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Top 8 Small Towns In The U.S. To Visit For 2023

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The United States is full of gorgeous places to visit. Some of the most iconic destinations are without a doubt big cities such as New York and Las Vegas, but the country is home to just as many amazing small towns to visit. Here are the top that small towns to add to your list of upcoming destinations in 2023.

1. Marfa, Texas

If you enjoy an artsy, quirky vibe, Martha, Texas is the place for you. The small town is located in southern Texas, a little over an hour away from the remote Big Bend National Park. The town is known for its eccentric art installations, such as a fake Prada shop, as well as one-of-a-kind draws like the Marfa lights, a mysterious phenomenon that some people claim is related to UFOs. Regardless of whether or not you believe in the supernatural, Marfa is still a fun and one-of-a-kind small town to visit.

2. Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth is a small town located in Washington state. Tucked away in the Cascades, this town features a memorable German theme, offering everything from Barvarian cuisine to store friends that look fresh out of a fairy tale. The town is also notable for its offering of year-round activities. Wintertime visitors can look forward to horse-drawn sleigh rides, well river tubing and hiking are popular in the surrounding areas in the summer. And of course, you won’t want to miss checking out the countless local shops in the town of self.

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3. Seaside, Oregon

Here’s another charming town in the Pacific Northwest. Seaside Oregon, as the name may imply, sits on the Oregon coast. Situated near the beautiful Cannon Beach, Seaside is home to numerous local shops and stores that are perfect for spending a day browsing. Then, head over to the beach to enjoy the fresh ocean air or an evening bonfire.

4. Carmel By The Sea, California

Carmel By The Sea is a beautiful small town in Central California. This small town is perfect for those looking for a relaxing getaway. You can look forward to exploring the gorgeous coastline at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve or enjoying a delicious meal from one of the town’s restaurants such as Carmel Burger Bar.

5. Bar Harbor, Maine

This is a great option for those who love nature as much as they love exploring small towns. Bar Harbor is the closest town to the gorgeous Acadia National Park. The park is an amazing place to explore during the summer, and see stunning fall foliage displays in the autumn. The town itself is home to a number of unique local shops such as, perfect for finding a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

6. Bisbee, Arizona

Bisbee is a charming town located in Arizona. Once a copper mining town, nowadays Bisbee is known for its historic flair, local art galleries, and is a great place to spend some time exploring. Many of the popular things to do in Bisbee revolve around its rich past, such as mine tours or ghost and history tours.

7. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is another Arizonan small town that’s a great place to visit. Offering a distinctly different vibe from Bisbee, Sedona is better known for its high-quality day spas and gorgeous hiking trails than ghosts or old mines. You can also look forward to some unique attractions, such as the natural waterslides at Slide Rock State Park in the summer.

8. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole is another small town that’s great to visit year-round. Nestled near Teton Pass and Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, Jackson Hole is surrounded by gorgeous scenery. In the winter, it’s a popular ski resort town. There’s plenty to do in the warmer months as well, though, including visiting hot springs and exploring the beautiful nearby national park.

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January 4, 2023
Croatia Is The Most Liked Digital Nomad Hub For 2023
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First in Europe to introduce a Digital Nomad Visa (DNV), Croatia has officially asserted its status as the ‘most liked’ Nomad hub in a survey conducted by NomadList. Is it the picturesque villages straddling the Adriatic remote workers can’t get enough of? The local friendliness? Or, perhaps, the pristine coastline and teal-colored ocean?

There are many reasons why Croatia would come out on top of a survey like this, especially now that that more Americans have become acquainted with its natural and man-made wonders, leading to a 132% increase in overnight stays throughout 2022. Effectively, it is now the fastest-recovering tourist destination in Europe post-pandemic.

But why, exactly, has it become the number one haven for long-term travelers in recent years when it faces such heavy competition?

Why Has Croatia Become So Popular Among Digital Nomads?

According to the yearly survey published by NomadList, one of the most reliable sources for up-to-date data on digital nomadism, Croatia is the ‘most liked’ country out of 15 entries, with a rating of 4.9. In fact, it shares the honor with Japan, which also ranks atop the chart with 4.9 points, though it stands out as the highest-peaking European country on the list.

As Total Croatia News reports, this is proof Hrvatski society has warmly embraced nomads and is incredibly receptive to slow travel: ‘every grandmother with a room to rent talks about the potential of digitalni nomadi.’ A pioneer known to have rolled out DNVs sooner than any other European country, Croatia quickly earned the trust of nomads:

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Having boldly launched the migration path as early as March 2021, while Covid wreaked havoc in the continent and many nations were still hesitant to reopen for tourists, let alone new residents, it ensured it stayed on top of the latest trend, outpacing other Mediterranean powers and claiming its title as Europe’s top digital nomad hotspot.

Croatia has not merely enshrined digital nomadism in law: it prepared its cities to welcome the new temporary residents, be it establishing digital nomad ‘villages’ in Zadar, where nomads could move to for a minimum of two weeks, and stay up to 6 months, or opening several co-working spaces in the capital city of Zagreb, its leading financial center.

On top of that, long-term home rentals have dominated AirBnB listings across Croatia, a clear sign digital nomads are priority customers heading into 2023. They will be able to find entire rental units in Crikvenica or Opatija, two popular resort towns, for as cheap as USD $504 a month, directly facing the ocean and within walking distance of the main sights.

You’ll Never Run Out Of Fun Things To Do In Croatia

Based in Croatia, nomads will never run out of fun things to do, such as strolling quaint towns dating back centuries, exploring ancient fortresses, island-hopping along the Adriatic coast, or sampling the award-winning cuisine, ranked the 17th best in the world. If it’s culture you’re after, that Old World charm is most easily experienced in cities like:
- Zagreb, the Croatian capital, whose skyline is dominated by a 13th-century cathedral, skyscrapers and Neo-Renaissance buildings;
- Pula, in the Istrian Peninsula, home to an arena and other well-preserved Roman landmarks;
- Zadar, a coastal gem packed with historical monuments, including a one-of-a-kind, round Romanesque church and an imposing belfry;
- Split, a city that expanded out from the walls of a palace originally built for a Roman Emperor in the 4th century;
- Trogir, a small island-municipality well-supplied with Late Roman churches and cobblestone alleyways;
- Hvar, the main settlement on Hvar Island, easily recognized for its hilltop fort and traditional Dalmatian stone-built houses;
- Dubrovnik, a compact walled city straight out of a Chivalric romance, featuring drawbridges, impressive turrets and medieval piazzas.
Often overlooked, the Croatian capital is favored by male nomads, appearing at number 12 on NomadList’s ranking of ‘most liked cities by men’. With a high concentration of cafes and bars, it is a highly sought after city break known for its bustling street life and Bohemian atmosphere. On this particular list, Split ranks the highest at number four.

Other Croatian cities mentioned include Zadar, Dubrovnik and Hvar, the 6th, 21st, and 28th most popular destinations for ‘attractive women’, respectively. In turn, ‘attractive men’ are particularly fond of Zadar, a number 22-peaking beach getaway on the male-based list. Lastly, Croatia is 5th most-visited country by women, and the 24th most-visited overall.

Seven Main Reasons Why Nomads Move To Croatia

In sum, here are the seven main reasons why nomads are moving in droves to Croatia:
1. It is the first country in Europe to have launched a DNV
2. The cities are prepared to welcome the influx of temporary residents
3. In general, Croatians are open to hosting nomads
4. Long-term stay options are plentiful
5. The cultural offer is incredibly vast
6. Coastal areas enjoy a year-round warmer weather
7. There are several work-friendly cafes and co-working spaces to pick from, especially in Zagreb
You can read the full NomadList report here.

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January 3, 2023
Top 7 Off The Beaten Path Things To Do In Los Angeles For 2023

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Los Angeles is a beautiful Southern California city. A popular choice for a getaway, Los Angeles is chock-full of fun and memorable things to do. Here are seven off-the-beaten-path things to do on your next visit to the city.

1. Descanso Gardens

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, consider heading over to Descanso Gardens. This 150-acre botanical garden features gorgeous trees, ponds, and streams. Whether you’re looking for a beautiful backdrop for some vacation photos, a calmer and family-friendly place to spend a few hours, or simply a relaxing stroll, a visit to Descanso Gardens is a great choice.

2. See The Abandoned Griffith Park Zoo

Griffith Park might be best known for its observatory and trail to the iconic Hollywood sign. However, it’s also home to some more unique attractions, such as the ruins of an old zoo. The zoo has long since closed, and a picnic area now sis in the area used to be in, along with the remains of some of the old animal cages. The old enclosures can make both a fun place to explore, as well as a unique backdrop for some memorable vacation photos.

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3. Take A One Of A Kind Yoga Class

If you’re looking for a unique, out-of-the-box activity during your next trip to Los Angeles, why not try a yoga class with a twist? Goat Yoga, offered at Laughing Frog Yoga, adds a unique twist to this popular activity by adding adorable miniature goats. This is a great choice for animal lovers, as well as those looking for a memorable and quirky activity, and they have tickets for multiple dates over January and February.

4. Explore The Museum Of Illusions

Los Angeles’s Museum of Illusions is a memorable interactive museum that features exhibits showcasing various mind-bending illusions. Such illusions include an upside-down house, as well as various optical illusions. Tickets are available online.

5. Check Out Yayoi’s Infinity Mirror Rooms

Head over to the Broad to see a truly breathtaking, immersive art exhibit – Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror rooms. This stunning display creates the illusion of an endless room you can step into, and you can see it yourself by purchasing timed-entry tickets for the exhibit along with your general admission ticket to the museum. While the larger exhibit does require timed-entry tickets, if you’re looking for a spur-of-the-moment activity, there’s also a smaller mirror room exhibit, Longing For Eternity, that you can check out on the seventh floor of the Broad.

6. Grab A Drink At Lock and Key Bar

Looking for a unique place to enjoy a drink on your next trip to Los Angeles? Look no further than Lock and Key! This speakeasy-themed bar is hidden behind an unassuming red door and features a one-of-a-kind, vintage ambiance.

7. Enjoy A Meal At Off Vine

Off Vine is a charming, off-the-beaten-path restaurant that’s the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal. Sitting inside a renovated cottage, the restaurant offers California cuisine and comfort food. It’s also a great place to step aside for the hustle and bustle of the surrounding city for a bit.

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January 3, 2023
Top 10 Biggest Travel Trends For 2023

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Travel made a big comeback in 2022. We saw the reopening of borders, the elimination of COVID requirements, and a surge in travel around the world. Now, with (hopefully) the worst of the pandemic behind us, we can look forward to what is to come this year. And as travelers make plans for 2023, we anticipate many travel trends will be driven by similar reasons.

After living through years of stress, uncertainty, restrictions, and hassle related to the pandemic, we now value our time, travels, and well-being more than before. We have a fresh understanding of how quickly travel can be taken away from us, and we have a lot to decompress from. As we make plans for travel in 2023 we are looking for stress-free adventures where we can make the most of our time and truly enjoy an experience.

Without further ado, Here is our roundup of the top 10 biggest travel trends headed our way in 2023:

Countries With No Travel Restrictions Or Mask Mandates

We put up with it for a few years, but now tourists are done with travel inconveniences due to COVID. People are actively seeking out vacations to countries with free and open travel. Travel restrictions, mask mandates, vaccination requirements, and quarantine still exist in some countries. But now that many have fully reopened, travelers want to visit countries they where they don’t have to jump through hoops.

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All Inclusive & Packaged Vacations

After the stress of lockdowns, flight cancellations, and general travel chaos, travelers in 2023 don’t want to worry about anything. The solution to this? All-inclusive and packaged vacations. Booking an entire vacation through a travel agent or website takes away the stress of having to plan all the small details. Simply choose a destination and a budget and let the experts plan the rest.

The Return Of Cruising

Cruising took a big hit during the pandemic and was one of the last things in the travel industry to restart. Now, cruising is back bigger and better than before. Cruises all around the world are selling out well in advance, likely because it is one of the most stress-free types of vacations. Cruise companies are building new ships, and expanding their offerings in the U.S. market. Once you figure out which cruise is best for you there’s not much more you need to do. Flights, day tours and excursions, entertainment, and dinners can all be pre-planned, leaving you with nothing to do but sit back, relax, and enjoy the cruise.

Mainstream Solo Travel

According to a recent survey, 25% of Americans planned to take a solo trip last year. We expect this trend to continue to grow throughout 2023. There are so many reasons why traveling solo is a good idea. First, traveling alone is a great way to learn more about yourself, and gain self-confidence. When traveling alone you become more open to meeting new people and truly immerse yourself in the destination. Traveling without companions also gives you the freedom to explore your own itinerary on your own schedule.

In the past, traveling alone was seen as something only suitable for single people. Now, all types of people are jumping on the trend and bucking cultural norms. Couples are traveling without their partners, elderly travelers are rediscovering themselves, and women are feeling empowered to travel solo.

Wellness Travel And Digital Detox

Digital detox vacations and general wellness travel is on the rise this year. Travelers looking to improve their health and mental well-being now have plenty of options for stress-free getaways. Wellness retreats have grown to be more than just yoga classes and spa treatments. There are specific getaways available for anyone who needs to reset and rediscover themselves. Choices vary from dance retreats, art workshops, and female empowerment events, to fitness and adventure getaways, plant medicine therapies, and emotional detox.

Digital detox retreats are a form of wellness travel that is really picking up speed. In our increasingly digital world, it is easy to lose track of reality. These organized retreats allow participants to connect with the world around them by disconnecting from technology. Phones, tablets, and laptops are not permitted. Events are planned to allow participants to truly immerse themselves in the surrounding environment and make real connections with people without technological distractions.

Sober Travel Experiences

Sober travel is no longer just for non-drinkers and people in recovery. More and more, travelers are actively choosing to ditch the booze and connect with a destination in a different way. Traveling sober leaves tourists with more money and more time for meaningful experiences that they will remember. According to Lonely Planet, travelers who choose to be sober on vacation “are finding they feel more authentic, are more present, and start tapping into a sense of belonging that alcohol once temporarily provided.”

Sober vacations have become more convenient than ever in recent years. We expect this trend to grow stronger in 2023. No and low alcohol bars are popping up in major cities. Premium mocktails are found on most bar menus, and there are even sober club nights, booze-free festivals, and travel companies that coordinate sober experiences.

Long-term And Nomadic Travel

More companies than ever now offer the opportunity for employees to work remotely. This has led to a renaissance of long-term and nomadic travel. Traveling long-term has become a popular lifestyle, and allows people to truly immerse themselves in a destination. With 45 countries now offering Digital Nomad Visas, living like a local in a foreign country is easier than ever.

Influencer Group Travel

Many travel influencers from TikTok, Instagram, and popular travel blogs now offer curated group tours to followers. While the tours vary by influencer, they are all geared toward giving followers a taste of the influencer’s journeys. Group tours bring together like-minded people to chase the swoon-worthy travel experiences they see on social media.

Tours typically have a theme — Dear Alyne hosts women’s empowerment and female entrepreneurial success trips. Alyssa Ramos hosts bucket-list adventures for her followers. The Blonde Abroad curates excursions for all-female groups, and Johnny Ward accompanies followers to developing nations to partake in community projects. The trend of influencers curating or traveling with groups of their followers shows no signs of slowing down.

Strong Cultural and Historical Destinations

More than ever, tourists are traveling with intention. They are choosing destinations based on their desire to learn about the culture and history of a particular place. Destinations rich in cultural traditions and history like Jordan, Mexico, and many European countries, make it easy for tourists to enjoy a vacation abroad while learning more about the world we all share.

Multiple Country Trips

Traveling to multiple countries during one trip is a great way for travelers to maximize their time away. Because we now all know how quickly travel can be taken away from us, taking advantage of what time we do have to explore is all the rage. If you’ve already taken a week or two off of work, why not maximize your adventures by visiting more than one country? Europe is a particularly great place for this because of the close proximity of countries, and the ease of train travel.

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January 2, 2023
This Is The Airline With The Least Delays In The U.S. Right Now
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Throughout 2022, many U.S. carriers struggled to keep up with an increasing demand for international travel, letting millions down by delaying or cancelling thousands of flights on the daily. Fortunately for customers, one airline in particular has proven to be far more reliable than its competitors, boasting the least delays in North America right now.

Now that over 70% of the world is open restriction-free, and the health crisis is waning across a majority of Western countries, airlines are benefitting from a much-needed surge in flight bookings. The only downside to it? They are also facing severe staff shortages and other operational issues that have got in the way of a full recovery.

Travelers have effectively played russian roulette booking flights in 2022, but some airlines’ performance was markedly worse than others:

The Best And Worst Airlines For 2022

If you’re looking to avoid excessively long delays or last-minute cancellations with limited customer support to top it off, perhaps you should be narrowing down your options to a triad of airlines with an on-time performance of at least 80% for 2022 – or, for the utmost safety and lowest risk of delays, the best-rated carrier this year: Delta Air Lines.

According to the latest data compiled by Cirium, a trusted aviation data analytics company, Delta is the best-performing airline in the United States this year with 84.10% of flights departing on time. In comparison, Air Canada, the worst-performing airline in North America as a whole, managed to fulfill their schedule in only 55.56% of operations.

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On top of that, research conducted by CasinoBonusCA concluded Air Canada passengers have the highest chance of losing their belongings, dealing a further blow to the once-respected company. The embarassing record of delays and luggage mishandlement has led the flag-carrier to be snubbed at the 2022 World’s Best Airline Awards.

Over summer, the peak of the staffing constraint crisis, Air Canada infamously canceled over 9000 flights, wrecking vacation plans and plummeting to new historical lows in satisfaction rates they have yet to bounce back from. Delta was not immune to industry woes, either, but it’s clear now it’s managed to stave off the worst impacts.

Delta’s On-Time Performance Is Truly Rekarmable

The ranking for airlines with the least and most delays in North America, and their on-time arrival percentage, can be seen in full below:
1. Delta – 84.10%
2. Alaska – 81.42%
3. United – 81.26%
4. American – 78.77%
5. Southwest – 74.68%
6. Frontier – 68.99%
7. JetBlue – 67.13%
8. Allegiant – 66.49%
9. WestJet – 60.66%
10. Air Canada – 55.56%
In total, 959,987 Delta flights from January 1 to December 15 arrived on time, the second year in a row it is crowned the most punctual airline in the continent. Delta’s yearly results are nothing short of remarkable, considering the widespread disruption and how far they have expanded in 2022, adding multiple countries to an already all-encompassing flight map.

Other than boosting frequency on numerous popular routes, they have launched new flights to some of the world’s most promising vacation spots, including Tahiti, a South Pacific gem famous for its teal-colored waters and pristine beaches, and Tel Aviv, Israel’s most liberal city and one of the top 7 trendiest destinations in Asia.

Elsewhere, they began offering flights with one-ticket rail connections to 20 European cities Americans can’t travel to directly, such as the (de facto) Swiss capital of Bern, and the charming Breda in the Netherlands. As you can see, Delta has kept ahead of travel trends and has spared no effort to fully satisfy customers while other airlines fell short of expectations.

Delta’s On-Time Performance Is Much Higher Than The North American Average

Jeremy Bowen, CEO at Cirium, was greatly impressed by Delta’s ‘excellent punctuality’, stating ramping back up operations ‘so quickly’ is not easy to do after an enforced slowdown. Alaska and United round out the top three, with on-time arrivals at 81.42% and 81.26%, respectively – an equally impressive feat considering their recent setbacks and flight suspensions.

This year, 71.91% of over 5 million flights operated in North America arrived on time, suggesting Delta’s rate of on-time arrivals is well above the continent’s average. It is worth noting the metrics account only for mainline operations: on-time performance data for other routes serviced by regional affiliates were not included in the ranking.

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January 2, 2023
These 3 Small Town In Spain Were Ranked The Best Villages To Visit In The World
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The UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has recently unveiled its list of best villages to visit around the world, based not only on their quaintness and charm, but also social and environmental sustainability. Interestingly, 3 small towns in Spain are among those listed, recognized for their sheer beauty, medieval History and inestimable cultural value.

This year, demand for travel to Spain soared to new heights, especially after it reopened for international travel, restriction-free. For the first time, however, it’s the lesser-known destinations that are gaining the most traction as millions of sun-seeking Americans journey across the pond in search of their idyllic Mediterranean getaway.

If the buzzing crowds and energetic atmosphere of cities like Barcelona and Madrid are not for you, this is where you should be heading instead:

Rupit, Catalonia

Rupit is a gorgeous rustic gem in the heart of Catalonia, one of the autonomous provinces of Spain with a regional identity so strong it could be its own nation. The stone-built Old Town, which dates back to the 12th century and has been left virtually unspoiled amid the country’s rapid 20th century urbanization, is easily the main point of interest.

Having grown out of the fortified gates of a hilltop castle, the village blends naturally with the mountainous scenery and craggy surroundings. It’s almost as if the ancient houses, dating back at least 500 years, and the winding cobblestone streets that lead to secret passageways and tiny plazoletas rise naturally out of the rock formations.

Rupit is definitely not on everyone’s radar, or plagued by overdevelopment, and being a short two-hour drive north of Barcelona, it makes for a perfect day trip idea, especially for those looking to escape the Instagram hordes cramming into every possible Game of Thrones filming location in Girona, or the overpriced beach towns lining Costa Brava.

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Alquezar, Aragon

If you consider yourself an outdoorsy person, you should definitely make Alquezar a priority on your next travel itinerary. Located in a bucolic setting at the foot of the Pyrenees, it acts as a gateway to an area of truly outstanding natural beauty. Hiking spots, nature trails, a meandering stream and sweeping mountain views: it truly has it all.

The most popular pastime among visitors to Alquezar is tracing the path beginning in the Monchiriguel Fountain, in the center of town, and ending in the La Fuente canyon. Along the walk, they will find crystal clear mountain springs, old waterwheels and historical bridges arching over the turquoise-colored River Vero.

On top of that, visitors are free to stroll picturesque streets lined with medieval monuments and traditional family-owned Aragonese shops, deeply embedded in tradition, explore Alquezar Castle, originally built by the Arab conquerors of the Iberian Peninsula, and admire the architectural splendor of the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria la Mayor.

Guadalupe, Extremadura

Guadalupe is a 1,822-people strong community nestled in the hinterlands of the Extremadura region, straddling the Spanish border with Portugal. A remarkable little town famous for its traditional architecture, it is the proud home of the imposing 14th century Monastery of Saint Mary of Guadalupe, one of Spain’s finest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

For History aficionados, the monastery is a must-see landmark: is the exact spot where Christopher Columbus made his first pilgrimage after ‘discovering’ the Americas in 1492, thanking the heavens for the achievement. His love for Guadaloupe is well-documented: he went as far as naming a Caribbean island in its honor.

Besides being a culturally and religiously important site, Guadeloupe is often used as a base for travelers exploring the wider province of Caceres. Other regional attractions include the Monfrague National Park, a sought-after hotspot in the birdwatching community, and Trujillo, a heavily fortified town packed with medieval and Renaissance buildings.

Spain Has The Most Entries Out Of Any Country On The List

The director of the Spanish Tourist Office in London was quoted saying they were ‘delighted’ the three Spanish villages were acknowledged as distinguished tourism hubs, especially now that the nation is expanding its promotional efforts to under-visited towns: ‘we aim to promote community-led tourism across Spain and are thrilled at the international recognition‘.

A total of 136 villages were submitted for consideration, with each UN member state allowed to nominate up to three candidates. This means all three of Spain’s submissions – Rupit, Alquezar and Guadalupe – made it to the final list, more than any other country. The full list of 32 destinations feature other beautiful villages in Switzerland, Italy, China and Vietnam.

The UNWTO’s best tourism villages for 2022 are the following:
- Zell am See, Austria
- Wagrain, Austria
- Puqueldón, Chile
- Dazhai, China
- Jingzhu, China
- Choachí, Colombia
- Aguarico, Ecuador
- Angochagua, Ecuador
- Mulu Ecovillage, Ethiopia
- Mestia, Georgia
- Kfar Kama, Israel
- Sauris-Zahre, Italy
- Isola del Giglio, Italy
- Umm Qais, Jordan
- Creel, Mexico
- El Fuerte, Mexico
- Ksar Elkhorbat, Morocco
- Moulay Bouzerktoune, Morocco
- Lamas, Peru
- Raqchi, Peru
- Castelo Novo, Portugal
- Pyeongsa-ri, South Korea
- Rasinari, Romania
- Al’Ula Old Town, Saudi Arabia
- Bohinj, Slovenia
- Rupit, Spain
- Alquézar, Spain
- Guadalupe, Spain
- Murten, Switzerland
- Andermatt, Switzerland
- Birgi, Türkiye
- Thái Hải, Vietnam
The UNWTO Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili, stated toruism can be a ‘true gamechanger’ for rural communities, creating more jobs, supporting hard-hit businesses in the wake of the Covid crisis, and ‘keeping traditions alive‘. For Pololikashvili, the list showcases the ‘power’ of the sector in driving ‘economic diversification’ outside large urban centers.

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January 1, 2023
Top 6 Reasons Why All-Inclusive Resorts Are The Most Popular Winter Getaway

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Vacations are all about relaxing, escaping the routine, and truly enjoying a special moment at a beautiful place. All-inclusive resorts are the perfect solution to guarantee a seamless vacation experience.

While visiting a new city, exploring its museums, and getting around the nice neighborhoods is also an excellent vacation strategy, sometimes having busy schedules and checking all the boxes on a long bucket list can be stressful and daunting vacation.

Travelers who want to feel at ease during winter vacations are preferring resorts in warm and gorgeous destinations like the Caribbean. Here’s why all-inclusive resorts are getting so popular:

1. Stress-free Experience

Once a traveler books the flights and the stay at an all-inclusive resort there are very few decisions left to make and this can reduce stress significantly. Airports have been chaotic lately and just surviving the pandemic has been worrying enough for a very long time. There’s so much going on in the world already that staying at a place where guests can feel welcome, pampered, entertained, and relaxed seems like the perfect and deserving treat travelers need in 2023.

Another great advantage of all-inclusive resorts is that they provide a safe environment where guests don’t have to worry about personal safety or accidentally walking into a dangerous neighborhood in a foreign country. The language is not a barrier either as the staff and hosts usually have outstanding English skills.

2. Knowing Exactly How Much It’s Going To Cost

When it comes to budgeting a trip, all-inclusive resorts make it extra easy. Anyone can Google the average costs for a meal at a destination or check online menus for specific restaurants but there are always unexpected events and expenses that are impossible to predict while traveling.

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Knowing that all meals, drinks, and main attractions are included makes it so simple when it comes to estimating costs. And there are all-inclusive resort options for all budgets, from great alternatives for less than $200 per night in the Dominican Republic, to luxurious accommodations for almost $4,000 per night in Mexico.

3. The Ever-expanding Mega-resorts

Of course, the main attractions of all-inclusive resorts are the great amenities. Travelers will usually find pools, pristine beach access, different restaurants and bars, and there are so many options. According to Booking.com, there are 73 all-inclusive resorts currently available in Cancun and 83 in Punta Cana.

And new impressive properties keep opening. Marriott now has an all-inclusive resort with a water park in Cancun and its first luxury all-inclusive in the Dominican Republic featuring spas and personalized services. Another resort on a private island in the Dominican Republic will open in 2023, and a new $100 million luxury resort project is under construction in Montego bay.

4. Access To Luxury Services

The resort experience is changing and now more hotel brands are interested in providing glamorous and exclusive services for guests. Daily massages at elegant spas and sit-downs a la carte restaurants included in the price? It’s already happening.

From amazing culinary experiences to special spa treatments and personalized services—including your own butler—, many resorts are offering royalty experiences to make their guests feel in heaven. Crowded pools and overwhelming buffets are staying in the past.

5. Unlimited Drinks

Buying multiple individual cocktails or specialty mocktails can be very expensive and worrying the day after having a great time at the beach and drinking multiple drinks. For those that love to overindulge in cocktails, the value of the all-inclusive is definitely worth it. Each resort has its own policies regarding the drinks, certain hotels charge extra fees for premium drinks, but even alcoholic drinks are usually included. Two more margaritas, please!

6. Endless Organized Activities

There’s so much to do at all-inclusive resorts! As if the private beach, the pools, spas, and fitness centers weren’t enough to stay entertained, there are usually amazing activities included. From fun parties at night to dancing lessons to morning yoga to diving courses, it’s impossible to get bored!

All kinds of travelers will encounter special and interesting activities to get the best of the resort and the destination. Many resorts offer off-property tours to safely explore places outside of the property like nature spots, museums, and buildings, and get more in touch with local culture and surroundings.

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January 1, 2023
Why You Should Book Your Last Night Of Vacation Near The Airport

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No matter how many times you’ve been to the airport, the worry that you aren’t leaving early enough never seems to fade. It’s a shame to end a relaxing vacation by stressing about making it home. What if there is traffic? What if your transportation doesn’t show up? What if the airport is way busier than usual?

All of the unknowns add up, and we naturally worry. However, there is a way to lessen the stress. A new trend among stress-conscious travelers is emerging, and it might just be the best way to end a vacation. By booking the last night of your vacation at a hotel near (or in) the airport, you greatly diminish the stress that comes along with making the trek back home.

Here are 5 reasons why you should book your last night of vacation near the airport:

You’ll Avoid Traffic Problems

If you’ve been plugged into the news lately, you probably know that traffic around Cancun’s airport has been crazy lately. Travelers headed to the airport last week got so desperate they began to ditch their taxis to finish the route on foot in an attempt to make it to their flights on time. While this is an extreme example, traffic can be a serious cause for concern when trying to make it to the airport on time. By booking your last night near the airport, you’ll cut down on the chance that traffic will make you miss your flight home.

You’ll Already Be Packed

We’ve all been there. Frantically jamming everything we can into our bags while the clock mocks us from across the room as we try to get out the door to the airport on time. Somehow it always seems more difficult to pack everything up when vacation is ending than it did before it started. If you opt to spend your last night of vacation in a hotel near the airport, you’ll be able to pack stress-free.

You’ll be far less likely to accidentally leave anything behind, and you’ll be able to enjoy the process more while you think about how great of a vacation you just had. As a bonus, you’ll already be packed and ready to roll the next day before your flight, as you only need to set aside the essentials for the next day’s travels.

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Transportation Is Often Included

Many hotels around the airport will include free airport shuttles as part of their nightly rate. Not only does this save you money, but it also takes the stress out of figuring out how you will get to the airport. Now you don’t have to shell out way too much money for a taxi, and you don’t have to coordinate anything. Just make sure to ask the concierge what schedule the shuttle follows, as it can vary from property to property. Most hotels will have a shuttle run at least twice per hour, starting well before the first flights of the day.

You’ll Save Money On Accommodation

Spending the last night of vacation in a hotel closer to the airport will likely save you money on accommodation, depending on your vacation type. If you just spent a week at a beachfront resort, the airport near the hotel will undoubtedly be cheaper. To maximize your time at the nice resort, ask if the front desk can hold on to your luggage after checkout and see if they will allow you to enjoy the grounds until later in the afternoon before heading off to your airport hotel. Many properties are more than happy to provide this service, and you still enjoy the property without paying for another night.

Transportation Is More Dependable

Staying near the airport guarantees you’ll be able to find a way there more efficiently and affordably. In bigger cities, this can equate to quite a bit of saving.

Author’s Anectode

I traveled to London in November and stayed in Canary Wharf. To get home, I planned to take the first flight out of Heathrow in the morning to avoid delays. Unfortunately, I hadn’t done enough homework, because in order to be at the airport 2 hours before my flight, my only option was a taxi. The first tube stop of the day I could take to begin the journey to the airport was far too late in the morning to be sure I would make my flight.

If I had been able to take the tube, the trip would have cost about $15, and instead, I had to pay for a taxi that cost me over $100. Had I booked a hotel closer to the airport, I’d have saved myself some money and been able to sleep in a bit more.

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December 31, 2022
Mexico Sets New Record For Most International Visitors – Here Are The Top 5 Destinations

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Mexico has it all, and people know it. With affordable flights, beautiful beaches, fantastic weather, and a rich culture, it is easy to see why 25 % of Americans traveling abroad end up in Mexico each year. Visitor numbers continue to rise. Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism has just reported that 2022 arrivals have surpassed those of 2021 and 2019.

Between January and November of 2022, Mexico welcomed an estimated 18.4 million tourists through its international airports. That number represents an 8% increase from the same period in 2019, and a whopping 52% increase over 2021 arrivals. Americans alone made up 11.7 million of those international tourists. This is an increase of 30% in 2021 numbers and up 24% from 2019.

While tourism in Mexico is more popular than ever, some destinations continue to be favorites of international tourists. Mexico has so many beautiful locations, but the majority of visitors end up in one of these top 5 destinations.

Cancun

Year after year, Cancun wins the popularity contest for Mexican tourism destinations. Because it has been such a popular destination for so long, Cancun has built up the infrastructure needed to support the hordes of tourists that visit each year.

Simply put, visiting Cancun is easy. Cancun’s International Airport sees direct flights from many U.S. and Canadian cities, and the fares are competitive. Additionally, there is a huge range of accommodations in Cancun. From romantic all-inclusives to family-friendly resorts, the variety of hotels available makes Cancun accessible to all types of travelers.

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The ease of visiting Cancun leaves more time for relaxing on the beautiful beaches, enjoying the vibrant nightlife, and basking in the near-perfect weather. Several resorts even go the extra mile to make your vacation even easier by offering butler service so you don’t have to lift a finger.

How to get there: The Cancun International Airport is just 13 miles from the hotel zone. Shuttles, buses, taxis, and rental cars can be hired at the airport for the short transfer to the tourist area.

When to visit: Visiting between November – April will avoid the hurricane and rainy season in the area.

Playa Del Carmen

Playa Del Carmen is only 45 minutes south of Cancun but can seem a world away. It is smaller and more laid-back than Cancun, but still offers all the comforts you need in a Mexican beach vacation.

All of Playa Del Carmen’s beaches are public and easily accessed. This means you don’t have to stay at a resort in order to access its beach. Playa Del Carmen’s location in the heart of Rivera Maya makes it a great base for exploring the surrounding beauty of the region. Popular activities include exploring the world’s second-longest coral reef off the coast, exploring the nearby cenotes, and sightseeing at the nearby Mayan ruins.

How to get there: Fly into Cancun International airport and book a bus, shuttle, or rental car to go direct to Playa Del Carmen from the airport. In late 2023 a train will connect Cancun to Playa Del Carmen and beyond.

When to visit: Visit between November – April to avoid the rainy and hurricane seasons.

Puerto Vallarta

Located on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is known for its Mexican culture, vibrant nightlife, and stunning beaches. Home to Mariachi music and raicilla (the local drink), visitors get swept away in the city’s vibrant neighborhooods and tourist attractions while marveling at the stunning mountain landscapes.

This resort town has lots of all-inclusives to choose from, making it accessible to families, couples, and budget solo travelers. It’s no wonder that Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular spots to vacation in Mexico.

How to get there: Flying into Puerto Vallarta International Airport is easy and a taxi or bus transfer from the airport is only 10 minutes.

When to visit: High season in Puerto Vallarta is between December and April. Those looking for an epic underwater adventure should visit between May–August.

Los Cabos

Los Cabos is located at the Southern point of the Baja California Peninsula. The area includes the towns of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. The two towns are linked by 32 km of beach-front resorts and golf clubs. It is most recognized by its rugged rock formations that rip out of the ocean where the Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez meet.

While other spots in Mexico are known for their party scene, Los Cabos focuses on luxury stays. With over 2 million visitors per year, visitors are drawn to the turquoise waters and warm sandy beaches. Some of the best surfing in all of Mexico is along Costa Azul Beach. It was named one of the world’s top beach destinations in 2022.

How to get there: Visitors to any of the tourist areas in Los Cabos can fly into the Los Cabos International Airport. San José del Cabo is just 8 miles away from the airport, and Cabo San Lucas is 23 miles away. Taxis and shuttles are available to provide transfers from the airport.

When to visit: Most tourists to Los Cabos visit during the high season of December – April when the weather is ideal. Travelers looking to avoid the crowds but still have nice weather should go between May and June.

Mexico City

Mexico City is one of the oldest cities in North America. It is also the fifth most populated city in the world. It is a great destination for tourists looking to immerse themselves in Mexican culture. With over 150 museums and galleries, sprawling public squares and parks, ancient Aztec ruins, and vibrant neighborhoods, tourists could spend a lifetime exploring all Mexico City has to offer.

Fans of Mexican food are especially partial to Mexico City. The diverse cuisines from every region of the country are available. From unassuming street food vendors, to hip cafes, and high-end restaurants, tourists can eat their way through Mexico without ever leaving the city.

How to get there: Mexico City’s Benito Juárez International Airport has frequent flights from all over the world. The airport is 6 miles outside of the city. Depending on your mode of transportation it can take between 25 and 50 minutes to get to the city center.

When to visit: Mexico City is a great year-round destination. Visitors should choose the best time to go based on what they want to do and see in the city. Spring sees the most pleasant weather, and autumn is when most festivals occur.

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December 31, 2022
This Beautiful Southeast Asian Country Has Lifted All Travel Restrictions Returning To Normal Tourism
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Another Southeast Asian destination has lifted all Covid requirements returning to normal ahead of 2023. With immediate effect, Americans are no longer be subject to strict health controls traveling to Laos which is one of the most beautiful, and awe-inspiring countries in the sub-continent.

After sealing itself off from the rest of the world for most of the pandemic, Southeast Asia began to timidly reopen for tourism earlier this year as Covid cases dwindled. Fast forward a few months, and foreigners are welcome across a majority of states without restrictions or any border formalities, making it one of the easiest regions in the world to travel.

Luckily for the unvaccinated, the reopening trend is showing no signs of slowing down, even after the latest viral surge arising from China:

The Only Landlocked Country In Southeast Asia Is Lifting All Border Restrictions

2 years and 9 months after the World Health Organization issued a historical declaration confirming Covid as a pandemic, prompting numerous countries across the globe to shut down in response and clamp down on leisure travel, the small and gorgeous, but often overlooked nation of Laos is finally ready to reinstate normality.

Similarly to its closest neighbors, namely Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam, the only landlocked country in Southeast Asia decided to fully abolish all health-related border mandates on December 28, in the lead up to the New Year – it turns out Kayak editors were right when they boldly claimed that 2023 would be a ‘comeback year‘ for Asia, after all…

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Entering Laos in 2023, Americans and all other incoming passengers will no longer be required to present a vaccination card, nor undergo testing prior to departure when failing to qualify as fully immunized. Additionally, all on-arrival and post-arrival testing policies applying to the latter group have been canceled, ending months of vaccine discrimination.

Lastly, there are no quarantine requirements upon arrival to Laos, as the country has done away with all special provisions pertaining to the health crisis that had remained in force throughout 2022. Effectively, we’re witnessing a return to 2019 entry guidelines, including the reinstatement of visa-waiver agreements and visas on-arrival.

Do Americans Need A Visa To Enter Laos?

In short, yes, but the visa application process couldn’t be simpler.

American citizens can travel to Laos without requesting a visa in advance, but they must apply for one upon landing at one of the authorized points of entry, such as the Wattay International Airport. Applications are made on-site and tourist visas are normally issued for 30 days for a fee of USD $35, though they may be extended for a further 60 days upon request.

Alternatively, U.S. passport holders are eligible to apply for an e-Visa before departure through the official website, in order to avoid unnecessary queuing at the airport. Other than visa procedures and carrying a passport valid for at least six months, tourists are exempt from presenting any health declaration, or disclosing their vaccination status.

In sum, all of the below applies to international travelers arriving in Laos:
- No mandatory vaccination
- No pre-departure, on-arrival, or post-arrival testing
- No health declaration forms to be completed prior to flying
- No quarantine
Within the country, some Covid measures are still enforced, such as social distancing and mask wearing in certain premises, though the severity of requirements may vary across the country depending on infection levels. Once in Laos, foreigners are advised to follow all rules set out by local authorities, even when travel restrictions have been lifted.

Before the reopening, only fully vaccinated travelers were allowed to enter Laos test-free. The unvaccinated were required to undergo an ATK (Antigen) test 48 hours before departure. Since December 28, however, all travelers are treated equally irrespective of immunization status, nationality, and country of departure.

Is Laos Worth Visiting?

Despite its lack of sea access and colder temperatures, Laos is a Southeast Asian gem deserving of your attention. A mountainous territory rich in nature and famous for its distinct multi-cultural character, torn between centuries-old Buddhist traditions and the legacy of French colonialism, it can be a surprising, and rather unusual, cultural destination for 2023.

We like unusual.

Vientiane, the capital, is home to the That Luang monument, where Buddha’s breastbone is reportedly kept, French-inspired architecture and communist-era landmarks. Elsewhere in the tiny country, visitors will find grand waterfalls, river islands, elephant reserves, and a quaint, sparsely-populated countryside virtually unspoiled by mankind.

Lastly, Laos is a country packed with historical ruins and pilgrimage sites. One of the holiest is Wat Phu, a UNESCO-protected archaeological complex dating back to the 5th century and originally built as a Hindu temple. Today, it is open for tourists for a negligible fee of 50,000 LAK, or only US $2.88, and it is totally worth the two-and-a-half journey from Vientiane.

More information about tourist activities in Laos, as well as visa requirements, can be found here.

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December 30, 2022