Exploring Wildlife At Yellowstone National Park: Know The Mammals, Reptiles, Birds, Fish And More

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 22, 2023

AirTran Airways was an American low-cost airline originally headquartered in Orlando, Florida, which ceased operations after the acquisition of Southwest Airlines. AirTran Airways was founded in 1993 as Conquest Sun Airlines under the management of two small airlines, Destination Sun Airways and Conquest Airlines. They operated mainly Boeing 717s and 737s. It shuttled flyers around the US Midwest as well as the East Coast and stayed in business for 21 years. Why does it not operate anymore? What happened to AirTran? AirTran: A Brief Look Back Conquest Airlines' co-founder Victor Rivas was one of the founders of Conquest Sun. Who bought AirTran? AirTran Corporation in 1994 purchased the airline and renamed it AirTran Airways. It later exited from AirTran Corporation's new holding company, Airways Corporation. The holding company of ValuJet acquired the airline, and the holding company of Airways Corporation in 1997, which owned the struggling ValuJet Airlines. ValuJet's holding company became AirTran Holdings and merged with ValuJet Airlines' AirTran Airways. ValuJet Airlines, in turn, became "AirTran Airlines" before merging with AirTran Airways. Southwest Airlines acquired AirTran Airways and parent company AirTran Holdings on May 2, 2011. It gradually integrated them with AirTran's last revenue flight on December 28, 2014. It operates nearly 700 flights per day, primarily in the eastern and midwestern United States, with its main hub at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport serving nearly 200 daily departures. AirTran's fleet consisted of Boeing 717-200 aircraft, of which it was the largest operator in the world, and Boeing 737-700 aircraft. AirTran History Image Source: community.southwest.com This was founded in 1993 as Conquest Sun Airlines and began operations as an original Boeing 737-200 that flew to and from Orlando. AirTran Airways was founded by the management of both Destination Sun Airways and regional carrier Conquest Airlines. The founding of Destination Sun Airways is unclear. Which claims Destination Sun was founded in 1991 by former Northeastern International Airways CEO Guy Lindley and that the airline was formerly known as SunExpress and was based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Another source claimed that Destination Sun was founded in 1990 by a group of pilots, presumably former Eastern Air Lines pilots, as AirTran management later claimed that it was founded by former Eastern Air Lines employees. Rafael Rivas and Victor Rivas founded Conquest Airlines in April 1988 in Texas. Victor Rivas, one of the founders of Conquest Airlines, was also closely involved in the founding of Conquest Sun Airlines. In 1994, AirTran Corporation, the holding company of Minneapolis-based Mesaba Airlines, acquired Northwest Airlink from Northwest Airlines, with hubs in Minneapolis and Detroit. After the purchase, the airline changed from Conquest Sun Airlines to AirTran Airways to match the name of the holding company. The airline moved its headquarters to Orlando and grew to 11 Boeing 737s serving 24 cities in the eastern as well as midwestern United States, offering low-cost vacations to Orlando. In 1995, AirTran Corporation established a new subsidiary called Airways Corporation and placed it under the new subsidiary; AirTran Corporation then separated from the new Airways Corporation, becoming an independent holding that also owns AirTran Airways. After the separation, AirTran Corporation became Mesaba Holdings after its subsidiary Mesaba Airlines separated from AirTran Airways. AirTran Corporation/Mesaba Holdings then became MAIR Holdings, which liquidated in July 2012. Latest Developments On September 27, 2010, Southwest Airlines announced the acquisition of AirTran Airways and parent company AirTran Holdings for a total of $1.4 billion. The deal gave Southwest a significant presence in many AirTran hubs, including Atlanta (at the time the largest US city without Southwest service) and Milwaukee, as well as expanded service to Baltimore and Orlando. With the acquisition, Southwest added international service to several leisure destinations such as Cancún, Montego Bay, and Aruba. Southwest integrated AirTran's Boeing 737-700 series fleet with the Southwest Airlines brand and design, after which the Boeing 717 fleet leased out to Delta Air Lines beginning in mid-2013. The airlines planned to complete as well as close the deal within two years, with the two airlines operating as separate carriers in the interim. The deal closed on 2 May 2011, and the airline won a license on 1 March  2012. The full integration of all employee groups between the two airlines ended in 2015. On February 14, 2013, Southwest Airlines announced that it had entered into a codeshare agreement with AirTran. They took the first step on January 25, 2013, launching joint routes in five markets. As of February 25, 2013, Southwest continued to launch joint routes with 39 other markets. By April 2013, joint routes were to be available in all Southwest and AirTran cities (both domestic and international). Southwest announced that the integration would end on December 28, 2014, when AirTran Airways Flight 1 will be the airline's last Boeing 717-200 (N717JL) departure from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) to Tampa International Airport ( TPA). The flight used the call sign "Critter" as a nod to ValuJet. This route and flight number was Valujet's first flight. Read More: Top 10 Airports In The USA: Navigating Excellence In Air Travel Reviews From AirTran Flyers Image Source: chestertravels.com AirTran has had quite a journey in all these years, and so did its passengers. Here are some of the reviews from people after their flight with AirTrans. 1st Review "I was given business class, which I was quite thrilled about. The seats are much bigger in this area and I felt comfortable the entire time. The arm rests were actually big enough for me to use as well. I was given a drink and a snack as soon as I boarded the plane - I did not have to wait like the people in coach. I was also offered more drinks and snacks throughout the flight. It is a small perk, but it is nice. It was also nice to be the first off the plane. I did not have to wait for everyone to debark first." - SharonSaver 2nd Review "I loved it! The employees were great and they even offered several snacks while in the air. It was my very first time riding on a plane, so I was kind of nervous. The Flight Attendant made me feel so relaxed and offered to sit with me if I needed it, then. Although I declined the offer, it was nice to know that an airline would go the extra mile for their customers. Every time I travel, I go with AirTran because they know how to treat you." - mrsyoung1983 3rd Review "I fly to Orlando and LAX several times a year and the only company I'll fly with is Airtrain! They are one of the few airlines that offer convenient non-stop flights from my local airport. And their flights are always more than $100 cheaper than the other airlines. Their flights are ALWAYS on time. Knock on wood here, but I've never had a delayed Airtran flight. In fact, most of my flights arrive at their destinations a few minutes early. The staff is outstanding!" - jenniandtonyx1 Wrapping Up AirTran Airways was a beloved low-cost airline that operated for 21 years. It offered affordable flights across the US Midwest as well as the East Coast. The airline's history overlaps with that of several other airlines, including Conquest Airlines, ValuJet Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. They ultimately acquired AirTran Airways and its parent company, AirTran Holdings. AirTran Airways is no longer in operation. But its legacy lives on in the hearts of many who fondly remember their journeys on this iconic airline. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, then please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: This Is My Experience With Eva Air! This Is What I Felt About Aruba Airlines! Flair Airlines Review: This Is How I Feel About Flair Airlines! Fly In Style: Your Ultimate Guide To Lot Polish Airlines Adventures!

BY  Sibashree Dec 16, 2025

Located at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula of Mexico is the famous region of “Los Cabos.”   This is recognized by the diverse coastline that separates the Pacific Ocean from the Sea of Cortez because of the two different towns that exist there: Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo that are joined by a corridor with many beaches and bays.  The Cabo beaches have water characteristics, accessibility, and activities that differ from one another.   There are those with calm water suitable for swimming, while others have strong currents ideal for walking, taking photos, or surfing. This is important for travelers visiting the area and have plans for activities at the beaches of Los Cabos. Geography Of Cabo Beaches The coast of Los Cabos is influenced by two bodies of water:  Pacific Ocean (West-Facing beaches)  Generally rougher water, bigger waves, and rip currents.  Sea of Cortez (east-facing beaches)  "More tranquil conditions, clearer water, and improved protection in bays."  This is why swimming and snorkeling are recommended to be undertaken in particular spots.  Beach Safety And Water Conditions Not all beaches in Cabo offer safe swimming. There are strong undertows and steep drops in many areas, most notably on the Pacific side.  Beach Flag System The majority of the popular beaches have a flag system that indicates the conditions of the water:  Green flag – Calm conditions  Yellow flag – Moderate currents, caution advised  Red flag – Hazardous conditions; do not swim  Black flag – Beach closed  Visitors should make sure to check flags and signs before entering the water.  Beaches In Cabo San Lucas The different beaches of Cabo San Lucas. 1. Medano Beach Medano Beach can be found in the nearby marina area of Cabo San Lucas and represents one of the more developed spots along the coastline.  The beach has relatively calm waters, unlike other Pacific-side beaches, and is thus often employed for swimming and aquatic sports. There are eating establishments and hotels along this coastline.  2. Lover’s Beach (Playa del Amor) Because it can only be reached by water, the Lover’s Beach is located close to the iconic rock formations at the famous “Land’s End.”  One side of the beach is calm since it meets the Sea of Cortez, while the other lies adjacent to “Divorce Beach,” which meets the Pacific Ocean and has dramatic waves.  3. Divorce Beach (Playa del Divorcio) This is a beach that is parallel to Lover’s Beach on the Pacific side. The waves are not ideal for swimming, and there are rip currents.  Beaches In San José del Cabo The different beaches of San Jose del Cabo. 1. Palmilla Beach Palmilla Beach is famous for its protected bay and quiet waters. It is among the beaches that have relatively stable swimming conditions, depending on the weather and the tide.  2. Costa Azul Beach Costa Azul has a number of breaks and is famous mainly for surfing. It has varying water conditions, making it not very suitable for swimming.  3. Hotel Zone Beaches In the hotel zone at San José del Cabo are long stretches of sandy beaches. While these are attractive, there are areas that have high currents and are not recommended for the inexperienced visitor. Swimmable Beaches In Los Cabos Swimming in Cabo should be restricted to beaches recognized for their calm conditions. These beaches are:  Chileno Beach  Santa Maria Beach  Palmilla Beach  Medano Beach (conditions vary)  Even in such places, circumstances change on a daily basis due to tides, wind, and seasonal changes in weather.  Snorkeling And Marine Life There are a few bays on the Sea of Cortez that offer snorkeling opportunities due to their protected location and clearer water.  Common Snorkeling Areas Chileno Bay – Gradual entry, reef visible  Santa Maria Bay - Horseshoe-shaped bay, calmer waters  The kinds of marine life that might be found there include tropical fish, rays, and others that migrate during certain seasons. The best time for snorkeling is usually early in the morning  Surfing Beaches Surfing in Cabo takes place mostly along open beaches, mainly around the area of San José del Cabo. Known Surf Areas Zippers  Acapulquito  Costa Azul  Surf conditions are dominated by swell directions, varying according to season, and larger swells usually occur from late summer to winter. Beaches For Walking And Scenic Viewing The Mexico’s beaches are more suitable for walking, photographing, and enjoying the sunset.  Pacific facing beaches around Cabo San Lucas  Playa Las Viudas  East Cape remote beaches  Usually, these regions experience intense wave action and shoreline formations. . Family Considerations Families staying in Cabo and wanting to visit beaches should consider  A calm water environment  Easy access  Availability of restrooms  Lifeguards on duty when available  Chileno, Santa Maria, and Palmilla are some varieties commonly used for these purposes. It is advisable that the conditions be checked, however.  Seasonal Considerations Winter (Dec–Feb): Cooler water, Whale migration offshore  Spring (Mar-May): Weather is stable; water conditions  Summer (Jun-Sep): Stable weather, moderate water conditions  Fall (October-November): Transitional weather, fewer crowds  Ocean conditions can change rapidly, no matter what season it is.  Public Access And Beach Use In Mexican law, every beach is public property even if it’s in front of a resort chain’s property. The access points to the beach might be an exposed pathway to the shore, but once you reach the shore, this is public property.  Amenities vary widely  Restrooms and parking are available at certain beach destinations  There are others which are undeveloped  The enforcement and laws concerning alcohol consumption and distribution might differ from one municipality to another.   Planning A Beach Visit In Cabo When visiting beaches in Cabo, it is advisable to.  Check water conditions every day  Safety signs that are posted  Don’t forget the sunscreen and water  Do not swim at unattended Pacific beaches  Compliance with local regulations and natural environments  Many wellness retreat villas in Cabo region are carefully placed in or just off the more quiet areas of the coastline.   Being in the beach environment affects the rhythm of life in the wellness retreats, ranging from the morning walks in the quiet bays to the practices conducted in the outdoors that make use of the beach breezes.   The beach environment is often simply incorporated as a passive element of the wellness activities that provide seclusion or insulate the participants from the busy beach environment. To Sum Up! The beaches in Cabo have various conditions that result from the influence of geography and development.  Knowledge on the suitability of various beaches for swimming, snorkeling, surfing, or sightseeing goes a long way in ensuring that one takes advantage of the experience while staying in Cabo. All one needs is the correct information.

BY  Sibashree Dec 7, 2022

Did you know that Colorado has perhaps some of the most beautiful hot springs located in the United States? Although you can spot several charming hot springs near Denver or even Colorado Springs, it is hardly known how popular Colorado happens to be if you are a fan of hot springs.  So if you are looking for the perfect hot springs in and around Denver this Winter, then you have arrived at the right destination. Simply scroll down to find out more about the hot springs you must check out this winter. Stick around till the end, and we promise you no disappointment!  Top 12 Hot Springs Near Denver You Can Visit In Winter! Welcome to our list of the top hot springs near Denver, Colorado! All you have to do is scroll down. The state of Colorado is home to several beautiful hot springs. From the most remote corners of the state to the most popular cities, you can find these hot springs almost anywhere here.  But today, we will focus only on the state capital, Denver. So keep reading to find out now! 1. Mt. Princeton Hot Springs: AdmissionMonday - Thursday: 35 Dollars (Adults) & 30 Dollars (Seniors & Children) | Friday - Sunday: 30 Dollars (Adults) & 25 Dollars (Seniors & Children)Temperatures90 to 120 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesWater Slide, Creekside Hot Springs, Multiple Pools, Lodging, Juice Bar, Spa Services, and Fitness Classes.  One of the best hot springs near Denver, Mount Princeton Hot Springs, is far from your regular hot spring! Instead, it’s a pretty fancy resort that features multiple pools accompanied by multiple amenities. Ideal for families with children, the resort has a very family-friendly vibe, and then there’s a massive water slide of 400 feet.  2. Hot Sulphur Springs Resort & Spa: Admission20 Dollars/ PersonTemperatures95 to 112 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesMassage Treatments, Private Pools, Lodging, Bathhouse, and Lockers. You don’t have to google ‘Denver hot springs.' Instead, just check out this Springs Resort & Spa since it houses the best hot springs in the Denver area! These hot springs are historical. As a result, have been utilized for various medicinal purposes, and that too for over a hundred years.  3. The Springs Resort and Spa: Admission49 Dollars (Adults) | 25 Dollars (Children) | 46 Dollars (Seniors)Temperatures95 to 112 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesWellness Activities, Private Hot Springs, Restaurants, Lodging, Yoga, and Spa Services. One of the best natural hot springs near Denver, The Springs Resort & Spa, perhaps requires the longest drive. However, if you are planning to check out Pagosa Springs, then you definitely will not be disappointed. The best part? These nature-made hot springs are, in fact, fed by none other than the Mother Spring, known to be the deepest hot springs in the whole world.  4. Strawberry Park Hot Springs: Admission20 Dollars/ Person (every two hours - only cash is accepted)Temperatures102 to 106 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesShuttle Service, Clothing-Optional Amazing Evenings, Cabins, Camping Spots, and Massage Treatments.  One of the best hot springs in Colorado, the Strawberry Park Hot Springs, located in Steamboat Springs, is a relatively more rustic attraction. Set across the charming Routt National Forest, this hot spring is pretty difficult to access during Winter, but the remoteness only adds to the rustic charm of the location.  5. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort: Admission26 Dollars (Adults) | 12 Dollars (Children) - Rates are subject to change based on the season.Temperatures90 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesPrivate Cabanas, Water Slides, Lodging, Spa Treatments, and Playing Areas For Children.  Amongst all the major hot springs in Denver Colorado, perhaps the most accommodating one is the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, especially if you are visiting with your whole family. But that’s not the best part. Did you know that the location is actually known for the largest ‘mineral water pool’ in the entire world? More reason for you to visit this location.  Read More: Free And Fun Activities In Denver For Adults: Mark The Dates For Upcoming Events 6. Iron Mountain Hot Springs: Admission34 Dollars/ Person (every 2.5 hours - rates can change based on Seasons)Temperatures99 to 108 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesOptional Clothing, Private Hot Tubs, Pools, Camping Spots, Hike Out/Hike In, and Lockers.  If you are looking for quiet, private hot springs near Denver, then you can’t miss out on Iron Mountain Hot Springs! The place actually features about sixteen hot springs, all-natural, where visitors can simply jump from one pool to another while enjoying beautiful views of the charming Colorado River nearby.  7. Indian Hot Springs: Admission26 Dollars (Adults) | 12 Dollars (Children) - Rates are subject to change based on the season.Temperatures90 to 112 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesPrivate Baths, Geo-Thermal Caves, Hotel Lodging, Spa Services, Cabins, and Indoor Pools.  The Indian Hot Springs is located within Idaho Springs and happens to be the closest to Denver. Hare, the primary pool looks fascinating and is encased well inside this big glass dome. This acts just like a greenhouse and is able to create a humid, warm atmosphere which allows the different tropical plants in the area to thrive.  8. Old Town Hot Springs: Admission25 Dollars (Adults) | 19 Dollars (Children) | 22 Dollars (Seniors)Temperatures80 to 103 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesChildren Areas, Climbing Wall, Massage Therapy, Multiple Pools, and Fitness Classes.  One of our favorite hot springs near Denver, the Old Town Hot Springs, happens to be relatively more accommodating, especially to children, as compared to the other popular hot springs located within Steamboat Springs. Yes, we were talking about the Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Moreover, it features several pools and even a shallow kid pool!  9. Cottonwood Hot Springs: AdmissionMonday - Thursday: 20 Dollars (Adults) & 18 Dollars (Children) | Friday - Sunday: 24 Dollars (Adults) & 20 Dollars (Children)Temperatures80 to 106 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesCold Plunge, Camping Spots, Spa Amenities, Cabins, Sauna, and Quiet Pools.  Located inside the San Isabel National Forest, the Cottonwood Hot Springs happens to be a paradise for all nature lovers. Situated close to Buena Vista, the Cottonwood Hot Springs are mineral-based natural hot springs that vary both in temperature and size. Moreover, the resort ends up promoting total relaxation while encouraging a very quiet, tech-free environment. 10. Sunwater Spa, Manitou Springs: AdmissionTuesday - Sunday: 8 am to 10 pm | Mondays: Closed (Rates Vary)Temperatures90 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesYoga, Wellness Activities, Spa Treatments, and Soaking In Mineral Water.  If you are in the mood for some unique experiences in terms of hot springs, then you have to check out the Sunwater Spa, located in Manitou Springs! Known for offering several facilities for unwinding and relaxing, the Sunwater Spa in Manitou Springs is perfect for visiting with your partner, family, and even alone. 11. Ouray Hot Springs View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ouray Hot Springs Pool and Fitness Center (@ourayhotsprings) AdmissionFor Children - Free, For Youth (4-17) - $16, For Adults (18-61) - $26, For Senior (62-74) - $18, For Senior (above 75) - FreeTemperature92°F to 100°FSeasonAll Year RoundFeaturesMemberships are available, sulfur free hot springs, with constant hard air blowing, pool heating takes time! The springs are open every day for public pools from 11 am to 10 pm and for member pool hours, the duration is from 10 am to 11 am. There is a 3 month or 12 month membership available for all members. You can buy towels for $10! For one day, Ouray Hot Springs Pool recharges the underground aquifer thus, losing a huge amount of geothermal water. The volume of geothermal water decreased in the pool due to the 24-hour cutback! 12. Dunton Hot Springs View this post on Instagram A post shared by Patrick Janelle (@aguynamedpatrick) AdmissionAdults: $240 for couples, Children: FreeTemperature108°FSeasonAll Year RoundFeaturesLog buildings, established in a ghost town, popular thermal mineral springs If you rent cabins to access Dunton Hot Springs, you have to pay somewhere between $630 to $2100 for one night. Clearly, it is expensive, and the rich get more access to these resorts as compared to others. The town is completely empty, and people only visit the thermal mineral springs. There are American mines pretty close to the hot springs. 13. Radium Hot Springs  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tourism Radium (@tourismradium) Admission Adults: $240 for couples, Children: Free Temperature 108°F Season All Year Round Features Log buildings, established in a ghost town, are popular thermal mineral springs  Radium Hot Springs in British Columbia offers a beautiful, relaxing experience with mineral-rich hot and cooler pools surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and rock cliffs, and is open year-round. Visitors can enjoy unique mineral water, watch for wildlife like bighorn sheep, and access nearby trails and town amenities. While some visitors mention the pools can be small or require paying for towels, many find it a fun and relaxing stop for families and those seeking to unwind in nature. 14. Penny Hot Springs  View this post on Instagram A post shared by michelle b (@mmmbeans) Admission Adults: $230 for couples, Children: Free Temperature 108°F Season All Year Round Features Log buildings, established in a ghost town, are popular thermal mineral springs  Penny Hot Springs is a free, primitive, hot spring located near Carbondale, Colorado, known for varying water temperatures and a beautiful, but unmanaged, natural setting with potential issues like trash. The water source is very hot, and visitors must be cautious with children. While the setting offers scenic mountain views, visitors report varying pool depths and the need to pack out all trash to preserve the area. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Check out the most frequently asked questions related to hot springs near Denver mentioned below. 1. What Is The Closest Natural Hot Springs To Denver? Ans: The natural hot springs that are the closest to Denver are the Indian Hot Springs - it will take you about 40 mins to drive the 33 miles to Denver. It’s in the western part of the city, right on I-70. The historic hot springs in Idaho are one location you are bound to see on your way to or from the iconic ski slopes nearby.  2. What Are The Most Beautiful Hot Springs In The World? Ans: The most beautiful hot springs in the world are as follows,➊ Pamukkale (Turkey),➋ Chinoike Jigoku (Japan),➌ Szechenyi (Budapest),➍ Cascate del Mulino (Italy), and➍ The Blue Lagoon (Iceland). 3. What Are The Major Hot Springs In Colorado? Ans: The three hot springs in Colorado are as follows,➊ Glenwood Springs,➋ Great Pagosa Springs, and➌ Hot Sulphur Springs. 4. Where Are The Best Natural Hot Springs In Colorado? Ans: The best hot springs in Colorado are as follows,➊ Iron Mountain Hot Springs,➋ Mount Princeton Hot Springs,➌ Cottonwood Hot Springs,➍ Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, and➎ Ouray Hot Springs Pool. Take A Dive In Hot Springs Near Denver, Today! So we have come to the end of our list of the best hot springs near Denver! Now, what are you even waiting for? All you have to do is do your due research and then pack your bags - because the winter has arrived, and there’s no better time to hit these hot springs near Denver, Colorado!  In the meantime, don’t forget to let us know about your thoughts and past experiences with hot springs in the comments below.