Sometimes, it can feel as though everyone knows how to snorkel—and they all love it. However, snorkeling for the first time can feel a little intimidating. You are wearing an unfamiliar contraption, breathing into a tube you aren’t sure you can trust, and navigating a totally new and possibly hostile environment. But don’t worry! By following a few simple protocols, you will soon join the ranks of people who love to snorkel!
Make Sure Your Equipment Works
The first rule of snorkeling is to test your equipment before heading out. Your snorkel equipment should include a variety of tools like a mask, a mouthpiece, a purge valve, a tube, a semi-dry air valve, a strap, and a snorkel clip. Flippers are also helpful. First, check your mask. You know your mask has a proper seal if you can suction it to your face and it won’t fall off, even without the strap. Adjust the strap ahead of time so that it fits firmly. Test the seal by putting your face in the water. No water should get in. Next, try breathing underwater. If the snorkel clip is holding the tube in the correct position, you should be able to breathe normally. Next, go deep enough to submerge your entire snorkel. If the air valve is working correctly, no water should flow into your mouth. Finally, test the purge valve by pushing a hard, quick breath into the mouthpiece. This should remove any water from the tube.
Watch Out for Dangers
When snorkeling in the ocean, your biggest dangers are riptides and sea life. Choose an area that is calm and free from riptides. You know there is a riptide when a portion of water is flowing in the opposite direction from the breaking waves. The best snorkeling water is free of waves, anyway, because the water will be much clearer. You should also watch out for marine life. Avoid touching animal life in the water. If possible, only snorkel in waters where there is a lifeguard on duty. Finally, stay close to shore or your boat.
Stay With a Buddy
It is always best to snorkel with a buddy. You can watch out for each other and come to one another’s aid if necessary. If one of you gets into serious trouble, the other can call for help, as well. Plus, snorkeling with a buddy is more fun! You will see some amazing things, and it is natural to want to share the experience with a friend.
Snorkeling can introduce you to a beautiful underwater world filled with magical sights. It can open your eyes to so many new discoveries. Be prepared, exercise caution, and have an amazing time!
Mexico City is a vibrant and culturally rich city with a variety of neighborhoods to explore. However, choosing where to stay in Mexico City can be quite challenging if you aren’t familiar with each of the various neighborhoods. Here are some of the best neighborhoods in Mexico City, each with its own unique character and charm
Condesa, Mexico City
La Condesa is a trendy neighborhood located in the Cuauhtémoc borough of Mexico City. It is known for its bohemian atmosphere, lively nightlife, and distinctive Art Deco architecture.
The Condesa neighborhood was developed in the 1920s as a residential area for the city’s upper class. It was designed by some of Mexico’s most prominent architects, and many of the buildings feature intricate details and decorative motifs that are characteristic of the Art Deco style.
One of the most iconic landmarks in La Condesa is Parque México, one of the largest parks in Mexico City and was designed by landscape architect Carlos Thays. The park is home to a wide variety of trees and plants, as well as a pond and fountain. It is a popular spot for locals to go for a stroll, have a picnic, or relax in the shade on a hot day.
The Condesa neighborhood is also home to numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes that cater to a variety of tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Mexican cuisine, international fare, or vegetarian options, you’ll be able to find something to satisfy your cravings. Many of these establishments have outdoor seating, which is perfect for enjoying a meal or drink al fresco.
In addition to its culinary offerings, La Condesa is also known for its vibrant nightlife. The neighborhood is home to a number of clubs and bars that stay open late and offer a variety of music and entertainment. There’s always something going on in La Condesa, whether it’s live music, DJs, or comedy shows.
Despite its reputation as a party destination, La Condesa is also a residential neighborhood and is home to a diverse mix of people. You’ll find families, young professionals, artists, and students all living and interacting in this vibrant part of the city.
Overall, La Condesa is a lively and exciting place to visit or live. Its Art Deco architecture, diverse dining scene, and vibrant nightlife make it a must-see destination in Mexico City.Regenerate response
Roma, Mexico City
Roma is a neighborhood in Mexico City known for its bohemian atmosphere, historic architecture, and cultural diversity. Located in the city’s Cuauhtémoc borough, Roma is home to a mix of artists, intellectuals, and young professionals who have helped to shape the neighborhood’s vibrant and eclectic culture.
One of the most notable features of Roma is its architecture, which is a blend of Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Neoclassical styles. Many of the buildings in Roma were constructed in the early 20th century and have been beautifully preserved, giving the neighborhood a distinct character and charm. The neighborhood is also home to several cultural landmarks, including the Fábrica de Arte Cubano, a former tobacco factory that has been converted into a contemporary art and performance space, and the Monumento a la Revolución, a iconic landmark that commemorates the Mexican Revolution.
In recent years, Roma has become known for its thriving arts and food scenes. The neighborhood is home to a number of independent galleries, studios, and performance spaces, as well as a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars that serve a range of international cuisines. There are also a number of street markets and artisanal shops selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and other locally-made products.
Despite its popularity as a tourist destination, Roma remains a residential neighborhood, with a mix of residential buildings, apartments, and houses. The neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets and leafy parks, which provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Overall, Roma is a vibrant and dynamic neighborhood that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re interested in art, music, food, or simply want to experience a different side of Mexico City, Roma is definitely worth a visit.
Polanco, Mexico City
Polanco is a fashionable and upscale neighborhood located in the Miguel Hidalgo borough of Mexico City. It is known for its wide tree-lined streets, beautiful mansions and embassies, as well as its many high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cultural centers.
The neighborhood takes its name from Ignacio Manuel Altamirano, a Mexican writer and politician who was known by the pseudonym “Polanco.” The area was originally developed in the 1940s and 1950s as a residential neighborhood for the city’s wealthy and elite. Today, it is still considered one of the most desirable neighborhoods in the city, and is home to many of Mexico’s most successful businesspeople, politicians, and celebrities.
One of the main attractions of Polanco is its shopping district, which is filled with designer stores, upscale boutiques, and international brands. The neighborhood is also home to several museums, including the Museo de Arte Moderno and the Museo Rufino Tamayo, which feature contemporary and modern art from Mexico and around the world.
In addition to its cultural attractions, Polanco is known for its dining scene, which offers a wide range of cuisines from around the world. The neighborhood is home to many fine dining restaurants, as well as more casual dining options. There are also numerous cafes, bakeries, and bars located throughout the neighborhood.
Despite its reputation as a wealthy and exclusive area, Polanco is also home to a diverse population, including many students and young professionals. The neighborhood is well-connected to the rest of the city by public transportation, with several Metro stations located nearby.
Overall, Polanco is a vibrant and lively neighborhood that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in shopping, dining, or cultural attractions, there is always something going on in this trendy and upscale part of Mexico City.
Coyoacán, Mexico City
Coyoacán is a historic neighborhood located in the southern part of Mexico City. It is known for its cultural and artistic significance, as well as its bohemian atmosphere. The neighborhood takes its name from the Nahuatl word “coyohuacan,” which means “place of coyotes.” It has a rich history dating back to pre-Columbian times, and has been home to many notable figures throughout Mexican history.
One of the most famous landmarks in Coyoacán is the Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as the Blue House. Frida Kahlo was a Mexican artist and activist who was born and raised in Coyoacán. The museum, which is located in Kahlo’s childhood home, contains a collection of her artwork, personal belongings, and photographs. It is a popular tourist destination and a must-see for anyone interested in Kahlo’s life and work.
In addition to the Blue House, Coyoacán is also home to several other museums and cultural attractions. The Leon Trotsky Museum, for example, is located in the house where Trotsky lived and was assassinated in 1940. The museum contains artifacts from Trotsky’s life and documents his role in the Russian Revolution. The Coyoacán Cultural Center, located in the former San Juan de Dios Hospital, is another notable attraction in the neighborhood. It hosts a variety of cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year.
Coyoacán is also home to a number of parks and green spaces, including the Jardín Centenario and the Parque Hidalgo. The Jardín Centenario is a small park located in the center of the neighborhood, and is a popular spot for locals to relax and socialize. The Parque Hidalgo, on the other hand, is a larger park located on the edge of the neighborhood. It is home to a number of sporting facilities, as well as a large pond and a playground.
In addition to its cultural and historical attractions, Coyoacán is also known for its vibrant nightlife and lively street scene. The neighborhood is home to a number of bars, clubs, and restaurants, and is popular with both locals and tourists. Many of the bars and clubs in Coyoacán have a laid-back, bohemian vibe, and are known for their live music and dancing.
Overall, Coyoacán is a vibrant and fascinating neighborhood with a rich history and culture. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Mexican art, history, and culture, and is a great place to explore on foot or by bike.
La Condesa, Mexico City
La Condesa is a vibrant and fashionable neighborhood located in the Cuauhtémoc borough of Mexico City. It is known for its tree-lined streets, art deco buildings, and bohemian atmosphere.
The neighborhood was founded in the 1920s as a residential area for the upper-middle class. It was designed by French urban planner Henri Horn, who incorporated elements of the Art Deco and Art Nouveau styles in the architecture. Today, many of these buildings have been restored and are protected as historic landmarks.
La Condesa is home to a diverse population, with a mix of young professionals, artists, and students. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, with a wide range of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore. The neighborhood is also home to several parks, including the large Parque México, which is a popular spot for jogging, picnics, and outdoor concerts.
One of the main draws of La Condesa is its vibrant nightlife scene. There are numerous bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from, with a mix of live music and DJ sets. The neighborhood is also home to a number of art galleries and cultural centers, such as the Museo Tamayo and the Centro Cultural de España en México.
In terms of dining, La Condesa has something for everyone. There are a wide range of restaurants to choose from, serving everything from traditional Mexican cuisine to international fare. Many of the restaurants have outdoor seating, making it a great place to sit and people-watch while enjoying a meal.
Despite its popularity, La Condesa has managed to maintain a laid-back, bohemian atmosphere. It is a great place to spend a day or evening exploring the streets, trying out different restaurants and bars, and soaking up the local culture. Whether you’re a tourist or a resident of Mexico City, La Condesa is a must-visit neighborhood.
For the best areas to stay in Nashville, look no further than the neighborhoods around Downtown, East Nashville, The Gulch, The West End, Midtown, Hillsboro Village and Germantown. These are the best parts of Nashville to book your accommodations! In this article I will help you decide where to stay in Nashville for tourist without a car, nightlife and safe places to stay in Nashville.
Nashville, Tennessee, nicknamed “Music City USA,” is the capital and most populous city in the state. An incredibly popular destination, it offers so much variety that everyone will be sure to find something entertaining.
Nashville is generally a safe city for tourists. But watch out for muggers and pickpockets in dark alleys downtown, around the Parthenon in Centennial Park and near recording studios in the Gulch. The safest neighborhoods are Downtown, Midtown, the Gulch, Music Valley and West End—all areas that are always filled with tourists.
Downtown Nashville
Downtown is one of the best place to stay in Nashville for first-time visitors, as it is close to most of the city’s famous attractions and has many options in terms of accommodations. If you book hotels in this area, you will be right in the heart of action with many bars, restaurants, and shops right at your doorsteps.
Looking east along Broadway
Downtown is a haven for nightlife. With great music venues, restaurants, bars and hotels—and even more places to visit—it’s a great place to go out with friends and make some memories. If you’re planning a bachelor or bachelorette party, you can bet there will be plenty of places to party.
Downtown Nashville Highlights
Fill your days with live music and history. At the Ryman Auditorium, you can see performances by the likes of Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton.
Visit the Tennessee State Museum to learn about the state’s rich past and diverse culture.
Grab a drink at Robert’s Western World, where live country music is always playing.
If you love African American music or want to learn more about it, visit the National Museum of African American Music or take in a show at Bourbon Street Blues and Boogie Bar.
Learn about Tennessee’s history at the state capitol—and explore its beautiful grounds—on a guided tour.
If you enjoy art, head over to the Musician’s Hall of Fame and Museum or wander through Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park.
For Nightlife in Nashville, Check out the SoBro District
The SoBro district, or South of Broadway, is one of the hippest areas in downtown Nashville. There are lots of honky-tonks and neon lights, as well as hip bars, nightclubs, pubs, restaurants, and a trendy music scene.
SoBro is a great place to stay for music lovers, party-goers and bachelor & bachelorette parties. Etch, The FarmHouse, Husk and Merchants are great restaurants, while Robert’s Western World, AJ’s Good Time Bar and Barlines are some of the bars you will find at Omni Nashville Hotel.
Bridgestone Arena is conveniently located a block from Broadway in the SoBro District
The SoBro neighborhood is home to the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum. Founded in 1967, the museum is one of the world’s largest music museums and research centers, containing one of the most extensive music collections.
Just to the west of SoBro is the Music City Center, the largest convention center in the city. It hosts all manner of conventions throughout the year, making it a convenient place to stay for anyone attending one.
In the south of SoBro is the CMA Theater. It is operated by the Country Music Hall Of Fame & Museum and linked to it, giving you an incredible opportunity to catch a performance in one of the world’s most iconic locations for country music while visiting SoBro.
One of the city’s most celebrated attractions, the Nashville Symphony is home to the Nashville Symphony Orchestra. While downtown and the rest of the city is primarily known for its country music scene, this gives you a chance to see musicians of another genre perform while you’re in Music City.
Walk Of Fame Park is one of the best places in SoBro to take a leisurely stroll. With beautiful gardens and star-studded pavements—think Hollywood—it’s a great place to enjoy both nature and memorials to some of Nashville’s favorite musical legends.
SoBro Highlights – Perfect for First Timers in Nashville
If you’re in the mood for Southern comfort food, head to Merchants Restaurant.
For a crash course on the history of American music, visit The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
At The Listening Room Café, you can enjoy great food along with great music.
Learn more about Johnny Cash at the Johnny Cash Museum; then grab a drink at Rippy’s Bar & Grill and enjoy incredible views from their rooftop patio.
Cheer on the Nashville Predators hockey team at Bridgestone Arena.
If you’re looking for nonstop live music and dancing, stop by Honky Tonk Central bar.
The Gulch Nashville: Trendy and up and coming, with luxury hotels and plenty to do!
The Gulch, one of Downtown’s LEED-certified neighborhoods, is bordered to the east by SoBro, to the south and west by the I-40, and to the north by Broadway and the rest of Downtown. The Gulch is an up-and-coming neighborhood that has been undergoing revitalization since 2006.
The Gulch is home to some of Nashville’s most historic and popular music venues. The Station Inn, Mercy Lounge, and High Watt give music fans a chance to watch performances in iconic surroundings with the world’s best bluegrass, classic country, Americana, and roots music.
The Gulch also boasts one of the city’s most historic hotels, the Union Station Hotel. This former railroad terminal opened in 1900 and has been converted into a luxury hotel. You can stay right in the heart of Nashville surrounded by both quality and history.
Highlights of The Gulch
If you like beer, try the Flying Saucer.
For great views of Nashville, go to The Centennial Park and Up Rooftop Lounge.
If you like antiques, visit the Downtown Antique Mall.
If you want good bluegrass music, go to The Station Inn.
If you want local brews, visit Yazoo Brewing Company or Jackalope Brewing Company.
If you like BBQ, try Peg Leg Porker.
If you want to see exhibits and artwork, go to the Frist Center for the Visual Arts.
For a Young Vibe, try the The West End and Midtown
The Midtown and West End neighborhoods are located southwest of Downtown, with Broadway concluding in the eastern side of Midtown. The neighborhoods are home to Vanderbilt University and Belmont University.
The main attraction in Midtown & West End is Centennial Park, which is also home to the Nashville Farmers Market. Covering 132 acres, the park has been transformed from farmlands to wide open green spaces for the public, full of beauty spots and historical monuments.
Where to Stay in Nashville with Kids
When visiting Nashville as a family, it’s best to stay in a nice, calm neighborhood that’s close to all the major attractions. The West End neighborhood is perfect for this purpose. It has several advantages over other popular areas of town: it’s quieter than Midtown and Downtown, more affordable than those areas, and hosts activities for kids at The Parthenon.
What to Do in Nashville with Kids
The Country Music Hall of Fame
Nashville’s Adventure Science Center
The Nashville Zoo
Explore the Outdoors in Nashville!
Nashville on a Budget: Best Places / Neighborhoods to Stay
If you want to enjoy all Nashville has to offer at a budget price, consider staying in East Nashville (which is across the Cumberland River from downtown). It’s not the best part of town in terms of accommodations and attractions, but it makes up for this deficit by being one of the most affordable places to stay in or around the city. You won’t find many tourist amenities here, but that’s okay because you can go restaurant hopping with their numerous low-budget eateries where you can have some real fun! This restaurant is a local hot spot famous for its amazing Mexican food with a wide selection of tacos.
West End is another area of Nashville that offers affordable lodging. The area has numerous options for you to choose from, making it easy to plan a budget-friendly trip. It’s relatively easy to get to Midtown from West End by taking a taxi, which allows you to enjoy the entertainment district attractions without having to stretch your wallet thin by staying there. West End also has amazing affordable restaurants like McDougal’s Chicken Fingers & Wings. This comfort food spot offers you great deals on southern specials whether it is breakfast or your main meal. The best part is that they also throw in some free ice cream with every meal.
For Live Music
Friday and Saturday nights, Lower Broadway has a party atmosphere with patrons spilling out of its bars.
Celebrities own some of the newer bars on Broadway but there are also traditional honky tonks such as Tootsies Orchid Lounge and Robert’s Western World.
Just north of Broadway is the acoustically acclaimed Ryman Auditorium which hosts up-and-coming bands and big-name acts across musical genres. Printer’s Alley is a fun downtown nook to explore with its twinkling lights.
For History Buffs
The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum celebrates Nashville’s rich musical heritage. After checking out the informative exhibits, you’ll see why the city is nicknamed Music City. The museum building is also home to Hatch Show Print, a long-running print shop known for its iconic woodblock concert posters.
Across the street, Walk of Fame Park honors top performers. Johnny Cash takes the spotlight at his namesake museum a block and a half from Walk of Fame Park.
Stretch your legs on the John Siegenthaler Pedestrian Bridge, which crosses the Cumberland River. This pretty span honors a former editor of the Tennessean, who was a champion of civil rights during his career in journalism.
For Couples Looking to Get Away
Centennial Park, named for the state’s centennial anniversary and host to the World’s Fair in 1897, is a beautiful spot for a romantic stroll. The Parthenon replica, built during the fair, still stands. Dolly Parton recorded one of the world’s greatest love songs, “I Will Always Love You,” in 1973 inside RCA Studio B, a historic recording studio open for tours on Music Row. Wander Hillsboro Village’s shops and explore nearby Belmont University’s campus home to a small museum spotlighting rare guitars. The cool confines of the Patterson House are an intimate setting for a craft cocktail. Settle in at Catbird Seat for an innovative multicourse dinner.
For Bachelors and Bachelorettes
On weekends, many revelers head to Lower Broadway, a neighborhood known for its music. Live music and booze can be found at honky-tonks around the neighborhood. Musicians Kid Rock, Blake Shelton, Jason Aldean, and Luke Bryan recently opened bars in Lower Broad which has amplified the party vibe. Another hotspot is Acme Feed & Seed, a riverside bar and restaurant known for its open-air decks and city views. City Winery and several craft breweries offer tastings in the industrial fringes of the neighborhood. A Top Golf driving range is a short drive north of the neighborhood. Bloody Mary brunches at restaurants in and around SoBro are perfect for nursing hangovers or continuing the party.
