Traveling isn't always the same! Here are three different kinds of trips

If you don't like travelling, maybe this is because you haven't been introduced to all the categories of it yet. Yes, you read that right.

Trips have various categories. And, we are pretty sure that even you will find one which is best suited for your type of travel.

Check out different types of travel:

Gap year: Yes, this is a thing now. Interestingly, it has become one of the latest travel trends. Usually, people take gap year to take a short break from their daily routine and pursue their hobbies. Be it education or exploration, a gap year can give you the freedom your soul deserves.

International events: People now-a-days set up their travel schedule based on international events. There are several music festivals and carnivals these days that are organised to target global travel enthusiasts. These are spread over a period of time so that the people who attend them can explore the destination to the core.

Business trips: Even MNCs and corporates have started organising business meetings at exotic locations. This is done to eradicate the workplace monotony. This type of travel also gives employees a sense of relief even with work on his/her platter.

Leh Ladakh tour: Six day itinerary in 60 seconds – Check out!

Leh and Ladakh in the state of Jammu & Kashmir will be ideal for adventure enthusiasts or nature lovers.

The serenity and indescribable beauty of this region have attracted tourists from the world over. Abundantly blessed by Mother Nature, Leh and Ladakh treasure many of world's most picturesque locations.

The calmness of nature, the view of the vast horizon, the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, the crystal clear water of the lakes will leave you mesmerised.

If you are planning a vacation this summer and wish to visit Leh and Ladakh, the video embedded below will come in handy. Check it out now:

Visit the exotic Coorg: 3-day itinerary in 60 seconds – Watch video

Famously known as the Scotland of India – Coorg is a hill station in the Karnataka. The place is blessed with wonderful locales and scenic sites which make it one of the apt places for a vacation.

Coorg can also be a weekend getaway – there are about ample of places you can visit in Coorg in a matter of 2-3 days.

Here we have a video for you which will help you prepare an itinerary.

Check it out:

Reasons why you should travel ALONE at least once before entering your 30s!

The essence of solo travel must never be underestimated. Travelling alone not only comforts your desires but also soothes your inner self.

And, when you are in your 20s, travelling solo becomes more important. This is the age when you explore stuff. Solo travel gives you the opportunity to explore places and, also, yourself.

So, here we bring to you some convincing reasons why you must travel alone at least once before turning 30:

• New people: Friends are important. And, so is meeting new people. You need to understand that your existing friends won't be accompanying you everywhere in life. At times, you must be at ease with new people. Solo travel gives you the best opportunity to befriend new people and gel with them really well.
• Me time: When was the last time you were all by yourself? Umm.. never, right? By travelling alone you will get to know more about yourself. Also, you will get to identify your strengths and weaknesses by spending some alone time.
• Do what you love: Group travel never allows an individual to fulfil its own desires. Hassles of making the majority happy while on a trip always suck the fun out of everything. Hence, travel solo and do what you love by making your own itinerary.
• Be smarter: If you are travelling alone at a new place, then you will be making a lot of decisions concerning funds and schedules. Therefore, when you are in your 20s, these management skills will help you boost your personal/professional lives.
• Confidence/freedom: By checking off this item from your bucket list you will definitely feel more confident in life. It will tell you what freedom actually means. Being all by yourself and doing whatever you want by exploring all the possibilities will always keep you happy at heart.

Kasol - Rejuvenate yourself with serenity, peace in the nature's lap

Break the monotony and get out of your hectic city life to explore the silence and solace of nature amid glorious mountain peaks. In the land of the Himalayas, there are many places to rid yourself of stress and truly search for peace.

Kasol, located 42 km east of Kullu district between Bhuntar and Manikaran in Himachal Pradesh is a beautiful remote village situated in the Parvati valley, some 230 km from state capital Shimla.

The mesmerising view of the valley, complete with beautiful mountain peaks, pine trees, colourful flowers and the breezy wind gave me goosebumps once I touched base at Kasol. The snow clad-mountain peaks looked so calm and peaceful.

Kasol has many things to offer -- from trekking to camping to different types of cuisine, as well as shopping from the local market.

Apart from its scenic beauty the local people of Kasol are also very warm and welcoming to visitors.

Kasol is also famous as the 'Mini Israel' of India because of the large number of tourists from the West Asian country. The locals say they come to Kasol to unwind after finish their compulsory military service in Israel.

This influx has seen an explosion of restaurants and shops catering catering to their needs. Thus, one can easily get a variety of Israeli foods in Kasol.

To check this out, I ventured into the Sasi restaurant, situated on the banks of River Parvati. I glanced through the menu and ordered Shakshouka -- an Israeli dish made of poached eggs in tangy tomato gravy along with hummus and pita bread served with a glass of fresh watermelon juice. Quite a treat it was.

Apart from from the amazing hospitality, Kasol is also trending on social media sites for its long and short distance trekking options for casual walkers and the hardcore ones -- and even a combination.

There is, for instance, Tosh, a village on the slope of a mountain 18 km from Kasol, that involves a 16 km walk on a bumpy trail and a two km hike.

With its small population, the village can be explored within a day. It also provides a 360 degree view of the Parvati Valley and one can sit back and enjoy the beautiful view and sunset. It was even more vibrant than a smoky party.

Another trek is from Tosh to Kheerganga, 2,960 meters above sea level. This is a moderate trek of 14 km and takes fit and regular travellers about six to seven hours. The place remains snow-covered during whole winters.

At the highest point, there is a little pool with natural hot spring water. According to the locals, it is believed to be "holy" and also has healing powers. The pool is divided into two sub-pools separately for men and women.

On the way to Kheerganga, the village of Nakthan and the temple of Rudra Nag are ideal places to take short breaks. The sunrise and sunset are a must watch in the mountains. The sound of chirping and giggling birds, the silence of the valley and the majestic view of those snow covered peaks will surely rejuvenate you.

Then, a short distance night trek to Chalal after dinner is a must do for all those travelling to Kasol. It takes around 20-30 minutes and it is advisable to carry a torch for a better view and safety on the road.

Unlike other popular hill stations which offer equally majestic views, Kasol appears to be much more serene and tranquil.

So, get your bags packed and start exploring Kasol and the region around it. You will surely not regret doing so.

FAQs:

* How to reach: Alight at Bhuntar, which is well connected from Delhi and Chandigarh by bus. You can take bus or taxi from Bhuntar to Kasol.

* One can also take a flight from Delhi to Bhuntar.

* Places to visit: Camping near Parvati river, treks to Chalal, Tosh and Kheerganga.

* Where to stay: From budget home-stays to costly hotels and resorts, one can easily find various options to stay in Kasol in the Rs 300 to Rs 4,000 price ban.

* Summer is the best time to visit.

Forbes Lends You An Easy Guide To The Cheapest Places To Travel In 2017

I know what you must be doing right now! Thinking of new year party plans!

But why to spend time thinking about it when there would be party planners for it. What you need to think over is for further plans of how you can make the most of your 2017 in the cheapest possible way.

You all must have heard about the myths of Tuesday being the best day to book flights and January being the cheapest month, but how long can you rely on these? How long would you wait for the good hotels to be booked at the right time of the year with supportive air fares?

Forbes, like every year, brings out numerous lists based on various parameters and here we are with the new list of Forbes which has listed the top cheapest places to visit in 2017.

1. The Mazatlan coast.

Why: The current exchange rate of Mexico is $1=20.69 Mexican pesos, which
makes it one of the most affordable destinations right now. If you are a frugal
traveller then mark Mazatlan in the first place. This place, being the capital of
Mexico offers you with a great food paradise which comprises of fresh dishes. 

Hotels in Mazatlan are not a part of huge chains and therefore are not expensive.
El Cid Marina has awesome huge rooms, great food and awesome pools which
are perfect for family trips. Also, one of the major reasons for its cuisine to be
cheap is because Sinaloa grows the bulk produce in Mexico itself.

2. On safari in South Africa.

Why: Although, the infrastructure in South Africa is well developed, and also it
is an established tourist destination, but the exchange rate is in our favour at
present.

The initial months of 2017, could be easily spent in Cape Town. You will also be
supported by cheaper transportation and hotel expenses.

Since South Africa lies in the Southern Hemisphere, seasons are just opposite;
consider going in summer when the safari lodges will be even less expensive.

The best part of your visit to this place can be wine, since it would cost you less
than that of a soda can.

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3. Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Why: The best time to visit the Caribbean is at the end of April to mid-December
i.e in the low season. This place fits your budget and if you stay within the two-
square-mile radius of the old city, you won't even require rental cars to access
sightseeing and restaurants. 

Villa Herencia and Hotel Casa Blanca are two of the high-style hotels with low-
cost boutiques.

4. A Santiago cityscape, Chile

Why: Europe has always been at priority on everyone's list, plus the exchange
rate is more favourable than it has been in years, especially for the American
travellers. There is surprising German heritage, and it is also easy to rent a car
and explore the area. Santiago is known for its wine, vibrant food, hip hotels and
delicious tapas. You can explore volcanoes and go to the top of a volcano.

5. A waterfront taverna in Crete.

Why: With the e

conomic crisis in Greece and the U.S. dollar strong enough against the euro at 
present, it's the perfect time to visit the wonderful island of Crete. With locals who
 welcome tourists with open arms, you are bound to save a few dollars along with 
having a trip for the lifetime. This place is a foodie's dream come true. 

6. The affordable Riad Yasmine in Marrakech.

Why: For all the Morocco dream visitors, it is important for you to know that this
place is one of the most affordable places in Africa. Typical meals can cost you
ranging from $2.50 to $15 for two including appetisers, unlimited mint tea and
entree. Well, this place will also offer you with a large variety of vegetarian food
and with shopping to suit everyone's budget including leather handbags and
wallets. 

Riad Kheirredine will provide you with a cell phone to ensure your safety during
your stay, also a queen-like stay without even breaking your bank account.

7. Seaside in Belize.

Why: This place bestows upon you with its blend of modern and historical flavour,
 where you can plan your budget suiting romantic trip. Also, many four star hotels
offer such low rates which include bicycle on rents as well as Belize's local wines. 

Both, the oceanside Royal Caribbean Resort in San Pedro and George Hardie's Las
 Vegas Hotel in Corozal can be booked for under $100 per night, providing you
with cheap as well as delicious meals.

8. Boats sit in the harbor in Halong Bay, Vietnam.

Why: Vietnam with healthy food, upscale accommodations and beautiful sights is
a standout among the budget friendly locations in South Asia. The Tirant Hotel
in Hanoi allows you to take a room for less than about $70 a night. And the Hanoi
street food tour is not to be missed, with just $20 per person and a guide. A sip of
the steaming 'pho' noodle soup available in the restaurants, food stalls and
pushcarts is the takeaway of the trip.

9. Costa Rica landscape.

Why: Costing only a few dollars for entry, there are plenty of national parks to
explore which comprise of sloths, monkeys, macaws and tapirs. Corcovado and
Manuel Antonio National Parks being the best. The public transport is also very 
cheap in Cota Rica which enables you to travel between destinations with
affordable prices. The surf ride in Costa Rica can be as petty as $6 per person.
And the local dish "plato tipico" can be enjoyed at about $2-3.

10. Cliffside in Lagos, Portugal.

Why: The dollar being strong against euro at present, the landscapes of "California
 Highway 1 meets Tuscany" can be enjoyed within the budget. This place will also 
offer you with a bottle of port, a meal of the day and a glass of wine for around  
€5 each. Portugal has the most affordable travel in comparison to the rest of 
the Western Europe.

Adventurous Sports That You Must Try In 2017

If you are young, brave, sportive and waiting to do something exciting in life, then here is the end to your wait. Here are the most dangerous sports of the world which you must try to combat your fear. And once you try them, you'll feel the change in yourself. 

It will give you a sense of achievement, build your confidence, relax your mind and you'll get an experience for a lifetime. 

Just don't think too much, pack your bags and go. 

1. Downhill mountain biking

It might seem very easy for the people who haven't tried the sport yet because they often compare it with childhood or teenage bike riding. But, let me tell you there is a vast difference, as the bikes used for downhill mountain biking are completely different, they have a front and rear suspension with 8-inches of travel, the brakes are completely different and the path is extremely steep, with very sharp turns. So, make sure that when you try this sport you have learnt the appropriate skills required. 

2. Big wave surfing

Wave surfing is one of the most dangerous sports in the world because you challenge the big waves against harsh weather conditions, and the game can change any moment. This sport has taken many lives in past decades. And few of the popular spots for wave surfing are Tavarua (Fiji), Sunset Beach, Arica (Chile), Todos Santos (Mexico), Teahupoo (Tahiti).

3. Cage diving in shark alley

If you love underwater marine life, then this is something you experience once in your lifetime. Those of you who don't know what 'Shark Alley' is, then let me tell you, it is the strip of sea between Dyer Island and Geyser Rock, as the region has a lot of seals it acts as a constant food source to the sharks.

4. Hang gliding

f you are someone who has Acrophobia, then this will definitely help you overcome this fear. According to Wikipedia, "Hang gliding is an air sport in which a pilot flies a light, non-motorized foot-launched heavier-than-air aircraft called a hang glider. The pilot is in a harness suspended from the airframe and controls the aircraft by shifting body weight in opposition to a control frame."

5. Running with bulls

It is an 8-day festival celebrated across the villages of Spain, Mexico, Portugal and in some cities of France. This sport was started in the 14th century, and according to Spanish tradition, the youth showed their bravery by running in front of the bulls. This sport is still practised, and if at all you are planning to participate, make sure you are good at running. 

6. El Caminito del Rey trekking

El Caminito del Rey is the most dangerous walkway in the world. The walkway is 111-year-old and is very risky. The El Caminito del Rey trekking is basically, walking through the entire 3-kilometre walkway and there are many crazy people trying out the sport. 

7. Cave diving

As the name suggests this is not normal cave exploration, but one has to go deep under the water and visit the cave. It is mainly considered as a technical type of diving and has a beautiful scenic beauty.