What’s In My Makeup Bag During A Trip?

BY  sagnika May 20, 2024

Are you going to Europe? If Venice is in your plans, let me share some of the plans that will be perfect for you. So, how many days in Venice are you planning for the trip? The capital city of northern Italy, Venice, is built on 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. Moreover, there are hardly any roads, only canals through which you can travel using gondolas. The place is filled with buildings that represent the Renaissance and Gothic periods. You will love the ambiance and surroundings if you are an old soul like me. So, are you wondering best places to go in Italy? You must also experience delicious food in Venice and visit these beautiful locations. It is very important to check out local food when you visit a place so that you can experience its culture. Factors to Consider When Visiting Venice! So, let me share with your certain aspects influencing your decision to plan your trip. The first thing you need to consider is the best time to visit! You must consider two things. If you are someone who does not like crowds, you can visit Venice during winter. However, if your plan extends for a few days, summer is the best time to visit Venice. Furthermore, you need to consider mobility issues because they will impact how long it will take you to travel across Venice. Apart from these factors, another important aspect is the Italian Itinerary! Your Itinerary will include the different places in Venice and the amazing eateries and restaurants. Accommodations come into the picture once you have decided on the places you must visit. A Few Hours in Venice There are several options based on the number of days. Accordingly, you can decide how long you want to stay in Venice and how to plan it. If you are only in Venice for a few hours, you should concentrate on St. Mark's Square. So, how many days in Venice? It is one of the most popular places in Venice, as it is the main public square of the city! Apparently, Napolean claimed that this was the world's most beautiful drawing room. The place is also known as Piazza San Marco, and it has a quite old history. There is quite an open space, with several trees lining the place. There are several government buildings and facilities in this square. Now, if you are hungry, you can go to Bacarandino, a warm and welcoming Veneziano restaurant. You can find gluten-free options, as well as vegetarian and vegan options! Another one is Osteria Numero 1, another Italian restaurant. It is a peaceful experience where you can spend a romantic evening with your partner enjoying delicious food. If you are craving Pasta, you can get hand-made Pasta here all year round. Very similar to some of the most romantic restaurants in Rome! You can take a vaporetto and travel to the Grand Canal, the major water traffic corridor in the city! A public water bus is a Venetian beauty, and you can enjoy several locations as there are about 19 scheduled lines. Then you can visit Rialto Bridge, which is an architectural genius. Another amazing place to visit is St Mark's Basilica. It is quite close to Piazza San Marco! So, once you have indulged in delicious food, you can take a stroll and visit the religious and political center of the Republic of Venice. One Full Day in Venice If you have a full day to spend, I will ask you to visit St. Mark's Basilica first and then go to Doge's Palace once you are done with the church. The church is significantly important for its religious relativity because it is the resting place of Saint Mark. If you want to check out some grandiose gothic architecture, Doge's Palace is a great place. Apparently, it houses one of the largest oil paintings in the world on canvas called The Glory of Paradise. The painting by Jacopo Tintoretto. Several masterpieces, including sculptural decoration and Gothic architecture, are exhibited here. The artists who are exhibited here are Veronese, A-Vittoria, Titian, and Tiepolo. Now that you are hungry, you can quickly go to Tuttinpiedi. A popular place in Venice, it serves food that feels like homemade street food pasta with different seasonings like wine or fish. Continue walking in the back streets after your lunch. Later in the day, you can take a gondola ride through the canals of Venice. Two Days in Venice If your plans allow you to spend two days in Venice, I have the perfect Itinerary for you. Please make sure to visit St Mark's Campanile. The bell tower is quite popular among tourists as people climb up to the tall structure and enjoy the beautiful views of the city from this bell tower. You can go anywhere in the city and see the tall structure from there. Entry costs 12 euros. You must visit this place, as it is one of the most picturesque places in Venice. If you have a problem climbing the stairs, do not worry; there is also a lift to the top. Nearby, there is also Ponte Dell' Accademia, which you can visit. The Grand Canal of Venice is quite popular, and one of the four bridges on this canal is Ponte Dell' Academia. It is at the southern end of the canal. If you or your partner dislike crowded areas, you can explore Cannaregio. When you visit Cannaregio, you will experience an authentic side of Venice. With reasonable glass pieces, you can enjoy your time with food and friends. Furthermore, after you plan a day for it, you can go on a walk to visit Museo Fortuny and Ca Rezzonico. You cannot miss Il Paradiso Perduto, where you can enjoy delicious traditional Venetian dishes. If you want to visit an opulent place to enjoy delicious food, you can go to Oro Restautant in the Cipriani hotel. It is quite extravagant and chic, so you can have a romantic lunch date with your partner. Three Days in Venice If you have three days to spend in Venice, I have an amazing plan for you! The first thing to do is head to the Murano and Burano Islands. The islands have the shape of a small Venice and are joined by bridges. They are quite popular for products such as lace, glass, and others. There are also colorful buildings across these islands, so they are a perfect heaven for photographers and visitors. Burano is quite a popular place for risotto and fresh fish, and you must taste meat, delicious desserts, and fresh fish in Murano. You can also take a gondola ride across the canals of Venice. It is one of the most romantic activities in life. Of course, you must visit St. Mark Square because, near it, you can visit different places such as St. Mark's Basilica, the National Archaeological Museum of Venice, and The Doge's Palace. If you are a museum lover, you must go to Museo Correr! With its 18th-century interior, you will lose your breath. With an extensive collection of architecture and art illustrating the history of Venice, you will experience some of the best art in life. Four or More Days in Venice This is one of the most wholesome days when planning an itinerary for Venice. If you want some beach time, go to Lido. There are also several beaches hence, there are many things to do in Venice Beach! A hamlet of the city, the water and the sand are quite gorgeous with limited crowds. For a beautiful siesta with a book, this is a perfect place to enjoy yourself and relax. A one-day trip to Padua or Verona is an ideal way to spend the second day in Venice. With the names, I am sure you will realize it is from the famous Shakespeare novel Romeo and Juliet!  There are many things to do with its gorgeous architecture, old-world charm, and quiet nightlife! If you like walking or taking a stroll when you visit a beautiful and romantic place like Venice. There is a Jewish Ghetto, which you must explore when you have time. This place shows you the culture of the place; however, it is a place where the government is forcing the Venetian people to live there. It would be best if you did not miss watching an opera at the Teatro le Fenice. An experience of a lifetime, the opera experience will stay with you forever. Conclusion In conclusion, we have provided several options based on the number of hours and days! If you are wondering how many days you will be in Venice, I am sure you have got your plan. You can decide on the places you will visit and the food you will enjoy when you visit Venice. Even though you will see a lot in Venice, it is packed a lot in a small space. Apart from the crowds of tourists, there are picturesque canals, medieval alleyways, charming cafes, and beautiful streets to walk. Starting from St. Mark's Basilica, the Central Square, and Piazza San Marco, you must cover all of it.   Comment on how many days you plan to stay in Venice and which plan suits you the best!  Learn More Also: How Much Time To Spend In Italy? 10 Best Beaches In Italy That Will Surprise You The Most

BY  Shahnawaz Sep 6, 2022

Despite the “Mind Your Own Business” video going viral and the debate between tourists and locals about using trash bins becoming the latest buzz, Nainital remains one of the most popular hill stations in India.  While overtourism can be a concern in this hill station or the state of Uttarakhand, you cannot ignore the fact that Taluka in Nainital introduced astrology tourism with the Nakshatra Sabha event in December 2024.  It was the fourth chapter of the first-ever astroturism campaign in India, organized by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board and Starscapes, a leading astrotourism company in the country.  Thanks to clear weather conditions, December is the best time to visit Nainital for stargazing. However, is it the best time to visit Nainital for a family trip? In this Tour and Travel blog, we will discuss the ideal time for a Nainital trip with family and the places to visit every season.  Before that, let’s briefly overview Nainital as a travel destination.  Why Visit Nainital: Know The Lake District Of India Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport (Distance: 40 Km) Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station (Distance: 35 Km) Nestled in the Kumaon Himalayas, Nainital is surrounded by Sapta-Shring or Seven Hills. The seven hills around this Lake District are: Sher-Ka-Danda Lariya-Kanta Handi-Bandi Naina Alma Deopata Ayarpata Further, this hill station, at an elevation of 2000 meters, is associated with the stories of Lord Shiva and Mata Sati.  It is said that the Lake was formed when Mata Sati's eyes fell during the Tandava Nritya, or the Dance of Destruction of Lord Mahadeva. The Naina Devi temple at the lake's edge is a popular religious site.  Also, the city has buildings and bungalows, a telltale of British colonial architecture. It was the summer capital of the United Provinces during the British Rule in India.  Moreover, the attractions in Nainital are endless. So, from a church in the wilderness to a bird-watching haven, you will find everything in Nainital. What Is The Best Time To Visit Nainital? Nainital is a year-round destination. However, April to June is the best time to visit Nainital while traveling with your family.  Further, if you want to see snowfall in Nainital, the best time to plan a visit is December to January. In 2025, Nainital had its first snowfall on 11th January, resulting in a tourist boost to areas like Pangot Marg, Himalaya Darshan, Kilbury and China Peak.  Nevertheless, I have shared a table below with the month-wise temperature and precipitation possibilities in Nainital.  You can check that out to decide the best time to visit Nainital. Then, I will discuss the best attractions and places to visit in each season. MonthsMaximum TemperatureDegree/Celsius) Lowest TemperatureDegree/Celsius)Rainfall/Precipitation (MM)January15448February17665March21950April 261340May271660June2819255July2520569August2419490September2417266October221348November2098December17620 So, as you can see, July, August, and September are the months with the highest rainfall in Nainital.  Heavy rainfall may cause landslides, road blockages, and many outdoor attractions or activities may not be operational in the monsoon season.  However, the monsoon is the best time to visit Nainital if you want to explore the quiet beauty of the hill station and its decor with shades of lush green. What's So Attractive About Summer In Nainital? I could give you more than one reason why you should visit between March to June. Nainital is like a pure place on earth wrapped around by gorgeous mountains and lakes. The time between march to June is mostly spring and summer, and it is doubtlessly the best time to visit Nainital. The mountains are always awake, watching and talking to you. Although the streets don't stay up so late, the clear night sky at Nainital makes up for the best place to watch stars at night. The months from March to June are the ideal time for that. There are lakes so pristine and the pine tree so pretty waiting to welcome you. 1. Temperature Between March To June Here, the summer temperature fluctuates between 11°C to 28°C in Nainital if you are visiting from March to June. 2. Warm Weather In the summer, the town remains so warm and bright. You can take plenty of good photos. The sun wakes up the town with a good morning kiss, and the mountains are always awake and smiling. Mornings are warm, with the cool wind blowing every now and then. The evening and the nights are slightly chilly.  3. Events To Take Part In Yes, you can go paddling in the lake and do lots of other activities as well. However, the main reason for choosing summer is because of the events. Ever heard of the Phool Dei? It is an event in Uttarakhand to celebrate a good harvest expecting a good harvest. Little children decorate the thresholds of their homes with freshly plucked flowers. Locals, at this time, stay in a festive mood. You can taste the ceremonial pudding which is very famous at this point in time in Nainital. People go out on the street and perform their local folk songs and dance in Joy. 4. Places To Visit The festive mood here will keep you cheered up. However, summer also makes up for the best time to visit the tourist spots here. You can go to Naini Lake, Land's End, Caves Garden and.  Tiffin Top can be a great location if you want a recreational moment with your loved one or your family. You can enjoy the fresh look of the mountainscape and enjoy the sunrise there. Just four kilometers away from the main town, Tiffin Top can also be a good opportunity if you are up for trekking.  Can You Visit Nainital In The Monsoon? Yes, you obviously can. I told you that it is a year-round travel destination. The months from July to September mark the stay of the monsoon. If you want to see the green mountains drenched in rain and clouds swirling up from deep within the mountains, then this is the best time to visit Nainital. Although you can choose whether in Nainital and make your visit, the summer, according to most visitors, is the best time. But, my personal preference is monsoon. Moreover, Nainital celebrates the Nanda Devi Festival in September. King Kalyan Chand of Chand Dynasty started this fair in the 16th century.  Further, Khatarua is another monsoon festival in Nainital, which is celebrated in mid-September. On this day, children dance and throw cucumbers to the fire to celebrate the destruction of evil spirits.  Moreover, Gheeya Sankranti, or Olgia, is celebrated in Nainital in mid-August. It is a festival to exchange gratitude between landowners and farmers.  5. Is Winter The Best Time To Visit Nainital?  Winter is the best time to visit Nainital if you are looking for adventures in the snow-covered hills.  Further, during the winter months, the Naini Lake promenade becomes a bustling hub for ice skating, scenic walks, and snow trekking. Also, during winter, you can visit places like Bhimtal Lake, Kainchi Dham, Snow View Point, and China Peak. Moreover, Nainital celebrates Sharadotsav in October and the Uttrayani Festival in mid-January.  Both festivals have distinct rituals and many visitors, including foreigners. Further, they are great to experience the local culture.  In addition, Christmas is the most happening event in Nainital, with many outdoor activities, such as paragliding, camping, horse riding, and zoo visits. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Most of your questions are answered through the sections above. However, I have offered some additional questions and answers just to make sure that you get clean and complete information. 1. Which Weather Is Best For Nainital? From March to June is a long span. But, if you want me to specify the best months to visit Nainital, I will suggest a time between May to June. The temperature is pleasant, and the weather is clean and simple for a good tour. 2. How Many Days In Nainital Is Enough? You will need three minimum days to explore and relax in the beautiful hill destination known as Nainital. If you want to visit all the popular locations here, then a three days trip would be enough. 3. How Much Does A Nainital Trip Cost? If you are planning a short trip of four days and three nights, then you can expect your budget to be around 14,799. Bottom Line! If you want to experience Snowfall in Nainital, I will suggest you go there during the winter. January will be the best time. The monsoon makes the place look green, saturated, and fresh, and the summer is all about vibrance and joy. So, if you are looking for the best time to visit Nainital, then I will suggest you go wherever your heart wants. Did you find the answer you were looking for? Tell us what you think about it. We are also open to questions. Read Also : Top 10 famous Wonders of India 10 Best Places for Honeymoon in India

BY  Sibashree Feb 4, 2026

Istanbul is massive, and for a first-timer, overwhelming. Also, it’s a city that spans across Europe and Asia.  The European areas have their own vibe. and the Asian counterparts nurture distinct cultures.  Also, there is a more subtle divide between the historical landmarks and a more local experience. Each side has its pros and cons.  So, a struggle to find the perfect accommodation can be a challenge.  Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about where to stay in Istanbul. I have enlisted the budget-friendly, mid-range, and luxury hotel options in this largest city in Turkey. Also, if you want to explore nature-based tourism in Turkey, you can read my guide on Pamukkale, a place rich in historical heritage and natural beauty. Map Of Istanbul As a first-timer, the Sultanahmet Area will be the best place to stay in Istanbul for you. However,  I want you to be familiar with the map of Istanbul so that you can explore more localities.  In other words, if you are visiting Istanbul for the first time, you must explore the following localities.  1. Sultanahmet Sultanahmet is on the European side of Istanbul. As the heart of the Old City, it offers access to all the important historical landmarks.  However, Sultanahmet is touristy and expensive. So, as a first-timer, it may be difficult for you to connect to the city’s true vibe.  Still, it is at a walkable distance of major attractions such as the Süleymaniye Mosque, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Basilica Cistern, and Spice Bazaar.  2. Galata Galata is close to the Galata Bridge and the Golden Horn. It is a trendy neighborhood. So, you will find many cozy cafes here.  However, the hotel options here are a little less because it is a hilly region.  The places to stay in Galata are Karaköy, Istiklal Avenue, and Galata Tower. Also, don’t miss a stroll across the Galata Bridge.  3. Taksim On the European side of the city, Taksim is located on Galata’s north. Here, hotel options are diverse, and it has a vibrant nightlife.  Furthermore, it is a shopper’s delight!  However, with so many shops, hotels, and restaurants around and a vibrant nightlife, this locality can get crowded and noisy.  Nevertheless, from Taksim, you can enjoy a stroll on Istiklal Avenue, visit the Republic Monument, and the Taksim Mosque.  In addition, it is the best place in Istanbul to try local street food and enjoy a ride in vintage red trams.  4. Kadıköy and Üsküdar Across the Bosphorus, Kadıköy and Üsküdar have the soul of Istanbul. Also, food and accommodation in this Asian part of the city are much cheaper than in other regions.  However, it is quite far away from the city center, and the hotel options here are limited.  Nevertheless, the places to see near Kadıköy and Üsküdar are Kadıköy Market, the promenade’s waterfront, and Çamlıca Mosque.  From here, you can also take a ferry to explore the European parts of the city.  Where To Stay In Istanbul? Know The Localities And Hotel Options  Do you want to stay near the European part of the city? Or, do the Asian parts of the city attract you more? Let’s start with checking the accommodations at Sultanahmet.  1. Places To Stay In Sultanahmet I have the following recommendations regarding the best places to stay in Sultanahmet.  Luxury Accommodation • Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul• White House Hotel Istanbul• Seven Hills Hotel Istanbul SultanahmetMid-Range• Kate Hotel Special Class & SPA• Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel• Hotel PoemBudget Hotel • Sultan Hamit Hotel• Cheers Hostel • Luxury Accommodation In Sultanahmet The Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul, White House Hotel Istanbul, and Seven Hills Hotel Istanbul Sultanahmet are the best luxury accommodations in Sultanahmet.  Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul It was previously an Ottoman prison. Now, it functions as a five-star hotel near the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.  The best things about this hotel are the courtyard and the roof. Furthermore, you can enjoy fine dining and a full-service spa experience here.  White House Hotel Istanbul If you want to have breakfast and enjoy the skyscape of Istanbul, the White House Hotel is the best place to be.  Furthermore, its Ottoman-style decor is impressive.  Seven Hills Hotel Istanbul Sultanahmet Enjoy the best panoramic views of Istanbul, including the Bosphorus, Topkapi Palace, and Blue Mosque from the Seven Hills Hotel Istanbul Sultanahmet.  It is, in fact, one of the most popular places to stay in Istanbul if you are looking for proximity to the historic center.  • Mid-Range Accommodation In Sultanahmet These mid-range accommodations are the best for average travelers, offering the comfort you need but at a reasonable price.  Kate Hotel Special Class & SPA For a comfortable hammam and on-site wellness experience, the Kate Hotel Special Class & SPA will be the perfect mid-range hotel option.  Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel It is a neighbor of Hagia Sophia, and it has an outdoor pool for the ultimate rejuvenating experience.  Furthermore, despite being a mid-range hotel, it has various Michelin-awarded dining options.  Hotel Poem It is a boutique hotel, and it’s very close to Hagia Sophia. You will love the view from the rooftop terrace of this mid-range accommodation in Istanbul.  • Budget Accommodation In Sultanahmet Sultanahmet also has some budget-friendly options for solo and budget-friendly travelers.  Sultan Hamit Hotel You have to take a walk for a few minutes from the Blue Mosque to find the Sultan Hamit Hotel.  Cheers Hostel Cheers Hostel is ideal for backpackers and solo travelers. It has bunk beds and private accommodations.  Furthermore, don’t forget to enjoy the views of the Bosphorus from the rooftop of the hostel.  2. Places To Stay In Galata  Enjoy the cozy vibes of Galata and the quaint charm of the cobblestone streets in Galata. Also, if you want to stay here, choose any of the following accommodations.  Luxury Accommodation • Hotel De Reve Galata• The Bank Hotel IstanbulMid-Range• Novus Pera Hotel• The Hotels, GalataBudget Hotel • eraNox Boutique Hotel• Hotel Des Arts Galata • Luxury Hotel Suggestions In Galata Enjoy the luxury of staying in a high-end hotel in a central yet quiet area of Istanbul.  Hotel De Reve Galata You can take a short walk from the Galata Tower to reach Hotel De Reve Galata. Choose a room with a balcony or a spa for the ultimate luxury.  The Bank Hotel Istanbul The Bank Hotel Istanbul stands out because of the Golden Horn views. It has a rooftop bar, and you can even relax in the spa.  • Mid-Range Hotel Suggestions In Galata Galata is the best locality if you are looking for mid-range hotels. I have tworecommendations for you.  Novus Pera Hotel Enjoy the views from the rooms with private balconies and the rooftop terrace of the Novus Pera Hotel. You will also love its minimalist design.  The Hotels, Galata Despite being a mid-range accommodation, it has amenities such as fitness centers, sauna, indoor pool, and rooftop restaurant.  You will also get some budget options at this hotel.  • Budget Hotel Suggestions In Galata EraNox Boutique Hotel and Hotel Des Arts Galata are two budget-friendly hotels in Galata.  eraNox Boutique Hotel The eraNox Boutique Hotel is also very close to the Galata Tower. Some of the rooms in this hotel also offer amazing city views.  Hotel Des Arts Galata Hotel Des Arts Galata is on one of the most Instagrammable streets in Galata. Some of these rooms have balconies, and you can see the Galata Tower from the room windows.  3. Places To Stay In Taksim  Taksim is a modern area, and it is also one of the busiest localities in Istanbul. Check out the best accommodation options here.  Luxury Accommodation• The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul• CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel IstanbulMid-Range• Gezi Hotel Bosphorus• Mukarnas Taksim HotelBudget Hotel• Ardilas Residence• Santa Rio Taxim Luxury Accommodations In Taksim The Ritz-Carlton in Istanbul is just at a distance of 10 minutes (walking distance) from Taksim Square. It offers amazing views of the Bosphorus.  Another luxury accommodation is the CVK Park Bosphorus Hotel Istanbul, which takes around 5-6 minutes to reach on foot.  You can enjoy a Turkish bath in the large indoor pool of this hotel.  Mid-Range Accommodations In Taksim  Gezi Hotel Bosphorus and Mukarnas Taksim Hotel are two mid-range hotels in Taksim. It is close to the Istiklal Avenue, and it has amenities such as a fitness center and a sauna.  Budget-Friendly Accommodations In Taksim The Ardilas Residence and Santa Rio Taxim are the two budget-friendly hotels in Taksim. It has apartment-style rooms and kitchenettes.  On the other hand, Santa Rio Taxim is a good family-friendly accommodation at an affordable price.  4. Places To Stay In Kadıköy And Üsküdar Kadıköy and Üsküdar are the places to enjoy the local vibe of Istanbul, and they have cheaper accommodation options.  Luxury Hotel SuggestionsWyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamis Marina HotelMid-Range Hotel SuggestionsDoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul ModaBudget Hotel SuggestionsYOLO Hostel Kadıköy Wyndham Grand Istanbul Kalamis Marina Hotel is on the waterfront. Furthermore, DoubleTree by Hilton Istanbul Moda offers amazing views of the Bosphorus.  Moreover, YOLO Hostel Kadıköy is very close to the ferry terminal.