Your Unique Travel Packing Guide

BY  Sibashree Sep 29, 2022

We’ll go on jeep safaris to explore wildlife closely. But if you want a true wildlife experience that enriches you physically, mentally, and even spiritually, then you must try bush walks. Bush walk takes you on a walking safari to national parks that are havens for unique flora and fauna. These let you immerse into a healthier and happier community. In this blog, we’re going to tell you how an African walking safari can change your life.  But First, What Is A Walking Safari? A walking safari takes you on less-traveled paths, bringing you the most authentic safari experience. On your journey, you’ll experience many things that are easy to miss in a vehicle.  Instead of simply gazing at animals and vegetation, you can examine these wildlife entities closely. You get the opportunity to track the footprints of animals on the ground. Watch lovely beetles roll the dung and hear birds singing melodically. If you happen to be in South Africa, you're in luck. The land has a lot to offer for bushwalkers. You typically start in the morning. Some walking safari camps also run in the afternoon. But if you’re after an incredible experience, then head out at the crack of dawn. At this time of the day, animals are most active, and the crisp morning air simply touches your soul. Walking becomes even easier during the African dry winter, mainly because of low temperatures and humidity. Also, dry vegetation increases your chance of spotting animals. So, it’s the best time to go on bush walks in South Africa. Top Reasons To Book An African Walking Safari  While there are many reasons to book a bush walk, the key benefits are:  1. Connect with Nature You don't need to confide in a vehicle. Instead, you can walk on foot and have an intimate experience with the wild. You’ll get to see lots of fascinating animals, soaking your eyes in their incredible beauty. You can see, smell and feel things around you. It’s not possible to experience this from a distance. All in all, a safari on foot lets you connect with nature on different levels. 2. See Finer Details While exploring the African bush on a walking safari, you'll be able to discover every single detail of your surroundings. These include plants, animals, birds, insects, and even some wonderful landscapes. So, you’ll be able to slowly absorb your surroundings so that you can easily drive straight past while driving a vehicle.  3. Learn A New Skill  In addition, you’ll learn a new skill, that is, tracking. Your tour guide to bush walking will teach you to read tracks in the sand and successfully follow animals.  This wonderful skill will improve your overall wildlife experience in the bush. You may spot wild giraffes, wild elephants, and hippos playing in the woods. By going on a walking safari in African woods or national parks, you can expect a lot of immersive experiences. You can travel solo, with your family, friends, or in a group of other travelers. So, book a bush walk tour in South Africa. What Is The Best African Walking Safari In 2026?   Whether one seeks the raw, historical birthplace of the industry or the luxury-laden paths of private concessions.   However, by 2026, industry experts and travel data consistently point to one destination as the gold standard. That is South Luangwa National Park in Zambia.  While other regions offer spectacular foot-based experiences, South Luangwa remains the unrivaled leader due to its historical legacy, exceptionally high guiding standards, and pristine wildlife density.  A Quick Summary Table   DestinationBest ForUnique HighlightSouth Luangwa (Zambia) Authenticity and Guiding Multi-day mobile walking camps  Mana Pools (Zimbabwe) Adrenaline and Nature Walking alongside massive elephant herds  Laikipia (Kenya) Conservation and Culture Rhino tracking and Maasai-led trekking   South Luangwa: The Birthplace Of The Modern African Walking Safari  South Luangwa is widely recognized as the birthplace of the walking safari.   The concept was pioneered in the 1950s by legendary conservationist Norman Carr, who believed that "you do not know a place until you have walked it.”  Unlike vehicle-based safaris, which can sometimes feel like watching a documentary, walking safaris in this region emphasize a primal connection to the land.  Guiding Standards: The Zambian Difference  One reason South Luangwa remains the premier choice is the rigor of its guide training.   Zambian walking guides are considered some of the most highly qualified on the continent, often undergoing years of mentorship and field-based training before leading guests.   These specialists are trained not only to track big game safely but also to interpret the "smaller" wonders, such as botany, entomology, and birdlife, that are often missed from a 4x4 vehicle.  Mana Pools: The Adventurer’s Choice  In Zimbabwe, Mana Pools National Park provides a compelling alternative.   It is famous for its "wild" feel and the unique opportunity to approach elephants and other predators on foot with highly skilled professional guides.   The Zambezi River provides a dramatic backdrop, and the lack of permanent structures in many areas ensures a truly immersive wilderness experience.  Laikipia (Kenya)  Laikipia, Kenya, has emerged as a premier safari destination, distinguished by its successful community-led conservation and private conservancy models.   Unlike the busier Maasai Mara, Laikipia offers an exclusive, rugged landscape where the Big Five roam alongside rare species like the Grevy’s zebra and the reticulated giraffe.  It is arguably the best place in East Africa for a walking safari, as private lands allow for off-road exploration and night drives prohibited in national parks.   Guided by local Maasai and Samburu trackers, visitors gain intimate cultural insights while traversing dramatic plateaus, making it a sophisticated blend of adventure and conservation.  What To Expect: Safety And Etiquette For An African Walking Safari   Modern walking safaris are remarkably safe when conducted by reputable operators. Safety is maintained through strict protocols:  Armed Escorts: Most walks are led by a professional guide and accompanied by an armed scout or ranger.  Single File Movement: Guests walk in a single line to minimize their visual footprint and remain quiet to avoid startling wildlife.  Safety Briefings: Every excursion begins with a comprehensive briefing on how to react to animal encounters, and the first rule is Never run. Read Also: What Are The Best Restaurants In Cape Town? Eat Like A Local In South Africa Where Are the Best Places to See African Elephants in The Wild? 20 Of The Best Places To Travel In Africa In 2024

BY  Sibashree Jan 17, 2025

The next location we planned to cover during a USA tour was New Orleans. This time, we discovered how a city with a rich culture cares so much about children.  Along with its heritage, architecture, and a culture that feels like a warm embrace, the kid-friendly activities also make this Louisiana city a popular tourist destination.  However, this time as I pen the things to do in New Orleans with kids, my heart feels heavy. A deadly terror attack on Bourbon Street and the police shoot-out following that have taken the lives of at least 14 people on 2nd January 2025.  Still, the city is on the mend, and everyone is hoping high for the stability of the tourism economy of the city. It’s difficult, considering the city has yet to recover in tourism and finances since the COVID-19 days fully.  Apologies for the grim start! However, as travelers, you cannot disassociate so easily, especially when you have just visited a place. Nevertheless, it’s time for some cheer, and shifting focus to the best things to do in New Orleans with kids can greatly help. So, let’s discuss it.  Fun Things To Do With Kids In New Orleans | Enjoying The Graceful Embrace December to January and February to May are the best times to try fun things to do with kids in New Orleans. And guess what! There are a lot of free activities awaiting your little ones here. I have discussed them in a different Tour and Travel guide.  Nevertheless, here, let’s focus on the unique things to do with kids in New Orleans.  1. Audubon Zoo Visit https://www.instagram.com/p/C4qRCaVrNPe/?img_index=1 Location: 6500 Magazine Street, New Orleans Contact Number: (504) 861-2537 Hours Open: 10 AM to 5 PM (Tuesday and Wednesday Closed) Audubon Zoo Admission: $35 for Adults and $25 for Children Audubon Zoo is one of the topmost family attractions in New Orleans. It is a wonderland of Audubon animals and birds. The place is filled with mammals, reptiles, and birds. From the majestic African Lions and Asians Elephants to the Aldabra Tortoise, you will find everything here.  However, for me, the most delightful creatures in the zoo are the Caribbean Flamingos. They are as colorful as their country of origin.  I also loved the Malayan Sun Bears. They are adorable with the cutest expressions. You will even find Malayan tigers here.  Furthermore, we thoroughly enjoyed The Dinosaurs at the Audubon Zoo section. I was not willing to visit the section at first. Yes, I know! I am in my thirties, and I still have my phobia!  Nonetheless, my kids insisted, and I had to take them to the section with 50 life-like dinosaurs growling and making moves. However, this special exhibit program has now ended.  Moreover, if you are in New Orleans for a long span or have plans of staying here, you can allow your kid to be a camper at the Audubon. They can become young experts in animals and they will love to spend some time with their favorite creatures. 2. A Day at Jackson Square | Best Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids Jackson Square gets its name from Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the USA and a New Orleans battle hero. So, a visit to Jackson Square at the heart of the French Quarter is like taking a walk down memory lane.  Here, you will also find Pontalba Apartments and many other oldest buildings in the city. Rented places are easily available in these buildings.  As you appreciate the old-yet-young vibe of the space or recall the history of New Orleans, let your little one enjoy the jazz music, live performances, and entertainment events here.  Moreover, if you are lucky enough, you can be a part of the art festivals here.  A stone’s throw away from Jackson Square is the St. Louis Cathedral. It is the oldest cathedral church in North America, and its steeples watch over the French Quarter.  3. A Ghost Tour | Exciting Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids Well, if your little one loves Halloween and everything spooky, you can definitely take them on a family-friendly ghost tour. These tours are especially popular among adventurous children in their pre-teens.  Tour Organizers like Viator, offer Spooky Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in New Orleans in the French Quarters.  Now, these ghost tours are very much ingrained in the spirit of New Orleans. The LaLaurie Mansion or the New Orleans French Quarter was infamous for the mistreatment of slaves. Supernatural activities and the stories around them started flowing after a neighbor saw a troubling incident. The neighbor saw a lady chasing a slave girl, who jumped from the roof of the mansion as an escape.  Despite the presence of modern boutiques, quaint restaurants and a reimagined and bustling French Market, the spooky vibe simply refuses to go away!  4. Spending Time By The Mississippi River There is something special about New Orleans. And as they say, the Mississippi River is the manifestation of the heart of New Orleans. It’s welcoming and embracing, and its culture and heritage surpass the geographical boundaries.  Further, like the Mississippi River which destroys, restores and builds the banks, New Orleans believes in making a forward move even in the toughest conditions. The recent terror attacks and the means of recuperation are burning examples.  So, if you want your little one to know about the true spirit of New Orleans, allow them to sit and relax by the Mississippi River for a while.  They will love sitting on the steps and watching the boats passing in the water. It is very close to the French Quarter, but a complete contrast in its spirit.  Moreover, your little ones will be elated to have beignets here. You will find the best beignets at Café Du Monde Riverwalk (Contact Number: +1 504-218-7993) here. The coffee there was good and just the way I like it.  5. A Visit To The Louis Armstrong Park  Location: 835 N. Rampart St, New Orleans Hours Open: 8 AM to 6 PM Entry Fee: Entry is Free for a Walk in the Park A visit to Louis Armstrong Park is not ideal for very young children. However, kids in their teens or growing up years with an interest in Jazz music will love this place. It is very close to the French Quarter, and inside the park, you will find Congo Square.  Congo Square is the place where slaves used to unite during the 1800s. Furthermore, your kids will love looking at the ducks in the pond of Louis Armstrong Park.  Moreover, the Mahalia Jackson Theater inside Louis Armstrong Park is a popular place to visit for artists and music lovers. It gets its name from Mahalia Jackson, a gospel singer of New Orleans.  Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

BY  Sibashree May 22, 2023

Norse Atlantic Airways is a novel airline that offers affordable fares on long-haul flights, mainly between the United States and Europe. The major shareholder and CEO, Bjørn Tore Larsen, founded the company. It was founded in the year 2021, in the month of March. I'm always on the hunt for budget-friendly flights to Cape Town, so when I stumbled upon a chance to give Norse Atlantic Airways reviews, I couldn’t resist giving them a shot.   Their prices were super tempting, but I had also seen a fair share of not-so-great reviews floating around online.   After flying with them twice, I’m here to share my thoughts: Is this long-haul budget airline actually worth it, or should you consider spending a bit more for a better experience?   To be honest, I think Norse gets the job done as long as you know what you’re signing up for.   If you're curious about what to expect, keep reading for the lowdown on flying with them!  What Is The Norse Atlantic Airways All About?   Norse Atlantic Airways is a low-cost Norwegian airline. The authorities built their headquarters in Norway’s Arendal.   The founders established this in February 2021. The airline is known to operate various Boeing 787 aircraft between North America and Europe.  The flight's inauguration took place in 2022, on 14th June. It occurred in Gardermoen's Oslo Airport to the John F. Kennedy International Airport. Name Of Their Aircraft  They have named their own Boeing 787 aircrafts after National Parks worldwide. The parks are – Dartmoor,  Redwood,  Yellowstone,  Grand Canyon,  Jotunheimen, Raet,  Mount Rainier, Sequoia,  Lofotodden,  Rondane, Rago,  Everglades,  Yosemite, and  Heart of the Valley. Features Of Their Aircraft  Generally, people consider the Boeing 787 to be one of the most modern and efficient aircraft ever.   Their brand is inspired by Oseberg Longship, which is in Oslo. It is a symbol of the long-lasting ingenuity of the Viking explorers. The Norse Airlines’ Dreamliners feature a wide range of innovative technologies that are known to make the travel experience for a passenger much more comfortable. The Norse Atlantic Airways reviews also state that they are known to provide class service.  They also take an active green initiative as well. Norse Atlantic Airlines Boeing 787 has the following features: They feature modern LED lighting, giving the cabin a feeling of natural daylight. The Dremliners have big windows, so you can have a great view of the outside while flying through the clouds. The windows also have individual dimmers to suit each person's specific needs. The airliner has a very comfortable altitude of the cabin. They emit twenty-five percent lower emissions and are also fifty percent quieter compared to their previous generation of aircraft - which are still in operation with many of the world's major airlines. Where They Fly: Operating Routes  One can explore North America and Europe with their modern and comfortable Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircrafts. Here are their primary operational routes: Oslo (OSL) ⇄ New York (JFK) Rome (FCO) ⇄ New York (JFK) Oslo (OSL) ⇄ Fort Lauderdale - Miami (FLL) Paris (CDG) ⇄ New York (JFK) Oslo (OSL) ⇄ Los Angeles (LAX) Berlin (BER) ⇄ New York (JFK) Oslo (OSL) ⇄ Bangkok, Thailand (BKK) London Gatwick (LGW) ⇄ Boston (BOS) London Gatwick (LGW) ⇄ Barbados (BGI) London Gatwick (LGW) ⇄ Fort Lauderdale - Miami (FLL) London Gatwick (LGW) ⇄ Kingston, Jamaica (KIN) London Gatwick (LGW) ⇄ Orlando (MCO) London Gatwick (LGW) ⇄ Montego Bay, Jamaica (MBJ) London Gatwick (LGW) ⇄ Los Angeles (LAX) London Gatwick (LGW) ⇄ New York (JFK) London Gatwick (LGW) ⇄ San Francisco (SFO) London Gatwick (LGW) ⇄ Washington Dulles (IAD) What Are The Norse Airways Pricing Tier System?  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Norse Atlantic Airways (@flynorse) When flying with Norse Airways, you have three options to choose from:   Economy Light  Economy Classic  Economy Flextra  Economy Light is pretty basic. You get just one personal item and one carry-on. So, you will have no checked luggage and, more importantly, no food included.   Seriously, pack some snacks if you go this route!  Economy Classic offers a bit more. It’s essentially the standard package. Here, they will check one suitcase for you. Additionally, you will get one meal during your flight.   Now, if you’re looking for extra perks, Economy Flextra is the way to go. This tier comes with priority boarding, plus it has a much more flexible change and cancellation policy, which can be a lifesaver if your plans change.  Just a heads-up: no alcohol is included in any of these packages, and a glass of wine on board will set you back about £8.   Personally, I don’t usually drink when I fly, so it doesn’t bother me much. But if you enjoy your in-flight glass of wine, keep that cost in mind—it might make a budget-friendly flight feel less so!  Do The Norse Atlantic Airways Reviews Talk Of Sustainability?  This Norweigan startup airline norse atlantic airways reviews great plans in terms of operational sustainability. They aim to be a world leader in terms of carbon emissions. They calculate this every Kilometer a passenger travels.   Norse Atlantic Airways planned to fill its Boeing 787s with many more seats than the other Dreamliner operators.   They calculated that they would benefit more, statistically, from lower emissions per passenger–kilometer and also when it comes to per passenger.   Keep reading just a bit more to find out about Norse airline reviews! With that being said, it is also clear that North Atlantic will only be able to benefit from this plan if they are able to fill their aircraft (all seats). Whether or not their plan succeeds still remains to be seen. Norse Atlantic Airways Reviews: What Are The Pros And Cons  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Norse Atlantic Airways (@flynorse) These are the notable Pros and Cons that I feel you should know. Once you have a good idea about it, you will be in a much better place to decide for yourself.   What Are The Pros Of Norse Atlantic Airways?  I had a really great experience with my recent flight! The ticket was super affordable, which was a nice surprise.   Plus, the airplane itself was spotless, making the journey feel comfortable. I loved that I could fly directly to my destination without any layovers.   And to top it all off, the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout the flight. Overall, it was a pleasant travel experience!  What Are The Cons Of Norse Atlantic Airways?   A huge number of passengers crowded the plane.   There were many extra hidden costs – seriously, who charges for blankets?   There was no online check-in.  Norse Atlantic Airways Reviews: Is It Really Worth It?   That was all for information regarding Norse Atlantic Airways reviews and more. Well, I believe that the Pros and Cons Balance themselves out.   Thank you for reading up to here. I hope you found the information useful. Let me know in the comments your thoughts on the same.  Read Also: Skiplagged Review- Login, Services And Travel Experiences Hopper Flights Review- Login, Services, And Travel Experiences Everything About Breeze Airways: Breeze Airways Reviews, Features, And More!