travellqh

[travellqh]

5 Simple Ways to Travel Like a Minimalist

 Diving into minimalism can be addictive; the more you realize how little you need, the more you want to reduce further. This liberating mindset not only simplifies your life but also makes traveling much easier and less stressful when moving from one place to another.

If you want to streamline your travel experience and eliminate unnecessary clutter, keep reading. These tips will help you travel like a minimalist, even if you're still working on decluttering your home.

Capture Memories, Not Souvenirs

Regular travelers often accumulate numerous souvenirs and items from their journeys. While there's nothing wrong with buying keepsakes, aspiring minimalists should focus on taking photos or journaling about their experiences instead of purchasing physical items that will likely end up stored away.

This doesn't mean avoiding spending money locally. Minimalists prefer investing in experiences like a great local meal, a unique tour, or a special class rather than buying items that add to clutter. The goal is to preserve travel memories in non-physical ways.

Pack Light with a Carry-On

Minimalists rarely check luggage when traveling—they simply don't have enough essentials to fill a large suitcase. Using a carry-on is much easier and less stressful, as it avoids the hassle and cost of checked baggage. Embracing this habit frees you from worrying about lost luggage and simplifies the journey from point A to point B.

Repeat Outfits

When traveling, remember that people at your destination haven’t seen you before, and those you meet on Monday likely won’t see you on Wednesday. Minimalists are comfortable repeating outfits. As long as you have enough underwear for your trip or access to a washing machine, you’re good to go.

Pack basic wardrobe items that you can mix and match, opting for neutral colors like black, white, and beige. This strategy allows you to create a travel uniform or easily repeat outfits, avoiding the need for a suitcase full of statement pieces.

Simplify Your Bathroom Routine

While there's nothing wrong with having an extensive skincare routine, minimalists avoid traveling with a 10-step regimen. Pare down your skincare and shower products to the essentials for your trip. This not only makes getting through airport security easier but also saves space in your carry-on.

Don't sacrifice your must-haves just to make room. If you rely on certain tools like a gua sha or a facial toning device, bring them. However, leave behind items you use less frequently, such as exfoliants, for when you're back home.

Avoid Last-Minute “Essentials” Shopping

Travel often triggers a last-minute shopping spree for perceived "essentials." Minimalists might prepare by getting a pedicure or downloading a new audiobook for the flight, but they avoid stocking up on unnecessary items. Many things you think you need can be purchased at your destination, and for a short trip, you can likely do without those "just in case" purchases.

[travellqh]

The 10 Best Comfy Travel Pants at Amazon for Long Flights, Hiking, and Beyond — All Under $50

Stock Up on Comfortable Travel Pants for Your Next Adventure

While booking your flight Travell and accommodations is essential, nothing compares to the significance of wearing a comfortable outfit on travel day. Imagine being stuck in ill-fitting, uncomfortable pants while rushing through TSA—definitely not ideal. Luckily, Amazon offers a plethora of comfortable, travel-friendly pants.

With so many fantastic options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best pair. To help, I spent hours sifting through hundreds of options to bring you the top 10 travel pants on Amazon. These selections are perfect for car rides, hiking, or even heading straight to dinner from the plane. The best part? They’re all under $50.

My Travel Hack for Comfort and Style: Amazon Matching Sets

Anrabess Women's Linen Palazzo Pants

Linen is my go-to fabric for warm weather, thanks to its moisture-wicking properties and breathable feel. This best-selling pair of linen blend pants from Amazon features a flattering smocked waist and wide-leg design for extra comfort. Available in 23 different colors, including almond and baby blue, and sizes ranging from small to 2XL, these pants are a must-have.

Linen is my go-to fabric for warm weather, thanks to its moisture-wicking properties and breathable feel. This best-selling pair of linen blend pants from Amazon features a flattering smocked waist and wide-leg design for extra comfort. Available in 23 different colors, including almond and baby blue, and sizes ranging from small to 2XL, these pants are a must-have.

Kingfen Women’s Linen Drawstring Shorts

For the hottest days, linen-blend shorts are a necessity. This pair features an elastic waistband and a breathable, roomy shape for all-day comfort. Shoppers rave about them being "perfect for summer" due to their lightweight feel travell and ideal length.

Baleaf Women’s Quick Dry Hiking Pants

For your next hiking adventure, consider Amazon’s best-selling pair from Baleaf. These pants boast a water-resistant design and an elastic waistband for a flattering and functional fit. Shoppers have called them the “best hiking pants ever” and many plan to purchase additional colors. Today, they’re available at a 34 percent discount.

[travellqh]

How Thousand Island Dressing Became a Burger Chain Staple

It's widely known that the "secret sauce" on many fast food menus is essentially Thousand Island salad dressing. Initially, this might have seemed unusual, but it makes perfect sense given that the dressing's ingredients—mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish—complement burgers well. Interestingly, if it weren't for the Reuben sandwich, Thousand Island dressing might never have found its way onto burgers.

There's ongoing debate about who invented the Reuben sandwich—some credit Arnold Reuben in New York City, while others point to Reuben Kulakofsky in Omaha, Nebraska. Regardless, the original Reuben included corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on rye bread. The main difference between Russian and Thousand Island dressings is that the former contains horseradish for added spice. The tangy, creamy dressing was a hit on the Reuben, leading to its application on other meat-filled sandwiches, including burgers. Fast food chains quickly adopted the condiment, making it a staple.

When McDonald's launched its Big Mac in 1968, the "special sauce" it promoted was a clever marketing move that intrigued customers and boosted sales. It was later revealed that this special sauce was inspired by Thousand Island dressing, with some modifications. However, McDonald's wasn't the first to use a pink mystery sauce on burgers. In 1961, In-N-Out introduced an extra helping of Thousand Island-like dressing on its "animal style" burgers, enhancing a light spread already present on their regular burgers.

Other burger chains have similar sauces: California-based Big Boy has its "Big Boy" sauce, Shake Shack's Shack Sauce combines mayo, ketchup, dill pickles, mustard, and spices (essentially Thousand Island), and Raising Cane's has a Cane's sauce that many believe is a less sweet version of Thousand Island. Copycat recipes for Cane's sauce often include mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and spices.

Thousand Island dressing is beloved for its blend of flavors—rich mayo, sweet ketchup, tangy pickle relish, spicy mustard, and optional hot sauce for heat. Its versatility extends beyond Reubens and burgers. It's a great dip for french fries, onion rings, fried zucchini, and mushrooms, can replace remoulade on fried shrimp and catfish sandwiches or fried green tomatoes, and enhances any rich panini. It can substitute ranch or blue cheese dressing on wedge salads and makes a tasty dip for roasted Brussels sprouts and grilled asparagus.

When it comes to fast food, people often ask when McDonald's will bring back all-day breakfast, but not why they can't get a burger at 7 a.m. For those who crave a morning burger, there's good news: more places serve burgers early than you might think. While researching Sonic's new Big Dill Cheeseburger, I discovered that the Sonic near my office, which I pass around 9 a.m., opens at 6 a.m. and serves its full menu all day. So, yes, you can have pickle fries for breakfast!

#ThousandIslandDressing

#BurgerHistory

#SecretSauce

#FastFoodFacts

#BurgerLovers

#FoodHistory

BurgerAddict

#SauceSecrets

#FoodieFinds

#CulinaryHistory

#Feel free to use a combinatio

[travellqh]

The First Carbon-Positive Hotel in the U.S. Is Extremely Trippy Inside

With the rise in sustainable travel, eco-friendly hotels worldwide are implementing compostable packaging, water-efficient laundry practices, and indoor-outdoor designs to attract environmentally conscious travelers. However, the new Populus hotel in Denver is taking it a step further by aiming to be more like a tree.

Opening in downtown Denver this summer, Populus is the first carbon-positive hotel in the United States. It elevates sustainable travel by incorporating low-carbon concrete mixes, high-recycled materials, and other eco-friendly construction methods. The hotel is also offsetting its long-term carbon emissions by planting trees in Gunnison County, Colorado. Over 70,000 Engelmann Spruce trees, a local species endangered by beetles, have already been planted. These trees will absorb more carbon than the hotel will emit over its lifetime. Guests can even visit this forest using the GPS coordinates 38°03'59.4"N 106°55'24.6"W.

Populus Guest Suite with Unobstructed City Views Populus guest suite. | Photo courtesy Nephew Pasque, Populus’ Ground Floor Restaurant Pasque, the ground-floor restaurant at Populus | Photo courtesy Nephew

The hotel's most eye-catching feature is its facade, inspired by Colorado’s Aspen trees. Designed by Studio Gang, the creators of Chicago's Aqua Tower and San Francisco's MIRA tower, the hotel’s white exterior is adorned with window-like openings that mimic the patterns of Aspen trees while providing shade and enhancing efficiency.

This nature-inspired theme continues inside the hotel’s 265 rooms and multiple dining areas, which feature neutral tones like sand and terra cotta and natural materials such as reclaimed Wyoming fencing wood and mushroom-based "leather" tapestries.

Stellar Jay rooftop bar and terrace at Populus Hotel Stellar Jay rooftop bar and terrace at Populus Hotel | Photo courtesy Nephew Populus Hotel, Denver Photo courtesy Studio Gang

The hotel's two restaurants will minimize waste and collaborate with local regenerative farmers to serve seasonal dishes. The rooftop bar, Stellar Jay, offers live-fire cooking, wild game, and breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.

[travellqh]

Meet Yahya Jan: The Architect Behind Dubai's Ciel Tower, the World's Tallest Hotel

Gazing at the Dubai skyline, you’re likely admiring the work of Yahya Jan, president and design director of the architecture and engineering firm NORR. His portfolio includes notable landmarks like the Atlantis and Shangri-La Hotels.

Jan's latest endeavor is his most ambitious yet. Scheduled for completion by the end of 2024, the Ciel Dubai Marina, also known as Ciel Tower, will feature over 1,000 rooms and suites across 82 floors. Standing approximately 1,200 feet (365 meters) tall, it is poised to become the world’s tallest hotel.

A Passion Project

Jan was challenged to design the skyscraper on a triangular plot at Dubai Marina, spanning just 2,500 square meters—remarkably small for such a tall building. “It’s a property that’s very compressed,” he told CNN in 2021. “The constraints were tremendous, and yet we had to make it work.”

A rendering of Ciel Tower at night. Courtesy of NORR The design includes a glass observation deck offering 360-degree views of the city, the coastline, and iconic landmarks like the Palm Jumeirah. Visitors will also enjoy a rooftop swimming pool and restaurants.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the project is energy efficient, using 25% less power for air conditioning compared to similar buildings. “This project is not just about architecture. It’s about architecture and engineering coming together,” Jan said. “That’s why I love the project so much. It is my passion, the convergence of science and art.”

Throughout the construction, Jan has remained deeply involved. “When you design a project as complex as the Ciel, you can never let your guard down, you can never say it’s over,” he stated. “It’s a continuous process.”

An Extended Stay

Arriving in Dubai in 1996, Jan never envisioned leaving such a legacy, having designed many of the city’s iconic office developments, residential towers, and malls.

Jan, who grew up in Karachi, Pakistan, moved to the US at 18 on a scholarship. After studying structural engineering at Princeton, he earned a Master’s in architecture. He worked in the US for nine years before a job offer to design the Emirates Towers office and hotel complex brought him to Dubai.

Now 61, Jan has spent 28 years in Dubai, despite not planning to stay so long. “I got carried away with the excitement here,” he said.

Regarding Ciel Tower, named after the French word for sky, Jan hopes it will achieve timeless status, akin to New York City’s Empire State Building or Chrysler Building. “The reason I like the name Ciel is because in our own lives, the sky is the limit,” he said. “I’ve had a chance to grow and do things I didn’t think I would get a chance to do. It’s been amazing.”

#MeetYahyaJan

#CielTower

#WorldsTallestHotel

#DubaiArchitecture

#IconicDesign

#NORRArchitects

#DubaiSkyline

#EngineeringMarvel

#ArchitecturalInnovation

#LuxuryHotels

#SkyIsTheLimit

[travellqh]

Discover 10 More Underrated Coastal Towns in South Africa

Exploring South Africa’s diverse coastline reveals a mosaic of tranquil retreats and vibrant towns. These ten additional underrated coastal towns in South Africa, from the serene beaches of Witsand in the Western Cape where the Breede River meets the sea, to the historic charm of Port Nolloth on the untamed northwest coast, each offer a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.Whether you're drawn to the relaxed fishing villages of Port Nolloth or the migratory whales of Witsand, these locations provide remarkable experiences off the beaten path. Join us as we uncover these lesser-known coastal gems.

1. Witsand, Western Cape

Located at the estuary of the Breede River, Witsand is a serene coastal retreat known for its immaculate sandy beaches and the rich Cape Fynbos ecosystem. Dubbed the “Whale Nursery” of South Africa, Witsand comes alive from June to November with peak whale migration. Outdoor activities abound here, from kitesurfing and surfing to stand-up paddleboarding and fishing. This hidden gem lies off the N2 near Heidelberg, enticing travelers with its picturesque roads and historical charm.Witsand’s history dates back to Captain Benjamin Moodie’s acquisition of the farm Westfield in 1831. Its allure as a fishing paradise began attracting vacationers in the late 1800s. Today, Witsand continues to captivate visitors with its blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich historical legacy, offering a serene escape along South Africa’s lesser-traveled coastline.

2. Kenton-on-Sea, Eastern Cape

Nestled along South Africa s Sunshine Coast, Kenton-on-Sea boasts untouched beaches, lush hills, and pristine coastal reserves. Situated between the Bushmans and Kariega Rivers, Kenton-on-Sea is bordered by water on three sides, making it perfect for various water sports. Despite its natural beauty and popularity, Kenton-on-Sea retains a charming small-town atmosphere, enriched by its cultural diversity.

3. Glentana, Western Cape

Tucked between Mossel Bay and George on the Garden Route, Glentana offers wide sandy beaches and Fynbos-covered cliffs. This village, nestled in an old riverbed and shielded from sea winds, provides a tranquil haven. Discover hidden caves, try rock fishing, and explore the beaches for treasures like the elusive “Pansy” shell. Dolphins and whales are frequently spotted along the coastline, adding to Glentana’s allure as a sanctuary for nature lovers.Accommodation options range from charming guest houses and self-catering cottages to scenic seaside camping spots, catering to various preferences and budgets.

4. Hondeklip Bay, Northern Cape

Located on South Africa’s rugged West Coast, Hondeklip Bay has transformed from a historic copper ore export hub into a beloved holiday destination. Positioned about 95 km southwest of Springbok, this coastal retreat offers diverse accommodations, from seaside camping to cozy self-catering chalets. Explore the picturesque coastline adorned with ancient shipwrecks, delve into the region’s natural wonders, and embark on exhilarating 4×4 excursions.

5. Zinkwazi Beach, KwaZulu-Natal

Situated on KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast, Zinkwazi Beach is renowned for its serene lagoon created by the Zinkwazi River’s estuary. Known for its biodiversity and natural beauty, this hidden gem offers immaculate golden beaches, lush native forests, and a seven-kilometer lagoon. Beyond its breathtaking scenery, Zinkwazi Beach provides a secure haven for beachgoers with lifeguard-patrolled shorelines and activities like ferry rides and birdwatching.

6. Mtunzini, KwaZulu-Natal

Mtunzini, nestled along KwaZulu-Natal’s coastline, offers a serene escape renowned for its natural beauty and unique wildlife. Celebrated among bird watchers for being a sanctuary for the rare palm-nut vulture, Mtunzini also boasts pristine beaches, a 9-hole golf course, and diverse accommodation options. Surfers favor its waves along the North Coast, adding to Mtunzini’s appeal for both relaxation and adventure.

7. Morgans Bay, Eastern Cape

Morgan Bay, tucked away in the Amathole District Municipality, is a hidden treasure on the Wild Coast. Named after A.F. Morgan in 1822, this village attracts visitors with its breathtaking beach, peaceful estuary, and striking sea cliffs. Adventurers and nature lovers flock here for activities like sandboarding, hiking, and exploring historic sites.Morgan Bay offers a range of recreational pursuits, from beach sports to exploring the Inchara river estuary and engaging in township tours. The nearby Cape Morgan Nature Reserve enhances its appeal with coastal forests and hiking trails, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and adventure.

8. Haga Haga, Eastern Cape

Haga Haga, located on the Eastern Cape Wild Coast, is known for its peace and scenic splendor. Approximately 70 kilometers north of East London, this vacation village offers pristine landscapes home to endangered native species. Activities include swimming, rock and surf fishing, golf, tennis, and horse riding, making it a haven for nature lovers.

9. Port Nolloth, Northern Cape

Port Nolloth, a peaceful town and domestic seaport in the Namaqualand region, is rich in history and maritime legacy. Today, it thrives on fishing and small-boat tourism, with attractions like the Namaqua Flower Route and local cultural experiences. McDougalls Bay offers pristine beaches and calm waters for activities like swimming and kayaking, while local guides provide insights into the area’s rich history.

10. Brenton-on-Sea, Western Cape

Located 15 kilometers west of Knysna on the Garden Route, Brenton-on-Sea is a serene seaside retreat named after Sir Jahleel Brenton. Nestled in the Goukamma Nature Reserve, this area boasts expansive golden beaches, stunning whale and dolphin watching spots, and paragliding adventures. With various accommodation options, Brenton-on-Sea ensures a comfortable and memorable stay amidst its picturesque coastal scenery.These underrated coastal towns offer unique experiences and natural beauty, making them perfect destinations for those seeking adventure and tranquility off the beaten path in South Africa.#UnderratedSouthAfrica#CoastalGems#HiddenSouthAfrica#SouthAfricaTravel#ExploreSA#SAcoast#TravelSouthAfrica#DiscoverSA#SecretBeaches#SACoastalTowns#HiddenSouthAfrica#SouthAfricaTravel#ExploreSA#SAcoast#TravelSouthAfrica#DiscoverSA

[travellqh]

Grim Warning for Aussies as Big Tourist 'Issue' Could Soon Hit Bali: ‘A Great Shame’

It's a "distinct possibility" that residents in global travel hotspots might soon voice their frustrations with rising tourism rates and attempt to expel tourists, warns a leading Australian travel expert.

Quentin Long, Managing Director at Australian Traveller Media, drew attention to the thousands who protested against mass tourism in Barcelona, claiming it has pushed locals out of the housing market. He suggests that similar protests could occur in other popular destinations, including Bali, which is a favorite among Australians.

Recently, Indonesia's Minister for Tourism and Creative Economies, Sandiaga Uno, commented on the likelihood of Balinese locals protesting against tourism, similar to the protests in Spain. “Things like that should not happen in Bali," he reportedly told the media. "Because if people feel uncomfortable with the presence of tourists, bad excesses emerge. In fact, tourism is one of the economic drivers in Bali."

Disrespectful Behavior from Tourists

However, Long believes that just because locals have been encouraged not to protest, doesn't mean they won't. Bali has a history of dealing with badly behaved tourists, and authorities have introduced various measures over the years to address the problem.

"There's been a lot of disrespectful behavior in Bali," Long told Yahoo News Australia. "You see people not dressed appropriately in temples, taking inappropriate selfies, drinking excessively, and treating locals disrespectfully. Driving while intoxicated on mopeds, you name it, it happens in Bali."

Yahoo News has previously reported on tourists behaving badly and disrespecting local customs, as authorities desperately try to manage unruly visitors. Instances include tourists climbing sacred trees, wearing inappropriate clothing, and generally making locals uncomfortable in a country known for its modesty. There have also been reports of drunken and disorderly behavior, including fights and an increase in waste.

"I think there's a distinct possibility that locals could start to express their frustrations with tourists directly and start to indicate that they would prefer tourists to do different things or go somewhere else," Long said. "And I don't think it's just targeting Australians. I hope it doesn't happen, but it is definitely possible."

Global Actions Against Over-Tourism

Long noted that some countries have already begun implementing measures to reduce high tourism rates. In Venice, Italy, day visitors were recently required to pay an $8 entry fee during peak hours to help preserve the city from overcrowding. In Bali, travelers must pay a $14 tourist tax on arrival. Amsterdam has also stopped cruise ships from entering local waters. Even in Australia, there have been discussions about introducing a tourist tax, although nothing concrete has been implemented.

"It's a global issue, not just Bali and Barcelona," Long said. "There are all sorts of different ways that countries have been trying to combat mass tourism, but it's going to have to be government-led. If they don't act, their citizens will."

Long theorized two possible scenarios for the future:

"In my opinion, the logical conclusion is that we have two possible routes here: One is that travel becomes dictated by finances, making destinations only affordable to the elite, which would be a great shame. The second way is to implement a lottery system where only certain people are given permission to visit. But neither of these situations are ideal."

On an individual level, "we all need to make choices about what we do, where we go, and how we spend our money," Long said. "Just be educated about what you're doing when you're going."

[travellqh]

25 Awesome Day Trips from Vancouver, Canada

1. Whistler

We’re starting with a top pick: Whistler, a four-season resort town located 125 km north of Vancouver (about a 1.5-hour drive). Renowned for adventure, Whistler gained worldwide fame in 2010 as a Winter Olympics co-host and consistently ranks as the top ski resort in North America. In 2008, it introduced the world-record-breaking Peak 2 Peak Gondola.

Whistler has evolved into a top summer destination, offering over 50 km of high alpine hiking trails, golf courses, zip-line courses, ATV off-road tours, bungee jumping, helicopter tours, bear viewing tours, white water rafting, and several freshwater lakes for SUP, kayaking, and canoeing. The Whistler Bike Park is among North America’s best. Annual events include the World Ski & Snowboard Festival in April and Crankworx Mountain Bike Festival in August.

Things to Do in Whistler:

Ride the Whistler Peak 2 Peak Gondola.

Try the Whistler Sasquatch Zipline, the longest in Canada and the US.

Relax at the traditional Scandinave Spa.

Golf at courses like the impressive Nicklaus North Golf Course.

SUP or kayak at Lost Lake, Alta Lake, or Green Lake.

Enjoy downhill mountain biking or cross-country trail riding.

Explore with zip-line courses, ATV off-road tours, white water rafting, or bungee jumping.

Take a Jeep tour to see glaciers and mountain vistas.

Opt for a helicopter or float plane sightseeing tour.

Join a bear viewing tour or nature safari.

Hike to stunning alpine lakes like Garibaldi Lake, Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, Cheakamus Lake, Elfin Lakes, or Wedgemount Lake.

Visit the unique Whistler train wreck.

2. Victoria

Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest and the capital of British Columbia. It’s approximately 100 km from both Vancouver and Seattle, making it perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Most visitors take the ferry from Tsawwassen BC Ferries Terminal, but a bus from downtown Vancouver to downtown Victoria (including the ferry crossing) is an option. For a quick visit, a float plane from downtown Vancouver is the fastest and most convenient.

Where to Stay in Victoria:

Magnolia Hotel, Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort, and Fairmont Empress are centrally located and family-friendly.

3. Bowen Island

Bowen Island, approximately 25 km northwest of Vancouver, offers a laid-back vibe away from the city hustle. The island, 6 km wide and 12 km long, is perfect for a day of kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, and boating.

Popular Activities:

Hike the 9 km Killarney Lake trail or the challenging 17 km Mount Gardner summit.

Visit Snug Cove, with its marina, shops, and restaurants.

Relax at beaches like Tunstall Bay, Bowen Bay, and Sandy Beach.

4. Sunshine Coast

Stretching from Langdale to Lund, the Sunshine Coast offers beautiful coastal scenery and quaint communities. Most visitors take a ferry from Horseshoe Bay, though a float plane is an option. Focus on Langdale and Hopkins Landing for a day trip.

Things to Do:

Explore Hopkins Landing, a great spot for kayaking, swimming, and beachcombing.

5. Howe Sound Boat Cruise

Howe Sound, a network of fjords between West Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast, offers stunning scenery. Rent a boat from Sewell’s Marina in Horseshoe Bay to explore.

Highlights:

Visit Pam Rocks to see lazy seals.

Explore marine parks and secluded coves at Gambier or Anvil Island.

6. Horseshoe Bay

Horseshoe Bay, the gateway to Howe Sound and the Sunshine Coast, is located on the western tip of West Vancouver. It’s a fun place to have lunch and spend the afternoon, with restaurants, a rocky beach, and a playground.

7. Squamish

Halfway between Vancouver and Whistler, Squamish is an outdoor adventure destination. Highlights include rock climbing at Stawamus Chief, windsurfing and kite surfing at the Squamish Spit, hiking trails, and the West Coast Rail Heritage Park.

8. Sea to Sky Gondola

In Squamish, the Sea to Sky Gondola offers a 10-minute ride up the mountain, with activities at the summit including the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge, viewing platforms, and hiking trails.

9. Britannia Mine Museum

Located in Britannia Beach, the Britannia Mine Museum offers an underground tour on an old mine train, showcasing what life was like for miners in the early 1900s.

10. Porteau Cove Provincial Park

Porteau Cove, a small park on Howe Sound, features rocky beaches, mountain vistas, and a pedestrian pier. It’s also a popular scuba diving spot.

11. Garibaldi Provincial Park

Located between Squamish and Whistler, Garibaldi Provincial Park offers impressive hiking trails, including the popular Garibaldi Lake trail.

12. Whale Watching in the Southern Gulf Islands

The Southern Gulf Islands are ideal for whale watching, especially during the salmon migration between May and October. Tours are available from Vancouver.

13. Capilano Suspension Bridge and Cliffwalk

In North Vancouver, the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park offers the famous suspension bridge, the Cliffwalk experience, and the Treetops Adventure.

14. North Shore Mountains

Visit Grouse Mountain, Mount Seymour, and Cypress Mountain for skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer. Grouse Mountain offers the Skyride tram and the Grouse Grind hike.

15. Deep Cove

Deep Cove in North Vancouver offers kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and hiking. Popular activities include hiking to Quarry Rock and renting kayaks.

16. Steveston Fisherman’s Wharf

Steveston Village in Richmond is a charming fishing village with fish and chips, fresh seafood, and the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site.

17. River Rock Casino

Located in Richmond, the River Rock Casino Resort is the largest casino in British Columbia, with entertainment acts and the nearby Richmond Night Market.

18. Langley Wine Tours

Langley is home to award-winning wineries like Chaberton Estate Winery, Township 7 Winery, and Backyard Vineyards. Wine tasting tours are available from Vancouver.

19. Cultus Lake Waterpark & Adventure Park

Located south of Chilliwack, Cultus Lake offers a waterpark, adventure park, and family-friendly attractions.

20. Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park

Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park offers hiking, beaches, boat launches, and recreational facilities. It’s located 150 km east of Vancouver.

Exploring the Vancouver area offers a wealth of diverse and exciting day trips, from adventure-filled destinations to relaxing coastal getaways.

[travellqh]

Supersonic Airbus Jet to Slash London-to-New-York Flight Time to Just One Hour

Over two decades after the supersonic Concorde made its final flight, Airbus is set to revive high-speed air travel with an innovative new supersonic jet. According to recent patent filings, this cutting-edge aircraft, described as an "ultra-rapid" jet, could travel up to approximately 4.5 times the speed of sound.

This remarkable speed would enable the jet to complete the journey from London to New York in just one hour. Similarly, it could fly from Paris to San Francisco in under three hours. Such performance would significantly outpace the Concorde's previous record, which was a flight from London Heathrow to New York's JFK airport in 2 hours, 52 minutes, and 59 seconds.

The Airbus supersonic jet is detailed in the patent as featuring a unique design, including a fuselage, gothic delta wings on either side, and an advanced propulsion system. It will address the sonic boom issues that plagued the Concorde, which was restricted from flying supersonically over land due to noise concerns.

The innovative design includes a three-engine configuration. Traditional jet engines will handle takeoff and landing, retracting into the fuselage to reduce drag as the aircraft ascends. Two rocket engines at the rear will propel the jet vertically, similar to a space rocket, until it reaches an altitude above 100,000 feet.

At these extreme heights, the rocket engines will retract, and wing-mounted ramjets will take over, pushing the jet to a top speed of Mach 4.5 (approximately 5,557 km/h or 3,453 mph). The delta-shaped winglets will rotate around the aircraft's central axis to minimize the sonic boom, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Passenger comfort remains a priority, with the aircraft featuring hammock-like seats designed for long-distance travel.

Other companies are also working on supersonic travel. Dawn Aerospace, a New Zealand-based firm, has already received certification for its supersonic rocket plane, and NASA is developing the X-59, a quiet supersonic aircraft.

Airbus's new supersonic jet could potentially set a new standard for speed and efficiency in air travel, rekindling interest in high-speed commercial flights and shaping the future of aviation.

[travellqh]

In France, the Great Jubilee of the Sacred Heart at Paray-le-Monial Draws Crowds

Paray-le-Monial, a picturesque town in the Bourgogne region of France, is currently buzzing with excitement as it hosts a grand jubilee celebrating the 350th anniversary of the apparitions of the Sacred Heart to St. Marguerite-Marie Alacoque. This special event began on December 27, 2023, and will continue through June 27, 2025, marking a year and a half of spiritual significance and communal celebration.

St. Marguerite-Marie Alacoque, a devoted Visitation nun, claimed to have witnessed approximately 30 apparitions of the Sacred Heart. In these profound encounters, Christ expressed a desire for a feast to honor His Sacred Heart throughout the Church. This request laid the foundation for a devotion that has since touched lives around the world.

The jubilee has been carefully timed to coincide with three pivotal dates in Alacoque’s visionary experiences: the initial apparition on December 27, 1673; a second vision on the first Friday of an unspecified month in 1674; and the third revelation during the octave of Corpus Christi from June 13 to June 20, 1675.

As a result of these significant events, Paray-le-Monial has become a focal point for pilgrims and visitors seeking to engage with this historic devotion. The town is filled with an influx of people from various regions, all drawn by the opportunity to participate in this momentous celebration and reflect on the profound legacy of St. Marguerite-Marie Alacoque's experiences.