Top Thredbo Accommodation Options For Every Type Of Traveller

BY  Sibashree Aug 11, 2025

The city of Osaka is just a very fast Shinkansen away from the capital of the country. Therefore, a trip to Osaka falls well within the sphere of convenience for the tourists. Osaka is different from the capital city of Japan in various ways. As a result, the tourists should always try to explore. The city provides you with friendly locals, the best nightlife, and most importantly, some of the most delicious food in Japan. If Tokyo’s your flashy, fast-talking friend, then Osaka is the one who drags you out for late-night snacks and somehow knows every back alley in town. You’ve probably seen its neon glow on Instagram, maybe even heard whispers about the food scene — and yeah, it’s all true. Osaka just… does things differently. Osaka has a historical side. Therefore, tourists visiting Japan should enjoy visiting the historical side of Osaka. Places like the Osaka place overall provide the tourists with an enriching experience while they are on their trip to Osaka. The castle serves as a great place to explore Japanese History and understand the elegance of Japanese architecture. Moreover, the tourists should visit the place at any time of the year. However, the cherry blossom season in April serves as the best time to visit the place, as it reflects a different aura. The Sakura blooms in the month of April. Therefore, the beauty of the place is enhanced. This time of the year is also a pleasant time to visit the place. Therefore, the tourists should visit Osaka during this time of the year. But here’s the deal: as easygoing as the city feels, a smooth trip still needs a bit of planning. From navigating the city to finding the luxury hotels in Osaka Japan, it’s a lot of work!  I’ve learned the hard way (missed trains, wrong hotel location — you name it), so here’s the stuff I wish I’d known first. The Best Time To Visit Osaka People can take a trip to Osaka during the month of April when the Sakura blooms. However, tourists can visit the place throughout the year as there is no specific right time to visit the place. Honestly? There’s no “bad” time to go. It’s more about what kind of trip you’re after. Spring (March–May) is just ridiculous — cherry blossoms are everywhere, like someone dumped pink confetti all over the city. The weather’s dreamy. But fair warning, everyone knows it, so expect packed parks and pricier everything. Autumn, from September to November, is kind of my favorite. Milder temps, fewer people, and it’s easier to get a last-minute table somewhere. Only hitch? Rain likes to crash the party now and then. Summer — from June to August — is sticky. Like, humid humid. But oh man, the festivals. Fireworks lighting up the river, food stalls lined up for blocks… It’s electric. You just have to embrace the sweat. Winter (December–February) is quieter. Not freezing like Hokkaido, but cool enough to make hot bowls of ramen taste even better. And hey, no elbow fights in the subway. Planning Your Trip to Osaka  If you’re thinking, “I’ll just wing it,” um… You could, but Osaka’s popular enough now that winging it often means missing out. The tourists should always plan their trips in advance. Planning trips early allows people to visit every place with time on their hands. Planning trips early also allows people to ensure that they are not spending more than what is required. Here are a few things that you can incorporate to ensure that you have a concrete plan. 1. Find The Cheapest Flights. Book early. Like… months early. Especially if you’ve got your heart set on spring, check different dates, be okay with weird flight hours — that 2 a.m. arrival might save you enough cash to splurge on sushi later. 2. Treat Yourself To A Good Hotel. Cut corners on flights? Great. Put that extra into a hotel you’ll actually enjoy being in. Swissotel Nankai Osaka is right above Namba Station, which means you can roll out of bed and basically be anywhere in the city within minutes. Bonus: Some rooms have that traditional Ryokan vibe, if you want a bit of “old Japan” without ditching modern comforts. 3. Book Restaurants Ahead Of Time. If you’ve stalked a restaurant on Instagram, book it. Now. Osaka’s food scene doesn’t mess around. But leave room for surprises — some of my best meals came from random alley spots selling takoyaki or okonomiyaki for a few hundred yen. 4. Create An Itinerary To Optimise Your Time And Experience In The City. Universal Studios Japan? Give it a day, minimum. Then work in Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market (snack heaven), and Dotonbori at night for the lights and chaos. Got extra days? Hop over to Nara for deer selfies or Kyoto for temples. Trains make it easy 5. Learn How To Navigate The City’s Transportation System. Osaka’s trains and subways are fast, clean, and — once you figure out the map — kinda addictive to use. The Osaka Amazing Pass is worth it for unlimited rides. Thinking of city-hopping? Get the JR Pass and thank yourself later. Oh, and pack smart. Summer’s basically a sauna. Other seasons? Layers are your friend — evenings can get chilly even if the day’s warm. Things To Consider Before Taking A Trip To Osaka The thing about Osaka is that it sticks with you. It could be the food, the late-night streets, or the fact that locals have this warm, “come on in” energy. Plan it well, and you’ll already be plotting your return before your flight home even boards. And yeah, if you like the sound of rolling straight from the train into your hotel, Swissotel Nankai Osaka makes that ridiculously easy. The tourists find Osaka to be one of the most important cities in Japan. However, tourists should ensure proper planning before they visit Osaka. Planning early helps tourists to spend less during their trip to Osaka. Osaka is one of the most important and culturally rich places in Japan. Osaka is also close to the Japanese capital. Therefore, it is convenient to visit the place throughout the year.

BY  Abdul Aziz May 4, 2024

The Everest Base Camp Trek is a gorgeous stroll that a trekker needs to cover. Indulging in this grandiose walk allows you to scrape out some of the nicest sights of your lifestyle. Along with the mouth-opening views of peaks including Mt. Everest, Ama Dablam, Pumori, and Lhotse, you’ll be amazed by the images of the valley’s lush woods, clean rivers, glaciers and quaint hamlets. The trekking on Everest base is the third most famous trekking vacation spot in the world. Apart from nature, this trek also gets you pretty close to the dwelling locations of the Sherpas, who are the hardest human beings residing on earth.  It evokes everyone's emotions to a point where you’ll get to examine a lot of the deep meanings associated with life. Overall, the Everest Base Trek is well worth doing for many reasons. You may additionally not locate all the motives here. But we've woven together the 5 pleasant reasons that you’ll enjoy doing a Camp Trek at the Everest Base. Hillary Bridge (Nepal’s Highest Suspension Point): Hillary Bridge is the easiest suspension bridge in the Khumbu area and expands on top of the Dudh Kosi River. Keep the final bridge for the second or third day of the Everest Trek rather than opting for an abrupt ascent to the Namche Bazaar street.  The non-secular prayer flags flying all across the bridge offer you spiritual and religious vibes, whereas the bridge gives you a distinctive vibe of freedom. NamcheBazaar (Mountain Bazaar) (Sherpa People and their Mountain Lifestyle): Namche Bazaar is widely regarded as the tourism capital and the biggest sherpa agreement in the Khumbu area. The city is actually stunning and offers various rejuvenating vacation spots near Everest. Tourism refers to the primary carrier for people residing in Namche Bazaar.   This city portrays a magnificent glimpse of mountain tops, including Kongde Ri, which is 6,187 m, Thamserku (6,623 m), and, additionally, the 8,848 m-high Everest. All across the town, you will find several restaurants, cafes, lodges, bakeries, Tibetan handicraft stores, and even museums.  Hence, all through your spoiled outdoors at Namche, visit these extraordinary locations and experience the day having scrumptious meals and drinks. NangkarTshang Hill Standpoint (Hiking Place From Dingboche): After Namche, Dingboche is the area where we take a relaxation and adaptation break. During the day, you can go to NangkarTshang Hill’s viewpoint. A 3-hour hike staring from the Dingboche village extending to the summit of NangkarTshang Hill presents a short and huge view of Makalu, Lhoste, Mera Peak(Island Peak), and Choopulu. Unparalleled Scenery: If you want to head over to an excellent scenery, this is where you reach. Along with Himalayan wasteland thrills, you will get to see dozens of mountains.  A lot of peaks can trip their base camps, too. Furthermore, the way offers picturesque destinations that allow you to take Instagram pictures.  Starting from the first day, trekkers are capable of witnessing colossal snowy peaks. Further, it is, in all likelihood, the sole trekking path where you get the mountain surroundings all through the trip.  Lhotse, Everest, Choyou, and Makalu peaks offer grandeur in the entire area. These peaks are in the top 10 absolute best mountains in the world. Hometown Of Sherpa And Unique Culture: This is the first reason the Everest base camp journey has become more popular: Everest Touring Trails are trails that are completely grounded in Tibetan Sherpa culture. Everest Camp Touring Camp Touring trails is only one touring stint in Nepal, where you'll enjoy the Tibetan Buddhism religion and culture. All the touring routes of the Everest region offer pedestrians the unique culture of the Tibetans, the Tibetan Sherpa culture of Nepal.  Tengboche Friary: Tengboche Friary is another third magnet on the Everest hiking trip. It is located in a 3890-meter-high place where you'll enjoy a Tibetan Sherpa religious experience and a fantastic panoramic view of the whole Everest region of the Himalayas.  The fabulous Sherpa culture of Everest is a subject of important admiration and alleviation for most people around the world. Similarly, the Base Camp Trek at Everest presents a perfect occasion to enjoy the fabulous culture and tradition of the Sherpa people in close proximity. As a matter of fact, the Sherpa people are known worldwide for their nearly superhuman mountaineering chops. Nearest Views Of Mt. Everest From Kala Pattar: The view of Mt. Everest from Kala Patthar is a rallying point of the Himalayas, especially Mount Everest. Kala Pattar is only one stylish and closed viewpoint of Mt. Everest, which is really beyond the imagination and has superb views. The Himalayan lookouts of Nepal are the country’s biggest draw points. The Everest Camp Trek also doesn't fail in this aspect; therefore, you should definitely consider visiting it once in your lifetime. Religious And Cultural Prolificacy: A lot of Sherpa agreements on the EBC route provide Mani buses, prayer flags, inscribed Mani boulders, Gompas, and Chortens. The inhabitants of this region are known to have migrated somewhere from Tibet 400 years ago. Moreover, they still revive the conventional Tibetan language as well as culture. People belonging to this region are not only simple, gracious, and generous but also strict followers of Buddhism.  The Pangboche and Tengboche Gompas are two of the most primitive gompas, each with its own history and significance. The former bone belongs to the biggest gompa of the Khumbu region. It is encompassed by Nuptse, Tawache, Lhotse, Thamserku, and Ama Dablam, all of which are joints for the Festival- Mani Rimdu. The festival is the longest and takes place from October to November. ss The concept goes after the bone, which was said to have the genuine Yeti’s crown and hand. However, it just has a replica only. Furthermore, the Tengboche Gompa( friary), Pangboche Gompa, and multitudinous cloisters represent the artistic and architectural productivity of this region. The Sagarmatha National Park: This magnificent demesne, which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979, is a biodiversity mecca. Rich in foliage and fauna, Sagarmatha National Park is home to rare species of creatures like snow leopards and lower pandas, amongst other innumerous common species that are set up in figures, like sharpers, hares, jackals, wolves, and numerous others. It's also home to around 200 species of catcalls—some rare, some common—but all call the thick timbers of this demesne home. The demesne has numerous touring trails within it; it also introduces you to the unique culture of the mountain communities that live within its borders in complete harmony with their surroundings. Everest Base Camp (The Ultimate Peak): Let’s admit it: we have been waiting for this site for so long. 5300m is the elevation height of Everest, which is the closest to hiking. However, being closer to Mt. Everest, this camping point is prone to natural disasters. Once you are done hiking at the base camp, you will see a magical kingdom full of pebbles, rocks, and snow. This gives trekkers a sigh of relief and success.  The entire Everest Camp location is full of colorful prayer flags, a never-ending valley, and skyscraping snow peaks. Also, how can we forget the stunning Khumbu Glacier Icefall, which is a popular touchdown spot for all camp helicopter tours? Conclusion: Beginning the epic journey to Mt. Everest is a once-in-a-lifetime memory and experience. So, every step leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those who dare to complete this extraordinary path, from the vistas of snow-capped peaks and cultural diversion in Sherpa Village to the accomplishment of reaching Everest Camp.  Apart from these reasons, there are several other factors that would compel you to do the trek. Other reasons that might captivate you are suspension bridges, waterfalls, moraines, glacial rivers, and glaciers. Learn More Also: Trekking Kilimanjaro & Salkantay Top 5 Unexplored Treks In Himachal Life Is Enjoyable: Incorporate 7 Best Unique Treks In The World

BY  Sibashree Nov 11, 2024

No park in the Rockies in Canada is as beautiful as the Banff National Park. This park has a year-round allure. So, no wonder the park had 4.288 million visitors in the 2023-24 fiscal year.  However, Banff National Park is breathtaking in the winter. With an average annual snowfall of 181 inches, the park also offers thrilling winter activities.  Banff National Park Visitor HighlightsBanff National Park had 4.13 million visitors in the 2022-23 fiscal year. So, 2023-24 has seen a massive increase (31%) in the footfall.The traffic congestion in the area has increased with the most traffic in the Lake Louise area. In 2023, there were 2,547 reports of human-wildlife encounters in this national park. So, you must be respectful to the wildlife in the park.  Further, Banff National Park and its surrounding areas expect 10-15 cm of snow in October 2024. The higher terrains can even receive a snowfall of up to 25 cm. So, Lake Louise, Sunshine Village, and other ski resorts in the area have started preparing for the winter ski season.  These resorts consider this snowy condition ideal for better winter tourism and activities. So, let’s find out the outdoor pursuits you can participate in at Banff National Park this winter. You Surely Don’t Want To Miss These Winter Activities At Banff National Park  Winter calls for an immersive experience in the Canadian Rockies. Banff National Park is not an exception. You can enjoy a casual stroll along the snow-covered streets. Further, you can just cherish the snowy beauty while sipping on your favorite hot chocolate drink. Of course, there are delightful activities like ice skating in the frozen lake, skiing, and snowboarding. However, before putting on your skiing shoes and gear, you must check the snow conditions in the park and at a particular resort.  Nevertheless, let’s talk about the activities without further ado!  1. Skiing And Snowboarding Banff National Park offers some world-class skiing and snowboarding facilities. In fact, the skiing season here is one of the longest in North America. The skiing season starts here from the end of November until May. It is phenomenal, indeed! Further, it does not matter whether you have not done skiing and snowboarding before. You can give it a go, thanks to the guidance and rentals available here. However, if you are not confident enough, you can just get a sightseeing tour ticket and explore the park. The three skiing resorts in Banff National Park are: Mt Norquay (10 Minutes Away from Town) Banff Sunshine (20 Minutes Away from Town) The Lake Louise Ski Resort  (40 Minutes Away from Town) You can try skiing at all the resorts or at least visit one during the cold season. You have to pay a nominal fee to ski at these resorts. However, if you need guidance or rentals, you must pay extra charges. Nevertheless, here is a snapshot of the admission fee to the park for your reference. Moreover, if you want to visit a particular ski resort, you can buy lift tickets. However, if you have plans to visit all the resorts, go for the SkiBig3 tickets for a better deal.  2. Ice Skating Ice skating rinks in Banff National Park are free, and Lake Louise is the best spot in the park. It is a Canadian dream to ice skate on the frozen lake. Also, you can take part in Pond Hockey here.  Further, you can enjoy the snow-capped beauties while enjoying your time at the Lake Louise Ice Skating Rink. The mountains around this lake are: Mount Whyte Mount Niblock Hungabee Mountain Mount Godor Fairview Mountain Mount Goodsir Moreover, you will love the ice castle at the Lake Louise ice skating rink. Don’t forget to take lovely snaps against the backdrop of this ice castle.  3. Snowshoeing/Winter Hikes Snowshoeing and winter hikes are two different activities. However, both make winter in Banff National Park very special.  So, check out the following snowshoeing hotspots in the national park. Lake Louise Marble Canyon Johnston Canyon to Upper Falls Sunshine Meadows Sulphur Mountain Trail Bow Glacier Falls Sulphur Mountain Trail is also a popular hiking route in the park in winter. Here are some hiking trails in the park in winter. Tunnel Mountain Summit - Moderate, 2.4 Km one-way Stewart Canyon - Easy, 1.5 Km, one way Sundance Canyon - Moderate, 3,7 km one way plus 2.1 km loop Spray Connector - Easy, one way 2 Km Marsh Loop, Easy, 2.8 Km loop However, winter is within the avalanche season in the park. The Avalanche Season in the park continues from November to June.  You can even reach the Avalanche Terrain after a short walk. So, follow the Avalanche Danger Signs and Avalanche Symbol while trekking in the park in winter.  4. Dog Sledding Dog Sledding is a great way to explore the park in winter. The mighty and energetic huskies will make your day. While exploring the park, you will also learn about its history and why it is so crucial for the community and locality. In addition, your musher or guide will explain the dog sledding technique to you. Moreover, dog sledding is a popular activity in Banff National Park during the SnowDays  Event in January and February. It is a celebration of Everything Winter in Banff.  5. Relax In Upper Hot Springs Hours of Operation: 10 am to 10 pm (Last entry: 9:30 pm) It will be the most relaxing experience for you to soak in the warm water of the Upper Hot Springs on Sulphur Mountain in the chilling winter. You can kinda call it a Canadian tradition. So, no wonder that it has been one of the best things to do in Banff National Park in winter since 1886.  Banff Upper Hot Springs has 100% natural mineral water. Take a dip in the outdoor pool as you behold the Cascade and Rundle Mountain peaks.  Moreover, don’t forget to visit the Bath House, which is a federal heritage building that houses some interpretive exhibits. These exhibits tell you about the history and nature of the hot springs.  Did you know that Upper Hot Springs is the highest operational hot spring in Canada? 6. Ice Climbing Banff National Park is one of the most popular destinations for ice climbing in the Canadian Rockies, along with Jasper and Kootenay National Park. November to April is the best season for ice climbing in these parks.  Easy access and reliable conditions are two factors promoting ice climbing in these parks. In Banff, the canyons and waterfalls are especially brilliant spots for ice climbing. The most visited spots for ice climbing in this park are: Johnston Canyon Professor Falls Louise Falls Weeping Wall Polar Circus Cascade Falls However, ice climbing requires avalanche training, and you must abide by safety guidelines.  7. Wildlife Spotting In May 2024, the Rocky Mountain Outlook came with disturbing news of Wildlife Paparazzi putting pressure on the Grizzlies of Banff National Park to take snaps. This is a sheer disrespect of wildlife and a form of hunting trophies in the form of photos of those animals. “With cell phone cameras, the digital photos of wildlife have become the 21st Century equivalent of hunters going out and bagging an animal that they can hang on their wall.”Brian Spreadbury, Former Human-Wildlife Conflict Supervisor, Lake Louise Nevertheless, exploring the wildlife of Banff National Park in winter is a delightful experience. It is most famous for the black and grizzly bears. Further, you will find bighorn sheep, cougars, moose, elk, and wolves here.  However, you have to be at the following sports to explore wildlife here. Icefields Parkway Bow Valley Parkway Lake Louise Moraine Lake Vermilion Lakes You will also find many small mammals like chipmunks and squirrels in Banff National Park. Moreover, with bald eagles and hundreds of bird species, this park is a birder’s paradise.  8. Snow Tubing Snow tubing is an exciting winter activity that takes place at the Mt. Norquay Ski Resort. It is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm. Further snow tubing activities happen in two different time slots. The first slot is from 10 am to 12:30 pm, and the next slot is from 1:30 pm to 4 pm.  The snow tubing park in Mt. Norquay is the largest in Alberta. Moreover, the eight sliding lanes in the park let you enjoy the activity with your friends and family.  9. Northern Lights Viewing Late September to April is the best time for northern light viewing in Banff National Park. Longer nights and clear skies during these months are the best times for stargazing and northern light watching.  Vermillion Lakes in the national park is easily accessible by car and on foot. It is the best location for watching the Northern Lights.  10. Attending Festivals and Events Along with the SnowDays Festival, many events transform Banff National Park into a festive hub. You can attend the following upcoming events in the park. Event Upcoming Date Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival26th October - 3rd November, 2024Power of Presence - Wellness Retreat1st-3rd November, 2024Embrace Joy - Your New Freedom - Wellness Retreat7th-10th November, 2024Banff Wine & Yoga Festival 8th-11th November, 2024Banff Sunshine Community Ski Day6th December, 2024Mt Norquay Community Ski Day7th December, 2024Lake Louise Community Ski Day8th December, 2024SnowDays Play ZoneJanuary 2025Aerial Yoga Teacher Training16th-19th January 2025SnowDays Festival17th January-2nd February So, get geared up for winter fun at Banff National Park. You can reach the park from Calgary through a shuttle service.  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.