality of our world. Hot air balloon rides, excellent middle-eastern cafes, and one of the world’s best food cultures make Cappadocia a marvel. If you are looking for an otherworldly experience, check into one of the many cave hotels here. 5. Beirut, Lebanon Once you have seen all the historical sites in the Middle-East, you should end your travel by visiting Beirut, the capital city of Lebanon. This city never sleeps and has one of the world’s highest-rated nightlife party places. Beirut is when Middle-East meets the West. It is very busy, crowded, and has an amazing buzz to it. Beirut is also home to great hospitality, and exciting food culture and is very diverse in terms of its local population. Dubbed as the ‘Paris of the Middle East’ the city boasts of an amazing waterfront called the Corniche. The amazing cafes that line the waterfront are sure to blow you away with their food, drinks, and hospitality. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: Which is the best Middle-East country to visit?      Jordan In Jordan, you will get to Petra and the Dead Sea.      Dubai  In Dubai, you will see the Burj Khalifa, which is taller than the Effiel Tower in Paris.       Omar  In Omar, you will get to see huge Mosques.      Qatar  Qatar is scheduled for the next FIFA 2022. It is a place for shopaholics.      Cyprus  Cyprus is a place where you will have beaches to enjoy sunbathing, and activities like trekking, cycling, and bird watching can be done.  Q2: What is the number one destination spot in the Middle East? A: Jordan is considered to be the best destination as well as the number one spot in the Middle East. it is a safe place. But still, you should avoid the area within two miles of the Iraq and Syria borders. You can visit Petra one of the seven wonders of the world.  Q3: What is the safest place in the Middle East?     Bahrain      Egypt     Jordan      Kuwait      Oman      The United Arab Emirates The Final Word In addition to the above-mentioned five destinations, there are countless other gems in the Middle-East you can visit. We are not mentioning the obvious ones like Dubai as it is already relatively well-known. Certain parts of Israel, Iran, and Palestinian territories are also areas that you can definitely visit. We have already noted how almost all major airlines connect with these destinations. Travelers have the option of booking Saudi airlines flight tickets to reach them. Many people think of Middle-East as an off-beat travel destination. However, in recent years, the perception of the region has changed. It has become more of a mainstream travel destination that is attracting a lot of travelers from the US, UK, Japan, Australia, and other countries of the world. Read Also: 5 Must-Visit Offbeat Destinations Near Delhi The Perfect Destination For Adventure Enthusiasts In Jamaica- Yaaman Adventure

BY Ankita TripathyMar 23, 2024

San Francisco is one of the most iconic and diverse cities in the United States. It is a cultural, historical, and technological hub that attracts millions of visitors every year. But what is San Francisco known for? In this article, I will explore 12 things that make San Francisco unique and memorable. So, if that is something you are interested in knowing, I have you covered! So, keep on reading this blog till the end to learn more… Top 12 Edition: What is San Francisco Known For? As per Rudyard Kipling, San Francisco is a “mad city, full of perfectly insane people.” And don’t worry, this holds so true in the most loving ways. From the colorful metropolis to its delicious streets, there are many things about San Francisco that make it popular! Wondering what San Francisco is known for? Well, I have you covered! Here are the top twelve things that San Francisco is known for: 1. The Golden Gate Bridge The Golden Gate Bridge is the most famous landmark in San Francisco and one of the most recognizable structures in the world. It spans 1.7 miles across the Golden Gate Strait, connecting San Francisco to Marin County. The bridge was completed in 1937 and was the longest and tallest suspension bridge then. It is painted in a distinctive orange-red color that contrasts with the blue water and sky. The bridge offers stunning views of the city and the bay, and is a popular spot for walking, biking, and photography. 2. Alcatraz Island Alcatraz Island is a small island in the San Francisco Bay that was once a notorious federal prison. From 1934 to 1963, Alcatraz housed some of the most infamous criminals in American history, such as Al Capone, Machine Gun Kelly, and Robert Stroud. The prison was known for its harsh conditions and high security, and no one ever escaped successfully. Today, Alcatraz is a national park and a museum that attracts over a million visitors annually. You can take a ferry to the island and explore the cell blocks, the lighthouse, and the gardens. You can also listen to audio tours that narrate the stories of the inmates and the guards. 3. Cable Cars Cable cars are a symbol of San Francisco and a fun way to get around the city. They are the world's last manually operated cable car system, and they have been running since 1873. Cable cars are pulled by cables that run under the street, and they are operated by gripmen who use levers to control the speed and direction. There are three cable car lines that serve different parts of the city, and each one has its own charm and scenery. You can hop on and off at any stop or ride the entire route for a full experience. Cable cars are also a great way to see some of the city's famous hills, such as Nob Hill, Russian Hill, and Lombard Street. 4. Chinatown Chinatown is the oldest and largest Chinatown in North America, and one of the most vibrant and authentic neighborhoods in San Francisco. It was established in the 1850s by Chinese immigrants who came to work on the railroads and the gold mines. Chinatown is a cultural and historical treasure that preserves the traditions, languages, and cuisines of China. You can walk along the colorful streets and alleys, and see the ornate buildings, temples, and shops. You can also sample some of the delicious food that Chinatown is known for, such as dim sum, noodles, and tea. Chinatown is also home to many festivals and events, such as the Chinese New Year Parade, the Autumn Moon Festival, and the Dragon Boat Festival. 5. Fisherman's Wharf Fisherman's Wharf is one of the most popular tourist attractions in San Francisco, and a lively waterfront area that offers something for everyone. It was once a working fishing port, and you can still see the fishing boats and the seafood stalls that sell fresh crab, shrimp, and clam chowder. Fisherman's Wharf is also a hub for entertainment, shopping, and dining, with many attractions, such as Pier 39, Ghirardelli Square, Madame Tussauds, and the Aquarium of the Bay. You can also enjoy the views of the bay and the city skyline, and watch the sea lions that lounge on the docks. 6. The Painted Ladies The Painted Ladies are a row of Victorian houses that are located on Steiner Street, across from Alamo Square Park. They are also known as the "Postcard Row" or the "Seven Sisters", and they are one of the most photographed sights in San Francisco. The houses were built between 1892 and 1896, and they feature different architectural styles, colors, and details. They are a beautiful example of the city's history and charm, and they contrast with the modern skyscrapers in the background. The Painted Ladies are also famous for appearing in many movies and TV shows, such as Full House, Mrs. Doubtfire, and The Princess Diaries. 7. The Haight-Ashbury District The Haight-Ashbury District is the birthplace of the hippie movement and the counterculture of the 1960s. It was here that young people gathered to protest against the Vietnam War, to experiment with drugs and music, and to create a new lifestyle and identity. The Haight-Ashbury District is still a place of creativity and diversity, and you can see the influence of the hippie era in the colorful murals, the vintage shops, and the psychedelic art. You can also visit some of the landmarks that were associated with the hippie icons, such as the Grateful Dead House, the Jimi Hendrix House, and the Janis Joplin House. 8. The Castro District The Castro District is the heart of the LGBTQ+ community in San Francisco and one of the most vibrant and progressive neighborhoods in the city. It was here that the gay rights movement began in the 1970s, led by the activist and politician Harvey Milk. The Castro District is a place of pride and celebration, and you can see the rainbow flags, the pink triangle, and the Castro Theatre that symbolize the history and culture of the LGBTQ+ people. You can also enjoy the nightlife, the restaurants, and the bars that cater to the diverse and friendly crowd. The Castro District is also the host of many events and festivals, such as the Castro Street Fair, the Pink Saturday, and the Pride Parade. 9. The Mission District The Mission District is the oldest and the most eclectic neighborhood in San Francisco, and a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and art. It was named after the Mission Dolores, the oldest building in the city that was founded by the Spanish missionaries in 1776. The Mission District is known for its Hispanic and Latino heritage, and you can see the influence of the Mexican and Central American immigrants in the food, the music, and the language. You can also admire the stunning murals that cover the walls and the buildings, and that depict the social and political issues of the community. The Mission District is also a hotspot for entertainment, shopping, and dining, with many venues, such as the Roxie Theater, the Elbo Room, and the Tartine Bakery. 10. Lombard Street Lombard Street is one of the most famous and crooked streets in the world, and a must-see attraction in San Francisco. It is located on Russian Hill, and it has eight sharp turns that make it look like a zigzag. The street was designed this way in 1922 to reduce the steepness of the hill and to make it safer for cars and pedestrians. Lombard Street is also known for its beauty and charm, and it is lined with colorful flowers, trees, and houses. You can drive down the street, or walk along the sidewalk, and enjoy the views of the city and the bay. 11. The Palace of Fine Arts The Palace of Fine Arts is a stunning architectural masterpiece that was built for the Panama-Pacific International Exposition in 1915. It was designed by the architect Bernard Maybeck, who was inspired by the ancient Greek and Roman temples. The palace features a large dome, a colonnade, a lagoon, and a garden, and it is a popular spot for weddings, concerts, and events. The palace is also a museum that showcases the history and the art of the exposition, and the science and the technology of the present.  You can visit the palace and marvel at its beauty and elegance, and learn more about the city's past and future. 12. The Golden Gate Park The Golden Gate Park is the largest and the most diverse park in San Francisco, and one of the best places to relax and enjoy nature. It covers over 1,000 acres of land, and it has something for everyone. You can explore the many attractions that the park offers, such as the Japanese Tea Garden, the Conservatory of Flowers, the California Academy of Sciences, and the De Young Museum. You can also enjoy the outdoor activities, such as biking, hiking, boating, and golfing. The park is also home to many animals, plants, and flowers, and you can see the bison, the turtles, and the roses. The park is also a venue for many events and festivals, such as the Outside Lands, the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, and the Shakespeare in the Park. Bonus: San Francisco is a Foodie’s Delight! San Francisco is a food lover's paradise, with a variety of cuisines and restaurants to suit every taste and budget. Whether you are looking for a cozy brunch, a romantic dinner, or a casual bite, you will find something to satisfy your cravings in this vibrant city. In this part of the blog, I will share with you my top 5 places to eat in San Francisco based on my personal experience and online reviews. 1. Zuni Café Zuni Café is a San Francisco institution, located on Market Street near Civic Center. It has been serving delicious food since 1979, and has won several awards, including a James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant in 2003. https://www.instagram.com/p/Cx07GGIvvTw/?hl=en The restaurant is famous for its slow-cooked, roasted chicken and bread salad, which takes about an hour to prepare, but is worth the wait. The menu changes daily, featuring fresh, local ingredients and seasonal dishes.  The price range is moderate to high, with the chicken costing $62 for two people. Other dishes that I recommend are the oysters, the Caesar salad, and the espresso granita. 2. State Bird Provisions State Bird Provisions is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a unique dim sum-style service. You can choose from a variety of small plates that are brought to your table on carts and trays, or order from the menu. https://www.instagram.com/p/C3wsGdMOplt/?hl=en&img_index=1 The dishes are eclectic and innovative, featuring dishes like fried quail, duck liver mousse, and sourdough pancakes. The price range is moderate to high, with the dishes costing between $5 and $25 each. You can also opt for the chef's tasting menu for $95 per person. The restaurant is located on Fillmore Street near Japantown, and is very popular, so make sure to book in advance. 3. Sanraku Sanraku is a cozy and authentic Japanese restaurant that serves high-quality sushi and sashimi, as well as other traditional dishes like donburi, udon, and tempura. The fish is fresh and the service is friendly. https://www.instagram.com/p/C37lalmLJmH/ The price range is moderate, with the sushi rolls costing between $6 and $18 each. The restaurant also has a happy hour from 5 to 7 pm, where you can get discounts on selected items. The restaurant has three locations in San Francisco: on Sutter Street near Union Square, on Metreon near Yerba Buena Gardens, and on 4th Street near Moscone Center. 4. Honey Honey Café & Crepery Honey Honey Café & Crepery is a casual and charming spot that serves delicious breakfast and brunch items, such as crepes, pancakes, omelets, and sandwiches. https://www.instagram.com/p/CvAyNOTtkDj/?hl=en&img_index=1 The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable, with most items costing between $10 and $15. The restaurant also has drinks like coffee, tea, smoothies, and milkshakes. The restaurant is located on Post Street near Nob Hill, and is open from 7 am to 9 pm daily. 5. Le Colonial Le Colonial is a elegant and romantic restaurant that evokes the ambiance of French colonial Vietnam. The menu features dishes like pho, spring rolls, curries, and grilled meats, as well as exotic cocktails. https://www.instagram.com/p/CsZpmdwyCwC/?hl=en The price range is high, with the main courses costing between $25 and $40 each. The restaurant also has a lounge area, where you can enjoy live music and dancing. The restaurant is located on Cosmo Place near Union Square, and is open from 5 pm to 10 pm from Sunday to Thursday, and from 5 pm to 11 pm on Friday and Saturday. Wrapping It Up! San Francisco is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or innovation, you will find plenty of things to see and do in this vibrant and diverse city. From its iconic landmarks to its delicious cuisine, from its artistic scene to its social movements, San Francisco will surprise and delight you with its charm and creativity. If you are planning to visit San Francisco, you can use this blog as a guide to explore some of the top things that the city is known for. You can also check out our other blogs for more tips and recommendations on how to make the most of your trip. And don't forget to share your experiences and feedback with us in the comments section below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Time Travelers’ Haven: Savannah’s Top Museums And Your Itinerary Art, Architecture, And Azaleas: 24 Things To Do In Savannah 15 Unexpected Things To See And Do In Georgia