Winter has come to say hello! The sunshine has gone away, the trees have shed their leaves, and two types of people have come out to play: those who love it, and those who cannot stand it.

However, winter is the season that allows people on both ends of the spectrum to enjoy the colder months, even if that means traveling somewhere warmer. This is fantastic news for the snow-despisers of the world, but finding the motivation to go on winter adventures can be a major challenge.

That’s why we’re here to help. Keep reading for a few winter vacation ideas that will spark your inspiration to enjoy the cold!

1. Elkhart Lake

Now, if you’re the type who loves the snow, visiting Elkhart Lake in Sheboygan County, Wisconsin should immediately join your winter adventures idea list. A small village located in the town of Rhine, Elkhart Lake has a plethora of fun things to do in the winter, including:

• Snowshoeing
• Cross-country skiing in the Kettle Moraine Forest
• Aspira Spa
• Hiking the Ice Age Trail
• Shopping
• Ice skating
• Bowling
• Ice fishing

Full of quaint cafés and authentic food, one of the best winter vacations you can take is to Elkhart Lake. Planning a trip? Look into the available cabins for rent in winter so you can enjoy a home-like environment while away. and if you plan your trip around the holiday season, be sure to witness the Christmas in the Square event!

2. Costa Rica

On the flip side of winter adventures comes Costa Rica, which sits around temperatures in the mild 70s during the colder months. For people who can’t stand even the slightest amount of snow, Costa Rica is the place to vacation!

Because of the beautiful weather, activities such as hiking, mountain biking, or ziplining through rainforests become much more enjoyable. But if you were to visit Costa Rica during the summer, these activities would be more challenging due to the extreme heat.

Does Costa Rica scream “best winter vacation” to you? If so, aim for a January visit, when the small country is basking in joy during the Palmares Fiestas! Over a two-week period, Costa Ricans and tourists alike experience live music, a carnival, comedy shows, fireworks, sporting events, bullfighting, and a horse parade. What doesn’t sound better than to join in their celebrations?

Winter Adventures Worth Taking

Searching for fun things to do in the winter doesn’t have to be all that complicated anymore. Whether you find magic in the snow or are frustratedly muttering to yourself while cleaning off the family vehicle, these winter adventures are worth taking.

Elkhart Lake contains all of the beauty that snow-lovers appreciate, with an entire village to roam (even by snowshoe, if you prefer). On the other hand, Costa Rica’s bountiful beaches are perfect for the ones craving the feeling of the sand, sun, and sea. Wherever you go, you are making winter worthwhile!

Did you find this article enjoyable? Discover more content like this on our website.

Are you ready to have an adventure and benefit your mental health? Research has found many benefits of traveling somewhere new. If you are planning a trip, Utah should be your next destination.

Utah is located in the west of the US, next to Colorado and Arizona. It is a state full of surprises, which is why tourist numbers continue to grow. Read on for five great reasons you should take a trip to Utah.

1. Plenty of National Parks

The top things to do in Utah include not one but five national parks to explore. These parks are Zion, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce, and Arches.

They display Utah’s three main distinct landscapes: the Colorado Plateau, the Rocky Mountains, and the Basin and Ridge Region. Enjoy the bright red hoodoos, arches, rivers, mountains, and a range of biodiversity.

2. Lakes and Mountains

Make a splash and reach new heights when visiting Utah. There are a variety of hiking and water Utah activities. Visit lakes such as the Great Salt Lake and Bear Lake, or try river rafting. You can also hike a variety of comprehensive trails, including hikes around Salt Lake City.

3. Interesting Accommodation Options

If you want a unique stay, take a trip to Utah. You do not only get to enjoy all the things to do in Utah but also try an adventurous accommodation option.

There are various accommodation experiences to immerse yourself in nature and other Utah activities. Check out this glamping Zion resort as an example.

4. Native American History

Utah’s name is from the Ute, who lived around the Great Salt Basin. The Navajo Nation, Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah, San Juan Southern Paiute, and other nations live in Utah.

There are many ways to respectfully learn about their heritage, such as using local guides or visiting protected artwork. Canyonlands National Park has artwork from 9000 BC. You can also visit one of the museums, such as Fremont Indian State Park and Museum, to learn more.

5. Dinosaurs and Star Gazing

Utah is one of the best places to stargaze, spot the milky way, and learn about dinosaurs. Enjoy stargazing from one of the national parks, which have low amounts of light pollution and ample viewing opportunities.

Utah also has fossil records of more dinosaur species than other states, with plenty of collections to visit. You can also visit the Natural History Museum of Utah, the Dinosaur National Monument, and many other spots.

Take a Once in a Lifetime Trip to Utah

There are many reasons to take a trip to Utah, but these are some of the top reasons Utah is moving its way up to people’s bucket lists. More than ever, people are searching for destinations that offer the chance of adventure, heritage, rest, and nature, which Utah offers.

Research the time of year you want to visit. As if you cannot visit now, you can also enjoy all the benefits of visiting Utah in winter!

Did you like this article? Read on for more travel inspiration!

 

Are you planning an international trip soon? In 2019, more than 99 million US residents traveled internationally, and now that the pandemic is easing up, people are starting to plan trips again.

If you are planning to travel abroad soon, make sure you are prepared beforehand so you can enjoy your trip! Keep reading to discover five things to do before traveling internationally.

1. Get Travel Documents In Order

Before you travel, it is important to make sure you have all of the necessary documentation. Of course, one of the most important documents is your passport. Note that passports must be valid for at least six months after your trip to be accepted.

You should also be sure to find out if you need a visa for the country you are traveling to. For US passport holders, many countries will grant a temporary tourist visa upon entry, but some countries may have different requirements.

In addition, it is important to double-check the COVID restrictions in the country you are flying to. You may need proof of vaccination or of having COVID recently, a negative test, and/or a health declaration form. If you are unsure of the requirements, your airline can help you find out what you will need.

2. Contact Your Bank

If you plan to use your debit or credit cards overseas, you should be sure to let your bank know about your trip beforehand. You can call your bank’s customer service line and let them know your intended destination and travel dates.

If you do not contact your bank, they could freeze your cards for suspicious activity, so it is important to let them know of your vacation plans. Your bank may also be able to help you exchange money into the currency of your destination or give you tips on the best way to do this.

3. Leave Your House Protected

Before traveling abroad, you will want to make sure that you are leaving your home locked up and safe while you are gone. It is also advisable not to post the dates you will be gone online, so no one outside close friends and family will know your house will be empty.

Having an armed security system is an important step in protecting your home. If you are looking for a state-of-the-art system that can be monitored and controlled from anywhere, be sure to visit homesecuritybuff.com.

4. Pack Wisely

Packing is of course, an essential task on any travel checklist, but when traveling internationally, you’ll definitely want to make sure you pack wisely. For example, if you take prescription medications, you’ll want to make sure you have enough for your trip.

Furthermore, you may want to consider packing other items that may not be available in the country you will be visiting. For example, if you only like using a certain brand of toothpaste, you’ll want to bring that with you.

5. Prepare to Be a Good Tourist

When preparing for international travel, you will want to do a little research about the country you are visiting. Each country has its own customs, so doing a little research on what is considered offensive, how much or when you should tip, and other matters.

If your travel plans include a country where they speak a different language, you also might prepare by learning some useful phrases. Learning to say hello, please, thank you, and help can go a long way in a foreign country!

Final Thoughts on Things to Do Before Traveling Internationally

By now, you should have a good idea of what things to do before traveling internationally. The better prepared you are for your trip, the more likely you are to enjoy your vacation.

For information about travel, technology, business, sports, and many other topics, be sure to check out the rest of our website!

 

 

Six in ten Americans plan to travel this summer. Are you one of them? If so, you are likely exploring lodging options in your destination, such as hotels.

There’s a lot more to consider than getting a reasonable rate- the amenities, service, and your overall satisfaction highly depend on the hotel brand you choose.

Today’s post is here to help! In it, we will give you a rundown of some of the best hotel chains. And, you’ll learn how to get the most out of your holiday.

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

Some of the best hotels around the world are Four Seasons. Examples include their beachfront resort in Seychelles nestled in the jungle and their beautiful Renaissance palace in Florence, Italy.

These experiences tend to come at a high price, but the quality is well worth it for many. And, if you join the Four Seasons Preferred Partner Program, you can stack promotions for a great deal.

Marriott International Hotels

Marriott is one of the most famous hotel chains globally, likely because of the quality service they deliver.

Their most renowned hotel brands include the Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis. These offer the best of experiences and amenities, such as butler services.

Meanwhile, SpringHill Suites and Fairfield Inns are favorites among business travelers and families who enjoy complimentary breakfast.

It doesn’t matter which type of traveler you are. Becoming a member will enrich your stay at all Marriott brands, giving you:

• Early check-in/late check out
• Free WiFi
• Mobile check-in
• Gifts

Members accumulate Marriott points, which they can redeem for travel, gift cards, donate, or give to friends.

Hilton Worldwide Hotels

Hilton owns over a dozen chains and more than 6,800 properties. Some of these, such as the DoubleTree, are family-friendly and even offer complimentary cookies or breakfast.

Others like LXR are luxurious hotels that offer their guests personalized experiences.

No matter the brand you choose for your stay, booking through the Hilton website gives you perks. These include choosing your room’s location, digital check-in, and free WiFi.

Preferred Hotels and Resorts

Do you want to stay in five-star properties in premier destinations worldwide? If so, check out Preferred Hotels and Resorts! The chain has over 650 hotels in more than 85 countries.

Their membership program can help you score perks, such as:

• Exclusive rates
• Room upgrades
• Early check-in/ late checkout
• Free WiFi

Plus, you accumulate points with each stay, saving you big bucks on future visits.

Hyatt Hotels Corporation

With more than a thousand hotels around the globe, Hyatt has several different brands. Each of these offers guests a different experience.

For example, Park Hyatt hotels are modern and luxurious, while Alila resorts have an exotic feel. Thankfully, Hyatt’s websites can help you navigate their brands worldwide and find unique experiences that fuel your soul.

Moreover, veterans and their immediate families can enjoy 15 percent discounts with every booking.

Book Your Next Holiday at One of These Hotel Chains

Finding suitable lodging should never be an issue with so many great hotel chains to choose from. And if you love the perks that certain hotel groups provide, don’t forget to join their membership programs to get the most out of your stay!

To learn more about the hospitality industry, check out our travel blog posts!

 

It’s time for you to plan your next family vacation. You’ve got to book the hotel, get your plane tickets, secure a rental car, pack, and plan your itinerary. With how busy you’re going to be, you’ll need a vacation after your vacation.

Why not go on a cruise instead? There’s almost no planning involved after you buy your tickets. It also includes everything from food to entertainment.

Still asking yourself, “Are cruises worth it?” We’ve got a whole list of benefits that you’ll get to enjoy when you’re onboard. Check out this quick vacation guide to learn more.

It Includes Everything

One of the benefits of cruises is the fact that everything is included. While you’re on board, you’ll have unlimited access to delicious food.

There are tons of evening entertainment options that you and your family will enjoy.

You might have to pay a bit extra for a special drink package or internet if you want it. Other than that, your ticket will give you access to everything you need to have a good time.

You’ll See a Lot

When asking yourself, “should I take a cruise” think about how much you want to see while you’re on vacation. If you’re fine with just sitting in your hotel and exploring the area around you, then going on a cruise might be a bit overkill.

If you like the idea of exploring several different locations and countries, a cruise will be your jam. You can pay for full excursions or get off the boat and explore.

It’s Convenient

Let’s say that you want to spend part of your vacation in one location and the other part in another. You’ll have to pack up your things and unpack them several times. Talk about a pain!

When you go on a cruise, the ship will act as your moving hotel. No matter where you go, you’ll only have to deal with your luggage once.

Planning your trip is also easy. All you have to do is choose your boat, cabin, and itinerary. As far as cruise prices go, you’ll have plenty of time to pay it off leading up to your vacation. You can go here to discover more.

There are Various Entertainment Options

Even if you don’t go on a single excursion, there’s still plenty of entertainment that you can take part in on the boat. There are shows that go on every evening.

You can go see a comedy show, jugglers, singers, and dancers. In the case of some newer ships, you can catch a Broadway show.

Are Cruises Worth It? You Tell Us

Are cruises worth it? If you’re okay with spending your entire vacation in a single location, you can get by with a regular old getaway.

If you’re the kind of person who loves to explore, going on a cruise can be an inexpensive way to do it. Book your trip today!

Want to learn more about what cruises can bring to the table? Visit the Travel section of our blog!

The US is the third-largest country, so there are several hotspots you ought to visit to have the ultimate vacation. You can visit diverse locations, from famous beaches along the coastline to natural formations like the Grand Canyon. And it’ll be easy to find reasonable accommodation near these sites because they’ve been treated as tourist hotspots for decades.

There is so much to choose from that you’ll need a comprehensive list and see which locations are ideal for you. You have to space them well in your itinerary because it can take nearly three days to explore the more extensive wonders like Disney World and Universal Studios. Keep reading to find out more.

Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is a 277-mile-long canyon capable of creating its weather. That’s to say, you’ll experience a difference in temperature at different points because of elevation. A trip to this world heritage site offers educational activities in addition to its stunning view. There are free education trips for school children to learn about the canyon’s geology and history.

You can hike, camp, and even do white-water rafting here to have the complete experience. The Grand Canyon National Park is home to many wildlife species, and it’s the perfect escape from urban life in a concrete jungle.

Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge is the perfect destination for a fun-filled, family-friendly vacation at the base of the Smoky Mountains. You’ll find various things to look out for, exciting attractions, numerous dining and shopping options, and gripping award-winning shows. The shows in Pigeon Forge include the Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Show, Pirates Voyage Dinner and Show, Dolly Parton’s Stampede, The Grand Majestic Theater, and more.

In particular, Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Show is the perfect mix of entertainment and education. The show teaches viewers the ways of lumberjacking, featuring renowned lumberjacks. You’ll see the jacks compete in the boom run, ax throw, log roll, speed climb, and other exciting competitions. Even children will have fun in the special kids’ event during the intermission. Don’t worry about anything because it’s all super safe.

Maui

Also called “The Valley Isle,” Maui is considered one of the best Hawaiian Islands. The sunrise at the Haleakala National Park is second to none in scenic beauty. The park includes volcanic terrain, and the sunrise view is so beautiful that people book its viewing in advance.

Maui is home to the historic hotspot Lahaina. The town of Lahaina is rich in history and culture. It’s well known for its galleries and restaurants that feature traditional dance performances. You can go snorkeling in the clear waters, sunbathe on the beach and even fly in a helicopter over the Road to Hana.

Glacier National Park

As the name suggests, glaciers are the main attraction of this park. Glacier National Park is home to over 700 lakes, waterfalls, and even two mountain ranges. The most appropriate activities are camping, biking, photography, hiking, and boat tours that show you around the lakes and provide an exquisite view of local wildlife. You can see moose, bears, and mountain goats among the near 70 species of mammals in the park.

You can book an air tour to get a bird’s eye view of the entire park and see the glaciers, Garden Wall, and Two Medicine Valley.

Miami

If you love Miami and want to explore many beaches on a single day without the hassle of lugging your bags, check Vertoe for safe luggage storage options. You can find locations near major landmarks and transit points. Check luggage storage near Miami airport for knowing about all facilities nearby.

The city of Miami in South Florida is best known for its beaches. Enjoy the sub-tropical weather at any time of the year. Even sudden bouts of rain are soon followed by clear skies. If you’re big on food, Miami will be your paradise. Miami is a hotpot of different cultures, and that aspect is reflected in the restaurants and diners. You can find anything from sushi to tacos and curry chicken to Cuban delicacies.

Get a ride in luxury cars (Lamborghinis and Mustangs, you name it.) to blaze through the streets. You can rent a mansion or stay at a hotel with private pools and spas and get the best of their nightclubs with renowned DJs. You can even set sail on the ocean to tour around the city. There’s little to nothing you can’t do in Miami.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is just the place if you prefer letting loose in extravagant casinos and hotels over nature parks. The hotels here are one of a kind. They have top-tier amenities and services, luxury pools, and casinos. If the hotel you stay at doesn’t have a casino, ask the staff, and they’ll direct you to the best casinos in your area.

The restaurants are family-friendly and have the best Mexican and Italian cuisine. There are fancy restaurants to provide a fine dining experience and cozy family restaurants if those are more up your alley.

There were 32.2 million tourists in Las Vegas back in 2021 alone. The nightlife is just one aspect of the city that never sleeps, and people of all ages can enjoy what Las Vegas offers. During the day, you can visit museums and sightsee The Strip, Fremont Street, etc. You can even catch a gondola ride at the Venetian Hotel.

Get a ticket to world-famous shows like Cirque du Soleil if you’re in the mood to get blown away and mesmerized. The shows have different themes like ice, underwater, and aerial. You can also find magic shows, comedy shows, and many concerts in Las Vegas.

Orlando

Orlando is home to the world-famous Disney World and Universal Studios. It would help to plan a 3-day trip to these theme parks to explore each ride and sub-park fully. You won’t be disappointed. The Jurassic World VelociCoaster was opened to the public in 2021, and it’s a super-fast ride with sudden wild movements to mimic an authentic Jurassic experience.

SeaWorld Orlando is another excellent site to see and educate yourself about extraordinary marine life. However, this isn’t the only sea life exhibit, and there’s no shortage of water parks with various fun rides either.

Along with sightseeing, go to The Mall at Millenia and Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex for a transformative and educational experience. Learn while having fun!

Conclusion

You need to thoroughly prepare a plan if you want a great vacation in The States. Make a list of activities you want to do, whether it’s to go hiking, parasailing, stargazing, or raking it in at a casino. Then you can shortlist which locations to visit. If you want to experience a real-life showdown between lumberjacks at the foothills of Smoky Mountain, go for the show at Pigeon Forge. If you want a break from city life, a camping trip to nature parks like Glacier National Park and the beaches of Miami will do you good.

 

Have you ever wondered about the recent surge of Americans signing up for van life?

Van life is arguably one of the most rewarding ways to live in our modern world. Many modern vans have the amenities that you’ll want from a modern home. But it gives you the freedom to explore the country and perhaps even the world.

But, of course, van life isn’t for everyone, and living in a van can be more worrisome for some travelers.

So is van life ideal for your situation?

Here’s what you need to know:

The Claustrophobia Is Real, But There’s a Solution

If you are afraid of confined spaces for long periods of time, then you might not like the van life. If you aren’t a fan of long road trips and can occasionally get ‘car sick’ then van life will seem like a nightmare.

However, if you’re still curious about van life there’s a solution to this. You can choose a campervan. These are vans that are larger than standard sizes and have the luxuries of a five-star hotel!

You can look online to find the right campervan to suit your needs.

Sense of Community

For many travelers, the thought of van life seems daunting — as it seems like we’ll feel lonely stuck in our vans.

But this couldn’t be further from the truth. When you become part of the van life, you become part of a greater community. You’ll find that many locations around the United States cater to van drivers.

You’ll find that there are many other van drivers like you all over the country. They are travelers, digital nomads, and even entire families! You’ll find that they are among the most welcoming people you’ll meet.

One thing that holds back many people from traveling is the fear of loneliness. Many travelers feel they’ll have difficulty making new friends or networking. You’ll find that van life will dispel these fears!

Comfortable Amenities

As mentioned earlier, van life doesn’t always mean that you’ll have to “rough it out.”

While you’ll have to sometimes deal with the stress of driving and maintaining a large vehicle, you can also enjoy the luxuries of modern-day living.

Many modern vans will have constant Wi-Fi access. This makes it great to connect with the outside world and is perfect for remote workers. You’ll also have air conditioning and heating.

You’ll have a fully-functioning kitchen as well as a full bathroom. At times, you’ll feel like you’re in a hotel suite rather than a van!

Get Into Van Life

Now you know the pros and cons of the van life you can determine if it’s for you.

If you’re claustrophobic you might find being in a van for hours on end to be very stressful. However, this can be alleviated by investing in a high-end campervan.

When you join van life, you’ll find a great community of travelers, digital nomads, and families. You also don’t have to give up on the luxuries of modern life as many vans have comfortable amenities.

You can learn more about living in a van on our blog!

 

With over eight million residents, it’s safe to say that New York City needs all three of its airports. But when flying to or from the Big Apple, it can be all too easy to pick an airport that doesn’t give you what you need.

Each NYC airport has its pros and cons. Unless you’re a seasoned flyer, it can be hard to spot them all at a glance.

Lucky for you, we’re here to help! Read on for the ultimate guide to Newark vs JFK vs LaGuardia – we’ll make sure you don’t get caught short at the airport again.

Airlines and Flights

Which airline are you flying with? This might be the most important factor in deciding which airport is the best fit for you.

JFK is a huge international airport and a hub for big-name airlines like Delta and American Airlines. Long-haul flights arrive and depart from all over the world, and as a result, the airport amenities are great. You’ll also find direct domestic flights to and from every major airport in the US.

Newark might not have JFK’s name recognition, but don’t be fooled! It’s a major hub airport for United Airlines and other Star Alliance carriers from around the world. It also has a surprising number of amenities, including an exclusive invite-only restaurant.

LaGuardia is the only NYC airport offering flights from Southwest Airlines. However, it’s smaller than the other two airports, so domestic flight options can be limited. Amenities at LaGuardia fall short of both Newark and JFK, too – though if your flight is shorter, it may not matter so much.

Distance to Downtown

You’ve just touched down in NYC, and you want to get where you’re going as fast as you can. But how long is it going to take to get there from the airport?

For direct distance via car, LaGuardia is the closest airport to downtown Manhattan – it’s only an 8.5-mile drive! But since it’s NYC, that drive can take you anywhere from 25 to 50 minutes.

JFK is about 18.5 miles from Manhattan by car. On a good day, that’s a 45-minute drive. On a bad day, it can take an hour and a half.

While Newark is further from Manhattan than JFK, the drive can be a tiny bit quicker. You should factor in 40 to 85 minutes if you’re planning to drive downtown from Newark.

Transportation Options

All three NYC airports are accessible via public transit. Whether they’re easily accessible is another matter!

LaGuardia doesn’t have a subway station, so you’ll need to make an inconvenient transfer onto an airport bus. Getting to JFK means transferring from the subway onto the AirTrain. While Newark’s subway connections aren’t great, you can always take the one-way Newark Airport Express shuttle bus – though it only goes to and from Manhattan.

If you drive, it can be a smart move to check your options for airport parking. As the airport itself has limited public transit connections, Newark airport parking options are especially worth your time. You’ll save yourself the hassle of public transit, and enjoy some great perks in the bargain.

The Best NYC Airport

The fact is that there’s no one ‘best’ NYC airport. Which airport works for you will depend on your needs – whether that’s the airline you’re flying with or your transportation preferences groundside. Do your research before you fly, and you’ll be fine whichever airport you choose!

Liked this post? Check out more of our travel guides, and we’ll make sure you’re covered wherever you’re visiting next.

 

Did you know that ”Condé Nast Traveler” awarded Chicago for being the ”Best Big City in the US” in 2021?

It’s not surprising as this city has excellent restaurants, diverse and interesting attractions, and welcoming locals.

If you’re considering traveling to Chi-town, you’re in the right place. Continue reading to find the best Chicago tourist attractions.

1. The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago has a collection that spans centuries. There are many places to visit in Chicago, but this one is ideal if you want to be surrounded by hundreds of thousands of artworks.

Expect to see different media, including paintings, photographs, prints, sculptures, architectural drawings, textiles, decorative arts, etc. Also, check out Renoir’s 1879 Acrobats at the Cirque Fernando and Georges Seurat’s 1884 A Sunday Afternoon on La Grande Jatte.

2. Field Museum of Natural History

The Field Museum of Natural History, originally named the Columbian Museum of Chicago, was founded in 1893 to showcase anthropological and biological collections.

This place houses a permanent collection of nearly 20M artifacts and specimens. Ensure you look at the displays on Ancient Egypt and the one on Central, North, and South American cultures.

If you’re visiting this city with kids, they’ll love this museum as they’ll see the world’s largest Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton there. Ultimately, for someone interested in anthropology, geology, zoology, and botany, this is one of the best places in Chicago to visit.

3. Lincoln Park

Are you into outdoor areas? Do you enjoy jogging paths and bike trails? Then add visiting Lincoln Park to your best things to do in Chicago list.

Expect to see a six-mile stretch of green space and important public art pieces, including Augustus Saint Gaudens’ Standing Statue of Lincoln (1887).

Located along the edge of Lake Michigan, this popular park is home to the Lincoln Park Zoo (one of the oldest zoos in the country) and the lovely Lincoln Park Conservatory. If these options don’t appeal to you, you can check out the Chicago History Museum or the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum.

Do you want to spice up your trip? Then book a tour with Breezehelicopters.com. It can be super fun to see Chicago from another point of view!

4. Stroll Around Navy Pier

Initially opened in 1916 as a shipping facility and amusement area, the Navy Pier is now one of the must-see tourist attractions in Chicago. You’ll find concert venues, restaurants, gardens, shops, and more there.

Are you not convinced yet? Then check out a historic carousel and a 150 ft Ferris wheel in Navy Pier Park. Indeed, you’ll have fun.

In case you’re looking for a more relaxing activity, you can watch a movie at the 3D Imax Theater or pop in the Crystal Gardens (a six-story, one-acre, indoor botanical garden). If you have kids joining you during this trip, try to visit the Chicago Children’s Museum.

5. The B_Line (Hubbard Street Murals)

There are so many Chicago landmarks to see, and at The B_Line, you’ll find interesting ones.

The Hubbard Street murals are like no other. Thanks to managing director and curator Levar Hoard, local artists have been working to re-imagine and restore the vivid murals in this open-air street art gallery for the past three years.

Think of a diverse, intriguing place in which past and present clash: that’s The B_Line. Expect to find original works and newer landmarks (including a powerful tribute to Juice WRLD, a Chicago rapper who died after an accidental overdose of painkillers).

Chicago Tourist Attractions

Now you know what the best Chicago tourist attractions are. So, start planning your itinerary. Traveling helps break the routine, improve your health and create unforgettable memories. So, give it a go!

Did you like this piece? We have more! Check out the rest of our website.

Sadly, the first hot air balloon pilot died in one of the first manned hot air balloon crashes, but that was in 1783! Hot air balloons have changed a lot since then and are now one of the safest and most enjoyable ways to see landscapes worldwide.

Hot air ballooning is an adventure and the only passenger travel where the pilot doesn’t steer the craft. However, the air balloon industry can guarantee safety by having well-practiced flying procedures and a thorough understanding of preparing and preparing for take-offs and landings.

Want to know more about how these beautiful and spectacular aircraft operate?

In the following article, we’ll discuss how hot air balloons work in practice and why you should feel safe while sightseeing in these crafts.

A Brief History

The Chinese were the first to invent hot air balloons. The military utilized the balloons to send messages.

The military uses continued throughout the history of ballooning. They were often used to scout enemy positions. Their use was popularized in France and even used in the U.S. Civil War.

Hot air balloon rides are offered worldwide, from the deserts of Africa to the green field of England.

Although some airships today use helium or a mixture of helium and hot air, most sightseeing and recreational users just use hot air.

Helium is expensive, so it’s generally used for long-range missions or high-altitude research.

How Do Hot Air Balloons Work?

The balloon of a hot air balloon is an envelope made of lightweight nylon. There is an opening at the bottom of the balloon called the mouth and usually a series of vents along the sides and top of the balloon. Pilots use these vents to release hot air.

Fans and natural gas burners force hot air into the mouth and inflate the envelope. Since heat rises, the warmer air will carry the balloon and its passengers into the air.

A hot air balloon typically has anywhere from 76,000 to 599,000 cubic feet of air, depending on the size of the nylon envelope.

What Does a Pilot Control?

The hot air balloon pilot and passengers ride in a sturdy container, usually referred to as a basket. Although they could be made of any lightweight material, typical hot air balloon baskets have a steel frame surrounded by woven wicker panels.

Melding the two materials allows for strength and tradition. The baskets can usually handle anywhere from 2 to 12 people, depending on the size of the balloon.

Fixed to a metal frame in the middle of the basket, the gas burners allow the pilot to adjust the altitude of the ballon by adding or venting hot air.

However, a pilot cannot dictate the route the balloon will travel. So a balloonist will study the wind patterns of the area they are flying to judge accurately the direction the balloon will take.

Landing the Balloon

Since piloting the balloon takes experience and a good knowledge of the terrain, most commercial balloon flights are conducted in well-traveled areas under predictable wind and weather conditions.

Dessert trips are great because you can depend on the winds and sudden storms are infrequent.

A pilot will have the passengers crouch down when the balloon lands, as the landing usually comes with a sudden bump and drag.

Often a landing crew will be on the ground near the anticipated landing site to help secure the landing of the hot air balloon.

Hot Air Balloons Are Safe

While the pilots of hot air balloons don’t have complete control of the aircraft,  these airships are some of the safest and best ways to see large expanses of the country.

The pilot will often use the vent to rotate the balloons so that the passengers can enjoy 360-degree views.

Truly, hot air ballooning is a great way to see the world while enjoying the spirit of adventure.