• SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium.

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is one of the best aquariums in Melbourne to visit with your kids. Located in central Melbourne, this aquarium provides a home to more than 2000 marine creatures. The aquarium is divided into 4 levels, you will be able to see sharks, manta rays, jellyfish penguins and other creatures. You will also get a chance to interact with starfish, and even shark eggs! However, the highlighting marine creatures are grey nurse sharks and sea dragons.

• Melbourne Museum.

Located in the Carlton Gardens of Melbourne, the Melbourne Museum is one of the best places that your kid can learn a bit of history of the city. The museum was opened in 2000 and today, the main highlight is the Science and Life Gallery with its ‘Dinosaur Walk’, which your kids will love as you can walk among the gigantic dinosaur fossils. Don’t forget to check out the live specimens of insects and bugs in the ‘Bugs Alive’, and the skeleton of the large pygmy blue well that is suspended from the ceiling. For smaller kids, there is the  Pauline Gandel Children’s Gallery, which allows them to play with dinosaur fossils.

• Melbourne Zoo.

Melbourne Zoo is the place for all those animal-loving kids. It is easily accessible from the Melbourne city centre and you are required to book your tickets online even if you are a member. The Melbourne Zoo was established in 1862, so it is the oldest zoo in Australia. Since there are many attractions within the zoo itself, exploring everything within a single day is not possible with kids because they will get tired after a while. Today, it provides a home to more than 300 species of animals and this includes Sumatran tigers, elephants, kangaroos, hairy-nosed wombats, red pandas, giraffes, zebras and much more.

• Collingwood Children’s Farm.

Located near the Yarra River, the Collingwood’s Children’s Farm is one of the best places in Melbourne to teach your kids about farm animals. They have cows, chicken, pigs and even sheep. You can let your kids touch them and even feed them. There are many activities for you to try, for example, the visitors are allowed to milk the cows every day at 10:00 am and 4:00 pm, and also bottle-feed the young or collect eggs from chicken.

• Scienceworks.

Just as the name suggests, Scienceworks is a world full of science and technology. This is a great place to visit with kids who have curious minds or with ones who aspire to become scientists and technologists! Scienceworks was established in 1992, it offers you all kinds of activities starting from the planetarium to the Lightning Room which consists of an electrifying theatre. Your kids can ask about any doubts they have about how the things or the machines work here, the staff will be happy to answer all their questions.

• ACMI Screen Worlds.

ACMI Screen Worlds or the Australian Centre of the Moving Image is the most visited museum of its kind in the world! Now if you are wondering what kind of a museum it is, it is dedicated to the history and the development of moving images. In other words, the ACMI Screen Worlds tells you the story of how films, television, video games and virtual reality came into the world. You can see old game sets here, TVs and even old tv shows that were telecasted in Australia decades ago.

• ArtVo Trick Art Museum.

Located just a 5-minute walk from the city centre of Melbourne at Docklands, the ArtVo Trick Art Museum is something that should not be missed here, even if you are not travelling with kids. The whole museum is a thrilling and interesting experience. What you see here is interactive 3D art spread over 11 themed zones and these artworks will give you a lot of photographic opportunities. Unlike the other museums, the art can be touched by its visitors! There are more than 1000 artworks here than you can get on to a photo with you. But make sure to get the correct angle to get that perfect click.

• Immigration Museum.

This is more suitable for older kids and adults. The Immigration Museum is in the Old Customs House and displays the history of the people who immigrated to Australia over time. The main highlights are the Tribute Garden which honours the immigrants from over 80 countries and the Immigrant Discovery Center which allows its visitors to search whether they come from the immigrants.

• Altona Miniature Railways.

This is such a fun activity to do with your kids in Melbourne. It is not open daily, only on every 3rd Sunday of the month as it is run by a club of volunteers who are in love with trains. These little trains are vibrant and the seating is comfortable. You don’t have to be afraid to try it out even with a small kid because the trains run slowly for 15 minutes.

• Acland Street Cake Shops.

It is exactly like how it sounds, a street with cake shops. Acland Street is located just behind Luna Park and will be absolute heaven for your kids who have a sweet tooth! It is packed with all kinds of delicacies starting from the local ones to the European ones. There are many cake shops to choose from, you can try the Monarch Cakes, Acland Cakes and Europa Cake Shop.

The post 10 Kid-Friendly Attractions in Melbourne appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

For those who enjoy traveling, sooner or later there comes a time when it seems like you’ve seen it all. You haven’t, of course. No one has. But it can still feel like you’re repeating yourself, visiting the same attractions, landmarks, scenic views, and businesses as everyone else. What diamonds in the rough wait beyond the familiar rows of glitzy Las Vegas tourist traps, Orlando amusement parks, Indianapolis houses for sale, New Orleans restaurants, and Malibu beaches? There’s only one way to find out.

Actually, that’s a lie. There are three ways.

Talk to the Locals

If you want to find hidden gems far away from the typical tourist destinations, then you need to turn to the one group of people who know an area better than anyone else: the ones who live there. If you’re visiting the Big Apple with a hankering for a slice of authentic New York pizza, you probably know all about the seemingly countless pizzerias called “Ray’s.” But if you want something different, something that hasn’t been featured a thousand times on Food Network or The History Channel, then only someone who eats New York City pizza every single day can help you find what you’re looking for.

Ask for Help Online

The Internet is a powerful tool for connecting people, archiving knowledge, turning cat pictures into memes, and unearthing overlooked treasures. Case in point, websites like Reddit and Quora allow you to ask strangers from all over the world for recommendations, while browsing hashtags on Twitter and Instagram can expose you to things you might never encounter otherwise. There are entire blogs and forums dedicated to digging up and sharing such off-the-beaten-path discoveries, such as Atlas Obscura and Uniqhotels. One simple Google search is all it takes to find a whole new world of possibilities.

Go on an Adventure

Sometimes finding and trying new things take a little more work than just seeking out recommendations. Sometimes it requires challenging yourself to step outside your comfort zone. That could mean breaking a routine, such as checking out the nightlife or outdoor activities the next time you visit Florida, instead of visiting Disney World for the fifth year in a row. It could also mean letting yourself “get lost,” so to speak, by taking a walk or a drive into a part of the area you’re not familiar with. Just wander around and see what you find. You’re almost certain to find a pleasant surprise.

The post How to Find Hidden Gems While Traveling appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

Vietnam

If you have never been to Vietnam, you need to venture there. The south-eastern Asian country is just south of Thailand, another great spot to visit. Vietnam is home to a number of ancient towns and beaches. Plus, they have great food markets, museums, and even rocky islands. It is a great place to go to relax and learn the culture. A must visit when in Vietnam is Hanoi to Ninh Binh. The small community is in the North Vietnam Red River Delta and is a welcoming place to visit.

Bali

Located in Indonesia, if you are looking for a tropical hideaway, Bali is it. Famous for its gorgeous beaches, the locals are very welcoming to tourists. The beautiful spot is home to plenty to do including some great food spots and exotic drinks. Mrs. Sippy is a must stop when in Bali. The bar and saltwater pool is open to locals and tourists and is sure to give you a good time while enjoying the sunshine. Before heading out to Ms Sippy you can also consider picking up some great all-natural skin care products from Utama Spice. They are my favorite local shop to stock up on whenever I visit Bali. If you are looking for a spiritual sanctuary, Bali is also your go to spot as it is home to majestic temples as well.

Arizona

Located in the United State of America, the state of Arizona is one of the greatest places to visit, but you might not even think about it! Yes, it is home to the Grand Canyon, but there is much more to Arizona than that.

The weather is usually ideal, but it does get very warm in the summer months in most of the state. This is why visiting in spring is the best time. Especially in the heart of Arizona, Phoenix. Phoenix hosts the Cactus League in the spring, where a number of MLB teams come and play games across the valley for a whole month. It is a great way to get in the baseball and summer spirit!

Or you can go to venture off the beaten path and visit all of the beautiful hiking and desert destinations.

The post Traveling the World in 2021 appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

Extravagant destination weddings are very much in trend in India these days and the last wedding season witnessed some of the best destination weddings so far. If you too are planning a destination wedding and have already decided that the location is Hyderabad, well congratulations! You’re halfway through. However, keep in mind that there is still a long way ahead. Planning a destination wedding can be an exhausting task and here are some tips that will help you by acting as your very own online wedding planner guide:

Hire a wedding planner: When it comes to destination weddings in Hyderabad, the phrase “Leave it to the professionals” fits right in. There are a lot of arrangements to be made and you may not have the expertise or the right vendor contacts to plan your wedding in an efficient manner. A professional wedding planner will take care of all your requirements and also get you the best deals from different vendors. Another benefit of hiring a wedding planner is that you can enjoy your special day and all the wedding ceremonies without any worry.

Find the right venue: There are plenty of points one needs to keep in mind when it comes to selecting a venue while planning a destination wedding in Hyderabad. Find a perfect banquet hall in Hyderabad that can easily accommodate all your guests and also allows them to easily travel to and from your venue to the city/airport/railway station. Keep the convenience of your guests in mind but simultaneously, keep in mind your budget while selecting the venue. You can also go for a separate venue for the wedding and another hotel for

Visit the venue in advance: Once you have selected your venue, make sure that you visit the venue in advance once before making your reservation and then once before the wedding date. This is so that you can do a venue trial and check whether all the necessary arrangements are made.

Invite guests on time: The reason why most people plan destination weddings is that they want their loved ones, be it friends or family, to spend some quality time together. Destination weddings also mean that your guests will have to plan their travel arrangements and clear out their schedule. Similarly, you will have to make all the necessary arrangements for their stay and entertainment. Therefore, it is wise to inform your guests as soon as you fix your wedding dates and venue so that they have enough time in hand to make all the necessary arrangements and do not miss out on your special day.

Keep the local factors in mind: If you are planning a destination wedding in Hyderabad, keep in mind the local laws of the place and the weather conditions at the time of your wedding. All these factors will help you be better prepared for any emergencies that may come up on the wedding date.

The post Your personal destination wedding planning guide: Tips to plan the perfect wedding in Hyderabad appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

As we travel on professional duties or trivial needs we often find ourselves at the mercy of car hiring firms. We always fall prey to whatever tricks they use in obtaining extra coins from us or any client for that matter.

Hence you must equip yourself with up-to-date knowledge of these tricks and know how to avoid them.

Here are seven classic rip-offs known of them.

Unneeded Upgrades 

The reception guys in a car hiring firm would be quick to offer you upgraded cars, as they either claim the car you seek doesn’t have enough room for your luggage or isn’t qualified to undergo the high way trips you are planning.

The moment they resort to an upgrade, decline and request to pick from the other available choices yourself, or you’d go elsewhere.

An upgrade often comes with a big charge and sometimes the need for it isn’t genuine. So, you really should be mindful of this.

The Foreign Currency Trick  

If you are paying the car hire firm from your credit card, they can apply their exchange rates as they find fit. This means your account is open to unwarranted mark-ups, which you can’t bargain with.

To manage this try as much as possible to pay in cash especially if you are in a country that doesn’t use an equal or parallel currency to your home country’s currency. Say the dollar against the euro for instance.

The Insurance Trick  

Of course, insurance is necessary, especially for rental cars, however, there are instances where the insurance on your vehicle at home covers a portion of your rented car abroad. But the rental company would often not tell this to you in order to take charge of you some more.

To solve this puzzle you need an understanding of what value of insurance you have covered already and make sure this is established with your a rental company or third-party insurance company.

This way you are very unlikely to get persuaded into paying more than necessary. You can also buy an independent car hire excess waiver policy. As these providers are known to be more honest and revealing of what insurances you don’t need to pay for.

Late Return Fees  

Yes, it is normal to pay a fine for returning any rented item late, but that observed with car hiring firms has fallen into absurdity.

Sometimes if you are up to 1 hour later than the agreed period, you get billed for using the car for an entire extra day.

The amount paid is dependent on the car hired and the hiring firm. But if you belong to a reward or Loyalty Program of the company or a recognized partner, you may get such charges waived if your lateness isn’t to the extreme.

The Accessories Trick 

Baby seats, GPS, and other car attached utilities are often advertised as part of the rental package but really, this isn’t true.

You end up paying for whatever accessory that comes with your rental car, separate from the rental rates. Sometimes these amounts could be ridiculously large that a customer would be forced to rent a different car.

However, the easier hack is to bring your accessories and attach them accordingly. You could also use your phone’s inbuilt GPS on days when you can’t do without sat nav.

The Full Tank Policy

The average car rental firm would charge you extras for returning the vehicle with anything less than a full tank of fuel. This means you have to keenly pay attention to the fuel gauge when driving around.

Charges like this have little or no regulations hence you pay as much as the hiring firm wants you to.

Frequently Changing Rates  

Can hiring firms often have to increase the price of their rentals after considering factors such as changes in exchange rates? These changes are often legit however many other times they are not, and in a bid to make extra gains the changes are excessive so much that rental rates go as high as an 80% increase.

This is one of the most obvious rip-offs we can’t complain about, however you can manoeuvre your way around it. For instance, you can decide to pre-book, or if you are coming from a foreign country you may change your currency and pay in cash instead of paying through your credit card.

Conclusion  

There you have it, the major tricks car hiring firms perform on unsuspecting customers. Feel free to find out more and bring it out in the open. The dynamic world of today creates an opportunity for more dubious tactics to be invented.

Thanks for reading.

The post Car Rental Tips: Seven Classic Rip-Offs You Need to Look Out For appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

In India, Freeroll Tournaments are very popular among the poker players as it is one of the easiest ways to earn through online. If you are not yet aware about the game, this article will explain to you why people carve it.

• FREEROLLS:

Freeroll are poker tournaments in which the players are not charged with any buy-ins or separate deposit in order to be able to play the game. The players can play the game free of cost and that is why the name itself suggests as “freerolls”. Freeroll poker tournaments are available both in online as well as in live table.

Freeroll tournaments are sometimes offered to players who frequent a particular website or casino, as a hallmark of the favour in which they are viewed by the establishment invitation-only tournaments also often tend to be freerolls.

The advantage of playing freerolls is that, it provides you the opportunity to be able to polish your poker skills without having to lose anything. It also gives you the opportunity to build up your bankroll and gain more exposure in poker world.

Freeroll tournaments prove to be a huge advantage for the new players since there are varieties of poker tourneys in which the players can get themselves involved in and discover their interest and their skills.

If you are a new player and you want to experience the game pressure of the poker tournaments then this is definitely the best option for you. You also get to earn for free without having to spend any amount of money.

Khelo365.com offers Freerolls running daily, weekly and every weekend. In total, the prize pool available is worth Rs.25 Lac every month. Here in khelo365, you’ll experience the best of the best. You’ll also get the chance to play with the top players and that way, pave your way to the top.

In most cases, freeroll events offer cash prizes to the winner, while some provide free merchandise or entry into larger cash tournaments. It doesn’t matter what the winner gets, freerolls are an excellent way for players to improve and sharpen their skills and be eligible for prizes without having to invest from their own bankroll.

ORIGIN OF THE PHRASE:

In the early years of the casino industry, guests at Las Vegas hotels were often incentivized to play in some way or the other. Most frequently, they would be given a roll of nickel coins – a ‘free roll’ – when they checked in, so that they could make use of the slot machines at the hotel.

Over time, the practice became so common that guests would often ask for their ‘free rolls’ – which eventually came to refer to anything for which the entry was free, and has now become part of the poker vocabulary.

If you haven’t tried out freeroll tournaments yet then don’t wait any longer and enroll yourself now in the freeroll tournaments at khelo365 and be a part of this exciting journey.

The post EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FREEROLLS appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

Whenever one travels, one tends to pack very light—the bare essentials, so to speak. However, the benefits of keeping a few handy devices will make your trip much more comfortable than you think. And it won’t even take you much travel space or weight!

Here are top tech travel essentials that deserve a spot in your luggage. All these devices aim to solve the most common problems that you may have forgotten about until you’ve experienced them firsthand.

All-in-One Universal Adapter

Gone are the days when you have to keep multiple adapters on international trips just to charge your devices. With a universal adapter, connecting devices on any socket, regardless of their type, is possible. Most of these adapters sport multiple connections, letting users charge their devices all at once.

Noise-Canceling Headphones

Jet lag is no joke, especially for those who have to switch time zones regularly. Taking the necessary steps can help alleviate the symptoms. Make sure you’re well rested before you begin journeys, and bring along some noise-canceling headphones. These special headphones are one of the most useful investments any frequent flyer can make.

Planes, at the worst of times, are a breeding ground for noise pollution. This ranges from infants bawling their eyes out, to disgruntled passengers loudly complaining that they didn’t get what they ordered, to the constant whir of the engines outside. Use noise-canceling headphones to help shut out the sound for a more restful sleep.

USB Drive

USB drives give an extra form of storage at the cost of a little space. These devices are a must for any traveler, regardless of whether a trip is for work or for leisure. Have at least one in hand to have soft copies of important documents like identification or medical history. It can also be useful for storing photos and videos taken during the trip.

Portable Charger

Portable chargers, more commonly known today as power banks, are handy. They don’t weigh much and can provide enough juice to give an extra charge for your devices until the next outlet.

Don’t be fooled by cheaper power banks because they often last a couple of charges. It’s a better investment to purchase one that’s a little more expensive but coming from a reliable and trusted brand.

Car Charger

This device is essential for long road trips or nature hikes, when the nearest outlet can take days to reach. The number of times that your phones run out of power at the most inopportune moment is one too many, so having a car charger can be handy during emergencies. Realistically speaking, a simple phone call can mean life or death in certain situations.

Docking Station

Docking stations lets multiple devices connect to laptops. Gadgets such as digital cameras or flat-panel monitors aren’t always laptop-compatible. Against this backdrop, get a USB docking station or hub to easily bypass compatibility issues without hassle. Some units even double as a power hub that gives a couple of extra charges.

Solar Charger

Hard-core adventurers who love to spend prolonged periods away from the hustle and bustle of human civilization will find solar chargers a godsend. Backcountry hikers, campers, and climbers can use these chargers to power up their cameras, phones, and GPS devices. While some may think that this defeats the purpose of being one with nature, it certainly doesn’t hurt to have a backup power source in case of emergencies.

Mobile Hot Spot

Mobile hot spots can provide a reliable source of internet for practical purposes, like checking emails and travel routes, to pure entertainment, such as checking social media or YouTube binge-watching. In some cases, mobile hot spots can be a money-saving option depending on the mobile plan used.

These devices can broadcast secure Wi-Fi signals that can be used practically anywhere, so one doesn’t have to rely on sketchy connections or pricey data to access the internet.

Final Word

There’s no best method of traveling, but many people have accepted the fact that traveling is oftentimes troublesome, so they just pack the bare necessities and rough it. But it doesn’t have to be this way. The more you prepare, the more you can make the most of your travel time and make the whole trip an enjoyable experience.

The post Change the Way You Travel with These Top Tech Travel Essentials appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

Tampa is located in Hillsborough County, in Florida. With almost 300 sunny days per year, this city is a favorite tourist spot for everybody who wishes to spend their days at the beach, visiting adventure parks or just strolling around.

There is a lot to do and see in Tampa, so we decided to compile a list of the attractions that you shouldn’t miss. This is just a snippet of all the things that Tampa offers. So don’t hesitate to explore this vibrant city further on your own, with your family or friends.

Gasparilla Pirate Festival

Tampa’s most popular festival takes place annually, somewhere between January and March. Tampa was home to many pirates during the 19th century and to preserve its adventurous history, each year a mock pirate invasion is organized. In memory of Jose Gaspar also known as Gasparilla, the last Buccaneer pirate, the main parade ship is named after him.

There are also many additional festivities during Gasparilla, which include Gasparilla Children’s Parade, Gasparilla Film Festival, Gasparilla Festival of the Arts, and more. Tampa’s version of Mardi Gras is a must if you ever dreamt of becoming a pirate as a kid!

Tampa Bay History Center

If you wish to get familiar with Tampa’s intriguing history, this museum is the place to visit. It contains exhibits spanning through over 12,000 years of Florida’s history. Learn about Tocobaga and Calusa tribes, who were the first people ever to inhabit today’s territory of Florida.

Refresh your knowledge about Spanish conquistadors and find out more interesting facts considering these European explorers.

Also, be sure to check out the supposed mummified hand of Jose Gaspar while roaming through the halls of Tampa Bay History Center.

Tampa Riverwalk

Soak up the sunshine while strolling around the city. The best way to see as much as possible of Tampa is to take a walk or ride a bike down the Tampa Riverwalk. Placed right next to the Hillsborough River, this promenade spans over 2.4 miles.

Various museums are located here, including the already mentioned Tampa Bay History Center. Tampa Riverwalk is also the home of many restaurants and cafes which are great spots for lunch or a short coffee break.

The Florida Aquarium in Tampa Bay

If you want to find a nice shade from Tampa’s sun, the best way to cool down and have some fun with your children or with your friends is to visit the Florida Aquarium. Here you can see over 7,000 sea animals and plant species which are inhabiting Florida, but there are also species from all over the world.

Busch Gardens

Another great spot for taking your children, but also having some fun yourself, is Busch Gardens Tampa Bay theme park. Besides different Africa-themed rides and rollercoasters, Busch Gardens is also Tampa’s biggest zoo with over 200 species. Attraction named Edge of Africa is especially interesting since it is a walking safari tour during which you can observe different animals from the Dark Continent.

When you get tired and wish to take a bite, Busch Gardens has plenty of restaurants. Also, if you are in the mood for a refreshing cold beer, there are great breweries here as well.

Tampa Museum of Art

If you are more of an artistic soul, head over to the city’s downtown and visit the Tampa Museum of Art. Here you can admire the works of modern and contemporary art, including antiquities dating back to Greek and Roman times.

There are also often exhibitions of contemporary international artists held at the museum. Check if there are any being organized during your stay in Tampa that may be of special interest to you.

Ybor City Museum

Tampa’s neighborhood, Ybor City, used to be the center of Florida’s cigar economy. Vicente Martinez-Ybor, one of the greatest cigar manufacturers, developed this whole part of the town and gave work to countless Cuban, Spanish and Italian immigrants.

Today, the majority of these factories ceased to exist, but Ybor City Museum keeps the heritage and the memories of the times when Tampa was named the Cigar Capital of the World.

Henry B. Plant Museum

This charming museum is actually the Tampa Bay Hotel, which was a luxurious Victorian resort built by Henry B. Plant. The plant was an American transportation pioneer with an empire of railroads, steamships, and hotels. But only this hotel was the place to be at.

With 511 rooms which all had telephone lines, billiard room, music room with orchestra, barbershop and other never before seen services in a hotel, Tampa Bay Hotel was the social hub of those times. There are also parties organized here, so you can turn your Gatsby dreams to reality!

Glazer Children’s Museum

If you are running out of ideas of what to visit with your children, head over back to the Tampa Riverwalk. Next to the History Center, you will find the Glazer Children’s Museum. This isn’t just a typical museum with exhibits and not much to do. This is a place where your kids can play and learn at the same time. This museum acts as a learning environment with interactive and fun features. Make sure to visit this place and have some quality fun with your family!

Discover Floribbean Cuisine While in Tampa

Did you know that Tampa is the official home of the Cuban sandwich? This delicacy is made out of roasted pork, ham, salami, homemade mustard, Swiss cheese, pickles, and Cuban bread. Make sure to try it since it is the most popular local meal.

Tampa has the fortune of being the intersection of many different cultures and, therefore, cuisines. Tampa’s food is a true culinary experience. Ranging from seafood to Spanish, Cuban, Caribbean and Floribbean (mix of Floridian and Caribbean cuisines) flavors, no matter your tastes you will surely find something delicious.

Another interesting Tampa originated dish is deviled crabs. This meal was an invention by Ybor City immigrants and it is still popular among the locals.

Getting Around Tampa

Besides walking tours and renting bicycles, one of the more comfortable ways of seeing the most out of this beautiful city is by booking your Tampa car service.

First Florida Limo offers transportation services in modern vehicles driven by our professional chauffeurs. Arrange a comfortable day-trip for yourself and your family or friends.

Don’t worry about parking your car all over the city while exploring its sights. Let professionals take care of your sightseeing and making sure that your visit is as relaxing as possible.

The post What to See While in Tampa? appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

As one of Vietnam’s most popular tourist destinations, the coastal city of Nha Trang sees thousands of visitors each year. Its fine sand beaches and numerous attractions make it the perfect venue for a relaxing weekend vacation or an exciting extended holiday, especially for individuals who are traveling to the country for the first time.

Make your getaway planning more convenient by booking a Nha Trang travel combo with Traveloka! But before you go, watch out for these common mistakes first-timers often make on their first visit to this paradise by the sea.

Forgetting the sunscreen

Vietnam is a country that is frequently subject to heat waves and high UV index ratings. Just because you’re going to a coastal city that benefits from a steady supply of balmy ocean breezes doesn’t mean that you should underestimate the power of the sun. You can burn even when it’s cloudy and cool!

Extended sun exposure without ample protection, as you may very well know, can lead to wrinkles, freckles, painful sunburns, and even skin cancer. As such, make sure to pack a bottle of sunscreen in your bag along with your sunglasses. One that has an SPF 50 and PA++++ ratings should do, and making sure that it’s a sweatproof and waterproof variant can’t hurt either. Experts recommend applying sunscreen at least 45 minutes before you head out to allow the product to settle on your skin.

Additionally, you may also want to look into packing a sun hat or a foldable umbrella—one that can block the sun’s UV rays—for added protection.

Packing the wrong type of clothes

You’re headed to the beach, which means you should break out the summer staples, right? While it’s definitely a good idea to tailor your holiday wardrobe to Nha Trang’s tropical climate, do consider adding some items to layer up with. After all, you could go out into warm sunshine but find yourself in the middle of an intense downpour an hour later.

Aside from having something to protect yourself with when the weather turns, carrying a light layer can make it easier for you to cover up and gain admission into certain attractions. These include temples and other places of worship where the custodians enforce a strict dress code.  Indeed, if visiting a pagoda is on your itinerary, you can make sure that you won’t be turned away at the door by having something to cover your limbs with. You can always take that cardigan or shawl off after you’ve left the premises.

We recommend that you take with you hot weather tops made with lightweight fabrics, or quick-dry shirts if you plan on doing anything active or strenuous, such as hiking or bike riding. You can top it up with a long-sleeved casual button down or a cardigan. Also bring at least one pair of long pants with you. We can’t recommend heavy denim due to how humid it can get, but cotton harem or jogger pants should serve you well. Keep that foldable umbrella handy for those sudden rain showers, too.

Being too confident on a motorbike

Motorcycles and scooters are a popular mode of transportation in Vietnam, and Nha Trang is no exception. Many tourists choose to rent 110cc motorbikes when they’re out and about. Riding it is by far the most convenient way to see the sights in the city and to zip from location to location. If you do not have any prior riding experience, though, you are better off going with an alternative way to get around, such as hiring a cyclo driver. You can rent a motorcycle and a driver for a day who will take you to all the best spots around the city for the low price of just a little over US$15. However, be wary of scams and fraudsters, and always clarify the price before getting on. Go with your instinct and walk away if you sense danger.

But say you do have prior riding experience. Should that make you more confident renting a motorbike? Probably. But do remember that road conditions in Vietnam are likely very different from what you’re used to, and they’ve left many a foreigner deeply confused. Signals and signs are often mere suggestions to the intrepid locals, and you could find yourself clipped by a fellow rider in a hurry, or suddenly facing oncoming traffic despite staying in your lane. It might seem like fun at first, but commandeering your own scooter will just be a migraine later. Download the Grab app instead, and use GrabBike to get around. It’s much safer overall.

Spending too much

When you first arrive in Vietnam, you may be surprised to suddenly find yourself a millionaire. One (1) United States dollar is worth 23.2 Vietnamese dong (VND), which means that having at least 50 US dollars on your person makes you a millionaire. Try not to get all starry-eyed over all the zeroes, though. Food, beverages, and products in Nha Trang might be cheaper overall because of the lower cost of living in Vietnam, but try not to get ahead of yourself. These products naturally still cost thousands of dong, and if you’re not too careful, you could find yourself penniless at the end of your trip.

Try to exercise caution when you pay for a good or service, and always clarify the price. Some unscrupulous vendors will pretend to be confused by the numbers 15 and 50, for example, in order to fleece you. Sometimes, stalls in the markets also won’t have the prices for items posted visibly. If you are evidently foreign, you may be charged more for the same meal as a local. As a general rule, try to have a good sense of how much things cost before taking your wallet out. A simple search online should yield helpful results.

Falling prey to scams

Nha Trang is a relatively safe place to visit, but do exercise appropriate caution regardless. Pickpockets abound since this is a very tourist-friendly area. They often target easy to lift items such as wallets, high-end smartphones, and cameras. Always keep an eye on your valuables, or leave them in your room or the hotel safe for safekeeping. There are thieves that are brazen enough to snatch your phone right out of your hands as you’re walking by or taking a selfie.

Common scams in Nha Trang include corrupt cops who will extort you for money to get back your rented motorcycle, cyclo drivers who overcharge or employ sleight of hand to switch your money out with a similar-looking bill, and the Nha Trang beach massage scam, where they ask you to pre-pay in full, then demand a 100% tip after the service. To motivate you into doing this, they can lock you in the massage room until you cough up the money.

Employing a bit of sense can go a long way, especially if it’s your first time in Nha Trang. As long as you keep your wits about you, there’s no reason why you won’t have an amazing holiday. Enjoy your trip!

The post 5 Mistakes Visitors Make on Their First Trip to Nha Trang appeared first on Just Noise To Me.

If you’ve ever planned a trip to Las Vegas, then you probably know how easy it is to get overwhelmed by all the options offered throughout the city. On top of that, you have people in your travel group all looking for different things when it comes to their Las Vegas itinerary. Well, we did a deep search into what the best one-stop shop is for your next Las Vegas stay and we’ve found it: the MGM Grand. This hotel and casino have so much to offer, you may never have to leave the building!

Satisfy Your Cravings

To go about your day in Las Vegas, you’ll need to stay energized. Fuel yourself at the Grand Buffet where their menu changes between breakfast, brunch, and dinner. Not to mention, there’s a specialized menu kicking in during the weekend. Here, you’ll find a variety of delicious offerings like cocktail shrimp, BBQ pork ribs, and New York steaks fresh off the grill, even endless beer and wine!

Check out China Tang inside the MGM Grand if you’re craving something zesty. Be sure to try their Hammer Chicken, which is cracked open right in front of you as it’s served. With their menu broken up into different sections, you’ll see a spot for seafood, poultry, noodles, and even live seafood! If you’re in the mood for something light, there are six different soups to choose from, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

If no one in your party can agree on a place to eat, the MGM Grand offers a food court filled with familiar spots like Johnny Rockets, Bonanno’s New York Pizzeria, Pan Asian Express, and even Haagen Dazs. Be sure to check out the hours of operation for each specific spot, although we found that all of them are open until at least 11:00pm.

Get Rewarded for Having Fun

Have you ever been rewarded just for having fun? The MGM Grand does just that! Before stepping into any of the MGM properties, be sure to sign up for their M life Rewards program. By becoming a member, you’ll receive special offers for entertainment, dining, gaming, and even retail. There’s a total of five different member tiers you can level up to, which is great for those who often travel to Las Vegas. As soon as you sign up, you’re adopted into their Sapphire tier, which earns you express comps and other sweet digs like exclusive access to their mobile hotel check-in.

This program is completely free to sign up for, and it’s up to you as a member on how fast you move up through the tiers. There’s a wide variety of options to choose from where you can earn points by simply showing or swiping your M life rewards card. As long as you’re 21 or over, you can learn how to earn M life points here. This is one of the top loyalty programs in all of Las Vegas, so don’t forget to sign up before you start your rounds of fun throughout Sin City.

Entertainment and Attractions

With a total of nine entertainment venues, there’s definitely more than enough options for everyone to enjoy. Cirque du Soleil’s shows are amongst the most popular across all of Las Vegas. The MGM Grand is lucky enough to host KA by Cirque du Soleil. This show is jaw-dropping, from its special effects to the choreography.

Want something more interactive? CSI: The Experience is where you’ll find the action. Based off the popular show, you’ll join a team of investigators. In different rooms, you’ll identify evidence at each crime scene to potentially solve a murder case. Even if you’ve never watched the show, this attraction will have you feeling like a true crime detective.

Because the MGM Grand offers multiple venues, they have more than enough room to host nine-time Grammy award winner, Lady Gaga. Having announced her Las Vegas residency back in December of 2017, Lady Gaga offers two versions of her show at the MGM Park Theater with Enigma and the Jazz and Piano show. No matter which show you choose, you’ll be left speechless hearing her voice echo throughout the Park Theater, which is just a short walk across Las Vegas Boulevard.

Rejuvenate Yourself

There is no doubt that the adventurous city of Las Vegas will leave you drained at the end of every day. Deciding to stay at the MGM Grand Hotel is the easiest part, while choosing which room to sleep in is the most difficult. With four different room styles to choose from and well over 5,000 rooms and suites in total, any room will give you the rest you deserve.

The Stay Well Suites mirror what wellness is supposed to feel like with air purification systems, shower infusers, aromatherapy, and water purification filtrations in every one of their suites. This section of suites alone offers seven different rooms to choose from but are all designed specifically with advancements from credible wellness centers like the Cleveland Clinic.

Switching gears, the MGM Grand Hotel caters to all types of guests. The Tower Spa Suites offer the precious delicacy of blackout shades and warm white walls but can easily turn over to host the perfect party thanks to a spacious living area. These suites are designed to make you feel luxuriously comfortable.

The MGM Grand has a great way of adding their chic-style to everything they touch. You can easily snag a room that offers an incredible view of the Las Vegas Strip. Depending on your number of guests, there are five different rooms to choose from with either two queen beds or one king-sized bed.

Conclusion

As you plan your trip to Las Vegas, the only wrong decision you can really make is not staying at the MGM Grand. As we listed all the great things the MGM Grand has to offer its guests, we specially crowned the MGM to be the best place to visit on the Vegas Strip because we know it will not leave anyone disappointed. If Las Vegas had one casino capital to represent the city, this would be it. Of course, we couldn’t give away all the hidden gems available throughout the hotel, so check it out for yourself and book your stay at the MGM Grand to truly experience it in all its glory.

The post Why the MGM Is One of the Best Las Vegas Hotel Choices appeared first on Just Noise To Me.