Category: Travel

San Diego, the sun-kissed jewel of Southern California, beckons visitors with its breathtaking coastline, lively neighborhoods, and many attractions. If you’re looking for a destination that combines natural beauty with endless entertainment options, look no further than San Diego. In this article, we’ll explore the best things to do in San Diego that won’t break the bank, including tips on finding cheap flights to San Diego and making affordable travel arrangements.

Here are some of the most fun and exciting things to do in this vibrant city:

Soak up the Sun at the beaches

San Diego is renowned for its pristine beaches stretching miles along the Pacific Ocean. Whether you’re a beach bum, a surfer, or a nature lover, there’s a beach for you. Mission Beach offers a lively atmosphere with its boardwalk and amusement park, while La Jolla Cove captivates with its rugged cliffs and picturesque views. Coronado Beach boasts soft sand and iconic historic Hotel del Coronado views. Grab your sunscreen and a beach towel, and enjoy the coastal paradise that San Diego offers.

Explore Balboa Park

Step into a world of wonder at Balboa Park, a sprawling urban oasis that houses museums, gardens, and cultural attractions. Roam the lush gardens, marvel at the intricate Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, and immerse yourself in art and culture. Visit the San Diego Museum of Art, the Museum of Man, or the Natural History Museum for educational fun. Take advantage of catching a live performance at the Old Globe Theatre or the Spreckels Organ Pavilion.

Enjoy the Gaslamp Quarter

Downtown San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter is a hub of entertainment, nightlife, and culinary delights. With its Victorian-era architecture and bustling streets, this neighborhood offers a vibrant atmosphere. Indulge in gourmet dining, catch a live performance at one of the many theaters, or dance the night away at a trendy nightclub.

Experience Cabrillo National Monument

For breathtaking views and a glimpse into the city’s history, head to Cabrillo National Monument. Perched on a peninsula, this national park offers panoramic views of the city skyline, the Pacific Ocean, and the Coronado Islands. Explore the tide pools, hike along scenic trails, and visit the statue of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European to set foot on the West Coast.

Make a Budget Trip to San Diego

Now that you have an idea of the top things to do in San Diego let’s discuss how to plan a budget-friendly trip. Finding cheap flights to the city is the first step. Keep an eye out for airline promotions and discounts, and consider booking your destination flight well in advance to secure the best deals. Use flight search engines and comparison websites to compare prices across different airlines and choose the most affordable option.

Regarding airline reservations and ticket bookings, consider booking directly through the airline’s website or using reputable travel platforms that offer competitive prices. Look for package deals that include flights and accommodation, as they can often provide significant savings.

Book cheap flights to San Diego

When searching for cheap airlines to San Diego, it’s important to consider budget carriers and airlines that offer competitive fares. While specific prices may vary depending on travel dates and availability, here are two popular airlines you can use for budget travel.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest is a popular low-cost carrier in the United States and often offers competitive fares to San Diego. They have a significant presence at San Diego International Airport and provide various domestic flight options. You can make your ticket reservations online through its official website.

Spirit Airlines

Spirit is another budget carrier that serves San Diego International Airport. It is a no-frills carrier and offers several discounts and offers occasionally. You may have to pay additional fees during your flight booking if you opt for additional services on Spirit Flights.

San Diego is a paradise for those seeking fun and adventure. From sun-soaked beaches to world-class attractions, this city offers many entertainment options for visitors of all ages. By searching for cheap flights, making smart airline reservations, and planning your trip strategically, you can have a memorable experience in San Diego without straining your wallet.

An expensive yet unforgettable trip to Bali with my wife

June 2, 2023

Kash Pals

Travel No Comments

Last year, I decided to go on a Bali trip with my wife, and guess what? It was such a nice experience to be there, so I thought why not share it with you all? With so many activities available, visiting this stunning spot is like embarking on an endless journey! It’s understandable why Bali is a well-liked travel destination for many people. There is so much to see and do on this gorgeous island paradise, from its never-ending idyllic beaches to its alluring spiritual aura. There are swings, terraced rice fields, and spectacular sunsets! Learn to surf, practice yoga, meditate, go hiking, eat excellent food, or take part in exciting nightlife. Tourism booms in some areas of Bali, where there are clusters of fashionable bars, vegan eateries, and Instagrammable cafes. In this post, I will discuss all of the places I have been to while I was there. But let’s discuss how one may reach Bali.

How to reach Bali:

The fastest way to go to Bali from any country is by air. Numerous international flights have direct connections to Bali as well as indirect connections through Jakarta. AirAsia, Qatar Airways, and KLM are the most common bookable flight with landings there.

Best time to visit Bali:

The dry season is the ideal time to travel to Bali. You won’t have to worry about rain interrupting any outside activities from May through October, and the summer humidity levels are minimal. The only drawback is that it’s the busiest time of year to travel. During this time, flights are more expensive, and you’ll need to reserve your top pick of the hotel early. Alternatively, visit Bali between November and April if you don’t mind the brief downpours. There are still a ton of things to do, and it’s the most affordable time to travel!

Tips for Bali:

Your passport must be six months old when you arrive! Bali won’t let you enter if you don’t comply with this rule.

There are still dorm rooms and homestays available for only $15–20 USD each night. However, always double-check or make advance hotel bookings to secure a room.

Most restaurants charge between $3 and $7 for a reasonable dinner. For as little as US$1.50, you can eat a balanced, freshly prepared meal in a Warung or on the street.

Ubud and Canggu are the two main centers for vegetarian and healthy eating options. Give the detox smoothies a try.

In the monkey jungle or at temples, avoid grinning at the monkeys because doing so denotes aggression.

Places I visited in Bali:

Mount Batur Trekking

Batur Volcano and Lake, Lesser Sunda Islands, Indonesia
https://www.flickr.com/photos/tropicaliving/3662229028/

Mount Batur is an active volcano in Indonesia and people recognize it as “Gunung Batur” in their native tongue. At 1717 meters (about 5,600 feet) above sea level, it provides a breathtaking perspective of its surroundings, which include the magnificent Lake Batur. It is surrounded by black lava from the most recent explosion in 2000 and stunning mountains on either side. To see the dawn, we begin the hike at three in the morning. Yes, it was a little tough but the outcomes were so amazing. If you are someone who feels tired very soon, carry enough water and glucose with you.

IC- TropicaLiving

Ubud Bali Swing

You must visit this stunning location if you’re in Bali, and even my wife insisted that we must do so. There are 12 swings and 9 nests at the Bali Swing, which has spectacular views. Some swings cross over valleys, waterfalls, and canyons. Various tour companies offer Bali Swing packages. The swings in Kaja, The Ubud, Alas Harum, Uma Pakel, and Wana Iri Hidden Hills are the most well-known in Bali. However, we visited the Ubud one. It is one of the world’s most well-known photography destinations.

Nusa Islands

The most exotic of the three Nusa Islands and the least visited, Nusa Penida is considered Indonesia’s hidden gem. It is a little distance from Bali’s coast and is in the Klungkung district. From Bali, boats are available which we took to reach here. It is well-liked for pursuits like surfing, scuba diving, and snorkeling. But we were only able to try surfing and snorkeling since we were lacking time. Famous landmarks include the sand beach at Crystal Bay and the sunset panorama, which are known for protecting the endangered Bali Starling bird.

The Tegalalang Rice Fields

Tegalalang Rice Terrace - taken during a photo trip to Indonesia in 2018 - by Thomas Fuhrmann

The next place we explored was The Tegalalang Rice Fields. It is a well-liked stop for tourists traveling to Kintamani, which is on the same route. These paddy fields are well-known for their breathtaking setting and the two swings where you may take pictures. It is particularly well-liked at dawn and dusk. It took us 60-90 minutes to take a long walk here. We clicked dozens of pictures while having fun at this mini-adventure.

Pool Villa

Bali, also referred to as “The Island of Gods,” has a fantastic hospitality sector. It offers luxurious accommodations at reasonable prices. Villas in Bali with private pools are ideal for a quiet family vacation or a romantic escape with your significant other. These private villas are perfect for fulfilling your expectations of an intimate stay. We noticed the same because the villa which we chose was furnished with modern conveniences and elegant interiors. The private pool there was the cherry on the cake.

Finns Beach Club

One of Bali’s most well-known beach clubs, Finns Beach Club is on Berawa Beach and offers a 170-meter view of the ocean. There are nine pubs, a sushi bar, and six restaurants in one all-bamboo building. With four gorgeous pools and a selection of daybeds and loungers for you to relax on, it is a hangout that you simply must visit. During our visit, we had a table reservation booked before coming here. We enjoyed the tasty food, had a relaxing time, and took in the view of the ocean.

Ayung River

The Ayung River, which spans over 75 kilometers, is Bali’s longest river. One of the most well-known rivers for rafting, it starts in the northern mountains and goes all the way to Sanur’s Badung Strait. We tried this thrilling activity and it was so much fun there. Since its difficulty level ranges from 2-3, it is appropriate for rafting throughout the year and is regarded as a family-friendly activity.

Bali Zoo

Bali Zoo is popular for the captivating beauty of its native flora and fauna and is home to over 450 unique and unusual animals. The wildlife preserve, which is in Bali’s Gianyar region, is also known there as “Kebun Binatang Bali.” Experiences like a Virtual Jungle Tour, Night Safaris, and Breakfast with Orangutans are available. Since we were lacking time, we only took the Night Safaris.

Bottom Lines:

My seven-day trip to Bali with my wife was an amazing experience. We had a fun time over there and I can’t express how delightful my trip was! If life gives me another chance, I am definitely coming back here.

Author bio –
I’m Anurag Rathod and I’ve always had a strong affinity for travel. With my wife, I have set off on a journey to visit every country in Asia. Both of us enjoy traveling, whether it be an adventurous one or a relaxing trip.

6 Best Things to Do in Jacksonville, FL

May 11, 2023

Kash Pals

Jacksonville or Jax as the native call it, on the Atlantic Coast Florida, is the largest city by landmass in America. Its southern charm, friendly neighborhoods, and the local cuisines make this Florida city worth a visit. There’s plenty of things to do in Jacksonville, FL. The city is so rich in culture and heritage that it is dotted with numerous sights and experiences to enjoy. The city sits alongside St. John’s River, the Atlantic ocean, and spectacular beaches. Since there’s so much to explore, here we have rounded up a few experiences for you.

Best Time to Visit Jacksonville

Jacksonville has a humid subtropical climate. Summers here are hot and humid and warm to mild and dry winters. It is best to book a flight to Jacksonville during winters, when the weather is ideal for sightseeing. However, spring and fall in Jax also see a huge number of tourists. If you are looking for a beach vacation in the city, summer should be avoided.

Best Things to Do in Jacksonville

Jax has a lot to offer for history buffs. Not only the museums but several historic buildings and plantations are known for their historical significance. Additionally, nature lovers can visit the nearby islands, beaches, and wildlife sanctuaries to reconnect with nature and art aficionados can spend their evening catching a performance at the Florida theater.

Here are a few places you should visit when you book a flight to Florida.

Kingsley Plantation

A trip to the plantation takes you back to the 19th century, where you will find a grand southern mansion from the pre-Civil War days. Kingsley Plantation is located in Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve on Fort George Island. It was named after its owner Zephaniah Kingsley, who moved to the island in the 1800s with his family. His wife Anna, whom he bought as a slave and freed and married her, purchased 60 enslaved people, whom they employed to produce cotton, citrus fruit, sugarcane and corn.

Today, the plantation houses and the nearby structures are preserved by the National Park Service. Here you can learn about how slaves were exploited during that period. Apart from the history, it also features a few trails, where you can go for long walks.

The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary

This wildlife sanctuary is a non-profit organization that educates people on the dangers of owning big cats as pets and the threat to the cats due to the environmental change. The sanctuary shelters home to endangered big cats and rescues them from dangers. It is home to lions, tigers, leopards, lynx, and pumas. The sanctuary offers visitors the opportunity to get a close look at these majestic creatures.

It also offers day and night guided tours of 40 minutes, within which, visitors can learn about the sanctuary’s permanent residents, their natural habitats, and anecdotes about interacting with the cats. Visiting the sanctuary with your kids is one of the fun things to do in Jacksonville, FL.

The Cummer Museums of Art & Gardens

This museum was a dream of a local philanthropist Ninah May Holden Cummer. She wanted to create a center of beauty and culture. Unfortunately, she didn’t live longer to see her dream project. Today, this museum houses more than 5,000 pieces of artworks, some of which dates back to more than 3,000 years ago. Apart from the huge exhibits on display, it also organizes seminars and lectures. The most recent artworks are from famous artists like Norman Rockwell, Winslow Homer, Thomas Moran, and Mildred Thompson.

As for the garden, it is spread across an area of 2.5 acres and features four different zones. The English and Italian Gardens are more than hundred years old. Take a stroll around the garden and find the fountains, reflecting pools, and canopy. Whenever you visit the garden, it always decks up with different flora.

Amelia Island

Once it was the most desired island in America. It was even captured, lost, and recaptured by Spanish, English, French, and Scottish rulers at various points of time. In fact, a total of eight flags were flown over the island- more flags than anywhere in the US. It was once home to pirates, gun runners, union soldiers, sailors, Confederates, and escaped prisoners. Sp expect to dig a lot of history here. In the 1930, the island was a popular vacation destination among the black residents of Jacksonville.

Today, this historic island, located 30 miles northeast of downtown draws locals, families and tourists, who come here on the weekend to visit the 13 miles of beaches, historic sights, and to enjoy its laid back vibe. Visiting Amelia Island Museum of History to learn about its pirate stories is one of the must things to do in Jacksonville, FL. Adventure enthusiasts can hike through the park, look for the alligators, and wild horses.

Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens

This family-friendly tourist attraction in Jacksonville is home to a large number of wildlife creatures. The zoo is located at the edge of River Trout about seven miles from Downtown Jacksonville, and is spread over an area of 115 acres of land. Visiting the zoo is a great opportunity to get close with animals like giraffes, elephants, big cats, and great apes. A total of 2000 animals, and 1000 plants are living in the zoo and the garden. Visitors to the zoo are impressed by the large number of these wide species of animals and plants.

It remains open throughout the week and hence you can plan a trip here any time of the week. It gets crowded on the weekends. There’s a play park and splash ground for the kids. Visit the Stingray Bay, where you can pat a few friendly inhabitants. Visitors can hop on the Old-Time zoo train to get around the facility. Other highlights include a River Quest Scenic River cruise and a 4D theater.

Florida Theater

Whether you are an art aficionado or not, an evening spent in Florida Theater is never a dull moment. It was first established in 1927 as a cultural venue and to promote the local artists. Today , it hosts more than 200 cultural and entertainment programs annually. Interestingly several world-famous artists and performers have made their appearance here and played music from rock to Rachmaninoff. Did you know that Elvis Presley had his first solo show here?

IC – Craig ONeal

Talking about the architecture, it was built in the Mediterranean Revival style with terrazzo and tile floors, decorative columns, terracotta exterior, chandeliers, and amber glass light fixtures. A trip to the theater to catch a live performance is a must thing to do in Jacksonville.

Bottom Line

Jax or Jacksonville has a few beaches nearby too. Among them Atlantic beach, 16 miles east along route 10 is another must-visit attraction. Tourists find various accommodations, vacation rentals, laid-back eateries, golf courses, and miles long sandy shores. If you have enough time, ensure to visit the nearby islands as well.

Tips to Book Affordable Hotels and Flights to Los Angeles

May 4, 2023

Kash Pals

Travel 1 Comment

– Travel Guide

The city of Angeles is the best choice to stop by, especially after you have heard about it from Hollywood. It is just the second-largest city in terms of population in the United States. There are different architectural styles, social classes, as well as cultural traditions too. Downtown Los Angeles has a historic Mexican heart and is sixteen miles from the hip Oceanside communities of Santa Monica. In a nutshell, this is a city where you can have fun, eat, drink, go to the beach, exercise, etc. It is a livable city. If you want to explore it to the fullest, plan a perfect itinerary and make all the arrangements in advance. This is because if you do things late, you may have to compromise on certain aspects of your travel. Follow this guide to learn how to set a perfect journey on your LA trip and have the best time.

Accommodation options in Los Angeles:

The area you stay in will have a significant impact on your travel plans because LA is so large. The cheapest motels start at around $75 for a double room, but many are in remote locations. A decent motel or hotel will cost at least $90. Many of the city’s hostels are in great locations, but only a few allow stays longer than a few nights. Whereas others have a nonstop party vibe.

Places to check out in the La-La-Land:

Head straight to the Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios, a theme park devoted to the art of film-making, offers the best insider’s glimpse into Hollywood. The park offers views into the actual back lots in addition to showcasing fantastic thrill coasters and extravagant parades. The Studio Tour immerses guests in the middle of meticulously reproduced sets from classic movies like King Kong and Jaws.

Shop at the Farmer’s Market

This area has a fantastic farmer’s market with lots of fresh bread, fruit, and vegetables. While you are there, you must also check out their mouthwatering food court. Furthermore, a movie theater and an outdoor retail center with all the big brands are close by. It’s a pleasant spot to pass the afternoon. While tasting some of the foods at the farmers market, you may also learn about its history.

Explore Downtown

Recently, there has been a total revitalization of downtown, including the construction of a brand-new pedestrian area. It now features museums, performance venues, theaters, and food establishments. Visit the Grand Central Market here if you just do one thing. Including the original Eggslut, it is home to more than 40 of downtown’s top food sellers.

Food options in Los Angeles:

Given its glamorous associations, it’s not surprising that LA is one of America’s culinary hotspots for fine dining. On the street, however, taquerias are the closest thing to indigenous LA cuisine. Vendors of East Asian cuisine and gourmet street carts have also experienced a recent boom. Numerous of the city’s more upscale eateries serve California cuisine. It combines French-inspired dishes with seasonal ingredients to create a flavorful brew that is the hallmark of top-notch LA dining.

Get your Flight Reservations to Los Angeles

If you are planning to visit this amazing city, you will need to book your flights reservations to Los Angeles.

There are many ways to find and book flights to Los Angeles, but one of the easiest and most convenient ways is to use online booking platforms. You can use websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or FaresMatch to compare different airlines, dates, prices, and routes and find the best deals for your trip. You can also filter your search by preferences like number of stops, duration, departure time, arrival time, or baggage allowance.

Some of the airlines that offer flights to Los Angeles are Delta Airlines, United Airlines, American Airlines, Air India, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and more. Book your flights directly on the airlines’ official websites or through online travel agent. You can also use your frequent flyer miles or points to redeem your flights or get discounts.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the main airport located in the city center. It is one of the busiest airports in the world and serves flights from over 300 destinations. You can also fly to other nearby airports like Burbank Airport (BUR), Long Beach Airport (LGB), or Ontario Airport (ONT), which may have cheaper or faster flights.

Once you have booked your flights reservations to Los Angeles, you can prepare for your trip by checking the visa requirements, packing your essentials, and planning your itinerary. You can also check-in online, print your boarding pass, and track your flight status using the airline’s app or website. You can also get travel insurance and Covid testing options through some airlines or their partners.

Some Money Saving tips to pen down:

Obtain ridesharing discounts

Bored and don’t want to ride the bus or spend money on a taxi? Opt for Uber and Lyft as they are the greatest ways to move around a city. The most cost-effective choice is the shared or pool option, which involves taking a journey with others.

Stay away from celebrity hangouts

The two places where you can see the most celebrities are Hollywood and Beverly Hills. These are also the places where you can spend the most money. Avoid shopping and dining there, even though it’s interesting to explore them!

Exchange hotel points

Before your trip, make sure to apply for hotel credit cards so you may redeem your points for accommodations. This is particularly beneficial in large places like LA where lodging is pricey. Use your points to gain free rooms here if you have a lot of them! If you have a car, be aware that most hotels have parking fees.

Conclusion:

To reach LA, you can quickly visit Delta Airlines Reservations and book flights for your entire squad. You may even ring them to enquire about the prices and recent vacation package deals.

Los Angeles is waiting for you with its endless attractions and experiences. Book your flights reservations to Los Angeles today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.