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How to Use an eSIM for USA Travel

[ad_1] One of the most annoying things about traveling to a new country is having to constantly hunt down reliable Wi-Fi spots or figure out how to buy a local SIM card to get connected. Or worse, getting hit with the exorbitant international roaming charges. If you’re traveling in the US, it helps to have constant internet connection to help you navigate the public transport systems, follow Google Maps on road trips and quickly look up restaurant reviews when looking for somewhere to eat. Well, you can now stay connected with a travel eSIM in the US. We recently partnered with Holafly, an international eSIM provider, to tell you all about how eSIMs work and why you should get one for your next trip to the US (or anywhere outside of your home borders). You can continue using your maps while in the US with a travel eSIM – Depositphotos.com What is an eSIM? An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a virtual or digital SIM card that is built into your mobile phone. Modern mobile phones have microchips installed that allow you to install several “eSIM profiles”, which are similar to physical SIM cards with both phone numbers and data plans. You won’t need to insert any physical card into your phone (as it’s already built in) and can use your eSIM plan immediately (without having to wait for it to be delivered). It also allows you to buy a data plan from another country to avoid paying high roaming prices. Simply put, an eSIM allows you to use multiple lines at the same time. You can easily switch between different carriers straight from your phone’s settings. Just make sure that your phone is unlocked! Does the US support eSIM? Yes, eSIMs are supported by AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon in the US. There are also many different eSIM provides in the US, including Holafly, that offer various US eSIM plans. You just need to make sure that you have an eSIM compatible phone. Current phones that are compatible include: All models from the iPhone XS, XR onward, including the iPhone SE 2 (2020) From the Samsung Galaxy S20, S20+ and S20 Ultra onwards From the Samsung Galaxy Fold, Fold 2 and onwards From the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 and onwards From the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip and onwards Huawei P40, P0 Pro and later models Huawei Mate 40 Pro and later models Google Pixel 3, 3a (some versions do not allow eSIM) Google Pixel 4, 4 XL, 4a, 5 and later models Oppo Find X3 Pro Oppo Reno 5A Motorola Razr (2019) Motorola Razr 5G (dual SIM) You can also find a full list here. eSIM is quickly becoming standard to all new mobile phones and, eventually, all will support eSIM. How does international eSIM work? The first thing you need to do is check whether your phone is compatible (which is listed above). Once you know that your phone is compatible you can choose an eSIM provider that is partnered with the country that you’re traveling to. Most eSIM providers are connected with a wide range of countries across North and South America, Europe and Asia. Then all you have to do is buy a data plan in the country where you’re traveling. For example, you can buy unlimited data plans for the US which are valid for anywhere between five to 90 days. You’ll then get a QR code to activate the plan via the eSIM card on your mobile device. And you’re done, free to start browsing the web immediately. Why is a travel eSIM useful when visiting the US? There are many benefits of using a travel eSIM when in the US, including: Saving on high international roaming costs by easily buying local data plans Not having to risk losing your traditional SIM card by removing it to replace with a local SIM card eSIM cards allow for dual SIM setups so, for example, you can have both a personal and work phone number on the same device No need to search for Wi-Fi or remain unconnected You’ll get better rates than when buying local SIM cards Stay connected in the US eSIM is the best way to stay connected internationally (provided your phone is compatible). You’ll get better rates and speeds than when you’re roaming, and you’ll get a local phone number to call on—super handy when you need to call to make restaurant reservations. Travel Dudes I’m sure you’ve had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You’re in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes. [ad_2] Source link

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How to Get a Sri Lanka Tourist Visa

[ad_1] We’ve all wanted to travel to unique destinations in the east – and Sri Lanka is no exception, with its fascinating culture and beautiful landscape to explore! But before you’re able to explore this exciting country, you’ll need a Sri Lanka tourist visa. For tourists from select countries, you’ll need to get a visa on arrival for Sri Lanka. Only a handful of countries don’t need a visa for Sri Lanka, including three visa-exempt nations such as the Maldives, the Seychelles and Singapore. For other nations, you can get a visa on arrival for Sri Lanka when you arrive.  To simplify the travel process, we’ve answered the most frequently asked questions tourists ask when looking to get a visa on arrival for Sri Lanka. Temple in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Depositphotos.com Frequently asked questions about getting a Sri Lanka tourist visa Here’s everything you need to know about applying for a Sri Lanka tourist visa on arrival or ETA.  Can I get a visa on arrival in Sri Lanka? If you are from one of 230 countries, you can apply for a visa on arrival in Sri Lanka. However, getting ETA (electronic travel authorization) may be faster. This document is a digital visa, which means you don’t have to visit an embassy or stand in queues once you arrive in the country.  Sri Lanka’s visa on arrival system allows visitors for tourism, business, or transit, and grants short stays ranging from 30 to 60 days.  How much is the visa on arrival in Sri Lanka? Citizens of the Maldives, the Seychelles and Singapore can receive a free visa on arrival in Sri Lanka due to a reciprocity policy with these countries.  Most other nations need to pay a fee – which can be completed online or on arrival. The cost of this visa depends on a few factors, and prices can change depending on your trip length, visa type, or third-party application. Assuming you are from a country without an agreement and have paid online, you can expect to pay $35 for tourists and $40 for business visitors for a 30-day visa. This cost includes free transit for 2 days for both visa types.  Bear in mind that if you pay on arrival and wait in line, this price increases to $40 for a tourist visa and $50 for business visitors.  There are also occasional visa fee exemption schemes for residents of select countries, the latest of which ended in 2020, so double-check the rules before applying for your visa on arrival. Hiking the hills outside Kandy in Sri Lanka Which countries still need a pre-approved visa for Sri Lanka? There are only 21 countries that need a visa in advance to visit Sri Lanka: Nigeria, Afghanistan, Cameroon, both Congolese republics, Ivory Coast, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Myanmar, North Korea, Pakistan, Sierra Leone, Syria, Uganda and Sudan.  All other nationals can get a visa on arrival or ETA to visit Sri Lanka. How do I get an ETA for Sri Lanka? Tourists wanting to get an ETA for Sri Lanka must complete an online application before travelling. It is a simple form that requires applicants to enter some basic information, including: Name and surname Personal email address Date of birth Place of birth, precisely, the country  Applicant’s nationality Personal mobile phone number  Passport or travel document number Passport or travel document’s issue and expiry dates  The purpose for your visit (tourism, business or transit).  It’s essential to double-check that all of the data on your ETA form is correct to avoid being rejected or re-applying due to a mistake.  Sri Lanka ETA applications usually take around 24 hours to process, so it is best to apply a few business days before your departure date to ensure you get the ETA on time. Once complete, your ETA for Sri Lanka will be sent to your specified email address and remains valid for 30 days within the country. Train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka What are the requirements for getting a visa on arrival in Sri Lanka?  While it might seem easy, there are still some basic things you need before your trip. Some requirements that budding tourists need to meet for the ETA include: A Passport that is valid for at least 6 months upon entry to Sri Lanka A good, current email address  A scanned copy of each applicant’s passport information page  A credit or debit card to pay the Sri Lanka ETA or visa on arrival fee  There are further requirements after receiving your ETA, which include: a completed disembarkation card, a printed copy of your approved Sri Lanka ETA, proof of funds for your stay in Sri Lanka, your confirmed return ticket for after your holiday ends, a visa for another nation (if applicable) and a yellow fever vaccination certificate (if applicable).  Visiting Sri Lanka We hope you enjoy your next trip to Sri Lanka. Here are some fantastic places to see and things to do when visiting:  Travel Dudes I’m sure you’ve had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You’re in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes. [ad_2] Source link

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Things You Need To Know About Sicily

[ad_1] Going to Italy and not visiting Sicily should be considered a crime. It’s one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Even the Ancient Romans can confirm that. Here we have some useful info for your trip to Sicily. This Mediterranean slice of heaven has a vibrant history you can feel while walking the antique streets. You can explore the mountains, forests, waters, and cuisine or ski down the nearby active volcano. Yes, you can really do that! Most locals consider Sicily to be a separate entity in Italy. That’s mainly because of their dialect. Even if you’ve been studying up on your Italian, you’d still have a hard time talking to the locals. Nevertheless, the cuisine, architecture, and culture more than make up for it. The locals are great at describing everything to tourists just by using their hands! When’s the best time to visit? Sicily’s one of the places where you can go any time of the year and have a great trip. That’s because it’s one of the most southerly destinations, and it’s pretty close to North Africa. If the seasons are generous, you could be swimming in the sea even in November. Additionally, the summers aren’t that hot because the island is home to a constant breeze from all sides. Now, let’s get into the specifics. The tourist season starts in June or July, depending on the year. Until the middle of September, you can expect higher prices and a lot of people in the streets. If you plan to visit during the summer, remember to book all of your experiences beforehand. Reservations tend to sell out pretty quickly. If you don’t like to deal with crowds all the time, a better time to visit would be March, April, or May. You’ll have a lot of room to go sightseeing, but you need to check online whether specific services are open for business. Locals usually close down when the season ends to do repairs or renovations, and they might be out of order at the moment. That’s true for restaurants, shops, and a few resorts. How to get around? There are two primary choices when it comes to travel. The first one is renting a car, and the second one is using public transport. You’ll want to avoid the latter. Public transport timetables are more like guidelines instead of actual schedules. It’s pretty normal for a bus or a train to be 15 minutes late. Because you’ll want to see everything under the sun, it’s better to rent a small car. You need a smaller vehicle because the island has a massive parking issue. Additionally, the streets are quite narrow, and you might feel anxious driving on the tight roads. What’s even more, the locals drive like they’re crazy. They’ll probably figure out you’re a foreigner by watching you abide by all the rules. Then, they’ll cut you off from all sides or pull out without proper signalization. The same rules apply to the youngsters on motorbikes. Remember to check multiple times if there are any scooters nearby. Use cash You’re going to lay off using your credit card during the trip except for taking out money from ATMs. Euros are similar to the dollar in terms of their value, and you’ll need them to pay for granitas, wine, coffees, and dinners. The same thing applies to large markets and tolls on the road. However, that doesn’t mean you should always carry a thick wallet in your back pocket. Bring a little more than necessary, keep the bulk of your money at home, or make regular visits to the ATM. It’s better to use the ones issued by banks because private ones have hefty transaction fees. Live the Sicilian life Try to adapt to how the locals live. When they have a siesta, take one too! Also, no trip to Sicily would be complete without shopping in the local markets. It’s best to go early in the mornings because that’s when the fresh produce is laid out. If you decide to sleep in, nothing will be left. Forget about your diet and enjoy some fresh bread while you’re there. It’s fresh in the morning or after the siesta. All of your taste buds will be overjoyed by the sounds, smells, colors, and tastes you experience! Don’t talk to locals about the mafia Most of the stereotypes about Italians are true. They love eating pizza, pasta, and salads. They drink wine and take breaks from work during the day to take a nap. And, of course, when they talk, it looks like they will start fighting at any minute. Well, the same thing is true about the mafia. Blockbuster movies are filled with Italian mafia bosses, but the Sicilians have to live with them. Even though the criminal activities are close to zero, some shops still have to pay fees just to be “protected from danger.” You won’t experience any sort of crime or violence as a tourist. In fact, it’s an incredibly family-friendly place to visit. However, you should pay attention to how you use your internet. Hackers are more prominent than the mafia, and they’re waiting for tourists to take the bait of public Wi-Fi. Since you won’t have data all the time, it’s wise to install a free VPN with limited features for when you’re using a public network. This way, you’ll be able to enjoy the internet safely and be protected from malware, ads, and intrusive cookies. Travel Dudes I’m sure you’ve had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You’re in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes. [ad_2] Source link

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2022 ZAMBOANGA CITY TRAVEL GUIDE with Requirements, Itinerary & Budget

[ad_1] Welcome to our comprehensive ZAMBOANGA TRAVEL GUIDE! In this article, you’ll find the information you need to plan a trip to Zamboanga City, including recommendations on where to stay, where to eat, and how to build an itinerary. We’ll also break down our expenses so you get an idea on how much budget to set aside for this trip. The pandemic drained almost all the color out of our little worlds. For most of us, we burned over two years cooped up inside four bleak, off-white walls, isolated from all this planet’s vibrance to which travel used to treat us. For most of us, the only trips we made were to the grocery. The only flights we took were of fancy. As for me, when I let our imagination run wild, it usually takes me back to Zamboanga. When we think of Zamboanga, we think of colors. And we’re not just talking about the iconic vinta that has become a symbol for this region! From the subtle rosy hues of its Pink Beach to the delicious bright orange plates of curacha crabs to the vibrant costumes at the Hermosa Festival, Zamboanga is definitely one of the brightest, most colorful destinations in the Philippines. WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE? The term “Zamboanga” can refer to many geographical areas. Zamboanga City is the biggest urban hub in Region IX, called Zamboanga Peninsula, which is also made up of the provinces of Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, and Zamboanga Sibugay and four other cities (Dapitan, Dipolog, Pagadian, and Isabela de Basilan). Map by Mike Gonzalez (TheCoffee), Wikimedia (CC BY-SA 3.0) In the airline industry, Zamboanga most often refers to the city, where the Zamboanga International Airport (ZAM) is located. But for the purpose of this travel guide, when we mention Zamboanga, we mean the city. The name Zamboanga is most likely to have come from Samboangan, which means “mooring place”. Samboang is a Sinama term referring to poles used for mooring. Other sources claim that its etymology leads to Indonesian jambangan, which means a place for flowers, which is why Zamboanga is also called “City of Flowers”. Zamboanga City’s history as a settlement is deep, running all the way to the 12th century when the Subanon (Subanen) people reached the area. Over the next centuries, many Tausug, Yakan, Sama-Banguingui and Sama-Bajau people moved here from the Basilan and the Sulu archipelago. When Islam arrived, it became the dominant religion. When the Spaniards began its colonization of the Philippines, they chose Zamboanga as a military stronghold in Mindanao, paving way for Christian settlers. Fort Pilar was later established to defend the settlement. This long history led to the complex, eclectic mix that is Zamboanga. Its proximity to Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia also allows a flood of influences to seep through. This diversity is evident in almost all aspects of its culture, including its languages, religions, cuisines. Today, Zamboanga City is a highly urbanized, chartered city. It is politically independent, although for statistical purposes, it is clustered with Zamboanga del Sur. It also serves as the region’s economic, educational, and cultural hub. Here are some essential bits about Zamboanga that you might need to know before your trip, especially if you’re coming from abroad. Location: Zamboanga City, Region IX (Zamboanga Peninsula), Philippines. Coordinates: 6°54′29″N 122°04′35″E Nicknames: Asia’s Latin City, City of Flowers. Time Zone: UTC+8 (Philippine Standard Time). If you’re visiting from Malaysia or Singapore, Zamboanga (and the entire Philippines) is in the same time zone. Language: The most commonly spoken is Chavacano or Chabacano, a Spanish-based Creole, which is a mix of Spanish and other native languages. Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP, ₱). Modes of Payment: Bring cash. You’ll need it for most transportation options and small purchases. Many establishments accept credit cards and GCash, but most still prefer good old-fashioned cash. Zamboanga City is under ALERT LEVEL 1, as of this writing. For leisure travelers from similar Alert Level or lower, here are the travel requirements: FOR FULLY VACCINATED valid government ID vaccination card FOR NON-FULLY VACCINATED valid government ID negative RT-PCR test result from an accredited laboratory, issued 120 hours or 5 days before departure. FOR TRAVELERS FROM AREAS UNDER HIGHER ALERT LEVEL or other areas with known cases of concerning variants (according to IATF), here are the requirements: negative RT-PCR test result from an accredited laboratory, issued 120 hours or 5 days before departure negative rapid antigen test result from an accredited lab, issued within 24 hours prior to departure Children/Minors under eighteen (18) years are exempted from testing requirements. But all travelers may be subject to random antigen testing upon entry into the city. Zamboanga City and nearby municipalities are served by Zamboanga International Airport (ZAM), which also serves as the gateway to Basilan. Because there are no direct flights from Luzon or Visayas to Bongao, most Tawi-tawi-bound travelers also make a transfer at Zamboanga Airport. Most local airlines operate flights to Zamboanga from Manila. But if you’re after affordable fares, AirAsia flies daily to Zamboanga City. Travel time is 1 hour and 40 minutes. I did a quick search for flights and found fares like these: Each booking comes with a complimentary 7kg carry-on baggage allowance. This can be enough for a weekend trip. But note that this does not yet include check-in baggage allowance. For a worry-free and more comfortable journey, you can also add a Value Pack, which includes 20kg check-in baggage allowance, standard selection, a meal, and Tune Protect insurance (for baggage delay & 1 hour on-time guarantee protection). Meanwhile, their Premium Flex option allows you to change the date and time of your flight up to two times. If you’re coming from Manila, AirAsia’s Zamboanga flights operate from NAIA Terminal 4. Upon Arrival at the Airport After disembarking, you will be led to the Arrival area, where you’ll be waiting for your check-in baggage (if you have any). As soon as you exit the Arrival Hall, you’ll notice a white tent immediately in

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10 Things to do in Roscommon, Ireland

[ad_1] County Roscommon is located in Irelands Mid West and is a long County that borders seven other counties. Those counties being Longford, Sligo, Leitrim, Galway, Westmeath and Offaly. The area is known for great farming and wonderful agriculture, but also packed full of great and wonderful history and a wide range of things to do. After researching and experiencing as much as we can, we’ve compiled this list of the best 10 things to do in Roscommon. Everything on the list has been tried and tested by ourselves. See also: Things to do with Kids in Ireland in the West The 10 best things to do in Roscommon If you’re looking for fun and interesting things to do in Roscommon, here are a few options. 1. Visit Roscommon Castle Ruins Located moments from the centre of Roscommon Town lies Roscommon Castle ruins. The castle which now lies in ruins, is a 13th-century Norman castle which was once of Hugh O’Connor, the King of Connaught. It features a quadrangular plan with rounded bastions at the corners and a double-towered entrance gate. The attraction is free to visit and is always open all year round to visitors. The upper parts of the bastions and the other stairwells are inaccessible but otherwise you are free to roam the inside. A park area, with lake, walking tracks and kids playground are also within this one area. See also: Walking Tracks of Ireland’s Mid West Roscommon Castle 2. Take a look at Strokestown House and the Famine Museum A grade one listed building, this 300 year old manor house is steeped in history. The house and grounds are now in the hands of the Irish heritage trust. The house is also home to Ireland’s National Famine Museum and, after a huge government grant, they have just completed redevelopment of the museum and visitor centre, making the experience all the better and enabling this great piece of history to be shown for many years to come. Peak season tours of the house and museum are available alongside a woodland walk and Strokestown houses own walled gardens. The grounds are also home to the start of the famine walk. This huge 165km heritage walk is in honor to those 1490 men, women and children who made the walk during the Irish famine in 1847. The walk has been laid out in sections with many choosing to complete over a seven-day period. The tracks are known to be very moderate. 3. Take the kids to Glendeer Pet Farm Glendeer Pet Farm is a children’s petting farm in the north end of County Roscommon very close to the Westmeath and Galway borders. The farm starts off winding through a selection of pens with very friendly animals. The first section has goats, hens, deer, emus, ducks, monkeys and even a bearded dragon. Moving through the farm into a second section leads into a barn area where all the local and native pigs live. In the next section of the farm you’ll find donkeys. This area also has Alpacas, horses, cows and the Belted Galloway (a breed of Scottish cow that adapted itself to living on the poor and windy moorlands) – the Wallaby, a native Australian animal, is found here. The last area of the farm has meerkats and pheasants with a selection of wild birds. The farm also has many play areas with indoor and outdoor slides, swings, courses and a whole host of kids play equipment. Other additions include a fairy trail through the woods and an old 1850’s restored cottage, complete with original fixtures and fittings. See also: Waterfalls in the North West of Ireland Glendeer Pet Farm 4. Visit Lough Key Forest Park Lough Key is a 300 hectare Park, forest and lake in the heart of county Roscommon. The park has many many things to do including boat rides, SUP, tours of the grounds, tree top walk, zipping tree adventure, kids playground as well as many walking tracks and even a cafe all on sight. The most notable attraction is the 16th century McDermott Castle located on a island in the middle of the Lough itself. The castle has its own romantic little story. “Local legend tells the story of a girl called Una, the daughter of the McDermott chief, who fell in love with a boy from a lower class. Una’s father refused to let her leave the island, in the hopes that this would deter the budding relationship. Unbeknownst to her father, Una’s boyfriend began swimming across Lough Key to reach the castle. It was during one of these crossings that tragedy struck, and the boy drowned. It’s said that Una died from grief and that both she and her partner have remained buried beneath two intertwined trees on the island ever since” McDermotts Castle 5. A tour through Arigna Mines Arigna Mines is a top Roscommon attraction, a mine which enjoyed a long history of mining which was actively used as a coal mine from 1700’s until as recent as early 1990. It was then back in 2003 that the mine, driven by a community initiative, was reopened as a visitor attraction. The mining experience at Arigna documents the countries first and last coal mine. The tours are taken with ex-miners so you always know that the knowledge is the best available. The mine is also the start of the Miners Way Walk, a walk that is 118-kilometre long circular route that begins and ends in Arigna village. 6. See the Elphin Windmill Opened as a tourist attraction in 1996, The Elphin windmill is the only fully restored windmill in the west of Ireland. This mill was originally used for grinding corn and a few other grains and is now home to a visitor centre which shows how the windmill operated and are also demonstrated. Adjacent to the windmill is a newly formed walking track. Elphin Windmill 7. Take a look through Boyle Abbey Boyle Abbey is a Cistercian monastery

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The Dazzling Story Behind the Eiffel Tower

[ad_1] The Eiffel Tower is one of the most famous icons in the world The Eiffel Tower is undoubtedly the crown jewel of France and is one of the leading drivers of French tourism. In fact, it is actually one of the most-visited pay-to-enter monuments in the world, with almost 7 million visitors every year. Better yet, visiting the Eiffel Tower means experiencing one of the architectural wonders of the world. Keep in mind that one of the top things to do in Paris is to visit the Eiffel Tower. Whether it’s to go up to the top or just have a picnic below. Every visitor to Paris wants to catch a glimpse of this wonder – and for good reason too. For almost forty years it stood as the tallest man-made structure in the world. Its bright lights in the evenings make it a stunning sight to witness. But, do you know the history behind Eiffel Tower? The significance of it? And all of the nuances behind its unique story? Well, wonder no more as we delve into its dazzling story so that you are prepared for when you go visiting the Eiffel Tower next. Here are some facts and figures making up the story of the Eiffel tower Why was the Eiffel Tower Built? There are many historical reasons why this magnificent structure was built. The most well-known and true reason is that it was built to cheer up the world exhibition commemorating the 100-year anniversary of the French revolution. The French revolution is a very important event in French history, as it was responsible for abolishing dictatorship and welcoming democracy. The French people and officials wanted to remember the 100-year anniversary by doing something different for their country. They wanted to improve the quality of life in Paris and all over France. Many suggestions were given suggestions that the country builds a new and beautiful building to commemorate the anniversary.  A number of designers, engineers and architects presented their design ideas. Among them, the design of Gustavo Eiffel was selected as the winner. It was opposed by many people, but with the determination of Eiffel the design won out. Another reason it was built was due to the promising nature of its design. The height of the Eiffel tower allowed for practical experiments related to air pressure, temperature and radiotelegraphy. In fact, the major reason for its design was so that it could be used as a radio transmission tower. After the expiration of its first lease, many people wanted to demolish it, but politicians wanted to retain it for radio transmission. One of the other reasons that the Eiffel Tower was built was to create a history that illustrated the purpose of the Paris Exposition.  During this time, the Eiffel Tower would have been the tallest building in the entire world. This swayed many leaders in France to choose this design over others and ultimately erect the building as it stands today. Whatever the reason, there is no doubt about the strong Eiffel Tower’s significance to the French people. Designing and Construction of the Eiffel tower The construction of the Eiffel Tower involved tremendous effort from the Eiffel and his companions; Maurice Koechlin (a structural expert) and many other metal experts. After much debate, the final design was ready. It involved 18,000 pieces of puddle iron, a kind of wrought iron used in construction, and 2.5 million rivets. More than 500 workers worked for 2 years to assemble the framework of this iconic tower.  In the end, it stood at a height of 10,000 feet and was the tallest building in the world (though this is no longer the case). To the surprise of many who visit the Eiffel Tower, the original plan for the structure was to actually dismantle it after 20 years, however, the designer later went and added telegraph transmitters and a radio antenna to the Tower. This contributed to the French government’s decision to keep it ad it was now deemed “too useful”. Parisians Reaction to the Great tower Initially, many Parisians literally hated the tower. Yes, you actually read that correctly. While this monument is now considered to be one of the great travel thrills throughout Europe, it was first initially hated by locals. They considered it to be structurally unsound and an eyesore in their city. The famous novelist Guy de Maupassant hated it so much that he wanted to avoid seeing the tower and would therefore dine at the restaurant in the Eiffel Tower so that he could avoid looking at it directly. What is the Eiffel Tower Today? Thankfully, the outrage over the Eiffel Tower eventually simmered down and has since become the most important landmark in France. It has become a permanent feature of the Paris skyline.  A major part of Paris’ revenue is generated by tourism geared towards visiting the Eiffel Tower as many come to the famous ascend up the Tower. Many people from many parts of the world come to see it and it’s become commonly referred to as the Tower of Love. The scenic beauty from the top is enough to drive you mad. A trip to the Eiffel Tower is something that you’ll remember for the rest of your life! So, why not share the story behind the Eiffel Tower with your friends and family until then?   The scenic beauty from the top is enough to drive you mad. A trip to the Eiffel Tower is something that you’ll remember for the rest of your life! So, why not share the story behind the Eiffel Tower with your friends and family until then? How to visit the Eiffel Tower As you can tell from this article, visiting the Eiffel Tower is an absolute must – but that also means that there are thousands of other visitors who have journeyed to Paris to do the same thing. So, to keep from disappointment, it’s best to plan ahead of time. You can visit the Eiffel Tower by any mode of transportation. The most popular is without

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Zanzibar Nightlife: The Island’s Magical Nightlife

[ad_1] Let your hair down, feel the music, grab a drink and let the Zanzibar nightlife take you on one of the most epic evenings of your life! So, bookmark this blog, book your ticket and let’s get the fun started. See also: Where to Stay in Zanzibar Zanzibar nightlife The truth is that Zanzibar bars aren’t like the ones you may be more familiar with back home. You see, given its British colonial influences and Muslim culture, most of Zanzibar nightlife centres on the sundowner tradition. You don’t have to wait for night to strike before the fun begins. The culture is very much as soon as the sun begins to descend, the lights are up, the music is up and so are your spirits! You will surprisingly notice that things tend to quiet down a little after midnight, which makes sense since sundowners start pretty early. That being said, don’t let that deter you from visiting this incredible island as there is still a terrific scene for dancing and drinks. Stone Town, the island’s urban center, offers the most opportunity for a night on the town. Nungwi, at the northern tip, and Jambiani and Paje, on the eastern coast, also have popular bars and beach clubs. Here are some of the constant favorites among tourists and locals alike: Stone Town nightlife Some of the most vibrant Zanzibar nightlife can be found in Stone Town! This is definitely one of the go-to spots to have a few drinks, take in the views and let loose after a long day. See also: The Best Markets in Stone Town, Zanzibar 6 Degrees South This café on Shanghai Street gets high marks for its happy hour from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weeknights, and Friday nights with live Afro Jazz and themed disco. This way you get cheaper drinks and some of the best entertainment. What more could you ask for? Address: Plot 60, Waterfront, Shangani St, Zanzibar, TanzaniaWebsite Dharma Lounge Located near the State University of Zanzibar, the Dharma Lounge is a natural for students and the younger international crowd who are looking for a modern club where they can boogie into the wee hours of the morning on a large dance floor. Give the youth a run for their money and show them how its done! Address: Mkunazini St, Zanzibar, Tanzania Dharma Lounge Zanzibar. Garage Club Get ready for some dancing at this eclectic (and air-conditioned!) disco with house, hip-hop, reggae, and Afro-European pop; the club rocks until sun-up on weekend nights, making it the most popular disco in Stone Town. Look for the black and white zebra striped walls across the street from the Starehe Club. Address: Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania Kendwa Rocks On those Saturdays that fall during, or near, the full moon, Kendwa Rocks Beach Hotel hosts its famous Full Moon Party, right on the white-sand beach, for music and dancing under the stars. The rest of the month, partiers can dance the night away Monday through Saturday at the hotel’s lounge bar, The Rocks. Address: Kendwa, TanzaniaWebsite Starehe Club This chill nightclub is very popular with the Zanzibaris, making it a great place for visitors who want to meet and chat with locals. Quiet ambiance and a great location on the balcony overlooking the bay make the Starehe club the place for a tranquil evening on the town. Address: Shangani St, Zanzibar, Tanzania Sweet Easy Plenty of seating, a pool table, good food, and a well stocked bar make this restaurant and lounge a popular evening hangout for visitors and locals alike. The Sweet Easy reportedly has the best beer selection in town, with a wide range of choices from around the world. Forodhani Gardens If you’re looking for fun after dark, but want to avoid the usual clubs and pubs, try heading down to Forodhani Gardens.  The street market comes alive at night with performers, food stalls, and vendors. Don’t forget to bring a picnic blanket and come early to find a great spot on the grass. A lively scene for people watching, this seafront park is the place to be for visitors and locals alike. When you spend an evening at Fordhani Gardens, you really get a feel for the local community. Address: Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania Nungwi nightlife Gerry’s Bar On the beach, Gerry’s gets high marks for its friendly staff and laidback atmosphere.  Though a bit further down the beach than other Nungwi beach bars, visitors say it’s well worth the hike. Called an “excellent place to chill” by one TripAdvisor fan, Gerry’s enjoys a perfect spot right on the water in Nungwi Beach. Be sure to arrive early to catch the sunset. Address: Nungwi Beach, Zanzibar, TansaniaWebsite Cholo’s Disco Bar Right on the sand, Cholo’s is party-central on Nungwi Beach, attracting a more adult crowd of 30-somethings for drinking and dancing. For great food, a fun atmosphere, good drinks, music, and crashing waves in the background, head for Cholo’s; past visitors say you’re in for a very fun evening. Address: Cholos beach Nungwi TZ, 09255, TanzaniaWebsite Beach nightlife in Zanzibar. Paje nightlife Paje by Night The beach bar at the Paje by Night hotel is a fun place for tourists to hang out, and it holds regular theme parties for the bold, such as its Glow in the Dark and Bubble Bath Jacuzzi parties. Offering plenty of dancing and cold beer, this is a “come as you are” kind of bar, perfect for after a day on the beach or kite surfing. Address: Paje by Night Street Paje TZ, 0000, TansaniaWebsite Jambiani nightlife Red Monkey Lodge Usually a quiet bar on the beach at Jambiani, the Red Monkey Lodge hosts a weekly Monday Blues that is a huge hit for locals and visitors alike. From casual beach parties to discos, and performing arts to people watching, Zanzibar has an abundance of evening entertainment options for everyone. Address: Jambiani, Zanzibar, TanzaniaWebsite The Star Hotel This local hotspot has all of the things you would need for the perfect night out. This spit features an impressive bar, a large,

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