Author: admin

These Mexican Caribbean Spots Are Cheaper And Have Fewer Crowds This Season
[ad_1]
Share The Article

Last Updated 3 hours ago

The Mexican Caribbean, especially the ever-busy Cancun and Tulum, are not known for being particularly affordable or even relaxing to visit, depending on accommodation choice, with the intense party scene and thousands of beachgoers fighting for the perfect spot in the sun. Luckily, there are a handful of unfrequented resort towns that are not only less crowded but significantly cheaper for tourists.

Now that Americans are no longer subject to strict health checks flying abroad, a record number of them are heading south of the border for their yearly break, smashing records established in the pre-crisis years. The renewed demand is certainly great news for tourism, but on the flip side, both mass tourism and prices have increased in the state of Quintana Roo as a result.

Interestingly, despite its extensive Caribbean coast, tourists usually restrict their movements to Northern Quintana Roo — where Cancun is — only:

This Is Why Southern Quintana Roo Is Ignored By Foreigners

The Mayan Riviera is the top destination for U.S. citizens vacationing in Mexico. Home to sandy beaches, teal-colored waters, ancient pyramids, and a well-developed resort zone, it is an absolute leader in booking trends within the country, registering up to 30 million guests throughout 2022, more than entire countries would have in the same period.

Because of its status as a well-connected hub and arguably the best-equipped airport in the region, Cancun International has the highest percentage of arrivals: it offers links not only to the city of Cancun itself but numerous other smaller towns in the vicinity, such as Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, and the insular municipality of Isla Mujeres.

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

In short, it is the main gateway to Mexico’s most popular coastal zone, but it doesn’t serve the entire state of Quintana Roo (QR). In fact, the regional capital of Chetumal is located 236 miles south, and while it does have an international airport, it is not nearly as well connected as the Northern competitor:

The only scheduled flights currently depart from Mexico City.

The South Is Harder To Reach, But It’s A Lot More Quaint

Southern Quintana Roo is undoubtedly more challenging to reach, but it also means it sees only a small fraction of Cancun’s overwhelming passenger numbers, in spite of being incredibly more affordable and straddling the same pristine coastline. If you’re looking to escape the North’s crowds and widespread scamming, this is the place to be.

3 Of The Top Destinations To Visit In Southern Quintana Roo

Chetumal, The Small State Capital

A medium-sized city, Chetumal is known for its lively social scene, modern waterfront, and Chetumal Bay, a sanctuary where local wildlife can be spotted, such as crocodiles and turtles. Additionally, it sits at the crossroads of Central and North America, where several well-preserved Mayan ruins that have not yet been swarmed by disrespectful tourists are hidden.

Bacalar, A Beautiful Lakeside Town

Within driving distance of Chetumal, you will find the charming, quintessentially Mexican town of Bacalar. It’s not on the coast, but it sits on the shores of a crystal-clear lake lined with family-owned restaurants and cute boutique hotels with a jungle aesthetic. Here, smelly seaweed and overpriced taxis are definitely not a concern.

Mahahual, An Authentic Mexican Coastal Village

Similarly, the fishing village of Mahahual, home to a limited number of resorts and development sites, is rising to prominence as a more quaint, cleaner alternative to Tulum. It lacks the latter’s cacophony, Instagram hordes, and potholes, with white, soft sandy beaches that will feel actually soothing to lounge by.

All three will be a lot quieter and potentially much cheaper to travel to this season. The proof is in the numbers: according to Bertha Medina Núñez de Cáceres, president of the Association of Hotels and Tourist Services in Central and Southern Quintana Roo, occupancy in Chetumal, Bacalar and Mahahual are expected to reach between 30% to 35% only.

Demand For Southern Quintana Roo Has Dropped, And It’s Great News For Budget Travelers

Calling it the ‘January drop’, Cáceres notes destinations in the southern part of the state could see a 60% drop in occupancy compared to December when 90% of rooms were booked. In other words, only 1,700 rooms across 270 hotels in Othón P. Blanco and Bacalar are expecting guests in early winter, as Americans and Canadians flock to Cancun instead.

Due to a decrease in demand, tourists can expect more competitive prices vacationing South of Cancun, as Chetumal and neighboring destinations compete with the more powerful North. Hotel Casa Hormiga, one of the select five-star offers in Lake Bacalar, has room rates as low as USD $1406 for a week.

In comparison, all-inclusives in Tulum average USD $3000 or above for the same period. There may be fewer flight options to Southern QR, but it is certainly a fair trade-off when you’re saving thousands of dollars on accommodation and other daily expenses while experiencing a truly authentic side of Mexico.

Once the new Maya Train launches this December, the South’s connectivity problem will be a thing of the past: this scenic railway journey will link all the main tourist sites in the Yucatan Peninsula, which Quintana Roo is a part of, including the southernmost tip of the state. For now, visitors have only three options to get there:
- Flying (connecting through Mexico City)
- Taking public transport (shuttles and inter-municipal buses)
- Arranging private transfers
Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
[ad_2]

Source link
January 14, 2023
Top 7 Destinations For 2023 According To The New York Times
[ad_1]
Share The Article

Last Updated 3 hours ago

Travel editors at the New York Times have just released an epic list of 52 places to visit in 2023. To determine the world’s top spots, they asked the all-important question of why we travel. The chosen destinations hold the answers to that question. These worldwide destinations were chosen because they offer travelers food, culture, adventure, or natural beauty that is unique to that place and worth traveling for.

7. Kangaroo Island, Australia

Kangaroo Island off the southern Australian coast is packed with wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and unique accommodations. This small island is home to less than 5,000 people, but it really packs a punch. It is an absolute paradise for animal lovers who want to see wildlife in their natural habitat. The island is home to kangaroos, wallabies, fur seals, koalas, dolphins, and more.

In late 2019 Southern Australia suffered horrific wildfires that destroyed so much of the region. Kangaroo Island and its wildlife reserve were decimated. As the island rebuilds, it is welcoming back visitors to partake in recovery efforts.

6. Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs might be best known for its celebrity inhabitants, modern architecture, and hot springs, but the stunning surrounding nature is what really keeps visitors coming back year after year. Nearby Joshua Tree National Park has reignited popular interest in stargazing with its Night Sky Festival, which takes place each September.

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

In the spring of 2023, a new Museum dedicated to the Agua Caliente Tribe will open. The 10,000-square-foot museum will show off the Tribe’s storied art and artifacts and explore its connection with the surrounding lands.

5. Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland is an increasingly multicultural city in an incredibly unique location. It has become known as a destination for both food and nature lovers. With easy access from the city center to nearby beaches, rainforests, waterfalls, hiking trails, and 26 regional parks, Auckland is perfectly situated for adventure seekers. Additionally, the city’s waterfront neighborhoods are home to fantastic restaurants featuring seafood, meats, produce, and wines from the region.

4. Kilmartin Glen, Scotland

Fans of ancient history will relish their time in Kilmartin Glen, a small village located in western Scotland. The area is full of relics from a time gone by – with stone circles, carved rocks, forts, and castles galore. There are 150 prehistoric monuments and ruins in the immediate area, giving history buffs plenty to explore. In 2023 the Kilmartin Museum will reopen after extensive renovations. The museum is unique in that the ancient relics it so proudly displays were all discovered nearby.

3. Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Arizona

The Four Corners Region in the western U.S. is chock full of breathtaking parks and otherworldly landscapes. Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park on the Arizona/Utah border is no exception. Also known by the Navajo name of Tse’Bii’Ndzisgaii, the park is home to majestic sandstone rock formations – some up to 1,000 feet tall. Photographs simply cannot do this area justice – you must visit the park in person to truly understand the immense beauty and power of the land.

Visitors to the park can drive a 17-mile loop or hike through the valley on a 3-mile trail. Guided tours are also available to bring tourists to ancient cliff dwellings. No visit to the park is complete without a stop at the Trading Post for traditional Navajo arts and crafts.

2. Morioka, Japan

Now that Japan has finally reopened for international tourists, it is time for the world to discover the city of Morioka. Morioka is less touristed than other Japanese cities and is only a 2.5-hour train ride north of Tokyo. Visitors who make the effort to go will be rewarded with a charming, walkable city full of fantastic food and some of the best coffee in the country. Not only is Morioka a charming and authentic spot, but it is also a great base for exploring the surrounding region and all the mountains and hot springs.

Morioka is home to many rich cultural festivals. One of the largest is the Morioka Sansa Odori Festival which takes place each August. During the festival, over 10,000 drummers descend upon the city for the world’s largest taiko drum festival. The event plans to make a full return in 2023 after it was canceled or scaled back in previous years due to the pandemic.

1. London, UK

London seems to be at the top of everyone’s travel list this year, and for good reason. The city continues to thrive despite many recent challenges. London offers so much to its visitors – a thriving and diverse food scene, efficient public transport, and 95 museums that you can visit for free.

In 2023 people from near and far will flock to London to be part of a historic event. The first coronation in over 70 years will take place in May when King Charles III takes the throne.

Other Destinations In the NYT List:
1. Vjosa River, Albania
2. Accra, Ghana
3. Tromsø, Norway
4. Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil
5. Bhutan
6. Kerala, India
7. Greenville, South Carolina
8. Tucson, Arizona
1. Martinique
2. The Namib Desert, Southern Africa
3. The Alaska Railroad
4. Fukuoka, Japan
5. Flores, Indonesia
6. Guadalajara, Mexico
1. Tassili n’Ajjer, Algeria
2. Kakheti, Georgia
3. Nîmes, France
4. Ha Giang, Vietnam
5. Salalah, Oman
6. Cuba
1. Odense, Denmark
2. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia
3. Boquete, Panama
4. Tarragona, Spain
5. Charleston, South Carolina
6. Cayos Cochinos, Honduras
7. Burgundy Beer Trail, France
8. Istanbul, Turkey
1. Taipei, Taiwan
2. El Poblado, Medellín, Colombia
3. Lausanne, Switzerland
4. Methana, Greece
5. Louisville, Kentucky
6. Manaus, Brazil
7. Vilnius, Lithuania
8. Macon, Georgia
9. Madrid, Spain
1. Grand Junction, Colorado
2. La Guajira, Colombia
3. Bergamo and Brescia, Italy
4. American Prairie, Montana
5. Eastern Townships, Quebec
6. New Haven, Connecticut
7. The Black Hills, South Dakota
8. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
[ad_2]

Source link
January 13, 2023
Book Your Trip To Cancun Before March To Avoid This Major Problem

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 32 mins ago

If you’re on the fence about booking that trip to Cancun now as opposed to later, in the low season, you may want to think about booking now. Whether it’s high prices holding you back or limited offers, we should remind you now is the best time to travel if you want to avoid a major problem. Beginning in March, sargassum seaweed will begin washing ashore again, and this time, the volume could be overwhelming.

Every year, the microorganism infamously batters the Caribbean coast, tarnishing the pristine nature of its white sand crescents and ruining the Mexican beach experience. Stepping over the smelly deposits as they make their way to a not-so-blue sea, painted a darker shade by the brown algae, is every traveler’s worst nightmare.

Based on the latest data, those heading to Cancun in the near future might want to bring their flights forward by a few weeks to be on the safe side:

Sargassum Season Will Be Worse This Year

After battling the phenomenon for most of 2022, Cancun – and the wider Riviera Maya – is currently enjoying a sargassum-free winter. As local specialists have affirmed, winter is the perfect time to visit the region due to the strong winds blowing from the north that help keep the seaweed at bay, in spite of the warm temperatures known to boost its spread.

Regrettably, the winds are fast-changing, and sargassum levels are bound to increase dramatically come spring. According to the newest report issued by Zofemat – an acronym for Zona Federal Maritimo Terrestre – 2023 will see a collection of algae equal to, or even higher than last year’s, with every major destination on the Riviera Maya likely to feel the impact.

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

This is particularly worrying, seeing that, throughout 2022, around 37,000 tons had made landfall. As stated by Lourdes Várguez Ocampo, director of Zofemaet, the numbers up to December 31 were already exceedingly high, and expecting further occurrences, preparations for the upcoming ‘intense’ sargassum season are underway at this stage.

What Can Travelers Expect Flying To Cancun After March?

In early 2022, the situation was so critical a popular beach in Playa del Carmen, a small resort town south of Cancun, was closed while cleaning was carried out. Beaches were still not completely shielded, and cleaners were routinely seen working round the clock to remove the excess seaweed. This year, they’re better equipped:

The Government has invested heavily in new machinery to divert it, but despite their best efforts, Carmen is again battling a seaweed surge as early as January. Luckily, the sargassum arriving right now is reddish and lighter in nature, ‘easier to harvest’. From March, however, tourists should expect a return of the brown, foul-smelling version.

Playa del Carmen may be bearing the brunt of it, but neighboring hotspots like Puerto Morelos, Tulum, and of course, Cancun, are also set for record levels in spring. With this in mind, Ocampo notes the Quintana Roo Administration has budgeted 40 million Mexican pesos for a wide range of anti-seaweed measures.

These may include sargassum barriers, ‘sandbonis’, and the so-called ‘sargaboats’, which collect the invasive microorganism before it makes it to land. Authorities are going above and beyond what is required to ensure vacationers do not face any kind of disruption, such as closed beaches, but it’s hard to say this far in advance whether that will be enough.

Quintana Roo Takes Tourism Very Seriously

One thing is clear: Quintana Roo takes tourism very seriously. Besides cordoning off the coast to maintain beaches in their pristine nature, the Government is adding new security forces to tourist spots in Tulum and deploying the National Guard to the soon-to-be-launched Maya Train to protect visitors from crime.

While Mexico can always crack down harder on violence, there’s only so much they can do when it comes to sargassum, especially when sea temperatures keep rising, the main factor behind algae reproduction. Every year it gets worse, and the four-month cycle for sargassum-free sunny breaks in the Mexican Caribbean keeps getting shorter.

In the end, it’s up to you to decide whether traveling now and paying more for perfectly clean beaches and a turquoise-colored ocean is a trade-off you’re willing to go with. Alternatively, you could consider exploring this lesser-known destination in southern Quintana Roo that’s recently earned the nickname of ‘New Tulum’, and where seaweed is definitely not an issue.

Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

January 13, 2023
Why These 5 Beaches Are The Best In The World On TikTok Right Now

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 3 mins ago

With temperatures dropping to record lows in large swathes of the U.S., Americans are looking for warmer places to be this season, where they can bury their feet in the sand and bask in the sunshine. It should come as no surprise, then, that these 5 stunning beaches are currently trending on TikTok, amassing hundreds of millions of views.

As the fastest-growing social media platform right now, TikTok is a great tool for tracking the latest travel trends, learning new travel hacks that will help you save money while traveling, and even uncovering the ugly truth about some of the world’s most popular destinations aesthetic-obsessed ‘Insta-influencers’ would never dare add to their perfect grid.

It also gives us an idea of which sunny locations youngsters are flocking into – and most importantly, why:

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

5 – Waikiki Beach, Hawaii (U.S.)

An upscale neighborhood straddling the pristine coast of Honolulu, the largest city in O’ahu, Waikiki is dotted with high-rise properties, tourist complexes, and world-class restaurants ranking among the island’s finest. Its main attraction, however, has to be the man-made Waikiki Beach, watched 43.7 million times on TikTok.

When you picture Hawaii’s long stretches of sand sandwiched between turquoise waters and tree-flanked promenades, it’s probably this beach that comes to mind. Other than sunbathing, TikTok users are particularly enthusiastic about Waikiki’s diverse tourist offer, ranging from surf lessons and snorkeling to beachfront events for all ages.

@alyssamarchioni Aloha Waikiki☀️ #waikikibeach #hawaii #vacation #beach #oahu #oahuhawaii #travel #traveltiktok ♬ original sound – Alyssa Marchioni

4 – Vũng Tàu Beach, Vietnam

Vũng Tàu is a quaint fishing town in Vietnam’s Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu Province. Due to its close proximity to Ho Chi Minh City – the legendary Saigon – it makes for an amazing weekend escape from the hustle and bustle of the regional capital. Arriving at the bay, visitors are greeted by breathtaking views of a long sandy coast with imposing green peaks as a backdrop.

Besides being the ideal place for relaxing and soaking up the sun, viral TikToks show Vũng Tàu as a charming settlement filled with French-styled buildings dating back to the colonial era and historical neighborhoods offering a glimpse into life on the Thai coast. Overall, clips filmed here have collectively hit 61.9 million views on the app.

@linhdoan.112 Vượt lười thành công edit nốt phần 2. Clip này sẽ là 2 ngày cuối ở Vũng Tàu nên có hơi dài, các bác nhớ coi hết nha! #linhdoanriviu #vungtau #dulichvietnam #xuhuong #trending #fypシ ♬ original sound – Linh Đoàn

3 – Nha Trang Beach, Vietnam

Yet another Vietnamese gem was acknowledged as a distinguished beach right now. Contrary to Vũng Tàu, however, Nha Trang is anything but bucolic: it is a well-developed resort city known not only for crystal clear waters, but a lively social scene. Due to its cosmopolitan appeal and stunning nature, no beach site in Vietnam ranks higher on TikTok.

It curves along the famous Tran Phu Street, embellished by a scenic promenade lined with five-star hotels and traditional eateries serving freshly-caught seafood. Rounding out the top three, it has garnered up to 64.9 million views. Needless to say, Vietnam as a whole is one of the trendiest destinations in Southeast Asia right now.

@mtripsvietnam Sixsense Ninh Vân Bay – Nha Trang #LearnOnTikTok #travel #vietnam #nhatrang #trending #foryou #foryoupage #xuhuong #sixsenses #dulich ♬ Lone Ranger – Rachel Platten

2 – Pattaya Beach, Thailand

Thailand’s most iconic beach, Pattaya, is highly sought-after both for leisure, encompassing lounging zones and bars, and water sports. Although the central section directly faces the modern development zone and gets overwhelmingly busy in the peak season, the northern part is usually quieter, with a greater sense of seclusion (and less visual pollution).

On TikTok, it is the second trendiest natural attraction, nearly topping the charts with 128.5 million views. Pattaya itself is a center for the culture of the sorts, home to the temple-packed Buddha Hill and the wooden-built Sanctuary of Truth, a prime example of Thai architecture, a museum still undergoing constriction featuring an opulent interior and tall spires.

@carisiosajean Beach must to visit in Pattaya🏝☀️🌊#pattayacity #pattayabeach #thailand #fypシ ♬ Asian style warm tropical house – Future Oriented Triad

1 – Bondi Beach, Australia

In line with AirBnB, which recently added this coastal hub to their list of five destinations expecting to surge in popularity in 2023, the top viral beach content on TikTok is Bondi Beach, a white sand crescent with a distinct laid-back vibe in Sydney, Australia. So far, it has hit 445.8 million views across all TikTok posts, easily claiming the top spot on the list.

Perfect blood-red sunsets, big waves, and a bright blue ocean: it does tick all the boxes. Walking the beach at weekends, especially Saturdays, tourists will find food stalls selling fish and chips and other local produce, as well as beach markets. At certain times of the year, Bondi also houses film and sand sculpture festivals.

@erikaraquel_ Mini vlog from a sunday afternoon at Bondi Beach, Australia 🇦🇺💛 highly recommend going to north bondi at sunset and having a boogie 🕺 #surfergirl #surfgiellife #beachlifestyle #bondibeachsydney #bondilife #bondibeach #bondivlog #dayinthelifeminivlog #erikawhite #erikawhitesurf #beachvlogger #beachminivlog #sydneyaustralia #bondiicebergpool ♬ Au Revoir – Sweet After Tears

Read more about the latest TikTok travel trends here.

Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

January 12, 2023
Why This Underrated European Country Should Be On Your Bucket List This Year

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 2 hours ago

When you picture crystal-clear blue waters, white sand beaches, quaint historic towns, and stunning natural scenery, which European country comes to mind?

Maybe you answered Italy, Greece, or Croatia.

Albania may not have come to mind at all, but this Balkan country is one of the most underrated destinations in Europe that offers all of the above and more.

Here’s why Albania should be on your bucket list this year:

1) Incredible Beaches

One of the top reasons to visit Albania this summer is for its amazing beaches.

Located on the Adriatic Sea, Albania’s beaches are among the best-kept secrets in Europe. While they are widely visited by locals and tourists from other Balkan countries, Albania’s beaches are still largely off the radar for most other tourists.

However, they are some of the best beaches in Europe, with white sand beaches and clear turquoise-blue waters.

Sarande is a resort town known for its beach parties and nightlife, while Ksamil and Borsh Beach are known for their stunning natural beauty.

2) A Cool Capital City

Albania’s capital city Tirana is extremely cool, hip, and funky. It’s a hodgepodge of striking architecture, a mixture of modern design and Communist-era buildings.

The city was named the European Youth Capital of 2022 because of its rapid growth and its youthful, vibrant spirit. Tirana is a city that’s constantly in flux and changing by the day.

There are so many reasons to visit Tirana, and this city offers something for everyone, including foodies, history fanatics, and party lovers.

3) Quaint Historic Towns

Although Tirana is a great city to visit, the real charm of Albania lies in its quaint historic towns.

Berat, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most striking historic towns in the country due to its nickname of “The City of a Thousand Windows.”

Gjirokastra is another beautiful ancient town that is known as “The City of a Thousand Steps” due to its many stone stairs and hilly landscape.

4) Affordable Prices

One of the best parts of Albania is how affordable it is. It’s a great destination for budget travelers, or luxury travelers who want to travel in style in a destination where their money goes much further.

While many popular destinations in Europe, such as Italy, France, and Greece are extremely pricy, countries in the Balkan region can be shocking cheap, and Albania is among the cheapest of all.

Even other once-affordable Balkan countries like Croatia are experiencing skyrocketing prices this year, making Albania a refreshing alternative.

5) Friendly People

One of the biggest highlights of all in Albania is the people. Albanians are extremely friendly and hospitable.

You’ll be blown away by the level of hospitality that is shown by Albanians. Even if there’s a bit of a language barrier (English is not widely spoken, especially among the older generations in Albania), people will go out of their way to help you in any way that they can.

Unlike some other European destinations like Italy that are flooded with American tourists, Albania has not experienced much of that yet, and you don’t have to worry about being scammed or ripped off.

6) Relaxed Visa Rules

Albania is an emerging destination for digital nomads in Europe because of its sunny climate, affordable prices, great places to base yourself, and relaxed visa rules.

Americans can spend up to one year in Albania without a visa. This makes it very attractive for digital nomads and long-term travelers.

It’s one of the few countries in Europe that still offers long stays for American travelers hoping to reset their Schengen visas after nearby Croatia joined the Schengen Zone.

Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

January 12, 2023
Thousands Of Flights Across The U.S. Grounded Due To FAA System Failure

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 4 mins ago

Travelers across the U.S. have been majorly affected this Wednesday as thousands of flights have been delayed due to a failure of the Notice to Air Missions System (NOTAMS). The system is meant to give pilots last-minute flight and safety information before flying. According to FlightAware data, over 1,200 flights have been delayed as of 7:30 am EST, and about 100 flights have been canceled entirely.

Which Airlines Have Been Affected?

According to the FAA, all airlines have been ordered to pause domestic departures until 9 am EST. Whether this is extended remains to be seen. Still, as of now, all passengers attempting to fly domestically will be unable to do so. Several airlines have issued their own statements. United has gone as far as to say they have “temporarily delayed all domestic flights and will issue an update when we learn more from the FAA.” Similarly, American Airlines has stated that they are “closely monitoring the situation and working with the FAA to minimize customer disruptions.”

Update 3: The FAA is still working to fully restore the Notice to Air Missions system following an outage.⁰⁰The FAA has ordered airlines to pause all domestic departures until 9 a.m. Eastern Time to allow the agency to validate the integrity of flight and safety information.

— The FAA ✈️ (@FAANews) January 11, 2023

When Will The Issue Be Resolved?

If the FAA’s latest statement is to be trusted, they expect to have made at least enough progress by 9 am to issue an update on the situation. However, it should be noted that prior to their latest update, the FAA stated that “while some functions are beginning to come back online, National Airspace System operations remain limited.” At this moment, it is impossible to predict an exact time for the issue to be resolved. Still, travelers can be sure that the FAA is working as quickly as possible to fix the system.

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

pic.twitter.com/PH5bDttxh6

— United Airlines (@united) January 11, 2023

What Should Travelers With Upcoming Flights Do?

Airports and airlines both advise checking the status of your flight directly with your airline before heading to the airport. If your flight is delayed significantly, it will be more comfortable to wait it out at home. Also, if the system takes longer than expected to come back online, it’s possible that your flight may be canceled altogether, so a trip to the airport would be in vain.

Austin airport is already assuming that even passengers flying later in the day can expect to be affected, stating, “arriving and departing passengers can expect delays this morning and through the day.”

#AUSAlert: An FAA system outage is causing ground stops at AUS and other airports across the country. Arriving & departing passengers can expect delays this morning & through the day.

✈️ Please stay in contact with your airline & check your flight status before heading to AUS.

— Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) (@AUStinAirport) January 11, 2023

Southwest has also warned travelers to stay updated with the latest information stating, “please check your flight status in the Southwest app or on Southwest.com for any flight status changes.” Travelers flying with other airlines should make sure to check with their respective carriers as well.

Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

January 11, 2023
This Colonial City Is One Of The Fastest Growing Destinations In Mexico
[ad_1]
Share The Article

Last Updated 13 hours ago

Cancun, Cabo, and Puerto Vallarta form Mexico’s triad of world-class destinations, boasting an enviable number of tourist attractions and a well-developed wellness scene. But while they battle among themselves for the title of the top coastal hub, the lesser-known colonial city of Merida is setting new passenger arrival records – and adding to the competition.

Sun and sand are still the main reason why Americans flock to the neighboring nation of Mexico for their winter holidays, but there’s another interesting trend emerging lately that can’t be ignored for much longer: historical tours have exploded in popularity, and this Yucatan gem seems to be gaining the most traction lately.

Merida Breaks Previous Arrival Record

After two years of slower growth as a result of the ongoing Covid pandemic, Mexico shattered all records in 2022 and delivered its best performance yet, surpassing the already historical year of 2019 and recording an increase of 30% in arrival figures. All Mexican destinations, from the mighty Cancun to the under-visited, increasingly trendy Bacalar, benefitted from the surge.

Interestingly, coastal cities are not the only driving force behind Mexico’s 2022 revival: its rich colonial heritage is finally achieving notoriety after being overlooked for years and has greatly contributed to the diversification of tourism. Out of all post-Columbian settlements, however, Merida stands out as one of the fastest-growing destinations.

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

Last December alone, 328,750 passengers arrived at Merida International, the busiest month yet on record. Year on year, it has grown 10% since the pre-pandemic era, with a total of 3,092,951 passengers recorded throughout 2022. It marked the first time Merida and the wider Yucatan state breached the 3-million visitor mark.

Back in 2019, the city had hit a previous all-time high of 2.8 million. The landmark moment did not go unnoticed by both airport authorities and the Government, who have been tracking Merida’s rising popularity for months, going as far as presenting a certificate to the 3-millionth passenger, identified as Alberto Flores Torres.

Merida’s Connectivity Is Growing

Merida’s connectivity has improved significantly in recent months, with new flights launched to destinations across Mexico and Latin America. Most notably Toluca, Leon and Queretaro, and Flores, in Guatemala. From the United States and Canada, direct flights are available from the following cities:
- Miami (American Airlines)
- Dallas/Fort Worth (American Eagle)*
- Houston (United Airlines)
- Toronto (WestJet)*
*These routes are seasonal

Additionally, the launch of the new Maya Train, a Yucatan-wide project linking all main points of interest in the peninsula by rail, will further boost tourism. From December 2023, travelers will be able to board a Merida-bound train from Cancun, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and other resort towns along the coast making it a lot more accessible.

But other than the improved connectivity, what exactly is behind Merida’s newfound fame?

Visiting Merida Is Taking A Journey Back In Time

The capital of the Yucatan state, Merida, is a picture-perfect city with an incredibly well-preserved historical core that wouldn’t look out of place in the Iberian Peninsula of Europe. Strolling the colorful, lively streets of the Old Town, which have remained virtually unchanged, you’ll be transported back in time to the 16th century.

Namely, the age of discovery, territorial disputes, and Transatlantic trade, when Merida flourished as a valuable European asset on this side of the pond, built on top of a much older Mayan settlement. The most striking edifice, the fortified Merida Cathedral, was actually built using dismantled parts of Mayan temples, an everlasting symbol of the brutal Spanish Conquest.

Other important monuments include the traditional homes lining the Paseo de Montejo, once owned by the Yucatan elite, and countless palaces housing world-class art collections and relics of inestimable value. Outside Mexico City, visiting Merida is the closest one could get to bearing witness to Spain’s imperial grandeur.

In sum, Merida is an amalgamation of all Mexican cultures and a major cultural center in Yucatan: here, guests will find both Catholic shrines and Mesoamerican archaeological zones, restaurants serving traditional food – not the industrialized tacos sold within tourist complexes in Cancun – and a plethora of museums that shine a light on the region’s fascinating History.

Other Incredible Colonial Cities You Can Visit In Mexico

All across Mexico, colonial cities are rising to prominence as the country’s top tourist offer, as a direct response to the waning popularity of overpriced, overcrowded beach towns like Tulum, which some would argue lack authenticity, and as interest in cultural expeditions and meaningful experiences is renewed in the post-Covid era.

Among other beautiful colonial destinations in Mexico, we have:
- San Miguel de Allende, a small, quaint, photogenic city in the Guanajuato state
- Guanajuato, the capital of the Guanajuato state, whose Old Town has been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its architectural value
- Izamal, built in a vibrant yellow and home to several 16th-century churches and a fortress-like monastery
- Taxco, the pearl of the Guerrero state, famous for its imposing cathedral and whitewashed houses
Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
[ad_2]

Source link
January 11, 2023
4 Reasons Why Airplane Seat Reclines Are Disappearing

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 2 hours ago

Unless you are flying first class or business class, your airplane seat is probably not as comfortable as you want it to be. While some airlines boast more legroom or wider seats in economy, most leave passengers wishing for something better. That is why the fact that airplane seats could become even more uncomfortable is unwelcome news for some travelers. The ability for economy seats to recline is slowly slipping out of favor for many airlines.

These days, passengers have become accustomed to airlines adding more creature comforts to retain their business, not taking them away. Delta just announced the addition of free wi-fi on flights, JetBlue will begin offering access to the Peacock streaming service this spring, and the EU is paving the way for passengers to use 5G mobile on flights. So why are airlines taking away the ability to recline in economy? As recently reported, there are four chief reasons why the recline is on the decline.

Fewer Disruptions

Anyone who has flown economy before likely has an opinion on the long-standing controversy of whether or not it is acceptable to recline an airplane seat. A recent survey of the most annoying types of passengers ranked passengers who recline as the 7^th most obnoxious behavior.

There are several different types of “recliners”. There are the polite ones, who check with the person behind them before leaning back. Then we have the reckless recliners. The ones who throw their seats back so fast they can knock off the entire contents of the tray table behind them onto an innocent person’s lap.

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

Have you ever been behind a multi-recliner? Someone lucky enough to have a whole row to themselves who chooses to recline every seat so they can lie down in comfort? And finally, there are the up-and-downers. These passengers can’t make up their minds and spend the whole flight changing their seatback position, constantly causing the person behind them to have to readjust.

Inevitably, flight attendants are called to mediate arguments between passengers who become upset with each other over a reclined seat. When seats don’t recline, there are fewer disruptions, and flight attendants can focus on keeping passengers safe, fed, and comfortable.

Less Maintenance

In order for a seatback to recline it must contain a mechanism that allows it to do so. Referred to as kinematics by seat makers, the moving parts are more likely to break than a seat without them. Whether it is from wear and tear or passenger abuse, the parts are susceptible to breaking and needing repairs. These repairs cost airlines time and money for something that is not essential to passenger travel.

A Lighter Load

Speaking of cost, the inclusion of hundreds of mechanisms that allow seats to recline increases the weight of the aircraft. Simply put, the heavier the plane, the more fuel it needs to fly. By lightening the aircraft’s load, airlines can potentially save money on fuel.

The Advent Of Pre-Reclined Seats

The final reason why airplane seat reclines are disappearing is that there are more choices when it comes to seat design. Newer, lightweight seats are built so the backrest is slanted in a more comfortable position than a standard upright seatback. These “pre-reclined” seats are more commonly found on short-haul flights on low-cost airlines but are gaining ground on other carriers.

Designs will continue to evolve as engineers come up with innovative ways to modify the weight, size, and features of airline seats. They are attempting to strike a balance between cost savings for airlines and passenger comfort. A well-designed row of seats can make room for additional seats on the plane, and with the industry currently experiencing record-breaking travel, every seat counts.

Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

January 10, 2023
4 Of The Most Beautiful Medieval Cities In Europe To Visit For 2023

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 56 mins ago

Medieval History is one of the reasons behind Europe’s popularity among Americans. Be it castles evocative of Disney movies or cobblestone-laden streets, every traveler wants to experience that Old World charm. While the entire continent is packed with landmarks, four cities in particular are known for their striking beauty, looking almost frozen in time.

Now that international travel has been reinstated, that old familiar urge to explore new destinations, supressed for three long years, is finally back, and being home to some of the world’s most iconic sights, Europe is at the front of the global tourism revival. In fact, cultural expeditions are on track to become one of the most sought-after experiences in 2023,

One could spend decades exploring the continent’s rich heritage and gorgeous Old Towns, but these four are certainly not to missed:

Carcassone

The Fairytale French Town

Perhaps Europe’s most impressive medieval citadel still in use, Carcassone is a small ville in the South of France, hidden away in the idyllic, vineyard-packed département of Aude. Looking at its breathtaking panorama from a distance, atop the rolling green hills opposite, visitors will soon understand why UNESCO claimed it as part of its World Heritage Sites:

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

Massive moated fortifications and a series of defensive walls and ramparts, one layer higher than the other, surround the entire city, in itself a sophisticated maze of early 14th century stone-built buildings, including centuries-old bakeries and artisan shops, inner citadels and hidden passageways leading to secret patios shielded by tall trees.

The city’s top sights include the restored Château Comtal, the Church of Saints Nazaire and Celse, embellished on the inside by a large expanse of stained glass, and Pont Vieux, a stone bridge built in the Middle Ages. As for the beautiful round towers distributed along the outer walls, good luck trying to count them: there are 53 in total, all perfectly preserved.

Rothemburg ob der Tauber

One Of Germany’s Last-Surviving Medieval Towns

Bearing a long and hard-to-pronounce name, Rothemburg (in its shortened form) is a Bavarian gem easily recognized for its incredibly picturesque Old Town, and 12th century walls, a rare feat for any German stadt, considering most of the country would have been flattened, or badly damaged beyond repair during both World Wars.

Rothenburg was lucky enough to be spared most of the widespread destruction which rained down on other major targets like Cologne and Berlin. That’s not to say it wasn’t hit hard, with up to 30% of the monuments in the center being a modern-day replica of much older versions. Even then, the bucholic appeal is still there, as if no conflict has taken place.

Strolling the narrow streets, tourists will find plenty of the classic half-timbered houses of Bavaria, except Rothenburg’s are easily distinguishable for being vibrant-colored and livelier, pubs and taverns serving traditional food and craft beer, and a majestic Gothic church whose slender belfry has dominated the skyline for 711 years.

Edinburgh

Scotland’s Quaint Capital City

The surprisingly quaint capital of Scotland, and the most liked city in all of the United Kingdom, Edinburgh has stolen the hearts of short-term guests, and proved a source of inspiration for artists, oral poets, and renowed writers for well over ten centuries now. Just make sure you pick up your jaw from the floor stepping out of Waverley Station in the heart of town.

You’ll be immediately welcomed with a panorama of the somber-looking Old Town, dotted with Gothic spires and ‘closes’ that zigzag their way up a hill before culimating in a massive stronghold – Edinburgh Castle – casting a long shadow over the Victorian-era ‘New’ Town below. ‘Auld Reekie’, as it is affectionately called by locals, is truly a sight to behold.

Other than its picture-perfect skyline, Edinburgh’s tourist offer is consolidated through state-of-the-art museums, such as the National Museum of Scotland, where a stuffed Dolly the Sheep is exhibited, alongside weaponry and pagan Highland crosses. It is also the birthplace of Harry Potter, having extensively inspired settings in the books.

Bruges

The Venice Of The North

Nicknamed ‘Venice of the North’, due its city center traversed by winding canals, Bruges has enough medieval wonders to keep History buffs like you entertained for days. Sitting on the Flemish, Dutch-speaking side of Belgium’s internal borders, it is both an important trading port and one of Europe’s prettiest cities.

Taking a canal tour of Bruges, tourists will be able to tick off numerous items off their bucket list: Audrey Hepburn’s former house, the 11th century Saint John’s Hospital, and the scenic Rosary Quay. On land, some of the main point of interests include the City Hall, a tall belfry erected in the Middle Ages, and the Michelangelo-decorated Church of Our Lady Bruges.

Once they have their share of historical sights for a trip, it will be time to quench a different kind of thirst. No cultural visit to Bruges would be complete without a weekend pub crawl, seeing that it has a long-standing brewing tradition, and an extensive list of beers are named after it, with Brugge Blond, Brugge Tripel and Brugs to name a few.

If you’re heading to Europe in the near future, don’t forget to check out these other 3 winter destinations that are not only gorgeous, overlooked medieval gems, but super budget-friendly on an extent.

Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

January 10, 2023
The Latest Alcohol Rules For Tourists In Dubai After Government Reduces Prices

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 3 mins ago

Trips to Dubai just got cheaper for travelers who enjoy a drink on vacation with the government removing its 30% municipality tax on alcohol sales. The country has also removed its AED 270 (US$73) fee for liquor licenses that allow people to buy alcohol to drink at home. The reduction in fees and taxes has gone into effect now and will be trialed for a year.

Major alcohol purveyors are already celebrating the news on their social channels, instantly reflecting the new pricing on their stock in-stores but are caveating that the 5% VAT fee will still apply.

“You no longer need to make trips across the country to stock up on your favourite drinks. With the removal of 30% municipality tax and FREE alcohol licence, buying your favourite drinks is now easier and cheaper than ever!” said MMI Dubai, a major purveyor of alcohol, on its Instagram.

This move is expected to boost the appeal of Dubai as a destination for tourists and digital nomads, to compete with its neighboring countries that also carry hefty taxes on alcohol. Tourism is an important income stream for Dubai, with tourist numbers growing more than 180% in the first half of 2022, compared to the same time period a year prior, while new establishments are constantly popping up to meet this demand.

Do I Need A Liquor License To Drink At My Accommodation?

For tourists staying in hotels, the answer is NO.

Tourists that are staying in private accommodations like rentals or Airbnb’s will have different rules if they are looking to buy bottles to bring home. Tourists can apply for a free 30-day license to purchase alcohol, which is a simplified process that you can do at two of the main purveyors of alcohol in Dubai – MMI and African + Eastern. You just need to be at least 21 years of age and will need to bring your passport and a valid visitor visa to the store to obtain the license.

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

Where Can I Buy Alcohol?

MMI and African + Eastern are the two main legally operated liquor stores in Dubai and collectively have almost 40 stores in Dubai, which stock the most popular wines, spirits, and beer brands.

Tourists also have access to the Legal Home Delivery service, which is the only legal alcohol delivery service in Dubai operated by MMI and African + Eastern. This service means you can avoid going into the store and opt for delivery to your accommodation instead, which is available 7 days per week between 10 am and 10 pm.

The system doesn’t currently offer same-day delivery, so you will need to order before 12 pm to get next-day delivery and order a minimum of UAE 150 (US$40). Currently, there is no limit set by law on how much alcohol you can purchase, as long as you have a liquor license to purchase it.

Where Can I Drink Alcohol?

Drinking alcohol is restricted to certain locations that are considered legal. This includes your residence or accommodation, and in licensed venues around the city.

Alcohol is not widely served in Dubai due to its Muslim population and Islamic laws, so you can only drink at officially licensed establishments such as hotels, restaurants, bars, and clubs that are targeted toward expats and tourists. It is recommended by the Embassy of the UAE not to ask for alcohol if it isn’t on the menu. If you come across locations with signs saying “dry,” this means they do not serve alcohol.

Dubai’s clubs normally kick into gear around 10am and close around 3am, with alcohol service stopping at around 1 am, but each location has its own schedule.

Is Alcohol Expensive In Dubai?

A wide range of alcohol is served in Dubai, but it typically comes with a larger price tag than home. Drinking alcohol in Dubai is considered a privilege, but the recent removal of the 30% of tax should make it more attractive for tourists.

Some remain skeptical that these savings will be passed on when drinking on-site at bars and restaurants. According to The Washington Post, a pint of Budweiser costs about $13 at a hotel bar close to Dubai airport, while Legal Home Delivery advertises prices for a 1L of Absolut Vodka at UAS 191 (US $52), while wines start from UAE 22 (US $6), excluding 5% VAT tax.

Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

January 9, 2023