Las Vegas is not just neon signs and poker tables. It is a city that treats a well-prepared traveller well. These tips will help you stay ahead of the chaos and enjoy the best of Las Vegas.

There are cities, and then there is Las Vegas – a place that feels like someone handed a theme park the keys to a country. It does not just wake you up; it shakes you by the shoulders and hands you a glittery cocktail. Think of a skyline where the Eiffel Tower and a pyramid compete for your attention, fountains that dance better than most wedding guests, and streets that look exactly like what Bollywood would shoot its climax scene on. If you are an Indian visiting for the first time, Las Vegas can feel like a giant film set with extra drama and extra dazzle. But beneath all the shine is a city that needs you to be a little prepared. Whether it is your dream trip or a spontaneous holiday, these are the things you need to keep in mind for your first Las Vegas visit.

Here Are 5 Local Travel Tips To Keep In Mind While Visiting Las Vegas For The First Time

1. Do Not Underestimate The Las Vegas Strip

It might look like a fun walk when you check the map, but the Las Vegas Strip is longer and sneakier than it seems. The resorts are massive, and the distance between two points is not your regular five-minute stroll. Add desert heat to the mix, and you might be dragging yourself by the end of it. Bring your best walking shoes – not your cutest ones – and let public transport like buses and the monorail give your feet the break they deserve. Trust this, your future self will thank you.

2. Yes, It Is Hot. Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate!

Las Vegas does not believe in chill weather. The desert air will have you sweating before your second selfie. Yes, the cocktails are calling your name, but ignoring water can make your holiday feel like a punishment. Keep a refillable water bottle on hand. It saves money, saves plastic and most importantly, saves your energy. Dehydration will make your whole trip go to waste, so drink plenty of water throughout your stroll.

3. Decide Your Budget Before The First Bell Rings

Las Vegas is built to tempt. Between casinos, shows, restaurants, and shops, your credit card might get more exercise than you. Set a daily budget for everything from food to fun. Having a number in mind helps when you are standing in front of a luxury buffet or deciding whether to catch a big-name concert. You can bring some cash to manage your spending more clearly. You are here to enjoy, and not to chase credit card alerts.

4. Las Vegas Is More Than Just Casinos

Sure, the slot machines are iconic, but if you stop there, you will miss what makes the city layered and memorable. Walk into the Neon Museum and get a taste of the city’s retro heart. Visit the Arts District for a mix of local creativity and cafes that serve more than just Instagram likes. If you are into nature, you can plan day trips to nearby places like Red Rock Canyon or the Grand Canyon. Spread your plans out – Vegas is not a non-stop casino party.

5. Tipping Is Not Optional, It Is Part Of The System

In Las Vegas, tipping is not a polite suggestion – it is the rule of the game. Hotel staff, bartenders, cab drivers, even the dealers at the casino – they all expect tips as part of their earnings. Usually, the norm is to pay a 15-20 per cent tip to restaurants and at least $1 per drink at bars. Set aside a tipping budget, so you are not left doing mental math after every drink. It keeps things smooth and saves you from awkward side-eye.

Las Vegas Travel Tips For First-Timers: What Else Should You Know Before You Go

Now that you know the one essential thing to remember while visiting Las Vegas, here are some more questions first-time travellers often ask that could be genuinely useful.

1. What Is The Best Time To Visit Las Vegas?

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are your golden windows. These months offer pleasant weather, less sweat, and easier walks. Summer is for brave hearts and extra sunscreen.

2. What Should You Pack For Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is hot, literally. Pack breathable clothes for the day and a light jacket for chilly evenings or icy air conditioning. Do not forget comfortable shoes – heels are great, but pain is not. Sunscreen is your invisible armour.

3. Is Renting A Car Worth It In Las Vegas?

If you plan to stay within the Strip, taxis and public transport are more than enough. But if you want to escape the city for a road trip or visit national parks, renting a car could work in your favour.

4. Are There Free Things To Do In Las Vegas?

You bet. Las Vegas offers several free attractions, including the Bellagio Fountains, the Mirage Volcano, and the Fremont Street Experience. It is not all about swiping cards. The city has plenty to offer, even if your wallet takes the night off.

Best Eco Friendly Destinations To Visit: Let these destinations inspire you to tread more consciously, engage more deeply, and celebrate Mother Earth through every journey you take

This Environment Day, select journeys that take you beyond greenwashing. We are talking about celebrating unique destinations and experiences that let you be a part of the change. Embrace eco-friendly journeys, empower local communities, and reconnect with nature—one mindful step at a time.

Ras Al Khaimah

In Ras Al Khaimah—the Nature Emirate—adventure and sustainability go hand in hand. The Responsible RAK initiative, in partnership with EarthCheck, unites over 20 tourism businesses and attractions to measure and reduce their environmental footprint. Even adrenaline-fuelled experiences like the Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline, and the Jais Sledder have been seamlessly integrated into the mountain ecology, ensuring minimum impact on nature. The Bear Grylls Explorers Camp—the world’s first Bear Grylls-branded accommodation—features 16 recycled cabins, where guests can stay overnight and immerse themselves in nature, trying their hand at mountain biking, hiking, and rock climbing. Resorts like Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island are championing zero-waste goals while offering elevated beachfront luxury.

Thailand

If you are seeking a getaway that honours the environment, Thailand—the open-air studio for the upcoming film Jurassic World: Rebirth—invites travellers with its meaningful encounters. At Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Krabi, eco-luxury reaches its peak. Nestled between the rainforest and the Andaman Sea, its 54 villas are designed to blend seamlessly with the landscape, blurring the boundary between indoor and outdoor. The use of locally sourced, seasonal ingredients from the on-site Chef’s Garden, sustainable drinking water from natural spring flowing from the nearby Naga Mountain through regenerative practices, and low-impact Jurassic Paradise excursion make moments mindful. When you are staying here, you are a part of their efforts to minimise carbon footprint and measures to preserve the ecosystem for future generations, such as plastic-free initiatives. Even Christmas decorations are made of natural and reusable materials, such as coconut shells, driftwood, leaves, and recycled glass bottles.

Seychelles

In Seychelles, sustainability is a way of life. This archipelago of 115 islands has long been a leader in marine and terrestrial conservation, offering travellers a chance to experience nature in its purest form. Explore the underwater world of Sainte Anne Marine National Park, one of the Indian Ocean’s first protected marine zones, on a guided snorkeling that also supports reef education and marine stewardship. Across the island, eco-conscious resorts run on solar power, sourced organic produce, and actively support wildlife efforts – from giant tortoise protection to bird habitat restoration. In Seychelles, tropical vacation is about reconnecting with the planet, the ocean, and yourself.

Kenya

In Kenya, sustainability is deeply interwoven into the rhythm of life. Beyond the traditional safari, you will find ways to engage with local communities and nature. At the Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy and Ol Lentille, community-driven models are making waves while rhino conservation efforts are underway in the Borana Conservancy in the Laikipia area. Stay at Sasaab and Sabache Camp in Samburu, where architectural design draws from local knowledge and sustainable practices—from solar power and rainwater harvesting to supporting indigenous tribes.

Sri Lanka

A journey through Sri Lanka is imbued with vibrant ecosystems and community-led sustainability drives. Your stay at restored tea estate bungalows and heritage properties by Teardrop Hotels is more than what meets the eye. You will experience sublime eco-conscious luxury with the Travelife Gold Certificate. The no-plastic policy, locally sourced ingredients, and on-site gardens ensure nearby farmers, fisheries, and local communities benefit directly from tourism. A highlight is Lunuganga in Bentota, the former estate visionary architect Geoffrey Bawa, where tropical modernism meets the jungle in a poetic union of design and ecology.

Israel

This country is known for not just advocating sustainability but also living it. Head to the Arava Desert, where Kibbutz Lotan serves as a beacon of eco-conscious and community living. The ecovillage practices permaculture farming, earth-based architecture, and zero-waste construction, offering immersive workshops. Travel deeper into the Negev Desert to visit solar-powered Kibbutz pioneering sustainable agriculture in one of the world’s harshest climates. Explore olive groves, stay in eco-lodges made of natural materials, or hike among wildflowers, Israel reminds us that green travel can be enriching.

Let these destinations inspire you to tread more consciously, engage more deeply, and celebrate Mother Earth through every journey you take.

By weaving wellness rituals and active movement into your days naturally, you can easily stay on top of your fitness game while travelling.

Let’s be honest: Keeping fit while travelling isn’t always easy. Between indulgent local food, long flights, and jam-packed itineraries, your regular workout routine can quickly fall by the wayside. But keeping active on the go doesn’t have to mean waking up at 6am to hit the hotel gym. With a few clever tweaks and a little bit of motivation, you can enjoy your holiday and stay in shape — without feeling like you’re punishing yourself. Whether you’re off on a city break, a beach holiday, or a work trip, here are smart, realistic tips for staying fit while travelling — no bootcamp required.

Here Are 7 Essential Tips To Stay Fit While Travelling:

1. Walk Everywhere (Seriously, Everywhere)

The simplest way to stay active while travelling? Ditch the taxis and walk. Not only will it help you clock in thousands of steps a day, it’s also one of the best ways to see a destination up close. According to the NHS, adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week — and brisk walking counts. Try skipping the metro and walking between sights, or exploring different neighbourhoods on foot. Apps like Citymapper or Google Maps can help you plan pedestrian-friendly routes, and you’ll often stumble upon great cafes or viewpoints you’d never spot from a car.

2. Build Fitness Into Your Itinerary

This one’s all about mindset. Instead of carving out time for a traditional workout, think about how you can sneak fitness into your actual plans. Going to the beach? Swim laps or take a surfing lesson. Visiting the mountains? Schedule in a hike. Heading to Tokyo or New York? Sign up for a dance class or an active city tour. These types of activities also help you experience a destination in a more local, hands-on way — and they burn a fair number of calories while you’re at it.

3. Use Carry-On-Friendly Fitness Gear

You don’t need a suitcase full of gym equipment to stay in shape on the road. Resistance bands, skipping ropes and collapsible yoga mats all pack light and can transform any hotel room or park into a mini gym. Want something even easier? A pair of good-quality trainers and a set of workout clothes are enough to get started. Download bodyweight workout apps like Nike Training Club or FitOn, which offer short routines that can be done anywhere, anytime — many without needing any equipment at all.

4. Opt For Active Accommodation

Choosing the right place to stay can make staying fit a lot easier. Many hotels now offer free access to gyms, yoga classes, or even on-site bicycles. Airbnb listings often mention nearby parks or walking trails, and hostels frequently organise walking tours or surf meet-ups. If you prefer something more structured, wellness-focussed stays like Six Senses or COMO Hotels come with guided activities such as pilates, paddleboarding, and meditation sessions. Yes, it’s a bit extra — but if fitness is a priority, it’s worth the investment.

5. Use Travel Days For Recovery

Long flights or train rides can be hard on your body — hello, swollen ankles and tight shoulders. Use these days as your rest or active recovery days. Stretch at the airport, do ankle circles during your flight, and once you land, take a gentle walk to get your circulation moving. Pro tip: Compression socks and a reusable water bottle are lifesavers on long-haul flights.

6. Watch What (And When) You Eat

Travel often means indulging in local cuisine — and that’s half the fun. But it’s easy to go overboard with rich meals, snacks on the go, and late-night cocktails. Try sticking to the 80/20 rule: Eat healthily 80% of the time, and enjoy treats guilt-free the other 20%. Eating heavy meals late at night can also affect sleep and energy levels. Where possible, make lunch your main meal and go lighter in the evening. And don’t forget to hydrate — especially on flights or in hot climates. Dehydration can make you feel sluggish and more prone to skipping exercise.

7. Stay Accountable (Without Killing The Vibe)

If you need a bit of motivation, set small, achievable goals for your trip — like doing a 10-minute stretch every morning or walking 10,000 steps a day. Travel with a friend who’s also keen to stay active, or use an app like Strava to track your movement. You can even treat fitness like a souvenir: Take a photo of each new place you work out in, whether it’s a beach in Portugal or a rooftop in Bangkok. It’s a fun way to stay consistent and document your travels at the same time.

Discover 9 of the world’s most spectacular birdwatching destinations—from Peru’s Amazon to Japan’s snow-covered wetlands. Perfect for beginners and pros.

Birdwatching isn’t just a hobby—it’s a front-row seat to the theatre of nature. From snow-kissed Japanese wetlands to steamy Central American jungles, these global hotspots offer unforgettable encounters with some of the world’s rarest and most spectacular birds. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting out, these destinations deserve a place on your travel wishlist.

1. Manu National Park, Peru

Deep in the Peruvian Amazon lies Manu—a living, breathing symphony of biodiversity. With over 1,000 recorded bird species, from rainbow-colored macaws to the elusive cock-of-the-rock, it’s one of Earth’s richest birding grounds.

2. The Gambia, West Africa

Tiny in size, vast in biodiversity—The Gambia is a birdwatching treasure trove. Glide along the River Gambia’s mangroves and woodlands to spot sunbirds, hornbills, and hundreds of migratory species in full plumage.

3. Florida Everglades, USA

The Everglades is more than just swampland—it’s a vibrant haven for herons, roseate spoonbills, and the iconic bald eagle. Paddle through cypress groves and mangroves to catch the birds of North America in action.

4. Papua New Guinea

For the serious birder, Papua New Guinea is the stuff of legend. Hidden within its remote rainforests are flamboyant birds-of-paradise performing mating rituals like nowhere else on Earth.

5. Bale Mountains, Ethiopia

High-altitude birding doesn’t get more dramatic. Ethiopia’s Bale Mountains are home to rare endemic species like the Abyssinian owl and blue-winged goose, set against an epic backdrop of alpine moorlands.

6. Broome Bird Observatory, Australia

At the edge of the Indian Ocean, Broome is a migratory magnet for thousands of waders. Flocks of sandpipers and godwits turn Roebuck Bay into a feathered frenzy during migration seasons.

7. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, India

Kerala’s best-kept secret, Thattekad is a dense green pocket teeming with endemic wonders like the Malabar trogon and Sri Lanka frogmouth. It’s a dream for tropical bird lovers.

8. Hokkaido, Japan

For a birding experience straight out of a fairytale, head to Hokkaido in winter. Watch red-crowned cranes dance through snowy fields and see mighty Steller’s sea eagles swoop across icy waters.

9. Costa Rica

This Central American jewel is a birdwatcher’s utopia. With over 900 species, including resplendent quetzals and iridescent hummingbirds, every hike or canopy walk feels like a natural treasure hunt.

Birdwatching is more than ticking names off a list—it’s about immersion, patience, and wonder. From icy landscapes to lush rainforests, these destinations offer a rare chance to connect with nature on its most colorful terms. Ready to pack your binoculars?