John Gentry

Coronavirus and Travel: How to Travel Safe During This Pandemic Time?

August 16, 2020 by John Gentry Leave a Comment

As the travel restrictions begin to ease amid the coronavirus pandemic, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued multiple travel instructions to help safeguard your health and prioritize safety, irrespective of the location of travel. However, before you read further, remember that the WHO and CDC suggest traveling only if required. If traveling is necessary, remember and implement the following precautionary measures.

Find Local Restrictions and Travel Requirements

The state and central governments of every country are implementing specific travel restrictions and requirements depending on their coronavirus epidemic situation. While the wearing of masks and using hand sanitizers is common, some locations require you to submit a valid and recent COVID-19 negative report from authorized laboratories if you are traveling interstate. In other cases, there is a mandatory quarantine period of 7 days or 14 days, depending on the severity of the epidemic.

Therefore, it is necessary to research local travel restrictions to avoid unpleasant delays and surprises. The official state government websites would be the best resource for up-to-date information. If you are booking a trip well in advance, ensure to check back on the latest updates as the date of departure comes near and also know about some travel tips.

Airport and Flight Rules

Assuming that your travel involves flights predominantly, remember that air travel was the primary reason why the coronavirus could spread far and wide. Practicing social distancing at airports is difficult. While airports are prepared for handling the renewed influx of travelers, certain safety precautions need to be taken by you, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the aviation administration of various countries. These are:

Wear a face mask at all times.
Keep a distance of 6 feet between you and other passengers. Do not let any airline staff member handle your belongings. All airports are now prepared with visual signs to help you with boarding passes, luggage check-in, and security protocols.
Avoid contact with any sick person. If you notice anyone coughing or sneezing, bring it to the attention of the authorities.
Do not come in contact with touched surfaces like elevator buttons or handrails.
If you are using airport washrooms, wash your hands with soap water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching washroom surfaces and keep a sanitizer handy.
Avoid buying food at the airport kiosks. Even though they will be adequately sanitized, it is better to pack and carry food from home if it’s a long-distance trip.
If mandatory, you need to wear a PPE suit and a face shield for the entire flight duration. Not all airports require this; check before leaving for the journey.

Road Travel

Renting a car or self-driving car seems to be a better alternative to public transport. Also, having a personal vehicle to travel within the city limits gives you better control over the environment. You can hire a car from the hotel or a homestay or book one on apps like Uber. Here are some pointers to follow:

Ask the Uber driver or the local car rental company to show that the car meets the local COVID-19 regulations. For instance, the Uber app shows when the vehicle was last cleaned and sanitized.
If a car driver’s services are required, ask the driver to produce the latest COVID-19 negative report. Enquire where the driver traveled the last few days and whether the driver came in contact with a COVID-19 patient or not.
Avoid purchasing food and water during the trip. Prepare it at your home or buy from where you are staying.
Carry hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and face masks.
If the car needs to be refueled during the travel, use a disinfectant wipe on any touched surface if self-refueling.
If the car needs to be used on multiple occasions, arrange for it to be disinfected every time.

Hotels and Lodging

Irrespective of whether you are staying with a prominent hotel chain or a homestay or a local guesthouse, it is essential that they protect their staff and guests, both. Here are a few fundamental aspects you need to check:

The room is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized, and it has enough stock of tissues, masks, and sanitizers. It has to be cleaned and disinfected daily.
Once you check-in, a staff member should use disinfectant wipes to clean visible surfaces such as doorknobs, washroom, tabletops, bedposts, and others in your presence.
Any form of payment is contactless. Pay online directly. Avoid cash or card dealings.
The staff maintains adequate protection at all times with masks and being socially distant.
Avoid touching any surfaces outside your room, such as the elevator switch or the guardrails on the stairs.
The food preparation area is clean and hygienic.
There should be social distancing in common areas such as the parking or the front desk.
There should be a doctor-on-call to handle any patient showing COVID-19 symptoms and take preventive measures instantly.
Try to avoid using laundry services. Keep soiled clothes in a separate bag to wash later.

Call the hotel or the vacation rental before booking. Talk about their coronavirus prevention measures in case a situation arises. While the information would be available on their website, it is recommended to talk to their representative personally before booking.

Will traveling be completely risk-free with the above preventive measures?

Unfortunately, no! It will never be entirely risk-free for travel during the coronavirus epidemic until the virus is defeated globally. A certain measure of risk will always persist. Although the mortality rate is low, traveling, when necessary, prevents chances of coronavirus infection. According to the CDC, 40% of the COVID-19 positive patients are asymptomatic; however, the risk of asymptomatic patients spreading the virus is 75% (source).

Further, your age and medical history are contributing factors. The mortality rate of people between 10 and 39 years of age is 0.2%, and the affected populace largely belongs to the above 50 bracket. People with medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular problems are more susceptible to coronavirus.

What to do if you begin to show COVID-19 symptoms during travel?

Coughing, difficulty in breathing, runny nose, sore throat and fever are the common symptoms of the novel coronavirus along with flu and pneumonia. If you develop any of those symptoms during travel, here is what you should do:

Inform and seek immediate medical help. If you stay in a hotel, inform the front desk, ask for a doctor, and isolate yourself in the room. If you are with relatives, or a vacation rental or a homestay, inform the other people living there immediately and isolate yourself.
Visit a laboratory for a COVID-19 test. If you have a prior COVID-19 negative report, carry it along.
The laboratory and/or the concerned doctor will inform the local authorities. Share your phone number, home address, and other documents for record-keeping. The phone number will be used for contact tracing and informing the people you came in contact with.
You are safe if the COVID-19 test report is negative again, which means you probably had a common cold or flu. If the COVID-19 test is positive, you must be quarantined as per the local laws of the state/country, depending on the severity of the infection. Institutional quarantine is preferred in case of a severe infection, necessitating the use of a ventilator.
If you are not in your resident country while this happens, inform the embassy and contact your family.
After a minimum of 14-day quarantine, a COVID-19 test will be conducted again. If it is negative, you can resume your travel and return to your country. If it is positive still, the quarantine period is extended.

Will travel insurance help?

Coronavirus treatment is expensive. Travel insurance might help mitigate treatment costs based on two conditions – (a) when the plan was purchased and (b) the place you are traveling. Travel insurance is made of health insurance and trip insurance; travel health insurance covers sudden illness or accidents, and travel trip insurance covers travel related problems such as lost baggage.

Travel insurance will cover coronavirus treatment costs only if you traveled to the country before the coronavirus outbreak. For example, if you are from the United States, and you traveled to Indonesia before the outbreak of coronavirus and became infected, the insurance will cover the medical costs.

Do note that if your country has issued an advisory against visiting a country and you still visit the country, the travel insurance will not cover any medical costs arising out of the novel coronavirus infection.

Remember that not all insurance companies are covering coronavirus under their travel insurance policies. Contact your current travel insurance provider for clarity.

In closing

Coronavirus is a global pandemic without a vaccine in sight. Given the speed with which it is spreading in countries like the United States and India, it seems we will still be dealing with it in 2021. Traveling could be necessary but not at the cost of one’s health and safety and those around us.

Travel if needed, but be mindful of the suggested precautionary measures. A mask, a face shield, and a sanitizer are your closest allies for the next few months.

Uncovering The History Of Lincoln: A Look At Some Popular Spots

July 31, 2020 by John Gentry Leave a Comment

Lincoln, an unincorporated village in Lincoln County, New Mexico, United States, lies in the Bonito valley, surrounded by the Sacramento Mountains and Capitan Mountains. The Lincoln district has a very specific and unique historical significance, which is why the place is a treat for historians and archeologists. The place has several historical structures that date back to the 1800s. These structures have been well-preserved and some have been turned into public museums.

Originally, the place was inhabited by Spanish families who settled there in the 1850s and was called La Placita del Rio Bonito, which means “the place by the pretty river”. The name of the community was changed later when Lincoln County was created on January 16th, 1869. Today, Lincoln has been federally designated as the Lincoln historic district due to its immense historical importance that has been preserved and maintained by several generations. It is one of the best-preserved old west towns which are in existence and one of the most visited monuments in New Mexico.

The violent times earned Lincoln the popularity it has today. Today, the visitors can see the old Lincoln County Courthouse, which has seen the violence of the Lincoln county war. People can see how houses in the past were used as a store, residence, Masonic lodge, and even jail. These historic sites will take you back into the time of Billy the Kid, Pat Garrett, and other characters of the Wild West, which is now frozen in time.

Presently, nine out of the several historical structures are open to the public as museums, which are operated by the New Mexico historic sites. One of these majestic structures includes the Courthouse, where Billy the Kid killed deputies, James W. Bell and Bob Olinger, the Covento, and others. Apart from these significant sites, there is an infamous historical Wortley Hotel from that time, which Pat Garrett used to take care of, which is also central to the story of Billy the Kid. The hotel began to serve people in 1874 and still provides lodging facilities to travelers. There are also a few bars and Annie’s Little Sureshot Cafe, which serves coffee and snacks to tourists.

With a lot of things to discover here, Lincoln still gives you the taste of earlier times with its century-old adobe architecture and dusty streets. Here, this article unfolds some other important aspects of the history of Lincoln:

Lincoln National Forest

The Lincoln National Forest is one of the few quite popular sites in the Lincoln district that are so well-preserved. The forest is located in the South Central New Mexico and is the birthplace of the world-famous Smokey Bear, which is the symbol of the campaign preventing forest fires.

Consisting of three ranger districts namely, Sacramento, Guadalupe, and Smokey Bear, the forest also has three major mountain ranges, Guadalupe and Sacramento and Capitan in Southeastern New Mexico. Elevations of 4,000 to 11,500 feet pass through five different life zones from the Chihuahuan desert to sub-alpine forest, with the vegetation consisting of rare cacti in the lower elevations to Englemann spruce in the higher. In the White Mountain wilderness, one can find pristine waters. The water flows below majestic Sierra Blanca Peak. Further, the fishing experience is the best in the spring fedstreams of the Southern Sacramento Mountains.

The vegetation in the Lincoln forest comprises of semi-desert plants like pinyon pine, juniper to spruce, fir, high-elevated grasses, and forbs. The weather and the elevation are directly proportional here; with summers having sweltering temperatures down in the desert and the need of wearing a jacket in the high country. The July-August are rainy months with regular thunderstorms in the afternoons with the springtime being dry and windy.

Further, a beautiful blend of high elevation and an abundance of moisture in the air result in a beautiful array of colors from flowering plants during the summer months. The mountain slopes are wrapped with oaks, maples, and aspens in stunningly beautiful colors in fall. This perhaps is the most beautiful time to visit the place. The towns of Lincoln, where Billy the Kid shot the deputies and captain, the burial site of the original Smokey Bear, are located near the district.

The forest is also a treat for campers as it offers a lot of beautiful camping sites. It provides a lot of scenic, dispersed, and developed camping areas. As perfect this place is for camping, the forest is also known for its hiking trails and experiences. From beautiful and easy morning treks to some breathtaking and ravishing difficult trails, the Lincoln forest is a real treat for hikers as well. People also come here to experience horseback riding, mountain biking, and off-roading.

But hiking and camping are not the only things available to do in the majestic forest. Skiing is perhaps another most famous thing to do here. From cross-country skiing to downhill developed ski areas and resorts, the Lincoln provides skiing access for almost 365 days a year. The Mescalero Apache Tribe operates the ski Apache, a downhill ski resort with a base elevation of 9700 ft. located primarily on the forest land. The Lincoln national forest is perhaps one of the best places to visit in Lincoln with several activities to enjoy such as camping, hiking, and skiing. Not to mention some of the most significant historical sites in the district, which are a must-visit.

Smokey Bear Park

Located in the center of the town of Capitan, which was founded as Gray in 1884, the name of the Park, Smokey Bear has a really interesting historical significance. In 1944 during WW II, the USFS decided to make use of a bear for spreading the fire prevention message. They named a bear after a New York Assistant Fire Chief, “Smokey” Joe Martin. Later in 1950, on May 9, in the aftermath of a deadly fire in the Capitan Mountains, a badly burned cub was found. First-aid was administered to the cub and he was sent to Santa Fe for further treatment. Later, the story of this cub was told in the newspaper and the radio across the nation. It was this when the Smokey became the living symbol of preventing forest fires.

When Smokey grew old, plans were made for his retirement. The people of Capitan wanted their bear to be returned to his hometown, but due to his death in 1976, Smokey was flown home and buried in what is now Smokey Bear Historical Park.

That is the story behind the famous Smokey Bear Park. It is the only park in New Mexico to be run by the NM state forestry. A 10 min short film is shown to tourists who visit the Park, which throws light on the history of the fire prevention program, black bears, and forest health. The grave of the famous Smokey the bear is located in a serene and beautiful corner of the part, much like the Capitan Mountains, where he was first found.

There is a great variety of flowers and animals in the area and that apart, the park offers a playground for children with a fire tower, climbing wall, fire engine, and swings. Right next to the playground are picnic tables and restrooms for the visitor’s comfort. The park offers lots of activities for adults as well as children.

Smokey has appeared on several national parades and television shows, cartoons, and fire prevention posters throughout America. It is because of him that several other countries also began to adopt the idea of a bear to symbolize fire prevention. Smokey the bear became so popular that he used to receive tonnes of emails every day and due to which he had to have his own zip code. Smokey died in 1976 on November 9 due to natural causes and his body was returned to Capitan, New Mexico where he was buried in the Smokey bear Park.

Fort Stanton Historic Site

Fort Stanton, a historic site is situated on 240 acres and surrounded by 25,000 acres of undeveloped BLM land in South-central New Mexico. There are around 88 buildings on this site, which dates back to 1855. These buildings though require a bit of repair and development, have survived through the tests of time, and remained majestic and resplendent, attracting thousands of people over the years.

There are also quarters and barracks, a hospital and morgue, nurses quarters, a guardhouse, a dining hall, a chapel, a power plant and laundry, a gymnasium and pool, a fire station, horse stables at the fort which add up to the magnificence.

Fort Stanton was established in 1855 as a military post to control the Mescalero Apache Indians. The fort in 1861 was abandoned to Confederate forces in the early stages of the American civil war. The fort was set on fire by the retreating force, but a rainstorm extinguished the fire. The fort was completely destroyed by the Confederates when they left after only a month’s occupation.

The fort was rebuilt after the war and is currently one of the most splendid state monuments and museums and is visited by thousands of people yearly.

Snowy River Cave

Established in 2009 to protect, conserve, and develop the old, historic, educational, and terrific resource, the Snowy River Cave is a national conservation area established in 2009 and is among the most visited places in Lincoln. Snowy River is a significant and well-known passage within Fort Stanton Cave and is the longest cave formation the world has ever known. Today, approximately 15 miles of passage have been mapped, which was previously unknown, without reaching the end.

Apart from this all, the area offers several recreational activities. The NCA offers 3 miles of horseback riding and hiking trails throughout open meadows and canyons. Trails are marked with flexible fiberglass markers with the name of the trail attached to them. The landscape is protected by recommending the riders to stay on the established trails.
The trail is filled with scenic views of the Sacramento and Capitan Mountains that surround the trail. The cave has over 40 miles of mapped passages and is open usually for recreational purposes only. The cave is also popular for its unique velvet formations and there are also interesting helictites, aragonite, selenite needles, and types of gypsum.

Billy the Kid Trail

Henry McCarty, popularly known as Billy the Kid, was an outlaw and gunfighter of the American old west. He is known for his bold and brave act of killing 8 men at the age of 21 before getting himself killed.

He also committed three murderers allegedly during the New Mexico Lincoln county war, which took place between two factions, competing for profits over goods and cattle interests in the county.

On November 13, 1878, Governor Wallace proclaimed an amnesty for all those involved in the Lincoln county war if they are not already under indictment. Even though Billy the Kid was not one of these, he formed a gang, referred to as the “hustlers” who survived by stealing and rustling cattle.

Governor Wallace in 1880 put a reward of $500 on his head. He was thus captured in December 1880 and was sentenced to death in May. Despite that he escaped, killing two guards. He was later tracked down, by Garret and was shot on July 14, 1881.

Stories of Billy the Kid are popular across the world, and they show how Billy’s fearless acts reflect the thirst for economic Justice.

Below are some of those famous spots that marked the presence of Billy the Kid- the spots that are witness to this historical saga.

Old Lincoln County Courthouse museum

The Courthouse is the place where Billy the Kid, after being captured and sentenced to death, planned his most famous escape and succeeded. He also killed two of the officers in the process. Billy was later tracked down by Garret and was shot dead.

Tunstall Store

The Tunstall store now is a museum, which is a 19^th-century general store where dry goods and hardware from the time are portrayed.

Covento

Also known as the first Courthouse where on a cold December night in 1873, four men were killed and a man and a woman were injured, when the Horrell brothers, who were in search of vengeance for an earlier confrontation with the local law, shot into the building, during a wedding baile.

Torreon

According to traditional belief, Torreon was at the center of a plaza surrounded by a number of jacales. This plaza was part of a series of settlements known as Las Placitas del Rio Bonito. It is actually a circular stone fortification that was erected by Hispanic settlers to keep an eye on raiding Apaches.

White Oaks Ghost Town

The ghost town of White Oaks is more a cowboy/frontier than adobe Disneyland. The turn to the ghost town of the white oaks is three miles north of Carrizozo on the US highway 54.

White Oaks came under the eastern influence with about as many lawyers as miners. The Hoyle House, which still exists, is a Victorian house, with a window’s walk on the roofs. White Oaks died when the local fathers tried selling the right of way to the expanding railroad and the gold was mined out. It was one of the favorite places of Billy the kid.

Visitors from all around the world visit the place and are welcomed to explore several historical buildings such as the Cedarvale cemetery, and the historic No Scum Allowed Salon.

Anderson Freeman Visitors Center

The structure, built in 1978 by the Lincoln county heritage trust was transferred to the Hubbard Museum of the American West, which was then donated to the Lincoln State Monument in 2006. The building is the central museum of the Lincoln historic site complex. The Anderson Freeman Visitors Center is a non-historic building whose exhibits range from the prehistoric inhabitants of the valley to the Apaches, Fort Stanton, and the Lincoln County War. The jacal exhibit and the tuberculosis shed are just adjacent to the visitors’ center.

Lincoln has a massive and dynamic history, of which, the Anderson Freeman Visitors Center is a major part.

San Juan Mission Church

The parishioners under the influence of the father, John Marie Garnier, built this Church from 1885 to 1887. It was the largest church in Lincoln County at that particular time, which was over 3000 sq. Ft. The church is built of adobes built on site with the vigas drawn from the Capitan Mountains. In order to prevent the further deterioration of the church, the remaining parishioners recommend that the church be sold to the State of New Mexico, in 1973.

The San Juan Mission Church still requires immediate attention due to faulty window work. Yet it attracts countless tourists and visitors throughout the year.

Dr. Wood’s house

A blend of traditional Southwest abode, and Back east design, Dr. Wood’s house has some remarkable features typical of Lincoln style territorial. Dr. Wood was quite a talented man, and along with his duty as the county doctor, he was an ice cream maker, soap, and winemaker.

The house was originally built for George and Mary Danner in 1882–1883 and was referred to as “the mansion house of Dr. Skipworth” as mentioned in a mortgage contract in 1893. An incredibly skilled mason, George W. Peppin, who has built almost every house in Lincoln, constructed this historic house.

The building also known as the Blanchard house was occupied by several other people until Dr. Woods and his wife Mary June, purchased this property.

This house has been listed on the national historic register and New Mexico register of historic properties.

The Montano Store

This historic structure has a very specific and unique place in the history of Lincoln. Montano store was built before 1868 and became a state property in 1966 and for at least 30 years after the civil war, the building was used as a store and a boarding house by Jose Montano and his wife Josefa. The Montanos, who were staunch supporters of the Mcsween faction, occupied this house for five days. It is also said that Governor Lew Wallace stayed here for several nights to arrange a secret meeting with Billy the Kid.

It is, moreover from this building, that Fernando Herrera is believed to have fired a 900 yard fateful shot at Charlie Crawford, who was sitting up in the hills behind the store. The building is about 1400 sq ft. currently exhibits the Hispanic settlement of Lincoln and the construction of adobe buildings.

Luna Chavez house

Originally two separate houses, built before 1868, the Luna Chavez house is listed on both the National Historic Register and the New Mexico Register of Cultural Properties. The two different houses were linked together by creating a central entrance room. This historic house portrays the early Hispanic construction of buildings without halls. The Luna Chavez house was home to two different families, with Luna residing at the east end and the Chavez family at the west.

Juan José Lopez lived in this house with his wife, Isabella. Their daughter Joséfa married José Montaño. Lopez served on the April 1878 grand jury that charged Alexander McSween of larceny charges.

Sierra Blanca

Sierra Blanca is a majestic volcanic mountain range in Lincoln and Otero counties that lies in the South Central part of New Mexico. Sierra Blanca, also known, as the White Peak, is the highest mountain range, standing at 11,981ft. A majority of this Sierra Blanca range is located in the Lincoln National Forest, with a part of it being protected as the White Mountain wilderness area.
The Sierra Blanca Peak is quite visible from the Tularosa basin, which is several miles away from the ranges. Further, the town of Ruidoso is located exactly at the foothills of the eastern Sierra Blanca range, which is popular for activities like Skiing, camping, and hiking. All this makes it one of the most popular destinations.

Conclusion

From the scenic beauty all around to the dramatic historical instances that took place, Lincoln, in New Mexico has evolved without severing ties with the past. The County is not only home to countless species of animals and plants, but also numerous fun activities including camping, skiing, horseback riding, and much more. The place has been in constant touch with its history while living in the current moment; be it the Covento, the Tunstall Store, or the very popular Billy the Kid’s trail, each spot has been preserved the way it was.

Thus, Lincoln County sets the perfect example of cherishing its past while embracing the future.

49 Best Things To Do In Hawaii on Your Next Dream Vacation

June 13, 2020 by John Gentry Leave a Comment

Nicknamed ‘Paradise’, Hawaii is indeed a gorgeous place to visit. It has wildlife, adventure, beautiful vistas, and it’s easy to see the draw of a vacation in the Hawaiian Islands.

Whether you are going for an adventurous vacation, a romantic honeymoon, a group holiday with your friends, or even daredevil explorations, Hawaii is one of the best destinations.

Can you explore inactive and active volcanoes there? Check.

Can you witness gorgeous beaches? Check.

Is there top-notch surfing there? Check.

The list may go on and on and we all can gush about it all we want.

Even though we have Hawaii on our bucket list, we don’t have a refined and guided list of the best things to do in Hawaii.

Where to start? What are the best things to do in Hawaii? How to plan your vacation at a place this big with so many things to do?

In this write-up, we have compiled the best things to do in Hawaii so that you can have an unforgettable experience in the breathtaking pacific archipelago.

As a daydreamer who is about to witness stunning sunsets and have some sand in their toes, it’s wise for you to divide Hawaii in its own six islands.

So this write-up will summarize the following:

Best things to do on Big Island
Best things to do on Kauai
Best things to do on Maui
Best things to do on Molokai
Best things to do on Oahu
Best things to do on Lanai

So put your lei around your neck now and let’s begin with the best things to do in Hawaii based on these six islands mentioned above.

Best Things to Do in Hawaii on Your Next Dream Vacation

Best Things To Do On Big Island

1. Golfing

If you’re in Big Island, you can journey to a golfing fantasy in the Mauna Kea Golf Course or Waikoloa Beach Resort’s King Course. Anyone from a golf student to golf professional can enjoy a gorgeous gold experience here.

Fun fact: Hawaii has hosted the Sony Open in Hawaii golf tournament since 1965, the Tournament of Champions golf tournament since 1999, and the Lotte Championship golf tournament since 2012.

2. Beach Hopping

If you have ever dreamt of swimming with dolphins or manta rays, the ocean adventures in Kona on Big Island are awaiting you. Do not forget that one of the best parts about being in Hawaii is exploring beaches and sightseeing on the way. You’ll be mesmerized.

3. Cultural Attractions

If you are in Hawaii, you must open your mind, body, and soul to the wisdom of Hawaiian cultural attractions. In the case of Big Island, the visual attractions you must go to are Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, must learn about early Hawaii life at the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, and if possible, you can also visit the place for the annual Merrie Monarch Hula Festival.

4. Luaus

According to definitions from Oxford languages, Luau is a Hawaiian party or feast, especially one accompanied by entertainment. But we’ll just call them one of the best things to do in Hawaii. These feasts are one of the most attended activities on the Hawaiian Islands. Whatever island you are on, among the six islands mentioned here, you must attend at least one luau. You can choose which feast will match your group from a variety of options. There will be local foods, entertainment, and tropical cocktails. There will also be activities to learn Hawaiian arts and crafts like basket weaving and lei making. Not to forget that you can also watch cultural presentations and listen to melodic sounds of drumming.

5. Spa Packages

While some choose to lay on the beach, golf with friends, join a luau, visit cultural attractions, some people also choose to have a spa and massages in Paradise. You can book for spa packages at many places on the Hawaiian Islands. However, we recommend that you go for a spa experience that uses products that are made locally with tropical-infused ingredients.

6. Helicopter Tours

If you are in Hawaii to celebrate a Honeymoon, a new romance, or your anniversary, helicopter tours are one of the most amazing ways to not only sightsee Hawaii but also be adventurous about it. When you are on the Big Island, you’ll have a chance to tour active volcanoes. You’ll be able to see red lava as it flows into the ocean and witness the natural majesty of volatile Hawaii firsthand while seeing the billowing steam vents.

7. Local Farms

Visiting the local farms is one of the best things to do in Hawaii and one of the most fun things too. You can find amazing farm tours available on your specific destination island. On Big Island, you can visit the following:

Hawaii Vanilla Company
Kohala Grown Farm
Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation
Amy B.H. Greenwell Farms

8. Stage Shows

You can mix things up a little with stage shows. This way you can be entertained live and have some fun things to do in Hawaii. Kona Kozy’s Magic, the Comedy Show at the Waikoloa Village, or an array of the fantastic Hawaiian luaus throughout the Big Island are great options to check out.

9. Windsurfing

Windsurfing in Hawaii is a genre of its own. On the Big Island, if you are looking to try windsurfing, you can get in touch with Kona Boys or Kona Windsurfing.

Fun fact: Windsurfing as a sport only started in the mid-1960s, so it’s pretty much a new sport.

10. Sightseeing

Sightseeing is one of the easiest and at the same time easily available activities. On the Big Island, you and your beloved or your group can explore Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park to learn more about Big Island’s active volcanoes Hualalai and Mauna. Apart from that, you can also explore Hilo Town, Kona, and Akaka Falls.

Best Things To Do On Kauai

1. Golfing

So regardless of which Hawaiian island you choose, you can have an amazing experience in golfing at some amazing locations. In Kauai, you can enjoy golfing at resorts like the Princeville Golf Club, Makai Golf Club at Princeville, Poipu Bay Golf Course, Kauai Lagoon Golf Club, and Puakea Golf Course.

2. Sightseeing

If you are on the Island of Kauai, get ready to experience mystical sightseeing. On this island, you’ll see the dramatic Na Pali Coastline, Polihale State Park, Hanalei and Poipu, Waimea Valley, Kokee State Park, the Kilauea Lighthouse, and more.

3. Cultural Attractions

Visiting the magical Hawaiian Islands will make you observe and participate in complete respect for a culture. The Hawaiian culture, they say, must never be forgotten and never taken for granted. If you are on Kauai Island, do not forget to visit the Grove Farm Museum in Lihue and the Waioli Mission House in Hanalei.

4. Hiking

If you’re in Kauai, you also are at one of the most exciting hiking places in Hawaii. The Kalalau (Na Pali Coastline) Trail, the Sleeping Giant Trail, the Kukui Trail on the West side, and there are so many more places where you can have a gorgeous hiking experience.

Fun fact or maybe fictional fact: People have been saying that the Island of Kauai has more hiking trails alone than any of the individual states of the United States Mainland.

5. Helicopter Tours

In Kauai, the Garden Isle, one can experience one of the most amazing helicopter tours. Here’s what you can see from above:

Breathtaking Nepali Coastline
Beautiful topographical changes in Hawaii’s scenery
Reef formations
Hidden waterfalls and so much more.

6. Horseback Riding Tours

On Kauai, you can go for horseback riding tours at Silverhills Ranch on the North Shore. You can also check out the Silver Falls for freshwater dips and picnic, the Horseback riding and ATV combo tours and rides. These rides will be even better if they’re through the interior of the Kamooka and Kalihiwai Ridges with an awesome view of the Makaleha Range.

7. Local Farms

Like we mentioned earlier, each Hawaiian Island has something unique that it makes you experience at its local farms. Following are the local farms you can enjoy on Kauai Island:

Kauai Fresh Farms
Steel Grass Chocolate Farm
Kauai Grown Organic Farm
Blair Estate- Kauai Organic Coffee Farm
Kauai Kunana Dairy

You never know what cool activity you can find on Hawaii’s local farms.

8. Windsurfing

The Island of Kauai too has windsurfing locales that will happily send you on your way to your most fabulous windsurfing dreamland. Here, you can get in touch with Windsurf Kauai in Hanalei.

Best Things To Do On Maui

1. Snorkeling

Snorkeling is one of the topmost gorgeous experiences one can have in Hawaii. Here, you can find several Hawaii snorkel tours and ocean activity companies on any of the Hawaiian islands mentioned in this write-up. All the best for an amazing experience seeing the playful Spinner Dolphins skipping along the ocean surface. You may also get lucky and see the great North Pacific Humpback Whales during their annual migration to Hawaiian waters.

2. Whale Watching

Every winter season you can witness thousands of North Pacific Humpback Whales travel miles from the Alaskan Gulf to the Hawaiian Islands. The whale season in Hawaii runs from mid-fall to April every year. If you’re fond of whale watching, the peak season in Hawaii is during the months of January, February, and March.

3. Golfing

If you are exploring the Island of Maui in early January you can attend the PGA’s Annual Hyundai Tournament of Champions at the Kapalua Resort. Even if it’s not January, you can visit there anytime throughout the year and still have an A-one experience. If you happen to visit South Maui, you can refine your skills at David Leadbetter’s Golf Academy. You can also spend long days on the greens at Wailea Golf Resort’s Gold, Emerald, and Old Blue courses.

Fun fact: Hawaii has a golf community that ranges from public courses to the uber-private and elite golf locales. So wherever you get to visit, you’ll surely lavish in the luxury of warm sunshine, privacy, 360-panoramic views, and pristine greens.

4. Sightseeing

For sightseeing on Maui island, tour the Road to Hana. You can visit some of Hawaii’s more untouched areas, visit a black and beach, swim in waterfalls, and also swim in the Seven Sacred Pools of Oheo Gulch.

5. Beach Hopping

While beach hopping is a great activity, it’s also one of the biggest reasons people choose to visit Hawaii in the first place. The Kaanapali beaches on Maui is where you should go if you are looking for an adult adventure with not only rock jumping but also stand up paddle adventures.

6. Cultural Attractions

Even though the Hawaiian islands have undergone many changes from what the original inhabitants looked like through not only colonialism but also changes in government, the culture remains sacred through places like Feast at Lele for a luau and also an electric educational show.

7. Surfing

To see the professional watermen and women take the stage, visit Hookipa Beach Park, Jaws, and Honolua Bay on the Island Maui. Any of the locales will give you an amazing surfing experience. Maui’s infamous East and West side North Shores are the best places to explore surfing.

Fun fact: The first western written account of surfing in Hawaii was in 1779 by Lieutenant James King.

8. Spa Packages

In Wailea, Maui, you can book a spa at Willow Stream Spa of the Fairmont Kea Lani. It is one of the best spa locations. So go ahead! Book a full spa day with body treatments, scrubs, facials, waxing, or even med-spa treatments.

9. Hiking

To hike and backpack through one of the most geologically diverse areas in Hawaii up to the 10,023 feet high, dormant Mt. Haleakala Crater is the place in Maui.

10. Helicopter Tours

We have already established earlier in this write-up that if you love adventure, a helicopter tour is the answer. When you are on the Maui island, you can take a tour bus to Hana and a helicopter ride back.

11. Ziplining

Ziplining is not only one of the best things to do in Hawaii but also one of the most enjoyable family activities in Hawaii. The most credible and popular ziplining courses in Hawaii are on Maui, Kauai, and on the Big Island. On Maui, the beautifully scenic Mt. Haleakala areas are the places to be.

12. Sunset Cruises

Sunset cruises are available in many forms in Hawaii. They’re the best when it comes to couples who have gone there to celebrate their honeymoon or anniversary. On Maui, you can go during the winter months, or even enjoy the cocktail dinner cruises throughout the year. In these sunset cruises, you can also enjoy gourmet food, delicious Mai Tai’s, live music, and entertainment.

13. Farmers Markets

If you want to find a variety of rare and organic produce ranging from kale and Maui mandarins, lychees, dragonfruit, greens, and squashes, the Upcountry Farmers Market in Kula every morning at the Kulamalu Center is the best place to be. Here, you can also find baked goods, Maui-grown coffee, local eggs, passion fruit, coconuts, tropical plants and flowers, selection of amazing and exotic prepared foods, and butter.

14. Horseback Riding Tours

For horseback riding tours and lessons on Maui, you can check out Makena Stables in South Maui, the Ironwood Ranch in West Maui, the Mendez Ranch in Wailuku, the Thompson Ranch located in the Upcountry or the Piiholo Ranch.

15. Local Farms

Just like any other Hawaiian Island, Maui too has some beautiful local farms. Here’s a list of some of the local farms you can visit:

Ali’i KulaLavender Farm
Ocean Vodka Organic Farm & Distillery
Ka’anapali Coffee Farm
Ono Organic Farms
Surfing Goat Dairy
Maui Tropical Plantation
Maui Dragonfruit Farm

16. Stage Shows

For stage shows on Maui, you and your group can look into the following places:

Burn’n Love Elvis Show
Plays at the Iao Theater
‘Ulalena
The Feast At Lele Luau
Maui shows at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center

Book your tickets and become part of truly amazing live entertainment.

17. Windsurfing

On the island of Maui, you can get in touch with Action Sports Maui and Simmer Hawaii for windsurfing lessons as well as Maui windsurfing rentals. You’ll certainly find beaches full of windsurfers, European accents, and even fluorescent swim trunks if you get lucky!

Best Things To Do On Molokai

Sightseeing

When visiting Molokai, tour Kalaupapa by horseback, the Fishponds of Molokai, and the Halawa Valley.

Best Things To Do On Oahu

1. Beach Hopping

If you are daydreaming about a lazy day basking under the glorious Hawaiian sunshine, Oahu is the right place to be. Kailua Beach or Hanauma Bay in Oahu are the best places to be when you are traveling with your children during the winter. You can calm down, swim, build sandcastles, do some light snorkeling, and have fun in the sun here. Be ready for the golden suntan along with super fun ocean adventures in Hawaii.

2. Cultural Attractions

For a blend of Polynesian cultures, visit Oahu’s Polynesian Cultural Center for shows, activities, and even presentations about Hawaiian culture.

3. Surfing

Oahu’s North and South Shores are the best places to explore surfing – ‘the sport of kings’ – as they used to call it in Hawaii.

4. Spa Packages

As we mentioned earlier, each of the Hawaiian Islands has a lot of locations that offer spa treatments and packages. They are insanely beautiful. Even in Oahu you can book one and enjoy the palm trees and the calm sounds of rolling waves.

5. Hiking

Hiking is not only one of the best things to do in Hawaii but also an athletic activity that you will enjoy and remember for the longest. One way to have amazing memories about hiking is to go for the hiking challenges with Stairway to Heaven, or you can go for medium ease with the Diamond Head Summit Trail or the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail.

6. Helicopter Tours

All of the helicopter tours companies located throughout the Hawaiian Islands offer unique aerial experiences. When on Miau you can fly from the Valley Isle to Oahu on a day trip. We can understand if you are already imagining flying over hidden valleys, seeing Hawaii’s coastlines and waterfalls with a bird’s eye view. Breathtaking!

7. Farmer Markets

At the Kailua Farmers Market every Thursday in the parking lot behind Macy’s and Whole Foods, you can find the following:

A variety of local and organic produce
Fresh lemonade
Fresh lemonade
Ice creams
Hawaii coffee
Hawaii made condiments and packaged snacks
A variety of tasty prepared meals Mexican, Vegetarian, Indian, Local Hawaiian fare, Raw, Vegan, and many more.

8. Horseback Riding Tours

Following are the places you can find horseback riding tours:

– The Kualoa Ranch,

– The Gunstock Ranch above Laie,

– or the Happy Trails on a 350-acre private ranch through the Waimea Valley on the North Shore

9. Local Farms

On Oahu Island, here are the local farms that you can visit:

Kahuku Farms
Macadamia Nut Farm Outlet
Waialua Estate Coffee Farm
Kualoa Ranch
Dole Pineapple Plantation

10. Windsurfing

With the other amazing activities that are available on the Oahu Island, you can also have an amazing experience in windsurfing. Get in touch with Hawaiian Watersports or Honu Hawaii Activities and get ready for a blast.

11. Camping

If you’re searching for an amazing place for family camping, you can visit O Kahana State Park. Here’s what you can enjoy there:

Public facilities
Access to hiking trails in a beautiful unspoiled valley

You can also explore the lands from Puu Pauao to Kahana on Oahu’s Windward side.

Best Things To Do On Lanai

1. Sightseeing

It’s your choice to choose a guide for a sightseeing tour in Hawaii or go on your own; both ways an amazing experience is guaranteed. You’ll not be disappointed on the Island of Lanai. Puu Pehe (Sweetheart Rock), Keahiakawelo (Garden of Gods), and Munro Trail are the best places for sightseeing on Lanai.

2. Surfing

For experienced surfers in the Island Lanai, you can go to Lopa Beach. Luckily, in Hawaii surfing is an ocean activity that is available to be enjoyed by the masses throughout the world.

So, dear daydreamers!

We have tried to compile a list of the best things to do in Hawaii up to our best abilities here. However, this easy and elaborate list may not be the only list of the things you can do there. There are so many activities and we hope that you are able to enjoy most of them travelguide, so that you’ll be close to experiencing Paradise and feel the most alive you’ll ever feel.

All the best for your adventures in Hawaii!

11 Best Backpacking Trails Colorado- Every Backpacker’s Heaven

June 7, 2020 by John Gentry Leave a Comment

“Chasing angels or fleeing demons, go to the mountains.”

If you are one of the wanderlust driven people who believe that hiking is the thing that makes the most of your travel, then you must put Colorado on your Bucket list. Why? With a staggering number of 41 Colorado State Parks, 12 National parks, and a massive 54 mountains that are of 14,000 feet and 1,000 of them of 12,000 feet; Colorado indeed is a heaven for every hiker, trekker, and the nature lovers. Part of the south-western region of the United States of America, Colorado is one of the Mountain States. It is well known for its attractive landscapes, streams, lakes, waterfalls, forests, and a diverse group of flora and fauna!

There are thousands of options for a hiker to choose, yes, the menu is vast- short, easy, hard, long, family-friendly, panoramic, adventurous…Colorado has it all! There are epochal trails which are quite famous in Colorado, which every backpacker must visit. With a plethora of options, you can just close your eyes and choose any destination. Believe me, none will disappoint you! A whole treasure of natural beauty, Colorado is a gem.

So here are the best of all the backpacking trails in Colorado that you must experience once in your life:

1. Emerald Lake

Distance: 3 miles in total
Level: Easy/ Beginner

Located in Estes Park, in the Rocky Mountains, Emerald Lake has the best-known scenery in the whole of Colorado. If you are a beginner at hiking, or you have your family accompanying you, this is the best outing you can have. Having an ascent of 201 m and a descent of 198 m, the riparian vegetation includes willows, mountain alder, water birch, dark-colored bark just to name a few. An abode to nature lovers, Emerald Lake is breathtaking with its picturesque mountains, whose reflections are as beautiful during a clear day. You will notice blue spruce growing up a few streams and quite a few lakes to admire. You are bound to get serene and peaceful vibes from the surroundings that will stir within you the feelings of self-love. Being a family-friendly trail, it is advisable to carry along sufficient backpacking food with you.

2. Maxwell Falls Lower Trail

Distance: 4.2 miles
Level: Moderate/ Intermediate

Who doesn’t love to visit a waterfall? Peaceful and simply beautiful, this trail is quite well-known and tends to be very busy all through the year, especially, in the month of March. Being a heavily thronged loop trail, it has got many fun activities on the way, such as horseback riding, mountain biking, etc. Being a bit on the rocky terrain, it is an excellent spot for bringing out the adventurer in you. You can also bring your dog(s) but make sure they are kept on leash for the safer side.

3. Conundrum Hot Springs

Distance: 17 miles
Level: Moderate

Just as the name suggests, this backpacking Colorado trail is not less of any mystery! Situated at Maroon Bells Wilderness Area, it shows off sights of the Conundrum, Castle, and Cathedral Peaks. After an arduous two-day trek, you will feel a sense of triumph when you reach the hot springs, unwind in the 102-degree water and exult in it. Located near the heart of Aspen, this Colorado trail is in good shape, neat, and enveloped with evergreen forests. Make sure you have planned this trip, as its overcrowding is quite possible. You might have to share the clothing-optional pools with fellow backpackers, but it won’t be much of a problem. This is a place which the wanderlust yearns for. If you want to combine the adventurer and the romantic in you, a hiking date at Conundrum Hot Springs is impeccable! And, quite worth it!

4. Monarch Lake to Crater Lake

Distance: 14.9 miles, to and fro
Level: Intermediate

Offering a stupefying destination, the Colorado backpacking trails from Monarch Lake to Crater Lake is a treat to the eyes! Best for an overnight backpacking trail, you will love stargazing in the Crater Lake. Summer is the best time to venture here. Abundant with wildflowers, the trails have plenty of flora and fauna to see. Also, it has a lot of large waterfalls to marvel at, with Cascade Falls topping the list for being the most stunning multitiered waterfall that you can experience. Sometimes, you may have difficulty in climbing the rocky and occasionally steep terrain, but the cool and calm setting won’t tire you. Make sure, you have a permit and a lot of snacks for enjoying this hike.

5. Notch Mountain Trail

Distance: 9 in total
Level: Difficult

Passing the Holy Cross Wilderness, the Notch Mountain Trail had been a yearly pilgrimage by hundreds of people visiting the Mountain of the Holy Cross. Stop by at the Notch Mountain Shelter, which was built in 1924! The sanctity and the divinity of the area are experienced in the atmosphere, sparking up something in you. Although camping is not allowed near the Holy Cross region, it is recommended to halt there for a while. While hiking here, it is necessary to follow the trail as it is without cutting for switchbacks.

6. Sunshine Lion’s Lair Loop

Distance: 8.5 kilometers
Level: Difficult

If you want an isolated hiking trip that challenges you to test your potential, this Loop is the one you should definitely go for. Not for the family-oriented hiking, Sunshine Lion’s Liar Loop is nothing short of a self-discovery trip. Being on the northern side of the hill, it is the last place to lose its icy coating. You must begin with the Centennial Trailhead and will notice the setting getting more and more spectacular as you reach the end of your destination. The Sunshine Canyon Trail is well-known for its easy terrain and fir forest. The main attraction of this area is the Mount Sanitas Trail, which is a steep and daunting descent. But, the best part is that you will find sights that you can never experience elsewhere, thus a backpacking trip to Colorado could be a treat for the soul.

7. Longs Peak

Distance: 22.8 kilometers in total
Level: Difficult

This is the highest mountain in Rocky Mountains National Park, which is 14,259 feet! Although there are multiple trails to reach there, the “Keyhole” trail is the easiest and the most recommended. This is one of the most difficult treks in Colorado, so brace yourself for some action. Make sure you have an experienced guide, as a trip or fall can prove to be calamitous. Also, lightning can be an issue, so it is better to prepare in advance. A good freeze dried backpacking food must be prepped up with litres of water since this can be a challenging and an extremely long hike. All these must be kept in mind, but the good part is that, the harder the trek is, the greater is the reward when you reach the summit.

8. Chicago Basin

Distance: 14 miles depending on the trail you choose
Level: Easy

Hop on sharp at the 8 a.m. train on the Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad if you want to experience unparalleled hikes. For, there is nothing better than Colorado backpacking trails! Once you get on the Needleton stop, your hike begins! With multiple routes on the go, you can just pick and choose from the plethora of options, giving you a unique experience that is truly one of its kinds. This region is a very good option for camping for days together, making it an ideal picnic spot for your family or friends. Do hike up the steep terrains to the Twin Lakes and enjoy the beauty of Nature!

9. Hanging Lake

Distance: 4.2 kilometers
Level: Difficult

One of the most prominent and popular backpacking trails in Colorado, Hanging Lake is the epitome of magnificence. Surely, you would wonder that Mother Nature spent a great deal of time creating this beautiful place! The water flowing to this lake comes from the Bridal Veil Falls. Being the most famous hiking spot, you will observe the buzzing of people during the peak season, that is, from May to October, and will still find adventurers during the non-peak season of November to April. It is necessary to follow the rules and regulations throughout the trip since the travertine lake is extremely sensitive. A part of this trail can be rocky and steep, but the rest is manageable.

10. Cub Lake Loop

Distance: 9.7 kilometers
Level: Difficult

The ideal place for the romantics, the poets, the writers, and the nature lovers, Cub Lake Loop is a perfect blend of picturesque lands, lakes, mountain views, and meadows. With an ascent and descent of 193 meters, this trail is gradual and smooth, except for a few steep spots. It is family-friendly and a great picnic spot for all. Depending on the seasons, one can spot elks and mule deer in the meadows which are a treat to the eyes! The whole peaceful and serene atmosphere, with a number of mystifying streams, makes it a good camping spot. Do carry bug sprays in case, and a good amount of snacks for the trip.

11. Ouzel Falls and Back

Distance: 8.5 kilometers to and fro
Level: Intermediary

With the 281 m ascent, the main attraction, as the name suggests, is the waterfall. If the sound of the rippling water excites you, make sure you put this in your Bucket List. Situated at the southeast side of the Rocky Mountains, the peak season to visit here is summer, when all the snow is melted and flowing out on the creeks. It is very well- maintained and there is just one route, that is, the Wild Basin Trail. The Calypso Cascades is just a ringing bell of how stunning the Ouzel Falls are going to be. Soak in and enjoy the crystal clear water, the zen-like music of the ripples, and the scenic beauty of this area.

With all this as your next travel plan, don’t forget to abide by these safety tips for hiking

One should not forget to carry a map along and not rely totally on the GPS which could run out of battery.
Knowing the area before you go there is another significant aspect. Traveling to a new place without knowing the area means you are putting yourself and your partners in danger as you don’t know the type of animals and poisonous leaves or plants there.
Carrying with yourself a hiking gear is perhaps the most significant thing to do. Your hiking gear must most notably contain a first aid kit, water, fire starter, a torch, and sufficient backpacking food.

Conclusion

There are innumerable hiking spots and backpacking trails in Colorado. Indeed, it is blessed in terms of nature. Every Hiking is fun and exciting, peaceful, and a big success only if you follow the safety tips carefully and diligently. Always look out for the weather and never leave without an itinerary. Carry litres of water and good backpacking travel food lest you feel hungry or dehydrated. Visiting Colorado for its backpacking trails is something every traveler must do in his or her lifetime. Even if you focus only on the trails of Colorado, you will spend your whole life experiencing its jaw-dropping beauties and its diverse environmental settings. Prepping in backpacking food is a task you are bound to enjoy. Just make sure you have enough of it for that hunger-packed adventure experience.

Hiking and trekking bless us with knowledge of a lifetime; it teaches you lessons on life in your own language. It is not just a fun trip with your friends or family or an isolated trip; it is something that you will inscribe with livid colors in your wanderlust memories, forever.

So just travel, explore, and cherish the experiences of the lifetime-for it fills you up with a fresh lease of life, a whole lot of positivity, and zeal to travel more!

Just keep traveling!

16 Top Travel Places in New Mexico to Plan a Backpacking Trip

June 5, 2020 by John Gentry Leave a Comment

Lying in the South-western region of the United States, New Mexico is a state which was founded in 1610 and is the fifth-largest state in the US. From exquisite foods to diversified habitat, New Mexico is home to some unique foods as well as flora and fauna. It thus holds a really special place forming the spirit of the United States and apart from the fact that New Mexico holds the largest hot air balloon festival in the world and that is one of the youngest American states one must also know that New Mexico is a wine state. Yes! You will find almost 50 wineries that produce over a million gallons of wine yearly. Further, New Mexico is more than just desert as it has the most diverse landscapes in the world there is snow, wildflower fields, and jungles. You can see Yucca Plant, in most of areas, as it is the official State Flower of New Mexico. There are also white sand dunes and vast expanses of prairie.

Thus, calling New Mexico beautiful would be putting barriers on its beauty, as it simply goes beyond that and there is probably nothing that you would not find in the state. All this makes New Mexico one of the best places for tourism with countless places to visit, even during a global pandemic that we are facing currently. Yes, you heard it right; planning a backpacking trip to the destination is what you can go for to break the monotony at this time.

1. Carlsbad Caverns National Park

The Carlsbad Caverns National park is one of the most visited sites in New Mexico. It has approximately 120 known caves hidden mostly underground. Carved from limestone which is deposited in an ancient Sea, its underground landscape attracts thousands of tourists. Thus, if you are an enthusiast of archaeology and nature, this can be a treat for you. Besides, visitors can also experience bat tours, expeditions to specific caves, and walks through the wondrous geographical formations.

Here since you are traveling amidst the pandemic, it is recommended to take along the best backpacking food to stay safe and healthy during the journey. Such meals are perfect for backcountry hikes and can be preserved for quite a long time.

2. White Sands National Monument

The White Sands National Monument is yet another magnificent landscape in New Mexico. Surrounded by rugged mountains, this stunning landscape lies in the Tularosa basin, a Northern offshoot of the Chihuahua desert. Gleaming with gypsum, the sand here has built up into a marvelous landscape of dunes, up to 60 feet high, that constantly get displaced by the wind. This marvel of nature attracts thousands of tourists across the globe all year.

3. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Attracting more than 80,000 people each autumn, Albuquerque is home to the world’s largest hot air balloon festival. It is a nine-day festival, which kicks off by the “Mass Ascension “ and continues with a unique display of co-ordinated ballooning and night time presentations. The tradition which was first started in a parking lot with only 13 balloons in 1973 has evolved so much that it occupies a 365-acre park today with more than 500 balloons participating. There are countless incredible things to do at this festival too. From several kids’ activities, to live musicians, craft shows, and street performances under the beautiful, multicolored sky, this festival instantly makes one fall in love with the culture of New Mexico. So if you happen to visit New Mexico during this time of the year, you do not want to miss the Albuquerque international balloon fiesta.

4. Taos Ski Valley

If you are a fan of winter sports, New Mexico is again the right place for you to visit. Northeast of Taos, in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains at about 8,900 to 12500 feet, is where these beautiful, unique, and equipped winter sports are held; in the region of Taos Ski Valley. Known as the Skier’s hill, this hill has exceptionally striking and advanced terrain. Half of the trails here are for experts only. Considering the current conditions and the virus outbreak, skiers perhaps need to backpack essentially nutritious food that can strengthen their immunity and protect them from not just Covid-19 but also other kinds of bacteria.

5. Pecos National Historical Park

New Mexico is home to a lot of ancient and historical sites. The Pecos National Historical Park is one such site, which encompasses what was once, one of the largest Native American Pueblos in the state. The park is also home to the civil war battlefield of Glorieta Pass that can be toured through 2.25-mile trail, without a guide.

6. The Wheeler Peak Wilderness

The summit of Wheeler Peak Wilderness is the highest point in New Mexico at 13,161ft. This area is home to a wide range of wildlife where visitors can find marmots, Pikas, elk, mule deer, big horn sheep, and golden eagles. Hiking here is the most popular thing to do, along with several striking trails, ranging from 4mi to 8mi long. Therefore, if you are a really inspired hiker, you may want to consider backing foods that are less likely to be affected during the times of Covid-19 outburst and can serve you for a long time. This also includes freeze drying meals that come packed with high levels of nutrients, which will keep you energized and full throughout your trip. The Wheeler Peak Wilderness enjoys moderate temperatures during summers and cold winters with temperatures falling regularly below freezing point. Summertime is the ideal period to visit this place as the place is both warm and wet.

7. Shiprock

Shiprock is one of the most extraordinary and incredible cultural sites to see in New Mexico. The more you explore this site, the more astonishing facts you will know about it. The site is of great significance to the Navajo nation as it is perched within the nation. The Shiprock is in fact a great place one can find themselves at and is a treat for the mind. So if you happen to be in that part of New Mexico, visiting the Shiprock is always worth the time.

8. Santa Fe

Santa Fe New mexico — Santa Fe New Mexico

Arguably one of the most beautiful and majestic, Santa Fe is one of the most popular and the oldest city of New Mexico and is also the capital of the state. The major cultural attractions of Santa Fe include the palace of the governor’s museum, located in the nation’s oldest public building with its permanent collection of more than 20000 artworks, including pieces of Ansell Adams, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Francisco de Goya. This city is a major tourist attraction and sees massive tourism throughout the year. So if you are a passionate traveler and an art lover, you can travel even during the times of a global pandemic that we are facing today. Although what you must not miss is to backpack food that is healthy and hygienic which will help you resist the infection while enjoying the journey through the city of Santa Fe, New Mexico.

9. Sandia Peak Tramway

At the Sandia foothills, just outside Albuquerque, is this aerial Sandia Peak tramway which takes you up to 2.7 miles to the Sandia Peak. The journey till there is beyond incredible. The terrific view that one can only dream of is just a part of this short journey. The tramway offers a view of the Rio Grande valley. Apart from the scenic beauty, this area is also used for skiing in winters and also attracts several hikers and enthusiastic mountain bikers. So if you are a nature lover, the Sandia Peak tramway might just be the place for you, where you can perhaps find solace.

10. Cumbers and Toltec Scenic Railway

This is a narrow-gauge heritage railroad that runs between Chama, New Mexico, and Antonio, Colorado. This is the highest steam-powered railroad in the nation with breathtaking views of the grassy, deer-filled hillside Meadows and stream-laced mountains not to mention the exceptionally thrilling moments this ride offers as it crosses the cascade creek trestle. This ride, therefore, is perhaps the ride one should experience at least once in a lifetime as the journey is a pure rejuvenating experience. One can enjoy this scenic beauty while munching on some healthy food that can be backpacked during this journey.

11. Bandelier National Monument

This 33,677-acre preserve is the Bandelier National Monument that encompasses some of the most incredibly stunning volcanic landscapes and archaeological ruins in the state. A few remains from this ancient site, which was formerly the home of the ancestral Pueblo people who occupied the area from AD1150 to 1600, include astonishing structures like masonry carves and dwellings, carved out of the volcanic rock. There are petroglyphs as well, which distinctively portray the Pueblo culture and tells a lot about their lifestyle. This area, thus, is significant to historians and archaeologists and several studies have been conducted here too. Apart from this, the park has a national museum and hiking trails as well. So one can learn and have fun at the same time at this park.

12. Petroglyph National Monument

The most remarkable feature of this park is its petroglyphs, images that were carved in the basalt by indigenous people and early Spanish settlers, centuries ago. This makes it a really popular and significant site and thus is visited by people across the world, including several professionals as well. Encompassing about 7,244 acres of land, this area consists of a basalt escarpment, five dormant volcanoes, and sweeping mesa. There are about 20,000 petroglyphs in the area, which can be viewed from the hiking trails. There are three hiking routes here and hikers must be well-equipped with water and nutritional foods and be aware of the local wildlife, especially rattlesnakes.

13. Taos Pueblo

Taos Pueblo, located just outside the city of Taos has the oldest dwellings in the US, which is continuously inhabited. Constructed with the use of straw-reinforced mud bricks and timber supported roofs, these adobe structures date back to more than a thousand years. These are apartment-style houses that are about five stories high and the town can accommodate around 150 people at a time. Visitors are welcomed to take a tour of the community which has been recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site as well as a national historic landmark. The Pueblo, on several occasions, remains closed for outsiders during its annual events. It is perhaps a unique and one of the most visited sites in New Mexico.

14. The Ghost Ranch

the ghost ranch new mexico — The Ghost Ranch New Mexico

Located in Abiquiu, New Mexico, the landscape of Ghost ranch encompasses 21000 acres of towering rock walls and bewitching skies. Visitors can enjoy several rejuvenating activities here such as massage therapy, horseback riding, hiking trails, and kayaking at the Abiquiu Lake. The museums at Ghost ranch specialize in anthropology and paleontology, where numerous major research studies are also conducted. Ghost ranch is, therefore, visited by tourists as well as some significant paleontologists and anthropologists. One can avail activities such as the hiking trails here but with certain measures, the most important being the kind of food that one carries along. As Covid-19 spreads all over the world, you can still enjoy hiking by backpacking food that can significantly reduce your chances of getting infected by the virus.

15. Blue Hole

Blue Hole new mexico — Blue Hole New Mexico

The blue hole in Santa ROSA, New Mexico is a natural bell-shaped pool that has an entrancing water clarity that can just take away all your stress. You can take a dip in this 80 feet deep natural pool during the hot months which has a constant water temperature of 61 degrees. This alluring natural pool attracts travelers and offers so many water activities, scuba diving being the most popular one. Santa Rosa is also known as the scuba diving capital of the southwest. It has also been listed in the top eleven best natural swimming holes in the US.

16. Clayton Lake State Park

clayton Lake State Park new mexico — Clayton Lake State Park New Mexico

This park is a gold level international dark sky park, designated as New Mexico’s first dark sky park in 2010. The park has its own 14-inch mead telescope. The area has very little light pollution and thus, many star gazing events are hosted here. The park is also known for fishing derbies and dinosaur tracks. You can thus check out the dinosaur tracks in the day while waiting for the clear sky at night.

Conclusion

New Mexico is the perfect place to travel, the single-most place where your dreams can actually meet reality. A place that can be traveled at any time of the year, even during the massive outbreak of the Covid-19. All you need to make sure is that you backpack healthy food that is rich in all kinds of nutrients and can help you repel the virus strikingly.

New Mexico is a place where you can find countless hills, volcanoes and mountains, ancient houses and scenic railroads, white sands, and clear skies. It is a place, worth all your time and money and a journey that you wouldn’t forget.

Backpacking Tips To Travel Iceland, As It Opens International Border By June 15

May 23, 2020 by John Gentry Leave a Comment

Urghh!!! This lockdown implemented in order to curb the pandemic has ruined so many of our summer plans. We all have been forced to get locked up inside our houses, but lately, the situation has got in a bit of control. Many countries are calling off the lockdown and some of them are planning too. Voila!!! Then, why not get on our backpacks and start planning a trip to one of the most amazing places in the world.

Yes, let us go to the most beautiful and surreal country that enchants you with its fierce beauty, Iceland. You go to this amazing place and I bet you will fall in love with its rushing waterfalls, sweeping vistas, and of course, the active volcanoes.

But oh! Wait for a second; before you start backpacking for Iceland, you need to know what the pre and post lockdown situations in Iceland are? Then here is some update on the rules and regulations set by the Iceland government for the travellers who visit after the lockdown.

On May 12, 2020, Prime Minister of Iceland, Katrin Jakobsdottir announced all the changes to the travelling sectors. As of now in Iceland, only people from Schengen Area are allowed to go to Iceland without quarantine. But from June 15th, many things will change for the tourism department.

Prime Minister announced that the 2-week quarantine will not be mandatory anymore for the tourists arriving at the Keflavik International Airport. Rather they will be given a choice either to go into quarantine or they will be screened for the COVID-19 before entering the country. After the screening, visitors will be going to their accommodations and stay inside until the results come. Visitors will also be asked to install the contagion tracing app Ranking C-19 on their phones, when in Iceland. And, yes the travellers will be from the approved areas that the Iceland government has allowed.

So, this was it and now I guess all of you should stop baffling and add Iceland to your travelling bucket list. So, ye hurry up as you need to get there ASAP. It is because as the lockdown ends, the list of travellers to this serene place is going to boom. Since, no doubt, tourism in this country is at peak and every year zillions of people plan a trip to Iceland.

Well, then here is an ultimate guide for all of you to travel to Iceland. I have divided the guide so that you can get to know every knick-knack of the travel and make sure that you have the fullest of the trip. Let us begin with our guide of backpacking in Iceland. Woopie!!!

Take Care of Yourself

It will not be wrong at all if I say that Iceland is a paradise for the backpackers. But with it, there come a lot of other dangers to this paradise. Perhaps, all the need to make sure that they take care of themselves. Though this place is quite appealing and the wilderness will surely attract you a lot. This place is serene and will give you some unbounded independence but make sure that you do not forget your responsibilities for the country and yourself.

From the captivating Southwestern Highlands Laugavegur to Ásbyrgi ‘s northern backpacker’s wonderland, Iceland is habitat to numerous spectacular hiking trails that differ in beautiful scenery and challenge. Even though you will always be ready to adjust to the unforeseen, it is crucial to analyze the region you plan to visit for every secure and comfortable experience of backpacking in Iceland.

Assess yourself Before you Plan Adventure

While you choose a trail for hiking, you always need to first assess yourself physically and mentally. Keep a check on your physical health, previous experiences, and the knowledge about some travel tips and about hiking. This will give you enough ideas if you are the right person for hiking or not. It is for sure that you do not want to end on a hospital bed in Iceland, and hence, make sure that you introspect yourself and then go for any type of adventure.

When in doubt, you can always interact with natives who can lead you to routes and trails that suit your capabilities. But always keep in mind that even though you may have gathered sufficient knowledge of these things when you had intended to visit. However, the situations can change any time due to bad weather and climatic conditions.

Backpack the Essentials

Iceland’s complex environments and unpredictable weather patterns are capable of catching off guard even to the most experienced travellers. So, always make sure that you carry a few important things in your backpacking to Iceland. This will make a lot of difference between a bad and a good journey. Not in worse situations, it can also save you from something worst like death.

So starting with the essentials, we all know that we have not even come out of the COVID-19 danger completely. Therefore, the first necessity is to make sure that you take care of all the rules that the government asks you to follow. Keep all your essentials with you, from sanitizers, masks, to tissues; everything will save you from the pandemic which is still hunting for us.

Start with packing your daily essentials such as a bathing suit, sneakers, socks, jeans, shirts/t-shirts, dresses, hiking shoes, dental floss, toothbrush, shampoo, razor, deodorants, moisturizers, etc. Also, make a first aid kit for yourself that has sanitizer, tissues, band-aids, masks, thermometer, earplugs, antibacterial cream, antibiotics, and any other medication that you take regularly. Other than this some of the extras which you can surely keep in your backpack are universal charger, zip-lock bags, lock & key, plastic reusable bags, etc. These were some of the important things which you need to store in for the backpacking in Iceland.

But if you are a hiker and hiking is on your list, then add on some extra essentials your list. Carry your sleeping bag, tent, waterproof hiking shoes, hiking socks, toilet paper, mattress, gloves, water bottle, headwear, and food. It is a must for you to keep all these essentials in your backpack to make the best of this trip.

With my experience and current situation, I would suggest you take along MRE’s with you as food storage. Since at this hour, it is not at all appropriate and advisable to have food anywhere. Therefore, these meal packets can be your go-to saviours for your backpacking to Iceland. They are ready-to-eat food packets that require no water to cook. MRE’s have enough shelf life due to their excellent packaging and watertight sealing.

Get your Equipment Checked

It is very important for travellers to prep up themselves with their equipment in the meantime. Always make sure that prior to setting out on your adventure, all your equipment is working properly and are in order. Be certain about the operation of the equipment that you have and know how it is always better to have them by your side while the trip. It is always a win-win situation for you if you spend a couple of hours practising in a comfortable environment than doing something under pressure for the first time.

Why not raise your tent in your backyard, or turn on the stove and check the levels of the gas? Or else check that all your electrical devices are completely charged before you step out of the house.

How to Reach Iceland?

Below I have discussed how to reach Iceland via a different mode of transportation. Let us have a look.

Air Travel

Eagle Air and Air Iceland Connect are the two major domestic airlines of Iceland. The covered destinations by them are Akureyri, Reykjavík, Grímsey, Egilsstaðir, and Ísafjörður. One of the largest airports situated outside Reykjavík is the main airport located in Akureyri. A flight from here would allow you to traverse the whole country in 30 minutes or so. Flying is the best option for you if you’re strapped for time. You will approximately have to pay around USD 123 for a one-way ticket.

Public Transport

Akureyri and Reykjavik, both these towns have a reliable and huge public bus network. Even both of these places are huge enough that you can just walk around here. You will find many bus networks here in Iceland and can take the bus that is going according to your routes. Travelling around the country daily is possible for you, if only you choose the bus to get around. The bus network at Iceland runs throughout the country. You can buy a city-wide bus ticket during the summer months for affordable rates. This is the best way if you are planning to be in Iceland for a week or so.

Learn about the Places to Visit

When in Iceland, you surely must have planned some places you will visit while you come for backpacking to Iceland. Here is a small list of places that you can surely add to your list.

Maelifell Volcano

The perfect cone of Maelifell, found in Myrdalsjökull Glacier Park, tends to make it a vintage-looking volcano. Snow is uncovering a lush green sheet, lined with moss during the hotter months. There are a plethora of things to do and see in this park, filled with volcanoes, which include hot springs and other lovely sites. Most roads inside the park would shut mostly during winter. Therefore, the summer season is the perfect time to get there, and then you’ll see the volcano for sure.

Laugavegur Trail

This 55 km Laugavegur trail that is running between Orsmork and Landmannalaugar is very popular amongst the international tourists and is one of the world’s most remarkable walking trails. It provides a wide range of landscapes, hot springs, multicoloured mountains, glaciers, lakes, and rivers. The cosy huts, well-planned treads, steady stream of hikers, and repeated wood labelling posts end up making this place a reasonably safe for hiking. You can either choose staying in or camp outside by installing your tents in the designated areas.

Skaftafell Ice Cake

This region aptly called the land of ice, is completely coated in snow and ice. Vatnajökull National Park’s largely beautiful ice caves draw explorers from all over the globe. Not only this many travel companies arrange will help in arranging trips to the glaciers, where you can explore the caves. Be sure to visit this place, and you are going to love it.

Whale Watching

Although this one is not a budget-friendly idea, the experience you get here is certainly awesome! There are more than 20 distinct species of whales regularly visiting the oceans of Iceland. While on the whale watching trip, you’ll be able to see dolphins and tortoises also. The primary season for whale watching is from April to September. So, hopefully, you will get to see them now also.

Stay Safe while in Iceland

While you are on this trip to Iceland after the lockdown, you all know how important it is to take care of yourself. So, make sure that you follow each rule announced by the government keeping in mind the current situation. None of us wants to be a victim of the virus and hence do your best to stay away from it. Avoid going to any crowded places if you find it. Always put on your masks and keep your sanitizers with you. Make sure you do not touch any surface around you unless needed. Keep your hands covered with gloves always and avoid wearing any type of metal accessories. Also, make it a point that you can carry your own eateries so that eating outside can be avoided. The MRE’s we talked about previously is a must for you during this situation. They are going to be the best addition to your backpacking to Iceland.

So, all the best for your backpacking trip, and may you stay safe during these critical times!!!

A Trip To Goa: Guide To Top Spots In Goa

May 14, 2020 by John Gentry Leave a Comment

The cold winds of November had just begun and we could tell that the winter is arriving, by the peculiar fragrance that it brings along in North India. On one such cold, November morning in 2019, we began our journey to Goa via flight from Delhi. Already dazzled by the thought of going to Goa, the dream destination for almost everyone, I had been packing the bags for months and impatiently waiting for the day when I arrive in Goa. I had planned this trip for almost half a year then wanted to roam all around. My trip experience might layout a fantastic insight into the possibilities and a Greater impression of what exactly you will experience if you’re planning a holiday to Goa. Hoping to capture some Goa sunshine, culture, and character.

I had heard so much about the place that as soon as we arrived there after a 4-hour journey, overwhelmed with the beauty, we forgot all the tiredness and fatigue. We already had booked out an apartment via Airbnb in Arpora, located in north Goa. You will have plenty of options to stay in Goa, you can stay in a luxurious 5-star resort, as well as easily find vibrant Hostel stays starting from just INR 500 per person. We choose Arpora to stay, as it is located centrally, from which we could easily explore the surrounding beaches of Baga and Calangute. Additionally, The Inland village of Arpora, also gives you the luxury to be able to head back to your rural retreat at the end of a busy day.

Transportation in Goa

Getting around Goa is not much of an issue. There are various transportation options available while you roam about in the city. There are privately operated buses connecting major towns of Goa and rural areas. If you’re landing onto the airport, you can easily hire a private taxi at a reasonable price. While roaming about in the city, the most preferred mode of transport here is self-driven bikes. These bikes are easily available on rent everywhere at as cheap as INR 300 for a day. These scooter bikes allow you to explore local places swiftly through narrow roads of Goa.

The Beaches in Goa

Goa’s popularity lies in its beaches; it is what Goa is famous for. They are the famous top spots in Goa. Tourists from all over the world travel all the way to Goa just to rejuvenate, reconnect, and enjoy. So like everybody else, we first hit the beach and spent almost a day there at the Calangute beach. Goa is popular for many other beaches such as the Baga beach, whose creek merges with the Arabian Sea. Baga beach has beach shacks and other side eateries which serve exquisite seafood, something that shouldn’t be miss in Goa. The Colva beach is just another gorgeous beach in Goa, which is covered with white sand. Then comes the Vagator beach, Anjuna beach, and several other beaches, for which Goa is known for across the globe. And Special mentions for my favorite, Arambol Beach. It’s probably the cleanest and Silent beach, located furthermost north to all beaches in Goa. The best time to be on Arambol beach is the Evening time, where you can experience the euphonious music beats by drum circle, which will make your soul dance and celebrate Goa’s majestic twilight.

evening time in arambol beach — Arambol Beach, Drum Circle In Evening

Water Sports in Goa

In Goa you will find ample opportunities for adventure enthusiasts to explore the waters in as many ways possible as you want. As Adventure lovers, we too thought of getting the best of this exciting land! We opted for a water sport package which included boat ride to Grande Island, Parasailing, Scuba diving, Banana Tube Boat Ride, and Jet Skiing. The experience I had while doing each activity was worth each penny spent. The Boat ride to Grande Island is in itself a worthwhile experience. Making a way through tides you will see merchant’s bungalow, Aguada fort, central jail, and mesmerizing beach views from the mid-sea. Not to forget if you’re lucky, you can also experience dolphins twirling in the way.

As we reached the Grande Island, It was time to have some adrenaline rush and enter the marine territory by much-awaited scuba diving. Here water depth ranges from 7-20 meters and you’ll find fishes, sea turtles, shellfish, and other exotic and colorful corals. Prior to the dive, you’ll be given a 20 minutes training session explaining all the dos and don’ts while we go underwater. A scuba instructor takes you inside the water to have an experience worth a lifetime. The shallow clear water conditions make this place ideal for diving for beginners as well as for expert divers.

Other water sport activities too are fun to experience, which can be done at most of the beaches in Goa. You can enjoy the thrill of flying in the sky and mesmerize the blue water of the Arabian Sea from high up by parasailing as well experience riding Water scooter through the splashing water tides, a complete combination of speed and thrill. If you’re with friends, don’t forget to experience a banana boat ride. The banana-shaped yellow boat is connected to a speedboat, which runs at a lightning speed and is made to flung off the passengers in the sea, and passengers have to start again by making to the boat again, which is an insane fun!

Nightlife in Goa

Goa can be said to be India’s Party Capital. As the sun goes down, you can experience groovy foot-tapping music at the beach. This happens at most of the beaches in Goa which makes Goa a hot spot for party animals. Whether you want to go crazy in glamorous nightclubs or want to sway with the music on wild beach shacks, Goa is the place to be! If you’re looking for good nightclubs, Tito’s Pub, LPK, SinQ and Club Cabana are the pick of them all and if you wish to have a party while adoring soothing sea view, Curlies Beach Shack is oldest yet the best option, located besides Anjuna Beach. Besides all days are party nights at Curlies, it has special night party events on Mondays as a Techno party and on Thursday as a Trance music party. Other than these, you have numerous party options spread over Tito’s lane offering all types of music from retro to hip hop, Trance to Techno, or from live bands to exploding Live Dj’s.

Arpora Saturday Flea Market — Scene at Saturday Night Flea Market, Arpora

It’s just not about the party that makes Goa’s nightlife magnetic, if you’re a shopping freak, you can explore the shops around Tito’s Lane, which are open all night. Saturday night flea market is yet another buzzing marketplace located in Arpora. This place is not just a great option for shopping but it also offers great Goa culture ambiance. In this hippie market you can enjoy live music, get a taste of delicious local food, shop for clothes, bags, antique jewelry, and much more. There are many party zones within the market for revelers to go crazy. So all in all, this market offers an exciting mix of shopping in a party atmosphere.

Chopara Fort, Goa

Chopara Fort, is the yet another famous destination amongst tourists visiting Goa. It is also known as “Dil Chahta Hai Fort” named after a famous Bollywood movie which was shot there. It has a historical importance as well. Present structure of the fort was built back in 1717, which was acquired by various rulers for varied periods of time. It is located from 10kms from Mapusa & rise up over the river Chopara. This location offers a scenic view from the Top and is an instagrammable place to capture beautiful photographs. One thing to remember if you’re going there, carry along water bottle with you, as it’s located at an height and you have to climb numerous large stairs to reach to the top of the fort.

Parra Road, Goa

This is yet another most famous Instagrammable place in Goa. A narrow road, lined up by palm trees on both sides makes this a perfect picturesque road in Goa. This road can also be spotted in various famous Bollywood movie shots. A road trip through these lush coconut trees is a must and you will not be able to resist yourself for stopping by and witnessing nature at its peak beauty. The exquisite lanes of Parra village also lead to the famous Church of St. Anne, you can visit that too.

The Lipsmacking Goan Cuisine

Three things people come to Goa for are its beaches, party, and seafood and I so badly wanted to try Goan cuisines. We went to a restaurant near our apartment, where the live orchestra was going on. Goa is home to some of the most exquisite dishes, of which I vividly remember having the chicken xacuti, which consists of poppy seeds and Kashmiri red chilies. The dish is influenced by Portuguese and has chicken, potatoes, onions, coconut, and chilies. We found out that this is one of the most famous dishes of Goa and one should definitely try it out while holidaying here.

The sorak that we had with the chicken xacuti is yet another most demanded dish in Goa. It is a simple vegetarian curry made out of spices, onions, and tomatoes. This curry is eaten with rice or dry fish.
The smarachi kodi is a dry prawn curry which we had for all seven days that we stayed in Goa and it was just heavenly.
The bebinca is a popular and most loved desert of Goa. It is made out of coconut oil, flour, sugar, and eggs. Made into a layered cake and served with ice cream. I can never forget the taste of this desert ever.

The Churches in Goa

Churches in Goa are visited by people all over the world. The Portuguese rulers have left behind some of the most beautiful, majestic, and enigmatic churches in history which are simply architectural marvels and whose designs are as grand as the culture of Goa.

The is a UNESCO site and by far the most famous church in Goa. It was built in the 16^th century and contains the mortal remains of St. Francis Xaviers. It is also believed that one can find lost things by praying at this church and as difficult as it might be for some to believe, we surprisingly had positive results.
Se Cathedral is another magnificent church in Goa and is the largest of all with immense religious importance.

St. Cajetan church is another beautiful monument in Velha Goa and is a captivating reminder of the Portuguese rule in India.
The blend of Tuscan, Baroque, and Corinthian architecture is what makes the church of St. Francis Asisi a significant monument.

The Culture of Goa

People living in Goa are called Goans, with Goa being a perfect blend of Indian and western cultures. People of several religions can be found here. Goa has been under the western influence for so many years which is why people here are more open-minded and secular and though the size of the state is smaller as compared to other states of India, its culture is as rich as that of any other state. We found fishing as the most popular occupation here along with the cashew, coconut, and jackfruit farming.

Apart from this, of course, tourism is the most sought occupation in Goa for obvious reasons. Besides, we found some categorically stunning jewellery and showpieces for home decor. Goans are fond of performing arts which is why Goff talgadi and Shigmo, Dekhni dance are some of the popular dances of Goa. The infamous Pano Bhaju that we came across in Goa which is a 9-yard saree is what Goa is popular for. The attire for tribals in Goa, which is known as kashti is something we found when we met the tribals in Goa

Conclusion

A place that offers peace and serenity, beaches that soothe your eyes, food that satisfies your soul, churches which display the talent of architects and the culture everything in Goa makes you experience a whole new world. Adventure sports, unique culture, rich history, magnificent architecture, moderate weather, scenic beauty of beaches richly adorned with sunrise and sunsets attract tourists from all over the world. For More Places to Travel in Asia, Read more articles here.

17 Famous Indian Dishes Recipes To Try : Make Cooking As Your Favorite Pass Time!

April 7, 2020 by John Gentry 2 Comments

“If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world”- J.R.R Tolkien.

Has not sitting at home been arid, lifeless, and unimaginably monotonous? Have you not, in the past few days thought of just running away, leaving your current life behind? Well, as soothing as that does sound unless you want to be another victim of the virus that has caused serious turmoil across the globe, sitting at home is perhaps the maximum that you can do. While that is good news for some, for the rest, there is actually a lot that can be done while sitting at home. Connecting with yourself, with your hobbies and passion, exercising or cooking are a few things you can easily do while you are at home. Cooking, for instance, although it seems difficult, with the current lockdown, there are actually a few dishes you can learn or cook at home without leaving your house, perhaps with all the stuff available in your house. Now, as parlous as some men entering the kitchen might be, it is definitely worth a try instead of snivelling about the monotony.

1. Try Mint Cucumber Raita

If you have never tried a hand at cooking and are also worried about another tragedy happening at home, the mint cucumber raita might just be the dish for you.
All you have to do is make a Raita using mint, cucumber, and yogurt. This dish is found with every Indian meal and is quite refreshing for those hot summer days.

2. How about preparing Dal Palak’s Shorba/ lentil and Spinach soup?

Cooking this soup should not take you more than forty-five minutes. It has to be prepared with spinach and lentils and can be eaten with bread.
Easy to cook, this dish could be really something you want to cook at home.

3. Overcome your chicken cravings with delicious Chicken Tikka Masala

If there is a chicken shop near you, or somewhere you get packed chicken, chicken tikka masala is perhaps another delicious dish one should definitely try at least once in their lifetime.
Getting yogurt, salt, and the spices in one bowl and whisking them together would be step one until they have blended together properly.
Then put the chicken pieces with the mixture and mix it until it is well-coated. Refrigerating it for one hour should be enough. Later pre-heat the broiler set on oven rack in top position and broil the chicken on the prepared rack until the top turns brown, flip and repeat.
When the sauce along with this is prepared, dip the chicken pieces into this sauce and enjoy!

4. Plain basmati rice, Fried rice, Pulav or Biryani as your lockdown to-do list

The basmati rice is the most popular Indian dish which is also easy to cook. At this time of a lockdown, essential products such as rice are widely available.
Basmati is fragrant and nutty-tasting rice which is grown in the Himalayas. When cooked, it becomes light and fluffy and the fragrance while eating is just splendid. This incredible dish can be eaten with curry too.
Taking it one step further, you can also try your culinary skills on Fried rice, Pulav, and Biryani, which are other delicious versions of the plain basmati rice. All you need is your favorite chopped veggies or chicken pieces to prepare these lip-smacking rice dishes.

5. Nothing can be better than a Homemade Naan during this lockdown

Sitting on your couch, wondering when the lockdown would be lifted, the foodies in there might be missing food from their regular restaurant which has been shut now. Perhaps a few dishes such as the Naan can be made at home.
The Indian Naan is popular for its soft nature and is traditionally made in tandoor.
All you need is flour, yeast sugar, olive oil, anise seeds, yogurt, and salt. Mix them well to turn into dough.
Knead it a few times and sprinkle some flour on it. Divide the dough into pieces, flatten up each piece and place it on a hot and dry skillet until the surface is full of air bubbles and black spots. Flip and repeat.

6. Easy to prepare Aloo Tikki without having to go out

Aaloo tikki can be thought of as delicious Indian potato fritters. It is made out of potatoes and several Indian spices formed into patties and then fried in oil.
Aaloo tikki can be easily found on streets and food markets, only they’ve been shut down now. So a dish such as Aaloo tikki is one of the best and easiest dishes to be learned at home during a lockdown.

7. When you have plenty of potatoes around you, why not try Samosas!

Samosas live in the heart of almost every Indian. The dish is so popular that one can find stalls of samosa vendors on every nook and corner of Indian streets.
These are appetizers made with flaky pastry enveloping potato pieces and vegetables; peas specifically and are folded into triangles, fried and served with chutneys.

8. For all the boring evenings of these days, Pakora bhaji can be a magic

This is another symbolic dish popular among other Indian dishes.

Vegetables are battered and deep-fried.
Onion is the simple but magic ingredient in this specific dish and is enjoyed with chutney.

There is nothing as delightful and satisfyingly soul-enriching as having pakora bhajis with chutney, sitting at home, on a rainy day. It would work best for these lockdown days as well!

9. Chana Dal; a superfood worth giving a try

You can prepare a chana dal for lunch or even dinner. It basically consists of split chickpeas stewed with spices like turmeric.
Dal also refers to similar other legumes such as peas, kidney beans, and lentils.

10. Aloo Gobi; make it how you like it

Perhaps potatoes are extensively available as essential items during a lockdown and can be therefore put to use in numerous ways. Cooking Aaloo gobi being one such way.

Made with potatoes and cauliflower that are cooked in garlic, turmeric, and ginger and other spices.
Since it isn’t served as a stew or in a sauce, aloo gobi is a bit spicier and drier and tastes best with raita and chapatti.

11. Apple Chutney; eat it the way you like- simple, easy, and quick

The main ingredients used in this scrumptious dish are apple, spices, vinegar, and sweetener.
Chutney is a traditional Indian recipe made usually with veggies, coconuts, spices, nuts, and herbs.

Chutneys have a miscellaneous nature as every part of India serves its own special and specific type of chutney.

12. Chole; the only dish that can be paired with a number of others

Chole is one of the most popular dishes of India, served at almost all Indian restaurants. But why not bring a restaurant to your home. Cooking chole is easy as well as less tiring and kids tend to love the dish.
Chickpeas are cooked in delicious and spicy gravy and served with either bhatura, kulcha, rice, naan, and the list is endless.
When this Chole is served with a bhatura, it tastes incredible. Chola bhatura is served at many dhabas and almost every restaurant. So why not turn your home into a dhaba this time for your family!

13. Naankhatai; the perfect all-time snack to munch on

The crispiness, light look, and cookie-like features make Naankhatai extremely popular in India.
Nankhatais are made with flour, ghee, cardamom powder, and sugar. These are traditional Indian shortbread cookies, made with all-purpose flour, sugar, ghee, and semolina as well

These cookies are famous because they are prepared at home only. So nankhatai can be placed somewhere on your “to-do list”.

14. Jalebi; the everyone’s favorite

Jalebis can be prepared within the half-hour. Jalebi is the most popular dessert in India.
Jalebis are crispy, juicy and delicious and are served almost at every Indian wedding. Although attending a wedding to eat jalebis today seems like building a castle in the air, preparing Jalebis at home is not.
All you need is flour, turmeric, soda, sugar lemon juice and cardamom powder, ghee and so on and though numerous ingredients are required, preparing this dish will not take more than 230 minutes.

15. Pav bhaji; certainly, the best thing to make with all that you have

Pav bhaji is a typical Indian dish with the perfect and delicious blend of mixed veggies cooked along with butter and spices which is served along with soft butter-tasted buns.
Pav is a traditional Indian bread and bhaji is mashed vegetables cooked with spice powder. Cooking pav bhaji is quite easy during a time such as a lockdown.

16. Shrikhand; let not the lockdown lock up your sweet tooth

Shrikhand is yet another exotic dish of Indian origin. This is a sweet dish made using hung curd and powdered sugar and is specially eaten with puri.
Three basic and most important ingredients are necessary for preparing shrikhand.

Powdered sugar 2. Fresh plain yogurt 3. Any flavoring of your choice.

Shrikhand, therefore, can be prepared along with puris. This actually becomes a treat, especially during summer.

17. Idli sambar; when just dal is all that you have, make something exotic

This dish is a popular south Indian breakfast and is very healthy too.
Basic veggies used in this dish are carrots, beans and shallots, and toor dal.
All you need to do is cooking the dal along with veggies and sambar powder in it. This should not take more than thirty-five minutes.
For idlis, you need fermented rice and lentil batter, which is steam-cooked on an idli stand

This dish is already popularly eaten during lunch and can be cooked at home with easy steps and minimum time.

If you enjoyed this post visit our main page at https://ExploreTraveler.com for more of our exciting content.

Conclusion

With what has been going around us and the precarious lockdown that has been established, there seems to be one good result of it, perhaps an opportunity for us to consider our lives and our health. So it is good to start with healthy cooking!

If you looking for any another food check out our food travel guide. And, one thing is for sure, you don’t always have to go out to enjoy your favorite dish! Home it is; these days!

P.S: Do wash your hands before preparing any of these dishes.

How To Avoid Getting Sick During Traveling: All About Healthy Eating And Hygiene

April 6, 2020 by John Gentry Leave a Comment

“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all” – Helen Keller

Who does not find travel enchanting? Who can imagine a life without travel, when as the quote above goes, life itself is an adventure. Traveling is the most important and wonderful thing that can happen to someone. By the word travel, people usually mean wandering off to places far, far away or some foreign country. But travel may not necessarily involve traveling to distant places and foreign locations. Travel has nothing to do with it. A person may go hiking for a weekend and call it to travel. Or visit some caves of ancient times and call it an adventure. Traveling, therefore, can be an adventure within your state, without traveling afar and abroad.

The effect and benefits of traveling aren’t just physical, but also psychological because sometimes, instead of going about your old, cyclical life fit into a routine, you can escape all the workload, difficult kids, the way how your parents want you to live a life according to them. Yes, an individual does need a holiday from all such things and take things off his mind.

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Besides, every single place, irrespective of its propinquity from each other, inevitably has different cultures of their own. Something, certain people travel for. When you travel to places, you come in contact with some new cultures and traditions that are sometimes different and fundamentally unique altogether and coming in contact with such new cultures can be the most adventurous thing that can ever happen to you.

Speaking of cultures, when you come across various cultures, you also come across various food items. One of the best things about travel is that you get to try all kinds of food items you ever never tasted in life. Hence, traveling is a treat for foodies. Finally, traveling increases your social network, which today is, as important as anything. People from all nooks and corners of the world travel to exquisite places and when you meet such people, you increase your social circle and network where people are unlike the ones in your daily life, have nothing to do with it.

Now that’s all about travel and its merits. When you travel, you have to be careful about some important stuff. Stuff related to your health and wellness because bad times can kick in uncalled and unexpectedly, making arrangements for a travel medical insurance necessary and not just a normal travel medical insurance but travel insurance abroad.

One needs to start thinking about avoiding health issues, right from the packing stage because travel can also affect your immune system. Yes, juxtaposing its nature, traveling can cause stress mostly because of the attempt by most people to cover a lot of things as soon as possible and as much as possible. This stress can affect the immune system and make you susceptible to sickness. Following this, is a list of things to do, to avoid getting sick during travel and food safety tips or travel safety tips as one may call it.

Since traveling involves mostly eating from outside, to stay healthy throughout the trip is a must and for this purpose, one should plan the whole diet well in advance, just to remain well-nourished while traveling. What this will do is slash the chances of making impulsive and last moment eating decisions that are often poor choices and the reason behind your health problems.
Similarly, problems related to eating, while at the destination, can be tackled by starting with a salad or broth-based soup. Looking for proteins and vegetables to eat for food safety and hygiene.
Eating grilled food, instead of fried is always the way to go. Steering clear of Buffet’s and ask for tomatoes, onions, and lettuce.
Drinking water with lemon or ice is always suggested for a healthy journey.

Staying hydrated

When you travel, you are mostly exposed to the sun, which therefore becomes the primary rule, to stay hydrated. Drinking lots of water is key to good hygiene during travel. Alcohol, soda or other drinkables cannot replace water, so carrying water bottles of your own is another important thing because dehydration can result in a drop in major energy levels. Thus, 16 ounces with each meal are suggested to remaining completely hydrated while traveling.

2. Lessening The Number of Meals

Eating a balanced diet every time you eat outside is always the right choice. Vegetables, lettuce, healthy carbs and proteins are advised because this keeps your body energized unless you are at a restaurant that is popular for a particular dish. Therefore, having all kinds of nutritional food while traveling is important. Having fruits can also help maintain the nutrients in the body. Fruits can be eaten instead of complete meals to avoid getting sick during travel- it is a great step towards food hygiene.

Shopping at a local grocery store

Preparing food with your own hands is always healthy. So you can look for local grocery stores while looking for booking a place. One should always look for grocery stores and a chain of restaurants near to the booking place. Looking for a hospital or at least a clinic in the vicinity can also help at desperate times. Buying avocados, onions, eggs, pepper, spinach, and preparing food on your own for lunch is a great idea to avert sickening situations while traveling

Having small meals

Having small meals, every two to three hours is also very helpful. But these meals should not consist of junk, but nuts, yogurt or veggies. This is just to keep the hunger at bay because when you have food after long periods, you are most likely to pick up something unhealthy.

Diet on the plane

Most flights do not offer a lot of healthy products, therefore you can plan the diet to stay on track with a balanced diet and instead of spending unnecessarily on salty, expensive food items at the airport and shops nearby, which is junk. Carrying proteins, nuts, and healthy carbs along with you can help you a long way and you can avoid so many diseases. Thus, when on a plane, you can go with rice cakes with almond butter, hummus, whole fruit or protein bars.

Meals at the hotel

If there are supermarkets or grocery stores near your hotel, there is nothing like it because preparing food at your hotel room is yet another healthy habit. You can buy stuff like milk, veggies, whole grain cereals, and bread so that you don’t have to go out in the middle of the night to munch junk food that is out there.

Meals while dining

If your vacation rental provides you with kitchen facilities, it becomes much easier to stay on track. Modern vacation rentals nowadays can make kitchen facilities available for you and in such cases, you can prepare food at your house itself which is again a healthy preference. Therefore, food items that you can dine with are steamed vegetables, brown rice, tofu, egg salad, and whole-grain pasta.

Not to skip the breakfast

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. While on a work trip, People usually tend to skip breakfast which is meant to control the metabolism of the body. This can also lead to dehydration. Besides this, people on business trips should also mind the amount of coffee intake. This is because although coffee from a nearby coffee shop may sound delightful and just what a stressed person requires to resume work, the amount of calorie and sugar intake can shoot up unimaginably.

Now, Here’s What You Call A Healthy Travel Food

1. Banana Chips

Banana chips are easily available in the market and can also be made at home and are just a treat for the taste buds. These chips can be stored well in an air-tight container and can be eaten while traveling. Banana chips are very healthy too. Thus, including these chips in your diet can help you a long way to maintain a healthy diet. Every 100 grams of banana chips consist of 2.3 grams of protein and 400 calories maintaining the food hygiene as well.

2. Muffins and Cookies

Baked items are not unhygienic if baked at home. So if you are fond of baking already, baking cookies or biscuits to carry while traveling is a good option for snacks. Besides, these baked cookies or biscuits can stay edible for weeks together as they are baked at home only.

Mixed Seeds

Irregular hunger strikes are a problem when food safety and hygiene are concerned. But when you carry fruits and nuts along with you, this problem can be tackled too while traveling. Watermelon seeds, chia seeds, and pumpkin seeds can be eaten along the way and are a huge source of energy. Adding nuts with these seeds can be an incredible source of energy and can also act as antioxidants.

4. Black Pepper Popcorn

Popcorn is one of the best snacks that you can carry and munch while traveling. Instead of buying popcorns from a store, cooking them at home serves the purpose of maintaining your health as well. Popcorns are the best snack for a road trip.

5. Bread Dhoklas

Made out of a batter of Rava and bread crumbs, this Indian snack is another popular and hygienic snack that can be carried with you on any kind of trip or adventure. Since these are of course homemade, the bread dhoklas are light to digest fulfilling the purpose of food health and safety.

Cheese Crackers

Cheese crackers are an amazing snack for a journey. This snack can be made more nutritious by substituting them with whole-grain crackers and onion powder, season them nicely with grated cheddar. Therefore, these crackers are also an incredible, healthy and hygienic snack for a journey.

Vegetable Chips

Vegetable chips are better than potato chips. Potato chips are oily and are considered as junk. On the other hand, vegetable chips can be made out of vegetables like carrot, beetroots or parsnips.

Green Chutney Sandwich

A chutney sandwich is an Indian dish, which is best suited for travel (especially road trips) and can be made easily. This dish is better than the street food which most people prefer as a result of the last moment planning of the trip. It can be stored in an airtight container as well, and can thus remain fresh for three to four hours.

Besides all these snacks, whole wheat almond cookies, Sooji porridge or the Poha porridge is some of the travel food for babies, that can be contained inside an airtight container.

Important Accessories To Take Along

Along with fruits, snacks, nuts, and veggies, carrying accessories such as forks, spoons and knives, and cloths, which are considered to be travel-friendly accessories can help you eat the food you have brought with ease. Apart from this, carrying a soap or a travel hand sanitizer to sanitize yourself is perhaps another hygienic habit. Taking your own airtight containers or coffee mug can save expenses as well as serve as a hygienic habit. Apart from these, a travel food container can help you contain all the food. Airtight containers are usually used for this purpose.

Treating yourself deliberately

Being on a trip, an adventure is something that is meant to act as a stress buster. But if you can’t eat what you want on an adventure trip, the travel can become bland. Therefore, what can be done is that you can have only one meal, not to satiate the hunger, but to quench the thirst of the heart. Having what you crave for can fill the adventure with memories. This will lead to two major things. You will be able to eat what you desire during just that one meal and at the same time, having one meal inconsistent with your balanced diet won’t hamper your whole routine. Thus, treating yourself is necessary to make the travel memorable.

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Conclusion

Food and safety are thus two pillars of a healthy body which is to be treated with utter care and with the emergence of new and fatal diseases, precarious actions can serve you a long way.

Explore Traveler wishing you all happy and safe travels!

John Gentry

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In closing

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