Best All-inclusive Vacations With Payment Plans

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 5, 2023

Long-haul flights are dreadful. The stark, urbane terminals and the long nights of tiresome, cram-y seating sure work you up just thinking about it. The flights that roll over to the next morning always have some drama up their sleeves. Then came the rescue team from Taiwan- EVA Air, which is currently one of the 10 Skytrax 5-star airlines in the world. Would you believe it if I told you it was little known even up until a few years back? It was founded in 1989. However, I started hearing about this flight in the early 1990s when my extended family would talk about this new carrier with non-stop flights on B747-400 jets. Back then, it sounded like a story from another realm. I would hear them talk about the aroma of delicious noodles when woken up from sleep by a flight attendant as a late-night snack. I also heard of the very non-conforming Sanrio aircraft that were Hello Kitty Jets, decked out completely from the headrests to the meal cutlery. Everything featured the widely adored character. I finally had the chance to board it. Despite all the different things that this airline was revolutionizing, the most exciting part as a young traveler still remained the all-new cabin category between the economy and the EVA Air business class. This change was surprisingly affordable, and I was willing to upgrade for my 14+ hour flight home. Here I am going to share my experience of flying from New York to Taipei. Stay tuned because you are about to find out the hype behind Eva Air flights and a pretty up-close EVA Air Premium Economy review. The Beginning Of EVA Air Premium Economy Image Source: www.evaair.com The press releases from the airline say that AVA Air’s first trans-Pacific debut took place on December 12, 1992. It had four cabins, which was a first at that time. The four cabins included Super First, Super Deluxe, Economy Deluxe, and Economy. With Economy Deluxe, the airline became the first to introduce an improved economy cabin that is the Economy Deluxe. It became a benchmark for the airline as most others took two to three decades to introduce this cabin to their list of offerings. Recently (last summer), KLM debuted its premium economy. The seat prices are reasonable with business class-like perks. My Taipei experience was very endearing to me because of its convenient pair-up of high quality and affordability. The street food, the stationery, and the convenience stores all added to my love for Taipei. The EVA Air flight was a big cherry on top because all of that now comes in an aircraft. Read More: Here’s What I Found Out About Aha Airlines! A New Version 30 Years Later Image Source: www.evaair.com Three decades since its first flight, I booked the Premium Economy class for my way back to Taipei from NYC. The perks of this flight began even before I boarded it. This airline offers free shuttles from 2 Pennsylvania and 5 New Jersey locations toward JFK Airport. Dallas to Houston Airport also offers a free shuttle service. It has successfully removed one of the biggest issues of international travel, which is simply getting to the airport. I took a $20 Uber to the Jersey City stop, which would have otherwise been a $130 Uber ride all the way to the airport. Being a part of the Star Alliance, I was granted access to the lounge with my United Gold status. It allowed me to upgrade my boarding from Zone 4 to Zone 1. As soon as I got into the cabin, it felt luxurious. They used sweet endearments with my name in Mandarin. They helped me settle in my seat and confirmed my meal selection, which I had previously made online. The seats had a 2-4-2 arrangement, and I had managed to secure a front-row seat, which meant no under-seat coverage but plenty of leg space. On my seat, there were slippers, a water bottle, noise-canceling headphones, and a cozy blanket that felt like a cloud. The blanket was quilted on one surface and had faux fur on the opposite side. How It Went An attendant soon came and gave me an overnight bag. It was a Kipling amenity kit consisting of Hudson Made New York products. It had the brand’s trademark monkey keychain with a scene of Taiwan’s Yilan on the bag. My entire EVA Air flight felt like a warm, pamper session with juice, fruits, and snacks while suspended at 30,000 feet mid air. The breakfast was amazing, with Chinese-style scallop congee with egg & Chinese sausage. There was an option for another Western version that comprised smoked turkey accompanied by cheddar cheese. There was also a “leisure delight” meal in between the meals with BBQ chicken-filled brioche roll. The restrooms were clean, and I can say so because I went three times, and it was clean each time. To clarify, I took a private plane recently that got filthy by the last hour of the flight, which was one-third the duration of the EVA Air. When I took the return journey, I wanted to take things further, getting myself the business class name Royal Laurel. It featured 6.5-foot-long lie-flat seats, a retractable armrest, a cocktail table, and a shoe cabinet. This cabin had a 1-2-1 configuration with dated seats compared to other airlines. EVA Air raised the bar, however, with their Rimowa & Salvatore Ferragamo branded care kit and a complementary Jason Wu pajama set. All the passengers ended up wearing it, and I, too, could not resist it. I wore it all the way home. The plaid duvet was so snug and comfy I asked where I could buy one. At one point, I fell asleep and dreamt of those noodles. But it was not my dream… they did bring noodles in between our slumber, and it just completed the experience all around. Wrapping Up Have you flown EVA Air before or recently? What was your experience like? What do you think about the Premium Economy class? If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: This Is What I Felt About Aruba Airlines! Fly In Style: Your Ultimate Guide To Lot Polish Airlines Adventures! Journey To The Skies: Exploring The Legacy Of Northwest Airlines!

BY  Pijus Maity Mar 27, 2025

A few flowers can capture the overall essence of spring, and tulips are one of them. The vibrant colors, elegant shapes, and rich history make tulips the ultimate symbol of renewal and beauty.  Even though the tulip mania significantly contributed to the 17th—17th-century Dutch economic bubble, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is the prime example that the mania is still alive.  Imagine this: You are walking through an endless field filled with red, purple, yellow, and pink tulips! The fields stretch as far as your eyes can see! That’s the feel!   This is a dream come true for photographers, a paradise for nature lovers, and a perfect place to breathe some fresh air.  So, as you start your journey, you must read this guide to the 2025 Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. In this guide, we will talk about the best time to visit the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, where you can find the tulip gardens and enjoy your trip as much as possible.  Here’s The Guide To The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival  The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is the ultimate way to celebrate spring. Want to enjoy it to the fullest? Check out the following guide to experience the beauty of tulip gardens with friends and family.  Pick the Right Time to Visit It is always necessary to choose the travel time, no matter where you go. Regardless of the dependency on the weather, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival runs for the entire month of April.  In the earlier month of April, you may catch a few daffodils. The tulips start to bloom somewhere between mid to late April.  Thus, you must check the blooming status to avoid disappointment once you go there! This will help you plan your trip accordingly, especially when the colorful flowers are at their best!  Also, I would suggest you visit the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival on the weekdays since the weekends are very busy and crowded. You should see the field early in the morning. This way, you will be able to experience a quieter and relaxed landscape.  Dress for the Weather In the Pacific Northwest, spring weather can change quickly. One moment, it's warm and sunny; the next, it could turn cool and rainy.  That's why I think wearing layers would be a smart move. This way, you can add or remove clothing based on the temperature shift.  Next, you must think about your shoes. The fields often get muddy, especially if it rains. So, waterproof shoes or boots keep your feet dry and help you walk comfortably. In contrast, flip-flops and dress shoes make moving hard and can easily get ruined. Choose Your Tulip Farms The festival is spread across several tulip farms throughout the valley. Each farm has its charm. Thus, you must explore more than one because it gives you a fuller experience. Before you head out, check each farm's website for hours and ticket details. Some locations, especially on busy weekends, require advance tickets. Here’s a breakdown of the key farms and gardens  Roozengaarde: This is famous for its 50-acre display with numerous tulips and a huge variety of tulips. Roozengaarde is the ultimate destination for spring lovers.  Tulip town: This specifically features various tulips across 5 acres of fields.  Tulip Valley Farms: The only U-pick tulip farm located in Skagit Valley. You can have a great time there with your friends and family.  Garden Rosalyn: This 7-acre garden of tulips also includes ponds with ducks and geese, making it more attractive.  Skagit Acres: A new addition to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival in 2025. The field will include 3-acre tulip fields.  Enjoy Local Food and Shops The nearby towns add even more to your visit. You can visit places like Mount Vernon, La Conner, and Burlington. These places are excellent places to dine in the Pacific Northwest.  Moreover, you'll find local spots serving fresh meals, sweet treats, and unique finds. You'll also see food vendors set up near the Tulip Valley farm. You can visit there, between farm visits.  So, you can grab a warm drink or a quick bite while you take a break! Some stands even offer tulip-themed gifts or fresh bouquets, which are probably great souvenirs to take home. Plan for Traffic and Parking The roads around Mount Vernon can be crowded during the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, which happens more often on weekends and when the weather is nice. On top of that, many roads near the farms are narrow. So getting where you're going can take longer. I suggest you give yourself extra time to stay on track. Moreover, you might face poor network challenges. Before your trip, you can download maps and directions.  Once you get there, you can try to look for signs or volunteers to guide you. Most farms have free parking, but a few might charge a small fee. Bring Your Camera, But Be Respectful The Tulip fields are perfect for photos. Whether you use your phone or a camera, you'll find many great spots to capture the view. When you are exploring, you must stay on the marked paths. If you step into the rows, you can damage the flowers and spoil the experience for others. It's also crucial to protect the work of the farmers. Treat the fields with care so everyone can enjoy their beauty. If you plan on using a drone, check the rules first. Most farms don't allow them, so it's better to know before you go. Bring Your Family The festival is a fun outing for all ages, making it one of the best places to travel with kids. Still, you might face a few challenges if you're bringing little ones,  Strollers can be hard to push through muddy ground. A baby carrier often works better in the fields of tulips. You'll likely be outside for a while, so pack snacks, drinks, and a few wipes for comfort. Many farms also offer things for kids to enjoy, like play zones or tractor rides, which makes the experience even better for them. The Best Way To Plan Your Visit: Here’s How You Can Purchase The Tickets So, are you ready to experience the beauty of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival from up close? In the following section, I will provide you with all the details about the tickets for the tulip gardens. Read on… RoozenGaarde The ticket price for RoozenGaarde from Monday to Thursday is $16. The same ticket price from Friday to Sunday is $20.  Further, it remains open from 9 AM to 7 PM from Monday to Friday. The visiting hours on Saturday and Sunday are 9 AM to 7 PM.  Tulip Valley Farms The ticket prices for entry to Tulip Valley Farms vary based on your age and the group you belong to.  For example, the ticket price for children aged 3 to 15 is $10. For adults (16+), it is $16 from Monday to Thursday and $18 from Friday to Sunday.  Again, for seniors and military persons (with IDs), the ticket price is $15 from Monday to Thursday and $17 from Friday to Sunday.  Tulip Valley Farms opened on 1 April 2025 and will remain open until 30 April 2025. During the season, it is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, 7 days a week.  Tulip Town The online ticket prices for visitors aged above 12 are $18. You can also make an in-person booking for $20.  Further, Tulip Town will remain open from 1st to 30th April 2025, seven days a week during the spring season.  The hours of operation are Monday through Thursday, 10 AM to 6 PM, and Friday through Sunday, 9 AM to 7 PM.  Garden Rosalyn You can book the tickets for Garden Rosalyn in person and online at $17. It will remain open from 1st to 30th April 2025 on all days of the week.  Skagit Acres Skagit Acres offers online and in-person booking facilities. The ticket prices for children aged 6 to 12 are $10, and for adults, they are $18.  Seniors above 65 years and Military persons will get tickets at $15.  Further, the garden center of Skagit Acres remains open year-round. However, the tulip field is only open from the 1st to the 30th of April.  Booking tickets for the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is pretty straightforward! Visit https://tulipfestival.org/garden-tickets/  and select the garden according to your preferences. The site also provides the location and directions for the garden.  Ways to Reach the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival  There are multiple ways to visit the Skagit Tulip Festival. However, walking is not recommended. By Bike The valley roads are pretty flat. So, travelling by bike can be much easier for you to access the tulip fields, events, and attractions.  However, you must stay prepared for rainy and windy weather conditions. Before traveling, you can check out self-guided bike tours to learn the do’s and don’ts.  By Car  If you decide to drive a four-wheeler, then you must take state route 20 to enter the tulip area. You can find plenty of free parking at RoozenGaarde, Tulip Valley Farms, Garden Rosalyn, and Tulip Town. Roadside parking is pretty limited due to weather conditions and traffic safety. Law enforcement might issue a ticket for parking in the no-parking zone, so stay aware of it!  By Bus Skagit Valley transient services have several routes across the valley. If you arrive in Mount Vernon, you can ride the Skagit Transit Route 615 to visit the tulip fields. All of the transports depart from the Skagit Valley Station.  By Train  Amtrak Cascades travels to Mount Vernon. However, there is no shuttle available from the station. You just have to make reservations, as the trains are small and fill up pretty quickly.   Conclusion The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is a springtime experience like no other. If you can make the right planning, the right gear, and a flexible mindset, you can enjoy a day surrounded by endless color and beauty.  Whether you're snapping photos, walking hand-in-hand with a loved one, or watching your kids run through the vibrant tulips, the memories you make here will last long after the flowers fade.  So grab your boots, charge your camera, and prepare for one of Washington's most beautiful tulip garden adventures!

BY  Sibashree Dec 20, 2024

Things to do in Nashville TN: Nashville is the “Music City” of the USA. Also, many people call Nashville the place where music calls home. Housing close to 200 music clubs and venues of all sizes, Nashville is a wonderland for people preferring all genres of music.  So, when in Nashville TN, you cannot avoid a visit to the places associated with the musical excellence and history of the city.  Further, tourism in Nashville is growing continuously in the city. By the end of 2024, the number of visitors to this city is expected to be over 17.1 million. In 2025, the same number is likely to hit 17.5 million. Of course, the unique things to do in Nashville TN are behind this boost in tourism. So, let’s explore them. Unique Things To Do In Nashville To Travel Like A Local | 7+ Activities You Cannot Miss Nashville is a year-round tourist destination. Summer and winter are the best seasons to visit Nashville if you want to soak in the musical vibe here.  However, spring and fall are the seasons to enjoy a mild temperature here with fewer crowds. Nevertheless, irrespective of the time of your visit, you can explore the following activities in Nashville. 1. Visit The Ryman Auditorium Address: 116 5th Ave N, Nashville Contact Number: +1 800-733-6779 Ryman Auditorium is the place from where you will start your journey if you are interested in knowing about the musical history of Nashville.  It was once the home of the Grand Ole Opry. Further, along with hosting the greats of country music, it has also been graced by John Mulaney and Paul Simon. Don’t miss the “Soul of Nashville” screening here to see real footage of the performers and have a multidimensional experience.  2. Exploring The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Address: 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S, Nashville Contact Number: +1 615-416-2001 For anyone interested in American vernacular music, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is the Mecca. A visit to this museum feels like an up close and personal interaction with the likes of Patsy Cline and Alan Jackson. However, the highlight of this museum is the “Sing Me Back Home: A Journey Through Country Music" exhibit. Take a self-guided tour through it and also see the gold and platinum records of country music here.  3. Enjoy The Best Entertainment Scenario Of Nashville At Broadway When traveling on a shoestring budget, a visit to Broadway will be one of the best things to do in Nashville. It is the hub of entertainment in Tennessee.  As you take a walk through the Honky Tonk Highway here, you will come across many artists showing their musical brilliance. So, if you want to soak in the musical brilliance of the city, Broadway is the place to visit for you.  4. Plan A Visit To The National Museum Of African American Music https://www.instagram.com/p/CZiNTONpEhM/ Address: 510 Broadway, Nashville Contact Number: +1 615-301-8724 Nashville is synonymous with country music. However, the musical scenario here is much more versatile. Opened in 2021, the National Museum Of African American Music here shows the prominent influence of Latin American music in jazz, hip-hop, and other genres.  As you explore the galleries of the museum, you will notice the evolution of African American music. The biggest draw here, of course, is the “Wade in the Water” gallery. The “Call and response spirituals of the 1600s” are here to offer you a surreal experience. Similarly, if you love Blues music, you must visit the Crossroads gallery. It showcases the introduction of this particular genre of music.  5. Spend Some Time In Nature At The Centennial Park Address:  2500 West End Ave, Nashville, TN Contact Number: +1 615-862-8400 If you are traveling on a budget and looking for free things to do in Nashville TN, you must plan a trip to Centennial Park. It is a 132-acre space with many historical monuments. Further, you will find the following amenities at the park. Sportsplex Volleyball courts Bandshell Walking trail Dog park Lake Art Center During spring and autumn, the park has free concerts on Saturdays. Furthermore, you can see the Parthenon here and enjoy a relaxed walk.  6. Visit The Historic RCA Studio B Contact Number: +1 615-416-2001 Address: 222 Rep. John Lewis Way S The Historic RCA Studio B is one of the greatest landmarks in Nashville if you are a fan of country music. Also, it is the place where the likes of Elvis Presley and Everly Brothers recorded their songs.  Famous for the “Nashville Sound,” this studio was once famous in the entire world as a recording center.  Now, you can take a tour of the studio and learn engaging information from the guides. It’s close to the Country Music Hall of Fame. So, you can also plan a combined tour.  7. Explore The Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery https://www.instagram.com/p/C71sKsNuc-b/ Address: 1414 Clinton St, Nashville Contact No: +1 615-913-8800 Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery is the place where one must stop to have the best bourbon and Tennessee whiskey. The history of this distillery will take you back to the late 1800s. Charles Nelson from Germany started the Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery.  Unfortunately, it had to shut its doors after a successful run till 1909. However, after 100 years, Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery had a resurrection thanks to the descendants of Charles Nelson.  They brought the distillery to Nashville. Visiting this place is one of the best things to do in Nashville TN, for the alcohol connoisseurs. It serves the best wines.  8. Spend Some Time At Cheekwood Estate & Gardens Address: 1200 Forrest Park Drive Contact Number:  +1 615-356-8000 Time To Spend: 3 Hours To Half a Day The Cheekwood Estate & Gardens has its unique charm in every season. For example, in spring, you will find the place smiling with the best flowers. Further, in the fall, pumpkins and their shades of orange take you on a nostalgic trip. Moreover, in winter and festive seasons, you will find dazzling lights here.  This 55-acre space is a quiet retreat for people looking to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. You will love the greenhouses and display of chromatic flower arrangements here.  Further, for the ones in love, the beautiful rose garden is great for kindling romance. Moreover, the small amphitheater here hosts some engaging literal events.  Want to try more unique things to do in Nashville TN? You can visit the Radnor Lake State Park, The Johny Cash Museum, or the Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.