8 Weekend Summer Getaways In Arkansas To Escape The Heat In 2024

TODAY'S ADVENTURE

8 Weekend Summer Getaways In Arkansas To Escape The Heat In 2024

Heatwaves have struck pretty much every part of the U.S. this year. If you want to escape the heat but stay within the Natural State, here are some amazing summer getaways in Arkansas.

Eureka Springs

Up in the Ozarks, Eureka Springs is a wonderful little city with a great historic downtown. Enjoy amazing nightlife including a whisky bar, cocktail lounge, and the amazing Top of the Crest rooftop bar on the 1886 Crescent Hotel. The town is known for its spas, and was, in fact, a Victorian resort town where people would soak in the natural cold springs. You can still do that at the Palace Bath House.

Between two rivers and a lake, Eureka Springs is also a great place for paddling, floating, and fishing.

Parrot Island Waterpark

Located in Fort Smith, Arkansas, Parrot Island Waterpark has the area’s only two-lane FlowRider and wave pool. With a fantastic aquatic play area, it’s a great place to take the kids. While Tiny Turtle Island is great for the smallest ones. There’s also an activity pool for activities like water polo and water basketball. Once you’re done with the park, head into Fort Smith where you can check out the United States Marshals Museum or dine at many great restaurants.

Siloam Springs

Only 30 miles from Fayetteville, Siloam Springs is a wonderful resort town. Sager Creek flows right through downtown alongside beautiful parks with fountains, historic buildings, and a variety of shops. Enjoy time on the water in Siloam Springs Kayak Park, which has an engineered river with sections for beginners and experienced kayakers alike. Or venture into the cool underworld at Cosmic Cavern in Berryville. The temperature there hovers about 62 degrees all year round!

Beaver Lake

Beaver Lake is popular with swimmers, snorkelers, and divers. If you don’t want to get into the water, there’s fishing, boating, water sports, as well as beautiful hiking trails along the shore. Several modern campsites with good amenities and picnic sites are available in the parks around the lake. It’s the largest reservoir in northwest Arkansas and a truly beautiful place to visit.

Mountain Home

Image Credits: enjoymountainhome.com

It’s what the name suggests – a cozy little town surrounded by lakes and hills. Come to Mountain Home for canoeing and fishing… this was one of Arkansas’ first water resort regions so there are lots and lots of activities for you to enjoy. You can also see stalactites and stalagmites in Bull Shoals Caverns, and visit the local quilting shop while staying in one of many cute cabins or luxury lodges.

Buffalo National River

America’s oldest national river is one of the few remaining undammed rivers in the lower 48. You can paddle the river or explore trails at all difficulty levels. Buffalo National River has both quiet stretches for floating and challenging white water. Camping in the park gives you the chance to see the night sky as it should be, as BNR is an International Dark Sky Park.

Hot Springs

Image Credits: hotsprings.org

While you might not want to actually jump into hot springs on a very warm day, Hot Springs offer plenty of other things to do. One great summer cool-off is the Magic Springs Theme and Water Park which has intense thrill rides and family rides and, of course, a water park with a wave pool, splash zone, and a huge body and tube slide tower. On top of that, there is live music all year round. And you can even rent a cabana!

Lake Ouachita

Arkansas’s largest lake is just a beautiful place to go swimming, scuba diving, kayaking, or water skiing. There are lots of swimming areas. Lake Ouachita is also a great place to go for a scenic boat tour or take a swim cruise with a park ranger, who will take you to perfectly hidden gems. If you wanna stay overnight, there are wonderful full-service cabins.

These are just a few suggestions for amazing places to head to when temperatures go high. You could find many more, as Arkansas is a state with some amazing lakes and rivers you can cool off while also enjoying hiking and nature.

The post 8 Weekend Summer Getaways In Arkansas To Escape The Heat In 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

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By: Daniela Kaňková
Title: 8 Weekend Summer Getaways In Arkansas To Escape The Heat In 2024
Sourced From: www.travelinglifestyle.net/8-weekend-summer-getaways-in-arkansas-to-escape-the-heat-in-2024/
Published Date: Tue, 13 Aug 2024 23:18:07 +0000

Big changes on the Bank of Ireland Aer Credit Card for Aer Lingus AerClub members

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Big changes on the Bank of Ireland Aer Credit Card for Aer Lingus AerClub members

The Bank of Ireland Aer Credit Card is the only credit card in Ireland where you can earn airline miles. I finally took the plunge earlier this year and have been using it since. Big changes are coming to this card later this year, changing virtually everything about it.

People using the card get free worldwide travel insurance, two lounge passes on Aer Lingus and two Fast-Track security passes. Upon spending €5,000 you also get two “free” European flights, where you only pay taxes and charges. Avios, the name for the points that Aer Lingus AerClub members earn, are given out at 1 Avios per 4 Euro spent (and 1 Avios per 1 Euro spent on Aer Lingus flights).

Big Changes Are Coming

From 23 October 2024, the free flights unlocked at €5,000 spend, two lounge passes and two Fast-Track security passes are no more. These are being replaced by one single benefit, which will be 40,000 Avios earned on a spend of €10,000 in your calendar year.

In addition, the earning rate on spend increases from 1 Avios per €4 to 1 Avios per €3. According to the update published by Bank of Ireland online, that is 33% more points than before. The Travel Insurance benefit remains unchanged.

From my perspective, these changes are excellent. Having 40,000 Avios means you can use the points on long-haul services and aren’t just restricted to European flights. The increased earning is also very good. Happily, the bank also mentions that all existing benefits earned will be valid through to their expiry date, so nobody loses anything.

Right at the very bottom, there is one more little sweetener. All customers will receive 5,000 Avios on 7 January 2025 as a loyalty bonus. That is sure to entice people to keep the card.

Overall Thoughts

These big changes to the Aer Credit Card are good changes in my book. I think 40,000 Avios is a lot more enticing than two free European flights, because you can do so much more with them. Having a higher points vs Euro ratio is great, as is the little sweetener coming in January.

I still have two lounge passes, one Fast-Track pass, and two free flights to use (though I am in the process of booking one of those), so I’ll enjoy making sure they’re all done before they expire. I’ll be curious to see where I am on the way to €10,000 and 40,000 Avios, as I managed to unlock the free flights in just three months, having switched all my spending (apart from my few Direct Debits) to the card.

What do you think of these big changes to the Aer Credit Card? Are you happy with them or would you rather something else? Thank you for reading and if you have any comments or questions, please leave them below.

Like planes? See my “Does anyone remember” series. Flight reviews your thing? Mine are all indexed here. Follow me on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Featured image by Mitchul Hope via Wikimedia Commons.

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By: The Flight Detective
Title: Big changes on the Bank of Ireland Aer Credit Card for Aer Lingus AerClub members
Sourced From: travelupdate.com/big-changes-aer-credit-card/
Published Date: Mon, 12 Aug 2024 11:03:20 +0000

Google Searches For ‘Digital Nomad Visa’ Increase 1,135% Worldwide In 2024

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Google Searches For ‘Digital Nomad Visa’ Increase 1,135% Worldwide In 2024 

A study by “Places to Travel” has revealed that searches related todigital nomad visa have grown a staggering 1,135% in 2024, breaking all records set in previous years. 

The agency used Google Trends, a tool that measures how frequently people search for a term or sentence in Google’s search engine in a set period, to crunch the numbers.

Back in 2020, Estonia became the first country in the world to introduce a whole new concept named a “digital nomad visa program.”

Since then, more than 50 countries have joined the trend, offering digital nomads the opportunity to legally live and work in their territories for a few years.

Last month, Italy, Turkey and South Africa launched their own digital nomad visas, becoming the latest to join the list.

Later, people at “Places to Travel” determined that searches containing the sentence “Italy digital nomad visa”spiked by 3,025% worldwide!

Digital nomad visas popularity “has taken the world by storm – as the results of the study show – with employees keen to take advantage of the unique working opportunities afforded to them, whilst continuing to build their hard-earned careers,” said Jason Wilson, CEO of Places to Travel.

Best Visa for Digital Nomads in 2024

The following are the 3 best digital nomad visas for 2024, according to the Digital Nomad Visa Index from VisaGuide.World.

The index is a ranking system that assigns points to countries after analyzing their aptness to accommodate digital nomads and remote workers.

3. Romania

Boasting the “fastest internet in the world,” Romania has reached an index score of 3.74. This country has an important cultural offer along with world-class services for digital nomads.

The most sought-after cities include Bucharest, Cluj, and Timisoara for their technological development and affordable cost of living.

Main requirements and highlights:

You can submit your application at your closest Romanian embassy or online to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.You must earn at least USD 3,630 (EUR 3,300).You have to pay 0% tax. The length of the visa is 1 year and can be renowned for an additional one.You’ll have to pay approximately USD 165 (EUR 150) for the application process and wait 10–14 days to get it processed.

2. Argentina

Argentina came in second with a score of 3.78. Buenos Aires is a traditional city for digital nomads because of its high-speed internet and great cultural offerings.

The country’s current economic situation makes it perfect for digital nomads to enjoy high-quality living at very low costs.

Main requirements and highlights:

You should submit your application from your home country. Documents include a valid passport, a 4×4 photo, a description of your commercial or working activities, a letter explaining your experience in the field and documentation proving that experience, your educational background, one “reference linked to your occupation,” and proof of payments. The visa has a length of 180 days, renewable for another 180.There is no need to pay taxes.You must earn at least EUR 2,500.The process will cost you US 200 and the time taken depends on your consulate or embassy.

1. Spain

With a score of 4.50, Spain positioned itself as the best country for digital nomads due to its affordable cost of living, high-speed internet, low crime rates and blessed weather.

Main requirements and highlights:

Application process: send your application to your nearest Spanish consulate to receive a 1-year visa, and then change it to a 3-year residence card when in Spain. Another way is to submit your application while you are in Spain as a tourist to get a 3-year residence permit.You don’t have to pay taxes for the first 6 months of your stay, after that, you have to pay 15% of your income for 4 years, and finally 24%.The application costs around 100 euros and takes 15–45 days to process.The length of the visa is technically 1 year and can be renewed for 5 years until you can apply for permanent residency.You must earn at least USD 2,354 (EUR 2,140).

The post Google Searches For ‘Digital Nomad Visa’ Increase 1,135% Worldwide In 2024  appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

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By: Viktor Vincej
Title: Google Searches For ‘Digital Nomad Visa’ Increase 1,135% Worldwide In 2024 
Sourced From: www.travelinglifestyle.net/searches-for-digital-nomad-visa-increase-more-than-1000-worldwide-in-2024/
Published Date: Fri, 17 May 2024 16:15:23 +0000

Expressing solidarity with Palestine, Maldives bans Israeli tourists

TODAY'S ADVENTURE

Expressing solidarity with Palestine, Maldives bans Israeli tourists

In the miles and points space, we write frequently about the Maldives, known for its pristine white sand beaches and stunning islands. However, I came across a news story about the Maldives which was rather shocking. The foreign ministry of Maldives just recommended that Israeli tourists avoid traveling to the archipelago. The recommended ban not only includes tourists with Israeli passports, but also includes those holding dual citienships.

Maldives bans Israeli tourists

As per the Times of Israel and several other outlets, the announcement was made by the foreign ministry of Maldives. In response, Israel also recommended that its citizens leave the archipelago to avoid any danger.

The Foreign Ministry on Sunday recommended that Israelis — including those with other passports — avoid traveling to the Maldives, after the island nation announced that Israeli passport holders will be banned.

Israel also recommended that citizens living in the Indian Ocean archipelago weigh leaving, as it would be difficult to assist them should they find themselves in danger.

“For Israeli citizens already in the country, it is recommended to consider leaving, because if they find themselves in distress for any reason, it will be difficult for us to assist,” the Foreign Ministry ministry said in a statement.

As per government sources, the decision was taken at the highest level by Maldivian president Mohammed Muizzu, in order to express solidarity with the people of Palestine.

President Mohamed Muizzu has “resolved to impose a ban on Israeli passports,” a spokesman for his office said in a statement, without giving details of when the new law would take effect.

He also announced a national fundraising campaign called “Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine.

On X and other platforms, the response to the decision was swift.

The Pundit’s Mantra

The current government of Maldives is no stranger to controversy. At the start of the year, distasteful public comments by high ranking government officials snowballed what started as online banter into a full blown diplomatic standoff between India and Maldives, with Indian tourists boycotting travel to the Maldives in response.

After the most recent ban on Israeli tourists by the Maldives, we’re already seeing a backlash. Where this standoff will end, only time will tell. If you look at the data, this decision by the government seems to be political posturing more than anything else, as Israeli tourists only accounted for 0.6% of the total tourist population to the Maldives last year.

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By: The Points Pundit
Title: Expressing solidarity with Palestine, Maldives bans Israeli tourists
Sourced From: travelupdate.com/shocking-maldives-bans-israeli-tourists-from-visiting-the-island/
Published Date: Mon, 03 Jun 2024 11:00:13 +0000

Data Shows How Heat Waves Impact Tourism In Mexico, U.S. and Europe

TODAY'S ADVENTURE

Data Shows How Heat Waves Impact Tourism In Mexico, U.S. and Europe

American and European studies show how intensive temperatures are becoming an important factor when choosing a vacation getaway.

Summertime holidays often bring to mind pictures of tropical or Mediterranean beaches and sun-soaked cities and towns. 

But travel trends are changing as global temperatures climb to record highs. Meanwhile, the tourism infrastructure doesn’t seem to be ready for the challenge.

Extreme heat waves and heat domes in Mexico, Central America, Europe and parts of the U.S. South have left millions in sweltering temperatures, strained energy grids, blackouts, a lack of water, health issues and, in extreme cases, even death.

Let’s explore how this environmental issue is impacting multiple countries across continents and what travelers are doing to adapt.

Mexico Currently Experiencing The Worst Heat Wave In 50 Years

With temperatures higher than 45°C (113°F), Mexico is being impacted by the worst heat waves seen in more than 5 decades, reported Juan Vázquez Montalvo, weather forecaster at the Autonomous University of Yucatan.

According to the Health Secretary, 61 people have died due to high temperatures and another 390 have been rushed to the hospital for the same reasons.

Wildlife is also paying a price. More than 130 howler monkeys have passed away and dozens have died at birth in the southeast jungles and northern areas due to abnormal temperatures.

The third heat wave of the season began on May 20 and should end on June 5, breaking all records set in CDMX and other states, the National Weather Service reported.

There’s no place to hide. This phenomenon is happening across most of the Mexican territory, with 46 locations breaking all-time temperature records. A fourth heat wave is expected soon.

U.S., Central America & the Caribbean Expecting Heat Wave This Week

States like Texas, Florida, California, Arizona and Nevada will be roasted by a severe heat dome this week. High temperatures are expected to break maximum records in multiple locations.

According to experts, “southerly winds from the tropics transported warm, moist air northward from the equator, which contributed to the unusually warm conditions,” said Shawn Bhatti, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service.

Some of the most affected locations include Sacramento, Las Vegas, and Phoenix. The last two are set to break their earliest temperatures on record on Thursday with 111°F in both cities.

The Death Valley, the hottest and driest US natural park, could record its earliest temperature in recorded history on Thursday (51.6°C /125°F), say experts.

Excessive heat is expected in California with the arrival of a heat dome.

For their part, Guatemala, Belize, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Haiti and Honduras are also undergoing abnormally high temperatures.

Data From 2023 Show How High Temperatures Negatively Impacted Tourism in Spain 

Despite high temperatures Spain is not currently experiencing a “technical” heat wave, however, concerning data has been revealed regarding the negative correlation between increasing temperatures and tourism growth.

Using anonymized data, CaixaBank found a decrease in tourism expenditure in cities where temperatures increased the most between 2029 and 2023. It’s worth noting that 2023 was the hottest year ever recorded in the world.

According to the report, tourists are spending up to 10 percent more in places where temperatures go below 17°C/62°F (mostly in the country’s north) than in places where the temperature goes above 23°C/73°F (mostly in the country’s south).

These and other data show that Spain is set to become the most severely affected destination in Europe due to high temperatures in the years to come.

New Travel Trends Fueled by Heat Waves

Interested in learning how current and future heat waves are reshaping American travel trends, Passport Photo Online polled 1,004 Americans (50.6% male; 48.7% female; and 0.7% other) to understand what may be changing. Here are their major takeaways:

First and foremost, almost 94% of travelers have observed an increase in heat waves in the last few years.More than 77% of Americans will consider heat waves when making travel plans in the near future.The main aspects Americans will take into account when traveling during heat waves include: changing daily schedules (27.15%); choosing accommodations with better cooling devices (26.56%); and changing transportation methods (25.74%).57% of holidaymakers would purchase travel insurance that specifically covers disruptions from heat waves.Nearly 48% of travelers have experienced dehydration or exhaustion during heat waves.

The post Data Shows How Heat Waves Impact Tourism In Mexico, U.S. and Europe appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

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By: Luka Trcek
Title: Data Shows How Heat Waves Impact Tourism In Mexico, U.S. and Europe
Sourced From: www.travelinglifestyle.net/data-shows-how-heat-waves-impact-tourism-in-mexico-u-s-and-europe/
Published Date: Tue, 04 Jun 2024 16:40:43 +0000

Delta & Aeroméxico Launch New Nonstop Flights From These 5 U.S. Cities To Mexico

TODAY'S ADVENTURE

Delta & Aeroméxico Launch New Nonstop Flights From These 5 U.S. Cities To Mexico

Starting Nov. 2, Americans will have more options for traveling to Mexican resort getaways as Delta is launching new nonstop flights from Detroit to Tulum and Los Angeles to Mazatlán and more.

But that’s not all. A new partnership with Aeroméxico will enable both flag carriers to offer additional flights from Atlanta to Manzanillo, Los Angeles to Manzanillo, Newark to Mexico City, and Denver to Monterrey.

The point is that Mexico continues to be a highly sought-after destination for American tourists, so its high demand has prompted Delta to expand its business associations and passenger capacity.

“Mexico is one of our most popular destinations for U.S. customers,” said Joe Esposito, Delta’s Senior V.P. of Network Planning.

“That’s why we’re adding new destinations in Mexico this year, giving our customers even more ways to experience Latin America’s rich cultural heritage.”

New Flights and Dates with Delta

Detroit to Tulum

Starting Jan. 11, 2024, Delta will start operations from Detroit to Tulum (TQO). With this new service, Delta will operate 10 weekly flights from five US cities to Tulum, including four flights on Saturdays alone.

tlanta and Los Angeles to Manzanillo

Starting Nov. 2, 2024, from Atlanta and Dec. 21, 2024, from L.A., Aeroméxico will launch new routes to Manzanillo (ZLO).

Los Angeles to Mazatlán

On Dec. 21, Delta will launch new flights to Mazatlán (MZT) from Los Angeles.

The routes to Tulum and Mazatlán will be serviced by the carrier’s Boeing 737-800 and the famous Airbus A319. These aircraft feature First Class, Delta Comfort+ and Main Cabin options.

Depending on your booking type, you will be able to enjoy chef-curated meals and complimentary alcoholic beverages.

Regardless of your seat choice, all travelers will have access to over 1,000 hours of free-of-charge premium entertainment. Free Wi-Fi will also be available for Delta SkyMiles members.

Delta also added new flights from Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP) to Mazatlán and Tulum a few weeks ago.

New Flights and Dates with Aeroméxico

Newark to Mexico City

Starting Oct. 27, 2024, Newark will launch daily flights to Mexico City, enhancing connectivity and convenience for travelers heading to the Mexican capital.

Denver to Monterrey MTY

Beginning Dec. 21, 2024, Denver residents will enjoy a new convenient nonstop flight to Monterrey (MTY).

Aeroméxico, also in partnership with Delta, has started three new routes from the US to North Carolina’s Research Triangle, Tampa Bay, and Washington, D.C., to Mexico City.

The post Delta & Aeroméxico Launch New Nonstop Flights From These 5 U.S. Cities To Mexico appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

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By: Luka Trcek
Title: Delta & Aeroméxico Launch New Nonstop Flights From These 5 U.S. Cities To Mexico
Sourced From: www.travelinglifestyle.net/delta-aeromexico-launch-new-nonstop-flights-from-these-5-u-s-cities-to-mexico/
Published Date: Thu, 08 Aug 2024 17:51:08 +0000

How Heat Waves Affect Flying: Why You Should Book The First Morning Flight

TODAY'S ADVENTURE

How Heat Waves Affect Flying: Why You Should Book The First Morning Flight

Giving yourself plenty of time to get where you are going is more important than ever during the peak summer travel season, and current heat waves around the world are adding another curveball to many travelers’ flight experiences. Because excessive heat can cause several types of issues when it comes to getting planes off the ground and to their destinations comfortably and in a timely manner, aeronautical experts are currently recommending prioritizing early morning flights to reduce potential delays. 

Air becomes thinner and less dense as it heats up, which can have several unwanted effects on how planes work. Planes often need to carry less weight when flying in extremely warm weather because very hot air makes taking off more difficult. Under these conditions, most types of planes need to use more runway space and more speed when taking off because they are unable to produce as much thrust as they normally do, which means that excess weight can hinder these physics more than usual.

Having to reduce a plane’s total weight often means that passengers will need to be bumped to a later flight to make taking off safely possible. More significant heat issues may cause flights to be delayed to wait for better conditions or canceled if cooler air seems unlikely. Cabins also tend to get uncomfortably warm during these times, especially when delays are announced after passengers have already boarded the plane.

These potential issues tend to be less common early in the morning, especially when taking the first flight of the day. If bumps or delays do impact these flights, they are likely to be minor in comparison to the inconvenience you may experience later in the day.

With these details in mind, planning both domestic and international flights strategically is key when it comes to increasing your chances of getting to your destination comfortably and on time this summer. Heat waves across the US, Greece, and India are just a few of the many heat-related concerns passengers may need to navigate in the coming months.  

The post How Heat Waves Affect Flying: Why You Should Book The First Morning Flight appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

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By: Luka Trcek
Title: How Heat Waves Affect Flying: Why You Should Book The First Morning Flight
Sourced From: www.travelinglifestyle.net/how-heat-waves-affect-flying-why-you-should-book-the-first-morning-flight/
Published Date: Wed, 19 Jun 2024 15:42:14 +0000