3 Irresistible Reasons You Should Try A Walking Safari

BY  Arnab Sep 7, 2022

Colombia is well known for its big cities. However, it also has beaches that are comparable to paradise.  Whether on the Caribbean Sea or the Pacific Ocean,  the best beaches in Colombia offer you the most beautiful sights and many activities to do. Further, beautiful coral reefs, sunrises, sunsets in the middle of the ocean, global accolades, and unparalleled beauty await a visit to Colombia’s heavenly beaches. Also, the best beaches in Colombia are crucial for the booming tourism scenario of Colombia.  Moreover, Colombia is a key player in Latin America in the global landscape of beach tourism that is expected to reach 341.10 billion by 2031.  Hi, in Today’s Tour and Travel blog, we will focus on the best beaches in Colombia and what you can expect at those locations.  Best Beaches In Colombia: Plan The Best Vacation Due to its strategic position between the Pacific and the Caribbean, Colombia has around 2900 km of coastline.  Further, it has close to 300 beaches. So, it’s impossible to visit them all, and for now, you can focus on the best beaches in Colombia, I have enlisted here.  Moreover, Colombia has its dry season between July and August and December and February.  So, if you have plans to explore the beaches, choose any of these months to make your plans. 1. Historic Beach In Santa Marta Santa Marta is recognized as the oldest city in Colombia. It has almost five hundred years of history, founded in the early sixteenth century. The streets reflect its history, even after many years of looting by pirates. It’s surrounded by natural ecosystems, being the entrance to large parks such as the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and Tayrona National Natural Park. There is also a great selection of hotels in Santa Marta, Colombia that will suit the needs of every type of traveler. The most recommended are the downtown area or El Rodadero, which is a coastal area five kilometers south of downtown. The latter is an area cut from the city by the Ziruma hill and is a highly touristic area. To be close to the beach, this is one of the best areas to stay. Thanks to Santa Marta’s history, there are many museums to visit, such as the Quinta San Pedro Alejandrino, the place where Simon Bolivar spent his last days, and the Tairona Gold Museum, ideal for those who would like to know more about the local cultural history, and the Gabriel Garcia Marquez House Museum. The latter is not located in Santa Marta but is almost two hours from downtown, however, it is worth the visit if you want to know the place where the writer Gabriel García Márquez was born. 2. Nature For Everyone In Tayrona Up the coast of Santa Marta is the Tayrona National Natural Park. This park is composed of 15 thousand hectares, 3 thousand of them being maritime areas. It’s one of the most important natural parks in Colombia and South America, located 34 kilometers (21 miles) from Santa Marta. It’s possible to stay in a hotel, although there is lodging inside the park or even the possibility of camping. Being on the coast, it has more than fifteen beaches to visit. Depending on your travel plans, you can camp at Castillete beach, or stay in one of the luxurious Tayrona Ecohabs at Cañaveral beach. Swimming is prohibited at Cañaveral due to the water’s fierceness. There’s only a small protected area set up for swimming known as La Piscinita. If you are looking for diving or snorkeling, the best beach is La Piscina. It has calmer water and many coral reefs. The most photographed beach in Tayrona is Cabo San Juan del Guía. It’s considered the most beautiful, but for the same reason is where you can expect more people. If you are looking for the opposite, it is better to go to Nudist Beach, where there are usually very few people, or take a walk at Playa Brava. 3. The Walled City Of Cartagena Officially named Cartagena de Indias, this city has been one of the most important ports in Colombia since its foundation. Like many Caribbean ports, it has been present in many pirate conflicts. The remnants of the protection against these plunders are present in the many colonial walls still standing. The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas is one of these remnants. It’s located on a hill on the outskirts of the walled city and constitutes the largest construction erected by the Spaniards during the centuries of their occupation of the colonies. You shouldn’t leave Cartagena without visiting the city, however, if you’re traveling to visit the beaches, Bocagrande is the best known and most touristic, since the best hotels are in this neighborhood. On the other hand, it’s also recommended to visit the beaches near Cartagena, since they will be less crowded and you won’t feel the hustle and bustle of the city. The best one is Playa Blanca on Baru Island. The landscape of fine white sand and clear turquoise sea is unparalleled. 4. San Andrés And The San Bernardo Archipelago: Colombian Paradise Islands Some of the best beaches in Colombia are located on its islands. The island of San Andres is located in the Caribbean, east of Nicaragua, belonging to the Archipelago of San Andres, Providencia, and Santa Catalina. Aquatic ecotourism is one of the main activities, especially snorkeling, but also scuba diving in places where there are underwater statues. On the other hand, the San Bernardo Archipelago is made up of ten islands, each with its own activities and wonders to enjoy. The artificial island of Santa Cruz del Islote holds the world record for being the most densely populated island on the planet, with 1,500 people living on about one hectare. You also can snorkel in the open sea and stay in a house in the middle of the ocean. 5. Isla de Baru, The Picture-Perfect Beach Vacation On Colombia’s Caribbean Coast  With white sand and turquoise waters, Isla de Baru is one of the best beaches in Colombia. Further, it is the ideal Colombian getaway if you want to relax.  Further, the bars on the beach serve the best cocktails. You can have them with local seafood dishes made using fresh ingredients from the sea.  You can plan a day trip to Isla de Baru or even stay for a few days. Read Also: Top 10 Best Beaches In Florida 6 Things To Do At The Beach This Fall 10 Best Beaches In Italy That Will Surprise You The Most The Many Reasons Hotel Stays Become Extended In New York City

BY  Sibashree Nov 21, 2024

“People love Arizona, and our economy is growing because of it. Tourism supports critical services for Arizonans, and our work to build an Arizona for everyone translates to more visitors and more jobs for our great state.” Katie Hobbs, Governor of Arizona. You will find an echo of the governor’s words in the statement shared by Lisa Urias. She is the CEO of the Arizona Office of Tourism. She has mentioned that Arizona’s diversity, amazing beauty, and hospitality are behind the growth of the tourism industry in the state.  Now, there is enough market data to corroborate the claims of the governor and the CEO of the Arizona Office of Tourism. In 2023, 86% of the tourists in Arizona were repeat visitors, and the $1.15 billion tourism tax collected in 2023 was 10% of the state’s operating budget.  Phoenix, of course, plays a crucial role in the state’s tourism development. Along with unique desert beauty, Arizona has the best urban landscapes and the warmth of southwest culture.  In addition, the cheap and free things to do in Phoenix, Arizona, make the city a popular tourist destination.  So, do you want an overview of Phoenix, Arizona’s free and cheap tourist attractions? Let’s explore.  You Can’t Miss These Free And Cheap Things To Do In Phoenix, Arizona Phoenix, Arizona, has a pricey vibe. However, don’t be fooled by that vibe as a tourist. Participating in cultural activities is one of the best things to do in Phoenix, Arizona, for free. Also, people in Arizona are perennially in love with outdoor activities.  You just need to set your itinerary right to enjoy a mix of outdoor pursuits, cultural tours, and more.  Did You Know?Phillip Duppa, an Englishman, was a friend of Jack Swilling. Now, Jack Swilling was one of the city’s founding fathers, and Phillip Duppa named the city Phoenix.The city was named to symbolize rebirth. The idea was that  Phoenix would rise from the ashes of the natives and it would become prosperous in the land of irrigation.  1. Explore The Heritage Square https://www.instagram.com/heritagesquarephx/p/DCkFissSSXY/ Downtown Phoenix bustles with modern vibes. However, Heritage Square is a place that complements its modern vibes with its old-world charm from the Victorian era. Also, the Heritage Square is known as the “National Register of Historic Places.” Many of the buildings here are restored, and exploring the interiors of these buildings is one of the cheapest but meaningful things to do in Phoenix, Arizona.  For example, the Rosson House Museum stands here, and you just need to pay a fee of $15 for admission.  Heritage Square, Phoenix, BuildingsThe Burgess Carriage HouseThe Thomas HouseThe Stevens HouseThe Burgess Carriage HouseThe Rosson House Musuem, etc.  2. Visit Arizona Capitol Museum Open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM, Saturday, 10 AM to 2 PM With an “Entry is Always Free” promise, the Arizona Capitol Museum is a big draw in the state. Let me put it directly. If you want to know about the history and culture of the state, you have to visit the Arizona Capitol Museum. The museum also offers in-depth insight into the state’s political scenario.  Further, if you plan to visit Arizona in a few days and have included a visit to the Arizona Capitol Museum as one of the best things to do in Phoenix, Arizona, you must not miss the new Merci Train Exhibition. The museum now celebrates the 75th anniversary of the train’s arrival. Some of the most prominent exhibits at the museum are: USS Arizona: Flagship of the Fleet Arizona Takes Shape The Struggle for Universal Sufferage – Voting Rights Timeline The U.S.S Arizona Artifact Collection, etc.  You can even be a part of the “Arizona Capitol Museum Guided Tour Survey” for educational purposes.  3. Hike At Camelback Mountain Before I get into the details of hiking at Camelback Mountain, I must tell you that it’s difficult and very strenuous. So, if you are not a seasoned hiker at the peak of your fitness, this is not one of the best things to do in Phoenix, Arizona, for you. Still, Camelback Mountain and its Cholla and Echo Canyon trailheads have millions of visitors every year. The current trailhead hours are from sunset to sunrise.  Further, this 2704 feet mountain gets its name from its double humps. Its terrains are uneven with boulders, and the elevation gains are difficult to cope with. However, once you reach the summit, you will get the best views of the Valley of the Sun.  Tour And Travel HighlightCamelback Culture Community, led by Jes Dobbs, is a local group of hikers. Under the leadership of Jes Dobbs, a graphic designer, the group is making an effort to make Camelback Mountain safer.They have launched a timely petition to improve the safety of the mountains in time, considering the death and rescue of three hikers from the Echo Canyon Trail. All of them died due to heat exhaustion.Phoenix experienced record heat waves this season, and the rising temperatures were additional perils for the hikers.Nevertheless, the Camelback Culture Community has made two demands in their petitions.Extension of Trail Hours ( With An Extended Timing Of 4 AM to 8 PM)Installation of Automated Gates At The Trailheads of Camelback and Other MountainsThe petition already has 1,900 signatures and in the words of Jes Dobbs,“I believe having trailheads with year-round, consistent opening and closing times will enable locals and visitors to hike in the cooler hours of the day legally and when their lives allow. Many hard-working people don’t have the option to take a midday hike. They deserve access to exercise and nature during their limited free time – before and after work.” 4. Visit Phoenix Art Museum Thanks to the "Pay-What-You-Wish Wednesday," visiting the Phoenix Art Museum is one of the cheapest things to do in Phoenix, Arizona. Your entry fee is voluntary after 3 PM.  Further, the evening sessions or AfterHours are free, and you can enjoy entertainment events and live music. You can attend these events four times a year.  Family FunDays is another great event to visit the museum for, and it happens four times a year. These events take place on Sundays, and on these days, you can enter the museum for free and attend events for all ages.  Tour And Travel Tip The Western Gallery is the highlight of this museum. Here, you will find artwork from the pioneers and some exemplary works by the modernists.  One thing is common in all these artworks. They show the prominent influence of the beautiful landscape of Arizona.  5. Visit The Historic Heard Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/C7ceBsOsGff/ Does the life of American Indian tribes in the Southwest part of the country intrigue you? The Historic Heard Museum is your go-to destination. Along with the life of the tribes, you will also get to know about their culture and art. When you are at the Historic Heard Museum, the following are going to be your highlights.  Films Ethnographic Displays Kids’ Exhibit However, for me, the main attraction at this museum is Hopi Kachinas. It is an unbelievable collection of spirit dolls. Most of the dolls are gifts from Barry Goldwater, the  Presidential nominee.  Visiting the Historic Heard Museum is one of the best things to do in Phoenix, Arizona. For free entry, you can plan a visit to the museum on the first Friday of every month (except March). The museum operates between 4 PM to 8 PM. Furthermore, Indian fairs, hoop dancing, and competitions are some popular events taking place in the museum.  6. Visit The Desert Botanical Garden Entry to Desert Botanical Garden in Arizona is free on the Community Day or every second Tuesday of the month. Spanning over 55 acres, this botanical garden has flowers, cactus, and trees from across the globe. The best time to visit the botanical garden is between March to May. During these months, you will find Mexican gold poppies and bluebells in full glory throughout the Desert Wildflower Loop Trail.  The garden is well-maintained. Also, as you visit the desert denizens arranged according to theme, you learn a lot about the desert plantation.  Tour And Travel Tip  You have to book the tickets for Desert Botanical Garden in advance if you want to pay a visit on Community Day. 7. Take A Walk In Art Walk Phoenix has the “First Friday Art Walk” on the first Friday of the month between 6 to 10 PM. It is one of the biggest self-guided art walks in the city. Further, you can take the light rail plying through downtown Phoenix and connecting to various art districts of Phoenix.  Also, as you explore the art spaces, galleries, and event venues of the city, you become familiar with the local vibe.  Artlink, a nonprofit organization, started this art walk, and it is still the organizer of the event. Today, this free art event has become the uniting space for people of all age groups.Artists, vendors, and musicians take part in this event to soak in the cultural vibe of Downtown Phoenix.  To explore the best free and cheap things to do in Phoenix, Arizona, you need to find comfortable accommodation first. The table below has the names and details of the best hotels in Phoenix, Arizona.  Hotels In Phoenix, ArizonaPhone NumberDoubleTree by Hilton Phoenix North+1 602-997-5900Great Wolf Lodge, Scottsdale+1 480-948-9653Best Western North Phoenix Hotel+1 602-395-0900Hotel Valley Ho+1 480-376-2600The Clarendon Hotel and Spa+1 602-252-7363The Scottsdale Resort and Spa, Curio Collection by Hilton+1 (480) 991-9000Arizona Biltmore, LXR Hotels & Resorts+1 602-955-6600Embassy Suites by Hilton Phoenix Scottsdale+1 602-765-5800Fairmont Scottsdale Princess+1 480-585-4848 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.

BY  Ankita Nov 7, 2023

One of the most enjoyable jobs on the planet is being a tour guide. If you love to travel and enjoy sharing that love with others, as well as the knowledge you have gleaned about the destinations you are guiding them to, then you should consider building a career based on that passion, and become a tour guide! There are lots of options out there, walking guides for the city sights, cruise and bus tour guides, and museum or special attraction guides. Finding work is fairly easy as there is always a demand, and when that tour operator payment gateway sends you your reward you will feel great knowing you earned it doing something that brought a smile to people's faces! The best tour guides have a certain set of skills in place that suit their profession, here are some of the most important: Knowledge –                     A tour guide needs to know a lot about where they are taking their group, and what they are showing them. They should have an in-depth knowledge of the area and its attractions that they can share with their group in order to give them the best experience possible. They are always prepared to answer unexpected questions, and ready to give pertinent insights and recommendations. A knowledgeable tour guide is one the tourist never forgets, and they will recommend you to their friends. Communication – t's important for tour guides to have excellent communication skills, they should be able to speak clearly and informatively, with proper pronunciation in order to facilitate easy-to-understand directions and information sharing, and to avoid any potential misunderstandings. They should also have a loud enough voice to carry across a crowd without the aid of a microphone or bullhorn and be able to command the attention of many people at the same time. Charisma – Being a tour guide is very much a people-oriented profession, one must be able to share their passion for the experiences they are guiding people to, share information in an informative yet fun and engaging manner, and build a cheerful rapport with their group. A successful tour guide has enough charisma to bring repeat customers back, not just to see the sights again, but for the pleasure of their company! Understanding And Empathy – People sometimes experience difficulties, even when they are out on a pleasant excursion. A tour guide must be sensitive to the individual's needs, and be able to handle any problems their charge is having with sincerity, kindness, and grace, as well as be accommodating as possible. The best tour guides are quite simply put, nice people! Flexibility - Things don't always go as planned, and in the event of a course change, the tour guide has to be able to think on their feet and make adjustments on the fly. Always have a Plan B in place! Check out the Tourism Australia website for more useful information for both guides and tourists. Good luck with your tour guide career Read Also: Budget-Friendly Travel Ideas In Australia Top 5 Used Japanese Vehicles In Australia Top Ten Southern Africa Off-The-Beaten-Path Adventures A Beginner’s Guide To Island-Hopping In Greece