Navigating The World: 6 Travel Tips For Women Hoping For A Comfortable Trip

BY Sibashree BhattacharyaSep 12, 2024

No, it’s not the battle of the Starks, Lannisters, and other houses of Westeros. In Canada lies Kootenay National Park, the actual land of ice and fire. The glacier-made canyons and valleys sing the song of the ice, while the hot springs and grasslands keep the “fire” element alive here.  Also, the national park is a hub of ancient fossils, encouraging walks through the fossil trails. Moreover, you can take a scenic drive through the park, rich in Indigenous culture, history, architecture, and cultural landscape.   So, do you want a virtual tour of this Canadian national park? THIS is where your journey begins! THESE Are The Things You Will Do At Kootenay National Park With no cell service available in Kootenay National Park, you can get lost in the wilderness and explore the most fascinating landscape. However, being respectful to the wildlife is a must for this national park. This August, I came across disturbing news while doing my research on Kootenay National Park.  I have been in touch with a local from Radium Hot Springs for quite some time now. He told me that a grizzly bear coming out of Kootenay National Park was almost struck by an SUV on 19th August 2024.  This incident occurred on a busy highway in southeastern British Columbia, and fortunately, the Kia Sportage SUV made its way to the other side safely. Further, it was a lesson on why following the safety guidelines is crucial while driving in and around the Kootenay National Park. On the major routes of Kootenay National Park, you will have to maintain a maximum speed of 56 mph.However, on the minor routes, the highest driving speed limit will be 37 mph.  Also, around one month before the incident, on 24th July 2024, there was a minor fire in the  Sinclair Canyon slopes (near Radium Hot Springs) of the national park. It was called the Berland Ridge wildfire. This fire was under control thanks to a helicopter bucketing water on it. However, outside the park’s southern boundary, there was a blazing fire that was brought under control after pain-stricken efforts.  So, these incidents show how mindful and cautious you need to be while taking part in the following activities.  Hiking In Kootenay National Park (Hikers’ Favorite Trails) The hiking trails in Kootenay National Park are full of elevation gains and losses. Also, today, the national park has more than 70 hiking trails at easy, moderate, and difficult levels.  However, I have curated a few hiking trails in the table below. After interacting with a couple of hikers, I found out that these are the ones most preferred. Name of the Trail Difficulty LevelDistanceLocationHighlightsMarble CanyonEasy1.4 Km with 42 M Elevation Gain Located near Lake Louise, AlbertaHiking, snowshoeing, and running are the favorite activities here.It is a pet-friendly and kid-friendly trail. It is a year-long hiking trail. Stanley Glacier Trail Difficult 10.9 Km with 607 M Elevation Gain Located near Lake Louise, AlbertaSnowshoeing, camping, and hiking are popular activities on this trail.You can take your dog as a company.June to September is the best time to hike this trail. Sinclair Canyon via Juniper Trail Moderate5.8 Km with 291 M Elevation GainIt is close to Radium Hot Springs in British Columbia.You will have to hike through a beautiful cedar fir forest on this trail.The view of verdant Sinclair Canyon Falls and the Columbia Valley from this trail is breathtaking.Marble Canyon to Paint PotsModerate2.9 Km with 110 M Elevation GainRadium Hot Springs (Marble Canyon Parking Lot  - 89 km east of Radium Hot Springs, Paint Pots - 86 Km east of Radium Hot Springs).Explore a good mix of mature and burnt forest throughout the trail.Behold the Vermillion River running parallel to the trail. Floe LakeDifficult10.5 Km with 1,110 M Elevation Gain Near Radium Hot Springs (72 Km East)Backpacking and camping are popular activities on this trail. The trail leads to the Floe Lake Backcountry campground. This popular meadowy trail is known for its views of peaks, glaciers, and the beautiful Floe Lake. Numa CreeksModerate 6.3 Km with 385 M Elevation GainThe trailhead is near the Numa Falls, which is 80 Km east of the Radium Hot Springs. It is a forested trail.The trail leads to heavy avalanche paths in the park.  The hikers’ words about the trails in this national park are quite encouraging. Let’s find out what they are saying about the mesmerizing hiking trails.  “This is a beautiful, deep canyon hike. The trail crosses the canyon multiple times to view the ferocious Kootenay river below. Hiking boots aren't necessary since it is a well-traveled trail.” - Deborah Turcotte on the Marble Canyon Trail  “The trail was mostly dry and in very good condition. No snow on the trail, just a few short wet spots. Trek up is mostly sheltered but a bit chilly and windy in the bowl so bring layers as the temp changes quickly when the sun is behind clouds. Still lots of snow in the bowl. Found one rock with fossils. There are a few small waterfalls on Stanley Peak. Lots of boulders at the base of the bowl to sit and enjoy a lunch and 360 views. An easy to moderate 3-4 hour hike with nice views of Stanley Peak, Storm Mtn, and the Kootenay Valley.” - Sue W on the Stanley Glacier Trail  Kootenay National Park Camping  Kootenay National Park is a wonderful place for frontcountry and backcountry camping. You can even live in oTENTiks and spend some unforgettable days in the park under the sky.  Frontcountry Camping You can camp near the Vermillion, Kootenay, and Simpson rivers. Also, you can find some quiet spots near Radium Hot Springs village.  Summer is the best season for front-country camping in the national park. However, the sites remain crowded. So, you must go for a prior booking.  Further, the daytime temperature in the national park remains between 16-23 degrees centigrade. Still, the temperature at night can drop below 0 degrees centigrade. So, abiding by the camping rules is crucial, and especially, be particular about the things you will have to carry. Moreover, like camping in any national park, here also you have to ensure that you don’t leave any trace behind as you leave the site.  Backcountry Camping Backcountry camping and backpacking are the best ways to explore the wilderness of this Canadian national park. However, you must make a prior booking and carry a backcountry permit if you want to spend some days and nights amidst grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, elks, and cougars.  Further, there are six backcountry camping grounds in the park, five of which are located along the  Rockwall Trail. The  Verdant Creek Trail has the sixth camping ground.  Random camping is not allowed during summer, as protecting the landscape and vegetation is crucial. This restriction applies from May to October.  However, in the winter months, you can do random camping in the designated areas. You will still need a permit for this. As I have mentioned, the Rockwall trail is the most prominent place for backcountry camping in the park. This site is also popular for the presence of various multi-day hiking trails. These trails are: Honeymoon Pass and Verdant Creek Tumbling - Floe The Rockwall  Tumbling - Helmet - Ochre Loop Numa Creek Helmet Creek and Falls Tumbling Creek Helmet - Ochre Junction In the popular backcountry camping areas, the trails are maintained quite well. Further, there will be amenities like food storage cables, food lockers, picnic tables, and tent pads.  Living in oTENTik An oTENTik is a modern fusion of a cabin and a tent. In the park, you will find the oTENTik site on the Redstreak campground’s A loop.  If you stay in an oTENTik, you will wake up amidst nature, and taking a bath at the hot springs will be the most rejuvenating experience. Then, you can explore the nearby hiking trails and gorge on traditional meals cooked in the campfire.  Relaxing At Radium Hot Springs  Beneath the colorful Sinclair Canyon mountains lie the most refreshing hot springs. Further, the mineral-rich water of the hot springs does not have any odor, and you can take a bath with your entire family.  To reach the Radium Hot Springs, you must drive from Banff and Lake Louise for around 1.5 hours. Further, the journey is as interesting as the destination, as you will get to small turquoise lakes, falls, canyons, and bridges over rivers as you drive through the Kootenay National Park. Also, don’t forget to stop at the following locations to make the most of your journey. Continental Divide (The line diving the Pacific and Atlantic watersheds) Marble Canyon Hike Paint Pots Trail Numa Falls Kootenay Valley Viewpoint (It is the place to get the most beautiful view of Vermilion and Mitchell Ranges.)  Olive Lake Trail and Day-Use Area However, the highlight of the journey, of course, is the Sinclair Canyon, where you will also find big horn sheep roaming. As you hike through the Juniper / Sinclair trail, you will get a “bird’s eye view” of Sinclair Canyon.  Further, as you enter the Radium Hot Springs village, you will see an iconic steel horn sculpture. The “Bighorns Public Art Sculpture” was officially unveiled on 7th April 2021. Moreover, Clara Reinhardt, the mayor of Radium in 2021, said,  “We chose something that implies a sense of arrival to Radium, the Columbia Valley, and beyond. We captured the undeniable natural beauty of the curved horns through a Fibonacci spiral—the golden ratio in nature and art.” “We wanted to create a piece of art that speaks to both the history and the future of bighorn sheep in Radium. We captured the undeniable natural beauty of the curved horns through a Fibonacci spiral—the golden ratio in nature and art.” - Adam Meikle (Artist of the Bighorns Public Art Sculpture) Burgess Shale Fossil Hike  The Burgess Shale Fossil Hike in the national park will give you access to Mount Stephen and Walcott Quarry. These are UNESCO Restricted Sites. Further, you will get to see some of the oldest fossils in the world here.  However, in total, you have three routes to explore in the Burgess Shale Fossil Hike. Let’s discuss them in detail.  Walcott Quarry Starting Point: Takakkaw Falls Difficulty Level: Difficult  Elevation Gain: 825 Meters Duration: 11 Hours Return Distance: 22 Kms Walcott Quarry is a classic example of a fossil hike. Also, the top view of the Emerald Lake from here is amazing. Further, you will find Burgess Shale creatures here, which were found in fossilized conditions at the mountaintop in the Yoho National Park.  “The Burgess Shale organisms lived 508 million years ago in a time period that Geologists call the Cambrian, which began at 541 Ma (million years ago) and ended by 485.4 Ma. The first fossil occurence of most animal lineages (at the phylum and class levels) occur in the Cambrian. As a result of this fact, and because the fossils are well preserved, Paleontologists studying the Burgess Shale fossils can deduce a great deal about the ancestory of animal lineages.” The Burgess Shale fossils were discovered at the Walcott Quarry site in 1909 by Charles Doolittle Walcott. 1 Mount Stephen Difficulty Level: Difficult  Elevation Gain: 795 Meters Duration: 7.5 Hours Return Distance: 9 Kms As you hike through the Mount Stephen trilobite beds, you will get to overlook the “town of Field” in British Columbia. Railway workers in the 1880s used to call the town of Field the space of “stone bugs.”  Further, during this trek, you will see trilobite fossils (now extinct and one of the earliest marine arthropods), and the view of the Kicking Horse River from the trail is amazing.  Stanley Glacier Difficulty: Moderate Return Distance: 10 km Elevation Gain: 385 m Duration: 7.5 hours You will start hiking the Stanley Glacier in a fire-swept forest. The forest has lodgepole pine and wildflowers. Further, along your route, you will get to see a turquoise river, waterfalls, and the best view of the Stanley Glacier. Moreover, you will get to see the fossils of hyolithids, sponges, trilobites, and sponges here, and they are from the Eldon Formation.  Cambroraster, an ancient arthropod, and many other species are found in the quarry near the Stanley Glacier. Further, the shell of a Cambroraster looks like the Millennium Falcon spaceship in its shape. Important Kootenay National Park Data At A Glance  Before you start for the Kootenay National Park, don’t forget to have a look at the stats. Location: British Columbia, Canada Established: 21st April, 1920 Area: 1,406 km² Highest Landscape: Deltaform Mountain (3,102 m) Designation: UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 (As Part of the “Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks ) Visitor Center: Kootenay National Park Visitor Centre (7556 Main Street East; Radium Hot Springs, B.C.) How to Reach: Via Highway 1 from Banff, AB or Calgary, AB/Via Highway 95 at Radium Hot Springs, BC 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.

BY Abdul Aziz MondalApr 21, 2023

For those who love traveling but have limited funds, going on an amazing trip on a budget is more than possible. Don't settle for staying in rundown hostels or sacrificing experiences to save cash. Research and creativity go a long way. The possibilities are endless if you're willing to put in some effort. From Couchsurfing to booking flights during off-peak travel, there are many ways to make your dream trip happen without breaking the bank. Instead of relying on expensive sightseeing tours, explore the local area on foot or by public transport. Whether backpacking through Southeast Asia, road-tripping in the US, or exploring Europe by train, a budget-friendly trip can still be filled with unforgettable moments and experiences. Here Are The 5 Things You Can Carry For An Amazing Trip On A Budget Traveling on a budget does not mean compromising on the experiences you can have. Whether going on a weekend getaway, an extended vacation, or backpacking, you can still have an amazing time without breaking the bank. Here are 5 things you can carry for an amazing trip on a budget: 1. Reusable Water Bottle If you're seeking an affordable way to hydrate on your next trip, consider bringing a reusable water bottle. With the emphasis on sustainability and reducing plastic waste, many destinations now have refill stations and fountains readily available. Not only will you cut down on single-use plastics, but you'll also save money by not buying expensive bottled water or sodas. Reusable bottles come in various sizes and shapes, perfect for any adventure. From hiking trails to theme parks, there's a bottle out there to fit your needs. So, do your wallet and the environment a favor and grab a reusable water bottle before your next journey. 2. Portable Charger A reliable portable charger is one of the most important things you should take on your trip. It can keep your electronic devices charged and ready to use and save you the hassle and expense of constantly searching for available power outlets. Portable chargers come in various sizes, from small, lightweight models perfect for backpacking to larger chargers that can keep your devices powered all day. Don't let a dead battery limit your adventure; invest in a portable charger and easily travel on a budget. 3. Packing Cubes If you're organizing a trip and want to stay organized and within budget, packing cubes are a must-have item. These handy storage units will do packing and unpacking a breeze, allowing you to fit more items into your luggage than you could without them. You can easily separate your clothing into different cubes, keeping your clean and dirty clothes separate or separating items by color, type, or weight. This will keep your items organized in transit and simplify your packing and unpacking experience, as you won't have to search through a jumbled mess of clothes to find what you need. Best of all, packing cubes are a budget-friendly investment allowing you to travel quickly and comfortably on any trip. 4. THC Vape Pen If you're looking for an affordable way to enhance your next adventure, consider bringing a THC vape pen. These devices are compact, discreet, and easy to use, making them perfect for travelers who want a convenient way to enjoy the benefits of THC without the hassle of more traditional methods like smoking. Plus, with many available options, you can easily find a pen that fits your budget and your preferences. Imagine taking a hike through a picturesque mountain range or lounging on a sunny beach, all while enjoying the relaxing effects of THC. With a THC vape pen, you can make your trip even more memorable without breaking the bank. Not only is vaping discreet and easy to use, but it also allows you to experience THC's effects without the hassle of smoking or eating an edible. Plus, its compact size and portable design make it the ideal travel companion. 5. Local Maps And Guidebooks When planning a trip, having local maps and guidebooks on hand is always a good idea. Not only will they help you navigate unfamiliar territory, but they can also provide valuable insight into the culture and history of the area. Plus, carrying these items with you can save money on tours and other activities offered by commercial companies. Local maps and guidebooks often feature lesser-known attractions and activities that can be as fun and interesting as usual tourist spots without a high price tag. So before heading out on your next adventure, pack some valuable resources to enhance your experience and save cash. Factors To Consider When Planning An Amazing Trip On A Budget When planning an amazing trip on a budget, there are a few key factors to consider that can make a big difference in your overall experience. First and foremost, it's important to be flexible with your travel dates and destination. This allows you to take advantage of deals and discounts on flights and accommodations. It's also good to research before booking to find the best time to visit your chosen destination, as prices can vary greatly depending on the season. Other factors to consider include opting for alternative accommodations such as hostels, vacation rentals, or camping and choosing affordable food options like local markets or street vendors. With some planning and flexibility, it's possible to have an amazing trip without breaking the bank. Final Words Embarking on an exciting adventure doesn't mean you have to break the bank. There are plenty of things you can bring along with you to make your trip memorable without having to empty your pockets. When packing for a budget-friendly excursion, it's important to remember what items will provide the most value for your money. These are just a few essential things you can carry to make the most of your budget trip. By being smart and resourceful, you can have an amazing time without breaking the bank. Happy travels! Also Check 9 Tips On How To Make The Most Of Your Wildlife Travel The Ultimate Guide to Travel Without Spending Money

BY Abdul Aziz MondalDec 1, 2023

Exeter is Devon's capital and a small, historic university town. It is one of the oldest settlements in all of England because of its rich history. Therefore this also means that there are lots of enjoyable and thrilling activities available for all age groups and price ranges. This is your comprehensive guide to Exeter's top attractions. If you want to know about the things to do in Exeter, we have a guide. Exeter is an ideal weekend getaway because it offers a wealth of history to discover, a fantastic food scene that is inspired by the local produce made in the South West, and a convenient gateway to the rest of Devon. There's always something going on in Exeter throughout the year, whether you want to stay for a week or just a weekend. Thing To Do In Exeter travel-assets.com Exeter is a great city to explore because there are a ton of interesting hidden spots to discover. These are a few of our favorites that will entice you to travel to Exeter by coach and find some hidden treasures of your own. The most well-known features of Exeter, the county seat of Devon, are its stunning canal that leads to the sea and its Gothic-styled Norman Cathedral. Exeter is renowned for its extensive history, which predates the Romans. The city is still filled with historical artifacts from the past, such as numerous Roman and medieval structures. Food And Cuisine Image Source Naturally, the first thing that everyone needs to know is where to get the best food and drink. Thus, why not address both at one location? The Fat Pig is a classic, welcoming pub with a rotating menu of seasonal specialties and gastropub favorites. And if that wasn't enough, you can pair your meal with an enormous selection of beers, spirits, and anything else that piques your interest! Foodies will love it together. On the other hand, Rendezvous Wine Bar provides a delectable assortment of wines from around the world, all unified by a rustic yet elegant look and feel, if you're searching for a quiet place to end your evening. A perfect place to spend time with loved ones, friends, or for a late-night drink. You'll need to rest your legs after all that walking, and where better to do so than at one of Exeter's best-kept secrets? Bright and airy, Caffe Espresso offers a wide selection of mouthwatering pastries, mouthwatering lunch options, and of course, excellent coffee. But what makes it unique is a specific table upstairs by the window with a view of Exeter Castle. It's a great place to talk over a plate of something delicious and a steaming mug. Witness The Inspiration Behind Harry Potter thirdeyetraveller.com Since J.K. Rowling attended Exeter University as an undergraduate, her novels have been influenced by the city, which is evident in many parts of the city. This is quite possibly the best thing to do in Exeter for a Harry Potter fan. For instance, Gandy Street is definitely worth exploring because it's home to many interesting and quirky stores and is rumored to have served as the model for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter novels. Somewhere in the city, a door on Cathedral Green is believed to have served as the model for the Room of Requirement Door, and the Firehouse across town might have served as the model for the fictional "Leakey Cauldron." In any case, you can count on the greatest (and biggest) pizzas in Devon when you visit the Firehouse! Shopping wikimedia.org Ultimately, you must do a little souvenir shopping before leaving Exeter, right? The city is full of fantastic independent stores that offer a wide variety of one-of-a-kind goods for you to purchase. Shopping is undoubtedly the best thing to do in Exeter. Pretty gift and home decor shop Georgie & Flo has a great selection of jewelry, candles, ceramics, and other items. Till your next visit, Roly's Fudge, a wonderful family-run fudge company, and Exeter Gin, the city's premium gin manufacturer, should satisfy your taste buds. Go For A Walk tripadvisor.com Spend a tranquil afternoon strolling along the River Exe and discovering your own little treasures. Belle Isle Park and other more serene spots are located downstream from the bustling Exeter Quay area, which serves as a starting point. Not in the mood to go it alone? Exeter actually offers 16 free walking tours, which few people are aware of. Red Coat Guided Tours are an excellent way to discover the culture of the city, including stops at odd locations, historical sites, maritime areas, and more. Visit The Exeter Quay tripadvisor.com Known as "Exeter quayside," Exeter Quay was originally utilized as a port in prehistoric times. Located next to the River Exe, the waterway that gives Exeter its name, rail had largely replaced commercial shipping here by the 19th century. One of the last of its kind to remain in service in the UK to this day is the hand-operated "Butts Ferry." The historic quayside is now only ten minutes' walk downhill from the city center. If you are into ferrying, add this to your list of things to do in Exeter. Once you arrive, you'll think you've completely left the city behind and are in a serene haven full of quirky cafés and antique stores. When night falls, the area is bustling with nightclubs and bars, making it the ideal spot to have dinner by the water with friends. There are also canoe and dragon boat races held here on occasion throughout the year. Strolling alongside the lovely river, which eventually meanders out to sea, is one of the most tranquil activities Exeter has to offer. Wrapping Up Naturally, the first thing that everyone needs to know is where to get the best food and drink. Thus, why not address both at one location? The Fat Pig is a classic, cozy pub with a rotating menu of seasonal specialties and gastro-pub favorites. And if that wasn't enough, you can pair your meal with an enormous selection of beers, spirits, and anything else that piques your interest in flavor! Foodies will love it together. On the other hand, Rendezvous Wine Bar provides a delectable assortment of wines from around the world, all unified by a rustic yet elegant look and feel, if you're searching for a quiet place to end your evening. A perfect place to spend time with loved ones, friends, or for a late-night drink. If you have thoughts to share or question to ask about things to do in Exeter, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Things To Do In Leeds: Dive Into The Dynamic Heart Of Yorkshire Hidden Gems: Unearthing The Best Things To Do In Nottingham Unforgettable Island Adventures: Things To Do In Tenerife