There are a hundred reasons to love Monsoon and fashion is one of them. Monsoon is the perfect time of the year to experiment with your look and try inevitably admirable and trendy fashion elements. If you mix and match the perfect wardrobe and accessories, you would create a masterpiece.

The cool breeze and the cloudy light provides a perfect backdrop for your new look. Be open to try out some Monsoon centric fashion tips and set your insta handle on fire!

According to fashion designer Ganesh Nallari “Wear breathable fabrics so you don’t feel the humidity in the air,” he says, adding that cotton and linens are best for monsoon, particularly because they dry up faster!

When it comes to colour, he says, “Choose darker shades for bottoms that are low maintenance and team them with contrast, bright, colourful tops.” He cautions, “Avoid full-length bottoms, wear comfortable clothing and not fitted ones.”

Designer Harsha Nutaki, who has also styled the likes of Suma Kanakala, among others, says monsoon is all about comfortable yet classy clothing. “Bright and bold colours are welcome, while pairing them with bell bottoms and a classic jacket. You can also rock the retro looks this time around. One can try wearing ruffle skirts and tops with floral prints. It’s very important to stay comfy indoors for night-outs and sleepovers so crop-tops with loose pants are the way to go.”

These are some steps you need to follow to style yourself in monsoon according to various stylists.

Choose your attire carefully – Monsoon is the time when you face difficulty in walking because of muddy streets. That’s why it is suggested to avoid wearing jeans, trousers, palazzos, or maxi dresses. Instead, try for shorts, skirts and knee-length dresses that will not get dirty. If you want to add some fun quotient to your style, wear a solid jumpsuit which is nowadays a rage in fashion.

Cloth plays a major role
Upon the arrival of the rainy season, pick clothes that are made of cotton or polyester which are not only comfortable but also dry quicker. During the monsoon, it’s almost impossible to not get drenched in sudden rainfall when we step outside. This is why choosing the right fabric is important. Save the clothes made of denim or silk, as they take a lot of time to dry up and get ruined.

Choose your footwear Wisely
Unless you want to spoil your favourite pair of shoes, avoid wearing stilettos or all the light-coloured shoes. One wrong choice in terms of footwear when it comes to rainy days can make things worse. Also, wearing shoes that are made of leather, suede and velvet is not a wise decision during the rainy season. Instead, go for rubber footwear, jelly shoes, crocs, and colourful flip-flops that will give you a refreshing look.

Match your socks with the season
Bacterial infection is very common during the rainy season so, if you are wearing closed footwear in the monsoon, make sure to wear waterproof socks which will keep your feet dry and safe from bacterial infection. Usually thicker than normal socks, waterproof socks come with moisture-wicking properties as well as anti-microbial properties.

Handbags can be your monsoon saviour
You may want to skip carrying a handbag during monsoon, but it’s probably not a wise decision. If you are travelling, you should always choose a spacious bag that is big enough to hold the essentials as well as the umbrella. Tote bags come really handy in the monsoon.

Make a statement with an umbrella
Umbrellas are not just used for protection from rain but now are used as a style statement. A fun, bright-coloured umbrella can make your outfit look vibrant. Carrying a cherry red umbrella in the sea of black umbrellas will surely turn some heads. You can experiment further by picking an umbrella with quirky prints that brings out the kid in you. However, if you want to settle on something more sophisticated, you can go for umbrellas in pastel colors or try the classic combination of black-and-white.

10 Things To Know Before Visiting Canada

Canada is no exception when it comes to the perils of climatic conditions and other issues concerning almost all foreign countries. Following the enlisted Canada travel tips can assure tourists some unhindered and obstacle-free thrills in this country which has bountiful offerings in its store.

1. WEATHER SCARE

It is vital that one checks and gauges into the details of the climatic condition which are going to prevail in the country during their period of travel. In CanadaNovember to February is generally characterised by heavy snow fall and avalanches. If you are into snow and want to enjoy the thrills offered by the snow laden cliffs, do not forget to pack appropriate clothes and snow boots. While zeroing on to travel mode their snow friendliness should be checked so as to avoid any mishaps.

2. TRAVEL SECURITY

Travel Insurance is a big must while travelling to Canada. The extreme climate and the terrains might create a situation when one needs to avail the medical facilities. While taking the travel insurance be sure that you get the details about the local medical practitioners and associates in the region you are travelling. This makes prompt medical help easy and can save one in case an issue surfaces.

3. VISA PROCEDURES

Some countries have visas on arrival and others need an extensive documentation process to be undertaken before a visa can be granted for entry into their geographical area. The visa process for Canada is quite stringent and requires one to follow all the guidelines and document requirements as mentioned on their official visa website. Follow all the specification and apply for the Visa to avoid rejection. For a number of nationalities electronic travel authorisation is needed to get entry into Canada.

4. EMERGENCY CONTACT

A tragedy can strike anytime, anywhere. Since Canada has a very diverse kind of civilization with towns, cities, small villages and even animals thriving in perfect harmony, reaching quick help might get difficult. Thus amongst an important Canada travel trip stands the need for travellers to identify whom and where to contact in need. For emergencies 911 can generate quick help in Canada and for issues which are not that urgent one can find respite by contacting 311.

5. ROAD SAFETY

Canada is known for its enthralling national parks, hiking trails and tracks. Most of the people travelling here like to drive their way around the country. Incidences of wild encounters have often been recorded on hilly terrains and they may pose a big threat to life. It is thus very crucial to identify the safest trail to follow and to know and read proper literature on how to react if you suddenly attract the attention of the residents from the wild.

6. MUGGER AND SNATCHERS

No country in this world is entirely safe and devoid of crime. While visiting Canada too, one might get mugged and lose important documents or money. This can be a real fun spoiler and can cause lot of inconvenience. It is a good move to keep the important documents like passports at the hotel and carry photocopy documents while travelling around. Carrying plastic money or travellers check is a safer option rather than physical notes.

7. FIND THE EMBASSY

Another important Canada travel tips to keep in mind is to identify the area and contact number of your countries embassy. You might not need to use this contact, but if the need arises you will be more comfortable speaking to your own representatives in the foreign land.

8. PLAN YOUR STAY

In the peak seasons a trip to Canada can actually burn a hole in your pocket if you have not made advance bookings. One of the most travelled places in the world, this country attracts an influx of tourists across continents. Not getting hotels and attractions booked can make you pay extra making your travel budget go hay-way.

9. SNOWBOARDING AND SKIING SAFETY

Canada is a paradise for snow sport lovers. The snow covered peaks provide the perfect playground for some adrenaline rush and creates lifetime memories. But as it is important to have fun it is equally important to check whether the activities are carried on by trained and licensed professionals or not, as otherwise one might be exposing himself to grave risk. These sports are quite dangerous and if one is not proficient at it he/she should take easier terrains and not cross the mentioned speed barometers.

10. LINGUISTIC AWARENESS

Knowing a bit of French can help you a great deal in moving around Canada. One does not have to be proficient with the language, but understanding some words of common usage can be really handy. Downloading a translator on phone can make you accomplish this task easily.

The USA is home to countless treasures that attract travellers from all over the globe. The country houses some of the most picturesque and diverse landscapes on earth, a vast collection of iconic attractions, and many concrete jungles to explore. The destination truly encapsulates all the experiences that make an overseas trip an adventure to remember. Although, there are a few things that you should be aware of before visiting the US. From tipping customs and payment expectations to entry requirements and road rules, here are important things to remember before visiting the United States of America.

1. States and regions

The United States of America is split into 50 states and also divided further into different regions. These include the West, Midwest, Northwest, and South.

Each of these regions has different geographical characteristics. For example, the Northeast is known for its mountain ranges and rocky coastlines, whereas the Midwest is often associated with large forests, grassy plains, and stretching lakes.

2. Getting Around The Country

The many cities in the USA are often very far from each other. This can seem daunting if you’re embarking on a multi-destination trip. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to get around the country. For example, if you’re hoping to save some money, the bus is a cost-effective option – although you can expect a lot of stops in-between.

3. There’s a tipping culture

In America, tipping your waiter is the normal practice and not leaving one is considered rude. As the minimum wage is low, it’s common to leave a 15% to 20% tip to compensate. If your math is a bit dusty, it proves helpful to have your phone calculator nearby. So remember, whether you’re at a restaurant, bar, or in a taxi, it’s important to leave a tip, especially if you’ve received good service.

4. Be prepared to pay more than what’s displayed

When it comes to purchasing goods and services in the United States of America, the price isn’t always what it seems. This is because most of the prices you will see are excluding sales tax, so when you arrive at the counter to pay, expect the cashier to require a slightly higher price. As the tax will vary from state to state, it’s safe to expect at least a 10% addition to the total cost. This also goes for most accommodation, with ‘resort fees’ commonly added to advertised prices.

5. Take the time to explore the national parks

Although America is renowned for it’s dense, buzzing cities, the country also boasts a very impressive range of national parks. Ranging from lush forestry, sky-scraping mountains, red desserts, and bottomless valleys, there’s a natural playground to suit any adventurers needs. Not to mention, the parks hold a collection of records, including the longest cave system in the world (Mammoth Cave National Park) and the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere (Death Valley, California). Some national parks that are undeniably worth your time are Yellow Stone National Park, The Grand Canyon National Park, Yosemite National Park, and Zion National Park.

6. Don’t forget your ESTA

It’s important for incoming travellers to be aware of and understand the requirements of entering the USA. America’s Visa Waiver Program allows people of certain countries (such as Australia, Denmark, and Belgium), to enter the US for up to 90 days without a visa. Although, this doesn’t mean you can simply arrive without any paperwork. If you’re arriving from a country under the Visa Waiver Program, you are required to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) and attain approval before arriving. The process is quick and simple, but be sure to leave yourself plenty of time before you leave just in case.

7. Be careful where you wander in cities

Many cities, no matter what country you visit, typically include suburbs/ areas that you should avoid at all cost. In America, the line between these areas can be quite thin. In fact, the difference between a friendly and dangerous neighbourhood can sometimes differ by only one block. Just to be safe, try to be aware of your surroundings at all times, assess your situation regularly, and try to gain some local wisdom on where to and where not to wander.

8. Don’t visit without health/ travel insurance

Although travel insurance is a necessity of any trip overseas, it’s absolutely crucial when it comes to America. The country’s health services are extremely expensive, to the extent that you’ll be wondering whether you truly need medical attention or if you can stick it out. Just to be safe, it may be wise to make an investment in travel insurance and keep a printed version with you while on your journey.

9. There are plenty of islands worth exploring

As well as the US mainland there are islands that are also worth a visit – in particular, the Hawaiian Islands. This cluster of tropical islands is comfortable to travel year-round. Ranging from the bustling metropolis of Oahu to the natural playground of the Big Island. When visiting these you’ll find plenty of relaxing as well as adrenaline-fuelled experiences to be had.

10. You can turn right on a red light

An American road rule to keep in mind is the ‘turn right on red’ rule. Essentially, this means that across the 50 states, drivers are allowed to turn right on a red light if it’s safe to do so and if there’s no sign prohibiting a right turn. Rather than figuring this out the hard way (scratching your head with a lineup of cars honking at you to run a red), try to keep this tip handy.

Also, it’s important to remember that Americans drive on the right-hand side, so take caution when driving and crossing the road.

You don’t need to leave the country to have a wildlife experience of a lifetime.

With nearly 3,000 different types of native animal species in the United States and 18,000 types of plants, it’s one of the world’s most ecologically rich countries—in fact, it’s recognized by the World Conservation Monitoring Center as one of 17 mega-diverse nations. From Maine’s rocky shores to the green rain forests of Washington, there’s much to see and do right here at home—no long-haul plane ticket or safari lodge reservation required.

There’s perhaps no better way to see America’s scenic landscapes than by visiting a national park. Created in 1916 by Woodrow Wilson with the signing of the “Organic Act,” the National Park Service, or NPS, has been hailed as one of the most democratic things the U.S. government has created and has been imitated all around the world. The NPS currently oversees 423 parks and monuments on a grand total of 85 million acres of land—all preserved “for the enjoyment of future generations.”

But in many places in the U.S., you don’t even need a park pass to see wildlife. Take Austin’s famous bats or San Francisco’s cherry-headed parrots, for example—sometimes wild animals live in the same urban spaces we do. While there are countless unparalleled experiences to choose from, ranging from urban to remote, AFAR’s nature-loving editors have picked 10 of their favorite places to see wildlife in the United States. Peruse our list, then grab your binoculars and a sun hat for your next adventure in the great outdoors.

1. Olympic National Park

Why go: An idyllic Pacific Northwest getaway with unparalleled quietude
Nearest city: Seattle, Washington
Animals of interest: Western screech-owls, bald eagles, gray whales, and black bears

Olympic National Park encompasses nearly 1 million acres, three distinct ecosystems, and what is arguably the quietest place in the United States. It’s no surprise then that some of the world’s most magnificent animal species live here. Wildlife lovers can listen for the hoot of several types of owls (including the adorable northern pygmy-owl) in the temperate Hoh Rain Forest, whale watch along the peninsula’s western coast, and give a wide berth to passing black bears in the Olympic Mountains. Seattle is a two-hour drive away from the park’s northeast corner, and it is an easy jumping off point. Most people who want to spend a few days or more in the park can road-trip along the highway that loops around the peninsula, staying in the park’s main gateway towns: Port Angeles, Hoodsport, and Forks. For a more historic stay, book one of the longstanding lodges—Kalaloch, Lake Crescent, and Lake Quinault are all charming and comfortable options.

Bird lovers, you’ll have a field day here: The park offers more than 300 species, including bald eagles. (Look for them at beaches like Shi Shi, Second, and Third.) Looking for larger, land-based creatures? Beavers, black bears, and Roosevelt elk also call Olympic National Park home. Prefer water? In November and December, visitors to the Quinault River are likely to see sockeye salmon spawning. And, of course, there are whales: The park is situated along the Whale Trail. While there are multiple times of year to catch a glimpse, May is the best month to see both orcas and migrating gray whales.  —Aislyn Greene

2. Congress Avenue Bridge

Why go: See the largest urban bat colony in the world
Nearest city: Austin, Texas
Animal of interest: Mexican free-tailed bats

Austin is famous for its breakfast tacos and thriving music scene, but perhaps the city should also be known for having one of the most unusual tourist attractions—a sunset bat show. From late March through the early months of fall, an estimated 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats make a temporary home underneath the Congress Avenue Bridge, which leads right to the pink granite steps of the Texas Capitol. During their stay, the bats raise an average of 750,000 pups each year.

However, the bats weren’t always so welcome in Austin—locals used to think the flying mammals were responsible for spreading disease, and the city attempted to control the population. After years of organizations like Bat Conservation International advocating for all the good bats can do, such as controlling the local mosquito population (music to any Texan’s ears), people started flocking to the bridge each night to watch the bats take flight.

The bats are most active around twilight, when the colony begins waking up for their nightly insect feast. You can snag a spot on the banks of Ladybird Lake (also known as Town Lake to longtime Austinites) at the Statesman Bat Observation Center—the viewing area is free, parking is not—or simply wait on Congress Avenue’s sidewalk. The bats usually tend to fly east down the river, so keep your eyes peeled and your ears attuned to the sounds of thousands of wings and screeches. —Mae Hamilton

3. Channel Islands, California

Why go: It’s called “North America’s Galápagos” for a reason
Nearest city: Ventura, California
Animals of interest: Long-beaked common dolphins, sea lions, pilot whales, and several species of birds

Some 2,000 species of animals and plants live on the eight land masses that comprise the Channel Islands, and 145 of those are endemic. The islands, and the waters that surround them and separate them from the mainland, are teeming with marine and mammal life—and by contrast very few humans.

Take an Island Packers ferry to Santa Rosa Island from Ventura, a harbor and seaside city an hour north of Los Angeles, for a day of sea cave kayaking. While crossing over, it’s common to see pods of dolphins surrounding the ferry. Spend the morning paddling along the shores of Santa Rosa Island accompanied by sea lions and brown pelicans (which once faced extinction but now thrive thanks to abundant kelp forests). Expert guides from the Santa Barbara Adventure Company can point out all manner of hidden creatures.

There’s plenty more to do on the islands, including hiking, snorkeling, swimming, and exploring tide pools. There’s no real permanent infrastructure or lodgings, so you pack in and pack out and visit for the day or camp for a night or two. It’s just a few miles from the mainland but a world away. —Tim Chester

4. Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

Why go: Pure wilderness a short drive from Denver
Nearest city: Denver, Colorado
Animals of interest: Bison, elk, white-tailed deer, bald eagles, prairie dogs

With its herds of bison, prairie dogs, elk, and more, it’s hard to believe that Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, one of the largest wildlife refuges in the nation, is just a 10-mile drive from downtown Denver. And with over 280 species of birds, including songbirds, waterfowl, and raptors, the 15,000-acre park is a birder’s paradise. Spring is arguably the best time to visit the park when migrating birds make their way back to Denver’s foothills and black-footed ferret kits are making their first forays into the big world from their burrows. Best of all, it’s free to visit.

An 11-mile Wildlife Drive runs through the refuge (consider listening to the park’s podcast while you’re at it) so visitors don’t even have to leave the comfort of their car during their visit. Those who’d rather experience the prairie landscape up close have 20 miles of easy hiking trails to choose from, and bikes are permitted on some of them—two hours is more than enough time to experience the refuge’s hikes and auto tour. And since Denver is nearby, perhaps grab a latte before heading out before dawn to see the park’s 150 bison—truly a sight to see when the grasslands are gloriously bathed in the Rocky Mountains’ golden light. —Chloe Arrojado

5. Acadia National Park

Why go: Bask in the splendor of coastal Maine and see the Milky Way at night
Nearest town: Bar Harbor, Maine
Animals of interest: Bobcats, beavers, and peregrine falcons

Acadia National Park, one of the oldest in the national park system, is the oldest park east of the Mississippi River. Comprising 47,000 picturesque acres, Acadia is sometimes referred to as the “Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast.” Though the park is centered around Mount Desert Island, which is connected to the mainland via state route 3, several other islands are also part of Acadia, including the remote Isle Au Haut, which you can reach from the mainland via a ferry that leaves from Stonington a few times a day.

As you trek along Acadia’s 158 miles of hiking trails, be on the lookout for native East Coast animals like minks, red foxes, and beavers. Some of the most exciting creatures to see are the peregrine falcons, the fastest birds in the world (they can reach speeds of up to 186 miles per hour). Prior to 1936, the falcons used to nest regularly in Acadia, but due to deleterious human activity, including nest robbing, trapping, and pesticide contamination, scientists believed they had all but disappeared. After years of park reintroduction efforts, a pair of peregrine falcons finally nested in 1991. Since then, a total of 160 chicks have hatched in Acadia. Keep binoculars at the ready for a blur of feathers swooping by. —Mae Hamilton

6. Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Why go: Wide-open spaces, wild horses, scenic byways, and more than 100 miles of trails
Nearest city: Medora, North Dakota
Animals of interest: Bison, elk, free-roaming horses

The 26th president of the United States said many things in his life, but to North Dakotans, it was Theodore Roosevelt’s veneration of the state that stands out the most. “If it had not been for the years spent in North Dakota and what I learned there, I would not have been president of the United States,” he said. Roosevelt was particularly influenced by land he invested in and owned near Medora, which would later be expanded, named in his honor, and made a national park in 1978.

Today, bison, the largest mammals in North America, roam freely within the park, as do bands of free-moving horses. (Theodore Roosevelt National Park is one of the few national parks where they can be observed in the wild.) Add to the list some striking geological mounds, golden prairie grasses, and views of the snaking Little Missouri River, and you’ve got a national park like no other—and no, that’s not just North Dakota pride talking. —Katherine LaGrave

7. Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline

Why go: An easy hike along O‘ahu’s sparkling coastline
Nearest city: Honolulu, Hawai’i
Animals of interest: Frigatebirds, tropicbirds, and humpback whales

Maui may get the lion’s share of attention as the best Hawaiian island to see whales, but don’t knock O‘ahu for whale watching before you try it. Take the leisurely drive from Honolulu up Highway 72 (where you’ll also pass the Halona Blowhole and likely have to pick your jaw off the floor of the car while soaking in the coastline’s beauty) and try to snag a parking spot at the Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trailhead.

The trail is just a 2.5-mile round-trip journey and takes about an hour to complete. As you plod along, you’ll likely see white-breasted frigatebirds winging overhead and shimmering tide pools far below—be sure to pause at the landing that offers up a glorious view of the nearby Koko Head Crater. But, of course, the most exciting thing visitors could possibly see on their hike is a breaching humpback whale. The ocean between O‘ahu and Maui is warm, shallow, and free from predators like killer whales, making it an ideal nursery for calves and mothers. Book a trip to the islands anytime from November through May, which is calving season, for the best chances of seeing a humpback. Since the trail is sited along the coast, the path is almost entirely unshaded, so pack a hat and slather on some ecofriendly sunscreen. —Mae Hamilton

8. Mount Diablo State Park

Why go: Hiking, biking, and panoramic views of the Bay Area from the 3,849-foot summit
Nearest city: San Francisco, California
Animals of interest: Tarantulas, sea lions, and cherry-headed parrots

San Francisco has some famous wildlife residents that call the city home. For starters, there are the Pier 39 sea lions, whose population can grow up to 900 each winter. Over on Telegraph Hill, a wild flock of cherry-headed conures (aka cherry-headed parrots) that took up residence in the 1980s have had documentaries and books dedicated to them.

And sited 40 miles outside of the city, Mount Diablo State Park is home to peregrine falcons, quails, and bobcats. As summer turns to fall, aspiring entomologists will want to head into the park to witness tarantula mating season. Though typically these extra-large arachnids live underground, in September, adult males can be found crawling along the roads and hiking trails around the Mitchell Canyon area of the park in search of a female in her burrow. Their leg span can reach up to 11 inches, but don’t be creeped out: They’re surprisingly gentle creatures and are not poisonous to humans. —Lyndsey Matthews

9. Katmai National Park and Preserve

Why go: The most abundant population of brown bears in the wild
Nearest town: King Salmon, Alaska
Animals of interest: Brown bears and sockeye salmon

It takes an hour flight from Anchorage to the town of King Salmon—and then a 45-minute water taxi from there—to reach Katmai National Park and Preserve. But it’s worth the trek to see one of nature’s great dramas unfold.

Brooks Falls, a six-foot-tall waterfall within the preserve, is where hundreds of thousands of sockeye salmon meet their fates every year from the months of June through September. It’s the final hurdle of their battle to return to the spawning grounds where they hatched and the completion of their life cycle.

The fish fight their way upstream, hurl themselves over the cascade, and follow their internal homing devices to the exact spot where they were born to lay (or fertilize) their own eggs. Or, if they’re unlucky, one of the roughly 2,200 hungry brown bears that call the park home will snatch them midflight and make a meal of them.

There are three bear-viewing areas, situated atop raised platforms, within the park. One is spine-tinglingly close to the action of Brooks Falls (where an estimated 300 sockeye salmon attempt the jump every minute in peak season). The other two are further downstream, where sows (female bears) and cubs are more common. —Bailey Berg

10. Mammoth Cave National Park

Why go: Spelunk the longest cave system in the world
Nearest town: Park City, Kentucky
Animals of interest: Kentucky cave shrimp, sheepnose mussels, eyeless cave fish, and Rafinesque big-eared bats

Cave ecosystems are considered to be among the most fragile environments on the planet. Animals that live in caves, known as troglobites, are adapted to survive in a place with stable temperatures year round and in partial to total darkness. Beneath the sprawling pastures, rolling hills, and tranquil river valleys of Kentucky, the state has a cave system that’s believed to be the longest in the world, with close to 6,000 miles of chambers—only 400 of which have been explored.

About 130 wildlife species call the subterranean world beneath Mammoth Cave National Park home—70 are classified as threatened or endangered. During a tour of the cave, visitors might see critters such as the Indiana bat, eyeless Kentucky cave shrimp (once thought to be extinct), and several kinds of freshwater mussels—all of which are very sensitive to any environmental change. After you’re done hiking through the underground pathways of Mammoth Cave, consider hanging around at the park above ground. The 52,830-acre mixed-deciduous and coniferous forest is considered one of the most biodiverse in the nation, where white-tailed deer, eastern gray squirrels, and black bears roam the sylvan landscapes among 1,300 species of plants, including 80 kinds of trees. —Mae Hamilton