Tips For Vacationing In Gatlinburg

BY  Sibashree Nov 20, 2025

We were lying in the Medlands Beach with the Milky Way arching overhead. No city lights! Only the sound of the waves kept us connected to this physical world. For me, it was not just the sky full of stars and constellations. These stars were the roadmap for our ancestors, irrespective of the culture and country we belong to. They watched the stars to keep time and decide the time of the year ideal for agriculture, harvesting, fishing, and hunting. In the Maori culture, Tohunga kōkōrangi, or specialist priests, had this deep astronomical knowledge, and they shared the knowledge with others. Also, there are myths and ancient stories about the stars, like the one with the Matariki cluster. This cluster is associated with the anger of Tāwhirimātea, the God of wine and storms. Being furious, he tore his eyes and threw them into heaven. There, his eyes became the Matariki stars. Overall, for the Maori tribes, the stars and constellations have been beyond celestial bodies for observation. They were a mix of spirituality, science, stories, and a way of living life. So, when the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, became a Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2017, it celebrated ancestral connections and the role of the sky as a roadmap. And I visited Great Barrier Island in 2022. So, nature had its own reboot during and post the COVID-19 era. So, we could see the clearest sky. In this Great Barrier Island stargazing guide, I will talk about the best stargazing spots, stargazing tips, conservation etiquette, and more. Let’s explore the magic of the Aotea Dark Sky Sanctuary. A Deep Dive Into Māori Astronomy (Tātai Aroraki) And Legends: A Combination Of Science, Spirituality, And Culture When on the Great Barrier Island, it is important to see the stars and celestial bodies through a Maori lens. Also, during our Maori-guided stargazing tour, our guide chanted waiata, and he even used carvings (whakairo) and told stories to make the experience more interactive. He made us familiar with the key celestial figures and their Maori names. Furthermore, he explained how Maori people perceive different celestial phenomena. Major Celestial Figures And Their Significance In Maori Tradition  It is fascinating to see how Maori people connect the stars and celestial bodies with their traditional beliefs and stories.  1. Te Kahui O Kahu  The Te Kahui O Kahu constellation is the guardian of the sea and land. The stories of this constellation are important for teaching us the importance of being respectful to nature and protecting natural resources. 2. Matariki Or Pleiades Star Cluster  Matarikin is the most celebrated Māori constellation. When Matariki gets visible in the sky at dawn, it announces the arrival of the Māori New Year. It is time to gather, share stories, and plan for the year ahead for this local tribe. Also, according to traditional beliefs, the brighter the Matariki constellation shines, the better the year for harvesting and fishing.  3. Tautoru Or Orion Constellation  Tautoru symbolizes protection and power. It was significant for hunters and warriors. 4. Ngā Rā  The Milky Way or Ngā Rā is believed to be the pathway of ancestors in the Maori tradition. The ancestors use this pathway to travel between the worlds. Furthermore, in many interpretations, this is the pathway through which the spirits guide the departed souls to the afterlife. 5. Tāwhirimātea Or The Southern Cross  Tāwhirimātea is worshipped as the protector of the sea. In ancient times, the Maori sailors depended on this constellation to guide them across the Pacific Ocean. 6. Auroras Maori people worship auroras as the spirit of their loved ones or ancestors. They even think that auroras bear significant messages from the spiritual realm.  7. Bright Planets (Venus And Jupiter)  The appearance of these bright planets was associated with the everyday life of Maori people. The appearance of these planets is predictable, and that is why they are associated with timing ceremonies and navigation. Why Great Barrier Island Is A Stargazer’s Paradise?  With exciting hiking trails, pristine beaches, and an eco-conscious and off-grid lifestyle, the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is an ideal stargazing destination. With no ATMs, footpaths, or banks, the island has maintained a quiet existence. Furthermore, with low air and light pollution, the stars, the Milky Way, and other celestial bodies shine bright in the sky once the Sun goes down. In addition, around 60% of the island is protected by the Department of Conservation (DoC). So, it is home to many endemic plants, animals, and birds. So, it is also a bucket-list destination for nature and wildlife lovers. Moreover, each islander thinks of themselves as a kaitiaki or caretaker. Thus, it has successfully emerged as a zero-waste island, and biosecurity measures with designated spots for camping, hiking, and cleaning have made this island a sanctorium of sustainable practices and natural preservation. What Makes Aotea A Dark Sky Sanctuary?  The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) has scientifically measured the darkness of the sky of the Great Barrier Island. The IDA further offers principles to protect the night sky through awareness and restricted lighting. "To be a Dark Sky Sanctuary, you need an mpsas [magnitude per square arc second] of 21.5, and we had an average of 21.79. Every step on that scale is twice as dark; Auckland is 18, so you can see 10 times more stars here than you can in Auckland.”  Hilde Hoven, from Good Heavens Dark Sky Experiences.  Furthermore, the darkness of the night sky of the Great Barrier Island is measured every year, and the report is sent to the International Dark Sky Association. In addition, the local people choose low-intensity lighting indoors and outdoors to adhere to the light pollution standards of the dark sky sanctuary. In addition, there are no street lights, and the entire island practices off-the-grid living to preserve it as a Dark Sky Sanctuary.  What Are The Best Stargazing Spots On Great Barrier Island, New Zealand?  The Great Barrier Island is one of the best stargazing spots in NZ. I had the most beautiful stargazing experience at Medlands Beach. However, Awana Beach and the Mount Hobson Summit are two other prominent locations for stargazing. 1. Medlands Beach  I was fortunate enough to be a part of the Good Heavens group stargazing experience on the sand dunes above Medlands Beach. We all had access to an 8-inch telescope to get up close and personal with the stars and planets. Furthermore, each of us had binoculars, and our guide used a laser light to point at the stars and planets and share their stories with us. Far from urban areas, Medlands Beach offers the best views of the night sky, and the gentle waves reflect the stars and planets. Here is a dark Sky photography guide for you if you are at Medlands Beach. You can use the contrast between the dunes and the vast sky to create a perfect composition for your picture. 2. Awana Beach  Awana Beach, one of the best beaches in Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is a natural planetarium. The shoreline here is secluded, making it even more suitable for stargazing. Offering a clear view of the southern sky, Awana Beach is the best place to see the Milky Way on the Great Barrier Island. Furthermore, Awana Beach is the meeting ground of amateurs and professional astronomers. The beach gets more visitors during the following celestial and planetary activities. Planetary Alignments  Occasional Auroras  Lunar Eclipses  In addition, the tranquility of the place is ideal for experiencing stargazing as something beyond a visual spectacle. 3. Mount Hobson Summit  A hike to the Mount Hobson Summit ensures a brilliant stargazing experience. The summit is at a height of 627 meters, and thanks to the height, it is free of the atmospheric interference at the sea level or lower altitudes. Also, once you reach the summit after a walk of 2-3 hours, you will get a 360-degree view of the night sky and the Great Barrier Island. Furthermore, the height allows you to observe the Orion Nebula and other deep-sky objects with binoculars. 4. Kaitoke Hot Springs Kaitoke Hot Springs fuses relaxation with a fascinating stargazing experience. Imagine you are soaking in warm sulfur water pools, and the stars are shining the brightest over your head. It is a multisensory experience, with the crisp air caressing you, the warm water offering comfort, and the night sky presenting the ultimate cosmic display. Just a small tip. You must bring a waterproof laser light to see the stars without ruining the clarity or the darkness measure. 5. Windy Canyon  Windy Canyon already has that drama on the verge of being surreal, thanks to its unique geological formation. So, stargazing here feels magical, with the canyon itself functioning as a natural observatory. The clarity of the sky is so high here that even the faintest celestial bodies become visible. In addition, the Windy Canyon is accessible for all types of visitors as the walk is short and easy. What Are The Top Stargazing Tours & Experiences?  The Good Heavens stargazing tours and experiences are the best on the Great Barrier Island. It offers the following stargazing tours on the Great Barrier Island. 1. Heavens Above - Private Dark Sky Experience  This private dark sky experience is organized at your accommodation with a telescope, hot chocolate, and bean bags arranged by Good Heavens. They can also take you to the nearby beach. The charge is $1560 for a group of 2 to 12 people, and beyond that, the price will be on request. 2. Moon Walk - Group Star Gazing Experience  Moon Walks happen for a week every month. During this time, the Moon looks the biggest in the sky, and the Milky Way is less visible. The tour charge is $130 for adults and $65 for children below 13 years. 3. Look Up And Get Lost - Group Dark Sky Experience  This is a deep sky experience, and the tour continues for 1.5 hours. The charge for this tour is $130 for adults and $65 for children under 13. How To Enjoy Dark Sky Sanctuary On Great Barrier Island Without A Tour?  Are you on an independent stargazing tour on the Great Barrier Island? Consider the following Aotea stargazing tips. 1. Checking Weather Conditions  Clear Moonless nights are the best for a stargazing experience on the Great Barrier Island. However, if you want to go for a Moonwalk, expect lesser visibility of the Milky Way and the stars. 2. Finding A Dark Sky Spot  The beaches of the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, are ideal for the ultimate stargazing experience. Know the dark sky spots and drive away from urban life to see the best cosmic display. 3. Bringing The Right Gear  On guided stargazing tours, the tour operators provide binoculars, telescopes, and red laser lights. If you are on a DIY tour, you will have to carry these essentials. 4. Using Stargazing Apps And Tools  You must use stargazing tools and apps for the best stargazing experience. The best is the free NASA app, and Astrospheric is another app known for brilliant forecasting. Furthermore, you can bring a star chart to locate and identify the stars and constellations. Astrophotography Tips For Beginners  The Medlands Beach and Awana Beach are two of the best beaches for reflection shots on the Great Barrier Island. Furthermore, here are some ideas about the essential equipment and camera modes for astrophotography on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.  Camera Mode Manual Aperture \(f/2.8\) or \(f/4\) ISO 3200 or 6400 Shutter Speed 15-25 Seconds Or, Divide 500 by the Focal Length of Your Lens File Format RAW or RAW + JPEG to Retain Better Color Data for Editing White Balance Manually Setting The White Balance to 4000 Kelvin Tripod Carry a Sturdy Tripod for Image Stabilization.Focus Keep Your Lens Focus to Infinity.Trigger You Can Use a Remote Trigger or Set the 2-10 Seconds Self-Timer of the Camera to Avoid Jerking while Pressing the Shutter Button.Lens Wide Lens (At least 24mm) for Full-Frame Cameras 18mm or Wider for APS-C Cameras  Seasonal Stargazing Calendar: What To See & When  Know when to watch meteor showers, the Milky Way, and Aurora Australis in the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.  Season / Months Meteor Showers (Peak Dates) Milky Way Core Visibility Aurora Australis Chances Summer (December–February)• Geminids – Dec 13–14 (best annual shower) • Ursids – December 22• Quadrantids – January 3–4 (short, intense) • Early Morning Visibility• Low on Horizon before Dawn The chances of Aurora Australis visibility are low as geomagnetic activity is subdued; occasional events only during strong solar storms.Autumn (March to May) • Lyrids – April 22–23 • Eta Aquariids – May 5–6• Core Visibility from 2 AM to 5 AM There are moderate chances of seeing the Aurora Australis. As the nights grow longer, the chances become higher, and equinox-related geomagnetic boosts the visibility chances.Winter (June to August) • Bootids – June 27 (variable)• Southern Delta Aquariids – July 28–30• It is the Best Season for Milky Way Photography.• You Can See the Core for Most of the Night. These months offer high chances of seeing the Aurora Australis due to high solar wind and longer nights. The chances of seeing the Aurora increase after the Equinox.Spring (September to November) • Draconids – October 8th • Orionids – October 21–22 • Leonids – November 17th–18th• The Core Visibility Becomes Less in this Season.The September equinox gives strong geomagnetic activity. So, this season offers moderate to high chances for Aurora visibility. Stargazing-Friendly Accommodation & Camping  Camping on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is the best option for stargazing. There are Department of Conservation (DoC) campsites such as Medlands Beach, Akapoua Bay, Harataonga, Awana Beach, The Green, and Whangapoua. In addition, Stay High Island Camping Co. and the Great Barrier Island Campground are two privately-owned campgrounds on the Great Barrier Island. Furthermore, stargazing tour providers, such as Good Heavens, can offer all-inclusive packages, including eco-friendly accommodations such as XSPOT Cliff House.  Beach Etiquette & Conservation For Night Sky Lovers  When you listen to the Maori stories about stars and celestial bodies, you have to respect their tradition. Be sensible, as the stories are a part of their value system and spiritual beliefs carried through generations. Our guide asked us to remain quiet during storytelling and participate in some cultural traditions. The more respectful you are toward their culture, the more enriching your experience will be. In addition, you have to abide by the light pollution rules and wildlife protection norms. 1. Light Pollution Rules  Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is a designated Dark Sky Sanctuary. So, the protection of the dark sky is very important. So, you have to avoid using bright lights, and even if you need to use light for safety, keep the intensity low. Furthermore, you need to allow your eyes to adapt to the darkness of the sky. Slowly, you will also discover the faint stars. You can use a red laser light and binoculars to enhance the stargazing experience on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. 2. Wildlife Protection  Stargazing goes hand in hand with the wildlife tours on the Great Barrier Island. The sound of black petrels kept us alert during our entire stargazing experience on Medlands Beach. To protect the wildlife on and around your stargazing location, you must avoid feeding the animals and birds. Maintain a safe distance and remain on the marked routes to avoid disturbing their habitats and soil transfer. Furthermore, do not trespass on any private property, and you must not leave any litter behind. Adventure Add-Ons: Glowworms, Hot Springs & Night Kayaking  You can combine the stargazing experience on the Great Barrier Island with night kayaking at the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. As you kayak, you will notice the water of the Great Barrier Island transforming into a surreal landscape. Furthermore, if you are on the Great Barrier Island around February-March, you will see bioluminescence in the water on warm and calmer days. In addition, taking a bath in the Kaitoke Hot Springs after sunset is an experience that you will remeber for the rest of your life. Final Tips For Your Aotea Stargazing Adventure  You need to have some knowledge about the moon phase if you want to enjoy stargazing on Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. The New Moon or the Crescent Moon is the ideal day for observing the night sky. Also, even in the summer months, the temperature drops drastically after sundown. So, you will have to wear layered clothes.  Moreover, keep flashlights dimmed or the brightness of your phone screen low to avoid light pollution.

BY  Shahnawaz Apr 13, 2022

"Travel makes one modest, you see what a tiny place you occupy in the world." ~ Gustave Flaubert. The short lifespan of us humans is not enough to see, explore, and feel the world and all the diverse corners of it. But can't we make it worthwhile by getting away from the tiny apartments we narrow down our lives in? If you have made up your mind to go out and feel the world with all of your senses, I suggest that you set out in the first month of the year–January. This article lists some of the best places to travel in January. I can give you plenty of good reasons to start your journey in January. Travelers looking for a cost-effective journey will find this month the best time to travel. Also, the winter season in January makes a perfect time and opportunity to calm and refresh your body and soul. 10 Best Places To Travel In January You can kick start your year by hiking the snowy mountains that stand tall. You can let the travel thirsty soul within you soak their toes in the salty ocean waves. Then, why not spend the evening in some big city you have longed to visit? You can do all of it in January, and I have the best destinations lined up for you. Here are the best ten places to travel in January- 1. Zanskar Ladakh If you hear the calling of the mountain, then you need to see them in their full glory. Winter is the springtime of the mountains, and Zanskar Ladakh adorns itself with the most welcoming cold that refreshes and rejuvenates you. Mostly known for its Frozen River Trek, uniquely named Chadar Trek, Ladakh opens up its most exotic travel treasure trove only in the winter ( January!). The weather and the landscape of Ladakh Zanskar make it inevitable to list the best places to travel in January. You have numerous trekking destinations in Ladakh. Padum-Darcha Trek, Zanskar-Sham Valley Trek, and Lugnak Trail Trek are some excellent places to trek. The glorious mountains clad in their snowy shawls are waiting to meet you. Countless monasteries in this region seem to be treasuring and cherishing the secrets of the world. How To Reach? Located in the Kargil district of Kashmir, India, Ladakh keeps its arms open for you in all modes of travel. You can visit by air, train, or just hit the road on a motorcycle ( the third one is my personal favorite). If you are going by air, you can go through the Kushok Bakula Airport. It is very close to Leh. If you are going by train, you can start by reaching Jammu Tawi railway station. The dream of many travelers is to ride the 462 km distance between Leh and Ladakh on a motorbike. You can take the NH 01 or NH 301 highway and travel by yourself. Places To Visit: You can visit the Lingshed Monastery, Sani Monastery, and Stongdey Monastery. The Pensi La Pass separates the Zanskar Valley from Suru Valley; it is a must-visit location in Ladakh. You must not miss Pangong Lake and Khardung la Pass. Things To Do: You can trek, hike mountains, and even feel the rush of motorbike riding in the Zanskar region. Cuisines To Try: If you are visiting Ladakh, you must try these dishes– Momo, skyu, Thupka, Chutagi, tingmo, chhurpe. 2. Maldives If you want to get lost and find yourself in a picturesque Island country, Maldives is the location you need to visit. The country is located in the north-central Indian Ocean. The bright, beautiful crystal blue ocean and the beaches that welcome you with open arms are hard not to resist. The emerald water of Maldives is the main attraction of Maldives. Many luxurious overwater bungalows are making it the best location for a trip in January. The Maldives is one of the best places to travel in January for all the water sports you can enjoy there. Also, you can entertain your guests by choosing a private yacht charter in the Maldives. How To Reach? You can reach the Maldives by plane; you can take a chartered plane from anywhere in the world and reach the airport on the island. Places To Visit: Male, Addu Atoll, and Mafushi are the places where you can visit in the Maldives. Things To Do: The Maldives tends to wound your soul with its relaxing weather and environment. There are plenty of activities to do in Maldives–snorkeling, submarine rides, and island hopping are some of my personal recommendations. Cuisines To Try: Some of the mouth-watering delicacies are waiting for you in the Maldives. You can try–fried yams, fish curry, gulha, Maldivian live lobster, mas huni, and masroshi. You may like to Read: Getting The Best From Maldives Tour Packages. 3. Seychelles Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands, is one of the best travel destinations to visit in January. Suppose you can spend a few days in the lap of numerous beaches in Seychelles. The nature reserve of this location appeals to your eyes with coral reefs and rare animals like giant Aldabra. The calm islands and serene beaches will help you find yourself again. Seychelles ranks among the best places to travel in January. So if you are planning a trip in January, then Seychelles has readied the best holiday destinations for January. How To Reach? Seychelles is located in East Africa; you can reach the location through the international airport located on the Mahe island near the capital Victoria. You can travel from most of the countries in the world and their national airports. Places To Visit:  There are 115 islands, so you have plenty of places to visit in Seychelles in January. The best places among them are–Mahe, Beau Vallon, Praslin, and La Digue. Things To Do: Just relaxing on the numerous beaches is enough to freshen you up. You can do snorkeling, Scuba diving, and cruise rides in Seychelles. Cuisines To Try: You must try seafood if you are visiting Seychelles. There are plenty of exquisite delicacies to try out in the place. For instance–octopus curry, grilled fish, satini, ladobs, and local alcoholic beverages. You can also try many fruits like mango, papaya, avocado, and star fruit. 4. Switzerland If you are planning to visit a country Instead of a specific destination, then Switzerland can be one of the best places to travel in January. It is like one of the snowy places out of the Disney movies that you dreamed of visiting as a child. It is the dream country where the urban and the wild live together in harmony. The beautiful alpine scenery of Switzerland, the Alps, wetlands, and the forest area live nearby in this country. So if you are planning to spend the winter in the lavish luxury of urban life and also keep nature close to your chest, then there is no better place than Switzerland. How To Reach? The best option would be to take a direct flight to Switzerland. But if you don't have any other options, you can fly to Milan or Paris and then fly to any Swiss airport. Places To Visit? There are multiple places to visit in Switzerland. Zurich, Lake Geneva, Lucerne, Verbier. Lake Geneva is my personal favorite serene paradise. You also must not skip St.moritz. Things To Do: Come visit the Soglio village in Switzerland; you can also swim in Lake Lucerne and party at the exotic clubs here. Cuisines To Try: Fondue is the signature of Switzerland, and you must try it if you are visiting. Roasted flour soup, rosti, polenta, and braised beef, raclette are some of the most delicious dishes that you need to try here. 5. Dubai Dubai indeed is among the best places to travel in January. If you are a sucker for the luxurious city views, then Dubai has no peers for your travel-thirsty soul. Skyscrapers that penetrate the sky, state-of-the-art buildings, fabulous city life, sporty beeches, and fine dinners are the main attractions of Dubai. How To Reach? You can reach Dubai by landing at the Dubai international airport. Places To Visit: Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab are two of the best places to visit in Dubai. You must also see Dubai creek, Global village, Jumeirah Beach, and Underwater Zoo. Things To Do: You can relax at the beach or go on a desert safari. Cuisines To Try: If you are in Dubai, you must try the best foods in Dubai– Manousheh, Al Harees, Chelo Kebab, Mandi, Iranian Sangak, and Oozie. Read more: 5 Essential Tips For A Smooth Dubai Tour Package. 6. Bali Bali, the island of gods, provides you the peace and tranquility that you have been longing for a long time. In its diverse and rich natural abundance, Bali appears like a scenic painting of what global nature has to offer. The glory of the mountains, the life force of the lush greenery, gushing sacred rivers, beautiful waterfalls, canyons, gardens, and beautiful temples will attract you to Bali. If you are looking for the best honeymoon destination in January, then Bali is my first recommendation. In January, most of the travelers clear out the tourism sports. So you have Bali all to yourself as the most romantic tourism destination in January. How To Reach? You can reach Bali either by Ngurah Rai or Denpasar International Airport. Places To Visit: You must visit Kuta, Seminyak, Gili, Ubud. Things To Do: You can go surfing, visit the temples, and see the rice terraces. Cuisines To Try: Babi Guling, Gado Gado, Mie Goreng, and Pepes Ikan, are some delicious foods you should give your mouth the privilege to taste. You can also check: 4 Tips For First-Time Travelers To Bali. 7. Thailand, Chiang Mai Surrounded by the Thai highlands, Chiang Mai is one of the best places you can visit in Thailand. The best part about a visit to Chiang Mai is that you can visit there during winter, especially in January. The weather, the landscape, and the people of Chiang Mai are the reasons for going to Chiang. The mountain top temples and Doi Inthanon national park are the main attraction of January. Chiang Mai is one of the best places to travel in January. If you are in Thailand, you can also visit the Red Lotus Sea in the Kumphawapi district. The scenic beauty of the millions of water lilies is a sight to behold. How To Reach? You can reach Chiang Mai through the air, by bus, and also by train. You can directly land at the Chiang Mai airport. Also, you can also go by train straight from Bangkok. Places To Visit: The mountain top temple Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a must-visit place in Thailand. You can also go see the Hmong village named Doi Pui. Doi Inthanon national park is another place in Chiang Mai you must go to. Things To Do:  You can go for an adventure in the Doi Inthanon park, do a night safari, and attend local festivals in Chiang Mai. Cuisines To Try: There are many local Thai foods that you can try out. But you must not forget to try the most popular local dish named Khao Soy. 8. Sri Lanka If you are looking for the best places to travel in January for warm weather, then Sri Lanka can be a good choice. Rich in hill stations, pleasant beaches, and wildlife treasures, Sri Lanka can be the best travel destination for warm weather in January. It is also one of the best countries you can visit in the summer. How To Reach? You can take an international flight to reach Sri Lanka from any place in the world. Places To Visit: Bentota, Colombo, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy. Things To Do: You can climb the Sirigiya and see the elephants from an up-close distance; you can also explore the Yala national park. Cuisines To Try: Kottu roti, Lamparis, Dhal curry, Gotu Kola mallung, wood apple juice, etc. 9. Tulum Mexico is a place for more than relaxation. You can relax on the beaches of Tulum. The white sand on the beach and the crystal blue water will provoke you to extend your holidays. Since you are in Mexico, you can also recharge yourself by going to parties and enjoying various sports on the beach. The weather in Tulum during January is quite nice. So if you are looking for travel destinations for a January tour, then it's an option worth considering. Click here to know- how to turn your Tulum trip into an unforgettable adventure? How To Reach? You can land at the Cancun International Airport and go to Tulum straight from there. Places To Visit: Tulum archeological sites, cenotes dos ojos, gran cenote, playa paraiso. Things To Do: You can go for day trips, snorkeling, and eco-tours. Click here to read out 12 things that everyone should try in Mexico. Cuisines To Try: Ceviche,Sopa de Lima, tacos al Pastor, Yucateca Antojitos, Cochinita Pibil. 10. East-Central Africa, Serengeti National Park If you are planning a trip in January, then you must hear the call of the jungle. An African safari in the Serengeti national park is one of the best trips you can plan in January. January is the time when many wild beasts breed during their Great Migration. Serengeti should be among the best places to travel in January if you want to see them in their world. How To Reach? You can fly from Kilimanjaro International airport or Arusha International Airport to Serengeti. Places To Visit: Seronera, Naabi Hill, sees the Migration at the Serengeti hippo pool's national park. Things To Do: You can have a balloon safari there, see the wildlife migration, and the Tanzania safari. Cuisines To Try: Nyama choma, chipsi mayai, mshikaki, Zanzibar pizza. These Are The Best Places To Travel In January Different parts of the world have different weather in January. You can enjoy a chilly bike ride in Ladakh. You can also enjoy the mild warm beaches like Tulum and Seychelles. If you want peace and quiet on a romantic trip, then Bali is your destination. For people with a deep love for wild lives, Serengeti is calling you with open arms. In this article, I have tried to diversify the best travel destinations for a trip in January. I wholeheartedly provoke you to personally visit any of these places and share your experience with us. I can assure you that you will have a memorable trip in your life. Read Also: Best Neighborhoods To Discover In Mexico City Reasons To Book Cottages For Your Honeymoon! World’s Legendary Locations That Will Mesmerise You

BY  Barsha Aug 16, 2023

There's something magical about the snowy mountainside that can entice even the most reluctant of travelers to take a chance and experience the exhilaration of skiing. And when it comes to skiing destinations, few places compare to Les Deux Alpes in southeastern France.  In this article, we'll explore the top four reasons why you should visit Les Deux Alpes for your next ski break. 4 Reasons To Visit Les Deux Alpes During Ski Break Situated right at the center of the French Alps, Les Deux Alpes offers breathtaking views, endless slopes, and an abundance of activities for all levels of skiers. Reason 1: Extensive skiing terrain One of the biggest draws of Les Deux Alpes is its extensive skiing terrain. With over 220 kilometers of slopes, skiers of all levels will have plenty of runs to choose from. From gentle beginner slopes to challenging black runs, there's something for everyone. The resort also offers off-piste skiing for the more adventurous skiers, with opportunities for heli-skiing and ski touring.  The resort is also known for its high-altitude skiing, with runs reaching up to 3,600 meters. This means that skiing is possible even in the late season, making Les Deux Alpes a popular destination for spring skiing. Don’t forget to book your ski pass at Erna Low in order not to waste your time waiting in long lines. Reason 2: Great for families and beginners  While Les Deux Alpes offers plenty of challenging runs for experienced skiers, it's also a great destination for families and beginners. The resort has a dedicated beginners' area with gentle slopes and ski schools for all ages.  The ski institutes provide a range of lessons, from group lessons to private lessons, which is relatively easy for everyone to gain knowledge at their own speed. The resort also has a range of activities for non-skiers, including snowshoeing, ice skating, and tobogganing.  There are also child-friendly activities, like a sledding area and a snow garden, making Les Deux Alpes a great choice for families with young children. Reason 3: Apres ski and nightlife Les Deux Alpes isn't just about skiing - it's also one of the most awesome Alpine Apres-ski resorts. The resort has a range of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs catering to all tastes. Whether you want to enjoy a quiet drink after a day on the slopes or party until the early hours, you'll find something to suit your mood.  One of the most popular apres-ski activities in Les Deux Alpes is ice skating. The resort has a large ice rink that is open throughout the day and into the evening, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes. There is also a range of restaurants and cafes around the rink, serving everything from hot chocolate to cocktails. Reason 4: Stunning scenery Finally, Les Deux Alpes is known for its stunning scenery. Located at the heart of the infamous French Alps, the resort offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.  There is also a range of activities for those who want to take in the scenery, including snowshoeing and guided mountain walks. One of the most popular activities in Les Deux Alpes is a ride on the Jandri Express cable car.  Tips To Keep In Mind While Visiting Les Deux Alpes  Who doesn’t enjoy a holiday with their favorite set of people at Les 2 Alpes? The snow across the glacier and cannons surely make you refreshed and energized. But there are certain factors one should keep in mind while traveling to Deux Alpes. Shortlist The Places You Wish To Travel Visiting a ski resort is fun, but not everyone in your group will agree on a common plan. Different people would want to travel to different parts of the city. Hence, in order to avoid confusion and conflicts, prepare a list beforehand. Hand out the list of common places everyone will visit collaboratively to each group member. This way, each one of you can enjoy without worrying about individual interests. Catalog Skiing Needs People with their personal cars and ski equipment have no worries about storing the boards, skis, and shoes in their trunks. But what about the rest? They might want to try new skis. The skis technology never stands still- a titanium and carbon plate adds extra speed to the ski. Choose an all-mountain freeride ski if you wish to travel off-piste.  In case you are a technical skier, rent an additional sharp-carved ski. Maximum hotels have preset agreements and collaborated with ski rental companies offering extra discounts. Check Out Fun Things To Do In Les Deux Alpes It’s time to spice things up a bit. This step is also important to determine the individual interests of each group member. Les Deux Alpes offers everyone a range of entertainment zones. Check them out here: Ice Glider Who doesn’t love to drive bumper cars? But would you dare to drive them on icy ground? This activity might charge you around 5 euros for 5-6 minutes, and only two people are allowed in a single Ice Glider. Also, it is open from 4 pm to 10 pm on Thursdays. Bowling At 12 Place de L’Alpe de Venosc, you get bowling with six lanes. A maximum of 8 players in each lane can play, which makes advance booking highly significant. The cost is somewhere around five euros for each person in the game. There are also darts and air hockey, along with a minibar.  Wrap Up Winter sports holidays are totally fun for your physical and mental well-being. And when you visit Les 2 Alpes, fun is guaranteed. Make sure you take note of the aforementioned tips to make your stay a pleasurable experience.  So, this was all about it. I hope you liked the article which guided you all the way through ski holidaying in Les Deux Alpes. Don’t forget to share your experiences with us. Happy reading! Read Also: Taco Bell Breakfast Hours: When Does Taco Bell Serve Breakfast? You Won’t Believe The Best Things To Do When In Fiji! Romantic Weekend Breaks Scotland