Tag: travelingstories

Top 10 Hiking Gears to Buy

Take your time to peruse various possible ways to get to the top may be through hiking! Some are easier but some can be a severe headache on pleasant weekends!

Are you a Hiking Enthusiast? If yes then, then it’s very good and if NO, then one question from my side “Freedom, how can there be a better way to celebrate it than to feel the fresh air, exercise and enjoy the mesmerizing views.”

Among all you here if anyone is not well acquainted with the term “Hiking” then for them, I can explain the meaning of the term – “Hiking is nothing but a long, strenuous walk usually on the trails in the countryside. This is one the most common leisure activity chosen for weekends.”

But there is one more thing that you must keep in mind and that is – What are the essentials that we must add to our backpack before starting our Hiking trip?

The main motive of going on a hike is to get away from our normal day to day life and spend some time with nature and here Hiking gears and gadgets hold a sophisticated balance.

And most importantly bustling with your gadgets will be one of the last things that you will be doing. Further, there is an inverse relationship between hike enjoyment and the weight of one’s backpack, as you could be flat on your back if you are willing to carry all your gears.

But there are some essential hiking gadgets that you must keep with you before going on a hiking trip which can surely add enjoyment to your Hike. Most importantly the wisest decision is to have the gears at the bottom of the pack and covering up less space than you thought. We have provided you with a list of 10 Hiking gears below, that we should add to our pack before we start for our Hike.

GPS and Satellite Communicator

The GPS and satellite communicator that perfectly fits in the palm but acts as the most useful life-saving tool, you could have in case of emergency. This device helps you by providing emergency assistance at one click by contacting any global emergency response coordinator or GOEs, even if you are not getting your cellphone’s signal. The rescuers will be informed of your exact location due to its internal GPS and built-in messaging will help you to communicate with them till they reach you.

This device also helps to provide peace of mind to families by sending them periodical updates of your exact location. The functions like SOS, location broadcasting makes it a must-have device.

Hiking Dry Sack

Hiking on a summer day with the scorching sun above your head, sounds horrible right? A summer shower may provide you with some relief, but your gadgets won’t appreciate the water. A lightweight waterproof compression sack is the best gear to protect them from rainstorms. Even if there are no signs of rainfall, it is also used by Hikers to organize and add more space to your packs. This is the true protector for your items like wallets, cellphones, car keys etc. A lot of companies are making hiking dry sacks but, SeaToSummit is having the largest range of collections and having the best reputation in the market.

Hiking Headlamp

Even if you are planning for a day Hike, it is always believed that carrying a light is profitable in case you fail to reach your destination before the sunsets. I am quite sure if you have used a hands-free headlamp, it is more likely known that you will never go back using a flashlight. You should always choose a hiking headlamp having super bright light and has adjustable beam settings, allowing you to adjust the brightness according to your need.

Nowadays headlamps are fitted to preserve night vision, preventing members of a group from blinding each other and a strobe function to attract attention in case of emergency making it a must pick during Hiking. Looking for the best headlamp in the market now? Actik Core might be your first choice.

Portable Water Filter

You might be thinking that carrying a water filter seems like overkill, but this tiny effective gadget might prove you wrong. At only 50-60 gm weight, you can quickly and effectively filter water without using the harsh bad-tasting chemical treatment. Suppose your water bottle is empty or has developed a leak and you need clean water, all you must do is fill up any pouch from a water source, screw the filter in, squeeze and drink with the provided straw.

Hiking Medical Kit

Let’s be honest, there is no replacement for a proper medical kit. Something as simple as a sprained ankle or any simple wound can mess up your hiking trip, then there is no point because you shouldn’t be prepared. Try to carry a medical kit having a waterproof bag, elastic bands for strains, duct tape, and a few basic medications. One kit is probably sufficient for your hiking trip, and it is advised for everyone to carry a medical kit positively before starting your journey.

Wool Clothing and Rain Hat

“Cotton kills” is frequently told by seasoned backcountry hikers, but they have a perfect reason for this. When cotton gets wet, it has zero insulation, conducts heat 25 times faster than air, wool on the other hand acts as a water repellant, preventing waterlogging. Even if the water is coming through them, they have air pockets that provide insulation. Also, if we talk about rain hats, once you have used them, you are more likely never to want to use your jacket hoodie or an umbrella. 

You should always choose a rain hat that doesn’t restrict your line of sight, your ears should not be boxed in, and the rain hats must have great brims which help to prevent the face from getting soaked. The Gore-Tex Seattle Sombrero by Outdoor Research is probably the best rain hat in the market that comes in a variety of colors and sizes.

Hiking Poles

These poles provide Indisputable advantages that result in less painful, safer, and even faster hiking. They can easily establish a consistent walking rhythm, provide balance and stability, decrease stress on feet, legs, knees, or lower back and help in maintaining proper posture. Moreover, they are used to test loose rocks, puddle depth, or help in icy terrain. These poles show a long-term benefit by extending one’s Hiking lifetime. Your Hiking poles should be light, strong, foldable, height adjustable, durable and must provide good ergonomics. 

Monocular

Monocular have a distinct advantage over binoculars because they are half of their size and weight. Moreover, they are mainly known for their instant use, by being able to fit in your pocket. Also, monocular are substantially faster and easier to focus on than a pair of binoculars, allowing you a better and quick view to see any bird in the sky or to identify any animal. You should always choose a monocular that provides a bright sharp image, prevents fogging, and is built with a waterproof case. If you are more interested in insects than birds, there are a few monocular that come with a special attachment to convert them into a microscope.

Hiking Boots

Shoes are always considered as an essential item that protects and comforts the human foot. So, as per your requirement, you should always select your footwear. For Hiking, we need . In this case, Hiking Boots are no doubt very important. They are specially made for different types of terrains and provide a grip on uneven surfaces. They are generally lightweight with a special padding on the heel and the ankle. So, hiking boots are the accessory you can Hike without.

Hammock

What can be more relaxing than gently swinging in the breeze, taking naps, and soaking in pleasant views in a hammock? Well, you don’t have to be a magician to pull out a hammock from your bag! Weighing around 600gms and compressible up to 4*5 inches, they are super lightweight hammocks. They take less than a minute to set the hammock and pack down. A few of them also come with a built-in compression sack, proving to be a great addition to your pack. Thinking of a five-minute snack break or an hour nap under a shade? Hammocks are mostly chosen for this purpose because of their comfortable design and easy access.

Why are hiking gears important? Any guesses? Yes, that was a very right guess.

Hiking gears are basically hiking equipment that is taken for outdoor walking trips. We need to know about how remote a place is or what are the potential hazards that can take place in the areas or localities which we are visiting where we are travelling.

This can be understood with an example – a short walk across farmland or a small trek in the Himalayas can decide the amount and weight of goods that might be carried along with us.

Experience Gypsy Lifestyle in 2020.

Ever wondered what it would be like if you had no permanent residence, no permanent job and you were simply a traveler? That is somewhat how being a Gypsy is. The gypsy lifestyle meaning can be two-fold – one – the Romani tribal people are known as Gypsies and two – in the broader scenario, a Gypsy is one who follows a very different way of living. You could be traveling with a caravan, or with your family to places doing odd jobs to make ends meet and you could be called a Gypsy. Being Gypsy does not mean being homeless, it means not following the idea of one home, one life, one job, one place.

The gypsy lifestyle meaning differs from regionally so the gypsy lifestyle in America would be significantly different from the Gypsy lifestyle in, say, Japan, or Europe. In this article we will share information about the gypsy lifestyle meaning, gypsy lifestyle in the USA, how different is the gypsy lifestyle in America to other places, and give brief insights on the gypsy lifestyle 2018, gypsy lifestyle 2020, gypsy lifestyle today. To understand how to lead a gypsy lifestyle, we must first understand the origins of that word and how those kinds of people – the Romani – lead their life.

Meaning of Gypsy Lifestyle

Let us first understand the gypsy lifestyle meaning. Google defines Gypsy as a nomadic, free-spirited person. ‘Gypsy’ is really a term for Romani individuals—an entirely distinctive culture. Nonetheless, in the event that you have a free soul that needs to investigate the world, meet new individuals, and carry on with an effortless life, a Gypsy way of life is the thing that you need. “Gypsy” as a word originated in the sixteenth century and implied Egyptian since Romanies were at first considered to be from Egypt. A  “Gypsy” is regularly viewed as unfavorable because of its use to mean unlawful conduct and a meandering way of life, rather than as an identifier for a specific race of individuals.

“Gyp,” which intends to cheat, is likewise hostile to Romanies on the grounds that the word likely gets from “vagabond” and generalizations each one of those ideas to be “rovers” as swindlers. So, yeah, in case you see a Romani and do not want them to get violent, don’t call them as “Oh, hey Gypsy, I read about you!” To clarify – this article refers to the definition of Gypsy as free-spirited, nomadic people who wish to lead a life on the road and be one with nature.

Gypsy Lifestyle in America

Coming to the gypsy lifestyle in the USA. There is an expected 1 million Roma (Gypsies) living in the United States, showing up to the country from various nations and communicating in various dialects. The U.S. has assumed a role of an oppressor against these people, as certain states have on their books made laws that restricted where Romanies could lease property, where they could work, and what merchandise they could sell. Be that as it may, exact insights about American Romanies are constrained due to:

  • The absence of studies surveying the financial real factors of American Romani
  • The nonappearance of Romani data on enumeration returns.
  • The pattern of some American Romanies to shroud their Romani legacy as a remnant mindset established in the separation their progenitors suffered in Europe.
  • The absence of mindfulness among certain Americans that the Romani are a real ethnic gathering, not “a Halloween ensemble” or” anecdotal characters with “wagons and ponies and tambourines”. 

With an end goal to cure the absence of insights on American Romanies, Harvard University has as of late propelled an investigation to survey the auxiliary, social, and financial status of the American Romani people group. So, if you’re an American, practicing the gypsy lifestyle in America is seen more as a downright inferior thing rather than a choice at leading a unique lifestyle.

How has it changed over the years?

There has been significant growth in the way of life that the gypsies have led in the past few years. The changes have been to an extent that you will find a major difference in the gypsy lifestyle 2018 and the gypsy lifestyle 2020. The gypsy lifestyle today is more about the modern means of earning, realizing the importance of education, etc. The best example of this is 40-year-old Roxy Freeman. She was one of 6 children to her Romani father and an American mother.

The first time she joined college was when she was 22…with no prior schooling. In her blog, she explains how she could cook for a family of 10, light a fire, and bake bread on an open fire by the age of 9. She could even forecast when it would rain by simply smelling the air. When she wrote the blog, she lived in an apartment in London with her boyfriend – and that was almost 11 years ago!

So you would be expected, if you desired to live a gypsy lifestyle today to be modern but mediocre, skillful but humble, and most importantly, minimal but content.

How are the Gypsy and Minimalistic Lifestyles related?

While the two terms may sound different, you must do one if you wish for the other. If you have understood the gypsy lifestyle meaning, you have understood it’s a way of living with no luxurious amenities or extras. You may use technology for working remotely – maybe use a laptop and internet for work from home job, but that does not mean you watching memes on Instagram is okay.

So, say bye to the hundred sets of shoes and satchels that you own! Figure out how to have a basic existence. This doesn’t mean you live in a cavern, wearing dry leaves, however, that you comprehend there’s a whole other world to life than materialistic attractions.

How can one follow the Gypsy Lifestyle?

Recall Esmerelda from Disney’s Hunchback of Notre Dame? Since we saw the excellent rover young lady, with a spiritualist and free soul, we’ve longed for being a tramp, as well. However, there’s much more to being a tramp, obviously. It’s not just about the voyaging, long, flowy garments, astounding gems, and so on. A bit of advice that would surely do you a world of good when you embrace this lifestyle is – find a partner. It’s bad for you to stay single, and not on the grounds that you’ll be forlorn. Unmarried grown-ups are regularly thought to be a little wobbly like possibly you have a few issues you have to work out. Try not to stress however, wedded life will be okay. Ladies are treated as equivalents with men, you simply have various tasks to carry out.

How to earn a buck as a Gypsy?

Begin doing some voice practices now since one way you’ll procure some cash for the family is by singing or recounting stories. In case you’re truly not one for the performing arts you may take up the job of entryway to-entryway sales rep. At last, there are the well-established crafts of fortune-telling and palm reading to acquire a buck or two. With regard to traditions, the Gypsies are extremely severe. To the extent that for your body, the upper portion of you is treated as pure. It’s free of impurities and overall allowable to be shown-off. Everything in the lower half — forget about it.

That half of you is unclean so make certain to keep it hidden, procured under full-worn clothes. You can even defile a male in the event that you let your skirt touch with him openly. In case you’re seen as impure, you may get kicked out of the community. Things you must learn before beginning are – cooking, eating raw food sometimes and adjusting in relation to living in trailers and natural hollows.

These steps aren’t as hard as they sound, and people who have embraced this way of life have been able to create a lot of memories they will cherish for life. So that was all about the gypsy lifestyle meaning, gypsy lifestyle in the USA, along with differences between traditional gypsy lifestyle or say the gypsy lifestyle 2018 compared to the gypsy lifestyle 2020 i.e. the gypsy lifestyle today. If you have new insights of facts to add about this unique way of life, let us know in the comments section down below! Oh, and if you ever plan to embrace this life, don’t forget to tell us your plans!

Advertisements

Top 10 Places to Visit in Asia.

With its vast array of islands, mountains and mega metropolises, one can simply not pick out 10 top places to visit in Asia. However, we’ve done our best to curate a list that caters to your needs, bringing you the best places in Asia to enjoy your vacation to the fullest. Pack your bags, pick your destination, follow this guide and find out the miracle that Asia is!

The best time to visit Asian countries is between November and March, when the temperature is moderate in most countries and festivals and carnivals are ongoing in most. This time period is mostly ideal for Southeast Asian countries, including Maldives and Thailand.

1. Maldives

Maldives tops the list of the ten best places to visit in Asia, for its picturesque location, scenic beauty and variety of fun activities available make it absolutely irresistible. The beauty of Maldives is unbelievable; we’ve all come across it and wondered how something so astonishing be real. With its breath-taking sunsets and sunrises, white sand beaches and striking blue water and coral reefs, Maldives in itself is the complete package.

Maldives is divided into several islands, some of which remain public while some others have been converted into private islands. While the former are somewhat budget-friendly, the latter home heavily expensive activities and the world-famous Water Villas, which open right into the endless ocean. After getting down at the Velana International Airport in Male (the Capital city), one can either take a speedboat to one of the islands or a sea plane to one of the private islands.

The island nation of Maldives is especially a favourite amongst honeymooners, as the seclusion and gorgeous location provide a beautiful background to a romantic trip. Adventurers are also sure to have a ton of fun, with activities like Jet-skiing, Scuba Diving, Rafting, and especially Snorkelling readily available.

Best Time to Visit Maldives

The best time to visit Maldives is between April and November, when there is little precipitation and warm temperature.

Best Hotels in Maldives

  1. Vivanta by Taj Coral Reef, Maldives
  2. PER AQUUM Huaven Fushi
  3. Taj Exotica Resort and Spa
  4. Adaaran Prestige Water Villas
  5. Anantara Veli Maldives Resort

 Top Things to do in Maldives

  1. Relax at the white sandy Maldivian beaches
  2. Tour the capital city of Male, including sites like Republic Square, the National Museum and Sultan Park
  3. Enjoy adventure activities like Snorkelling, Scuba Diving, and Parasailing
  4. Visit the Male fish market to get a glimpse of Maldives’ daily life
  5. Book a spa treatment at one of the many glamourous Spa Centres.

2. Tokyo

Crazy about anime, the city of Tokyo looks like it has been made out of a cartoon book itself. This mega city in Japan is constantly buzzing with movement, be it people or vehicles. The museums and historical sites located in Tokyo are world-class- one can take photos and enjoy sushi, or find a superb backdrop against the Cherry Blossom trees in the right season!

An extremely safe city, one can travel around Tokyo and enjoy how life is always in motion through its subway. However, there are very high chances that one may be tempted to enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city on foot!

Best Time to Visit Tokyo

Tokyo can be best enjoyed in the months of March, April, September and November. Autumn is the best time for experiencing the full potential of Tokyo, as the city is at its best in terms of colour and comfort.

Best Hotels in Tokyo

  1. Comfort Hotel Tokyo Kanda
  2. Comfort Hotel Tokyo Higashi Nihombashi
  3. Hotel Rose Garden Shinjuku
  4. Conrad Tokyo
  5. Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi

Top Things to do in Tokyo:

  1. Visit the Tokyo National Museum to learn about Japanese history
  2. Check out the unique architecture at the Meiji Shrine
  3. Visit the Sensoji Temple, the oldest religious site in Tokyo
  4. Spend time at Odaiba, the mini-island located at Tokyo Bay; a hub of entertainment
  5. Catch the exciting interactive displays available at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation

3. Phuket

Not just home to a varied landscape comprising of beaches, aquamarine waters and limestone cliffs, Phuket also boasts of a flavourful cuisine and its rich culture. This island is one of the most budget-friendly options for spending your vacations, requiring only moderate charges for everything, be it boat rides, accommodation or spa treatments.

Surrounded by the Andaman Sea, Phuket is located only an hour away from Bangkok. Remembering the tsunami that hit the beautiful island back in 2004, Phuket remembers everything with memorials and a stricter protection system.

Best Time to Visit Phuket

The months between November and April are ideal for travelling to Phuket and enjoying water activities like boating and swimming. While the low prices during the monsoon months (May to October) might be tempting, the water conditions during this time can be dangerous.

Best Hotels in Phuket:

  1. Andara Resort Villas
  2. Trisara Villas and Residences Phuket
  3.  Jasmine House
  4. Ibis Phuket Kata
  5. Metropole Hotel Phuket

Top Things to do in Phuket:

  1. Catch an amazing view of the Andaman Sea from Phuket’s southernmost point, Promthep Cape
  2. Enjoy a bird-eye view of the Kata Bay, Karon Strand and Chalong Bay from the giant Big Buddha statue
  3. Feast at the authentic collection of restaurants near the Nai Harn Beach, the southernmost strip of sand in Phuket
  4. Spend time with furry buddies at the Soi Dog Foundation, an innovative rescue shelter for cats and dogs.
  5. Go snorkelling and boating on the Phuket Boat Tours

4. Bali

Bali is the perfect definition of heaven on earth. Accommodating every traveller, from one travelling on budget to one travelling in luxury, Bali manages to make one feel at home even though they are far away from it. Those interested in its vast history are keen to travel to its many temples, while the adventurers find themselves en route the active volcano in Kintamani. The town of Kuta, on the other hand, provides a perfect setting for enjoying the Bali nightlife.

Best Time to Visit Bali

The island’s dry season i.e. the months between April and October are most comfortable for those willing to enjoy the beaches.

Best Hotels in Bali

  1. Capella Ubud
  2. Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan
  3. Ida Hotel
  4. AlamKulKul Boutique Resort, Kuta
  5. Mercure Resort, Sanur

Top Things to do in Bali

  1. Offer prayers at the active prayer temple, Tirta Empul Temple
  2. Rave about the stunning cliffside locale, beautiful architecture and the sound of waves down below the Uluwatu Temple
  3. Enjoy the sunset from Tanah Lot Temple, also a stunning religious complex
  4. Feast on the succulent seafood and relax on the sandy shoreline of Jimbaran, one of Bali’s most luxurious destinations
  5. Explore through Kuta, Bali’s most popular beach town, for a variety of brilliant restaurants, bars, stores, spas and water parks.

5. Hong Kong

Hong Kong boasts of a vibrant, multifaceted culture and stunning cityscape. This British-Chinese hybrid sees both dense skyscrapers and lush landscapes. As a world-class metropolis, Hong Kong has numerous urban divisions, like culinary hot spots and museums. It also offers both sandy beaches and rugby pitches to all its visitors.

Best Time to Visit Hong Kong

The period between October and December offers comfortable temperatures along with reasonable room rates. Post New Year’s, visiting Hong Kong gets significantly pricey.

Best Hotels in Hong Kong

  1. Rambler Oasis Hotel
  2. Silka Far East Hotel
  3. Regal Riverside Hotel
  4. Cordis Hong Kong at Langham Place
  5. Mandarin Oriental

Top Things to Do in Hong Kong

  1. Enjoy the scenic route around the city by travelling in the Star Ferry
  2. View the entire city from its highest point, the Victoria Peak
  3. Go on a shopping spree at the Street Markets
  4. Gamble (legally!) at the Happy Valley Racecourse
  5. Watch the majestic Hong Kong line without obstructions from the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade

6. Kyoto

Kyoto provides tourists with a snapshot of Imperial Japan; right from its cherry blossom trees to a pair of elegantly dressed geisha flitting between wooden tea houses. However, it’s not just a dainty old town- Kyoto has its own fair share of glimpses of a newer Japan. Be it century old Shinto shrines or the headquarters of companies like Nintendo and Kyocera, Kyoto stands out as a combination of ancient and contemporary, and shines vibrantly, that has certainly moved on from its predecessor.

Best Time to Visit Kyoto

The months between March and May, along with between September and November, make up the best time to visit Kyoto, since the weather is at its mildest. However, this time also draws tourists in huge crowds, most of who visit in anticipation of the blooming cherry blossoms.

Best Hotels in Kyoto

  1. Four Seasons Hotel
  2. Suiran- A Luxury Collection Hotel
  3. The Ritz-Carlton
  4. Hotel Granvia
  5. Hyatt Regency

Top Things to do in Kyoto

  1. Witness the 10,000 red and orange lacquered torii gates at the Fushimi Inari Shrine
  2. Enjoy the natural scenery from the Kiyomizu Temple
  3. Experience the historic features (tea houses, willow-lined roads etc.) of the Gion neighbourhood
  4. Admire the cherry blossom trees from the quaint Arashiyama neighbourhood
  5. Shop for traditional Japanese cuisine at the Nishiki Market

7. Singapore

This modern Asian metropolis maintains a balance of green belts and skyscrapers. In addition to this, it has also managed to sustain substantial ethnic enclaves like Chinatown and Little India. However, Singapore, in spite of being modern in its approach, has managed to preserve large wetlands.

Best Time to Visit Singapore

The best time to visit Singapore is anytime, as the island nation experiences a warm, tropical climate year-round. However, one must beware that it rains all throughout the year.

Best Hotels in Singapore

  1. The Fullerton Bay Hotels
  2. Ascott Raffles Place
  3. Capella
  4. Conrad Centennial
  5. Crowne Plaza Changi Airport

Top Things to do in Singapore

  1. Skip the trek and enjoy the urban jungle of Gardens by the Bay
  2. Entertain yourself at numerous points of interest like the Art & Science Museum and the Float at Marina Bay.
  3. Enjoy nature at the Singapore Botanic Gardens
  4. Witness the indoor waterfall at Cloud Forest
  5. Eat out at the various eateries and food stalls in Chinatown

8. Bangkok

Bangkok is one city with a dynamic environment; the contrast in its settings is quite chaotic. Most people visiting Bangkok for the first time feel like it is trapped between the past and the present, with both ancient temples and modern shopping malls lining up the streets of Thailand’s capital.

The exhilarating city of Bangkok is sure to take a toll on its visitors; the hot weather is consistent and the city is full of crowds. However, the grass is greener on the other side, and in this case, it is in the form of numerous attractions sure to leave you flabbergasted- the world’s largest open-air market, a world-class aquarium built inside an eight-level shopping mall and a 150-feet golden Buddha statue, to name a few. Bangkok has a certain ‘delightful incongruity’ to offer, so stay ready for surprises!

Best Time to Visit Bangkok

The best time to visit Bangkok, weather-wise, is between November and March because heat and humidity at this time are at their lowest. However, a trip between April and October, in spite of being the hottest time with heavy rainfall, can offer you wonderful deals on airfare and hotels. An added advantage is less footfall, so one can be saved from excessive crowding.

Best Hotels in Bangkok

  1. New Empire Hotel
  2. Rembrandt Towers Serviced Apartments
  3. Grand Inn Hotel
  4. The Okura Prestige
  5. The Siam

Top Things to do in Bangkok

  1. Behold the Wat Arun Temple at dawn or sunset
  2. Witness the infamous ‘reclining Buddha’ at the Wat Pho Temple
  3. Shop for a multitude of goods at the mammoth Chatuchak Weekend Market
  4. Visit the beautiful Grand Palace, which has been home to numerous Thai Kings
  5. Enjoy the contemporary architecture found at the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre

9. Seoul

The city of Seoul, characterized by stunning architecture, vibrant culture and a thriving economy, is resilient in nature. Congruent to its flag which represents ‘balance’, Seoul seems to be moving fast into the future; however, it has also managed to maintain ties with its rich history. One can find relics of Seoul’s past tucked between the vast shopping districts and lively nightlife zones.

Seoul offers a playful blend of the past and the present- the two do not overlap, rather complement each other. It boasts of   the oldest and largest of the five Joseon Dynasty palaces in the city, Gyeongbok Palace. On the other hand, Seoul is also home to Buckon Village, which comprises of one-story wooden homes surrounded by high-rises. This provides a clear picture of the varied architecture present in Seoul.

Best Time to Visit Seoul

The best time to visit Seoul includes the months between March and May, and between September and November. The weather in these months is mild, and travel expenses are not very high. Those in search of a snowy vacation can also choose to visit between December and February.

Best Hotels in Seoul

  1. JW Marriott Hotel
  2. Banyan Tree Club and Spa
  3. Grand Intercontinental Seoul Parnas
  4. Grand Walkerhill
  5. Mayfield Hotel and Resort

Top Things to do in Seoul

  1. Visit the Namsan Park and N Seoul Tower for a panoramic view of Seoul
  2. Take a stroll through the traditional Korean homes known as hanoks at the Bukchon Hanok Village
  3. Hike to the mountainous Bukhansan National Park
  4. Witness the youth culture of Seoul at Hongdae, through its plethora of bars, clubs, restaurants and cafes
  5. Shop for hanbok (traditional Indian clothing), herbal teas and calligraphy supplies from the Insadong neighbourhood

10. Shanghai

The city of Shanghai is in a state of constant change; thus, get ready to say goodbye to monotony! Celebrating its prosperity with monumental industries like that of the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, Shanghai can be defined as China’s most dynamic metropolis.

However, one may find themselves getting lost in this city full of towering skyscrapers and bustling traffic. To prevent the place from feeling inaccessible and impersonal, one must do things that curtail to the ‘real’ Shanghai natives. Discover dining gems at the convoluted Zhujiajiao, find a calm spot at the Bund and reflect at the beautiful Jade Buddha Temple. To enjoy the vibrancy of Shanghai, create your own!

Best Time to Visit Shanghai

The months of October-November are ideal for visiting Shanghai. These short autumn months provide for the comfortable weather and minimal crowds. It also allows one to escape the crowds and rain showers generally witnessed during summer, which is the peak season. Weekend stays at hotels are comparatively cheaper, since Shanghai is a business-centric city.

Best Hotels in Shanghai:

  1. Fairmont Peace Hotel
  2. Grand Kempinski Hotel
  3. Kerry Hotel Pudong
  4. Pudong Shangri-La East Shanghai
  5. The Langham, Shanghai, Xintiandi

Top Things to do in Shanghai:

  1. Take beautiful pictures against the classic Shanghai skyline and water front at the infamous Bund
  2. Witness the distinct architecture of the Shanghai Museum
  3. Enjoy a boat ride and eat at tiny cafes located in the ancient water town of Zhujajiao
  4. Catch a bird-eye view of the entire city from one of the tallest buildings in the world, the Shanghai World Financial Centre
  5. Visit the oldest and largest religious complex of Shanghai, the Longhua Temple

Here are the top 10 places to visit in Asia. Each one of these places have a wonderful aura and charm about themselves, and must be enjoyed to the fullest. So, pack your bags, pick up this tour guide, and plan a vacation for yourself, your friends and your family to make a bucketful of memories!

Unbelievable Travel and Tourism Success Stories :

People sometimes refer to me as an explorer, but I am not. Those who follow maps are adventurers, those who wrote the maps were the explorers.

some Inspiring Traveler Tales From Around the World :

A JOURNEY TO RIVAL THE ODYSSEY :

Karl Bushby is attempting to be the first person to completely walk an unbroken path around the world. He began his quest, known as the Goliath Expedition , in 1998 at the tip of South America and is still on the move. He hopes to reach his home in England soon, and as of 2020 he was encountering some visa obstacles, but is still committed to finishing his walking adventure. At journey’s end, he’ll have walked over 36,000 miles, through icy seas, mountains, and deserts , across four continents and two dozen countries.

FORBIDDEN TRAVELS TO A FORBIDDEN CITY :

“Ever since I was five years old, a tiny precocious child of Paris, I wished to move out of the narrow limits in which, like all children of my age, I was then kept. I craved to go beyond the garden gate, to follow the road that passed it by, and to set out for the Unknown.

Famous French explorer Alexandra David-Neel made history in the early 1900s by walking, disguised as a male beggar, across China and Tibet and into the forbidden and fabled city of Lhasa. She then wrote over 30 books about Eastern religion, philosophy, and her travels, until her death at age 101. It is said that her teachings influenced beat writers Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg. She is surely one of the greatest female adventurers of the 20th century, and her travel stories also rank as some of the best travel books of our time. Check out her entire collection of stories and be inspired—we particularly love her journey to Lhasa.

DANCING, BADLY :

The dancing gives me an opportunity to see places I’d never get to otherwise. I love to travel. The people and experiences have taught me a great deal.

In 2003, Matt Harding quit his day job to embark on a journey that would lead him to more than 39 countries in seven continents. Best known for a dance that looks very similar to running in place while snapping, Matt and his dance eventually attracted the attention of Stride Gum. The company then then paid Matt to travel, dance and record videos.

Matt has danced with locals in Mulindi, Rwanda; in a narrow canyon in Petra, Jordan; on a lush hillside overlooking Machu Picchu in Peru; and in a crowded street in Tokyo, Japan, all on his sponsor’s dime. Although he no longer actively updates his website, the videos live on, as does his collection of short travel stories on social media and elsewhere, and make for an entertaining and inspiring journey around the world.

Now it’s turn for some Indian travelling stories :

Exploring Rajasthan’s Ranakpur Temple

Between the intricate carvings, jungle views and visiting monkeys, Chaumukha Mandir, the Jain Temple at Ranakpur, will transport you to another world.

Built in the 15th century, this enormous complex has 1,400 pillars, each one hand-carved with its own unique patterns, icons and elements from nature – no two pillars are alike.

Wander around the different chambers and marvel at the craftsmanship that took around 65 years to complete.  Don’t forget to stop for a photo of the lush jungle through the temple windows, or to get a glimpse of the families of monkeys that leap between the columns and domes.

Guides aren’t allowed in the temple, so make sure to grab an audio guide before you head in so that you can make the most of your experience and learn a bit more about the Jain religion if you’re not families with its traditions and beliefs.

Kolkata & The Sunderbans

If you are talking to an Indian and mention the Kolkata, the first response is generally a wistful sigh and an explanation about the amazing street food available there.  When you are in a country that is known globally for having delicious food, this says quite a lot!  However, there is more to Kolkata than food.    The city was once the capital of British India and Kolkata is dotted with beautiful colonial buildings that remind visitors of a bygone era.   It is also the location of India’s biggest Durga Puja festival which transforms the city into a giant open air museum.  Adorable blue and yellow taxis whirl around the city like cartoon cars and iconic blue buses ply the streets and a wide variety of bars and restaurants line the streets.

Kolkata is a much-loved destination by expats in India because of the delicious food, beautiful architecture and calm city streets.  Yet, it gets even better!  Kolkata is also the entry point of the famous Sunderbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its incredible biodiversity.   Known as one of the largest mangrove forests in the world, the Sunderbans are home to Bengal tigers, crocodiles, wild boars, deer and a wide array of birds.   While the Sunderbans are located in both Bangladesh and India, the easiest (and cheapest) place to organize trips is from Kolkata itself.

You can opt for an overnight boat trip operated by the West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation.  However, we highly recommend staying in an eco-village located near the park which gives you the chance to help support the local community.  (Our favorite “village” employs women from the local village.  Most of the jobs available in the Sunderbans are very dangerous and this is a safe way for them to make a living and support their families.)

Kolkata is easily accessible from most major cities in India with direct flights from Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore.  For onward travel, flights to Port Blair in the Andamans are inexpensive and relatively frequent.  Otherwise, you can grab a train to Darjeeling or even travel overland to Dhaka, Bangladesh!

Ladakh

The region of Ladakh is jaw-droppingly beautiful and the warm Ladakh (similar to Tibetan) culture is welcoming to female travelers. Head to Leh, join up with a tour and make your way to the hotspots of Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake for a Ladakh trip that you are unlikely to forget!  Getting to Ladakh can either be very tricky or pretty straightforward.  Direct flights operate from Delhi or you can take a gruelling 2-day bus trip from Manali.

Patna Tourism

Prospering along the southern banks of river Ganges and set in the backdrop of a glorious historical past, Patna boasts of a dominating presence in history and enjoys the distinction of being one of the oldest cities in the world. In addition to being one of the major and most popular tourist destinations in India, this capital city of Bihar also holds significant religious and spiritual importance as it is a gateway to pilgrimage sites of Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists.

Originally called as Pataliputra, Patna is currently a hot-bed for the culminating political fortunes. One of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world, it is the quintessential North Indian town  – West of the city lies the area called Bankipur, while towards the southwest is the new area with wide roads and swanky buildings. The cultural heritage of Bihar is reflected in the many monuments housed in Patna, the most famous ones being Patna Sahib Gurudwara, Patna Planetarium, the Highcourt, Golghar, Secretariat Building and Padri ki Haveli among numerous other attractions. Typical of an Indian city, the riverside city of Patna is also known for some palatable dishes – litti chokha being the king of all! 

You never know what you’ll learn about yourself when you challenge yourself and experience the unexpected as you look to find your unknown.