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BY  Pijus Maity Nov 20, 2024

Puerto Rico is more than just a beach vacation. There is a reason why it is all over the internet, with a 22% surge in the search volume in 2024 (year-on-year). The UN Tourism report further highlights Puerto Rico as the second-most searched Caribbean destination.  The tourism attractions in Puerto Rico are diverse, and there is a sincere attempt from the government to develop the tourism infrastructure.  San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, has a vital role to play in the tourism boost of Puerto Rico. Along with being a stunning destination, San Juan also has vibrant street art and a happening neighborhood. Moreover, it is a quintessence of joie de vivre.  Need more reasons to head to San Juan? It has many activities that will not charge you a single buck. Sounds fun, right? Let’s explore the best things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico, for free.  You Can Try The Following Things To Do In San Juan, Puerto Rico, For Free | Budget-Friendly Travel Ideas In The Caribbeans  It will not be a jugglery of words if I call San Juan a “Caribbean Gem.” By the end of the 1800s, San Juan became a part of the USA. Further, San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, is the oldest city under the USA jurisdiction. Did You Know?Some airlines in Puerto Rico have increased their line of flights. Avelo Airlines is one of them and it has added a flight in “The Lakeland (LAL) – San Juan (SJU) route.” Further, it is the second route it has added to its itinerary outside the continental USA.  The flight will have 20000 more seats, and this addition is expected to yield an economic impact of $6.3 million only in the first year of the line’s operations. This news corroborates the prospects and boost of tourism in San Juan.“The strengthening and expansion of air access to the island is key to the full development of the local tourism industry, so negotiations to attract new airlines and the increase in routes and frequencies is decisive for everyone. We share the enthusiasm of Avelo management with this new non-stop route since this new service between Puerto Rico and Florida will result in economic benefits for the entire tourism industry.”Carlos Mercado-Santiago, Executive Director, Puerto Rico Tourism Co. (PRTC) The city has rainforest, beaches with cobalt blue waters, century-old architecture, heritage, and of course, the things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico, for free.  So, why not try them? 1. Explore The Street Art In Santurce El Patio de Sole is a local restaurant on Calle Cerra and it is one of the highlights of Santruce, the most happening neighborhood of San Juan.  Murals and larger-than-life art pieces by street artists have transformed this locality into a vibrant art gallery.  Calle Loíza, the “Foodie and Arts Avenue” of Santruce, is another great place to explore street art here. Moreover, Aguacates and Las Musas are some of the best larger-than-life installations here. Did You Know?Almost 10 years back, San Juan, Santurce, and the entire Puerto Rico were going through an economic crisis. Through the Santurce Es Ley street art festival and the Color Libre engagement project, the street artists addressed social problems.   2. Enjoy Bird Feeding At Parque de las Palomas Parque de las Palomas is a public park and it is a place to relax amidst or after a tiring day at work. You can just sit on the benches overlooking the ocean and enjoy the cool breeze here.  Further, feeding birds at Parque de las Palomas is one of the best things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico, for free. This park is home to pigeons. You can collect bird seed from the park kiosk and feed these playful creatures.  3. Indulge In Street Food At Piñones Piñones on the beach bustle with local street foods. You can have fresh coconut here. Also, the alcapurrias and empanadas available at the local kiosks are amazing. Tour And Travel Note Don’t forget to get some honey and souvenirs from local vendors and artisans here. You can also take a stroll along the boardwalk or enjoy a bike ride in the mangrove forest.  4. Flying Kites At El Morro El Morro, a famous fort in San Juan, is located on the top of a hill, and it overlooks the bay. The grassy land in front of the fort is a big draw to the visitors.  The high winds here make the grassy stretch ideal for flying kites. You can carry your own kites or buy one from the local vendors and enjoy your time with kids and the ones young at heart.  5. Sunbathing Playa Ocean Park, a hub of offshore reefs, is the highlight of Condado, the most popular beach in San Juan. Condado and all other beaches of Puerto Rico are free as those are public land. Further resorts like Condado Vanderbilt Hotel and La Concha make visiting Condado one of the best things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Moreover, you can go kitesurfing or just relax on the beach and enjoy a sunbath.  6. Paseo De La Princesa Scenic Walk Paseo De La Princesa is an esplanade. This 19th-century promenade from the cruise port to El Morro fort stands out due to its European vibe. As you take a walk along Paseo De La Princesa, just outside the city wall, you will find large trees making arches. Further, the antique street lamps will grab the attention of any connoisseur. Moreover, you will find many food vendors as you enjoy the scenic walk. Are you travelling with your partner? Visit Paseo De La Princesa during sunset for the most romantic experience.  7. Experience The Best Of Night Life At La Placita De Santurce Do you want to experience the happening nightlife of San Juan? You must visit La Placita De Santurce after 9 PM as most of the bars here open after 9 or 10 PM and remain functional till early morning. Especially on the weekend, La Placita, or the famous market square, is the most vivacious with people on the street. Enjoy the Salsa moves and the grooviest reggaeton music.  8. Take A Walk In The San Juan Botanical Garden Operating Hours: 6 AM to 6 PM The San Juan Botanical Garden is a great place for the study of local plants and animals. The botanical garden is on the University of Puerto Rico campus. You can take a free entry here, and you also don’t need to pay any charges for parking.  This is a great place to relax and exercise in San Juan. It is also perfect for a picnic. Moreover, you can explore the Japanese bridges and trails to make the most of your time here.  9. Pray At San Juan Cathedral Operating Hours: 8 AM to 4 PM (Sunday - Up to 2 PM) Mass Times: 7:25 AM and 12:15 PM on Weekdays, 7 PM on Saturdays, 9 AM and 11 AM on Sundays The Catedral de San Juan Bautista, or San Juan Cathedral, is the oldest church in the entire Western Hemisphere.  Juan Ponce de Leon rests here, and the church also houses the mummified remains of a martyr from the first century, St. Pio.  Attending the Noche Buena mass on 24th December is a one-of-a-kind experience at this church.  To make the most of these fun and free things to do in San Juan, Puerto Rico, you need comfortable accommodation in the city. The table below has a list of some of the best hotels in San Juan with contact details.  Hotel In San Juan, Puerto RicoContact Number Courtyard by Marriott Isla Verde Beach Resort+1 787-791-0404Residence Inn Isla Verde+1 787-961-1155Hyatt House San Juan+1 787-977-5000Dream Inn PR+1 787-200-6340Condado Vanderbilt Hotel +1 787-721-5500Tropica Beach Hotel+1 787-728-8119La Concha Renaissancece San Juan Resort+1 787-721-7500Dreamcatcher by DW+1 787-455-8259Hotel El Convento+1  787-723-9020AC Hotel San Juan Condado+1 787-827-7280 If you are planning to explore the best things to do in San Juan, contact any of the hotels first to book your accommodation.  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  Arnab Apr 11, 2023

The Vatican Museums was recently in the news for unveiling one of its restored masterpieces. Further, the unveiling on 15th August 2024 showcased the restored form of a stunning marble sculpture of the Greek God Apollo in the Pio Clementino Museum of the Museums.  Now, the sculpture known as the “Apollo Belvedere” has inspired poets and artists across generations. Further, the statue had damage to the legs and knees. Along with repairing these damages, the restoration work also increased the stability of the statue.  This type of restoration... is the expression of what we want the Vatican Museums to be. "A balance of tradition, linguistics and study, with a gaze that looks to the future."Barbara Jatta, Director, The Vatican Museums  Furthermore, this Apollo Belvedere was one of the first masterpieces in the museum, and the way it depicts the curled hair and musculature is impeccable.  Above all, along with the Apollo Statue, the Vatican Museums is home to some of the world’s most famous and historic museums, making it a must-see destination for visitors from around the globe.  So, with its impressive collections spanning art, history, and culture, there are countless opportunities for exploration at the Vatican Museums. It has the best artifacts of ancient Egypt and Rome.  Moreover, from guided tours to self-guided visits, here is a flavor of what you need to know about taking a tour of the region’s museums and what you might see. Did You Know?Pope Julius II brought the Apollo statue to the Vatican in the early 16th century.Further, the Apollo Belvedere statue in the Vatican Museums is an emulation of a Greek bronze statue.Moreover, The Vatican Museums is the most consistent source of income for the Holy See's. Every year, the museum has around 7 million visitors and it generates a yearly revenue of $100 million.  The Guided Tour Of The Vatican Museums  One of the most popular ways to tour The Vatican's Museums is by taking a guided Vatican tour. These can provide visitors with an expert guide who can take them through the galleries and explain the art, history, and culture in each room. Tour guides will typically provide details about the artwork, architecture, and artifacts throughout the museum. If you want the information in addition to taking in all the magnificent sights, then this is a good way to get it into your head and have something of interest to take to the dinner party table back home. Guided tours typically cost a few extra Euros, but they are well worth the money. You cannot beat having some direction when visiting museums that are full of interest. Self-Guided Tour Of The Vatican Museums If you would rather explore The Vatican's Museums yourself, you can also opt for a self-guided tour. Self-guided visits allow tourists to explore their surroundings individually and at their own pace, as well as focus on what interests them most. Of course, you will need to purchase any tickets in advance, and all visitors must adhere to the museum’s dress code if they have one. If you have elderly family members who may struggle to keep up with the pace of the younger tourist, or you have children with particular educational interests, then it is good to be able to stroll around at your leisure. It does provide the opportunity to only explore what you are most interested in as a smaller group or perhaps a couple. Main Attractions These museums are home to some of the most iconic and historic collections in the world. The Sistine Chapel, for example, is an exquisite chapel decorated with artwork by Michelangelo that is sure to take your breath away. Other attractions include ancient sculptures and frescoes, galleries featuring European masterpieces, and more. Different Vatican Museums The Vatican Museums are composed of several different museums, each with its unique collection. The Pio-Clementino Museum, for example, is focused on antiquities and sculptures from Ancient Rome and Greece. Other museums include the Pinacoteca, which features European paintings from the 13th to 19th centuries; and the Etruscan Museum, which is devoted to the art of the ancient Etruscans. Regardless of how you choose to explore, it is sure to be a memorable experience. With its stunning artwork and historic artifacts, visitors are able to gain insight into some of the world's most renowned collections. Gregorian Egyptian Museum Gregorian Etruscan Museum Pio Clementino Museum Chiaramonti Museum Lapidary Gallery New Wing Gregoriano Profano Museum Lapidario Profano ex Lateranense Pius-Christian Museum Christian Lapidarium Jewish Lapidarium Pinacoteca Ethnological Museum Anima Mundi Carriage Pavilion Christian Museum Profane Museum Room of the Aldobrandini Wedding Chapel of St. Peter Martyr Collection of Modern and Contemporary Art Sistine Chapel Raphael's Rooms Borgia Apartment Niccoline Chapel Chapel of Urban VIII Room of the Immaculate Conception Room of the Chiaroscuri Before you visit the Vatican Museums in person, you can also take a virtual tour by visiting its official website. Further, you will enjoy a 360-degree view of the different museums and their masterpieces.  Moreover, the site has an online catalog that you can go through for an easy, self-guided tour. Also, there are so many things to see that you will need at least 4 to 5 hours to complete a tour of the museum.  Main Attractions Of The Vatican Museums These museums are home to some of the most iconic and historic collections in the world. The Sistine Chapel, for example, is an exquisite chapel decorated with artwork by Michelangelo that is sure to take your breath away. In many ways the ceiling is a compendium, of Michelangelo’s art, of the Renaissance, of Christian theology. Like Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony or Shakespeare’s Hamlet, the ceiling is a transcendent work of genius that can never be exhausted through looking or describing. In the words of Goethe: “Until you have seen the Sistine Chapel, you can have no adequate conception of what man is capable of accomplishing.William E. Wallace, Michelangelo: The Complete Sculpture, Painting, Architecture Moreover, other attractions include ancient sculptures and frescoes, galleries featuring European masterpieces, and more. Collections To Remember At The Vatican Museums  With its incredible collections and fascinating history, a visit to the Vatican Museums should definitely be on the bucket list of every avid traveler. After all, it is one of the world’s greatest cultural sites!  So, most sections of the Vatican Museums have several masterpieces.  Vatican Museums MasterpiecesGregorian Egyptian MuseumVatican NaophorousShroud of the “Lady of the Vatican”Sarcophagus of DjedmutGregorian Etruscan MuseumLarge Wall FibulaCalabresi AmpouleMars of TodiPio Clementino MuseumApoxyomenosApollo BelvedereRiver God ArnoGregoriano Profano MuseumAthena and MarsyasMarble from the ParthenonJulius CaesarPinacotecaMelozzo da Forli, An Angel Playing the LuteLeonardo Da Vinci, St. JeromeEthnological MuseumPukumani Grave PostsPhoenix Crown Throughout the centuries, the Catholic Church and the papacy have curated and preserved artwork from the world in the Vatican Museums. Moreover, in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vatican City, this museum is a wonderful fusion of archaeology, art, and history.  Read Also: Top Places To Visit In Italy On Your Next Travel Escapade LoraNocarter+Absecon: 10 Best Things To Do There Six Things To Do If You’re In Pigeon Forge

BY  Sharmita Apr 12, 2019

How to choose a backpack? If this is the question on your mind, this is a guide for you.   There is no single model that is right for everyone because it depends on how you will be using it. Also, bags come in a variety of shapes, colors, and materials.  So, it’s also about your preference.  The other determining factor is the amount of stuff that you need to carry. The backpack that you choose should fit perfectly, and the suspension system should be able to handle the weight you will carry. Do you want a more detailed insight? Let’s discuss How To Choose A Backpack? Smart Tour And Travel Tips You Will Love Backpacking trips in the USA are ideal for exploring the vast landscapes, wildlife, and nature of the country. However, backpacking trips need proper planning, and it all begins with finding out how to choose a backpack and the right gear.  Choosing the right backpack is a lot about customization. You also need to understand the particular trip you are going to take and the specific conditions of a destination. Nevertheless, to begin with, you can consider the following points on how to choose a backpack.  1. Selecting The Right Volume You will get different sizes of backpacks on the market. These sizes range from small, to medium and even large sizes. You need to determine whether the amount of space that your backpack has can accommodate the stuff you will be carrying.  Most backpack manufacturers state the volume of these products in liters. For instance, the capacity of an overnight backpack can range somewhere between 30 to 50 liters. It depends on whether you are a more traditional or minimalist backpacker. How To Choose A Backpack? The Minimalist Vs. Traditional Backpacker Minimalist backpackers choose light and compact gear and will sacrifice some stuff that other people will consider to be necessary during the travel.  On the contrary, traditional backpackers will choose a big backpack because they will need to carry nearly everything they want to use while in transit.  You will also need a larger backpack during winter for carrying additional clothing. If you are coming with your kids, you may want to carry an even bigger backpack.  You can further convert the volume from liters to square inches. Any method can work, and most manufacturers will provide you with both so that you can choose the one that works well.  You will need more fuel and food if you will be staying out for an extended period. The nature of the trip will also determine the size of the backpack. In case you get wet, you will be required to change your clothes.  You may also be required to carry along a stove, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, and a tent when you are camping. Therefore, the volume plays a critical role in how to choose a backpack. 2. Determine the Right Torso Size The backpack that you choose should match your individual torso length.  To determine the right size, reach to the behind of your neck, bend the head forward, and then find the C7 vertebra. It is the bone that sticks out the most on the upper spine.  The next step is locating your iliac crest. Let someone measure the distance between your C7 vertebra to the point of the neck that is at the same level as the iliac crest hip. This distance represents your torso length. The backpack will fit well when the distance that lies from the top of the shoulder strap to the belt hip can accommodate the length of the torso.  However, most backpacks have adjustable torso length, and hence, you can shorten or lengthen the distance between the hip belt and shoulder straps accordingly.  3. Choose The Right Suspension By now, you have determined the right torso size and volume on your backpack.  The next step is to make sure that you will be comfortable while wearing weight. The primary determinant for this feature is the suspension of the backpack.  For example, if you will be carrying thirty pounds of weight in your backpack using a flimsy hip belt, all this weight will fall on your shoulders and this may be painful after some time.  Several components will help you in choosing the right suspension for your backpack. These include hip belts, hip belt fit, molded hip belts, shoulder straps, strap fit, load-lifter straps, sternum straps, back panel, frame components, and frame sheet.  In case you have a heavy load, you will be required to have a substantial suspension. Make sure you confirm whether the suspension can accommodate your weight. Most manufacturers are kind enough to include these details on the backpack. 4. Adjusting The Fit This feature is critical when you want some guidance on how to choose a backpack.  It is so uncomfortable to wear a backpack that does not fit correctly. It is like wearing boots that do not fit you well.  These products may not be useful to you if they don’t fit well. The backpack that you choose should conform to your body well so that you can carry the weight on your hips and not your shoulders.  The torso length of your body has to be within the torso range of the backpack. The shoulder strap should also conform to your shoulder’s back.  The load filter straps of the bag must come up off at an angle of 45 degrees. The hip belt needs to cover your hip bones’ top (iliac crest).  Lastly, the hip belt should have the capacity to support most of the weight in the backpack. Make sure you can adjust your backpack to meet all these specifications. 5. Pockets And Components Of the Backpack Backpacks provide several sleeves, pockets, and compartments. Some people prefer a simple and streamlined backpack, while others want a product that has one major compartment.  You may want multiple compartments to place your water bottle, food, phone, and other small items. It is good to look for a backpack that has the main component and sleeping bag component.  The other pockets and components include the top lid, front pockets, side pockets and sleeves, and hip belt pockets.   The choice that you make exclusively depends on your lifestyle. The way you position different items in your backpack will determine the level of comfort.  Heavy items like fuel, stoves, food, and water should be at the vertical midpoint or even higher. You can carry the light items away from your body. The other important elements to consider are the shape of the backpack and the fabric.  The shape determines the freedom of motion and stability, while the fabric is a clear indication of the durability of the backpack.  The other things to look at include external frame parks, hydration compatibility, compressor straps, ski/board compatibility, spindrift collar, attachment points, and rain cover.  The Best Backpacking Trips In The USA For You The national parks of the USA are excellent for backpacking trips. Further, most of these national parks are ideal for the cheapest vacations in the US. 1. Grand Teton National Park Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming is one of the best backpacking travel destinations in the USA, thanks to its well-connectivity to various other parts of the country. Further, it is near the Jackson Hole Airport, making it more accessible for tourists. The park offers you the most amazing view of the Teton Range. You will also love its unique geology as you explore the hiking trails.  However, the Teton Range in the park is beyond mountains or unique geological formations. It has been the witness to human lives thriving here for over 11000 years. So, as you enjoy a backpacking trip in the Grand Teton National Park, you will learn stories of human connections.  2. Yosemite National Park Yosemite National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is most popular among Americans for stargazing and trekking activities.  Further, hiking is a popular outdoor activity here, allowing you to explore trails like the Mirror Lake Loop, Upper Yosemite Falls Trail, and Lower Yosemite Falls Trail.  Moreover, Yosemite National Park is home to many beautiful lakes and waterfalls. In addition, the granite domes and glacier features make this national park stand out.  Read Also: Your Business Trip and Your Diet Expert Tips for Earning Frequent Flyer Points for Travelling in Business Class Flights Helpful Tips On How You Can Save Money On A Yacht Charter Top 5 Mistakes To Avoid When Choosing A Catering Service For Your Event