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These 5 National Parks Are Considered The Best In Europe

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Visiting a new country and admiring its natural beauty is one way to make a vacation unforgettable. More travelers are looking to connect with nature in 2023 and are considering digital detox experiences. One of the best ways to do it while exploring a new destination is by visiting national parks.

The are amazing national parks in the United States, and Europe also has impressive biodiversity and fantastic hikes for those interested in mindfulness and taking a break from social media and high-internet speed.

According to a survey performed by Money.co.uk and shared on Euro News, these are Europe’s best national parks:

5) Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

This impressive 295-sq.-km forest reserve is located in central Croatia, the Bosnian-Herzegovina border, and has spectacular lakes connected by waterfalls, and peculiar caves that can easily amaze visitors. The turquoise water changes color depending on the minerals and the time of the day.

Croatia’s largest National park is also home to bears, wolves, and different bird species. The lake system and its impressive landscapes make it a must-visit park in Europe. The Plitvice Lakes park was included on UNESCO World Natural Heritage List in 1979.

This park can be visited at any time of the year. Travelers must bear in mind that it is prohibited to swim in the lakes —even during hot summer days— and it can get crowded during peak season. Now that Croatia was included in the Schengen zone and is becoming a very popular destination in Europe, travelers can include this park on their must-visit list.

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4) Lake District, United Kingdom

One of the best places for a digital detox in England is the Lake District, already considered by millions of brits as a great natural environment to decompress. It’s popular for its glacial ribbon lakes and great activities. Visitors are allowed to swim in the lake and can also rent boats, ride bikes on cycling routes—travelers can rent bikes on site—, just go for a walk or participate in stargazing activities at night.

This park, in the administrative county of Cumbria, is open to the public at all times and there are numerous events and guided tours. Lake District has an official website with relevant information for travelers and great tips to make the most out of your visit.

3) Cinque Terre National Park, Italy

This beautiful coastal region in Italy is known for its fresh and delicious seafood, and fascinating unique villages. Cinque Terre National Park is located in northern Italy, in in the province of La Spezia, Liguria, and is home to gorgeous landscapes and popular towns.

This is one of Italy’s smallest parks, and the government has been promoting sustainable tourism at this location. Travelers can visit organic farms, admire local flora and fauna, and connect with local customs and the local community. Cinque Terre National Park was considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

2) Göreme National Park, Turkey

The popular image of the sky crowded with hot-air balloons takes place at this wonderful park. The Göreme National Park has an impressive landscape sculpted by erosion over an extinct volcanoes area that extends to 39 square miles.

Travelers can explore its beautiful valleys, and admire the various rock formations, and historic churches. Its history and beauty made it earn UNESCO World Heritage status: “The incomparable beauty of the decor of the Christian sanctuaries makes Cappadocia one of the leading examples of the post-iconoclastic Byzantine art period.”

1) The Swiss National Park, Switzerland

And finally, the first place goes to the Swiss National Park. This place is home to charming lakes, villages, and the impressive alps. Visitors can admire its spectacular landscapes and also the medieval quarters,

It has been considered one of the best parks for mindfulness in the world since it’s a very protected area with rich biodiversity, low pollution, and great activities to unwind and relax—There are 83 spaces and wellness centers.

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January 9, 2023
Top Ways To Save Money At Disney World This Year According To One Of Their Executives
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If you’ve been planning a trip to Disney World, Orlando this year, one of Disney World’s executives has just shared some of the best tips for saving money for the upcoming spring and summer seasons.

For the past 15 months, Disney World has been celebrating its 50^th anniversary, with many of its festivities continuing up until March 31, 2023. With less than 3 months left of its celebration plans, the attraction has announced a list of savings to entice visitors to its many resorts after the official celebrations conclude.

2023 is still an important year for Walt Disney, as the entertainment company will be marking its 100th anniversary since being founded in 1923. The celebrations will be mainly focused at Disneyland Resort, but will eventually move to Disney World later in the year.

There are plenty of reasons to add Disney World to your 2023 destination list, from its latest attraction Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind to popular favorites like Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and the revived Fantasmic!

Highlights coming to Disney World in 2023 will also include Tron Lightcycle Run, one of the fastest new rides, and a new family-style barbecue restaurant called Woody’s Roundup Rodeo BBQ in Toy Story Land.

Keep in mind that the cost to visit Disney World will vary based on which of the four parks you want to visit. Animal Kingdom is the lowest-priced park costing between $109 and $159, while Magic Kingdom is the most expensive park, costing between $124 and $189, and it’s best to reserve your tickets as soon as possible.

Lesley Harris, Communications Manager at Walt Disney World Resort has offered some of the best ways to save this year (and also don’t forget to check out our other tips for saving money here):

Save Up To 25% On Rooms At Select Disney Resort Hotels

If you want your magical stay to extend into the evening and beyond, a stay at one of Disney’s Resort hotels will give you the same friendly service and storytelling as its theme parks. Disney is offering the following discounts during select time periods on a limited number of its rooms.
- April 10 through July 10, 2023: save up to 25% on stays at 15 select Disney Resort hotels during most nights
- March 1 through March 31, 2023: save up to 20% at select 15 Disney Resort hotels during most nights
- Resorts include: Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, Disney’s BoardWalk Villas, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Old Key West Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Additional discounts also apply to other Disney Resort hotels during certain dates. You can see the full list of resorts and savings here.

$750 Dining Promo Card With Special Offer

Guests visiting Disney World who book a non-discounted 5-night, 4-day vacation package at either a Disney Deluxe Resort or a Disney Deluxe Villa Resort with a theme park ticket will receive up to a $750 Dining promo card ($150 Per Room, Per Night).

The dining card can be redeemed across the resorts, from the Be Our Guest Restaurant in Magic Kingdom Park to Satu’li Canteen, a fast-casual restaurant at Pandora – The World of Avatar. The gifted dollar value is dependent on which Disney Resort hotel that you stay at, and ranges from $50 to $150 per room, per night, for a maximum of 5 nights.

The offer is only available for guests booking between the following dates:
- July 1 to July 10, 2023
- August 1 to September 14, 2023.
You can see the full list of resorts that the dining promo card applies to here.

Spend Extra Time In Parks With Disney Resort Hotel Stays

Guests who stay at a Disney Resort hotel also receive special perks and additional time in the parks, such as a 30-minute early entry ahead of the public, while Disney Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resort guests get to enjoy extended evening hours on special evenings across select parks.

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January 8, 2023
7 Overrated Destinations For 2023: Should You Change Your Travel Plans?

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There are certain destinations that look incredible on social media but are not at all what you expected in reality. Places that became so popular that all you can see are large crowds that make it impossible to truly enjoy or even take one nice picture. Or you encounter restaurants and accommodations so expensive that make you question your decision to visit that city.

The world is big and there are so many fascinating destinations to visit that are truly worth the time and the money to visit, but others seem to have just great marketing behind them.

To help travelers across the world, we created a list of 7 overrated destinations, considering our personal travel experiences, the current travel reality at these destinations, and other travelers’ anecdotes, here’s the result:

Paris

“The City of Light” is always trendy and now that “Emily in Paris” season 3 is out, people from all over the world are flocking to France’s capital to have a fancy dinner on the Eiffel tower, drink a Kir Royale in a beautiful Parisian terrace, or have a romantic moment at the ‘Le mur des je t’aime’ (the wall of love). But is it really worth it?

@toooldforthistt #paris #eiffeltower #viralvideo #ohno #ohnono #viraltiktok #fyp #foryoupageofficiall #foryou #foryourpage #foryoupage❤️❤️ #ohnononono #traveltiktok #pariseiffeltower #realitycheck #overrated #overatedplace #uk #uk ♬ original sound – ❤️Naina❤️

Opinions about Paris are polarizing more and more, people absolutely love it or hate it. But why would people hate the most romantic city in the world? We gathered a few reasons. One of travelers’ current main concerns has to do with its popularity, sometimes there are so many tourists that it feels overwhelming. Other discouraging factors are garbage —certain streets have trash piled up and look filthy—, and the high prices. Paris is very expensive! The average price for a basic room in Paris is around $150 and food —especially near landmarks— can be extra pricey. And yes, French people in this city might not be the friendliest.

Maldives

The gorgeous emerald water, the white sand, the fancy hotels, it all looks like a dream come true until… you get bored! This fascinating destination in South Asia has the promised natural beauty, but many travelers have complained about the lack of activities, restaurant options, and uninteresting nightlife.

@saraistravelling it is overrated #ocean #nomad #traveltiktok #maldives #bucketlist #travel ♬ Inspiring Emotional Piano – Metrow Ar

Flight tickets to the Maldives are expensive and it takes at least 16 hours to get there on a direct flight from the United States! For some American travelers visiting the Maldives is not worth it, especially considering that there are other beautiful Caribbean beaches just a few hours away.

Los Angeles

This city is known as one the coolest places in the United States where travelers get to explore Hollywood, hike to the Hollywood sign, and visit the Griffith Observatory… if you’re still in the mood after a horrible traffic experience from the airport.

@shaunamcatamney Over 63,000 people are homeless in Los Angeles…#LA #losangeles #homeless #poverty ♬ Gangsta’s Paradise (feat. L.V.) – Coolio

Traffic in Los Angeles is a historical part of the city that doesn’t seem to evolve, and it’s even featured in movies like La La Land. Even though LAX will have new train cars this year to reduce traffic congestion, moving around the city can be very frustrating.

And not many influencers talk about the drugs, the trash on the streets, and the homeless crisis. According to a recent report, nearly 42,000 people experienced homelessness in Los Angeles City in 2022, and travelers get to see the crisis firsthand.

Bali

Don’t come for us, keyboard warriors! Yes, Bali is a magical and beautiful place, but some people are constantly surprised by the bad infrastructure—including unwalkable sidewalks, massive litter problems and rising crime.

@victoria_goulbourne Dont be fooled by insta 😅🌝 #traveltok #bali #canggu #indonesia #traveltok #comedy #fyp #instavsreality #baliviews #balitravel ♬ original sound – Andrei King

Travelers can also encounter garbage on the beach, depending on the places they are visiting, and others have complained about increasing prices and certain travel experiences designed for tourists that don’t feel authentic.

Venice

This famous Italian city has been getting maybe too much attention lately. Overtourism is a major concern for the government and they have been announcing new measures to restrict access by requiring travelers to prebook and pay a fee to enter the city. The ticketing system has been delayed, so crowds are still packing the small city.

@macyleighart I just wanted to see a sunset in Venice🥲 #flood #fyp #veniceflooding #travel #foryoupage #holidayfail #2019 ♬ Into The Thick Of It! – The Backyardigans

And locals no longer live in Venice, the population has been diminishing—it dropped below 50,000 people in 2022— so it feels like a themed park. Residents have been feeling suffocated by tourists and preferred to leave, turning the city into a sort of museum. Also, travelers have complained about the bad smell, garbage, certain buildings in terrible conditions, and, of course, the large crowds.

Tulum

Not too far from Cancun, Tulum has been a fascinating destination for travelers from all over the world. But the travel experience might not be as glamorous as many Tuluminati—a term used to refer to digital nomads and foreign influencers living in this town—make it look.

@adrien_tulum Tulum, Mexico: Instagram vs Reality #instavsreality #instavsrealite #tulummexico #tulumbeach #tulumvibes🌴😎 ♬ september on crack ft. a recorder (Earth, Wind & Fire – September) – frickin weeb

Tulum has been losing popularity due to the ridiculously high prices visitor have to pay for everything. Taxi fares are among the highest in the world —around $25 – $100 US for a 5 km ride depending on the driver—, more expensive than Manhattan! Hotels are very expensive, the Internet connection is not good or stable, and the plumbing could improve too, it is barely functional. And there are similar —less crowded and less expensive— destinations nearby like Bacalar with similar beaches and reasonable prices.

Santorini

This beautiful Greek island is one of the most popular destinations in the Aegean Sea. The iconic white houses, the spectacular sunsets, and the beautiful beaches. And yes, the views are amazing but it gets too crowded and feels touristy.

@simeytok Sunsets in Santorini 🌅 #santorini #santorinigreece #greece #instagramvsreality #travel #traveltok #fyp ♬ original sound – Talia

Santorini has a lot to offer travelers but so do other Greek islands. Travelers on Tiktok are suggesting tourists visit Paros instead since it has the same vibes, it is cheaper and you don’t have to make long lines or walk through congested allies and lookouts.

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January 8, 2023
Prices In This Popular European Destination Are Skyrocketing More Than Usual This Year

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The costs associated with travel to Europe have risen absurdly as a result of the economic crisis, the ongoing pandemic, and lately the war in Ukraine. Visitors are feeling the pinch irrespective of their country of choice, whether it’s West or East, and adding to their owes, a popular sunny hotspot has seen prices skyrocket more than usual at the turn of the year.

Since January 1, Croatia has undergone profound changes that will dictate the its future as a tourist destination in the coming months. Besides joining the Schengen Area, Europe’s border-free zone, the Adriatic hub has dropped the kuna, the historical Hravastki currency, and adopted the euro: the latest nation to fully integrate into the European Single Market.

It may be true Croatia has been getting progressively more expensive in recent years, but the latest events seem to have aggravated the trend:

Croatia’s Euroization Is Leading To Major Price Hikes

Nearly ten years into being in the EU, which it joined in 2013, Croatia has ascended into both the Schengen Area and the Eurozone, two select intra-EU groups it had not qualified for membership up until recently. From now on, traveling to the Dalmatian coast, travelers will notice two things are different than before: first, there’s a lack of border checks.

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Having officially joined Schengen, a customs territory comprising 26 other countries, Croatia has abolished passport control and border formalities with all European states that are signatory to the treaty, such as Hungary and Slovenia, which it borders to the north. Effectively, this means any travel between these countries is treated as a domestic journey.

Secondly, there’s the issue of currency. Kunas are no longer a valid payment method in Croatia, following its induction into Europe’s monetary union. Although many hoped the price of items would merely be converted from kunas into euros, at the defunct currency’s exchange rate at the time of ‘Euroization’, this is not what happened:

The cost of living in Croatia has scaled vertiginously from January 1, as the stronger euro suddenly pushed the weaker kuna out of the market, and products, services, and transactions within the country were ‘Euroized’. Regrettably, both the transition period, which was bound to be challenging, and the EU-wide inflation have not helped ease the burden.

The market has been preparing for the swap for a number of years, adjusting prices to keep them in line with Eurozone countries, and in turn making travel to Croatia costlier than it once was in the pre-EU era, but contrary to earlier predictions, the price hikes were much more brutal than expected – sometimes, by 10 to 15 percent.

Croatia Is No Longer A Cheap ‘Eastern’ European Country To Visit

The financial strain is of course felt on a larger scale by middle-income Croatian families, but tourists were also affected: according to Economy Minister Davor Filipovic, inflation currently stands at 13.5 percent, with biggest hikes recorded across food products and non-alcoholic beverages, though other sectors were hit just as hard.

The Minister noted retail chains have been unashamedly trying to ‘deceive’ consumers by rounding fares to the nearest ten, or well above that. Needless to say, restaurants, hotels, guesthouses, and tourist attractions could see either slight, or significant increases in prices moving forward. In sum, Croatia is no longer a cheaper alternative to Spain or Italy.

The fact that 1,738 violations of the law on euro adoption were registered in only five days is not a good prospect, either. In order to keep prices from spiraling out of control, and protect Croats and tourists from abusive rates, the Minister was quoted saying ‘all options are on the table’, including black lists and a freeze on prices ‘on a wide array of products’.

If they’re looking for destinations where their tourist dollars will stretch the furthest in summer, Americans should perhaps consider going off-path and exploring lesser-known countries in Southeastern Europe where rates are notably lower than those of Croatia, or other overpriced Mediterranean destinations, such as Albania, Romania and Bulgaria.

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January 7, 2023
Top 7 Places To Visit When You’re Young And Broke

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No money? No problem! These are 7 of the best destinations around the world to travel to when you’re young and broke.

Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive.

There are many destinations where you can travel on $50 a day or less on a backpacker budget.

Here are some of the best places to travel when you’re young and don’t have much money to explore the world:

1. Thailand

It’s no surprise that Thailand is one of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia for American travelers.

Your money will stretch a lot further in Thailand than in the United States – think $10 massages on the beach, $9 a night hostel rooms, and $3 delicious street food meals.

@harley.hicks Back with a bang. This is how cheap you can have fun for in Asia!! #travel #budgettravel #backpacking #thailand #summer ♬ Pursuit of happiness – Reneé

From gorgeous beaches to mountainous Chiang Mai to the bustling city of Bangkok, there’s so much to discover in Thailand.

You can easily stick to a budget of $50 a day when traveling in Thailand, although keep in mind that beach destinations like Phuket, Koh Samui, and Krabi are pricier than inland destinations.

2. Colombia

Colombia is one of the most affordable countries in Latin America. And don’t be put off by its “dangerous” reputation: these days, Colombia is perfectly safe for travelers, and has so much to offer.

Bogota and Medellín are two buzzing, vibrant cities with amazing nightlife, while Cartagena is a colorful colonial city that is picture-perfect. For nature lovers, don’t miss Tayrona National Park or Valle de Cocora.

In Colombia, you can easily stick to a budget of $35 a day by staying in hostels, taking local buses, and eating street food.

3. Indonesia

Indonesia, Bali in particular, is a bucket list destination for many travelers. Canggu is known for its great beaches and surfing, and for being one of the party capitals of the world. Meanwhile, Ubud is a lush and tranquil jungle paradise with temples and rice paddies.

And Nusa Penida is one of the most beautiful (and affordable) islands in the world.

@travel.turtle Definitely check out the Diamond Beach there! #nusapenida #bali #indonesia ♬ Summertime Sadness – Lana Del Rey

If you don’t mind cutting corners a little bit (like staying in hostels and skipping some of the trendy cafes and restaurants Bali is known for) you can have a budget-friendly trip.

A $50 a day budget is very doable in Bali, and your money will go even further on nearby islands in Indonesia like Lombok and Java.

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4. Montenegro

Montenegro is an underrated bucket list-worthy destination in Europe. It’s cheaper than neighboring Croatia but offers a lot of the same jaw-dropping scenery, quaint towns, and fun beaches.

You can easily get by on $40 a day or less in Montenegro, where prices are shockingly affordable compared to many other destinations in Europe.

5. Cambodia

Cambodia is another highly affordable destination in Southeast Asia to visit when you’re a young and broke backpacker. You can easily spend $35 a day or less traveling in Cambodia.

Some of the best things to do in Cambodia include visiting the Angkor Wat temple complex, the laidback beach town of Sihanoukville, and the capital of Phnom Penh.

6. Albania

Albania is an off-the-beaten-path destination that is among the cheapest in Europe.

Don’t miss the funky capital city Tirana, historic Berat, and the Albanian Rivieria with lively beaches like Sarande and Ksamil.

@thewanderlusttimes Replying to @rozetasabjanguber beautiful Albania #albania #ksamilbeach #ksamilalbania #traveleurope #googleearth #traveltrend #beautifulbeaches ♬ original sound – Owen

This Balkan nation can be experienced for $35 a day because it has such affordable hostels, food, and transportation.

7. Laos

Finally, Laos is one of the cheapest destinations in the world to visit. This Southeast Asian country has so much to offer for visitors who want to have a great time on a small budget.

You can get by on a budget of $35 a day in Laos, and enjoy all of the country’s many beautiful sights.

From lush waterfalls to outdoor adventures in Vang Vieng to the charming French colonial town of Luang Prabang, a trip to Laos is a worthwhile experience that won’t break the bank.

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January 7, 2023
These 6 U.S. Airports Had The Most On-Time Flights In 2022

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U.S. Airports With The Least Delays Last Year

Which airports in the United States had the most on-time departures in 2022?

New data from Cirium, an aviation analytics company, reveals the answer. Every year, Cirium compiles data on the airlines and airports around the world with the most on-time flights.

Of the top 10 global airports of 2022, six are located in the United States and had over 80% on-time departures last year.

In a year that was marked by airline meltdowns, lost baggage, holiday flight delays, and airport chaos, these airports kept things running as smoothly as possible.

Here are the top 6 U.S. airports with the most on-time departures in 2022:

1. Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)

On-time departures: 83.87%

The airport with the most on-time departures in the United States in 2022 was Salt Lake City International Airport in Utah.

Located 4 miles west of Downtown Salt Lake City, this airport serves more than 11 million passengers per year. Although it’s not one of the busiest airports in the United States (ranking 21st) it’s still a major airport, with more than 340 departing flights per day to 95 nonstop destinations.

Passengers flying out of Salt Lake City can feel confident that this airport has the highest rate of on-time departures in the United States (and the 3rd-highest in the world.)

2. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)

On-time departures: 82.62%

Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport is one of the main transportation hubs in the United States, with more than 1,100 departing flights per day to destinations across four continents.

Located about 22 miles from Downtown Detroit, this major international airport sees more than 18 million passengers per year.

Along with having a high rate of on-time departures, this airport also regularly ranks as one of the best airports in the United States based on terminal facilities, check-in, security, baggage claim, food and retail options, and efficiency.

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3. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

On-time departures: 82.54%

Next up on the list of the U.S. airports with the most on-time departures is Philadelphia International Airport.

Ranking 3rd in the U.S. and 5th worldwide, this airport has an 82.54% on-time departure rate for more than 320 flights per day. Serving more than 12 million passengers per year, Philadelphia International Airport is a busy transportation hub that runs very efficiently.

4. Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)

On-time departures: 81.95%

Minneapolis-St. Paul International consistently ranks as the best airport in the United States for passenger satisfaction on a variety of factors.

In addition to ranking as one of the best airports nationwide, it also has one of the highest rates on on-time flights.

This airport is located 8 miles southwest of Downtown Minneapolis and operates more than 1,000 flights per day and serves more than 27 million passengers annually, making it the 17th busiest airport in the U.S.

5. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

On-time departures: 81.04%

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is ranked as the 8th busiest airport in the United States, with more than 1,200 flights per day and 25 million passengers per year.

Located 15 miles from Seattle and 22 miles from Tacoma, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is the largest airport in Washington State.

This West Coast airport has nonstop flights to 91 domestic destinations and 27 international destinations. It also usually ranks in the top 10 of the best airports in the United States for passenger satisfaction.

6. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)

On-time departures: 80.68%

Finally on this list of airports with the most on-time departures is Charlotte Douglas International Airport in North Carolina.

Located 6 miles west of Downtown Charlotte, this airport is another one of the top 10 busiest in the country, with more than 630 flights per day and 25 million passengers per year.

Despite how busy it is, this airport ranks highly among passenger satisfaction and has an over 80% rate on on-time departures.

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January 6, 2023
The Top 5 Easiest Digital Nomad Visas To Get In 2023
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What are the easiest digital nomad visas to get in 2023?

While many countries have been introducing digital nomad visas lately, some of them are more attainable than others.

For example, the Cayman Islands launched the Global Citizen Concierge Program in 2020, but applicants for this digital nomad visa must be able to demonstrate an income of at least $100,000 per year.

The following countries offer digital nomad visas with less stringent requirements, making them more accessible to remote workers and self-employed nomads looking to live and work abroad in 2023:

1. Colombia

Colombia offers one of the easiest digital nomad visas in the world. Applicants only need to demonstrate proof of earnings equal to $684 per month and pay a $52 application fee.

The visa is good for 2 years, giving you plenty of time to explore all that Colombia has to offer, from Medellín, the digital nomad hub known as “The City of Eternal Spring” to colorful Cartagena to beautiful Valle del Cocora.

With a very low cost of living, your income will go much further in Colombia while enjoying a great quality of life.

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2. Ecuador

Another South American country offering an easy digital nomad visa is Ecuador. Similar to Colombia, this visa is good for up to 2 years.

Ecuador’s digital nomad visa has a slightly higher income threshold and application fee than Colombia’s, but it’s still very attainable for many foreigners coming from countries like the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

In order to apply for Ecuador’s digital nomad visa, you must earn at least $1,284 per month and pay a $460 application fee.

3. Hungary

Hungary offers a great digital nomad visa for remote workers who want to live and work in Europe.

This visa is good for one year and can be extended for an additional year.

You must demonstrate proof of income equal to $2,048 per month, and pay a $112 application fee.

With a low cost of living in Budapest compared to other European capitals, you can enjoy a great life for less money in Hungary.

4. Croatia

Another one of the best digital nomad visas in Europe is offered by Croatia. This country has been named the top digital nomad hub of 2023 and attracts millions of visitors each year with its gorgeous islands and beaches, stunning national parks, and incredible historic cities like Dubrovnik.

The Croatian digital nomad visa requires that you have earned at least $2,465 a month for the past six months, or that you have at least $29,588 in your bank account.

This visa is good for one year and allows you to live and work in Croatia. Now that Croatia is part of the Schengen Zone, Americans can no longer spend as much time here visa-free, so a digital nomad visa will allow you to enjoy a longer stay.

5. Costa Rica

Finally, Costa Rica offers an attractive digital nomad visa that is extremely simple to apply for.

This country is the leading destination in Central America, with gorgeous beaches, lush jungles, and an abundance of wildlife and biodiversity.

The Costa Rican digital nomad visa does require that you earn at least $3,000 per month, but it’s very easy to apply for and is good for one year, with the ability to extend it for a second year.

BONUS: Countries Where Digital Nomads Can Live Visa-Free

Although these countries do not offer formal digital nomad visas, Americans (and tourists of many other nationalities) can stay long-term with just a tourist visa on arrival.
- Georgia (1 year)
- Albania (1 year)
- Mexico (6 months)
- Panama (6 months)
- United Kingdom (6 months)
- Barbados (6 months)
- Dominica (6 months)
While these countries do not have a formal application process for tourist visas, you’ll need to do your own research on whether or not you can work legally as a digital nomad in them.

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January 6, 2023
These Are The Safest Countries In Eastern Europe For Tourists
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Eastern Europe is one of the most underrated, yet fascinating regions to explore as a tourist. Sadly, misinformation regarding safety levels, and the notion that Eastern countries are a hotbed of wars, with weak democracies, and where pickpockets run amok have certainly not helped their cause – but to which extent are these beliefs true? In other words, where in Eastern Europe tourists will be the safest?

What Is The Exact Definition Of A Safe Country?

According to the United Nations (UN), there are 23 countries in Eastern Europe (EE), which begins somewhere along the former Soviet border, and extends as far East as Western Russia. Out of those, 13 have been deemed completely safe to travel by the U.S. Department of State – more specifically, they were awarded the lowest-possible Level 1 badge on the entity’s Travel Advisory listings.

This means that, when visiting Level 1 states, Americans do not face heightened safety threats, or any particular health risk unrelated to the ongoing Covid pandemic. In fact, some of these destinations are much safer than the United States even, enjoying significantly lower rates of petty crimes, armed robbery and murder, and a high human development index.

Since the fall of the Berlin Wall, numerous EE nations made great strides in their quest for peace, tilting Westward, at least when it comes to foreign policy, and joining intergovernment military alliances like NATO, and the European Union (EU). Thanks to their efforts, the times when Eastern Europe was an obscure landmass where crime was rampant, and civil liberties curbed is but a distant memory.

Interestingly, Eastern countries that have assimilated into Western institutions form a majority among those classed as ‘safe’ by the U.S., with the complete list seen below:

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Eastern European Countries In Level 1
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Estonia
- Georgia
- Hungary
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Montenegro
- North Macedonia
- Poland
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
Out of those, only Georgia is neither in NATO, nor the EU. Others like Montenegro and North Macedonia have not yet succeeded in finalizing their EU accession talks, but they have been NATO members since 2017 and 2020, respectively. All countries listed under the Level 1 category are perceived as ‘low-risk’ destinations.

Which Eastern European States Travelers Should Avoid?

Sadly, not all former Soviet Eastern countries have managed to shake off the ghosts of communism, and their dark past as easily as others, becoming authoritarian regimes where the rule of law is only loosely enforced, or at best, fragile democracies with widespread urban violence and a poor record of upholding human rights.

It’s a widely-known fact large swathes of Europe’s Far East are either engulfed by war, or facing huge democratic backslidings. This has led many tourists to wonder whether now is the right time to visit, especially when the invasion of Ukraine has shown no signs of slowing down, and tensions remain high.

That is the case with Belarus and Russia, commonly referred as Europe’s last-surviving dictatorships, and the hostile agents in the latest invasion of Ukraine. Due to the conflict, all three countries – Belarus, Russia and Ukraine – are considered no-go zones, being singled out as the only Level 4 destinations in the entire continent.

At Level 4, U.S. citizens are warned to refrain from traveling due to serious threat to life or health, the highest possible, ‘least safe’ level a country can reach. Luckily, a majority of EE destinations that have failed to qualify for Level 1 are instead a Level 2: essentially, visitors must maintain a higher situational awareness, but tourism is not discouraged:

EE Countries That Are Still Safe, But Where Increased Caution Is Advised

Eastern European Countries In Level 2
- Albania
- Armenia
- Azerbaijan
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Kosovo*
- Moldova
- Serbia
*Kosovo is recognized as a sovereign country by the United States, but wider UN recognition is limited; it is however included here.

Out of those listed above, Americans must do extensive research, and be particularly vigilant when touring Kosovo, a partially-recognized territory in the Balkan Peninsula, due to Kosovo’s strained relations with Serbia, which lays claim to the area. Conflicts in border zones have been known to erupt without warning, and cross-border travel between both may have its limitations.

Armenia and Azerbaijan are yet another pair at loggerheads over the status of a number of provinces, and they are extremely unlikely to re-establish diplomatic ties anytime soon. For that reason, Americans must not travel to the Armenian-Azerbaijani border, as well as the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Armenia ‘due to recent hostilities’.

Lastly, Moldova is widely regarded as safe, with the exception of Transnistria, a breakaway state sponsored by Russia, where Moldovan law and authority does not apply de facto. Most Americans visiting Transnistria will not encounter any problems, but the Department of State urges them to ‘reconsider travel’ now there’s a war in neighboring Ukraine.

Contrary To Popular Belief, Nearly 90% Of Eastern Europe Is Safe For Travel

In total, 58% of EE countries are at a tourist-friendly Level 1, while a further 87.5% are at either Level 1 or Level 2. There are no Level 3 destinations (where travel plans should be reconsiderered) in Eastern Europe, proving it is just as safe, if not safer, than these far more popular Western European hubs.

Of course, crime can still occur anywhere, and traveling abroad to countries where the culture is foreign, and the language is unfamiliar, Americans should make sure they take the necessary measures to improve their own security and reduce risks of being robbed, scammed, or finding themselves in dangerous situations.

Official advice for individual destinations can be found here.

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January 5, 2023
These 8 Airlines Are Rated The Safest In The World
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The last thing anyone wants to worry about when traveling is whether or not they will make it safely to their destination. However, the truth is that traveling does come with risks. Therefore, when planning a vacation there are plenty of things tourists can do to minimize those risks. One easy thing travelers can do is choose a safe airline. Luckily, there are resources to help determine which airlines are the safest to fly with.

AirlineRatings.com has released its annual ranking of the safest airlines in the world. Since 2013, AirlineRatings.com has monitored and assessed the safety, in-flight product, and COVID compliance of the top 385 airlines. The rankings are compiled by the website’s editorial team.

To determine which airlines are deemed “safest” experts look at metrics including:
- Number of crashes over the past 5 years
- Serious incidents over the past 2 years
- Audits from within the industry
- The average age of the aircraft fleet
- Evaluation of pilot training programs
- COVID protocols
Editor-in-Chief Geoffrey Thomas explained how “all airlines have incidents every day and many are aircraft or engine manufacture issues, not airline operational problems. It is the way the flight crew handles these incidents that determines a good airline from an unsafe one.”

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8. Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines is the only U.S.-based airline to crack the top 8. The airline has been in operation for 90 years and has over 44 million customers annually. Alaska Airlines has the 7^th largest fleet in the U.S. with 329 aircraft in operation. Those planes whisk passengers to 120 destinations across 5 countries. Recently, the airline made headlines for two new programs – they are the first U.S. carrier to issue electronic bag tags, and recently formed a partnership that allows customers to earn miles when they travel with Lyft.

7. Emirates

Dubai-based Emirates is often considered one of the best airlines in the world. With 152 destinations across six continents, it typically serves 19 million passengers each year. In 2022 the airline announced an investment of over 2 billion U.S. dollars for onboard improvements. Those upgrades include new menus, specialized training for cabin crew, and upgraded cabin interiors.

6. TAP Air Portugal

Passengers who choose to fly with TAP Air Portugal will not only be flying on one of the safest airlines, but they’ll also be eligible for a free city layover. Travelers can stay for up to 5 days in Lisbon or Porto when their flights connect through one of those cities.

5. Singapore Airlines

Last year, Singapore Airlines gained another superlative from AirlineRatings. In July, the airline was deemed the 5^th best airline in the world. After looking at innovation, comfort, service, and safety, experts determined Singapore Airlines to be among the best in the world.

4. Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways is no stranger to accolades. The Middle Eastern airline has been named “Airline of the Year” for 7 of the past 12 years at the World Airline Awards and is known for its exceptional business class. Passengers who fly with Qatar Airways and have a minimum transit time of 12 hours can book a hotel at a deep discount (starting at $14/night). Tourists who want to explore the small country of Qatar can opt to stay for up to 4 nights at no extra cost.

3. Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways, the UAE’s second-largest airline (after Emirates), was ranked the 3^rd best airline by AirlineRatings in 2022. The airline is consistently recognized for pushing the envelope. They were the first airline to vaccinate all of its crew and has been recognized for innovative solutions to reduce its environmental impact.

2. Air New Zealand

Auckland-based Air New Zealand has dropped a spot. Last year they were ranked as the safest airline in the world by AirlineRatings, but come in second this year. Air New Zealand flies to 18 countries including to Los Angeles and San Francisco in the U.S.

1. Qantas

Australia’s flag carrier Qantas has officially been ranked as the safest airline in the world. Qantas is the world’s oldest continuously operating airline means that it is also the world’s most experienced airline. All that experience has served them well – they’ve had no fatal crashes in over 70 years.

Where Are All The U.S. Airlines?

While Alaska Airlines is the only U.S.-based carrier in the top 8, that doesn’t mean other U.S. airlines aren’t safe. AirlineRatings has said that the margins between carriers in the top 20 are very slim, meaning that all airlines in the top 20 are very safe. U.S. airlines that are in the top 20 include Hawaiian Airlines (#12), Southwest (#13), Delta (#14), American (#15), and United (#20). Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines were the only U.S. carriers on 2021’s list.

Top 20 Safest Low-Cost Airlines

In addition to ranking the top airlines, AirlineRatings.com also compiles a list of the safest low-cost airlines. Rather than a ranked list, the top 20 safest low-cost airlines are presented in alphabetical order. 2022’s safest low-cost airlines were:
- Air Arabia
- Air Asia Group
- Allegiant
- Air Baltic
- Easyjet
- FlyDubai
- Frontier
- Jetstar Group
- Jetblue
- Indigo
- Ryanair
- Scoot
- Southwest
- Spicejet
- Spirit
- Vueling
- Vietjet
- Volaris
- Westjet
- Wizz
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January 5, 2023
Why This Caribbean Country Is Breaking Tourism Records
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The Caribbean is a popular destination for Americans with so many islands to choose from, each offering its own unique appeal, but one country is breaking records and beating visitor numbers more than ever before.

Grenada is becoming a more popular destination for Americans, who account for more than 60% of visitors. This is helped by its proximity to the United States, which is a five-and-a-half-hour flight, regular flight itineraries to get travelers to the island, and an attractive digital nomad visa program.

This small island country had a stand-out November, accepting over 14,000 visitors which was the highest-ever total of visitors on record, and December is projected to stay on track for breaking the record for the same period in 2019.

“We continue to build our brand equity so that travelers keep Grenada in their consideration set of destinations they want to visit,” said Petra Roach, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority. “We are laser focused on attracting visitors who want to take advantage of our safe environment, numerous community initiatives and who want to get out and about.”

Why Is Grenada Popular For Tourists?

Crystal-clear waters, rainforest trekking, pristine landscapes, aromatic spices, and friendly people are just some of the reasons that attract visitors to this beautiful and safe destination – not to mention its continuous balmy temperatures with an average of 82 Fahrenheit. This oval-shaped island measures only 13 square miles, which means you could drive around the island in under six hours, but you’ll be distracted to stop by all the beautiful views and attractions along the way.

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Due to its history, Grenada has some interesting cultural influences since the British took over control of the French in the 1700s, so the country has a mixture of Amerindian, French, and English customs. You’ll find this, particularly in its cuisine, which reflects a variety of different cultures, such as its national dish – Oil Down, which is a salted meat and vegetable stew. You’ll also come across the heavy French influence as seen by the names of places and people’s last names, making this a diverse city to explore and witness its many customs.

What Are The Best Things To Do In Grenada
- Swim In Its Glorious Beaches: with over 45 different beaches to explore, each consisting of fine white sand, clear waters, and beautiful views, you’ll find it hard to choose between them. Grand Anse beach is a favorite among tourists, due to its long stretches of perfect sands with gorgeous views and offerings of water sports, such as water skiing, parasailing, or kayaking.
- Discover Its Underwater Sculptures: Grenada was home to the world’s first underwater sculpture park and contains 75 sculptures to either get up close and personal via snorkeling or scuba diving or view from a glass bottom boat. Installations include an underwater Jesus Christ, children holding hands, a newspaperman, and more.
- Search For The Best Waterfall: Amongst Grenada’s rainforests, you’ll discover some breathtaking hidden gems – waterfalls. From the Seven Sisters waterfalls that create a large pool for swimming to Mount Carmel Falls which drops water 100 feet down a sharp edge, many of these waterfalls require some beautiful hikes through the jungle, which gives you an opportunity to see the local fauna and wildlife.
- Learn About Grenada’s Agriculture: Belmont Estate is a popular tourist attraction that allows you to learn about Grenada’s agriculture scene, such as a tree-to-bar craft chocolate experience, a tour through its organic farm as well as a farm-to-table meal at its restaurant. Grenada wouldn’t be complete without a spice tour of its different spices, such as cloves, mace, and cinnamon, as well as a tour of its river Antoine Rum Distillery to taste some local rum.
- Taste-Test The Delicious Cuisine: from checking out the best barbecue joints firing up the fish, pork, and chicken to tasting authentic Caribbean food at the local restaurants, there’s a long list of flavorful food you’ll have to try in Grenada, which has been dubbed Spice Island.
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January 4, 2023