Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of India’s most significant festivals. During Diwali, people light up their homes with diyas or lanterns and burst firecrackers. The festival symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. The streets are filled with lights, lanterns and the sounds of firecrackers. People perform pujas or prayers, visit friends and relatives, exchange gifts, and eat delicious sweets. Diwali is a spectacular festival that brings people together to celebrate peace and prosperity.

The Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is one of the most famous festivals in the world. It features vibrant parades, pulsating samba music and extravagant costumes. The main parade takes place in the Sambadrome, while street parties happen throughout the city. Dancers dress up in elaborate costumes and parade to the beat of samba, showcasing the vibrant culture of Brazil. The Carnival atmosphere is highly energetic and the celebrations go on for days. It’s truly a bucket list experience for any festival lover.

La Tomatina festival in Buñol, Spain is the world’s biggest tomato fight festival. Every year on the last Wednesday of August, people gather in the town square and pelt each other with overripe tomatoes. The tradition began in 1945 and today attracts over 20,000 participants. The tomato fight only lasts one hour, but the party atmosphere continues with music, dancing and drinks. La Tomatina is a fun and messy festival that brings out people’s playful side.

The Songkran Water Festival marks the Thai New Year in April. People celebrate by splashing water on each other. The tradition symbolizes washing away the old and welcoming the new. People take to the streets with water guns, hoses and buckets, and douse everyone in sight. It’s all in good fun and part of the festive atmosphere. The festival also features parades, beauty pageants and concerts. Songkran is Thailand’s biggest festival and a joyful event where people can unwind and have fun.

The Holi Festival of Colors, celebrated by Hindus in India and Nepal, is all about throwing powdered colors and dousing each other in colored water. People chase each other and splash different colors, covering everyone in bright pigments. The festival signifies the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring. Holi is a fun and carefree festival where people come together, forget their troubles and celebrate with color and cheer.

Planning a romantic getaway with your special someone can be a fun and exciting experience. First, decide on a destination that you both find appealing and adventurous. Some classic options include a secluded beachfront villa, a cozy mountain cabin, or a charming bed and breakfast in the countryside. Discuss your budgets and priorities to choose what style of accommodation suits you best.

Once you’ve chosen a destination, book your travel and lodging arrangements in advance. Don’t forget to make reservations for any activities you want to do, like a couple’s massage at the spa, a sunset sailing cruise, or tickets to your partner’s favorite play. Leave some free time in your itinerary for the unexpected as well. The moments of spontaneity and surprise are what will make your trip memorable.

Pack lightly and be sure to include special outfits for romantic dinners, lounging in your room, and any special events you have planned. Slip in little love notes or inside jokes to make your partner smile when they stumble upon them. Don’t forget any essential toiletries, medications or chargers.

When you arrive, take a walk around to get acquainted with the area. Check-in to your lodging and unwind from your travels. Once you’ve rested, head out for a delicious dinner at a restaurant with an intimate ambiance and high-quality cuisine. Share a bottle of wine and toast to your relationship and the exciting adventures that lie ahead.

Mornings are perfect for enjoying breakfast in bed, followed by a scenic stroll on the beach or through a natural area. Afternoons can be spent browsing local shops, visiting a museum you’ve always wanted to see or trying out an new activity like sailing, rock climbing or pottery making.

In the evenings, find a scenic spot to watch the sunset and reflect on the beauty surrounding you. Cook a meal in your room or villa and dine under the stars. A perfect ending to the day could be stargazing while cuddling in a hammock, watching a movie set in a romantic destination or relaxing in a bubble bath with a glass of champagne.

On your last day, pack up your bags and take one final stroll to soak in the peaceful surroundings. Express your gratitude for your partner planning such a wonderful escape. Give an extra hug, kiss and ‘I love you’ – you’ll be back to the routines of everyday life soon enough. A romantic getaway is a chance to reconnect, recharge and reignite the spark that first brought you together. With some thoughtful planning, you can craft an experience you’ll cherish for years to come.

Traveling to a foreign country where you don’t speak the local language can be intimidating. However, there are many ways to overcome language barriers and still have an amazing trip.

Do some research ahead of time. Study basic greetings, phrases, and questions in the language of the country you’re visiting. Knowing just a few key words and phrases can go a long way in showing you respect the local culture. It will also help you navigate everyday interactions like ordering food or taking a taxi.

Carry a translation guide. Bring a pocket dictionary, phrasebook, or translation app on your phone. Point to words or phrases if needed to communicate with someone who doesn’t speak your language. Many translation apps also have speech functions so you can have a basic conversation.

Learn key phrases. Focus on phrases like “please speak slowly”, “do you speak English?”, “where is…?”, “how much does this cost?”. Polite greetings like “hello”, “please”, “thank you” and “excuse me” are also important.

Use body language and gestures. Smile, make eye contact, and remain patient. Pointing, miming, or using hand gestures can help get your message across. Nodding, shaking your head, and raising your shoulders can also signal that you don’t fully understand.

Find a language exchange partner. See if you can find a local who wants to do a language exchange via an app like Speaky or HelloTalk. This is a great way to learn key phrases and gain cultural insights from a native speaker before your trip.

Stay in touristy areas. Popular destinations usually have more English speakers, as well as signs in multiple languages. Hotels that cater to international guests will also likely have English speaking staff.

Use translation apps and services. Free apps like Google Translate, Microsoft Translator, and TripLingo can translate between languages and even give you voice translations on the go. Some also have offline mode so they work without WiFi or data.

Stay patient and flexible. Accept that there will be misunderstandings and embrace the experience of navigating a place where you don’t know the language. Staying open-minded and patient will make the interactions you do have more rewarding. With an adventurous spirit, you’ll discover that language barriers can’t stop you from connecting with new places and people.

Volunteering abroad is a great way to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others while gaining valuable life experiences. One of the best opportunities is to volunteer at an elephant sanctuary in Thailand. Many sanctuaries need help caring for rescued elephants by feeding, bathing and exercising them. You get hands-on experience with these gentle giants in a natural setting. The Elephant Nature Park is one highly reputable organization that accepts volunteers.

Another meaningful option is to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and help build homes for those in need. They operate all over the world, from Asia to Africa to Central and South America. As a volunteer, you’ll work alongside locals to construct simple, decent homes. No experience is required and it’s a great way to make a tangible impact on a family’s life.

If you want an educational experience, consider volunteering to teach English. Programs like DaLaa and uVolunteer place volunteers in schools and community programs in Cambodia and Thailand. As an English teacher, you’ll help students develop language skills that can open up more opportunities. It’s a rewarding experience that allows for cultural exchange.

For those interested in wildlife and conservation, volunteering at an animal sanctuary or with wildlife conservation efforts can be highly meaningful. The Jane Goodall Institute operates sanctuaries and conservation programs across Africa that accept volunteers. You may monitor chimpanzees, assist with animal rescue and release, or help raise awareness about poaching. These programs give you direct exposure to wildlife and environmental conservation work.

Volunteering in a healthcare clinic or with medical outreach programs is also impactful. Organizations like Doctors Without Borders and Healthcare Volunteers International place volunteers in short or long-term positions at clinics and hospitals around the world. If you have training as a nurse, doctor, dentist or other healthcare professional, your skills and services would be greatly appreciated. Even those without medical training can assist in other capacities.

Arrive at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure. This may seem excessive, but it will give you plenty of time to check in, go through security, find your gate, and account for any unexpected delays. The last thing you want is to miss your flight because you cut it too close.

Do your research beforehand. Check with your airline to make sure you understand their baggage policy, including size and weight restrictions. Be aware of what you can and can’t bring through security. Familiarize yourself with the layout of the airport terminal so you know exactly where you need to go. The more prepared you are, the less stressed you’ll feel.

Pack strategically. Put any liquids, gels or pastes in a separate bag to quickly access for the security check. Wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off. Place valuables in your carry-on rather than checked bags. Have essential documents handy. The key is making the screening process as efficient as possible.

Look for the longest security line. This may seem counterintuitive but the longest line often moves the fastest because more agents are usually working it. Unless you have TSA PreCheck, you’ll have to go through regular security, so choose wisely.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Airport staff are there to assist you. If you have a question about directions, your gate location or departure time, don’t hesitate to ask. It’s better to ask and ensure you end up in the right place at the right time.

Bring snacks, water and entertainment. Food options beyond security are often limited and expensive. Having snacks will tide you over if there are delays or long layovers. Staying hydrated and occupied will make the time pass more quickly.

Try to relax. Traveling through major airports can be stressful. Do your best to remain patient and calm. Getting worked up will likely only make the situation feel more chaotic and frenzied. Take deep breaths and remember that any hassles are only temporary.

Allow extra time for connections. If you have a connecting flight, you’ll need to disembark, find your next departure gate and possibly go through security again. Two hours is a good buffer, especially if your connection involves switching terminals. Rushing between flights is no fun and risky.

Be polite to agents and staff. Airport employees deal with stressed out and impatient travelers all day long. Maintaining a courteous attitude will make their job easier and they’ll likely be more inclined to help you out. Say please, thank you, and smile. Kindness is contagious.

Don’t forget about your departure airport. All these tips apply for both your departing and arriving airport. Give yourself plenty of time for checking in, checking bags and security on the outbound portion of your trip as well. Start your journey off on the right foot by being prepared for both ends of your travels.

Travel insurance is essential for any trip, especially when going abroad. Choosing the right policy for your needs can help give you peace of mind in case anything unexpected happens before or during your vacation. Here are some tips for picking the right travel insurance for your trip:

First, determine what kind of coverage you need. The most basic policy usually covers trip cancellation, interruption, and medical emergencies. You may want additional coverage like lost baggage, flight delays or natural disasters depending on your destination. Think about any pre-existing medical conditions you have and make sure they will be covered.

Do some research on reputable travel insurance companies and compare plans and quotes. Read reviews from other customers to determine the pros and cons of different companies. Look for a policy that is comprehensive but still affordable. Compare policies that offer the coverage you need to find the best value.

Check if the policy covers all members of your party and any high-risk activities you plan to do like scuba diving, skiing or rock climbing. Adventure sports usually require additional coverage. Make sure any policy you choose covers the entire duration of your trip including any extensions or stopovers.

Determine if the policy allows you to cancel for any reason. A “cancel for any reason” rider will refund a portion of your trip costs if you cancel for reasons not listed in the standard policy. This can be useful but often comes with higher premiums.

Check the financial stability and credit rating of the insurance company. You want a company that will still be around to honor claims if something happens. Larger, well-established companies are often a safer choice.

Pay close attention to the policy details and exclusions. Make sure you understand exactly what is and isn’t covered before purchasing the policy. Ask questions if anything is unclear.

Buy your travel insurance as soon as you book your trip. Most policies require you to purchase coverage within a certain number of days of your initial trip deposit. Buy too late and you risk not being eligible for certain benefits.

Compare travel insurance quotes from multiple companies. Even if you have a company in mind, comparing quotes can potentially save you hundreds of dollars, especially for longer or more complex trips. With some time and research, you can find the right travel insurance policy for your needs at a great price.

Off-the-beaten-path adventures often lead to the most thrilling experiences for adrenaline junkies and hardcore explorers. For those seeking an unconventional getaway, here are five adventures sure to get the heart pumping:

Deep in the Costa Rican rainforest, thrill-seekers can embark on a canopy tour gliding from platform to platform 100 feet high in the treetops. After ascending into the upper reaches of the rainforest, guests coast through the canopy on ziplines, rope bridges, and rappelling lines. The lush greenery and wildlife spotting opportunities make the adrenaline rush that much more rewarding.

In the coastal town of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, adventure awaits in the form of swimming with crocodiles. While caiman crocodiles are relatively small, their prehistoric appearance inspires a primal sense of danger. With a guide, visitors can swim just feet away from the crocodiles in their natural habitat. For the ultimate photo op, guides will even place a crocodile on your back as you float in the water.

The world’s most active volcanoes are found in Hawaii, and one of the most thrilling activities is lava tube caving. After hiking through lush rainforest, the ground gives way to a massive underground lava tube, formed when the outer layer of molten lava cools faster than the lava inside. With flashlights in hand, explorers can navigate the twists and turns of the lava tubes, ducking under low ceilings and scaling over massive boulders.

New Zealand is synonymous with adventure, and black water rafting in the Waitomo Glowworm Caves tops the list of thrill-seeking activities. After abseiling into the cave entrance, visitors board inflatable rafts to float down an underground river system. The only illumination comes from thousands of glowworms clinging to the cave ceiling, their bioluminescence creating a starry night sky effect. Shooting small rapids and cave waterfalls amid the glowworms make for an almost surreal experience.

From shark diving to volcano boarding, Nicaragua is a haven for adventure. One of the most extreme activities is sandboarding down the steep slopes of the Cerro Negro volcano. After hiking 45 minutes up the gravelly slope with boards in hand, thrill-seekers can enjoy the adrenaline rush of sliding, spinning and wiping out down the slope at speeds up to 50 miles per hour. The pitch-black sand and volcanic gravel add an extra element of danger and excitement. For adventure on a whole new terrain, Nicaragua’s sandboarding is tough to beat.

Planning a multi-country European tour can be an exciting adventure. The key is doing your research ahead of time and creating an itinerary that allows you to see as much as possible without feeling rushed. Here are some tips to get you started:

Focus on a region. Don’t try to see all of Europe in one trip. Pick 2-4 countries in a region that interests you and spend more time enjoying each place. Some popular combinations include Spain, Portugal and Morocco or the Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary and Poland.

Decide on a theme. Choose a focus for your trip like food and wine, history, art or outdoor activities. That way you can plan activities and destinations that match your interests. If you go for a culinary theme, head to Italy and France. For history buffs, Greece and Egypt are ideal.

Book your major transportation in advance. Lock in any flights between countries and train tickets for longer journeys. This will ensure you have enough time to enjoy each destination without worrying about how to get to the next spot.

Create a realistic itinerary. Don’t try to squeeze too much into your trip. Limit yourself to 2-3 places per country. Leave some free time for spontaneous discoveries. Have a balance of planned activities and downtime.

Mix up your accommodation. Get a taste of each country by staying in a combination of hotels, hostels, B&Bs and vacation rentals. You may want to splurge on a nice hotel in some cities, while choosing budget-friendly options in other places.

Leave room for extras. Have a loose itinerary that allows for flexibility in case you stumble upon something unexpected. You never know when you might find a quaint town to explore for a few hours or meet locals who invite you to an event.

Bring the right gear. Pack clothing for various weather conditions, comfortable walking shoes, chargers and adapters for electronics. Carry essential medicines and any important documents.

Share your adventures. Chronicle your experiences on social media or a blog so friends and family can follow along. This also provides an easy way to look back on your amazing trip for years to come!

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort. With some planning and flexibility, you can have an enjoyable trip without breaking the bank.

Do your research ahead of time. Check sites like Kayak, Expedia and Booking.com to compare flight and hotel prices across multiple booking sites. You may find cheaper options by booking 4 to 6 weeks before domestic trips and 3 to 4 months before international trips. Look for budget airlines like Frontier or Spirit for cheaper fares.

Consider bundling your flight and hotel. Some travel sites offer package deals that can save you money. You can also save by booking a room with a kitchenette so you can cook some meals yourself. Check if your hotel offers free breakfast, parking or Wi-Fi to avoid extra fees.

Be flexible with your dates and destinations. Flying midweek or non-peak days can often save you money. Explore alternative airports and cities that may offer lower fares. Smaller regional airports sometimes have cheaper flights than major hubs.

Look for free activities. Most destinations offer plenty of free things to do like walking around downtown, visiting parks, shopping local markets or just enjoying the ambiance of a new city. Museums often have weekly free admission days. It’s a great way to save money while still experiencing the culture.

Use public transit. Avoid high taxi fares and rideshares by using buses, trains, bike shares or your own two feet to get around. Many cities offer unlimited ride passes for a flat daily or weekly rate.

Dine on a budget. Save money on meals by dining on street food, grabbing snacks from a grocery store, or choosing restaurants outside of the main tourist zone. Look for restaurants that offer a daily special or buffet. Or pick up ready-made items for a picnic in the park.

Consider budget accommodation. Look at hostels, motels, vacation rentals and budget hotels for cheaper options. Some hotels offer lower midweek rates as well as student and military discounts. Be open to more basic options with fewer amenities but still clean and safe.

Take it slow. Don’t try to jam too many places into your itinerary which can lead to higher costs. Spend a few days in each location to really get to know the place. A more leisurely trip will feel less rushed and tiring, allowing you to enjoy simple pleasures without big expenses.

Tacos al Pastor, Mexico

Tacos al pastor are a delicious Mexican street food of marinated pork that is shaved from a spit and served in small corn tortillas. The pork is seasoned with chiles and spices and cooked on a vertical rotisserie, similar to doner kebab. Strips of the meat are shaved off to order and served in a tortilla, often with pineapple, cilantro, onions and salsa. Tacos al pastor are especially popular in central Mexico and they are considered one of the iconic street foods of Mexico City.

Okonomiyaki, Japan

Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake that is cooked on a griddle and filled with cabbage, meat or seafood and topped with a variety of sauces. The name means “cook what you like” in Japanese, indicating that the fillings can be customized. In Osaka, the okonomiyaki is mixed with ingredients before cooking, while in Hiroshima the ingredients are layered. Okonomiyaki is usually topped with mayonnaise, okonomiyaki sauce, dried bonito flakes and dried seaweed. It is a very popular street food all over Japan, especially in Osaka.

Churros, Spain and Latin America

Churros are a delicious fried-dough pastry popular in Spain and Latin America. They are made from choux pastry dough that is piped into long strips and fried until golden brown. Churros are often dusted with sugar and cinnamon and served with a thick chocolate dipping sauce for drizzling. They have a crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior. Churros are a very popular street food, especially in Spain, Portugal, Mexico, Argentina, Chile and Brazil. They are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on the go.

Crepes, France

Crepes are thin, delicate pancakes that are popular street food in France and other parts of Europe. They are made from a simple batter of flour, milk, and eggs and cooked on a griddle until lightly browned. Crepes can be topped with a variety of sweet and savory fillings, such as Nutella, fruit, whipped cream, ham, cheese or eggs. Crepe stands can be found along streets all over France, especially in Paris, Brittany and Normandy. No trip to France is complete without sampling a delicious crepe from a street vendor.

Falafel, Middle East

Falafel are fried orbs made from ground chickpeas, fava beans or both. They are popular street food throughout the Middle East, especially in Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, Israel and Palestine. Falafel are usually served in flatbread such as pita, lafa or taboon, topped with ingredients like hummus, tahini, salad, pickled vegetables and chili sauce. Falafel have a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. They are high in protein, fiber and complex carbohydrates. Falafel are a staple of Middle Eastern street food and meze platters.

Pad Thai, Thailand

Pad Thai is Thailand’s most famous street food dish of stir-fried rice noodles. It is usually made with shrimp or chicken, eggs, tofu, garlic, chili peppers and peanuts. The ingredients are stir-fried in a wok with oil and seasoned with tamarind juice, fish sauce, sugar and lime. Pad Thai is usually garnished with lime wedges, bean sprouts, cilantro and crushed peanuts. It has a balance of sweet and sour flavors with a hint of spice. Pad Thai vendors can be found all over Thailand, cooking up fresh batches of this popular dish on mobile carts and food stalls.

Corn on the Cob, Latin America

Grilled corn on the cob coated in mayonnaise, cheese and chili powder is a popular street snack in Mexico, El Salvador, Costa Rica and other parts of Latin America. The corn is grilled until the kernels are lightly charred and caramelized, then rolled in the coating of mayonnaise, crumbled cheese like cotija or fresco and chili powder. Some versions also add lime juice. The result is a messy but delicious snack, perfect for walking and eating. Corn on the cob can be found from street vendors, especially in the summer and fall.

Chili Crab, Singapore

Chili crab is a popular seafood dish from Singapore, consisting of crab stir-fried in a sweet and spicy chili sauce. The crabs are usually coated in a tomato and chili-based sauce made from chili peppers, garlic, ginger, eggs and ketchup or chili paste. Chili crab is commonly served with a side of bread to soak up the sauce. It is considered Singapore’s signature seafood dish and is popular at hawker centers, seafood restaurants and some street food stalls, especially in neighborhoods like Newton Circus. Chili crab is a must-try for any visitor to Singapore.