The Best 5 Places To Visit In Sicily This Year

BY  Sibashree Sep 11, 2024

Kobuk Valley National Park is surreal! Have you ever thought to meet sand dunes in the Arctic Circle? The unique geology of the park makes it possible. That’s not all! The Great Kobuk sand dunes stand here, along with the remains of the North American continental glaciers.  Three of the sand dunes in this national park are active or alive. The Great Kobuk Sand Dunes, Hunt River Dunes, and Little Kobuk Sand Dunes here cover a mesmerizing 20,000 acres of area in the park.   Today, hiking through these dunes is one of the most popular activities in the Kobuk Valley National Park.   While it is visually unusual or unexpected to see sand dunes in an Arctic National Park, you also need to understand that the Arctic region gets very little rainfall every year. So, this is also a desert region.   “Sand dunes in the Arctic landscape are not what you would expect. Since most people associate sand dunes with a hot desert environment, it is a visually unusual thing to see. In fact, what most people don't realize is that the Arctic is also a desert with very low levels of rainfall.”   - Christian, a Kobuk Valley National Park Worker  Having said that, how the sand dunes came to be here, and the experience of exploring them will be a great thing to discuss in this article.   This Is How The Kobuk Valley National Park Became The Land Of Sand Dunes   https://www.instagram.com/p/BWatGdVFuis/ Much of Alaska, including the Kobuk Valley National Park, falls in the Tundra region. Tundra, the coldest of the biomes, gets only around 150 to 250 mm of rainfall and snowfall yearly1. So, the national park has less rainfall than some of the most well-known deserts in the world.   Further, the sand dunes in the Kobuk Valley are as old as the Ice Age. Now, as the mighty glaciers moved forward and made a retreat, the rocks beneath got ground. Now, the blowing wind transported the sand into the empty and ice-free Kobuk Valley. The sand dunes in the park are up to 150 feet high, and they are the biggest, high-altitude, and most importantly, “active sand fields”  in the earth.   In The Land Of The Great Kobuk Sand Dunes  https://www.instagram.com/p/BgmZYDdAA_r/ Are you in the Sahara? No, you are around 35 miles above the Arctic Circle and still find the largest active sand dune field in the world. Today, it is a popular backpacking, hiking, and camping destination in the National Park. You must attend the Northwest Arctic Heritage Center to learn more about the outdoor pursuits in the land of sand dunes.  Let’s quickly look at why the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes is a preferred destination for camping, hiking, and backpacking.  The sand is steady enough for the landing of an aircraft with wheels.  You can put up your tent on any level surface.  Also, you can hike in any direction.  Further, you can board a float plane and reach the Kobuk River. From there, you can take a backpacking tour for around two miles and reach the dunes.  You must visit the Kotzebue Visitor Center if you have plans to take this backpacking journey to and from the Kobuk River.   There is no marked route for hiking.  In summer, the temperature in the sand dunes can reach up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, fall is the season to see caribou migration here.   However, there’s more to it! Let’s learn about the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes as relics of the Ice Age and how life thrived here.   Great Kobuk Sand Dunes: The Relics Of The Ice Age   https://www.instagram.com/p/BYwfdMYlr-0/ To know about the formation of the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes, we must go back to the Ice Age. Around 28000 years ago, glaciers in the mountains formed. I have already discussed how the glaciers ground the rocks and wind deposited them in the Kobuk Valley.   Further, approximately 14000 years ago, the glaciers made a massive retreat. As a result, there were 200,000 acres of sandy land formation on the river banks. Complex holocene activities and geomorphic preservations keep the sand dune field at the Kobuk Valley National Park active or alive. Along with the Kobuk Valley, small lakes in the park have also accumulated sand over thousands of years.   However, most of the landscape today is occupied by the vegetation of the national park, and the sand dune area consists of only 20,000 acres. The vegetation found here consists of the following varieties.  Wild rye  Grasses  Sedges  Kobuk locoweed  Wildflowers blooming occasionally  These species grow on the shifting sand, and they function as stabilizing agents. You can see shrubs, lichens, mosses, and algae following this vegetation. Finally, there are spruce, birch, and aspen trees covering the landscape.    The slopes of the Kobuk Valley sand dunes are the only place where Kobuk locoweeds grow. These plants belong to the pea family, and they are known for their purple flowers. If you want to see these flowers, you must visit the park in late June and July.   The inland dune field of Kobuk Valley National Park is surrounded by boreal forest.   Humans And Wildlife In The Great Kobuk Sand Dunes  https://www.instagram.com/p/Cv0EhpdLsJ5/ It’s amazing to see the Western Arctic Caribou walking through the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes. Fall and spring are the migration seasons for these animals. The north of Brook Range is the caribou herd’s calving ground, and they migrate to and from this place.   As the caribou herds pass through the sand dunes, their footprints remain in the ground for the longest time. According to National Park Service data, around 250,000 caribou pass through this national park annually.   No wonder that the Kobuk Valley National Park is one of the “last great migrations” remaining in the world. The table below gives you a brief idea about the animals and birds in the sand dunes.  Birds Sharp-shinned Hawk Golden Eagle Bald Eagle American Wigeon Northern Pintail Rough-legged Hawk Marsh Hawk Mammals Caribou Wolverine Muskox Snowshoe Hare Moose Gray Wolf Grizzly Bear Beaver Arctic Fox American Pine Marten Amphibians Wood Frog Fish Longnose Sucker Salmon* Northern Pike Alaska Blackfish Alaska Whitefish Humpback Whitefish Alaskan Stickleback Ninespine Stickleback  Human history in the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes is at least 8000 years old. They lived by the Kobuk River and were mainly focused on fishing, hunting, and trapping for survival. It is fascinating to visit the thousand-year-old hunting camps on the edges of the sand dunes.  The golden and shifting Great Kobuk Sand Dunes are located a few miles away from the Kobuk River. Further, the sand dunes soar up to 100 miles in the air.   Kobuk Valley National Park Is Also The Land Of Iñupiaq Subsistence  https://www.instagram.com/p/BWdjyOBl_Lw/ Human life, which started in the Great Kobuk Sand Dunes 8000 years ago, is still thriving with the mantra of subsistence. The Iñupiaq people here use the available natural resources to fulfil their physical needs and safeguard their spiritual and cultural requirements.   For example, they depend on caribou and salmon to feed themselves and their dogs. At the same time, caribou skin hide is extensively used to make parka jackets to combat Arctic winter. They also make mukluks or boots using reindeer skin to walk through the snow.   Further, the local people made baskets using birch and willow. Moreover, in darkness, caribou tallow or seal oil were the only ingredients to light up their stone lamps.   Irrespective of the trade with the coastal communities, the “customary, traditional and non-commercial” use of natural resources is still important in the park.   Iñupiat Ilitqusiat And Respecting The Ecosystem   https://www.instagram.com/p/CzjboNfsc4Y/ Aboriginal people in the Kobuk Valley National Park are committed to passing on their values from generation to generation. The Iñupiat Ilitqusiat value asks them to transfer the knowledge and skill of hunting and everything about life.  In addition, this transfer of knowledge helps to make the most of various seasons and subsistence opportunities. For example, the caribou season comes to this park after the salmon season.   Earlier, Noatak Valley was the destination for these people during the caribou season, and even today, some families move to Noatak Valley. Again, summer camping around the Kobuk River is common for fishing, especially catching salmon and whitefish.   Summer is also the season for harvesting berries and wild greens for the local people.  If you want to learn about the local people and their values, you must be respectful and understand their seasonal activities as a part of their subsistence practices.   Overall, the Kobuk Valley National Park is not just a place to see sand dunes and wildlife. It is a tapestry of human lives depending on nature.   Things To Know Before You Visit The Kobuk Valley National Park   For me, the sand dunes and Iñupiaq subsistence practices are the most fascinating things in the Kobuk Valley National Park. However, keep the following information handy if you are to pay a visit anytime soon.   Mode of Transport: Authorized air taxis from Kotzebue or Bettles  Visitor Center: Northwest Arctic Heritage Center  Entrance Fee: Free  Permits Required:  Commercial Use Authorization or CUA for commercial activities, Research Permits, Filming and Photography Permits  Activities to Do: Boating, fishing, camping and backpacking, hiking, flight-seeing and exploring nearby attractions  Best Time to Visit: June to July   Area: 1,750,000 Acres  Established: 2nd December, 1980  Number of Visitors: 17,616 (2023) (National Park Service Data)  Snowfall, downpours, and extreme weather conditions can occur in any season of the year. So, follow the instructions shared at the visitor center and keep your gear ready for survival!  

BY  Mashum Apr 19, 2022

December closes a year but can gift a bag full of memories!! Well, for most travelers, this is a month when they seek an escape. If you are one of them, this article is for you. Here, you can go through some of the best places to travel in December. So, why wait anymore? Just pick a destination and plan up for a trip. Remember, only proper planning can be the strongest pillar for a memorable trip. As December is still far away, you can get cheap flight tickets and hotels in most places. Moreover, pre-planning can help you grow an interest in saving much money and ultimately make your trip a lavish one. For now, you can check out the destinations. I have made a list and I am quite sure that you would be able to go for a mini world tour while checking them out. Okay, time now for a smooth take-off. Here we go! Top December Destinations In 2022 You Must Know About Here are the ten best places to travel to in December. So, pick up one from the following list and make further plans. You can talk with an experienced travel agent and give him the responsibility to set up an itinerary. I hope, all the information regarding the exotic December destinations will be of your help. Just go through them and follow them accordingly. Read More: 10 Best Places To Travel In March – Travel Guide 2022  1. Atacama Desert, Chile Overview Chile is a small country in South America. It homes the famous Atacama Desert which is probably the driest place on the planet. You can be here in December to witness the vibrancy of nature even when the landform is harsh. Many tourists consider it one of the best places to travel in December as they can comfortably explore the desert. So, you can always consider visiting this place. There are direct flights to Chile from the US. Things To Explore Unique landscapes and boulders of the desert. Night-time desert safari and stargazing. Local shepherd families and their lifestyle. Places To Stay Tierra Atacama Hotel and SPA, Casa Atacama, Awasi Atacama. Best Dishes To Try Patasca, Pastel de Choclo. 2. Carmel-By-The- Sea, California Overview If you desire to spend a cool December but avoid the snow, the Carmel Valley Ranch can be the best place to visit. So, you can consider it one of the best places to travel in December USA. The Carmel-By-The-Sea is actually a resort where you can spend some three to four days. Here, you can just rejuvenate solo, as a couple, or with your family. Reaching the resort can be easy as you need to take a domestic flight or the right highway. Things To Explore You can check out the man-made beehives in the resort. Do not miss indulging in whisky tasting. You can take part in the activities like archery and candle-making. Places To Stay Carmel-By-The Sea Resort. Best Dishes To Try Fish and beef grill, Hand made bread, Kinds of pasta and pizza. 3. Big Island, Hawaii Overview The Hawaii Islands remain on the bucket list of most travelers. You can consider it one of the best places to travel in December. The main reason for this is the warm climate. You can just take a direct flight to the Kona from any major airport in the US.   Things To Explore Check out all the pristine beaches around the Big Island. Enjoy the seaside with some music. Closely observe the marine life of the place. Places To Stay The Four Seasons Resort, Royal Kona Resort, Gingerhill Farm Retreat. Best Dishes To Try Manapua, Fish Tacos, Huli Huli Chicken. Click Here To Read: Top 5 Unexplored Treks In Himachal 4. New Orleans, Louisiana Overview If you are currently looking for the best places to travel in December on a budget, the right pick for you can be New Orleans. It is in the state of Louisiana and you can expect to get warm weather here. Generally, the city turns empty this month and the locals decorate it for Christmas. So, you can consider it one of the best places to travel in December. You can reach Now Orleans by car from any corner of the country. Moreover, there are several domestic flights from different airports in the US.  Things To Explore Witness the parade and sporting events in December. Enjoy Christmas time and observe the local culture. Places To Stay The Brandywine By Sextant, City House, New Orleans, The Quisby. Best Dishes To Try Gumbo, Jambalaya, Po-Boys, Crawfish Etouffee. 5. Los Cabos, Mexico Overview If you are kind of a traveler who seeks lavish accommodations while on a trip, the Los Cabos in Mexico can be the right place for you. You can get a lot of 5-Star resorts in this place. The best you can do is pre-book your accommodation to get a suit at cheap rates. A rejuvenating trip can be the best in Los Cabos Mexico. There is nothing much to do in the city apart from roaming around and star-gazing. Reaching Los Cabos can be an easy task as there are many short flight lines. This place can come on the list of best places to travel in January too.   Things To Explore The resorts in Los Cabos are themselves tourist destinations. So, you can explore them. Explore the streets of Los Cabos during Christmas. Take part in the dinner series where you can find dishes paying homage to the four elements. Places To Stay Solmar Resort, Seven Crown Express, ME Cabo. Best Dishes To Try Smoked Marlin, Pitahaya, Comida de Pobres. 6. Quebec City, Canada Overview If a chilly and snowy December is nothing problematic to you, Quebec City in Canada can be one of the best places to travel in December. If witnessing a perfect white Christmas has always been on your dream list, it can turn into a reality during the December trip to Quebec City. A week’s trip to this place can give a good competition to the best places to travel to in December for warm weather. Well, the romance of this city demands a couple trip but you can reach out to this place solo or with your friends.   Reaching Quebec City in Canada can be simple as there are a lot of flights from the US. Things To Explore When in Quebec City during December, you should explore the snowy streets. You can also concentrate on the local culture while reaching this city during Christmas. There are some excellent museums in the city that you can visit. Places To Stay Courtyard By Marriot, Auberge Internationale De Quebec, Quality Inn & Suites. Best Dishes To Try Maple Syrup, Tim Hortons, French Onion Soup. 7. Kochi, India Overview Kochi is one of the most picturesque cities in India situated in the state of Kerala in the south. The main reason for the beauty of Kochi is the presence of a lot of coconut trees and lagoons. Well, when a trip to Kochi, you can cover the entire state for a traveling extravaganza.   You can expect pleasantly warm weather in December as the chilly winds from the north do not reach much to this place. If you are concerned about reaching Kochi, consider it to be a bit ticky. So, at first, you would need to catch a flight to New Delhi from the US. You can expect these flights to be either direct or reach the destination on a one-stop basis. Once you reach New Delhi, you can either take a train or a domestic flight to Kochi. You can also include Kochi in the list of best places to travel in February too.   Things To Explore The Kerala Backwaters are the main thing that you can explore while on a trip to Kochi. Make sure you stay in the houseboat for a night. Tasting the Kerala cuisines is a must when you visit Kochi on a trip. Places To Stay Adams Wood House Homestay, Palm Grove Serviced Villa, Radisson Blue Kochi. Best Dishes To Try Pazham Pori and Beef curry, Thattu Dosa, Kappa Boti. 8. Miami, USA Overview In December, you can observe Miami turn into a party city. So, you can consider it as one of the best places to travel in December. The Swiss-born art fair also takes place in this city. So, people from all socio-economic strata come to witness it. Additionally, the beach is also there to allure people with its vibrancy. So, you can easily plan for a trip to Miami. In December, the locals start terming the time as ‘Art Week’. All you need to do is just check the time of the Art Fair and head to the city.   Reaching Miami is no big deal if you are in the USA. There are a lot of highway routes that connect to the city. Otherwise, you can take any domestic flights to the city on having time constraints.   Things To Explore Explore the Art Fair while in Miami in the month of December. Spend time in the beach and go for a short beach walk if possible. Explore the famous market in Miami and shop around. Places To Stay Hilton Miami Downtown, Habitat Brickell by Sextant, Holiday Inn Port of Miami. Best Dishes To Try Stone Crab Delicacies, Grilled Fish Sandwich, Chicharron. You May Like To Read This: 10 Best Places To Travel In June – Travel Guide 2022   9. Berlin, Germany Overview Probably, there is no human being who does not desire to witness the charm of European Christmas. Well, you can get a chance to fulfill your desire if you pack your bags and set out for Berlin next December. During Christmas, you can find the Berlin city to deck up like a bride. The best you can do is reach to gluhwein and enjoy Christmas Eve. The local shops come up with new stocks and you can get a chance to shop a lot. Moreover, during the night, the marvelous lights turn the city into a dreamy place. Nightclubs and bars serve premium quality whisky and wine that you can taste while enjoying the soothing music. So, you can always plan for a single city tour during December and that is the National Capital, Berlin. When it comes to reaching, you can get multiple direct and one-stop flights to this place. The best you can do is purchase the tickets early as they turn expensive during Christmas. Moreover, you can face many problems in getting a ticket while being late. Things To Explore The city and the lights can be the best things to explore in Berlin. Try tasting the food in the roadside cafes of Berlin. Listening to the local music from the live-performing bands. Places To Stay St. Christopher’s Inn, Generator Berlin Mitte, Meininger Hotel Berlin. Best Dishes To Try Currywurst, Schnitzel, Bratwurst. 10. Mexico City, Mexico Overview December can be the best time to visit Mexico City for a trip. As this place experiences a tropical climate you can consider it one of the best places to travel to in December for warm weather. The best you can do is go for a solo trip to this place. You can get a lot of sightseeing locations in Mexico City.   Reaching Mexico City is a matter of a few hours because you can get a lot of flights from different airports of the US. Things To Explore Local Sightseeing in Mexico City includes a lot of Museums like the Frida Kahlo Museum, Aztec Ruins, etc. You can also explore the local cafes and taste a lot of dishes while on a trip to this city. Places To Stay Hotel MX Centro, Hotel MX Zocalo, Hotel Mundo Joven Catedral. Best Dishes To Try Tacos al pastor, Berbacoa, Tlacoyos. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q1. Where Is It Best To Travel In December? Any city tour towards the tropical region of the earth can be the best in December. Q2. What Is The #1 Vacation Destination In The World? Paris, France is the top-notch vacation destination in the world. Q3. Which Country Is Best For Visit 2021? Germany and France are the two countries best for visiting in 2021. It is still the same in 2022.   Q4. Where Is It Warm To Travel In December? You can go to Mexico or Brazil for a warm trip in December.   Final Take Away As a traveller, you can start planning for a trip at any time of your life. So, for now, the best you can do is start planning for a december trip. Keep in mind that early planning always helps. So, you should always make sure all your efforts are in the right approach. Another thing that you need to keep in mind is getting an experienced travel agent. So, you should leave no stones unturned to find one. You can not only request him to book all tickets but also to make a proper itinerary. Read More: Best Places For River Rafting In India 10 Best Places To Travel In August – Travel Guide 2022 Discovering The 11 Most Beautiful Places Of Adventure In The World  

BY  Arnab Feb 6, 2024

When you picture a perfect Mediterranean getaway, what comes to mind? Lush vineyards, rugged seaside cliffs, and hillsides dotted with pretty churches and gelato by the coast - these are staples of Italy's unique natural and cultural landscape. While the major cities attract millions each year, some of the country's most incredible treasures lie just offshore - its islands.  This article has some of the most amazing islands’ list you will find around Italy. So, if you are a travel enthusiast, here are a few of Italy’s most stunning islands. Sicily  As Italy's largest island, Sicily’s charm is endlessly diverse, from coastal towns like Cefalù and Taormina to the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna. Cycle along rural routes through almond and olive groves or simply relax on the beaches along the Ionian coastline. The island's strategic location means every era of history has left an indelible mark, which is on display in everything from architectural gems to UNESCO World Heritage Sites. With its year-round warm climate and superb hospitality, Sicily promises an authentic Italian island paradise. Taking a holiday in Sicily means stepping into a whole new world. Start your journey in Palermo’s Arab-influenced street life. Then, drive along the north coast, stopping at Cefalù, before continuing down the east coast to Taormina for more incredible panoramas. After exploring art-filled towns like Catania, head inland to appreciate mountaintop vistas from Etna.  When it comes to accommodation, private villas are the ideal choice for a stay on the island. There’s a good selection of holiday accommodation in Sicily to choose from. Villas, apartments, and agriturismi often boast private pools, outdoor spaces and fully equipped kitchens, as well as catering services. Opting for a villa rental allows you to enjoy comfort, independence and the flexibility to come and go as you please, all essential ingredients for an idyllic island getaway. Sardinia  Sardinia, located west of the Italian peninsula and Italy’s second-largest island, boasts over 1,800 kilometers of stunning coastline and crystalline waters. Discover beaches of fine white sand set against a backdrop of jagged granite cliffs that tumble dramatically down to the sea, or venture inland, where rugged mountains and ancient stone villages contribute to the island’s its unspoiled appeal. Nature lovers will want to spend time amidst plains of wildflowers and forests that are home to rare birds and mammals. Sardinia's unique culture is evident in its gastronomy, which features cheeses like pecorino and ricotta, and in its traditions, for example, sheep-herding festivals. Coastal hubs like Cagliari, with its medieval landmarks, and Spanish-influenced Alghero, welcome travelers. Away from these areas, authentic farm stays provide a glimpse into local pastoral life.  Diverse natural beauty and amazing landscapes all contribute to the thrill of exploring Sardinia. Along the coast, hidden bays and lighthouses dot limestone cliffs that plummet down to azure waters, and inland, craggy peaks rise green from dense cork oak forests. Packed with archaeological riches and fringed by remote beaches, Sardinia’s natural beauty and slow pace of life are simply mesmerizing. Elba Elba Island is a stunning destination, famous for its varied landscapes and history, located off the Tuscan coast. Also known as the island of Napoleon due to the French emperor's brief exile here, Elba boasts beautiful beaches, mountains, and varied rural scenery. Swim in crystal-clear turquoise waters that fringe sandy shores and pocket-sized coves. Or set off on one of the hiking trails that lead up into Elba's mountainous interior, where slopes are dotted with picturesque medieval villages.  Foodies will delight in local specialties that showcase the bounty from surrounding waters and hills, from lobster to tender beef. The island’s geological heritage is also interesting, thanks to a long history of iron mining. Offering a heady combination of exploring Portuguese fortresses, mineral-rich hot springs, superb beaches, and picture-postcard town centers, Elba is a superb holiday destination for those looking for beauty, history, and relaxation on an unspoiled Italian island Capri  Catch a glimpse of the hideaway cove, or of pathways that wind through Bougainville and oleander-filled fragrant gardens. Above the sapphire-shaded Mediterranean, limestone rocks soar into dazzling blue skies. Capri is endlessly seducting, attracting visitors with its charm and mild climate and the promise of exploring lush hillsides before relaxing in seaside restaurants and strolling through tiny villages. Immerse yourself in the relaxed pace of life in the Mediterranean amidst stunning natural scenery and in the open-hearted culture of Italy's islands for a truly unforgettable experience. With careful planning and a natural desire to explore, a visit to any of Italy’s paradise islands – Sicily, Sardinia, Elba,, and dazzling Capri – will provide long-lasting visual memories of natural beauty and a wonderful cultural journey. Ischia If you want to take your eyes off Capri a bit, simply hop on a ferry and travel across the Gulf of Naples. Here, lies the neigh neighboring of Ischia which boasts about its topical springs. Moreover, they invite glorious soaks, mesmerizing beaches and Neapolitans basking in the sun and holidaying. In these busy town centers, you might also find some great restaurants, gelato stalls, and other tourist attractions.  Ischia first got fame in Neapolitan Navels and their subsequent TV remakes by Elena Ferrante. Although it is bustling you will not find it too busy, so visit it anytime you want. Dive into the astounding beach of Giardini la Mortella, soak in the dramatic view of the Aragonese Castle, and don’t forget to visit the upmarket villages near Sant’Angelo.  Concluding Words Italy is a place full of wonders. From bustling lanes to deserted islands, you never know what will surprise you. So, if these islands are not on your bucket list already, ensure to add them soon. There are other tourist destinations too which are located in these islands. Discover them while you travel here.  Make sure to have a safe trip, and do not forget to live in the moment. So, that’s all about the mesmerizing islands of Italy. I hope you liked this comprehensive guide. If it helped you gain necessary insights, do comment below. Thank you for reading.  Read Also: Roman Revelations: Unforgettable Things To Do In Rome, The Heart Of Italy! Tips For Planning The Perfect Getaway In A Rental Villa In Italy Exploring The Allure Of Holiday Getaways In Italy