Wellness at Sea: Health and Spa Facilities on Cruise Ships

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  Abdul Aziz Dec 30, 2023

We know exactly how difficult it can be to travel with the youngins. Depending on their mood and yours as well, simply moving from one room to another in your own house can be intimidating. But you deserve to get out of your backyard, and your little one deserves to see the world. Our goal is to work with you to create and carry out a realistic plan that will ensure you and your toddler have everything they need for a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable trip. Make sure to utilize this list as a guide, adding and removing items as necessary. If everything goes according to plan, you'll have multiple moments with your family, unwinding and relishing your vacation, which will make all the effort worthwhile. When taking a trip with young children, here are a few toddler travel essentials to consider packing. Toddler Travel Essentials  If you are taking your little one on a trip, your biggest cause of concern may not be your baby. Rather, it will be all the things you will carry just to support the royal majesty's trip. Every minute will require something that you may feel ready for on a trip. Here are certain toddler travel essentials that will get you started.  Gro Anywhere Blinds When it's time to put your little one to bed, the long, hot days of vacation often mean that the sun is still shining brightly outside. It can make it difficult for them to fall asleep without blackout curtains. With just a single click, the innovative "one-size-fits-all" Gro Anywhere blackout blind blocks out annoying sunlight. With suction cups that adhere straight to the window glass for a secure fit, it's simple to use. The updated model allows you to use it on both larger and smaller windows. It has a maximum size of 130 cm by 198 cm. The blinds offer two designs- Ollie the Owl and Stars and Moon. It is washable and comes with a convenient bag that makes packing it simple. Don't leave home without one if you want to keep your child's bedtime routine while on vacation and prevent the sun from waking them up too early!  Merifor Travel Mattress With the help of this top-notch travel mattress, you can ensure that your child sleeps through the night. Unlike many travel cot mattresses, Merifor's Travel Mattress is made of nursery foam and approved by Allergy UK. It is thick and comfortable, with a special breathable fabric that helps keep your baby cool on hot summer nights. You can wash the cover at 60°C to get rid of dust mites and allergens, and the mattress itself is wipeable. You don't have to worry about any minor spills. It measures 64 cm by 93 cm, so make sure your travel cot will fit into it snugly before using it. Its inability to be folded or rolled makes it unsuitable for every trip. This is its lone disadvantage.  Splash About New Happy Nappy A dependable, leak-proof swim diaper is essential when taking your baby for a swim. Nobody wants their child to be the cause of the pool's closure for maintenance. The updated, reusable Happy Nappy from Splash About is less bulky to pack for vacations and more environmentally friendly than disposable swim diapers! Because of its premium neoprene design, tight-fitting waist and leg cuffs, as well as non-gaping gusset, you can wear it in the pool without worrying about embarrassing poop leaks. It comes in sizes ranging from 0-3 months to 2-3 years and offers UPF 50+ built-in sun protection. It helps shield your baby's bottom from the sun. It is not required to be used with any other swim nappy, but if you'd like, Splash About sells a Cotton Nappy Wrap and Liners. It's easy to rinse it off after swimming, and it dries quickly, making it ready for the baby's next dip. The Happy Nappy is available in several adorable designs, such as Owl Pussycat and Dino Pirates, which is the best part.  Apramo Flippa Dining Booster Not even a high chair? Not a problem! Wherever they are tucked in, your baby or toddler will be safe and sound with the Apramo Flippa Dining Booster. The Flippa can accommodate babies weighing up to 15 kg and up to three years old. It is essentially a miniature high chair that can be fastened to the seat and back of a regular dining chair using two straps. It has adjustable rubber feet for added stability, sturdy aluminium legs, and a plastic back and seat. Your child can eat from the tray that comes with the Flippa. Or you can remove the tray so they can sit up at the table once they are secure using the Flippa harness. It's time for dinner! After that, you can clean it, and the Flippa will neatly fold away when you press a button. This one really is one of the most convenient toddler travel essentials.  Osprey Poco AG Plus Child Carrie This is one to pack for vacations because it comes in nine different colors and doesn't take up much space in your suitcase. You can use the Osprey Poco AG Plus Child Carrier to take your child on adventurous trips. The places you can explore are endless with this backpack-style carrier because it daringly goes where strollers cannot. With an adjustable hip belt, torso length, and mesh back to keep your back cool, it's made to be comfortable for both parents carrying small children. The seat, foot stirrups, and child safety harness all adjust to fit kids of all shapes, sizes, and weights. Along with UPF22 protection, it has an integrated sunshade and a rain cover for inclement weather. To ensure your preparedness for anything, it even features an emergency whistle. The carrier features easy-access mesh side pockets for snacks and drinks, zipped pockets in the hip belt, and a compartment behind the child seat for additional storage, so there's no need to bring extra bags. It folds up neatly for storage after your exploration is complete.  Mountain Buggy Bag Ride Another of the toddler travel essentials is the Mountain Buggy Bag Ride. Even though travelling can be stressful at times, it becomes even more difficult when a baby is along! The clever ability of the 35-litre, two-wheeled Mountain Buggy Bag Rider to change into a four-wheeled kid's ride-on seat makes things much easier! To utilize the seat, just turn the dial on the case and then fasten the padded seat liner. Secure your baby in the five-point harness that is completely adjustable, and voila! It is possible to tow your child and pull your suitcase simultaneously! It is appropriate for kids weighing up to 15 kg.  Travel Insurance For Children  Does my child/baby need travel insurance? You could ask. It may appear that the answer is no at first. Your toddler is not paying for the vacation. Save for their stuffed Bluey, your toddler's suitcase is empty of priceless belongings. Nevertheless, travel insurance is crucial for safeguarding your young child, particularly if you're going somewhere where they do not recognise U.S. health insurance policies. Making the decision is simple because, when travelling with a parent or grandparent, children under the age of 17 are automatically covered for free under certain insurance policies. Wrapping Up  These products will make long trips with a baby or toddler more comfortable, peaceful, and enjoyable, whether you're travelling by car, train, or airplane. With these essential travel items, vacations won't have to be sweaty affairs. These are the absolute bare toddler travel essentials you cannot miss out on, given the safety factor. Let us know what more you would like to add to the list in the comment below. Read Also: A Detailed Guide On Malaysia Bay – From Traveling To Outing Top 7 Places To Visit For An Asian Solo Traveler Planning A Vacation To Bali? Read This Blog!

BY  Sibashree Dec 13, 2024

Bearing a rich native American history, Oklahoma is one of the tourist hotspots in the USA. It is also a city bearing the memories of frontier life.  Further, with many things to do in Oklahoma, the American Bus Association has identified Oklahoma City as the Rising Star in Tourism. Furthermore, the American Bus Association has appreciated the city for the record economic impact of its tourism.  Moreover, the city authorities are investing heavily in building its infrastructure and amenities. Also, all the efforts have been paid of in the economic boom of the city in 2023.  The 2024 Visit OKC Economic Impact Report has mentioned that tourism in Oklahoma City has contributed $3.7 billion to the local economy. Moreover, tourism yields a major benefit for the local people in terms of tax revenues and employment. “Today’s visitors become tomorrow’s residents. Tourism impacts perceptions of our city which intersects with economic development as new businesses look to relocate here. The more we promote OKC as a tourism destination, the more jobs we can support, the more city revenue is paid by visitors, and additional positive awareness is generated about Oklahoma City.”  Christy Gillenwater, Greater OKC Chamber President and CEO  So, what are things to do in Oklahoma to boost tourism in the city? Here is a brief guide for you.  Unique Things To Do In Oklahoma | Try These Unusual Activities  The tourism sector in Oklahoma is vibrant. No wonder that the Forbes Advisor has ranked Oklahoma City as one of the most budget-friendly cities in the world for family vacations.  Nevertheless, when you are in Oklahoma, you can try the following activities.  1. Visit The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/C-IhjmLsKQS/ Address: 620 N Harvey Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73102, United States Contact: +1 405-235-3313 Hours Open: Monday to Saturday (9 AM to 5 PM), Sunday (12-5 PM) Oklahoma witnessed the worst domestic terrorism on 19th April 1995. Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols were behind this attack.  The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is a tribute to the people who survived and lost their lives in this attack. You will find the biographies of the survivors, photos and stories of the survivors here.  2. Explore The Oklahoma City Museum Of Art https://www.instagram.com/p/DDATrbqNBSF/?img_index=1 Address: 415 Couch Dr, Oklahoma City, OK 73102 Contact: +1 405-236-3100 Hours Open: Wednesday - Saturday (10 AM to 5 PM), Sunday (12-5 PM), Monday & Tuesday Closed The Oklahoma City Museum of Art is famous for its collection of glasswork and artwork collected from the globe. However, this museum is the go-to place if you want to know about American art. It also introduces you to postwar abstraction. Don’t miss the glasswork of Dale Chihuly at this museum.  3. Visit The Five Civilized Tribes Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/BWfvtLUltKo/ Address: 1101 Honor Heights Dr, Muskogee, OK 74401 Contact: +1 918-683-1701 Hours Open: Monday - Friday (10 AM to 5 PM), Saturday (10 AM to 2 PM), Sunday Closed The Five Civilized Tribes Museum is the best place to visit if you are willing to know about the Chickasaw, Cherokee and Creek nations. The name of the music celebrates how the native Americans of five different nations became a part of the Anglo-American culture.  The artifacts, artwork, and historical detailing are intriguing.  4. Visit The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum https://www.instagram.com/p/C8DMPQesysh/?img_index=1 Address: 1700 NE 63rd St, Oklahoma City Contact: +1 405-478-2250 Hours Open: Monday - Saturday (10 AM to 5 PM), Sunday (12 PM to 5 PM) The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum is famous across the globe. The interactive exhibits here are out of the world, and you will find here many artefacts and artwork.  Each element in the museum exudes a unique charm, and it reminds you of life in the Old West. You will also get to know about Victorian-era firearms, American cowboys and rodeos here.  5. Be A Part Of The Entertainment And Dining Scene At Bricktown https://www.instagram.com/p/C8KLlErx5n_/?hl=en In Downtown Oklahoma City, Bricktown will introduce you to the most happening entertainment and dining scene of the city. Bricktown is on a canal that links Bricktown with the Oklahoma River and Downtown. Taking a ride in the water taxi here is one of the most unique things to do in Oklahoma. Further, you can explore the 40+ restaurants, pubs and bars here.  6. Make The Most Of The Unique Experiences At Gathering Place https://www.instagram.com/p/C9LZoqxyd9U/?img_index=1 The Gathering Place in Tulsa is a place for unique things to do in Oklahoma. Currently, it is a space of 65 acres, and soon, it will be a happening activity area of 100 acres. You can explore the following sections of Gathering Place for adventurous activities.  Adventure playground Climbing structures Slides Puzzles Sensory garden Picnic grove Reading tree You can spend an entire day at the park and the eateries at the park have decent refreshment options. So, you can visit here with your kids or family.  7. Enjoy The Art Experience At Factory Obscura Mix-Tape https://www.instagram.com/p/DBrqbZVxggN/ Address: 25 NW 9th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73102, United States Contact Number:  +1 405-367-1578 Hours Open: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday (11 AM to 7 PM), Saturday (10 AM to 8 PM), Sunday (12–6 PM), Tuesday Closed If you want an interactive and immersive art experience, you must visit the Factory Obscura Mix-Tape. This 6,000-square-foot area of art and entertainment was created by musicians, muralists, and local volunteers.  The art objects here are crafted for people with vision or hearing problems. Further, the sensory room is here is a great place for visitors with autism.  8. Encounter Wildlife At Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve https://www.instagram.com/p/C_S_AhztVt7/ Address: 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Rd, Barnsdall, OK 74002, United States Contact Number: +1 918-336-0307 Hours Open: Wednesday - Sunday (10 AM to 5 PM), Monday and Tuesday (Closed) Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve is located in the North of Tulsa. Visiting this 3,700-acre area is one of the unique things to do in Oklahoma for wildlife lovers.  Frank Phillips, an oil baron, built the Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve in 1925 as a ranch retreat. However, with time, it became a massive wildlife preserve and museum. Today, you can meet many cattle, including elk and bison, here. In addition, true to the native American spirit of the city, the Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve has an elaborate collection of Western Art. In addition, the old photographs and collections, including a Colt firearm, will transport you to the lands of cowboys. So, that’s for now from me about the unique things to do in Oklahoma. If you want to explore more places, you can visit the Beavers Bend State Park, Six Flags Frontier City, Oklahoma Route 66 Museum, etc.   Also read Ultimate Guide to Your Next Family Vacation in Israel. Boat Charter Miami: Essential Tips for a Great Experience. Is Houston A Party City? Know The Fun Things To Do In Houston For A Happening Nightlife.