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These Are 4 Of The Cheapest And Most Incredible Destinations To Visit In Portugal Right Now

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Home to a gorgeous Atlantic coast, where some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe can be found, ancient cities with origins lost to time, and a highly-reputed food scene, Portugal is currently one of the trendiest destinations for tourists across the pond.

Not only is it everything you’d expect a Southern European country to be, in terms of cultural offer and weather, but it is also renowned for being the cheapest of the bunch: it costs an average $1,033 to spend a week basking in the sun, and savoring your way through Portugal.

If the Iberian gem’s been on your radar for a while, and you’ve been wondering which Portuguese destinations will get you more bang for your buck – as well as blow your mind – these are 4 of the cheapest (and most incredible) spots:

Albufeira

The leading tourist destination in the sunny Algarve, mainland Portugal’s southernmost territory, Albufeira is nicknamed ‘Portuguese Santorini‘, due to its whitewashed Old Town resting on small cliffs facing the ocean, and bright blue shutters and doors.

Albufeira is both the nightlife capital of the Algarve and the gateway to its sandy coast.

It is teeming with tourists year-round, particularly Brits and Northern Europeans, and for a resort zone as lively and well-frequented, you’d assume prices would reflect the soaring demand.

That’s not necessarily the case, as tourists spend an average $1,305 for one week in Albufeira: the Velamar Boutique Hotel costs only $75 to book per night, while staying overnight at the adults-only Hotel California Urban Beach will set you back by an acceptable $132.

Naturally, you can go the all-inclusive resort or upscale restaurant route—there are plenty of those in Albufeira if you’re keen on splurging—but if you’re after a budget-friendly beach getaway, you will definitely find it here if you’re fine not getting pampered 24/7.

Porto Santo

We’ve all heard of Madeira at this point, the ‘Hawaii of Europe‘, but very little is said of its Maldives-like sister, the neighboring, much smaller Porto Santo, part of the same archipelago, where beaches are sandy instead of pebbly and the ocean’s a turquoise-blue.

Porto Santo is a natural oasis in the Atlantic, famous for its translucent waters, which rival the Indian Ocean in beauty, dramatic arid landscapes, year-round balmy weather due to its proximity to the African continent, and laid-back atmosphere.

While Madeira has become a globalized island, being home to multiple nationalities and hosting nonstop flights from America, Porto Santo is a lot more isolated, being served by a limited number of intra-Europe flights and Madeira ferries.

It’s somewhere you go for unwinding and soaking up nature, and for a destination as exclusive as this, you may be surprised to learn that you can find dormitory beds for as cheap as $29, only 450 meters from the beach, and double rooms in three-star hotels for a very reasonable $93.

The average hotel cost for a one-week stay in Porto Santo comes in at an affordable $744.

It’s not exactly cheap by Portuguese standards, but considering the complete lack of tourist crowds, the quality of the beaches, and the unlimited access to the wild nature, it’s a fair trade off.

Braga

Back to the Portuguese mainland, miles away from the resort-packed coast and the sunny islands, Braga is a historic city in the far north of the country, only reachable by train and best known for its religious importance and medieval heritage.

An imposing cathedral dominates the cobbled Old Town, and its adjacent Sacred Art Museum and landmark Kings’ Chapel, distinguished for being a textbook example of Gothic architecture, is sure to captivate history buffs.

Other attractions include well-preserved ancient walls, a neoclassical church perched atop a cascading stairway, possibly the most photographed in Portugal, and the lush Santa Barbara Garden, with its flower arrangements, and the nearby, monumental Archbishop’s Palace.

Fortunately for the culture-seekers, Braga is pretty affordable for a historically-charged city break of its status, with week-long stays setting travelers back $786 or a remarkably cheap $380 if you’re staying in shared dorms and eating in inexpensive local pastelarias.

Porto

The capital of Northern Portugal, the city of Porto has wooed passersby for years now, with its UNESCO-listed Historic Center, centuries-old tradition of wine-making, and fast-flowing Douro River, cutting through its very heart, providing an endless source of fascination.

Among some of the main Portenho landmarks, Clerigos Tower is perhaps the most noticeable one, rising above the maze of terracotta roofs below, though the iconic Dom Luis I Bridge, Lello Library, known to have inspired the Harry Potter saga, and the cathedral are not to be missed, either.

It is the only other Portuguese city that can stand up to Lisbon: it has Baroque churches that are just as ornate, a History that is just as ancient, and an equally vibrant multicultural scene.

With all the value it offers, the $59 you’ll spend per day visiting Porto on a budget sound like an absolute bargain.

From traditional Portuguese pastries costing less than a dollar to satisfying $16 lunch menus including a starter or dessert and a main dish, exploring the hilly, colorful Porto and the wider, vineyard-dotted Douro Valley will hardly break the bank.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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March 19, 2024
Travelers Can Now Visit This Unknown Region of Japan Thanks To Newly Opened Bullet Train

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While it’s common knowledge now that travel is back with a bang, there’s one destination in particular that seems to have secured its place on every bucket list and “best destinations” index.

I’m talking about Japan, of course, the iconic Asian country beloved for its breathtaking temples, ultra-advanced cities, and spectacularly beautiful nature destinations.

Tourist favorites like Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo never cease to be trendy.

With surging tourist arrivals, the country has recently introduced new regulations to prevent negative impacts from potential overtourism.

But even with all the hype around this beautiful nation, there still remain regions that have slipped under the radar and feel off the beaten path.

Chances are you’ve never heard of the Fukui prefecture in Japan–and neither have most people, which means you’ll enjoy fewer tourists at cultural attractions and more solitude in nature.

The Fukui region may not be a household name like Tokyo, but it is full of awe-inspiring highlights like must-try fresh Echizen crab dishes, crumbling ruins, ancient temples, and Maruoka Castle, one of the twelve original castles of Japan.

The New Bullet Train Launch Makes It Easier To Visit Fukui Prefecture Than Ever Before

Japan’s lightning-fast and undeniably efficient shinkansen (bullet) trains make getting around the country quick and easy.

And as of March 16th, the highly anticipated 78-mile addition to the previous Tokyo-Kanazawa route is officially open.

This extension connects the Fukui prefecture to the rest of Japan via bullet train, making it easier than ever to explore the lesser known region.

The shinkansen’s new service will run 14 round trips per day between Tokyo and Tsuruga, which takes just over 3 hours to reach from Japan’s capital.

Prior to this launch, there was limited express train service connecting these cities, but the new bullet train cuts an hour off the travel times and provides a new, direct connection.

So, what makes this hidden region worth visiting?

Authentic Zen Buddhism Temple Experiences

If wandering through a peaceful, active monastery and ornate temple complex tucked away in the forest sounds like a dream to you, the Eiheiji Temple is a place you won’t want to miss.

Nestled in the forested hills outside the city of Fukui, this 12th-century temple can be explored in the afternoon and is one of the two head temples for Soto Zen Buddhism.

Eiheji is made up of 70 individual buildings connected by walkways and can be easily reached by direct bus from Fukui station; it takes 30 minutes and will cost 750 yen.

The Land of Dinosaurs

Another key attraction of the region is the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum, which is located in Katsuyama.

Fukui earned its nickname of the country’s dinosaur capital for a good reason–80% of all the dinosaur fossils in Japan, including 5 new species, were found here.

With 4 floors, animatronic dinosaurs, and some 40 skeletons, four of which are made entirely from original bones, this fascinating museum is one of the best in its category.

Rugged Sea Cliffs

A quick adventure from Fukui station will land you at the 10 million-year-old rock formations of Tojinbo Cliffs in Echizen Kagakaigan Quasi National Park

Travelers craving a nature fix can head here for an epic sunset over the Sea of Japan, reveling in the unique beauty of the rocky columns and honeycombed formations carved by the ocean.

A short hike from the sea cliffs is Oshima Island, easily reached by a lovely pedestrian bridge that can’t be missed.

This tiny serene island is navigable by hiking paths and home to a beautiful forest shrine that is well worth a visit when exploring the area.

Relax In The Hotsprings Of Awara

If you’ve got the time and are craving a traditional Japanese spa experience, taking the new shinkansen to Awara is a great addition to a trip.

This city is renowned for its mineral-rich hot springs, which visitors can soak in, as well as the traditional ryokan inns.

Aside from its appeal as a wellness destination, Awara also boasts the Kanaz Forest of Creation.

This unique art exhibition spans a 200-meter forest and features site-specific art installations and sculptures interspersed with nature.

Visitors can also take hands-on workshops to learn glassblowing, ceramics, and other craft forms.

Whether you want to visit Fukui as a day trip or add a few days to your itinerary to experience all the prefecture has to offer, this hidden gem is a must-see before it becomes popular!

Nicole Massy

Nicole has explored 14 countries on her own and is a pro at female solo travel. She’s especially skilled at discovering hidden gem destinations and traveling on the cheap and loves to share her tips.

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March 19, 2024
Tourists Warned That Sargassum Will Invade Mexico And Florida Beaches This Spring

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If you are on your own way or have already taken a trip to the beautiful beaches of Florida or Mexico this month, you couldn’t have timed your vacation better.

Travelers fork over huge amounts of money to visit the best beaches, but sometimes Mother Nature has other plans.

Hurricanes or untimely rain are one thing, but icky, smelly sargassum can ruin the whole vibe of a picture-perfect sunny beach getaway.

Bits of seaweed are bound to wash up from time to time, but sargassum is an unsightly brown seaweed that tends to be more like an aquatic invasion.

For those planning on heading to Florida or Mexico, experts from the University of South Florida (USF) have been monitoring the sargassum blooms and providing reports each month.

Popular Beaches Affected This Spring

Whether you’re packing a passport or not, some of the most popular beaches this spring are expected to see brown goop wash ashore.

Spring Breakers, in particular, always seem to have Florida and Mexico at the top of the list and that’s exactly where tourists are being warned about.

As the giant blobs of sargassum make their way to land through the Caribbean, travelers still have time to alter their plans or, at the very least, change their expectations.

Florida is expected to be directly impacted by April, according to USF. Although, southwest Florida, including the Keys, may not see sizable amounts until late April or May.

Cancun, for example, has already been hit earlier than expected.

Mexico’s top beach destination has some of the most out-of-this-world blue waters imaginable, and it is close to the States.

Given it’s the most popular international vacation spot for Americans to visit, many will surely be disappointed with the eyesore of sargassum ruining their ocean views.

Even though beaches are being impacted, sargassum is no stranger to Mexico’s shores; Tulum and Playa del Carmen are always affected, too.

The Good News

This isn’t the first rodeo for these destinations. When spring arrives, somebody somewhere across major beach destinations is preparing for worst-case sargassum scenarios.

As these vacation spots thrive on tourism, it’s not like they want to deal with the bad press of ugly, stinky beaches.

While there doesn’t seem to be a bulletproof solution, there are some strategies being implemented, including the installation of barriers and cleanup crews.

Even the Mexican Navy is getting involved to better protect beaches to give tourists the best possible vacation experience.

Sargassum arriving on popular beaches is inevitable, but the good news is substantially less is expected to arrive this spring than previous years.

Experts Continue To Monitor Sargassum Movement

Each destination handles sargassum invasions their own way, but experts will continue to monitor its movement across the ocean and update accordingly.

Until then, it’s wise to check the latest reports on whichever destination you’re planning a beach trip to and temper expectations just in case.

Mother Nature is undefeated, after all. For now, the biggest blooms seem to be expanding through the East Atlantic and Caribbean Sea, which just so happens to have some incredible beaches in its path.

USF has issued some very insightful reports, but the March bulletin has not yet been issued.

What About The Gulf?

Florida may be super popular but the U.S. is home to some awesome beach getaways, including Florida’s neighbor Alabama, which is surging in popularity already.

The latest reports show minuscule amounts of sargassum in the Gulf of Mexico, where there are many beach vacation destinations to choose from.

Of course, there is no guarantee, but this region may serve as a great alternative beach spot. With some highly underrated and super cheap beach getaways, sargassum-free vacations are not hard to find with just a little digging.

As for Mexico, Los Cabos is one of the most popular beach destinations for Americans and not at risk of seeing sargassum given its prime location on the southern tip of Baja.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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March 18, 2024
This Safe Destination Is Surging In Popularity Since The Launch Of The New Maya Train

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The Maya Train has forever changed the way we approach travel in the Mexican Caribbean, shortening travel distances between all the major resort zones, and making it a lot leasier for foreign tourists to reach lesser-known destinations that could be accessed with a car previously.

As a result, one of these hidden gems, the charming, remarkably-safe city of Campeche, is becoming increasingly more popular for vacationers to visit, with Mexican President himself confirming it is now the third most sought-after destination on the route.

Since the Maya Train debuted, as many as 7,230 tickets for Campeche were sold, surpassed in sales only by Merida and Cancun.

Tourists Flock Into Campeche For The Fascinating Culture

Campeche is one of the oldest cities not only in Mexico but also on the mainland North American continent.

European settlers established it as early as 1540 in a strategic location on the Gulf of Mexico, and it’s not a place you want to skip if you’re a culture aficionado.

Picture centuries-old cobbled lanes lined by brightly-painted facades that still retain their Old World charm, plazas flanked by monumental, viceregal Baroque palaces, and well-preserved Spanish convents and churches built to last for eternity.

Campeche is easily one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico, and a historically charged one at that.

The main building in the Historic Center, Campeche Cathedral, was constructed as early as the 16th century, and it’s one of the most impressive colonial structures in the Yucatán Peninsula.

Other points of interest in town include the Mayan Angel, a landmark statue celebrating Campeche pre-Columbian origins, San José Fort, one of the city’s main defensive mechanisms against pirate incursions, and the surviving city walls.

Out of all colonial cities of the New World, Campeche is only of two to still have its protective murallas nearly intact, the other being Quebec City, Canada’s Europenized, French-speaking city. In recognition of its cultural value, UNESCO has added it to its World Heritage Site list.

Beautiful Beaches, High Levels Of Safety And Affordable Stays

Besides the historical attractions, Campeche is within short driving distance of several paradisaical Gulf beaches, such as Playa Caracol, a serene, family-friendly swimming site bounded by mangroves, and the aptly-called Bahamitas, or ‘Little Bahamas’, where sands are virgin-white and waters a bright-blue.

Other than being indisputably beautiful, Campeche has made headlines lately for being one of the safest state capitals in Mexico and the only major city other than Merida to have attained a Level 1 status, as awarded by U.S. authorities.

If you are unfamiliar with travel advisories, Washington classifies different destinations between Levels 1 and 4, with 1 being the safest possible—including risk-free countries like Iceland, Norway, and Finland—and 4 being the most dangerous and that should be avoided at all costs (Russia, North Korea, and the like).

Despite being a fairly large city, home to over a million residents in its wider metropolitan area, Campeche can feel incredibly quaint, with a high number of pedestrianized streets, which means less of the usual chaotic traffic and very low crime rates.

As is the case with other cities in Mexico, you should definitely not let your guard down, however encouraging advisories sound, but you shouldn’t expect harassment and scamming to be as common, nor pickpocketing or violence, compared to Cancun or Mexico City.

Campeche is also a lot more affordable than your usual Mexican resort town, with centrally-located boutique hotels costing between $112 and $160 to book per night, as listed on Booking.com, and lower food and consumer prices.

How Easy Is It To Get To Campeche On The Maya Train?

Now that you know why Campeche is trending with Maya Train travelers, you are probably wondering how actually easy it is to get there if you’re landing in Cancun, and how much tickets cost.

As seen on the official website, there are two Cancun-Campeche departures planned every day, at 7 am and 9 am, at a total journey length of five-and-a-half hours. The train calls at a number of stations along the way, including ‘Magical Towns’ Valladolid and Izamal and fellow colonial gem Merida.

Tickets can be purchased via the Maya Train online shop or any station and authorized vending point. There are three seating categories: Tourist, Premium, and Local.

Tourist tickets start from around MXN 1,166 during the inaugural phase, or roughly $67.

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March 18, 2024
Is Egypt Safe For Solo Female Travelers? 9 Things Women Need To Know

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Is Egypt safe for solo female travelers?

I’ve been to 50+ countries around the world as a solo female traveler, but I have to admit, I was a little apprehensive about traveling to Egypt alone.

So I booked a 10-day group tour of the country to start off with, followed by some exploring on my own.

And I honestly have to say that while I loved Egypt and would not hesitate to return one day, it was one of the most challenging and exhausting countries I’ve ever been to at the same time.

Overall, I don’t think it’s a good destination for the majority of solo female travelers, but that shouldn’t discourage you from visiting at all.

Here are the most important things you should know about solo female travel and safety in Egypt:

1. It’s Safe, But It’s Not For The Faint Of Heart

Egypt is safe for solo female travelers, but I wouldn’t recommend it for the majority of women.

You should only go to Egypt solo if you’re extremely assertive, confident, and experienced traveling on your own.

This isn’t a good first-time solo travel destination.

While I never felt physically unsafe in Egypt, the constant staring, comments, and hassling from men grew tiresome and was unlike anything I’d experienced elsewhere in the world.

2. Scams Abound

One thing you should know about Egypt before you go is that tourist scams abound.

This won’t be an issue as long as you come prepared and know how to identify and avoid scams.

Never get into a taxi without agreeing on a price with the driver beforehand.

Know that if a vendor offers you a “gift,” it’s not actually going to be free, so just ignore them and walk on by.

And if you are shopping in the markets, get ready for some hardcore haggling and never agree to the first (or second, or third) price you’re quoted.

3. You Need To Be Assertive

Egypt is a destination where you need to be on your guard all the time and where you must be comfortable being assertive, even if it feels “rude.”

If you don’t totally ignore vendors in the street or firmly tell them “no” and keep walking, they will follow you and keep pestering you endlessly.

Don’t fall prey to the high-pressure sales tactics that vendors will use as you walk down the street or through markets and remember you can always walk away.

4. Tipping Is A Way Of Life

Tipping is a huge part of the culture in Egypt, and there’s really no way around it.

If you visit Egypt on a guided tour as I did, your guide will likely take up a collection of tips for everyone (mine was $75 per person for a 10-day tour) and take care of distributing them to drivers, porters, waiters, and so on.

To use any restroom in Egypt, you’ll also usually need to tip the attendant a small amount (5 to 10 Egyptian pounds, or $0.10 to $0.20.)

Going back to point #3 above, don’t be afraid to push back and say no if someone like a tour guide demands more money after you’ve already tipped them.

5. Dress Conservatively

Egypt was the first Middle Eastern country I traveled to, and I knew it would be important to dress conservatively.

But keep in mind that if you’re a foreign woman, dressing conservatively is still not going to help you blend in or avoid catcalls and constant hassling.

I always wore long dresses (with a sweater or scarf to cover my chest and shoulders) or flowy pants and a long-sleeved top in Egypt and felt comfortable.

6. Poverty Is Very Visible In Egypt

Poverty is extremely visible in many parts of Egypt, and this is something you should be prepared for before you go.

It doesn’t mean that Egypt is unsafe, but it’s something that can really catch you off guard if you’ve only seen Instagram-worthy photos of the country online.

One particularly heartbreaking thing that’s common to see in Egypt is child beggars.

As awful of a situation as it is, it’s best not to give money to them because it perpetuates the cycle of exploitation — the children don’t get to keep this money, and adults are often forcing them to beg.

7. Food Hygiene Is Questionable

As I’ve mentioned several times, Egypt is not necessarily an unsafe place — it can just be uncomfortable. Aside from the constant hassling and scams, I would say one of the biggest issues you might face is getting sick.

Food hygiene standards in Egypt are not the same as they are in the U.S. or Europe, which can lead to many travelers getting sick.

This is definitely a destination where you’ll want to travel with plenty of Pepto-Bismol and Imodium, and be choosy about where you eat.

You also cannot drink the tap water in Egypt. I recommend getting a LifeStraw filtering water bottle. It’s cheaper than buying bottled water all the time and better for the environment.

I literally never travel without mine and I’ve used it to safely drink the tap water in so many countries around the world.

8. There’s Not Much Of A Solo Travel Scene

One thing I found interesting about Egypt is that there’s not much of a solo travel or backpacker scene.

I think part of the reason I’ve found it so easy to travel solo throughout almost all of Central and South America is because of how common it is to stay in hostels, meet other solo travelers, book backpacker activities, and so on.

This is just not as much of a “thing” in Egypt. So if you don’t travel Egypt solo, you aren’t missing out on much, which leads me to my final tip…

9. Traveling Solo Is Not Necessarily Cheaper

You won’t save a ton of money traveling independently in Egypt versus booking a group tour.

There are plenty of affordable group tours in Egypt (check out companies like G Adventures or Intrepid Travel) that work out to cost only slightly more than if you were to try and book your own accommodations, transportation, and activities.

I’m not usually one for group tours, but in Egypt I 100% think it’s the best option.

It also takes away all of the stress of navigating what can be a challenging destination so you can actually enjoy Egypt.

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March 17, 2024
Why Spring Is The Best Time To Visit This Popular Beach City In Mexico

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Everyone knows that Mexico is a treasure trove of gorgeous beach hubs, but only a few of these have been able to stand the test of time quite like Puerto Vallarta, a place that’s been drawing entire generations of travelers through its dreamy shores and varied entertainment scene that caters to just about everyone.

That’s why most (if not all) Americans dream of getting to experience the allure of Puerto Vallarta firsthand at least once in their lives, and if you, too, have been curious to see what the hype is all about, now might be the best time to book those plane tickets.

Kayak’s “Best Time To Travel” tool is an algorithm that takes all of the platform’s data into account to determine when certain places can be enjoyed best, and based on a combination of factors, including pricing, weather, and overall enjoyment, spring is the perfect season to discover the many wonders of Puerto Vallarta.

There’s No Cheapest Time To Fly To Puerto Vallarta

You don’t have to consider yourself a budget-conscious traveler to appreciate a good deal – and that’s exactly what you’ll get if you schedule your Puerto Vallarta trip this spring.

According to Skyscanner, March is the cheapest time to fly from the U.S. to Puerto Vallarta, followed by May and April, in that order.

Return tickets booked during these months start at $225, which is roughly $100 less than what you’d pay during peak season (right around the winter holidays).

Hotels and short-term rentals in the city are pretty reasonably priced this time of year, too.

The average daily rate hovers around $140, but some stays can go for as low as $72.

While not dirt cheap, this is still pretty good, considering you’re planning a dreamy beach vacation in Mexico.

The Weather Is Impeccable

Low prices aren’t enough to convince even the stingiest travelers, especially when that means going during a time of dreadful weather.

Luckily, that couldn’t be further from the truth when it comes to visiting Puerto Vallarta in spring.

In these upcoming months, the climate in the city will be impeccable – sunny, dry, and with temperatures that hover around the comfortable mid-70s to mid-80s.

Remember, though, that the gentle sea breeze that keeps you from overheating throughout the day can get a bit chilly at night, so bringing a shawl or light jacket along for those late-night seaside strolls is always a good idea.

Explore The Wonders Of Puerto Vallarta Crowd-Free

If you’re anything like me, even a visit to the most stunning destination on Earth will end up feeling stressful if you’re surrounded by hundreds of other people invading your personal space every step you take.

That’s why timing your Puerto Vallarta visit to coincide with the later spring months can end up being the best decision you can make for that quiet, crowd-free experience you’ve been seeking.

In this case, however, March is out of the question since it’s one of the most popular months of the year to visit the Mexican hub (along with December).

Come April, though, the tourist crowds die down and you’ll be able to experience the long soft-sanded beaches, gorgeous Old Town, and colorful Malecón completely unbothered – not to mention restaurant lines get cut in half.

There’s So Much To See And Do

Don’t let the lack of crowds fool you into thinking you’ll be visiting a dead city; there’s still so much to do and see in Puerto Vallarta this time of year that you’ll struggle to fit everything you want to do into your itinerary.

Foodies can attend the annual Vallarta Restaurant Week in late May, whereas art lovers will need to hurry a bit more—the famous South Side Shuffle will take place in the Art District Zona Romantica on March 8th and 22nd.

Those looking to explore the area’s fascinating natural scene are also in luck since now’s the best time to go whale watching in Puerto Vallarta (the majestic creatures are currently migrating through Banderas Bay).

For more fun things to see and do around the city these upcoming months, you can check out this comprehensive events calendar.

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March 17, 2024
Why This European Capital Is Surprisingly My Favorite Solo Female Travel Destination

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Europe is one of the safest and easiest regions to explore as a solo female traveler.

So if you want to explore the world, then there’s no need to wait for someone to go with you.

Just go it alone!

I’ve visited dozens of cities solo, but this unexpected European capital captured my heart. Its rich history, affordable prices, and excellent safety record all mean that it’s a city I would love to visit again and again.

Here’s why this European capital is my favorite solo female travel destination:

An Underrated Travel Destination

Warsaw is such an underrated travel destination, and despite being the capital of Poland, many travelers prefer to visit Krakow instead. In fact, Krakow is the most popular tourist destination in Poland.

Despite this, Warsaw is my favorite solo female travel destination for so many reasons.

Warsaw is varied and beautiful and you’ll find history on every corner.

As an official history nerd, I found it a fascinating place to explore.

You can see the remains of the city’s Ghetto Wall or wander around the newest Old Town in Europe.

So much of Warsaw’s Old Town was destroyed during WWII that it was almost completely reconstructed in the post-war era.

But the reconstruction is so faithful to the original that you almost forget you’re not exploring ancient history.

The best way to find out more about the impact WWII had on the city is with a tour, especially if you’re flying solo.

I took a tour of the Warsaw Ghetto and learned so much about the horrors that impacted the history of Jewish people both in the city and in wider Europe.

Warsaw’s detractors often mention its ugly Soviet-era buildings, but even these are interesting in their own way.

The Palace of Culture and Science was Stalin’s last gift to the city before the iron curtain fell.

My hotel was right next door, and if you’re nearby I recommend paying the 20 PLN ($5) to visit the building’s 30^th floor observation deck and enjoy the views of the city.

There’s so much to see and do in the city and it is this abundance of activity that makes Warsaw one of my favorite travel spots.

Safe And Secure

Warsaw is a destination with an impeccable safety record. I felt incredibly safe and secure in the city as a solo female traveler, even at night while having a cocktail or two.

Warsaw isn’t known for having the most happening nightlife scene in Europe but there are plenty of places to let your hair down. I recommend The Roots Cocktail Bar which is the number 1 cocktail bar in the city according to Tripadvisor and according to me!

The city is well-lit, there is a visible police presence across the city after hours, and the locals are helpful and friendly (if not a little blunt).

While I felt safe walking back to my hotel at night, the city has an amazing public transportation system that gives you easy and safe transport from pretty much anywhere in the city at all hours.

Don’t feel comfortable using public transportation as a solo female traveler?

I’ve never been in a city where traveling by Uber is so affordable! A 20-minute Uber ride cost me just 25 PLN ($6).

There are also plenty of electric scooters on almost every street corner, and it’s easy to download the relevant app and hop on. There are several different companies available, but I used Bolt because they offered a 50% discount on your first 3 journeys.

The U.S. Department of State has given Poland a Level 1 travel advisory which is the lowest level available, and is a clear sign of just how safe the country is.

While you should exercise normal precautions, such as keeping an eye on your bag in crowds, spending time in Warsaw is likely to be just as safe as spending time in your home city.

And feeling safe is so important when traveling solo.

Great For Budget Travelers

Warsaw is a great spot for budget travelers.

I’ve already mentioned just how cheap nearly every kind of transportation is which means that getting around will barely put a dent in your budget.

Want to see as much of the city as possible without opening your wallet?

There are a huge choice of city tours offered by locals available in English completely free of charge. Just make sure you have some cash to tip your tour guide.

Other free activities worth enjoying in Warsaw include enjoying the laser show at the Fountain Park, visiting the city’s many parks and green spaces, and many of Warsaw’s museums are free too.

You’ll find live street performances in the Old Town and across the city’s parks no matter what the time of year.

Art lovers will be fascinated by Warsaw’s murals and street art which are on some of the cities most prominent locations.

You can see the work of world-famous street artists in every district of Warsaw.

Accommodation options are affordable, and the price of food and drink is incredibly cheap too.

I paid just 11 PLN ($2.70) for a cake and coffee break, 40 PLN ($10) for an artisan pizza and 8 PLN ($2) for a pastry and bottle of water from a local bakery.

Entrance to the Royal Palace cost 50 PLN ($12.60) and this was the most expensive activity I signed up for in the city.

Warsaw is a great place to travel if you don’t want to worry about breaking the bank or checking price tags. And a great place for solo female travelers.

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March 16, 2024

Why Spring Is The Best Time To Visit This Iconic Mexican City

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By this point, everyone knows just how popular and inherently fascinating Mexico is, and U.S. travelers, in particular, have lost no time making it their No. 1 international destination, and for good reason.

If there’s another place so close to home that offers the same jaw-dropping views, centuries-old remains, and tantalizing food, I’ve yet to see it.

However, unlike the rest of the country, which only seems to be moving in an upward trajectory, one iconic city has recently lost its crown as Mexico’s most popular destination, with many travelers overlooking its fascinating cultural sights in favor of trendier, beachier hubs.

With all that said, Mexico City, the country’s gorgeous capital, remains one of the best places you can visit – and I’m not only talking about North America but the entire world.

And if you, too, are eager to explore the city’s sunny streets this year, I’m here to tell you that the perfect window to finalize those plans will be ending pretty soon, so moving quickly is of the essence right now.

That’s because spring is hands-down the best time to visit the iconic Mexican hub, according to Kayak’s Best Time to Travel Tool.

Plane Tickets To Mexico City Are At Their Cheapest

If you’re anything like me and hate to waste too much of that precious budget on travel (which, let’s face it, is the least exciting part of the experience), you’ll be happy to hear that airfare from most major U.S. cities to Mexico’s capital have never been lower.

Felipe Angeles International Airport in Mexico city

The table below might just help you realize just how little people departing from some of the biggest U.S. airports will have to pay for a round-trip ticket to Mexico City right now.

If you’re traveling from…	Round-trip tickets to Mexico City start at:
New York City, New York	$300
Los Angeles, California	$225
Chicago, Illinois	$237
Houston, Texas	$193
Phoenix, Arizona	$315
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania	$325
San Antonio, Texas	$219
San Diego, California	$315
Dallas, Texas	$224
San Jose, California	$318

Just to put things into perspective, these same tickets can start as high as $550 or more during busier months, so timing your visit right can absolutely affect your overall travel budget.

Most stays in Mexico City also boast lower rates during spring – according to Kayak, they average $86 a night but can go as low as $46.

And as we speak, you can take advantage of some pretty sweet hotel deals going on.

Hyatt Regency Mexico City is currently offering rooms for 20% less than its normal rate, St. Regis has discounted its prices by 37%, whereas those who want to go all out and stay at the Ritz-Carlton will be happy to learn that their $905-a-night rooms are currently being listed at just $489, marking a whopping 41% discount.

The Weather Is To Die For

You don’t need me telling you how balmy Mexico is, but unfortunately, there can be such a thing as too warm, and if you want to avoid the sweltering summer heat, booking your trip now could be the best decision you make.

Bellas Artes Building In Mexico City, Mexico, Latin America

Right now, temperatures in Mexico City are ranging between the high 60s and the low 80s (15-27°C), creating the perfect atmosphere for long sightseeing trips, memorable meals at outdoor restaurants, and cool nighttime walks.

Avoid Wait Lines And Rowdy Crowds

As great as spring weather is, most travelers are still insistent on pushing their vacations off until summer, which is why these upcoming months are ideal for those who want to enjoy Mexico City’s many, many attractions without having to wait on abysmally long lines or make their way through suffocating crowds.

So, explore all of the iconic attractions, including the National Museum of Anthropology, the Chapultepec Castle, and the Frida Kahlo Museum, and take some pictures, too – who knows when else you’ll get a chance to do so without being constantly photobombed?

Take Advantage Of The Many Springtime Events

Right now, it also happens to be one of the funnest, event-filled times to visit Mexico City.

The celebrations of Feria de las Flores, Semana Santa, and Cinco de Mayo (which are some of the biggest events in the country year-round) can all be enjoyed these upcoming months.

Mexican Chihuahua Celebrating Cinco De Mayo

On the other hand, those looking for a more personalized experience will love going on a hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacan, exploring the waters of Tolantongo, or going on a $55 tequila-tasting tour – the weather’s perfect for all that and more.

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March 16, 2024

Delta Introduces 2 New Flights Between The U.S. And This Iconic Italian Destination

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Italy is a bucket list destination packed full of incredible culture, delicious food, and charming natural vistas.

There are so many beautiful Italian cities that it can feel impossible to choose just one.

The good news is that traveling between the U.S. and Italy is easier than ever.

And now Delta is introducing 2 new flights between the U.S. and this iconic Italian destination:

Delta Flights To Venice

Venice is one of the most iconic cities in Italy.

Travelers in New York can now fly with ease between New York JFK and Venice Marco Polo Airport.

This flight will operate every day, departing from New York at 8.55 pm and landing in Venice at 10.15 am the next day.

The return leg of the journey will depart from Venice at 12.15 pm and arrive in JFK at 5.05 pm.

For the plane geeks among us, this flight will operate using a Boeing 767-300 aircraft with 216 seats.

If that’s not enough, then for the first time, Delta will also offer 2 daily flights between Venice and Atlanta too.

Later this month, the airline’s nonstop service between Venice and Atlanta will resume, and then in the summer months, this will increase to 2 flights per day.

What does this mean for U.S. travelers to Venice?

This summer, Delta will operate 17 flights a week between Venice and the U.S., making it easier than ever to visit Venice for a summer vacation packed full of culture and romance.

The Popularity Of The Floating City

Venice is one of the most beautiful and iconic destinations in Italy, and it attracts millions of visitors each year.

In fact, it attracts so many visitors that this year, travelers will have to pay a tourist tax to enter the city in a bid to combat overtourism.

Don’t worry this won’t break the bank. You’ll have to pay 5 euros per day to enter the island of Venice between 8:30 and 16:00.

Although this fee won’t be officially introduced until 2025 it will be tested throughout 2024. The current test days will be May 11, 12, 18, 19, 19, 25 and 26.

You have to pay this tax in advance of your arrival, but the good news is that it is incredibly easy to do. Just visit the dedicated website https://cda.ve.it/en/

Why Visit Venice?

Venice is a captivating, breathtakingly beautiful city. Its waterways have captured the hearts and minds of tourists for generations.

It is a small city of grand palaces and old buildings that seem to emerge from the water.

There are no roads in Venice, so traveling by boat (or, if you can afford the luxury, a gondola) is one of the best ways to navigate the city.

There are around 177 different canals to explore in the city, and each offers a unique perspective.

Because Venice is such a compact city, it’s easy to explore in a relatively short period of time.

It has lots of narrow alleys and ancient streets, and getting lost as you explore these is part of the adventure of spending time in the city.

Venice is a great year-round destination thanks to its Mediterranean climate.

Although the winter months can be cooler and misty, that only adds to the romantic, old-world feel of the city.

And the city tends to be quieter during the winter and spring months too, with the hottest summer months also being the most crowded.

Some of the main attractions in Venice include the Rialto Bridge, Piazzo San Marco, and the Doge’s Palace.

Fans of art and culture should also explore the galleries and museums such as the Galleria dell’Accademia, Museo Correr, and the Venician Guggenheim collection.

Tor Brierley

Tor has been writing for more than 20 years and has visited 25 countries (and counting!) She specializes in European and family travel and never says no to new adventures.

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March 15, 2024
7 Reasons Why This Beautiful Asian Island Is A Top Trending Destination Right Now

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Avid followers of travel trends will have read all about this year’s upcoming trending destinations – the likes of Japan, Turkey, and South Korea have been getting a lot of column inches.

But another nation tipped to be one of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in 2024 is the beautiful island of Sri Lanka – and so far, it seems like that prediction is coming true.

The latest figures from Sri Lanka’s Tourism Authority show that the country experienced a surge in international visitors for the first two months of 2024 – both January and February were more than 100% up in 2023.

If that trend continues, Sri Lanka will almost certainly be one of the hottest travel destinations on the planet this year—so why should you consider it?

Amazing Cities And Nature

It’s hard to find a traveler who’s been to Sri Lanka and hasn’t absolutely loved it – the country just seems to push all the right buttons and leave people with long-lasting memories.

From the chaotic and exciting streets of Colombo to the beautiful riverside temples of Kandy – Sri Lanka’s cities allow you to sample a culture that is influenced by South India and Europe.

Venture away from the urban jungles, and you will find lush green hills and the chance to encounter exotic wildlife, including elephants.

As a small island, Sri Lanka is also blessed with beautiful beaches on almost every coast with some of the most iconic being Bentota Beach in the southwest and Mirissa Beach on the south coast close to Galle.

Incredibly Affordable

One thing that makes those incredible sights and attractions even more appealing is just how affordable Sri Lanka is.

If you’re willing to backpack and use hostels, you can often find a place to sleep for less than $10 a night, or if you prefer a little more comfort, you should be able to get a decent hotel with a nightly rate of $50 (maybe even less).

Ideal For Digital Nomads

When Sri Lanka first announced it was launching a digital nomad visa, it got a heck of a lot of travelers excited.

The visa allows you to stay for a year, provided you earn the minimum required amount (around $2,000 per month), and can be extended fairly easily.

The latest info from Nomadlist shows that you live in popular destinations such as Galle and Kandy for less than $1,300 per month.

Great At Any Time Of Year

Sri Lanka’s location and unique geographical mix of coastal lowlands and hilly inner regions mean that it can be an all-year-round destination – you just need to make sure you visit the right place at the right time.

The country enjoys warm weather throughout the year.

However, there are two main monsoon seasons: the Yala, which is concentrated in the southwest from April to June, and the Maha, which is worst on the east coast between November and March.

Festivals And Culture

Sri Lankan life is punctuated with many colorful festivals celebrating religion and the country’s history.

February 4 is Sri Lanka’s national Independence Day, while Sinhalese New Year is celebrated on April 13 this year, while Diwali – another hugely celebrated festival in Sri Lanka – takes place on October 31.

Solo Travelers Seem To Love It

For many, Sri Lanka reminds them of what it was like to travel around Southeast Asia many years ago.

The country is still relatively underrated and is a place where you can make up plans as you go along, something that solo travelers will always find appealing.

Simple To Visit

Before you travel, you need to grab yourself a Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) visa, which will allow you double entry into the country for 30 days.

You apply for it online and there is a fee of $50 – the visa can be extended while you are in Sri Lanka for a further fee.

Sri Lanka is rated as a Level 2 travel advisory by the U.S. government, which means exercise increased caution.

While this is not the lowest level possible, Sri Lanka is generally safe for tourists provided you are sensible – the Level 2 is largely due to some civil unrest in the country back in the fall of 2023.

David Guest

David has been a journalist and photographer for more than 18 years and collecting passport stamps for even longer. He’s traveled to more than 30 different countries and loves nothing more than inspiring fellow travelers through his words and pictures.

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March 15, 2024