8 Factors That Can Impact Travel Medical Insurance Premium Plans

BY  Sibashree Sep 11, 2024

Kobuk Valley National Park is surreal! Have you ever thought to meet sand dunes in the Arctic Circle? The unique geology of the park makes it possible. That’s not all! The Great Kobuk sand dunes stand here, along with the remains of the North American continental glaciers.  Three of the sand dunes in this national park are active or alive. The Great Kobuk Sand Dunes, Hunt River Dunes, and Little Kobuk Sand Dunes here cover a mesmerizing 20,000 acres of area in the park.   Today, hiking through these dunes is one of the most popular activities in the Kobuk Valley National Park.   While it is visually unusual or unexpected to see sand dunes in an Arctic National Park, you also need to understand that the Arctic region gets very little rainfall every year. So, this is also a desert region.   “Sand dunes in the Arctic landscape are not what you would expect. Since most people associate sand dunes with a hot desert environment, it is a visually unusual thing to see. In fact, what most people don't realize is that the Arctic is also a desert with very low levels of rainfall.”   - Christian, a Kobuk Valley National Park Worker  Having said that, how the sand dunes came to be here, and the experience of exploring them will be a great thing to discuss in this article.   This Is How The Kobuk Valley National Park Became The Land Of Sand Dunes   https://www.instagram.com/p/BWatGdVFuis/ Much of Alaska, including the Kobuk Valley National Park, falls in the Tundra region. Tundra, the coldest of the biomes, gets only around 150 to 250 mm of rainfall and snowfall yearly1. So, the national park has less rainfall than some of the most well-known deserts in the world.   Further, the sand dunes in the Kobuk Valley are as old as the Ice Age. Now, as the mighty glaciers moved forward and made a retreat, the rocks beneath got ground. Now, the blowing wind transported the sand into the empty and ice-free Kobuk Valley. The sand dunes in the park are up to 150 feet high, and they are the biggest, high-altitude, and most importantly, “active sand fields”  in the earth.   In The Land Of The Great Kobuk Sand Dunes  https://www.instagram.com/p/BgmZYDdAA_r/ Are you in the Sahara? No, you are around 35 miles above the Arctic Circle and still find the largest active sand dune field in the world. Today, it is a popular backpacking, hiking, and camping destination in the National Park. You must attend the Northwest Arctic Heritage Center to learn more about the outdoor pursuits in the land of sand dunes.  Let’s quickly look at why the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes is a preferred destination for camping, hiking, and backpacking.  The sand is steady enough for the landing of an aircraft with wheels.  You can put up your tent on any level surface.  Also, you can hike in any direction.  Further, you can board a float plane and reach the Kobuk River. From there, you can take a backpacking tour for around two miles and reach the dunes.  You must visit the Kotzebue Visitor Center if you have plans to take this backpacking journey to and from the Kobuk River.   There is no marked route for hiking.  In summer, the temperature in the sand dunes can reach up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, fall is the season to see caribou migration here.   However, there’s more to it! Let’s learn about the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes as relics of the Ice Age and how life thrived here.   Great Kobuk Sand Dunes: The Relics Of The Ice Age   https://www.instagram.com/p/BYwfdMYlr-0/ To know about the formation of the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes, we must go back to the Ice Age. Around 28000 years ago, glaciers in the mountains formed. I have already discussed how the glaciers ground the rocks and wind deposited them in the Kobuk Valley.   Further, approximately 14000 years ago, the glaciers made a massive retreat. As a result, there were 200,000 acres of sandy land formation on the river banks. Complex holocene activities and geomorphic preservations keep the sand dune field at the Kobuk Valley National Park active or alive. Along with the Kobuk Valley, small lakes in the park have also accumulated sand over thousands of years.   However, most of the landscape today is occupied by the vegetation of the national park, and the sand dune area consists of only 20,000 acres. The vegetation found here consists of the following varieties.  Wild rye  Grasses  Sedges  Kobuk locoweed  Wildflowers blooming occasionally  These species grow on the shifting sand, and they function as stabilizing agents. You can see shrubs, lichens, mosses, and algae following this vegetation. Finally, there are spruce, birch, and aspen trees covering the landscape.    The slopes of the Kobuk Valley sand dunes are the only place where Kobuk locoweeds grow. These plants belong to the pea family, and they are known for their purple flowers. If you want to see these flowers, you must visit the park in late June and July.   The inland dune field of Kobuk Valley National Park is surrounded by boreal forest.   Humans And Wildlife In The Great Kobuk Sand Dunes  https://www.instagram.com/p/Cv0EhpdLsJ5/ It’s amazing to see the Western Arctic Caribou walking through the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes. Fall and spring are the migration seasons for these animals. The north of Brook Range is the caribou herd’s calving ground, and they migrate to and from this place.   As the caribou herds pass through the sand dunes, their footprints remain in the ground for the longest time. According to National Park Service data, around 250,000 caribou pass through this national park annually.   No wonder that the Kobuk Valley National Park is one of the “last great migrations” remaining in the world. The table below gives you a brief idea about the animals and birds in the sand dunes.  Birds Sharp-shinned Hawk Golden Eagle Bald Eagle American Wigeon Northern Pintail Rough-legged Hawk Marsh Hawk Mammals Caribou Wolverine Muskox Snowshoe Hare Moose Gray Wolf Grizzly Bear Beaver Arctic Fox American Pine Marten Amphibians Wood Frog Fish Longnose Sucker Salmon* Northern Pike Alaska Blackfish Alaska Whitefish Humpback Whitefish Alaskan Stickleback Ninespine Stickleback  Human history in the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes is at least 8000 years old. They lived by the Kobuk River and were mainly focused on fishing, hunting, and trapping for survival. It is fascinating to visit the thousand-year-old hunting camps on the edges of the sand dunes.  The golden and shifting Great Kobuk Sand Dunes are located a few miles away from the Kobuk River. Further, the sand dunes soar up to 100 miles in the air.   Kobuk Valley National Park Is Also The Land Of Iñupiaq Subsistence  https://www.instagram.com/p/BWdjyOBl_Lw/ Human life, which started in the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes 8000 years ago, is still thriving with the mantra of subsistence. The Iñupiaq people here use the available natural resources to fulfil their physical needs and safeguard their spiritual and cultural requirements.   For example, they depend on caribou and salmon to feed themselves and their dogs. At the same time, caribou skin hide is extensively used to make parka jackets to combat Arctic winter. They also make mukluks or boots using reindeer skin to walk through the snow.   Further, the local people made baskets using birch and willow. Moreover, in darkness, caribou tallow or seal oil were the only ingredients to light up their stone lamps.   Irrespective of the trade with the coastal communities, the “customary, traditional and non-commercial” use of natural resources is still important in the park.   Iñupiat Ilitqusiat And Respecting The Ecosystem   https://www.instagram.com/p/CzjboNfsc4Y/ Aboriginal people in the Kobuk Valley National Park are committed to passing on their values from generation to generation. The Iñupiat Ilitqusiat value asks them to transfer the knowledge and skill of hunting and everything about life.  In addition, this transfer of knowledge helps to make the most of various seasons and subsistence opportunities. For example, the caribou season comes to this park after the salmon season.   Earlier, Noatak Valley was the destination for these people during the caribou season, and even today, some families move to Noatak Valley. Again, summer camping around the Kobuk River is common for fishing, especially catching salmon and whitefish.   Summer is also the season for harvesting berries and wild greens for the local people.  If you want to learn about the local people and their values, you must be respectful and understand their seasonal activities as a part of their subsistence practices.   Overall, the Kobuk Valley National Park is not just a place to see sand dunes and wildlife. It is a tapestry of human lives depending on nature.   Things To Know Before You Visit The Kobuk Valley National Park   For me, the sand dunes and Iñupiaq subsistence practices are the most fascinating things in the Kobuk Valley National Park. However, keep the following information handy if you are to pay a visit anytime soon.   Mode of Transport: Authorized air taxis from Kotzebue or Bettles  Visitor Center: Northwest Arctic Heritage Center  Entrance Fee: Free  Permits Required:  Commercial Use Authorization or CUA for commercial activities, Research Permits, Filming and Photography Permits  Activities to Do: Boating, fishing, camping and backpacking, hiking, flight-seeing and exploring nearby attractions  Best Time to Visit: June to July   Area: 1,750,000 Acres  Established: 2nd December, 1980  Number of Visitors: 17,616 (2023) (National Park Service Data)  Snowfall, downpours, and extreme weather conditions can occur in any season of the year. So, follow the instructions shared at the visitor center and keep your gear ready for survival!  

BY  Ankita Nov 24, 2023

Understanding the industry's complexities can seem overwhelming in the dynamic realm of travel. Yet, with the appropriate resources like an efficient travel agent website, you can transform this intimidating task into an exhilarating adventure. A travel agent website is not merely a portal for arranging journeys; it is an all-encompassing tool that can steer your professional path in the travel sector. It offers exclusive access to deals, avenues for professional growth, and a supportive community, among other benefits. Let's explore what elements to consider when considering joining a travel agency and the significant role a top-tier company like Boardwalk Travel Agency plays in this decision. Exclusive Access To Deals As an aspiring travel agent, the initial aspect to consider in a travel agency is the provision of exclusive deals via their online platform. In the current era of digitalization, a travel agent website that presents exclusive offers leads the race in the fiercely competitive travel sector. These unique deals enable you to deliver exceptional service and distinctive packages that distinguish you from other industry players. Moreover, these exclusive deals offer a competitive advantage, guaranteeing your clients always receive the most excellent value for their investment. Commission Earnings Earning potential is a significant factor in any job search, and the travel industry is no different. When assessing a potential agency, consider how they structure their commission earnings. A well-structured travel agent website will clearly outline the commission structure, enabling you to understand your potential earnings. This transparency is vital as it builds trust between you and the agency, ensuring you are adequately rewarded for your hard work and dedication. Professional Development Opportunities In the ever-evolving travel industry, professional development opportunities are a must. A forward-thinking travel agency will offer resources through its website to help you grow in your role. These resources could include webinars, online courses, or articles on the latest travel trends. Learning is a continuous process, and the ability to adapt to new trends and changes is crucial in maintaining your relevance in the industry. A travel agent website that prioritizes professional development shows commitment to its agents' growth and success. Support Network Working in the travel industry can sometimes feel overwhelming, given the many details that go into planning the perfect trip. Therefore, a supportive network is an invaluable resource for any travel agent. Some agencies offer community features on their website where agents can share experiences, advice, and insights. This collaborative environment fosters a sense of camaraderie, providing practical support when you need it most. Reputation The reputation of a travel agency can significantly impact your career trajectory. A reputable travel agent website will feature positive client testimonials and high ratings. These testimonials assure both you and your potential clients that the agency is trustworthy and consistently delivers on its promises. When choosing an agency, look for one whose reputation precedes it. Training Training is another critical aspect to consider when choosing a travel agency. The world of travel is complex, and having the right skills and knowledge is vital to navigating it successfully. A robust travel agent website will offer comprehensive training resources to equip you with the necessary skills. These could range from making bookings, understanding travel insurance, and dealing with unforeseen circumstances. An agency that invests in training its agents will likely be committed to providing excellent service to its clients. Resources In today's digital age, having the right resources can give you an edge over your competitors. An agency that provides marketing materials through its website is committed to its agents' success. These resources can help you attract and retain clients, ultimately growing your business. Flexibility Lastly, consider the flexibility that the agency offers. In a world where remote work is becoming increasingly popular, a good travel agent website will have features enabling you to work from anywhere, anytime. This flexibility lets you maintain a healthy work-life balance while serving your clients effectively. Harnessing The Power Of A Travel Agent Website: Concluding Thoughts In conclusion, when looking for a job at a travel agency, consider these factors: exclusive access to deals, commission earnings, professional development opportunities, a supportive network, reputation, training, resources, and flexibility. By paying attention to these elements, you'll be well-positioned to find an agency that aligns with your career goals and meets your personal needs. Remember, a well-structured travel agent website benefits not only the clients but also the travel agents who use it daily to provide exceptional service. We hope this information has been helpful, and thanks so much for reading. Read Also: Brighton Bliss: Crafting Your Perfect Coastal Getaway Itinerary Hidden Gems: Unearthing The Best Things To Do In Nottingham Things To Do In Leeds: Dive Into The Dynamic Heart Of Yorkshire

BY  Mashum Oct 11, 2021

The best part of Wiscon is its national parks that are fantastic looking. We hope you want to visit the best gardens. Every year so many tourists come to see the national parks. So, no more waiting to visit the parks. Not only national parks, here you will have state parks as well. National parks in Wisconsin are few that you can visit. But the view and adventure that you will receive is nothing less than visiting paradise. Let us discover the parks in new ways.  Famous National Parks In Wisconsin The adventurous parks of Wisconsin are famous all over the world. So, without wasting any time let’s talk about the best 4 Wisconsin national parks that are listed below.  1. St Croix National Scenic Riverway In the St Croix national park, you will have a realistic view. There is a clear river that goes in its way. The water of the river is apparent and will look excellent. Both sides of the river will cover you up by a deep forest. So, it has a delightful view.  2. North Country National Scenic Trail It is one of the best national parks in Wisconsin. The greenery is stunning that you will have here. This trail is coming from Minnesota and going through the northern part of Wisconsin.  The Exact area is approximately 4000 miles and also connects the state forests of Wisconsin. 3. Apostle Island National Lakeshore In Wisconsin, Apostle is a very thriving national park that is an Island with longer than 12 miles. This park is purely natural and for that people come to visit most of the time. One another interesting thing is that there are more than 200 breeds of singing birds.  That is why the soothing music of nature will give you a charm. Some of the parts of the island have taken the shape of sea caves. That is also amazing. Go and visit the best national parks in Wisconsin. 4. Ice Age National Scenic Trail Ice age national park is an old park that once filled with the glacier. But now, This has become a national park. But the old signs are still there to make people remember the ancient times. Now the trail has become longer than 10 miles. All you can see here are tunnels, forests, caves, waterfalls, and rivers. So visit the national parks in Wisconsin. But before that, take our guidance that may mark you safe.  Guidance For Visiting The National Parks In Wisconsin The natural parks in Wisconsin have many adventures. That is why you have to know them in detail, and else you can face some troubles. No, there will be nothing scary, but you can feel uncomfortable if you are new to this adventure.  There will be many birds, fishes, and other animals. You have to behave in a friendly manner. Only then will you enjoy the view.  1. Hiking Guide To see the national parks, you have to choose only one park that you will visit. To travel the whole park may take a long time. You put enough food along with you so that you can have any time you want. The journey will be good if you take some dry food to feed the animals and fishes. Hiking is a part of having a heart day with nature. So, make sure that you will set your mind to enjoy yourself. 2. River Rafting River rafting is one of the best parts of hiking the trails. In St Croix National Scenic Riverway, the authority offers the travelers to go with a boat. So, this can be one of the best options if you look at the scenery sitting on a vessel.  With your choice, you can visit, and even you can play on the boat. When you are traveling through the beat, you will see various fishes moving around the water. So, it is a very extraordinary journey if you are going to see them. 3. Horse Riding Horse riding is so adventurous that you can do it by visiting the national parks in Wisconsin. Those who do not know them controlling the horse can be difficult. That is why they sent a horse driver with you, that will guide you properly. During horse driving, you can have pictures with the horse. Now, if you are feeling excited, go horse riding. By sitting on the horse’s back, we will visit the scene. 4. Bird Watching The national parks are made up naturally so that you can see the various breeds of birds. There are rare birds and bees as well that are very high in price. There is a cage where you have to sit, and through a looking glass, you will see the birds.  The visit will be a fantastic experience if you are willing to go to watch coloring birds. If you extend your hand with peas, you will see birds eating peas from your writing.  Read Also: Best National Parks In Hawaii 5. Forest Camping Forest camping will be best if you visit with your friends. Because in the forest, you can not be alone. There is no light, and you have to eat the fish you will catch from the river. Roasting fish is the dinner that you will get there but, you have to prepare them for yourself. Now see, such an adventure you are going to have soon. You can make a tent and stay within it in the middle of the grove. 6. Haunting Haunting is the most adventurous thing to do globally, Though every time, the national park authority does not allow it to haunt. Killing animals is not a marvelous thing. Still, if you have a wish of haunting, you can do it only for eating. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is the most visited park in Wisconsin? Devils Lake is the most visited state park and also the third oldest. There are many reasons to visit the lake. You will find it out once you visit.  Is the Ice Age Trail open in Wisconsin? More than 600 miles are open. The completed sections are connected by the less-traveled roads with the Trails. How long is the Ice Age Scenic Trail? It’s about 1, 200 miles long. Is hunting allowed on the Ice Age Trail? Yes, it is. It starts from November 15 to December 15 and April 1st. The Final Thoughts  So, follow the guidance and try not to break the natural environment. Animals, birds, snakes, fishes, and creatures. This adventurous place is for ultimate enjoyment. So, do visit the national parks in Wisconsin and make a memory. There are many state parks also, but these are the best national natural parks.  So, stay tuned with the Tour and Travel Blog and visit the best national parks in the United States. If you have any questions you can comment on the below comment box and share your experience with us.  You May Also Like:  A Guide To National Parks In Georgia 10 Best Things To Do In San Diego (USA) Top 8 List Of National Parks In North Carolina