10 Ways To Maximize Your Vacation 

Aug 16, 2022

Last Updated on: Feb 6, 2025

Travel Guides

Vacations are always something to look forward to, especially if you have been working round the clock all year.

Whether you are taking the vacation alone, with family, or with friends, your experience will be based on how you prepared for the same.

Considering that vacations can be expensive, you want to get the best when you get that chance. Of course, the destination has to be selected wisely because it determines what you get to enjoy, but besides this, there are several other things you can do to maximize your vacation.  

10 Amazing Ways To Maximize Your Vacation

 Maximize Your Vacation

We are giving you ten ways by which you can maximize your vacation.

1. Choose your activities wisely

The activities you get to enjoy will depend on what the destination has to offer. For instance, if you are looking forward to enjoying a beach-based vacation, ensure the possibilities are there; you may wish to book a glass bottom boat tour in Exmouth or have a family snorkeling trip, or a sunset cruise. The easiest way to get the best is to check out what is on offer and then create an activity itinerary for the days you will be there.

Doing different things every day makes it possible for you to experience all there is and all you hoped for. You don’t want to run out of time before experiencing some of your favorite activities, so choose and plan.

2. Do your research 

Thorough research on the destination, activities, accommodation options and even travel packages can ensure you make the most of the vacation. Vacations are usually in places you have never been before, making it even more important to gather as many details as possible.

Security in the area you’re targeting, culture, and the dos and don’ts should all be part of your research. For those who wish to travel with pets, find out whether it is allowed and how easy it will be for you and your furry friend. 

3. Choose the right stay. 

Hotels are majorly what people go for while on vacation. However, other options include apartments, air bnb’s, holiday homes, and hostels. When looking for the best holiday accommodation, consider your budget, the amenities, room options, and the facility’s proximity to attractions you are interested in during this vacation.

You can save much on car rentals and transport arrangements near your interests. If you have to sign a contract for your stay, read the fine details to know the rules and regulations. Watch out also for any additional charges you might incur. 

4. Choose the right time. 

Tourist attractions may not be available throughout the year, nor are some of the activities. Therefore, choosing your travel time carefully is important, so the vacation rewards you as expected.

The time can also determine how much you pay for your flight or travel and even the accommodation.

Peak times are great because it is when most activities are available, but this also means dealing with crowds and expensive tickets, and limited accommodation options. Planning early can ensure you get the best of everything; start early with your vacation plans.

5. Stay away from electronic devices. 

It is called a vacation for a reason! You are taking time away from work to relax, so ensure you do that. The thing with electronic devices is they can create distractions, and you could end up enjoying very little.

Leave your phone behind if possible and make those calls only at the end of the day if you must. Limiting your talks to family, work, or the office is also important.

Forget social media and your favorite TV channels for a while; you will catch up as soon as your vacation ends. 

6. Lighten up the travel luggage

The more baggage you have, the more the clearing time. It is also important to note that different airlines have different limits, so check out yours.

You are going on a vacation, and the most probable thing is you will buy a few items you like as souvenirs. Leave some wiggle room for this by carrying only what is most essential.

For instance, why carry towels when your accommodation facility already provides for you and your family? Let the season dictate what you pack, but go as light as possible. 

7. Choose a relaxing place for the vacation.

If serenity is what you are looking for during the vacation; fortunately, most destinations offer this. The choices you make, especially with your stay, determine what you get. If you are looking for constant sun, with an amazing vibe, then why not look at Chile Vacations – you could get an amazing all-inclusive package, and explore the sites of South America.

Accommodations in cities can be just as relaxing as those in more interior settings as long as you choose wisely. If you are looking for a condo overlooking the city skyline or even comfortable family homes near the quieter areas of the city then Rebl Mesa vacation homes, for instance, can make all the difference for you. But remember it’s your decision, make sure wherever you choose is the right fit for you and your family and whatever your holiday desires are.

When looking at things such as beaches, private settings might prove to be more relaxing than public ones. Indulge in spa treatments and massages to complete your experience. 

8. Try to enjoy every moment. 

A vacation should not have a dull moment. It is time you have been waiting, so why not have all the fun you can take in?

Try new things, and food joints, and interact as much as possible. If something is bugging your mind, try and deal with it and settle it as quickly as possible so you can return to enjoying the holiday.

It is better to try something and decide you do not like it than to dislike it without giving it a chance. Let your every minute count for something, and you will have plenty to write about. 

9. Travel with tolerable people 

The truth is, there are people in your circle of friends and family that easily get on your nerves. It could be because of your different personalities or tastes. Whatever the reason, they might not be the best people to take with you on your vacation.

People with a similar sense of adventure and who are outgoing are your best options for the fun-filled holiday you wish for.

Ensure you tolerate the company you are carrying with you to avoid misunderstandings and unnecessary collisions. It might also be a good idea to involve them in selecting activities for the vacation. 

10. Interact with the locals 

The locals can help guide you to where all the fun is. If you are the type of person who loves experiencing new cultures and ways of life, then interacting with the locals should be a priority.

Considering you are visiting the place for the first time, things such as currency can be tedious to handle.

Making friends with the locals makes it hard to end up being conned, especially when purchasing things. You never know; you could get good guides and long-term friends in your interactions. Try to be a people person but take precautions nonetheless. 

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Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.

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READ MORE best places to travel in April

10 Best Places To Travel In April – Travel Guide 2022

BY  Mashum Apr 13, 2022

“If you want to enjoy the weather dripping in blossoming spring, April is the king.”  Have you been dreaming all these years to set out on a quest all alone? Has the pandemic broken you into pieces and you are desiring to heal now? Have you lately found your soulmate or a life partner and are up for making some fondling memories together? Well, many questions, one answer- Travel!!! Remember, the number of times you pack your bags and step out of your den, nature gives you a chance to find yourself. So, waste no more time and read this article. Here, you would come to know about some of the best places to travel in April. If you are based in the US, choose April to get out and explore some cities as a newborn baby breathes in the air of this earth for the first time. Trust me, you get this life only once and this planet is so huge that you might not be able to explore it fully in a lifetime. Then, why not a minor step? Here are the destinations that can help you rejuvenate as a traveler. Go through each entry and select one as per your preference. No matter if you are about to go solo, with friends, or as a couple, this list has something ready for you. Top Ten Places To Travel In April 2022 You Should Know April marks the beginning of a new financial year. So, why not take a chance to invest a sum of money in yourself? Study the places, pick one and go! 1. Dublin - Ireland Overview: If you are pleased that the summer is knocking at the door, it is a good time to plan a trip to Dublin. This is a world-famous city and it is the capital of Ireland.   For the best experience, you can either go to Dublin solo or as a couple. From a rich history to a sweet culture, Dublin has many surprises waiting for you. All you have to do is open the doors of your soul wide and let everything put its own color. It is a cosmopolitan city and you can find a lot of friendly people here. So, you can obviously consider it as one of the best places to travel in April. How To Reach: By Air: Regular flights to Dublin are available from Washington D.C, New York, and Chicago.   Activities To Do: Explore the major tourist locations of the city like Dublin Castle, Guinness Storehouse, and Kilmainham Gaol.  Visit the Dollymount Storehouse. Watch a music concert in any of the classic theatres in the city. Do not forget to chug a pint of beer in an Irish Pub. Dishes Not To Miss: Irish Stew, Coddle, Pancakes, Soda Bread 2. Kyoto - Japan Overview: April marks the onset of summer in the northern hemisphere of the earth. So, you can easily make a plan to visit the countries that lie in the frigid zone. Well, Kyoto in Japan is one such city you should not miss.   It backs a place in this list of the best places to travel in April for it its enriched history and natural beauty. On a visit to Kyoto in April, you can find a lot of Cherry blossoms all over the city. So, it would be a magnificent sight to see nature playing with the blue and scarlet hues. As per the Japanese people, you can always expect a friendly approach. You can make friends with someone to explore the city.   How To Reach: By Air: You can get flights to the Osaka International Airport and Kansai International Airport from all major cities in the US. By Road: Public and private transport means are well available to reach Kyoto from the airport.  Activities To Do: Explore the city and check out the gardens, pagodas, and houses. Visit the locations like Kinkakuji Temple, Nijo Castle, Fushimi Inari- Taisha Shrine Try local cuisine in Kyoto Dishes Not To Miss: Kyoto Style Ramen, Nama-Fu, Soy Milk Doughnuts 3. Florence - Italy Overview: Are you all set to get out for a romantic trip this April but have already done with Paris and Venice? Well, Florence can be a savior in this case.   Like most other cities in Italy, you can feel the romance in the air. You can still feel the presence of Micheal Angelo in this city. As one of the best places to travel in April, you can start planning for your couple's trip to Florence right now.   How To Reach: By Air: You can catch any flight leading to the Florence Airport from any major city in the USA. Connecting flights are also available. Activities To Do: Indulge in city sightseeing while in Florence and visit the locations like Santa Maria del Fiore and Palazzo Vecchio. Do not forget to listen to local music. Try some of the local bakeries and cafes. Dishes Not To Miss: Crostini Neri, Zuccotto, Bistecca Alla Fiorentina 4. Bali - Indonesia Overview: Bali in Indonesia is one of the most alluring summer destinations you can think of. So, you can consider it one of the best places to travel in April 2021. Well, nothing has really changed this year.    You can best explore the serenade beaches of this little country in April. Moreover, you can have a blast with your friends or spend some quality time with your partner. Skip this place if you are about to go solo as you might not enjoy the thrill. How To Reach: By Air: Several airlines conduct regular flights to Bali from all major cities of the US. You need to land at the Denpasar Airport. Activities To Do: Explore the island for locations like Tanah Lot Temple, Besakih Temple, Ubud Art  Market, Kintamani, etc.  Do not miss the Seminyak shopping. Go Surfing on the beaches of Bali. Visit the Bali TreeTop Adventure Park. Dishes Not To Miss: Some Indonesian duck dishes, Bubur Ayam, Nasi Goreng 5. Athens - Greece Overview: The weather in Athens, Greece always remains favorable for tourists. So, it can be one of your easiest picks when it comes to the best places to travel in April. During this time, the day temperatures remain mild and the evenings turn cool yet comfortable. Another excellent fact about Athens is its flavor. You can get three distinct flavors of this city depending on the type of trip. So, you can always plan for a solo trip, a friend’s trip, or a romantic getaway with your partner. One of the most vital things to do to reach out to Greece is get a good travel agent. So, you should keep searching for it.   How To Reach: By Air: Any flight on a non-stop/one-stop basis leading to Athens International Airport can be the best way to reach this alluring destination. Activities To Do: Visit the Acropolis and the  Ancient Agora of Athens. Do not miss witnessing the Parthenon Ruins. Spend time in a few Greek museums. Try eating the local dishes in the local cafes. Dishes Not To Miss: Mousakka, Saganaki, Bougatsa 6. Washington D.C - USA If you are just reluctant to plan a foreign tour in April, let me remind you that you are not alone. Well, Washington D.C is one of the leading states that turns vibrant during the month of April. At this time, the spring season is at its peak. So, you can include this place in the best places to travel in April. So, you can easily plan a trip to the state as it is one of the best places to travel in the US in April 2022. All you can do is catch a flight to tear apart the highway with your car to reach here. As you would celebrate the spring, expect the Washington Harbour to add magnificence to your trip. How To Reach: By Air: There are a lot of domestic flights from all cities of the US to Washington D.C. By Car: Follow the highway routes of I-270, I-95, I-66, and US Highway 50 to reach Washington D.C. Activities To Do: Spend time at the National mall Explore The Eastern  Market. Do not miss witnessing the National Gallery of Art. Reach out to the Heurich House Museum. Dishes Not To Miss: Avocado Toast Dinner, Saganaki, Super Grilled Cheese 7. Agra - India Overview: South Asia might seem to be far away but it is well connected with the USA. Well, at least India is.  If you have still not picked up one of the best places to travel in April USA, Agra can be the best destination.   However, this is the place where you should always reach out to your partner. It homes the Taj Mahal which is the best sign of love on this planet. Moreover, you can find a lot of other locations and buildings with magnificent Mughal architecture. Lastly, keep in mind that April in India marks a prominent summer, so you can take light cotton clothes for the trip.    How To Reach: By Air: Any flight to New Delhi would be appropriate to reach Agra easily. By Car: Book a bus or a private cab from New Delhi to Agra.   Activities To Do: Witness the places like Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri in Agra. Indulge in shopping from the local markets Taste some spicy and sweet Indian dishes. Dishes Not To Miss: Mughal delicacies, Bhalla, Jalebi 8. Sydney - Australia Overview: If you are a travel freak who desires to shift from the spring to the fall season, Sydney can be the best destination for an April trip. You can expect the weather to turn cooler in Sydney at this time. So, do not forget to take some woolen and jackets with you.   An April trip to Sydney can be the best if you are planning to go solo or with a set of like-minded friends. At this time, the tour season of Sydney comes to an end and you can expect to get hotels and tour packages at a cheap rate. It can sure seem that Sydney is truly one of the best places to travel in April. Make sure you check out all the locations around the city. As a means of transport, you can either take a private cab or a bus. Moreover, the nightlife of Sydney is something to die for. As a result, you should never miss a chance to enjoy it to the edge. How To Reach: By Air: Nonstop flights from several cities in the USA are available that bounds to the Sydney International Airport.  Activities To Do: Witness a show at the Sydney Opera House. Spend Some time by the Sydney Harbour Bridge and admire its magnificence. Visit Hyde Park and spend some quality time. Hopp around the Coogee Beach, Manly Beach, and Bondi Beach in Sydney.   Dishes Not To Miss: Barramundi, Sydney Rock Oyster, Potato Cake, Beacon, and Egg roll 9. Amsterdam - Netherlands Overview: The Netherlands is one of the countries in Northern Europe and the winter is ice chilly here. Well, you would not need that piece of information as the city would not come on the list of the best places to travel in January.   In April, you can experience a colorful spring while being in the city. So, why not pick this place for your next trip this month? It is really one of the best places to travel in April. The city turns quite picturesque in the month of April as you can witness a lot of flowers blooming here at this time. Moreover, you can be here on the 27th of April which is King’s Day. While on a trip to this place, you can always get a glimpse of Dutch culture. How To Reach: By Air: You can reach the Amsterdam International Airport from any major city in the US. Activities To Do: Visit the famous tourist spots in the city like the Ann Frank House, Rijksmuseum, and the Van Gogh Museum. Experience a boat ride in the canals of the city. Explore the unique markets of Jordaan. Dishes Not To Miss: Dutch Pancakes, Jenever, Raw Herring 10. London - England Overview: If you are based in the US and desire to witness England, April is the best month you can plan a trip. The best you can do is purchase a flight ticket early as April marks the peak tourist season in London.   Now, when it comes to the best places to travel in March, you can consider this destination also. However, the temperatures in London remain quite chilly during this time. You can freely roam about the streets in the capital city of England and witness some world-famous locations like the London Eye and Big Ben.   How To Reach: By Air: Regular flights are there leading to London from some of the main cities of the USA. Activities To Do: Witness the Kew Gardens Richmond Parks and Hyde. Witness the Tower of London and the Kensington Gardens. Get on the London Eye.   Dishes Not To Miss: Fish and Chips, Sunday Roast, Bangers, and Mash Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 1. Where Do You Fly In April 2022? You can fly to Australia or England in April 2022.   2. Where Is It Best To Travel In April? You can travel to a city or hill station in April. 3. Where Should I Vacation In Summer 2022? You can go for a summer vacation in  India or Bali. 4. Where In The Us Is It Warm In April? States like Florida and New Mexico are warm in April.   Final Take Away April is the month when you can set out for a trip and find the weather changing from winter to summer. So, expect nature to put all colors to the places in front of your eyes. By now, you would have picked up the right place among the best places to travel in April. So, I wish you all the best for your further planning and the entire trip. The best you can do is return from the memorable trip in April and share your experience with us. Just put up a comment on the given section below. Read Also: A Guide To National Parks In Georgia – Latest Guide Best National Parks In Missouri That You Must Know Top 7 Nantucket Beaches For Tourists In Massachusetts  

READ MORE best places to travel in Europe

OMG! These Best Places To Travel In Europe Are Amazing In Winter: 7 Must Visits

BY  Sibashree Nov 11, 2024

With the nip in the air and Christmas bells ringing, the best places to travel in Europe gears up for the visitors.  Also, the “Europe Winter Tourism Market” is massive, and Austria, Italy, Germany, and Switzerland are some of the key destinations or revenue earners in this regard.  Further, winter tourism in Europe is beyond indulging in the drizzles of snow and relishing the best food. It has a deeper economic significance in the continent. Did you know that the revenue from winter tourism in Europe is 1-2% of the GDP of European countries?  So, when you visit the best places to travel in Europe in winter, you contribute to the overall economy of the place and the country.  Moreover, winter brings out the best in Europe, with glimpses of the Northern Lights, skiing in the Alps, Christmas festivities, and many more!  You Cannot Miss The Best Places To Travel In Europe In Winter  A wintry day in Europe is blissful, and it’s a great time to travel to this continent if you want to avoid the crowd.  Furthermore, the beautiful landscape of Europe looks dreamier with the blanket of snow in winter.  So, let’s take a flight to the best places to travel in Europe in winter.  1. Rovaniemi, Finland  Best Place to Stay: Santa Claus Holiday Village  Finland Tourism Package from the USA: 1100-1500€ Ho! Ho! Ho! Winter comes with the invitation to fly to the official hometown of Santa Claus. It is the best place to indulge in Christmas festivities, and you will also love the reindeer farms here. Furthermore, you can participate in the following activities when visiting Rovaniemi in winter.  Ice skating Snow sledding Northern Light Safaris However, Rovaniemi will not disappoint you even if you want to spend a quiet winter vacation here. You can cozy up by the fire and have the best glogg ever. Are you a foodie like me? You can indulge in some smoky salmon and ice cream. The chef’s kiss will be watching the snow-clad forests through the windows of your hotel room.  2. Prague, Czech Republic Best Place to Stay: Hermitage Hotel Prague Czech Republic Tourism Package from the USA: 2000-3000€ With St. Nicholas Church as the center of attraction during winter and Christmas, Prague decks up with fresh coats. The Church of Our Lady before Týn and St. Vitus Cathedral are some other popular churches to visit in Prague during Christmas. Furthermore, Christmas has a different fervor in Prague, thanks to the Christmas markets here. It supposedly has the best Christmas Market in the world outside Germany. In the upcoming winter, Prague Christmas Markets will remain open from 30th November 2024 to  6th January 2025. You will get the best wooden toys, ceramics, and candles here. Looking for some gastronomic delight? Prague has Palatschinke and mulled wine that you will cherish.  3. Vienna, Austria Best Place to Stay: Hotel Sacher Wien Austria Tourism Package from the USA: 1500-2500€ Vienna, the winner of the “Most Livable City in the World,” is one of the best places to travel in Europe this winter. BBC conferred this title to Vienna three years in a row.  Further, in winter, Vienna transforms into a site of outdoor operas and hot chocolates. Attending the operas in the freezing cold is an experience, and with thousands of people attending the event, you will feel the palpable festive energy here.  Moreover, you can appease the connoisseur in you by attending the classical musical concerts here. Also, behold the snow-clad beauty of the St. Charles Church and Schönbrunn Palace. It’s dreamy and will offer you the best frames for capturing.  4. Tallinn, Estonia Best Place to Stay: Metropol Spa Hotel  Estonia Tourism Package from the USA: Around 4500€ Tallinn has an amazing location on the Baltic Sea and the most amazing historical centers. You can explore the following historical centers when in Tallinn.   Town Hall Square Olevsite Church Great Guild Hall Further, the turreted castles of Tallin stand tall with their unmatched architecture. Toompea Castle is probably the most famous castle among them. You will also love exploring Kadriog Palace and Pikk Herman. These castles are beautiful year-round. However, they appear to be straight from the pages of fantasy tales under the wrap of snow.  5. Zermatt, Switzerland Best Place to Stay: Hotel Firefly Switzerland Tourism Package from the USA: Around 2000€ Zermatt, at the foothill of the Matterhorn, becomes the paradise of skiers in winter. The coverage of fresh snow and the best scenic views make Zermatt everyone’s favorite, even on the chilliest days.  After you have a fulfilling winter day outdoors, you can indulge in the much-needed warmth and comfort in the spa of Hotel Firefly. Also, Zermatt is the ideal place to try Alpine cuisines and lemon martini.  Moreover, if you want to try outdoor pursuits other than skiing, you can try hiking. Even if you are not interested in hiking to the higher mountains, you can explore Zermatt and the surrounding villages.  You can even take a helicopter ride around Matterhorn to have the best views of the glaciers. If you are on the verge of ending your trip to Zermatt, don’t try to collect some handmade souvenirs.  6. Zagreb, Croatia Best Place to Stay: Garden Hotel Croatia Tourism Package from USA: Around 1500€ Zagreb exudes the quintessential Central European vibe and is a favorite of dark academia fans. Winter transforms it into a wonderland with the Advent in Zagreb festival. You will find the best brandy and homemade sausages here.  You also explore the Christmas markets and appreciate the lights galore throughout the entire locality to indulge in its festive fervor.  Are you looking for more adventure in Zagreb? You can plan a trip to the Plitvice Lakes National Park. It has waterfalls and 16 terrace lakes. In winter, all these waterbodies get frozen and offer you the most surreal view.  Moreover, with the Croatian National Theatre at the epicenter, Zagreb is important for the cultural landscape of Croatia and Europe. You must make a note that Croatian National Theatre is one of the most beautiful theatres in the world.  The Croatian Museum of Naive Art, Zagreb City Museum, and Maksimir Park are some other places of interest in Zagreb.  7. Bergen, Norway Best Place to Stay: Citybox Bergen Norway Tourism Package from the USA: 2600-6500€ Bergen has the ideal Norweigan vibe with colorful wooden buildings. You can enjoy the beautiful view of the fjords and harbor from these aesthetic buildings. And who does not know of the Northern Light in Norway in winter? Late November to January is the best time to experience the magic of Northern Light in Bergen, Norway. The longest nights become bright as you observe this astronomical wonder in the sky.  With your nights becoming lit with the Northern Lights, you can spend your daytime in Norway doing winter hiking, skiing, and sledding. You can even go on a Wildlife or Wild Safari and experience the wonder of nature.  Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

READ MORE Pecos National Historical Park

Welcome To The Pecos National Historical Park: The Land Of The First American Revolution

BY  Sibashree Sep 12, 2024

I stood before the remnants of the South Pueblo walls, looking over the Mission Church on an autumn day last year. Looking at the archaeological site and standing below the blue fall sky, I was transported to the time of the American Revolution.  Further, I could hear the noise of a bustling trade fair with people from the Pecos Pueblo community doing business. However, the historical importance of the park is much beyond its association with the American Revolution. It is also related to the Civil War in New Mexico and the Independence of Mexico.  So, with centuries of human history etched in every corner, the Pecos National Historical Park is an intersection of past tales and nature. To be honest, The Pecos Pueblo and Santa Fe Trail were the biggest highlights for me when I was at the national park.  Therefore, my ode to the park will start with brief accounts of these places. Then, I will talk about the Glorieta Pass, again a site of historical importance in the park. Finally, you will have a quick look at the park's wildlife.  Pecos National Historical Park: A Land Of Historic Wars And Revolutions  The history of human lives in the Pecos National Historical Park goes back to the Preceramic Period or the 11,500 B.C.E. - 600 C.E. However, the Pecos Pueblo site in the park became a prominent place in the history of the American Revolution in the Early Colonial and Pre-Revolt era.  Spanish people started interacting with the Pueblo people. Further, thanks to the Franciscan Missions, the Spanish rule wanted to have command over the economic life and beliefs of the Pueblo people.  Thus, the first seeds of the American Revolution were sown. To combat the oppression of the Spanish people, the Pueblo Revolt took place on 10th August 1680. As a result, the Spanish Government and Franciscan Friars were expelled from the southwest under the leadership of  Po’pay from Ohkay Owengeh. The Spanish Mission Church, built in 1625, was also destroyed in the revolt of 1680.  However, in 1692, the Spanish People further reclaimed the Pecos Pueblo and many other pueblos. Finally, the Pueblo people declined in numbers in 1700. Before, during, and after the first American Revolution, The Pecos Pueblo emerged as an important location with significant events around it!  Further, around 200 years later (1821-1846 C.E.), another site in the park, the  Santa Fe Trail, witnessed travelers, settlers, and everyone else passing through it. The trail was opened in 1821 after Mexico gained its independence from Spain.  The remains of Pecos Pueblo stood there! By the 1830s, the migration of the Pubelo people was complete, and everyone had shifted to the Pueblo of Jemez and continued their traditions.  Moreover, in 1862, there was the “Battle of Glorieta Pass.” On 26th March 1862, this battle between the Union forces and Confederates occurred at a 700 feet elevation.  The Pecos Pueblo Site Today  https://www.instagram.com/p/Cto5MWnS5Oa/ The rise of the Pecos Pueblo site occurred between 1350 C.E. and 1838 C.E. The Pueblo site had two units, the north and south, and could accommodate around 2000 people. Further, it had 1000 rooms. Therefore, Pecos Pueblo thrived as a busy trading center with trade fairs involving people from Rio Grande Pueblos, Plains Nations, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Pacific Coast. The flint arrowheads and shells found here explain the expansive stretch of the route.  Nevertheless, with time, Pecos Pueblo became instrumental in eliminating Spanish oppression and rule. Still, a drop in the trade, Comanche attacks, and diseases deserted Pecos Pueblo. By 1838 C.E., the last resident of the Pueblo had left and joined the Pueblo of Jemez.  Today, the site stands as a relic from the past. However, it is still equally important for archaeologists and historians.  The Santa Fe Trail  Do you know what the Santa Fe Trail marker near Kozlowski's Trading Post says? It says,  Santa Fe Trail 1822-1879 Marked by the daughters of the American Revolution and the Territory of Nex Mexico.  With the independence of New Mexico and the western territories becoming an annexure to New Mexico, the Santa Fe Trail became the route or passage to the westward movement. Naturalists, journalists, travelers, aspirants, traders, and others took this passage as part of the American expansion. Colonel Henry Inman’s “Stories of the Old Santa Fe Trail,” published in 1881, describes the trail well. If you are a history buff, you must read this book well before visiting the Santa Fe Trail today!  “Kozlowski’s Stage Stop and Trading Post” is the highlight of this trail. You can spend some time here to visualize travelers from the past catching some rest after a long journey through the trail. When on the trail, you can explore the remains of the Pueblo and the Mission Church. You can even consider taking a guided tour of the Forked Lightning Ranch.  Glorieta Pass Battlefield Trail  https://www.instagram.com/p/B9xRKctnb3M/ Important Details About the Glorieta Pass Battle1. Reason for Conflict: Union forces and Confederates wanted to control the Glorieta Pass Route through the Sangre de Cristo mountains and the main supply center (Fort Union) for the passage of soldiers and supplies. 2. Contenders: The Confederates, with volunteers from Texas and under the leadership of General Shipley and the Union forces led by Colonel Canby, and soldiers from Fort Union, New Mexico, and Colorado. 3. Battle Begins: March 26, 18624. Reinforcements: 27th March, 18625. Battle Resumes: 28th March, 18626. Battle Ends: 29th March, 18627. Casualty: Death of 375 People 8. Consequence: The Union forces defeat the Confederates as they fail to ruin the Fort Union. Further, the Union forces maintain complete control over Southwest America.  The Glorieta Battlefield Trail is a popular hiking destination today in Pecos National Historical Park. It is a roundtrip loop, and you will have to cover a distance of 2.25 miles to complete your expedition. Further, the unpaved or graveled hiking route makes it moderately difficult for the hikers. In addition, there is an elevation gain of 152 meters.  You have to drive for around 7.5 miles from the main visitor center of the park. You will need to collect a gate code from the visitor center, which is your access code, to open the locked gate in front of the trail.  As you walk through the forest trail, you get to know more about the Civil War in New Mexico. Many infographics are installed throughout the trail, telling you tales from the past. In addition, there are wayside signs and 14 trail markers to explain the history of the battle on this pass in detail.  More About Hiking The Glorieta Pass Battlefield Trail  Time: Around 1 hour Refreshments (Hikers’ Favorites): Pecos Burger at El Maria Bonita (With a lot of meat and a smoky green chilly flavor!) and Chips and Salsa, of course! The Trail Guide you collect from the visitor center already keeps you hooked on the site's history. Indeed, this trail is less about hiking and more about flipping through the pages of the American Civil War in Mexico.  Let’s Hear It From Other Visitors To The Park  “Really nice park. Easy to find and it is free! Inside the visitor center, they had a really great exhibit that followed the pecos overtime. It was super informative and brought a lot more meaning to the actual park. After looking around the exhibit, you can take the trail up and around the park and church. It's amazing that the walls are still there. The view around the park is also beautiful. We spent about 2 hours here.” - Isabelle M. “I really enjoyed this park. My husband didn't care for it but I think it's really amazing what is still here. He thinks it's all recreation and I can't say if it is or not but I know the current Pecos people don't see it that way. It's pretty awesome that it's free to visit and the visitors center has a little museum that's also free! The trail starts near the restrooms. We accidentally started it from the end. But who cares. We saw everything and I recommend checking it out. Native people history is really cool.” - Lydia G. Exploring Wildlife At The Pecos National Historical Park https://www.instagram.com/p/CA-hAl8nrUW/ This historical national park is a hub of wildlife with a 6,500-acre expansion of forests, rivers, grasslands, and streams. The table below enlists the species that call the Pecos National Historical Park their home.  MammalsElk of Northern New MexicoColorado Chipmunk DeerRock SquirrelBirds*Steller’s JayMountain BluebirdBald EagleFish and AmphibiansRio Grande ChubLongnose DaceRainbow TroutBrown TroutNew Mexico Spadefoot ToadWoodhouse ToadTiger SalamanderPlains Leopard FrogReptilesShort-horned LizardNew Mexico Whiptail LizardBull SnakesGarter SnakesPrairie Rattlesnakes You will find the Prairie rattlesnakes along the trails. So, please exercise caution and inform the ranger if you come across one on your way.  A Quick Glance At Some Important Information About Pecos National Historical Park You must quickly look at the important information available about Pecos National Historical Park before you set in. Location: San Miguel County, New Mexico Established: 28th June, 1965 Area: 27 km² Highest Landscape: Truchas Peak, 3990 Meter Visitor Center: Pecos National Historical Park Visitor Center How to Reach: Via State Road 63  Entry Fee: Free Best Time to Visit: Autumn (Early September to Mid October) Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego. Kootenay National Park Or The Land Of Ice And Fire (Experiencing Nature’s Game Of Contrasts)