BY Ariana SmithOct 11, 2021

If you are planning a vacation with your family in the monsoons, there can’t be a better place than Kerala. It is one of the best tourist attraction centers all over the world.   Known as God’s own country, the state of Kerala has several picturesque sites that serve as a perfect backdrop for selfies. No traveler will go to this place and fail to get a selfie for himself.   Add to that monsoon rain, and you are sure to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience. A few hours of rain give way to soft sunshine with the temperature never crossing the 30 degrees Celsius mark. Therefore you can be sure of enjoying the beauty of nature when you choose to visit Kerala.   When traveling to Kerala for vacation, booking a tour package is not enough for smooth sailing. You have to do a lot of research to find what will work best for you.   In Kerala, many locals are not well-versed in English and Hindi and this often results in a communication problem. That is why you must learn a few words in the regional language – Malayalam. You can get a reliable online tutor to help you go through this training session.   After all, it’s all about doing as the locals do. Here’s a list of few Malayalam words every tourist must know when traveling to Kerala. These tips will make sure that you have a comfortable stay in Kerala.   10 Useful Malayalam Words And Phrases To Learn Before Traveling To Kerala Here is the list of 10 famous Malayalam words and phrases for you that you can learn before going to Kerala. 1. Namaskaram One of the foremost words to learn in any language is the word used to greet others. In Malayalam you say “namaskaram” whenever you meet someone, it means “hello”.   It is a word that should come top on your list because you will be using it whenever you come across a person. It will make you feel that you are not strange as you tour Kerala.  2. Sukhamaano It is also crucial to know the meaning of this word while traveling to Kerala. “Sukhamaano?” is Malayalam for “how are you?” So, to know how someone is doing, say Sukhamaano?   When asked the same by someone, reply with “enikku sukhamaanu,” which means “I’m fine.” It is good to learn these basic terms so that you can have a good time interacting with the locals.  3. Dayavu Cheythu or Dayavayi “Dayavu cheythu” or “dayavayi” means “please” in English. It’s an important word to know as you may have to use it often when traveling. You will use it when you want to excuse yourself or remain cautious while dealing with other people.  4. Nanni “Nanni,” pronounced as nan-n穩, is Malayalam of “thank you”. It’s a useful word to have in your vocabulary as you may often need help or assistance from locals during the trip.   You can also use it to show gratitude after you receive a gesture from the local people. You will hear this word every time and then as you continue to interact with the locals.  5. Enikku Vishakunnu If you are hungry and have nothing to eat in your bag. Reach out to locals and say “enikku vishakunnu”, it is Malaylam for “I am hungry.”   You can be sure that the locals will provide you some refreshments. This word is critical because you will not go hungry because of a communication breakdown.  6. Ningalude Peru Enthaanu To strike a conversation with locals and know their name, say “ningalude peru enthaanu”, its Malayalam phrase for “what is your name?”   If you are asked the same, reply with “ente Peru” and mention your name, Malayalam for “My name is.” You will be able to communicate with the locals and tell them your name without any problem.  7. Njaan Ningalude Phone Upayogichotte You can face a situation wherein your phone is on low battery and you need to make an urgent call. You would require someone else to help you with his phone. This word will come in handy when you are facing such a situation.    To request them to use their phone, say “njaan ningalude phone upayogichotte”, which means “can I use your phone?” You will be able to get the assistance that you deserve within a short period. The secret is to know how you can use some of these Malayalam phrases.  8. Pinneedu Kaananam Thank the locals for their help and bid them goodbye by saying “pinneedu kaananam.” It is a word that you will use when exiting a particular destination.   It shows that you are thankful for your encounter with the locals. Use this phrase when bidding farewell to the locals of Kerala.  9. Engene Enikku _________ Etham? To find your way when you are lost, just ask “engene enikku _________ etham?” filling in space where you want to go, hotel, and restaurant, bus or railway station. It is Malayalam of “how do I get to _____?”  It is one of the most important terminologies especially if you are strange in the city. It will help you to get back to your destination within no time.  10. Ithinu Enthu Vila? “Ithinu enthu vila?” is a useful phrase when shopping for local goodies. It will help you know the price of commodities. It is Malayalam for “how much is this?”  Frequently Asked Questions? Is Malayalam compulsory in Kerela PSC? Public Service Commission (PSC) has given approval to the government’s proposal of making the Malayalam language the compulsory language in Kerela. Best app for Kerela PSC preparation? Kerala PSC kit, this the best app to get you prepared for PSC. Is Kerela PSC easy? No exam is easy to crack. It starts with a dream and ends with effort. PSC exams are considered to be the most toughest in India.  Wrap Up In addition to these words and phrases, you must also know directions and initial numbers in Malayalam. Knowing a few Malayalam words and phrases can help you communicate a little with locals and understand what they are saying can prove extremely useful during travel.   While learning these words and phrases will take care of communication, make sure you book a Kerala tour package for a comfortable and hassle-free trip. Whether you are in Delhi, Mumbai, or Ahmedabad, you can easily find several reputable tour operators that can help you with the travel package.  The most important thing is to have the desire and willingness to learn. It will help you to interact with the locals of Kerala at the most basic levels.   You will discover that you will have an easy time when interacting with these locals.  You can employ the services of an online tutor to get more insights into Malayalam words.   Read More : Top 10 Famous Wonders Of India Things To Do In Maryland – Free Places To Visit In Maryland The Easy Way To Travel In India Best Time To Visit New York – Know All About New York Weather

BY Barsha BhattacharyaDec 7, 2022

Did you know that Colorado has perhaps some of the most beautiful hot springs located in the United States? Although you can spot several charming hot springs near Denver or even Colorado Springs, it is hardly known how popular Colorado happens to be if you are a fan of hot springs.  So if you are looking for the perfect hot springs in and around Denver this Winter, then you have arrived at the right destination. Simply scroll down to find out more about the hot springs you must check out this winter. Stick around till the end, and we promise you no disappointment!  Top 12 Hot Springs Near Denver You Can Visit In Winter! Welcome to our list of the top hot springs near Denver Colorado! All you have to do is scroll down. The state of Colorado is home to several beautiful hot springs - from the most remote corners of the state to the most popular cities, you can find these hot springs almost anywhere here.  But today, we will focus only on the state capital, Denver. Keep reading to find out now! 1. Mt. Princeton Hot Springs: Image Source AdmissionMonday - Thursday: 35 Dollars (Adults) & 30 Dollars (Seniors & Children) | Friday - Sunday: 30 Dollars (Adults) & 25 Dollars (Seniors & Children)Temperatures90 to 120 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesWater Slide, Creekside Hot Springs, Multiple Pools, Lodging, Juice Bar, Spa Services, and Fitness Classes.  One of the best hot springs near Denver, Mount Princeton Hot Springs, is far from your regular hot spring! Instead, it’s a pretty fancy resort that features multiple pools accompanied by multiple amenities. Ideal for families with children, the resort has a very family-friendly vibe, and then there’s a massive water slide of 400 feet.  2. Hot Sulphur Springs Resort & Spa: Image Source Admission20 Dollars/ PersonTemperatures95 to 112 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesMassage Treatments, Private Pools, Lodging, Bathhouse, and Lockers. You don’t have to google ‘Denver hot springs’ - instead, just check out this Springs Resort & Spa since it houses the best hot springs in the Denver area! These hot springs are historical and, as a result, have been utilized for various medicinal purposes, and that too for over a hundred years.  3. The Springs Resort and Spa: Image Source Admission49 Dollars (Adults) | 25 Dollars (Children) | 46 Dollars (Seniors)Temperatures95 to 112 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesWellness Activities, Private Hot Springs, Restaurants, Lodging, Yoga, and Spa Services. One of the best natural hot springs near Denver, The Springs Resort & Spa, perhaps requires the longest drive. However, if you are planning to check out Pagosa Springs, then you definitely will not be disappointed. The best part? These nature-made hot springs are, in fact, fed by none other than the Mother Spring, known to be the deepest hot springs in the whole world.  4. Strawberry Park Hot Springs: Image Source Admission20 Dollars/ Person (every two hours - only cash is accepted)Temperatures102 to 106 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesShuttle Service, Clothing-Optional Amazing Evenings, Cabins, Camping Spots, and Massage Treatments.  One of the best hot springs in Colorado, the Strawberry Park Hot Springs, located in Steamboat Springs, is a relatively more rustic attraction. Set across the charming Routt National Forest, this hot spring is pretty difficult to access during Winter, but the remoteness only adds to the rustic charm of the location.  5. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort: Image Source Admission26 Dollars (Adults) | 12 Dollars (Children) - Rates are subject to change based on the season.Temperatures90 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesPrivate Cabanas, Water Slides, Lodging, Spa Treatments, and Playing Areas For Children.  Amongst all the major hot springs in Denver Colorado, perhaps the most accommodating one is the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, especially if you are visiting with your whole family. But that’s not the best part. Did you know that the location is actually known for the largest ‘mineral water pool’ in the entire world? More reason for you to visit this location.  Read More: The Best Resort Spa & Wellness Island Experience! 6. Iron Mountain Hot Springs: Image Source Admission34 Dollars/ Person (every 2.5 hours - rates can change based on Seasons)Temperatures99 to 108 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesOptional Clothing, Private Hot Tubs, Pools, Camping Spots, Hike Out/Hike In, and Lockers.  If you are looking for quiet, private hot springs near Denver, then you can’t miss out on Iron Mountain Hot Springs! The place actually features about sixteen hot springs, all-natural, where visitors can simply jump from one pool to another while enjoying beautiful views of the charming Colorado River nearby.  7. Indian Hot Springs: Image Source Admission26 Dollars (Adults) | 12 Dollars (Children) - Rates are subject to change based on the season.Temperatures90 to 112 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesPrivate Baths, Geo-Thermal Caves, Hotel Lodging, Spa Services, Cabins, and Indoor Pools.  The Indian Hot Springs is located within Idaho Springs and happens to be the closest to Denver. Hare, the primary pool looks fascinating and is encased well inside this big glass dome. This acts just like a greenhouse and is able to create a humid, warm atmosphere which allows the different tropical plants in the area to thrive.  8. Old Town Hot Springs: Image Source Admission25 Dollars (Adults) | 19 Dollars (Children) | 22 Dollars (Seniors)Temperatures80 to 103 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesChildren Areas, Climbing Wall, Massage Therapy, Multiple Pools, and Fitness Classes.  One of our favorite hot springs near Denver, the Old Town Hot Springs, happens to be relatively more accommodating, especially to children, as compared to the other popular hot springs located within Steamboat Springs. Yes, we were talking about the Strawberry Park Hot Springs. This one features several pools and even a shallow kid pool!  9. Cottonwood Hot Springs: Image Source AdmissionMonday - Thursday: 20 Dollars (Adults) & 18 Dollars (Children) | Friday - Sunday: 24 Dollars (Adults) & 20 Dollars (Children)Temperatures80 to 106 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesCold Plunge, Camping Spots, Spa Amenities, Cabins, Sauna, and Quiet Pools.  Located inside the San Isabel National Forest, the Cottonwood Hot Springs happens to be a paradise for all nature lovers. Situated close to Buena Vista, the Cottonwood Hot Springs are mineral-based natural hot springs that vary both in temperature and size. Moreover, the resort ends up promoting total relaxation while encouraging a very quiet, tech-free environment. 10. Sunwater Spa, Manitou Springs: Image Source AdmissionTuesday - Sunday: 8 am to 10 pm | Mondays: Closed (Rates Vary)Temperatures90 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesYoga, Wellness Activities, Spa Treatments, and Soaking In Mineral Water.  If you are in the mood for some unique experiences in terms of hot springs, then you have to check out the Sunwater Spa, located in Manitou Springs! Known for offering several facilities for unwinding and relaxing, the Sunwater Spa in Manitou Springs is perfect for visiting with your partner, family, and even alone. 11. Ouray Hot Springs AdmissionFor Children - Free, For Youth (4-17) - $16, For Adults (18-61) - $26, For Senior (62-74) - $18, For Senior (above 75) - FreeTemperature92°F to 100°FSeasonAll Year RoundFeaturesMemberships are available, sulfur free hot springs, with constant hard air blowing, pool heating takes time! The springs are open everyday for public pools from 11 am to 10 pm and for member pool hours, the duration is from 10 am to 11 am. There is a 3 month or 12 month membership available for all members. You can buy towels for $10! For one day, Ouray Hot Springs Pool recharges the underground aquifer thus, losing a huge amount of geothermal water. The volume of geothermal water decreased in the pool due to the 24 hour cutback! 12. Dunton Hot Springs AdmissionAdults: $240 for couples, Children: FreeTemperature108°FSeasonAll Year RoundFeaturesLog buildings, established in a ghost town, popular thermal mineral springs If you rent cabins to access Dunton Hot Springs, you have to pay somewhere between $630 to $2100 for one night. Clearly, it is expensive and the rich get more access in these resorts as compared to others. The town is completely empty and people only visit the thermal mineral springs. There are American mines pretty close to the hot springs. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Check out the most frequently asked questions related to hot springs near Denver mentioned below. 1. What Is The Closest Natural Hot Springs To Denver? Ans: The natural hot springs that are the closest to Denver are the Indian Hot Springs - it will take you about 40 mins to drive the 33 miles to Denver. It’s in the western part of the city, right on I-70. The historic hot springs in Idaho is one location you are bound to see on your way to or from the iconic ski slopes nearby.  2. What Are The Most Beautiful Hot Springs In The World? Ans: The most beautiful hot springs in the world are as follows,➊ Pamukkale (Turkey),➋ Chinoike Jigoku (Japan),➌ Szechenyi (Budapest),➍ Cascate del Mulino (Italy), and➍ The Blue Lagoon (Iceland). 3. What Are The Major Hot Springs In Colorado? Ans: The three hot springs in Colorado are as follows,➊ Glenwood Springs,➋ Great Pagosa Springs, and➌ Hot Sulphur Springs. 4. Where Are The Best Natural Hot Springs In Colorado? Ans: The best hot springs in Colorado are as follows,➊ Iron Mountain Hot Springs,➋ Mount Princeton Hot Springs,➌ Cottonwood Hot Springs,➍ Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, and➎ Ouray Hot Springs Pool. And It’s A Wrap! So we have come to the end of our list of the best hot springs near Denver! Now, what are you even waiting for? All you have to do is do your due research and then pack your bags - because the winter has arrived, and there’s no better time to hit these hot springs near Denver, Colorado!  In the meantime, don’t forget to let us know about your thoughts and past experiences with hot springs in the comments below. Read Also: The Best Resort Spa & Wellness Island Experience! 7 Key Points To Remember While Planning Your Honeymoon Trip What To Consider When Choosing Vacation Destinations For Families

BY Nabamita SinhaJan 5, 2023

If you are planning an upcoming vacation to Mexico, then you must visit Tolantoongo, which is a box canyon, which is in the state of Hidalgo, Mexico. The canyon is 1.5 hours of northwest, Pachuca, and about 198 km which is about four hours from Mexico City.  So if you wanna know more about this exceptional natural escape with beautiful hot water springs and natural pools and rivers with caves. To know more details about the Grutas de Tolantongo, then keep on scrolling down.  How Will You Reach The Las Grutas De Tolantongo? Image Source With diverse natural resources, Mexico is a haven for visitors and travelers. The Las Grutas de Tolantongo is a natural system of grottoes and caves. The beautiful water flows from the Grottos to the river of Tolantongo, which flows through the hot springs, which act like swimming pools like natural pools.  If you don’t know what a grotto is, then it is a type of cave that is naturally made underground and flows through for thousands of years. Rainwater could easily seep down piercing calcareous rocks, which dissolved them.  Then the result that formed was a mesmerizing aquatic heaven with rivers, waterfalls, and even hot springs, that became Tolantongo.  How To Reach Las Grutas De Tolantongo? Now that you know where this aquatic heaven is, you should be able to reach the place easily, as there are many options you can avail to reach the place. Here are the options you can select from.  1. Renting A Car Service Image Source One of the most popular choices of transportation from Mexico City to la Grutas de Tolantongo. Although a car service can be expensive, it is still one of the expensive options. So if you have a hefty budget, then you can easily avail of a car service. Well if you love a long stretch of road, then you will love the surrounding atmosphere while traveling.  2. Take The Bus Image Source One of the cheapest forms of transportation is the bus service. The bus is public transportation that any tourist can avail of. The easiest way for you to get a bus service is through Mexico Terminal TAPO.  From the ADO bus service, you can reach Pachuca. The journey is a 2 hours journey by bus, although the buses run every 3 hours, then plan your timing accordingly.  You would have to take a bus again till Ixmiquilpan, the bus is about 2 hours journey which runs about five times a day. Then from Ixmiquipan, it is about a 14 minutes walk, from where you can get a bus to Tolantongo.  The bus journey is very jarring and tiring and it might take you 6 hours to complete the whole journey. And it will cost you about $12 to about $22. Since this method is so tiring and long, it is not recommended for tourists, as it would take them a whole day.  3. Join A Tour Group Image Source Another possible transportation you can get to Las Grutas de Tolantongo is by organizing to join a tour group. If you are staying in Mexico City, for a few days, then the easiest way of traveling to Grutas de Tolantonga is with a tour group.  What Are The Things To Do In Las Grutas De Tolantongo? Upon reaching Grutas de tolantongo, there are a lot of places you can do there, and a few of these things that you can do. The area is divided between two areas, which are La Gruta Zone and El Paraiso Escondido.  1. Tolantongo Hot Springs (El Paraiso Zone) Image Source The hot springs of Tolantongo in the El Paraiso Zone are known as a stunning sight to see. There is a variety of hot springs, present here are mostly infinite pools, built on the side of grottos, cliffs, and swimming pools.  The temperature is somewhere around 96F and 100F. The hot springs were very relaxing and very popular, which have people flock there for this relaxing activity, so having a swimsuit with yourself is a must if you wanna go to the hot springs. Read More: Top 10 Hot Springs Near Denver You Can Visit In Winter 2. Tolantongo Cave & Tunnel (La Gruta) Image Source There are beautiful dark and wet caves and tunnels that you can visit and explore by yourself. Since the walls of the caves and tunnels are wet, you should carry water shoes, to avoid slipping. You can also go swimming in the pools in the caves, where you will find beautiful waterfalls.  3. Tolantongo River (La Gruta) Image Source All of you who want to stay overnight at Tolantongo would mostly camp out near the Tolantongo river. The blue and warm Tolantongo river is a beautiful place to camp. There is more open space for people to gather and enjoy themselves.  Read More: 7 Best Places For Free Camping Near Me In Las Vegas 4. Suspension Bridge (El Paraiso) Image Source One of the famous places of Tolantongo is the swing bridge which allows visitors a beautiful and luscious green environment.  The suspension bridge is an attractive tourist destination when you are visiting Grutas de Tolantongo. You should remember to wear comfortable shoes since you will be walking for a while.  5. Zipline (El Paraiso) Image Source If you are an adrenaline junky and love adventure sports, then you are going to love Ziplining through the greenery of Tolantongo. Although it is not free, the price for ziplining is not as much, only about $10.  Wrapping Up! Now that you know that Grutas de Tolantongo is a beautiful place state in Mexico. Then if you are visiting there you will find a comfortable grutas de tolantongo hotel. Or if you are staying there only for a night, then camping is the best option.  So if you think this article helped you in knowing more about grutas de tolantongo, then give your own article a like and comment down below. Read Also: Explore These 5 Excellent Yacht Charter Destinations! 7 Creative Truck Cap Camping Ideas To Use In Jungle Adventures Top 10 Scenic Snowflake Cities In The U.S. To Travel To This Winter