The Top Things To Do When Visiting The Great City Of Sydney

BY  Sibashree Aug 22, 2025

Thanks to Kawasan Falls and its associated canoeing activities, the Government of Badian in the Philippines is expecting a 50% tourism boom. Earl Endab, the Badian Tourism Officer, has confirmed this in a conversation with The Freeman.  However, Kawasan Falls, the multi-tiered waterfall in Badlan, has always been the prime attraction of Cebu in the Philippines, and it played an important role in the Balan tourism industry, contributing P500 in 2024.  Now, what makes Kawasan Falls so special? Turquoise blue water, refreshing pools, and lush green tropical surroundings have made Kawasan Falls the ideal place for relaxing and swimming.  In this Tour and Travel Blog, I will discuss the following key areas about Kawasan Falls.  Table of contentsWhat Is Kawasan Falls Description? Know The Key Features Of The Waterfalls What Is The Kawasan Falls Location?How To Reach Kawasan Falls From Cebu City? 1. How To Reach Kawasan Falls From Cebu City By Bus?2. How To Reach Kawasan Falls From Cebu By A Private Car?3. Take A Shared Van Ride From Cebu To Kawasan Falls Why Visit Kawasan Falls In Cebu? What is Kawasan Falls Known For?1. Canyoneering Adventure2. Swimming In The Natural Pools3. Bamboo Rafting4. Light Hiking To The Upper LevelsA Breakdown Of Kawasan Falls LevelsWhat Is The Perfect Kawasan Falls Itinerary? What Is The Best Time To Visit Kawasan Falls? What Are The Best Instagrammable Spots At Kawasan Falls?Kawasan Falls: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What Is Kawasan Falls Description? Know The Key Features Of The Waterfalls  Around 3 to 4 hours away from Cebu City, Kawasan Falls is at the foot of the Mantalongon Mountain Range. Due to the high amount of limestone deposits, the water of Kawasan Falls is deep turquoise in color. The height of Kawasan Falls is 40 feet.  Furthermore, as the multi-tiered waterfall falls down, the volcanic rock formations make a pool with a depth of 11 meters. You can take a bamboo raft and reach under the falling water for a delightful “Waterfall Massage.”  These waterfalls, as part of the Kawasan Falls, get their water from the Kabukalan Spring. Then, the water passes toward the Tanon Strait and Matutinao River through the Kawasan Gorge.  Moreover, Kawasan Falls are important for the overall ecotourism landscape of the Philippines. It offers the perfect blend of a unique ecosystem, adventure activities, and scenic beauty.  Here are the key features of Kawasan Falls. Key Features of Kawasan FallsDetailsMain FallsThe first tier consists of a 40-meter-high waterfall that cascades down the Kawasan Gorge and forms a deep pool. Swimming and bamboo rafting are popular activities here. Upper TiersYou can hike up the main waterfall, and there you will find many small waterfalls and different hiking spots. Canyoneering AdventureTake an adventurous canyoneering tour from Alegria to Badian. The activities on the way include:Cliff-jumpingTrekkingSwimming in the Matutinao RiverLush Green SurroundingsEnjoy an immersive experience here thanks to the lush green tropical surroundings filled with the delightful chirpings of birds. Easy AccessibilityYou can take a drive from Cebu City and reach Kawasan Falls within 3-4 hours. Then, you can take a walk of around 10-15 minutes along the river to reach the waterfall. Hours OpenEarly Morning to Late AfternoonKawasan Falls Entrance FeePHP 45 What Is The Kawasan Falls Location? Province: Cebu, Central Visayas, Philippines Town: Badian Barangay: Matutinao Located in South Cebu, the Kawasan Falls are nestled within the Barangay Matutinao Mountains. The nearest municipality to here is Moalboal. It only takes 30-40 minutes to reach Kawasan Falls from Moalboal.  Moalboal itself is known for the most vibrant marine life, with turtle sightings and a sardine run. Moreover, Panagsama Beach here is a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. How To Reach Kawasan Falls From Cebu City?  The distance between Cebu City and Kawasan Falls is close to 107 km. You can either take a bus or a private car to travel the distance. You can even opt for a shared van ride to reach Kawasan Falls.  1. How To Reach Kawasan Falls From Cebu City By Bus? You will easily find buses run by Ceres, the largest bus company in the Phillipines. Take the bus bound for Bato via Barili.  After a 2-2.5 hours of ride in the bus, you will have to get off at Matutinao Church or the Sto. Tomas De Villanueva Parish. From there, you will have to take a walk for 15-20 minutes to reach the waterfall.  2. How To Reach Kawasan Falls From Cebu By A Private Car? When you book a private car, you will get transportation assistance along with guided activities. The journey by car takes around three to four hours.  The journey will cost 200 PHP per person. You can even take a motorcycle ride, available for 50 PHP per person.  3. Take A Shared Van Ride From Cebu To Kawasan Falls  You can take public vans for 120 PHP or shared vans from the GT Express Terminal in Cebu. Shared vans are available till Moalboal. From Moalboal, you can take any southbound bus to reach the gates of the Kawasan Falls. Why Visit Kawasan Falls In Cebu? What is Kawasan Falls Known For? Kawasan Falls is famous for its deep turquoise waters, pools, and it is a hotspot of canyoneering adventure and activities such as: Sliding down rocks Hiking Swimming Cliff jumping Due to the thrills and challenges of the canyoneering route, it is also known as the natural obstacle course.  Moreover, as you take the left side of the waterfall and walk through the path briefly, you will come across many small springs. Also, Mainit Hot Springs, at the stop of Malabuyoc (to be found on the route from Oslob to Kawasan Falls), is a popular nearby attraction.  Also, Kawasan Falls has always been crucial as an eco-tourism destination. Now, everyone talks about the canyoneering adventures, lush jungle settings, multi-tiered formations, etc.  However, there is more to it. Ecotourism means balancing the tourist activities with environmental benefits by following sustainable practices.  Furthermore, ecotourism can boost local conservation efforts by creating employment opportunities and helping local commercial establishments.  Top Things To Do At Kawasan Falls: Kawasan Falls Activities From enjoying a relaxed picnic to having the most adventurous canyoneering activities, Kawasan Falls offers you the most eclectic experience.  Here are the things to do at Kawasan Falls. 1. Canyoneering Adventure View this post on Instagram A post shared by camille (@camilleguiden) Tour And Travel Blog Tips Guided tours are a must for canyoneering adventures.  2. Swimming In The Natural Pools Cool down in the main basin of the first waterfall level. It is perfect for casual swimmers and families. Here, you will get life vests available for rent.  3. Bamboo Rafting View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pao Ponce (@opao.ph) Are you ready for the ultimate “Water Massage” experience? Rent a traditional bamboo raft and float directly to reach under the falls, and allow the mighty cascades of water to fall on you.  4. Light Hiking To The Upper Levels Once you are done with all the picnic fun and adventures at Kawasan Falls, you can go for a short hike for 10 to 15 minutes and spot the second and third waterfalls.  These places are ideal if you are looking for a less crowded and quieter experience.  5. Picnicking Tables and cottages are available for rent. Bring your own food or grab some local eats nearby. A Breakdown Of Kawasan Falls Levels LevelHeightActivitiesTour and Travel Blog CommentsKawasan Falls Level 140 Meters• Swimming• RaftingIt is crowded, especially on weekends. Level 220 Meters• Swimming• RelaxationThis is quieter.Level 310 Meters• Hiking• Spending Tranquil MomentsThis offers the most immersive experience.  What Is The Perfect Kawasan Falls Itinerary?  Kawasan Falls is one of the few places that offer a spontaneous travel experience. Nevertheless, your itinerary for a perfect day at Kawasan Falls will look like this.  Kawasan Falls ActivitiesTimeThings to DoDepart from Cebu City4:30 AM• Arrive Early• Avoid TrafficStop for Breakfast at Carcar or Barili6:30 AM• Try Local Delicacies Such as Puto and Lechon. Arrive at Badian/Register8 AM• Register and Meet Your Guide. Start Canyoneering Adventure8:30 AM• Follow the Safety Briefing• Get Ready with the GearCliff Jumping, Sliding, and Trekking9 AM to 12 PM• Finally, Jump into Kawasan Falls. Lunch12:30 PM• You can choose a Tour Where Meals are included. Swimming or Bamboo Rafting1:30 PM• Relax at Kawasan Falls Level 1. Hike to the 2nd and 3rd Level2:30 PM• Enjoy an Immersive Experience at a Less Crowded Place. Freshen Up3:30 PM• Freshen Up at Basic Showers and Changing Areas. Leave from Kawasan Falls for Moalboal Beach4 PM• Enjoy the Local Marine World and Spot Marine Animals. Arrive in Cebu City from Moalboal Beach7:30-8 PM• Expect heavy traffic.  What Is The Best Time To Visit Kawasan Falls?  The dry season from December to May is the best time to visit Kawasan Falls. Moderate temperatures and clear skies make these months ideal for swimming and canyoneering.  On the other hand, the wet season from June to November impacts water safety.  Also, early morning is the best time of the day for visiting Kawasan Falls. If you visit the waterfalls before 8 AM, you will enjoy better lighting, fewer crowds, and great photography opportunities.  Budget And Expenses Of Visiting Kawasan Falls The budget and expenses of visiting Kawasan Falls will depend on the mode of transport, the food you have, the group strength, etc.  Nevertheless, roughly your budget for visiting Kawasan Falls will look like this.  ItemEstimated Cost Per PersonBus Fare (Round Trip)₱ 300-400Entry Fee₱ 45Canyoneering Tour (Including Gear and Guide)₱ 2000Lunch and Snacks₱ 200-300Locker and Cottage Rental₱ 100-300Total Estimated Cost ₱2645-3045 Where To Stay Near Kawasan Falls? Badian is the closest to Kawasan Halls. This place has many basic hotels and homestays. However, Moalboat, at a distance of 30 minutes, has the more luxurious beaches.  Also, Alegria will be the right place to find an accommodation if you are going on a canyoneering adventure.  What Are The Best Instagrammable Spots At Kawasan Falls? View this post on Instagram A post shared by Guide to the Philippines (@guidetothephilippines) The top of the bamboo raft below the first fall is the best Instagrammable spot at Kawasan Falls. Some other Instagrammable spots here are: Mid-jump during canyoneering Poolside at the second level Jungle trail bridges leading to the falls Drone shot above all three levels (with permission) Conservation And Responsible Tourism At Kawasan Waterfalls Cebu is projected to produce the highest amount of solid waste in 2025 in the Philippines. Plastic bottles, scattered sachets, and plastic bags constitute the highest amount of waste produced in the region.  A rise in the number of foreign tourist footfall here has led to the mounting wastage. In this context, ecotourism can be a great alternative to mass tourism.  Kawasan Falls is a part of the 248 protected areas of the country. Due to over-tourism, the site was temporarily closed in 2022 for rehabilitation. Since reopening, visitor caps and strict regulations have been enforced. Always follow "Leave No Trace" principles when you visit Kawsan Falls.  Don’t pick plants or disturb wildlife. Avoid loud music. Bring your own trash back. Stay on marked paths. Travel Tips For Visiting Kawasan Falls Wear aqua shoes or trekking sandals as the trails can be slippery.  Use waterproof bags/cases to protect your electronics.  Follow local guides’ instructions as a safety-first approach.  Pack out your trash and respect nature. Kawasan Falls: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Kawasan Falls.  1. Can Kids Visit Kawasan Falls?  Yes. Kids can visit the first-level pool of the Kawasan Falls. However, canyoneering is only recommended for ages 12 and above. 2. How Long Does The Canyoneering Tour Take? On average, the tour lasts 3 to 5 hours, depending on your pace and the weather. The tour starts from the Matutinao River.  3. What To Wear For Visiting Kawasan Falls?  You must wear quick-dry clothes and water shoes or sandals with a good grip. Furthermore, you will need a rash guard for sun and rock protection. Wear swimwear underneath if swimming is on the itinerary list.  4. What Is The Weight Limit For Ziplining At Kawasan Falls?  The weight limit for ziplining at Kawasan Falls is 100 kg. If you exceed this mark, you will have to trek to the starting point.

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  Sibashree Nov 20, 2024

South Carolina had its first “South Carolina Travel and Tourism Week” in 2024. Gov. Henry McMaster announced the 19th to 25th May as the South Carolina Travel and Tourism Week, and it celebrated the role of tourism in the economic growth of the county.  The governor further announced how the state has achieved an economic impact of $29 billion. In this context, we must tell you that Greenville has been one of the most important counties for the growth of tourism in the state.  Also, the US News and World Report has included Greenville in the top 5 places to live in the US in 2024-25. In addition, the county is experiencing a major boom in the real estate sector.  So, along with exciting things to do in Greenville, SC, the best infrastructure and amenities make the county one of the travel highlights of the season in the USA. There are many things to do in Greenville, with history tours, culinary tourism, paranormal walks, etc. However, at Tour and Travel, we have handpicked three activities most suitable for adults.  Let’s talk about these things in detail.  Paranormal Walk: Unique Things To Do In Greenville, SC https://www.instagram.com/p/CjgOxyVp_ik/?img_index=1 Greenville Ghost Tours Contact Number: +1 864-475-7705 Have you ever been on a ghost tour? Paranormal investigator Gabe Mathews is a certified professional, and he will take you on a ghost walk to downtown Greenville. Greenville Ghost Tours LLC, the tour business conducting this walk, is recognized by the City of Greenville. Also, these ghost tours are quite popular in the local community.  Did you know that many participants in these tours have identified paranormal activities and presence in the forms of orbs, EMF readings and EVPs? Further, the program primarily has two activities. Walking Tour of Greenville Downtown for 90 Minutes 30 Minutes of Paranormal Investigation at Springwood Cemetery Moreover, these ghost tours are kid-friendly. Still, the stories of gore, deaths, and ghosts can be intimidating for them. So, parental discretion is necessary when kids participate in these tours. Food Tourism: One Of The Most Exciting Things To Do In Greenville, SC The year 2024 has been promising for the food tourism scenario in Greenville, SC. The Greenville's History & Culinary tours and Gather GVL have been honored at the “USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards.” Gather GVL features at number 5 on the list of best food halls. On the other hand, “Greenville History & Culinary Tours” finds the 8th place on the list of “Best Food Tours” in the country.  So, exploring the food scenario of Greenville, SC, will be one of the most exciting things to do in Greenville. Let’s have a brief idea about Gather GVL and Greenville History & Culinary Tours at first and then we will move into some of the best eateries in Greenville.  1. Gather GVL, Greenville https://www.instagram.com/p/CtwoxLcOvl8/ Contact Number: +1 864-501-5008 Gather GVL, a food hall, is like a uniting ground. People of all ages visit Gather GVL, and the plenty of sitting options add to its laid-back charm. Further, it’s a pet-friendly food hall where the entire family can enjoy their favorite meal with their furry friends.  You will find more than ten food and beverage vendors in Gather GVL. The place is a vibrant collection of shipping containers, bringing food lovers together.  The most famous delicacies available here are lobster rolls, sushi and burgers.  2. Greenville History & Culinary Tours https://www.instagram.com/p/C6MZmCZsLCo/ The culinary tours in Greenville are great for the connoisseurs. As the most exciting things to do in Greenville, SC, these tours cater to people with different tastebuds.  If you want to try the edgiest dishes from the leading chefs here, you must join the "At the Chef's Table" tour. Further, you can go for a “BBQ Trail Tour” or try farm-fresh meat delicacies in the countryside.  Do you want to experience the food scene of the best eateries and drinking places in Greenville? Check out the details.  Farm Fresh FastPhone Number: (864) 518-1978Specialty: Bison Burger, Crispy Thai Pork Wrap, Korean BBQ ChickenFork and PloughPhone Number: +1 864-609-4249Specialty: Fish & Chips, Blackened Salmon Caesar SaladBetween The TreesPhone Number: +1 864-603-1630Specialty: Blueberry Pearl Sugar Muffins, Lobster Croquettes, Trio - A Brick Oven CafePhone Number: +1 864-467-1000Specialty: Bruschetta, Baked Caprese, Wood Fired WingsFireforge Crafted BeerPhone Number: +1 864-300-4809Abanico Tapas BarPhone Number: +1 864-509-6834 Meat, smoky flavors, and sweet potatoes rule the food scenario in Greenville, SC. I am a great fan of sweet potato crunch. It has the perfect balance of sweet and savory.  Bucky’s Bar-B-Q is one of the best places to have sweet potato crunch, and you can contact them at +1 864-329-0054.  Visiting The Museums Of Greenville, SC Visiting the museums and historic sites is one of the best things to do in Greenville, SC. The Upcountry History Museum is a great place to unearth the stories of the county and the human lives here.  So, let’s have a detailed idea about what awaits at this celebrated Greenville museum. Upcountry History Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/C767nDEuprc/?hl=en Phone Number: +1 864-467-3100 Operating Hours: Sunday: 1 PM to 5 PM, Tuesday to Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PM Located at Heritage Green in downtown Greenville, SC, this museum has interactive displays. Also, the semi-permanent exhibits and dynamic programs make the museum fun for kids and adults.  “Admission: Adults $12Seniors (65 and up) And College Students With ID $11Children Between 3-18: $9Children Up to 2: Free”The museum remains closed on Monday.  Upcountry History Museum: Gearing Up For The Christmas Celebration  https://www.instagram.com/p/C04dNrROPct/?hl=en&img_index=1 With the nip in the air, we are heading towards the biggest celebration in the world. The Upcountry History Museum is also gearing up for the festive season with “White Christmas: The Exhibition.” This exhibition will start on 16th November and end on 2nd February 2025. This exhibition is a chance to travel back and celebrate the famous 1941 song “White Christmas.” Bing Crosby gave the first live performance of White Christmas on the radio 17 days after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. In 1942, the song was featured in the movie Holiday Inn, and it won the Academy Award for “Best Original Song.” Further, in 1954, a full-fledged movie on White Christmas was made in Berlin. That year, it became the highest-grossing movie.  Nevertheless, the exhibits at the White Christmas exhibition at Upcountry History Museum will be: Movie Costumes by Edith Head Sheet music Movie props Replica backdrops, etc. So, visiting the Upcountry History Museum will be one of the best things to do in Greenville, SC, this Christmas.  Also read Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit. Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.