This weekend, two female travelers were caught on video threading through active Paris street protests in France with their luggage in tow, seemingly undeterred that they strolled through a riot. Others also seemed determined not to miss out on their vacation in France. Read on for more details.

Ignoring Travel Warnings?

On October 6, Travel News Paths reported that folks visiting France should be aware that the riots, which started with student protests, had spread across various cities in France. The outlet suggested that “If you encounter police activity, demonstrations, or large crowds, it’s best to move away from the area.”

Well, travel warnings don’t always land very well with travelers, and clearly there are folks out there who don’t worry too much about them. Some folks initially questioned whether the tourists walking the streets were locals or visitors.

Casually Dining Out

The Guardian reported on a couple who “were seen enjoying a drink near the Arc de Triomphe on Saturday, close to where some of the main rioting took place in central Paris.”

Notably, “Flames from a burning bin could be seen in the background as the pair dined on a cafe terrace.” But with the two women walking through the streets dragging their suitcases they were apparently visitors.

The Two Women

L’Est Républicain described them as “deux touristes en vacances à Paris.” Essentially, they were visiting Paris and found themselves dragging their suitcases through the middle of the October 17 demonstrations while apparently trying to find their way.

Obviously, it’s not a great idea wandering through social unrest especially as they seem to be escalating. Still, what is a girl to do? Have ticket, will travel, it seems.

When @PBDPodcast, hosted by Patrick Bet-David, shared the video of the women strolling around the streets, plenty of folks were able to weigh in with their thoughts.

One of them wrote, “…brother was there at the beginning of the riots and he said it was scary as a MF.”

Here are a few more observations by viewers:

• “I’m not sure they’re enjoying themselves.”
• “Situational awareness of a pair of chairs.”
• “It looks like they got wrapped up in the chaos! And trying to get away is what it looks like.”
• “That can’t be real! You think we’re stupid…”

The Riots Are Real

Unfortunately, it is very real. France has been gripped by riots since mid-September when a walkout over underfunded education at Lycée Saint-Exupéry in Créteil escalated into a widespread French political crisis, marked by riots, looting, and violent standoffs with law enforcement.

CBC confirmed that “The confrontations left parts of Paris looking like a war zone.”

Your thoughts on the two women wandering the streets in Paris, France while a riot went on around them? Join the discussion and then come back for more travel news and updates.

The post Paris, France: Tourists Drag Suitcases Through Protests Unfazed By Chaos appeared first on Tourist Meets Traveler.

New York Crawling spent nearly a decade billing its Revolutionary Pub Crawl in Lower Manhattan as one of the finest experiences in the city. However, according to the official New York Crawling website, a banner across the page reads simply that they are currently “closed and hoping to reopen soon.” But that doesn’t mean there are no other options.

The Original Tour and Its Closure

Historically, the tours began at the corner of Broad and Pearl Streets, and folks visited four historic taverns while guides shared interesting facts about life in that era. The stories covered George Washington’s 1783 farewell to his officers, secret spy networks, the Sons of Liberty, and the fallout of the Birch Trials.

The craft beer that came with the tours found tons of excellent reviews on TripAdvisor, but it’s thought that the pandemic led to the disappearance of this particular organized tour. However,  if you’re in Manhattan, there’s no reason why you can’t do it yourself.

Starting at Fraunces Tavern

There are old taverns in Lower Manhattan that remain open to  the public, and the best place to start is at Fraunces Tavern at 54 Pearl Street.

According to the Fraunces Tavern Museum historical archives, the tavern was opened in 1762 by Samuel Fraunces as the Queen’s Head Tavern, and the building is recognized today as the oldest surviving structure in Manhattan.

The Sons of Liberty used to meet there in secret, and the tavern also hosted the Evacuation Day Banquet after the British left New York. Later, Washington said an emotional goodbye to his officers in the upstairs Long Room.

The Fraunces Tavern Museum is on the upper floors, and you can go there in the afternoons. It’s an opportunity to explore the Long Room, check out early American artifacts, and view the George Washington portrait collection. Guided tours are available on Friday through Sunday afternoons.

If you’re tired and need a break after that, you can visit the ground-floor restaurant and pub, which serves food and drinks late into the evening.

Exploring Historic Stone Street

Just around the corner from Pearl Street lies Stone Street, and per  the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission, it was Manhattan’s first paved roadway and is preserved today as a historic pedestrian-only district. Seven bars and eateries line the narrow street, with outdoor tables on the cobblestones in warmer months.

Ulysses’ Folk House is found near the eastern end of the block, and was the first venue to open during Stone Street’s modern revival. It’s well-known for its extensive draught list and oyster bar.

Further down the block, Stone Street Tavern is situated  in a nineteenth-century Greek Revival counting house which has a Dutch-style gable, while Beckett’s Bar and Grill occupies a structure that traces its roots back to the 1600s. The Dubliner sits on the Hanover Square side and is a traditional Irish pub close to India House.

The Dead Rabbit

End your DIY tour at The Dead Rabbit, which you can find at 30 Water Street. It’s a multi-story Irish taproom in the Fraunces Tavern Block Historic District. There, you’ll find vintage nineteenth-century recipes and Irish coffee.

You can usually do the walk in about an hour and a half to two and a half hours. Of course, that depends on how much time you spend at each stop. It’s only about a third of a mile altogether, but wear comfortable shoes because some of the cobblestones are uneven.

Getting There & More Info

Getting to the neighborhood is straightforward using the New York City Subway, with options including the 4 or 5 train to Bowling Green, the 2 or 3 train to Wall Street, the J or Z train to Broad Street, or the 1 train to South Ferry.

If you’d rather listen to someone explain the history as you walk, there are a few options. VoiceMap has a GPS-guided audio tour that takes you from Bowling Green to Stone Street, covering some of Manhattan’s early history. Alternatively, Free Tours By Foot and Frommer’s have walking directions you can follow through the Financial District.

The Revolutionary secrets, early architecture, and historic watering holes of Lower Manhattan are still waiting for you, so next time you visit Manhattan, why not set aside an afternoon for an interesting walk and a pint?

Join the discussion, and then come back for all your travel news and updates.

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Viking has announced that the company has taken delivery of the Viking Rota, their newest Viking Longship. The 190-guest Viking Rota joins its award-winning, growing fleet of state-of-the-art sister ships and will set sail on Viking’s popular Rhine, Main and Danube river itineraries.

Leah Talactac is Viking’s President and Chief Executive Officer

“The delivery of the Viking Rota marks another milestone for our award-winning river fleet,” said Leah Talactac, President and Chief Executive Officer of Viking.

“As interest in river travel continues to grow, we remain focused on creating more opportunities for curious travelers to explore the world in Viking comfort. We look forward to welcoming guests on board this elegant new river vessel.”

The Viking Rota

The Viking Rota hosts 190 guests in 95 staterooms that feature the cruise company’s distinct Scandinavian design plus the industry-leading innovations for which Viking is known.

These elevated comforts include the patented square bow that enables the company to incorporate three full decks. Also included is Viking’s well-known indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace and its proprietary asymmetric corridor layout.

Viking’s Award Winning Scandinavian Design

Viking’s asymmetric corridor layout is the apex of beautiful design paired with peak functionality. This unique design allows for true two-room suites for maximum comfort and utility.

Viking’s 2028–2029 Ocean Voyages Include Two New Ocean Itineraries and Ships

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The Viking Rota’ s Itineraries

The Viking Rota will sail some of the cruise line’s most popular itineraries including the Rhine Getaway, the Grand European Tour, Danube Waltz, Tulips & Windmills, Christmas on the Rhine and Danube Christmas Delights.

Viking Leads the Way

Viking provides all guests a variety of materials to plan and anticipate their journey, from filmographies that inspire wanderlust to recommended reading that informs and enlightens.

All Viking guests are able to participate in onboard activities that are designed for enrichment and renewal, including lectures on history and art, cooking demonstrations of regional favorites, and menus offering regional cuisine and more.

Additionally, depending on the shop’s itinerary, guests might accompany the ship’s chef to a local market, go behind the scenes at a famous theater company, tour a private chocolate or car factory, or view a museum’s private collection.

All Viking ships sailing a European itinerary offer free Wi-Fi and guests may use a personal device or one of the ship’s computers. Viking ensures that guests receive the best possible solution for river cruising via the use of a cellular or satellite terminal.

Be sure to catch up on everything happening with Viking Travel. Come back here often for Viking Travel news and updates.

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Xinjiang isn’t just a quiet corner of Northwestern China anymore. In recent years, the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region became a destination for international travelers looking for stunning landscapes. Read on to find out why it’s worth adding to your bucket list.

Geared For Tourism

The biggest problem in years gone by was the fact that it was logistically hard to visit the area, and the distances are no laughing matter. But the area is better geared up for tourists now, and it has the advantage of being relatively safe to visit.

You only need a standard Chinese visa and passport to get in and no special permit is needed for major places like Urumqi, Kashgar, or Turpan, so it’s become easier for folks to visit.

You can fly into Urumqi Tianshan International Airport, or you can take the  Lanzhou-Xinjiang High-Speed Railway from major Chinese cities. However, travelers should anticpate high prices for inter-city flights.

Importantly, you should always carry your passport with you because there are checkpoints and roadblocks where officials will want to see your identification.

The Silk Road

The old history still pulls people in, but the experience of traveling there  got a  lot easier. As Far West China points out, you don’t need special travel permits for basic travel in major cities, but “if you want to travel to sensitive border areas, you will need to get an Alien’s Travel Permit.”

A border permit is needed for other frontier zones like Tashkurgan and the Pamir Plateau. If that sounds daunting, most travel agencies can arrange those for you.

You also need to book hotels in advance because not all accommodation accepts folks with foreign passports.

In a YouTube video titled “Xinjiang: The UNREAL Side of China You Never Knew Existed,” Eureka Travel Explorer noted that “for many travelers it remains one of the least familiar parts of China.”

In the video, they reminded folks that the history of the place is fascinating: “More than 2,000 years ago the Silk Road crossed this extraordinary landscape.”

The channel explained that the Panlong Ancient Road “is only 36 km long but it has more than 600 bends.” The narrator also added that “from above the road coils across the mountains like a black dragon.”

Interesting Features

Xinjiang gives you more than the old Silk Road and ancient cities because of the many unique geological features.

Northern Xinjiang is best for nature and it has alpine lakes like Kanas and Sayram Lake, grasslands, and pine forests. Peak seasons there run from June to September.

The travel blog also shared that Sayram Lake sits “at more than 2,000 meters above sea level” and “has an unusual feature” because “no river flows out of it.”

Southern Xinjiang is great for people who enjoy the cultural aspects of travel. There’s the Uyghur heritage, for a start. Then you can also travel the Karakoram Highway, and grab some Instagram-worthy pics of the desert landscapes.

China Xian Tour wrote, “Due to its scattered attractions and uniqueness and diversities in climate, culture, religion and traditions, planning ahead and learning some insider tips seems so necessary to enhance your Xinjiang travel experience.”

In Turpan, you’ll be wanting some light clothing as it gets really hot during the day, but you will need a jacket as well because it gets very chilly once the sun sets.

New Places To Explore

Many travelers like looking beyond the usual old routes through Europe, and the idea of visiting a place like Xinjiang becomes more attractive.

Have you ever been to Xinjiang? Let us know in the comments below, and then come back for more travel news and updates.

The post Why Xinjiang, China Is Worth Adding To Your Travel Bucket List appeared first on Tourist Meets Traveler.

Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe is bordered by huge areas of protected land, and the Tashinga camp on the southern shore is becoming increasingly popular. The stunning wilderness area struggled with a decline in wildlife, but more recently, Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZPWMA) teamed up with African Parks.

There is not just an improvement in the protection of the animals and environment, but also renewed interest in accommodation facilities.

Getting There

Recently, we caught up with Melinda Wolvaardt and her family, who visited Tashinga in August. Their experience exceeded their expectations when it came to activities and accommodation options offered by the Matusadona Conservation Trust.

The park sits on the edge of the Ume River estuary. Getting there comes with several options. From the town of Kariba on the northern shore, visitors can travel directly to Tashinga by boat. For those with a bigger budget, there is also an airstrip at Tashinga for private and charter aircraft.

Taking A Road Trip

For those traveling by road from Harare as Melinda’s family did, it’s an adventure in its own right. Melinda’s family used a 4×4, which is essential because the road isn’t in good condition. She noted that in places, “the road is very sandy.” 

They took the recommended route via the road to Kariba/Chirundu, with roadside stops available at Lion’s Den and near Karoi. Top up your fuel before you turn off the main road. Look out for the Magunje-Binga turnoff, which takes you to the Chifudze Gate at the park.

Prepare for approximately ten hours on the road from Harare to Tashinga, including about three hours between Chifudze Gate and the camp.

It is important to carry a phone and have access to GPS. If you are not traveling in convoy, spare tyres, a toolbox and someone with basic mechanical skills could prove invaluable. The Coordinates are -16.813071, 28.446178.

Accommodation Options

Accommodation options listed by Heartveld Adventures range from ordinary camping and hired tents to self-catering cottages and the more luxurious Albida Camp.

Basic furnishings are available in the hired tents, while the cottages and Albida Camp provide more facilities. However, visitors should take their food and other essential supplies with them.

You can see the full range of options on the website.

Melinda opted for a small unit that came with two beds and options for extra bedding for a child. It was situated in the Mopane/Mahogany area. They had some privacy because of the space between camps, but what struck them was that the price was affordable for her, her husband, and their six-year-old daughter.

Wildlife and Activities

It should be noted that the camp is unfenced, and young children should be supervised at all times. The unit has a separate kitchenette equipped with everything visitors might need for self-catering.

Animals wander freely through the unfenced camp, so it is important to keep doors and windows closed when the accommodation is unattended.

Melinda also advised visitors not to bring citrus fruit into the camp because elephants are particularly fond of it.

The park offers boat rides, fishing opportunities and guided game drives for visitors who do not have their own vehicles. As they wanted time to relax, Melinda’s family took advantage of these options and also went on guided walks.

All in all, their feedback was that a stay at Tashinga Camp is definitely worth putting on your bucket list.

For bookings, you can visit the Matusadona website, email reservations.matusadona@africanparks.org, or call/WhatsApp Zimbabwe on +263 78 677 4616.

Remember to come back here often for all your travel news and updates.

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Viking has announced the delivery of the 190-guest Viking Dagur, the company’s newest Viking Longship. The Viking Dagur was built at Meyer’s Neptun Werft shipyard in Rostock-Warnemünde, Germany and joins the company’s growing fleet of cutting-edge sister ships.

Guests aboard the Viking Dagur will set sail on Viking’s popular itineraries on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers.

Leah Talactac, is the President and CEO of Viking

Leah Talactac is the President and CEO of Viking and she said “We are proud to welcome the Viking Dagur to our award-winning river fleet.”

“The arrival of our newest river ship marks another important milestone as we continue to expand opportunities for curious travelers to explore the world in Viking comfort.”

Talactac added: “We look forward to welcoming guests on board this elegant new ship as she begins sailing our itineraries in the heart of Europe.”

Viking’s 2028–2029 Ocean Voyages Include Two New Ocean Itineraries and Ships

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The Viking Dagur

The Viking Dagur features the sleek and elegant Scandinavian design for which Viking is known and is complete with industry-leading innovations.

These include Viking’s patented square bow that enables three full decks, as well as its legendary indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace.
The Viking Dagur enjoys the company’s proprietary asymmetric corridor layout that allows for true two-room suites and hosts 190 guests in 95 staterooms.

The Viking Dagur will sail some of the company’s most popular itineraries including Rhine Getaway, Paris to the Swiss Alps, Christmas on the Rhine and Christmas on the Rhine & Moselle.

The Viking Dagur is Added to Viking’s Growing Fleet

Viking continues to be a global leader in experiential travel and as such remains on its well-defined, long-term growth plans and strategy.

Based on the award winning company’s committed orderbook, Viking expects to take delivery of 21 additional river ships by 2028. They anticipate adding nine additional ocean ships by 2031 and two additional expedition ships by 2031.

The current orders ensure that Viking will have 114 river ships in 2028 and 26 ocean and expedition ships in 2031.

Viking was founded in 1997 with the belief that travel could be more destination-focused and culturally immersive. With a clear focus on creating experiences For The Thinking Person, Viking does not try to be all things to all people.

Their elevated approach resonates with guests and the company has received more than 450 awards to date.

Be sure to catch up on everything happening with Viking Travel. Come back here often for Viking Travel news and updates.

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Switzerland is well known for stunning mountain scenery, and the Glacier Express is famous for delivering a wonderful railway experience between St. Moritz and Zermatt. Is it still worth putting in your 2026 itinerary?

A Travel Review

ST Travel on YouTube has nearly half a million followers, and their followers always seem to enjoy their reviews. This past weekend, the channel shared a video about a trip they did from St. Moritz to Andermatt in 1st Class on the Glacier Express, Switzerland’s luxurious scenic train.

The vlog explained that they first spent a night at a luxury hotel before their trip started.  They opted for the 1st-class carriage, which came with wines and a two-course meal.

A Nice Looking Train

They arrived at St. Moritz and the initial impression seemed to be very good. The narrator noted: “The carriages are striking with their red and white colors. There is one service carriage, two 1st-class carriages,” and others that made it a total of six carriages, plus the electric locomotive at the front.

However, they also noted that there wasn’t much in the way of anything to buy at the station. So they recommended that you do some shopping before you arrive there.

Of course, being experienced travelers, they checked out the bathroom facilities, and decided that the presence of toilet paper indicated they could use the toilets safely.

A Slow Meander

The train might be called the Glacier Express, but that doesn’t mean travelers tear through the countryside at great speed. The video showed that after just ten minutes they stopped at Samedan.

The area is lined with golf courses and lots of beautiful scenery. But after they departed, the ticket checks started. And then a menu was handed out.

Notably, apart from wines, there is also a non-alcoholic version available, as well as a selection of hot teas and coffees.

Dramatic Scenery

The journey produced a series of beautiful viaducts and spiral tunnels. Attractive snowscapes also passed by as the journey progressed. They continued along this mountain route, known for its advanced civil engineering.

In some places, the mountainside was so steep that a few thoughts about derailing briefly unsettled them.

The most noteworthy breath-holding moment came when they crossed the Landwasser Viaduct. But apparently, there have been no accidents on the that part of the line since its opening in 1902.

Fortunately, they passed through the area safely, plotting their progress on a map.

Photos and WiFi

One disadvantage as far as ST Travel was concerned was the fixed panoramic windows that could not open. So getting nice photos seemed a bit difficult.

Then they turned their attention to connecting to WiFi, so you can stay in touch while you travel on the train. They also mentioned it’s worthwhile downloading the app.

Lower Altitudes

There were a few more stops, and the line at Tiefencastel was described as quite busy. But after that, the train started going down to lower altitudes, and the mountain scenery greened up. The trip ended without any glitches, and iverall, it’s still recommended as a wonderful experience.

The complete trip stretches nearly 300 kilometers and takes about eight hours to complete.

Byway reported that the Glacier Express runs throughout most of the year, and there are different seating tiers, so most people can afford to pick an option.

Meanwhile, Travel and Leisure noted that the train does undergo routine maintenance between mid-autumn and early winter.

Bookings are essential, especially over the holidays when seats fill up quickly. Late spring and early autumn are usually the best times to go, as the weather is more comfortable.

You can book your trip on the Glacier Express on this link.

Did you ever experience the famous train ride through Switzerland? Join the discussion and then come back for more travel news and updates.

The post Is Switzerland’s Glacier Express Still Worth Doing in 2026? appeared first on Tourist Meets Traveler.

Viking has announced that its 2028–2029 ocean voyages, spanning 301 ports across 84 countries and six continents, are available for booking.

The 2028-2029 season offers guests more than 700 new departure dates on 80 voyages.

This represents largest ocean deployment to date and it is the first time the new Viking Vega® and the Viking Leda® set sail.

This historic deployment expands Viking’s global offerings with additional departures of the newly debuted Japan Discovery itinerary, two new itineraries—Alaskan Fjords & the Inside Passage and Mediterranean, Malta & North Africa—and more opportunities to explore the world on Viking’s destination-focused voyages.

Leah Talactac is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Viking

Leah Talactac is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Viking and she said “With our largest ocean deployment to date, we are pleased to offer guests even more opportunities to explore the world in Viking comfort.”

“From new itineraries to our two newest ocean ships, this deployment reflects our continued commitment to providing destination-focused voyages for curious travelers.”

Viking’s 2028–2029 Deployment

The company’s 2028–2029 deployment includes itineraries across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Alaska, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, the Caribbean, South America and the Panama Canal.

Viking guests have the opportunity to choose from adventures ranging from eight days to extended World Voyages, with thoughtfully designed itineraries that can be combined for longer, more immersive experiences.

Viking’s Newest Ocean Ship, Viking Mira, Recognized with Prestigious Naming Ceremony in Venice

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Itinerary Highlights Include:

The new Alaskan Fjords & the Inside Passage (15 days; Vancouver – Whittier) is a jaunt through Alaska’s Inside Passage and majestic fjords. As they kayak among pristine coves and hike trails through remote wilderness, guests can watch for soaring eagles, roaming bears and whales.

Along the way Tlingit hosts share charming stories and unique connections to this marvelous land.

The new Mediterranean, Malta & North Africa (16 days; roundtrip Rome) itinerary sails from Rome to historic Valletta as guests discover the epic legacy of the Knights of St. John.

Along the way are eye-catching North African shores with vibrant cultures. In Andalusia, guests view amazing Moorish-inspired architecture including the grand UNESCO-listed Alhambra Palace. Provence and Corsica are highlighted before a return to Rome beneath the sensual glow of the Mediterranean sun.

Viking’s Japan Discovery (15 days; roundtrip Tokyo) is a round-trip adventure from Tokyo, circling Japan and across the Sea of Japan to the southeast tip of the Korean Peninsula.

Ports of call include Niigata, Hakata (Fukuoka), Sapporo and an overnight at Shimizu.

During an overnight stay in Tokyo, Japan’s dynamic capital, where modernity and tradition are intimately connected, guests experience the refined world of geisha arts.

The Viking Vega and the Viking Leda

The Viking Vega and the Viking Leda are scheduled for delivery in 2028 and 2029, respectively. They represent the newest ships in Viking’s award-winning ocean fleet.

All Viking ocean ships are classified as small ships, and the Viking Vega and the Viking Leda have a gross tonnage of 54,300 tons, with 499 staterooms that host 998 guests.

All staterooms offer light-filled public spaces, all-veranda staterooms, elegant Scandinavian design, and abundant al fresco dining options.

Be sure to catch up on everything happening with Viking Travel. Come back here often for Viking Travel news and updates.

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If you love roller coasters, the latest news from Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia, California, might give you pause. Its famous X2 coaster has remained closed for more than a month while California officials investigate a reported incident involving the ride.

What We Know

Emergency crews responded to the park on July 5 after receiving a report of an unconscious person. Six Flags says X2 has been closed since the evening of July 12, although the park has not publicly connected the closure to the earlier emergency or explained why the ride remains unavailable.

Cal/OSHA’s Amusement Ride and Tramway Unit has opened an inspection into the reported incident. The park has not provided an estimated reopening date.

According to NewsNation, Cal/OSHA state inspectors responded to conduct a full review following the incident. Reporting on the ongoing closure, Fox 8 noted that “the park has stated there is no estimated reopening date” while regulatory agencies carry out their investigation.

Meanwhile, news coverage by KTLA 5 on YouTube reported that “fire crews responded to the Valencia theme park after receiving report of an unconscious person,” adding that theme park representatives confirmed “X2 remains closed at this time.”

An Amazing Ride

The X2 roller coaster at Six Flags Magic Mountain is hailed as an amazing ride and a good engineering feat. Per the Ultimate Rollercoaster, it arrived as the first 4th Dimension roller coaster.

It’s certainly a wild ride because it’s not like the usual entertainment that folks experience. The wing-style seats rotate 360 degrees independently on a separate mechanical axis.

That makes people on the ride experience movement in all directions, including being pitched forward, backward, up and down. But it should be noted that some riders have reported feeling disoriented afterward.

Viewers React

Some of the people who admitted they experienced unpleasant sensations commented under the video by KTLA. One of them wrote:

“I love riding roller coasters, and I have ridden many different types in the past. I rode X2 for the first time in May, and it felt a little different because it made me dizzy all day and night. Thank goodness it was the last roller coaster I rode before going home. I don’t think I will be able to get on more rides after X2. I recommend that people think carefully before getting on the X2.”

But plenty of other people seemed irritated that a favorite attraction had been closed for investigation and inspection.

One person felt it seemed a bit unfair, writing, “This is like going sky diving and blaming airplanes for having a heart attack. Over a million people have ridden the ride in the last 25 years.”

Another person with a simialr view opined, “Kind of hard to blame a roller coaster that millions of people have been on without experiencing any medical injuries. I don’t know about this one.”

More people thought it was unfortunate that one person suffered a problem during the experience, but also pointed out that “People really need to be aware of their medical condition/history before riding these intense rides.”

Did you ever go on a wild roller coaster like the X2 at Six Flags Magic Mountain? Did it make you feel a bit disoriented? Join the discussion and then come back here for all your travel news and updates.

The post Six Flags Magic Mountain’s X2 Coaster Closed Amid Cal/OSHA Review appeared first on Tourist Meets Traveler.

September doesn’t always get the attention that July and August do, but seasoned travellers know it has a lot going for it because the frantic summer rush starts winding down across much of the Northern Hemisphere. Then there’s the added advantage that the weather becomes mild while at the same time, many hotels and airlines start lowering their prices.

Perfect Weather

Right now, there’s a heat wave in Europe, especially in France, but the weather in September usally seems much milder, so the extreme heat of August should start fading away. Milder weather means that people can get outside without fear of too much heat, and enjoy exploring the side streets, parks, and bistros.

Further south, spring approaches and that means milder weather in places like South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Argentina. While winters might be considered mild for those who come from northern latitudes, the accommodation isn’t always geared for extreme cold, so it can still feel cold in August.

Prices Drop, Crowds Thin

If you can get away in September, then it might save you quite a lot of cash. That’s because after the summer rush ends, airlines and hotels often lower their prices. In Africa, African Budget Safaris explains that “August crowds thin out, while wildlife remains exceptional, creating one of the best value windows for dry season wildlife in Africa.”

In Europe and the USA, schools have quite long breaks in summer but by September, school normally starts again and parents and kids return home to start the next semester.

That means shorter lines at museums and popular outings, and if you enjoy the quiet of the wilderness, national parks give you a more leisurely approach to enjoying nature.

Wildlife and Festivals

September is also a great time for wildlife watching, and the famous East African wildebeest migration in the Serengeti and Masai Mara attracts a lot of attention because the predators follow the big herds.

WeGuide African Safaris explains that “September is one of the best months to visit Tanzania” and that the dry season makes “wildlife easier to spot in parks like Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara.”

Kenya is also rewarding in September and the wildlife there is always spectacular. Meanwhile, further south, don’t ever overlook Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park or any of the South African protected areas like Kruger National Park.

Wine & Beer

Many travelers think of Oktoberfest in October, but in Germany, Vicky FlipFlop Travels reminds readers that it often starts in September. If you visit Germany, you can also enjoy trips to warm places like Portugal.

It’s also harvest time in many wine regions, like in France and Italy. But if you live stateside, then don’t forget there’s always California’s Napa Valley, with plenty of wine-tasting opportunities.

If you prefer a more exotic destination, Vietnam might fit your budget as well. If you are in Asia, then it’s time for the Mid-Autumn Festival that comes with Instagram-worthy photo opportunities with mooncakes and lanterns.

Top Places to Go

Apart from European destinations like Greece, Italy, and Spain, North America also offers some attractive September destinations like New England and Quebec. If you enjoy the beautiful colors of fall foliage, then either of those states should bring a smile to your face.

So, if you’re looking for great weather, smaller crowds, and better prices, September is a tough month to beat. Have you ever taken advantage of lower prices and quieter destinations in September? Share your experience in the comments below, and come back here for more travel tips, news, and updates.

The post September Is One of the Best Months of the Year to Travel – Why? appeared first on Tourist Meets Traveler.