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Top 10 Off The Beaten Path Sun Destinations For U.S. Travelers This Winter
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Want to chase waterfalls in Jamaica? Relax in the latest luxurious resort in Turks and Caicos? Discover hidden gems in Central America? Whatever your tastes, these sunny vacation destinations are the perfect choice for travelers looking to get a little off the beaten path this winter season.

Antigua, Guatemala

Why not spend your next winter vacation exploring a new destination? Filled with history, good food, and nature escapes galore, Antigua in Guatemala has lots in store for travelers.

Winter months in Guatemala means the dry season, so you’ll get sunny days and a warm-cool climate with highs of 75 degrees. With the Agua Volcano serving as a backdrop for the Old Town and the bright yellow Santa Catalina Arch, Antigua is arguably one of the most picturesque towns in Central America. Start your trip by spending a few days wandering the Old Town before heading out to explore the countryside.

Top things to do:
- Lake Atitlan: An overnight trip to Guatemala’s scenic Lake Atitlan is the perfect city escape.
- Hike Volcano Pacaya: Hike a guide to summit the nearby Volcano Pacaya, and you’ll be treated to some roasted marshmallow treats at the end.
Getting there: The best way to get to Antigua is to take a direct flight to Guatemala City and then take an airport taxi (make sure it’s an official airport taxi; expect to pay around $40 USD one-way) to take you from the airport to Antigua, which is about 40 minutes away from the airport.

Cartagena, Colombia

It’s no secret that Cartagena is one of Colombia’s hottest travel destinations, so take a trip here and find out what all the fuss is about (and be prepared to be impressed).

A city that offers a warm sea breeze and old town strolls, Cartagena is a destination for culture seekers. After checking out the museums and shops in Cartagena’s Old Town, unwind and cure those winter blues with sunset mojitos and dancing the night away. It may just be what the doctor ordered.

Top things to do:
- Rooftop salsa class: Check out AirBnB experiences for this amazing salsa class in Cartagena’s Getsemani neighborhood.
- Catamaran sailing tour to the Rosario Islands: An exhilarating city getaway.
Aguadilla, Puerto Rico

Located in the northwest of Puerto Rico, Aguadilla is a great alternative to San Juan for travelers. Come here for a perfect winter getaway to experience some of Puerto Rico’s best beaches and amazing water sports, all without having to leave the U.S.

Top things to do:
- Crash Boat beach: One of Puerto Rico’s top beaches, this is a must-do.
- Punta Borinquen Golf Club: Beautiful course with coastal views to boot.
Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Guanacaste is your answer to those looking for that dry heat during the winter months. Costa Rica‘s beaches, once rugged and undiscovered by tourism, are now bustling places. There is still some calm to be found along the north of the Guanacaste coast, where you’ll be treated to the bold Pacific waves, peaceful beaches for those morning walks, and a unique tico way of life.

Top things to do:
- Playa Samara: This chilled-out surf town is the perfect winter recluse if you want to learn to surf.
- Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park: Explore waterfalls, a lake, and gorgeous hiking trails.
Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Sure, we all know Punta Cana, but have you considered Puerto Plata for a winter escape? Located along the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, Puerto Plata you’ll be treated to pristine and peaceful beaches where you can explore the city and get a sense of local life. Here, there are great hotels and resort options to choose from as well as tours to nearby attractions, so you can curate your winter vacation your way.

Top things to do:
- Stroll the Malecon: Wander from Long Beach to Acapulco Beach.
- Book a safari tour: A day trip for the whole family to see Puerto Plata’s gorgeous landscape.
Mazatlan, Mexico

Get a little off the beaten path in Mexico and head to Mazatlan this winter, the perfect port city where you can mix play, luxury, and culture all under the Mexican sun. Mazatlan’s 13 mile-long Malecon is great for wandering day or evening and taking in the Pacific breeze and the city views. For some luxury and relaxation, Mazatlan has a ton of budget-friendly boutique hotels where you can chill poolside or hit up the on-site spa. To take in some culture, Old Malecon is filled with historical buildings to explore on a sunny afternoon.

Top things to do:
- Parque Natural Faro Mazatlan: A free attraction, you can hike up the highest lighthouse in the Americas and be rewarded with epic views.
- Playa Brujas: Beautiful beach in the north of town for surfing and boogie boarding.
Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Ocho Rios is the adventure capital of Jamaica. It’s for those you want to mix beach chilling and exciting excursions where you’ll get your hands dirty and your heart full. Book a hotel by the beach for some relaxation and then plan excursions with some local guides to explore the countryside. And before you know it, you’ll be planning your next trip back.

Top things to do:

Ocho Rios is the adventure capital of Jamaica. It’s for those you want to mix beach chilling and exciting excursions where you’ll get your hands dirty and your heart full. Book a hotel by the beach for some relaxation and then plan excursions with some local guides to explore the countryside. And before you know it, you’ll be planning your next trip back.

Top things to do:

Dunn’s River Falls & Park: Beautiful waterfall just outside of town.

River tubing tour: There are so many tours in Ocho Rios that will take you on a tubing adventure down the White River.

Turks and Caicos

For those who want to go beyond your basic resort vacation and try something new for their winter vacation. It has all the beauty that the Caribbean offers, plus that something more. Turks and Caicos has been working hard to boost tourism and there are so many more options for travelers. From gorgeous public beaches to resort islands to a weekly famous fish fry, there’s so much to see and do.

Top things to do:
- Catamaran sailing and snorkeling tour
- Kiteboarding: Hit up Long Bay Beach for the perfect kiteboarding spot.
Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

Another U.S. territory on this winter vacation list, Saint Thomas is a dream. You can visit without having to renew your passport, and it’s an easy getaway from East Coast cities. In less than four hours from New England, you can be enjoying some warm winter sun without having to cross any international borders.

Saint Thomas is world-renowned for its clear waters which make for ideal snorkeling opportunities, where you can strap on your snorkeling gear and discover what’s under the sea.

Top things to do:
- Hit the beach: Chill out at Magens Bay for beautiful views, swimming, and kayaking.
- Snorkeling: Secret Harbour and Brewers Bay are some of the best spots for snorkeling.
Trinidad and Tobago

A bungalow by a secluded beach perhaps? Trinidad and Tobago is the place to do it and a little more off the beaten path for a winter getaway. January is the perfect time to visit, as the temperatures are at a comfortable 85 degrees throughout the day. From all of the friendly people and affordable accommodation options, Trinidad and Tobago is a great choice for a laid-back Caribbean vacation.

Top things to do:
- Pigeon Point Beach: One of Tobago’s most popular beaches.
- Tour of the Argyle Waterfalls: Hire a guide to help you navigate and get to know the local flora and fauna.
Read More:

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

Nonstop Flights From The U.S. To Top Asian Destinations This Fall

Tropical Storm Warning Issued For Los Cabos Due to Hurricane Kay

This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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September 8, 2022
You’re Most Likely To Get Bumped From Your Flight On These U.S. Airlines
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You planned your important trip in advance, bought your tickets for the exact dates you wanted, you have everything ready, you head to the airport, you check in and all you have to do now is wait, but, surprise! the airline oversold the flight and you are not allowed to board your flight.

A traveler’s nightmare, especially if they have to give up their seat against their will.

It’s not new that airlines oversell their flights and many travelers are usually offered good —and even very attractive— compensation for giving up their seats and rescheduling their trips. But that’s not always the case.

As we reach the end of summer, air travel chaos seems to be gone, but statistics and relevant data are out there to provide valuable information for travelers, especially for those planning to travel during the fall or winter season.

The Department of Transportation’s Office of Aviation Consumer Protection of the US Department of Transportation has recently published the quarterly Air Travel Consumer Report with relevant data from the industry.

The document includes an Oversales section with data on passengers who were bumped from flights, voluntarily and involuntarily. The report considers the most important carriers in the United States such as United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Spirit Airlines, and Frontier Airlines.

By learning more about the airlines where they are more likely to get bumped and considering the most reliable US airlines amid travel chaos, travelers will be able to make smarter decisions, especially for important trips during the next season.

Airlines More Likely To Deny Boarding

The study considers only passengers with confirmed reservations whose flights departed without them due to overselling. The section doesn’t consider delays, flight cancellations, or diverted flights. Those who were accommodated on another flight within an hour or failed to comply with the airline rules were also excluded.

The results do consider the number of passengers that voluntarily accepted compensation or flight rescheduled and those who did it unwillingly. Usually, when flights are overbooked, it is announced and some passengers are happy to readjust their plans, but when this doesn’t happen the airline has a system to randomly choose passengers.

In different tables, the study shows results for the last quarter, the data from January, a comparison with last year’s results, and the information provided by the marketing or reporting carrier.

Considering combined results from January to June, these were the airlines with the highest ratio of involuntary denied boardings per 10,000 passengers according to reporting marketing US Airlines:
- Frontier Airlines: Out of almost 11 million passengers, 5,986 voluntarily agreed to give up their seats and 4,151 did it against their will.
- Southwest Airlines: Out of over 72 million passengers, 33,601 willingly did not board, and 4,364 involuntarily stayed while their plane left.
- American Airlines: Out of 88 million passengers, 32,438 voluntarily accepted to stay and 4,995 passengers did it unwillingly.
- Spirit Airlines: Out of 17 million passengers, 8,797 didn’t board voluntarily and 772 were bumped involuntarily.
The following airlines were Alaska Airlines, Jetblue Airways, United Airlines Network, Delta Airlines Network, Hawaiian Airlines, and, in the first place of the 10 main airlines ranked, the least likely to involuntarily denied boarding is Allegiant Air.

Delta Airlines is the carrier with the highest voluntary denied boardings. Out of 77 million passengers, 56,877 passengers —the highest number of denied boards on the table— voluntarily accepted to let their flights depart without them and only 2 travelers did against their will. The reason is that Delta Airlines has one of the best compensation programs.

In June this year, Delta offered passengers $10,000 in cash for those who voluntarily gave away their seats on a flight from Michigan to Minnesota. Of course, that compensation easily convinced a few travelers to reschedule their flights.

Read More:

Here’s Why Jamaica Is The Best Caribbean Vacation This Fall

Mexico Enters Hurricane Season This Month – Here’s What To Expect If You’re Visiting

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

↓ Join the community ↓

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

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

Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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September 8, 2022
Cancun Vs. Punta Cana: Which Is The Best All Inclusive Destination?
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There’s no question that Cancun and Punta Cana are two of the most popular destinations for an all-inclusive vacation. Cancun is the most visited Destinations in Mexico, while Punta Cana is the most visited destination in the Dominican Republic. Each location offers visitors a wide selection of all-inclusive properties at prices that range from ultra-luxurious to totally affordable. Both destinations have been breaking records this summer, proving that tourists are flocking to the regions. For those who are on the fence about which area to choose, this article will help determine a winner!

Travel Off Path has pitted each location against each other in a head-to-head comparison to determine the best all-inclusive destination. For clarity, we’ve broken things down into sections, including pricing and resort options, beaches, weather, activities, safety, as well as flight connectivity and cost, and traveler interest.

For this comparison, we assumed a one-week vacation during January, a peak travel month for both areas. Specifically, we chose January 14^th to January 21^st, with flights in and out on each of those days as well. All prices shown are based on two people traveling together.

All Inclusive Costs & Options

One of the driving decision-making factors for vacations is cost, so it’s worth exploring how Cancun and Punta Cana rank against each other. To make the comparison of properties relevant to more than just luxury travelers, we will explore two categories; 4-star properties & 5-star properties. Average costs were found using booking.com and the dates of January 14^th through January 21^st.

Only all-inclusive properties were considered, and pricing data was pulled on September 5^th. We combed through all available properties to get an average cost of each category, and the results are below:

Image Courtesy Of: VIK hotel Arena Blanca Punta Cana

4-Star Stack up

Number of Available 4-Star All Inclusives

Average Cost
- Cancun: $276 per night
- Punta Cana: $239 per night
Average User Rating Out Of 10
- Cancun: 7.68
- Punta Cana: 7.22
Image Courtesy Of: Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun

5-Star Stack up

Number of Available 5-Star All Inclusives

Average Cost
- Cancun: $505 per night
- Punta Cana: $422 per night
Average User Rating Out Of 10
- Cancun: 8.46
- Punta Cana: 8.08
Pricing: Who Wins?

Based on average prices alone, Punta Cana has the upper hand in this category.

In total, Cancun has 74 all inclusive properties to choose from, while Punta Cana has 72. Cancun has more 4-star options than Punta Cana, implying more affordability. However, on average, Cancun’s 4-star properties are over $30 more per night than Punta Cana. Similarly, Cancun’s 5-star properties are, on average, about $80 more per night than Punta Cana. This isn’t to say that Cancun has no affordable options, though.

For instance, the 4-star Hotel Dos Playas Faranda Cancún is just $200 per night for the dates explored. The cheapest option for a 4-star stay in Punta Cana, the whala!bávaro, comes out a little more affordable at $187 per night. It should also be noted that, on average, Cancun’s 4-star and 5-star properties have slightly higher user ratings.

Beaches

What’s a tropical vacation without a beautiful beach? That first step onto that white-sand Caribbean beach is almost worth the cost of the flight alone. When choosing between Cancun or Punta Cana, it’s important to know which has beaches better suited to your travel style. We’ll break down the top 5 beaches for each destination and their differences. Beach rankings were found using Tripadvisor.

Top 5 Punta Cana Beaches
Top 5 Cancun Beaches
Biggest Differences

The single biggest difference between beach days in Cancun vs. Punta Cana is the level of development. In Cancun, the long stretch of sand in the hotel zone is jam-packed with restaurants, shops, hotels, and endless activities for tourists to take advantage of.

Conversely, Punta Cana’s beaches are less developed and offer a more authentic tropical beach vibe. While hotels certainly dot the shores, it’s much easier to find a secluded stretch of sand to soak up the sun.

Beaches: Who Wins?

When it comes to beaches, there’s no specific metric that can decide whether Cancun or Punta Cana is the ultimate winner. However, it can certainly be an influencing factor when deciding which destination is for you.

If you prefer your beach days to be close to a seemingly endless array of activities, Cancun may be for you. The tradeoff is that the beaches will be much more busy and crowded. But if that’s your vibe, then Cancun is perfect!

Punta Cana will be a better place for travelers who like to carve out their own space at the beach. However, the price you’ll pay for fewer crowds and seclusion will be less access to amenities. That’s certainly not to say there aren’t activities and restaurants to try, simply that they are not as condensed into one area as they are in Cancun.

Weather

The gorgeous weather offered by both Cancun and Punta Cana is one of the many reasons travelers flock to these areas over the fall and winter. A week of sunshine and warm weather is a wonderful way to break up the winter into more manageable sections. January is the dry season for both locations, and rain doesn’t tend to stick around. For days that it does rain, it often storms for a short period and quickly goes back to beautiful sunshine.

Below, we have laid out average temperatures and other information for the month of January in each destination.

Cancun
- Temperature:
  
  Average – 74.6°F (23.6°C)
  
  High – 77.7°F (25.4°C)
  
  Low – 72.3°F (22.4°C)
- Rainfall Average: 9 Days with Rain, averaging 3 inches (51mm)
- Average Humidity: 71%
- Average Water Temperature: 79°F (26°C)
Punta Cana
- Temperature:
  
  Average – 76.6°F (24.8°C)
  
  Low – 74.8°F (23.8°C)
- Rainfall Average: 11 Days with Rain, averaging 2 inches (51mm)
- Average Humidity: 76%
- Average Water Temperature: 80°F (27°C)
Weather: Who Wins?

Cancun and Punta Cana have such similar averages in January that it is difficult to determine an ultimate winner in this category. Both destinations will offer a welcome respite from the cold of winter. However, for those who don’t like it too hot, Cancun may be better on average due to the lower humidity levels and slightly lower average temperatures.

Activities

Cancun and Punta Cana offer a wide range of activities to enjoy during your stay. The most significant difference in offerings is the style of activities available. While there are many overlaps, such as snorkeling, watersports, and swimming in cenotes, each destination has its own feel and unique offerings for travelers to enjoy.

Cancun Activities

Cancun’s hotel zone is like a giant 15-mile-long playground. It is the heart of tourism in Mexico and is designed to offer endless entertainment to those visiting its shores. Nightclubs, restaurants, shopping malls, beach clubs, and more are all just a quick taxi ride or walk away when you stay in the hotel zone. An extensive list of every activity available would require several pages, so we’ve listed a few of note below:

Image Courtesy Of: Xoximilco
- Xoximilco Cancun – A self-named “Floating Fiesta” awaits visitors heading to Xoximilco. Guests board colorfully decorated gondolas with an open bar and a three-course meal. As you venture through the park’s canals, you will see many different bands and shows. This is just one of Cancun’s many dinner shows, but it certainly sets itself apart from the rest!
- Nightlife – Cancun’s nightlife is incredible, and there are some wildly popular places to go. Coco Bongo is a must and is arguably Cancun’s most famous nightclub. With live performances, balloons, confetti, bubbles, full stage lighting, incredible music, and much more, guests will enjoy the party of a lifetime.
- Day Trips Galore – Not only is Cancun itself packed with things to do, but it also has easy access to some pretty incredible day trips. From Cenotes to ancient ruins, many adventures await. Tulum is one of the most popular day trips, allowing visitors to visit an ancient Mayan archaeological site.
Punta Cana Activities

Punta Cana is an excellent place for travelers who appreciate the outdoors and have an adventurous spirit. While it also has nightlife options, there aren’t nearly as many as Cancun. For an adventurous day off the resort, travelers can ride ATVs through the interior forests, zipline through the trees, swim in a cenote, or ride a horse on the beach at sunset. Here are a few activities of note in Punta Cana below:
- Scape Park – This 247-acre park is a great way to take part in a host of outdoor activities all in one place. Swim in underground caves, zipline along a cliff, go caving, snorkel at Bucaneros reef, or float around in the turquoise waters of Hoyo Azul, a hidden cenote.
- Visit Saona Island – Saona Island lies off the southern coast of the Dominican Republic and is a nature reserve free from major development. If you want to feel like you are walking along the beach in an untouched tropical paradise, this is where to do it. Day trips include a boat ride to the island, often with an open bar and a buffet lunch.
- Unique Night Life – While Punta Cana may not have as many options as Cancun when it comes to nightlife, it certainly has some unique ones. One of the most interesting has to be Imagine Cave Disco. Built right into natural caves, this nightclub sets the tone for what is sure to be a memorable night.
Image Courtesy Of: Imagine Cave Disco

Activities: Who Wins?

If we base the winner purely on the number of activities offered, then Cancun is a clear winner. However, every traveler has their own unique tastes when they visit a new place. For travelers looking to spend more time outdoors adventuring, Punta Cana may be the way to go. Cancun is the way to go for travelers seeking a destination that feels much more urban and is teeming with endless things to do.

Safety

All inclusive properties in Cancun and Punta Cana are considered safe destinations. When venturing away from the resorts however, visitors should exercise increased caution. The most common crime affecting tourists in both destinations is petty theft. Criminals assume that tourists have a lot of money, smartphones, jewelry, and other valuables.

The U.S State Department classifies The Dominican Republic and the Quintana Roo State (where Cancun resides) as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. Advice from the state department for Level 2 areas includes:
- Stay aware of surroundings
- Do not resist a robbery
- Don’t display signs of wealth
- Follow local advice of resort or tour guides for safety
Both countries should be safe for travelers who stick to well-known tourist areas and activities. However, by the numbers, Cancun comes out ahead for safety. Mexico has a crime rate of 54.19 while the Dominican Republic has a crime rate of 61.02. This means that per every 100,000 people, 61 of them are subject to a crime in the Dominican Republic while 54 are subject to a crime in Mexico.

Flight Connectivity and Costs

Hotel and general costs in the area are just two pieces of the puzzle when planning a trip. Another sizeable piece is flight costs and how easy it is to get to where you are going. Below we’ve broken down how well-connected Cancun and Punta Cana are to the United States and Canada.

Cancun Connectivity and Cost

For the month of January, there are 40 U.S. cities and 16 Canadian cities that fly nonstop to Cancun. Notable U.S. cities with direct flights include Miami, New York City, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Seattle. Notable Canadian cities with direct flights include Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. Below are some prices for a round-trip ticket to Cancun from January 14^th to January 21^st.

Image Courtesy Of: Flight Connections

Toronto to Cancun Round-Trip (YYZ to CUN)
- Price: $512
- Airline: Air Transat
- Luggage: Free Carry On, $54 Checked Bag
New York City to Cancun Round-Trip (JFK to CUN)
- Price: $356
- Airline: American Airlines
- Luggage: Free Carry On, $60 Checked Bag
Punta Cana Connectivity and Cost

For the month of January, there are 20 U.S. cities and 8 Canadian cities that fly nonstop to Punta Cana. Notable U.S. cities with direct flights include Miami, New York City, Atlanta, Austin, and Chicago. The east coast has the upper hand for flights to Punta Cana. There are no direct flights to Punta Cana further west than Austin, Texas, for the month of January.

Notable Canadian cities with direct flights include Toronto, Montreal, and Quebec City. Below are some prices for a round-trip ticket to Punta Cana from January 14^th to January 21^st.

Image Courtesy Of: Flight Connections

Toronto to Punta Cana Round-Trip (YYZ to PUJ)
- Price: $569
- Airline: Air Canada
- Luggage: Free Carry On, $46 Checked Bag
New York City to Punta Cana Round-Trip (JFK to PUJ)
- Price: $470
- Airline: JetBlue
- Luggage: Free Carry On, $60 Checked Bag
Flights: Who Wins?

Cancun is the winner when it comes to both flight connectivity and flight prices. While flights to Punta Cana aren’t overwhelmingly more expensive, Cancun consistently has lower prices. Also, Cancun has double the number of direct flights to both the U.S. and Canada. Cancun also has further reaching nonstop flights, whereas Punta Cana only goes as far west as Austin, Texas. As Punta Cana continues to grow in popularity, we will likely see more cities offering direct flights. For now, however, Cancun is cheaper and easier to fly to.

Traveler Interest

One key indication of the general population’s interest in something is how many people search for it on Google. To see how interested people have been in Cancun and Punta Cana over the last year, we compared the two using Google Trends.

Looking at the graph above, we can see that for the past year, Punta Cana has been about half as popular as Cancun when it comes to Google searches. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that Cancun is better, simply that it is searched for more often. Also, this only takes into account searches within the United States.

The Bottom Line

Cancun and Punta Cana both offer incredible all-inclusive experiences for travelers heading for warmer weather and sandy shores. Which one comes out on top will ultimately be a decision for each individual traveler.

Cancun is better connected and cheaper to fly to, offers endless activities, and has world-class beaches with incredible amenities right along the shore. If you are after easy access to activities, late-night parties, and a more lively vibe, Cancun is for you.

Punta Cana has cheaper accommodations, offers more secluded beach experiences, and caters to travelers who enjoy adventuring outdoors when they aren’t relaxing at one of its luxurious all-inclusive properties. If you are after a location that feels less developed and more authentic, Punta Cana is for you.

Both destinations offer amazing experiences that will be remembered for a lifetime, and either one would be well worth a visit. Punta Cana and Cancun are both winners in our book. The best advice we can give travelers wondering which one to choose would be… choose both!

This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

↓ Join the community ↓

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

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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September 7, 2022
Tropical Storm Warning Issued For Los Cabos Due To Hurricane Kay

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Last Updated 2 hours ago

Mexico has entered hurricane season this month and, as if on cue, Los Cabos is currently under a tropical storm warning due to Hurricane Kay. A tropical storm warning indicates that winds of at least 40mph are possible over the next 36 hours. Currently, Hurricane Kay is classified as a Category 1 hurricane, with winds between 74 and 95 miles per hour.

However, if current forecasts hold, it will turn into a Category 2 hurricane by tomorrow morning with winds between 96 and 110 miles per hour. By the time it passes by the coast of Los Cabos, it could even be a Category 3. This means winds could be between 111 and 129 miles per hour.

Current Projections For Los Cabos

Luckily for Los Cabos, that doesn’t mean the area itself will see winds of that caliber. The center of the storm will be about 230 miles off the coast as it passes. Currently, the storm is moving northwest above the Pacific Ocean at about 10-15 miles per hour.

Following current projections, it will pass Los Cabos with the most intensity around 8 pm on September 7^th. If current projections remain valid, Los Cabos will likely see intense rain, high winds, and strong waves. However, as with any weather event, things can change anytime.

Image Courtesy Of: Zoom Earth

Forecasts say with a fair degree of certainty that the evening of the 7^th will be the worst for Los Cabos, it remains to be seen whether the area will remain under a tropical storm warning. Ideally, the storm would begin moving more westward if the projections were to change, but it could also move more inland. Residents and visitors in the area should stay updated over the next 48 hours. Check in with local weather alerts and take recommended precautions depending on the severity of the winds and rain.

Image Courtesy Of: Zoom Earth

Rain Forecast

Heavy rainfall is expected across western Mexico, including Los Cabos, whether Hurricane Kay grows or shrinks in intensity. Between four and eight inches will fall through Thursday night, with some areas potentially receiving up to twelve inches. Flash floods could be an issue and present an immediate danger to residents and visitors should they occur. Drivers should never attempt to drive through moving water, as the mistake could be deadly.

Areas Already Affected

According to a recent report, Hurricane Kay has already been wreaking havoc in the southwestern Mexican state, Guerrero. Houses were damaged, trees were knocked down, rivers overflowed throughout Guerrero, and the storm was responsible for three deaths in the region. Further north along the coast, Puerto Vallarta also experienced damage. Several homes were affected due to floods and landslides, and two cars were whisked away by flooding.

In both instances, Hurricane Kay was further out and weaker than it is predicted to be when it passes by Los Cabos on the 7^th. As a result, the area will likely see similar issues as Kay passes by the area. Recently, authorities prepared facilities and rescue vehicles before Tropical Storm Javier’s arrival. With Hurricane Kay following closely behind, the area will better be able to handle any issues that arise.

Planning To Visit Los Cabos?

Travelers planning to visit Los Cabos over the next few days should keep an eye on their flight status. So far, the airport is operating normally, but that is subject to change at a moment’s notice. With the worst of the storm approaching Los Cabos on the evening of the 7^th, it is especially important for travelers flying in or out of Los Cabos International Airport on the same day to check their flight status constantly.

It’d be better to know if your flight was delayed or canceled before getting yourself and your bags to the airport. The storm will weaken following tomorrow’s peak and should no longer cause disruptions by Sunday evening. Travelers heading to Los Cabos after this weekend should remain unaffected, barring any damage to their intended property.

This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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September 7, 2022
Here’s Why Jamaica Is The Best Caribbean Vacation This Fall
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Proving it has made a stellar comeback from the pandemic, Jamaica has been proclaimed the Best Caribbean vacation this year at the 2022 Travel Awards – namely, the tourism industry’s equivalent to the Oscars. Hosting a number of luxury resorts and an enviable collection of pristine beaches, the country is approaching the peak of its popularity.

A well-developed tourism hub known both for its natural offer and Afro-Caribbean culture, including the Bacchanal, a world-famous Carnival celebration, the paradise island has been experiencing a surge in bookings lately. These have been attributed to Jamaica’s relaxed measures and accessibility, with numerous nonstop flights from the U.S.

Now, the continuation of Jamaica’s years-long reign as Caribbean leader has been confirmed in spite of a two-year disadvantage:

Jamaica Is The Leading Caribbean Destination This Year

Mexico may have been crowned the unofficial King of Tourism worldwide in the post-Covid travel scene, based on arrival figures, but it’s Jamaica that has come out ahead as the definite winner in the tourism excellence department. Facing off heavy competition, including from Mexico, Caribbean gem half the awards at this year’s World Travel Awards.

The ceremony was auspiciously held in Montego Bay, Jamaica’s own leading international destination. In total, the country walked away with 26 out of 52 awards, including Leading Caribbean Destination, a status it’s held for a record 16 consecutive years, warding off the Riviera Maya, the nomad hub of Costa Rica, and fellow insular competitors like the Dominican Republic.

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism received the news warmly by adding ‘the feeling of satisfaction is stronger this year’ because Jamaica ‘fought’ to recover from Covid. Even though it was one of the first countries to reopen borders in the wake of the crisis, due to its heavy dependence on American dollars, Jamaica imposed stricter travel rules up until recently.

However, on April 14, the island scrapped all entry requirements, allowing unvaccinated U.S. citizens to visit without pre-departure tests once more. Naturally, the move led demand to skyrocket, with Montego Bay outpacing every single city of the Caribbean league in terms of recovery. It should come as no surprise, then, Jamaica has swept the award show.

Why Has Jamaica Won In All Of These Categories?

For Mr. Donovan White, the Director of Jamaica’s Tourist Board, this is a testament to the quality of the services provided, ‘from the largest of hotel chains’ to tour operators and other industry agents. In fact, the Round Hill Hotel and Villas has won its 14th consecutive, and 18th Best Villa prize overall.

Additionally, the country has an edge on the nature front, being home to numerous natural parks and blue flag beaches. As we have detailed before, now that restrictions have finally been abolished in a majority of countries, travelers are looking for natural world experiences and more relaxing experiences, two things that are effectively synonymous with Jamaica.

Here’s six other reasons why Jamaica is the best pick for a sunny getaway:
- Montego Bay has been named the best airport to fly into in the Caribbean
- Jamaica has the Caribbean’s top rated boutique hotel
- Port of Falmouth is this year’s leading regional cruise port
- It is the best Caribbean destination for car rentals
- It hosts the best luxury all-inclusive resort in the zone
- Jamaica is the top nature destination in the Caribbean
All of these assertions are based on the World Travel Awards results.

Booking Early Is Key When Planning A Budget Trip To Jamaica

If you were still wondering where exactly in the Caribbean you should be heading later this year to escape the looming cold, now you have your answer. On the downside, we must concede price hikes have been noted across the region, including Jamaica. Airfares, hotels, and other tourist activities are considerably pricier than they were prior to 2020.

We know the cost of living crisis and generalized inflation is biting hard, so in order to help you plan a budget trip to this year’s number one beach spot, we have rounded up 5 luxury all-inclusives for under $300 a night to book this winter – but you must act quickly to secure the best possible deal ahead of the peak season.

For more Jamaica news, please click here.

Read More:

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These Are The Top Destinations In The Caribbean For 2022 According To World Travel Awards

American Airlines First to Offer New Flights to Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Frontier Adds Its 5th Nonstop Flight from The U.S. To Jamaica

Research Shows Los Cabos Is One Of The Safest Destinations In Mexico

This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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September 6, 2022
Tourists Are Still Flocking To Hawaii Despite Soaring Prices – Here’s Why It’s More Popular Than Ever
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The cost of travel has increased exponentially this year, influenced by the economic crisis and the pent-up demand resulting from two years of pandemic management. Interestingly, several destinations continued reporting record revenues: one of them is Hawaii, a place tourists continue flocking into despite soaring prices.

Hawaii’s latest visitor numbers are incredibly close to reaching pre-pandemic levels, proving the population’s perceived drop of buying power has not influenced the tropical state’s performance on the tourism front. In fact, it received nearly one million visitors in July only, securing the status of America’s favorite domestic beach destination.

Taking into account the volatile scenario and the financial hurdles facing a majority of travelers, why is the ultra-expensive Hawaii still so attractive?

Hawaii Outpaces Other U.S. Destinations In Tourism Recovery

In the pre-pandemic years, Hawaii used to attract more tourism revenue than the busy hotspots of Cambodia, Brazil and Costa Rica combined. While arrivals notably reached historic lows in the turbulent years of 2020 and 2021, judging by its latest numbers, which signal a 92.4 per cent recovery compared to 2019, the Aloha State is now reclaiming its prestige.

July’s figures account for the highest volume of visitors the islands have received since January 2020, when the virus erupted and tough measures were brought in to curb its dissemination, including the closure of external Hawaiian borders. In total, $1.94 billion in tourist dollars were spent last month, 14.3 percent more than July 2019.

While we do not have access to data confirming this, this could be a reflection of the rise in costs, especially flight tickets and hotels, seeing that a full tourism recovery has not been achieved yet. Nevertheless, more than 90% of Hawaii’s once-shunned tourists are back, and inflated fares do not seem to be a huge concern here.

In July, hotel prices in the U.S. reached another historical peak of $159.08 on average per night, according to STR, or 17.5 per cent more than July 2019. Some destinations were particularly affected, such as Miami, where a sharp 50 per cent increase was observed. Hawaii’s was lower at a more moderate 36.1 per cent – still, it was far above the national average.

This Is How Much A Hotel In Hawaii Will Cost You In 2022

When visiting Hawaii in general, mainland Americans can expect to pay roughly $413.57 nightly, though some individual islands, like Oahu, may offer cheaper rates (17.9 increase only). Additionally, Hawaiian authorities have increased the controversial tourist tax, now 39.3 per cent higher than it used to be in 2019.

These latest hikes, placing Hawaii on a list of destinations openly discouraging budget travelers from returning, have not had a detrimental effect on the state’s growing popularity. The government reports a hotel occupancy rate of 81.5 per cent, a negligible 3.8 points lower than pre-Covid 2019. On top of that, Hawaii is already fighting overtourism only five months after reopening.

To draw a comparison, occupancy rates for the whole of the U.S. were actually down to 69.6 per cent in July following a 70 per cent peak in June, its most successful month since early 2020 – even then, significantly lower than Hawaii’s 81.5 points. In simpler terms, the Pacific retreat is more popular than it ever was.

So yes, it’s true travel demand is at its peak, notwithstanding inflation, but why Hawaii specifically?

The Answer Lies With Hawaii’s Natural Assets And Diversity

As asserted in a study conducted by booking platform Hostelworld on current solo travel trends, 74% of respondents claimed their primary goal when traveling now that the darker days of Covid are past is ‘natural world experiences’. This is partly why Central America is experiencing a boom in tourism lately, alongside other sub-regions where nature exists in abundance.

There is no state like Hawaii in the whole of the United States: an archipelago of 137 volcanic islands spanning close to 1,500 miles, this Pacific treasure is home to some of the nation’s most beautiful, and naturally diverse ecoparks, as well as a few of the world’s top-rated beaches and outdoor activities.

All of the six main Hawaiian islands – Kauai, Oahu, Molojai, Lanai, Mahui and the eponymous Hawaii – have their own distinct vibe and offer visitors unique experiences, be it luxury all-inclusives, nature retreats, or just pure beach relaxation. Of course, Hawaii is famous for its shiny blue ocean and white-sand beaches, rivaling those of popular sunny breaks like Cancun and The Dominican Republic.

Furthermore, the Westernmost state has been recognized by CNN as a trendy fall destination, with writers mentioning the rich marine life found here, whale watching and other open sea attractions. Other travel experts have also listed it as the perfect ‘babymoon‘ destination, surfing capital of the world, an LGBTQ+ haven – especially Oahu – and countless other accolades and titles.

In sum, there is a Hawaii island for every traveler profile:
- Youngsters
- Honeymooners
- Babymooners/families
- LGBTQ+ travelers of all ages
Having dropped all of its Covid restrictions, including mandatory mask wearing in public spaces, and rescinding travel rules applying to those coming from other U.S. destinations, the state is one of the most welcoming destinations in the Western World right now, making it even more appealing among restriction-wary Americans… even if that means they’ll be paying a higher price for one week in paradise.

Read More:

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Hawaii Faces Overtourism With Maui Planning To Limit Number of Tourists

This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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September 6, 2022
This Type Of Luggage Is Most Likely To Be Thrown Around By Baggage Handlers

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Checking a bag (or two, or three) is sometimes an inevitable part of travel. And when it is a situation where you have to travel with extra luggage, you drop your bags off at your airline’s check-in, pay any necessary baggage fees, put your information on those little luggage tags, and hope for the best.

That being said, dealing with lost or even damaged baggage is one stressful part of the travel experience. But, this doesn’t have to be your reality. What if you could do something about preventing your precious cargo from being mishandled or damaged while it’s en route?

Your Checked Luggage Should Have More Wheels, Says Ramp Agent Rachel

Ramp agent Rachel Bacha, who posts videos to her TikTok account rachel.bacha, shared some great tips in this video. For starters, travel with checked luggage that has four wheels as opposed to two.

In her video series on TikTok titled “Everything you need to know about a suitcase coming from a luggage handler,” Rachel shared one major travel tip when it comes to checking luggage:

“Any time you are purchasing a suitcase, get a bag with four wheels for a couple of different reasons.”

TikToker Shares Tips For Checked Luggage

This baggage handler on TikTok recently revealed in one of her videos the type of luggage that is most likely to be thrown around and mishandled by baggage handlers. Given that she is professional and all, you might want to check out what she has to say so that the luggage on your next trip doesn’t meet the same fate as others.

Her reasoning, she said, is because more wheels can make loading a piece of luggage easier for baggage handlers who are often doing the luggage loading and unloading on a time crunch.

“There are people loading your bags on the planes and some of the planes have really long cargo bins, and at some airports, they don’t have a machine that takes all of the bags into the bin to you,” Rachel explained in her video.

Large Airplane Holds Means Luggage Can Get Thrown Around

Rachel also explained that because some airplane holds are really big, it makes moving passengers’ luggage very hard for the two baggage handlers on the job.

“So there are two people, one throwing the bag and one stacking the bag (into the airport hold).”

She continued, “I hesitate to use the word ‘throw’ but that is what it is, we throw bags. Some of those planes have bins that are 20 feet long. Your bag has to start from here (at the front of the hold) and go all the way back there…and the way it gets there is by being rolled, slid, or tossed.”

4-Wheeled Suitcases Will Get Rolled Onto Plane

From her experience, Rachel said that bags with two wheels are going to get tossed, and alternatively, a bag with four wheels is going to get rolled. This means that a wheeled piece of luggage will be less likely to come out of that plane hold with any signs of damage.

While there are handling guidelines in place by airlines and baggage companies, getting a bag onto a plane is another story in practice, and some handlers may have to use some pressure to get that bag on board. On that subject, Rachel commented that “this is going to make some people not very happy, but that’s just how it is.”

“Now you can be prepared. How do you expect your bag to get from one destination to another in the same amount of time that you do?” She added.

At the end of the day, it’s best to travel with a piece of luggage that is easier to take from point A to point B, whether it be for the baggage handler or yourself as an individual passenger. Any little thing that you can do to make the whole travel experience as trouble-free and simple as possible is always a safe bet.

Read More:

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This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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September 5, 2022
This Is The Only Country In South America That Has Dropped All Travel Restrictions
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Following a relatively free summer and the waning of Covid, it might seem like the world has finally moved on from the pandemic and strict mandates are a thing of the past. This may be the case for most of Europe, Mexico and the like, but it is definitely not yet a reality in South America, where only a single country has dropped all travel restrictions.

For more than two years, the Southern Hemisphere has barred international travel in an attempt to keep variants from getting imported from abroad. Despite enjoying a robust protection, with countries like Brazil being world leaders in vaccination coverage, the region has continued to refuse entry to certain categories of travelers.

Most notably, unvaccinated Americans, with the exception of one:

Most Of South America Is Still Closed To Unvaccinated Americans

South America is an incredibly vast, and culturally diverse continent that for decades has attracted American tourists due to its high affordability and natural landmarks. Sadly, for the better part of 2022, a huge percentage of Americans, roughly 30%, is still prevented from returning based on their vaccination status.

Nearly every single South American country continues to impose a vaccine requirement at their external entry points, be it land crossings, airports or cruise terminals. Out of twelve, only one has mirrored the steps of Central American counterparts and Europe when it became the 27th country to return to their pre-2020 entry guidelines: Argentina*.

*The territory of French Guiana is free of restrictions, but as it is not a sovereign entity, being an integral part of France, in spite of being in South America, it is not taken into account

Argentina is the first in Mercosur, and on an extent in South America, to lift the pandemic-era restrictions affecting American travelers and other foreign visitors. As soon as April 2022, the home of Tango abandoned its hard-stance approach, which had made it into a completely isolated nation for a period, in favor of much more relaxed policies.

Argentina Has Been The Only South American Country To Drop All Restrictions So Far

Prior to that date, even Mercosur citizens, a bloc of which Argentina is a part of and where freedom of movement applies, had been barred from crossing the border. Now, any foreigner can enter Argentina, irrespective of their purpose of travel, and with no other requirement than a valid passport and/or visa when applicable.

For Americans, this effectively means:
- No vaccination required
- No boosters needed
- No pre-departure tests
- No post-arrival tests
- No quarantine
Conversely, all of Argentina’s neighbors remain ‘partially restrictive’, according to IATA’s Covid-19 Travel Regulations Map. Much like the EU in the earlier days of the crisis, Mercosur and its associated members have failed to coordinate actions in both introducing, and removing pandemic measures, leading to a confusing patchwork of rules.

European states, on the other hand, have worked through their differences and now a majority is open for travel. Below the Equator line, this level of cross-border harmonization has not been achieved as of this point. The most obvious disparity is seen between Brazil and Argentina, South America’s closest neighbors and top destinations.

The Confusing Patchwork Of Rules Affecting Tourists In The Region

While Argentina is open, Brazil only allows American visitors with proof of vaccination. A negative PCR or rapid antigen test, or even recovery certificates, are not considered valid proof of entry, though in Uruguay, bordering Southern Brazil, unvaccinated U.S. citizens are permitted to enter when presenting a negative test within 72 hours of departure.

Moving West, Paraguay accepts all of the above, on top of positive Covid tests (antigen, LAMP, NAAT or PCR) issued ‘at least 10 days and at most 90 days before boarding’. On the Pacific Coast, Chile accepts both vaccine certificates and PCRs not older than 48 hours, and travelers remain subject to testing on arrival, a controversial policy also enacted by Canada.

North of Chile, the Inca heartland of Peru, a favorite among hikers, has similar provisions, except it does not test tourists randomly upon landing. Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela and Suriname all follow the ‘vaccine or test’ model, while Guyana – not the French one – mimics Brazil in banning those who are not fully immunized.

Other regional discrepancies include:
- In Peru, tests must be of the NAAT kind, including RT-PCRs and RTLamps, and they must not be older than 48 hours
- Bolivia accepts PCR test results issued within 72 hours of departure, or Rapid Antigen tests taken at most 48 hours before boarding
- In Colombia, besides the 72-hour/48-hour rules for PCR and Rapid Antigen respectively, passengers must submit their personal information online via the Check Mig form ahead of traveling
- Venezuela imposes a validity date of 270 days on two-dose certificates, requiring tourists to present proof of a booster dose once this period has elapsed in order to be granted entry on the grounds of being immunized
- Venezuela only accepts PCR test results obtained 72 hours preceding arrival, as opposed to departure
- Guyana arrivals may be subject to random Covid tests on arrival, even when fulfilling other criteria such as being vaccinated
- Suriname‘s pre-departure test validity is 48 hours for PCR, 24 hours for Rapid Antigen
- Suriname is accepting recovery certificates issued up to 6 months prior to the date of travel
*Other rules may apply for any of the above countries. We advise our readers planning an international trip to keep up to date with the evolving regulations by visiting their country of destination’s Consulate website, where official requirements are described.

Bottomline

As you can see, the rest of South America has a lot of catching up to do with La Tierra de Los Hermanos and other Central American competitors in terms of post-pandemic management. As things stand, it is one of the strictest continents to travel right now, unless visitors qualify for exemptions as vaccinated foreigners or returning residents.

Luckily, the up-and-coming digital nomad hub of Argentina, a poster nation for travel freedom, is already welcoming Americans with open arms.

Read More:

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This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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September 5, 2022
These Are The Top Destinations In The Caribbean For 2022 According To World Travel Awards

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A few days ago, one of the most prestigious organizations in the travel industry, the International Travel Awards—considered the Oscars of the travel industry— announced the winners for 2022 for the Caribbean and the Americas.

On September 1, the international Ceremony organized by Golden Tree Events Dubai was celebrated along with the finest brands in the Americas and the Caribbeans in Jamaica, one of the most awarded destinations in the Caribbean.

The International Travel Awards includes an extensive program and recognizes top destinations, attractions, hotels, resorts, airlines, travel agencies, and tour programs. After the red carpet evening, prices and plaques were offered to the winners and the top destinations were announced.

The organization considers four main categories for these awards: Caribbean, Central America, North America, and South America. The next ceremony for the Middle East awards will take place in Jordan.

Here’s a list of the top destinations in the Caribbean and their recognition.

Caribbean’s leading Destination: Jamaica

Jamaica earned multiple awards during the ceremony, including being the leading destination in the Caribbean. This country is offering travelers a fantastic vacation experience. Montego Bay, a beautiful city in the north, has also been considered one of the best destinations for American travelers according to a study by Allianz Partners a few months ago.

Leading Beach Destination 2022: Turks & Caicos Islands

The beautiful archipelago Turks & Caicos Islands earned the award of the best beach destination. Beachgoers fall in love with world-famous beaches with pristine waters and white sands like Grace Bay Beach.

Leading Honeymoon Destination 2022: Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia offers newlyweds the perfect honeymoon experience. Lovers can stay at the many resorts with special programs for their guests, and enjoy the lovely beaches, tours, and unique activities like soaking in the volcanic mud baths of Soufrière.

Caribbean’s Most Romantic Destination 2022: Turks & Caicos Islands

According to the World Travel Awards, anyone can fall in love at Turks & Caicos islands. This destination won as the most romantic, competing against other spectacular Caribbean islands like Aruba, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, and The Bahamas.

Leading Cruise Destinations 2022: Jamaica

Major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Carnival Cruises offer routes to Jamaica and stop at top destinations like Montego Bay and Falmouth, allowing travelers to experience wonderful excursions.

Leading Cultural Destination 2022: Cuba

Cuba has won as a cultural destination this year. This island in the Caribbean offers travelers unique salsa dancing experiences and special architecture and gastronomy. This country won against destinations like Puerto Rico, Martinique, and Barbados.

Caribbean’s Leading Luxury Island Destination 2022: The Bahamas

The Bahamas islands are offering travelers the best luxury experience in the Caribbean according to the World Travel Awards. Top resorts and hotels like the Four Seasons and the Ritz-Carlton offer travelers special services in the Caribbean and visitors can also book ultra lux yacht experiences, private beaches, and world-class spas.

Caribbean’s Leading Dive Destination: St.Kitts

Those who enjoy scuba diving and exploring the Caribbean to the deepest must add St.Kitts to their bucket list. The islands offer a great variety of experiences from reef diving to cave diving to wreck dives. Professional and accredited operators will show visitors the wonders of the Caribbean sea.

Caribbean’s Leading Nature Destination 2022: Jamaica

And another award goes to Jamaica. The island has also been recognized for its nature, there’s a reason why it is known as the ‘Land Of Wood and Water’. Besides the stunning beaches, travelers will find fascinating waterfalls, beautiful mountains, spectacular botanic gardens, and impressive wildlife.

Leading Adventure Tourism Destination 2022: Saint Lucia

The perfect honeymoon destination has also been recognized as the best adventure destination this year. Saint Lucia offers a great variety of outdoor experiences: horse riding, bike riding, hiking, trekking, canopy, aerial tram rides, and so much more. It seems impossible to get bored.

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This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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September 4, 2022
This One Travel Hack Can Save You Time, Money, and Worry

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Why VPNs Should Always Be In Your Travel Tool Arsenal

If you’re a regular traveler, you probably have a list of tips and tricks you’ve picked up along the way. From tried and tested tactics to essential equipment, there are a number of ways to help ease the travel process.

But there’s one you might have overlooked unless you’ve been to a certain few countries where it’s almost a prerequisite to even function there. Once you discover it, the benefits continue to pile up, and you’ll almost never travel anywhere without ensuring you’ve got one on all your devices. So after you’ve read this article, make sure you download a VPN.

What is a VPN?

A VPN is a genius piece of multipurpose tech that can provide online safety, flexibility, and some helpful workarounds when using the internet.

Short for “Virtual Private Network,” it’s not a physical device you purchase but an app that can be installed on your phone or laptop. To keep it as simple as possible, a VPN helps keep you safe online by routing your computer’s IP address to a separate router. The VPN encrypts your data as you connect to a network and disguises your IP address.

What does this mean for me?

In short, it means you’re now able to browse the internet securely. Hackers, governments, and any other malicious parties will be unable to track or steal data from your internet usage. At the most basic level, it’s an added layer of security for you and your data, including credit card details, saved passwords, sensitive information, and anything else you browse.

Why is this helpful for travel?

It’s Keeping You Secure

We often find ourselves carefree when traveling. Whether we’re posted up in a cute cafe in Paris or lounging at a beach club in Bali, we rarely think about the prospect of cyber security. The reality is, as many as a quarter of tourists have had their data breached while on public wifi.

Public wifi, like those found in cafes and restaurants, is often insecure. Having a password doesn’t make them safe networks, and being logged in on them poses a risk. Opting to use a VPN when using public wifi protects you from any potential hackers seeking to take advantage of an unwitting victim.

Make it a habit to have a VPN installed on your devices so that when you’re logging in at Starbucks, you can surf the web or your socials in confidence. This is especially helpful for digital nomads who spend a lot of time on their laptops in public places.

It Unlocks Entertainment

Picture the scenario: You’ve been out exploring ruins all day, you’ve eaten your weight in pasta, and all you’d like to do is relax in your hotel with a glass of wine and the most recent episode of your favorite tv show. But to your dismay, Italian Netflix doesn’t stream your show, and the platform it is available on costs money.

Your VPN can bypass this. Most VPN services come with the option to be routed to a server in a range of countries. If your show is on the American version of Netflix, Amazon, HBO, or any other platform, the VPN will allow your computer to appear as if it’s in one of those countries, giving you access to all the content you usually enjoy. Of course, at home, it also lets you check out what other countries have access to. If a movie is unavailable in your country, see if it’s streaming on a UK provider and kick back.

Many platforms are fighting back against VPNs and can often tell if someone is using one. If this happens, close your browser, change the VPN, clear your cache and cookies, then try again. One will usually work.

Bypass Country Blocks

China is known for the Great Wall. In the hacking world, it’s known for its Great Firewall. Most Western social media sites and entertainment platforms are blocked in the country, and some other countries use similar tactics.

That means you’ll not be posting any stories of the Forbidden City to your Instagram until you’re home. A VPN can often give you access to these while in China or a more restrictive country, so if you typically keep in touch using one of your social media apps, you won’t be too isolated. Do be careful with this in some areas, however. It’s never a certainty how some places will respond to the use of a VPN.

Book Cheaper Flights

Ever been to a country and checked flight prices to find that the cost of the same flight you booked before is significantly lower? That’s because currencies and other factors all impact the rates.

Using a VPN can let you book flights in a local currency or somewhere with fewer taxes. Boot up the VPN, check prices in one country, clear your cache, and repeat the process with a few more, noting down the prices each time. Once you’ve got a few prices, pick the cheapest and log back into that country again. Easy savings.

Which to buy?

There are loads of VPNs out there, and most require no technical ability to understand or use. Among the most popular are NordVPN, Express VPN, CyberGhost, and a host of many others. Sift through, check the prices, and decide which is best for you. Typically, a monthly subscription lets you put the VPN on several devices, so your phone, laptop, and tablet can all be protected.

This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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September 4, 2022