Travel – Page 6 – Footloose Forever

Ladakh Time Lapse & My Amazing Journey from Manali to Leh

September 15, 2016January 21, 2017Posted in TravelTagged guest post, ladakh, ladakh sky, ladakh time lapse, ladakh tour, leh, manali, nature photography, nubra valley, Pangong Tso, time lapse video, travel photography, Tsomoriri lake32 Comments

Ladakh, one of the greatest places on earth and here you can get the pleasure of breathtaking landscapes, high altitude motorable passes, stunning lakes and many more. The beauty of Ladakh will mesmerize you and bring you back again and again to this place. You can find the unlimited variation of the mountains there. Also this place is known as many adventurous sports like biking, cycling, rafting and many more.

I was in Ladakh on July 2016 for 12 days. This tour was one of my best till date. This trip was just unforgettable.

I have started my journey on 4^th July from Kolkata to Delhi. After reaching Delhi, I went for Manali. It was a 12-hour bus journey. The next day was the resting day at Manali. On 4^th July, I started the road trip to Leh. Our first stop was Sarchu. It is almost 14,000 ft above the sea level. I experienced a mesmerizing night sky with the Milky Way and billions of stars out there.

The next day, I traveled to Tsomoriri. It is a lake placed almost 15000 ft above the sea level. I stayed at a camp near the Tsomoriri lake. Completing one night there, next day was our last day to reach Leh.

On 6^th July I reached Leh, the heaven of Kashmir. I stayed there for 5 days and in between I visited Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso.

During our road trip we have crossed some of the highest motorable mountain passes of the world. The beauty of Manali – Leh highway was stunning.

Ladakh is a favorite place for photographers. You can’t miss anything while you are in a road trip. This has happened to me also. I took almost 8000 images during my 12-day trip. 5000 among them was for time lapse photography.

I made this 3 mins timelapse video with 5000 images.

Author Bio:

Debarup, the founder of Top Five Buzz, is a passionate photographer and a traveler. He loves mountains and wants to explore every curve of it. His dream is to travel around the world to enjoy the nature in every part of this mighty earth.

Packing Hacks Every Traveler Needs to Know

August 11, 2016August 9, 2016Posted in TravelTagged packing, packing backpack, packing hacks, packing tips, travel packing tips, travel tips3 Comments

packing, travel bag packing, packing tips

This post below was originally published on Hipmunk’s Tailwind Blog on April 8, 2016 by TheHipmunk.

Gallivanting around Madrid or conducting business in San Francisco? Wherever you’re going—and whatever you’re planning to do there—you’ll need to pack a bag before you leave for the trip.

But even though packing is universal to travelers, packing well isn’t necessarily a skill that we all share. That’s where these packing hacks come in. Each of these smart tips comes recommended by master travelers and promises you an easier trip from start to finish.

Pack bubble wrap.

It might seem counterintuitive to fill up space in your suitcase with something you don’t actually need, but hear us out: Packing a few sheets of bubble wrap on the way to your destination means you can remove it and have extra space for carrying souvenirs on the way home. And if those souvenirs are breakable, then even better: Simply keep the bubble wrap and use it as protection.

Hide valuables in old toiletry bottles.

What respectable thief would ever reach for an old tube of Chapstick or a bottle of sunscreen? Before leaving for a trip, empty out a few old toiletry bottles and use them as storage containers for valuables such as keys, cash, and credit cards.

Prevent liquid spills.

Fly often enough, and eventually you’ll experience the misery that is a burst shampoo bottle in a suitcase full of clothes. Avoid the suffering by cutting out a square of plastic wrap and placing it underneath the lid on your liquid toiletry bottles. (Just screw the lids back on on top of the plastic wrap.) That way, even if the lid comes open, liquids won’t seep out. It’s also a good idea to further secure toiletries in a plastic bag.

Pack shoes wisely.

Shoes can be one of the most cumbersome items to pack, but a few hacks can make a big difference. Start by packing small items (think socks, underwear, bracelets, watches, etc.) into the shoes themselves in order to save valuable space and prevent these items from sliding around inside the suitcase. Then stick the soles into a shower cap so they don’t soil any of your clothes. Finally, be sure to pack shoes foot-to-toe at the bottom of your bag in order to save additional space and keep the suitcase balanced.

Bring smaller bags.

Packing light is a valuable goal, but sometimes bringing along a few extra items is worth it for the convenience they’ll offer during your trip. Case in point: If you envision needing to carry around any large-ish items (e.g. a laptop) while you’re away, then remember to bring along a bag in which to carry them. That way you won’t be stuck lugging your suitcase around a foreign city when all you really need is a messenger bag.

Avoid tangled jewelry.

Save yourself a massive headache upon arriving at the hotel by packing jewelry so it doesn’t get tangled en route. Lay flat a piece of plastic cling wrap, carefully arrange your necklace(s) or earrings on top, and then cover it all up with another layer of cling wrap. Then slide the whole shebang in between clothes for extra protection.

Wrangle ear buds and power cords.

Anyone with a smartphone or an MP3 player knows what a hassle it can be to manage all the cords that keep our devices humming. Even more frustrating is having to tear through a bag searching for said cords (which inevitably seem to make their way to the bottom). Keep everything in one place—and tangle-free—by stashing small cords in a sunglass case. Wrap them up neatly, tuck them in the case, and assign the case to a spot near the top of your bag for maximum ease of use.

Take pictures.

Once you’ve packed everything into your suitcase, take a picture of both the inside and the outside of your bag. If (heaven forbid) your bag gets lost or stolen, this way you’ll be able to easily describe it to the appropriate authorities.

Whether you’re still finding your packing stride or you travel often enough that you could pack a carry-on in your sleep, these tips will help you maximize space and eliminate stress wherever you find yourself traveling next.

Explore Virginia’s Historic Attractions and Stay at Some of the Best Boutique Hotels

August 9, 2016August 10, 2016Posted in USA Hotels and DestinationsTagged Alexandria Old Town hotels, Arlington, Boutique hotels in the US, Charlottesville, Georgetown, hotels in USA, Richmond hotels, Virginia, Virginia hotels9 Comments

Virginia wine country tour, Virginia hotels

With expansive farmland, rivers, and mountains, Virginia offers scenic landscapes and ample opportunities for outdoor fun. As one of the oldest English settlements in America, places like Alexandria, Georgetown, and Charlottesville exude a touch of colonial charm. Explore the historic districts and beautiful wine country, and enjoy your stay at some of the best boutique hotels in Virginia.

Hilton Alexandria Old Town – Stay in One Hotel, Explore Two Cities

Nestled in the historic Old Town district in Alexandria, Hilton Alexandria Old Town is only two minutes from the Washington Metro King Street station. Not only can you access Alexandria’s historic attractions from here, but you can also take a quick trip to Washington, D.C.

The hotel offers stylish accommodation with a range of world-class amenities. Rooms come with luxurious king beds, armchairs with ottomans, televisions, and work desks with ergonomic chairs. The hotel also has a meeting space with state-of-the-art technology. If you want to unwind, hit the lounge or the bar, or visit the fitness center to continue with your fitness regime.

Image via Flickr by Fotomoe

Holiday Inn Rosslyn at Key Bridge, Arlington – A Value for Money Hotel

With an array of well-appointed rooms, a convenient location, and kid-friendly policies, the Holiday Inn Rosslyn at Key Bridge offers great value for your money in Arlington. Located near the DC metro area, the hotel offers quick access to the city’s historic attractions, such as Georgetown, the Washington Monument, the Smithsonian Institution museums, and the National Mall.

The hotel’s spacious rooms feature sleeper sofas, roll-away beds, writing desks, and flat-screen TVs with cable channels. Kids up to 19 years old can stay for free when sharing rooms with their parents. Cribs and extra bedding are provided on demand. Kitchen amenities include a mini fridge and a coffee maker.

Omni Charlottesville Hotel – Immerse Yourself in Luxury

Only 20 minutes from Charlottesville Airport, the Omni Charlottesville Hotel offers swanky accommodations in vibrant downtown Charlottesville. A short walk from the historic pedestrian mall, this hotel allows quick access to the University of Virginia and the city’s premier shopping malls and entertainment hubs.

Luxurious guest rooms come with plush beds with down pillows, TVs with movie options, work desks, and complimentary newspapers. Enjoy the views of Blue Ridge Mountains from your room, relax in the lush green atrium, or chill out in the pool. Fitness kits are available in the rooms, and the hotel also has a fully equipped fitness center.

Image via Flickr by JakeBrewer

Linden Row Inn, Richmond – A Blend of History and Modernity

Built in the 19th-century Greek Revival architectural style, Linden Row Inn is a three-star boutique hotel in the heart of Richmond. The hotel’s Victorian interior is accented with antique furniture, but you can expect plenty of modern amenities, too. In the guest rooms you’ll find TVs with premium satellite channels, writing desks, complimentary high-speed internet connectivity, coffee makers, and luxurious spa-style bathrooms. A business center, valet parking, local shuttle service, and laundry and dry cleaning facilities further add to your convenience at this classic hotel.

Image via Flickr by Sky Noir

Omni Richmond Hotel – Experience the Warmth of Southern Hospitality

Located in the Shockoe Slip district in downtown Richmond, the Omni Richmond Hotel awaits with warm hospitality and upscale accommodations. The hotel’s non-smoking guest rooms are tastefully decorated with luxurious furnishings and fine linens. You’ll find plush beds with down pillows, work desks with power outlets, large flat-panel TVs with a LodgeNet system for on-demand movies, and coffee makers. With innovative programs for kids, pet-friendly policies, and amenities like a heated indoor pool and fine dining restaurants, the Omni Richmond Hotel promises a great stay.

Hipmunk Hotels: 10 Affordable Hotels in Northeast USA (in Wildwood, Weehawken, Amsterdam, and more)

August 5, 2016August 4, 2016Posted in USA Hotels and DestinationsTagged Amsterdam, destinations in Northeast USA, hotels in USA, hotels northeast USA, New Jersey, New York, USA Hotels and Destinations, WildwoodLeave a comment

The post below was originally published on Earth’s Attractions on June 5, 2016 by Violeta-Loredana P.

If you want to relax in a laid-back atmosphere to unwind and take a break from it all, the American Northeast offers a wide range of choices for all types of travelers. There are several lesser-known cities that will surprise you and give you various entertainment options. From picturesque settings near Amsterdam to the Saxon Woods Park in White Plains, and from the beauty of the western shore of the Hudson River to the Wildwood Beach, there are plenty of options for everyone. Here are four great places to visit along with tips for popular cheap hotels in each area.

Amsterdam, New York

When in Amsterdam, New York, you should visit the Guy Park, a house built in 1774 in the Georgian style. You can also take a look at the Shuttleworth Park, which is home to the Amsterdam Mohawks baseball team, and make sure you don’t miss the Amsterdam Riverfront, which provides a great place for shopping, music, and more. There are several budget hotels in Amsterdam, such as the Super 8 Amsterdam NY and the Valley View Motor Inn, but you can also try the Halcyon Farm Bed & Breakfast.

Wildwood, New Jersey

There are so many entertainment options in Wildwood, New Jersey, that you’ll have a hard time choosing what to do and where to go. A visit to the Wildwood Beach shouldn’t be absent from your itinerary, and if you like water parks, then you can also include Splash Zone Water Park, Morey’s Piers, and Beachfront Water Parks. Other famous sites include the Seaport Aquarium and the Wildwood Insectarium, and you can also relax by playing arcade games or going shopping. The Diamond Crest Motel is a cheap hotel in Wildwood, while the Oceanview Motel will help you save money by allowing you to cook your own meals in the kitchenette. If you want Wi-Fi, choose the Paradise Oceanfront Resort.

Photo by Kellie Caprood via Trover.com

Weehawken, New Jersey

Located on the Hudson River’s western shore, Weehawken is a great town for those who want to travel around the Manhattan area without breaking the bank. It’s a quiet town and one that will make you travel back in time, as the Hamilton Park is the former place for duels. The park offers stunning views of western Manhattan and the Empire State, which makes it a perfect place for night photos. The Super 8 Motel North Bergen and the Explore Hotel and Hostel in nearby Union City are two cheap hotels in Weehawken that will save you money on your trip.

Photo by Andy Sawieljew via Trover.com

White Plains, New York

Between the City Center 15 Cinema de Lux, the Westchester Mall, and the Saxon Woods Park, White Plains, New Jersey, offers several relaxation and entertainment opportunities. This town is perfect for those who try to discover lesser-known destinations for their travels, as it offers a great mix of outdoor and indoor activities for a short visit. Choose the Renaissance Westchester Hotel if you want to be close to the Neuberger Museum of Art or the HYATT House White Plains as affordable hotels in White Plains.

Photo by Eva Perez castro via Trover.com

This article is part of the Hipmunk campaign

Hipmunk Hotels: Affordable Options in The Less-Traveled South (Myrtle Beach, Richmond, and More)

July 25, 2016July 23, 2016Posted in USA Hotels and DestinationsTagged boutique hotels in Tennessee, Boutique hotels in the US, hipmunk hotels, Midland, Myrtle Beach, Richmond, USA boutique hotelsLeave a comment

The post below was originally published on This Life in Trips by Shaun Robertson.

When thinking of cities in the Southern states, New Orleans, Charleston, and Savannah come to mind — and with good reason. These cities offer some of the best culture, cuisine, music, and laid-back living that famously comes with this region. Of course, because of this, these popular tourist locations can be expensive to visit and crowded in the peak seasons. With that in mind, check out these great Southern city alternatives and the hotels to stay in for those looking for an affordable and less crowded stay.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg is a unique tourist destination, to say the least. Located on the doorstep of the Smokey Mountains, this eastern Tennessee town is a great jumping off point for exploring the great outdoors. That said, it’s also a great spot for family fun. With amusement rides, the Space Needle, and great restaurant choices, Gatlinburg has plenty to see and do within its city limits. Although not as popular as Nashville or Memphis, Gatlinburg receives its share of visitors. For thinner crowds, visit in the winter season or during the week in the summer. Either way, for a great mix of the outdoors and city fun, book your hotel in Gatlinburg in advance for the best savings. Furthermore, Reagan Resorts Inn is a nice option for budget travelers.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach may seem out of place on this list, but it can be enjoyed on the cheap year-round. Due to its famous beaches, great seafood, and spectacular golf courses, Myrtle Beach draws in over 14 million visitors per year — the majority of which are guests from the North seeking refuge during the cold winter months. Still, with popularity comes plenty of affordable hotels in Myrtle Beach no matter the season, like the Plantation Resort. With festivals year-round and plenty of free activities, Myrtle Beach truly is a budget-friendly destination in the South with much to see and do.

Midland, Texas

Due to its size, Texas is less crowded than other states in the South. Still, Midland, Texas, can provide an authentic Texas experience without the crowds of Dallas, San Antonio, or Houston at a fraction of the cost. Enjoy horseback riding in the sun or stay cool inside one of the city’s great museums. Aviation enthusiasts will enjoy the American Airpower Heritage Museum, and those interested in how the area came to be will enjoy the Museum of the Southwest. Hotels in Midland range from high-end chains such as the Hilton Garden Inn and Four Points by Sheraton, to budget brands like the Comfort Inn and Super 8. Regardless of the star rating, hotels in the city, like TownePlace Suites Midland, can be found at a lower rate than those in Texas’s major hubs.

Richmond, Virginia

Richmond, Virginia, offers similar history, character, and charm that’s found in Charleston and Savannah but with the added bonus of a lively downtown core and nearby outdoor activities without the crowds. Civil War history can be found throughout the area, and there are plenty of great restaurants, shops, and bars in town to keep you busy. The nearby James River offers guests the chance for some whitewater rafting, and there are plenty of parks in the area — perfect for hiking and leisurely strolls. Hotels in Richmond are affordable and range from modest to luxury, giving the option to enjoy the outdoors or relax in the city. One such budget-friendly hotel is Courtyard by Marriott Richmond Airport.

Fredericksburg, Texas

Last on this list is the charming town of Fredericksburg, Texas. Located an hour’s drive away from San Antonio and an hour and a half away from Austin, Fredericksburg is a great spot to explore Texas from. In town, you will find an interesting mix of Texan and German traditions. With its German roots, Fredericksburg has many great events and festivals such as Oktoberfest and Schuetzenfests (marksmanship tournaments), with a Texas-sized twist. Due to its obscure path location, hotels in Fredericksburg, like the Econo Lodge Fredericksburg, can be found at a great value compared to those in bigger cities. So break out your cowhide chaps and lederhosen and visit this interesting Texas town.

Top Pet-Friendly Luxury Getaways in Portland for Unforgettable Family Vacations

July 23, 2016July 22, 2016Posted in USA Hotels and DestinationsTagged Boutique hotels in the US, Brasada Ranch, hipmunk hotels, Luxury hotels Portland, oregon, portland, portland hotels, Powell Butte5 Comments

Mount Hood, Trillium lake, Portland, oregon

Portland, the City of Roses, welcomes you with its beautiful rose gardens, myriad food courts, picturesque neighborhoods, and the meandering river, Willamette, that flows through the heart of this eco-conscious city. The best way to discover Portland’s charm is by walking or biking. Therefore, choose wisely from an array of luxury boutique hotels in Portland for a comfortable, relaxing stay and get out to explore the city and beyond when you can.

Image via Wikipedia

Brasada Ranch in Powell Butte

Immerse yourself in luxury in a rural setting at Brasada Ranch, a nature retreat in central Oregon. Only 20 minutes from Bend-Redmond Airport and a little more than a 3-hour drive from Portland, Brasada Ranch spreads over acres of lush green landscape. You can choose from an array of luxurious suites, cabins, and guest rooms at this award-winning resort nestled in the peaceful community of Powell Butte. A championship golf course, an on-site spa, plush outdoor pools with lazy river, and sprawling equestrian trails are reasons enough to choose this resort as your next vacation getaway in Oregon. From tennis and basketball to white water rafting, fishing, rock climbing, and helicopter tours, Brasada Ranch will keep you busy with outdoor sports and adventures all day long.

Image via Flickr by @jpcody

Aloft Portland Airport at Cascade Station

Only a few minutes’ drive from Portland International Airport, Aloft Portland Airport at Cascade Station is a swanky hotel with stylishly appointed rooms featuring plush furnishings, spa amenities, complimentary Wi-Fi, LCD TVs with plug-and-play games, mini refrigerators, and free mineral water, tea, and coffee. With various activity programs for kids and pets, a bar, an indoor pool, and a lounge to unwind, there is something for every member of your family at the hotel. Portland Saturday Market and attractions like Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Oregon Zoo, and International Rose Test Garden are about 20 minutes from the hotel.

The Nines, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Portland

Located close to Pioneer Square and Portland Art Museum, The Nines Hotel offers trendy, luxurious accommodations along with a range of upscale amenities including pillow-top beds with down pillows, 42-inch televisions with movie channels, dual-line telephone, Wi-Fi, work desks, and room service. Luxurious en suite bathrooms come with bathrobe and premium bath amenities. The hotel’s central location allows you to quickly access Portland’s business district, Tom McCall Waterfront Park, and MAX Light Rail transit. Shopping and dining options are aplenty around the hotel. You can also join day trips to the mountains or wine countries arranged by The Nines Hotel.

Image via Wikipedia

Hotel Modera in the Heart of Downtown Portland

Hotel Modera is another centrally located luxury boutique hotel that offers quick access to Portland Art Museum, Portland State University, and Tom McCall Waterfront Park. Choose from a range of elegantly decorated non-smoking rooms that come with high-definition LCD TVs, complimentary W-Fi, technologically advanced heating and air-conditioning, work desks, safes, coffee makers, refrigerators, and premium Italian bath products. A beautifully decked courtyard garden and lounge is the hallmark of Hotel Modera. Relax and satiate your taste buds with authentic Italian and French delicacies in the romantic setting of Nel Centro, the on-site restaurant.

Rivertide Suites Hotel on the Shores of Necanicum River

Rivertide Suites Hotel, a relaxing riverfront hotel, is just three blocks from the ocean and a few minutes’ walk from the Seaside Aquarium in Portland, Oregon. Live in a spacious, luxuriously furnished suite and enjoy amenities such as complimentary breakfast, a cable TV with premium entertainment channels, telephone with free local calls, a fully equipped kitchen, and a bathroom with jetted tub. The private balconies offer river or mountain views. A 24-hour business center, a heated indoor pool, hot tubs, and a rooftop terrace garden are there for your work and relaxation.

The Daily Post Photo Challenge: Details in Colors

July 17, 2016July 17, 2016Posted in TravelTagged Bhutan, colors, Kichu Monastery, Paro, prayer wheels, window18 Comments

prayer wheels, kichu lhakhang, paro, bhutan

The colorful decorations in the monasteries in Bhutan make great subjects for photography. Here are some colorful detailing from Kichu Monastery in Paro.