How To Visit The Great Barrier Reef

Quiet and serene, the turquoise blue waters atop Australia’s Great Barrier Reef can be mesmerizing. However, under this tranquil scene a thriving aquatic world exists. Hurried schools of fish weave through layers of colorful coral. Others lounge in crevices awaiting the perfect moment to strike at their prey. It’s one of the most awe-inspiring places in the world; just under the ocean’s surface, the Great Barrier Reef is full of life.

Boasting 1,430 miles of coral reef, the Great Barrier Reef earned its place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Given its unmatched biodiversity, visiting the Great Barrier Reef is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the Great Barrier Reef.

Aerial view of the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland, Australia. — superjoseph / Shutterstock

Where Is The Great Barrier Reef?

The Great Barrier reef runs along the northeast coast of Queensland, Australia.

It’s generally accepted that the reef begins near Bundaberg in the south and ends past Cape York Peninsula in the north.

Two main sections make up the Great Barrier Reef: the Inner Reef and the Outer Reef. Found near islands and the mainland, the Inner Reef can be observed by snorkeling near the shore or via a quick sailing trip. Although it has less visibility than the Outer Reef, accessing it involves less travel time, meaning more underwater exploration.

Far from the mainland, the crystalline waters of the Outer Reef reveal the stunning colors of coral and other forms of ocean life. Boasting over 15 meters of visibility (49 feet), unlike the 5-to-10-meter (16-to-32-foot) visibility in the Inner Reef, visitors to the Outer Reef are able to witness larger fish, giant clams, and sizeable coral ecosystems.

From the closest large city, Brisbane, it takes almost five hours to reach the start of the Great Barrier Reef by car. The Great Barrier Reef is a two-hour non-stop flight from Sydney, and a three-hour non-stop flight from Melbourne. Read on for the best ways to access the Great Barrier Reef — no matter your starting point.

How To Get To The Great Barrier Reef

Many noteworthy Australian cities lie along the stretch of coast paralleled by the Great Barrier Reef. These include Rockhampton, Mackay, Airlie Beach, Townsville, Cairns, and Port Douglas.

Cairns and Airlie Beach are the most developed places for tourism. Cairns offers countless tours to the Outer Great Barrier Reef, while tours that take off from Airlie Beach provide easy access to Inner Reef sites throughout the Whitsunday Islands.

Unfortunately, it’s hard to visit both places at once given the 385 miles between the two ports. Once you arrive at either of the main hubs, though, there are plenty of options for cruises, sailboats, and planes specializing in Great Barrier Reef experiences.

A helicopter flying over the Great Barrier Reef. — Angelina Pilarinos / Shutterstock

How To Get To The Great Barrier Reef By Plane

Several main airports are located within a short driving distance of the Great Barrier Reef.

Proserpine/Whitsunday Coast Airport

A 25-minute shuttle ride from Airlie Beach, Whitsunday Coast Airport is the closest — and usually cheapest — option for accessing the Great Barrier Reef. Jetstar, Tigerair, and Virgin Australia are the leading airlines that fly into Whitsunday Coast Airport. Between one and two flights a day land in Proserpine from Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Cairns.

Hamilton Island Airport

Located on Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays — a one-hour ferry ride off mainland Airlie Beach — this airport is convenient for those planning to stay on the luxurious island. With a year-round tropical climate like that of Hawaii and Mauritius, Hamilton Island is a great place to explore the Inner Great Barrier Reef. There are usually one to two flights per day to Hamilton Island Airport from Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Cairns.

Cairns International Airport

Proportionate to the size of the city, Cairns International Airport is the largest airport of the three mentioned. Daily flights land in Cairns from Townsville, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne. In addition to domestic flights run by Jetstar, Tigerair, and Qantas, it’s also a popular hub for international visitors. Boating tours departing from Cairns take approximately two hours to reach the Outer Great Barrier Reef from Cairns.

How To Get To The Great Barrier Reef By Bus

From Brisbane, a Greyhound Bus takes 22 hours to reach Airlie Beach. From Sydney to Cairns, it can take as long as two days.

If you have more time to explore, consider booking the hop-on hop-off bus between Sydney and Cairns. Stops along this route include the beautiful coastal communities of Townsville, Airlie Beach, Hervey Bay, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Byron Bay. Although you don’t have to stop at each town, exploring a few will provide a taste of Queensland’s stunning coast.

Man snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef. — Tanya Puntti / Shutterstock

How To Get To The Great Barrier Reef by Car

It is possible to access the main Great Barrier Reef hubs by car. Due to the enormous distances from Sydney and Melbourne, consider flying into Brisbane, renting a car, and beginning your journey there.

Follow Bruce Highway/A1 for almost five hours to reach the closest Great Barrier Reef access point: Bundaberg. From Bundaberg, Airlie Beach is another eight-hour drive. If Cairns is your final destination, prepare for a 20-hour journey from Brisbane.

When Is The Best Time To Visit The Great Barrier Reef?

The best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef is between June and October, Australia’s winter and spring. Unlike summer, which is a wet season for the Great Barrier Reef, less rain falls during these months, providing better underwater visibility. Additionally, although the water may be choppier during the winter, it falls outside of the box jellyfish “Stinger Season” from November to May.

Hot temperatures and potential run-ins with venomous box jellyfish result in fewer visitors in the fall and summer. Don’t worry though, being stung is rare and tours provide thick wetsuits you can wear to protect your body. Box jellies love warm, tropical waters. To further minimize risk, consider visiting the cooler areas of the Great Barrier Reef in the south.

Since over 2 million people visit the Great Barrier Reef annually, whenever you’re going, make sure to book activities several months in advance.

What You’ll See At The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is known for its clear waters, striking marine life, and vibrant coral. Popular activities centered around experiencing this beautiful aquatic environment include diving with wildlife, cruising sailboats, and enjoying white-sand beaches (whether on the ground or from up above!).

A manta ray underwater at the Great Barrier Reef. — Ian Scott / Shutterstock

Snorkeling And Scuba Diving

It’s no surprise that one of the best ways to experience the Great Barrier Reef is to jump in the water! Snorkeling and scuba diving are the most popular activities around the Great Barrier Reef.

Even if you’re not a certified PADI diver, you’ll still be able to explore the Great Barrier Reef through snorkeling. Knowledge of swimming and treading water helps, however, if you’re not a strong swimmer, most tours provide flotation devices. Thick sting-proof wetsuits also help with buoyancy.

There are generally two options for snorkeling and diving: day trips or overnights.

Most commonly, day trips on catamarans or sailboats take visitors to the best reef spots. Whether you choose a strictly snorkeling tour, a scuba diving tour, or a combination of the two, these are full day (8 to 10 hour) tours. Most include transportation, equipment use, access to several sites, and a hearty lunch.

If you’re craving more time on the water, an overnight trip might be right for you. Overnight trips will be more expensive than day trips, but they include more time on the reef and exciting activities such as evening swims or night dives.

The Great Eight

What should you be looking for while snorkeling or scuba diving? The Great Eight! This refers to the most iconic marine life in the Great Barrier Reef: whales, manta rays, clownfish, turtles, potato cod, giant clams, Maori wrasse, and sharks.

The eastern Australian coast is known as the humpback highway. From June to November, whales make their annual migration north from Antarctica, providing onlookers the opportunity to view these incredible mammals from the shore or boat deck. The beginning of humpback whale season is also the best time to see manta rays off Bundaberg’s coast at Lady Elliot Island.

Less elusive than whales and rays, clownfish can be found year round almost anywhere on the Great Barrier Reef. Just as lovable as clownfish, sea turtles are commonly sighted in the Great Barrier Reef as well. Of the seven species of sea turtle, six can be found around these coral reefs.

Growing up to five feet, giant clams are called giant for a reason! These colorful mollusks can weigh up to 550 pounds. Other “giants” include the potato cod and Maori wrasse. The potato cod can grow up to 200 pounds, while the Maori wrasse — a fish known for its friendly temperament — can span more than 6 feet!

Although more than 50 types of sharks reside around the reef — including hammerhead and tiger sharks — the most sighted sharks are small whitetip and blacktip reef sharks. As long as you respect the space of the shark, there’s no reason to worry about being in the water with these graceful beings.

If you decide to forego snorkeling or scuba diving, glass bottom boats offer great views of the reef and give everyone on board an opportunity to spot the Great Eight.

Scuba divers enjoying the wildlife at the Great Barrier Reef. — Tunatura / Shutterstock

Flights Over The Great Barrier Reef

If you’re hesitant about jumping in the water or are looking for a unique way to see the Great Barrier Reef, consider enjoying an aerial view instead. Taking a helicopter or seaplane is a great way to see the expansiveness of the Great Barrier Reef.

Although flights over any part of the Great Barrier Reef are noteworthy, the Whitsunday Islands boast some of the most beautiful views. Glide over turquoise waters and swirled white sandbars to see landscapes like you’ve never seen before. Only visible from the air, you can view the popular Heart Reef. Additionally, some scenic flights include a stop at Whitehaven Beach, ranked the world’s penultimate beach by Flight Network.

Flying over the reef truly shows the scale of the Great Barrier Reef — something that can’t be appreciated from the shore, or even under the waves.

Australia-bound? Fly from the east coast inland: Equally breathtaking sights await in the red-desert Outback.

Photo Credit: Michael Smith ITWP / Shutterstock

Photo Credit: Tulen / Shutterstock

Traveling On Memorial Day? Leave Early, AAA Warns

Move aside, Thanksgiving. Take a step back, Christmas. Memorial Day is just around the corner and it’s about to challenge the record books! This Memorial Day weekend is predicted to be “the second-highest travel volume on record since AAA began tracking holiday travel volumes dating back to 2000.”

What does that mean in terms of real numbers? A whopping 1.5 million extra people will be on the road compared to last year, representing an increase of 3.6 percent. In total, approximately 37.6 million people will be traveling by automobile around Memorial Day. Even as national gas prices inch toward $3 a gallon, America’s passion for road trips remains strong.

Traffic on an American highway. — Alexander Popov / Unsplash

To a certain extent, the aggravation of higher fuel costs is offset by lower car-rental rates. According to AAA’s Leisure Travel Index, “car rental prices have declined 7 percent compared with last year, with an average daily rate of $55.” And even hotels are less expensive. Mid-range hotels are between 2 percent and 3 percent cheaper in 2019 than they were in 2018.

As the unofficial start of the summer holiday season, Memorial Day weekend has come to represent adventure, family fun, tradition, and discovery. Travelers are willing to economize by seeking out free attractions, cutting back on extravagant meals, and even shortening the duration of their trip in order to compensate for the cost of gas and still afford their trip.

A sparkler and the American flag. — Stephanie McCabe / Unsplash

Beating The Crowds

Statistically, the most congested times to travel will be Thursday, May 23 and Friday, May 24 in the late afternoon. This is when 9-to-5 work commuters and road trippers converge, causing double the normal congestion in cities (and up to three times as much in New York and Washington, D.C.) Time your departure for earlier in the day — or perhaps much later, if you don’t mind arriving after dark — to save hours of frustration. You can also plan out alternative routes. Consider those winding country roads part of the adventure and seek out an old-time diner or ice cream parlor as your mid-trip reward!

When it comes to the return trip, expect the roads to be extremely busy on Monday, May 27, later in the afternoon. Millions of travelers will be trying to get home just before dinner! Boston, in particular, is expected to have three times the normal congestion levels between 3:45 and 5:45 p.m.

If you’re really dedicated to beating the crowds, you might want to avoid Orlando, New York, Las Vegas, Honolulu, Anaheim, Seattle, Phoenix, Anchorage, Tampa, and San Francisco. These are the top Memorial Day weekend travel destinations in the United States. Roadtrippers heading to Canada will want to plan carefully before hitting up Vancouver — one of the busiest international destinations.

A couple on a road trip. — Luigi Manga / Unsplash

Before You Hit The Road

If you’re road tripping, be sure to do a routine safety inspection of your car. AAA expects to rescue some 353,000 motorists, and dead batteries, flat tires, and lockouts are among the top reasons motorists are stranded. Before you depart, check your tire pressure (including your spare!), top off your fluids, and make sure your car’s roadside emergency kit is well stocked — and actually in your car!

Give family members or travel companions assigned roles. Who is responsible for the main set of keys, the backup set, the phone chargers, the snack bag? Many service calls are unavoidable, but making sure your car is in good repair and well organized will work in your favor to avoid trouble and ensure a great holiday-weekend getaway.

Looking forward to a Fourth of July getaway, too? These are the best summer towns for celebrating Independence Day in style. Interested in AAA’s stats? See the full report here.

Photo Credit: Valentino Funghi / Unsplash, cdrin / Shutterstock

How to Spend A Day In Scottsdale, AZ

As the stylish sister among the family of communities that make up Arizona’s massive Valley of the Sun, Scottsdale, Arizona, has all of its bases covered — literally.

Boasting two major-league spring-training baseball stadiums, Scottsdale is at the epicenter of the Cactus League phenomenon that brings tens of thousands of sun-starved baseball fans to Arizona every February and March.

But that barely covers the first inning of what “The West’s Most Western Town” has to offer.

Think wildflowers, Western art, wild horses, a chic open-air dining scene, rugged mountain trails, classic desert resorts, and then you’ll have a taste of what is in store in Scottsdale.

Downtown in Scottsdale, Arizona. — Cindy Barks

The Best Time To Visit Scottsdale, AZ

It’s not exactly a well-kept secret that springtime in Scottsdale is hard to beat. The entire Valley of the Sun, which encompasses nearby Phoenix and Mesa, is arguably at its best in the spring, with warm breezes, sunny skies, and blooming cactus flowers.

While summer brings extreme heat, it also can come with sizzling deals on hotels and resorts. Rates for accommodation tend to rise dramatically in the winter with the annual flood of temporary visitors from northern states.

Regardless of the season, though, or how much time you have in Scottsdale, there’s plenty to choose from on a day out in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Pinnacle Peak Park Trail

To take in the stunning desert landscape while getting your heart pumping, the Pinnacle Peak Park Trail is the perfect morning choice. The 1.75-mile trail (one-way) passes by towering saguaro cacti and spiny ocotillos as it circles the imposing Pinnacle Peak.

The rocky peak is visible for miles, and the park gets fairly heavy hiking traffic. With a 1,300-foot total elevation gain, the out-and-back hike is classified as moderately difficult.

As with all Scottsdale/Phoenix trails, beware hiking in the heat of summer. Even in the spring and fall, it’s best to beat the desert heat by heading out in the early morning or evening hours.

Eating ice cream at the Sugar Bowl in Scottsdale. — Cindy Barks

Downtown/Old Town Scottsdale

After working off a few hundred calories on the ups and downs of Pinnacle Peak, the downtown/Old Town area is a prime spot to refuel. There are dozens of dining choices clustered in the charming downtown and rustic Old Town areas.

The trendy indoor/outdoor Farm & Craft offers uniquely healthy brunch and lunch choices, such as a breakfast veggie bowl featuring seasonal vegetables and quinoa topped with poached eggs; a custom bowl with grilled steak and roasted vegetables; and a shaved-chicken sandwich served on ciabatta bread.

Or go full vacation mode and skip brunch altogether, opting instead for a refreshing dessert at the classic Sugar Bowl — a bubble gum-pink spot that has been serving up ice cream cones and sumptuous sundaes at its Old Town location since 1958.

A walk through downtown will take you past numerous sculptures, many with Western/horse themes, plus rustic shops. For a deeper dive into Western culture, consider stopping by Scottsdale’s Museum of the West: Western Spirit.

Scottsdale Stadium

A visit to downtown Scottsdale in February or March wouldn’t be complete without taking in a spring-training game at the Scottsdale Stadium ball field, where the home-team San Francisco Giants take on a changing roster of Cactus major-league teams from around the country.

The stadium sits right in the heart of the Old Town/downtown area and is the hub of activity throughout the spring. Scottsdale is also home to the nearby Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, the homefield for the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Colorado Rockies.

For a late lunch or snack, Salt River Field offers ballpark classics including ice cream by Cold Stone Creamery and tacos from the Salty Senorita Taco Bar, while the Scottsdale Stadium has Bay Area favorite garlic fries and street tacos.

Bartlett Lake

If spring training isn’t your thing or if the season has passed, a drive to Bartlett Lake is a cool option on a hot day.

Located in the Tonto National Forest on the eastern edge of Scottsdale, the lake is known for a few things: spectacular vistas of desert plant life, boating, and fishing. Oh, and wildflowers. Especially in wet years, the Mexican gold poppies practically explode along the shores of the lake in late March and early April.

If a “super bloom” is going on, it’s definitely worth the hour-long drive from Scottsdale to Bartlett Lake.

Restaurants along the Scottsdale Waterfront. — Cindy Barks

Scottsdale Waterfront/Fashion Square

After a day of hiking, sightseeing, baseball, and flower peeping, an evening dinner-and-drink stop will definitely be in order. The beautiful Scottsdale Waterfront — sandwiched between Old Town and the thriving Scottsdale Fashion Square — definitely fits the bill.

The Waterfront district optimizes its location along the Arizona Canal with an array of bold modern art and upscale eateries. Among the premier dining choices is Olive & Ivy, an elegant restaurant and marketplace with a Mediterranean-inspired menu.

Although the interior is lovely, the prime seating choice at Olive & Ivy is on the patio bordering the canal. It’s the perfect spot to sip white-wine sangria and nibble on the airy focaccia served with pine nut and parmesan pesto while waiting for your entrée of seafood, pasta, or lamb meatballs.

Wild Horses along the Salt River in Scottsdale. — Cindy Barks

If You Have Extra Time In Scottsdale, Consider…

Going Out To See The Salt River Wild Horses

A side jaunt that’s worth the drive from Scottsdale is the 40-minute trip to the Salt River, where you can check out the Salt River wild horses that roam up and down the river.

Wild mustangs have called the Salt River area home for centuries, and today the state-protected herd attracts thousands of people each year. It can take some persistence to locate the herd once you get there, but seeing the majestic animals grazing along the riverbank offers a glimpse of the Old West and nature’s enduring beauty that’s unlike any other.

The Hyatt Regency's Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch. — Hyatt

A Day At Scottsdale Resort And Spa At Gainey Ranch

An afternoon frolicking among the pools, lazy rivers, and waterslides at one of Scottsdale’s destination resorts is never a bad idea — especially during the piping hot days of summer.

The Hyatt Regency’s Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch features a 2.5-acre water park with a sand beach and a three-story waterslide. Day passes are available and start at $45. A number of other Scottsdale resorts offer day passes as well — all available at various rates through the Resort Pass website.

While visitors with just one day won’t be able to take in everything Scottsdale has to offer, those willing to hit the trail early and keep up a steady pace of exploring, dining, and cheering on their teams can get a good taste of the city.

Headed to Arizona? Don’t miss the best day trips from Tucson or the wonders of Horseshoe Bend.

Photo Credit: Tim Murphy / Shutterstock

Photo Credit: BCFC / Shutterstock

How To See A Tokyo Baseball Game And What To Expect

Even if you’re not a big sports fan, a Tokyo baseball game offers a thrilling experience that you’ll never forget. You’ll join thousands of Japanese fans as they support their team — and in Japan, that doesn’t mean throwing on a cap, grabbing a hot dog, and ignoring the game for the first seven innings. While the people of Tokyo are often quiet and reserved in public spaces, that changes in the frenetic atmosphere of the ballpark.

If you’re considering attending a Tokyo baseball game, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of the experience.

What Baseball Teams Play In Tokyo?

The highest level of Japanese baseball is Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), which consists of two leagues, the Pacific League and the Central League. It’s comparable to Major League Baseball (MLB) in the United States, and many of the teams have several former MLB players on their rosters.

Each NPB league has six teams, and two of those teams are based in Tokyo: the Tokyo Yakult Swallows and the Yomiuri Giants. Three other teams are close enough to Tokyo for a day trip: the Chiba Lotte Marines, the Yokohama DeNA BayStars, and the Saitama Seibu Lions.

Of these teams, the Yomiuri Giants are the most popular. They’re sometimes referred to as the New York Yankees of the NPB due to their winning history and large fan base. They play home games in the Tokyo Dome, which makes them a safe ticket for Western tourists (since rain won’t cause a cancellation or delay).

Yomiuri Giants tickets can be expensive, and if you’re on a budget, Tokyo Swallows tickets might be a better option. The Swallows play their games at Meiji Jingu Stadium, which is within walking distance of the Tokyo Dome. It’s an open-air stadium, so you’ll want to check the weather when purchasing tickets.

When To See A Baseball Game In Tokyo

The NPB baseball season typically starts in late March or early April and concludes with playoffs in October (as with the MLB, exact opening dates and playoff dates change from one season to the next). Games occur almost every day, but most teams take Mondays off. There are a total of 146 games per year.

As with American baseball games, the most exciting contests typically occur at the beginning and end of the season, but Japanese crowds make the game fun even in the dog days of summer. You can grab a ticket any time and enjoy the experience. However, if you’re buying tickets to a big game — such as opening day, or any playoff game — you’ll want to buy as early as possible. Fortunately, that’s a fairly easy process.

A baseball game in Tokyo, Japan — mxmstryo / Flickr

How To Get Tickets For A Baseball Game In Tokyo

While you can buy your tickets at the stadium, sellouts aren’t unheard of. All NPB teams have English websites, although some have significant translation issues. We purchased tickets on the Tokyo Yakult Swallows website, which wasn’t exactly a straightforward process; however, if you’re patient enough to read carefully, you won’t have a problem.

Per an email we received after making the purchase, we’d have received a full refund if our game had been rained out. We picked up our tickets from will call without issue; the ticket attendants asked for our names, and we were on our way into the stadium.

If you have trouble with team websites, you can use a third-party site that caters to Westerners. Sites like Voyagin feature a more streamlined ordering process, but if you use them, be prepared to pay more for your tickets.

If you’d prefer to wait, you can usually buy tickets at the gate, particularly if you’re seeing the Swallows (we’re told the Yomiuri Giants sell out more frequently). As a last resort, you can always get tickets from scalpers (yes, scalpers exist in Japan), but of course, you’ll pay for the privilege.

A word of warning: NPB stadiums have dedicated sections for visiting fans. If you’re planning on rooting for a particular team, make sure you’re sitting in the right section. Otherwise, you might find yourself decked out in Yomiuri Giants gear while sitting next to dozens of unimpressed BayStars fans.

What To Expect From A Baseball Game In Tokyo

The experience of watching a baseball game in Japan is substantially different from the experience of watching an American game. Generally speaking, Japanese baseball games move faster; tie games can occur, except under special circumstances in the playoffs, and game lengths are usually limited to 12 innings. That being said, it’s still baseball, and baseball is a fairly slow game, so expect to spend 3 or 4 hours at the ballpark.

In general, we found Japanese fans to be more attentive than their American counterparts; we didn’t see a single person gazing at a phone when teams had scoring opportunities, and all of the fans in our section seemed invested in every at-bat. By the end of the game, we were cheering loudly for our team — and we still look for Swallows highlights on YouTube on occasion.

In Japan, there’s an emphasis on fan safety that might seem unusual to Westerners. Large nettings cover most areas where fans sit, protecting against hard-hit foul balls. When a pop-up heads toward the stands, you might hear a loud whistle, which warns you to watch out.

A typical baseball game in Tokyo, Japan — John Krane

Food And Beverage Options At Tokyo Baseball Stadiums

Just as you’d find a variety of food options in a modern MLB stadium, you’ll have no shortage of options at an NPB game. American classics like hot dogs and burgers are available, along with bento boxes filled with sushi and other traditional Japanese fare. The food attendants are polite, and they deal with foreigners regularly; if you don’t know the Japanese word for an item, you can simply point at a picture on the menu.

As in the United States, food and drinks are significantly more expensive once you’re inside the ballpark. However, many stadiums will allow you to bring food and drinks — including alcoholic beverages — into the park. You’ll have to transfer alcoholic drinks into paper cups at the gate (the park staff will give you some direction here).

Most stadiums will also allow visitors to bring one or two snacks, so if you’re hoping to save money, stock up on your way in. If you don’t bring your own stuff, don’t worry. Concession attendants (typically young women) walk the park, offering beer, soda, and other treats. When paying, don’t tip them, since it isn’t customary in Japan.

If you have dietary restrictions, we recommend carrying a card that explains your needs. JustHungry offers a variety of free printable cards here.

Traditions At Tokyo Baseball Games

All NPB teams have special team songs, and in some cases, several songs. The fans around you will start singing occasionally. Don’t worry if you don’t know Japanese — you won’t feel out of place if you simply clap along and cheer at the end of the tune.

Other celebrations help to enhance the experience. Tokyo Swallows fans are famous for their umbrella dance, performed after their team scores a run. It’s something to behold, particularly for Western baseball fans who aren’t used to large choreographed celebrations (other than the Wave).

Some teams also release balloons called jet fusen during the seventh-inning stretch. This tradition makes for a colorful display — imagine 40,000 balloons drifting into the open air all at once — but it’s gradually falling out of fashion in Japan due to health concerns. Nevertheless, if you see the people in your section pulling out balloons, get your camera ready.

Because Japanese fans are typically very invested in their teams, it’s a good idea to pick up some team gear on your way into the ballpark. You’ll find stores selling merchandise outside every stadium, and you can pick up a cap for $20.

Whether you’re traveling alone or with family, a Tokyo baseball game makes for a memorable excursion. Go with an open mind and allow yourself to let loose; you’ll learn a bit about modern Japanese culture, enjoy some great comfort food, and maybe even learn a song or two (if you can track down the English lyrics). You’ll certainly leave with a new appreciation for one of Japan’s most popular sports.

Photo Credit: Cao Luning / Shutterstock

8 Gorgeous Glamping Spots Near Yosemite National Park

Luxury camping isn’t usually the first thing that comes to mind when planning a trip to Yosemite National Park. Travelers typically envision pitching a tent, snuggling up in a sleeping bag, and sleeping soundly within the wilderness of one of America’s most cherished natural landscapes.

While idyllic in theory, the reality of roughing it in the outdoors (bugs and all!) isn’t for everyone. Many travelers (myself included!) crave those essential creature comforts — a mattress, a shower, electricity — after a long day of hiking, exploring, and sightseeing. Should you just book a hotel room near Yosemite, and accept the fact that you’ll miss out on some in-park stargazing?

No way. While still few and far between (hey, this is a rustic destination, after all!), a small number of glamping sites around Yosemite National Park have popped up, inviting visitors to completely immerse themselves in the wonders of the wilderness — no need to sacrifice the comforts of home. And with some options that allow travelers to stay in truly unique accommodations (think: a vintage train caboose or a covered wagon straight out of the Wild West!), glamping near this incredible park becomes a bucket list experience in its own right.

Here are eight gorgeous glamping spots near Yosemite National Park.

Vintage Santa Fe Caboose

This glamping spot near Yosemite National Park puts a new spin on the “sleeper train” concept. Whereas you typically book a berth on a train to catch a few z’s en route to a destination, this luxury camping site in Oakhurst, California (just 20 minutes from the park entrance!) is the permanent station for this vintage caboose.

The two-story rental comfortably sleeps up to four people, and includes modern amenities like a coffee maker, satellite TV with a DVD player, air conditioning, fresh towels and linens, plus a fridge, microwave, and even a hairdryer. In true glamping fashion, the caboose also features a 300-square-foot deck (perfect for barbecuing!) and a jacuzzi — just the way to wind down and soothe sore feet after hiking through Yosemite. Bliss!

AutoCamp Yosemite

Glamping start-up AutoCamp is taking luxury camping around Yosemite to the next level with its brand new property in Mariposa County. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, this glamping park tempts travelers with a variety of accommodations, each with its own charms. AutoCamp Yosemite’s 80 Airstream trailers feature sleek, minimalist designs with spa-inspired bathrooms, plush linens atop queen-size beds, convertible sofas, private decks, and fire pits.

Looking for something a little closer to traditional camping? Book one of AutoCamp’s luxury tents, which are every bit as gorgeous as the Airstream trailers, just a bit more outdoorsy. And if you like more structure, try the classic cabin suites (vintage A-frame cabins decked out with modern interiors and furnishings) or the X Suite — a fully accessible cabin studio with a trellised deck, galley kitchen, and patio.

No matter where you stay, you’ll have access to the mid-century modern clubhouse (with complimentary coffee and tea) and heated pool.

Yosemite Pines RV Resort

Glamping near Yosemite National Park gets the Old West treatment at Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging, where you can stay in an 18th century-style covered wagon. Unlike the original covered wagons that early Americans used to forge their way out West, these wagons (which sleep four or six people) feature air conditioning, heat, a fridge, a microwave, and king-size beds.

Each wagon also has its own adjacent picnic table and barbecue. If you’re looking for something slightly less antique (but just as fun), Yosemite Pines RV Resort has also converted a number of vintage Airstream trailers into luxury camping accommodations. Just the sight of them will induce some serious nostalgia for old-school family vacations.

Half Dome Village

If you’d like to stay at Half Dome Village, you better plan ahead — accommodations at the largest lodging facility in Yosemite Valley sell out 10 to 12 months in advance. Opened in 1899, the facility now features 70 cabins (some of which have private bathrooms), 18 standard motel rooms, and more than 300 canvas tent cabins for people who want an elevated camping experience just below glorious Glacier Point.

The property’s amenities make it a major draw for travelers. Splash in the outdoor swimming pool in the warmer months, or glide around the ice skating rink in wintertime. There’s also a pizza parlor, cafe, dining pavilion, and a bar where you can enjoy a nightcap with your fellow campers.

Ambitious hikers at Half Dome Village should take advantage of the property’s easy access to the famous Half Dome Trail, one of Yosemite’s “quintessential attractions” that covers over 17 miles and 4,800 feet of elevation. The views at the top make it worth every step of this rigorous trail.

Gorgeous Yurt

Glamping near Yosemite National Park finds its romantic side in this gorgeous yurt in Oakhurst, California. Located in a woody landscape in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the secluded rental gives travelers the opportunity to sleep in an architecturally interesting space, complete with curved walls and radial rafters.

Each morning, you’ll wake up in a queen-size bed to watch the sun rise over the treetops and snow-capped mountains. You can also curl up on the sofas and armchairs in the lounge area, or snuggle up with your sweetheart near the wood-burning fireplace. From the spacious front porch, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife during the day and shooting stars in the evening.

Don’t forget your marshmallows and chocolate — the yurt’s fire pit is the perfect place to roast some s’mores.

Yosemite RV Resort

Does your dream luxury camping experience near Yosemite National Park involve a country cottage or rustic cabin? If so, look no further than Yosemite RV Resort in Coarsegold, California. The 35-acre property, with majestic oaks, roaring waterfalls, and rolling hills, offers quaint accommodations that make the most of nature.

The resort’s Mountain Cabins and RVC Resort Cottages have kitchenettes, comfy beds, and loft spaces that give them a treehouse-like feel. Larger groups will feel right at home in the Summit Cabins, which sleep up to five people in a small house that looks like it was plucked from a sleep-away camp. The Cozy Cabins, on the other hand, are the ideal glamping option for a weekend getaway for two, with kitchenettes, queen-size beds, and private bathrooms.

With free Wi-Fi throughout the resort and an on-call concierge, you can be as tuned in to (or disconnected from!) the rest of the world as you wish.

Sophisticated A-Frame Cabins Above Bass Lake

Glamping around Yosemite National Park doesn’t get more sophisticated than it is at this pair of A-frame cabins above Bass Lake. With the appearance that they were built atop a stack of firewood, these beautiful structures feature high ceilings, floating staircases, and sun-drenched living spaces.

The 16-foot windows offer some of the best stargazing opportunities in the area. Plus, you’ll have access to 20 private acres of land to explore, spot animals, or lay out a picnic — it’s like your own private Yosemite, sans the crowds. Talk about luxury!

Rustic Retreat At The Redwoods In Yosemite

For some, luxury camping doesn’t involve anything that remotely resembles a tent. Enter the Rustic Retreat vacation rental at the Redwoods in Yosemite. The Platinum-rated, three-bedroom, three-bathroom cabin sleeps up to 10 guests and has tons of luxurious amenities that give other glamping spots near Yosemite a run for their money.

Heated tile floors in the kitchen and three private bathrooms mean you’ll always have toasty toes, and the stone fireplace in the living room is the perfect place to sip hot cocoa or a glass of wine after a day at Yosemite. Plus, the 2,068-square-foot space has Wi-Fi, a washer and dryer, and even a jacuzzi hot tub. You’ll feel like royalty every moment of your stay.

Need more glamping inspiration? Check out the top five places to glamp worldwide.

As of June 11, 2020, visitors need a day-use reservation in order to enter Yosemite. For more information about park guidelines, check out our full list of national parks requiring changes for visitors.

Photo Credit: The Redwoods in Yosemite

Photo Credit: Frode Bjorshol / Flickr

How To Visit Buckingham Palace

“Pussycat, pussycat, where have you been? I’ve been to London to look at the queen!” These are the starting words of a traditional children’s nursery rhyme. And it’s not only nursery-rhyme cats interested in attractions associated with the royal family.

Buckingham Palace, the King’s official London residence and the administrative headquarters of the British monarchy, is one of London’s top 10 attractions according to Visit London. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard, tour the State Rooms, visit the Royal Mews, see changing art exhibitions, or simply enjoy views of Buckingham Palace and the Queen Victoria Monument from adjoining Green Park.

Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence of British sovereigns since 1837 when Queen Victoria made it her home. But the property’s Royal Family history goes back to 1761 when George III bought Buckingham House for his wife Queen Charlotte.

Where Is Buckingham Palace?

Buckingham Palace sits at the intersection of The Mall, Constitution Hill, and Spur Road off Birdcage Walk in the City of Westminster in central London. The Palace is surrounded by gardens and green space on three sides. St. James’s Park sits on the east side and Green Park on the north side. Royal gardens run behind the Palace to the west. A number of London tourist attractions, including Westminster Abbey, the Churchill War Rooms, and Trafalgar Square, lie within a one-mile radius of the palace.

The Wellington Arch, a large stone archway flanked with Corinthian columns and topped with the largest bronze sculpture in Europe, sits at the western end of Constitution Hill at Hyde Park Corner. Originally built as the outer entrance to Buckingham Palace, the arch was moved to its current location in the 1880s. You can purchase tickets to get inside the arch, where rooms over five stories house historical exhibitions and balconies offer views of Buckingham Palace’s back gardens and London’s Royal Parks.

View along The Mall in front of Buckingham Palace. — s4svisuals / Shutterstock

How To Get To Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace’s central location is easily reached by the Underground, by train, and by coach/bus.

How To Get To Buckingham Palace By Subway

London’s subway system, known as the London Underground or by its nickname, the Tube, is fast and efficient. The nearest Underground stops to Buckingham Palace are Victoria, Green Park, St. James’s Park, and Hyde Park Corner.

It’s roughly an 11-minute walk to Buckingham Palace from Victoria Station, an 8-minute walk from Green Park Station or St. James’s Park Station, and a 12-minute walk from Hyde Park Corner Station.

How To Get To Buckingham Palace By Train

The National Rail System is a passenger train network connecting London with the rest of the country. You might use this system to get to Buckingham Palace if you are coming from outside of the Greater London area serviced by the Underground. London Victoria and Charing Cross Station are the nearest train stations to Buckingham Palace.

How To Get To Buckingham Palace By Coach Or Bus

Bus numbers 11, 211, C1 and C10 stop on Buckingham Palace Road. Victoria Coach Station is a 10-minute walk from the Palace. Use Transport for London’s Plan a Journey page to determine which bus to take from your starting location.

Buckingham Palace is also a stop on some hop-on, hop-off tourist buses.

The Queen's Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace. — Ink Drop / Shutterstock

When Is The Best Time To Visit Buckingham Palace?

If you want to get inside Buckingham Palace, summer is the best time to visit. Although the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace are open to visitors for a few selected dates in winter and spring, the primary touring time is in summer.

Summer also offers the best weather for viewing the Changing of the Guard. Of course, summer is the busiest tourist season and you will be jostling amongst a crowd for the best views. Bundle up or pack a poncho, and you can see the Changing of the Guard throughout the year.

The Royal Mews is open February through November. Guided tours are offered between April and October. The Royal Mews is responsible for all the road travel arrangements for the King and the Royal Family. Inside you’ll find historic carriages, a stable of horses, and livery worn by the King’s horsemen. Note that the Royal Mews are part of a working royal palace and closures sometimes happen at short notice.

The Queen’s Gallery is a public art gallery that features changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection featuring old master paintings, rare furniture, decorative arts, and photographic images. The Queen’s Gallery is open year-round.

The changing of the guard outside Buckingham Palace. — cowardlion / Shutterstock

When Is The Changing Of The Guard?

The Changing of the Guard is a ceremony in which the King’s Guards, clad in scarlet uniforms and bearskin caps, hand off responsibility for protecting Buckingham Palace. The guards are Foot Guards, or highly trained infantry soldiers.

The ceremony, which is free to watch, takes place on the forecourt of Buckingham Palace. Formation of the guards in preparation for the ceremony begins around 10:30 a.m. when the Buckingham Palace Old Guard lines up for inspection, the St. James Old Guard begins its march down The Mall, and the New Guard forms on the parade square at Wellington Barracks. Guards and bands start arriving at Buckingham Palace at 10:45 a.m. The actual handover, when the New Guard enters the forecourt via the North Gate and receives the Palace Keys, occurs at 11 a.m. sharp. This is followed by marches of the Old and New Guards. The ceremony takes approximately 45 minutes. Musical accompaniment is provided by a regimental band or corps of drums.

The Changing of the Guard is popular. It is recommended you arrive before 10:15 a.m. to get a good viewing spot. The Buckingham Palace railings are a good spot with visibility of the entire forecourt ceremony, but you need to arrive very early to situate yourself here.

The elevated position of the steps of the Victoria Monument also provides a reasonable view. Spur Road on the left facing Buckingham Palace is a good place to see the New Guard and Band marching up Birdcage Walk. Remember to “make way for the King’s Guard!” and not stand in the way of the Foot Guards.

Although the Changing of the Guard occurs several times a week, it is not scheduled everyday. Check the Changing of the Guard schedule before you plan your visit.

The White Drawing Room inside Buckingham Palace. — Royal Collection Trust

How To Tour The Inside of Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace has 775 rooms, including 240 Royal, guest, and staff bedrooms, 92 offices, 78 bathrooms, and 19 State rooms. The State Rooms inside Buckingham Palace are open to visitors for 10 weeks each summer and on selected dates during winter and spring. The King’s private living spaces are not open to the public.

The State Rooms are the public rooms in the palace where the King and members of the Royal Family receive and entertain guests on ceremonial and official occasions. Rooms you will tour after entering via the opulent, red-carpeted Grand Staircase include the White Drawing Room, the Throne Room, the Ballroom, and the Picture Gallery.

Each year the Royal Collection Trust, the organization that manages public openings of the official residences of His Majesty the King, curates a special exhibit for the summer opening at Buckingham Palace. In 2019, Queen Victoria’s Palace held an exhibition to honor the 200th anniversary of Queen Victoria’s birth, telling the story of how the young queen transformed Buckingham Palace from a private house into a working royal residence.

You need to purchase tickets for the State Rooms tour in advance. Tickets can be booked online. Arrive at least 10 minutes before your entry time. You will go through airport-style security. Complimentary multimedia guides are provided. Photographs are not allowed. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a fair bit of walking involved. The Royal Collection Trust recommends you allow up to 2 hours and 30 minutes for your State Rooms tour. One of the available ticketing options allows you to add a 45-minute guided tour of Buckingham Palace Gardens to your State Rooms visit.

King Charles, House of Lords Chamber in London.
Photo credit: Salma Bashir Motiwala / Shutterstock.com

Can I See The King At Buckingham Palace?

The nursery-rhyme cat may have had a look at the queen, but you are unlikely to see the now King when you visit Buckingham Palace. State Room tours are scheduled when the King is not in residence. When the King is at home at Buckingham Palace, you’ll see his flag, the Royal Standard, flying from the flagpole on top of the palace.

If your visit to London coincides with a Royal Wedding or a special event of national significance, you may be able to get a glimpse of the King on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, where he and Royal Family members gather to wave to crowds below.

Your best bet for getting a look at the King may actually be away from Buckingham Palace at one of the functions he attends. The Royal Diary on the Royal Family website contains a list of engagements to be attended by His Royal Majesty and other Royal Family members.

Two annual events offer opportunities to see the King. For the State Opening of Parliament in May, the King travels from Buckingham Palace to the Palace of Westminster in a State coach escorted by the Household Cavalry.

Headed to the UK? Here’s why Oxford is well worth visiting on your next trip to England.

Photo Credit: HiStockPhoto / Shutterstock

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