Drunken Donuts Recipe

Donuts are considered one of the most popular desserts in the United States from Nashville, Denver, Anaheim to Colombus. Sweet and luscious, this fried confection can be eaten at any time of the day. Americans even celebrate National Donut Day, which proves the popularity of this delicious dessert in the US.

No one knows when or where this sweet dish was first prepared. However, according to some historical records, the Dutch made a sweet treat known as olykoeks or oil cakes during the mid 19th century. They were basically round balls of cake, deep fried in pork fat. These were stuffed with fruits, nuts, or other fillings.

Through the Dutch immigrants in North America, the olykoeks were popularized and were subsequently prepared in many different ways, using a variety of recipes. Gradually, these olykoeks evolved to become the delicious donuts of the modern era.

Donuts and alcohol are two of the most popular edible items in modern America. Hence, these two items were eventually combined to form a unique dessert. This boozy dessert has been gaining popularity as a homemade dish over the past few generations. Typically, donuts are a part of the breakfast menu, and boozy donuts are gradually topping the list of popular desserts these days among popular food in America.

Let's learn some amazing drunken donut recipes that can be tried at home. These donut recipes can be used to make the perfect dessert item for Sunday brunch. The dish can also be added as a unique sweet dish at cocktail parties.

Drunken Donuts Recipe

How to Prepare Boozy Donuts?


All variants of drunken donuts are prepared from one simple recipe. The basic donut preparation method with alcohol is given below.

Servings: 12 (approx.)

Ingredients:
  • 2 cups of all-purpose baking mix
  • ¼ cup of sugar
  • 1 egg
  • Alcohol (as suggested)

Procedure:

Prepare a mixture of baking mix, sugar, and egg by stirring the ingredients in a bowl. Once you have the base mixture, you now have to add alcohol to this concoction. Make small lumps of the batter and lighten it up by adding alcohol. Blend everything finely together and coat each of the lumps with flour, until the pieces are half an inch thicker. Now, slice these lumps in the shape of donuts. To do this, you can make use of a shot glass or the rims of a highball.

You can either bake or fry the donuts, depending on your preferences. When you want to bake, take a parchment lined cookie sheet and place it in an oven, which should be preheated to 425 degrees for eight minutes. If you prefer fried donuts, make sure that the frying pan contains enough oil to submerge the donuts fully. Turn the pieces of donut over when they start floating. To cook the other side of the drunken donuts, another five minutes will be required. Then, leave them for five more minutes to cool before you add the frosting.

Procedure for Making the Frosting

Take ½ cup of powdered sugar and some alcohol. This is enough to make about 12 donuts. To cover the donuts with this frosting, you can utilize a basting brush or a spoon.

Here are varieties of Donut preparation using the aforementioned basic Donut batter:

Mimosa Donut

While making this donut, pour 1/3 cup of orange juice into the base donut mix and also a small amount of triple sec. Blend all the ingredients together well, and bake or fry the donut pieces according to your liking. To prepare the icing, add one shot of sparkling wine to the powdered sugar, and then a splash of triple sec.

Old Fashioned Whiskey Donuts Recipe

Combine one-third of a cup of bourbon or rye whiskey with the base donut batter, and add a few dashes of bitters. Prepare the frosting by mixing one tablespoon of cherry juice with the powdered sugar. You can then enjoy these drunken donuts in the best way with a glass of straight whiskey. For beginners, the old fashioned donut is the best one to start with.

Cosmopolitan Donut

For preparing this version of a drunken donut, choose citrus or top shelf lime vodka and add 1/3 of a cup of this drink to the base mixture. The frosting is prepared by using a single shot of cranberry liqueur or cranberry juice.

Pina Colada Donut

Coconut is widely used in many baked treats. Prepare Pina Colada donut by pouring 1/3 cup coconut rum into the batter, along with a shot of pineapple liqueur, in order to make the icing. For extra garnishing, sprinkle coconut flakes on top of these boozy donuts.

Black and Tan Donut

The idea for this type of drunken donut originated in the popular beer cookies. The flavor of beer works well with rich chocolate in a dessert. Take your basic donut batter and add three tablespoons of baking cocoa, and 1/3 cup of pale ale. For icing, use a shot of chocolate liqueur. Dip these black and tan donuts into a glass of Guinness for the best taste.

In Conclusion

Try out the above-mentioned mouth-watering drunken donut recipes and surprise your family and friends with your cooking skills. Include any one or two of these sweet desserts in your next party and make it a roaring hit!

9 Best Places to Visit in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

And those who follow me through networks especially through my Instagram will know that in tune with the name of the blog, I love reaching the most hidden corners, curious, and well preserved. It is hard to imagine a die-hard travel enthusiast not visiting Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. An unexplored paradise in Arunachal Pradesh, it is one of the most beautiful places of the north-eastern Himalayas.

Tawang is famous for its monasteries and is the birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama and is thus of immense importance for the Tibetan Buddhists. It is famous for the scenic beauty and its historical site but the Tawang monastery takes the cake! The 400-year-old Tawang Monastery is one of the largest Indian monasteries and is of unparalleled significance to the Buddhists.

The main attractions are Tawang Monastery, Urgelling Monastery, Tawang War Memorial, Nuranang Falls, or the Jang Falls, etc. You wouldn’t regret visiting Tawang and once back after your trip, you will suggest many others to do so. Tawang is nestled amidst Gudpi and Chong Chugmi ranges while Tawang Chu river washing its feet.

places to visit in Tawang

If you are visiting India for the first time then it is a must-visit place.

1. Bhalukpong


On the journey from Guwahati to Tawang, there was an abundance of towns, fields, forests, hills and rivers to maintain the spirits. And then, as we were making the trip in the month of February, there was a bonus in the form of snow. It was a journey that began auspiciously along the Brahmaputra River.

We crossed the green plains of Assam, towards the hills of Arunachal Pradesh, that enigmatic part of Arunachal that, located in the northwest corner of Assam, borders both Bhutan and Tibet. Going up, we took five leisurely days to cover the more than 500 kilometers and, on the way back, three, and in the middle we spent two days at our destination, Tawang.

We drove in a Bolero, and in fact, most of the other vehicles on the route were Scorpios and Sumos. I sat in the front seat with the driver, which meant that I was sure of good views and that I could secure parts of the driver's local knowledge.

We started from Guwahati on an unusually sleepy morning, crossed the north bank of the Brahmaputra and traveled through almost continuously cultivated land. We see small fields lined with palm trees, bamboos and bananas, and some nice mud and bamboo houses, often giving way to the cheap functionality of brick and cement.

On our first afternoon, we searched (and found) rhinoceroses in the Orang National Park. Shortly before Tezpur, the national highway ended and the double lane gave way to a single lane and shortly after Charduar, forested areas and hills appear in the distance. The forests began to appear with a gratifyingly greater frequency than the fields, and the hills dotted the horizon.

Bhalukpong, just one hour before Nameri, is where Assam ends and Arunachal begins, and we arrived here to spend the night. But the next day, everything changed.

2. Rupa


The change here was dramatic. The internal line permits were verified, obligatory for all the visitors of this border state, and then the climb began. The Jia Bhoroli River was renamed Kameng here, and the first Buddhist prayer flags began to wave in the wind, scattering their blessings.

Most of the inhabitants of western Arunachal are called monpas and are mostly Buddhists. In Arunachal, the road is usually a series of sharp curves, sometimes next to the river, then it rises towards the mountains and goes down again. We drove through an unusual habitat of a rain forest with a canopy of tall trees that had climbers climbing over them, and a dense undergrowth creating darkness below.

These are areas with minimal human presence, in itself a visual gift. We visited Rupa, an ancient monastery, later in the day. The monastery and the city, originally called Tukpan, are beautifully located at 4,618 feet, surrounded by mountains on all sides. The three-centuries-old gompa is a colorful wooden structure typical of Himalayan Buddhism.

Here I was surprised to see a long ritual carried out by the local villagers. It seems that Monpas and Shertukpen have been Buddhists for more than a millennium, and the women retained traces of their previous religious traditions (sometimes without informing men), and then incorporated into the broader Buddhist practice.

3. Bomdila


As you go on towards Dirang, do pay a visit to Bomdila. This place is known for the exotic and rare birds.

4. Dirang


Dirang is a town in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. It is located about 43 km from Bomdila on the way to Tawang. This place might surprise you with a plethora of options to visit. Starting with Dirang Dzong, it’s a tribal area on shores of Dirang River with its stunning tribal architecture. And many houses there are hundreds of year old.

It might take you with surprise that this sturdy architecture is made out of merely wood and stones. The incredible hot water spring can never fail to fascinate you. It has strong curative elements. Kalchakra Gompa, another monestry, is 500 years old.

places to visit in Tawang travel guide

5. Sangti Valley


On the way to Bomdila-Tawang Highway, it’s hardly 7 Kms. Surrounded by the Himalayas, lush green forests, and fresh water rivers you can spot migratory birds here. See its winter visitors, the black-necked cranes.

Around us were the Himalayas, with their upper parts covered with thick white clouds. The clouds rose slowly, leaving behind white patches in the trees that waited outside for snow. When I asked a villager where the road would take us, she pointed and said, they will enter those clouds and they will rise and they will go away inside them.

Up there, in those clouds, where they were leaving fresh snow for us, that was the highlight of our trip from Guwahati to Tawang, both literally and figuratively. We were at a height of 9,337 feet, and there was snow on the few rooftops that formed the village of Dzong. It was on the edge of the road, forming a white border for black tar.

And it was here that our car started its journey through the clouds. It was as if a thick white ether had saturated everything, blocking all the light. The visibility was less than 100 meters, the trees were heavy with snow and the road was a white field with wheel tracks. We took some pictures there, and they all came out in black and white, there was no color in those frames.

places to visit in Tawang travel guide

6. Sela Pass


It took us 2 hours to complete the 20 km trip that awaited us. The car in front of us got stuck and it took a long collaborative effort to get it moving again. In the end, we had climbed above the clouds, and a warm sun was shining on us. It was quite nice at the top. We were at Sela Pass at 13,700 feet. While driving, it continued snowing.

We stop at the Sela Lake for an hour while two men on an excavator were trying to find the black surface of the road beneath masses of white cotton. Around us were hills and valleys covered with snow that I discovered with delight.

7. Tawang Monastery


Tawang, its new city and its old fortified monastery, were only a few hours away. We went down the mountain, which was a place of battles during the Indochina War of 1962, deep in the valley to cross another river, towns of the past and thousands of prayer flags. Finally we arrived at Tawang, which was lost in the middle of the fog, and offered no warmth but enough hope, with its innumerable monasteries, towns and stories.

This hope emerged bright and unambiguous in the morning with the sun and radically changed the disposition of the entire city. Dozens of people emerged, dressed in their incredibly colorful costumes, holding bundles of illuminated agarbattis, spreading the fragrance and laughter from one gompa to the next, and all over the hills, whose snow-capped tops smiled benevolently and blessed the initial days of the New Year, celebrated as Losar.

The festivities involve a lot of food, drink and dancing, and a break from everything that is considered work, including offices and stores. Those would continue for a few more days as we began our return trip, hoping to experience the snow again in Sela Pass. But we discovered that most of the snow had disappeared, taking with it a large part of the upper layer of the road.

The clouds also disappeared, and as a result, for the first time we saw the menacing zigzags of the road below, hugging an almost vertical face of a black mountain. We prepared to face those curves. Our minds were filled with the memories of the lovely walks in the villages around Tawang.

Tawang Monastery, also known as the Golden Namgyal Lhatse, is one of the largest lamaseries of Mahayana sects and the second largest Monastery in Asia after Lhasa. With a control over 17 Gompas in the region, this monastery is believed to be 400 years old and is passed through by the current Dalai lama on his escape from Tibet. This astonishing three-storeyed 17th century monastery with its mystic background and a stunning 8m high gilded statue of Buddha is full of priceless thangkas, manuscripts and books.

8. Nameri National Park


It was a lovely time to stop drinking in this change, and we stopped at the Nameri National Park for a night to enjoy the forest, its copious bird life and the Jia Bhoroli River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra.

The time we spent at the Eco Camp in Nameri was more than a stopover, memorable with rafting, an island picnic on the river, a risky sighting of two wild elephants and a bit of beer by a bonfire at night.

9. Nameri


The day we left Nameri, a group of Bodo had called bandh. We were in the Bodo area in Assam and, on the highway, all stores were closed and there were no civilian vehicles. Our driver, himself a Bodo and an expert in negotiating bandhs, waited for an army convoy to pass and accompany them. He also gave us several ideas about the complex political world of several Bodo organizations.

11 Best Places to Visit in Kochi, Kerala

Bring your shades along with the caps and comfortable clothes. We are headed to some of the best places to visit in Kochi! Cochin is a part of the Ernakulam district and is the biggest seaport city. With the blooming heritages and cuisines, Kerala, aka Gods Own Country is an active tourist place since the 1980s. The state is filled vastly with hills, beaches, waterfalls, dams, mountains.

If you love to see the beaches, then Kerala has lots of beaches where you can just sit by the beachside to watch the magnificent view, or you can also engage in some water sports. And breathe. A romantic getaway is a perfect opportunity to relax and there are lots of ways to do that in India, whether you venture to the countryside or spend some time on one of the beautiful beaches of the west coast.

From wildlife sanctuaries to temples, tourists get to experience nature much better than most places around. The easy-going locals are always intrigued by the outsiders and the conversations that comes up along. One can rent a self-drive car in Kochi to visit from place to place along with a travel guide.

places to visit in kochi

So with less far ado and more coconut oil, here are the most exceptional places near Kochi.

1. Cherai Beach


Cherai beach is also one of the major tourist locations in Kerala and is around 17 km away from the city. This famous beach is only a couple kilometers away from Kochi, located in the Cherai village. The beach is a 15 KM stretch of sand, clean and pretty shallow waters. It also has a lagoon and a clear cut view of the ocean in the distance. There is a sideways and walkway for people to walk along the beachside, and the newly added lamps, that makes the beach more enjoyable at night.

The shores are filled with shells and other stunning things that the waves leave behind on the coast. Dolphins are a tourist attraction are, as well as the childrens park, and fishing, with Chinese fishing nets. The beach has a tourism festival every December.

2. Fort Kochi


It is one of the best place to visit in Kochi and is about 17 kms away from Cochin. The place is a mix of British, Dutch, French, Portugal and Indian culture. Even just walking and looking around is fun at Fort Kochi. There are so many places to visit in here, like the Vasco da Gama square where the people come to see the locals fishing using Chinese fishing nets that are 10 m high.

For accommodation, it is possible for travellers to find budget hotels in Fort Kochi at affordable rates. But is this the only thing tourists worry about? Certainly not. Tourists also worry about finding places for sightseeing, restaurants for having meals etc.

First thing that worries the tourist is accommodation. It's so because one cannot explore the entire Kochi city without taking a break. It would be just too much for anyone. You can find several homestays or hotels in Ernakulam district that fit in your budget. Wondering what homestay is?

Fort Kochi has witnessed an increase in the number of homestays in the area. They are cheaper and create the ambience of the home. Couples or families can easily book rooms or flats and stay for a weekend or stretch their vacation for a couple of weeks. Not only homestays but you can find many hotels in the area. These hotels offer all the luxury at affordable rates. So, you need not worry about spending on exorbitant accommodation charges.

3. Marine Drive


It is one of the most preferred places to visit in Kochi of locals when they want to spend some time with their friends and family. It's one part of the city that witnesses thriving business round the clock. Marine Drive is also famous for sporting numerous shopping malls visited by the locals and tourists alike.

You can find two bridges in this part of the city. These bridges are namely, the Rainbow Bridge and the Chinese Fishing Net Bridge.

4. Paradesi Synagogue


The Jewish Synagogue here is also known as Paradesi Synagogue. It is one of the oldest synagogues. This place was built by the people of the Jewish community in the year 1568.

5. Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica


This church has a unique history. It was built by the Portuguese. But in the year 1558, it was granted the status of Cathedral by Pope Paul IV. Several wars took place after 1558 but finally, in the year 1984, this place was recognized as Basilica by revered Pope John Paul II.

If you have been planning to shop for yachts, Kochi International Marina would be an excellent choice.

6. Museum of Kerala History


If you want to learn about a place, what would be a better option than visiting a museum. Museum of Kerala History has a collection of sculptures that speak about the bygone era. If you visit the museum, you can spot a statue of Parasurama. Legend says that he is responsible for the existence of Kerala in the first place. You can always explore the section of doll collection, art gallery etc.

7. Vasco da Gama Square


You can visit the Vasco da Gama Square if you want to relax on the Kochi beach. You can eat from stalls that line the beach and choose from coconut water, ice creams etc.

8. St. Francis church


At the heart of Kochi, there is a very famous church, called the St. Francis church, which is the first European church in Kerala. Legend has it that Vasco Da Gama was buried here and years later his son took his body to Lisbon. There's always something to witness.

9. Mattancherry Palace


Mattancherry is a very famous place in Kochi, located just 4 kms from Fort Kochi, home to the Paradesi Synagogue (India's oldest functioning synagogue), Mattancherry Palace Museum, Pazhayannur Royal temple and Palliarakkavvu temple, Ram Mandir, Gowd Saraswat Brahmin samaj temples including the Venkatraman temple and a Jain Temple (known as MahajanWadi to locals) and Mosques.

The food delicacy of Kochi includes biriyani. Visit Kayees Biriyani shop in Mattanchery. The food is that delicious and worth the money.

A fine mix of Kerala and colonial style of architecture, the Mattancherry Palace is set on the backwaters of Kochi. It speaks the tales of the lifestyle and grandeur of the royals in the bygone era. It also houses a temple that is dedicated to goddess Bhagwati and a famous museum that holds intricately detailed, ancient and exquisite Kerala murals for all visitors to see.

10. Fort Kochi Beach


It is the most easily accessible beach from the city as well as one of the major tourist attractions. Take a Ferry service from Ernakulam Boat Jetty to Fort Kochi for multiple reasons, first of which is the enthralling experience you gonna have choosing the inland waterway, then its cost effective since the ticket fares are just 3 rupees per head, and less time consuming since Kochi is a fast emerging city, the traffic is kinda hell. So go for it.

In Fort Kochi, you can see lot of Chinese nets, enjoy the breeze from the seashore and so on. It is a very good place to hangout. Without a doubt, Kochi's most popular sight is that of the Chinese fishing nets. These were introduced to the fishermen of Kerala in the 14th century and they bought them out from the court of the then Chinese emperor.

You can purchase the fresh morning catch from the fishmongers and have it cooked. You can also enjoy a lavish seafood meal in the nearby shacks while watching the breathtaking sunset. You can see the old harbour hotel and all nearby. The Seagull is a very renowned restaurant in Fortkochi where you can have best sea food as well as beer and can have it with seafront view.

11. Kuzhuppilly Beach


Kuzhuppilly beach is too tidy and the presence of pine trees is an add on to the beauty. Most of the Malayalam movies have been shooting here for the same reason. On the way to the beach, you can see three Gosree bridges, Vallarpadam Container Terminal, LNG Terminal and can have access to the Puthuvype Beach and Light house.

12. Hill Palace Museum


Located nine kilometres away from the city centre, Hill Palace is an archaeological museum. It is one of the largest in the whole of Kerala. It is located in the heart of the city, close to Vytilla Mobility hub. There you can see the Hill Palace of much historical importance. Except for the traffic problems, its a very good place to visit.

No trip is complete without your suitcase full of shopping bags. If you have been planning to spend money on purchasing worthy articles, you should visit MG Road. You will find a range of shops selling spices, jewellery, clothes and handicrafts. There is no dearth of options if you are willing to spend money.

There's one thing in common, all of these places have the best foods to experience the Kerala cuisine! With so many things to do in Kochi, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags! Your summer vacation is here.

7 Best Things to Do in Tamarindo in Costa Rica

7 Best Things to Do in Tamarindo in Costa Rica
From the scorching heights of the hill to the bottom of the sea, every place is a tourist attraction in the landscape of Costa Rica. As holiday planners, tons of questions and concerns run through our mind. First, we begin with knowing the budget to visit the countries. But would you decide the budget without knowing the famous attractions of the place?

A situation like this feeds the curious mind looking for things to do near Tamarindo in Costa Rica. And while the to do list is as long as the ocean of the country, we have some best picks to spark light on your vacation plans. The place may seem all about adventures, but the peaceful shore of the beach helps to calm your soul and body by the end of the day.

If you are wondering about what to do in Tamarindo and planning to head back to your resort or hotel room after the dawn, then you have probably not heard about the nightlife of the country.

Also. Oh wait, did we get talking too much? Enough of talking around the bush. Let's talk about some real experiences of the city. After all, you would also need an personal itinerary to explore the woods and waterfall of Costa Rica. Before we directly plunge into the activities, it would be best if you knew the weather condition of Tamarindo.

1. Make Time in the Ideal Holiday Season

Before crossing the borders of any country it is a mandate and quite natural to check upon their weather conditions. Hence, when you step foot around mid-November to April in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, the place will be brewing at a temperature of 78℉ to 100℉. Being the most ideal time of vacation, you may end up doing all the activities that we shall list down.

2. Hit the Beach with a Surf Board

The moment you have entered the country, the first thing to visit are some of the beautiful beaches of Tamarindo. Every beach in the entire coast of Costa Rica, showers with the joy of surfing. Don't worry even if you are a non-surfer. The professionals at every coast will ride along with you on the board, to chant the best and most exciting adventures of the country.

While there are plenty of beaches, Iguana Surf has the highest amount of tourists. The place is all filled with surfing boards, seafood stalls, and sea life jewelry. Thereby, urging the visitors to hit the food stalls after a tiring surf ride.

3. Kayaking in Nature's Lap

The coastal beauty isn't just for the adventures that give you goosebumps. The beach resides in itself the peace of nature and wildlife. At all the crowded beach spots, you can find locals taking the visitors on a once in a lifetime nature visit. On your way, what you will see is the playful act of monkeys, scary eyes of crocodiles, and symphony of birds chirping around you.

Making a note on your budget, the Kayaking nature tour starts from the minimum cost of $40. Hence, the only way to lose money is, if a monkey steals your wallet (just kidding) on your Pacific journey.

4. Embark on a Roadtrip with ATV

Water splashes with boat and kayaking were a great deal of adventure. Now its time to hit the road (literally) to embrace the beauty of bushes and trees along the roadmap. The ATV; i.e All-terrain vehicles are ridden by the tourists, but not without the help of an expert guide. It introduces you with the rural part of the country. Here standing in the middle of nature you can scream your name.

While all the beaches entail the ATV ride, Playa Tamarindo has the best-tailored guide taking you on a 3-hour ride, through the mountains, valleys, and viewpoints.

5. Flying along the coast of Tamarindo

Although we cannot really fly like the birds in the beautiful sky along with clouds but what if we tell you that same experience can be through wandering around the coast of Tamarindo. Yes, the beautiful city of Costa Rica makes way for Zipline activity that rushes you through the bushes of the jungle. Just hold the rope and gear up with the carabiner, it will give the same joy as flying in the sky.

Literally, sky surfing through the bushes of the jungle, you may see monkeys and other land creatures with your naked eyes and is one of the exciting and fun things to do in Tamarindo.

6. Caving into the National Parks

Tamarindo is as beautiful underneath as it is in the open sky. On one hand, all the above activities are made to enjoy the open air of the country, it all brings tourists down into a cave. The caves around the city known by the name of Barra Honda National Park offer a unique and out of the box experience to the visitors.

It is quite captivating and thrilling adventure from everything you did the entire day. The structure of the caves will leave you in wonder.

Apart from the real caves as national parks, Tamarindo brings in the wildlife nature inside the Palo Verde National Park. And if you wish to only talk with nature make way into Rincon de la Vieja National Park and experience the joy of standing under the waterfalls.

7. A Tucked Away Side of Tamarindo

Whilst, we all have seen the wild side of the country, there is a hidden peace and relaxation in the cultural life of the people. The hustle of the city finds a way to continue every day with cultural activities like concerts, rodeo or celebration of small and big festivals. The international festivals are brought into the limelight so that tourists can see the colorful side of the city.

Let's take an example of the Tamarindo Art Festival where the classic enthusiasts show their creativity. The participation in these events is open so whether it is local public or tourist, all of them can have a taste of the culture.

Are you on a family trip with the kids? Then worry no more, because the Tamarindo city is scaped with playgrounds on all the corners and is one of the fun places near Tamarindo for teenagers. The kids and teenagers enjoy a fun time playing in the soccer field, basketball court, skatepark, etc.

If you are looking for a life away from the stress of daily life, then Tamarindo is the best way to embrace exciting, thrilling and peaceful experiences. Mark you calendar in the dry season to inhale the refreshing air of Costa Rica.

8 Best RV Parks & Campgrounds in New York

8 Best RV Parks & Campgrounds in New York
If you get the chance to visit New York there are places that every RVer must see. New York is rich with history, as well as beauty. From stunning waterfalls to breathtaking mountains and sandy beaches to star-filled skies, there is a fantastic destination for anyone’s taste in this part of USA. Even if you prefer the exciting culture and speed of New York City, there is a campground sure to be found and plenty of sightseeing to do.

Watkins Glen State Park, in the Finger Lakes region is about a half hour west of Ithaca. The park features a 400-foot-deep gorge shaped by glacial shifts millions of years ago, as well as 19 stunning waterfalls — a few of which you can walk right underneath. It's not a large park — 778 acres — but you get a lot of bang for your buck.

While there are amazing destinations throughout the state, these few RV parks in New York make the top of our list.

1. Herkimer Diamond Mines and KOA Resort


Herkimer is an amazing camping destination and is one of the best RV Parks in North America. They have custom cabins that you can rent, if you have family or friends that you want to meet up with on your RV trip. If you are a star-gazer fan, there is an Astronomy Lodge with an elevated observation deck and high-powered telescope. The Solar Kolony is a group of cabins entirely powered by solar panels.

In addition, if engineering is your thing, the Robotics Lodge is a must see. Designed by Binghamton University students, this cabin is truly a gem. The highlight of the resort includes its proximity to the Herkimer Diamond Mines where visitors can dig for quartz crystals that are millions of years old. Other amenities at the resort include:

• Onsite restaurants

• Trout fishing

• Pool

• Camp Store

• Tubing

2. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Campgrounds


If you are traveling with a young family, the Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Campground is the destination for your summer RVing vacation. This camping resort has family friend activities, including:

• Pools

• Water Slides

• Water Falls

• Mini-Golf Course

• Obstacle Courses

• Game Rooms

Of course, no camping trip would be complete without a visit from Yogi Bear himself. You may even get to see his friends! There are seven Yogi Campgrounds scattered throughout upstate New York.

3. Kring Point State Park


If you need to be near the water, then Kring Point State Park in Alexandria Bay is the RVing destination for you. Located on a narrow peninsula in the St. Lawrence River, Kring Point offers absolutely amazing views. Half of their campsites have direct waterfront access, and every campsite has a view of the river or bay.

While there, campers can go: boating, fishing, kayaking, swimming, and canoeing. If you want to leave the campground and explore, the Minna Anthony Common Nature Center is nearby.

4. Four Mile Creek State Park


If Niagara Falls is on your bucket list, you must stay at Four Miles Creek State Park in Youngstown. This campground is located near Lake Ontario and is just 15 miles away from Niagara Falls. During the stay, guests can hike a variety of trails and enjoy all that nature has to offer. The campground has amenities, such as:

• Restrooms

• Laundry rooms

• Camp store

• Playground

• Swimming at Fort Niagara State Park

Discount tickets are available to area attractions, including Niagara Falls State Park.

5. Camp Chautauqua


Another great park near the water is Camp Chautauqua in Mayville, NY. This beautiful, large private park is on the shores of Lake Chautauqua and features a boat ramp with docking facilities, large sites, a fishing pond and a large entertainment facility.

There are at least five main draws to the area. A few miles to the south of the campground there are two excellent breweries, Southern Tier and Ellicottville Brewing Company. Southern Tier is the larger of the two with on-site manufacturing and an adjoining distillery. You can grab a bite to eat here on their outdoor patio, play some outdoor games, enjoy live entertainment and take a tour of the brewing facilities.

Ellicottville Brewing Company is a brewpub in Bemus Point. This quaint town is an excellent place to spend a sunny afternoon strolling along the lakeshore. For some outdoor adventure, you can visit Panama Rocks Scenic Park. This privately-owned area has a loop hiking trail that is about a mile long. Entrance fees are modest and parking was easy.

Within that loop lies the worlds largest example of glacial cut ocean quartz conglomerate which dates back as much as 400 million years. The rocks form towering columns up to 60 feet high, creating a lot of crevasses and small caves to explore. While the trail is only about a mile long, you can easily spend hours here exploring the rocks and enjoying the beautiful environment.

To the north of Camp Chautauqua is the Chautauqua Institution. This is a world-renowned arts facility which draws over 100,000 people per year to its art programs for both adults and children. A little further to the north you will find the Lake Erie Wine Trial where you can enjoy wine at dozens of wineries.

The trail runs from the Grand River Valley in North Eastern Ohio eastward along the southern Lake Erie Shoreline up to Buffalo, NY. The largest concentrations of wineries are in the area between Lake Chautauqua and Lake Erie. If you pick up some wine to bring back to the campground make sure you stop at the Reverie Creamery right across the street.

You can walk there from the campground and they offer some amazing cheeses that they produce in house and their service is first rate.

6. Black Bear Campground


This campground in Florida, NY is one of your best bets if you would like to visit New York City. Visiting NYC directly by RV is not something the average RVer should consider. RVs within the city are considered by the city to be commercial vehicles if they are carrying 10 lbs or more of propane.

As such, they cannot travel through any tunnels without prior permission. You must also traverse multideck bridges using the top deck only. There are also restrictions on RVs traveling on the Parkways which include vehicles over 5500 lbs, anything classified as a trailer, or uses combined plates.

Parking within the city is technically legal for up to 24 hours at a time, but in practice it is extremely difficult to do and is therefore not advised. The best way to RV to NYC is to find a park near the city that offers convenient access without the hassles of driving in directly. Black Bear Campground is just such a spot.

Located Northwest of the city, Black Bear offers a rural setting with easy in and out by RV. It also has full hookup sites and they can accommodate big rigs. For visiting NYC, they offer tour bus trips that depart directly from the campground. This is an exceptionally convenient option which brings you to see all the key points within the city.

If you prefer to tour on your own time and schedule there are rail stations in Warwick, NY (8-minute drive) and Harriman, NY (28-minute drive). Take a train from either town to Hoboken, NJ. From there you can change trains to get into Manhattan.

If you want to be even closer to the city, try Liberty Park. It is located in New Jersey just across the river from lower Manhattan. It's not as nice, harder to get into and out of and does not offer full hookups (only electric/water). On the plus side there are PATH stations within walking distance that will have you to the World Trade Center or Greenwich Village in 15 minutes.

7. Oak Orchard Marina & Campground


Located just off I90 in the Finger Lakes Region of New York, this campground offers access to a broad variety of activities. The campground itself offers water/electric and full hookup campsites with direct access to boating, fishing and paddling activities.

The central location of the campground between Syracuse and Rochester makes is a great base camp for visiting the sights in the area. Either city is less than an hour drive. In Rochester you can visit the George Eastman Museum which showcases the history of film and photography in a mansion originally built in 1905. For the kids, or the kid in you, there is also The Strong National Museum of Play. In Syracuse there is the Erie Canal Museum and the Everson Museum of Art.

Other nearby cities include Ithaca which is the location of the Johnson Museum of Art at Cornell University. The Corning Museum of Glass is located in Corning, NY which is a short drive from Ithaca. There are so many wonderful things to see and do in New York. From the coastline to the Catskills, there is a destination that will fit anyone’s tastes, hobbies, and passions.

8. Minnewaska State Park Preserve


Shawangunk Mountains Scenic Byway, a road affectionately known as the Gunks stretches 140 miles between small towns that look like American movie outlets, and Minnewaska itself, whose route is especially beautiful in the autumn. Between September and early October, many families leave the city and visit the area to harvest their own pumpkins for Halloween decorations. Beyond them, apples are also harvested.

If you continue on I 87, take the exit for New Platz, 299 West, you will come to Minnewaska. Just before arriving at the park, there is a belvedere, including parking for cars, from where you can see the valley! I suggest you stop there at the end of the afternoon, when you are coming back, so that the valley is not against the light. It is possible to see Awosting Falls at the top and at its base.

From there, a trail runs along the Peter's Kill River. Lake Minnewaska, has two belvederes. The trail does not end there. Continuing, it is possible to go around the lake, past the dam that is at the other end.

5 Best Places for Bungee Jumping in India

5 Best Places for Bungee Jumping in India
With India becoming one of the leading destinations for adventure tourism across the globe, adrenaline junkies have numerous options for bungee jumping at their disposal. If you happen to be one of them, you can pick and choose your destination to make your plans for the adventure sports - a reality.

The moment just before you jump is one of the most scariest moment because you will be so scared that your heart beat fastens. Once you attempt a jump you will be in a freefall motion for just 4 seconds and then you will be pulled up. It's insane and if you are lover of life and adventure then you must definitely try Bungee Jumping at least once in your lifetime.

If you are not scared of scaling the vertical heights, then here are some of the best places to go bungee jumping and leading destinations for bungee jumping in India at which you should definitely try your luck.

1. JumpiN Heights - Rishikesh


JumpiN Heights is one of the most remarkable places for bungee jumping in India. It is located in a village in Rishikesh namely Mohan Chatti. A height of 83 meters above the ground provides for the solid platform for bungee jumping for adventure lovers. You can realize your true potential for the sport and put it to test here.

2. Gravity Adventure Zone - Goa


If you are a newbie and are testing waters in bungee jumping, the Anjuna beach in Goa is the destination wherein you should try your hand. The platform in this location for bungee jumping is not too high, unlike the other locations. So, it is relatively safer for beginners to start their journey for the adventure sport. A height of 24 meters is perfect for a beginner and is less likely to scare them with the vertical height.

The only catch is that it would need you to fork out Rs 500 for every jump. For an adventure sports lover with a spike of adrenaline running in the body, this is worth an investment.

3. Wanderlust - Delhi


Wanderlust in Delhi is one of the leading spots for bungee jumping in North India. Here, you can expect to have a decent experience without facing too many risks. The staff members are well trained to help those who wish to engage themselves in adventure sports.

The best part about this bungee jumping destination is its equipment. All the pieces of equipment are ordered from Germany. So, you can expect them to be sturdy and up to your expectations of standard equipment for this sport. Further, those pieces are also based on German technology which is trustworthy.

Here, the jumpers are required to jump from a height of 130 feet above the ground. If you are comfortable with this height, be prepared to be a thrilling experience at this place.

4. Ozone Adventures - Bangalore


Unlike the fixed platform at JumpiN Heights at Rishikesh, the one located at Ozone Adventures in Bangalore does not have a fixed platform. As such, one needs to be a little careful while translating one’s plans for bungee jumping sport into action. If you still wish to go ahead and test your skills at this venue, you need to be ready to jump from the crane. It can be a little risky, so make sure you are thoroughly acquainted in doing it before taking your final call.

With a mobile crane which is 130 feet in height, Ozone Adventure in Bangalore tops the chart as far as the ratings of bungee jump locations with non-fixed platforms are concerned.

5. Kolad


Kolad is another great place near Pune to quench your thirst for adventure. The beautiful town, about a 110kms from the city, offers two of the best adventure sports you can engage in. First is the white water rafting in the roaring Kundalika River. Rafting through the electric water flow and challenging the mighty river is no cakewalk. River rafting is like any other sport on steroids, as the adrenaline rush it offers is absolutely scintillating.

Kolad is a very popular place for those who seek connection with nature and for lovers of activities such as rafting. The Kundalika River, is formed by the Mulshi dam, something that offers the possibility of this adventure sport. The Mulshi Dam is in the backdrop of mountains. It is a popular eco-tourism destination and there are many beautiful resorts If you wish to stay overnight.

Second, Bungee Jumping. If anyone is even remotely familiar with adventure sports, they know that Bungee Jumping is the peak! Jumping from a high cliff is not for the faint-hearted, no matter how good the body harness and the leg strap is. Besides these two exquisite activities, there are a number of other activities like water rappelling in Tamhini Ghat Waterfalls, and exploring the Ghosala Fort.

5. Della Adventure - Lonavala


Just about a couple of hours out of Pune, lie the heaven for adventure junkies, the magnificent mountain valley of Lonavala. There are loads and loads of extreme adventure activities to choose from, and each one of them is more thrilling than what most people have ever experienced. First of all, Lonavala is home to the biggest destination for adventure sports near Pune, Della Adventure Park.

You will find some of the most exciting adventure activities near Pune at Della, like Paintball, rally-grade Dirt Bikes & ATVs, Rifle Shooting, Swoop Swing, Sky Cycling, Flying Fox, etc., which offer a booming injection of adrenaline.

Lonavala is one of the important spots of attractions among bungee jumping locations in India. This place offers a longer leap to a jumper which can last for a few minutes and the price at which it makes this facility available to bungee jump lovers is also reasonable. A jump from the height of 45 meters above the ground level is the standard height which any fan of bungee jumping would expect.

Tips for Risk-Free Bungee Jumping

  • If you are fond of adventure sports, your adrenaline rushes can prompt you to go for bungee jumping without much consideration. However, it is important to remember that there is no point in compromising your safety to play any sport.
  • If you play a sport safely, it doubles up your fun. Here are some important points to remember before you take the plunge.
  • Make sure a trained person or professional accompanies you before you jump.
  • Get all your doubts cleared before proceeding with the plan to take your final plunge. “Better safe than sorry”, as the saying goes.
  • Check whether the equipment for bungee jumping at your disposal is up to the mark.
  • Take the surface of the place wherein you are going for bungee jump into consideration. It should not be rocky or covered with trees.
  • Avoid attempting bungee in case you are a patient with heart or breathing problems.
Lastly, do not forget to check out coupons as you can make your expenses come down a lot and at the same time, you can also win other exciting offers by virtue of this option.

14 Offbeat Places To Visit in Uttarakhand

14 Offbeat Places To Visit in Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand, a home to numerous ancient temples, national parks, forest reserves, mountain peaks and hill stations is a heaven for travel enthusiasts. Whether you are an eco-tourist, food tourist, religious tourist, adventure tourist or just even a leisure tourist Uttarakhand always has something to offer. Uttarakhand reveals the secrets of the inhabitants who live in the valley and still practice polygamy and worships Duryodhana, a Kaurava from the Mahabharata, as their deity.

Often known as Devabhumi or land of the Gods, Uttarakhand has some of the holiest shrines like Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath, Haridwar and Rishikesh with thousands of pilgrims visiting these places every year. It is also in possession of some breathtakingly beautiful places like Nainital, Mussoorie, Dehradun, etc.

Uttarakhand has National parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries, located at different altitude varying from 800 to 5400 meters. It is also rich in flora and fauna consisting of plant species which have medicinal properties. In fact, Jim Corbett National Park, one of the oldest National Parks in India is also located here. The prominent local craft of the state is wood carvings which is frequently seen in the ornate decorations of the temples. Paintings and murals are used for decorating both temples and houses.

The most common form of painting here is Pahari painting. Other popular crafts of this region are handcrafted gold jewelry, scarves, rugs, woolen shawls, basketry from Garhwal. Cuisines of Uttarakhand are simple and mostly prepared by using the locally grown ingredients. Chutney made of Bhang is also a popular regional cuisine and Kafuli is a must try.

Uttarakhand is a place where there is immaculate natural magnificence and glorious pilgrimage sites. Carved out from the State of Uttar Pradesh some time ago, Uttaranchal, is a spot that not just brags of glimmering views of the Himalayas but is also a land of fairs and festivals where people live harmoniously with nature.

India is the home to one of the most intriguing places on the planet. Some of these places though are far less known to people. Uttarakhand is one such place which is abode to some beautiful and serene spots that could develop into flourishing tourist spots.

If someone is interested in visiting temples then Uttarakhand is the best place to visit temples. Some people like doing adventurous sports. One can easily do Bunjee jumping in Uttarakhand as it has the India's largest Bunjee jumping. One can also have a thrilling river rafting experience. If some wants to visit a hill station they can definitely visits places like Mussorie and Dhanolti.

With oaks, birches, silver firs and rhododendrons decorating the precarious mountain slopes, Uttarakhand offers you a look into untainted, ideal tourist places, straight out of the pages of some old manuscript. Uttarakhand is the starting spot of the Ganga and the Yamuna, two of the most sacred rivers in India. Go to chaar dhaam yatra and feel the vibes there!

Uttarakhand is home to the Chota Char Dham, which are four of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in India – Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath. A large number of pilgrims visit Uttarakhand yearly to pay reverence to the Char Dhams along with Haridwar and Rishikesh.

Pleasing nature and picturesque landscapes in Uttarakhand invites every traveller to experience a perfect winter holiday. Uttarakhand is also widely perceived as a pilgrimage site because of the stunning temples it holds. The place offers exciting sights of majestic Himalayan ranges and the people live close to nature.

Pilgrims flock to the sites like Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath located in Uttarakhand. Lovely birds, craggy peaks, interesting people, delectable dishes all set to offer you a travel experience of a lifetime! Witness the snow sheathing the mountain peaks, mesmerized by the melodious chirping of birds, go on an arduous trek, gear up for the new enthralling adventures, and experience wildlife at Uttarakhand.

Uttarakhand is a land of god and if you are a person who loves to explore nature in its fullest form- well, visiting Uttarakhand should remain on the top of your list. Here, each step you will be taking will be filled with awwwn-ness, wow-ness, and oh my god- I can’t believe things. How about visiting Rishikesh for rafting! And the list is just never-ending. You visit any place and heaven lies in front of you.

Thus, even with all the commercialized places, Uttarakhand still has some offbeat places to offer its tourists.

1. Sankri


Sankri, located in high hills in Uttarkashi District of Uttarakhand, is on the way to Har Ki Doon trek. Buses leave from Dehradun to Sankri from the Hill Bus Station near Dehradun Railway Station. Buses leave early in the morning at 5:30 AM, 6:30 AM and 7:30 AM. Sankri is not just an ordinary hill station. It is located in high hills, and is conneted by roads that have steep gradient and you are always near a deep gorge or a high cliff.

Also, do not be misled by the shorter travel time (by car) shown by the Google Maps and the travel websites. Travelling in hilly roads takes more time. You just can’t exceed the speed limit of say 20 to 25 KM per hour. Higher speed in high hills is highly risky. So, just do not venture out without proper guidance even if you have your own car. It is always better to employ a trained driver, to hire a local driver who knows the route.

2. Askot


Askot is a village in the Pithoragarh district. Askote is not only one of the pitstops as it moves towards the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage, it is also home to one of the rare deer species. Askot is known for its Askot Musk Deer, which is a must see.

A turquoise coloured river flow boisterously down the valley, with deodar trees decking up the slope, providing a shade of green to the otherwise barren mountains of Nelang Valley. The river is called Jadh Ganga. It flows from the glaciers of Nelang valley, which is one of the most beautifully kept secret of Uttarakhand and it continues to be a secret, for even with a permit you can’t venture much into the barren terrain, which resembles closely to the high altitude regions of Spiti.

You can safely call that Spiti of Uttarakhand, and this river as Spiti river of Uttarakhand, but then it’ll take its own unique identity, of how this river flows with a history of thousand years, about the old trade routes of Bhotia people, where traders from as far as Mongolia would arrive with their yaks to the holy lands of Uttarakhand, where now stands Indo-Tibet border and numerous army camps.

But the river, least bothered about the human tensions, flows through these beautiful valleys, singing its own songs, donning its own colours, and if you happen to look at it, just don’t mistake yourself for a bird and take a leap to fly away. Instead, just stand there, and fold your hands at this marvel of nature.

3. Mukteshwar


Perfect place to have a breathtaking view of Himalayan peaks, head to Mukteshwar for a full day excursion. Located in the Kumaon hills, Mukteshwar is popular tourist destination. Look for the blessings in the Mukteshwar temple, which is an ancient temple located in a beautiful isolated place.

You can also visit the small church that is 75 years old and located on the side of the hill. In addition, you can enjoy a cable car ride up to the point of view of the snow. The small town of Mukteshwar is an easy drive from Delhi and is one of the most beautiful monsoon destinations in Uttarakhand. A rich bouquet of flowers, birds and variety of trees is a delight to watch.

Famous for its quaint cafes and the 360 view of the Himalayan range from the famous Mukteshwar temple top, Mukteshwar is a not too near or not too far destination from Delhi (approx 333 km from New Delhi). A river picnic or easy trek walk in the mountains with your camera will capture the most gorgeous views and memories.

4. Chaukori


Chaukori is a tiny hill station in the Pithoragarh district set among the lofty peaks of the western Himalayas. It is located about 10 km from Berinag, another small hill station. Very close to Chaukori, Jhaltola is a must to see birds and great views of the Himalayas of Kumaon. Chaukori is the home to endangered musk deer in the Musk Deer park in Mahruri about 5 to 10 Kms from Chaukori towards Bageshwar district.

The fragrant environment around these deer is inviting and peaceful. The tea gardens of Uttarakhand are less known but they produce quality tea and add to the serenity of this beautiful hill town.

5. Landour


Do you want to start 2021 with breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the Doon Valley? Landour, less than 6 hours drive from New Delhi, is pretty cool year round. The town which is made up of a series of crossroads on mountain ridges, is home to a cluster of writers and artists like Ruskin Bond too.

Take some steep walk up and down flinty trails in the bracing thin air, and then enjoy some peaceful contemplation eating momos and other Tibetan snacks, or tea and pastries, in Landour's many cafe's and resting stops. It’s great for rejuvenation, the outdoorsy souls, warm afternoons indoors, and cuddles from the resident doggos for pet lovers.

It’s also a cultural centre! What’s great about the location is that you can also explore the nearby Jabarkhet Nature Reserve, or enjoy a barbeque while stargazing among the deodar trees.

6. Chakrata


If nature is a chocochip cake, Chakrata in Uttarakhand is like your favorite piece of that cake. Dehradun and Mussoorie are so basic and are always flooded with tourists. If you are looking for an unexplored, less traveled destination, take a trip to Chakrata. Chakrata is one of the army cantonment stations in India. Tiger falls is 6 km from Chakrata.

Falling from 312 meters high, the water that gushes noisily between the hills producing the sound of a tiger's roar. Therefore, the name. There is a pool below the fall that you can consider as your natural Jacuzzi. The weather is pleasant in the summers. In winter, the hill station is flanked by snow.

Deoban, the Gods own Forest is where you can find exotic bird species such as the white-necked blackbird and the woodpeckers of the Himalayas. A walk through the woods gives you a true and peaceful atmosphere, and a time for contemplation. 15 minutes on foot through the dense forests will take you to the place where Rishi Vyas wrote the epic Mahabharata.

Budher caves remain unexploited to date. Exploring the cave would be your closest experience living as a caveman. Also known as the place of the Mioli caves, the only way to get to these caves is by trekking. Walk to the highest point of Chakrata, which is the neck of Chilmiri, and admire the magnificent views of the Himalayas.

Breathe your lungs with some fresh air as you walk to the point of Chilmiri Neck. Your reward will be the amazing view of the beautiful Bandarpoonch, Rohini and Swarg Peaks. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, Kalsi is a historic city where the stone edicts of King Ashoka are present. The landscape is beautiful for a picnic. You can also fish in the river if you have a prior army permit.

7. Almora


Almora is one of the famous destinations in North India and this is a perfect place to plan your trip with your family, friends or loved ones. Almora is a small village located in the state of Uttarakhand. Its beauty of hills, snow-capped mountains and green valley can not be ignored. Almora gives you some stunning natural beauty, panoramic views of the Himalayas, tasty cuisine and rich cultural heritage.

8 km north of Almora, is the pleasant village of Kasar Devi. The cedar and rhododendron forest below the modest temple of Kasar Devi is nicknamed hippieland by some of the locals. Stop to visit the Kainchi Dham Ashram, where Steve Jobs stayed many years for his meditation and introspection practices.

How would it be to stay in a traditional Kumaoni house in Uttarakhand in a quirky cafe perched on a hilltop savouring the local Kumaoni delicacies, hearing stories about the place from your wonderful hosts and sipping warm lemon tea with the stunning sunkissed Himalayan peaks in the background.

8. Ranikhet


Ranikhet is a small but beautiful hill station located in Almora. It is a beautiful tourist place full of deodar and pine trees. The altitude of Ranikhet is 1,824 meters above sea level. Going here is no less than a paradise for nature lovers.

This place is a secluded tourist spot away from the urban hustle and bustle, from where you can see the Himalayan peaks. This place is famous for its ancient temples, beautiful and clean roads, and beautiful valleys. This place also houses the headquarters of the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army, where an ancient museum is also present, on which war-time weapons, photographs, and its grandeur have been displayed very beautifully.

Ranikhet is the queen of Kumaon Hills. Definitely Ranikhet is worth visiting as the place has a lot to offer with a variety of flora and fauna surrounded by the mountains. One can find really great spots for a beautiful view of nature. It’s a perfect place to enjoy nature and relax. Ranikhet reflects the best of the celestial Himalayas.

Its lush green forests, majestic mountain peaks, exotic plants and attractive wildlife. To see the nature and the elements in total harmony of the Himalayas the right place is Ranikhet. One can experience the traditional life of the people by visiting a small yet beautiful village Manila.

Manila is well known for its beauty as the views get better and better with the size of hills increasing as you climb up towards Manila. There are many villages in Manila that are well connected by roads but it is quite challenging for people to trek up the hills and reach to the destination.

This place is a great place to go birding for the beginner and expert. It would be a steep climb at first through dense pine and oak forests. The trail meanders through the Shitlakhet market, though it is the most convenient way to approach this sanctuary and to go around is to walk trough from Chaubatiya or from Kakrighat.

One of the best excursions that can be done on a weekend morning is the hike to the Syahi Devi temple, a natural and cultural wonder. Through the jungle you will sometimes see views of the valley. Then, you reach a small plateau that is the location of the Syahi Devi temple. The walk ends at the temple with views of the Himalayas.

The temple was one of the places where Vivekananda meditated while on his own journey through the Himalayas. It is one of the quietest places you will find and a great place to enjoy a game of chess!

The best time to visit Ranikhet is from March-October as the weather remains pleasant in the summers. From November to February, the place becomes really cold because of the snowfall in the winter months.

9. Joshimath


Joshimath is located on the slope of the confluence of the Alaknanda and Dhauliganga rivers in Uttarakhand. Visit Joshimath and feel how it feels to see god from such closeness. Bhavishya badri or the future Badrinath is one among the Panchabadri temples of Garwhal himalayas. lt is situated at an altitude of 9000 feet above and is 18 kms from Joshimath temple in Subhain village. A moderate 6 km trek through amid dense forest, along the Dhauli ganga river leads to this temple in Nithi valley.

Chamoli is popularly known as the abode of Gods. Besides, it's also known as the valley of flowers. Renowned for its holy places, sanctuaries, and associations with Indian folklores and stories. The spot is visited by millions of visitors for its towns and rich Garhwali traditional. Chamoli is that perfect excursion spot with something for everybody. It is a perfect melange of the journey, excursion, and spiritual peacefulness.

The closest air terminal is Jolly Grant which is about 222 km away. The closest railway station is at Rishikesh. It is linked with several other urban areas like Rudraprayag, Srinagar, and Pauri.

10. Rudraprayag


As a break from the days you can enjoy an interesting session of yoga and meditation classes in the morning in Devprayag, where the rivers Alaknanda and Bhagirathi meet in the Ganga. After having breakfast you can go on a city tour to Rudraprayag where you can visit Guptakashi and Mahadev Koteshwar Temple. Also visit the local markets and get to know the life of the people in Rudraprayag.

Guptkashi is 13 KM from Ukhimath. The ancient temple of Vishwanath, the temple of Ardhnareshwar and Manikarnik Kund, where it is believed that the two streams of Ganga and Yamuna are found, are the main attractions in Guptkashi. From Ukhimath and Khirsu you can see spectacular views of the Himalayas. Deoria Tal, at an altitude of 2438 meters, is a lake that offers hypnotizing reflections of the Chaukhamba Range in its crystal clear water. One needs to drive around 12 KMs to Sari Village of Ukhimath and from Sari Village one can reach Deoria Tal by a 2 KM walking route.

11. Munsyari


Depart to the small and picturesque city of Munsyari, a small town in the picturesque Pithoragarh district, with beautiful Panchchuli peaks with views. Trek to Upper Khaliya, located at 11,500 feet. Munsiari, is a great attraction for trekkers, photographers, adventure sports lovers and peace seekers. The mesmerizing sight of sunrise and sunset in the mountains will surely rekindle your love.

Munsyari is picture-perfect village that is located up high in the remote corner of Kumaon Region of Uttarakhand. It is almost 520 Km away from Delhi. Also, known as Little Kashmir, this place offers a panoramic view of famous Panchachuli Range which is the group of Five Himalayan Peaks. Best month to experience snowfall is January and February.

As winters are not the peak time of tourism in Munsyari, hence this place can be enjoyed at its best during this time. Walk along the Gori Ganga River, part of the Milam glacier. Here you will have the opportunity to enjoy real fishing.

Situated 2298 metres above sea level, Munsiyari is a small village amidst the quaint hills of Uttarakhand. The serene view of the snow-capped Himalayan range, the rich culture of the village, the floral and faunal diversity - Munsiyari has a lot more to offer than you think. Don’t forget to pack your trekking shoes because Munsiyari serves as the base camps to some of the incredibly breathtaking Himalayan treks.

Milan trek, Ramik trek and Nalam trek are some of the most popular ones. Oh, and did we tell you that the village blossoms in scarlet red during the months of March and April? These months are when the Rhododendron flowers bloom in and around the village. The view is magical!

Even the road journey is an experience of its own! The journey will take you through the Himalayan towns of Bageshwar, Nainital and Kausani. So, make sure you prepare that music playlist complementing the scenic mountain views, well in advance!

12. Pangoot


Leave for Pangot, 15 kms from Nainital, for a nature walk along the Kilsbury point.

13. Kanatal


A series of narrow, zigzag streets surrounded by pines, cedars and rhododendrons fragrant trees lead to Kanatal, located 44 km from Mussoorie at an altitude of 8,500 feet. Go through the magnificent hills of Mussoorie and Chamba. It bears the name of Lake Kanatal, which for the locals is supposed to have once existed there.

A short excursion through the unexplored land of Kanatal takes you through apple orchards, pine forests and musk deer, wild boar and Kakar of Kodia Jungle. At 35 km from Kanatal, at the confluence of two rivers, Bhagirathi and Bhilangana, is the magnificent Tehri Dam.

Despite being small in area and also population, this town is important as it is located on the main road that links the important places like Haridwar, Rishikesh, Dehradun, Roorkie, and New Delhi to the famous pilgrim centres of Gangotri and Yamunotri, and also to Uttarkashi and the New Tehri Town. This is the place nearest to the lake created by Tehri Dam.

New Tehri is the town developed after the Historic Old City of Tehri got submerged in the waters of Tehri Dam, on River Bhagirathi - which is commonly known as River Ganges. Chamba is close to tourist places like Mussoorie, Uttarkashi, Dhanaulti, Kanatal, Narendra Nagar, and also connects to places like Dev Prayag and Srinagar (Garhwal).

For the devout and spiritually inclined people, the famous Sarkunda Devi Temple is located nearby, along the road to Dhanaulti and Mussoorie. Kunjapuri Devi Temple is also located near Chamba. Besides, Chamba in itself is a scenic place, with quiet and picturesque hilly landscape, offering great view of mountain ranges, and cool winds of pine forests.

14. Chopta


Chopta is about 105 km from Auli. Located at about 2,650 meters high is Chopta, in the Garhwal region. Chopta is located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand and is well known as a base point for a walk to Tunganath temple and further to Chandrashila peak. Chopta has occupied a special place in the hearts of all its visitors. Ukhimath is located 31 KM from Chopta, where the deity of Kedarnath moves in winters. There are local temples of Usha and Anirudh, Shiva and Parvati.

It is a beautiful natural picturesque hill destination to enjoy the cool weather and is ideal for trek lovers. Chopta is more than 70 kilometres away from Rudraprayag, while the Google map shows this distance less than 25 kilometres. It is a perfectly picturesque hamlet, with abundance of beauty in the form of the pleasant atmosphere, stunning landscapes and a great trekking destination.

If you search distance from Tungnath instead of Chopta, you will get more accurate information however Tungnath is not connected to motorable road, and you have to trek from Chopta for 4 to 5 kilometres to reach there. Chopta is 29 km from Ukimath and 180 km from Rishikesh. Unlike the hustle and bustle of urban life - common life here runs at a normal pace.

It is an ideal place to live in peace. You can trek Tungnath and Chandrashila from Chopta. The Tungnath temple is closed in winter. There are many camping sites to stay in Chopta. Bring warm clothes with you in winter. To enjoy the place during the most comforting conditions, one must come in the month of April and May, where the spell bounding beauty of the Rhododendrons (locally known as Buransh) and other fauna looks remarkable.

Bird watching is also common during this time. The Himalayas are distinctly visible and the revitalizing breeze keeps one infatuated towards the place. It is a wonderful destination for the nature lovers and trekking enthusiast, for there’s too much to explore apart from just its beauty. The temples, the hill stations, the lakes, the sunrise are at their best during this time.

A 225 kilometers from Haridwar, the hamlet is the base for trekking to Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple. Further, one can head towards Chandrashila at an elevation of about 13000 feet, to enjoy the mesmerising views of the valleys below. As the monsoon approaches, the trekking becomes challenging but one can still get a different experience.

There also remains a chance of blocked roads, so keeping updates with the weather forecast is important to continue enjoying the place. The winters here, are no less exquisite. By January, the snow sets and snowfields can be visited during the trek, alongside the snow-capped mountains and stunning lansdscapes.

Also, between January and March are the most treks conducted. With the decreasing temperature, accompanying snowfall, the trek can be routed from Deoria Tal. This time is also suggestive for Chandrashila trek to get a 360 degree view of the picturesque peaks of Panchchuli, Nanda Devi, Nilkanth and Kedarnath.

A steep trek, evoking thrill and enthusiasm, Chopta and Tunganath are ideal destinations for travelers, choosing their own time and comfort.

Which is the best time to visit Uttarakhand? Uttarakhand with its beautiful cities, alluring landscapes and numerous pilgrimage sites is one of India’s most popular tourist destinations. It is flooded with tourists not only from India but also from all over the world throughout the year.

However, march to June are considered as the peak season since summer is the best climate to visit Uttarakhand and Trekking, Char Dham Yatra and Paragliding is very popular during this season. October to February is considered as the shoulder season as it is the time of winter and the temperature falls up to 3 degree Celsius.

Hence, it is perfect for the people who loves cold and it allows the activities like rafting or wildlife spotting and if lucky enough people can experience snowfall too. Now July to September are considered as low season because Uttarakhand is inundated with rain water, hence, could hinder your travel plans.

But in case you are interested in watching the valley of flowers which is picture perfect during monsoon you can definitely go for it. To sum up there is not one but numerous best times to visit Uttarakhand.

8 Romantic Things to Do in Cape Town for Couples

South Africa is an epic destination for those seeking incredible natural beauty, world-changing fine dining, or safaris rich in wildlife. From Table Mountain – one of seven natural wonders in the world – to Johannesburg's buzzing nightlife to Darling’s rolling hillsides and Winelands, South Africa truly offers something for everyone. Whether you're taking an adventure offroad mountain biking through Nottingham Road or simply relaxing among vineyards sipping local wines at sunset – don't miss out on what this amazing country has in store.

Cape Town is known to be the mother city of paradise for people in love. It is on the checklist of almost every couple. This phenomenal coast of South Africa is what you will reminisce somewhere down the memory lane. Whether you want to celebrate Valentine's Day or your engagement anniversary, it is one of the best destinations for a happy holiday.

We all like red roses because that is a symbol of romance and love. And with that, the idyllic weather and awesome people are an added bonus in your romantic environment. It is one of the most romantic honeymoon destinations in South Africa. This place is literally heavenly at foothills of Hangklip mountains and the most romantic experience is Beautiful river resorts, hiking or mountain biking with your love, and fishing.

Cape Town has plethora of amusing activities. It's one of the most romantic places for couples due it's gastronomic delight, breathtaking beaches, mountain vistas and what not! For all those couples visiting Cape Town – the city holds a lot for you.

Cape Town is huge and there’s so much to it, but somethings are vital and unique, which you won't get do anywhere else in the world. While you are travelling with your partner, you need to make sure that you get the most out of your trip. If you have less time or you’re confused where to spend your time, our enlisted activities will help you while visiting Cape Town.

Things to Do in Cape Town Here is a list of romantic things to do in Cape Town for couples.

1. Shark Diving in Seal Island


There are a number of activities happening in Cape Town, but this is for thrill-seeking couples. The couples have to go inside a cage to go for shark diving. If you and your better-half are adventure freaks, then this should be on the top of your bucket-list. To go for shark-diving, you need to muster up your courage – you will face some great white sharks in person.

These huge sharks are separated by only slim bars of steel cage and they move all around you. Yes, you will be surrounded by some real sharks! Pictures would never do justice to this magical trip of a life-experiencing thing. Some couples end up holding their breath out of fear. Well, that's just a little test to be with each other at tough and rough times!

2. Open Air Cinema in Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden


This is one of the most enticing, yet a fascinating garden. This lush garden is a heavenly backdrop for wonderful afternoon picnic with your better-half. Just pick a spot with an exquisite sight and enjoy each other's company while digging into some tasty sandwiches and some champagne. You can also ring up a company that specializes in themed picnics and outdoor dining experiences.

These experts would make sure you have a night full of amazing experiences. Indulge in cheese platters, tasty cupcakes and all what you need. These experts would also meet your preferences and all the intricate details you want to add. Not just this, but you can also explore the stunning viewpoints that are at least 12 meters above the ground. You can also take some hiking trails to witness the massive nature reserves.

Who doesn't love movies and nature – that also altogether! Cape Town offers this opportunity and they have taken it to a next level with Galileo Open Air Cinema. There are special screenings of your favorite movies – like Romeo and Juliet, perfect for a couple night out. This place opens its doors on 5 pm so you need to arrive early to get your seats reserved and grab yourself some snacks.

There are various food stalls where you will find artisanal food and beverages. Another drink is falooda. Apart from that are a variety of sweet stuff like Koesisters, Bollas, fritters and pancakes. Then the savories like samoosas, Daltjie, Baja, and many others.

These cinemas are set on different places daily, sometimes at Waterfront’s all-new Battery Park, Kirstenbosch. Make sure you decide on a day where the venue suits you guys the best.

Make sure you are dressed comfortably; since it's a movie night, a pair of jeans and tee or a Tank Top with high waist trousers would do the job. The movie begins right after sunset — before that, you will be entertained with some interactive games and music, so you don't get bored at all!

3. Table Mountain Aerial Cableway


Table Mountain is one the most exotic tourist destinations. The mountain is standing tall at 1086 meters; it's one of the symbols of Cape Town. Most people opt for hiking to the Table Mountain. Rather than going for vigorous hiking, settle up for cable car option — it would take you up in just 4 minutes. You’ll be able to witness the scenic beauty of the whole city through a 360-degree angle.

The best time to go here would definitely be during sunset, because the transition from day to night brings a dreamlike change in all the surroundings. The city lights would turn on and you will get to witness how beautifully Cape Town illuminates – that also with your loved one!

If you want an adventure, then you can abseil down a cliff at Table Mountain. Its followed by a 45-minute procedure with all the safety precautions. You will descend down the 1086 high cliff with the Atlantic Ocean touching your feet. This would be a pulse racing but very exciting experience; this activity operates daily at Table Mountain, so make sure you give it a try!

4. Boat Cruise in V&A Waterfront


Your trip to the most romantic city would be considered incomplete without having some of the finest seafood. There are a variety of things that would be offered to you, once you are onboard – ranging from juicy calamari to fresh Pacific oysters and a lot more.

You will also be able to take advantage of the stunning coastline along with some delicate scenery while you witness the most beautiful sunset. Top that off with some champagne and your partner. The tranquility of open water – the sun setting over is one of the most pleasing backdrops on the planet.

The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is the most perfect setting for a romantic dinner by the wharf and Table Mountain watching you over. On the cruise, you will get to witness some amazing traditional African performances, exotic desserts with some retail therapy — it's nothing less than any entertainment hub.

5. Scuba Diving in Cape Peninsula


Located on the eastern side of the Cape Peninsula, Smitswinkel Bay hosts five of the best shipwreck dives in Cape Town. These wrecks form an artificial reef that offers advanced divers to explore a wide range of shipwrecks. For the technical diving community, there is also the opportunity to explore the five wrecks in one dive, known as Smits swimming.

6. Swim in Camps Bay Beach


It is one of the most urban beaches. It boasts of white sand set against the massive backdrop of the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range and Table Mountain. Due to the currents in the Atlantic Ocean, Camp Bay's water is a bit cold. This beach is known for its natural rock swimming pool and fine white sand, apart from the mountain range. It is the ultimate sunset spot.

You can enjoy the cafes that sit adjacent to the sands against the dramatic backdrop. Behind the pristine beach, seafood restaurants, cocktail bars, and mellow cafes overlook the promenade. It is the trendiest spot in Cape Town. If you plan to swim here, then make sure you do so in the designated areas marked by the lifeguards, as waves and currents both can be strong here.

7. Detour to the Winelands of Stellenbosch


Oh, and you would possibly also take a detour to the Winelands of Stellenbosch while you’re within the area because who doesn’t want to drink delicious wine against a backdrop of epic views? This style of architecture is known as the Cape Dutch style, introduced by the early Dutch settles in the early 17th century. The street cafes are rather very European!

And then, not very far from the city centre, are the winelands of the Western Cape that make some of the best wines in the world! Some of these estates have some of the most cozy and romantic settings for a perfect getaway with your significant other as you stay in some of the unique accommodations in Western Cape. Well, there's no way she's going to say no anywhere here! And the majestic Jonkershoek mountains, a short 50 km drive from Stellenbosch, look so much like the Scottish highlands.

8. Garden Route trip from Bo-Kaap


Starting in Cape Town and winding its way along one among the foremost incredible stretches of coastline within the world, The Garden Route is an absolute must if you’re thinking of doing a road trip. The reasons are simple. First, let’s start with Cape Town itself – a thriving city ensconced cozily between a series of mountains and therefore the sea.

Vibrant neighborhoods like Bo Kaap and a series of cooler-than-should-be-allowed bars and restaurants lure visitors faraway from the beach, while must-visits like Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens are jaw-droppingly beautiful. From Cape Town, it just gets better – truck right down to the Cape of excellent Hope before moving on to Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Mossel Bay and finishing with a safari in Addo Elephant Park.

If you need inspiration on captions for your photos taken during your trip to Cape Town, check out these romantic quotes for travelling couples to grab more eyeballs.

What to Wear in Australia: Ultimate Packing Guide

What to Wear in Australia: Ultimate Packing Guide
Are you looking forward to having the best summer getaway in Australia. If you haven't listed Australia in your bucket list this year, then you're clearly missing out. The Land Down Under is not only among the most highly urbanised countries of the world but is also home to tons of natural wonders consisting of beaches, diving sites, wineries and more. Island hopping in Australia will always be one of the best ways to spend the summer.

First you have to change your mindset. Travelling is a different way of life to how things are at home. You do not need to appear in different outfits everyday with matching shoes and jewellery etc! If you are going to be moving around you need a minimum amount of clothes and two pairs of shoes. Depending on season, very low heeled boots or walking shoes such as Skechers and a dressier pair that can also be worn at night.

Nothing tight as at the end of a long day your feet may be swollen and not fit into the glam shoes. You will find that no one knows or cares what you are wearing, no one knows you, you are moving around usually. Travelling is hard work and you need to be comfortable and not worried about how you look -even if you have to wear ugly shoes to ensure you can walk for hours!

No one is going to ask why you have three outfits- seasoned travellers will be doing the same thing. Even if you are on an organised tour. The exception may be if you are on a luxury group vacation and expected to dress up ,or for travelling for work purposes.

When it comes to island hopping in Australia, there are things you need to remember to ensure a fun-filled a trip.

1. Carry Designer Eyeglasses


Eyeglasses are very important in daily life since they protect your delicate eyes from a number of elements as well as provide relief to those with eye problems. The best part is that you can still maintain a fashionable look even with them as part of your life and the only way to do this is by matching your eyeglass with your outfit. To avoid finding yourself in a mismatch dilemma, you need to pay attention to some wardrobe tricks.

2. Pay more attention to your accessories


It is very reasonable to match your glasses with your outfit, but then, that is not the only way to achieve a brilliant look. You can always try and blend them with accessories such as scarves, cape, and jewelry. You can also match them with your shoes. This step is always the simplest and the easiest way to make your eyeglass correspond with your outfit.

The biggest mistake you can make is to try and blend your frames with your handbag. At one point during the day you will be forced to drop it, and your frames will end up lacking something to correspond to thus ruining your entire look.

3. Don't get carried away with dark neutrals


People have realized how easy it is to pair dark neutral frames with numerous outfits and they are busy taking advantage of it. This has made them completely lazy fashion-wise. You should always yearn to achieve a chic look by going beyond the obvious. You can always shop for glossy pink, gray or red cat eye glasses from Voogueme.

This is a leading provider of stylish prescription eyeglasses and sunglasses. With them, you will be able to brighten up your look and break the monotony while maintaining an admirable style.

4. Use oversized sunglasses with casual outfit


The toughest thing to do when it comes to eyewear is pairing your eyeglass with casual clothes. Most people often end up making a big matching mistake. If you know you will be wearing full casual like a T-shirt and jeans, try oversized sunglasses. These will transform your whole appearance and make you very appealing.

If at all the T-shirt is plain white, try something colorful and sporty to add swag to your look. They will also make you be vibrant something that not just any glasses can achieve.

5. Use the color wheel


The first thing that determines what outfit will go well with certain glasses is color. This is why knowing the color wheel might be the best way to come up with a great blend of the two. The color wheel is designed to enable you to tell what kind of eyeglass color will match with your outfit color. You will know which colors contrast perfectly and which complement each other.

Once you have this sorted out, you can decide to use an analogous matching style where you pick two colors that are close to each other or use the complementary color style to match two completely contrasting colors like blue and orange. This will enable you to match your eyeglass with your outfit without going through huge trouble.

6. Match your personality


The clothes we wear always display a huge statement about your character. You should also go ahead and use the same analogy to pick out your glasses. If you are a vibrant and charming person, you can always go with bright colors. If you are always classy, you can always try something more stunning but laid back like brownline eyeglasses.

This will not only give you an easy time matching your glasses to your outfit, but it will also show your character in detail. The above tips highlight some of the best and easy ways that can help you to match your glasses with your outfit. The tips focus on ensuring that you have the right eyewear for your outfit, be it casual or official while maintaining your character.

To have numerous choices, you will have to get additional frames online and use them to improve your look. By following each tip, you will find yourself making the best eyeglass-outfit matches throughout.

7. Dress For An Adventure With Womens Rash Vests


When island hopping, it's best to wear sun-protective clothing. Wear water-sensible shoes or flip-flops, a light windbreaker on top of your swimwear and sunglasses and a cute hat. Don't forget about womens rash vests! There are lots of womens rash vests that can keep you warm while you're enjoying the crystal clear waters in Australian beaches.

Women's surf rash guards come in different designs. You can get one with long sleeves, or if you like it short, there are tons of women's short sleeve rash vest available in the market. Not all rashies are created equal. We are not only talking about the type of material used or its design. You should not limit yourself on a single rash guard women target since we all have different needs.

8. Make up and toiletries


Take the minimum. Also get some small bottles and containers and fill with just enough for the trip eg shampoo , face cream. Cut your hair brush down to 1 . Hairdryers are always supplied. Buy a small toothpaste tube. And just the minimum make up- most can go in your handbag. A small magnifying mirror that folds or sticks to a window by suction is great for makeup in hotels as the bathrooms are very dark.

Pack a few basic first aid and medicine items. Check any restrictions where you are going, and carry bandaids for blisters etc.

Put some moisturizing face cream on, your face will thank you for it. Have a handy travel cosmetics bag with body mist, wet wipes, sewing kit, painkillers, toothbrush and toothpaste, hand cream and lip balm. Hand cleaner will be handy, too.

9. Choose outfits wisely


Try to choose fabrics that don’t wrinkle easily, and pack wipes in case you spill a coffee. Lay out an outfit for each day and try not to throw in too many pieces. Any season take three pants or skirts or mixture. Unless you are going on a beach holiday shorts are not good as not always considered suitable attire.

Take tops that can be mix and matched with bottoms and washable. No ironing if possible. Something warm - depending on season you may need warm knitwear and coat or padded vest. Definitely invest is a pashmina- lightweight, warm and serves a multitude of purposes and dresses anything up. You can wash out your clothes in the hotel easily and they dry overnight usually.Most places also have laundry facilities or service.

Take underwear for three days. Something to sleep in. No robes slippers etc. Wear a pair and bin it as you go- no washing and weight reducing daily leaving room for purchases made in the holiday place! Carry a lightweight crushproof dress for going out at night that pairs with your pashmina if needed or an evening top that will go with black pants.

If you are taking a practical bag such as a crossbody for day, you can include a very small light purse if you are going to a more formal restaurant. A lightweight suitcase of small to medium size with wheels is enough. Unless you are planning on doing a lot of shopping. In that case pack the medium case inside a larger case for the outward journey and if airline gives you two free bags.

Take some large plastic ziplock bags. Invaluable for damp clothes, swimwear and to keep toiletries from leaking into your clothes. You can fit a bottle of wine in the large ones to bring back in a suitcase without worrying about spilling if it breaks.

10. Travel in comfortable clothes


Jogging's will be great, leggings can be good, too. Have some socks and hoodie at your disposal, it can get really cold on the plane.

Leave all your jewellery at home. Maybe wear one small piece such as a fine chain. Definitely nothing that will draw attention and make you a target for robbery. Also you don’t want to have to worry about keeping your jewellery safe. Some people advise that if you have an engagement ring you turn the stone underneath to avoid attention.

Check your itinerary, plan your activities and you will be able to achieve your summer travel goals by keeping these tips in mind when exploring the breathtaking islands of Australia.

12 Things to Do in Perth in Australia

Perth is one of the iconic cities of Australia in one of the best countries to live in. It is one of the largest and most populous cities in Western Australia. The city was founded in the year of 1829 as a colony of the British Empire. It is the capital of the state of Western Australia. Parliament and Supreme Court of the state is located there. Additionally, you can also find out the Governor of the State' residence there.

Many people book Perth flights for visiting the tourists attractions of the city. No matter the time of the year, you will always hear Perth as an excellent tourist destination. Because, why not? Perth has clean air, is safe, has a low population density with a virtually non-existent unemployment rate.

Plus, its wildlife and untouched natural territories make it one of the best places to go for a day trip - so what's not to love? In the north we can visit the Pinnacles desert, the Ningaloo reef and Monkey Mia where the dolphins almost reach the shore and the Karijini National Park. In the south we find Fremantle, the wine region of Margaret River and Rottnest Island. In the extreme northwest is Kimberley with its abrupt canyons and a beautiful ocean.

Recommended Read: 11 Best Countries in the World to Live and Work

things to do in Perth

Day Trips in Perth

If you're keen on visiting Western Australia anytime soon, it pays to learn about the different tourist spots and the best things to do while taking road trips near Perth.

Why Day Trips in Perth?

Day trips from Rockingham aren't the only popular joy rides tourists and locals alike enjoy in this side Of Western Australia. Don't limit yourself by wandering around the city - we recommended taking the popular day trips in Perth for a vacation well-spent.

Let's now have a look at the tourist attractions in Perth. Here are some of the must-see and must-do activities while exploring Perth.

1. Wander Around Swan River


Swan River is the main river of Perth. There are trails located on the sides of the river. You can walk around the trails. The river looks exceptionally beautiful at different times.

2. Talk with Kangaroos on Heirisson Island


Heirisson Island is situated on the middle of Swan River. It can be easily accessed from the city. On this island, there lives a group of birds and animals. On the day time, they are usually sleeping so you should disturb them. They come out when the temperature is cooler. They come out for the purpose of grazing around. It sounds interesting to look at the kangaroos living in their natural habitat.

3. Spend the time at Cottesloe Beach


Cottesloe is a famous beach which is considered as the most beautiful beaches along the West side of Perth. You can do a lot of activities which are related to water. You will do swimming, snorkeling, and surfing along the water. The place is a great chance to do water activities in this exotic location. You can also approach this beach for a picnic.

You can also lay down on the sand and watch the beach waves. It is one of the greatest beaches where you can also get along for spending some marvelous holidays.

4. Shopping in Perth


There is an abundance of shopping options in Perth so if shopping is for you, you are in for a treat. From electric markets right through to stylish malls with boutiques stores; you have it all. The two main places to check out the shopping area downtown in the Murray and Hay street malls where you will find a variety of specialist stores, whether you are just window shopping or are looking to buy something, in particular, you are sure to find what you are looking for.

Perth has all of the favorite malls and shopping centers which you want to visit. Names of the two bigger malls are Murray and Hay Street Malls. Myer and David Jones are two main departmental stores from where you can buy each and everything. Approach all of these stores when you have to buy departmental needs.

5. Visit the Bell Tower


Swan Bell Tower is the second largest tower in the world having sixteen bells. It is one of the largest skyscrapers in Western Australia. Martin’s Society of Change Ringers Inc. Members can change or knock the bells. This tower has become an iconic landmark for the state of Western Australia.

6. Travel through the Claisebrook Cove Bridge


It looks very glamorous when you walk through Claisebrook Bridge at the night when lights of the buildings have been set on. It is the time of the night and you have to follow this schedule for watching the marvelous scenery.

7. Walk Around Fremantle


Fremantle is a great place around Perth city. It has both artistic and alternative options for the Australia culture. You can explore more city and find a lot of restaurants and markets where you have stayed in the city. It is a great place to spend time in this location.

8. Discover More Kings' Park


Kings' Park is one of the largest parks in Western Australia. It has many species of plants, fungus, and birds. Many of the people like to spend time in this park. They usually come with their families. Events and festivals are also held in there. Many of the popular avenues are located inside the park like War Memorial, Honor Avenue, Bali Memorial, and many others, etc. Botanic Gardens are located in this area. If you are going to visit Kings Garden then you must visit these gardens.

9. Go Around Leederville


Leederville is a place located north of Perth city. There are two famous streets there which are Vincent and Oxford Street. There is a famous design market which is located in Perth. It has various art collections and posters. It is a very interesting region to explore and you must not miss this golden chance.

10. Visit Caversham Wildlife Park


Caversham Wildlife Park is a park dedicated to animals and birds species. You can interact with them easily. You can feed some of the animals on the risk of your own however it is a great place to visit animals in their natural habitat. On top of that, you'll get a once in a lifetime opportunity to hang out with kangaroos, koalas and wombats in Caversham wildlife park.

Don't neglect the hidden gems of this place, Aboriginal galleries with an impressive view!

11. Walk Around Mundaring Weir


The Mundaring Weir is a popular destination. You can have a glamorous view from the north side. You can also walk around the Maundering Weir. The natural scenery looks of the marvelous views which you can see from the north side.

12. Eating out in Perth


Northbridge is an excellent market place which consists of many shops, cafes and another kind of restaurants. You should be also trying them. There is a lot of delicious food which caters to the need of everyone. If you are a lover of seafood then you can find the greatest options here in this city.

Greenhouse Restaurant is located on St. Georges Terrace. It has kept a standard of cleanliness; vegetables are also grown on the top of the roof. From one end it has covered a major portion of the wall and it looks quite interesting. Administration of the hotel quickly makes everything clean for the service of the customers.

Don't skip the opportunity of exploring this wonderland and start creating your joyride itinerary in Perth.