Signs That Tell you that it’s time to take a vacation

The never stopping and ever demanding world we live in today never lets us relax rather just leaves us tired and exhausted. Each one of us constantly works way beyond our capacities for one reason or the other and this makes us feel frustrated and stressed-out. No wonder, this is significantly bad and harmful for our health. To cope with this, we need a relaxed vacation. Going for a holiday not only changes our life around but even rejuvenates our mind, body and soul. And most importantly, when you get back to work after a vacation, you will experience a sudden increase in your work efficiency and you will be more focused on the job. 

You feel disappointed or regretful

If you are feeling quite upset about the things that you have said or done in the past or may be are disappointed with others, then you certainly need a vacation. When you are experiencing that an emotional toll on you, and even physical the only cure that may help you get out all this is a vacation to your favorite place with your loved ones.

You have been making too many mistakes

When you constantly feel that you are not being able to concentrate on work or even tend to make too many mistakes, then the time is right for you to take a vacation. This will be a great initiative for you to push yourself to focus and drive yourself towards the path of success. Anyone who notices a set pattern of mistakes in their lives, it is time for them to take a break and head out on a vacation.

You haven’t rested enough for a while

It may be the situation that you have been working hard for say 10-12 hours all together for a lot of days without any break. This causes a lot of stretch and this is the time when going for a relaxed vacation is very important. This not only eases your mind but even soothes your body and soul. Also, this way you will be able to keep the stress and pressures of daily life at a bay.

You feel negative

Anytime when you feel that you are not able to enjoy the important things in your life and are quite cynical about everything happening around you then do understand that it is the time for you to go for a holiday. This will help you make your work life interesting and way more enjoyable. No wonder, going for a vacation will in every way change the negativity into something positive and make you feel refreshed and confident.

You twist and turn at night

Most people assume that if they are exhausted, the one thing that could do them well is a long sleep. But actually this is not the truth. Super stressed people find it harder to fall asleep. So it’s better to take a vacation and feel refreshed.

Your coworkers suggest you a vacation

If the people whom you work with are encouraging you to take some time off and go for a vacation, then they certainly mean it. They are the ones who stay with you for quite some time and they well understand your mental state. 

Everything hurts

Having backaches, headaches and even eye strains? It’s time for you to go for a vacation. Researchers believe that whenever people find themselves in a stressful situation, their bodies release chemicals that trigger inflammation and increase their sensitivity to pain.

Lost your sense of humor

Another sure shot sign that it’s time for you to take a vacation is when you realize that you have lost your sense of humor. This means that you have stopped feeling about things and you have finally given up on everything. It is important to 'find the funny' in everyday work situations.

Epic Spots in the Canadian Rockies that will Blow your Mind

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Everyone who visits the much celebrated Rocky Mountains for the very first time often gets baffled about where to start with to explore? And why not, as there is no dearth of options! Though at times it is just a nudge in the right direction that one needs and after that everything else goes pretty well! No matter you are looking for something scenic, thrilling, or anything else that tickles your fancy, The Rocky Mountains is sure to make you more than happy.

Hike the Old Fort Point Trail

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Most locals hike this much popular trail each year so that they can capture an annual photo on the Old Fort Point summit. The process has moreover become a kind of tradition for most of the people as it promises them immense wonderful memories. The place offers most amazing view of the Jasper Town site area and valley which the visitors can capture through their lenses. Biking to the trailhead from town or any of the nearby campgrounds is another fun activity.

Bike from Pyramid Lake back down to Jasper

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The Pyramid Trail is an amazing journey that takes the visitors on a fun flow downhill adventure from Pyramid Lake back to the Jasper Town site. The total duration of the ride is approximately 6.2 km with 118 meters of height, thus making it one of the tallest in the Canada. The trail is best suited for family vacationers as the conditions are just perfect and also the trail is comparatively easier. If going without the security vehicles, you may even take turns to ride the trail with the kids while one adult driving back down to the bottom!

The Athabasca Glacier

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Yet another popular attraction within the Canadian Rockies is the Athabasca Glacier which is just opposite its name as you may not find the place very cold rather it is comparatively hotter. Though it is quite cold at the top and the cold winds up there make the place way cooler than one may imagine. Most visitors can’t stay at the top for more than 10 minutes following to the extreme conditions and lack of proper arrangements.

Lake Louise

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One of the most shot scenes in the Canadian Rockies is the renowned Lake Louise that is often dubbed as an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, for its exceptions activities on offer. The lake prides itself with a beautiful turquoise lake, and stunning chateau, with the town anchored by some of the best hiking trails in Banff National Park. No wonder, the lake makes for one of the best holiday spots for nature enthusiasts. Lake Louise is also a perfect base for skiing, hiking and many other adventurous water sports that attract holidaymakers.

Glacier Skywalk

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Go way beyond the nature’s edge and feed your adrenaline rush by experiencing the spectacular world where glaciers rest above and birds soar below. A place, best known to be seen to be believed, the skywalk gives the visitors an easy access to waterfalls, wildlife, fossils and more on an exciting cliff-edge walkway. The walkway further leads to a platform where it is just a hard glass that separates you from a 918 foot drop. Just around the Glacier Skywalk you can see the most stunning alpine and glacial vistas along with some most unique ecosystems.

Travel Books You Must Read At least once

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We all, in between our busy boring lives are constantly on a lookout for stories that evoke a strong sense of place within us. And that sense needs to be so strong that we are compelled to grab your passport and follow in with our favorite character’s footsteps. To help you get that kick, here are some of the most exciting books published till now those guarantee to spark your wanderlust to the core and way beyond that!


The Lost City of Z, by David Grann
A popular book by one of the most celebrated South American explorers, David Grann, this book aims at finding out what actually happened to explorer Percy Fawcett while he trekked through the thrilling Amazon jungle in search of the fabled lost city of Z. The author well tries to intermingle the information about Percy’s life and expeditions with the science involved in the search of Z. The book is no doubt a great way to learn a lot about the region and the history of the cultures and civilizations that inhabited the land.

Unlikely Destinations: The Lonely Planet Story
The book, Unlikely Destinations: The Lonely Planet Story is written by the chief founders of Lonely Planet. The book talks about the start and rise of the company that is today followed by every kind of traveler. While reading the book, you may go through all their travel tales and learn more about their early business struggles and obstacles. However, it is really wonderful to read about a company that helped start the travel guidebook industry.

On the Road by Jack Kerouac
Anyone who reads this book once will surely say that the book must come with a health warning, proceed with caution; as you may now never have the feeling to settle down at one place for the rest of your life. The book features a series of trips made by Kerouac and his Beat Generation friends across America post Second World War. The author is quite successful in transporting the reader from New York to Denver to San Francisco and Los Angeles while taking them through jazz, poetry and drugs. And then there is Dean Moriarty, whose never ending quest for life and women of course, gives the book an incredible momentum.

The Other Paris, by Luc Sante
In the book, The Other Paris, writer Luc Sante brings out the seedy, creative, and criminal characters of Paris that is actually synonymous with sophistication and glamour. While going through the book, you will feel like exploring a private journal crammed full of photographs and illustrations over highlighted with lively conversations of famous Parisians like Balzac and Hugo. The book is sure to leave the readers longing to experience the Paris underneath its best known picturesque façade.

Adventure Seekers Are you Ready to Swim with Whale Sharks

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Swimming along with the one of the largest fish in the ocean is certainly one of the ultimate bucket-list experiences for everyone who loves wildlife. Just imagine yourself taking a dive in the water with Whale Sharks all around you, thrilling, isn’t it? No wonder, nothing can be more exciting than having a one-on-one encounter with the largest fish that rules the sea. If this is what drives you crazy, luckily, there are a handful of destinations around the world where this amazing activity can be best enjoyed. But do remember do keep a good distance from the gentle giants as they are really short tempered.

Isla Holbox, Mexico

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The place is approximately 25-minute boat ride from the mainland; Quintana Roo’s major northernmost island is the epitome of electrifying Cancun, just 150kms to the south.

When to be there: You can find regular tours departing daily from June to September while July to August being the peak season. This is the time when the whale sharks arrive to feed.

Where to stay: Most of the tour operators there offer a speedboat pick-up from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. However, you may even find numerous Lodging ranges from cheap hostels including Tribu Hostel, to mid-range guesthouses like the one Holbox Apartments and Suites and even few plush hotels such as Palapas del Sol.

Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia

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One of Australia’s largest and easily accessible fringing coral reef, Ningaloo is situated over 1200 km north of west coast capital Perth. The place is a declared UNESCO World Heritage site since 2011, and its 300 km stretch plays host to over 500 species of fish including Whale Shark.

When to be there: Generally, whale sharks arrive here to feed between mid-March and July that is followed by a mass coral spawning.

Where to stay: Majority of the tours depart from Exmouth, providing pick-ups from local caravan parks and hotels nearby including Novotel Ningaloo.

Koh Tao, Thailand

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North of the celebrated Party Island Koh Phangan in the Gulf of Thailand is Koh Tao, best known for its cheap diving options. You may easily spot Whale sharks here around the Chumphon Pinnacle, that is located just a 15-minute boat ride from the main island.

When to be there: Whale shark encounters are not a very big deal here as you may get to spot them round the year and especially from April to June.

Where to stay: The prices of hotels and resorts drop once you sign-in for a scuba course at some of the comfortable dive lodges including the Bans or Big Blue.

South Mahé, Seychelles

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Interestingly, as per records few of the earliest scientific whale shark came from the Seychelles. And this is the only place where the placid beasts are well protected. No wonder, the largest island in the Indian Ocean archipelago, Mahé is the best known place to spot them easily.

When to be there: A great chunk of Whale Sharks migrate past Mahé during August and November, with sightings become most prominent in the month of October.

Where to stay: One of the best available options is the Four Seasons Seychelles Dive Centre that has recently collaborated with the Marine Conservation Society Seychelles to provide snorkeling trips during October.

Parades and Festivals to Catch This Pride Month

June is here and it means only one thing, its PRIDE MONTH! And we all know what comes with Pride Month, tons and tons of colorful festivals, awesome parades and epic parties to take part. We have compiled a list of some of the best parades and festivals you can catch this Pride Month.


NYC Pride March

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Every year in New York, the much popular NYC Pride March features close to over one hundred various social, cultural, athletic and political events and festivities which are coordinated by various community organizations and groups. All these events are hosted at various parts of the city and include various presentations like the choral concerts, dances, workshops, picnics, religious services, plays and film screenings. No wonder, New York for years has remained one of the best places to discover lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender culture any time of year. This amazing festival is sure to bring the five boroughs come alive and together that bring this energetic community's heritage to the spotlight.

San Francisco Pride

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The 2016 San Francisco Pride Parade will be held on Sunday, June 26 when the art will meet politics in a fleet of floats, vehicles, and marchers. And all this will happen along the famous Market Street, one the nation’s largest venues for hosting popular events. This renowned parade of San Francisco is the amalgamation of a month of Pride-themed events and festivities held within the city. This concludes with an all-out celebration for Pride with the Pride Festival at Civic Center Plaza.

Chicago Pride Parade

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The Chicago LGBTQ community is all set to host its two amazing events on two consecutive weekends in the summer; Chicago Pride Festival (June 18-19, 2016) and Chicago Pride Parade (June 26, 2016). The much celebrated Chicago Pride Parade will be a summertime staple that will celebrate a monumental 46th annual event this year. Alike every year, the various parade entries along with the different organizations supporting Pride Month events, have the prerogative of using an international theme and this year's international theme is ‘Solidarity Through Pride.’


Pride Houston

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The Houston Gay Pride Parade is one of the major celebrations of Gay Pride Festival held annually. The festival marks the celebration for LGBT community and their allies. The festivities will be held on 26th June and the highlight of the event is the parade, which is held in the evening after sunset. With the event being hosted after dark, the various establishments are creatively illuminated to make them look attractive. The Houston Gay Pride Parade is currently the most attended and major gay pride event in the Southwestern region of the United States.

Meet EverestNoFilter 2016 - The Guys who Snap chatted their way to Mt. Everest

Celebs Favorite Vacation Spots

It’s always great to get away from a stressful lifestyle, no matter even if it is for some limited time period! And this implies on the celebrities too as even they need to take a break from their busy lives which is always surrounded with the spotlight. However unlike an average person, the celebrity pocketbooks allow them to go on rather extravagant vacation which is crammed full of utmost luxury and style.
No wonder, celebrities definitely know how to live it up on a vacation. You visiting one such popular celebrity vacation destinations will not only prove to be a gratifying experience but may also give you a chance to come back with a selfie. So, here are some favorite celebrity vacation spots that you may not just dream but even plan to visit!

Mallorca, Spain

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One of the most sought after celebrity vacation spots across the globe is Mallorca, Spain. Many international celebs including Gwenyth Paltrow, Jennifer Aniston and Michael Douglas check-in at this destination regularly to enjoy a memorable holiday. Some of the famed tourist spots of this place include Karma Bar, ES Trenc Beach, Puerto Portals, and Wellies Restaurant and bar. The place is no doubt a peaceful retreat from the busy and hectic lives.

Lake Como, Italy

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One celebrity that totally loves and admires the undying beauty of Lake Como is George Clooney who even owns a lakeside villa here. The star even regularly invites his celebrity friends for vacations to this gorgeous location in Italy. Some other regulars of Lake Como include David Beckham, Richard Branson, Brad Pitt and Matt Damon. The amazingly impressive locations here that top the travel itineraries of the celebrities are castles, gardens, cathedrals and museums.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

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Thanks to the utter privacy it has to offer that makes Bora Bora one of the most celebrated celebrity getaways. Something that everyone craves for are the high-end, over the water bungalows that allow celebrities to have their own private entrance to the ocean and their own awe-inspiring view which is limited to them. Kardashians, Nicole Kidman, Eva Longoria and Rob Lowe are few of the many famous personalities who have taken advantage of Bora Bora’s unmatched beauty and grandeur.

St. Barts, Caribbean

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Yet another popular celebrity vacation spot that is quite famous amongst the elite class is St. Barts. This place is no doubt also one of the most visited vacation spots by celebrities as everyone who has their names written in tabloids has been here at least once. Some of them include Jay-Z, Beyonce and Jessica Alba. Apart from other regular things, most enjoy soaking up the sun here and sampling the scrumptious food offered at the lavish restaurants. And yes, St. Barts’ extravagant nightlife is well worth experiencing.

Visiting New Zealand during winters

Just after the arrival of winters in June, the North and South islands of New Zealand experience a huge influx of global travelers. And most of these travelers are winter enthusiasts who wish to enjoy the numerous winter offerings of this adventurous country. Spectacular natural retreats, snowy landscapes and thrilling wildlife are few of the many things that are sure to entertain the guests. Also, skiing down the slopes and a hike along the empty trails are a great way of entertainment. Then there is the Queenstown Winter Festival, one of the most popular winter events, which catch attention of thousands of vacationers. Here is a quick rundown of the top winter charms of New Zealand.

Snowboarding and Skiing in the Alps

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Home to the Southern Alps, New Zealand promises one of the most thrilling and exciting snowboarding and skiing experiences across the globe. People interested in indulging in the activity may take snowboarding gear on hire and take help from experienced instructors to learn few good lessons. You may choose from a plethora of ski destinations including Queenstown, Coronet peak and Treble Cone.

Abel Tasman National Park

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This New Zealand attraction ranks high among the travel itineraries of vacationers who love exploring the nature. This popular coastal national park allows immense opportunities for various water sports, sky diving, trail walking and day trips. The best way to spend time here is by soaking up the sun during the day time and lying under the night sky to admire the unmatched grandeur of the place. Numerous boating companies even offer single day or multi day tours of the entire park.

Train Journey with the TranzAlpine Express

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A vacation to New Zealand is just incomplete without a guided tour of the beautiful landscapes of the kiwi nation. And the best way to do is aboard the popular TranzAlpine Express, one of best trains that take its guests onboard on a beautiful winter experience while passing through the snow clad Canterbury Plains, the gushing slopes of the Alps, and the twisty rivers. The train operates each day between Christchurch and Greymouth and it takes 5 hours to complete the entire journey with refreshment offered in between.

Queenstown Winter Festival (24th June to 3rd July)

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Queenstown plays host to one of the best winter festivals of the southern hemisphere with lights, sound, music and fireworks in the end of June. The colorful opening ceremony of the festival is marked by massive fireworks followed by an amalgamation of other exciting fun filled activities like comedy shows, live street music, street parties and mountain races. The festival is all about celebrating Queenstown’s distinct culture and traditions with pomp and grandeur.

Perfect Travel Destinations for You Based On Your Zodiac Sign

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Traveling rules aren’t just fixed and these can or say, must be changed according to preferences. Some people hardly care much about the holiday destination till the point their company is good, while others certainly choose a diligent planning right down to the view from their hotel room. But just for a change, how about siting back and letting the stars guide you? No wonder, the entire idea that the stars could hold the answer to our future has captivated travelers for years. Read on to find out which travel destination would suit your zodiac sign.

Aquarius

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Aquarians are generally curious and imaginative souls who love to steer clear of general tourist paths and are least likely to let a travel guidebook dominate their plans. Unspoilt landscapes and unexplored places adorned with sheer mystery is what tickle their fancy.
Places to Visit
Iceland: For the awe-inspiring Northern Lights
Peru: For its rich history in Incan ruin of Machu Picchu


Pisces

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Relaxed Pisceans would always prefer to spend a lazy afternoon on a serene beach with not much contact with anyone. All they seek is peace of mind and tranquility to escape the everyday chaos of the bust life.
Places to Visit
Japan: For a deep cultural and spiritual experience at Sensoji temple in Tokyo, Japan
Las Palmas, Canary Islands: For clear azure waters and sandy beaches


Aries

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Over active and enthusiastic, Aries always prefer adrenalin-packed, heart-pounding adventures. They wish to holiday in a destination that promises them an itinerary and a destination that gives them Goosebumps and channels their energy in the right manner for unique experience.
Places to Visit
South Africa: For safari tours and surfing
Tunis, Tunisia: For unlimited options of outdoor exploration


Taurus

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Best known for their unique taste and self-indulgent penchants, most of the Taureans love to be pampered on a vacation. Great hospitality and fine dining tops their travel itineraries.
Places to Visit
Wine Country, California: Best destination to unwind and enjoy finest quality wine
St. Barths, Caribbean: The white-sand beaches and luxury rental villas promise a relaxed and holistic holiday experience


Gemini

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Geminis are quite social and love wandering in crowded places where they can get in touch with different people and indulge in a bit of their culture. Urban spots with lively nightlife are best suited to the Geminis.
Places to Visit
London, England: For pub hopping, world class theater and museums
Nicosia, Cyprus: The lively capital city of Cyprus is blessed with rich culture and heritage


Cancer

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Family or close friends is what Cancerians prefer when out on a vacation. Places that give them a homey feeling suits them the most.
Places to Visit
Devon, England: For peaceful towns and gorgeous coastlines
Palermo, Sicily: Best known for its tranquil atmosphere


Leo

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If a place is best known for its opulence and glamour quotient, it would certainly feature on the bucket list of a Leo. These people widely appreciate lavish holiday destinations and are tempted to fancy and affluent surroundings.
Places to Visit
Paris, France: Stylish and elegant, the French capital is just the ticket for an avid Leo traveler
Dubai, UAE: Lavish hotels and high-end shopping options are enough to attract a Leo


Virgo

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Virgos do not believe at taking anything at face value and rather love to analyze and observe the world by actually look at it. They move around just according to their set itinerary.
Places to Visit
Morocco: There is no dearth of attractions and options that adventurous Morocco offers
Rome, Italy: This culturally and historical rich city is dominated by Virgo travelers


Libra

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Librans are no doubt the best easy-going travel companions for everyone. Carrying a cool and composed nature, Librans love adventurous backpacking trips made instantly.
Places to Visit
Cambodia: Adventure freaks Librans are sure to have a whale of a time in tropical surroundings
Mykonos, Greece: To party hard until dawn


Scorpio

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Scorpions love things their way and they do not let anybody change their plan. They mostly prefer avoiding crowded places and rather relax in a cafe or enjoy secluded getaways
Places to Visit
Venice, Italy: A refreshing gondola ride is everything that a privacy-seeking Scorpio craves on a vacation with the loved ones
Bordeaux, France: For striking chateaux and of course, delicious wine


Sagittarius

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Ever curious and restless, a Sagittarian gets bored quite easily on a vacation but loves to cover as much as possible in a given timeframe to be a part of maximum activities
Places to Visit
Istanbul, Turkey: Stunning mosques and large spice markets are enough to keep a Sagittarian entertained all through the day
Egypt: Mysterious pyramids and ancient history to tickle the fancy


Capricorn

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One of the most cautious travelers, a Capricorn always tends to avoid vulnerable situations. They’re love simple things and love exploring historical sites.
Places to Visit
Berlin, Germany: For historic monuments and art exhibitions
Prague, Czech Republic: For magnificent hotels and splendid atmosphere

Mysterious Places on Earth To Explore For the Heart of Steel

No doubt science can explain almost every possible thing that happens on the planet earth, but that doesn’t means there isn’t any room for a little mystery, as well. It can happen anywhere, anytime! Let’s not forget that like some places are extremely beautiful and gorgeous, others look equally weird and mysterious. And then, there is no way explaining it away. Elaborating it better, below are just a handful of such mysterious places on Earth!


Skeleton Lake, India

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For several months, the glacial lake of Skeleton in Roopkund, Uttrakhand, is completely frozen but just as the ice melts around the lake, hundreds of scattered bones are clearly visible. First spotted by a British forest guard in 1942, it is quite believed that the skeletons were those of Japanese soldiers who laid their lives while crossing the route during World War II. The skulls are believed to have odd cracks in them that lead to much speculation about their origin but now the scientists claim the cracks were from freak hail storms which lead to destruction.

Isla de las Munecas, Mexico

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Isla de las Munecas is completely inhabited by different dolls and the locals there strongly believe that the dolls whisper to each other during the night and even move their eyes as someone passes by. The trees here are strung with hundreds of dolls and this was done by the island's only inhabitant, Don Julian Santana Barrera who started collecting the dolls from garbage bins and hanged them on the trees. This was done to calm down the spirit of a young girl whom he found near the island. Weirdly, Barrera also drowned in exactly the same place where he had found the girl’s body. Scary, isn’t it?

Aokigahara Forest, Japan

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Japan’s Aokigahara Forest is known for having one of the highest rates of suicide in the world. The forest is located at the foot of Mount Fuji in Japan and the locals believe that the forest is haunted by spirits and ghosts that compel people to end their lives. Many claim to have heard loud crying screams from the forest during night. The biggest irony is that the authorities have mounted signs reading "Your life is a precious gift from your parents" and "Please consult the police before you decide to die!" but these still go unheard. More than 500 suicides have taken place in the forest since 1950s.

Door to Hell, Turkmenistan

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The ‘Door to Hell’ is literally a door to the hell as it completely resembles a work straight out of a science-fiction. The place was actually accidentally created by in the early 1970s when a team of Soviet scientists identified the area as a potential oil field site but is rather came out to be a natural gas field. Since then, it has been burning continuously. This 230-feet-wide crater is one of the largest gas reserves in the world.

Bermuda Triangle, North Atlantic Ocean

Popularly known as the Devil's Triangle, Bermuda Triangle is world famous but not for good reasons. The place remains in news constantly for its mysterious incidents such as plane crashes, sighting of objects, magnetic abnormalities, and unexplainable disappearances. While some refer all this to alien activities, some claim to work of an electronic fog that may be a time travel tunnel. Interestingly, Bermuda Triangle is the rarest place on the planet where the compass points in the north direction instead of Earth's magnetic north.

Road-tripping essentials

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It is summer, the lure of the open road creeps on to us, and soon we find ourselves planning a road trip.  Whether it’s with the group of our best friends or a weekend getaway with family and kids for the summer vacation, road trips appeals to everyone alike and is always a good idea. Whether it a trip you have been planning for weeks or a spontaneous decision where you are letting the road be your guide, it is smart to take a few essentials along to make the trip safer and more enjoyable.

Maps/navigation system
All your road-tripping enthusiasm is going to dampen when you are driving around lost for hours in the middle of nowhere. Maps or GPS is almost the most important thing one can bring along on a road trip. It will save you from a lot of unnecessary confusion and anxiety and makes sure you are not lost while trying to take a detour.

First-aid kit
Another important thing to pack for your road trip is a first-aid kit. One should be prepared for any health problems one could be facing during the trip. Be it scrapes, sprains, blisters or other common travel ailments like stomach ache, dehydration or motion sickness, carrying a well stocked first-aid kit can be very helpful.

Phone Chargers/Power banks
Phone chargers and power banks can be really useful when your cellphone runs out of battery. The smartphones nowadays are not just phone. They serve as music players, GPS, browsers and much more and are hence overworked. So when they run out of battery, it can land one in problem zone. Bringing a phone charger and power banks helps one avoid such situations.

Music playlist /audio books
No road trip is complete without a good playlist of your favorite songs. It keeps boredom at bay and also helps one stay awake when it’s late at night in a lonesome highway. Audio books are a yet another option.  Listening to books can be preferable to the often-nauseating act of reading hard-copy literature in the car. Light reads are a good option as you don’t want the book to distract you from the road ahead.

Snacks and beverages
Light snacks like protein bars, trail mixes, nuts and popcorns are great options for a road trip.  Bite-sized fruits like berries and grapes are ideal for a summer road trip. One should also pack water and other beverages like lemonade to be hydrated and cool. A cooler to keep the snacks and beverages fresh for longer might also be a good option.

Emergency kit for the vehicle
Important documents such as driving license, insurance and other vehicle related documents and photocopies and originals of ID cards are necessary for any road trip.  One should also pack an emergency kit for the car with some mechanical tools which can be of use if there is a breakdown.

Toiletries and other essentials
Toiletries such as hand sanitizer and a roll of toilet paper, paper towels, cleaning wipes etc are important things to pack. Summer road trips mean sunscreen and sunglasses too. If camping is on the plan, one should also pack a bug spray and a flashlight.   Other things which can make your trip comfortable are cushions and blankets.

Packing cubes and travel tubes
Packing cubes are a great way to compress down lots of clothing and other goods to make more space for suitcases/backpack. One can be super organized and use different cubes for different things, meaning one can find exactly what they are looking for fast without having to unpack and pack again. This optimizes the space in ones luggage bag.

Camera
If you are on a road trip, you want to capture all the wonderful memories of your road trip in a lot of pictures and videos. So a camera is one of the most important things to carry for a road trip. Extra memory cards and camera charger should be carried as well.

Journal/scrapbook
A journal or a scrapbook is fun way to document the trip and look back to when you are back home. Jotting our thoughts down in a travel journal will help us remember the little details we may end up forgetting otherwise.  Also, maintaining a scrapbook of the pictures from the trip, coupons, tickets to a fair etc, will create a montage of your trip for the coming years.

5 Gorgeous Countries that you can explore in just 1 Day!

Each and every country around the world has its own share of marvels and breathtaking landscapes, but some are no doubt blessed with a rare package of outstanding natural beauty. These wonderful attractions enhance their territories with everything possible from gorgeous cities to eternal villages, and wonderful parks to unspoiled scenery. These are actually destinations that offer a variety of sights and a plenty of inspiration. And the best thing, these countries are so small that they can be easily explored in just 1 day. Here is a list of 5 such countries, but do remember that nothing can beat seeing these locations in person.

Grenada, Caribbean Sea

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Adorably famed as ‘The Island of Spice’ - all thanks to its immense production of nutmeg and mace crops, - Grenada is a renowned island nation gaining quick popularity among the vacationers. Situated northwest of Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada was formerly a French and then British colony, though the influence of the French community can still be experienced in its culture and food. The best way to spend the day here is by gorging upon their delicious and yeah, slightly spicy food while listening to some of their pleasurable folk tales. Just in case you happen to be in the island nation during the time of their annual carnivals Reggae and Calypso, do be there and have a time of your life.

Andorra, Southwestern Europe

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Spread across a total land area of 468 sq. km, Andorra is a ski heaven, attracting ski enthusiasts from all corners of the world to test their skills. Landlocked in between Spain and France, Andorra welcomes its guests with a Spanish culture which is crammed full of amazing hospitality and utter friendly behavior. This small country has a total population of around 76,000 people and is located just 3 hours away from Barcelona. Apart from admiring the beauty of the snow-caped mountains and the glorious valley of cherry blossoms, do take out some time to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul at the world-class spas.

St Kitts and Nevis, West Indies

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The country's unique marine life and an incredible diving adventure to explore it is what await travelers planning a vacation in these two stunning islands. With a total land area of approximately 261 sq. km, these two islands have been named as The Mother Colony of the West Indies owing to their origin. No doubt, the best time to visit a Caribbean destination is during its numerous music festivals which let you enjoy some authentic salsa, jazz, calypso and steelpan music along with colorful parades and street dances. Once done with the musical journey, go and sample the country's unique sea food.

San Marino, Italian Peninsula

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San Marino is a lesser known microstate that claims to be the oldest sovereign and constitutional republic across the globe. And then with a land area of just 61 sq. km is for obvious reasons one of the smallest countries in the world. Surprisingly, it is also one of the nations with more vehicles than its actual population. The highest point of the nation is blessed with hilly terrains with no flat ground. The state's unique stamp on your passport will certainly work as an exclusive souvenir for you to take back home.

Vatican City, Italy 

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Located within the city of Rome, this enclaved country is immensely popular for its high religious values and community connections. Ruled by the Bishop of Rome or popularly the Pope, this Nano country has a population of 842 and a land area of as low as 0.44 sq. km. But believe it, a vacation to the nation is more of once-in-a-lifetime visit. When vacationing here, do visit the Sistine Chapel, St Peter's Basilica, and take a stroll through the Vatican Gardens and the Vatican Museums. The marvelous dome by Michelangelo also well deserves a visit by visitors.

So are you a tourist or a traveler?

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We use the term ‘tourist’ or ‘traveler’ almost interchangeably, but both these words have different implications to some people in the travel community. What makes someone a better traveler than someone else? Do experiences not count if there is no 200 kms hitchhike involved through a troubled country? Does booking a room make you ‘not extreme enough’ to be a credible traveler?  Although one can’t be put in a box, there are some factors discussed below which highlights the differences between the two.


Flexibility 

If you are someone who has a fixed plan for the trip and slightest last minute changes in ‘the plan’ or a sudden road block causes you to have a nervous breakdown, you are probably a tourist. However, if a blocked road does not frazzle you and you are open for detours down the little-known back roads and you go with the flow, you are probably a traveler. As long as you reach your destination, it does not bother you what road you have taken.

Comfort

A tourist is someone who would typically pre-book their hotel room months in advance and will not compromise on the level of comfort no matter where you they going. A traveler will, however, be open to stay in any hotel, BnB, home stay they can get a room for the night, or will carry their own tent. Comfort is not the most important thing for them.

Sight-seeing

A tourist will probably make check-list of all the major attractions and will make sure to visit each one of them, as advised by the internet. However, a traveler does not really have a strict itinerary and is someone who will talk to the local people and find out interesting places to see or eateries to visit, which will probably not be listed in any website


Purpose

Tourists typically have a mission in mind when they travel. If you visit the Grand Canyon congregate at the South Rim, snap pictures, and leave within hours and feel you have served the purpose and ticked it off your list, you are probably a tourist. However, if you are more of the type to take it all in in person as opposed to clicking ten pictures, you are a traveler.

Adjustability

If you are easily irked if things don’t go as planned, the waiter got your order wrong because of language difference, or your laundry service did not arrive on time, you are a tourist. But if such things slide off you and you concentrate more on the trip than your needs, you are probably a traveler.