Fun Things To Do In Washington DC: 6+ Things You Cannot Miss Here (Including Free Attractions)

BY  Sibashree Jan 15, 2025

Looking to customize your sailing experience? Explore World Sea Explorers' Custom Charters for tailored adventures. Norway’s breathtaking fjords, rugged coastline, and enchanting islands make it a dream destination for yacht enthusiasts.  Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time charterer, exploring Norway by yacht is an extraordinary experience that combines adventure, luxury, and a deep connection to nature. Here’s everything you need to know about chartering a yacht in Norway. Why Choose Chartering A Yacht In Norway? Norway offers unparalleled opportunities for exploration. Its coastline stretches over 83,000 kilometers, dotted with picturesque villages, vibrant cities, and awe-inspiring natural wonders.  Furthermore, the majestic fjords and the playful sunlight on the water look straight from a movie scene, and being in a charter Yacht sailing through the water feels like you are on a Viking journey of your own. And Trollfjord is, of course, the crown jewel when it comes to a journey in a yacht in Norway. Despite the challenges (the fjord is narrow, and the navigation has to be very specific), it has become a popular go-to destination since the filming of Downsizing with Matt Damon. The rock formations along the fjord are dramatic, and they look almost gothic. Further, the gurgling waterfalls will be music to your ears, and the mist covering the rocks will create a sense of intrigue.  Here’s what makes Norway a top sailing destination: 1. The Majestic Fjords Cruise through iconic fjords like Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene waters create a scene from a fairytale. 2. The Midnight Sun And Northern Lights Depending on the season, you can either sail under the midnight sun during summer or witness the magical northern lights in winter. 3. Rich Wildlife Spot puffins, sea eagles, whales, and seals as you sail through Norway’s pristine waters. 4. Cultural Immersion Stop at coastal towns like Bergen and Ålesund to experience Norway’s rich maritime history, sample local cuisine, and enjoy vibrant cultural festivals. Types Of Yacht Charters Available In Norway When chartering a yacht in Norway, you can choose between several options based on your preferences and skill level: Bareboat Charters: Ideal for experienced sailors, this option gives you complete control over your journey. Crewed Charters: Perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed experience. With a professional crew, you can enjoy gourmet meals, guided tours, and personalized service. Catamarans: Great for families and groups, catamarans offer spacious accommodations and stable sailing conditions. Luxury Yachts: For a premium experience, luxury yachts provide opulent amenities, including hot tubs, gourmet kitchens, and private cabins. Best Time To Charter A Yacht In Norway Summer (June to August): The most popular season for yacht charters, with mild weather, calm seas, and 24-hour daylight thanks to the midnight sun. Spring and Autumn (May and September): Quieter seasons with fewer crowds and stunning natural colors. Winter (November to February): A unique opportunity to combine yachting with Arctic adventures like chasing the northern lights and exploring snow-covered landscapes. Top Destinations to Explore | Chartering A Yacht In Norway If you want the ultimate Scandinavian adventure, your journey must begin in Norway. In the land of the Vikings, these are the places you can explore while enjoying a ride on a Yacht in Norway.  1. Lofoten Islands Famous for their dramatic peaks, crystal-clear waters, and charming fishing villages. Further, this dramatic Archipelago in Norway has Henningsvær, a quaint village and a bustling hub of fishing activities.  Surfing is a popular outdoor activity here and you will encounter whales and the mighty eagles in action. You can even join a wildlife safari here while playing along the waves.  Moreover, for the most cinematic beach experience, you must Hestegård. Taking a horseback ride here is a lifetime experience.  2. Bergen:  Known as the gateway to the fjords, this vibrant city is a must-visit for its colorful waterfront and rich history. It will take you to Sognefjord, the deepest and longest fjord in Norway. You can also visit Hardangerfjord, where Trolltunga, the most popular mountain plateau, is present. Did you know that as many as seven mountains surround Bergen? So, hiking is a popular outdoor activity here, along with water pursuits and cultural exploration.  3. Tromsø Located above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is a hub for winter activities and a great base for northern lights viewing. One of the most populous municipalities of Norway, Tromsø always remains dark from the 21st of November to the 21st of January. There is no sunrise during this span. So, the twilight from 9 AM to 2 PM feels like magic.  Moreover, Tromsø can be the gateway to your Arctic adventure. From here, you can plan a visit to the Lyngenfjord region.  4. Svalbard For the ultimate Arctic adventure, head to Svalbard, where you can sail among glaciers and spot polar bears in the wild.  Tips For A Successful Charter Yacht In Norway Plan Ahead: Norway’s yacht charters are in high demand, especially during summer. Book your yacht well in advance. Pack Wisely: Bring layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy footwear to stay comfortable in varying weather conditions. Know the Rules: Familiarize yourself with Norway’s maritime laws and environmental guidelines to ensure a safe and eco-friendly journey. Work with Local Experts: Collaborate with reputable yacht charter companies and guides to customize your itinerary and navigate Norway’s unique sailing routes. Why Choose a Sustainable Charter? Norway’s commitment to sustainability makes it an ideal destination for eco-conscious travelers. Many yacht charter companies offer green options, including hybrid yachts, eco-friendly practices, and partnerships with local conservation projects.  By choosing a sustainable charter yacht in Norway, you’re helping to preserve the country’s pristine environment for future generations. Ready To Charter A Yacht In Norway? Chartering a yacht in Norway is more than just a vacation; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the world’s most beautiful and unspoiled landscapes.  Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Norway promises an unforgettable experience you’ll cherish forever. So, pack your bags, gather your crew, and get ready to explore the Land of the Midnight Sun from the deck of your private yacht. Adventure awaits! 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  Abdul Aziz Sep 24, 2021

Japan is a very technologically advanced country. Along with their technical advancements, their culture and heritage are unique. Almost every year, 4 million tourists choose Japan as their tourist destination. But are you thinking the tourists are selecting this country because of their low-cost travel expenses? Even though Japan Is a popular tourist destination, it is expensive. Let’s see for the answer: is Japan expensive, and how expensive is Japan exactly? Japan is the most developed Asian country. And many factors are working behind the reason. When you want to see the answer for; is Japan expensive first you have to understand the geographical locations of Japan. Japan is an island. And Japan does not have any road connectivity with any country. This is also the reason for their expensive economy. Why Is Japan So Expensive? When you want to know, is Japan expensive? Hence we must say to you that, yes Japan is expensive. Many reasons are working behind the expensive nature of their economy. But Japan is the most technically advanced country. The modern and smart lifestyle is bringing many advantages to the country’s people. Japanese people believe in the traditional way of life. But the Jpans is positively adopting the good natures of the western foreign countries. And they also respect their own culture and way of life. These are the main reasons for their development. Not only for the tourists, but the regular daily necessary items are also expensive compared to the other Asian countries. Check out how much is a trip to Japan and what the expenses are. 4 General Tourist Expenses In Japan Now you know the answer; is Japan expensive? But can you travel to Japan on a budget? Yes, when you have the right ideas about Japan having a very prosperous economy and expensive lifestyle, you can quickly develop the tour plan on your budget. Or if like to solo travel then this article is for you. Here are the four general tourist expenses in Japan. 1. Accommodation Cost  Is Japan expensive? Yes, Japan is expensive and costly in every aspect, like food, drinks, and tourist accommodations. But depending upon the season, the accommodation expenses vary. So if you are searching for a place on a low budget, you can stay in the Hostels. Midrange accommodations range from $160 to $330 per night. For boutique hotels, you have to pay around $450 per night. Of course, these price ranges vary from season to season. But Shinjuku and Tokyo's accommodation ranges are always higher than other places.  The best part is that Japan is a very clean and hygienic country. So in every price range, all the accommodations maintain their prime cleaning and hygienic routine.  On the other hand, if you’re a foreigner planning to live in Japan for good, finding the right place to stay is crucial. Like short-term accommodations, Japan offers a wide range of living environments for foreigners wanting to build a life in the said country. Hence, if you’re looking to move to Japan after your trip there, check out reliable websites to know the best places for foreigners where you can call home.   2. General Public Transport All the public transport is very convenient, and you can easily get the vehicle and travel to any place. The train and the metro railways are the most convenient transport medium. Japan has the smartest railway system. For travelling by bullet train, you have to spend around $170 to $130 for travelling to Japan’s popular cities. If you want to travel by Japan’s public transport, it is better to purchase a Japan rail pass for seven days validity. There is also some Japanese transport system available. With this pass, you can travel to any city for seven days, and to purchase this pass, you only have to spend around $270. All the cab and the taxi fares start from $8. Depending upon your distances, the fare is getting decided. However, if you’re planning an extended trip to Japan or considering moving there for good, investing in a bicycle can be an excellent way to save on transportation. Like other Asian countries, biking is recognized as a great mode of transport in Japan. The country also has safe bike routes, which make it easy for cyclists to get around the cities and other places. So, to avoid spending too much on transportation, get on your bike as you explore the country. 3. Tours Guide You know the answer is yes, Japan is expensive. But can you guess how much you have to spend on guided tours? English speaking guides are costly. The guided tours charge nearly $320 per person, and the tour hours are allocated for eight to nine hours. Japan is a safe country. Everywhere you will get help from the tourists. And Japan's national tourism organization is distributing a brochure for the tourists where you will get every guidance to explore Japan. And to get the local news you can avail the help from the Local tourist’s centres.  Take the guidance from the national tourist departments. This is the cheapest way to travel in Japan. Every instruction in tourist places has English language conversations. So you do not have to ask anyone for it. 4. Food And Drink Cost Food and drink are available in low-cost ranges. So if you are planning to take the authentic taste of sushi, you will get plenty of options available there. From the expensive designer boutiques to Kaiten-zushi style shops everywhere, the multiple authentic sushi dishes are valuable.  You can select the place according to your requirements. In the boutique’s style restaurant, you have to spend nearly $320 for sushi, but if you prefer the sushi in a low-cost range, you have to spend only $10 for sushi.  If you want to explore Japan on a budget. You can quickly shift your choices to Japanese cuisines and cut your travel funding by cutting the foreign food items. For Bonus Tips: 6 Best Delicious Destinations That You Can't-Miss How To Plan Budget-Friendly Travel In Japan? Many tourists are asking if Japan is expensive. Of course, even Japan is a costly country, but you can travel to Japan on a budget only you have to plan it adequately. When you know the exact places where you can cut the budget, you can quickly develop a trip plan for your Japan travelling. Here is the guidance. Read it and know the cheapest way to travel in Japan: Be ready with your budget before you arrive at your destination. This will allow you to stick to your budget and limit unnecessary spending. Off-season tour plans are always budget-friendly. The Autumn season is an off-season to travel Japan, and this time the tourist rush is not very high. Take the railroad to explore the city and buy the railway card to see the tourist places in the country. Focus on the local authentic, fresh Japanese dishes. If you’re looking for cheap food in Japan, you can buy one in small restaurants, street food stalls, and even vending machine cafes. However, if you stay in the country for an extended period, you can save money on your travel by preparing and cooking most of your meals from scratch. Try to find accommodation which is a little bit far from the main crowded cities. Make sure to book your accommodation ahead of time to save a lot of money. Hostels and the local guest houses are also charming, clean places to stay. However, when planning for a chest ways Japan tour, it is better to keep away from the expensive luxury boutique-type accommodations. Look for free attractions and events to save money. Whether you want to spend a fun day in a national park or visit a museum, there are incredible activities that allow you to enjoy Japan without paying anything. Sum It Up After reading the article, you know the facts, analyze facts, and know the answer is that Japan is expensive. If you have queries about how much is a trip to Japan? Then we must say the cost is entirely dependent upon the spending nature of the person. But in Japan, you will get plenty of options to try out the different types of accommodation and food. Only you have to pick the right choice for you which is affordable for you. And plan your trip. Read More: Top 10 Places To Visit In Singapore Top 10 Best Travel Apps To Use In 2021 Best National Parks In Missouri That You Must Know

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 5, 2023

Going on a hike up the infamous Stairway to Heaven Hawaii on the island of Oahu calls for in-depth preparation on your part. It is one of the most dangerous hiking trails. It is also known as the Haiku Stairs. In this article, you will find information on the hike’s history, current status, alternate routes, incline, security, distance, best weather conditions, helpful gear, and a guide to get there. History Of The Stairway To Heaven Hawaii lifeonearth.com In 1942, contractors for the U.S. Navy began the construction of the Haiku Radio Station. It was a top-secret facility that transmitted radio signals to Navy ships that were operating in the Pacific. To get the right altitude for the antennae, they stretched them across the haiku valley, which is like a natural amphitheater. You might still see the remnants of the wooden ladder beside the new metal steps. The radio station was commissioned in 1943. A stronger transmitter that could relay powerful signals was necessary. This could not be done with the vacuum tube technology used at the time. So they chose to go with an Alexanderson alternator, which uses a huge device that can generate powerful yet low-frequency radio signals. It would need a large antenna. When the Naval Air Station Kaneohe Bay was transferred to the Marine Corps around the 1950s, the U.S. Coast Guard used the Haiku Radio Station site for an Omega Navigation System station. In the mid-1950s, the wooden stairs were replaced by sections of metal steps and ramps. The total number of stairs stood at 3,922. The Coast Guard did not stop hikers in the 1970s but had to stop after it featured in the Magnum P.I. movies, which increased the number of visitors. The station as well as the trail have both been closed to the public since 1987. Recent History In 2003, plans were made to reopen the stairs to the public, and the cost incurred to repair the stairs was $87,500. The public access being shut down, residents found themselves surrounded by unknown faces of hikers and tourists and litter all around. In early 2018, the City and County of Honolulu released a statement to not open the stairs to the public, showing liability concerns. Some hikers, however, continued to trespass, which only strengthened the local community’s resolve to keep the structure closed to the public. The Friends of Haiku Stairs, a volunteer group that aims to preserve the trail, pitched that there could be an alternative to a no-trespass, safe public access to the trail without taxpayer costs. The trail now is a disputed one with all its beauty and thrill. However, it has not stopped the locals, hikers, and travelers from stealing past the guards posted at the bottom of the stairs. This hike is a strong dose of adventure, climbing nearly 4,000 steps along an 18-inch wide staircase to reach an elevation of more than 2,000 ft. Incidents squarespace-cdn.com The hiking trail is not a site for any major injuries or accidental Stairway to Heaven Hawaii deaths on the stairs. There have only been minor incidences in the last decade. However, between 2021 and 2022, there have been more number of injuries and rescues of hikers trying to get to the top of the stairs. The rescues have mostly taken place for hikers going through the Moanalua Ridge, which is the longer and more difficult of the trails. Many hikers are rescued “near the Haiku Stairs” and not the Hawaii Stairway to Heaven itself. In 2014, 6 people were arrested, and 135 were quoted to have climbed the stairs. According to the City Prosecutor's Office, a criminal trespass in the second degree carries a $1000 fine. The Stairway To Heaven Hike Hawaii: My Experience The Stairway To Heaven hike on Oahu, Hawaii, is possibly the biggest attraction on the entire island. A grueling number of 3,922 stairs go up to the imposing mountain ridge. Most of the time, the incline is vertical, with only a handrail to save you from falling into the valley below. It sounds dramatic, but it is what it is. But it isn’t too dangerous if you are prepared for it. Distance: 2 miles or 3 km round trip Elevation Gain: 2,630 feet or 800m Duration: 2-3 hrs up, 1-2 hrs down We started out by being dropped off in the neighborhood at 2 am in the morning. It was a clear night with just a few light clouds hovering over the mountains. As soon as we got out of our car, a resident came rushing out of his front yard, yelling at us. Thus, startled by the old man, we hurried away to the “main entrance” to get our eyes fried with a beaming flashlight. The Trail We silently went off in the opposite direction toward an alternate entry point, keeping in mind that the old man quite possibly called the guard or the police to warn them about us. We were thrilled by the idea of being caught and afraid of being caught, actually. Walking through the neighborhood as quietly as possible, the barking of dogs totally blew our cover, making our presence known. We ran down the street to a small alley that led up to the hill. We had to cross over the barbed wire fence, which was close to a residential area. It is understandable why the residents are so annoyed with trespassers. From here, we had to steal past the knee-high undergrowth as quietly as we could go. We were nervous when approaching the guard, understanding that we had trespassed multiple sites that were strictly no-go. As we approached the red car of the guard, we found that no guard was around. We walked past it and towards the stairs. As we ascended the stairs, we finally felt relieved to think that the police or guards didn’t go after the trespassers on the stairs. On The Stairs change.org We felt much safer, and we could now enjoy our 3 a.m. hike along the Stairway to Heaven. In 2015, a storm damaged many parts of the stairs to the point where they could not support use. It is not dangerous per se, but it makes your ascension more thrilling. A few of the steps were loose, and we had to keep that in mind while treading on each of them. We did not have headlamps. We followed the full moon up the narrow and damp stairway. I managed to keep looking back to see the highway, which kept getting smaller as we went higher in order to reach platform one. Grasping the slippery railing tightly, we made our way to the second platform, where an abandoned cabin lay with old machinery inside. It looked straight out of a post-apocalyptic movie. Another two hours went by, and we almost reached the summit. The final section of the hike consists of boards instead of stairs, which make it a catwalk at 2000 ft. in the air on top of a sharp ridge. At The Top squarespace-cdn.com At the summit, we found an old cabin with huge antennae on top. We moved around the space on top among the clouds. We then returned to the bunker to wait for the spectacular sunset this place always has. Putting on a fresh pair of dry shirts and jackets made the experience much more comfortable while at the summit. The sky became a pale blue and then shades of purple. With that, the sun came tearing through the haze. It shone yellow and gold over the Haiku Hawaii Valley. Many others witnessed the sunrise along with us, who began their descent once the spectacle of the sunrise was over. One of the trails downward is the Moanalua trial, which is a 6-mile route, but you can miss out on the views. It also helps you avoid the guards if that is your main issue, but it is 3 to 4 times longer than other routes. The hike down was a treat for photographers. We were in no rush, so we got down at our own pace, taking in the views and shots for our socials. It feels amazing to have ascended in the dark and then descending in broad daylight. It took less than 2 hours to reach the bottom. We saw the guard’s red car where it was in the morning, but this time, we took the risk and did not avoid it. The Guard Below .journeyera.com Meeting guard, he joked, saying, “I’ve called the cops, they must not have come,” as he began laughing to himself. His sense of humor eased our anxiety. He gave us the look of get-out-of-here-before-you-get-caught, and we crept away on queue. The situation has become much more serious in the recent past, so the guards may not be as friendly as they were. Be careful if you go in 2023. At the final gate, we saw no signs of police or angry residents. We were free! We could not believe we had just hiked the Stairway to Heaven Hawaii! This is truly a place for one and all. It looks like the real version of Jurassic Park. It is dreamy as well as eerie. You can totally attempt this hike if you visit Oahu. Try to have someone who has visited before guide you through this hike if you visit here for the first time. Alternate Route thatadventurelife.com The alternate route is the Moanalua Trail. The route is 9.3 miles in length. It gets you all muddy and is not the easier option, either. It can help you avoid the guards at the beginning of the trail. But it is not hassle-free. It all depends on when you go and how well-prepared you are for any kind of situation. Things To Pack For The Stairway To Heaven Oahu Hawaii Hike Going unprepared for the hike is one of the biggest mistakes you will make. You must have the basics and stay prepared for bad weather. Here is a list of essentials you must consider among everything else. Arcteryx BETA AR Rain Jacket: This is the rain jacket of your dreams. They are super light. They will fold into the tiniest ball and save you from the harshest storm. Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX Hiking Boots: For better ankle support on that 400-step long hike, waterproofing and toughened exterior are necessary for your boots. These Solomons can easily be your best buddy. Black Diamond Head Torch: In case you return incredibly late from your hike and it gets dark, a headlamp will help you as nothing else will. Keep this one handy for sure. Darn Tough Socks: These will be the most comfortable hiking socks you will own. They don’t wear out easily, either. They have a lifetime warranty. You simply send them with any sign of wear and tear, and they will replace it without further questions. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Here are some common questions people ask about this hike, take a peek: 1. How Did The Stairway Come About?   The stairs were originally built in 1942 by the U.S. Navy as a top-secret facility to transmit radio signals to ships that were sailing in the Pacific Ocean. The stairs went public, deeming it fit until 1987, when it became dangerous due to disrepair. Residents of Oahu have fond memories of hiking up the stairway to heaven legally a long time ago.The city of Honolulu reportedly spent almost a million dollars in renovating the stairs and considered re-opening the stairs to the public in 2002. Resident complaints and safety concerns halted the re-opening, and the stairs have stayed closed ever since. 2. What Are Some Of The Other Places To Visit In Oahu? You could take a helicopter flight tour without the doors. The view from above will blow you away. A shark cage tour can ensure you don’t talk about thrilling adventures for another year or so. It will give the adrenaline rush like no other. Ecofriendly dolphin and snorkel tours are also available. Wrapping Up The Stairway to Heaven Hawaii trail is dangerous when seen from below. It is only when you undertake the hike (with proper planning and preparedness, of course) that you understand it is not as daunting as it looked. All you need is a thirst for thrill and sharp wit that comes in handy when you go face to face with adversity. There is also the added fear of strict laws around the hike, which will keep you on your toes. Let us know if you visit this amazing trail. And if you have questions or thoughts to share, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: Portals To The Unknown: Exploring Natural Gravity Vortex! The Perfect Getaway: Discovering The Closest Beach To Disney World! Walking On Sunshine: Exploring The Magic Of Vietnam’s Golden Hand Bridge!