Monsoon Destinations: Best Places to Visit in July

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June 24, 2019

If you’re looking for some fresh weekend getaway ideas around Delhi NCR, your search ends right here. While popular hill stations like Manali, Shimla, Nainital, etc. often get overcrowded during the peak season, we’ve cherry-picked these less explored slices of heaven just for you!

Mistletoe Estate – Rustic Farmhouse Stay in Ranikhet

Take off to the pristine hills of Ranikhet and soak in the misty morning views of this Uttarakhand hill station by staying at this rustic farmhouse. Mistletoe Estate is the ideal getaway for couples and artistic souls, who crave for a peaceful vibe away from the city. The property is just 22 km away from Ranikhet and offers a tastefully done chalet, surrounded by a lush green cover of Oaks, Cedars, Rhododendrons, Cypress, and Pine trees.

The serene location, refreshing views of the beautiful landscapes of Ranikhet and the whimsical décor theme comprising of antique artifacts and paintings add character to this farmhouse. During your stay, you can take a stroll to the orchards and the nearby village, enjoy stargazing at night or just keep to yourself by reading a good book.

Things You Should Know

You can book a bedroom set at this farmhouse and have the place all to yourself
There’s a chef at the property to take care of all your meals
The in-house apricot jams come highly recommended
Enjoy activities like a game of Badminton and Darts, cozy movie nights, hiking and cycling

Distance from Delhi NCR: 392 km

Room Tariff: Rs. 11,500/ – Rs. 15,000/ per night*

*Expect a variation in room tariff basis demand and seasonality.

The Hidden Burrow – Dreamy Treehouse in Jibhi

Remember those childhood memories of drawing a scenery with huge mountains and a flowing river stream? Or, dreaming about sleeping under the starry night sky? Well, dreams do come true. Especially, when you step inside this one-of-a-kind treehouse in Jibhi.

But first, a little bit about Jibhi. This is a less explored old Himlayan village, which is located in the Banjar valley and settled on the banks of the serene Tirthan river. The best part about Jibhi is that it’s completely free from any form of commercialization and is blessedly still.

Come, unfold Jibhi’s best kept secrets by staying at ‘The Hidden Burrow’, a unique treehouse that overlooks the Himalayas and is surrounded by lush green oak and pine forest valleys. This attic treehouse features a luxurious bedroom, bathroom, and a kitchen. There are two balconies attached to the attic and the bedroom, which offer the most alluring mountain and river views. This place is ideal for couples and families travelling with kids. During your stay, wake up to the soft sound of the flowing river, exotic birds and the sight of magical mountain views from the balcony. If you’re interested in exploring the local culture, walk up to the friendly locals for the best tips and stories about Jibhi. Just come with an open mind!

Things You Should Know

Although all meals are provided at the property, you can still cook anything you like in the kitchen
Bonfires can be arranged in the evenings
Gaze at the stars from the little attic balcony
There’s no TV but there’s a lot to watch and do! You can go fishing, trekking, camping, etc.

Distance from Delhi NCR: 499 km

Room Tariff: Rs. 4300/ – Rs. 6200/ per night*

*Expect a variation in room tariff basis demand and seasonality.

Silent Trail Jilling Sanctuary – Farmhouse in Bhimtal

Already been to Bhimtal many times? This time it’s going to be different. Check out Silent Trail Jilling Sanctuary, a charming farmhouse that’s located far away from the crowded spots of Bhimtal and offers a delightful stay.

Silent Trail Jilling Sanctuary features tastefully done modern rooms, a living and dining room, a fireplace and a huge swimming pool! This place is well-suited for couples and groups, who would love a weekend getaway from Delhi and spend some quality time amidst all modern comforts.

Things You Should Know

Reaching the property includes a 1.5 km hike up the hill, so you should check your fitness level before coming here
The property has a chef, who can prepare Continental and Indian cuisine. Meal preferences should be notified in advance. You can also cook in the open kitchen.
Enjoy a variety of activities such as bird watching, trekking, riding ponies, picnicking in hills, etc.

Distance from Delhi NCR: 370 km

Room Tariff: Rs. 6175/ – Rs. 8499/ per night*

*Expect a variation in room tariff basis demand and seasonality.

Ekam – Quaint Villa in Chail

While Shimla gets stuffy with tourists during the peak season, the not so far away, Chail is an absolute delight for those who want to enjoy the hills with some peace and quiet. If you’re planning a weekend getaway to Chail with your group of friends, a stay at Ekam is highly recommended.

Ekam is a charming villa in the hills of Chail, which features 3 bedrooms, an attic room, 5 bathrooms, a spacious living room, and a kitchen. Every room has an attached balcony, which offers breathtaking views of the hills surrounded by a thick cover of pine and deodar trees. Catch a view of the sizzling sunset right from your room balcony and Instagram to your heart’s content.

Love everything organic? You’ll love the delicious chef-cooked meals prepared here from the fresh produce of the organic vegetable plantations at this property.

Things You Should Know

This villa also offers barbeque and bonfire facilities at an additional charge
There are lush green private lawns and vegetable plantations on the premises. You can also host private events at the lawn area at an additional charge on prior intimation
The living room is fully-equipped with a TV, a music system and Bluetooth speakers, PS3, board games, and a mini library.
All your meals will be cooked by an experienced chef, who’s available at this villa
If you’re travelling by car, there’s ample availability of parking space. Driver accommodation can also be arranged.

Distance from Delhi NCR: 332 km

Room Tariff: Rs. 6993 – Rs. 10000/ per night*

Visit Verona: The City of Romeo & Juliet!

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June 24, 2019

Famous as the glorious set of Shakespeare’s most popular tragedy, the quaint little Italian town of Verona climbed up the tourist-favourite destinations’ list further with the movie ‘Letters to Juliet’. However, Verona is much more than just a Shakespearean-play destination. Nestled between River Adige and Lake Garda, this city of love mesmerizes travellers with its cobblestone streets, wide piazzas, picturesque houses, enchanting hills, hidden alleys and stunning architecture.

Here’s a list of the top attractions in Verona, that you should definitely tick off.

# TripHigh_light: Romeo declared his undying love for Juliette here!

Welcome to 23 Cappello Street – Juliette’s home! As you arrive here, you’ll be welcomed by Juliette’s bronze statue near the entrance, inscribed with lines from the famous Shakespearean tale. Then, as you proceed, you’ll witness the iconic ‘Juliette’s Balcony’ from where she is believed to meet her beloved Romeo.

Another highlight here is the famous ‘Juliette’s Wall’! Here you’ll find love letters pasted by forlorn lovers, looking for answers. Every year thousands of love letters make their way here and are answered by a team of volunteers to keep the tradition going. So go ahead, write a letter, as you never know…

Now, let’s look beyond the romantic fiction to the history-steeped attractions in Verona…

Castel San Pietro

Sitting pretty on a hill, overlooking River Adige, Castel San Pietro is an architectural delight and a proud part of the Inventory of Swiss Heritage Sites. Originally a church, this building offers sweeping views of the city. Do plan your visit here around late afternoon to relish the magical sunset Castel San Pietro is known for!

Verona Arena in Piazza Bra

Verona used to be an ideal resting place for Romans, and thus you will find a number of Roman ruins here. One of the most well preserved structure among those is the Amphitheatre – Arena di Verona.

Located in the heart of the historic city centre, this is the place where thousands of spectators had once cheered the gladiator battles, which stood witness to tear-jerking executions and then drank in the beauty of modern plays, including Verona’s summer Opera festival.

#MMTQuickFact: This is the largest piazza in Verona, home to several eateries and shopping places – it’s perfect for whiling away your evenings over a drink or two.

Piazza Delle Erbe

Lying in the centre of the historic city, this diamond shaped Piazza is dotted with many buildings of historical importance, number of cafes and restaurants and a beautiful fountain jazzing up the scene.

Popular as the town’s centre in bygone days, you can spot locals munching on olives and chips while sipping on drinks in the evening.

Ponte Pietra

Verona’s oldest bridge, dating prior to 89 BC – Ponte Pietra was originally a wooden bridge, later re-built by Romans with stone. Time and again this bridge was destroyed by floods, battles and more, but reconstructed again and again. An historical relic, trudge along this bridge while getting mesmerized by the stories and legends surrounding the place.

While here, relish traditional Veronese dishes at Osteria Ristorante or hop over to the 200-years-old La Fontanina for some lip-smacking meat delicacies.

Palazzo Giardino Giusti

Away from the bustling city, this magnificent late renaissance garden is perfect for a stroll around with your loved ones. Enjoy the timeless harmony of nature and art or perhaps, initiate a fun game of maze here. We bet you’d find it difficult to weave your way out of this ancient European labyrinth.

Next in line is a tour of the regional wineries…

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Verona, the winery tours here are well-crafted to provide a rich experience of history, culture and legends – beautifully seasoned with glasses of delicious wine. Overlooking the famous Lake Garda, the hillside is famous for producing the renowned Valpolicella and Amarone wines. Do taste the floral Recioto wine here, you’d love it!

The 10 Best Kept Secrets of Goa

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June 24, 2019

As soon as we see, hear or read the name ‘Goa’, we start imagining its pristine beaches, never-ending full moon parties, mesmerising churches, adventurous water sports, scenic landscapes, and of course, the cheap booze! Goa is the smallest state in India, and yet it attracts millions of travellers annually from all around the world.

The party capital is mostly packed with tourists, because nobody needs a reason or a season to visit Goa. But, if you are an avid traveller and you are looking for something more than just the conventional spots, then you should totally visit these hidden spots and secret treasures of Goa. Check out our recommendations…

1. Kakolem Beach

Located just 7 kms from Cabo De Rama resort in South Goa, Kakolem Beach is nothing less than a tiny paradise. It also goes by the name Tiger Beach, and is less crowded compared to its contemporaries in the commercial spotlight. The mesmerising Kakolem Beach is clean and secluded, and just perfect for honeymooners. Here, you can bask in the sweeping views and catch the sun dipping in the sea while you dunk your feet in the sand.

2. Harvalem Falls

If you are done exploring the sandy Goan beaches and looking for something else, then you should head to the enchanting Harvalem Falls. Located in the lush green jungles near Sanquelim village in North Goa, this serene waterfall will welcome you with open arms. Oh, and since this is not a tourist hotspot, it’s kept hidden from the eyes of the world! It’s not just an ideal picnic spot for those travelling with family and friends, it is also perfect for solo travellers.

Nearby Attractions: Rudreshwar Temple and Arvalem rock cut caves

3. Fort Tiracol

Fort Tiracol is the next best kept secret of Goa. The restored 17^th century Portuguese fort is now a heritage hotel located at the confluence of Tiracol River. You can take a ferry ride from Keri Beach to reach this gorgeous fort, offering a stunning bird’s eye view of the Kalacha and Querem Beach. You can also visit the ancient churches in the vicinity.

4. Cumbarjua Backwater Canal

Goa is full of surprises! You will believe us when you visit the Cumbarjua Backwater Canal. Hearing about it for the first time? That’s because its concealed from the crowd. Located on the banks of Mandovi river in North Goa, Cumbarjua Canal is an ideal place for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Take a boat ride through the thick mangrove trees and spot crocodiles lazing around in the sun. Don’t worry, most of the crocodiles are used to human presence and they jump back into the water if anybody goes near them. In fact, the local kids even swim in the canal. But, you keep yourself at a safe distance!

Did you know? The natives of Durbhatwadi village worship the crocodiles as the guardian spirit of their community.

5. Chorla Ghat

Another unexplored gem in Goa is the picturesque and lush green Chorla Ghat. Located at an elevation of about 800 metres, this ghat is absolutely surreal during the monsoons. This hidden gem is quietly snuggled in the Western Ghats on the Goa-Karnataka-Maharashtra border. If you are missing the hills of north Goa, then Chorla Ghat along with its several small waterfalls, will bewitch you. Lying to the northeast of Panaji, Chorla Ghat is a part of the Sahyadri mountain range. Here you can relish the magnificent waterfalls, go bird watching, or simply bask in the picture-perfect views.

6. Pequeno Island

Pequeno Island, also known as Bat Island, will make you realise that Goa has so much more to offer than just beautiful beaches and lively parties. Located in close proximity to Vasco da Gama’s Baina beach in South Goa, Pequeno Island has a tiny rocky beach which is one of the best snorkelling spots in the state. When you are done with the adventure activities, you can enjoy the beautiful views with your loved ones. The deep blue waters and the scenic landscapes make a beautiful backdrop for photographs, so don’t forget to click a bunch of pictures here!

7. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park

Head to the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park for an off-beat Goan experience. The tropical forests and green vegetation sprawled across 240 sq. km., houses several important temples dating to the Kadamba Dynasty. The reserve isn’t much popular amongst the tourists and therefore, you can find your peace of mind here. Go bird watching and spot other herbivorous animals like deer, hogs, mouse deer and barking deer. You can also visit the iconic attractions like Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Tambi Falls and Devil’s Canyon in the vicinity.

8. Netravali – Bubbling Lake

We all know that Goa is blessed with natural wonders, but most travellers are yet to explore the Netravali Lake. This extraordinary hidden lake is quietly tucked away in the Sanguem district in South Goa. The fascinating thing about this lake is its bubbling water. Well, it is caused due to the presence of natural gasses like methane (due to the decaying vegetation) below the lake. Interestingly, the bubbles appear continuously on the lake’s surface in a particular area, making it a sight to behold.

9. Arvalem Caves

The Arvalem Caves, also known as the Pandava Caves, date back to the 6^th century and are located in the Sanquelim village of North Goa. Known for their historic appeal, these rock cut caves are divided into five different compartments flaunting stunning architecture and Shiv Lingas carved out of granite inside the compartments. If you want to travel back in time, you must visit the alluring caves.

#MMTTrivia: Some people also believe that the Pandava brothers took shelter at these caves during their twelve-year long exile.

10. Church of St. Augustine

You probably haven’t heard about the St. Augustine Church, which is declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986. The 46-metre high church once used to be a robust structure, but it’s now known for its ruins. Situated in old Goa, the Church of St. Augustine has suffered the wrath of time and unpredictable weather. This less explored site was built in 1602 by the Augustinian friars and was abandoned in the year 1835. It is a paradise for photographers and history enthusiasts. Do visit the ruins, if you want to explore the authentic Goa.

Where you stay can set the tone right for the rest of your holiday..?

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June 24, 2019

Where you stay can set the tone right for the rest of your holiday. Given its reputation as one of the most preferred holiday destinations for luxury travellers, Bali is home to some of the best luxury hotels, resorts and retreats in the world. If you are looking for the perfect combination of plushness, indulgent features, sophisticated aesthetics coupled with the exotic charm of the East, this nifty selection of the best luxury hotels in Bali will set you up for a great holiday experience.

Viceroy Bali

Situated in Bali’s famous ‘Valley of Kings’, the Viceroy Bali is a family-run resort comprising 25 luxurious villas, complete with private pools. Given its unique blend of comfort and privacy, this tropical getaway is a hot favourite among international travellers, especially honeymooners. Each villa here is dotted with cosy outdoor spaces, that open up to breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. In addition to these well-appointed villas, the resort also has an infinity pool, a helipad for direct transfers from the Bali airport, an in-house spa overlooking the Petanu River Valley, and poolside gazebos to laze around in after a day of hectic sightseeing.

Price: INR 53,759 onward*

The Purist Villas

Another cosy yet luxurious haven in Ubud, Bali’s famed artistic and spiritual centre, is The Purist Villas and Spa. The property comprises 17 tastefully designed luxury villas that resonate warmth and a prevailing sense of tranquillity. The resort is designed to offer guests a panoramic view of Bali’s rich natural surroundings from the pool and restaurant areas. The villas that come with a private garden, most of them furnished with a private pool, are strategically constructed to offer guests uninterrupted views of sprawling rice fields, along with a sneak-peek into local rituals and cultural activities. The mix of modern architecture with reflections of Balinese traditions instantly appeals to one’s aesthetic sensibilities. The Purist also has a dedicated spa and yoga wing where guests can indulge in some much-needed relaxation and pampering.

Price: INR 11,426 onward*

Grand Mirage Resort & Thalasso Bali

grand-mirage-bali — Grand Mirage Resort & Thalasso Bali

The Grand Mirage Resort & Thalasso Bali is situated in the Nusa Dua resort area in southern Bali, and is strategically located to offer a mesmerizing view of the Indian Ocean, as well as the famous Mirage Gardens. The facility boasts of 301 rooms and suites, each sumptuously appointed to reflect the vibe of the Island of Gods. During your time here, don’t forget to treat your taste buds to the themed dinners that serve up some delectable offerings from Asian, European and Australian cuisines. The Grand Mirage is perfect for a family holiday, with a range of recreational activities, club area and a pool for children. This beachfront hotel is everything you need to combine luxury with leisure.

Price: INR 5,142 onward*

Pan Pacific Nirwana Bali Resort

Imagine a lush green 18-hole golf course situated bang on a white sandy beach. Well, that’s exactly what the Pan Pacific Nirwana Bali Resort has in store for you. Sprawled over a 103-hectare stretch in Tabanan, West Bali, away from the humdrum of island life, this resort has breathtaking written all over it. The rooms, suites and villas on the property have been designed to offer guests a panoramic view of the Indian Ocean and the famous Tanah Lot Temple. Privacy, pampering and leisurely pursuits are the focus of hospitality services of this resort, and you can expect to be spoilt silly during you stay here. Take a dip in the cascading swimming pools or treat yourself to a traditional Balinese massage at the in-house spa.

Price: INR 10,000*

The Camakila Legian Bali

the-camakila-bali — The Camakila Legian Bali

One of the best things about The Camakila Legian Bali is its location. The hotel is a 3-minute walk from the Legian Beach and at an ideal distance between Seminyak and Kuta, making it perfect for tourists who want to spend their holiday exploring the best of Bali. The property, with its lagoon pool and beachfront infinity pool, is also a delight for those whose idea of a vacation is to relax and not do much. That’s not all. The Seminyak and Kuta, making it perfect for tourists who want to spend their holiday exploring the best of Bali. The property, with its lagoon pool and beachfront infinity pool, is also a delight for those whose idea of a vacation is to relax and not do much. That’s not all. The Camakila is a heavenly destination for food lovers as well, offering a spread of Southeast Asian, Western and other World cuisines. A well-stocked bar, in-house spa, poolside lounger and a fully-equipped fitness centre are also part of the package. It. therefore goes without saying that the Camakila has something in store for everyone.

Price: INR 6,227 onward*

GOA Travel Guide: All About Food, Churches & Parties

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Travelomama

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May 18, 2018

GOA Travel Guide: All About Food, Churches & Parties

Indisputably Goa finds a special mention for all the “have been” and “wants to” travelers. It’s because of this that Goa, which thrives majorly on tourism, has always been in the bucket list of all kinds of travelers. The scenic beauty and the lovely beaches are just the very obvious points featuring in the very long list of reasons why one should visit Goa. Such is the charisma of the place that Goa has the maximum number of repeat tourists both Indians and foreigners. Here’s a crisp Goa travel guide that will help you make your vacation in Goa more fun:

1) Rent Your Transport

Depending on the group size or choice you can easily find both two-wheelers and four wheelers for rentals as low as Rs. 300 per day. Own transport will give you the liberty to explore the insides of the city and also look out for virtually unexplored places which are plenty in the mystic land of Goa.

2) Beach Bound

No secret there, the exotic beaches and water sports activities will be the high point of your vacation in Goa. Arambol, Anjuna, Palolem, Morjim, Calangute are only some to name. More importantly you’ll get ample options of small to lavish eatery joints which will serve you with mouthwatering sea foods and other local cuisines.

3) Churches and Cathedrals

It’s no surprise that a place which is so influenced by the western culture that Churches and cathedrals are the indispensable part of GOA Culture. The Portugese Rule have gifted the place with churches of such serene and exotic architecture that you would be just awed by their sheer existence. Bom Jesus Basilica, Church of St. Catejan, Se Cathedral are the few you just cannot miss.

4) Food Food

It’s not just the food but it’s the preparation what makes the Goan cuisines hard to resist. You can find many eateries where traditional pots of clay and age old methodologies of cooking has replaced all modern cooking accessories. Chilly hot, spicy and pungent with food generally containing rice, fish and coconut are quintessential in a Goan cuisine. Both fresh sea food and dried and salted fish dishes are the pride of Goa.

5) Drinks and Parties

For seldom to avid drinkers Goa is a paradise and for party animals Goa’s night clubs are the best places to be. It’s the right place to cut yourself loose, have a drink or two and go clubbing around.

Now that you have a fair idea about the Goa travel guide, don’t forget to check out TravelOmama for jaw-dropping deals for – cheap flights to Goa, Goa hotel coupon deals and Goa tour packages to save those extra bucks – because MaMa knows better!

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8 Largest Shopping Malls in America You Should See

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November 1, 2017

8 Largest Shopping Malls in America You Should See

Get to know American culture and enjoy your shopping experience at one of the largest malls in America.

Who doesn’t like shopping? And it is a great American pastime too. Many consider it as a fun stress reliever activity, hobby or a sport for a good bargain hunt. And, if you are travelling to any place shopping becomes an integral part. But we understand being on a tight travel budget restricts you from splurging in shopping malls. However, “window shopping” can be an experience still. Visiting of these biggest shopping malls is a must to-do activity when out on an America tour.

The Mall of America

With more than 500 stores and 10 attractions ‘The Mall of America’ is the biggest shopping mall in the USA. It is located in Bloomington, Minnesota and nearly 40 million people visit this mall. Almost all the popular stores can be spotted there like Forever 21, Macy’s, Nordstrom, The Lego Store, Sears, Crayola Experience, Marshall’s, Nickelodeon Universe and American Girl, and also visit the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium.

King of Prussia Mall

Located in Pennsylvania, the King of Prussia Mall is the second largest mall in the USA. Though this mall falls short from the Mall of America by some 70 stores, but it actually has a much bigger square feet area. From the stores within a budget to the most luxurious shopping, this mall offers a store for everyone. International dinning is also available and shoppers have three different food courts to choose from.

Aventura Mall

Located in the state of Florida, Aventura Mall has more than 300 stores and 6 department sto, which have been recently expanded. Nearly 28 million people visit this mall every year, making it a central point for many cultures to meet. Many high end brands like Chanel, Chloé, Fendi and Emilio Pucci can also be found there.

South Coast Plaza

South Coast Plaza is California’s largest and most plush shopping mall located in Orange County. South Coast offers a sense of style that even Hollywood stars could be jealous of. The mall has more than 250 stores, 30 restaurants and a center for the arts. South Coast offers variety of brands for all budgets ranging from affordable prices at Sears to luxury price tags at Balenciaga.

The Galleria

It is said that everything is bigger in Texas and this mall is no different. Visited by more than 30 million people a year, the Galleria mall is located in Houston. It has nearly 400 stores and restaurants, three office buildings, two high-rise hotels, it’s no wonder both local residents and tourists come together at this mall. There are a plethora of options for shopping stores like Tiffany & Co., Yves Saint Laurent, Ralph Lauren, H&M, Abercrombie & Fitch, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and many others.

Del Amo Fashion Center

Located in Southern California, Del Amos Fashion Center is two malls in one. This fashion center has over 200 stores and is a house for many popular brands like Vince Camuto, Nordstrom, Macy’s, Hugo Boss, Kate Spade New York and many more.

Destiny USA

A world all on its own, Destiny USA at Syracuse oozes its grandeur when you first walk through its doors. Many attractions for both children and adults, this mall has like Dave and Buster’s, comedy clubs, and a carousel. From high-end luxury brand to 99-cent stores, this Central New York shopping paradise has something or other for every shopper.

Millcreek Mall

Located in Erie, Pennsylvania, Millcreek Mall nearly has 200 shops, 5 department stores for your daily needs and numerous restaurants and quick food stops. Millcreek Mall is not only popular for its single-floor food court layout, but for its variety in entertainment, like Widget Kid Zone.

Plaza Las Américas

Plaza Las Américas is the biggest mall in the Caribbean, located in San Juan, Puerto Rico. If you’re planning to escape the winter cold or just want to break the monotony by enjoying the scenery and hopped on a plane to Puerto Rico, you can’t leave the place without visiting the three-floor, three-hundred-and more store mall that includes a Build-A-Bear Workshop, Alex and Ani, MAC store, and more.

6 Best Places to Visit in USA for Christmas

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November 1, 2017

6 Best Places to Visit in USA for Christmas

“Home for the Holidays” is a common catchphrase during December. But for majority of the international travelers, Christmas has become a popular time to explore new places. It is because things tend to slow down at office between Christmas and New Year as many people are away for the holidays. It is also easiest to take time off of work during this period. Additionally, a lot of Christmas travel deals are also available for saving those extra bucks if you know where to look for them.

Here we have rounded up some of the most popular places in the United States of America to visit during Christmas holidays.

1) New York City

The sixth-most densely populated city in the United States, New York has a lot to offer to its tourists. A trip to New York at Christmas is worth exploring for the backpackers at least once in a lifetime. The city looks gorgeous during holidays with snow and lights all around, making it an ideal destinations for travelers.

Considered as one of the best places for shopping, the city has a great variety of unique gifts to make you and your loved ones feel special this Christmas. There are many holiday traditions that are worth experiencing in New York City. We have mentioned some of them below:

Visit Rockefeller Center to see a giant pine Christmas tree, the lighting of which is celebrated with a special ceremony and musical performances by artists.
Another tourist attraction that makes New York City the best place to visit during the holidays is the Radio City Christmas Spectacular, a Broadway-style show put on by the famous, high-kicking Rockettes at the most popular Radio City Music Hall.
Another must see thing is the Nutcracker by the New York City Ballet. You can see the man dubbed to be the ‘real Santa’ at the Plaza Hotel.

2) Chicago

The Windy City undoubtedly has the brisk weather conditions to deliver a White Christmas—or at least a very, very cold one. Every years thousands of tourists visit Chicago’s popular Christkindlmarkt, a German Christmas street market filled with traditional wooden toys, holiday crafts, decorative items, German food and drink. Like New York city, Chicago also sets up a giant Christmas tree in Daley Plaza. Also check out the Annual Christmas Around the World Exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry.

3) Colorado

For a lot of travelers Ski and snowboarding holidays at Christmas time makes sense. Colorado is one of the most popular places to experience skiing in the United States. The place is famous for chic resort towns of Aspen, Vail, and Steamboat Springs. You can have a good time at Victorian Christmas at the Breckenridge ski resort. Interestingly, Colorado is home to NORAD, the governmental agency that tracks Santa’s gift giving course on Christmas Eve.

4) Florida

If you want your white Christmas to be made of sand and not snow then Florida is the place for you to visit. The city enjoys mild temperatures even in winters, that makes it an ideal choice for Christmas travelers. Apart from the beach destinations, you can visit Walt Disney World which looks truly spectacular with all decked up in its over-the-top Disney style. Don’t forget to take your kids to the Very Merry Christmas Party there.

Or go to Miami during Christmas time, where the holidays have a more Latin flavor. During Christmas time, you can find boat parades and festive light displays in many cities across the state, such as the Night of Lights in St. Augustine.

Another great reason to visit Florida at Christmas is to visit Christmas, a little town near Orlando that has become one of the most popular places to get one’s holiday mail postmarked.

5) Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a must visit place if you want to experience world’s longest holiday season, which kick-starts in November and ends in February. You can not only skip the cold weather up in the north, but can actually catch a gorgeous tan while spending your holidays. The city has its own Christmas traditions, different decoration styles, storytelling and lip-smacking food.

6) Alaska

Alaska is the North Pole, you have to be really sure about the idea of cold and white Christmas if you are planning a holiday trip to Alaska. In fact, since 1952, numerous children who have written to Santa with their Christmas wishes have sent their letters to the Santa Claus House in North Pole, Alaska. The Santa Claus House also writes letters back to those kids, indeed a very exciting place for little kids. Wintertime is also the best time for catching the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, in Alaska.

There are a plethora of Christmas festivals and events in Alaska, including Christmas-themed ice art sculptures. Adventurous people can even try dog sledding. But go fully prepared for the cold, you would need to pack a lot of warm clothes. Happy holidays!

Five Reasons to Spend Christmas in Puerto Rico

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October 31, 2017

Five Reasons to Spend Christmas in Puerto Rico

Do you want to add an exotic touch of Caribbean culture to your vacation this time? Take a trip to Puerto Rico to spice up your Christmas vacation. Christmas in Puerto Rico is not only about Santa on this island, but the place also offers home-grown traditions, flavors and customs to this special holiday, which makes it all the more special to visit in the entire U.S.

1) The Lights

Listing “Christmas Lights” as a reason to visit a new place for Christmas doesn’t hold much ground. But although your city or neighborhood towns might have absolutely glittering Christmas decor during the holidays, how many places in the U.S. can be compared with an ancient city that’s more than 500 years old?

That’s the true magic of the Christmas lights in Puerto Rico, the timeless colonial beauty of Old San Juan decorated with the colorful whimsy and brilliance of the holiday season. Not to mention that the weather in Puerto Rico is a lot warmer than other parts of the U.S. during this time of the years, so light viewing stroll becomes all the more pleasant in Puerto Rico.

2) The Food

When it comes to food, Puerto Rico can easily be termed as a culinary capital, as it offers a unique blend of cultures, recipes and flavors. Not to one’s surprise, the island’s culinary heritage is best experienced during the holidays, when the iconic foods and special treats of Puerto Rico is made available for the tourists. Traditional lip-smacking dishes include crispy plantain fritters with shrimp to peril (roast pork) and pasteles de hojas (vegetable root tamales). When you are in Puerto Rico you can’t leave the city without tasting ‘coquitos’ a holiday treat, very similar to eggnog, but prepared with coconut and rum instead of milk and bourbon.

3) The Shopping

Puerto Rico is well known as a shopper’s paradise and not just during the Christmas time but all year round. One can buy special Christmas gifts for loved ones from the city. Do not miss to purchase items like carved wooden saints (santos), a uniquely “Rican” souvenir, a beautiful necklace for that special someone, or a bottle of rum for the man or woman you love the most.

4) Three Kings Day

Puerto Rico is famous for its elaborative Three Kings Day event and the country’s incorporation of the day into their holiday season is one of the main reasons why Christmas time is so special on the island. El Día de Los Tres Reyes Magos or Three Kings Day is celebrated all throughout Latin America, and the day adds yet another spiritual element to the holiday season. The day expands the observance, and fun of the world’s most famous birthday celebration normally curbed in late December, well into the month of January and attracts hundreds of tourists every year.

5) Holiday Deals

Who doesn’t love to grab a travel deal? While travel deals change year after year and sometimes fluctuate even by the day, you can expect to grab some terrific end-of-year deals for holiday vacation packages to Puerto Rico. A stay at the beautiful beachfront resort on a striking deal is all the more pleasant for anybody. Always avoid hotel stays for the major holiday dates like Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve, be a little flexible with your dates and you can strike a great stay deal for you and your family. Try to sign up for flight and vacation savings newsletters to keep a regular eye on upcoming saving deals.

Best things to do in Mussoorie

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August 1, 2017