Travel Blogging For Students: Assignments On Sharing Travel Experiences And Recommendations

BY  Ankita Apr 12, 2024

As travellers increasingly seek unique and memorable experiences, vacation rentals have emerged as the go-to accommodation for those looking to immerse themselves in local cultures far removed from the well-trodden paths of mainstream tourism.  Staying in a vacation rental, whether it's a cozy rental apartment in the heart of the city, a quaint cottage in the countryside, or a beach house with sweeping ocean views, offers a unique opportunity to live like a local and uncover hidden gems that can make your trip truly unforgettable. This article discusses the main reasons why a vacation rental is a great choice for you. We tell you how vacation rentals are better than hotels when renting out as a local or as a traveller, both for you and as a traveller. Here, you will also find some top tips for finding a good vacation rental to enhance your stay and experience. A Gateway To Authenticity For an authentic vacation experience, hotels do not do justice to vacation rentals. Vacation rentals often have local decor, and the architecture of the property feels more personalized and local. On the other hand, a hotel experience is more sterile and lacks personality. This way, a vacation rental environment differs from any hotel and enhances the overall experience of the stay. You get to immerse yourself in a new experience by cooking with local ingredients found in neighbourhood markets. You can try new ways to cook food in the new place, just like the locals.  Again, you can dine at local-favourite eateries that you might not find in guidebooks, but only locals can tell you about. Try new dishes and immerse your taste buds in a variety of flavours. Enjoying leisurely strolls in lesser-known areas can offer new experiences in a new place. Furthermore, the personal spaces in vacation rentals allow travellers to experience daily life as locals do. They can wake up to the sounds of the neighbourhood, maybe a local street market or the morning chatter of residents, offering a daily rhythm and pace that hotels shield their guests from. This is especially a priority for the younger generations of travelers, including Gen Zs, who are looking for authenticity in their adventures. Tailored Local Insights One significant advantage of vocational rentals is the personalized insights provided by hosts. Many hosts are keen to share their love for their city or town, offering recommendations not typically featured in tourist guides.  From the best local coffee shop where residents grab their morning brew to hidden alleys with the best street art, these recommendations allow travellers to explore areas off the beaten path and experience the locality as natives do, not as tourists.  The freedom to explore new places and areas when interacting with locals while staying in local rentals during vacation is beyond immersive. You experience not only the new food and language but also the local community. Often, while travelling, when you interact with local people, they tend to suggest the best local places and events. Don't miss these local events as you get to taste a new culture and where you can also make deeper connections. If a local family invites you to visit their home, be gracious enough to attend it if you can. You will get a lot of cultural insights from them, and cultural exchanges happen, too. You can also get new opportunities to participate in local traditions. Economic Benefits To Local Communities Opting for a vacation rental over a hotel also increases the local economy. Hotels are expensive, as you already know; on the other hand, vacation rentals are relatively cheaper. Hotels come with restaurants and room service, while vacation rentals do not, so you have to do all your cooking and shopping.  That might seem hectic while traveling, but when you are on a budget, it's the best option. You get to shop in the local farmer's market and enjoy new produce local to the area. You interact more with the locals and increase your exposure to new cultures.  The bright side of vacation rentals is that you get to enjoy local homesteads and architecture. If you don't wish to cook them, go exploring local restaurants and take suggestions from locals. This also helps uplift the local economy as most of the local restaurants are run by local families. Engaging with local services helps you distribute your money more evenly and sustain small businesses. You also get to interact with more locals, providing you with deeper cultural insights. You would be wrong if you think opting for a residential neighbourhood rental will help the locals.  Instead, stay in vacation rentals outside tourist-heavy areas where more than the high price of the rental fee is put on. Staying in less touristy locations will benefit the local communities, especially financially. Sustainable Travel Vacation rentals can also contribute to sustainable travel practices. Many rentals are established in residential areas, which spreads out the impact of tourism and reduces overcrowding in popular tourist centers. Additionally, the ability to cook and manage waste more efficiently in a rental can decrease the ecological footprint of your stay.  Renters can also engage more directly with local recycling and sustainability initiatives, becoming part of the community's environmental solutions. This can be especially impactful in regions where sustainability is a community priority, allowing travellers to contribute positively to the local environment. Uncovering Hidden Gems Other than the sustainable and economic advantages of opting for vacation rentals is discovering hidden gems. It can be a new dirt road to a river bank or a secluded beach only the locals know about. You can also find hidden gems like a family-run vineyard that offers you private tastings. Or a historic site that hasn't made it to any tourist guide yet. These new hidden gems heighten your memory of the place and make your vacation special. If you love adventure, you can ask locals for hiking trails that lead to amazing views that only locals know about. You can also visit artisans' workshops where traditional crafts are made. These unique spots often provide the most cherished memories of travel, as they offer a sense of discovery and personal connection to the place. Tips For Finding The Best Local Vacation Rentals Finding the perfect vacation rental can be the key to unlocking a local experience. These are some of our practical tips to help you discover the best spots that connect you with the heart of your destination. Research Thoroughly Research is essential to find the best local vacation rentals. You must do a thorough research on the area you are planning to visit. Look beyond the typical vacation rental platforms, like searching for local forums that offer information on rental properties to tourists.  You can always search social media groups and blog posts that offer insights into the best local vacation rentals. You can also search platforms where the particular local residents are active and what they have to say about the place. Sites like Airbnb and Vrbo are great, but you should also check out local rental websites and agencies that might offer unique listings not found on the larger platforms. Read Reviews Carefully Reviews are crucial information that previous guests of vacation rentals leave for future guests. So, if you have to check the vacation rental reviews before you select one for your trip, see what your predecessors have to say about the host of the rental and the local community.  You get a clear picture of the locals from previous renters who stayed at the place. Reviews can reveal a lot about the authenticity and convenience of the location and the quality of the living experience. Communicate With Hosts Once you narrow down your choices, reach out to potential hosts with any questions you have about the property and the area. A good host will be eager to provide information and may share insights into local gems. Their responsiveness and willingness to offer advice can be a good indicator of the kind of experience you'll have. Consider Location And Accessibility Choose a location that balances tranquillity with accessibility. Want to experience the lifestyle of a local when visiting a place? Then, try to find vacation rentals in locations that are easily accessible to local communities. If you find a rental in a tourist-centric area you might not get much interaction with locals. However, considering how you will access the attractions and amenities of the place, you can always use public transport to visit the key attractions. You can rent a local car to reach distant places. Still, the local markets, cafes, and sites of interest locally can greatly enhance your stay. Check For Amenities Check for vacation rentals that offer amenities for your comfortable stay. Even if there is no food available in a vacation rental, see to it that they offer a proper kitchen. You must check all the amenities like gas, stove, and utensils, which should be included in the rental. You might also check for proper bathrooms, water, and internet to connect with the outside world when needed. Some people also work while vacationing, so the internet becomes essential for them in this situation. Ensure that the rental has all the amenities you'll need to enjoy your time there without hassle. Verify Safety And Legal Considerations Lastly, ensure that the rental is in a safe area and that all local laws regarding vacation rentals are observed. Some areas have regulations on short-term rentals that might affect your stay. It's also wise to verify this information to avoid any legal inconveniences. Wrapping It Up In conclusion, vacation rentals are more than just a place to stay; they are a gateway to deeper cultural immersion. You get a chance to live like a local while enhancing sustainable tourism. By choosing local vacation rentals you discover the heart and soul of that particular destination. After all, people make a place special, not monuments. So next time you travel to a new place, opt for a vacation rental in the local area instead of a hotel in a touristy area. This choice could transform a standard trip into a unique exploration of the local way of life, leaving you with rich and rare memories. Learn More About: Travelocity Review- Login, Services, And Travel Experiences Tips For Planning The Perfect Getaway In A Rental Villa In Italy Jackson Hole Luxury Rentals: The Inside Scoop On The Most Desirable Properties

BY  Shahnawaz Nov 24, 2022

Bubble tea stores both in the UK and the US are trendy nowadays. Be it a creative drink or crystal boba tea; fans are ready to try out different flavors and tastes every day. They are always trying to find different recipes to try out.  Every new recipe is like a new experience. However, they are not the same as tapioca pearls. On top of that, this delicious boba topping is very easy and simple to make at home. You can go and try them out at some Boba tea shop. Or you can make them at home and enjoy yourself. This article will help you explore these extraordinary pearls and help you make them at home. So, if you are looking for something like that, then this article might help. What Is Crystal Boba? Image Source: www.google.com If you have ever had bubble tea, you should be able to understand what the boba crystals stand for. Different types of bubble tea pearls are used to add texture and volume to the tea. However, the boba crystal is known for its translucent look and chewy texture that feels like gelatine. These crystals are ready to be eaten. They are usually presweetened. These crystals are used in their original flavors and in sugar flavors. They also taste great in milk and in flavored or iced teas. But what is crystal boba made from? They are made from an edible plant called the konjac plant. Although this unique type of food has very little taste, they are great in terms of nutritional benefits. They are also an important element in Asian medicine. In terms of their look, it is completely opposite to regular black boba. What Does Crystal Boba Taste Like?  Coming to another important query about this tempting food– what does boba taste like?  Well, they are from the Konjac plant, so they have a mild sweet taste and a citrus flavor. Another funny thing about translucent boba is that it may keep its taste and flavor when put in tea or storage. Regular boba does not have the taste as crystal ones. They are slightly sweet because they are made from brown sugar and caramel syrup. But, when added to the tea or anything else, the pearls lose their taste and lose their taste.  Crystal Boba Vs. Regular Boba: What Is different? Image Source: static.wixstatic.com Both crystal and regular boba have one thing in common. They are both derived from a specific root starch. Regular boba is made from the tapioca root starch which explains the chewy texture you feel when eating them with the tea. On the other hand, crystal boba is made from the konjac plant. You can also pair them with milk tea. So another similarity between them is that they are paired with milk tea.  Tapioca starch is the common topping for bubble tea in the United States and the United Kingdom. Instead, the konjac plant is used to make pearls of white color, which are the crystal boba.  Custard pearls have a nonpartisan taste and are chewy and supple on the surface. In comparison to traditional tapioca pearls, the ones used in boba drinks are typically smaller and slightly softer. Crystal boba, on the other hand, is extremely jelly-like and soft. The plant used to make them also gives them a subtle citrus flavor. When white pearls are stored or added to a drink, they keep their flavor. Tapioca pearls, on the other hand, firm up and begin to flavor the other ingredients. This can be something positive or negative, contingent upon what you as the cook planned to occur! Here are some of the major differences that you need to keep in mind: You must soak the tapioca boba in a sweet mixture or boil them to use them. But you don't need to cook the crystal boba. Regular boba has a softer and chewier texture compared to crystal boba. The tapioca boba has uniformly shaped spheres. On the other hand, the crystal boba looks more like jelly beans. Popping Boba Vs Crystal Boba: The Difference Image Source: www.google.com It looks like different types of boba are different in their taste, shape, and appearance. Popping or bursting boba is quite similar to crystal boba. They also don't need to be cooked before consumption. Those are pearls filled with juice and a thin outer layer is present. The popping boba comes in different flavors, for example, kiwi, mango, and more. All you need to do is to soak them in syrup. But what are the differences? Popping boba is filled with juice and can burst open with a little force. On the other hand, the crystal boba is chewy. Popping Boba comes in different colors and flavors and is more vibrant in color. Crystal boba doesn't have any color and is transparent. Crystal boba is enjoyed with milk teas or ice teas. On the other hand, the popping boba can be enjoyed with slushies or ice teas. Read More: Have You Tasted Starbucks Boba? Does Starbucks Have Boba? How To Make Homemade Crystal Boba? Image Source: plantbasedonabudget.com So, if you want to make crystal boba at home, then here are the steps to help you – Add some coconut water to the pot and use low heat. Mix the jelly powder and agar thoroughly and put them in the pot. Simmer it on low heat while constantly stirring for five minutes. Mix water, ice, and oil in a large bowl. Take a squeeze bottle and add the mixture to it. Once the pearls are set, they will sink at the bottom. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Here are some popular questions people ask about the Bobas– 1. Is Crystal Boba Vegan Friendly? Ans: The tapioca pearls are vegan since no gelatine is used in them. But, some manufacturers might use gelatin for profit. So, you should beware of those manufacturers if you are looking for vegan-friendly pearls. But, the white pearl boba is usually vegan. 2. Are Crystal Boba Healthy Ans: If you want the honest truth, then I'd say that all the boba is unhealthy. The reason is that they are textured pearls full of syrups. On the other hand, white pearls are healthier. In a hundred grams of boba, you have 70 calories of carbohydrates. The tapioca pearls have 358 calories within the amount of 100 gms. 3. Do You Chew Or Swallow Boba? Ans: Bobas are made from Tapioca. The ingredients don't dissolve quickly, even when they are well-soaked. However, if you eat them without chewing, they can be hazardous to health. They don't dissolve, which makes them hazardous. Final Words  Crystal boba is a fine addition to your bubble tea. They make a wholesome taste inside your mouth. You can go and grab yourself crystal boba at a bubble tea stall. But making them at home can be a fun experience as well. You can use the tips shared in this article to make this. I think you have found the answer to your queries. However, if you have further questions, you can ask them in the comment section. Read Also: Traveling To Korea? Here’s Your Must-Try Korean Food Three Dollar Cafe – Reviews, Special Food, Pet Friendly Cafe Top 13+ Vegetarian Restaurants In Austin – Complete Guide

BY  Shahnawaz Jul 20, 2022

Q) Which City Is Known As The City Of Lakes? A): Udaipur ✔ B): Nainital ✖ C): Chicago ✖ D): Branson ✖ Correct Answer: Option A) Udaipur "Which city is known as the city of lakes?" when someone asks you this question, they are probably trying to talk to you about Udaipur. You may not have been to a fantasy world, but you can have a close-to-fantasy life experience in Udaipur. The scenic city of Rajputana, the history, the culture, the architecture, and most importantly, the lakes. Udaipur nestles at the bottom part of Rajasthan and is the City of Lakes. Why? Because the prettiest Lakes in India are in Udaipur. Udaipur is a dreamy blend of palaces and lakes that surround them. Vagabonds can find a serene escape here, while the old folks will love the calm and peaceful city. Moreover, Udaipur is also a good destination for young lovebirds looking to explore a new chapter in their lives. So, why is Udaipur called the city of lakes? You have to stick with me throughout this article to find that out. Udaipur: The City Of Lakes When nature created Udaipur, it gifted the place with all the pretty lakes in India. So if you ever visit Udaipur, you must visit these Lakes and see why Udaipur is called the city of lakes.  So, which city is known as the city of lakes? Of course, it is Udaipur, and these lakes are evidence proving that. 1. Lake Pichola Lake Pichola in Udaipur is a warm and serene place since it has beautiful historic buildings to embrace it. This freshwater lake was built during the 14th century artificially. Jag Nivas, Jag Mandir Palace, and Mohan Mandir are some famous architecture surrounding it. Entry Fee: No entry fees Timing: 10 am to 5 pm Boat Charges: ₹ 400 for adults, ₹ 200 for children 2. Fateh Sagar Lake Built by Maharana Singh in the 17th C, the Fateh Sagar Lake is one of the must-see sights in Udaipur. Mountains on three sides surround the blue waters of this lake. This is a scenic man-made masterpiece that you must see with your bare eyes. Entry Fee: No entry fees Timing: 8 am to 6 pm Boat charges: ₹30 to ₹400 3. Udaisagar Lake Maharana Singh built this beautiful lake to provide an ample water source to the people of his kingdom in the 15th century. The lake expands, covering 10.5 km of area. The lake has many histories, and has witnessed quite a few battles. Entry Fee: no fees  Timing: N/A 4. Jaisamand Lake Only 50 km from Udaipur, Jaisamand Lake is Asia's second-largest artificial lake. Maharana Jai Singh built this lake in 1685. Beside the Jaisamand Lake is the picture-perfect summer manor for the queens of Udaipur.  Entry Fee: no fees Timing: anytime Boat charges: 10 am to 5 pm 5. Rajsamand Lake Maharana Raj Singh builds the Rajsamand Lake, also known as the Ramasamudra Lake. The southern part of the lake is adorned with ghats that are made of marble, and they lead directly into the water. You will love a short trip around the historic construction around the lake. Once you visit these lakes, you won't ask which city is the city of lakes. Entry Fee: you need not pay any entry fees Timing: anytime 6. Badi Lake Maharana Raj Singh made another fresh water lake called Badi ka Talab or the Jiyan Sagar. Back in the 17th century, there was a fatal famine, and Maharana Raj Singh had to build this freshwater lake to fight that famine. Since his mother's name was Jana Devi, he named this Lake Jiyan Sagar.  Entry Fee: no entry fee required Timing: 8 am to 6 pm 7. Doodh Talai (Milk Pond) The Doodh Talai, translated as Milk Pond in English, is another fascinating lake in Udaipur. This place was once the grazing area of the cows that supplied milk to the royal family. Moreover, this lake is in the southernmost part of Lake Pichola. This lake also offers a mesmerizing view of the Jag Mandir, Lake Pichola, and Lake Palace.  Entry Fee: no entry fee required Timing: 24×7; every day Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Some of these questions and answers will help you know more about some relevant ideas as well as facts. 1. Which City Is Known As The City Of Lakes In MP? Udaipur is the city of the lake. But MP Bhopal is the city of lakes. But Udaipur comes first when someone cites the phrase City of Lakes. 2. Which City Is Called The City Of Waterfalls And Lakes? The Indian state of Jharkhand is in the eastern part of India. It is a city of waterfalls and lakes. Previously, Jharkhand used to be a part of Bihar. But after 2000, it became an independent state. The city of Ranchi is rich with beautiful rock formations and waterfalls. This gives it the name of the city of waterfalls. 3. Which Country Is Known As The Country Of Lakes? Finland is the country globally famous as the country of lakes. It is also the land of thousands of lakes. According to the count for the last time, there were 187,888 lakes in Finland. This number is surprisingly enormous, judging by the size of the country. 4. Which Country Is Known As Land Of Rivers? Bangladesh is globally the country of rivers because of the innumerable rivers and their tributaries. There are 700 rivers and tributaries in Bangladesh. These rivers do not run equally throughout Bangladesh. Final Words The lakes in Udaipur attract people from around India and the globe. Moreover, with historical palaces, forts, and temples, Udaipur is a treasure trove for those with a thirst for places where history lingers. If you are looking for Venice in India, then you must turn to Udaipur. All these lakes and the palaces as well as the natural surroundings of these lakes, undoubtedly predict Udaipur as the city of lakes. So, which one is the city of lakes? Why don't you confirm the answer yourself? I hope that you liked this article. You can share your feedback in the comments. Read Also: 15 Interesting Facts About India That Every Traveller Should Know Five Tips For First Time Traveler To India Best Places For River Rafting In India