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Top 5 Beaches of San Francisco that Best Reflect the City’s Refreshing Splendour

san-francisco Beaches of San Francisco are among the best places to enjoy the summer time in the Bay City. Often covered by fog, the beaches offer a cool retreat away from the chaotic metropolitan ambience of the city. Spending a day at these beaches ensures a memorable experience of one’s trip to San Francisco. Check out five must-visit beaches in this endearing Californian city.

Ocean Beach

This is perhaps the most popular beach in San Francisco. During summers, Ocean Beach becomes a hot spot among locals and tourists alike. Visit in the morning for a jog here and to watch anglers fish in the Pacific waters. Generally, the water here is quite cold and not apt for swimming, but the occasional sunny day promises a great sunbathing experience.

Stinson Beach

If you are looking for recreational opportunities by a beach, Stinson should be on your list. You can visit this beach anytime of the year but when it comes to swimming, hit the waters between May and September. During these months lifeguards are present at the beach.

China Beach

China-Beach China Beach is a small cove but quite popular for providing staggering views of the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the most iconic attractions in San Francisco. It is among the quietest beaches in the city and has emerged as a prime choice amongst honeymooners. Swimming is not too safe due to currents and rip tides.

Muir Beach

Its pristine surrounds and spellbinding scenery make for a relaxed paradise in San Francisco. Besides beachcombers, a large number of hikers also visit Muir Beach to enjoy a hike to Tennessee Cove via Coyote Ridge Trail or Coastal Trail. After your hiking session, find a spot on the beach to admire spectacular sunsets while sipping your drink.

Rodeo Beach

For nature lovers, a trip to San Francisco is incomplete without visiting Rodeo Beach. Besides boasting azure waters, powdery sands, and soothing ambience, the beach is also a home to a range of birds; pelicans, gulls and cormorants are a few species you can find here. Surfing and hiking are also quite popular. On weekends, it becomes a popular place for family picnics.

Five Fascinating Things to Do and See in Sydney for Free

sydney The largest and most glamorous of all cosmopolitan cities in Australia, Sydney usually attracts well-heeled tourists. However, this doesn’t mean that the Harbour City has nothing for holidaymakers on a limited budget. In fact, Sydney offers so much to do and see, either for free or at very affordable costs that many travellers end up facing the problem of plenty! Here is a list of some wonderful, yet free activities and attractions that you can enjoy in this beautiful Australian metropolis.

Bondi to Tamarama Coastal Walk

This part of Sydney, known for its spectacular costal beauty and the nesting colonies of seabirds, is truly a walker’s paradise. In late spring, you may visit the ‘Sculpture by the Sea’, an annual free-to-the-public outdoor sculpture exhibition.

Amble Around the Sydney Harbour Bridge

Take in the captivating views of the harbour and the Sydney skyline, relax at al fresco picnic places, and if you’re lucky, spot a whale or two – there is a lot to enjoy around the iconic Sydney Harbour without paying a penny. Additionally, a few of the bars around the harbour offer free live music each night and on afternoons during weekends.

Art Gallery of NSW

An outstanding collection of Australian art, including a significant indigenous section, makes this premium art institution a much-loved attraction among tourists arriving in Sydney. It is one of the largest art galleries in Australia and entry is absolutely free. Furthermore, a range of free guided-tours, talks, and films on different themes and in various languages promises visitors a thought-provoking experience, well worth their time.

The Rock Discovery Museum

A must-visit attraction for history buffs, the Rock Discovery Museum showcases the rich heritage of the Rocks area of Sydney. A variety of exhibitions display unique archaeological artefacts, ancient paintings, and other items that narrate the story of the area from the pre-European days to the present. Entry to the museum is free; but you need to buy tickets for the guided tours.

Shelly Beach

This picturesque beach is located in Manly, a suburb of Sydney, and is a great place to see plenty of marine life in its natural habitat. With a maximum depth of approximately 12 metres, the shallow waters of the beach prove it to be an enchanting attraction for divers and snorkellers alike. The area around the beach boasts spectacular natural vistas, along with many eateries, cafes, and picnic spots.

Top Events and Festivals of Malaysia to Attend this April

The events’ list of Malaysia for April 2015 is packed with numerous celebrations that include an international music festival, a water festival, and a lot more. Also, April is the best time to visit Malaysia as the weather is perfect for enjoying the outdoors.

Penang World Music Festival

Music buffs can look forward to the Penang World Music Festival which will be staged at the Esplanade in George Town on 11th and 12th April, 2015. The carnival features an incredible amalgamation of lively performances that range from traditional to fusion. Some mind-blowing performances are expected from international artists of Germany, India, Spain, South Africa and more. Besides the musical extravaganza, visitors may well look forward to scrumptious culinary preparations.

Labuan National Water Festival

The Labuan Water Festival will be held from 24th to 26th April, 2015. It is one of the most popular festivals of Malaysia. With some exciting fun activities such as the Cross Channel Swimming Challenge, Labuan International Deep Sea Fishing Tournament, Round Island Kayak, and Kayak Sprint, the festival is a true haven for sports buffs. You may even participate in adrenalin-fuelled beach tug-of-war competitions or test your strength and endurance by trying to climb slippery poles.

Regatta Lepa

Regatta Lepa by Tom Rungitom/ CC BY

The Regatta Lepa is an annual boat race of Malaysia, which pays homage to the Lepa, the single-mast traditional boat of the Bajau people of Semporna, Sabah. To be held from 24th to 26th April, 2015, the festival will feature a fleet of multi-coloured Lepas anchored on the coast of Semporna. Unique cultural performances are among the key highlights of this three-day carnival. Make sure you don’t miss the Lepa Beauty Pageant and the colourful fireworks!

Best Eco-friendly Hotels in India that Offer an Unforgettable Stay

India is slowly finding its feet as one of the most popular eco-tourism destinations in the world, with holidaymakers being increasingly drawn to its wildlife reserves, rainforests and parks. Many hotel and resort chains across the country are also gaining popularity for their emphasis on eco-tourism. Travellers planning to visit India would do well to take a look at hotels that rank high for maintaining sustainable environmental practices.

Shergarh Tented Camp, Kanha National Park

Situated in the heart of the Kanha National Park, one of the finest game reserves, Shergargh is a perfect place to stay at when visiting the jungle. The camp is a three-hour drive from the Mukki Entrance gate of the park and features six units of sumptuous tents with mud-finished verandas. This beautiful establishment has its own water reserve that is replenished throughout the year by natural springs.

Location: Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Banasura Hill Resort

The simple way of life at Banasura compels guests to reconnect with nature. It is one of the best eco-resorts in Asia and has been featured by a number of renowned international magazines. The resort offers four types of accommodation facilities, namely Suites, Log Hut, Twin Villas and Earth Rooms. Each comes with its own distinctive character and personality.

Location: Wayanad, Kerala

The Park Hyderabad

Relatively a new entrant to the club of global eco-friendly hotels, The Park Hyderabad is a stunning luxury hotel that truly raises the bar for contemporary boutique hotels in India. The spectacular exteriors are designed to maximize the use of natural light, thus reducing the need for electricity. The Park Hyderabad has seven rooms and suites that showcase the epitome of modern luxury.

Location: Hyderabad, Telangana

Coconut Lagoon, Kerala

Set amidst gorgeous natural settings beside the Lake Vembanad, Coconut Lagoon can only be accessed by boat. If you are looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of metropolitan life, it cannot get better than this. Coconut Lagoon boasts exquisite pool villas with indescribably picturesque views. Ayurvedic spa is another speciality of this place.
Location: Kerala Backwaters, Kerala

Some Not To Miss Tourist Attractions in and around Melbourne

Melbourne boasts an array of tourist trappings that delight one and all visiting this Australian metropolis. From a fascinating culture to enthralling architecture and scintillating beaches to scenic drives – the destination offers it all. Here is a quick rundown on some of the not to be missed attractions in and around the city.

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in Australia, houses around 2,000 marine creatures. Feel the adrenaline rush as you get up close to some of the rarest of aqua species such as sandbar whaler sharks, freshwater sawfish, and a grey nurse shark at the 2.2 million litre ‘Mermaid Garden Oceanarium’. Crocodile’s Lair, Bay of Rays, Coral Cave, Ocean Discovery and River to Reef are some of the other popular sections that exhibit marine and animal life from different parts of the globe.

Brighton Beach

Melbourne is blessed with many beautiful beaches, and Brighton Beach is perhaps the most spectacular among them all. Take a leisurely walk along the scenic coastline, play beach volleyball or simply lie down to sunbathe – there is something for one and all. The area around Brighton Beach is full of lively bars, cafes, restaurants and shopping precincts, making it a popular hangout.

The Great Ocean Road

If you love scenic drives, hit the Great Ocean Road. The magnificent views of cliffs and tranquil bays, the winding roads and the pleasant weather make the drive here an experience of a lifetime. Make sure you carry a camera to capture the beautiful scenery! If you are up for an adventure, stop for exciting activities such as climbing the peak of a volcanic crater, zip-lining and spotting wildlife.

Southbank

Dominated by high rises and other elements of opulent commercial development, Southbank is one of the most prominent business and tourist centres in Melbourne. While strolling along the scenic Yarra River, you can admire the gorgeous views of the Melbourne Skyline. The Southgate Arts and Leisure Precinct is a great place for enjoying waterfront shopping and lively entertainment. Plenty of restaurants here serve a variety of preparations, ranging from quickly done up fast food to elaborate and fresh seafood.

Top Events and Festivals in Vancouver during May, 2015

Vancouver

Travellers visiting Vancouver during the month of May have lots of fun things to look forward to besides just sightseeing. During this month, the city hosts numerous events and festivals offering a sneak peek into its diversified culture and character. No matter, whether you are an ardent foodie or are simply looking for an amazing time with your family, Vancouver has an event or two to make your May holiday a memorable affair.

Vancouver Marathon

Vancouver Marathon has been named in several coveted lists including CNN’s ‘World’s Most Exotic Marathons’, and Travel and Forbes’ ‘Top 10 Destination Marathons’. On 03rd May, 2015, the race will start from Midlothian Avenue in Queen Elizabeth Park. Be a part of this popular annual marathon. Its route includes parks, beaches and the spectacular seawall of Vancouver.

European Festival

At this annual festival, participants from around 30 European nations showcase the continent’s interesting heritage. Visit Swanguard Stadium on 30th and 31st May to enjoy colourful cultural performances. You will also get the chance to relish lip-smacking cuisines from participating countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Turkey and Russia. Sample these scrummy dishes with a range of beers and wines for an authentic European dining experience.

Vancouver International Children’s Festival

At this festival, kids of all ages can participate in numerous activities and workshops such as pottery, music, theatre, face painting and storytelling. Besides learning several new things, children also get to meet kids of different nationalities and cultures. The week-long event is scheduled from 25th to 31st May at Granville Island, a popular shopping area in the city.

The City of Bhangra Festival

Bhangra is a dance form that originated in Punjab, India. From 28th May to 06th June, the City of Bhangra Festival will rock Vancouver. For 10 days, several parks and clubs in the city are going to host performances of popular Bhangra groups. At these venues, you will also get the chance to learn this dance form.