Travel To Florence: What To Do In The Evenings In The City

BY  Abdul Aziz Aug 11, 2023

All aboard, travelers! If you're looking forward to a scenic and relaxed journey on the rails, it's essential to know some key train travel packing tips. They’ll make your trip a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Whether you're taking off on an exciting transcontinental adventure or just a weekend getaway, preparation is key. The right packing and planning can set the tone for a smooth ride. So, review these essential packing tips and must-haves for your next train travel adventure. Train Travel Packing Tips 1. Bring A Spacious Single Carry-On When selecting luggage, your best bet is a spacious carry-on bag. They're ideal for day trips and even those train travel packages that span a week or two. Choose a bag specifically designed for travel. It often has waterproof material and anti-theft features to protect your things inside as you focus on your trip. If you need more room for your belongings, a lightweight wheeled bag is an excellent alternative. Not only is it easy to maneuver, but it’ll also fit into the usually constrained compartments of many trains. Packing light becomes crucial here since space on trains isn't as generous as in planes. 2. Use Organisational Packing Cubes As a traveler's best friend, packing cubes help you organize your belongings. Organizing your belongings into various compartments allows you to easily locate what you need without turning your bag upside down.  Get cubes in varying sizes to fit everything from large pieces of clothing to socks and undies. Not only will these organizers save you time, but they’ll also keep your packing tidy throughout your journey. 3. Pack Clothing You Can Layer Understanding the weather and climate of your train route is vital, even if you'll be inside the train for the most part. Packing layered clothing allows for easy adjustments to fluctuating temperatures. Start with light layers and add warmth as needed. That way, unexpected weather changes won't catch you off guard. 4. Consider Bringing Multi-Purpose Items The more versatile the items in your luggage, the lighter you can pack. Think of multi-purpose garments or accessories that can serve more than one function. Bringing along a scarf that can double as a blanket, for example, saves you the need to pack too much. Now that you know how to pack effectively for your trips, check out what you need to bring for your worry-free journey via train. Train Travel Must-Haves A. Travel Documents Remember to have your necessary travel documents like tickets, identification, and any required visas at hand. A small document holder can make managing these essentials a breeze.  Failing to bring your documents could delay your trip or deny you entry on the train. Before you leave for the train, double-check these items first and last to ensure you won't forget anything. B. Personal Toiletries Some trains may provide complementary toiletry kits, but it's always a good idea to bring your own, just in case. A small toiletry bag with travel-size items like toothpaste and face wash can keep you fresh and clean during the journey. Why not pack multi-purpose toiletries like petroleum jelly or moisturizer with SPF to save more space in your kit? These items can help you pack more efficiently. Consider transferring the contents into tiny travel bottles to avoid bringing the larger original containers with you. C. Sleeping Kit For overnight journeys, a sleeping kit including a blanket, sleeping mask, ear plugs, and neck pillow will make your trip more restful. Investing in a compact set ensures comfort without taking up too much room. Pack these items together in one compartment to grab them easily before sleeping. D. Insulated Water Bottle And Snacks Even if the train offers fresh food and beverages to first-class and economy passengers, it won't hurt to bring your own for the trip. An insulated water bottle will keep your drinks at the right temperature, and snacks will fill your stomach between meals. Store your food in resealable pouches to keep the contents from spilling out and making a mess. E. Electronics And Entertainment Don't forget your charger, headphones, and favourite book or e-reader. A relaxing train journey is perfect for unwinding with a good read or movie. If possible, store your electronics, phone, and wallet in the same small bag, as these items are often considered valuables. F. Portable Clothesline A portable clothesline can be handy if you plan to freshen up some clothes during extended travel. It's light, practical, and easy to use. This train travel must-have is ideal for drying wet towels or using it as a makeshift bunk divider. Though, remember to ask for permission first before using it. G. Rubbish Bag The train may have several rubbish bins you can walk over to, but there'll be times when you just want to remain seated. A small rubbish bag comes in handy for these occasions since all you need to do is take it out and toss your waste inside. It helps keep your space clean and organized during long-haul journeys, whether luxury travels or trips planned at the last minute. Conclusion Embarking on a train journey doesn't need to be a puzzle. By following these train travel packing tips, you can have a stress-free ride anytime. From versatile carry-on choices to must-have comfort items, thoughtful planning makes all the difference. So, grab your ticket, pack wisely, and enjoy the scenic vistas through the window. The train route is waiting, and your seat is reserved!

BY  Sibashree Aug 12, 2024

Gates of the Arctic National Park is where the Brooks Range and the Tundra landscape come to life with wilderness and vivid topography. This national park is a place of topographical diversity with the coexistence of mountains, glaciers, rivers, lakes, and marshy lands.  A home to nomadic people for more than 13,000 years, the Gates of the Arctic is a prominent example of how human lives can be dependent on wilderness or nature. Many visitors love backpacking and trekking in this national park. Further, many stay in camps in the backcountry to experience its rich wildlife despite the challenges. Do you want to know why camping in the backcountry is worth the hardship? Does the national park have camping sites? Find the answers to all your questions in this guide.  Knowing The Gates Of The Arctic National Park (Why Camping Here Is A Great Experience) The Gates Of The Arctic National Park is a paradise for wilderness travelers. The intriguing land of Tundra, embraced by jungles, mountains, and rivers, makes camping in the backcountry worth all the effort.  Gates Of The Arctic Geography You can explore the arctic geography of this national park by trekking or by air. Tundra peaks and the Schwatka Mountains region of the Brooks Range ensure a humbling experience. You trek to Mount Igikpak, a glacier-carved peak with an 8,510-foot elevation. Another mountain to have glaciers in this region is Mount Arrigetch. Even backpacking and trekking to Mount Doonerak have a distinct charm, as the mountain is the quintessence of wilderness and unadulterated beauty.  Further, this national park has six designated wild rivers. Those are: Alatna River John River Kobuk River Noatak River North Fork of the Koyukuk River Tinayguk River Alatna and Noatak are great for canoeing. If you want more adventurous pursuits, you can try rafting in Nigu (to the north) and Kobuk (to the west).  Gates Of The Arctic Wildlife  The Gates of the Arctic is home to many mammals and birds. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game says,   “Forested southern foothills rise to limestone and granite peaks more than 7,000 feet high in this remote wilderness park. North of the peaks, clear water rivers run through glacier-carved valleys; and Tundra, covered with wildflowers during the brief northern summer, stretches toward the Arctic Ocean. Many of the nearly 500,000 member Western Arctic caribou herd migrate through the park each fall. Brown and black bear, wolf, Dall sheep, lynx, moose, wolverine, and red fox live here year-round. In the spring, the park hosts migratory birds from Europe, South America, Asia, tropical archipelagos, and the continental U.S.” Other animals found in this national park are grizzly bears, Dall sheep, and musk oxen. Among the birds, Tundra swans, common loons, and golden eagles are the most common.  Further, if you enjoy the playfulness of aquatic animals, watch out for graylings, trouts, sheefish and salmon.  Gates Of The Arctic And Human History  The Gates of the Arctic is a prominent place for archaeological research. The study and interpretations of the museum collections depict how people have been surviving in the Brooks Range for around 13000 years now.  Along with Inupiat, Nunamiut, and Athapaskan descendants, you will also find many non-native Alaskan people in this region. These people have always been dependent on fishing and hunting. The wilderness of the Gates of the Arctic is the foundation of their livelihood.  What Is The Best Camping Near Gates Of The Arctic National Park? With marshy lands and tussocks, Arctic Tundra has a vulnerable landscape and it is difficult to find a steady spot for setting up camps or tents. Also, the existence of wildlife in a remote location and dense vegetation make the space unsuitable for camping.  So, there is NO CAMPING SITE in the Gates of the Arctic National Park. There are designated areas in the backcountry for camping. However, you will have to strictly adhere to the rules and regulations of the national park when putting up a tent.  You must also attend the orientation program and be particular about the gear, food, and safety essentials to be carried.  With permission from the park authority and the National Park Service, you can set up tents near the Arctic Interagency Visitor Center in Coldfoot or around Wiseman and Bettles communities.  However, while camping in the backcountry, you will have to keep the following factors in mind.  Be respectful to the local communities like the Koyukon Athabascan Indians or Nunamiut. Their livelihood depends on the wilderness.  There are no provisions for running water, a dump station, or restrooms. Your phone network will be unavailable in this location. You have to carry all your trash back as you leave the camping site. You cannot adulterate the pristineness of the location.  If you have plans for camping in the backcountry near the Gates of the Arctic, summer is the best season. The temperature is a little moderate on these days, and sunnier days make all outdoor pursuits in the park easier for you.  Did You Know?  The Gates of the Arctic National Park is the second-largest national park in the USA. It stretches over 13,000 square miles. You can see aurora borealis from this park if you visit between November and March.  July and August are the best months to visit Gates of the Arctic National Park for hiking and backpacking.  Bob Marshall, a wilderness advocate, named this national park “Gates of the Arctic.” Final Words  Unlike popular national parks like the Biscayne National Park or the Kenai Fjords National Park, the Gates of the Arctic National Park does not have many visitors yearly. In 2023, only 11,045 tourists flocked to this place. (Source) With a diversity in topography and wildlife and an association with human history, this park has much to explore. However, the extreme trekking conditions and wilderness make it far from an easy excursion or trekking experience. Despite the absence of campgrounds in this park, you can camp in the backcountry at the designated spots in the fields. However, only an experienced backpacker should try it with proper orientation and extra safety measures. Have you ever been to this wild and intriguing national park? Do you have any camping experience in the backcountry? Don’t forget to share your experience with us!  Gates Of The Arctic National Park FAQs  Can You Camp In The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge? Only backcountry camping is possible in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The absence of roads, villages, or facilities makes this area unsuitable for having designated campsites. Backpacking and hiking are the best ways to explore this vast landscape with rich wildlife and geographical interests.  Can You Stay In Gates Of The Arctic National Park? You can stay or try backcountry camping near the Gates of the Arctic National Park. Undefined terrains, wilderness, and a lack of modern amenities make it risky to put up camps in the national park. Even to camp in the backcountry, you will need the highest outdoor survival skills. The arctic ecosystem, topography, and weather conditions are different, and if you are confident enough to stay in the backcountry, plan in advance and get in touch with the Park and Preserve authorities for updates and advisories.  How Much Does It Cost To Visit The Gates Of The Arctic National Park? You don’t have to pay entry fees to visit the Gates of The Arctic National Park. However, you must attend the backcountry orientation program at any of the visitor centers.  In this way, the Gates of The Arctic National Park is different from other national parks as most of them demand an entrance fee.  How Difficult Is It To Get To The Gates Of The Arctic National Park? The Gates of the Arctic is a wilderness park. So, as you enter the park, hiking is the best way to explore. Remember, it is home to the Schwatka Mountains region of the Brooks Range and the highest peak here is Mount Igikpak with an 8,510-foot elevation.  So, exploring the national park is not going to be a cakewalk. A lack of established trails further makes hiking difficult.  Further, there are six designated rivers, including Koyukuk and Dietrich, in this national park. So, you will have to pass through multiple meandering river crossings. The water levels of these rivers keep fluctuating throughout the season. They are furious throughout the spring season. Tussocks, marshy lands and dense vegetation are other hurdles to your fast movement while trekking.  Do you want to visit the backcountry? You can take a bush plane operated by permitted pilots with knowledge of the region.  What Is Special About Gates Of The Arctic? The Gates of the Arctic is special because of its geographical uniqueness, rich wildlife, and significance in human history. The glacier-carved valleys, rivers, and ancient trails make the Gates Of The Arctic a favorite destination for backpacking and hiking. Thanks to its geographical typicalness, you will meet many animals and birds. The adorable grizzly bears will be seen feeding, and the musk oxen are another unique animal you must watch out for. If you are a birder, you will love watching the golden eagles, Tundra swans, or common loons.  Near the Nigu River or throughout the park, you will find stone fences and camping rings. These are a testament to how Inland Eskimos or Nunamiut have lived in this region for thousands of years. They survived on fishing and hunting.  In addition, as I pen this guide, I must tell you that the Gates Of The Arctic National Park is going to celebrate its 45th anniversary of designation next year. First, it became a national monument on 1st December 1978. In 1980, it became a national park and preserve. Also read Italy: Is Florence flat or hilly? Ultimate Guide to Your Next Family Vacation in Israel. The Glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park: Experience The Magnificence Of Nature.

BY  Sibashree Sep 5, 2024

The Lassen Volcanic National Park is an underrated hub of geothermal wonders and intriguing landscapes. Endless trails in the park and the rugged beauty make it a favorite of hikers and campers. Do you also want to know where to stay near Lassen Volcanic National Park?   This national park has limited lodging options. However, if you are into outdoor pursuits and want to make the most of this national park, the home to the largest plug dome volcano in the world, camping and glamping are the best options for you.   This park has a combination of basic and developed campgrounds. Further, you can try backcountry camping to encounter the wilderness. Are you in for the fun?  Pack your bags, and find the most adventurous accommodation near Lassen Volcanic Park.   Where To Stay Near Lassen Volcanic National Park?   Drakesbad Guest Ranch and Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins are two of the most comfortable options for anyone looking for where to stay near Lassen Volcanic National Park. Further, Drakesbad Guest Ranch is the only “hotel-like” lodging facility.  However, Drakesbad Guest Ranch will remain closed throughout 2024. It is still under recovery after the rampage of the 2021 Dixie Fire breakout.   At the same time, the Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins only remain open from late May to mid-October. So, camping and glamping are the best options if you want to stay near Lassen Volcanic National Park.   Camping Near Lassen Volcanic National Park  Among the seven campgrounds in the Lassen Volcanic National Park, only four will remain open in 2024. Also, the remaining four are undergoing recovery work, and hence, they are not suitable for lodging or camping.   The table below shows a list of camping sites in the Lassen Volcanic National Park and their availability for the season. It’s time to know where to stay near Lassen Volcanic National Park.   Name of the Camping Site  Availability  Butte Lake Single Sites Group Sites Stock Corral Juniper Lake Closed for 2024 Lost Creek Group Open Manzanita Lake Single Sites Camping Cabins Summit Lake North Sites South Sites Southwest Campground Southwest Parking Warner Valley Closed for 2024.   Before you choose a campground for you, you must focus on the kind of activity you want to explore. For example, if you want to enjoy the best amenities, kayaking, and take a rejuvenating shower, the Manzanita Lake campground will be the best for you.   Further, if you want to enjoy the best hydrothermal activities and are a recluse by nature, the Warner Valley Campground will be an excellent pick for you. Also, the Southwest Campground is the only campground that remains open throughout the year.   Amenities Available At Lassen Volcanic Park Camping Sites   You can divide the amenities available for Lassen Volcanic Park camping into four categories. So, let’s have a look at the chart below to learn about the amenities in detail.  Amenities & Services  Availability  Campsite Picnic Table Fire Ring Bear-Resistant Storage Locker Hard-Sided Vehicle Campground Spigots (Except Juniper Lake) Drinking Water Sinks (Except Juniper Lake) Flush Toilets Utility Sinks for Dish Washing Trash Receptacles/Recyclables  Camper (Manzanita Lake Area) Laundromat Showers Food Supplies Souvenirs from Mid-May through Mid-October Dump Station Accessibility (Manzanita Lake A32 and B9, Butte Lake A6, and North Summit Lake A-1) Wheelchair Restrooms   You can get additional camping services at Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center near the Southwest Campground. Here, you will find camping services, food, and souvenirs.   Further, you can get laundromat and shower facilities in the Warner Valley Areas and Juniper Lake from the town of Chester.   Backcountry Camping Near Lassen Volcanic Park   The major part of the Lassen Volcanic Park  is a “designated wilderness.” You will need a wilderness permit to camp in these locations. Further, you will have to follow the “Leave no Trace Principles” to minimize human impact on these camping grounds and keep their natural conditions unadulterated.   Under these “Leave No Trace” principles, you must ensure that:  You need to do advanced and detailed planning for the backcountry camping.  Also, traveling and camping are only allowed on surfaces that are durable.  You must dispose of your waste properly.  You cannot litter.  Avoid touching historical statues and artifacts.  Ensure that the campfires you lit have minimized impacts.  Be respectful to wildlife.  Respect other visitors.  Along with adhering to these Leave No Trace Principles, you will also have to abide by the backcountry camping rules and regulations.   If you are carrying firearms or weapons, you will have to carry the California Concealed Weapons Permit. You cannot hunt or use Bear Spray in this park.  You can use a bear-resistant storage container to keep these wild animals at bay. Moreover, you cannot use a woodfire, bicycles, or pets for backcountry camping. Also, keep your group smaller (less than 10 people) to get permission for backcountry camping.   Glamping Near Lassen National Park    With changing amenities, camping near Lassen National Park has become more glamorous. There has been a new concept of glamping. It allows you to encounter wilderness with all the amenities indoors.   Let’s have a look at the glamping accommodations available.   Little House In The Big Woods   This is a humble 5-acre glamping accommodation for people who want to know where to stay near Lassen Volcanic National Park. This glamping station has potable water, toilets, and camping facilities.   The tariff here starts from $99 per night.   Camp Almanor At Big Springs   https://www.instagram.com/p/CrCmRT-r2Y0/ Camp Almanor at Big Springs is one of the most luxurious accommodations where your pets can accompany you. As the name suggests, you can cherish the pristine beauty of Lake Almanor from this camp. Further, it has toilets and potable water facilities.  However, the rent for this glamping accommodation is quite high, and the tariff starts from $175 per night.   Camp Becausewecan  In Quincy, California, it is one of the pet-friendly glamping accommodations near Lassen Volcanic Park. Further, this 17-acre private property also has amenities like campfires and potable water.   The rent for this accommodation starts from $40 per night.   Story Creekside Retreat   It is one of the most reasonable glamping accommodations near Lassen Volcanic Park. The best thing about this accommodation is that it has Warner Creek running through it.   It is a pet-friendly glamping site, with a tariff starting from $25 per night.   Final Words   Is there anything else you want to know about where to stay near Lassen Volcanic National Park? Put up a camp or try glamping to make the most of this national park, boasting unique hydrothermal features.   You will find all four types of volcanoes here. Also, meadows, forests, and mountain lakes will present the most versatile landscape in front of you.   So, get ready to admire the rugged beauty of the park during the daytime and its tranquil beauty at night. Once you come back, don’t forget to share your camping experience with us!   Where To Stay Near Lassen Volcanic National Park (FAQs)  Can You Camp Free In Lassen Volcanic National Park?   No, you cannot camp free in Lassen Volcanic National Park. You will have to pay around $1 to $21 to put up camps at any of the chosen campgrounds. Dry campgrounds without basic amenities like water or flushing toilets come at a cheaper rate.  However, if you are looking for free campsites, you must explore the dispersed camping options at the Lassen National Forest.   These camping sites do not offer standard amenities. Further, you must adhere to the “No Trace Policy” while leaving the campsites.   How Long Should You Stay At Lassen Volcanic Park?   You can stay from one to three days in Lassen Volcanic Park based on what kind of trekker or explorer you are. However, if you want to minutely observe the diverse landscape of the park, the entire expedition may take you around a week.   On the first day, you can try hiking on the Bumpass Hell Trail. You will encounter various hydrothermal activities on this trail, which is the largest geothermal area in the park. The geothermal water here is green or emerald blue in color. Further, the rocks and soil here have orange or yellow colors because of the minerals present in the hydrothermal water.  On the second day, you can visit Kings Creek Falls and enjoy an immersive experience at Lake Manzanita. In addition, you can reserve the night for some essential spiritual and psychological activities such as stargazing.  Are you a seasoned hiker? You can keep your third day in the park hiking the Lassen Peak Trail. Also, you can dedicate the 3rd day to know the exotic wildlife at this national park. Remember that it’s home to around 300 species of vertebrates.   Do You Need A Permit For Lassen Volcanic Park?   You will not need a permit to stay in the Lassen Volcanic Park, provided you are camping on the established campgrounds. Also, a permit is not required when you are hiking in the park.   However, if you have plans for backcountry camping, you will need a permit. To collect the wilderness permit, you will have to visit the recreation.gov website. It is the only channel for obtaining the wilderness permit.   Further, for the wilderness permit, you will have to pay a non-refundable amount of $6 as an administration fee to recreation.gov. Also, if you are over 16 years old, you will need to pay $5 for each trip.   Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. 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