What Is The Closest Beach To Nashville? (10 Beaches With Guide)

BY  Sibashree Jan 30, 2025

Despite having famous cultural trails and many important museums in the USA, Indianapolis tourism has always been affected by safety concerns. Is Indianapolis safe? This is the question that people keep asking, considering the high crime rate.  2024 was a relatively good year for Indianapolis as the crime rates decreased from 2023.  So, Indiana's public safety leaders are planning to keep the momentum with public safety plans.  Further, there are endeavors to bring positive changes in the community. So, despite having a 43.82 crime rate and 100 homicides taking place in Indianapolis in 2024, it is making every effort to change for the better.   Moreover, the homicide rate in the state has gone down consistently every year since 2021. So, is Indianapolis safe to travel to? You can travel to some parts of the state as they are safer.  Do you want to know about these safer areas in Indianapolis? Here is the list with brief details about the places to visit. Is Indianapolis Safe? Yes, You Can Visit The Following Places  Indianapolis has a crime rate way higher than the national average. However, that does not indicate that all parts of Indianapolis are crime-infested.  For example, the downtown area and the neighborhoods in the northeast have higher crime rates. On the other hand, Greenwood, Carmel, and Zionsville have lower crime rates. So, learn where you will stay in Indianapolis during your next trip. 1. Zionsville In Boone County, Zionsville has remarkably maintained a low crime rate (1 in 1000). The first place of attraction in Zionsville is Traders Point Creamery. It is a 19th-century dairy barn promoting a farm-to-table culture in Zionsville.  You can even visit the Fanimation Antique Fan Museum, Zionsville Nature Center, and the Starkey Nature Park in Zionsville.  2. West Lafayette If you want to live in a place filled with a youthful vibe, West Lafayette in Tippecanoe County will be your instant favorite. Here, the crime rate is low (1 in 1000).  West Lafayette has many places of tourist attractions, and Purdue University is the best among them. The Ross-ade Stadium, Mackey Arena, Fort Ouiatenon, and Lily Nature Center are some favorites of locals and tourists in West Lafayette.  3. Fishers https://www.instagram.com/p/C7hOb1uuzmb/?img_index=1 Fishers, a growing suburb bordering Carmel, is one of the safest places to visit in Indianapolis. Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Fishers.  Further, you can visit the Conner Prairie Museum, Flat Fork Creek Park, Cheeny Creek National Park, etc., to spend some time in nature at Fishers.  4. Highland Along the southern tip of Lake Michigan, Highland in Indianapolis is one of the safest places in Indianapolis. Highland is a great place to visit in Indianapolis, also its proximity to Chicago makes it accessible.   5. Brownsburg https://www.instagram.com/p/C9zvwB1OfSo/ Brownsburg has been growing in the last few decades, and when asked is Indianapolis safe or not, Brownsburg is the place you need to visit.  Furthermore, Brownsburg has visitor attractions like Williams Park and Natural Valley Ranch. 6. Crown Point Lake County, in northwest Indiana, has Crown Point, one of the most peaceful places in Indianapolis. So, if you want to know is Indianapolis safe, Crown Point can be your go-to destination.  Crown Point is also close to Chicago, and you will love the quintessential small-town vibe here. Moreover, the places to visit here are Lemon Lake County Park and Lake County Historical Museum.  7. Avon Avon in Hendricks County has the best amenities and is known for its public parks. Further, just 20 minutes away from Indianapolis, Avon, the newest community here, is also growing at the fastest pace.  The places to visit are Washington Township Park, Avon Town Hall Park, and the most beautiful Avon Gardens.  Moreover, don’t miss a bite of the pork tenderloin sandwich when you are in Avon. The Coachman Restaurant & Lounge is one such place for indulging in gastronomic delight.  8. Dyer Dyer, a safer place in Indianapolis, has many public parks. When in Dyer, you will get to drive along the Ideal Stretch. It was a manifestation of the vision of having a coast-to-coast rock highway by Carl G. Fisher.  It was the first paved road in Indianapolis. Further, Meyer's Castle is an important historic landmark in the city.  Moreover, don’t miss a gastronomic delight at DOC's Smokehouse & Craft Bar. Here, everything you get is made using fresh and local ingredients.  9. Carmel Carmel, nestled in Hamilton County, has the second-lowest crime rate in Indianapolis. You will find the Monon Trail here, where you can hike, bike, and explore the city hotspots. Further, Carmel will never disappoint you with its copious dining and entertainment options. You can visit the Clay Terrace, a community lifestyle center.  Moreover, you can explore dining options here are Juniper on Main at 110 E Main Street, Carmel. It serves amazing crabs and deviled eggs; you can reach them at (317) 591-9254.  10. Greenwood Located in the Johnson County of Indianapolis, Greenwood has a Farmer's Market and a distinct vibe that distinguishes it from the hustle and bustle of Indianapolis.  The places to visit are the Greenwood Park Mall, Old City Park, shopping malls, etc.  Is Indianapolis Safe? A Tour And Travel Note On Safety Tips  The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) works closely with the local community to maintain law and order in Indianapolis. Furthermore, the local people here are very welcoming.  Still, you need to follow some safety tips if you are planning a trip to Indiana, and here they are! Do A Little Research About The Place You Want To Visit As I have already shared a list of safer areas in Indianapolis, you can choose your place to stay or vacation.  Avoid Walking Alone At Night This is like a thumb rule when you are new to a city. So, even if you are staying in Zionsville or some of the safer places in Indianapolis, you must wander around the city alone. And you must especially avoid areas like the Canal Walk or Downtown at night.  Seek Assistance From A Local Guide If you want to explore the nearby neighborhood or want to learn about Indianapolis culture, you can seek assistance from a local guide.  Further, you can join a community tour conducted by a local tour operator if you are new to the city and want to explore new places.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Sibashree Nov 5, 2025

I was relaxing after a bath at the Kuang Si Falls and suddenly, an electric blue dragonfly came to visit me. It sat on my knees for some time, and then came another. Within 15 minutes or so, I spotted hundreds of dragonflies making the trees appear blue. I was immediately transported to my childhood days when chasing a dragonfly or finding one with the most unique colors was a fun game. Suddenly, my guide called me and said, “Let me show you something unique.” He took me to the “Do Not Enter” board.  He asked, “Want to go there? There is a secret pool.” I said, “Why not?” I found out a milky-blue calm basin. Local teenagers were hanging out there, and they were eating sticky rice from banana leaves. They offered us some, and it was the best sticky rice I ever tasted.  Food in Luang Prabang is magical, just as is the Mekong River, temples, and Buddhist culture here.  While coming back, my guide handed me a plastic bottle. I asked him, “What to do with it?” He said, “Fill the bottle and take the water home. It carries blessings.”  Then, as I came down, I suddenly smelled the aroma of lemongrass and grilled chicken. I insisted. So, my guide had to take me to the local stalls. I had the best skewers there, and they tasted even better as I was hungry after hiking to the waterfall and having a bath.  The skewers were a little black on the edges, and that burnt flavor did the trick for me. Further, the aunty selling the skewers asked me to try the chili dip she had made. It was Fire and tears rolled down my face. She was so embarrassed! She gave me coconut pancakes to eat.  My visit to the waterfalls in Luang Prabang is filled with such amazing stories. In this blog, I will share them and talk about the best waterfalls in Luang Prabang, how to reach them, their spiritual significance, opening hours, entry fee, and everything you need to know.  What Are The Best Waterfalls In Luang Prabang?  Recently, Travel + Leisure has picked the Kuang Si waterfall as one of the 21 most beautiful waterfalls in the world in 2025. This recognition further enhances Laos's international tourism profile.  It is just an hour’s drive from Luang Prabang, and its stunning blue waters and turquoise pools formed with it, create the most dramatic landscape.  However, Kuang Si is not the only waterfall you will find in Luang Prabang. You must also explore the Tad Sae Waterfall, Tad Thong Waterfall, Hoi Khua Waterfall, and Dheva Waterfall.  1. Kuang Si Waterfall When I reached Kuang Si waterfall, I heard the monks' chants from the nearby Buddhist temple. Within an hour, the scenario changed completely, and the roar was so much that I could not hear my own voice.  Also, on my way back, my tuk-tuk driver was saying, “The old Kuang Si was way wilder, Ma’am. Its water has blessings.”  How To Visit Kuang Si Waterfalls In Luang Prabang? Taking a tuk-tuk or a bike is the best way to reach Kuang Si Waterfalls from Luang Prabang. It is located 30 km south of Luang Prabang. The journey takes around 45 minutes.  Here are the estimated costs of transport options and the expenses.  Mode of TransportEstimated CostTuk-tukAround 60000 KIPMinivan Tour250.000 KIP/ Per GroupMotorbike Rental100,000 KIP/dayPrivate Car250,000–300,000 KIP What Is The Entry Fee And Hours Of Kuang Si Waterfall?  The waterfall remains accessible from 8 AM to 5:30 PM. For the locals, the ticket price is Laotian 20,000k/person. The ticket is free for visitors below 12 years of age. Furthermore, for foreigners, the ticket price is 60,000k/person.  What Is The Best Time To Visit The Kuang Si waterfall? The dry season from November to May is the best time to visit Kuang Si waterfall. These months are ideal for swimming in the clear turquoise water of the pools. You can also go hiking and explore the nearby bear rescue center and butterfly park in these months.  Furthermore, these months are ideal for photo opportunities.  However, if you want a quieter experience, June to October is the ideal season. Fewer tourists visit the waterfall during these months. However, the water becomes muddy due to heavy rainfall.  Local people believe that this water carries power.  What To Expect At Kuang Si Waterfall? Swimming pools Bear Rescue Centre Jungle trails Picnic areas You cannot walk around the pools or waterfall with your shirts off or in bikinis. It is considered crude and does not go well with the local culture.  2. Tad Sae Waterfall With an elephant park nearby, Tad Sae Waterfall is a quieter alternative to the Kuang Si Waterfall. The decks crisscrossing the water make the visual all the more dramatic.  How To Visit Tad Sae Waterfall In Luang Prabang? To visit the Tad Sae Waterfall, you have to take a short trip out of town. Then, you need to take a trip down the river in a traditional long boat.  It is a 14 km trip from the town to the long boat launch area. Then, the boat ride is 8 minutes long. The cost of the tuk-tuk ride is around 150.000 kip.  Furthermore, the boat ride will cost around 25,000-35,000.  What Is The Entry Fee And Hours Of Tad Sae Waterfall?  The ticket price for Tad Sael waterfall is Laotian 15,000 KIP for locals. Tickets are free for children under 8 years old. For foreigners, the ticket price is 30000 KIP.  The waterfall remains open from 8 AM to 5 PM.  What Is The Best Time To Visit The Tad Sae Waterfall? August to October is the best time to visit the Tad Sae waterfall. From February to July, the waterfall remains almost dry.  What To Expect At Tad Sae Waterfall? The boat ride across the Nam Khan River felt like a time-travel for me. The Nam Khan river cuts through fog and jungle that smells like lemongrass and diesel. I also saw kids paddling in plastic tubs, laughing at me while my longtail boat sputters by.  Another fun thing I noticed is the monkeys near the top pools. Locals believe that these monkeys were the spirits who guarded the waterfall. Also, I saw some local visitors leaving a few grains of sticky rice on the rocks for good luck.  Tad Sae Waterfall is great for family picnics and boat rides.  3. Tad Thong Waterfall View this post on Instagram A post shared by Кирилл Дерябин (@deryabinkirill) The spring-fed Tad Thong waterfall emerged before my eyes after a 45-minute jungle walk. The walk starts from a point, around 6 km outside Luang Prabang.  Today, it stands in almost abandoned condition, and the hiking trails and bridges are nonexistent in several places.  How To Visit Tad Thong Waterfall In Luang Prabang? You can easily reach the hiking starting point by tuk-tuk, car, or bike. The tuk-tuk price will be around 800,000 KIP.  What Is The Entry Fee And Hours Of Tad Thong Waterfall? The Tad Thong Waterfall remains open from 8 AM to 5 PM. The entry fee is around 20000 KIP per person.  What Is The Best Time To Visit The Tad Thong Waterfall? From July to January, or the rainy season, is the best time to visit the Tad Thong Waterfall. The waterfall remains full and active in these months, and you can photograph the most dramatic visuals.  What To Expect At Tad Thong Waterfall? Tad Thong is not as massive as Tad Se, nor does it have the grandeur of the Kuang Si Waterfall. However, visiting Tad Thong felt like finding a precious old book under a heap of dust.  Throughout the jungle walk, butterflies kept fluttering around, and the silence echoed through the rocks, making me feel a little cold after some time.  Lesser-Known Waterfalls: The Hidden Gems Of Luang Prabang  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bui Nhat Quang (@eziography__) Located near the Green Jungle Park, Hoi Khua Waterfall is a powerful waterfall with a height of 100 meters. Along with swimming in the crystal clear pool formed by the waterfall, you can also relax inside the open-air huts at the Green Jungle Park. Hoi Khua Waterfall also has an interesting lore associated with it. It is said that locals once took shelter behind this waterfall to protect themselves from the approaching soldiers. However, what happened to them is a mystery to date.  Are The Waterfalls In Luang Prabang Accessible? Summarizing The Accessibility Rating Of The Waterfalls  Have a look at the table below to see which waterfalls are accessible and which are not.  WaterfallWheelchair AccessStairsSuitable for KidsKuang Si✅Moderate✅Tad Sae❌ (boat only)Few✅Tad Thong✅Minimal✅Hoi Khua✅Flat terrain✅ What Is The Cultural And Spiritual Significance Of The Waterfalls In Luang Prabang?  The waterfalls in Luang Prabang have many fascinating stories and secrets. I am sharing a few as I heard from my local guide and a Kuang Si waterfall ranger. 1. The Golden Deer Legend Of Kuang Si Waterfalls Kuang Si in the local language means (Kuang) Deer and Si (Dig). Stories have it that a wise man chose this spot and started digging into the earth to summon water. A golden deer made its home beneath the rock where the waterfalls flow now.  The story suggests a harmonious bond between humans and animals. Furthermore, the golden deer is a common character in Southeast Asian spiritual and religious stories. It has a vital role to play in the Ramayana, and we get the mention of the golden deer many times in the stories about the previous lives of Lord Buddha.  In addition, the story has given the waterfall a distinct cultural identity cherished by the locals. So, today, the Kuang Si Waterfall is more than a waterfall with a grand physical beauty. Mr. Boun, a Kuang Si Park Ranger, told me, “We protect the forest and teach kids about the golden deer legend. Kuang Si is sacred to us.” 2. Waterfalls In General Have A Connection With Buddhism Waterfalls in Luang Prabang are mostly located near the temples. The water from these falls is also used in cleansing rituals conducted by temples and monks.  Furthermore, offerings are made to these waterfalls during Pi Mai Lao or the Lao New Year.  3. Bear Rescue Center’s Cultural Role The Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre is more than a tourist attraction in Luang Prabang. It is an important center for the implementation and education of the local conservation efforts. The center also raises awareness about illegal wildlife trade.  Furthermore, many locals consider black bears sacred.  4. Butterfly Park Near Kuang Si You cannot miss the Butterfly Park located within walking distance of the Kuang Si waterfall. This park is peaceful with colorful butterflies fluttering around.  Butterflies have deep symbolism in Buddhism. These lively creatures teach us the art of letting go and how we can evolve and transform.  5. Caves Behind the Falls The hidden caves behind the upper tier of the Kuang Si Waterfalls are a telltale of the rich geological history of the region. These caves are missed by most visitors. So, these are ideal for a short meditation period or spending some moments of introspection.  Cultural Etiquette Tips For Foreigners Visiting Luang Prabang Waterfalls Some areas and pools near the waterfalls are considered sacred, and they are reserved for religious and spiritual activities. Conde Nast Traveller says, “Luang Prabang’s waterfalls offer a spiritual escape into nature.” So, swimming or access to those areas is not allowed. So, you have to adhere to these norms.  There are many other dos and don’ts you need to follow while exploring the waterfalls of Luang Prabang.  Dos ✅Don’ts ❌• Dress Modestly.• Wear a sarong or a towel over your swimsuit when walking around. • Seek permission from the locals before photographing them. • If a sign says “No Swimming” or “Do Not Enter,” respect it. These rules often protect sacred zones, wildlife, or fragile ecosystems.• Locals value quiet and respectful behavior, especially around sacred sites. Ensure children don’t climb on statues, splash excessively, or disturb wildlife.• If invited to join a blessing or offering ceremony, observe first, follow others’ lead, and avoid interrupting or asking too many questions during the ritual.• Using shampoos or soaps while bathing in the natural pools. • Touching the monks or offering them money directly. • Playing loud music or expecting a party vibe at the waterfalls. Waterfalls are often used for meditation, rituals, and family gatherings.• Littering is deeply frowned upon. Waterfalls are natural and spiritual spaces, and locals expect visitors to treat them with reverence. Secrets And Lesser-Known Facts You Did Not Know About Luang Prabang Waterfalls  The turquoise color of Kuang Si’s pools comes from the calcium carbonate particles of the limestone rocks. These particles reflect sunlight. Thus, create the iconic blue shade.  This turquoise blue color looks the most beautiful during the dry season.  Also, locals often bring picnic baskets and spend entire afternoons at waterfalls. Vendors near Kuang Si sell grilled chicken, sticky rice, and jaew bong for this purpose. It’s a cultural experience and the locals are welcoming enough to often ask the tourists to join them in.  Food And Dining Near The Waterfalls In Luang Prabang  You can visit the following areas for food and dining near the waterfall areas.  AreaFood And Dining SpotsLocationKuang Si AreaKuang Si Kitchen and ResortClick HereTad Sae AreaMainland StallsLocal restaurants in the mainland boat landingTad Thong AreaThe Living Land FarmClick Here What Are The Photography Tips For Visiting The Waterfalls In Luang Prabang?  The beautiful waterfalls of Luang Prabang are ideal for photography, and they are quite popular on social media. You need to keep in mind the following instructions for photography at these waterfalls.  Best TimeGears RequiredInstagram Spots • Daily: Golden Hour: 7:00–8:00 AM and 4:30–6:00 PM• Annually: Rainy Season• Wide-angle lens• Tripod for long exposure• ND filter for silky water effect• Kuang Si’s top tier• Bamboo bridge near Tad Sae• Jungle trail at Tad Thong So, visit the Luang Prabang waterfalls and have the best moments exploring the mighty cascades and soaking in their cultural and spiritual vibe.  Luang Prabang Waterfall Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Luang Prabang waterfall guide.  1. Can I Swim In Kuang Si Falls? Yes, you can swim in the designated pools of Kuang Si Falls and other waterfalls. However, some pools are reserved for spiritual and religious activities. So, swimming is not allowed there. 2. Are There Lockers Or Changing Rooms? Yes, there are changing rooms near the Kuang Si waterfall entrance. However, you will not get a locker. You have to carry a dry bag and keep your valuables there, or if you are traveling in a group, you can enjoy the swim in turns.  3. Is Tad Sae Open Year-Round? No, the Tad Sae waterfall is not open year-round. August to November, or the rainy season, is the best time to visit the waterfall. It does not have water in the dry season (February to July). 

BY  Shahnawaz Oct 31, 2023

Statistics show that American travelers are likely to make 1.94 billion domestic leisure trips by the end of this year. One area that is quite popular is the Gulf of Mexico. Nestled along the southwestern corner of the United States lies an idyllic stretch of coastline. It draws families searching for memorable sun-filled adventures and lifetime memories.  The Gulf of Mexico, with its shimmering turquoise waters and warm sandy shores, serves as an oasis for beachgoers, nature explorers, beachcombers, and water enthusiasts alike. From Port Aransas beaches to Gulf Shores attractions and Biloxi's hidden gems, here is your gateway to family fun in the Gulf. Join us as we discover everything this coastal paradise has to offer. We have with us activities like building sandcastles to embarking on exhilarating boating adventures. Port Aransas: A Beach Lover's Haven Port Aransas, situated on Mustang Island, is known for its charming coastal town feel and 18-mile pristine shoreline. It is often called the Texas Treasure. It is renowned as an inviting and family-friendly vacation spot along the Gulf of Mexico shores. Port Aransas makes for an excellent coastal retreat getaway. As soon as you step onto Port Aransas' powder-white sands, you'll understand why this town is such a gem. Beach lovers will find plenty of space here for building sandcastles, flying kites, and playing beach volleyball, not forgetting the calm waves that make swimming enjoyable. And if you’re lucky enough, you might even spot dolphins swimming nearby. If you're planning a visit to Port Aransas, Texas' charming coastal town, your trip must be carefully orchestrated. Start with finding accommodation that perfectly meets your preferences. Due to its immense popularity during peak vacation seasons, Port Aransas can quickly become overrun.  As such, beginning an early search for the best Port Aransas vacation rentals is crucial to ensuring a relaxing and stress-free stay. By booking in advance, you ensure a comfortable and enjoyable place. It also makes sure that every aspect of the Port Aransas experience can be maximized during your stay there. Boating Adventures: The Heart of the Gulf One of the quintessential Gulf of Mexico experiences is taking to the water for a boating adventure. The Gulf's calm and clear waters make it a prime location for all types of waterborne activities. No matter if it is sailing, jet skiing, kayaking, or taking part in any aquatic recreational activities, the Gulf offers limitless aquatic adventure. Are you seeking an unforgettable maritime adventure? For an experience like no other, take the plunge and discover the Gulf's plentiful islands, bays, and inlets. A visit to the Florida Keys gives snorkelers and scuba divers the chance to dive or snorkel across its vibrant coral reefs, teeming with aquatic life. You can even swim alongside turtles and tropical fish in the clear, warm waters. Families interested in history will find visiting the USS Lexington museum in Corpus Christi an unforgettable experience. This World War II aircraft carrier provides visitors with the chance to explore its vessel. They can learn its story, and try their hand at flying an aircraft using the flight simulator. Biloxi, Mississippi: A Hidden Gem Biloxi, Mississippi, stands out as an often-overlooked gem in the Gulf of Mexico. It boasts expansive white-sand beaches, lively casinos, and an impressive history. Biloxi makes an attractive option for families searching for an all-encompassing vacation experience. Biloxi's beaches are an outstanding feature, providing the ideal setting for relaxation, beach games, and water activities. But the city's lively atmosphere extends beyond the shoreline, with world-class casinos offering entertainment, dining, and gaming options for adults. If you're traveling with older kids or a multigenerational group, Biloxi is an excellent choice for its diverse entertainment offerings. For a touch of history and culture, the Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art is a unique attraction, housing contemporary and historical artwork and architecture. The Biloxi Lighthouse, another historical landmark, provides an opportunity to learn about the area's maritime history and enjoy panoramic views of the Gulf. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is an essential stop for families in Gulf Shores, Alabama, looking for a fun-filled combination of education and entertainment. This world-class zoo provides visitors with an unforgettable experience by bringing animals from around the globe closer to them so that they can observe them up close. From playful lemurs to majestic lions and curious kangaroos, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo's immersive exhibits give visitors a greater understanding of animal kingdom marvels. Not only can you experience these incredible creatures in their meticulously curated habitats, but you can also engage in unforgettable encounters, such as feeding a giraffe or encountering a sloth. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo makes for an educational adventure perfect for family outings along the Gulf of Mexico coast and offers educational fun for people of all ages. Conclusion The Gulf of Mexico offers family-friendly destinations that promise sun, sand, and adventure for everyone in your group. From Port Aransas in Texas to Gulf Shores, Alabama's captivating beaches, to boating adventures on its open waters, here you can find something for every family member to enjoy. Wherever your journey leads you, the Gulf will provide an experience you won't soon forget. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and embark on an unforgettable family journey to the Gulf's sunny shores. 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