Category: America

7 Things You Can Strike Off Your Bucket List By Visiting Branson, MO

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Image by mh040734 from Pixabay

Despite being a small city, Branson boasts many world-class attractions. Whether you want to explore the wilderness, treat your family to an unforgettable day in the 1880s, become a passenger aboard the Titanic, or catch your dinner in a lake, Branson has got you covered.

#1. Hunt for treasure, or maybe just hike, in the countryside

The area around Branson offers over 200 miles of trails, many found within state parks or conservation areas. For example, Dogwood Canyon Nature Park features several trails through some of the Ozarks’ most beautiful scenery. These include a paved, 6½–mile trail that overlooks rock bluffs and waterfalls.

Table Rock State Park boasts trails for hikers of all ages and abilities. Families with young children can enjoy the 1½–mile Chinquapin Trail or the 2¼–mile Lakeshore Trail. More adventurous hikers might want to explore all 11¾ miles of the White River Valley Trail System. Ensure you take along a good-nature photography camera to capture the beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife you see along the way.

But the most interesting trail is the Murder Rock Road Trail. This trail follows the path of an old pioneer trail where during the mid-19th century an outlaw gang hid behind boulders to rob and murder travelers.

After Alf Bolin, the leader of the gang, was killed by the Union Army, several members of his gang insisted that his treasure was hidden somewhere close to a cave that was the gang’s bolt hole. Treasure hunters have sought Bolin’s treasure for over 150 years, and it hasn’t been found yet!

#2. Enjoy kayaking

Lake Taneycomo and Table Rock Lake are excellent destinations for water sports. Whether you want to paddle around in a kayak or take a paddleboard class, you’ll find local hire companies who are delighted to provide everything you need. Table Rock is wonderful for beginners because of its tranquil water, while Lake Taneycomo has currents that you can fight or use to push your kayak along.

Table Rock Lake is a complex maze of passages with many islands available for curious explorers. Whether you want to kayak for fun, to enjoy nature, or for fishing, you’ll enjoy your paddle around the lake. And if you want to try something a little different, why not explore the lake in a pedal powered kayak?

#3. Survive a famous shipwreck

In 1987, John Joslyn headed an underwater expedition to uncover the secrets of the RMS Titanic.

After successfully recovering many historic artifacts from the undersea wreck, he divided these treasures between 2 museums, one of which is located in Branson.

The Titanic Museum in Branson is designed to resemble the front half of the RMS Titanic, complete with 2 of its 4 funnels. You enter the museum through an artificial iceberg and are handed a passenger boarding ticket in the name of one of RMS Titanic’s passengers. Inside the museum, you’ll learn the detailed story of a selection of passengers. Just as you are about to disembark, you’ll discover the fate of your passenger…whether they went down with the ship or survived.

#4. Travel back in time to the 1880s

If you enjoyed Back to the Future III, you’ll love the fantastic Silver Dollar City theme park. It’s one of the largest family-friendly theme parks in America and is an 1880s-themed experience.

Within the park, you can attend a 19th-century schoolhouse, worship in the Wilderness Church, visit a genuine 1843 homestead log cabin, see displays about pioneer life, take your kids to pet the farm animals in a homestead barnyard, and learn how to milk a cow.

As well as the 1880s style attractions, Silver Dollar City boasts live concerts and shows, 40 attractions and thrilling rides, 60 unique shops, 18 restaurants, and 100 resident craftsmen demonstrating the American crafts you would have seen in the late 19th century.

#5. Catch big fish that don’t get away

The Ozarks are rich with fantastic fishing spots. Lakes such as Taneycomo, Table Rock, and Bull Shoals feature large fish just waiting for you to come along. The cool water of Taneycomo is stocked with rainbow and brown trout you can catch from public fishing docks, the shore, or aboard a boat or fishing kayak. Fish often like to congregate in the still waters of Turkey Creek, an offshoot of Taneycomo Lake.

Table Rock Lake is surrounded by sycamore, oak, and hickory trees that provide shade and the occasional submerged fallen trunk. Such locations make perfect natural fish habitats where fish hide in the shadows or beneath the underwater branches.

Table Rock’s relatively warm water is great for bream, channel cat, crappie, largemouth bass, spotted bass, and white bass. There are plenty of hiking trails you can follow around the lake to reach the more remote fishing spots where you’re more likely to find those larger fish.

Bull Shoals Lake features a broad variety of warm-water fish, including bream, channel cat, crappie, largemouth bass, spotted bass, white bass, stripers, and walleye. The upper end of the lake features cooler water where you’ll encounter both brown and rainbow trout.

#6. Take in a show aboard a boat

Table Lake is a great destination for more than watersports and fishing. It also boasts a popular showboat. Aboard the Showboat Branson Belle, you can enjoy dinner and a show on the lake! The Branson Belle is the largest ship on a landlocked lake in the United States and is operated by the same corporation as Silver Dollar City.

If boats aren’t your thing but you still want dinner and a show, no problem. Branson boasts a theater district with a wide range of shows. For example, Dolly Parton’s Stampede is a celebration of great American food and entertainment. You’ll be amazed by the pyrotechnics, trick riders, and beautiful singing. And the whole family can enjoy the Sight and Sound Theater where popular Bible Stories such as Noah’s Ark are brought to life on stage using live animals and talented performers.

#7. Enjoy a monkey’s eye view of the world

What better way to explore the forest canopy than on a zipline tour? Head over to Wolfe Mountain where you can enjoy a thrilling descent along a series of 7 ziplines and 10 suspension bridges. The highlight of the adventure is an adrenaline-pumping 40-foot freefall called Dynamite Drop. Hold on to your hat and everything else as you plunge through the air in freefall!

How to get around in Cancun: airport transfers tips

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Once you have enjoyed yourself to the fullest in Cancun, you can’t miss the opportunity to travel from Cancun to Tulum to complete an experience in one of the most popular tourist areas in the Yucatan region. Below we provide you with the best transportation options to make this trip as comfortable as possible.

On board ADO buses

The most economical option of all is to choose this bus route. You can take them at the terminal located in the Cancun Hotel Zone, where you can take the bus that best suits your schedule, and travel (for an hour and a half or two hours) in a comfortable and spacious bus with air conditioning service until you reach your destination.

The ADO company offers you exclusive amenities unique to a company with so many years and so much recognition; among the most outstanding is the fact that they have a service to choose your travel companion, this being another woman in case you are traveling alone. As well as the overweight luggage service without extra charges, which is excellent for travelers who want to save as much as possible. There is also a cell phone recharge service in all available phones, so you can always stay in touch with your loved ones throughout your trip.

Finally, it is recommended in this section to make sure that the destination is the town of Tulum, and not the Archaeological Zone, because this would mean having to make an additional transfer that represents more time and money than you had planned to spend.

However, it contrasts with private transportation, as this is much more comfortable when moving between destinations, you can easily move to any destination in the city in a matter of minutes, the comfort is not compared with any other transfer service, especially the Cancun to Tulum Shuttle service, undoubtedly an experience to be lived sometime in life.

Iconic Sculpture of Playa del Carmen

You can make a trip through the mentioned ADO buses until you reach the terminal in Playa del Carmen, where you can board buses to get to Tulum in an economic way, the advantage is the saving of the ticket and being able to know more about the locations; however, the disadvantage of making this stop, is that you could have to walk some blocks, not to mention that the whole trip between waiting, transfer and transfers can take approximately 3 hours.

Because it represents so much mobilization, it is not recommended to take this stopover if you are traveling in large groups, as it could present difficulties, however, for lonely travelers or small groups of backpackers it would represent an option full of adventure and quite economical that allows the journey through Playa del Carmen additionally.

Transportation through private transportation

One of the most requested services by tourists who come to Cancun looking to try new experiences, because it is very comfortable, especially if you are going to spend a lot of time in a destination and do not want to carry the responsibility of a car, simply take you to your destination without problems and then pick you up when you leave again at the airport, to go to Tulum take a transfer from Cancun to Tulum is the easiest thing you can do.

The option that is never discarded is to rent a taxi for the one and a half hour transfer to Tulum. We recommend taking them at the main terminals, at the Cancun airport or from a reliable taxi line to travel with maximum security. Remember to agree on the fare with the driver before boarding, and do not forget that it is possible to lower the cost of the service by sharing the taxi of at least 4 seats with another person who also has the beautiful city of Tulum as his destination.

This is a good option since you avoid stopovers, travel privately with close proximity to your luggage and with great comfort (although this also represents a higher fare than all the options above).

With all these options you can’t miss a trip from Cancun to Tulum and get to know the beauties of a place full of history rich in the Mayan past. Dare to take the tour from Cancun to Tulum, and cross out a new place in your list of paradisiacal destinations along the Riviera Maya!

Top 5 must-do things at New Mexico

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Booking your tickets to New Mexico but don’t know where to go? You didn’t find anything you would like to do there on the internet? Are you even thinking of changing the destination of your trip? Don’t worry! We will help you make your trip worthwhile by sharing the 5 things you definitely should do when you go there.

1. Visit Santa Fe Opera House

Located seven miles north of Santa Fe and looking directly at the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of the Rockies is the Santa Fe opera house. This opera house was built in 1956 and has since been a tourist attraction. If you are looking for a place to dine while watching the sunset and watching the open-air theatre, this is your ideal spot. Add this to your checklist of things to see and you won’t be disappointed.

2. Visit the museums there

Mexico City is filled with museums, from folk art to history and nuclear science you will find it all there. If you are a lover of dinosaurs and big bang theory and other historical things then visit the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, Albuquerque. If you are a fan of folk art and visiting Santa Fe then Museum of International Folk Art is your place to be. With pieces of art from many countries, this museum will become your best-visited place on this trip.

3. Go horse riding at the Ghost Ranch

We are not sending to you a haunted ranch. Ghost ranch got its name from rumours that were spread by cattle thieves to keep people away from their things. It’s a beautiful, vast, natural place, formed by miles of desert, cottonwood trees, and mountains. You can satisfy your craving for hiking and horse riding there. If you are out with your brushes and paint and looking for scenery to paint, go there and you will be amazed.

4. Don’t forget to visit Red River

Are you sitting in your hotel room getting bored out of your mind? Want to do some outdoor activity? Pack your gear and get on a bus to the town of Red River. This small town located in Taos County with its Red River Ski & Summer Area has been a great getaway destination since the 1950s.  With outdoor activities like fishing, warm weather skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, hiking, biking, and horseback riding this can be an ideal spot for you.

5. Try out a glass blowing class

Want to do something different, something new? Get yourself enrolled in a glass blowing class of Elodie Holmes where you will learn to hand-sculpt pieces by using the traditional glass-blowing method.

New Mexico has lots to offer to anyone who’s willing to leave homes to come to visit its beautiful museums, deserts, resorts, and its wide blue sky. We discussed five of the best things to do but we are sure no matter what you like to do there, you will find to do.

Picturesque photos that will compel your Galapagos travel bug

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They say a picture is worth a thousand words, for the Galapagos – they can reach a million. The beauty of the Galapagos is one that’s unparalleled and inexhaustible. If you’re still on the fence on whether you should take a trip down there, the Galapagos Islands photos will be the final push that’ll definitely make you board the next plane to this quaint ecosystem.

Sea lions

As you stroll along the beaches of the Galapagos, one cute sight you’ll come across is that of basking sea lions. Adorable can’t fully explain the sensation tourists get when they encounter one of these charming chubby animals. Be advised. You might get the temptation of rubbing their belly.

Giant tortoises

The Galapagos is home to some of the biggest and oldest tortoises in the world. One of the splendors that have attracted a lot of tourists around these islands is the giant tortoises including the Pinta Island tortoises and the Galapagos giant tortoise. If you’re lucky enough to catch them while eating, you’ll get some nice photo shots.

Penguins

If chilly weather has been putting you off from seeing these remarkable creatures, don’t worry because the islands of Galapagos have you sorted. The penguins on these islands are the only group found in the northern hemisphere. You can find the white-torsoed animals in several islands including Isabela, Santiago, Fernandino, Bartolome, and Floreana islands.

Marine Iguana

Now, the marine iguanas are not very attractive to many people; however, it’s amazing how these creatures have still managed to attract scores of tourists to the islands. Beneath the rugged body and the obnoxious demeanor are calm and gentle animals. During breeding, the scales of the male change color to red and green, making their appearance conspicuous.

Hammerhead Sharks

The underwater world in this archipelago features some of the most beautiful and colorful fish species. The waters in this area also attract a large school of hammerhead sharks. You’ll enjoy a thrilling rush as you swim close-by the countless sharks.

Turtles

Closely related to tortoises, turtles are poised both on land and in the sea. Seeing these creatures swim rhythmically in the crystal deep-sea waters is utterly spectacular. In the hatching season, you’ll get a rare opportunity to witness countless young turtles heading for the ocean.

Frigatebirds

Don’t be shocked to see some black colored birds blowing a red balloon. Actually, these are frigatebirds. The males engage in a battle of ego to woo the female counterparts to their nests by inflating their red throat pouch.

Sunrises and sunsets

Every morning and evening, the skies and horizons collaborate to treat tourists and the inhabitants with jaw-dropping amber sky panorama. These are some of the best times for tourists as they capture lasting fond memories.

Snorkeling

One of the most fascinating activities in these islands is snorkeling in the extensive coral reefs. If you’ve been thinking about an activity that’ll leave you and your team greatly fulfilled, head into the deep waters with your snorkels.

Pelicans

With a plethora of bird species in the islands, some interesting flight creatures you’re bound to come across are Pelicans. You’ll either see some flying freely or others on the ground enjoying a breeze. Catching a glimpse of these birds flying is simply astonishing as you’ll get to see their long beaks and magnificent wingspan in action.

Pink flamingos

Only one word can successfully describe these birds, irresistible. You can’t help but photograph a bunch of these lean, graceful, and curvy-necked birds.

Land Iguana

These are just as mean looking as their cousins, the marine iguana. They’ve also got some serious claws for doing their hunting business.

Gardner Bay

The beaches here are some of the most ravishing waters on these islands. The splashing sounds of waves pounding the shores are impressively refreshing. You’ll get a chance to see stingrays, fur seals, numerous sally lightfoot crabs, and red lava lizards enjoying the white sand and the cerulean waters.

Tortuga Bay

It’s certain that every place in the Galapagos is beautiful and unique in its own way. However, some places are just a must-see. Known for the numerous turtles that flock the bay, Tortuga is also a haven for many other incredible species. Kayaking is one of the most favorite activities in this bay as tourists get to explore the land around.

These are some of the few reasons why the Galapagos tops the lists as a travel destination.

Author:

I’m Jaylin: SEO Expert of Leelija Web Solutions. And full time blogger. Favorite things include my camera, travelling, caring my fitness, food and my fashion. Email id: editor@leelija.com. You can follow me on my blog: travelforu.info

Arizona Itinerary: A Perfect Trip to the Grand Canyon State

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Are you dreaming of a not-so-white Christmas? Are you planning a summer vacation around sunshine, heat and gorgeous scenery? Then Arizona has you covered.

The Grand Canyon State is a perfect blend of dramatic landscapes, bustling cities, comfort food and exciting activities. But you need to know how to do it right. If you go to Arizona without a varied itinerary, you can end up missing a lot of what makes the state special.

In this article, let’s dive into all that Arizona has to offer. The five stops that follow make up the perfect itinerary, whatever time of year you plan on going.

Hike the Grand Canyon

You can’t go to the Grand Canyon State and miss its titular attraction, nor would you want to. The best way to experience this American treasure, though, is to get out of your car and walk around.

There are numerous hikes to be experienced in the Grand Canyon, but the most celebrated are the South Rim Trail and the Bright Angel trail, both near the South Rim. If you’re afraid of heights, this might just be the tonic your brain needs – the sweeping, descending rim offers a bird’s eye view of some of the most beautiful formations in the Canyon.

Learn History at the Heard Museum

American Indian culture is on impressive display at this must-see Phoenix museum, located conveniently on North Central Avenue.

For a modest $15 admission, you get an engrossing tour of the native art, craft and history. There are always new exhibits cycling through the museum, so if something on the website piques your interest, consider planning your Phoenix trip around current exhibit dates.

Go Axe Throwing in Scottsdale

Scottsdale, just east of Phoenix, is a gem in its own right, but the real highlight here is the plethora of activities, chief of which is axe throwing. Before you head out for a night on the town, go axe throwing in Scottsdale and get the true frontier experience.

Drop-ins are welcome, but in order to secure a spot at an axe throwing facility, it’s best to book ahead. Whether you go axe throwing with friends, as part of an axe throwing bachelorette party, or just solo, this is can’t-miss Arizona experience.

Soak in Tucson’s 4th Avenue Hipness

The hippest street in all of Arizona (a claim that many Arizonans might argue) is 4th Avenue in Tucson.

Grab a coffee at one of the many cafes, grab a drink at one of the many (hip) dive bars, and take in the Avenue’s art. Close to the University of Arizona, the Avenue skews young, but it’s inclusive of all walks of life.

Take Pictures at Monument Valley

Why buy a postcard when you can just take a picture at the source. Monument Valley, one of the most iconic landmarks in the Southwest (if not the entirety of America) is beautiful any time of year.

Whether you’re looking to create the perfect Instagram post, or you just want stunning pictures for your personal collection, the mesas and rock buttes of Monument Valley deliver in spades.

If there’s one takeaway from this post, it’s this: visit Arizona. The heady mix of natural beauty, culture and exciting activities makes the Grand Canyon State mandatory visiting for anyone interested in the American Southwest.

4 of Jamaica’s most beautiful best-kept secrets

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Source: Unsplash | Sébastien Jermer

Jamaica’s sublime sun, sea and sand pigeonhole it as a typical tropical tourist getaway.

But add wild waterfalls, majestic mountains, rebellious history, reggae culture and feisty locals into the mix, and you might begin to understand why the land of wood and water is truly unique.

Take a package tour to Jamaica where you seldom venture far from the high walls of your compound resort and the closest you’ll get to experiencing The Rock in true living colour is returning home with a tan and a few tacky tourist trinkets.

However, provided you plan ahead, there are plenty of ways to experience this idyllic and inspirational island nation in a much more immersive and enriching manner.

So without further ado, here are four of Jamaica’s most beautiful best-kept secrets.

1. Reach Falls

Fancy splashing around in the same sumptuous waterfall where Tom Cruise and Elizabeth Shue filmed 80s classic Cocktail?

Then take a few minutes to watch this Knotty Maria Reach Falls video and you’ll understand why a trip to these romantic waterfalls in the John Crow Mountains is a must-do.

Clamber up the natural stone staircase to the main falls, slide into the rabbit hole at the top of the porous bread loaf rock and then chill out in the pool below – brilliant!

2. Trident Port Antonio

When he first sailed into Port Antonio, the late lothario Errol Flynn declared that it was more beautiful than any woman he had ever seen.

And perhaps the best way to relax in rarified luxury near the capital of Jamaica’s stunning Portland parish is by booking into Trident Port Antonio – an elegant white castle complex that perches on a promontory overlooking the cool Caribbean sea. Reserve your exclusive villa at thetridenthotel.com.

3. Firefly

After enjoying huge success on stage and screen, English polymath Sir Noel Coward liked nothing better than entertaining Hollywood Royalty at his house at Blue Harbour in St Mary parish.

However, check out this film of his second home at Firefly and you’ll understand why he kept this nearby private pad spot largely to himself.

Gaze out across islets in the the Spanish Main from the hillside spot where Sir Noel took his postprandial stroll and it’s obvious why this is one of Jamaica’s most desirable wedding locations.

 

4. Accompong

In the 18th Century, a group of rebel runaway slaves called the Maroons fought a series of (largely successful) guerilla wars against the British Empire, with the results that some of their descendants still live in autonomous communities deep in Jamaica’s interior.

One such settlement is Accompong in Cockpit Country and it’s well worth a visit if you want to learn about the proud traditions of a great underdog people who took on an empire and, thanks to guts, guile and guerilla tactics, won against overwhelming odds. Find a tour at undiscovered-destinations.com.

Getting there

Find direct flights to Jamaica from main London airports at kayak.com and if you’re getting there in your own vehicle, book airport parking at Looking4.com for Heathrow, Gatwick and elsewhere.

That’s our list! Share your own Jamaican travel tips in the comments section.

Why Adults Can Enjoy Disney World Just As Much as Kids

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The large majority of visitors to Disney World resorts are families with young kids who bring their children to live out their dreams and fantasies of their favorite Disney movies. With this being said however there is absolutely nothing stooping adults from enjoying these theme parks even if they do not have children and it is a truly special place where people of all ages can enjoy themselves. If you are not sure whether or not you are too old for Disney then the answer is absolutely not, and here is exactly why.

We Are All Kids

No matter how old you are, whether or not you own your own house and have a day job, this does not mean that you have lost that child inside you. In fact we all have that kid in us, the kid who wonders, the kid who believes in things that aren’t real and the kid that believes that anything is possible. Disney is a place which taps into all of these feelings of awe and wonder and if you allow yourself to get carried away with it you are going to have the time of your life at the theme park. The movies which Disney makes are for all ages, and so too are their theme parks.

Pricing

Taking a family to Disney can be pricey but if you are heading there with a group of friends or in a couple then you can enjoy this experience at a fraction of the cost that a family would pay. You can find the best deals on Disney World tickets if you look online and you’ll see for yourself just how reasonably priced it is when you only have yourself to pay for.

Never Too Old To Ride

Some of the rides at the Disney theme parks are extreme and adrenalin fueled which are designed for teenagers and adults. The biggest difference with the age is that when you are a teenager you are not scared of anything, especially when it comes to theme park rides. As an adult we get more fear than the kids do and that results in rides which give you even more satisfaction. The more scared that you are by a ride, the more fun which you are going to have.

Acceptable

Don’t feel as though you are going to stick out like a sore thumb if you are at Disney without kids, this is not the case at all. In fact it is completely acceptable for groups of adults to go to the theme park and there is nothing odd or different about it at all. You will spot other groups of adults who are having just as good a time as you, without the worry of what the kids are up to or what they want to do next.

Kids or not, this is the greatest place on Earth and you should certainly go and enjoy it.

Five Best Places You Must-See in the United States

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With an abundant diversity to offer, it’s no surprise that tourists from around the world flock to the United States of America every season of the year. From the concrete jungles New York City to the majestic sunsets of Hawaii, each of the fifty states will certainly have a treat worthy experience for any type of wanderer.

The common challenge for first-time travelers boils right down to selecting places to go to among the countless destinations offered. Whereas there may be no definitive list of must-see places within the U.S.A., one could begin by searching for a number of the most lovely places to go to within the U.S.A.

1. Grand Canyon National Park, Colorado, AZ

The Grand Canyon is a natural landmark sculpted by the Colorado River within the state of Arizona. Geographically, the river valley runs up to 277 miles long, with a depth of a few miles. It has established itself as a top tourist spot for casual sightseers loving the view as well as thrill-seekers engaged in among the various activities offered by the attraction.

Tours and activities at the canyon sometimes take off from either the North or the South rim. Whereas the South Rim is open to tourists throughout the year, the North Rim is just open seasonally because of road closures caused by weather. Also, camping is mostly restricted to selected campgrounds only.

Visitors who prefer an additional exciting experience could go parachuting or board small aircraft for an amazing aerial view of the canyon. Moreover, the Grand Canyon Skywalk is a must-see for those that would really like to see the Canyon’s vastness. The glass walkway permits tourists to directly stare at the vertical drop directly below them.

2. Washington D.C

Easily recognizable as the capital of the United States of America, Washington D.C. is where history and fun intertwine. Of course, a concept to the capital should add the sought-after day tour through the presidential residence – the White House.

Washington D.C., apart from the White House and therefore the United States Capitol, additionally homes numerous war memorials, museums and the National Zoo – providing an entire experience for the entire family. The Washington Monument, designed to commemorate the country’s 1st president, stands tall and watches over the landscaped park that is the National Mall. Another location of historical significance within the capital is that the Arlington National Cemetery, which serves as the final resting place of those who fought in and for the country starting from the civil war.

Moreover, the Smithsonian Museums, all seventeen of them in the town, plus the National zoo, charge absolutely nothing for admissions. These attractions, and the regular flow of commuters from the nearby suburbs of Maryland and Virginia make a really dynamic metropolis.

3. New York City

Famous American author E. B. White once said of the City That Never Sleeps, “New York provides not only a continuing excitation but also a spectacle that’s continuing.” A century later, his words still carry an explicit truth to it and for travelers both from the united states and also the remainder of the planet, any time may be a blast to go to NYC.

Broadway, wide thought-about to be the worldwide center of theatrical performances together with the London West End, attracts about to fifteen million attendees coming from everywhere the globe to witness these shows. Others visit the city to travel to in its cultural and historic landmarks that include The Empire State Building and also the Statue of Liberty.

While it’s safe to mention that one short trip around the States can never be enough, these top five places are certain to provide you with an unforgettable and lasting impression of what the Land of the Free can give. With a start on your united states vacation, a visit to these places will definitely guarantee a second or perhaps a third time visiting the U.S.A.

4. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Contrary to whatever mental representation the word “badlands” might produce, the Badlands National Park in South Dakota is anything but bad. Covering 242,756 acres of eroded buttes and spires, the surreal geological formations are home to vast fossil beds, once the roaming ground of prehistoric mammals just like the saber-toothed cat. Also, the massive expanses of mixed-grass prairies are populated by life like bison, sheep, and prairie dogs. Add the very fact that there’s no visible sign of modern civilization completes that desolate, badlands feel.

Outdoor activities extremely suggested within the Badlands include camping, cruising on its close highways, bird-watching, and for many tourists- hiking. There are quite a variety of trails for guests to follow. From the short Door trail, that is less than a mile long, to the ten-miles Castle trail, these marked ways lead to outlooks with a wide unhindered view of the geographical area on the far side. Most trails begin and finish back with the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, complete with its indoor theater, bookstore, and even has interactive exhibits. They additionally provide ranger programs for those interested to become junior rangers.

5. Maui, Hawaii

Perhaps the most effective way to relish an entire Hawaiian experience is by paying a visit to the island of Maui. The second-largest island in the state of Hawaii is home to world-famous beaches with views of migrating whales, the luxurious and sacred Iao valley, and picturesque views of the Sun from the peaks of Haleakala.

On the way to the world-renowned Haleakala National Park is that the Hana Highway, a 64-mile road running on the East Coast of the island, traversing through mountainsides and over bridges. a preferred tourist destination in its claim, the length of the Hana highway is dotted with many attractions typically situated inside private property and not typically accessible to the public. Haleakala National Park, on the other hand, is named after and is home to the Haleakala Volcano that, according to native legend, is where the demigod Maui captive the sun to extend the days. A winding path ends up in the summit of the volcano, where guests flock to try and catch a glimpse of the sunrise at dawn and sunset at dusk.

Tourists typically end the day’s adventures frolicking in one of Maui’s beaches. Among the most common activities in Maui Island include snorkeling, surfing, kiteboarding and windsurfing.

The 3 Foods You Must Try When You Visit Canada

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The Great White North doesn’t command too much attention in the global culinary dialogue. It does not have the same immediately recognizable national dishes as other, older countries, nor does it have a reputation for fine dining. Ask tourists to Canada why they’ve chosen it, and “for the food” is probably way down the list, below “natural beauty” and “friendly people”.

Nevertheless, Canada has a few foods that you absolutely have to try if you travel there. In this article, let’s explore three dishes that, by and large, you can’t get outside the country, and that will blow you away. Get your maple-leaf-emblazoned bib out and crack yourself a cool Molson beer, because you are going to want to try these.

Get Messy With a Poutine

While it has gained popularity stateside in the last few years, poutine remains best enjoyed in Canada. Whereas American versions tend to cut corners with grated cheese and commercially made gravy, the Canadian version – especially those you find in the province of Quebec – use fresh cheese curds and from-scratch gravy. It’s a messy, opulent dish but you absolutely have to give it a go if you’re in Canada.

Where to go: Montreal is your best bet for an amazing poutine. Try the Montreal institution La Banquise, or its hipper younger brother, La Belle Patate.

Relax With an “Edible”

If you haven’t heard the news, well then congratulations for successfully surviving under that rock. But of course you have heard: as of last year, cannabis is legal across Canada. And since then, because of the broad legalization, there has been some wonderful experimentation with cannabis in food, baked goods especially. You can get gourmet edibles that taste great and let you relax a little.

Where to go: Not a physical location per se (not yet, at least), but you should definitely check out Olli Brands cannabis infused edibles online – they are crafted by real chefs with a focus on flavour and experience.

Up Your Brunch Game With a Caesar

This cocktail is a hard sell for some travellers, especially when they hear that the main ingredient, Clamato juice, is made from – you guessed it – tomatoes and clams. But push all that out of your head. Come to brunch with an open mind, order a Caesar, and what you will receive is like a Bloody Mary on steroids. It gets a deep umami flavour from the Clamato, a spicy kick from the hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce and a lip-licking finish from the celery salt rim, all enhancing the natural booziness of the vodka.

Where to go: You can find this cocktail on the menu of just about any restaurant that serves alcohol. But, recently, some restaurants have started to garnish their Caesars with chicken wings, onion rings and even sliders. This article from the Food Network lists the craziest Caesars you can find across the country.

No, Canada might not command the same culinary clout as Italy or Thailand. But its riches, when discovered, are really remarkable. Hopefully you’ll give one of these uniquely Canuck foods a try.

Look Online For Big Savings on Your Orlando Trip

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A family trip to Orlando isn’t cheap and whilst every penny spent will be worthwhile, it makes sense to try and find as many ways to save as possible. My family and I have taken this trip about 5 times in the last decade and each time we go we manage to find more cost effective ways to make this trip. If you want the best and biggest savings then you need to fire up your laptop and get searching, and here are just some of the places where you can save big.

Theme Parks

Beyond your flight prices and accommodation the biggest outlay you’ll be likely to make is on the entrance to the theme parks themselves. You can however find huge savings on a variety of discount websites, as long as you know which parks you want to go to and on which days you want to visit. Our favorite park here in Orlando is Universal Studios and you can find Universal Orlando tickets online with huge discounts. Sometimes you’ll find these on 3rd party sites, other times you’ll find heavy discounts on offer on a variety of coupon sites. The key is to get hold of these tickets as soon as they are released because they are almost always limited, if you don’t want to miss out then check in daily to ensure that you are first in line.

Car Hire

Renting a car during your time here makes so much sense, it gives you the freedom to go where you want and when, and it also makes access to the attractions far more flexible for you and your family. As you can imagine competition is high when it comes to getting the car you want and this is why it makes sense to book up early. Furthermore you can count on some great discounts and offers if you get in early, particularly from coupon websites. As soon as you have booked the trip, hit the coupon websites each day and keep an eye out for some of the big discounts you can find for companies such as Avis, Herz and Budget, to name just a few. Not only can you secure a great price but you can also ensure that they have availability for the make and model of your choice.

Restaurants

During peak season there is fierce competition between restaurants to get tourists through the door and beyond their daily menu promotions they will also offer sizable discounts online. More often than not you’ll find these discounts and offers directly on the restaurant’s website. Bear in mind that restaurants put these deals on for future dates so you will need to know where you’ll be on each day. Once you know where and when you want to eat simply grab a deal, get your booking in early and count on some heavily discounted meals and some of the city’s best restaurants.

Orlando may be pricey but you can find ways to bring those costs down.