Category Archives: USA

Holidays in Orlando: USA’s Dream Destination!

The reputation of Orlando being a dream holiday destination is one that needs hard work to maintain. This city never stops amazing you. From the endless fun that you can have at SeaWorld, Disney World and Universal Studios, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to Epcot and Magic Kingdom to the excellent shopping arcades that are going to make you want to splurge, Orlando is a holidaymaker’s paradise. There is something for everyone here and there won’t be a single dull moment.

Orlando

When to visit

Relax on idyllic beaches with cocktails and indulging in water sports or attend food festivals and concerts and other colourful events around the city. There are several festivals you can attend such as the Mount Dora Art Festival, Downtown Food and Wine Festival and the Orlando Wetlands Festival, besides others.

Orlando has ideal weather to visit all throughout the year and this is what makes it one of the most interesting destinations. However the months from January to April are considered the best months to travel here. In terms of affordability, you may want to book tickets between the months of August and September. On the other hand if you plan to be here for the major events and festivals, the best time to plan your travel is around Christmas, Independence Day and Easter.

Art, culture and history

If you wish to learn about the city and its origin, visit the beautiful museums and local exhibitions to get a whiff of the true spirit of Orlando. The art and creativity is such embedded into the veins of the city you will be thrilled. What will also amaze you are the rich social and cultural backgrounds that have amalgamated to become one here. There is a large Hispanic population here; and hence there are a number of Latin events and cultural programs conducted here.

Eat your heart out

Orlando has the best options when it comes to food. If you are a foodie you are going to be spoilt for choice. Besides cuisines available from different parts of the world, you must also try some typical local dishes which will give you the true taste of Orlando. Italian, Irish Mediterranean, Irish and Argentinean cuisines are famous and prevalent here. Some of the best places to eat here are Chatham’s Place, Norman’s, the Melting Pot and Shula’s Steak House.

Nightlife and things to do

Besides the numerous pubs and bars here, that are cosy and inviting, there are all sorts of other interesting places that you can visit. The ICEBAR Orlando is one famous lounge you have to visit while you are here. Orlando boasts of some of the best wineries and breweries in the world and you have to try their freshly made blends. If it is adventure that you are looking for you can try open cockpit biplane rides; and when you crave a quiet time you can go fishing in any of the wonderful Orlando Lakes.

6 of the Best Known Museums of Honolulu, Hawaii

Situated on Oahu Island along the Pacific Ocean, Honolulu is the capital and largest city of the U.S. state of Hawaii. Known for its sparkling beaches, and rich culture and traditions, the city is one of the most talked about holiday destinations in the USA.

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Of course, the destination is most famous for its beaches, which are among the best in the world. However, the city is also replete with some wonderful and enriching museums. Read on to know more.

Bernice P. Bishop Museum

Located in the Kalihi district, Bernice P. Bishop Museum is one of the most famous history and science museums in Honolulu. Founded in 1889, it is known for featuring the world’s largest collection of Polynesian cultural artefacts dating back to the pre-historic era. The museum library has an extensive collection of over 50,000 volumes of books, periodicals, journals and archival records on topics related to the culture and history of the island.

Hawaii State Art Museum

Situated in the No. 1 Capitol District building, the Hawaii State Art Museum is a prominent tourist attraction in Honolulu. Established in 1965 by the state legislature, the popular structure is a preservatory of over 132 works of art including pictures, paintings and sculptures by 105 artists from across the world. The museum features 3 galleries each one exhibiting timeless classics by popular artists including Satoru Abe, Edward M. Brownlee, Jean Charlot and many more.

Lucoral Museum

Located in the heart of Waikiki, Lucoral Museum is a privately owned museum. Founded in 1992, the museum features some of the most prominent artefacts and other fossils dating back to the pre-historic era. On display at the museum are real dinosaur egg fossil, Hawaiian diamonds, crystals, rocks, gemstones and other fossils from across the world. There’s a specific area designated to the island’s volcanic past and endangered animals. Important events in the history of the island are highlighted through regular exhibitions at the museum.

Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives

Located on the South King Street, Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives is a famous preservatory in Honolulu. Established in 1920 by the Hawaiian Mission Children’s Society, the museum features an extensive collection of over 3000 artefacts, 12,000 books, letters, diaries, journals, illustrations and manuscripts. The oldest frame house, The Chamberlain House and The Print House are the must see attractions here.

ʻIolani Palace

Located in downtown Honolulu, ʻIolani Palace is another famous museum in the city. A former residence of the rulers of Hawaii, the beautifully constructed palace is a royal preservatory today. Opened to public in 1978, it is home to numerous records, inscriptions and manuscripts recording important incidents on the island including the struggle for Independence.

Saint Augustine by the Sea Catholic Church

Situated in Waikiki, Saint Augustine by the Sea Catholic Church is a beautiful museum in Honolulu. The former territory of the Roman Catholic Church, the popular structure today is home to several relics, inscriptions and artefacts of Saint Damien of Moloka’i. Visitors can read about the life of priests and saints from ancient period on those beautifully crafted church walls.

6 Of the Most Popular Beaches in Maui, Hawaii

Nestled between Big Island and Molokai, Maui is among the largest Hawaiian Island in the United States. Formed as a result of volcanic eruptions, the popular holiday destination features a 120-mile long coastline and is known for its pristine beaches and beautiful landscape. For those of you planning a trip to the island, here is a list of some of the most popular beaches here.

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Makena Beach

Also known as the Big Beach, Makena is one of the most beautiful beaches in Maui. Located on the south-western side of the island, the beach is famous for its inclined shoreline and large shore breaks. Featuring a mile of beautiful golden white sand and amazing landscape, the site is best to enjoy sunbathing or water sports such as snorkelling, skiing and skim boarding. The beach is also a popular picnic spot among tourists and locals.

Charley Young Beach

Located in the north of the island, Charley Young Beach is one amazing beach stretch in Maui. Known for its orange yellow sand and clear blue waters, the popular beach is perfect for family picnics and weekend getaways. The level of ocean water keeps dropping at regular intervals, making the conditions for snorkelling quite favourable. Surfing and other adventure sports including swimming, snorkelling and underwater diving can be enjoyed during high tides. While at the beach, you must not miss the picturesque views of the rising sun.

Keawakapu Beach

Nestled between Kihei and Wailea, Keawakapu Beach is one of the most scenic but crowded beaches in Maui. Known for its white sand and beautiful coastline, the beach is perfect to enjoy an exciting holiday away from the city’s hustle-bustle. The underwater artificial coral reef featuring 150-old rugged cars, 2250 tire modules and 35 concrete slabs is a popular attraction near the beach. During winter months from November to March, whale watching is a popular activity among visitors.

Maluaka Beach

Located in the south end of the island, Maluaka Beach is another famous beach in Maui. With golden-yellow sand and covered shady areas, the beach is best for a family outing or picnic. Swimming and snorkelling are among the most popular activities enjoyed by visitors here. Spotting green turtles on the sand can be quite an excitement for visitors.

Polo Beach

Situated in Wailea, Polo beach features 2 miles of beautiful coastline dotted with tall palm trees, and low lying sand dunes. Although the beach is crowded most days of the year, the site and its surrounding areas are well preserved and maintained. Beware of those hidden rocks while trying your swimming moves!

Pa’ako Beach

Also known as ‘Secret Cove’, Pa’ako Beach is located on the south shore of the island. Because the beach is hidden between homes in Makena, it is a popular wedding spot in Maui. The surrounding lava rocks and the pristine golden yellow sand is what make this beach the most picture perfect beach on the island.

5 Reasons Everyone Loves San Diego!

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A golfer’s haven, a surfer’s dream and a nature-lover’s paradise, San Diego lures with its perfect weather and the promise of a holiday of a lifetime.

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Why else do you think Bill Gates, the richest man in the world for quite some time now, chose to own a couple of homes here? He even gifted a 229 acre equestrian estate in the city to his daughter!

Looking for more reasons to visit San Diego? We’ll give you five.

Breathtaking Beaches

Surfing, swimming and sunsets – count on San Diego for some of your finest memories of all three. The city boasts of a long coastline. The beautiful white sand of San Diego beaches is perfect for building castles of your imagination. Ocean Beach, South Mission Beach, Mission Beach, North Pacific Beach, Pacific Beach, Children’s Pool, La Jolla Cove and La Jolla Shores are some of the most popular beaches in the city. The city’s famous Black’s Beach is one of the rarest beaches in USA where you will find the black sand.

Majestic Museums

Not many cities can match up to San Diego when it comes to an appetite for art. From fine arts to science and history, there’s enough fodder for creative indulgences of all kinds of audiences in over 100 museums of the city. Balboa Park is at the epicenter of the rich cultural and artistic sensibilities of the city. The pristine gardens of Balboa are home to 15 museums covering fields such as anthropology, art, aviation, natural science and technology. Some of the most renowned museums in the city include Maritime Museum, Mingei International Museum, USS Midway Museum, and New Children’s Museum.

Perfect Parks

When in San Diego, be sure to visit San Diego Zoo Safari Park and SeaWorld San Diego California Theme Park. Spread over 1800 acres, the San Diego Zoo is home to over 2600 animals from 300 species. In addition, the zoo nurtures over 3500 species of plant. SeaWorld in San Diego is an animal theme park as well as an aquarium and marine mammal park. The park offers thrilling rides as well as terrific experiences like swimming with whales! It also stages insightful shows on marine life for the entertainment and education of the guests.

Admirable Architecture

House of Pacific Relations, a consortium of ‘houses’ representing different cultures, stands tall as an example of architectural brilliance in San Diego. Over 1900 cottages illustrate culture, history and traditions of over 34 countries across the globe. Marston House, built by famous San Diego architects William Hebbard and Irving Gill, is a fine example of the American Arts and Crafts Movement. Casa de Carrillo, built in 1817, is one of the oldest houses in the city and a must visit.

Wondrous Wineries

For tasting award-winning viognier, take the tour of Leonesse Cellars in Temecula. For delectable almond champagne, make way to Wilson Creek Winery. Enjoy the fine wine offered for tasting at Longshadow Ranch; your taste buds will thank you for it!

Celebrate the St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago!

St. Patrick’s Day, held on 17th March, is one of the most popular religious festivals celebrated in the United States. The occasion marks the death anniversary of the foremost patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick.

Chicago

While several American cities host terrific festivities on the day, Chicago celebrates the festival with greater zeal and enthusiasm. Read on to know more about this international festival and how it is celebrated in the “Windy City”!

About the Festival

St. Patrick’s Day is held on 17th of March every year. Also known as ‘Day of the Festival of the Patrick’, the festival is celebrated by millions all over the world, however, understandably, it is more popular among the Irish. Along with the United Kingdom, countries such as Canada, the United States, Australia, New Zealand and Argentina celebrate the day in a grand manner.

‘Green Celebrations’

‘Green’ is the colour of the festival. As part of the celebrations, one can find a wave of green across different cities. As a customary tradition, people wear shamrocks or green clothes and other accessories signifying a belief in the fact that St. Patrick used shamrock (a three leaved plant) to explain the Holy Trinity. A popular myth about wearing green is the fact that it makes you invisible and hence the leprechauns can’t pinch you!

Festival Traditions in Chicago

Dying the River Green

Dying the Chicago River green is one popular tradition of the festival. Every year, 45 pounds of eco-friendly dye is poured into the river. The river dying tradition dates back to 1962 when the city workers used the dye to trace illegal sewage discharges. Remember, the change in colour lasts only for 5 hours, so you got to hurry up to enjoy this incredible view! Best viewing spots in the city include the east side of the Michigan Avenue Bridge, the west side of the Columbus Drive Bridge and along the Chicago Riverwalk.

Downtown Parade

Packed with Irish elements, St. Patrick’s Day parade is a fabulous event to look forward to. Downtown Chicago’s official St. Patrick’s Day parade begins at noon at the intersecting point of Columbus and Balbo drives and continues north to Columbus. The main viewing stand is placed in front of the Buckingham Fountain, where dancers and bands halt to wave at the crowd. A number of restaurants and bars dot the path of the parade; you can celebrate the day by having scrumptious meals and drinks. The festivities do not end after the parade, there’s lot more interesting things taking place in different parts of the city.

Drinking Green Beer

Not by tradition but by practice, drinking green beer is a popular element of the festival. Bars and lounges across the city offer a wide variety of drinks and dishes in the honour of the occasion. The celebrations and offers start early in the morning and continue till late night.

Popular Attractions

The festivities and celebrations can also be enjoyed at some of the city’s most popular attractions including Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago Cultural Centre, Daley Plaza, Millennium Park, and Buckingham Fountain.

Top Beer Festivals of the USA

They say the national drink of U.S.A is bourbon, but there is no denying the fact that Americans are ardent about beer as well! There are a number of famous beer festivals held all over the country to prove the same, and you have no idea how completely crazy these festivals are!

1.    World Beer Festival

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This is the largest beer festival where people from different breweries and different parts of the country display local, national as well as international beers and the best out of them is selected by beer connoisseurs.

Wine-Sunset

The audiences come over for the love of beer. It is an amazing time filled with good drinks and good food, music and fun activities and competitions.

2.    Great Alaska Beer and Barley wine festival

This extremely famous beer festival is held in Alaska and people from across the country participate in the same. There are 40+ breweries participating in the festival and over 150 beers usually enter the league. People brave the Alaskan winters and pay a minimal entry fee to taste these beers, and make a day out of it.

3.    Great American Beer Festival

This one has to be one of the most popular beer festivals in the world. It is held in the end of the month of September by the Brewers association in Denver, Colorado. There are over 1600 American beers and 2300 beers in all, from across the world; that enter this competition and are judged by over 100 judges. As many as 450 local breweries usually take part in this festival and it lasts for three days. People make the most of it by sampling beers and enjoying three absolutely crazy days of fun, alcohol and frolicking with family and friends.

4.    The World Beer Festival

This is a huge beer festival that is held quarterly in different parts of the country such as Durham, Columbia, Cleveland and Ohio. Brews from different parts of the world are tested here and people have the most interesting time tasting these beers, learning about different blends such as lagers, Ales, Bocks and porters etc.

5.    Fresh Hop Ale Festival

This is a beer festival held in Yakima, Washington. This is different because it uses hops picked merely 24 hours before the festival and hence acquiring the name ‘Fresh Hop Ale’. There are several participating breweries that create magic in the hopes of winning this prestigious event. The audience’s choice is also kept in mind here, so basically your beer has to be a people pleaser as well besides tasting impeccable!

Top Romantic Getaways in the USA for this Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day could be an ideal time to create some fond memories with your partner! And one of the most heartfelt things you can for your sweethearts this time is to take them to those beautiful dream destinations across the USA.

USA Valentine

1. Miami
Romance and Miami go hand in hand. The gorgeous white sand beaches and the glittering blue waters perfectly set the stage for a wonderful Valentine’s Day celebration. From those hand-hand walks to picnics to a candle light dinner on a beach, there’s everything to ensure you have a great time in the city.

2. Honolulu
Offering a fabulous blend of surf, sun and sand, Honolulu, largest city of the U.S. state of Hawaii, is the perfect destination for the Valentine’s Day getaway. Night swimming, candle light dinners, beach picnics and chocolate tasting at Brasserie du Vin are some of the activities you can enjoy here in the city.

3. New Orleans
For couples of all ages, it is difficult to resist the city’s sensual charm. From charming French Quarters to majestic Mississippi, New Orleans is one of the most sought after romantic cities in the world. While celebrating Valentine’s Day here in the city, you can enjoy authentic French delicacies, romantic strolls with your loved ones, and a ride on the mule-drawn carriage.

4. San Diego
With fabulous weather and wonderful restaurants, San Diego remains a terrific tourist destination for a romantic Valentine’s Day holiday. Visit the San Diego Museum of Art for a love themed art tour or celebrate the day on the classic sailing yacht! Other popular activities that could be enjoyed in the city include wine tasting, live Jazz Dinner etc.

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5. Tampa
The city’s warm climate makes it one of the most talked about holiday destinations around the United States. Celebrating Valentine’s Day in Tampa is all about unwrapping surprises at every step. With numerous events, concerts and shows going on in the city, the city is perfect for a romantic holiday. With its Cuban and Spanish past, Tampa is a charming place to enjoy the lively nightlife with your partner.

6. Boston
For all couples looking for some peaceful time with their partners, Boston is the place to be. Considered one of the most romantic destinations from across the world, this offshore city has something to offer to everyone. Valentine’s Day evenings can be enjoyed looking into each other’s eyes along with feasting on the terrific views of the city!

Seven Winter Escapes in USA

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Winters in the US mean loads of snow and even more travellers looking for ways to escape it.  Those seeking great winter getaways within the country will be thrilled to know that the country boasts of many destinations where a good winter vacation can be enjoyed. Read on to know more about the seven best places to travel to during winters in the US to enjoy the best of the winter chills.

Miami

A hub of beach bums, surfers, party animals, and all those looking for unlimited fun! During winters, this place comes alive with people from the colder parts of the country as they come here to beat the winter chills and soak up some sun. Miami is a glamorous beach destination with vibrant art deco buildings, long sandy beaches, surfing hotspots, and happening nightclubs.

Alaska

Snow-lovers, who don’t want to escape the snow but want a snowy and chilly winter vacation, can head to Alaska. Collect lifetime memories watching the Northern Lights with your family and friends and follow it up with romantic massages at Alaskan hot springs. How about watching the breathtaking Aurora Borealis, riding dog sledges, enjoying massages, and soothing hot spring therapies? The answer is a holiday in Alaska during winters.

New Orleans

The US city of New Orleans becomes a popular festive and party destination during winters. Most travellers are drawn to its late-winter carnival Mardi Gras, which features vibrant costume parades and street parties. The city also hosts spectacular Christmas and New Year celebrations and has world-class cafés – need any more reasons to book flights to the destination this year?

Phoenix/Scottsdale

The metropolis of Phoenix/Scottsdale in Arizona is a winter holiday destination for those who want to travel to urban areas for a holiday. An escape to Phoenix/Scottsdale during winters means lots of shopping, golfing in world-class courses, and getting rejuvenated at spas. Plus, the city is home to around 40,000 acres of parks and reserve lands.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a popular holiday destination in the US state of Hawaii. The place gets thronged by visitors during winters as it has a fantastic weather, plethora of outdoor activities, and lots of sunny beaches for relaxation! Travellers can also enjoy a spectacular nightlife and shopping scene in Honolulu.

Oregon

Enjoy serene mornings and sunny afternoons and lively evenings on the Cannon Beach in Oregon this winter. The place is visited by many during winters as it is blessed with a beautiful weather and has rare instances of snowfall. Between mid-December and mid-January, the shores are thronged by people to watch gray whales in action.

Orlando

Last and by no means the least, Orlando remains one of the all-time favourite winter holiday destinations in the US. Chat with your favourite Disney characters at this famous family destination. Come during winters to make the most of the weather.

Top New York Haunts for Museum Buffs

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New York is perhaps one of the most popular urban destinations not only in the US but across the world. The city, fondly called the Big Apple, has many draws, including some of the very best museums and galleries across the world. So, if you are a museum lover or love spending an afternoon visiting a gallery, here are some of the most popular museums in New York for you.

Museum of the Moving Image

The Museum of the Moving Image, which is located at Astoria in Queens, New York, is a media museum dedicated to film, television, and digital media. The collection of moving image artefacts here is considered to be the largest such collection in the US. The museum screens numerous films every year and also holds educational events periodically. Explore its main exhibition – Behind the Screen – which showcases the creative process of developing moving images, presenting it in the form of interactive experiences, rare artefacts, and demonstrations of professional equipment.

The Bronx Museum of the Arts

Explore diverse contemporary arts at the Bronx Museum of the Arts, which is located at Bronx in New York. The museum is a dedicated area for modern art from a variety of cultural backgrounds. This free-entry museum also has gift and souvenir shops and offers free Wi-Fi to visitors. Besides, there are modern art pieces, with Bronx playing the central role in many of them. Visitors can also explore the chic surroundings of diverse neighbourhoods, beautiful parks, and attractive restaurants.

American Museum of Natural History

Discover the natural history of mankind in this amazing science museum, located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. It is one of the largest museums in the world and is visited by around 5 million people every year. The best way to explore the museum is to spend late afternoons or Sundays here looking at dinosaur fossils. Learn about animal and human history through its numerous exhibitions and enjoy IMAX movie action. Some of the best attractions of the museum are the Hayden Planetarium, the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life, and the Butterfly Conservatory.

Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum

Visit the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum in Manhattan, New York to learn about the development of the transport methods across the sea, air, and space through spectacular interactive exhibitions. Marvel at the well-restored aircraft, USS Growler submarine, a British Airways Concorde, and the Space Shuttle Pavilion. Enjoy a fascinating tour of the museum, including a one-hour trip that takes visitors through the history of an aircraft carrier and another trip that educates about the space program. Have a thrilling experience at the GForce Encounter, a supersonic jet simulator, at the museum.

Starr Bonsai Museum

A major highlight of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, this museum is one of the oldest of its kind in the world. When you visit, stroll across the beautiful and serene Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG) spread across 52 acres of well-manicured lush landscapes with over 10,000 types of plants collected from across the world. The BBG is dedicated to impart education about plants to the general public and create awareness for conservation.

The Little Known Places in Miami – The Magic City

Miami is a paradise on Earth! This seaport city in the US state of Florida has a pleasant climate, ideal for the ones who want to relax on sun-soaked beaches.

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At night, the restaurants, bars, and pubs turn into lively party venues. Of course, we know that you are probably aware of the famous attractions, so we have mentioned some of the lesser known ones here.

The Ancient Spanish Monastery

The Ancient Spanish Monument is a hidden gem! Its construction began in 1133 AD and was completed eight years later. Subsequently, it was deconstructed stone by stone and shipped to the US in the form of huge wooden crates. In 1952, the crates were purchased by two entrepreneurs. Over a period of 19 months, it was re-built as a monastery. This magnificent monument with its jaw-dropping past is absolutely not to be missed.

Foxhole

Opened in 2011, this lively bar offers reasonably-priced drinks and foot-tapping music. Entertainment options such as a dart board, pool table, and jukebox ensure lots of fun-packed moments. To save some cash, visit during the happy hours (5 PM – 9 PM). Foxhole is the perfect venue for birthday and special events.

Casabe 305 Bistro

Casabe 305 Bistro presents mouth-watering Venezuela-Caribbean fusion food. It’s a very popular place and even serves weddings, private parties, business/gallery events, and entertainment/TV/film productions as well. The charming ambience coupled with commendable service has been appreciated by past visitors. Casabe 305 Bistro is the brainchild of Diego Vicente Texera – a popular Venezuelan Chef.

The Barnacle

Created in 1891, The Barnacle gives a spectacular view of frontier life during The Era of the Bay, when all travel to and from Miami was solely by boat. Situated on the shore of Biscayne Bay, the building was the residence of Ralph Middleton Munroe, one of Coconut Grove’s most powerful and charismatic pioneers. This is a great hang-out place for friends planning to spend fun times together.

J Wakefield Brewing

Located in Wynwood – one of the most varied and art-driven districts of Miami, the J Wakefield Brewing makes and sells a wide range of beer such as Stush, UJP, El Jefe, and La Nada. It also features wall-length murals of Star Wars characters along with comic book lithographs. Public brewery tours are conducted. No reservations are required to participate in them.