Category - Destinations

Tourist Attractions in Chicago

August 28, 2017

Chicago, Illinois famous city is very famous for its bold architecture and the buildings that almost touch the sky. Chicago has pleasant climate throughout the year. The city, located along Lake Michigan, is also known as “Windy City”. Chicago Attractions include a large number of cultural attractions. Some famous tourist attractions are listed below.

1.Art Institute of Chicago: There are hundreds of thousands of pieces of art that you can typically find here. The art collection spans over several thousands of years and has everything from painting and prints to textiles and decorative art.

2. Millennium Park: This park is found downtown Chicago. It is the venue for an outdoor concert venue. The Lurie Garden, the Cloud Gate Sculpture that you can find in the AT&T Plaza and the Crown Fountain are the major Chicago attractions of the Millennium Park.

3. Michigan Avenue and Magnificent Mile: As America’s most attractive boulevard, it has a large number of galleries, luxury shops, and boutiques. The Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building, and the John Hancock Center are famous Chicago Attractions. The North and the South designations of Madison Street are divided by the avenue.

4. Navy Pier: When it opened, apart from being one of Chicago’s Attractions, it also used to be a shipping facility. Now it has gardens, shops, restaurants, concert venues as well as parks. The Ferris wheel found here is 150 ft in height. 3D IMAX Theatre, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, and Crystal Gardens are other famous Chicago attractions housed by Navy Pier. There are also cruise ships that provide sight-seeing tours.

5. Wrigley Field: Build in 1914, this Chicago attraction is the second oldest ballpark and is known for the high-charged atmosphere it provides for baseball enthusiasts.

6. Shakespeare Theatre: There is a permanent facility for the Shakespeare Theatre in Chicago. This Chicago attraction has a glass curtain-walled seven-story theatre which has a seating capacity of 700.

7. Museum of Science and History: Found in 1933, the Museum is devoted to applying natural laws in the development of technology and industry. Visitors can interact with hundreds of exhibits. Both permanent and changing exhibits are present apart from the OMNIMAX theatre, which makes it the most hi-tech of all Chicago’s Attractions.

8. Field Museum of National History: The museum showcases both anthropological and biological collections that have been gathered since the Columbian Exposition. The Chicago Attraction has around 20 million specimens and artifacts that cover everything from botany and zoology to geology and anthropology.

9. Willis Tower Sky-deck: This Chicago Attraction is the tallest office block in the world containing around 110-storys, since 1996. Presently, there are buildings taller than the Willis Tower, but the view from this building is still the best. You can see around 40 to 50 miles of four states from the sky-deck.

10. Lake Michigan Stonehenge: Discovered by Mark Holley in 2007, a professor at Northwestern University of Michigan, it is among the strangest things ever. Situated under Lake
Michigan, the structure looks very much like the famous UK structure we all know about. That’s how it got its present moniker in the first place. One of the stones also has a mastodon carved on it. Since its discovery, this strange stone formation has remained a constant hot topic. The planned formation and the mastodon carving on the stone indicate that it is indeed man-made. There have been many theories about its origins. But unfortunately, we still don’t have any concrete evidence to support those. Hence, we are still pretty much unaware of how and when it originated. More research is needed to reach a proper conclusion. However, the lack of funds has made further research almost impossible. To this day, it is one of the most mysterious places on earth and a matter of curiosity.

Chicago has the best places to sightsee, shop at and dine at as well architecture that is not only unique but also interesting. Chicago Attractions are in plenty and found all around the city. When you are on your trip to Chicago, while you are amazed by the brilliance of the architecture, don’t forget to be amazed by the beautiful city. Don’t get so caught up in the details that you miss the bigger picture.

THEME PARKS: THE KEY INGREDIENT FOR A FUN FAMILY VACATION IN ORLANDO, FLORIDA

August 23, 2017

Chris

Florida

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Florida has been popular among travellers for its hundreds of miles of beaches, Latin-American cultural influences and lovely weather. There are a lot of seaside activities to take part in, excellent nightlife, and a bouquet of places to visit. However, when you’re travelling with your family, especially your kids, the requirements in your itinerary differ vastly. You need some activities in your plan which are fun and exciting as well as kid-friendly. This is where the theme parks in Orlando, Florida come in. Visit some of the attractions of one or multiple of the any theme parks located in Orlando, and you can be sure that your kids will have the best time of their life.

From various rides to movie based attractions, from meeting the characters of your favourite childhood television show to eating in restaurants themed after hugely popular movies, there are a lot of things to do in these theme parks for you and your family. Thousands of people visit these theme parks every day, and the faces of every one of them lights up with joy and happiness. These theme parks are the best place to visit if you want to have a fun and exciting time with your family in Florida, and there are a lot of parks for you to choose from. Here are few of the theme parks in Orlando which you can visit with your family and kids, to have the ultimate fun-filled family vacation.

Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort has not one but three fun filled theme parks for you and your family to have fun in. In two of them, Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme parks, you’ll get to visit the magical world of Harry Potter. Explore the lanes of Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, visit the famous Ollivanders wand shop or enjoy a virtual flight over Hogwarts. If you or your kids are Harry Potter fans, then this place will blow you away. There are a lot of entertainment shows and rides based on other famous Hollywood flicks like The Mummy, E.T., Shrek etc. and an array of themed restaurants as well. The third park, Universal’s Volcano Bay is a water theme park where you can enjoy many water rides with your kids.

Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World in Orlando has a total of four dry theme parks and two water theme parks which you and your kids can visit. Visit the Magic Kingdom Park for a chance of meeting your favourite childhood cartoon character. In Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the rides and shows are based on various favourite Hollywood movies. In Disney’s Animal Kingdom, you’ll get to visit the moon of Pandora from the Avatar movie, and see many birds and animals. Visit the waterparks Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach if you want a fun and wet day with your family.

Discovery Cove

In Discovery Cove, you’ll get to enter a tropical island paradise. There are a lot of marine animals in this theme park for you to interact with. You’ll be able to swim with dolphins, learn all about them, watch sharks and stingrays, dive into ‘The Grand Reef’ to swim with multicoloured fishes and many more.

LEGOLAND® Florida

This theme park is based on the favorite toy of all time, Legos. Visit a world made of Legos, and full of rides based on these amazing toys. This 150 acre park has thousands of amazing Lego models.

SeaWorld Orlando

This is another water theme park for you and your family to enjoy a fun filled day with. Enjoy riding on a lot of water or land based rides, watch dolphins, sharks and Beluga whales or ride on Mako, the tallest coaster in Orlando – the excitement in endless when you are in SeaWorld.

PANDORA – THE WORLD OF AVATAR: THE NEWEST ATTRACTION AT DISNEY WORLD, FLORIDA

August 22, 2017

Chris

Florida, Travel Tips

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Walt Disney World has always been everyone’s go to place, to visit and meet with their beloved animation or movie characters. But on May 27th, 2017, Walt Disney World Florida just opened their newest attraction at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park. The newest addition is named Pandora – The World of Avatar and yes, here you get to visit the moon of Pandora, the land the Na’vi people from the James Cameron’s film Avatar. Just get your tickets online and indulge in the various adventures and experiences this new world has in store for you.

The Land of Pandora

According to Disney’s own representative’s word, the land and landscape of this new world called Pandora embodies the role of an actor. There are no actors dressed in blue to pull you into this world and make it believable. Instead, it is the role of the world itself, to make you feel like you have entered into a completely new and extraordinary realm. At Pandora’s entrance, a sign welcomes you to the Valley of Mo’Ara and provides a map. The landscape is filled with bioluminescent Pandoran flora, beautiful waterfalls, mountainous terrain and flowing streams. However, the piece de resistance of the landscape is a 156 feet all floating mountain, which truly gives this place an other-worldly look.

The Rides of Pandora

There are two main rides in this world of Pandora. Albeit the signs of these rides aren’t really visible to keep up with the immersive nature of the land, the rides themselves do not fall short in any way. The rides you can experience in this world are truly memorable and offer an experience like no other.

First of the two rides called Na’vi River Journey, is a traditional ‘dark ride’ of Disney amusement parks. You go on a restful and calm boat journey through a river. During your ride, you see colourful glowing plants, moving shadows of lizards over your head. An animatronic Shaman of Song sings a beautiful tune as you continue on your path and emerge at the end of the ride.

The second ride is vastly different than the first one. This ride called the Avatar Flight of Passage is a 3D simulator ride. You will get to revisit and go through some of the movie’s most stunning landscapes on this ride. You’ll also get to see a full sized Na’vi floating in a chamber when you visit the science lab which is a part of this ride. After that, you’ll have to board some scooter-like vehicles, put on some 3D glasses and fly through flocks of banshees, past a rushing waterfall, through some dense forests and caves.

The Food of Pandora

Last but not the least, one of the main attraction of this new attraction at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is the food you can taste at Satu’li Canteen. You’ll get to sample some of the most innovating other-worldly dishes that the chefs of this place have managed to create. The restaurant is decorated with Na’vi art and cultural items. Treat yourself to a popular Na’vi drink Pongu Pongu, or indulge in a rather futuristic looking cheesecake. Pandora – The World of Avatar will continue to amuse you through every possible way.

FIVE MUST VISIT PLACES IN THE ANCIENT LAND OF CAMBODIA

August 20, 2017

Chris

Cambodia

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With its pristine beaches, picturesque landscapes, crystal clear waters and mouthwatering food, Southeast Asia has emerged as a go to destination for tourists from all over the world. With its cheap economy and choice of luxury offerings, the countries of this region attract both backpackers and luxury tourists alike. However, as the most popular destination, Thailand is becoming more and more crowded and old, some of the other countries are now coming into the limelight. And among them, one of the most historically rich, colourful and beautiful country to visit is Cambodia. From ancient temple ruins to beautiful beaches, there are a lot of places to explore and planning a trip to this country can be a bit difficult. So to make your Cambodia trip easier, here’s a list of five must visit places when you go on a holiday in Cambodia .

Angkor Archaeological Park

Angkor Archaeological Park houses the most popular and known spot in Cambodia; the Angkor Wat temple complex. However, this UNESCO certified World Heritage Site houses more than a dozen of spots for you to explore. Start your journey on a rented tuktuk or bicycle from Siem Reap, the closest city to this world famous archaeological site. Try to start your journey before dawn to catch the sunrise behind the famous temple of Angkor Wat. Preah Khan is another one of the largest sites of this complex. Visit the Bayon, Ta Prohm, Elephant Terrace, Preah Ko, Ta Som and Srah Srang sites while you explore the area. Also check out Baksei Chamkrong, a single tower built by Harshavarman on your way to Angkor Thom, the last capital city of the Khem Empire from Angkor Wat.

Phnom Penh

The capital city of modern day Cambodia is another must visit location during you explore this country. The city is beautiful with roadside pagodas nestled among French colonial houses, giving you a glimpse of the history of this country. If you have in for some adventurous treats, then the street side food stalls will delight you. From deep fried tarantulas to Balut (a fertilised partially developed egg), you will find many Cambodian delicacies selling on the streets here which are certainly not for the fainthearted.

Kep

After the ancient archaeological sites and the food-filled streets, it’s time for some seaside retreat. Head over to Kep, a seaside destination built by the French elite in 1908, this beautiful location is perfect for having some relaxing time. You will be spoilt with a choice of the freshest seafood, lovely sunsets and beautiful beaches. Also, remember to visit the butterfly-filled Kep National Park while you are here.

Kampot

Kampot is a charming little riverside town, once famous for its salt and pepper production. Take a trip of 20 kilometres out of Kampot to the French ghost town, Bokor Hill Station. An abandoned French retreat, the whole town is eerily unoccupied; and you can see the bullet marks on the walls or walk through the empty corridors of the Grand Bokor Palace Hotel & Casino.Sihanoukville

The main reason to stop in this small little town is its beaches. The town itself won’t win any awards for being pretty. But the sandy-white coastlines and the extraordinary islands it boasts of, make this town Cambodia’s most happening destination. The Serendipity Beach area is famous for backpackers and party seekers. If you want to stay away from the crowd, head over to the far south of the town to Otres Beach for a more relaxed environment.

HOW TO TRAVEL SWITZERLAND ON A BUDGET

July 25, 2017

Chris

Destinations, Travel Tips

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Switzerland is a country that offers magnificent views, delightful experiences and is considered as the most beautiful country in Europe. There are plenty of reasons to go to Switzerland, the breathtaking views, the taste of Swiss chocolate, endless selection of cheese, scenic beauty of the alps are all inviting!

People usually skip over this country, due to the fact that Switzerland has been rated as the most expensive country in the world. They wait until they are older and hopefully wealthier. Travelers can’t think of visiting Switzerland by only spending a few dollars a day, but it’s also surprising to know that it’s possible on a relatively light budget. It’s hard but not impossible.

Estimate your budget while planning your trips in advance. It’s not advisable to rent a car. A rail pass will help you save money, so plan to travel by train, boat, bus or cable cars. Traveling is free in some cases even without a rail pass. If you book a hotel in Bern, Geneva, St. Moritz, access to local public transport free. If you book an airport hotel, free rides to the airport are often included and it would help in balancing the budget.

Accommodation can be quite expensive in Switzerland but there are a few economical options. Collect a few hotel points before deciding your travel budget and utilize them while you stay in the country. In the rural areas, you can find some campsites which are really reasonable. There is an increase in the market for youth hostels in recent years, these having excellent decors.

The Museum of History of Science in Geneva and the Omega Museum in Biel are some of the museum that does not have any entry fee. To visit museums and other attractions in Switzerland use your Swiss Pass which gives a free entry.

Swiss water is safe to drink and you can save by choosing tap water in place of expensive drinks at the cafes and restaurants. In place of dine- in you can opt to preparing lunch by buying some bread rolls, cereal bars or other preferred foods that are easy to take along. Also, it’s a bonus for vegetarians as meat is expensive in Switzerland, so prefer sticking to the veggies. For eating out, prefer to go during the lunch hours as lunch specials are cheaper and cost around 10- 19 CHF. For the best deals and biggest portions stick to the ethnic restaurants like Chinese, Middle Eastern, Indian, or Thai. Also, if you want to have a drink, stick to hostel bars. It’s costly to have a drink outside.

There is no doubt that Switzerland is an expensive country. At the price point of $75 USD, you’d have enough money to do the basics, stay in some hostels, go out, and enjoy some adventure and outdoor activities. It would limit your ability to really enjoy what Switzerland has to offer if you anything lower than this price point.