Traveling During Winter? Here Is A Winter Vacation Planning Checklist

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 8, 2023

Nestled in the heart of China and the Middle Kingdom, Beijing, the capital city, is where ancient traditions seamlessly merge with modern innovations. As you embark on this enchanting journey, you'll find yourself immersed in a rich tapestry of history, culture, and vibrant urban life. Before you pack your bags, let's delve into the essential details, starting with the visa requirements for a seamless entry into this fascinating city. Visa to China: To unlock the door to Beijing's wonders, a valid visa to China is a must. Whether you're planning a short stay or a more extended exploration, the process is relatively straightforward. 1. **Tourist Visa (L Visa):** This is the most common visa for travelers. It's suitable for those planning leisure trips, family visits, or short-term business engagements. To apply, you'll need a passport valid for at least six months, a completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, a flight itinerary, hotel reservations, and proof of financial means to cover your stay. 2. **Business Visa (M Visa):** If your visit is work-related, you'll need a business visa. Along with the basic requirements for a tourist visa, you must provide an invitation letter from a Chinese business or a letter of confirmation from your employer detailing the purpose and duration of your trip. 3. **Transit Visa (G Visa):** For those stopping over in Beijing en route to another destination, a transit visa is necessary. Ensure you have a confirmed onward ticket and comply with the maximum allowed stay. Be sure to check the latest requirements and processing times at the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country before making any travel arrangements. Explore The Heart Of China: Beijing Now that the bureaucratic details are sorted, let’s embark on a journey through the heart of Beijing. The city is known for its history, beauty, and culture. So, if you are planning a tour to Beijing, check out the list given below:  Historical Marvels: Beijing's history spans three millennia, and the city is a living testament to China's imperial past. Start your exploration at the iconic Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site that served as the imperial palace for centuries. As you wander through its labyrinthine courtyards and majestic halls, you'll sense the echoes of emperors and concubines from a bygone era. From there, venture to the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of Ming dynasty architecture. This spiritual sanctuary was where emperors once conducted rituals to ensure a good harvest, and today, it offers a serene escape from the urban bustle. The Great Wall of China, an hour's drive from the city, is a must-visit. Stretching over 13,000 miles, this colossal fortification is a testament to ancient engineering prowess. Hike along its winding paths and witness panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Thus, the memory will stay with you forever. Cultural Gems: Immerse yourself in the heart of China. Beijing's vibrant cultural scene by exploring its hutongs, narrow alleys that weave through traditional courtyard homes. These hidden gems offer a glimpse into local life, where you can interact with residents, savor authentic street food, and witness traditional arts and crafts. The 798 Art District, a thriving hub of contemporary art, showcases Beijing's modern face. Formerly an industrial area, it has been transformed into a haven for artists and creatives. Explore galleries, studios, and street art that reflect the city's dynamic spirit. For a taste of traditional Chinese performing arts, attend a Peking Opera or Kunqu Opera performance. The intricate costumes, stylized movements, and distinctive music create a mesmerizing experience that bridges the gap between past and present. Culinary Delights: No journey to Beijing is complete without savoring its diverse culinary offerings. Begin your gastronomic adventure with Peking Duck, a world-renowned dish that originated in the imperial kitchens. Crispy skin, succulent meat, and thin pancakes create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Wander through the Wangfujing Snack Street for a feast of local delicacies. From scorpion skewers to traditional baozi (steamed buns), this bustling market is a food lover's paradise. Modern Marvels: As night falls, witness Beijing's transformation into a modern metropolis. The city's skyline is adorned with architectural marvels like the CCTV Headquarters and the National Stadium. Fondly popular as the Bird's Nest. Join the locals in a leisurely stroll around Houhai Lake or revel in the neon-lit excitement of Sanlitun, known for its vibrant nightlife. As you explore the city's contemporary side, don't miss the futuristic Galaxy SOHO, designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid. Its interconnected, flowing structures redefine modern urban design and offer a stark contrast to the historical landmarks that punctuate the cityscape. Breathtaking Sights To See: We are diving deeper into the article, which allows me to share some breathtaking sights in Beijing with you. Firstly, you must check out Tian’anmen Square, which is also known as the Forbidden City. Moving forward comes the National Museum of China, which is a great place to collect the cultural history of the country.  If you have a religious side of yours, head over to the northern tip of Beijing. The Temple of Heaven never fails to amaze anyone. It is also a significant place of religious worship, and emperors from the Qing Dynasty also visited it.  Ending the list with the National Palace Museum and The Bund. While the former is just a ride away from Beijing, the latter is a waterfront location in North Beijing. Both have mesmerizing views, and you will have a hell lot of picturesque destinations.  Conclusion: Beijing, the heart of China, has a fusion of history and modernity. It never fails to captivate the senses and beckons travelers to uncover its secrets. From the grandeur of the Forbidden City to the vibrant pulse of contemporary life, this city is a kaleidoscope of experiences. Before you bid farewell to this enchanting capital, take a moment to reflect on the timeless beauty. Also, the cultural richness that defines Beijing is worth applauding for. With a heart full of memories and a passport stamped with the essence of China, you'll leave knowing that the Middle Kingdom has woven its magic into your soul. Read Also: Chinese And US Presidents Have Come To A Common Ground Regarding Tourism Facilitation! Indian Students Stranded At Home At Ease After China Relaxes Ban On Visa UK City Hidden Gems: Things To Do In Manchester    

BY  Kanchan Shaw May 4, 2022

With over 150 hotels in Bournemouth, it can be difficult to know which hotel is best suited to your needs. The city has everything from 5-star resorts overlooking the ocean to quaint bed and breakfasts located minutes from the sandy beaches that made Bournemouth famous. This guide on how to find the best hotel in Bournemouth will help you choose where to stay based on your price range, amenities, and location preferences. 5 Factors To Consider When Choosing A Hotel In Bournemouth: When it comes to planning a trip, deciding where to stay is an important decision. When searching for hotels there are many factors that must be considered before booking a room. Here you will find 5 things to think about when choosing your hotel. The most important factor when choosing a hotel location is convenience. Before even looking at price or star rating you should know exactly where you plan on visiting and what attractions you want to see. While it may seem obvious if you plan on being out of your hotel for most of your trip finding a location that has nearby public transportation and various sightseeing spots can save time and money. Depending on how much money you have planned on spending on your vacation, the price can play an important role in choosing where to stay. 1. Is it near other attractions? Although it can be fun to stay at a hotel that’s right on your destination’s main street, consider whether it might be more convenient to book a hotel that isn’t quite as close. For example, if you want to visit both a local beach and an amusement park (assuming they’re fairly close together), choosing a hotel in Bournemouth close to each might mean you end up wasting time commuting between them. On the other hand, if you prefer having one spot where all of your accommodations are conveniently located—and happen to enjoy spending lots of time lounging by your room during trips—chances are there will be several good options for you nearby. All in all, distance from major attractions is something worth thinking about when booking a hotel. 2. What are amenities of choice? Though it may seem like a no-brainer, when you’re on vacation you probably want to know that your hotel offers at least some of these amenities. The more, obviously, the better. When deciding which hotel to stay at next time you’re away from home, make sure to check out their amenities before booking a room: Indoor swimming pool, Sauna, Fitness center, Free WiFi, Spacious rooms, and suites. 3. Can I request special treatment? When traveling, you might be able to get a free upgrade by calling ahead and asking for a room with a view, a quiet room, or whatever else your heart desires. But what if you’re not traveling? As we mentioned earlier, don’t accept no as an answer when asking for something. Instead of telling yourself no because it’s too much work or too hard to deal with someone who might say no, push yourself to take on that challenge and ask anyway. Chances are high that you will get some kind of response, even if it isn't exactly what you were hoping for. 4. Is it located near restaurants? You’ll never get enough sleep if you’re in a hotel that has only room service. Is there a good restaurant within walking distance? And, even if there is one, will it deliver to your room? If not, where can you find nearby food delivery services? Can they come right to your door or do you have to trek down to reception? 5. How much am I paying per night? One of your biggest expenditures when booking a hotel room is going to be its nightly rate. This is why it’s important to choose wisely. When you find a hotel with rooms available at a lower nightly price than average, check its reviews—they’ll help you get an idea of what other guests think about their stay and will let you know if that low price is worth it or not. Hotels with good ratings can be almost half as expensive as ones with bad ones, on average, but one-starred hotels should give you pause before booking. Choosing a four-star hotel can save your company up to $800 per night versus choosing one rated three stars or less, according to TripAdvisor data. Read Also: Top 10 Hotels In India The Ultimate Hotel Tipping Guide 10 Best Places To Travel In November – Travel Guide 2022 Spinnaker Resorts & How Do You Get Out Of A Spinnaker Timeshare

BY  Mashum Apr 13, 2022

“If you want to enjoy the weather dripping in blossoming spring, April is the king.”  Have you been dreaming all these years to set out on a quest all alone? Has the pandemic broken you into pieces and you are desiring to heal now? Have you lately found your soulmate or a life partner and are up for making some fondling memories together? Well, many questions, one answer- Travel!!! Remember, the number of times you pack your bags and step out of your den, nature gives you a chance to find yourself. So, waste no more time and read this article. Here, you would come to know about some of the best places to travel in April. If you are based in the US, choose April to get out and explore some cities as a newborn baby breathes in the air of this earth for the first time. Trust me, you get this life only once and this planet is so huge that you might not be able to explore it fully in a lifetime. Then, why not a minor step? Here are the destinations that can help you rejuvenate as a traveler. Go through each entry and select one as per your preference. No matter if you are about to go solo, with friends, or as a couple, this list has something ready for you. Top Ten Places To Travel In April 2022 You Should Know April marks the beginning of a new financial year. So, why not take a chance to invest a sum of money in yourself? Study the places, pick one and go! 1. Dublin - Ireland Overview: If you are pleased that the summer is knocking at the door, it is a good time to plan a trip to Dublin. This is a world-famous city and it is the capital of Ireland. For the best experience, you can either go to Dublin solo or as a couple. From a rich history to a sweet culture, Dublin has many surprises waiting for you. All you have to do is open the doors of your soul wide and let everything put its own color. It is a cosmopolitan city and you can find a lot of friendly people here. So, you can obviously consider it as one of the best places to travel in April. How To Reach: By Air: Regular flights to Dublin are available from Washington D.C, New York, and Chicago. Activities To Do: Explore the major tourist locations of the city like Dublin Castle, Guinness Storehouse, and Kilmainham Gaol.  Visit the Dollymount Storehouse. Watch a music concert in any of the classic theatres in the city. Do not forget to chug a pint of beer in an Irish Pub. Dishes Not To Miss: Irish Stew, Coddle, Pancakes, Soda Bread 2. Kyoto - Japan Overview: April marks the onset of summer in the northern hemisphere of the earth. So, you can easily make a plan to visit the countries that lie in the frigid zone. Well, Kyoto in Japan is one such city you should not miss. It backs a place in this list of the best places to travel in April for it its enriched history and natural beauty. On a visit to Kyoto in April, you can find a lot of Cherry blossoms all over the city. So, it would be a magnificent sight to see nature playing with the blue and scarlet hues. As per the Japanese people, you can always expect a friendly approach. You can make friends with someone to explore the city. How To Reach: By Air: You can get flights to the Osaka International Airport and Kansai International Airport from all major cities in the US. By Road: Public and private transport means are well available to reach Kyoto from the airport.  Activities To Do: Explore the city and check out the gardens, pagodas, and houses. Visit the locations like Kinkakuji Temple, Nijo Castle, Fushimi Inari- Taisha Shrine Try local cuisine in Kyoto Dishes Not To Miss: Kyoto Style Ramen, Nama-Fu, Soy Milk Doughnuts 3. Florence - Italy Overview: Are you all set to get out for a romantic trip this April but have already done with Paris and Venice? Well, Florence can be a savior in this case. Like most other cities in Italy, you can feel the romance in the air. You can still feel the presence of Micheal Angelo in this city. As one of the best places to travel in April, you can start planning for your couple's trip to Florence right now. How To Reach: By Air: You can catch any flight leading to the Florence Airport from any major city in the USA. Connecting flights are also available. Activities To Do: Indulge in city sightseeing while in Florence and visit the locations like Santa Maria del Fiore and Palazzo Vecchio. Do not forget to listen to local music. Try some of the local bakeries and cafes. Dishes Not To Miss: Crostini Neri, Zuccotto, Bistecca Alla Fiorentina 4. Bali - Indonesia Overview: Bali in Indonesia is one of the most alluring summer destinations you can think of. So, you can consider it one of the best places to travel in April 2021. Well, nothing has really changed this year.  You can best explore the serenade beaches of this little country in April. Moreover, you can have a blast with your friends or spend some quality time with your partner. Skip this place if you are about to go solo as you might not enjoy the thrill. How To Reach: By Air: Several airlines conduct regular flights to Bali from all major cities of the US. You need to land at the Denpasar Airport. Activities To Do: Explore the island for locations like Tanah Lot Temple, Besakih Temple, Ubud Art  Market, Kintamani, etc.  Do not miss the Seminyak shopping. Go Surfing on the beaches of Bali. Visit the Bali TreeTop Adventure Park. Dishes Not To Miss: Some Indonesian duck dishes, Bubur Ayam, Nasi Goreng 5. Athens - Greece Overview: The weather in Athens, Greece always remains favorable for tourists. So, it can be one of your easiest picks when it comes to the best places to travel in April. During this time, the day temperatures remain mild and the evenings turn cool yet comfortable. Another excellent fact about Athens is its flavor. You can get three distinct flavors of this city depending on the type of trip. So, you can always plan for a solo trip, a friend’s trip, or a romantic getaway with your partner. One of the most vital things to do to reach out to Greece is get a good travel agent. So, you should keep searching for it. How To Reach: By Air: Any flight on a non-stop/one-stop basis leading to Athens International Airport can be the best way to reach this alluring destination. Activities To Do: Visit the Acropolis and the  Ancient Agora of Athens. Do not miss witnessing the Parthenon Ruins. Spend time in a few Greek museums. Try eating the local dishes in the local cafes. Dishes Not To Miss: Mousakka, Saganaki, Bougatsa 6. Washington D.C - USA If you are just reluctant to plan a foreign tour in April, let me remind you that you are not alone. Well, Washington D.C is one of the leading states that turns vibrant during the month of April. At this time, the spring season is at its peak. So, you can include this place in the best places to travel in April. So, you can easily plan a trip to the state as it is one of the best places to travel in the US in April 2022. All you can do is catch a flight to tear apart the highway with your car to reach here. As you would celebrate the spring, expect the Washington Harbour to add magnificence to your trip. How To Reach: By Air: There are a lot of domestic flights from all cities of the US to Washington D.C. By Car: Follow the highway routes of I-270, I-95, I-66, and US Highway 50 to reach Washington D.C. Activities To Do: Spend time at the National mall Explore The Eastern  Market. Do not miss witnessing the National Gallery of Art. Reach out to the Heurich House Museum. Dishes Not To Miss: Avocado Toast Dinner, Saganaki, Super Grilled Cheese 7. Agra - India Overview: South Asia might seem to be far away but it is well connected with the USA. Well, at least India is.  If you have still not picked up one of the best places to travel in April USA, Agra can be the best destination. However, this is the place where you should always reach out to your partner. It homes the Taj Mahal which is the best sign of love on this planet. Moreover, you can find a lot of other locations and buildings with magnificent Mughal architecture. Lastly, keep in mind that April in India marks a prominent summer, so you can take light cotton clothes for the trip.  How To Reach: By Air: Any flight to New Delhi would be appropriate to reach Agra easily. By Car: Book a bus or a private cab from New Delhi to Agra. Activities To Do: Witness the places like Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri in Agra. Indulge in shopping from the local markets Taste some spicy and sweet Indian dishes. Dishes Not To Miss: Mughal delicacies, Bhalla, Jalebi 8. Sydney - Australia Overview: If you are a travel freak who desires to shift from the spring to the fall season, Sydney can be the best destination for an April trip. You can expect the weather to turn cooler in Sydney at this time. So, do not forget to take some woolen and jackets with you. An April trip to Sydney can be the best if you are planning to go solo or with a set of like-minded friends. At this time, the tour season of Sydney comes to an end and you can expect to get hotels and tour packages at a cheap rate. It can sure seem that Sydney is truly one of the best places to travel in April. Make sure you check out all the locations around the city. As a means of transport, you can either take a private cab or a bus. Moreover, the nightlife of Sydney is something to die for. As a result, you should never miss a chance to enjoy it to the edge. How To Reach: By Air: Nonstop flights from several cities in the USA are available that bounds to the Sydney International Airport.  Activities To Do: Witness a show at the Sydney Opera House. Spend Some time by the Sydney Harbour Bridge and admire its magnificence. Visit Hyde Park and spend some quality time. Hopp around the Coogee Beach, Manly Beach, and Bondi Beach in Sydney. Dishes Not To Miss: Barramundi, Sydney Rock Oyster, Potato Cake, Beacon, and Egg roll 9. Amsterdam - Netherlands Overview: The Netherlands is one of the countries in Northern Europe and the winter is ice chilly here. Well, you would not need that piece of information as the city would not come on the list of the best places to travel in January. In April, you can experience a colorful spring while being in the city. So, why not pick this place for your next trip this month? It is really one of the best places to travel in April. The city turns quite picturesque in the month of April as you can witness a lot of flowers blooming here at this time. Moreover, you can be here on the 27th of April which is King’s Day. While on a trip to this place, you can always get a glimpse of Dutch culture. How To Reach: By Air: You can reach the Amsterdam International Airport from any major city in the US. Activities To Do: Visit the famous tourist spots in the city like the Ann Frank House, Rijksmuseum, and the Van Gogh Museum. Experience a boat ride in the canals of the city. Explore the unique markets of Jordaan. Dishes Not To Miss: Dutch Pancakes, Jenever, Raw Herring 10. London - England Overview: If you are based in the US and desire to witness England, April is the best month you can plan a trip. The best you can do is purchase a flight ticket early as April marks the peak tourist season in London. Now, when it comes to the best places to travel in March, you can consider this destination also. However, the temperatures in London remain quite chilly during this time. You can freely roam about the streets in the capital city of England and witness some world-famous locations like the London Eye and Big Ben. How To Reach: By Air: Regular flights are there leading to London from some of the main cities of the USA. Activities To Do: Witness the Kew Gardens Richmond Parks and Hyde. Witness the Tower of London and the Kensington Gardens. Get on the London Eye. Dishes Not To Miss: Fish and Chips, Sunday Roast, Bangers, and Mash Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 1. Where Do You Fly In April 2022? You can fly to Australia or England in April 2022. 2. Where Is It Best To Travel In April? You can travel to a city or hill station in April. 3. Where Should I Vacation In Summer 2022? You can go for a summer vacation in  India or Bali. 4. Where In The Us Is It Warm In April? States like Florida and New Mexico are warm in April. Final Take Away April is the month when you can set out for a trip and find the weather changing from winter to summer. So, expect nature to put all colors to the places in front of your eyes. By now, you would have picked up the right place among the best places to travel in April. So, I wish you all the best for your further planning and the entire trip. The best you can do is return from the memorable trip in April and share your experience with us. Just put up a comment on the given section below. Read Also: A Guide To National Parks In Georgia – Latest Guide Best National Parks In Missouri That You Must Know Top 7 Nantucket Beaches For Tourists In Massachusetts