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October 8, 2018 Travel

4 Proven Tips To Make Your Group Travel Special

It is that time of the year again when you might be thinking about going on a vacation. Would you be able to enjoy your trip alone? No, right. Then why not take some of your best friends with you or take your family with you on a group travel extravaganza. There is no denying the travelling alone has its advantages but travelling with your best friends is an experience that stays with you for decades.

Secondly, you can reap the benefits of inclusive prices for everything from meals, accommodation, flights, cultural experiences and itineraries. This translates into significant cost savings. In addition to this, you get an opportunity to meet with more people. On the downside, you are restricted to places where your travel agent want you to go and you can not choose your own places and activities.

To enjoy your #grouptravel fully, here are four proven tips you should use when you are travelling.

Know Your Group

This tip works best if your group includes strangers who you did not know. Introduce yourself and strike a casual conversion with your group member. Look for common interests as it is the basis of friendship. Share your experiences with them and ask them to do the same. This way both can learn new things, but it will bring you closer to one another.

When you come back from your trip, you always want to bring fond memories of the people you met and places you visit but that would only happen if you befriend with all your group members. Remember that every individual has different preferences, so they might not like what you love. You will have to learn to deal with. You never know if one of your group members becomes one of your best buddies in the future.

Communicate with Group Members

“Communication leads to community, that is, to understanding, intimacy and mutual valuing.”—Rollo May

We all have been in situations where there is pin-drop silence in the room and everyone is busy playing with their smartphone and not talking to each other. There is nothing worse for a group travelling together than this. Break the ice and ask all your team members to share their experiences and preferences. This will give you a lot of insights about that person so the next time you approach them for a conversion, you know what to talk about. Give equal opportunities for everyone to voice their opinion and listen to each group member carefully.

Patience is Key

“Patience is not simply the ability to wait – it’s how we behave while we’re waiting.”—Joyce Meyer

When you are travelling with a group of individuals, you will have to show patience. You will have to bear things that you want when you are travelling alone. For instance, you are travelling to a museum and your art-loving friend doesn’t want to leave because he is busy exploring the masterpieces in the museum. On the other hand, you have no interest in them. You will have to wait for him to come out of the museum before you can make your way back to your hotel.

Going on a Dubai city tour means that you will have to deal with all kinds of people including kids. They might get on your nerves, but you will have to be patient and deal with it. In most cases, there is always one group member who becomes a pain in the neck for you and constantly keep annoying you, but you must show patience and should never react to what they are saying or doing. In short, you need a completely different mindset on group travel. You should know how to control your anger otherwise group travel might not be the right choice for you.

Always Have A Backup Plan

There is no denying the fact that group tours are well planned but what if you don’t want to go to a dhow cruise marina dinner where all other group members are going. You should have a backup plan ready. A backup plan can come in handy in case of airport transfer as a large group tends to forget the airport gate numbers to entry and assembly points. You should also consider renting a recreational vehicle for group commutes. The level of pleasure your group can have on these vehicles is well worth the cost you are paying to rent it.

Which is the best tip you received for group travel? Feel free to share it with us in the comments section below.

October 5, 2018 Travel, Round the world

Top 7 Things to keep in mind while travelling to Dubai

Dubai is one of the favorite destinations in the world perfect for all types of holidays. Be it an adventure escape, a romantic interlude, or a fun-filled family holiday, Dubai welcomes each and every guest with plentiful options in sightseeing, adventure sports, and remarkable recreational experiences. However, as with any destination, one must take into consideration certain facts for a comfortable travel experience and understand what is unlawful and what can seem offensive to the locals of that particular destination. As the famous saying goes ’When in Rome, do as the Romans do, in Dubai, you need to follow it sternly in order to have a pleasant vacation. It is essential to follow rules in Dubai as the emirate is also highly influenced by Islamic laws. If you are traveling to Dubai for the first time, here are some essential points you should keep in mind before you apply for a Dubai visa online and plan your holiday trip.

Keep in mind the best time to visit Dubai

Dubai, a desert land is mostly known for its monotonous climate. It is mostly hot throughout the year with temperatures spiking up during summer months. In short, the weather is typically hot or hotter. It is essential to do your homework on when to visit Dubai as its summer months are unbearably scorching. Climate change can be particularly agonizing if you are used to cooler climates. Plan your visit between October and April when the temperature descends to a pleasant warmth. This is the time when you wouldn’t have to face the harsh heat of the desert and can indulge in outdoor activities without worrying about sunstroke. Other months of the year in Dubai witness a sharp slash in prices and can feel like a good time for a budget-friendly holiday, but then you would have to spend most of your days in Dubai indoors, getting away from the sweltering sun.

Book your services in advance

The mellowed weather in Dubai from October to April allures hordes of tourists which makes it the peak season period of Dubai tourism. This is also the period when Dubai gears up for its annual festivals and events to entertain its guests and capture more tourists’ influx during its high season. This is why you would need to book hotels, flight tickets, and restaurant reservations in advance to avoid any disappointments on your holiday. If you have a particular hotel or resort in mind where you would prefer to spend your stays in Dubai, you need to keep a lookout for availability as most popular hotels get sold out swiftly for peak seasons. Hence, it would be better if you book your hotel stays three to four months before your travel date to avoid any inconvenience. Flights also get full and tickets are sold out quickly during cooler months. The same goes for high-end and popular restaurants where it wouldn’t be easy to make a spontaneous reservation on the night you prefer to dine at your choice of swanky fine dining restaurant during the bustling tourist season in Dubai.

You may like to read 5 Tourist attractions in Dubai

Strict laws against drug use

The United Arab Emirates has one of the longest lists of banned substances in the world and it has an absolutely zero-tolerance policy against drug use. One main traveling to Dubai rule is that drugs are strictly prohibited and not allowed within the emirate. You could land in serious trouble if you are caught with traces of drugs on you. There have been cases where unaware visitors have been detained just for having poppy seeds scattered on clothing and bags. Even if someone is not in possession of narcotics, having traces of drugs in urine or blood testing also accounts as “possession” under UAE law. Even certain medicines are listed under drugs and you would require a doctor’s prescription to carry them with you while entering Dubai. Hence one of the important things to know about Dubai before visiting is its list of banned goods and drugs. If found guilty, you may have to pay a hefty sum as a penalty or be sentenced to jail.

Respect the culture and locals

Dubai being an Islamic destination has a conservative cultural scene. There are certain norms and customs you should take into consideration while visiting Dubai which in turn will benefit you to have a hassle-free Dubai trip. Always consider the comfort of the locals around you; irking them and a complaint to the local police against you can attract trouble for you. Dubai does not encourage loud noises, music, and processions on streets and public areas. Stay away from swearing and public display of affection even as little as holding hands in public as these are considered offensive to locals. While taking photographs in public places, it is better to ask permission to avoid any unnecessary issues. Taking photographs of locals, especially of women without consent, any government buildings, airports, and military sections can land you in trouble with the authorities.

Dress modestly.

Dress Code For Dubai in religious places

Dubai does not have a strict dress code but it is essential that visitors dress modestly to avoid any problems. Women travelers should be aware of what to wear and which apparel is considered inappropriate in Dubai. Apart from certain hotels and designated spots, it is essential to cover shoulders and knees, especially in public arenas. Men too are not allowed to roam shirtless or in sleeveless attires. While visiting a mosque, women should cover their heads and the attire should cover their legs. It is best to carry a shawl or a cardigan among the things you need for a Dubai city tour if you are not sure of the dress code at public spots and malls.

Be careful where you are drinking alcohol

Unlike other emirates of the UAE, Dubai doesn’t have strict bans on consuming alcohol. But there are restrictions on when and where to drink. In Dubai alcohol is allowed in designated restaurants, private clubs, and hotels that have a license to serve alcohol. Even if you plan to have a drink with your friends and chill at a licensed hotel or bar, you should not leave the premises in a drunken state as public drunkenness is an offense in Dubai. Dubai is very strict about drunk driving and consuming liquor in public areas and beaches. Publicly consuming alcohol can lead to six months of imprisonment and heavy penalties.

Show respect during Ramadan month

It is probably best to avoid visiting Dubai during Ramadan month as it is very little you can explore and experience during that period. If you are planning to visit Dubai during Ramadan month, you have to consider following the customs of Ramadan month which mainly involve not eating or chewing in public during fasting hours. The locals practice fasting for a month between sunrise and sunset and everyone irrespective of religion is bound to respect the custom by not eating and drinking in public. Most of the restaurants will be closed during this time, some remain open behind closed screens. However, it is best to refrain from eating in public and respect the traditions of the holy Ramadan month.

Hey Friends, I am Shivam Khandelwal. I am a restless soul. The only time I am sitting still is when I am reviewing all the various places I’ve traveled. Yes, I love to travel, shop, eat good food, and write about it. I am truly living a blessed life and will continue to share my experiences with you. Let’s stay in touch!

September 26, 2018 Round the world, Travel

Top California Cities for a Family Vacation

Finding the perfect destination for your next family vacation isn’t always easy. On top of having literally thousands of places to choose from, you must find a spot that encompasses a little of something for everyone to enjoy. Whether that’s relaxing by the pool, building sand castles at the beach, experiencing the thrill of theme-park rides, or exploring museums, malls, and local shops, finding it all in one place isn’t always easy. That is unless you head to sunny California. With family-friendly destinations like San Diego, Carlsbad, San Francisco, and more, the opportunities for family fun are endless. Take a look at some of the most popular cities in California for your next getaway with the kids.

Long Beach, CA

If you’re looking for a quiet and more tranquil place to travel to, then Long Beach, CA is a great place to visit. A lot less crowded than nearby Los Angeles, the beach town is the ideal place to relax and explore. There is a 5-acre Aquarium where children can view more than 10,000 ocean creatures with the otters being the most popular attraction. There’s also the Long Beach Museum of Art, Museum of Latin Art, Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden, and more. Positioned just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Disneyland, there’s a lot to see and do.

Carlsbad, CA

If there’s any city you need to travel to in California, it’s Carlsbad. Though most families visit Carlsbad for its closeness to Legoland (an awesome theme park and museum worth checking out by the way), there are a ton of other exciting things for you to get into. There are beaches to explore, a seaside village filled with mini shops and eateries, an interactive music museum, and a breathtaking field of flowers worth gazing at.

San Diego, CA

If it’s adventure you’re after than San Diego is exactly where you want to be. As the second largest city in California, there is no shortage of things to do there. The city has more than 75 miles of beaches. Black beach is great for surfing, while Mission beach always has a ton of family-friendly activities and laid back restaurants for your dining pleasure. Obviously, you can’t talk about this city without bringing up the awesome San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld. The whole family will have fun viewing exhibits of animals from all over the world on land and sea.

San Francisco, CA

Another popular California city worth taking the family to is San Francisco. Packed with playgrounds, recreational centres, coffee shops, and more, there’s something for kids (and their parents) to enjoy. You can take a walk down memory lane by visiting The Walt Disney Museum, catch of glimpse of sea lions and public performers at Pier 39, explore the world of science at the Exploratorium, or simply explore the natural wonders and sites at the Golden Gate Park.

Lake Tahoe, CA

Last, but certainly not least on the list of family-friendly destinations to travel in California is Lake Tahoe. If you’re a family who enjoys the great outdoors, camping, and wildlife, you’ll love this scene. In the winter, the kids can have fun learning cool winter sports like skiing on Heavenly Mountain, one of the area’s tallest mountaintops. There’s also zip lining, tubing, a gondola, and rope courses for the perfect outdoor experience. The area also has more than 75 miles of shorelines so there’s no shortage of beaches for those awesome summer getaways.

As you can see, there are a lot of places you can take your family to the great state of California. From winter sports and campgrounds with scenic views to miles of shorelines and amazing beaches and outdoor theme parks and zoos packed with wildlife, there’s something for everyone. Hopefully, the above ideas have helped you to narrow down your options. Whether you plan on taking the trip next summer or you’re reserving a mini getaway for the winter break and holiday season, there’s a lot of fun to be had in Sunny California.

September 17, 2018 Food, Travel

Different Types of Foods You Can Carry during Train Journey

If you are making long train journey you need to carry tiffin boxes if you want to avoid food from the train. Those are an additional burden, right? You can anytime have the foods on the train during your journey. Still, there are certain things you can carry with you to avoid the boredom of journey. Even if you are making the inter-state journey, you can carry small things, like fruits, chocolates, etc. Long train journeys are really boring. The excitement of vacation vanishes within a few hours. And you start counting the time of your arrival at the destination. Munching interesting foods can make it interesting. No, you don’t need to carry an extra luggage for that. Just have a handbag, full of small items and a book. Your train journey can be awesome.

What can you take with you on your train journey?

Read on to know more

Fruits

They can be your best friend while travelling by train. There are many people who can’t have anything as they nauseate due to the jerking of the vehicle. Fruits can keep you away from that. Also, they are quite appetizing and makes you full for hours. Remember, you should not carry cut fruits. Take an apple or guava and munch them in between your journey. Avoid carrying banana as that may get rotten or mashed in your bag.

Chocolates

For little appetite, a box full of chocolates can be interesting. Buy different types of chocolates and toffee and fill the box with them. It will also look interesting. When you feel bored during your journey, grab a chocolate bar and munch it. You will feel better.

Snack Bars

They are nutritious and keeps you full for longer. For your short hunger pangs, snack bars are really awesome. You can go for granola bars which contain honey, raisins, almonds, walnuts, and brown sugar. These are good for those who are on the weight-loss regime. You can carry a few with you in an air-tight container.

Snacks

Chips, popcorn, etc. are fun food. For evening snacks, you can carry a few packets too. If you want to go healthy, go for banana wafers. You will also find baked goods where little oil is used or sometimes they are oil-free. For a healthy journey, you can carry a few packets of those too.

Sandwiches

While carrying in a journey, you better take a grilled sandwich, otherwise, it can have a foul smell. Wrap in aluminium foil and then place it in an air-tight container. It will be as it is for a long time. The sandwich is loved by all and you can have them for lunch, dinner or breakfast, whenever you want.

Cookies and Cupcakes

They are easy to carry. You can take them in a container or just stuff your bag with few packets. If you want to make cakes, go for muffins.

So, there are certain types of food on a train to carry. Whatever you carry, make sure they are a dry element. Soft and gooey things get rotten faster.

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