Travelocity Review- Login, Services, And Travel Experiences

BY  Sibashree Sep 30, 2024

With curiosity being the primary driving force of dark tourism, it has often taken us to the places of macabre. Further, its association with the eagerness to know about human tragedies and pay respect to war heroes leads our path to war memorials and historic places. The USA has no dearth of such sites thanks to the massive impact of the Cold War and nuclear testing or deployment. Also, the country had ED Gein and many other barbaric serial killers of recent times. So, it is no wonder that with a 1.5% expected CAGR between 2024 and 2034, it is one of the topmost countries in dark tourism. The sites for dark tourism in USA are countless, covering almost all aspects, such as thanatourism, ghost tourism, warfare tourism, disaster tourism, etc. Here, I have picked places like Alcatraz Island, Alcatraz Prison, and Ed Gein’s Farm Houses that will offer you the most unusual experience. So, it’s time to be a dark tourist in the USA! THESE Are The Best Dark Tourism In USA Destinations  The USA has probably experienced the most significant human tragedy in the 21st century. It was 11th September 2001, and the hijacked Flight 11 and Flight 175 struck the Twin Towers, taking the lives of 2977 people.  The 9/11 Memorial & Museum was built after 11 years of this devastating incident. It was a tribute to the survivors of the 9/11 attack and the terrorist attacks of 26h February 1993. It also marked the anniversary of the end of the recovery and rescue work of the 9/11 devastation.  Today, it is one of the biggest draws for dark tourism in the USA. But what about the other sites that are drenched in tragedy, paranormal acts, history, and more? Let’s explore them! 1. Alcatraz Island And Alcatraz Prison Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, or Alcatraz Prison, was one of the most infamous prisons in the history of America. It was located on Alcatraz Island in the San Francisco Bay of California.  Alcatraz Prison, or Alcatraz Island, goes into the history of American criminal justice thanks to its association with famous criminals and their attempts to escape the most secure walls. Today, the prison, preserved for tourists, gives you an overview of the lives of the guards and inmates. This Is Why Alcatraz Prison Is A Famous Tourist Destination  Operating as a Federal Prison from 1934 to 63, Alcatraz Prison had inmates like Machine Gun Kelly and Al Capone. Further, the prison was famous as “The Rock” because of its impeccable construction and security measures. Even after the stringent security measures, there were many escape attempts to go beyond the walls. The Anglin Brothers and Frank Morris managed to escape the prison. However, what happened to them afterward is still a mystery.  Moreover, Alcatraz Island tells tales from the 19th century when it functioned as a military fort. In the late 1960s, the Native American activists used Alcatraz Island as their base to be vocal about the rights and cultural preservations of the Native Americans.  2. Salem On the North Shore of Massachusetts, Salem is a place of witch trials, historical architecture, and mystical intrigue for the modern followers of Paganism and the Wiccan Community. The air here is heavy with the cry of the women being executed in the infamous Witch Trial of 1692. Further, the cobblestone street and historical structures scream about injustice, paranoia, supernatural practices, and more. The museums and preserved sites here offer an immersive experience, especially if you are a woman with an independent mind. Witch Hunting has always been a way of patriarchal control since time immemorial.  Why Salem Is A Popular Site For Dark Tourism In USA Salem is a popular site for dark tourism in USA for multiple reasons.  The Witch Trial of 1692 As I just mentioned, it is the site of the Witch Trials 1692. Many people, especially women, were suspected of practising Witchcraft. They were executed, registering one of the most brutal incidents of American Colonial History.  Recently, the city has owned its history of the 1692 Witch Trial and emerged as a hub of paranormal tourism. The Historical Sites of Salem  The city has preserved its colonial buildings and structures well. Even the cobblestone streets of the city's historic district have a unique charm.  A walk through these streets is an experience for any dark academia enthusiast or a dark tourist interested in American Colonial History.  Modern Wiccan Community And The Acceptance Of Various Belief Systems As the place of the Witch Hunt of 1692, Salem has attracted many Pagan and Wiccan Communities across the globe.  Today, the city practices and promotes tolerance of various religious beliefs and practices. Even practicing modern Witchcraft is allowed here.  Halloween Celebrations Salem has become the most happening destination for dark tourism in USA during Halloween. In the month of October, the city has many Halloween-themed events and a tour of the spooky or haunted houses in the locality.  3. Gettysburg National Military Park Gettysburg National Military Park is one of the rarest dark tourism destinations in the USA, and it is a place of history, haunted stories, and ghost tours.  The Gettysburg National Military Park is associated with the Battle of Gettysburg, one of the most important battles of the American Civil War. The three-day-long 1863 battle from July 1st to 3rd led to the loss of around 6000 human lives.  What Happened At The Battle Of Gettysburg? The Battle of Gettysburg was a major conflict between the  Confederate Army of Northern Virginia and the Union Army of the Potomac.  General Robert E. Lee led the Confederate Army, and General George G. Meade led the Union Army. The Union Army grabbed victory in the battle, which was the biggest blow to the Confederate Clan.  5. Ed Gein’s Farmhouse Ed Gein’s farmhouse in Wisconsin was witness to the heinous acts of serial killers in the 1950s. Gein was obsessed with his mother, and his ultimate aim was to make a skinsuit to quasi-resurrect her.  His heinous acts include killing women and making household items using their body parts. When police searched Ed Gein’s farmhouse, they found a sofa made of human skin, a lampshade made of human face, and many other disturbing stuff.  The deeds of Ed Gein have inspired many films and documentaries, and his farmhouse today is a popular place for dark tourism in USA. The place is attached to gore, inhuman crimes, and also a complex understanding of human psychology. Further, it is an account of rural American life in the 1950s.  6. Bonaventure Cemetery The Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah, Georgia, is a popular dark tourism destination because of its ethereal charm. Apparently, it looks like a somber cemetery with beautifully carved statues, camellias, azaleas, and draped oaks.  However, the moment you enter the cemetery, you will feel like being in an unknown era. Its statues and relics start whispering the stories of people buried here.  The most famous person to be buried here is Johnny Mercer, the American songwriter. This cemetery also houses the life-size marble sculpture of Little Gracie Watson. It is one of the few funerary monuments in Georgia to depict the exact likeness of the deceased.  7. The Cecil Hotel “I am beyond good and evil. I will be avenged. Lucifer dwells in us all. That's it.” - That was the words of Richard Ramirez, one of the most notorious serial killers of the USA. The next destination I am going to discuss is related to him. Richard Ramirez was a guest of The Cecil Hotel in Los Angeles, and it was also the location of many mysterious deaths. As a popular dark tourism spot, the Cecil Hotel and its storied halls give visitors goosebumps. It’s captivating, indeed!  8. Ground Zero Ground Zero, or the World Trade Center Site, is one of the topmost sites for dark tourism in USA. The World Trade Center was a commercial complex spanning 16 acres in lower Manhattan. The 9/11 attack in 2001 crashed it into dust as two hijacked planes struck the Twin Towers.  Al-Qaeda, an Islamic Extremist Group founded by Osama bin Laden, was behind this attack and the greatest human tragedy of modern times. As I have mentioned, 2977 people lost their lives in this incident.  Today, the place is important for dark tourism in USA for its educational and historical value. It is also a place to reflect upon the lives lost and how America has risen from this tragedy. It shows the grit and excellence of America as a nation.  What To Do At Ground Zero As A Dark Tourist? Visit the 9/11 Memorial dedicated to the victims. Spend some time near the 9/11 Survivor Tree. Walk through the 9/11 Memorial Glade. Visit the 9/11 Museum. Pay a visit to Saint Paul's Chapel. Do you know that the 9/11 Museum here has more than 10000 objects collected from the debris of victims and other people who offered rescue services after the attack? It opened in May 2014 and offers the most moving experience documenting the details and history of the 9/11 attack.   9. Badlands National Park The Badlands National Park in South Dakota is “surreal,” for lack of a better word. The erosion of nature for millions of years has resulted in the eeriest formations here. Further, these formations cast the longest shadow during the Sunset, giving you a chill down the spine.  Further, the ridges and canyons here tell tales of ancient tribes who lived here. The wind rustling through the ridges sounds like the ancestors' whispers from a bygone era. Moreover, you will lose count of the time in this most beautiful, desolate land.  10. Area 51, Nevada Are you a fan of conspiracy theories? Area 51 in Nevada will be the best dark tourism in USA destination for you. The mystery of this place revolves around the tales of extraterrestrials found here.  For the dark tourists, it is a place of intrigue related to military secrets and alien attacks (?).  11. The Texas School Book Depository https://www.instagram.com/p/Cz8zbSjqb6P/?img_index=1 The Texas School Book Depository in Dallas, Texas, is where the assassination of President John F. Kennedy took place. The assassination of the president on 22nd November 1963, had deep national and international implications.  Lee Harvey Oswald allegedly shot the president, leading to one of the most tragic incidents in American history.  12. Museum Of Tolerance https://www.instagram.com/p/CqqbS30PyIa/ The Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles was built in 1993. Simon Wiesenthal was a holocaust survivor, and his human rights organization, the Simon Wiesenthal Center, built this museum.  This museum has many exhibits recording the most notorious stories of intolerance worldwide. The mission of the museum is to “remind us of the past, so that we may forge a better, more harmonious future.” That is what dark tourism should aim to achieve by triggering positive moral emotions.  Here is a list of the permanent exhibits in the museum.  The Holocaust (a 70-minute dramatic presentation taking you to Nazi-dominated Europe between the 1920s and 1945) The Tolerancenter (shows major issues of intolerance faced in our everyday lives) Finding Our Families, Finding Ourselves (exhibits of Americans with interesting personal histories) Para Todos Los Niños or For All The Children (a depiction of the struggles of Latino families in Southern California) The Exhibit of Anne Frank (a representation of the iconic diary of Anne Frank, depicting her plight in multimedia formats) Overall, it’s a museum that depicts the exploitation of women and children, terrorism, social media violence, and much more! Moreover, anyone interested in the American civil rights movement will find it a significant destination for dark tourism in USA. Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! [Updated 2024] Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Nabamita Sep 29, 2023

Australians and New Zealanders have learned to appreciate the pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tropical adventures that the South Pacific has to offer. If you’re going on vacation, then look no further than the magical islands of Fiji because this destination has all the things that you need. See more about Australian-Fiji relations on this site here. Exotic birds, lush greenery, and refreshing beaches are just right on your doorstep, and it’s just a few days away from Brisbane or Sydney by ship. Explore these idyllic destinations at your own pace while enjoying the luxuries of a floating resort. However, before you set sail on this unforgettable journey, there are a few things to consider, and below are some valuable tips and insights to help you plan the perfect Fiji cruise experience. Whether it's choosing between small or large ships, or finding ways to save more on your voyage, below is some helpful information for you. Considerations for Your Fiji Cruise Year-round cruises are available, but the summer in Vanuatu, where it’s the most humid and hottest time is between November to March. Fiji temperatures can average between 26 to 31 degrees Celsius. Families with young children can be expected to be on board from December to January when the annual holidays are, so you might want to schedule your vacation when it’s not too busy. Itinerary Variety Islands in Fiji are more than 300, and only a hundred of them are inhabited. While it’s true that you can enjoy the resorts on each of them, you can only explore the rest by ship. Buying an exclusive yacht isn’t an option, but there are cruises in Fiji that can help you explore untouched destinations and off the beaten tracks. All of these can be done while you’re sleeping in comfortable cabins at night and waking up to a hot cup of coffee in the morning. Duration Choose among 12 or 17-night journeys and embark on either Auckland, New Zealand, or Sydney, Australia. This is going to give you enough time to visit popular ports like Mystery Island, Honolulu, Noumea, Suva, and Lautoka. Unwind in inhabited islands with underwater shipwrecks and beaches lined with coconut trees, or trek through the forest to feel the thunder of the Mele Cascades waterfall. Longer cruises often allow for more extensive exploration and give you ample time to immerse yourself in the beauty of Fiji, so don’t miss this opportunity. Activities and Excursions Snorkel at the beach and encounter sharks, and you can sail with the friendliest crew in Fiji. Small groups are guided by the crew and you’ll have the chance to feed the fish, get musical entertainment, view the turtles when in season, and get a delicious buffet lunch. Tribal face painting and fruit platters may also be onboard, depending on your chosen activities. Get a slice of paradise when you go into this ancient coral cay with its beautiful lagoon and surrounding fishes and experience the true meaning of tropical wonder. Onboard Amenities Are you looking for luxurious accommodations, fine dining options, or exciting entertainment choices? Sea-gazing is often the most popular, where the passengers have an obstructed view of the ocean in a glass-enclosed walkway. Others have slides that are not for the faint of heart, and other rides may also be available with splash areas that children can enjoy. Unique restaurants with affordable buffets or gourmets can also cater to your taste, so choose your ship well. Setting a Budget Basic room categories include the standard suites, balcony, and an outside view of the ocean. As you add more comfort, it becomes more expensive on the higher decks, where you can expect VIP access and exclusive amenities. Save money by going too early or late in the season and take a gamble with the weather. Look out for special deals or promotions that may help make your dream vacation more affordable. Small Ships vs Large Ships Cruisers may wonder about the difference in the size of the vessels when it comes to entertainment and dining choices. For those who don’t really mind the crowd, the best way to enjoy your luxury vacation in Fiji is through the big ships. It’s a big city where you can eat at different restaurants at night. There are endless possibilities where you can enjoy rope courses and see a lot of game shows and Broadway musicals. Rooms can be buzzing with extensive onboard activities such as pools, spas, casinos, and theatres, and there is never a dull moment in these floating resorts. They often feature spacious cabins with balconies for enjoying stunning ocean views, and you can read more about what to do at the ship at this link: https://www.escape.com.au/top-lists/top-tips-for-first-time-cruisers-11-things-ive-learnt-on-ships/image-gallery/c7a11bca07ecf3a65b7babf2d1d9da9a?page=1. Those who are on a honeymoon may prefer an intimate and personalized experience. With fewer passengers on board, you can expect more attentive service and the opportunity to form closer connections with both fellow travelers and crew members. The small groups also allow people to access remote locations that larger vessels cannot reach, giving you the chance to explore hidden gems and tropical havens. How to Save More on Your Cruise? As new ships are being built, the cruises are becoming more affordable as the years go by. With proper research, savvy spending, and adequate planning, you’ll have a trip that you can enjoy without breaking the bank. Here are some tips to help you out. High-demand cruise lines may publish a cheaper deal when they first sell their tickets, but there can be an increase as more people are buying them. When you have more flexibility, get an excellent deal around 90 days before the actual departure in Fiji and track the fares on various websites. Call an expert to see selections of staterooms and cabins. Booking through them can be helpful because they do most of the research for you, and they rarely charge extra for the knowledge. They also get specialized access to the sale price, which can save you money. Package deals that include flights, accommodations, and cruises all in one price are ideal, especially if you plan a lot of excursions while you’re in Fiji. These inclusions can sometimes provide better value than booking each component separately. Read Also: This Is The Best Time To Visit Iceland & These Are The Things You Should Do! Top 12 National Parks In Florida That You Must Visit Is Machu Picchu Closing In 2023? Know It All Here!

BY  Sibashree Dec 13, 2024

Bearing a rich native American history, Oklahoma is one of the tourist hotspots in the USA. It is also a city bearing the memories of frontier life.  Further, with many things to do in Oklahoma, the American Bus Association has identified Oklahoma City as the Rising Star in Tourism. Furthermore, the American Bus Association has appreciated the city for the record economic impact of its tourism.  Moreover, the city authorities are investing heavily in building its infrastructure and amenities. Also, all the efforts have been paid of in the economic boom of the city in 2023.  The 2024 Visit OKC Economic Impact Report has mentioned that tourism in Oklahoma City has contributed $3.7 billion to the local economy. Moreover, tourism yields a major benefit for the local people in terms of tax revenues and employment. “Today’s visitors become tomorrow’s residents. Tourism impacts perceptions of our city which intersects with economic development as new businesses look to relocate here. The more we promote OKC as a tourism destination, the more jobs we can support, the more city revenue is paid by visitors, and additional positive awareness is generated about Oklahoma City.”  Christy Gillenwater, Greater OKC Chamber President and CEO  So, what are things to do in Oklahoma to boost tourism in the city? Here is a brief guide for you.  Unique Things To Do In Oklahoma | Try These Unusual Activities  The tourism sector in Oklahoma is vibrant. No wonder that the Forbes Advisor has ranked Oklahoma City as one of the most budget-friendly cities in the world for family vacations.  Nevertheless, when you are in Oklahoma, you can try the following activities.  1. Visit The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/C-IhjmLsKQS/ Address: 620 N Harvey Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73102, United States Contact: +1 405-235-3313 Hours Open: Monday to Saturday (9 AM to 5 PM), Sunday (12-5 PM) Oklahoma witnessed the worst domestic terrorism on 19th April 1995. Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols were behind this attack.  The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is a tribute to the people who survived and lost their lives in this attack. You will find the biographies of the survivors, photos and stories of the survivors here.  2. Explore The Oklahoma City Museum Of Art https://www.instagram.com/p/DDATrbqNBSF/?img_index=1 Address: 415 Couch Dr, Oklahoma City, OK 73102 Contact: +1 405-236-3100 Hours Open: Wednesday - Saturday (10 AM to 5 PM), Sunday (12-5 PM), Monday & Tuesday Closed The Oklahoma City Museum of Art is famous for its collection of glasswork and artwork collected from the globe. However, this museum is the go-to place if you want to know about American art. It also introduces you to postwar abstraction. Don’t miss the glasswork of Dale Chihuly at this museum.  3. Visit The Five Civilized Tribes Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/BWfvtLUltKo/ Address: 1101 Honor Heights Dr, Muskogee, OK 74401 Contact: +1 918-683-1701 Hours Open: Monday - Friday (10 AM to 5 PM), Saturday (10 AM to 2 PM), Sunday Closed The Five Civilized Tribes Museum is the best place to visit if you are willing to know about the Chickasaw, Cherokee and Creek nations. The name of the music celebrates how the native Americans of five different nations became a part of the Anglo-American culture.  The artifacts, artwork, and historical detailing are intriguing.  4. Visit The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/C8DMPQesysh/?img_index=1 Address: 1700 NE 63rd St, Oklahoma City Contact: +1 405-478-2250 Hours Open: Monday - Saturday (10 AM to 5 PM), Sunday (12 PM to 5 PM) The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum is famous across the globe. The interactive exhibits here are out of the world, and you will find here many artefacts and artwork.  Each element in the museum exudes a unique charm, and it reminds you of life in the Old West. You will also get to know about Victorian-era firearms, American cowboys and rodeos here.  5. Be A Part Of The Entertainment And Dining Scene At Bricktown https://www.instagram.com/p/C8KLlErx5n_/?hl=en In Downtown Oklahoma City, Bricktown will introduce you to the most happening entertainment and dining scene of the city. Bricktown is on a canal that links Bricktown with the Oklahoma River and Downtown. Taking a ride in the water taxi here is one of the most unique things to do in Oklahoma. Further, you can explore the 40+ restaurants, pubs and bars here.  6. Make The Most Of The Unique Experiences At Gathering Place https://www.instagram.com/p/C9LZoqxyd9U/?img_index=1 The Gathering Place in Tulsa is a place for unique things to do in Oklahoma. Currently, it is a space of 65 acres, and soon, it will be a happening activity area of 100 acres. You can explore the following sections of Gathering Place for adventurous activities.  Adventure playground Climbing structures Slides Puzzles Sensory garden Picnic grove Reading tree You can spend an entire day at the park and the eateries at the park have decent refreshment options. So, you can visit here with your kids or family.  7. Enjoy The Art Experience At Factory Obscura Mix-Tape https://www.instagram.com/p/DBrqbZVxggN/ Address: 25 NW 9th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73102, United States Contact Number:  +1 405-367-1578 Hours Open: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday (11 AM to 7 PM), Saturday (10 AM to 8 PM), Sunday (12–6 PM), Tuesday Closed If you want an interactive and immersive art experience, you must visit the Factory Obscura Mix-Tape. This 6,000-square-foot area of art and entertainment was created by musicians, muralists, and local volunteers.  The art objects here are crafted for people with vision or hearing problems. Further, the sensory room is here is a great place for visitors with autism.  8. Encounter Wildlife At Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve https://www.instagram.com/p/C_S_AhztVt7/ Address: 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Rd, Barnsdall, OK 74002, United States Contact Number: +1 918-336-0307 Hours Open: Wednesday - Sunday (10 AM to 5 PM), Monday and Tuesday (Closed) Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve is located in the North of Tulsa. Visiting this 3,700-acre area is one of the unique things to do in Oklahoma for wildlife lovers.  Frank Phillips, an oil baron, built the Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve in 1925 as a ranch retreat. However, with time, it became a massive wildlife preserve and museum. Today, you can meet many cattle, including elk and bison, here. In addition, true to the native American spirit of the city, the Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve has an elaborate collection of Western Art. In addition, the old photographs and collections, including a Colt firearm, will transport you to the lands of cowboys. So, that’s for now from me about the unique things to do in Oklahoma. If you want to explore more places, you can visit the Beavers Bend State Park, Six Flags Frontier City, Oklahoma Route 66 Museum, etc.   Also read Ultimate Guide to Your Next Family Vacation in Israel. Boat Charter Miami: Essential Tips for a Great Experience. Is Houston A Party City? Know The Fun Things To Do In Houston For A Happening Nightlife.