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Delores Morris
Delores is an avid traveler and tries to experience as much as she can. She likes to immerse herself in the culture of the place where she is and find things to do that are not as mainstream. When she isn’t off on an adventure she likes to plan and plot her next trip.
7 Reasons Why Your Next Holiday Spot Should be The Lake District
Are you looking for a place for your next holiday spot? End your search here. the Lake District is one of the most popular holiday destinations. If you like beautiful scenery, luxurious accommodation, and mouth-watering food and drinks, this place could be your best pick. You will find everything here: from the stunning scenery to great accommodation. Also, the Lake District is perfect for families.
Still not convinced? Here are some of the best reasons why you should choose the Lake District as your next holiday spot.
Do You Like Walks?
You will find a lot of fantastic trails and stunning mountains in the Lake District that are perfect for hiking. One of the prime examples is Scafell Pike, which is also the highest mountain in England standing 978 meters tall.
You can find a route for everyone there. Beginners can go for simple and easy walks. Or if you want to take a challenge, you can also go for more demanding trails. But one thing that stays common is the eye-catching views and mesmerizing bodies of water.
Did Someone Say Beautiful Scenery?
I love taking photographs of wildlife and stunning landscapes, and this made the Lake District, one of my favorite spots. The place is surrounded by beautiful scenery providing exactly what you are looking for.
Even if you are not a nature and wildlife photographer, you can just enjoy the picturesque villages, ancient castles, and fells and historic locations. Just roam around and enjoy what you see while getting a feeling of relaxation.
If You Are a Foodie, This Place is For You
For foodies, this place is heaven! The Lake District has all sorts of pubs and restaurants, making it one of the best places for food across the UK. For lunch, go to Ambleseide’s Drunken Duck, and for fine dine, book a table in L’Enclume. You can thank me later.
Also, if you are looking for some natural and local ingredients, here you can find that too. Whether you want local vegetables or fell bred lamb, you can enjoy that. So, you can enjoy both the traditional recipes and modern dishes here.
You’ll Get to Enjoy The Charming Lakes
Do you know how many lakes are there in the Lake District? Sixteen! Yes, there are sixteen lakes. And the largest lake is Windermere. Although only one lake is officially a lake by name, that is Bassenthwaite Lake. Rest all are meres or waters. If you like water-based activities, these lakes will not fall short to amuse you.
The Place is Easy to Reach
You can reach the Lake District very easily from major cities like London and Manchester. You can take a flight to Carlisle from London and Dublin, that would take just an hour to reach the destination. Or you can also take the train or car to the Lakes. Whatever suits you. You can get a taxi app UK if you like to travel around the place.
A Pet-friendly Place
I love to travel around with my pooch, Rio. I try to take him with me whenever I’m going on a holiday. There are some places that don’t allow pets, and the Lake District is NOT one of them. So, if you also like to take your four-legged companions with you on holiday, the Lake District can become your favorite spot.
There are just so many places you can go with your pets. You can easily find accommodation that allows dogs. Wait, there’s more. Many restaurants and pubs also allow pets here, and you can take your pets to hiking trails too. Amazing, isn’t it!
…. And You Will Find Peace Here
What’s better than sitting by the lakes when you are looking for some peace. So, just say bye-bye to the city’s busy traffic and noise, and ‘recharge’ yourself in peace and quietness of this place. Enjoy nature and wildlife, the beautiful landscapes, and mesmerizing lakes along with the peacefulness this place offers.
Final Thoughts on The Lake District
The Lake District is truly one of the best places to be picked as a holiday spot. In 2017, it also became a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the place really deserved it. The place has always been applauded for its natural beauty and farming. The Lake District has even inspired many artists over the years, two of the best examples are William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.
So, pack your bags, book your tickets and visit this place, and explore the lakes.
5 Free Things to do in New York
New York City is one of the most expensive cities to live and travel in the United States. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t cheap or no-cost ways to enjoy your time in the city. Of course, you can drop a bunch of coins from the Empire State Building or dine in the fanciest restaurants. There is plenty that the city offers if you are willing to go deep down your pockets.
But what if I told you that you could take a boat ride past the Statue of Liberty without spending a dime? Yes, that is true. New York has a lot of bargains like these ones. But to find them, you need to connect with a local who knows these tricks. Well, lucky for you, we are spelling out the beans that will help you enjoy the best parts of the city for free. Most people flock to the city for career opportunities, so if you are one of them, after sending your digital resume, enjoy the city as it is meant to be.
So, it doesn’t really matter how small or non-existent your budget is, you will still have a great time in NYC. Book and cook in your Air B&B and you are good to take the city on a storm. So, without making you wait any further, here are some free things to do in New York.
Staten Island Ferry
The first thing that pops into our mind when we think about New York City is the state of Liberty. With Manhattan on the right and Sleek Verrazano-Narrows Bridge on the left, lies the Statue of Liberty. Yes, everyone wants to see lady liberty but the ferry tours start around $19 for adults. Fortunately, the Staten Island Ferry will let you experience the grandeur of the skyscrapers, the postcard dimension-ed Brooklyn Bridge, and of course the Statue of Liberty in its true magnificence absolutely free. It started service in 1905, the ferry carries around 19 million people across the harbor each year. Grab a departing boat once you are at the terminal of the Staten Island side and then enjoy the eccentric view in a rewind.
Central Park
It doesn’t take a genius to know that parks are free. But who wants to go to a park? Well, Central Park is no common park. It is filled with statues, free events, and beautiful sites like ‘Imagine’ mosaic (it commemorates the life and death of former Beatle John Lennon), strawberry fields, and much more. Eight hundred acres of green space in the middle of uptown Manhattan is what this park offers. Not a fable! You will find bikers, nature lovers, and joggers getting their fix here every day. If you’ve had enough of the chaos of the city, Central Park offers an escape from the city. Mostly importantly, I found Central Park to be quite a safe, if you want to avoid any travel disaster’s just like me.
New York Public Library
Library isn’t your jam? Well, this is no ordinary library. I understand the library isn’t on most people’s ‘must visit’ list but be sure to make an exception. The New York Public Library holds the world’s most comprehensive and largest collections with more than 52 million items currently being held there. This includes books, maps, musical scores, periodicals, art and architecture, print, manuscripts and archives. The library is also host to several events all around the year. It is a spectacle you mustn’t miss. And the best part is you don’t even have to spend a single buck for the tour. It is absolutely free.
Brooklyn Bridge
One of the many signature places in New York City, Brooklyn Bridge is a must-visit. One of the oldest suspension bridges in the country, it offers some eccentric views of New York. Spanning from Brooklyn Heights to South Street Seaport, the bridge has ushered the people of New York across the east river since 1833. And the best way to experience its beauty is a 40-minute walk across the bridge. An expedition you must not miss. The view will take you to a different place. It will make you realize why decades of painters and poets have been fascinated by it. Early morning is the best time to visit the bridge because it gets crowded afterward.
Times Square
For a better part of the last century, the brightest lights, most fascinating music, biggest parties, and star power have steamed off on a street known as Broadway. Not so long ago, the place was known to be a haven of decadence. Crafty sex shops and peep shows seeded the place before it was revitalized to the arrival of five-star tenants like David Letterman. It paved a way to the new Times Square. Today, it is one of the most influential theatrical districts in the world. It costs $0 and surely is a place to be on your ‘must-see’ list. Not to forget it hosts the largest New Year’s Eve celebration in the country. More than half a million join together to bid adieu to the passing year and welcome the new one. Whether with a family, loved one, friends, or by yourself, if you want to experience what the city is all about, Times Square is the place to be.
6 Things You Should Absolutely do in Switzerland
Switzerland is heaven! You’ve probably heard people saying that. There’s no doubt about that. There are very few places on the planet that can match the scenic beauty of Switzerland. It’s a wonderland! Even if you just go through a series of pictures, you’ll get the feel. Switzerland is blessed with the best of nature. It’s not a surprise to find the place on top of most travelers’ priority list. This small country is not just about the snow-clad mountains. The food, culture, and environment is unlike anywhere else. Planning a trip? Well, there are somethings that you should definitely do in Switzerland.
Ski through the Matterhorn
A fan of skiing? Well, there is no better spot than the ski resort at Zermatt. The smooth slopes will invite you to glide through the snow while catching stunning views of the Matterhorn. If you don’t want to face the snow, there is an alternate option too. Take a 30 minutes cable ride to reach the Rothorn summit. Once you reach the spot, you’ll find a view to behold. With snow-capped mountains enveloping you from all the sides, you’ll be in awe of the gorgeous view.
Indulge in the local culture
No matter where you go, it is bound to have a distinct culture that is unique to that place. The same goes for Switzerland. It has 26 cantons in the country and each one has something different that loads you with the beauty of different cultures. The festivals and traditions will give you the impression that you’re in a completely different place. Go to Mount Rigi if you want to taste a punch of Swiss Wrestling or visit Basler Fasnacht to catch an army of drummers and masked pipers strolling down the streets of Basel. Need an adventure away from the mountains? Be a part of the Witches Downhill Race at Valais. You’ll surely love it!
And don’t forget to try to local cannabis if you get hands on it. Although cannabis was re-criminalized here in 2002, but it is very unlikely that you will face any serious problems if you consume an edible or two. It’s not like you may require a medical marijuana card, like back in the States.
Visit the Swiss National Park
Want to capture the beauty of nature from close? Visit the Swiss National Park and you’ll essentially find answers to your longing for stunning nature. Located in Graudbunden, this national park has over 80 km of adventurous trails and a landscape spanning over 170 kilometers. Golden eagles, chamois, marmots, and vultures are part of the wildlife that you’ll spot on your hiking trails. The Swiss government is very strict about conservation. There is a rule that you have to follow. You cannot leave a trail once you start it. Do remember that! Well, there’s no reason you’ll ever leave. The stunning views will keep you captivated.
Unlock the secrets of the universe at CERN
Want to gain access to the secrets of the origin of the universe? Visit the Large Hadron Collider. Located on the outskirts of Geneva, LHC houses a particle accelerator that stretches over 27 kilometers ring beneath the Swiss and French territory. The ‘Universe of Particles’ experiment is something that you cannot afford to miss. It will give you a glimpse through the concept and people behind the Large Hadron Collider. There are specific tours that give you access to the cosmic experience. Make sure you book them in advance as they fill up pretty quick.
Taste some exclusive wines
Switzerland is a place that is known for its watches, chocolates, and cheeses but wines are pretty exquisite too. The country has some of the best wines you’ll ever taste. The fact that makes it exclusive is the superior taste that is unique and you won’t find it in other parts of the world. Also, only a considerable quantity is exported. Looking for a place? Visit caves ouvertes in summer. You’ll get a glass of wine for a nominal price and it gives you access to unlimited wine. Yes, it means you can taste as much as you like. Vaud canton has some of the best vineyards in the country. Like the Lavaux vineyards spreads over 12 kilometers. You won’t regret paying a visit. The fresh environment, clean mountain air, and the scenic beauty will fill you with a breathtaking experience.
Taste the world’s best chocolate
Swiss chocolates are famous around the world. There’s a reason that makes them so delectable. It’s the mastery of the chocolatiers. The art is passed on through generations and is unlike anywhere else on the planet. Visit Kilchberg and train to become a chocolatier or visit Maison Cailler, the oldest chocolate factory in the world. Heard of Lindt chocolates? Visit Zurich and learn how it all began. This journey will introduce you to the delectable world of Swiss chocolates that will keep your sweet tooth satisfied.
Need more reasons to visit Switzerland? Well, there’s so much to explore. The adventure it offers and the beauty of nature is unmatchable. Swiss mountains will surely be one of the best places you’d visit!
Reasons Why Cumbria Is An Explorer’s Paradise
There are hundreds of places on this planet. But it is only a few that have the sheer capability to affect you the way Cumbria can. This is a palace of immense beauty and often times it is a lot for the brain to comprehend.
You must have come across a picture or two on your feed that looks like there is no way on earth that they could exist without the use of Photoshop. Well, I’m here to dispell those rumours. There is a place that exists on the Map that makes the best of our creations feel small. That place is Cumbria.
Cumbria is a non-metropolitan county in England. It consists of six districts, namely: Barrow-in-Furness, South Lakeland, Allerdale, Eden, Copeland, and the city of Carlisle. Together they highlight the best of what England has to offer.
Cumbria is a artists hub. It is where you escape to if you ever feel like you have lost inspiration or even if you just want to marvel at what the world has to offer.
No matter where you turn, your eyes will be greeted with eye-popping views. So, go through this list to see what exactly will help you find the inspiration or escape you have come to find in Cumbria. Let’s get cracking.
Scafell Pike
Somewhere in Nothern England, you will see a peak rising up. This is the Scafell Pike. Apart from being the highest peak in all of England, it also has the unique distinction of standing at the edge of three micro-climates.
You never know when the weather might change here. High winds with windchills are a routine happening accompanied by snow as well. A minimum requirement if you make your way there is that you should know how to use a map and a compass. Lest you get stuck in the fog.
There are multiple options you can choose from when you decide to climb up the Scafell Pike. Depending on the level of difficulty you want to go through during the hike the choice is between Wasdale Head, Eskdale, Langdale, and Borrowdale. If you are an experienced climber, then Ill Craig is a good option.
Ravenglass Roman Bath House
Located on the western edge is the county’s only coastal village. What makes this place special are the ruins of a fort and naval outpost from the first century. But, what truly makes this place special are the complete ruins of a first-century bathhouse.
The bathhouse is rumored to be around 2,000 years old but the walls, doors, and windows are still intact. During the time of the Romans, this was the place where three rivers, the Irt, the Mite, and the Esk converged and formed a natural harbor.
This also made it a strategic port for imports and exports. These ruins are one of the tallest ones in Britain and free to explore.
Epiacum
Near Hadrian’s wall is a 2nd-century Roman fort that was once a large center of fortification. It is now an isolated site with secrets hidden deep within its grounds. Since it is a scheduled Ancient Monument, you cannot excavate it. But this is a law for humans. Moles, on the other hand, march to the beat of their own drum.
Each mole can dig around 60 feet of tunnels a day and push beads, shards of pottery and other artifacts to the surface. This is then collected by volunteers in an annual molehill survey by volunteers.
HardKnott Roman Fort
Like we have noticed on this list, Cumbria is all about the natural grandness of the roman empire and in the same vein you now have HardKnott Roman Fort. This notoriously hard to reach place is located at an altitude of over 800 feet. Back in the times of Britania, it was one of the highest forts located.
The road to reach this place are extremely narrow with precipitous drops and steep slopes and some very sharp hairpin bends. The route gets even more complicated as there are several springs that originate nearby that often flow across certain sections of the road making it a very difficult drive. Plus they are so narrow that it is an interesting undertaking to see two cars crossing each other.
The only saving grace? The road is paved with blacktop.
The sheer grandiose of this fort is enough for making that treacherous climb.
There is a lot in Cumbria if you decide to make your way down there. The truth is, it is very difficult to explain the historical significance that this county harbors. But, if you are an adventure lover and don’t mind going off the road for a bit of fun, Cumbria is the place to be.
The Best Places to Have Street Food in Los Angeles
Street food has a different taste and smell, and people just love it so much. You can find a variety of dishes in street foods, and unlike high-profile restaurants, these foods are not very expensive. Giving an option to the masses. Street foods also bring a variety of cultures together. From Japanese takoyaki to fried shrimp taco of Mexico, you can find anything. So, here are some of the best places in Los Angeles where you can have tasty street food.
1. Dollar Hits
Where: 2422 W. Temple St., Historic Filipino Town
What can you get with a dollar? Not much, maybe an Arizona iced tea or a sad value-menu burger. But, at Dollar Hits, you will get a lot of tasty options. Just visit this amazing place situated in the heart of L.A.’s Historic Filipinotown, and taste the grilled skewers. Just grab a plate for yourself and have as many par-grilled skewers as you want. One grilled skewer costs just $1. Cheap isn’t it?
You will find a lot of choices there like pork ears, chicken feet, chicken liver, pork intestines, etc. Once you have grabbed your choice, go over to the charcoal grill outside the shop to cook your skewers. Then, finally, when it is cooked, enjoy your DIY feast. You can add dipping sauces to your feast to add some flavor. Dollar Hits is open six nights a week, from 5 pm to 11 pm. You can also order fresh cantaloupe juice, which also costs only $1.
2. Mariscos Jalisco
Where: 3040 E. Olympic Blvd., Boyle Heights
Mariscos Jalisco is one of the most famous food trucks in Los Angeles. Order the fried shrimp taco here, that comes with a golden, crisp shell of fried masa which would be molded around velvety minced shrimp. The toppings also include sals and sliced avocado. You can enjoy this delicious dish at just $2.25.
3. Corn Man
Where: 2338 Workman St., Lincoln Heights
The Corn Man is also known by the name of the moniker Timoteo Flor De Nopal. And believe me, it’s nothing less than a royalty. You can find this vendor with his small pushcart outside a city-owned lot in Lincoln Heights every night from 11 pm to 1 am. The Corn Man has been around for more than 30 years.
4. Mae Ting’s Coconut Cakes
Where: 1200 N. Main St., Chinatown
If you are looking for a taste of Bangkok’s extensive street food scene, visit LAX-C. This busy supermarket is situated just outside Chinatown and is also known as the “Thai Costco”. There you will find Mae Ting, who runs a food stall on weekends only. Try her signature saucer-shaped coconut cakes, known as ‘kanom krok’, that attracts the crowd.
5. Takoyaki Tanota
Where: 350 E. 1st St., Little Tokyo
Takoyaki is a dish from Osaka, Japan. Basically, takoyaki is fried dumpling balls that are stuffed with chopped octopus. A flurry of sauces is used to decorate this dish along with toppings such as bonito flakes and dried seaweed. To try this dish, you would need to go to Little Tokyo’s Japanese Village Plaza.
6. Hot Motha Clucker
Where: 4625 Woodman Ave., Sherman Oaks
Chinatown’s famous vendor Howlin’ Ray made Nashville Hot chicken popular all around Los Angeles. And if you don’t want to stand in a queue for fiery cayenne-dusted fried chicken, hot Motha Clucker can be your favorite place. It sets up in the night from 7 pm to 12 am in front of a car wash. It is one of the best chicken-based street operations you can find across the Southland.
7. Me + Crepe
89 E. Green St., Pasadena
There are only a few places where you can find Jiang bing, and ‘Me + Crepe’ is one of those places. This small corner shop is situated in downtown Pasadena and offers tasty stuffed egg crepe, one of China’s most popular breakfast street foods. It is very rare to find this dish in Los Angeles. So, if you are looking for this delicious breakfast meal, visit Me + Crepe.
Final Thoughts
These are some of the best vendors and places that can provide you tastiest street foods in Los Angeles. Street food is slowly gaining popularity in Los Angeles, so before these places get too crowded, go and enjoy the best of the street foods.
5 Tropical Destinations For Visa-Free Travel
It is that time of the year. You are ready to let go of your routine existence and pack for some time of fun and excitement. You are probably looking forward to a beach holiday with tropical weather and an expansive blue ocean.
But then, you think about the process that precedes an international holiday. Specifically, visa application. If you do not hold an American passport, you probably know the hassle.
Vacations are meant for relaxation. It should not start with you running around for visa approval. Well, I have some good news for you. There are several beautiful countries that give visa on arrival.
Here is a list of 5 beautiful tropical destinations where you can travel visa-free.
Bali
Known as the ‘Island of Gods’, Bali is a specimen of exquisite beauty. Its rich green covers and vast blue ocean will engulf you in its calm aura. You can explore its coffee gardens or take a hike up to one of its waterfalls. And yes, Bali’s coastline offers a variety of water activities. From banana boat rides to parasailing, you can try it all. Along with its natural surroundings, Bali boasts of traditional and cultural wealth. Its villages like Ubud, display a creative side of locals where you can see paintings and woodwork by locals and even buy some as souvenirs. Bali is also home to several sacred places. One of them is Mount Batur which is an active volcano surrounded by alluring views.
Cook Islands
A place where the sky and ocean merge to present an expansive blue vistas. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a cultural explorer or an adventurer. Cook islands cater to every travelers preferences. With a total of 15 islands, you have plenty of beaches to lounge on. Spend your day exploring the ocean on a cruise or try kayaking with your friends. Discover Cook Islands’ cultural side by visiting its villages and munching on some delicious delicacies.
These islands are also known for its amazing nightlife. You can sip on a cocktail while enjoying a colorful show put up by the locals.
Maldives
Maldives can easily pass as a synonym for luxury. You must have seen or at least heard of their world renowned ‘water villas’. These accommodations have become a characteristic aspect of Mauritius. Also, they offer perfect backdrops for Instagram worthy shots. If relaxing is your priority, book a spa session at Mauritius. The best part? You can find several types here. From underwater spas to ones with ayurvedic treatments, they have it all. Mauritius is also very popular for its diving spots. While corals offer a colorful view, swimming with stingrays and sharks can be a calming experience. Maldives hosts around 21 species of dolphins and whales. If lucky, you may find them crossing the channels. For non-swimmers, underwater scooters can bring the experience of scuba diving.
Mauritius
Whether you prefer lazy vacations or go all out on adventure. Mauritius can be your ideal escape. Its natural wealth shines through lush forests, stunning coastlines, exquisite wildlife and rocky mountains. The island has several volcanoes that offer a panoramic view of the island. Also, you can hike your way to hidden waterfalls and caves. Its crystal clear lagoons are spots of underwater beauty. That’s not all. Mauritius’ story is embedded in a colonial history. You can find several remnants of French and British rule here including UNESCO world heritage sites Aapravasi Ghat and Le Morne. After an extensive island tour, introduce your pallets to delectable cuisines of Mauritius.
Seychelles
Seychelles is a cluster of not seven but 115 islands amidst the Indian Ocean. The more the merrier right? Absolutely. Each of its islands have something different to offer. From Mahé’s national parks to Praslin’s beautiful beaches. You will find an endless list of places to explore. Seychelles is also a land of heritage sites. Not just on land but also underwater. One of its famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites is Aldabra Atoll. Its colorful corals and green turtles are worth a dive. Seychelles’ beaches are loved by tourists and also giant tortoises. You can find them leisurely walking around the coastline. Feed them or take selfies with these happy creatures.
So, which one is going to be your next holiday destination?