Vancouver is one of the busiest cities in west coast seaport in British Columbia, Canada. The place is known as the largest ethnically diverse city in Canada. There are many things to do in Vancouver that is outdoors. Due to the temperature and rainfall, the city is covered with lush forests, vast valleys, and a gorgeous mountain range. Within 15 minutes drive from downtown, one can visit three world-class mountains. There are plenty of campsites and parks, various hiking trails, countless lakes and rivers, and one of the longest seawalls. Vancouver offers people of every age group to find an activity they would enjoy. Many tourists claim Vancouver as an outdoor enthusiast’s playground.
7 Best Tourist Attractions In Vancouver
There are a more significant number of things to do in Vancouver. The article discussed in detail all the things tourists can do while they are visiting this beautiful city.
1. Stanley Park
Stanley Park attracts a significant number of tourists throughout the year. The park spreads over 1000 acres of land and is one of the top attractions of the city. There is a 20-mile long seawall that covers Vancouver’s waterfront. The park also has a heated outside pool and an outdoor waterpark. You will also find the Vancouver Aquarium inside Stanley Park. All the art and history fanatics can visit Brockton Point that has the First Nation totem pole display. One can also take a walk or rent a bike to cover the park. One can also book a guided tour with information narration.
2. Vancouver Lookout
According to some tourists, the Vancouver Lookout is one of the best tourist attractions in Vancouver one should visit. The place has a panoramic observation deck with a 360-degree view of the city. You can see the North Shore and Olympic Peninsula Mountains as well as the beautiful Stanley Park. The Vancouver Lookout located at the 55th floor of the Harbor Center building in downtown Vancouver. Make sure to visit this place when the weather is clear to get a clear view of the city. The elevation of this site is 550 feet.
3. Museum of Anthropology at UBC
The Museum of Anthropology is situated inside the University of British Columbia. It houses some of the best art and artifacts from the Northwest Coast First Nations. The Museum is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm, and on Thursdays, it stays open till 9 pm. Some part of the museum has a collection of 15th century European pottery, local art, and priceless jewelry. In the Great Hall, there are totem poles, decorated canoes, Native American relics, and ritual masks. The admission fee is CA$18 for adults and CA$10 every Thursday from 5 to 9 pm. Children under the age of 6 get free admission.
4. Capilano Suspension Bridge
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is the oldest tourist attraction of Vancouver, built-in 1889. The bridge is 450 feet long and 230 feet high. One can get a fantastic view of the Capilano River from this bridge. The bridge is open daily, but the visiting hours might vary. Entry fee for adults costs around CA$42.95 whereas for children somewhere between CA$14.95 to CA$26.95. Overcome your vertigo and visit this beautiful suspension bridge to enjoy the breathtaking view. There is a lot of other activities available on the other side of the bridge.
5. VanDusen Botanical Garden
The VanDusen Botanical Garden often termed as a hidden gem by the tourists. It spreads over 55 acres of land at the heart of Vancouver. There are various sections inside the park, such as the hedge maze and stone garden. But the essential part of the park is Laburnum Walk. This is the most photographed placed inside the botanical garden. The peak bloom of Laburnum plants occurs from mid-May. The VanDusen Botanical Garden also offers two eateries onsite for the tourists. Make sure you visit this place during the peak blooming season to get the ultimate view.
6. Kitsilano beach
The Kitsilano Beach often gets compared with LA’s Venice Beach. This place is popular among the young crowd, and many people tend to visit when the weather is nice. The beach has volleyball, tennis courts, in-line skating, and a playground. There is a Maritime Museum nearby that you can check out. The Boathouse restaurant is available for formal dining, and various concessions stand to grab some refreshments. From May to mid-September the heated saltwater Kitsilano Pool is open for visitors to enjoy a swim. Try to avoid visiting the place during the summer months, as the beach gets crowded.
7. Queen Elizabeth Park
This is the second most famous park in Vancouver after Stanley Park and attracts more than Six million visitors every year. The park spreads across 130 acres of land and has an arboretum with nearly 1500 native and exotic trees, a rose garden, and a beautifully manicured quarry garden. The Bloedel Conservatory inside this park has a vast collection of fauna. The conservatory has 500 tropical plants, 120 free-flying exotic birds and three different climate zone. Queen Elizabeth Park has various sculptures and the Dancing water fountain. This park located at the highest point of Vancouver; hence one can also enjoy the spectacular view of the city. The park also does not charge any entry fee, but there is a minimal parking fee for the cars.
People visiting Vancouver should go to all the places mentioned above. Although it is a comparatively new city, it has a lot to offer. As the site is ethnically diverse, the tourists can enjoy meeting people of various nationalities. Also, they are guaranteed to eat at multiple different areas that serve different cuisines from all over the world. Make sure you do your research before visiting this place and know the best time to go. Also, be prepared and plan so you don’t waste any time trying to find where to go and which places to visit first. Make an itinerary and follow it to get the complete experience of the fantastic places. This article will help as a guide to cover the best tourist attractions in Vancouver.
Traveling can be an addiction to many of us. Going to a new destination, meeting new people, learning about their culture and food can be an extraordinary experience. But when we travel abroad or to an unknown destination, there are chances of us getting scammed. This article discusses travel scams to avoid when you’re going somewhere new.
Ten scams to avoid when you are traveling
Here is a guide that talks about travel scams to avoid in 2020.
1. Currency Exchange
Exchanging currency is essential while traveling. Make sure to exchange the money before your trip. Visit only trusted currency exchange counters such as airports, banks, western union, etc. Please do not fall for locals who approach you by saying they have the best exchange rate.
2. ATM Scams
Many people in the ATM would offer help when your cash gets jammed. Make sure not to share your details with them. Only visit ATMS of reputed banks and do some research beforehand.
3. Charity Scam
Most of the tourists, the spot has people scamming you in the name of charity. Many people create a fake name of NGOs and forms to get money from you. Be very cautious before signing any piece of paper. If you want to give money to a noble cause, first do some research.
4. The Shell Game
This is a popular way of scamming people. We often see people doing a card trick. If they get it right, we pay some money. Then the person will say if you guess the trick, you’ll get money. But you will not win, as it is a scam and keep on betting money.
5. Child Beggar Scam
We often see a woman carrying a baby and begging. But this has turned into business nowadays. Ignore them until they leave. Or you can buy them food instead of giving money.
6. Pickpockets
This is a common way one can lose their valuables. Someone will bump into you and then walk away. After a while, you’ll notice your valuables missing. Try avoiding crowded places and keep your valuables in a more secure place apart from your pockets.
7. Taxi Scam
Taxi drivers often take a longer route to reach your destination. Try to avoid paying the extra money by booking a cab from a taxi booking application. You can also look into Google maps to get the shortest route.
8. Overpriced goods
When we go street shopping in tourist places, the vendor charges extra money for the items. Make sure you do some research before visiting and bargain to get a great deal.
9. Free products
Most of the time when someone offers free products, it’s a scam. They charge more money later for it. Try to avoid trying anything for free.
10. Friendly guide
The locals who help you when traveling can lead you to a scam. They often help and offer to take you to their shop and sell items at a higher price.
The above-mentioned points are a few travel scams to avoid when you are traveling to your next destination.
Israel is a Middle Eastern country situated at the banks of the Mediterranean Sea. Although Israel is a small country, it has several tourist attractions available for people of all ages and castes. People who are attracted to historical places should visit Israel once in their lifetime. The country also offers lush forests, desert landscapes, and breathtaking beaches. This article discusses in detail about the things to do and see in Israel when you go on a vacation.
Best Things to see and do in Israel
Israel has many places that one can visit. The country has rich historical significance and a significant number of activities available for the tourist to indulge. We try to discuss the things to do and see in Israel for the tourist to follow.
Historical sites
When we talk about Israel; the first thing that strikes our mind is the place’s historical background. One can visit the following locations.
Old City in Jerusalem
The old city of Jerusalem is known as the heart of Jewish, Christian, and Muslim religions. This place has the famous Western Wall, which is known as the last remaining of once a Jewish Temple. It is considered the holiest site for Jewish people.
Dome of the rock lies just above the Western Wall. It holds a special significance for the Muslim religion. People believe this is the place where Prophet Mohammad has risen to heaven.
Church of the Holy Sepulchre
Church of the Holy Sepulchre is situated within a few minute’s walks. Some believe this is where Jesus was crucified and buried.
Visit the beaches
Israel is situated on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. This is the reason the place has some of the most beautiful beaches. Some of the best things to see and do are to visit the beaches.
Dead Sea
Dead Sea has several public beaches available for the tourists. One of the most popular beaches is Ein Gedi Beach. Few of these private beaches charge an entry fee. Enjoy a day floating on the salty and healing water of the Dead Sea. Various tour packages are available for the tourists to check out and opt for before visiting the place.
Tel Aviv Beaches
Tel Aviv Beaches is one of the most visited tourist spots in the country. Tel Aviv stretches along the whole of the western edge. Tel Aviv has several beaches such as Hilton beach, Banana beach, Alma beach, Gordon Frishman beach, and many more. No matter which beach the tourists choose to visit, they are guaranteed a great view and experience.
Natural Wonders
For all the nature lovers try and look around the natural beauty of Israel.
Ein Gedi Natural Reserve
If you want to experience a hike go to Ein Gedi Natural Reserve. This place has 9 different trails for hiking. Each walk can vary from half a day to a full day. The most popular trails will lead you to Wadi David.
Also, when you are visiting Israel, don’t forget to try their Hummus and Pita.
Planning for a long overdue family holiday? If you prefer a mix of urban vibe and nature, Sydney is the ideal place to be as the fun options that will keep you and your family inspired and entertained in Sydney never run out. Fly to Sydney for some quality family bonding time! Here’s the top five activities on our to-do list for Sydney:
1. Taronga Zoo
Situated on Sydney Harbour overlooking the views of the iconic Opera House and the Harbour Bridge, the Taronga Zoo is one the best places for your kids to explore Australian wildlife in Sydney. The zoo is frequented by tourists every year, amounting to about 1.5 million visits a year. With an area of 28 hectares, it has been home to a variety of animals for the past century. Expect to meet the feisty and vivid flora and fauna of Australia! The zoo has different zones, such as Tiger Trek, Elephant Trail, Serpentarium, and more. Say hello to lulling koalas, slithering snakes, high-spirited chimps, waddling penguins while you venture forth into the zoo. Besides the meet-and-greet with adorable animals, you and your children can engage in other activities, such as rope climbing and an intimate session called Pat a Pet with a friendly, petite animal. You may even end up returning home with a rabbit or guinea pig!
Opening Hours: 9:30 am – 4:40 pm
2. Sydney Tower
Standing tall at 250 metres, Sydney Tower is the tallest structure in the city and offers stunning views of the cityscape. Although the tower is standing at a staggering height, it only takes 40 seconds in the double decker lifts to ascend to the top. In the indoor observation deck emerges the panoramic view of the sprawling city, including the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, towering skyscrapers and radiating roadways. At this height, the Blue Mountains which are 80 km away also fall onto your horizon. Be sure to check out the 4D cinema for some visceral sensory experience. Your ticket to the tower already includes entry to the cinema and shows run every 10 minutes. There is a rotating restaurant where you can treat your family to a buffet. It takes 80 minutes for a full rotation. As one of the most popular attractions of the city, the tower becomes packed over weekends and holidays. Go on weekdays if you want a less obstructed view!
Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
3. Luna Park
Sitting on the lower North Shore at Milsons Point, Luna Park is a heritage-listed amusement park. The park is a great destination for your children, as you are guaranteed a fun-filled day. The entrance is a giant grinning face. You can enter the amusement park for free. Once inside, you can buy tickets for different rides. Alternatively, if you are the thrill-seeking type, it’s completely fine to walk around and grab some snacks along the way. If you totally love rides, buying unlimited ride passes online beforehand is your best bet. Before buying, you may want to check the maintenance schedule and the restrictions of age and height. There are a variety of rides you can explore. Some highlights include Wild Mouse (a roller-coaster), the ferris wheel, Supernova (a mid-air 360° spin on a giant tower), Happy Swing, etc. During winter or some holidays, the amusement park will have some thematic arrangements. There may be a pop-up ice skating rink or Halloween embellishment.
4. Cockatoo Island
Cockatoo Island is an UNESCO heritage site, perfect for a cultural day for a family getaway. The island has a long history of ship building, among other wartime stories hidden beneath its modern surface. Among the other tales and origin stories of the island, its darker side is it used to be a reform school for girls for a period of time. An institution called Biloela, literally meaning black cockatoo, was an orphanage for girls who had committed petty crimes to rehabilitate themselves.To discover the heritage of this quaint island, join a tour to learn all about the early settlement history in Sydney. It can be a fun yet educational outing for your kids! If you are going around the New Year’s Eve holiday, there’s no better spot for the fireworks display than this island. Book accommodation ahead of time to secure a place!
The entry to the island is free. To go to Cockatoo Island, take a public ferry from Quay Circular or Bangaroo.
Opening Hours: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm (Visitor Centre)
5. Water Sports at Bondi Beach
Sydney’s iconic beach, the Bondi beach, is a popular weekend getaway for locals and a must-go attraction for tourists. Particularly if your children love water sports, the Bondi beach is the perfect place to be. Surfing is almost a national sport here in Australia. This beach is an ideal starting place for beginners, as the waters are not rough in the area. You can also go to surf companies and join their class to learn surfing with your family. Besides surfing, other exciting options include stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkelling, skiing, etc. There are companies around that offer courses to get you started. If you and your children prefer soaking up the sun or building sand castles, the long white sand beach has got you covered! Spend half a day at Bondi beach for some quality family time!
Explore Sydney’s endless discoveries that lead to moments of joy and growth as a family! Choose Cathay Pacific as your carrier for its award-winning inflight service, safety and quality reassurance. Book a flight now and embark on a heartening family trip soon! Cathay Pacific fly you to your desired destination ensuring you land well-rested, so that you can delve into your trip right away. Are you ready for the trip now? Plan it ahead of time to get the most out of the city!
If you’re headed to Dubai, you’re in for a life-changing trip. Dubai is a modern and bustling city, full of cutting-edge art and architecture and brimming with rich culture, not to mention some awesome shopping opportunities. But at some point, you may find that you need a break from the impressive concrete jungle. And despite what you may think or have heard, Dubai is home to some of the wildest nature spots in the world. In fact, so many that you might find yourself overwhelmed when trying to choose what to do. So have a look at the following 5 nature activities that will give you a glimpse of Dubai’s wild side.
Go for a wild ride
You don’t have to go to Africa to experience an awesome safari—look no further than Sir Bani Yas Island. This island is located just off the cost of Abu Dhabi and not too far from Dubai and is home to the Arabian Wildlife Park, and is inhabited by thousands of wild creatures, including:
• giraffes
• goats
• gazelles
• hyenas
• cheetahs
• jackals
• wild cats
• skinks
• dugongs
During your stay, apart from safari, you can also participate in horse-riding, kayaking, sailing, falconry, mountain-biking and archery. What’s more, there are three luxury resorts in case you want to really get to know the island, but day trips are also great if you just want a taste. And you don’t have to spend a ton of money either, with Flydubai you can find tale affordable and comfortable daytrips within the region.
And for you history lovers out there, you’ll also find the ruins of Christian monastery that dates back to the 6th century AD.
Desert safari
Photo by Digjot Singh on Unsplash
This is a must if you go on holiday to Dubai, don’t let the green of the city fool you, Dubai is a desert city. The desert was what this modern, innovative and world-class city sprung from. Before the awe-inspiring architecture, high fashion, and luxury hotels, there was sand, sand and more sand. There are a plethora of different desert safari tours available in Dubai. On most of the safaris you will be picked up at your hotel and enjoy a comfortable ride to the desert, leaving the modern city behind and going backwards through time.
While on safari in the desert you can go dune-bashing, a trip in a Land Cruiser that speeds up and down the dunes a totally wild ride, imagine the sand version of tubing. You can also choose trips that focus on camel riding, and on most safaris you’ll be treated to traditional Arab cuisine. You’ll have to check out the different companies to choose the experience that suits you best.
Dubai Miracle Garden
Photo by Hanna Zhyhar on Unsplash
If you want to see the natural side of Dubai, you don’t necessarily have to step outside city limits. That’s where the Dubai Miracle Garden comes in. See just how green this desert city can be by a visit to these world-class gardens that occupies more than 72,000 square metres, making it the largest natural botanical garden in the entire world. While you’re there, you’ll see hundreds of millions of flowers and you can take a stroll through the butterfly garden that is home to over 15,000 butterflies.
Head there after the sun goes down and you’ll see this garden oasis lit up by glowing strings of decorative lights.
The Green Planet
Here’s another nature activity for those who would like to stay within the city limits. The Green planet is actually an indoor rainforest, protected by a large transparent dome. You’ll see over 3,000 species of animals and plants that originally come from South America; a much more affordable way for European residents to experience the sights and sounds of the Amazon. And in case you didn’t guess it already, this is a wonderful place to go if you are travelling with children. Your little ones can even get to be a zookeeper for the day and follow around a real animal caretaker for an up-close (and totally safe) experience with some of the animals.
Bu Tinah Island
A hop, skip or a short flight away with cheap air tickets from Abu Dhabi, you’ll have to travel a bit further if you’re going from Dubai, you’ll get to experience something that only a few people are allowed to see.
Bu Tinah Island is part of the Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve, the first and largest UNESCO marine biosphere reserve. Since few people are allowed on the island, it’s certainly more difficult to get your ticket there, but if you’re serious about nature, then you won’t want to miss it. While there you may see endangered turtles and the oh so delightful dugong.
Photo by Fernando Jorge on Unsplash
So there you have it! The city of Dubai is an amazing place that requires more than a few days to explore. But if you need a bit of a nature break while you’re there, you’ll find plenty of ways to find a respite from the concrete jungle. Whether you go on a safari, head to an island, or even find a natural oasis within the city, you’ll be delighted by the wild part of Dubai just as much, if not more than its urban side.