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Sometimes when we want to take a road trip, we want to include everybody in our family. But it’s not easy when comes to our pets.

It has been difficult to travel with pets whether it flying, riding on a bus/train, or even a road trip. This is due to several restrictions such as accommodation restrictions or transportation restrictions etc.

But there are some tips that can help you plan your road trip when you want to take your pet with you.

1. Checklist

When you are planning your trip, make sure you are creating a checklist. List all the things you need to do before, and during your trip.

You can also list things you need to carry with you on your trip etc. This will help you not to forget important things and make you well organized.

2. Packing

Well, you are planning to take a trip with your pet so your packing will be a little different as you used to.

You will need to carry your pet’s necessities such as pet food, water, treats, medicine, toys, portable feeding bowls, and other things that you know your pet will need them.

You don’t want to run out of food, water, or any supplies in the middle of nowhere that can be stressful. Don’t forget to pack equipment or a bag that you will use to pick up your pet’s waste on the road.

Another thing you need to take with you is a car trashcan this is a must on any road trip.

3. Accommodation

If you are one of those people who always do last minute reservation or book as you go, doing that will not be a good idea when traveling with pets.

Making a reservation ahead of time will be beneficial because you will need to look for those places that can accommodate pets or are allowing pets.

There are many places that have restrictions when comes to pets, so you want to make sure you settle everything before you start your trip.

The good thing there are different types of accommodation to choose from, like hotels, motels, Airbnb, etc.

4. Safety

You want to make sure your pet is comfortable during the trip and also safe. You can put something like a hammock in the back seat to create a safe and comfortable space.

The hammock will not only keep your pet safe and comfortable in the car it also save your car’s seats from dirt, pet fur, and claw marks. Make sure you get the waterproof hammock.

Another thing you need to consider during the trip for safety is, never drive with your pet in the front seat. It very dangerous to do so for several reasons, first a distraction of a pet in the front seat can cause an accident.

Second, its airbags, yes airbags can be dangerous even though they were created for safety. Airbags can kill a pet when they deploy, and in some vehicles, even a little fender bender can deploy an airbag with a lot of force that can result in serious injury to your pet.

Culture, Gateway, Lifestyle, Travel, Travel Adventures, Vacation, wellness,

11 Best Yoga Retreats Around the World [Updated for 2021]

by travzdlaNovember 19, 2020

The year 2020 has been a very very long year full of events from pandemic to elections somehow we feel like we need a break from all of these events. The best way to do that is by taking care of yourself, relaxing, recharging, and get ready for new beginnings whatever that maybe.

The best way to stop for a moment and get away from everyday life stresses and get some peace is through yoga retreats. Yoga retreats are worth it especially when they are well organized.

Yoga retreats can provide a memorable vacation experience, an opportunity to meet new people and learn different things and gain new perspectives in life. There are yoga retreats all over the world but today I want to show you some of the best yoga retreats around the world. Here we go;

1. Kamalaya Koh Samui , Thailand

Kamalaya is the perfect island retreat located in Thailand. A tropical island vibe with deep blue water, long palm trees are some of the things that will surround you on this yoga retreat in the beautiful Kamalaya resort on Koh Samui.

The Kamalaya resort is well known as a multi-award-winning wellness sanctuary. They have a personalized Yoga Synergy Programme, you can choose 3, 5, or 7 days classes and Ayurveda therapy.

In between sessions you can unwind in the lovely spa on top of a hill and sample delicious Thai cuisine and enjoy all that Kamalaya has to offer.

2. Anamaya Resort and Retreat Center, Costa Rica

Credit Anamaya Resort

The Anamaya resort in Costa Rica gives you a life-changing experience yoga retreat. The incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and the lush green jungle of Costa Rica are enough to make anyone want to stay because it gives you a Zen with a touch of adventure.

There is more to do in this yoga retreat like relaxing in a hammock or soak in the magnificent infinity pool. You have an option to take a daily yoga lesson or combine yoga with adventures such as learning how to surf.

If you are into more than yoga, The Anayama offers permaculture, retreat. A permaculture retreat is a special retreat that focuses on a sustainable lifestyle where you will stay at the Rancho Delicioso eco-village in the middle of the rainforest.

3. Nøsen Yoga Mountain Hotel, Norway

If you enjoy being somewhere remote and quiet, the Nøsen Yoga Mountain Hotel, in Norway will be the spot for you. This wintery Norwegian landscape is one of the best yoga retreats in Europe.

Located 906 meters above sea level at the beautiful Panoramavegen was built-in 1888 so it’s very different from the resort you used to.

The yoga retreats at Nøsen Yoga Mountain Hotel come in a comprehensive package of yoga and meditation classes, which are both indoors and outdoors.

In addition to your daily classes, there are different activities you can do like cross-country skiing, dog sledding. The retreat is available during both the winter and summer seasons.

4. Vana Wellness Retreat, India

Credit Vana Wellness

Vana wellness retreat is one of the most famous retreat spots in the world. Located in India, the resort is set among mango and lychee plantations, north of New Delhi.

The Vana Yoga retreat has a large selection of yoga classes, not only that you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Ayurveda, experience Tibetan healing, and also Chinese herbal therapy.

5. EcoYoga, Scotland

Eco Yoga is a retreat center located in Scotland. Situated on a hilltop, surrounded by dense forests, and a sweeping view of Loch Awe.

Eco yoga run courses and retreats throughout the year, it’s the best place to enjoy Scottish nature. Also in the resort, you will find a plunge pool filled with spring water, a solar-heated hot tub, and two incredible pools right next to a roaring waterfall.

Have you taken a bath by the waterfall? Oh well, add that to your list because there are different bathing options and one I think is the best is Lower Gorge Bath.

Lower Gorge Bath is where the river plunges into a natural gorge and joins the mighty Liever River, and that’s how Lower Gorge Bath was created, it is a deep bathtub.

The Eco Yoga offers lectures, two classes a day, and delicious vegetarian dishes. If you want to recharge, relax, and have some peace and enjoy nature, this is a place to be.

6. Como Shambhala Estate, Bali

Como Shambhala Estate is located in the rainforest valley near Ubud, Bali. It’s a definition of a true Retreat for Change. It has a team of experts such as yoga teachers, an Ayurvedic doctor, and a resident dietician.

While there, you will get a chance to enjoy nature, outdoors, and rise to the sound of birds singing outside your room and spend days exploring the thick jungles and stone temples of this magnificent place and joining Ayurvedic yoga classes next to the babbling river.

7. Fusion Maia Da Nang, Vietnam

Credit Fusion Maia Da Nang

Fusion Maia Da Nang located in Vietnam has a perfect yoga retreat with an all-spa inclusive package. The Fusion Maia offers a refreshingly modern take on wellness like an introduction to a vegan diet and other modern wellness programs.

You can take part in daily schedules of beachfront yoga and meditation, or simply allow yourself to kick back and let your twice-daily complimentary spa treatments soothe stress and reduce anxiety.

This place is truly a gateway for those who are looking for a wellness retreat, unforgettable cultural encounters. It blends healthy living with understated luxury.

Fusion Maia will give you breathtaking beachfront views, a range of elegant pool villas, and its special Breakfast Anywhere Anytime. This is a place where you can relax and enhance your overall well being.

8. Yogarosa Ibiza, Spain

Credit YOGAROSA

Yogarosa has a beautiful yoga retreat in the heart of Ibiza.YogaRosa Retreats offers relief from everyday stress. The Yogarosa’s yoga retreat has shady pines, a cooling pool, and aromatic lavender.

While you are here, you can generate healing energy, explore meditation, and deepen your yoga practice regardless of your current level.

Enjoy authentic practices, held in a Bedouin tent with fluttering prayer flags, followed by meditation accompanied by a singing bowl.

9. Villa Lena, Italy

Credit Villa Lena

Located on the sweeping olive groves and rolling hills of Tuscany, The Villa Lena is a perfect place for a yoga retreat. It’s a beautiful place to recharge and find new inspiration.

There a variety of yoga classes and activities from sunrise yoga sessions on the poolside deck, to go for long walks through neighboring vineyards and dine on food sourced from local farms.

On this yoga retreat, you will be able to enjoy fresh and delicious menus to supplement a healthy lifestyle. There is also a bar where you can enjoy fresh juices and cocktails only made by request since they are freshly made.

Not only that there are organized tours that get you to discover the hidden charms of the property. If you happen to go there during the fall season, you will have an opportunity to participate in grape picking and truffle hunting led by one of the agricultural experts.

10. Trilanka Resort, Sri Lanka

Located in an old cinnamon plantation in Sri Lanka, it is an ultra-sustainable yoga retreat near Lake Koggala, providing the perfect Zen backdrop to practice.

Tri Lanka resort is an elegant, elevated retreat space for physical and spiritual practices. This amazing resort offers individualized and dynamic self-healing through yoga, breath, and meditation.

Sessions are held in a treetop sala above the bamboo grove, and you can spend your free time kayaking, salt fishing, or tucked away in the library.

Tri Lanka resort is well known for its Quantum Yoga which has more to offer when it comes to yoga.

Quantum yoga it’s a yoga path that resonates with your personal requirements at all times and balances your inner nature, with the aim of bringing you into a state of greater harmony with the environment.

11. Hotel Sanara Tulum, Mexico

Hotel Sanara Tulum is a barefoot luxury hotel on Tulum Beach in Mexico, overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean.

The place you can feel the warmth of the pristine white sand between your toes as you weave between our beach garden sanctuaries, enjoying the world-class Wellness Center, ocean-front Yoga studio, and highly acclaimed conscious kitchen.

There are three yoga sessions a day, and a good spa if you want to book in for treatments. Between or after the session you can choose to spend your day on the beach, and eat.

The retreat provides meals such as grain, dairy, and refined sugar-free to improve digestive health.

Business, Gateway, Travel, Travel Adventures, Vacation,

Qatar vs Etihad vs Turkish Airlines

by travzdlaNovember 14, 2020

Traveling is not everyone’s cup of tea. But sometimes one does not have a choice. When it comes to long routes and long flights, traveling with an airline that provides comfort and safety is a must.

Especially when we talk about the business class of different airlines.

In this article, we will have a comparison amongst Etihad vs Qatar vs Turkish airlines. And we will discuss which one has the best business class.

GOING BUSINESS CLASS; THINGS TO CONSIDER

A ticket for the business class can get a lot of perks and benefits. From entering the airport to leaving it, the whole procedure of traveling becomes very smooth and easy.

But, not every airline offers the same comfort nor the same benefits as others.

So, if you are traveling from a different airline for the first time, you must do your complete homework.

And know how the business class is of that particular airline.

When choosing a business class, here are a few things that you should consider before buying the ticket:

THE SEATS

Having a long flight is torture itself, and not having proper and comfortable seating will only make the route longer and more torturous.

Especially when you paid a hefty amount for it. Different airlines have different seating for their business class.

Some have seats that can be in a lie-down position while others have seats like the economy class but with much more leg space. You should choose the airline that provides the first one, lie down seats.

If we compare all three airlines, Qatar, Turkish, and Etihad. Qatar Airways checks this point as it provides lie down seats to its travelers in the business class.

THE ONBOARDING SERVICE

While this point is not a complete deal-breaker, when you are paying twice the economic price, you should enjoy all the perks too.

When it comes to the onboarding service, customer service, food, the entertainment, it covers everything. When choosing an airline, make sure you research well on their onboarding service.

CONVENIENCE

This completely depends on you and what you want. Do you want a connecting flight or do you want a direct flight?

What matters here is no matter which option you go for; you want a hustle free flight. So, go for the one which does not have a complicated route.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF traveling IN QATAR, ETIHAD OR TURKISH AIRLINES?

Now, let us discuss some advantages of traveling with these airlines:

QATAR AIRWAY

Comfort and luxury! If these are the two things you are looking for when it comes to traveling in business class, then Qatar Airways is your airline to go with.

Unlike other airlines, the perks of traveling in Qatar Airways start way before entering the plane. The airport experience is a lot better and the hospitality is something to always remember.

From check-ins to stepping on the plane, the whole process before the flight is hassle-free and very smooth. The food and drinks offered during this time are complimentary too.

ONBOARDING

Those who hold a business class ticket have priority, hence they are the first ones to settle into the plane too. In Qatar Airways, a business class traveler gets a steward/stewardess designated only for him or her alone for the entire flight.

CABIN SPACE

The business class cabin provided by Qatar Airways is very spacious. The ceilings are high, and the cabins have a design that gives them direct access to the aisle. This makes it very convenient for passengers.

ETIHAD AIRWAYS

The business class of Etihad, or should we say the business studio, is an artistic experience of its own. A blend of simplicity and art is the core part of its design.

It looks gorgeous and it works fine for all. Etihad Airways, like all other airlines, also had business class, but very recently they have changed it to the business studio.

Which is much more stylish and offers more privacy than the previous design.

THE SEATING

The seats present in the business studio of Etihad airlines have leather seats, which are Italian designed. These seats come with a massage option, warm and cozy blankets along soft pillows.

Each studio has direct access to the aisle. Moreover, the seats can be in a lie-down position as well to provide comfort and good rest for the passengers.

ENTERTAINMENT

Each cabin has a screen of its own where passengers can enjoy unlimited entertainment. Along with that, this airline also provides Wi-Fi but for selected flights only. Other than that, newspapers and magazines and headphones are also present in each cabin.

TURKISH AIRLINES

When it comes to long flights, you need an airline that makes the route less torturous. This is what Turkish airline is all about and their business class is commendable.

From onboarding to food, and even the seats, everything makes the entire traveling experience a whole lot better.

ENTERTAINMENT

Turkish Airways also offers passengers an amenity kit. Basic things like a cream, toothbrush, and toothpaste are what you get with this kit. Other than that, Turkish Airways provides free Wi-Fi, which might work slow at times. Each cabin has a screen in front of the seat.

UNPRECEDENTED MEAL SERVICE

Meal service is a very important part of a flight, especially when you are traveling in a business class. The meal service provided by the Turkish airlines for the business class passengers is amazing. The chefs put a lot of time and effort into preparing the meals, and it shows.

EMIRATE AIRLINES

When it comes to Emirates, the whole traveling experience while it is good, s not world-class. Here is a list of the pros and cons of traveling with Emirates:

PROS:

The seating provided by Emirates to its business class passengers is very comfortable.

Customer service, as well as the service provided on the flight, is incredible.

CONS:

The boarding process of Emirate airlines is very complicated.
The food offered during the flight is not good.

TURKISH AIRLINES

Turkish airline also provides an experience worth remembering. Let us discuss some pros as well as some cons when it comes to traveling in business class with Turkish airlines:

PROS:

The seating and cabin provided to the business class owners are very comfortable and also keeps the privacy intact.

The crew is very kind and courteous on every flight.

CONS:

Wi-fi connection is free but very slow.
The entertainment options are very limited.

KLM AIRLINES

KLM airlines have a smooth plane, and their operations are running pretty too. But the business class experience of traveling in this airline is not up to the mark. Here are a few cons and pros:

PROS:

Very friendly staff, and very attentive to passenger needs.

CONS:

The food served is very disappointing.
The business class seats are very old.

SWISS AIRLINES

A pleasant experience makes customers really happy when they aboard Swiss Airlines. This is because the whole process of traveling, which includes everything and anything, is very smoothly done.

Let us now see some cons and pros of Swiss Airlines:

PROS:

The food served on the flight is very tasty. Not only tasty, but it is also in a lot of quantity.
The sky crew is very friendly.

CONS:

The plane does not have enough leg space for the passengers to relax and rest.

LUFTHANSA AIRLINE

Lufthansa airline is a German airline and is one of the largest airlines in Europe. It is immensely popular with a high customer satisfaction rate. Let us now discuss some pros as well as some cons of the airline to get a clearer picture of how the airline is:

PROS

Excellent customer services. From onboarding till the end, the whole experience is very amazing.

The staff especially is very sweet. They go the extra mile to make their customers happy.

CONS:

The prices are very costly for this airline. It is not convenient for everyone to travel on this flight.

BRITISH AIRWAYS

British Airways are one of the largest airlines in the United Kingdom. This is true when it comes to the size of the fleet, and the number of passengers it carries every day.

All in all, the flight experience of traveling with this airline is pretty average. Let us discuss the cons and pros of the airlines so we can get a better idea of the airline and its function:

PROS:

The routes of this airline are very good.

The customer service is also remarkable.

CONS:

There have been many cases of lost luggage when it comes to British Airways.

Their mileage program is torture in itself. It is very complicated.

ETIHAD AIRWAYS

Credit: Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways is one of the best airlines and one of the biggest too after emirates. After emirates, it is a UAE flag carrier airline.

It is in Abu Dhabi and offers business, economy as well as first-class options to its passengers. Let us discuss some pros and cons of traveling with Etihad Airlines:

PROS:

They offer a lot of entertainment options, and the extra WI-FI is a cherry on the top.

They offer a variety of food items on the flight.

CONS:

Their loyalty programs offer little to no perks or benefits.

CATHAY PACIFIC AIRWAYS

Cathay Airways is also known as Cathay pacific; it is a flag carrier of Hong Kong and one of the most popular flights in Hong Kong.

Let us now discuss some pros and cons to get a better look at what to expect when traveling in Cathay Pacific Airways:

PROS:

Very suitable when traveling with children as the staff takes extra care of the children.

CONS:

Slow service, and not too attentive with the elderly.

SINGAPORE AIRLINES

Singapore airlines, as the name suggests is the flag carrier airline of Singapore. The traveling experience of many has been very great with this airline, let us see some cons and pros to know how the airline actually is:

PROS:

The flight attendants are very sweet and very attentive.

The customer service is very amazing.

CONS:

The food served on the flight is very average.

The bag of amenities is very boring too.

QANTAS AIRWAYS

Qantas Airways is the flag carrier of Australia and is one of the oldest airlines in the world. Let us now discuss the pros and cons of Qantas airways:

PROS:

The food was excellent and the serving was hot and fresh.
The crew was very attentive as well as helping to passenger needs.

CONS:

The business class of the airline has very little privacy.

There is not enough leg space between the seats, which makes long flights very hectic and restless.

ALL NIPPON AIRWAYS

All Nippon Airways is also known as Zenniku. Few airlines have a 5-star rating but this airline is one of them. It has a five-star rating and as well as a five-star level of service.

Let us now discuss the cons and pros of All Nippon Airways so that we can get a clearer picture of the airline and the experience it provides:

PROS:

It has many destinations as it flies to many places.

The food and the customer service of this airline are excellent.

CONS:

The economy class of the airline is very average.

JAPAN AIRLINES

Japan airline is an international airline and the flag carrier of Japan.

It gives you the option of choosing from four classes, economy class, business class, premium economy class, and last but not the least, first class.

Let us now discuss some pros and cons of Japan airlines:

PROS:

The crew and the services provided by them are excellent.

The food served is also up to the mark.

CONS:

The entertainment provided on the flight is boring.

EVA AIRLINE

The EVA from the EVA airline stands for evergreen airlines, and it is a Taiwanese international airline.

Let us now discuss the pros and cons of traveling in EVA airlines and shed some light on how the traveling experience is with this airline:

PROS:

The food served in this airline is very amazing.

The crew does a great job of making everyone feel safe as well as comfortable.

CONS:

They keep on increasing prices, which has now made it very costly.

AIR FRANCE

Having a hub in Paris, this airline is the flag carrier of France. It flies to more than 65 countries across the world. This airline offers its passengers to choose from two options.

First is flying in economy class and the second is business class. Let’s discuss some pros and cons of the airline to get a clearer picture of the traveling experience it offers:

PROS:

Very friendly crew and friendly service as well.
The food offered is amazing on the flight.

CONS:

The seats of the business class are not that comfortable.

ETHIOPIAN AIRLINES

Credit: Ethiopian Airlines

As the name suggests, this airline is in Ethiopia. It has flights that go to more than a hundred destinations. It travels to Europe and Asia. It allows its passengers to choose from the two options.

To either travel in economy or CloudNine. CloudNine is their version of a business class. Let us now discuss some pros and cons of the airline:

PROS:

The business class seats are very relaxing.
A lot of privacy is offered to passengers traveling in business class.

CONS:

The food is not up to the mark.

All in all, Qatar Airlines is one of the best airlines and has one of the business class to travel in.

Here are a few reasons why Qatar Airlines is one of the best airlines:

IT OFFERS COMPLETE PRIVACY

One of the greatest advantages of traveling in this airline’s business class is that it offers you complete and total privacy.

COMFORTABLE SEATS

The business class seats are very comfortable and allow us to lie down. The mattress and the pillows provided are also very comfortable and cozy.

ONBOARDING

The entire onboarding experience of traveling with Qatar airlines is amazing. From the point we enter the airport to the time we leave, their services for the business class passengers are up to mark.

The customer service and the comfort provided to the passengers enhances the experience of the travel.

EXCELLENT ENTERTAINMENT OPTIONS

The entertainment options provided by Qatar Airlines to its passengers are a lot. From screens to many movie options, to magazines, everything adds value to the traveling experience.

In short, Qatar airlines provides a complete package to its passengers. From customer service to food to comfort, everything is well taken care of. The passengers traveling feel prioritized by the crew members.

As their comfort and safety are taken well care of. The crew is not only friendly but also very attentive to the passenger’s needs.

From small to big, everything is well taken care of when traveling from Qatar Airways, especially in business class.

Culture, Gateway, Lifestyle,

The Best Places For the Holidays in The U.S | White Christmas Vacation Spots

by travzdlaSeptember 9, 2020

The holidays are around the corner, usually, it’s a wonderful time people celebrate together with loved ones, it’s a magical time of the year.

Well, it might be different this year, but we’ll try to make it special as usual. People celebrate the holidays in different ways, some in their favorite restaurants, some in their family or vacation home and some are going for a family gateway searching for a white Christmas vacation.

For those who prefer to travel or have some little getaway during holidays, here are some cities in the U.S that have holiday spirit that you can enjoy with your family and loved ones.

ASHEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA

This one of the largest cities in North Carolina is also one of the best towns for Christmas celebrations because of its annual tradition such as exploring the Biltmore estate where they usually host lavish Christmas festivities.

Families can also spend a day at Omni Grove Park Inn; they also offer Christmas magical festivities that include their well known Fesivannual national gingerbread house competition.

Festive drinks and cookies are served and don’t forget their Christmas traditional dinner. There is a lot to do in Asheville that makes it the best place to visit during the holidays.

BRANSON, MISSOURI

Branson, Missouri is the perfect spot for the holidays with the family. The family gets to enjoy the view of the Ozark Mountains and get the holiday spirit at the same time enjoying dancing performances, numerous live singing and, parades, a few light shows, and tours.

Lights displays are all over town a family can take a ride and see all the displays. Don’t forget to check out Christmas Tree Trail where giant trees are decorated and on display throughout the town where you can take memorable pictures.

Want to have more magical holidays? Don’t miss Silver Dollar City Christmas Festival, is one of the best Christmas Festivals in the U.S.

The Silver Dollar City Christmas Festival is a four-time winner of the nation’s Best Theme Park Holiday Event according to USA Today’s 10 Best Readers choice poll. The amazing festival comes with 6.5 million dazzling lights, a nightly light parade with Rudolph, and other activities.

ELKHART LAKE, WISCONSIN

You might not get a white Christmas but this place will make you feel like you are in Christmas movies or Christmas storybooks. This is due to the warmth of this place, its charming decor and sometimes it’s snowy streets.

A lot of things to do with the family, you can visit the village square for hot cocoa, traditional treats, and annual tree lighting. Enjoy some holiday horse wagon rides, ice skating, snowshoeing, children’s holiday workshop, breakfast with Santa, and many more without forgetting to visit the old world Christmas market.

If you like resorts, you can check out The Osthoff Resort. They offer a lot of opportunities to enjoy the village, such as ice skating on its reflection pond, breakfast with Santa on Saturdays.

JACKSON HOLE, WYOMING

brown barn surrounded by orange-leafed trees

Jackson Hole is a place for nature lovers and those who like to do outdoor activities. There is a lot of lodging, restaurant options to choose from, activities like skiing, fishing, mountain climbing are well known around here.

What a better way to enjoy this place than to hop on to the iconic Big Red tram. You can ride a tram to the Rendezvous peak and take part in the tradition and enjoy delicious waffles from Corbet’s Cabin.

Not only that, but you can also take a horse-drawn ride to the National Elk Refuge while kids are skiing with Santa.

LEAVENWORTH, WASHINGTON

Leavenworth, Washington, is a Bavarian-themed town about two hours from Seattle. This small town will make you feel like you are in Germany while transforming into a winter wonderland.

There are a lot of winter wonderland themed activities such as sledding, hot spiced wine and cider tastings, holiday concerts. All this happens at the traditional Christmas Lighting Festival which must go when you are in town during the holidays.

Don’t forget to visit the Christmas annual market known as Christkindlmarkt which features unique goods such as German foods, lantern parade, handmade arts, and crafts all this goes with Christmas themed entertainment.

Some other things you can do or experience with family while celebrating Christmas in Leavenworth are a visit to the Gingerbread factory, skiing, dog sledding, sledding and tubing, sleigh rides, and a visit to Nutcracker Museum.

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK

person standing beside two Christmas trees with baubles

New York is one of the best and most famous cities in the world, the city that never sleeps is always known for its holiday celebrations.

There are a lot of things to do in the city, you might not be able to do them all. You can start the holiday celebrations with the iconic annual traditional Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade.

If you can’t make it to the parade you can check out the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City MusicHall. You can also stroll around the city where there’s the holiday spirit everywhere such as seeing a huge Christmas tree at Rockefeller center and while you are there you can ice skate just under the Christmas tree and take memorable pictures.

Don’t forget to visit Central Park where you can see a lot of landmarks and structures, some of them you saw on your favorite TV shows or movies. Also, you can hop on a carriage ride tour and get some different history about the city.

WOODSTOCK, VERMONT

This is one of the best towns to celebrate the holidays. The place has old fashioned holiday charm like those you see in the movies. One of these town famous traditions is the Wassail Weekend, during this weekend the entire place turns into Christmas magic.

There is a lot to do this weekend such as hearing sleigh bells, eating Christmas traditional food and appetizers, and seeing different traditional pageants.

Gateway, Lifestyle, Summer, Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation,

List Of At Home Staycation Ideas During Pandemic

by travzdlaSeptember 2, 2020

Are you feeling disappointed that you cancel all your summer vacation plans and you can’t travel anymore? You are not alone because many people around the world are in the same situation and they have been creative on how to enjoy their summer even though they canceled their travel plans. Some are

Here are some tips you can do to have an enjoyable staycation idea during quarantine. Enjoy these ideas for staycation

Virtual Travel

girl wearing grey long-sleeved shirt using MacBook Pro on brown wooden table

Due to the rise of technology, you can enjoy virtual travel experiences while you are still laying on your living room sofa. This means you can take virtual tours of cities you love or places you wish to visit some times. For instance, you can take an online tour of Paris or Barcelona Museums, Rome tour and many other places you dreamed to visit. Another option of online tours is to check out youtube for some travel destinations to get inspiration for your future traveling.

Plan A day Trip During Lockdown

boat parked on dock

Planning a trip during a pandemic can be very challenging. Many people don’t feel safe when it comes to choosing where to stay and keeping up with restrictions. Instead of planning a trip, another option you can do is to take a day trip. You check out some places around your city that you can go to and return on the same day. You will be amazed at how many places you can visit and you have never been to before. There are different places you can for a day trip such as hiking, canoeing amusement park, local beach, etc.

Campout ideas in quarantine

brown dome tent near trees at night

This can be a great activity for family and friends. You can choose where you want to camp out, whether you want to camp in a tent in the middle of nature or you just want to camp in your backyard. Camping is a good and easy adventure to do while keeping the distance.

Make a dish from your favorite vacation destination

brown and white pastry on blue round plate

Start your day by making a meal from your favorite vacation destination, for instance, if you like Nice, France, start your morning with making crêpe salée for breakfast. If you like Barcelona Spain make Paella for lunch or dinner. You can also add make some drinks from your favorite place like Thai ice tea, the name says it all, or you can make Sangria if you like Spain and Portugal destinations.

Pamper yourself during staycation

Four Lit Tealights

This is something you should try often, who knows it might be a new normal. Instead of waiting for spa places to be open, you can treat yourself in the comfort of your home. You can buy feet and face masks, some beauty products, scented candles, and oil and turn your bathroom into a spa place. It’s not that hard all you need its time.

Check out some Spa kit on Amazon

Gateway, Lifestyle, Summer, Travel, Travel Adventures, Uncategorized, Vacation,

53 Essential Road Trip Packing List Items For Solo Travelers and Families (2023)

by travzdlaAugust 25, 2020

Road tripping has become a thing after the lockdowns. Many people do not want to fly or ride a bus because they want to want to take in more scenery that comes with driving.

Taking a road trip is a fun and adventurous way of traveling and seeing places you haven’t seen before or know they exist, places you’ll never get to see if you fly or take a bus since the bus goes on schedule and sometimes has specific routes.

Packing for a road trip can be a little bit challenging because you have to consider car space, you don’t want to carry a lot of things that you can not sit comfortably or stretch your legs. First thing first, you should consider packing essential things, things that are must-haves and you will need during the trip.

Here are some road trip packing lists for families and individuals we think you should include on your road trip packing list;

Roadside /Car Emergency Kit

Everybody wants to have a smooth ride, but sometimes some emergency happens and we want to be ready when it does. The Roadside/ Car emergency kit must be on your roadside packing list. This will help a lot when you experience some kind of emergency such as flat tire, jumpstarting, overheating, and many more. You can choose the one that has everything that you need for any car emergency.

For a roadside emergency kit view on Amazon

First Aid Kit

Make sure you bring first aid kit supply items that you might need while on the road. This will be a perfect idea if you experience any kind of aches and pains such as headaches, stomachache, etc. The first aid kit should have all the necessary supplies needed.

View First Aid Kit on Amazon

FlashLight

It’s a great idea to have a flashlight on your road trip, you can be stranded in the dark with no lights. Having a flashlight, in general, is a lifesaver. Choose a flashlight that you will always keep in your car not only for road trips.

Checkout some flashlights on Amazon

Reusable Water bottle

Make sure to keep yourself hydrated all the time because it is very important. Packing a reusable water bottle can be very beneficial because you will be able to get refills at rest areas, restaurants, and gas stations, for free and save some money. On top of that, you will not have to pack cartons of water that will limit space in your car. Try to find a bottle that is easy to clean, easy to fill, and easy to drink without spilling.

Checkout reusable water bottle on Amazon

Travel cooler

While on road trips sometimes food options can be limited, depending on where you are going. Packing a travel cooler on your road trip will be a great idea to keep your food fresh, drinks cold, and also some snacks can go into the cooler. You want to take the cooler that is perfect for keeping your food fresh and drinks cool all the time not only for just a few hours.

Checkout travel cooler on amazon

Portable Phone Charger

This is very important, you don’t want your phone to run out of charge in the middle of nowhere. Portable phone chargers are very helpful everywhere whether you’re on the road or somewhere you don’t have access to electricity. There are several portable phone chargers but you want to pick one that is small and convenient.

Checkout Portable Phone Charger on Amazon

Car Phone Charger

This can be a backup for a portable charger, you can use it while you are in the car and save the portable charger for when you are not in the car. Make sure you choose the best car charger that can let you charge more than just your phone but also other electronic gadgets like tablets, iPad, cameras, etc.

Checkout Car Phone Charger

Car Phone Mount

The car phone mount is very useful for those cars that don’t have GPS systems and you will rely on your phone for directions. Also for cars that don’t have Bluetooth systems will help you when you really need to use your phone while driving. Make sure you choose the one that is durable and functional.

Checkout Car Mount

Small Car Bluetooth Speaker

Small car Bluetooth is a very helpful item for your road trip packing list for distraction-free driving because it helps with receive and sends a text message, makes and receives calls or driving directions, chooses those you can connect with Google Assistant or Siri.

Checkout Small Car Bluetooth Speaker

Trunk Organizer

Many people like to be organized whether it’s at home or in their car. The trunk organizer will help you stay organized on your road trip. The Trunk organizer will help you save space in your trunk and be able to carry all the things that are important for your trip and more. Choose the trunk organizer that has heavy-duty compartments.

Checkout Trunk Organizer on Amazon

Travel Neck Pillow

You’ll be glad you packed a travel neck pillow especially when you are taking turns to drive, and when it is your turn not to be behind the wheel you can relax with your neck pillow. As we know spending many hours in the car can be uncomfortable and a neck pillow can be something you need to help you relax and give you good neck support when you’re napping and enjoy the ride.

Checkout Travel Neck Pillow

Fanny Pack Must Be In Your Road Trip Packing List

When you travel anywhere, not only on a road trip, you’ll want to keep things like cash, ID, and other essentials on you all the time. You never know when you’re going to run into an emergency where you need to use cash, pay for street parking, or tolls. Sometimes you are in situations where you require your ID. It’s a good idea to keep your cash and other valuables, like credit cards, passport, and ID in a fanny pack. Fanny packs are easy to carry everywhere, you can’t leave them anywhere because they’re always on your waist. Fanny packs are well organized and secure.

Checkout Fanny Pack

GPS/Maps for Directions

Make sure to take the GPS as a backup in case your phone is having some network issues. Make sure it is reliable, well-advanced, and can function anywhere.

Checkout GPS on Amazon

Bonus:

Travel Blender

For those who like to eat healthily and still want to keep doing that on the road, they can pack portable blenders that are rechargeable. You don’t need an electrical outlet, you can charge it in your car, or with your portable charger.

Checkout Portable Blender on Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions about packing lists

Car Registration and Insurance

This is proof that you own your car and that it is insured. You will need to show this to law enforcement if you are pulled over.

Roadside Assistance

This is a service that will come to your aid if you break down on the side of the road. It is a good idea to get roadside assistance before you start your trip.

First Aid Kit

This is essential for treating minor injuries that may occur on your trip.

Flashlight

This is a must-have for any road trip, in case you get stranded in the dark.

Multi-Tool

This is a handy tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, such as fixing a flat tire or opening a can of food.

Water Bottle

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your trip. Snacks | Pack some snacks to keep you energized on the road.

Clothing

Pack a variety of clothing for different weather conditions.

Hat and sunglasses

Protect yourself from the sun.

Toiletries

Pack your basic toiletries, such as toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, and shampoo.

Camera

Capture memories of your road trip with a camera.

Phone Charger

Keep your phone charged so you can stay connected while you’re on the road.

External Battery Pack

This is a great way to keep your devices charged, especially if you’re going to be away from power outlets for an extended period of time.

Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot

This is a great way to stay connected to the internet while you’re on the road.

Camping Gear

If you’re planning on doing any camping, be sure to pack the necessary gear, such as a tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad.

Hiking Gear

If you’re planning on doing any hiking, be sure to pack the necessary gear, such as hiking boots, a backpack, and water bottles.

Beach Gear

If you’re planning on spending any time at the beach, be sure to pack the necessary gear, such as beach towels, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

Entertainment

Pack some entertainment for the car ride, such as books, games, or music.

Money

Be sure to pack enough money for your trip, including money for gas, food, and souvenirs.

Passport

If you’re planning on crossing any borders, be sure to pack your passport.

Visas

If you’re planning on visiting any countries that require visas, be sure to get them in advance.

Luggage Locks

This is a good idea to prevent theft of your luggage.

Travel Insurance

This is a good idea to protect yourself in case of any unexpected events.

Beaches, Gateway, Lifestyle, Summer, Travel, Travel Adventures, Vacation,

The 7 Most Scenic National Parks To Go Camping in the U.S

by travzdlaJuly 27, 2020

It has been a rough time for travel lovers due to COVID-19. Most places have been closed, a lot of travel restrictions which make traveling a little bit complicated.

Yes, travel might be complicated, but you know what? You can still find a way to move around and create different experiences like taking coast to coast road trip exploring beautiful sights in the U.S and camping in some amazing National Parks in the country.

Even though you have been the U.S, or live in the U.S there is a big chance you have not been in every place. You will be amazed by how many places you didn’t know they exist, so this will be a good time to buckle up and grab your camping gear and explore some of the beautiful places that we think are must-see and camping in the U.S, keep in mind some of this places might be closed or have restrictions due to COVID-19.

Big Bend National Park, Texas

Big Bend National Park has four camping grounds that provide drinking water access, restroom facilities, and full RV hookup.

In addition to that, there are a lot of activities you can do in the park such as canoeing, kayaking, and rafting. If you are a nature lover this is the place for you there are trails, mountains, and river landscapes.

Acadia National Park, Maine

The Acadia Park has three campgrounds, two are located on Mount Desert Island, and another one is located on the Schoodic Peninsula.

The campgrounds are very busy, so the reservations are highly recommended. The park has 32,000 miles of rivers and streams, 6,000 lakes and ponds, and 17 million acres of forest.

While you are there you can enjoy a beautiful view of natural beauty.

Ozark National Forest, Arkansas

Ozark National Forest has many campgrounds choices, you can choose to camp along the lake or river or even on the mountain.

Some of the campgrounds provide hot shower and there are tons of developed campgrounds. At Ozark National, Forests you will find beaches, acres of lakes, streams, and hiking trails.

There is also a fee for camping, the fees vary from $4- $10 per night. But if you are camping at the developed campground there is no fee for day use.

Glacier National Park, Montana

There are 13 campgrounds in this beautiful park, but there is the only one called Fish Creek is open due to COVID-19. There are camping fees that vary between $10-$23 dollars per night during the summer season.

Camping is not the only thing you can do at Glacier National Park, there is a lot to experience such as alpine meadows, spectacular lakes, Glacier’s pristine forests, and rugged mountains.

Don’t forget the amazing scenic mountain road Going to the sun road in the Rocky Mountains. This park is hiker’s paradise with over 700 miles of trails for adventurous visitors seeking wilderness and solitude the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico

Carlsbad Cavern National Park is one of the kind, there are a lot of things to do, such as guided and unguided cave tours where you can have different experiences like bat flight viewing. Also, there are some surface ranger programs, wildlife observations, and Educational Seminars.

Camping is allowed but there are more restrictions compare to other parks. First is permitted only in some parts of the backcountry area. All backcountry users are required to obtain a free backcountry use permit at the Visitor Center. Vehicle or RV camping is prohibited and no open fire is allowed

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

A hike and camping at Crater Lake National Park will be an experience of a lifetime. You’ll see the water so blue that reveals new wonders of the deepest lake in America.

The park is surrounded by cliffs that are almost 2,000 feet high and boasting a picturesque island a violent volcanic past.

Crater lake National Park has two developed campgrounds, Mazama Campground, which has 214 sites for tents and RVs. The second one is Lost Creek Campground which has 16 sites for tents no RVs. Both are open only in the summer.

Haleakala National Park, Hawaii

At the Haleakala National Park, there are a lot of experiences to explore. You can choose to see a glimpse of a rare native bird, enjoy breezes through the bamboo forest, hiking on a volcanic landscape, or have a hands-on experience with Hawaiian culture.

Haleakala National Park offers two car-accessible campgrounds Kīpahulu and Hosmer Grove and no permits or reservations are required. The park is home to a large Wilderness Area with a variety of backpacking experiences available.

Gateway, Lifestyle, Summer, Travel, Travel Adventures, Vacation,

Best Places for Nature Lovers

by travzdlaJuly 12, 2020

According to research, it reveals that environments can play a huge role in increasing or reducing our stress. What we are seeing, hearing, experiencing at any moment it impacts our moods.

That’s why being in nature, or even viewing scenes of nature, reduces anger, fear, and stress and keep us calm. Exposure to nature not only makes you feel better emotionally, but it also contributes to your physical wellbeing. All in all, nature heals, restores, and soothes.

If you are ready to experience the beauty of nature or to relieve some stress especially during this time, we found some of the best places for the nature lover you might want to visit sometime.

1. Vatnajökull, Iceland

Vatnajökull is the largest glacier in Iceland and it’s also the largest glacier mass in Europe. It covers an area of roughly 3127 sq. miles and 32014.7 sq. miles.

Vatnajökull is home to the largest national park in Europe which covers 13% of Iceland. It has magnificent surroundings with a stunning variety of landscape features, shaped by nature’s mightiest forces.

2. Kenai Fjords, Alaska

The best place to enjoy nature in Alaska is Kenai Fjords, National Park. This is a national park located in the state of Alaska in the United States.

The park covers an area of 1,046.9 sq miles on the Kenai Peninsula in south-central Alaska, near the town of Seward. This glacial wonderland features stunning scenery, incredible wildlife, and aquatic adventures.

3. Serengeti, Tanzania

The Serengeti National Park is located in the Serengeti ecosystem in Tanzania. The park is famous for its annual migration of over 1.5 million wildebeest and 250,000 zebra. Serengeti National Park is one of those rare destinations that allow you to enter and enjoy truly wild landscapes.

4. Iguazú, Brazil/Argentina

Located on the border of Argentina and Brazil, Iguazú falls is considered to be the most beautiful waterfall in the world. The falls are also shared by the Iguazú National Park on Argentina side and Iguaçu National Park in Brazil side.

These two parks were designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the 1980s. The Iguazu National Park is also the home to many species of animals and flora that create an important natural ecosystem in Latin America.

5. Fuji Hakone Izu, Japan

The home to the iconic Mount Fuji, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is an isolated and majestic volcanic peak. While visiting here you can explore timeless forests, lava caves, and bathe in hot springs.

Another amazing thing you can do is swimming with dolphins. Fuji-Hakone -Izu is a nature lovers paradise that has a lot to offer such as a stunning view of Mount Fuji, Owakudani, also known as the great boiling valley of sulfurous vents.

The rugged cliffs of the Jogasaki Coast, the striking waters of Shiraito Falls, and numerous natural charms of the Izu Islands.

6. Triglav, Slovenia

Triglav National Park is the best place to explore unspoiled nature in Slovenia, this place is well known for its natural attractions.

The park is named after Slovenia’s tallest mountain. Triglav National Park has magnificent views from green Alpine valleys, babbling brooks, the tall peaks and lakes that reflect the blue sky, don’t forget a huge diversity of flora and fauna.

This is Slovenia’s largest protected area and only national park.

7. Sarek, Sweden

The best place to enjoy the beauty of nature in this part of Sweden is Sarek National Park. Home of the six of Sweden’s thirteen highest mountains and also has 100 glaciers.

Here you can enjoy the views of torturous delta landscape, and high alpine area while walking in deep, long narrow valleys passing wild turbulent waters.

8. Khao Sok, Thailand

When you are in South Thailand the best place to experience the beauty of nature is Khao Sok National Park. Khao Sok, it’s well known for its rainforest with a great diversity of plants and wildlife.

It is one of the few national parks in Thailand that be easily accessible by public transportation. You can see the amazing Cheow Lan Lake and beautiful raft houses spread over it. Also, don’t forget the iconic limestone hills, waterfalls, trails, caves, and rivers.

9. Gran Paradiso, Italy

Do you want to see the beauty of nature in Italy? the Gran Paradiso National Park is the place to be. Located in the south-west of the Valle d’Aosta region of north-west Italy.

The Gran Paradiso National Park has magnificent landscapes and woodlands, stunning mountain, valley scenery that are interrupted by glaciers.

10. Oulanka, Finland

The best place to experience nature in Finland is Oulanka National Park. The Oulanka National Park is located in the Northern Ostrobothnia and Lapland regions of Finland, It borders the Paanajärvi National Park in Russia.

Oualnka is known for its rich natural diversity and high cliffs that give way to mires and soft sandy beaches to lush forests.

Gateway, Lifestyle, Travel, Travel Adventures,

The 12 Best Hiking Places Around the World

by travzdlaJune 27, 2020

Where are the best hiking places around the world?

That’s the question and this article has the answers you have been waiting for. If you prefer adventurous long walks or being on the mountain’s edge buckle and get your walking gear ready because we are giving you the list of the best hiking places around the world from the Americas to Australia its a guarantee one of these places will be on your bucket list if not all of them.

1. Hiking Tour du Mont Blanc in Switzerland, Italy, and France.

The Tour du Mont Blanc is one of the most popular hiking places, long-distance walks in Europe. It goes around Mont Blanc massif, covering 110 miles and passes through parts of Switzerland, Italy, and France.

The TMB route goes the counter-clockwise direction that means it is a circular route and it normally walks in 11 days. TMB is one of the best hiking experiences one can get because there’s a lot to enjoy when you are hiking here.

You will travel through three different countries, pass through several mountains, and enjoy the most dramatic views of nature and glaciers of these three countries of Switzerland, Italy, and France.

It is also the route of an annual mountain marathon, which is something else you can enjoy.

2. Hiking Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania

Located in Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa and the highest free-standing mountain in the world.

There are 10 different routes in the Mt Kilimanjaro trail. Those routes are Machame, Rongai, Lemosho, Marangu, Shira, Umbwe, Northern Circuit, Crater camp, Western breach, and Mount Meru.

The distance on hiking depends on which route you take and usually takes 5-9 days to complete the trail. For instance, if you take the Lemosho route the minimum days to finish are 6 days.

The good thing about this route is it is considered to be the most beautiful route due to its amazing scenery on various sides of the mountain.

Lemosho route has been many people’s favorite routes because of its low traffic, and scenic views. If you take the classic oldest Marang route it will take you a minimum of 5 days.

Most people like this route because it is considered to be the easiest, because of its gradual slope. It is also the only route that offers sleeping huts in dormitory-style accommodations, compared to other routes you have to make tents or camping.

3. Hiking Trolltunga in Norway

Trolltunga hike located in Norway is one of the best hikes in the world and one of the most magnificent cliffs in Norway, situated about 1,100 meters above sea level.

The hike in Trolltunga can take 8-12 hours return trip with a total distance of 17.40 miles. While there you need to take safety precautions because Trolltunga is surrounded by steep cliffs and there are no fences.

Trolltunga has hiking season which is June 1st to September 30th starting before 8 A.M and guided hiking is recommended. The next season is October 1st to May 30th this is for guided hiking only.

4. Hiking Preikestolen in Norway

If you did watch Mission Impossible -Fall out, you will have a little bit of an idea on how this place looks like, most of the scenes of this movie was shot in this area.

Preikestolen is a steep cliff tourist attraction located in Norway. The 3.7 miles hike starts at the mountain lodge Preikestolen Fjellstue and takes 4 hours. Hiking in Preikelston is an experience of a lifetime.

There is an option to combine the hike with a fjord cruise or join a guided tour at night or off the beaten track.

5. Hiking The Appalachian Trail in U.S.A

The Appalachian Trail is the longest hiking-only footpath in the world, measuring roughly 2,190 miles in length. The Trail travels through fourteen states along the crests and valleys of the Appalachian Mountain Range.

The trail starts from Springer Mountain, Georgia, to Katahdin, Maine. This long journey will pass through these states Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

Completing the entire trail needs time and commitment because it can take 5-7 months. You can choose where to start, from Georgia(Northbound) which is very popular and crowded or you can start from Maine(southbound) which is known to be most challenging. Another option you can start from somewhere in the middle is known as flip flops.

6. Hiking Tongariro Alpine Crossings in New Zealand

Tongariro Alpine Crossing is located in New Zealand’s oldest national park called The Tongariro National Park. Tongariro Alpine Crossing is considered to be a world-renowned trek.

The trail is 12 miles long and it takes 6 to 8 hours to complete. Tongariro Alpine Crossing has dramatic awe-inspiring natural scenery, unique landforms, including the volcanic peaks of Ngauruhoe, Tongariro, and Ruapehu.

The best time to complete the trail will be summertime in New Zealand which is December to March. If you want to go during winter around June to October you will need special skills and a lot of preparation to complete the trail.

This is due to increased risks from snow, ice, avalanche terrain, and sub-zero temperatures.

7. Hiking Indus Valley Trek in India

Located in the Himalaya Ladakh region, close to the borders of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China, the Indus Valley trek is one of the most popular hiking routes in India.

This place incorporates the regions of Skardu, Leh, and vast glacial icefields that reach into China. The length of this trek depends on the route you take, but on average, you can expect to hike around 42 miles and can take around 10-11 days to complete.

You will be able to enjoy the existence of the spectacular natural vista and steep valleys. The best time to go hike in the Indus Valley is between June to mid-October.

This is when the region has a stable temperature of 68-86°F during the daytime. If you go after October you will experience cold winds and snow that may block some of the higher routes and during that time most tour operators do not offer guided hikes.

8. Hiking Lares Trek in Peru

The Lares Trek is a 2-3 high-altitude hike in Cusco, Peru, the trek starts near the village Lares, approximately 40 miles north of Cusco and 35 miles east of Machu Picchu.

The trail can be completed as a standalone or be incorporated with a visit to Machu Picchu. This trail is considered to be an alternative to the classic Inca Trail because it is a lot quieter than Inca Trail.

The route is also known for being easier than the Inca Trail in that one doesn’t need to deal with as many steps.

9. Hiking Inca Trail in Peru

Hiking in the Inca trail is one of the most popular things to do in South America. It’s also one of the world’s most famous hikes.

The hike itself is one of the life experiences that allows you to see ancient narrow paths, explore the Peruvian countryside, and reach the top of the Andean mountains.

You will also see perfect Incan ruins, cloud forest, and majestic valley views, and don’t forget in the end you will get to the iconic Machu Picchu. The Inca trail is 26 miles and it takes 3-4 days to complete.

10. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Hiking Trails in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Hiking Trails is a totally different hiking experience. Located in Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest it’s known for its mountain gorillas.

There are five different day-trails that take 5 to 8 hours to complete. This means the Hike through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest can take one day or can stay overnight and continue the next day down to scenic Lake Mutanda. There is a lot to see while in these trails such as gorillas, different birds, and animal species.

11. Hiking Schynige Platte Panorama in Switzerland

Schynige Platte Panorama Trail is a 4 miles heavily trafficked loop trail located near Interlaken, Bern, Switzerland that offers the chance to see wildlife and is good for all skill levels.

When hiking at Schynige Platte you get a chance to enjoy the amazing scenery, diverse landscape that offers stunning panoramic views of the Bernese Alps.

12. Hiking Lake Sorapis(Lago di Sorapis) in Italy

Lake Sorapis is one of the most beautiful excursions in the Dolomites Italy. The lake is famous for its intense color, in hues ranging from light blue to turquoise.

Lake Sorapis trail is 8.7 miles long and takes 4 hours to complete. You will enjoy the beautiful Dolomite’s views while walking in the amazing forest path and a few narrow ledges.

Culture, Gateway, Lifestyle, Travel, Travel Adventures, Uncategorized, Vacation,

The Best Train Rides Around the World

by travzdlaJune 13, 2020

Have you been thinking about the best train vacations lately?

See, when making a traveling arrangement, we often use flights or cars. We usually jump on the internet and look for flight deals or check if we can rent a car and drive to our destination and sometimes we check if we can catch a bus. But there is one type of transportation that we don’t pay attention to, which is trains!

There are many people who have not to catch a train due to different reasons. Some people think the train takes too long to get to its destination.

Some people live where there are no railway stations. One thing I know for sure is, taking a trip by train is a great way to get an intimate view of a place.

Railways usually pass where roads cannot pass. Trains can take you over bridges, along the base of the mountains, or next to the ocean without being distracted with traffic jams, etc.

Are you wondering what are the best train rides in the world? There are a lot of them, but depending on your liking you might find one is better than the other one.

All in all, many of the train trips will provide you with breathtaking views, scenery, and cultural landmarks. After doing some little research, we were able to find the best train rides in the world.

Some of these rides can take a day and some can take more than two days. But one thing is certain, you will enjoy the ride.

1. The Trans-Siberian Railway

The Trans-Siberian railway is the world’s longest train ride at 6,850 miles. Its route starts from Moscow, the capital of Russia to the city of Vladivostok, a Russian city that borders China and North Korea.

In other words, we can say the route starts from the western end of Russia to its eastern coast. This is a fascinating trip that will make you cross 2 continents and 8 timezones.

Trans-Siberian route crosses over the Ural Mountains and through the Siberian forest. This eight days trip takes you to different landmarks including the magnificent 3227-foot-long bridge that crosses the River Ob at Novosibirsk, the Kremlin Fortress in Kazan, and the breathtaking blue waters of Lake Baikal. Lake Baikal is the world’s largest freshwater lake by volume.

2. TranzAlpine Train – New Zealand

TranzAlpine is one of the world’s great train journeys for scenery. The train operates on the South Island of New Zealand and gives you the most dramatic landscape.

This train trip is 139 miles one-way and takes almost five hours. There are 16 tunnels and four viaducts, with the Staircase Viaduct being 75 246 ft high. The trip starts in Christchurch and ends in Greymouth.

The TranzAlpine travels northwest through the fertile fields of the Canterbury Plains alongside the Waimakariri River. Then it goes up into the mountains, where it crosses the mighty Staircase Viaduct.

While on the trip you will be able to see the snow-capped mountains of Arthur’s Pass National Park and pass through the west coast’s subtropical rainforests.

When you reach Greymouth which is the destination, you will be able to explore this historic former gold mining town.

3. Glacier Express Train – Switzerland

The Glacier Express train connects railway stations of the two major mountain resorts of Zermatt and St. Moritz via Andermatt in the central Swiss Alps.

The term “express” does not mean it’s a high-speed train, actually, the Glacier Express is known as the slowest express train in the world. A trip with the Glacier is the most relaxing way to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Swiss Alps.

Starting from Zermatt, this day-long trip covers a staggering 91 tunnels and 291 bridges as it rolls past southern Switzerland’s alpine meadows, pristine mountain lakes, and picture-perfect hamlets.

While on this trip you will reach Oberalp Pass, the highest point on the ride at 6706 feet. Also, you can see the famous Landwasser Viaduct, a magnificent six-arch structure standing 200 feet and plunging into a tunnel cut straight into the mountainside.

4.Rovos Rail’s Namibia Safari Train – South Africa

The Rovos rail’s Namibia safari is a train ride to die for. This luxury train safari starts at the Capital Park Station in Pretoria and travels via the historically interesting town of Kimberley, the home to the Big Hole and the site of one of the World’s greatest diamond rushes.

The trip takes 9 days and it is 2112 miles long. In this trip, you will be able to see the open lands of South Africa’s Highveld, to the cool Atlantic Ocean in Namibia. You will come across the arid yet starkly beautiful Northern Cape and on to the border post of Ariamsvlei, which takes you into Namibia.

Enjoy an excursion to the famed Fish River Canyon the second only in size to the Grand Canyon. The train then continues to the north, through the edge of the Kalahari, to Namibia’s capital, Windhoek. Here you get the chance to go on a short tour of this small, yet charming city, with its German colonial history.

5.The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express -Italy

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a privately-run train. The train has a 24 hours long trip from Venice, Italy to London, UK. The trip passes through other European cities such as Paris, France, and Verona, Italy, and runs roughly once a week from March to November.

While on this trip you will enjoy the wonderful and amazing scenery of Italy, This journey on Venice Simplon-Orient Express travels north from Verona, up through Lichtenstein, Austria, Germany, France and then to England.

During the day the scenery is spectacular, passing through valleys dotted with chalets leading to the soaring mountains of the breath-taking Italian Dolomites, going through the Brenner Pass, and then the Austrian valleys again dotted with chalets against the amazing mountain back-drop.

6. The Flåm Railway – Norway

The Flåm Railway is one of the most beautiful train rides in the world, one of the leading tourist attractions in Norway and one of Europe’s steepest rail routes.

The train runs from the end of Aurlandsfjord, a tributary of the Sognefjord, up to the high mountains at Myrdal station. The trip shows the finest aspects of the stunning scenery of Western Norway.

This is an hour-long trip, the railway rises 2831 feet from its starting point in the tiny village of Flåm in the Sognefjord.

While you are on this trip you will pass by deep ravines, cascading waterfalls, and towering peaks to the mountaintop station of Myrdal.

The Flåm Railway is gorgeous in the summertime but it’s magical during wintertime when a blanket of snow turns the trip into a winter wonderland.

7. Golden Eagle Danube Express – Central Europe and Transylvania

The Golden Eagle Danube starts from Istanbul, Turkey to Prague, Czech Republic. It’s an epic 2000 mile which takes a 14-day long.

With this trip you will cross an incredible eight countries, the Golden Eagle Danube Express is the best way to see Europe in style and includes stops in some of the continent’s most beautiful cities.

The train starts in Istanbul and travels north via the Carpathian Mountains and into Transylvania, past Bran Castle also known as ‘Dracula’s Castle’. Continues travels through Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, and Poland before arriving in beautiful Prague.

8.The Ghan – Australia

The Ghan trip starts from Adelaide to Darwin a total distance of almost 1851 miles. The trip takes 54 hours and has a four-hour stopover in Alice Springs.

The Ghan offers travelers the opportunity to experience the vast landscape in pure luxury, it passes directly through Australia’s fiery red center.

In this trip, you will see the tropical coast of the Northern Territory via the red-hued rocks of the MacDonnell Ranges and onto the fertile plains of South Australia.

A trip on The Ghan also features off-train excursions, including a leisurely boat tour of Nitmiluk Gorge and a trip to the quirky desert town of Alice Springs.

9. Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West – Canada

If you want adventure in the Canadian Rockies this train will give you just that. This trip takes you to stunning mountain towns with stays in Banff and Lake Louise.

The train trips start in Vancouver and end in Banff, covering the beautiful scenery of southern British Columbia. The Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West is one of the most scenic train rides in the world.

While on the trip you will be able to see breathtaking sights such as the wild waters of Fraser Canyon’s Hell’s Gate and steep tracks running alongside the Thompson River on top of that enjoying the comfort of luxurious carriages.

You will stay overnight in the lakeside city of Kamloops before they rise over the stunning, snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies and arrive at beautiful Banff.

10. West Highland Line, Glasgow to Mallaig – Scotland

The West Highland Line starts from Glasgow to Fort William, the largest town in the West Highlands of Scotland, and onwards to Mallaig, a tiny fishing port and terminal for the ferry to Armadale on the Isle of Skye.

This train is an excellent way to experience the country’s wild, western coast. The West Highland line takes you through Scotland’s most diverse scenery.

The urban landscape quickly succumbs to verdant glens and tranquil lochs once the train leaves Glasgow. The train will pass through the remote wilderness of Rannoch Moor before skirting the towering Ben Nevis and touching down in Fort William.

If you are a Harry Potter fan you will like this trip more because while you are on, it switches direction and moves westward, and passes along the Glenfinnan Viaduct that featured in the Harry Potter film series. Then after that, it will arrive in Mallaig.

11. Belmond Hiram Bingham – Peru

Belmond Hiram Bingham is a luxury train operating day return trip from Cuzco to Machu Picchu, Peru. The train travels through some of Peru’s most romantic scenery and ends at the amazing Machu Picchu and is a once-in-a-lifetime luxury train trip.

The Belmond Hiram Bingham crosses over the Sacred Valley of the Incas, a stunning valley formed by the winding Urubamba River. It also passes through the tiny village of Ollantaytambo.

The best part of this trip it’s where it ends, Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu is a famous landmark, an ancient Inca citadel and UNESCO World Heritage Site set high in the Andes Mountains.

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Gateway

1. Checklist

2. Packing

3. Accommodation

4. Safety

1. Kamalaya Koh Samui , Thailand

2. Anamaya Resort and Retreat Center, Costa Rica

3. Nøsen Yoga Mountain Hotel, Norway

4. Vana Wellness Retreat, India

5. EcoYoga, Scotland

6. Como Shambhala Estate, Bali

7. Fusion Maia Da Nang, Vietnam

8. Yogarosa Ibiza, Spain

9. Villa Lena, Italy

10. Trilanka Resort, Sri Lanka

11. Hotel Sanara Tulum, Mexico

GOING BUSINESS CLASS; THINGS TO CONSIDER

THE SEATS

THE ONBOARDING SERVICE

CONVENIENCE

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF traveling IN QATAR, ETIHAD OR TURKISH AIRLINES?

QATAR AIRWAY

ONBOARDING

CABIN SPACE

ETIHAD AIRWAYS

THE SEATING

ENTERTAINMENT

TURKISH AIRLINES

ENTERTAINMENT

UNPRECEDENTED MEAL SERVICE

EMIRATE AIRLINES

PROS:

The seating provided by Emirates to its business class passengers is very comfortable.

Customer service, as well as the service provided on the flight, is incredible.

CONS:

The boarding process of Emirate airlines is very complicated.

The food offered during the flight is not good.

TURKISH AIRLINES

PROS:

The seating and cabin provided to the business class owners are very comfortable and also keeps the privacy intact.

The crew is very kind and courteous on every flight.

CONS:

Wi-fi connection is free but very slow.

The entertainment options are very limited.

KLM AIRLINES

PROS:

Very friendly staff, and very attentive to passenger needs.

CONS:

SWISS AIRLINES

PROS:

The food served on the flight is very tasty. Not only tasty, but it is also in a lot of quantity.

The sky crew is very friendly.

CONS:

The plane does not have enough leg space for the passengers to relax and rest.

LUFTHANSA AIRLINE

PROS

Excellent customer services. From onboarding till the end, the whole experience is very amazing.

The staff especially is very sweet. They go the extra mile to make their customers happy.

CONS:

The prices are very costly for this airline. It is not convenient for everyone to travel on this flight.

BRITISH AIRWAYS

PROS:

The routes of this airline are very good.

The customer service is also remarkable.

CONS:

There have been many cases of lost luggage when it comes to British Airways.

Their mileage program is torture in itself. It is very complicated.

ETIHAD AIRWAYS

PROS:

They offer a lot of entertainment options, and the extra WI-FI is a cherry on the top.

They offer a variety of food items on the flight.

CONS:

Their loyalty programs offer little to no perks or benefits.

CATHAY PACIFIC AIRWAYS

PROS:

Very suitable when traveling with children as the staff takes extra care of the children.

CONS:

Slow service, and not too attentive with the elderly.

SINGAPORE AIRLINES

PROS: