Category: Travel

Shimla is the beautiful capital of Himachal Pradesh and a popular destination for travelers seeking natural beauty, colonial charm, and adventure. Whether you’re planning a leisurely escape or an action-packed holiday, Shimla offers something for everyone. Here are some must-visit spots and activities in Shimla that should be on every traveler’s list. Plus, we’ll touch on how Himachal tour packages and Shimla tour packages can help make your trip seamless.

1. The Mall Road: Shimla’s Heartbeat

No trip to Shimla is complete without a stroll down the iconic Mall Road. This bustling stretch is the heart of Shimla, brimming with shops, cafes, and vibrant street vendors. As you wander along, you’ll encounter colonial-era buildings that add a nostalgic charm to the experience.

What to Do:

– Shopping: 

Pick up some local handicrafts, woolen garments, and souvenirs.

– Cafes: 

Take a break and enjoy a hot cup of tea or coffee at one of the many quaint cafes.

– Photography: 

Capture the essence of Shimla with the scenic backdrop of the mountains and heritage architecture.

2. The Ridge: A Panoramic Vista

Just at a stone’s throw from Mall Road, The Ridge is a spacious open area that offers stunning panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas. It’s a popular place for tourists and locals, especially during the summer festival and other cultural events. To make the most of your trip, consider opting for Shimla tour packages or Himachal tour packages.

What to Do:

– Sunset Views: 

Visit during the evening for breathtaking views as the sun sets behind the mountains.

– Christ Church: 

Make sure not to miss the opportunity to visit the second oldest church in North India, known for its neo-gothic architecture.

3. Kufri: A Slice of Adventure

A short drive from Shimla, Kufri is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. Known for its ski slopes and amusement parks, Kufri is the place to be if you’re looking to add some thrill to your trip.

What to Do:

– Skiing: 

If you’re visiting during winter, try your hand at skiing down the snowy slopes.

– Yak Rides: 

Experience a unique ride on a yak, a popular activity in Kufri.

– Himalayan Nature Park: 

Discover the region’s diverse plant and animal life, including rare species like the Himalayan Monal.

4. Jakhoo Temple: Touching the Skies

Perched atop Jakhoo Hill, the Jakhoo Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is one of the most visited temples in Shimla. The temple is famous for its towering Hanuman statue, which can be seen from various parts of the town.

What to Do:

– Trek to the Temple: 

The trek up the Jakhoo Hill is an experience in itself, offering mesmerizing views of the surrounding landscape.

– Monkey Encounters: 

Be prepared for some playful encounters with monkeys around the temple, as they are considered sacred here.

– Spiritual Experience: 

Spend some quiet time in the temple, soaking in the spiritual vibes.

5. Shimla State Museum: A Peek into History

For history buffs, the Shimla State Museum is a must-visit. Located on Mall Road, this museum showcases a rich collection of Himachal’s cultural heritage, including paintings, sculptures, and historical artifacts.

What to Do:

– Art Collection: 

Admire the Pahari miniatures and other traditional art forms.

– Museum Walk: 

Take a peaceful walk around the museum grounds, surrounded by lush greenery.

6. Annandale: A Green Retreat

Annandale is a charming meadow located about 4 kilometers from the city center. Once a playground for British officers, it now serves as a serene retreat for visitors.

What to Do:

– Golf Course: 

If you’re a golf enthusiast, you’ll be delighted to find a lush green golf course here.

– Army Heritage Museum: 

Visit the museum to learn about the military history of India, with a special focus on the role of the Indian Army in various wars.

7. Mashobra: A Peaceful Escape

If you’re looking for some quiet time away from the crowds, Mashobra is the perfect destination. Located about 13 kilometers from Shimla, this serene village offers beautiful landscapes and peaceful surroundings.

What to Do:

– Nature Walks: 

Take a leisurely walk through the dense cedar forests and apple orchards.

– Camping: 

Spend a night under the stars at one of the many camping sites.

– Adventure Sports: 

Engage in activities like zip-lining, rock climbing, and paragliding.

8. Tara Devi Temple: A Spiritual Respite

Situated on Tara Parvat, the Tara Devi Temple is another popular religious site near Shimla. The temple is for the goddess Tara. You can see the valley from there, and it looks really pretty.

What to Do:

– Temple Visit: 

Offer your prayers and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the temple.

– Trek: 

If you’re up for it, you can trek to the temple, which is an experience in itself.

9. Chadwick Falls: Nature’s Symphony

Located around 7 kilometers from Shimla, Chadwick Falls is a hidden gem that should be on your itinerary. The falls are surrounded by thick forests, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

What to Do:

– Waterfall Trek: 

The trek to the falls is a refreshing experience, with the sound of cascading water guiding your way.

– Picnic Spot: 

It’s an ideal spot for a picnic, where you can relax and soak in the natural beauty.

10. Take a Ride on the Toy Train: A Journey Back in Time

One of the most unique experiences in Shimla is taking a ride on the Kalka-Shimla Toy Train. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a journey through picturesque landscapes, tunnels, and bridges.

What to Do:

– Scenic Ride: 

Sit back and enjoy the stunning views of the mountains, valleys, and forests.

– Heritage Experience: 

Relish the old-world charm of this historical train ride, which dates back to the British era.

Planning Your Shimla Adventure

Exploring Shimla and its surrounding areas is a treat for any traveler. These packages are designed to provide you with a well-rounded experience, covering all the must-visit spots and activities while taking care of your travel and accommodation needs.

Conclusion

Shimla offers more than just a hill station experience; it’s a place where you can enjoy different things like its culture, spiritual retreats, adventurous escapades, and serene getaways. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends, Shimla has something special to offer everyone. 

Are you considering studying in France? Perhaps you’re exploring the idea of participating in a study abroad program in the country? Or maybe you’re contemplating completing your entire degree in France? Whatever your circumstances, we’re here to provide assistance. In this article, we will outline six compelling reasons to choose France as your study destination and elucidate what makes the nation an excellent choice for students.

Is it a good idea to study in another country?

Is pursuing studies in another country a wise decision? For many, studying abroad offers a fantastic chance to expand horizons, immerse in a new culture, and establish fresh connections—all while furthering university education! Engaging in academic pursuits in a foreign country can nurture confidence and hone problem-solving skills, which are invaluable both personally and professionally. For those interested in exploring further, there are plenty of informative resources available to delve into the topic of studying abroad, including articles that highlight the top European countries for academic pursuits.

Do I need to speak French to study in France?

In brief, the answer is both yes and no. The French aren’t renowned for their impeccable English proficiency, so possessing a basic understanding of French can prove incredibly beneficial. Being able to navigate tasks like ordering food, communicating with store attendants, and handling basic administrative duties in French is quite essential, albeit not overly challenging to grasp.

If you lack proficiency in French, don’t allow it to deter you from considering studying in France—instead, view it as an opportunity for growth. Numerous universities and business schools in France provide French language courses for students who are still acquiring fluency. Additionally, immersing oneself in a Francophone environment is undoubtedly the most effective method of learning.

6 Reasons to Study in France

International experience

At the top of the list of reasons to study in France lies a crucial yet broad point: international exposure. This aspect holds significance not only for studying in France but also for any foreign educational endeavor. Immersing yourself in a different country’s academic environment grants you invaluable international experience. This exposure fosters a fresh perspective, enhancing your understanding of cultural diversity and your ability to adapt to alternative ways of life. Consequently, studying abroad becomes an immensely enriching journey for personal growth.

Moreover, in today’s interconnected global landscape, international experience holds greater value than ever before. Employers actively seek professionals with such exposure, as it signifies a readiness to embrace growth, navigate uncertainties, and appreciate diverse backgrounds. Thus, the opportunity to acquire international experience alone serves as a compelling rationale for choosing France as a study destination.

Learning a new language

As previously mentioned, proficiency in French holds significant importance in France. Consequently, the country provides an excellent environment for individuals to challenge themselves in acquiring a new language, given the relatively limited opportunities to converse in English or one’s native language compared to other European nations where English is more prevalent. Additionally, numerous universities and business schools in France offer French language courses to their students.

Learning French offers myriad benefits. Firstly, it facilitates communication with the vast community of 300 million French speakers worldwide. Secondly, it proves advantageous in business and international relations, as French serves as a common working language in these fields. Thirdly, mastering French can facilitate the learning of other Romance languages such as Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, and Romanian. For further exploration of why learning French could be advantageous, one can refer to government resources like the article “10 good reasons to learn French.”

Tradition of high-quality education

France’s enduring tradition of providing high-quality education stands as another compelling reason to pursue studies in the country. Renowned institutions like Université Paris – Sorbonne and Sciences Po have rightfully earned their stellar reputations. However, France boasts numerous other top-ranking educational establishments across various disciplines. For instance, Panthéon – Assas University and Université Paris Nanterre are esteemed choices for law studies, while the Institut Français de la Mode ranks among the world’s premier institutions for fashion design education. Furthermore, France hosts some of the globe’s finest business schools, as elaborated below. With such a wealth of exceptional higher education institutions, the learning opportunities in France are unmatched.

Business opportunities

France emerges as one of the world’s most vibrant hubs for business opportunities, benefiting from access to the extensive European single market. Another compelling rationale for studying in France is the opportunity to acquaint oneself with French business practices, whether through academic pursuits or professional engagement. With several of the world’s top-tier business schools located in France, the country provides an ideal environment to kickstart one’s career. Institutions such as Skema Business School, EDHEC Business School, INSEAD Business School, and HEC Paris are renowned for their exceptional quality of education, international student diversity, and dynamic atmosphere.

For non-European students, the French government offers a temporary resident permit (autorisation provisoire de séjour) upon graduation, valid for one year, facilitating job search endeavors during this period. All things considered, France proves to be an excellent destination for those aspiring to pursue a career in business.

French culture

Undoubtedly, studying in another country encompasses more than just academics and career planning—immersing oneself in the host country’s culture and traditions is arguably even more enriching! In France, a plethora of cultural experiences awaits. Food and wine constitute integral facets of French culture, offering avenues to delve deeper into the country’s diverse regions and rich history. Beyond gastronomy, French culture encompasses art, fashion, history, literature, and a lifestyle emphasizing work-life balance.

While many may associate French culture predominantly with its capital city, Paris, it’s worth noting that each region of France boasts its own unique cultural heritage. Cities like Bordeaux, Lyon, and Marseille showcase distinct identities and are ripe for exploration. Furthermore, venturing into the countryside unveils another dimension of France’s charm.

In essence, immersing oneself in French culture can take myriad forms, each promising a rewarding adventure worth embarking upon.

Support for students in France

Last but certainly not least, another compelling reason to consider studying in France is the exceptional level of support provided to students. One of the most notable advantages of studying in France is that attending a public university typically incurs minimal tuition fees, if any! Public universities in France are largely tuition-free, with only a nominal administrative fee required.

While the cost of living in major French cities can be relatively high, the government and universities are dedicated to assisting students financially. To alleviate the burden of rent expenses, students can apply for “aide personnalisée au logement” and receive several hundred Euros per month in support. Additionally, most museums and cultural attractions either offer free admission or extend significant discounts to students. Moreover, university campuses serve as excellent hubs for accessing a wide range of resources, including psychological support, immigration advice, and more.

Conclusions

These six reasons underscore why studying in France can offer a highly rewarding experience. Whether it’s the opportunity to gain international exposure, immerse oneself in a rich cultural environment, access world-class education institutions, explore business opportunities, or benefit from extensive support for students, France presents an attractive destination for academic pursuits. We trust that this article has shed light on the compelling advantages of studying in France. Should you have any inquiries regarding studying abroad or require assistance in finding the ideal university, do not hesitate to reach out to our team of personal advisors.

As the third most populous city in the U.S., there is much this city has to offer. The shores of Lake Michigan are home to this Windy City and we love it as well. Let’s talk about some of the best parts of Chicago.

Skyscrapers and Intense Weather

Chicago is a huge city. If you do not like living in an urban area you will not like living in Chicago. A lot of people come here for that very reason though. You get the traditional city living but with some uniqueness compared to New York or Los Angeles. 

 

Part of this uniqueness is living in quite a northern city. New York is also a northern city however there is absolutely an explanation as to why this is considered the Windy City. Chicago is known for some of the most intense weather. Situated on Lake Michigan, the weather that comes off of that massive lake can be felt throughout the city. As beautiful as it is in summer it is just as cold and treacherous during the off-season.

 

However, you can assure commuting during any weather will be much simpler than its counterparts in Los Angeles and New York. Chicago is known for its reliable and efficient public transit systems. The train system is called the L and it connects folks to the main employment sections in downtown Chicago. There are more than 8 billion invested into public transit here. It shows that you get what you pay for.

Additionally, if you’re hoping to walk her bike, Chicago is one of the best places in the country to do so. The city is extremely walkable. Not only is it walkable, but it’s highly diverse. While you are on your adventures out downtown you can experience cultures from all over the world.

Friendly and Diverse Folks

Chicago was one of the fastest-growing cities in its first 100 years. Currently, it is one of the most racially diverse cities in the country. They also have the third largest LGBTQ+ population in the city. It’s also quite true what they say of those in the mid-west, they are some of the kindest folks to ever welcome you in their town. 

 

Incorporated in 1837, it is home to some of the most famous people in our recent history. Its earliest years included booming industries for steel mills and shipping yards. Newly emancipated African Americans. Blacks worked in steel mills, railroads, and shipping yards. This later became known as the machine politics era. It cemented Chicago as a cornerstone of black American progress. Many black communities were established here on the South Side for decades before the Civil Rights Movement.

 

Music, Art, and Architectural Hub

Chicago has a renowned public art scene – showcasing some of the country’s largest collections of monuments, sculptures, mosaics, and paintings. Many of these have shaped the city’s entire architectural landscape. Some of these works date back to the 1880s. It is another pointed example of things to admire on your travels downtown. 

 

For those popping into the city to search for Chicago apartments for rent, it’s vital to know where you can bring family and friends when they visit your new hometown. Some of the most popular spots for entertainment are the Lincoln Park Zoo, The Garfield Park Conservatory, and the Museum of Science and Industry.

 

And if you’re looking to entertain, doing so during the summer months will be much easier as the Chicago River flows through downtown and hosts countless events throughout the year. But it’s best experienced during the warm summer months. The Riverwalk on the River Theatre is an essential destination to get the complete experience of Chicago.

RV roof replacement cost varies depending on the material used, brand and installation process. For example, EPDM rubber roofing costs $4 to $8 per square foot. This cost does not include the installation cost, which varies depending on whether you do the work yourself or hire a roofing contractor. In the last 40 years, the number of RVs has skyrocketed.

EPDM rubber

Compared to TPO and PVC roofs, EPDM rubber roofs have a longer lifespan and do not require heavy maintenance. This type of rubber roofing also resists fire and UV rays. Another advantage of EPDM rubber roofs is their low cost. EPDM rubber is not affected by freeze-and-thaw cycles or standing water.

The cost of an EPDM rubber roof can vary from $4 to $8 per square foot, depending on its brand and quality. These prices do not include installation costs, which can be between $350 and $450. However, you can save money by installing the roof yourself.

TPO

The cost of replacing an RV roof with TPO is about $1,250 to $1,500 for a 250 square foot area. This price does not include the protective coating or installation materials. Fiberglass roofing is also popular, as it costs less to install and requires less maintenance. It is also resistant to heavy rain and hail.

A TPO roof is a durable material that is available at any home improvement store or RV repair shop. The material is between 40 and 100 millimeters thick. The TPO formula is not standardized; instead, different manufacturers create slightly different formulas for the same applications.

PVC

PVC RV roofing is an excellent choice for a variety of reasons. Not only does it prevent leaks and other damage, it also has a non-prorated warranty and is highly reflective, reducing cooling costs. Additionally, there are no black streaks, spots, or caulking that can occur with other types of roofing materials.

The downside to this type of roof is that it requires more maintenance and is less durable than a traditional roof. The spray-on rubber coating tends to crack and leak more easily and requires more frequent repairs. In addition, the cost of labor and materials is higher than that of a traditional roof. While the replacement can protect your RV from damages and leaks, it can be an expensive project if you don’t know what to look for. Therefore, it is important to compare different options and find a contractor who offers a competitive rate.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass RV roofs are often the preferred choice for recreational vehicles because they are lightweight and do not corrode like metal. However, regular maintenance is required for a fiberglass roof to stay in top condition. Fiberglass roofs can last anywhere between ten and twenty years, but the roof must be maintained regularly to avoid damage.

First, the roof should be thoroughly cleaned. The old roof should be removed, along with any fixtures and sealant. In addition, the old roofing material should be peeled back, exposing the plywood structure underneath. On top of that, you should also remove any old panels and silicone caulking.

 

Mumbai, a lively, cosmopolitan metropolis that has thrived for decades, is one of the country’s primary hubs for art, culture, music, dance, and theatre. Enjoy your journey to the city by booking a hotel at the JW Marriot Juhu. Everything is woven into the fabric of the city, giving it a particular personality. From wannabe performers to Bolly celebrities, major corporations to tribes of fishermen and slum dwellers, Mumbai is a city rich of stories from all walks of life. Let’s help you out with everything about the city and help you stay in the most affordable resorts in Mumbai.

Everything becomes absorbed into the city’s fabric, making it uniquely its own. Mumbai is a city that proudly boasts of stories from many walks of human life, from rising performers attempting to make it big on the silver screen to Bolly celebrities to major businessmen to tribes of fisherman and slum dwellers.

Mumbai, one of the country’s major centres for art, culture, music, dance, and theatre, is a vibrant, cosmopolitan metropolis that has thrived for years on the indomitable spirit of Mumbaikars.

When to visit Mumbai?

Mumbai is best visited between October and February, when the weather is nice and great for touring and exploration. The temperature varies from 10 and 35 degrees Celsius at this time. During the monsoon season, from June to September, Mumbai receives a lot of rain. The temperature fluctuates between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. Monsoon is the best season to visit Mumbai for a hike over the neighbouring hills, which are at their greenest and have spectacular waterfalls cascading down. Summer in Mumbai is not a good season to come since it is excessively hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 38 degrees Celsius.

Mumbai’s culinary scene

Mumbai is known for its culinary diversity, among other things. You may either spend INR 20 on two spicy, excellent vada pavs or a plate of steaming, hot idlis, or INR 6000 on an exquisite Japanese lunch at Wasabi, Taj. Mumbai has more restaurants than any other Indian city, offering a diverse range of international cuisines. There’s also a great combination of north and south Indian cuisines.

South Indian cuisine

What started out as a tiffin in British India — a tiny meal consumed in between meals — has spread across the country. This is particularly true in Mumbai, which is famed for its toil. A South Indian tiffin is offered every half-kilometer, at any time of day or night. You can have some of the greatest idlis and vadas around. How could you forget to order a paper-thin dosa with hot sambhar?

If you are not a Mumbaikar, you should not miss Vada Batata. Batata Vada is a breakfast, lunch, or tea meal that can be served hot or cold. It goes well with coriander chutney and plenty of green peppers. It is available on the streets of Mumbai as well as in hotels.

Sandwich from Bombay

The Bombay sandwich is a buttered white bread sandwich with an unusual blend of ingredients. There are several ingredients in these sandwiches. They add onions, tomatoes, and paneer. Some restaurants often put a lot of cheese on top to make it appear more appealing.

Maska bun

Bread and butter are an unbeatable combination, which is why this dish is so popular. It’s made using Mumbai’s local bread, Brun or gutless pao, which has a crispy-hard, crumbly outside but is incredibly soft on the interior. The brun is chopped and smeared with butter. There may be a hint of sweetness in some sections. It’s typically served with chai (tea). Try dipping Brun maska in tea if you’re not from Mumbai.

Puri Bhel

It is, without a doubt, Mumbai’s “Chaat.” It’s a dish that each ‘bhel walla’ will create in their own special way, with an unparalleled taste combination. The dish is made with simple yet wonderful ingredients like puffed rice.

Mayo chicken roll

And here’s something we’ve known since kindergarten. Boiling chicken with sweet mayonnaise and celery leaf is wrapped in a bread roll to make the Chicken Mayo Roll. It’s so well-known that it’s even broadcast during commercial breaks! This spice-loving metropolis appreciated this dish as much as any other local specialty, and it can be found in posh grocery stores and bakeries.

Pattice ragda

In this dish, ragda and pattice are blended. To make a tangy, mouth-watering meal, crush the ragda with the patties and chopped onions. It is one of Mumbai’s most popular dishes. People enjoy eating it for breakfast and as an evening snack.

Faluda

Faluda is a rich drink based on a Persian dessert brought to India by the Mughals. With ice cream on top, it’s made with vermicelli, milk, dried fruits, rose syrup (optional), and sabza or basil seeds. On a hot, dry day, it’s something you’d select to refresh and revive oneself.

Poli Puran

It’s commonly made at home by mixing chana dal (yellow gramme) with sugar (gur) and drying it. Manual grinding is then used to smooth it out. Cardamom powders and other spices are added to enhance the flavour. The dough is then formed into little balls and inserted into the mixture. These balls are then fried on a flat pan.

Bhaat Varan

If you had to pick one dish from Mumbai that truly satisfied your soul, this would be it. To produce this simple and humble meal, cooked toor dal (a lentil) is gently tempered with ghee (clarified butter), turmeric, and cumin powder. When poured over steaming hot rice or bhaat, it takes on magical, legendary proportions.

Frankie

Like its name implies, Frankie is made with excellent naan bread with an egg topping that is stuffed with mutton or chicken and then wrapped up. A special combination of spices is sprinkled on top to enhance the tastes. In the vegetarian version, the stuffing is made with paneer or potatoes instead of eggs. This well-known and well-loved delicacy was inspired by the Lebanese pita bread wrap. It’s a quick and delectable snack that’s often eaten on the go.

Conclusion

So, without further ado, choose what you want and treat your taste buds to some of Mumbai’s tastiest dishes. If you’re planning a vacation to the city, you should sample this dish to round out your experience. Mumbai is a foodie’s paradise, and you must sample each cuisine to make your vacation even more unforgettable. Don’t forget to visit the rest of the city and try other delicacies you didn’t realise were available. Book your stay at the most affordable resorts in Mumbai and enjoy your vacation. 

Lombok is one of the tourist destinations in Indonesia, which is famous for its marine beauty. Even the popularity of Lombok has reached the ears of all over the world. Therefore, many international travelers are willing to spend their money to enjoy the underwater panorama of Lombok. Some of the places below are the best snorkeling spots in Lombok to witness the underwater wonders.

• Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan is the most popular dyke in Lombok. Gili Trawangan is precisely located in North Lombok. This place is one of my favorite snorkeling spots because there are many fish, coral reefs, and various marine life here. In addition, here you will also find turtles and barracuda animals. If you stop by Gili Trawangan, snorkeling is a mandatory activity that should not be missed.

• Gili Meno

Another best snorkeling spot in Lombok is Gili Meno, which is adjacent to Gili Trawangan. In addition to marine life, this place is also a habitat for turtles. Here, you will also find beautiful corals. Gili Meno is the right choice for those who want to enjoy tranquility because the atmosphere is not too crowded.

Although not as busy as Gili Trawangan, you will easily find accommodation for a staycation for a few days. To get to Gili Meno, you can travel from Bangsal Harbor or take a snorkeling trip usually provided on Gili Trawangan.

• Gili Air

Gili Air is also the best snorkeling section in Lombok. This place holds the title of snorkeling paradise. The calm atmosphere is also very friendly for children. If you want to explore Gili Air, you can only use cidomo or ride a bicycle. The location of Gili Air is close to Gili Trawangan and Gili Meno. Snorkeling here will give you a pleasant sensation.

• Gili Nanggu

If you are in West Lombok, go to Gili Nanggu for snorkeling. Gili Air is even called a private island that has soft white sand. Gili Nanggu is popular because of its very exotic and beautiful marine tourism. So make sure you stop by here while on vacation to Lombok.

• Gili Rengit

It takes two hours from Mataram to get to Gili Rengit. Gili Rengit is one of the recommended snorkeling spots in Lombok. If you want to save on your vacation budget, you can go in groups because one boat costs 250,000 to 300,000. The capacity of the ship is ten people per trip.

Besides having beautiful views, Gili Rengit Island provides various facilities such as toilets, minibars, bungalows, and restaurants. The sea currents on Gili Rengit are also relatively calm, so you can enjoy the beauty of the sea safely and comfortably.

• Gili Layar

Another option to explore the underwater beauty of Lombok is snorkeling on Gili Layar. You can do the best snorkeling in Lombok here, which is 25 km from Lembar Harbor. The journey from Lembar Harbor to Gili Layar will take approximately 30 minutes. Arriving here, you will be greeted with exotic white sand and clear sea water.

• Gili Kondo

One of the best snorkeling in Lombok is Gili Kondo. This Gili is an island with a stretch of white sand with spectacular views. Gili Kondo is located in Sambelia District and is adjacent to Gili Bindara. The location is 50 km north of Selong. Access to Gili Kondo is quite easy, you can choose either the land route or the sea route. If you choose the sea route, you can use a wooden boat. During the trip, you will be treated to views of the vast forest to the backdrop of Mount Rinjani, which spoils the eyes.

• Gili Kedis

Gili Kedis can be reached within 1.5 hours from Lombok International Airport or Mataram city center. Although this dyke is relatively small and only has a few trees with scattered sand, the underwater beauty is simply amazing. The sea water is very clear so you can see fish and other marine animals clearly.

• Gili Petagan

Gili Petagan is a snorkeling spot in East Lombok. There is a mangrove forest which is a relic of the Japanese occupation. Try here to enjoy the sensation of unspoiled underwater beauty in Lombok.

Planning to visit Bali soon? Find out more about Bali and Indonesia by visiting Wonderful Indonesia.

In recent years, the city of Batam has become one of the popular tourist destinations in the Riau Islands. As a port city, Batam has a strategic position because international trade routes pass it. In addition, this city also has a close distance and is directly adjacent to two countries in Southeast Asia, which are Malaysia and Singapore.

The development of tourism in Batam and its surroundings is very rapid. Its location close to Singapore makes Batam one of the tourist destinations for Singaporeans on vacation.

Not only natural attractions in the form of beautiful and enchanting beaches, but Batam also has other tourist attractions that are worth visiting. Read more about the places you can visit if you are in Batam!

1. Barelang Bridge

This is the icon of the most popular city of Batam. The original name of this bridge is not Barelang. Barelang is an abbreviation of Batam-Rempang-Galang. The last two names are the two islands connected by this bridge.

Barelang Bridge consists of six bridges. The six bridges are Tengku Fisabilillah Bridge (bridge I) as the largest bridge; Nara Lion Bridge (bridge II); Raja Ali Haji Bridge (bridge III); Sultan Zainal Abidin Bridge (bridge IV); Tuanku Tambusai Bridge(V bridge); and the Raja Kecik Bridge (bridge VI). These bridges connect several islands, namely Batam, Watch, Nipah, Rempang, Galang, and Galang Baru.

Tengku Fisabilillah Bridge is the most popular bridge of all the bridges because of its unique shape and is a tourist destination visiting Batam. Besides being known as the Barelang Bridge, this bridge is often called the Habibie Bridge because it was pioneered by the former President of Indonesia B.J Habibie.

2. Sea Forest Adventure

Located in Nuvasa Bay, Nongsa, Sea Forest Adventure with ​​10 hectares is the prima donna of new tourist attractions for Batam residents and local and foreign tourists. This place is suitable for spending time with family. The facilities in it are also very complete.

Sea Forest Adventure has the Aqua Adventure Track, a floating water park facility that is really fun! You can also try various watersports in this place, such as kayaking, jet-skiing, parasailing, and others.

Several activities, such as paintball, archery, tracking, and mangrove tours, are also provided for those of you who want to enjoy them.

3. Hill of Smiles

Seeing the city of Batam from a height to activities at the port with boats going back and forth, you can do it from Smile Hill, located in Batu Aji, Batam. Not only that, but you can also see Singapore with clear visible, from this hill.

Smile Hill is also a favorite place to enjoy the sparkling night in the city of Batam and Singapore from a height. Yes, at night, the view is much more beautiful. You can also go on a culinary tour with several cafes around the hill.

4. Batam Forest Top

If travel to the beach is too mainstream in Batam, you need to try a tourist spot that challenges your adrenaline when traveling to the city. Try visiting Batam Forest Top in the Bukit Dangas area, Sekupang. Here you can try out various exciting outbound games and play close to nature.

Some of the outbound games offered by Batam Forest Top include Tarzan Swing, Cargo Net, Tandem Rope, X-Walk, Zig-Zag Line, Flying Fox, and so on.

5. Vietnamese Village

Batam also keeps the history of the past. If you want a historical tour in Batam, come to Kampung Vietnam, located on Galang Island. Through the Barelang Bridge, you can get to the island and see various relics in Kampung Vietnam.

In the past, when Vietnam experienced a civil war, many of its citizens fled. Many of the Vietnamese eventually arrived in Batam and settled there. Residential houses, places of worship, prisons, cemeteries and even museums and monuments were built there.

Now the 80 hectare village is no longer inhabited. However, various relics of Vietnamese citizens who eventually returned to their country after the war were still well preserved.

6. Waterboom Queen Garden

Batam also has an exciting water boom, you know! You can enjoy various water rides in this place with your family. Only slides until there are 10!

For adults, an Olympic pool is provided with a depth of about 2 meters. As for the children, there is a unique swimming pool as well. If you just want to take a relaxing dip in the current pool, you can do that too! Waterboom Queen Garden is located in the Bengkong area, Batam.

7. Tanjung Pinggir Beach

Located in the Sekupang area, Batam, this beach allows you to feel the charm of enjoying the sea, which is the national border between Indonesia and Singapore. From the beach, you can see a view of the Singapore landscape with its high-rise buildings from a distance. If you want to feel the beach in calm conditions, it’s a good idea to visit it early in the morning because this beach will be crowded from 08.00 AM onwards.

8. Abang Island

For those who like snorkeling, Abang Island is a tourist destination in Batam that should not be missed. The waves are calm, so even those of you who can’t swim can enjoy snorkeling in the middle of the sea safely and comfortably. The clear water conditions allow you to see various marine life in it, from coral reefs to beautiful small fish like Nemo.

Planning to visit Batam soon? Find out more about Batam and Indonesia by visiting Wonderful Indonesia.

Booking a flight suitable to your needs can be tricky. Especially with so many flight options out there, you might be wondering which flight to book. While flying early comes with a sacrifice, they can prove to be very advantageous. Mentioned in this post are some of the main benefits of an early morning flight. Keep reading.

You don’t like travelling early in the morning? Well, you could be missing out on a lot of things. There are many reasons you should only book an early morning flight. While getting up at 4 AM is a challenging task for many, the comfort of a smooth sailing flight and a less crowded airport can make it worth your while. Let us see the advantages of flying early.

• On-time Departures: Early morning flights usually have on-time departures and arrivals. This is due to two main reasons
  1. Decreased Air traffic: Airspace is less likely to be crowded in the morning since all the previous flights have landed for the night.
  2. First Round of the Flight: Most flights, especially short-haul flights, make multiple rounds between the airports in a day. Early morning flights are usually the first flights out, which leave little room for delays.
• Less turbulence: This is for those who have a fear of flying. Several factors can cause turbulence in flight. Jet streams cause sudden wind change that can rock a plane. While the pilot has little control over jet stream turbulence, you can try to avoid thermal turbulence by flying early. Thermal turbulence is usually created by the rising hot air coming from clouds or thunderstorms. These are more common during the afternoon since it is the hottest time of the day. Hence, by flying early when the air is comparatively cooler, the flight may experience less turbulence.
• Cleaner flights and Airport: If you are a frequent flyer, you might have noticed that both flights and the airports are cleaner in the early morning. This is due to several reasons;
  1. Most airports are cleaned at night after the last flight lands.
  2. Children are unlikely to be on early morning flights.
  3. Since there are no delayed flights, the airport will also have lesser people that are littering around.

So if you are a stickler for cleanliness and hygiene, flying early in the morning is your cup of tea.

1. Cheaper Air Tickets: While flying in the morning has several benefits, not many people are inclined to lose their precious morning sleep for it. Hence, air tickets are usually cheaper for the early morning flights compared to the flight fare for the rest of the day. You can couple this advantage with your Airmiles from your travel loyalty program to earn exciting offers or get cheap international plane tickets.
2. Less crowded: If you want to enjoy the airport and flight experience, early morning flights are the best way to go. Not many people want to wake up at 3 AM to catch their flight, so the airports and flights are usually less crowded in the early morning. You can also use the airport lounge and enjoy its services without getting disturbed by children running around everywhere.

Besides the reasons mentioned above, flying with early morning flights also gives you more time at your destination. This is beneficial when you are flying for travel and leisure purposes. While losing sleep to catch a flight is a sacrifice, the benefits of an early morning flight can be worth it. Besides, who does not enjoy a smooth sailing flight without any hindrance!