Top Ohio Destinations

Top Ohio Destinations

Top Ohio Destinations

10 Most Popular Destinations in Ohio

Ohio, located in the heart of the Midwest region of the United States, is a state with diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and a rich cultural heritage. From bustling urban areas to serene natural beauty, Ohio offers a plethora of attractions and activities for visitors. In this article, we will explore the 10 most popular destinations in Ohio, showcasing the state’s unique blend of history, natural wonders, and modern attractions.

  1. Cleveland, Ohio: Cleveland, known as “The Rock and Roll Capital of the World,” is a vibrant city situated on the shores of Lake Erie. Visitors can explore the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Cleveland Museum of Art, and enjoy a variety of entertainment options in the lively downtown area. The city is also home to professional sports teams and boasts a thriving culinary scene.

  2. Cincinnati, Ohio: Nestled along the banks of the Ohio River, Cincinnati is a city renowned for its architectural beauty, historic neighborhoods, and cultural attractions. Visitors can experience the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, stroll along the picturesque riverfront, explore the Cincinnati Art Museum, and enjoy the thrilling rides at Kings Island amusement park.

  3. Columbus, Ohio: As Ohio’s capital and largest city, Columbus offers a vibrant mix of art, culture, and outdoor adventures. The city is home to the highly acclaimed Columbus Museum of Art, the innovative Center of Science and Industry (COSI), and the expansive Franklin Park Conservatory. Visitors can also explore the trendy Short North Arts District or catch a game at Ohio Stadium, home of the Ohio State Buckeyes.

  4. Hocking Hills State Park: Nature enthusiasts flock to Hocking Hills State Park, located in southeastern Ohio, for its breathtaking natural beauty. The park features towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and enchanting hiking trails. Highlights include Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls, offering stunning vistas and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and rock climbing.

  5. Amish Country: InAmish Country northeastern Ohio, the Amish Country invites visitors to experience a simpler way of life. Discover the Amish culture, explore charming towns like Berlin and Sugarcreek, and indulge in delicious homemade Amish cuisine. Visitors can also browse unique artisan shops, take scenic country drives, and witness the craftsmanship of Amish furniture and quilts.

  6. Lake Erie Islands: Lake Erie, one of the Great Lakes, offers a delightful escape with its collection of picturesque islands. Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island is a popular destination known for its lively atmosphere, historical sites, and water activities such as boating and fishing. Kelley’s Island, the largest American island in Lake Erie, is a serene retreat with beautiful beaches and nature preserves.

  7. Dayton, Ohio: Dayton, famous for its aviation heritage, is home to the National Museum of the United States Air Force, showcasing a vast collection of aircraft and artifacts. The city also offers the Dayton Art Institute, the Carillon Historical Park, and the vibrant Oregon District, known for its dining and nightlife.

  8. Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Located between Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a stunning oasis offering a mix of natural wonders and cultural attractions. Visitors can hike or bike along scenic trails, ride the historic Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, and explore the picturesque Brandywine Falls. The park also hosts concerts, art exhibits, and educational programs throughout the year.

  9. ToledoToledo, Ohio: Situated along the western edge of Lake Erie, Toledo is a city with a rich industrial and maritime history. The Toledo Museum of Art houses an exceptional collection, including works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt and Monet. The city is also home to the Toledo Zoo, the Toledo Botanical Garden, and the Toledo Symphony Orchestra.

  10. Marietta, Ohio: Marietta, Ohio’s oldest city, is a charming river town nestled on the banks of the Ohio River. History enthusiasts will appreciate the city’s well-preserved architecture, including the Historic Harmar Village and the Campus Martius Museum. Visitors can enjoy riverboat cruises, explore the charming downtown area, and learn about Marietta’s significant role in American history.

Travel Ohio: From the bustling cities of Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Columbus to the serene natural beauty of Hocking Hills and the Lake Erie Islands, Ohio offers a diverse range of popular destinations. Whether you’re seeking vibrant urban experiences, outdoor adventures, or a glimpse into history and culture, Ohio has something to offer every visitor. Embark on a journey to the Buckeye State and discover the unique charm and attractions of these top 10 destinations.

When in Ohio! Stay at Baker's Motel in Norwich, Ohio

Things to do in Dallas this Summer

Things to do in Dallas this Summer
Best Things to do in Dallas in the Summer

Things to do in Dallas this Summer

Long & warm days, vacations, and the chance to spend quality time with family – summer is coming. Summer is the best season to explore the world as you are filled with time. From parks and gardens to art museums and historic attractions, you are free to visit any place you want. Dallas feels different when it comes to Summer.
While it’s impossible to manage its temperature, the best way to enjoy this time is by planning long trips. You can indulge yourself in various summer activities in Dallas and visit multiple places. Here are a few things to do in Dallas this summer that you should not miss out on.

Hit a Beautiful Beach

Coastline in Dallas? Seems impossible. Right? Though Dallas is far from the coast, it is home to many lake beach options. The two popular water slides for a perfect summer outing are Eisenhower State Park’s beach and Burger’s Lake. 

Burger’s Lake is 45 minutes from Downtown Dallas. The lake is made of filtered water and offers two sandy beaches and slides. You can play around, swim, and sunbathe. If you are looking for a safe environment, this place is the best.

When it comes to Eisenhower Beach, it is 1 hour and 20 minutes from downtown Dallas. With crystal clear water, this lake beach is considered to be one of the best beaches in the state.

Go Scuba-Diving

What is better than indulging in a water sport in Summer? Dallas offers a golden chance to explore the magical world underwater in the soaking Sun. The magnificent treasure-like atmosphere, turquoise water, and rare water animals can keep you one step closer to nature. You can dive and snorkel through marine life, encounter multi-colored fishes, and stunning plants, and make this time worth remembering. And you don’t need to go far to get this experience. Thus, visit the diving locations near Dallas like  Athens Scuba Park, and get a thrilling experience of the marine world.

Watch Movies Under an Open Sky

Visiting public gardens and parks is one of the best ways to entertain yourself and learn about nature. It is one of the free summer activities in Dallas to do. The beautiful flora and fauna, butterflies, plants, and a peaceful time with family make the summertime even more enjoyable. The lush green parks and gardens and soothing ambiance will make you escape from the busy city life and get you close to yourself. You can even pack some snacks and enjoy a picnic with your friends and family in these parks. One of the best parks in Dallas are Belo Garden, Wagging Tail Dog Park, and Peter Pan Park. So, recharge yourself in the lap of Mother Nature and enjoy one of the soothing summer activities in Dallas Texas. 

Escape to a Crystal Clear Lake

It’s no secret that Dallas’ summer is hot and boiling sometimes. One of the best ways of getting rid of the temperature is spending time near water. You can slide down in water rides, float in lazy rivers or hit the pool at a water park. You can even get a traditional lake experience by fishing, camping, and laying out. If you are a fan of adventure activities, hit White Rock Lake or Paddle Point Park, rent a tube and go water skiing.

Dallas is known for its rich culture, incredible charm, and natural significance that make it one of the best cities to visit in Summer. There are plenty of places to visit and fun things to do in Dallas in the Summer. From its diverse culinary scenes to artificial lakes & waterfalls, you can pick any place and plan a memorable trip.

Get going with planning your summer vacation. Book flights to USA via Indian Eagle and get the cheapest airfare. Indian Eagle flights are pocket-friendly and don’t affect your budget much. You can even avail Indian Eagle deals and save more on your itinerary to the USA.

Source 

How to Travel for Free in the US: Unveiling the Best Ways

How to Travel for Free in the US: Unveiling the Best Ways
Are you passionate about exploring the United States and looking at how to travel for free in the US?

How to Travel for Free in the US: Unveiling the Best Ways

How to Travel for Free in the US: Unveiling the Best Ways

Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we will reveal ingenious strategies about how to travel for free and little-known secrets to help you embark on incredible journeys without spending a dime. Discover the art of free travel and unlock the door to unforgettable adventures across the breathtaking landscapes of the United States.

Free Travel: The Ultimate Dream

Many people dream of traveling the world, but the idea of traveling for free seems like an unattainable fantasy. However, with the right knowledge and resourcefulness, you can turn this dream into a reality. Let’s delve into the best ways to travel for free, from securing complimentary flights to finding cost-free accommodations.

Ways to Travel for Free

  1. Volunteer Exchanges

Engaging in volunteer work opens up remarkable opportunities to travel without emptying your pockets. Numerous organizations offer volunteer exchange programs, where you can contribute your skills and time in exchange for free accommodation and meals. From organic farms to eco-villages and humanitarian projects, there are countless options to choose from. Immerse yourself in meaningful experiences while exploring new destinations.

  1. House-Sitting

Imagine staying in luxurious homes across the United States without paying a single penny. House-sitting allows you to do just that. Platforms like TrustedHousesitters and HouseCarers connect homeowners who are seeking reliable individuals to care for their houses while they are away. In return, you gain free accommodation and often the company of adorable pets. It’s a win-win situation that provides an authentic home-away-from-home experience.

  1. Couchsurfing

If you seek to connect with locals and embrace the true essence of a place, Couchsurfing is the way to go. This unique concept of free trip enables travelers to stay with generous hosts who offer their couches or spare rooms for free. Beyond the cost savings, Couchsurfing opens doors to cultural exchange and authentic experiences. Create lifelong connections while immersing yourself in the local way of life.

Best Places to Travel in the US

The United States boasts a diverse range of destinations that cater to every traveler’s taste. Here are some of the best places to travel in US to explore while indulging in the joy of free travel:

  1. New York City, New York

Known as the city that never sleeps, New York City offers an array of free attractions and experiences making it one of the best places to travel in the US. From strolling through Central Park to admiring world-class artwork at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Big Apple promises an unforgettable adventure.

  1. San Francisco, California

San Francisco captivates visitors with its iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Explore the vibrant neighborhoods, immerse yourself in the city’s rich history, and witness stunning sunsets over the Pacific Ocean—all without spending a dime.

  1. New Orleans, Louisiana

The vibrant city of New Orleans entices with its lively music scene, delectable cuisine, and colorful festivals. Indulge in the rhythm of jazz, savor mouthwatering Creole dishes, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the French Quarter.

What are the prices of flights from India to USA?

What are the prices of flights from India to USA? Planning an international trip can be daunting, but we have you covered! When searching for flights from India to USA, it’s essential to find the best deals on flights and secure affordable fares. With the travel booking platforms available, you can compare prices and select the most cost-effective option that suits your needs.

One such platform that consistently offers competitive rates is Indian Eagle. Known for its extensive network and excellent customer service, Indian Eagle, the best travel bookings website is a leading provider of international flight tickets. With their user-friendly interface and advanced search capabilities, finding the best travel deals becomes a seamless experience.

If you’re seeking unbeatable Indian Eagle flight deals from India to US, look no further than Indian Eagle. Their commitment to customer satisfaction make them the ideal choice for your international travel needs.

In conclusion, embarking on a journey across the United States doesn’t have to break the bank. By utilizing various strategies about how to travel for free in the US such as volunteer exchanges, house-sitting, and Couchsurfing, you can experience free travel and create memories that will last a lifetime. 

A Green Holiday in Jersey, Channel Islands

A Green Holiday in Jersey, Channel Islands
Take the train and fast ferry, and then cycle around the island of Jersey in the Channel Islands, and make your travel sustainable.

A Green Holiday in Jersey, Channel Islands

The largest of the Channel Islands, Jersey is a haven for cyclists seeking both natural beauty and sustainable travel options. One of the island’s unique features is its network of “Green Lanes,” designated for cyclists, walkers, and horse riders. They’re marked with special signage and are away from main roads, often following picturesque coastal paths and quiet countryside lanes.

It’s a green travel experience, a way of reducing my carbon footprint and minimising noise pollution. Even better, I opt to make my travel to the island environmentally friendly so take the train to Poole and then the fast Condor Ferry to St. Helier.  Even though the island is only 5 miles long and 9 miles wide, it’s not exactly flat and cycling can be tough. So the solution is an e-bike, perfectly capable of conquering the steep hills.

Route 1, Circular Island Tour

The simple way of discovering the island is to follow the coastline all the way around. Route 1 is well signed and offers picturesque coastal landscapes, charming villages, and leafy lanes. I set out from St. Helier, in an anti-clockwise direction, cycling west along the bike path along the bay. So far it’s flat but at St Aubin, I climb uphill and follow an old railway track to the Corbiere Lighthouse.

Here I turn the corner and head north along the flat expanse of St. Ouen’s Bay. I stop at the Channel Islands Military Museum, housed in a WW2 bunker, and then cut inland at L’Etacq. This is a fairly steep climb north-east and then dropping down to the coast at Grève de Lecq. The contrast between the long flat sandy beaches of the south and west and the wooded deep coves of the north is startling.

From here the trail turns inland but still follows the coast passing the villages of Sorel, St John and Trinity before descending to the sea at the attractive fishing village of Rozel. Here I stop for lunch, before another exhilarating climb which leads back down to the sea at Fliquet and St Catherine’s Breakwater. In the distance I can see the distinctive shape of Mont Orgueil Castle, overlooking the port of Gorey, and it’s worth a stop here for a brief visit.

I’m now homeward bound, turning west passing through the village of Grouville before arriving back in St. Helier. It’s taken me most of the day, cycled 50 miles and without the bonus of an e-bike it would have been tough. In fact toward the end it’s looking like the battery is about to give out, but I just about make it back.

Routes 4 and 3, Jersey Zoo and Elizabeth Castle

I’m keen to visit Jersey Zoo so I take Route 4 North from St Aubin’s Bay into the centre of the island. There I meet Route 3, the central island route, and then take its feeder, Route 3a to the Zoo at Les Augrès Manor, near the village of Trinity. The park is situated in 32 acres of landscaped parkland and water-gardens and is committed to animal conservation.
It’s home to 1,400 mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians and over 130 endangered species. Sumatran orang-utans, Andean bears and Montserrat orioles, rescued from beneath the smouldering volcano, live in lush, spacious environments which closely replicate their native habitats. Madagascar lemurs and tiny lion tamarinds from Brazil roam free in woodland, leaping through the trees. Other exhibits include a walk through aviary and a cloud forest housing otters, coatis and howler monkeys.

It all fits in with my objective of sustainable travel and, on the way back, I travel west following Route 3 to reach the coast at St. Ouen’s Bay and then follow my coastal route of yesterday in the other direction. Back in St. Helier, there’s just enough time to take the amphibious ride to Elizabeth Castle in the bay. It dates from the 16th century, built to replace the defences at Mont Orgueil and named after Elizabeth 1. The tide’s out after my visit so I walk back along the causeway to St Helier.

Jersey takes the environment seriously. They say they’re constantly looking to develop more ways to live sustainably and in harmony with their island environment. They have the grand ambition to be a carbon neutral island by 2030. They encourage you to collect the plastic and rubbish from the beaches and you can exchange a full bucket for a free hot drink.

As for me, I’m going to be doing my bit by heading home on Condor Ferries back to the UK mainland and then taking the train home. It takes a bit longer than flying but it’s certainly a more relaxing way to travel. And I can feel a tiny bit smug, feeling I’m doing my bit to help save the planet.

Article source

 

Inspector Merer’s Journal

In 2013, Pierre Tallet, an Egyptologist at the University of Paris, Sorbonne, and his team found papyrus scraps stuffed between stones in a building at a Red Sea harbor used during Khufu’s reign. It was part of a day-to-day log by an inspector named Merer, who oversaw a cargo boat crew transporting limestone from Tura to the Giza Plateau. Merer refers to the Great Pyramid as “The Horizon of Khufu” and calls a harbor at the pyramid site “Khufu’s pool.”

For more details on this article

Muzhappilangad , The beach that drives you crazy

Muzhappilangad Beach

Travelling has been always a passion for me. I would like to known as a traveller rather than a tourist, who comes to one place and goes to another with some photos and selfies in hand. 

Muzhappilangad Beach

Travelling has been always a passion for me. I would like to known as a traveller rather than a tourist, who comes to one place and goes to another with some photos and selfies in hand. For me, travelling is something that leaves information and some good memories of the place I visited. For me, its not thephotos and selfies that matters. I always take care of the experiences that I gains in each travel.

When i consider this outlook of mine, I can say that my last month’s trip to Muzhappilangad, the longest drive in beach in India is something really great.When I reached at Muzhappilangad beach, I could not believe my own eyes seeing such an extended beach area, which is literally clean and the water is deep oceanic blue in colour.

For every Keralite, it’s a difficult task to believe that this beach is really hails to Kerala. There is no wonder in saying that Muzhappilangad is the most beautiful beach in Kerala. The beautiful and calm muzhappilangad beach area is located near National Highway 66 between Kannur and Thalassery.
For every Keralite, it’s a difficult task to believe that this beach is really hails to Kerala. There is no wonder in saying that Muzhappilangad is the most beautiful beach in Kerala. The beautiful and calm muzhappilangad beach area is located near National Highway 66 between Kannur and Thalassery.

Being Kerala’s only drive-in beach, Muzhappilangad coastal area draws tourist within and outside India. The beach area stretches across four kilometres of sand where one can drive down the entire length. There won’t be a word to describe the beauty of this beach and the pleasure of beach outing. Vehicles are obtainable here for beach journey. If you are taking your own car or bike , you can have the fun at maximum .

The drive here is ideal for sampling the famed Malabar cuisine from the many eateries in the immediate hinterland. Even two wheelers can have a beautiful ride here. This beach will make you romantic and crazy for no doubt. We can also see a large raw of black rocks here. These black rocks guard this extended, dirt-free beach and by making its shallow waters a swimmer’s paradise. Even though Goa has many beautiful beaches, it does not have a Drive-in beach.I had a drive of 30 minutes through the long shore of Muzhappilangad beach. It was very nice to see the waves kissing the windows of my Car. The soil also semi black in colour filled with metallic components. We can also see some marine creature while having a long drive through this area.

Muzhappilangad is also famous for its well known marvelous beach feasts. An annual beach festival is celebrated here in the month of April and it is one of the important tourist attractions in the district of Kannur in Kerala. The people also try many driving stunts in cars here, like drifting and wheeling in bikes as this is a paradise for driving along the shore. You can see and visit a private island in this area, which is just 100 meter away from the beach area. People can be reached by walk at times of low tide. People used to conduct beach races also here.

Roads and other facilities

The road which leads us to the beautiful Muzhappilangad beach is awesome t make your journey a memorable one. The meandering, unpaved road will give you a chance to enjoy the typical village structure of Kerala roads. Even though it is unpaved, it possesses a special beauty. Most of the travelers are visiting Muzhappilangad only through this road. To join with this road, coming via Thalassery, take the left turn just before the first railway crossing you encounter after crossing the Moidu bridge. The beautiful beach is about 5 km long and curves in a wide area providing a good view of Kannur on the north. The travelers can drive for a full 4 km directly on the sands of the beach. The beach is bounded by black color rocks, which also protect it from the stronger currents of the ocean.

Even though, I visited Muzhappilangad in this monsoon season, the best time to visit the marvelous beach is winter. Since the late 90’s, the beach has seen a steady influx of European tourists during winter. It is a must see destination for Indians as well as foreign tourists. After beautification process in the beach there has been a huge improvement in the facilities available to the beach visitors including resorts, roads, etc. The beach area is wide and the sand is firm enough to support smooth driving. Muzhappilangad is also a famous shooting destination. It was the main location for many Malayalam and non- Malayalam movies.

The serenity of Dharmadam Island

Another specialty of Muzhappilangad beach area is that, once you visit this place, you can also make some other tourist places, in which Dharmadam Island is of great importance. It is approximately 100–200 m south of the beach. This is the private island that I mentioned in the beginning of this travelogue. Dharmadam Island is truly a surprise that waits here for the tourists. Dharmadam Island is also known as , Pacha thuruth in local language, which mean the green island. The name was given after the rich flora and fauna of this area. It is possible to walk to the island during low tide.Other than Dharmadam island, Pappinissery snake park, Sree kurumba devi temple, Kizhunna beach, Holy Rosary church etc are the main attraction here. It will be a great day for a traveler, if he/she can spend a whole day in this beach. Being much crazy, passionate and fanatic after travel, you can enjoy the maximum here.

How to reach at Muzhappilangad

  • Kannur is the nearest Railway station, which 16 kms away

  • Kannur International Airport, 28Km away 

  • Calicut International Airport is the nearest airport, which is about 102 kms away


Source article

Hiking the GR131 in Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain

Hiking the GR131 in Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain
This long distance walking trail crosses the mountainous centre of Gran Canaria, starting and ending at the sea.

Hiking the GR131 in Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain

The GR131 is an island-hopping trail that runs east to west and coast to coast across each of the Canary Islands. Of course you can’t walk on water so you have to take ferries to connect the islands. In order, you walk across Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Tenerife, La Gomera, La Palma, and end on the tiny island of El Hierro. It’s a massive undertaking to do it in all in one go, but on separate trips I’ve already picked off La Gomera, La Palma and El Hierro. Now it’s time to tackle Gran Canaria which until recently had not signed its stretch of the GR131. Unofficially, for years, people walked south to north through the island, starting in Maspalomas and ending in Agaete and that’s the route I propose to take.

Yet as of May 2023 there’s a newly signposted route, which starts at Playa El Burrero (on the east coast near the airport) heads up the Guayadeque valley, passes Pico del Nieves onto Cruz de Tejeda then descends to the Ferry port at Agaete. The western side of this route is fully signposted, but the eastern side is not yet complete. Unfortunately I only find out, in the middle of my walk when I see the new signs in the centre of the island.

This could be a change for the better as the old route always had a problem with a lack of accommodation in the early stages. Indeed, although I sleep in Playa del Inglés near Maspalomas, I have to take a taxi to Tunte to start the hike. This is actually the beginning of the third stage but the only way of doing the first two would be to travel to and from the hotel every day.
A little further at Degollada de Becerra, there’s a stall offering tastings of Canarian products, but I press on uphill and then down to Cruz de Tejeda. The excellent Parador hotel is my destination and has a wonderful heated pool. On the terrace, the mist comes and goes, suddenly revealing views of the sunset over Roque Nublo and Roque Bentayga.

Day 1: Tunte to Cruz de Tejeda 15.5km (9½ miles) 5hr 30

I arrive in Tunte and follow the Camino de Santiago signs, which shares some of the same route of the GR131. The path zigzags uphill, to a road at Cruz Grande, at 1215m (3986ft), then picks a stone paved trail up a rugged cliff face. Pine forest follows and there’s a glimpse of Roque Nublo before climbing up to Degollada de los Hornos, at 1719m, the highest point on the walk.

My guide is keen to spot the rare Gran Canaria Blue Chaffinch, and later we’re rewarded with two sightings. Pico de las Nieve, the highest point on Gran Canaria at 1951m, is to my right but I carry on, walking on gentle forest trails. There are tremendous views of the mountain tops as I descend to Degollada la Cumbre and here see the new GR131 signs.

A little further at Degollada de Becerra, there’s a stall offering tastings of Canarian products, but I press on uphill and then down to Cruz de Tejeda. The excellent Parador hotel is my destination and has a wonderful heated pool. On the terrace, the mist comes and goes, suddenly revealing views of the sunset over Roque Nublo and Roque Bentayga.

Day 2: Cruz de Tejeda to Puerto de las Nieves 31km (17.51 miles) 9hr

This is going to be a long day so I start at sunrise, in mist and light rain, climbing gradually through pines to Degollada de las Palomas, at 1623m. The path descends passing Cuevas de Caballero, caves once inhabited by aboriginal Guanches. It continues past another cave, Cueva de los Candiles, and works its way down to the attractive village of Artenara. Here the caves have had a makeover and are still inhabited – you can even stay in one.
After climbing, the trail runs parallel to the road and eventually leads to the forest at Pinar de Tamadaba. There’s a campsite here and it’s all downhill from now on, following a rugged path which drops down 1200m on a steep and rugged slope. During the descent, there are fine views of the west coast of Gran Canaria with the ultimate destination of Puerto de las Nieves tantalisingly close.

When I reach the sea I bathe my aching feet in the natural volcanic saltwater pools and celebrate my achievement. This is a tremendous walk and once the signage is up and running, I vow to return and start the GR131 just by the airport. That’s something to look forward to.

Source articles

Travel Guide to magical Mumbai (Bombay), India – what is there to see and do?

Travel Guide to magical Mumbai (Bombay), India – what is there to see and do?
Mumbai – formerly Bombay – is trending as the next Indian travel hot spot.

Travel Guide to magical Mumbai (Bombay), India – what is there to see and do?

“Very good price, very good price”, the bright-eyed boy in the yellow t-shirt poked his head through the car window. He spoke quickly, offering up Lord Shiva statuettes that dangled around his neck, arms and even from his fingertips. “Just 200 rupees, just 200 rupees”.

He saw me grimace and changed tack, “Okay 100 rupees, divine price for Lord Shiva”. Such was the urgency in his dark eyes that I handed over 100 rupees for a figurine that I knew would end up as clutter and placed it in my handbag. And before I knew it the boy was away, his yellow t-shirt luminous against the sun-drenched traffic of Mumbai as he zig-zagged through it.

I was sitting in grid-locked traffic on the main artery that is the national road into the city. It’s like this here everyday with cars, busses, motorbikes and ox carts, inching their way to somewhere giving opportunists time to ply their trade.

Roads are so dense with traffic that skywalks have been erected so that pedestrians can cross safely and not slow down the traffic any further.

I could see moving swathes of colour as women shimmied along Mumbai’s pavements in their pink, red and orange saris, sometimes slipping in and out of nearby bazaars and beyond that, the contrasting grey slums of corrugated roofs surrounded by plush high-rise office buildings or apartments.

This is Mumbai (formerly Bombay), of Slumdog Millionaire fame, and anyone who has seen the film would probably be surprised that actually, Mumbai is the financial powerhouse of India, where the stock exchange is the oldest in Asia and where real estate is the most expensive in the whole of the subcontinent.

The sun was high and hot as I inched my way to the Taj Mahal Palace Tower Hotel, and indeed anyone venturing to the home of Bollywood would do well to start their tourist trail here as it is ideally located for bars and restaurants and the odd celebrity or two. And of course, for the sights.

The Gateway of India arch

Overlooking the Arabian sea is the monumental arch the Gateway of India. This symbol of both Old Bombay and modern Mumbai was built in the Indo-Saracenic style using yellow Kharodi basalt, it commemorates the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Bombay in December 1911.

The arch stands at an angle on the square perched at the edge of the Arabian sea, where dozens of colourful leisure boats bob on their lees.

Elephanta caves

I caught a boat – a fifty-minute sailing and a dinky train journey leading to the Elephanta caves on Elephanta Island. Not really caves, but hugely impressive carvings into rocks. Lord Shiva and other Hindu gods protrude out of the rock, telling stories of intrigue and reincarnation and a series of pillars give it the look and feel of a temple. There is no particular reason that 6th-century kings took to creating this magnificent structure other than for art’s sake and the love of their Lord Shiva.

Colaba

Mumbai’s most colourful shopping district – Colaba – is a veritable, living creation of British rule. When the Brits first landed in the city in the 1600s the city was a group of seven islands (all now connected seamlessly with bridges) and the shopping area spans two of these islands – Colaba and Old Woman’s island.

Haggling is a way of life. I ventured a few suggested prices for items I didn’t really need just for the buzz of a bargain.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus

It’s easy to see British influence in the architecture and the most obvious is Victoria Terminal station renamed Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus after British rule ended in 1947.

A world heritage sight, yet this is a living, breathing train station, where three million people pass through each day on 1,000 trains making it the busiest and largest station on earth.

Its sheer size is impressive, but the beauty of the station is awesome. Think London’s St Pancras and quadruple it. Extravagantly ornamented, it combines the neo-Gothic style of the early Victorian era with elements of traditional Indian architecture and gives more than an eyeful of pleasure.

Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat

No-one should miss the Mahalaxmi Dhobi Ghat. It is probably the world’s biggest open-air Laundromat and it is nothing short of theatrical.

Thousands of stick-thin, muscle men of the Hindu Dhobi caste, wash a million items of clothes in hundreds of water-and-sud-filled concrete troughs, beating them clean then hanging them on laundry lines in a colour-coded system and ironing them before returning them to their owners the same day.

The Dabbawallahs

Then there are the dabbawallahs, dressed in white robes and white Gandhi hats, who descend on the city every day. At around 9.30am these packed-lunch delivery boys pick up nearly 200,000 home-cooked meals from the outer suburbs, store them, heat them at a central HQ and then deliver them at around 12.30pm to hungry city workers so that they may dine on home-cooked food.

It is the most ingenious distribution system in the world and one that fascinated Prince Charles. He turned up at the headquarters to watch as thousands of meals were stored, heated and then delivered in coded aluminium boxes (tiffins). The service is so good that it has even been entered into the Guinness Book of Records for its sheer efficiency.

Marine Drive

The most famous road in Mumbai is the coastal road Marine Drive which arcs along the shore of the Arabian Sea from Nariman Point to Chowpatty Beach right through to Malabar Hill.

Laced with Art Deco buildings the promenade around Chowpatty is very popular. Every day as the afternoon sunshine dims into early evening, the promenade wall becomes draped with young entwined couples canoodling in the setting sunlight.

As I watched on wondering what love story lay behind each intimate bubble, a passing stranger whispered cheekily in my ear, “you know they are smooching to kingdom come”.

I remembered my Lord Shiva and as I plucked my figurine of the great Hindu god from the echelons of my bag and I crossed the road to find a patch of wall of my own to enjoy the final moments of the setting sun on the edge of this magical city.


Article Source

Dial Frontier Airlines Booking Number to Make your Instantly

Insider Secrets to the Chelsea Flower Show
Award-winning Gardening Expert Adam Woolcott, offers his insights to the Chelsea Flower Show.

Insider Secrets to the Chelsea Flower Show

Gardening has been my passion since the age of 5 when my dad built a wooden box filled with soil for me, and my mum gifted me some freesia bulbs to plant.
Seeing those bulbs bloom and thrive ignited my love for gardening, and I’ve been hooked ever since. With years of experience and a deep-rooted passion for all things green, I’ve honed my skills as a gardener and am excited to share my expertise with others.

For more than 35 years, I’ve been running my own garden maintenance business, and together with my husband Jonathan, we have achieved remarkable success in the gardening industry. Our accomplishments include four gold medals at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show and three BBC/RHS People’s Choice Awards.

I’ve exhibited at seven Chelsea Flower Shows in total as well as a garden at Hampton Court and Tatton Park, all of which are world-renowned garden shows.

As a professional gardener, one of the greatest pleasures is partnering with exceptional gardening brands like Webb Garden Power. I currently offer monthly gardening advice via their website, which has been a wonderful opportunity to connect with other gardening enthusiasts and share my knowledge and expertise.

Who attends the Chelsea Flower Show?

The Chelsea Flower Show is a truly global destination event, attended by royalty, famous celebrities, and members of the public from across the globe.

I once had a group of ladies visit my garden every day throughout the show who’d all travelled from Australia, and I’ve met people from dozens of different countries for whom Chelsea is a must-go-to event. When you’re at the show it’s so amazing to hear people speaking so many different languages, to see people dressed in so many ways, it’s an amazing melting pot of humanity all passionate about plants and gardens.

Celebrating Diversity at the Chelsea Flower Show

Another glorious feature of Chelsea is that the origin of the plants and gardens are as diverse as the people who visit, I’ve seen gardens from Australia, Italy, South Africa, Korea, Japan, and Barbados to name just a few. These gardens are created using the natural flora as well as introduced plants from the respective countries and can highlight things such as plants that are rare, edible, and used for clothing, medicine, furniture production and even construction such as bamboo for example.

Plants are lovingly nurtured, lifted, grown, and transported across the planet to create genuine gardens with native species and habitats and although this may seem excessive, you must remember that the impact of one of these gardens winning a gold medal could possibly mean the difference between survival or extinction for certain plant species.

Chelsea really strives to show us different types of gardens, gardening techniques, garden designs and garden plants from around the planet and sometimes they can be the opposite of what some people may find desirable in a British garden.

One example is many people in the UK spend a great deal of time and trouble trying to remove moss from their grass whereas in Japan some gardeners will painstakingly remove the smallest blade of grass from their moss.

This is why Chelsea is a destination event because it strives to use different destinations to create the event, it’s a panoramic view of gardening styles, cultures, and ideas.

Why is the Chelsea Flower Show so important?

With the challenges our planet faces today Chelsea has become more important than ever. The exhibited plants come with explanations about the challenges they are facing across the globe mainly due to our influence. Some are so rare that they are microchipped and have bodyguards.

Some plants exhibited there were once thought to be extinct but have now been saved and propagated many thousands of times to ensure their future existence. 

Insider Tips: 3 Essential Lessons Every Gardener Can Learn from the Chelsea Flower Show

If I was asked the three most important and useful points, I have learnt from Chelsea Flower Show that gardeners from across the world can benefit from then they would be:

1. Never underestimate the importance of plants on our own health and existence

2. There aren’t plants and weeds there are only plants.

3. Never think about plants in a fashion sense, plants should never be fashionable they should all be equally revered at all times.

The Chelsea Flower Show is one of my favourite events of the year!

Source