8 Incredible Airport Lounges And How To Access Them

One of the cool perks of air travel is the classic airport lounge. And luckily, there are numerous airports across the globe that offer unique lounge experiences.

From New York City to Paris to London to Dubai, these airport lounges belong on your bucket list.

1. The Concorde Room

John F. Kennedy International Airport, New York City

John F. Kennedy International Airport’s British Airways lounge, reserved for the airline’s first-class passengers flying to London, can be found in Terminal 7, adjacent to Gate 1.

Named for the former transatlantic plane, the Concorde Room is one of the largest and plushest lounges on the planet. Features like escorted late boarding mean less time on the plane, while outstanding service in the lounge itself makes it an extra-special experience. A full menu is available, as well as private booths for dining and cozy living spaces for relaxation. And since this lounge is reserved for first-class travelers headed to London, it remains an uncrowded retreat.

At London’s Heathrow Airport, there’s a sister lounge, also called the Concorde Room. Special features of that lounge include free mobile charger rental and private cabana service. Please note, however, that London’s Concorde Room is open to anyone flying first class to any destination.

2. The Private Room

Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore

This relaxing lounge is actually a lounge within a lounge, since it’s accessed via the SilverKris Lounge in Singapore Changi Airport’s Terminal 3.

It’s reserved for first-class and suite passengers on Singapore Airlines flights, features private rooms by request, showers, personalized paper invitations to the lounge after check-in, and Dom Perignon champagne. Guests can enjoy multiple televisions, comfortable seating options, and a peaceful environment.

Even though this lounge doesn’t offer direct access to the terminal, its quality food offerings and excellent service make up for that.

3. Lufthansa First-Class Terminal

Frankfurt Am Main Airport, Frankfurt

More than just a lounge, Frankfurt’s Lufthansa First-Class Terminal is an entire terminal dedicated entirely to first-class passengers on Lufthansa, Germany’s largest airline.

Each passenger is assigned a personal assistant to guide them through the check-in process. After that, guests are ushered into the terminal, where a top-notch restaurant, huge bathrooms, and a cigar lounge await.

But perhaps the neatest feature of this terminal is the Porsche or Mercedes private transport to your flight. Talk about sitting in the lap of luxury!

4. Qantas First-Class Lounge

Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport, Sydney

This lounge, located in Terminal 1 of the Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport, offers plenty of fine features for Oneworld and Qantas first-class travelers. A fantastic restaurant with rotating seasonal menus, cushy seating options, and exemplary service are just a few of those perks.

But the ultimate vacation bonus? Eligible passengers can book spa services in this lounge ahead of time for the most zen travel experience ever.

Qantas is Australia’s largest airline as well as one of the world’s oldest airlines, so it makes sense that it would know how to design an incredible lounge for elite passengers. Another unique feature of this lounge is that it allows frequent fliers to bring a guest without elite status in with them.

5. Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse

Heathrow Airport, London

This swanky, nightclub-like lounge is reserved for upper-class Virgin Atlantic passengers. Upper class is essentially a mix between business and first class.

The best part about this clubhouse is that a private driver will pick you up and escort you to the airport, where you can skip the lines using the priority check-in area. And as you can imagine, with Heathrow being the busiest airport in Europe, those lines can be a real pain.

The clubhouse also boasts a hair salon, full bar, and restaurant. Foodie flyers will love the cheese and charcuterie stations sprinkled throughout the lounge.

6. La Premiere Lounge

Charles De Gaulle Airport, Paris

This luxe spot is situated in Terminal 2E, right across from Gate 14 in France’s largest airport, which is also Air France’s main hub.

La Premiere Lounge features chic decor, fresh florals, priority check-in access, as well as a limousine chauffeur to your aircraft. There are even Clarins massages available in the lounge — merveilleux! Additionally, La Premiere offers a designated rest area, tons of free reading materials, and a large food and drinks selection.

Air France is known for its consistently high level of service for its first-class passengers, who are the only ones allowed in the lounge area.

7. Emirates First-Class Lounge

Dubai International Airport, Dubai

Consistently voted one of the world’s best airlines, Emirates does not disappoint with its lounges.

The first-class lounge at Dubai International Airport is best known for its extensive food offerings and menu. It’s a huge lounge that takes up almost the entire top floor of Concourse B. There is speedy Wi-Fi access for those who need to connect, plus numerous spaces for work and relaxation. Finally, every guest gets a complimentary spa treatment.

8. The Pier

Hong Kong International Airport, Hong Kong

Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong’s flagship airline, has a unique lounge at the Hong Kong International Airport. There are eight private day suites available as well as other areas for relaxation and socialization. There are numerous menus and a large dining selection, as well as complimentary massage services. As its name implies, The Pier also boasts pretty sea views.

Elite-status passengers certainly have their pick of luxurious airport lounges. From free massages to champagne toasts to private chauffeur service, these experiences are some of the world’s best. Cheers to your next air-travel adventure!

How To Spend A Day In Giverny, France

Giverny, France, is best known as the home of Impressionist painter Claude Monet. Not only did Monet live here, but he also painted its gardens for the world to enjoy. You can visit these gardens today, planting yourself in essence in the middle of a Monet masterpiece.

Monet moved into the residence at Giverny in 1883. He was riding the train through rural Normandy, saw Giverny from the window, and decided it would be the perfect place to paint outdoors. Monet was a key figure in the plein air (outdoor) school of painting. All he had to do in Giverny was step out his back door to find colorful flowers, a Japanese bridge, and his beloved pond. These would become the subjects of many of his great works.

A day spent wandering in the footsteps of Monet in Giverny is a day well spent, and it’s easy to get to his home from other towns in Normandy or from Paris.

Here’s how to make the most of your time in Giverny.

Monet's Gardens in Giverny. — Sharon Odegaard

Ride The Train

Giverny is located on the Seine about 50 miles from Paris; it’s an easy train ride from Gare Saint Lazare. You can purchase tickets to the closest town, Vernon, on the same day as your visit without a problem. Start in the morning to give yourself time for the 45-minute train ride and a full day of touring Giverny.

Take A Shuttle

Giverny is a 15-minute shuttle ride from the train station at Vernon. The shuttles come and go on a regular basis, so you won’t have to wait long after getting off the train.

If you’re hoping to get a bit more exercise, you could rent a bicycle in Vernon and ride to Giverny. The route is a beautiful one of rolling green hills and small farms. I wanted more time at Monet’s house and gardens, however, so I opted for the shuttle.

Pro Tip: When you arrive in Giverny, check out the shuttle schedule or take a photo of it. You will want to plan your return trip to Vernon in advance so as not to miss the last shuttle of the day.

Head For The Renowned Gardens

Buy your entrance ticket at the house and enter the gardens. The first section you’ll come to is the Clos Normand, the original garden right outside the house. Spruce trees and an apple orchard once grew here. Monet immediately set about painting these, but he was constantly modifying his 2 acres at Giverny, so he soon replaced the trees with the flower beds and graceful arches that are still present today. His wife objected to uprooting the spruce trees, but she lost the argument.

Monet preferred beds of daffodils, tulips, irises, oriental poppies, and peonies for a riot of color. He created and lived in his own palette. Today, his garden boasts 100,000 annuals and an equal number of perennials.

The yellows, purples, and reds of fall filled the garden on the day we visited, but whenever you visit, you’ll find an abundance of seasonal blooms. I was hesitant to go, thinking it would only be worthwhile seeing the flowers in the spring. Happily, I was wrong.

Pro Tip: The Claude Monet Foundation provides a handy calendar of what will be blooming each month.

The water lily pond in Monet's Gardens. — Sharon Odegaard

Relax In The Water Garden

Next, you’ll step into the world of water lilies that you’ve undoubtedly seen in Monet’s art. You can even stand on the curved bridge featured in many of his paintings. Circle the pond and enjoy the ambience.

Monet designed this water garden, with its willows, maple trees, and bamboo. He loved spending time here painting, and he often received guests here.

In his later life, Monet worked on a series of massive paintings of this garden. Some of them are now on display at the Musee de l’Orangerie in Paris, near the Louvre. The museum, built especially for Monet’s art, showcases Monet’s water lilies painted at different times of the day in different lights.

When asked why he filled the pond with lilies, Monet replied, “I love water, but I also love flowers. That’s why, once the pond was filled with water, I thought of embellishing it with flowers. I just took a catalogue and chose at random, that’s all.”

The rest is history.

Inside Monet's home in Giverny. — Sharon Odegaard

Tour The Charming Home

From the garden, head to Monet’s home. Monet lived in this pink stucco house for 43 years until his death in 1926. He and his wife had eight children, so you can imagine how full of life the home was in its prime. Today several of the rooms have been renovated with period furniture and colors to show how they looked when Monet lived here. Reproductions of his paintings hang throughout the house.

My favorite room was the kitchen, with its bright yellow dining chairs and blue tiles made in nearby Rouen. The family prepared meals using foods grown in the garden, and they used the gleaming copper pans that you’ll see on display. It’s quite a cozy room.

Stop By The Gift Shop

The Emilio Robba shop carries a variety of Giverny-themed items. You can take home Monet’s artwork on anything from bookmarks to scarves to calendars, and you can pick up soaps scented to match the garden flowers.

Pro Tip: Monet’s house and gardens are open from April 1 through November 1. Check the Claude Monet Foundation website for more information.

Monet's grave in Giverny. — Emma manners / Shutterstock

Explore The Museum of Impressionism

Just a 3-minute walk from Monet’s house and gardens, the Museum of Impressionism displays art of the late 1800s and early 1900s. Rotating exhibits feature works by Monet as well as his contemporaries. The museum charges a nominal fee, and the gardens are free.

A cafe at the museum is open all day for snacks. Meals feature quiches, salads, and grilled meat and seafood.

Visit Monet’s Grave

A short way from the house, along Rue Claude Monet, is the Eglise Sainte Radegonde de Giverny. This church dates to the medieval period. After seeing the inside, walk outside to the cemetery to pay your respects at the final resting place of Monet and several of his family members. The crew members of a World War II Royal Air Force plane that crashed nearby are also buried here.

Eating And Drinking In Giverny

You will likely be at Monet’s home at lunchtime. All you need to do is cross the street to enjoy a sit-down meal at Les Nympheas. Set in an old farm, the restaurant offers outdoor seating on a terrace decorated with flowers, perfect on a pleasant day. The traditional French menu items feature Monet’s own recipes. The fresh local fare and artisan ice cream make this a memorable experience.

If you’re in a hurry to catch the shuttle back to Vernon, ask for a meal box to go.

Another choice for lunch or dinner is the restaurant at the Hotel Baudy in the village of Giverny. Open seasonally, the restaurant offers Norman cuisine in a 19th-century setting.

Accommodations In Giverny

A popular hotel in Giverny is La Maison de Madame Baudy, a family-run guesthouse and restaurant in the center of the village. The Museum of Impressionism as well as Monet’s house and gardens are within walking distance.

Giverny is in the countryside, so you’ll find many bed and breakfasts in the area. The town’s official website has a list.

A day at Giverny is like immersing yourself in pleasing artistic scenes. It’s a definite change of pace from the bustling city of Paris — a world away, but close enough to visit on a day trip. Take your time wandering the flower-lined lanes and sitting by the lily pond. It’s sure to be delightful.

Want to enjoy Paris off the beaten path? Check out these hidden gems, delightful shops, surprising things to do, and lesser-known churches in the city.

9 Fantastic Reasons To Visit Jackson Hole In Winter

Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is one of the most iconic towns in North America. Not only is it the point of entry to the incredibly beautiful Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park, but it’s also a magnet for outdoor and nature lovers with thousands of miles of trails in the neighboring Bridger-Teton National Forest.

The entire population of Jackson is only about 10,000 local residents year-round, but the options to explore the outdoors are endless. No matter what time of year you visit Jackson Hole, there is always something to do. But I think the charm of Jackson Hole is particularly beautiful in winter when the summer tourist crowds have gone, and the entire area is covered in a blanket of snow. It’s a perfect winter playground for adults and kids alike.

There are a great many reasons to visit Jackson Hole in winter. Here are a few that come to mind.

Riding the ski lift at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. — Karthika Gupta / CulturallyOurs.com

1. Enjoy Winter Sports In One Of The Best Ski Resorts In The Country

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, known as JHMR among locals and visitors, is among the most famous ski resorts in the Western United States. It occupies the greater part of Teton Village in Wyoming. The resort is located about 12 miles northwest of Jackson and about 10 miles south of Grand Teton National Park. Complete with several hotels, restaurants, lodges, and even private homes that are available for rent, it is a small city in itself that provides access to some of the most iconic ski runs in the West.

JHMR is mostly known for its steep terrain and a large continuous vertical drop of 4,139 feet, which attract thousands of adventure junkies every year. Nearly half the runs are rated expert level and only about 10 percent as beginner. This makes JHMR one of North America’s most expensive ski resorts.

Snow King Mountain, which is the other ski resort in town, caters more toward the locals. The local schools often use it for speed ski training for their teams. One unique thing about Snow King is that the ski runs are open late, so you can ski at night for a whole different experience.

Moose near Jackson Hole, Wyoming. — JordanSchopper / Shutterstock

2. Spot Wildlife In And Around Town

The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, which encompasses Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and the surrounding areas, is one of the few ecosystems in the country that still has populations of all the major species of animals indigenous to North America. From wolves to grizzly bears, foxes, coyotes, moose, bison, elk, and countless birds and other smaller mammals, the area around Jackson Hole is a magnet for wildlife lovers.

Jackson Hole is also home to the National Elk Herd, which winters on the National Elk Refuge (more on this below). The best part of being in Jackson is that you don’t have to go far to see wildlife, especially in winter. Oftentimes you will see moose walking into town, elk taking a break in someone’s back yard, and even bald eagles feeding on roadkill off the side of the road.

Pro Tip: Here’s where to go to boost your odds of seeing wildlife.

Moose-Wilson Road

This narrow, winding road between Teton Village and the town of Moose is closed between November 1 and May 1. But you can always park your car and go cross-country skiing to spot lots of wildlife. This road offers some of the best odds of seeing moose in the valley. Wolf sightings are also a possibility, and bears have been spotted here in spring, summer, and fall.

Solitude Area Just North Of The Airport

The subdivision of Solitude is home to some of the finest residences in the area, with huge sprawling estates that offer dramatic views of the Teton range. Of course, this means elk and moose have a lot of room to roam around. You will also spot the occasional fox hunting small rodents, especially in winter.

Sleigh rides in the National Elk Preserve. — Karthika Gupta / CulturallyOurs.com

3. Enjoy Sleigh Rides In The Country’s Premier Elk Reserve

The National Elk Refuge is a national wildlife refuge in the heart of Jackson. The elk refuge is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which is responsible for conserving and enhancing the nation’s fish and wildlife populations and their habitats. But elk aren’t the only species of wildlife you may see on the National Elk Refuge. You will spot the occasional coyote, fox, or deer, plus swans and other animals who take refuge in this large open area just north of the city. In winter, horse-drawn sleigh rides are an extremely popular activity that will let you get up close with the large herd of elk that winter in the reserve.

You can get the sleigh ride tickets at the visitors center just outside of town. Be sure to arrive there early because the rides do tend to get full very quickly, especially during holiday weekends.

4. Watch Iconic Sunrises And Sunsets In Town

If you love the mountains and nature, there is no better place to explore than Jackson. What makes this area special is that the mountains are so close and accessible, even outside of the national park. With no real foothills to block your view of the majestic granite peaks of the Teton range, it is a great place to just soak in all the beauty of nature. Be sure to take some time to observe the sunrises and sunsets in Jackson. The light bouncing off Sleeping Indian Mountain to the east makes for a beautiful picture-perfect moment.

Beautiful winter landscape at Jackson Hole. — Karthika Gupta / CulturallyOurs.com

5. Explore National Park Trails Sans Crazy Summer Visitor Traffic

Take a winter tour through nearby Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks and enjoy the pristine Wyoming winter landscape. The interior roads of both parks are closed to visitor traffic and private cars, but you can hop on a heated snow coach for a unique park experience. These tours offer unparalleled vistas, options to see geological wonders like Old Faithful, and encounters with elk, moose, bald eagles, and many more. There are many local outfitters you can choose to book one of these tours.

6. Enjoy Miles Of Backcountry Skiing And Snowmobiling In Neighboring Bridger-Teton National Forest

There are plenty of alternatives to downhill skiing and snowboarding that offer gorgeous winter vistas and a great workout. You can snowshoe through one of Jackson Hole’s many powder-covered trails or take a guided snowshoeing trip with a Grand Teton national park ranger.

Cross country skiing is another option if you are opposed to downhill skiing. In fact, most of the hiking and biking trails around Jackson are groomed for cross country skis by the city of Jackson in winter and are a free alternative to paying expensive resort fees. You can even rent snowmobiles and go into the backcountry in Bridger-Teton National Forest.

7. Explore The National Museum Of Wildlife Art

The National Museum of Wildlife Art was founded in 1987 and is a beautiful museum in Jackson Hole that is home to an impressive collection of artworks representing wild animals from around the world. The museum features work from artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol, Robert Kuhn, and John James Audubon, among others. Even the location of the museum is a work of art. It is built into a hillside that overlooks the vast expanse of the National Elk Refuge.

8. Walk Around Downtown Jackson

The downtown area in Jackson Hole is home to some really cute boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries. During winter the streets are quiet, and you can really take the time to explore the shops and chat with the locals. Everything slows down in winter, so you will get a feel for what it is like to live in a place like Jackson Hole.

9. Enjoy Great Dining Options In Jackson

Jackson hole has many great restaurants. From fine dining to cheap eats, there is something for everyone. Even if you have dietary restrictions — think vegan, vegetarian, or even gluten-free — you are bound to find something good to eat in Jackson. For a fun evening, head to Pinky G’s Pizzeria, the only place in town where you can order pizza by the slice. Pinky G’s is open late with live music on the weekends.

As you can see, there is a lot of variety in the kinds of things you can do in Jackson, Wyoming, especially in winter, making Jackson a great place to visit no matter the time of year.

Want to travel during a different season? Check out Jackson Hole, Wyoming in the summer: eight amazing things to do.

6 Reasons To Take Your Valentine To Valentine, Nebraska

They say that Virginia is for lovers, but the most romantic place in the country might just be Valentine, Nebraska. Known as the Heart City, this north-central Nebraska community seemingly celebrates Valentine’s Day every day of the year, from special postmarks to signs with hearts.

However, Valentine is more than just romantic — the area is home to historic attractions as well as impressive natural landmarks.

Here are just a few reasons why you should bring your valentine to Valentine.

1. It’s Unabashedly Romantic

As you explore Valentine, you’ll find Valentine’s Day hearts painted on street signs as well as on sidewalks. Stop by the city’s iconic Valentine: Heart City sign for a photo opportunity.

Bring an envelope or postcard to the local post office, where you can have it stamped with a special postmark. Thousands of letters, postcards, and wedding invitations arrive at the Valentine post office annually with requests for the postmarks, according to the local office. Each year, the post office receives anywhere from 5,000 to 20,000 requests! The postmarks are designed by local artists. One features an outline of the state with a heart in the middle, and another features a heart and the words Heart City.

2. It’s Steeped In History

Home to the oldest standing schoolhouse in Nebraska, the Centennial Hall Museum highlights local history in a series of themed rooms featuring exhibits on military history, fashion, and education. The museum is rumored to be haunted, and some people claim to have seen things move by themselves. Maybe you can do your own paranormal investigation!

Nearby is the Cherry County Historical Society Museum, which explores the area’s past through exhibits on Native American artifacts, American military history, and pioneer life.

Both museums are open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday from Memorial Day to Labor Day or by appointment.

Beautiful landscape near Valentine, Nebraska. — George Burba / Shutterstock

3. It’s Naturally Beautiful

Valentine is home to some of the most beautiful prairie landscapes you’ll ever see. The town is situated in the Sandhills, the world’s largest area of sand dunes with a seemingly endless sea of wild prairie grass (in fact, Nebraska was once part of a prehistoric sea).

Rolling hills greet you at the stunning Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, located about a 5-mile drive from town. The refuge is home to herds of bison and elk — they’ll sometimes cause traffic jams as they meander along the main roads! Take in views of prairie-dog towns as the cute squirrel relatives dart in and out of their dens, alerting the village of human visitors. The refuge also offers a .75-mile hiking trail that takes you to the scenic Niobrara River.

A visitor center located on the site of the former Fort Niobrara features exhibits on the history of the structure, which operated from 1879 until 1911.

The Valentine National Wildlife Refuge is home to a variety of waterfowl as well as prairie chickens and sharp-tailed grouse. There are a number of hiking trails — including a self-guided interpretive trail — and excellent bird-watching opportunities. The refuge puts up photo blinds during April and May, since these are prime months for prairie chicken and sharp-tailed grouse mating dances.

Smith Falls near Valentine, Nebraska. — John Brueske / Shutterstock

Smith Falls State Park is home to Nebraska’s most impressive waterfalls, including Smith Falls, the state’s largest at more than 63 feet tall. The park welcomes visitors year-round, but the falls are at their best between spring and autumn. The falls are known for their cold water, and people kayaking or canoeing along the Niobrara River will often park their boats and dash through them for a quick refresh.

Snake River Falls is another impressive spot to visit; it’s Nebraska’s most voluminous waterfall and is about 12 miles from Valentine.

The Cowboy Trail is a hiking/biking trail that covers nearly 200 miles of a railroad line once used by the Chicago and North Western Railroad. It currently runs from Norfolk, Nebraska, to Valentine, and the trail’s most photographed spot is the bridge that crosses the Niobrara River near Valentine. The bridge offers a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape.

The Niobrara River near Valentine, Nebraska. — John Brueske / Shutterstock

4. You Can Kayak Down The Gorgeous Niobrara River

The Niobrara National Scenic River runs from the Nebraska Panhandle to the Missouri River in northeastern Nebraska. With its slow-moving current, the Niobrara River offers kayakers an opportunity to enjoy the area’s summer sun while taking in scenic views of tall bluffs and cascading waterfalls. The shallow river features shoreline trails where you can park your boat and explore the area.

There are spots featuring challenging Class II rapids, but skillful kayakers can easily navigate them. Novices can kayak the river from Berry Bridge to Rocky Ford with ease. You can either take a self-guided trip or work with an outfitter. The river is also good for canoeing and tubing.

5. The Food Is Fantastic

Perhaps the best-known restaurant in town is the Peppermill and Valentine Lounge, home of the Mulligan, an 8-ounce sirloin steak that’s aged seven to 10 weeks for maximum flavor. If your valentine has a hearty appetite, order them the Joseph Grilled Prime Rib, slow-roasted and served in 16- or 32-ounce portions. Each entree comes with a salad and a side.

If you’re in the mood for burgers and maybe a chicken-fried steak, you might want to check out the Bunkhouse Restaurant and Saloon. The restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Neon Bar & Grill is located at the Raine Motel. Open Wednesday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., the restaurant offers burgers and salads as well as aged steaks and homemade barbecue.

6. You Can Stay At A Cozy Lodge Or Guest Ranch

With 61 guest rooms, the Niobrara Lodge offers a comfortable stay near downtown Valentine. The lodge features a complimentary breakfast buffet as well as amenities such as an indoor pool and an outdoor patio with grills.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Heartland Elk Guest Ranch with its charming cabins available year-round. Guests have the opportunity to appreciate wildlife (such as elk, of course) and take in scenic views of the area, including the Niobrara River, tall trees, and wildflowers. It’s the perfect place to commune with nature at its most peaceful.

If you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or romantic soul, you’ll enjoy spending a weekend or longer in Nebraska’s Heart City. Whether you’re exploring the small town or the wildlife refuges and trails, Valentine offers the opportunity to enjoy a side of Nebraska that few experience.

7 Things To Know About Thailand’s Wang Saen Suk Hell Garden

Want a glimpse into the fiery afterlife?

Wang Saen Suk Hell Garden in Bang Saen City, Chonburi, is an easy day trip from Bangkok. It offers visitors a glimpse into the darker side of Buddhism, where the damned are punished for their earthly crimes with sin-specific discipline. This larger-than-life garden is sure to send chills down your spine and have you scrambling to make amends in this life.

Buddhist Hell is separated into specific rings called Naraka, and Wang Saen Suk Hell Garden features plenty of them. You could easily spend the better part of a day wandering through the macabre exhibits. When I visited, there was an iced coffee stand outside, but it’s advisable to bring your own water, comfortable shoes, and plenty of sunscreen. Fittingly, Buddhist Hell can get hot, and it’s almost all outside.

Are you ready to descend into the blazing depths of Buddhist Hell? Here are some fascinating facts you need to know before you go.

Wang Saen Suk Hell Garden in Thailand. — Claudine Van Massenhove / Shutterstock

1. It Was Built Recently

Unlike many of the other temples and gardens in the Land of Smiles, Wang Saen Suk Hell Garden was built relatively recently. Chonburi’s most ghoulish attraction wasn’t constructed until 1986, making it the newest and most interesting Buddhist destination you’re likely to visit.

2. You’re Greeted By Preta

Wang Saen Suk Hell Garden is dominated by two colossal statues with protruding rib cages and long tongues. These grim guardians are Preta, or starving ghosts who are trapped in Purgatory but haven’t quite sinned enough to merit their own place in Buddhist Hell. The Preta are shocking enough, but they are far from the most gruesome statues that you’ll encounter as you make your way through the Narakas.

3. Each Sin Is Punished Accordingly

Buddhist Hell is remarkably specific, with each earthly crime being paid back tenfold. Many of the statues have the heads of animals, some are simmering in huge pots, and one horrible exhibit shows the damned climbing a thorny tree to escape from wild dogs. Wang Saen Suk Hell Garden doesn’t shy away from bloodshed, and visitors should expect to see all kinds of torture enacted on the souls trapped there.

4. Sinners Probably Won’t Be Stuck There Forever

The only silver lining for those tortured in the Narakas is that there’s an end in sight, although it might be billions of years down the road. According to Buddhist theology, transgressors who prove their penitence are eventually relieved. This idea of repentance is in line with the concept of karma: Even the damned are in control of their future.

5. You Can Leave A Donation In Buddha’s Belly

When I visited Wang Saen Suk Hell Garden, there was no charge for admission. Instead, visitors were invited to drop a donation of their choosing into a Buddha on the perimeter of the garden.

6. It’s Off The Beaten Path

Wang Saen Suk Hell Garden is off the beaten path, making it an exceptional experience that is slightly hard to get to. You can take a bus or train from Bangkok to Chonburi and a taxi from Chonburi to Bang Saen City, but the quickest option is getting a traditional cab or GrabTaxi straight from Bangkok. Taking a car from Bangkok will take you roughly an hour one way, and public transportation will take several, depending on traffic and any train delays.

7. There’s A Hell Temple In Chiang Mai

The visual representation of Buddhist Hell isn’t unique to Wang Saen Suk Hell Garden. There are smaller, less elaborate depictions of the Narakas all over the country, and there’s even a Hell Temple in Chiang Mai. Wat Mae Kaet Noi is a stern warning to mortals and the brainchild of Pra Kru Vishanjalikon, a monk who helped bring the Hell Temple to fruition.

Buddhist Hell might just be the highlight of your Thailand vacation. It’s an easy trip from Bangkok, off the beaten path enough to be exclusive, and a totally unique experience that you won’t forget anytime soon. Go over to the dark side and put Wang Saen Suk on your bucket list.

Planning a trip to Thailand? Check out these eight things to know before you go, this guide to cultural etiquette in the country, and this list of the best things to see and do while you’re there.

11 Fantastic Restaurants To Try In Beautiful Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole Wyoming, or Jackson as it is known to many, is one of those places that epitomizes what it means to live and play in America’s Wild West. A place where jagged mountains spiral to meet the sky, unparalleled landscapes delight the senses at every corner, and the mighty Snake River runs through the town, Jackson is nothing like most towns in America.

Although Jackson has only around 10,000 people who live there year-round, the tourist population that passes through Jackson during any given season warrants some classic and modern eats to satisfy any pallet and any wallet. The good thing is that you will get just that and more from the dining scene in Jackson.

No matter if you are vegan, vegetarian, an international cuisine lover, or even a hard-core meat eater, there is something for you to eat in Jackson.

Persephone Bakery in Jackson Hole. — Karthika Gupta / CulturallyOurs.com

1. Persephone Bakery

Persephone Bakery is a bakery that specializes in artisanal rustic bread and pastries, and this bakery is a classic in Jackson that is often visited by locals and tourists alike. With two locations in town — one downtown and one near Teton Village on Moose-Wilson Road in the Aspens — this eatery is a classic that you must try when in Jackson.

They are very busy for breakfast, especially on weekends, so don’t forget to get there early or even call ahead to make reservations. Everything on the menu is fresh and delicious. Their special is their cinnamon brioche, which makes for a decadent breakfast treat or amazing mid-morning snack paired with a delicious chai tea latte.

2. Picnic Coffee And Cafe

Primarily a local joint, Picnic Coffee and Cafe is buzzing with activity first thing in the morning, especially on weekends. The cafe is located in a more commercial part of town, so it can be a little hard to find. Make sure to have your GPS handy. It is stocked with locals’ favorite pastries handmade by Persephone, as well as its own versions of classic American favorites like pop tarts and whoopie pies. Their French toast with seasonal berries and super-sized avocado toast is delicious and so very filling.

3. Palate

Nothing can compare to the view that Palate patrons get to enjoy. It is located in the Museum of Wildlife Art and overlooks the National Elk Refuge. It is a perfect place to enjoy art and nature with small eats, classic fare, and some amazing wine. To take your experience up a notch, ask for patio seating, especially if you are visiting in late fall, when the aspens change color and the elk are in mating season. You’ll be able to hear the sounds of male elk rutting all throughout the valley.

The Bunnery Bakery and Restaurant in Jackson Hole. — Karthika Gupta / CulturallyOurs.com

4. The Bunnery Bakery And Restaurant

A local favorite since 1975, The Bunnery Bakery and restaurant is a comfortable, casual dining spot located in the heart of downtown Jackson about half a block north of the town center. Their breakfast and lunch menus offer an extensive collection of hearty, delicious classics as well as unique original recipes. They also have a bakery counter that has the freshest pies, cakes, and baked goods. Here, you can get the perfect meal to fill up on for a day on the slopes in winter or hiking in Grand Teton National Park in summer. Their specialties are their trademarked granola, pancake, waffle, and oatmeal mixes, which boast unique blends you’ll find nowhere else.

5. Pinky G’s

Pinky G’s has been voted the best pizza in the valley since opening in 2011. Its claim to fame is being featured in the popular show Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives on The Food Network. The funky decor and delicious food makes it a very popular joint no matter the season. In fact, it is also one of the first places in town to offer New York-style hand tossed pizza by the slice and is always a hit with locals and tourists alike. Pinky G’s is open most nights till past midnight and on weeknights it has live music until the wee hours of the morning.

The Million Dollar Cowboy Steakhouse in Jackson Hole. — Karthika Gupta / CulturallyOurs.com

6. Million Dollar Cowboy Steakhouse

Jackson also boats some classic iconic Western cuisines that are popular with meat lovers all around the valley. The Million Dollar Cowboy Steakhouse is a modern steakhouse serving a selection of local and regional meats including dry-aged beef and bison meat. They also have seafood and some vegetarian options. The casual ambiance is perfect for a quick dinner or lunch in town before heading out to enjoy nature.

Please note, that the Million Dollar Cowboy Steakhouse is temporarily closed with plans to reopen in the spring of 2022.

7. Teton Thai, Annie’s Thai, And Everest Momo Shack

Jackson has its fair share of international cuisines, thanks to places like Teton Thai, Everest Momo Shack and Annie’s Thai among others. All three places are casual eateries, but the food is delicious. They get very popular during summer and tourist season, so make sure to call ahead and make reservations.

Momos are a type of Nepali dumpling and a must-try if you haven’t had Nepali cuisine before. Everest Momos shack also offers traditional Indian dishes and curries for those who love a little spice in their food. Annie’s Thai is a newer establishment in town, and their portions are substantial. Be advised that their food when ordered spicy is actually quite spicy. So, if you are unsure, definitely check with your waiter before ordering a spicy dish per the menu. All three restaurants have plenty of options for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free cuisine.

8. The Handle Bar

One of the many restaurants that is within Teton Village and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, this American pub is owned by celebrity chef Michael Mina. Its slopeside dining makes it an ideal spot for skiers, hikers, bikers, and all those who want dinner with some of the most dramatic views in the country. The menu offers a diverse array of classic pub food as well as an extensive selection of beers and signature cocktails.

The Alpenhof Bistro in Jackson Hole. — Karthika Gupta / CulturallyOurs.com

9. The Alpenhof Bistro

Another lunch, dinner, and bar establishment within Teton Village, the Alpenhof is right there on the slopes. This casual eatery is perfect for those who just want to take a break from the slopes in winter or even a quick pit stop for coffee while on the way to Grand Teton National Park. The bistro is located right next to the free shuttle buses that ply from downtown Jackson to Teton Village, so if you don’t feel like driving and want to take the scenic route to lunch, dinner, or breakfast make sure to stop by the Alpenhof Bistro.

10. Vertical Harvest

Vertical Harvest is a three-story hydroponic farm located in downtown Jackson. The greenhouse grows fresh produce year-round, allowing local restaurants and grocery stores to offer the fruits of their labor. Vertical Harvest also has a retail store that offers locally sourced food and regionally crafted products. It is definitely worth a visit to observe the vertical greenhouse and sample some delicious local fare.

Sign for the Farmers Market on Jackson Town Square on Saturdays (Photo Credit: melissamn / Shutterstock.com)

11. Jackson Hole Farmers Markets

A must-see and explore during the summer months, Jackson Hole’s farmer’s markets are fantastic opportunities to shop, eat, and sample all the deliciousness that is grown in the valley. From artisan bread and fruits to vegetables and everything else in between, the farmer’s markets attract locals and tourists alike. The Jackson Hole Farmers Market is held in the town square every Saturday morning and the Jackson Hole Peoples Market is held every Wednesday at the base of Snow King, a ski resort in the heart of the town.

Jackson Hole is definitely a tourist town any time of the year. From winter sports like skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling to hiking, camping, and trekking in summer, there is something to do for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors, nature, and dramatic landscapes. And while most visitors assume that it is the land of wild game like bison, elk, and deer, Jackson is also a place for artisan, health-centric, and international cuisine.

Visiting Jackson Hole, Wyoming, in the summer? Consider these eight amazing things to do.