Category: Travel Guide

5 Reasons Why You Should Visit This Cultural Southern State In 2024

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Combining vibrant cities, a rich and interesting history, stunning and secluded beaches, epic mountain ranges, and a host of family-friendly attractions, the state of Georgia is definitely one to have on your 2024 bucket list.

The state has gone from being a hidden gem to a record-breaking tourist destination in the last few years, and when you look at what’s going on there, it’s easy to see why.

Here’s why 2024 is set to be a big year for this cultural southern state:

Historic Cities

Georgia is home to some iconic American cities packed with culture and history, and perhaps none more so than Atlanta.

The city was rated as one of the top destinations to visit in 2022 by both Lonely Planet and National Geographic, and more recently was voted the fourth most fun city in the country.

Atlanta is home to important museums, luscious green spaces, lively nightlife, and family attractions such as the Georgia Aquarium.

A four-hour drive away on the coast is the city of Savannah, which is the oldest city in Georgia (established in 1733).

Here you’ll find enchanting and impressive architecture, tree-lined avenues and quiet parks, and a culinary scene that leans on the traditions and history of the south.

Beautiful Beaches And Islands

Georgia has a captivating coastline that is unlike most others, with secluded beaches, picturesque seaside towns, and a host of barrier islands.

Venture out onto famous barrier islands such as St Simons Island, Jekyll Island, and Brunswick Island to experience the unique blend of rich, green marshland combined with pure white sands and the huge Atlantic Ocean beyond.

These islands can offer everything from pure relaxation to an outdoor adventure filled with hiking and kayaking.

It Will Be A Big Year For Attractions

On top of the mainstream sights, there are a host of new attractions set to open in Georgia during 2024 according to tourism body Explore Georgia.

In Atlanta, the buzzing music scene will be enhanced with the Classic Center Arena, which will host live music and other events throughout the summer.

Also in Atlanta, the fascinating National Center for Civil and Human Rights museum will begin a major expansion to celebrate a decade since its opening.

There will also be some major new family-friendly attractions including the renovated and rebranded Margaritaville Fins Up Water Park in Buford, and the opening of the Georgia Safari Conservation Park in April.

The safari park will feature luxury accommodation including suites that overlook some of the exotic animals that live there.

Hotel Choice Keeps Growing

Georgia is a varied state and due to growing interest from all different kinds of travelers, a lot of money has been spent on creating new hotels and redeveloping existing ones.

In Atlanta, a new Signia by Hilton Atlanta hotel is set to open in January with no fewer than 967 guest rooms.

Also set to open in January is the boutique Trillith Guesthouse in Fayetteville, home to the famous tv and movie studio Trillith Studios.

February will see the opening of Cloudland at McLemore Resort Lookout Mountain, which will offer a wellness spa, mountaintop golf course, and unbeatable views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and McLemore Cove.

And for those who love being near the coast in Georgia, Hotel Bardo Savannah will open in the city’s historic Forsyth Park Mansion in February.

A Quieter Winter Destination

If you’ve read all this and you’re thinking that you simply cannot wait until spring or summer to visit Georgia, then you’re in luck because the state is an enjoyable winter destination that is very underrated.

Whether you want to hunker down in a cabin in a mountainous wilderness or enjoy the beautiful barrier islands along the coastline, winter is a great time to visit with lower prices and fewer crowds.

While not as warm as southern neighbor Florida, Georgia offers temperatures ranging from 50F to 60F during its winter, which is usually shorter and milder than most other states.

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January 9, 2024
These Are The Top 6 Destinations For Americans In 2024 According To New Report

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Where are most Americans traveling in 2024? These are the most popular destinations in the U.S. and abroad for the new year!

According to the travel booking platform Hopper, these are the top destinations that travelers are monitoring prices for in 2024.

Most Popular Domestic Destinations

These are the most popular destinations in the U.S. right now. The trend for 2024 is sunny, warm hotspots that offer diverse activities for every type of traveler.

1. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas was recently named the most popular destination in the United States. Although it’s nicknamed Sin City, there’s a lot more to Las Vegas than its old reputation of gambling and casinos.

These days, Las Vegas is one of the entertainment capitals of the United States, and there are plenty of family-friendly things to do. You can also discover stunning natural beauty just outside the city, like Red Rock Canyon, which is less than 30 minutes from Downtown Las Vegas.

2. Orlando, Florida

Another of the top destinations in the U.S. is Florida. This city in the Sunshine State is most famous for being home to Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando, and other theme parks. And that’s what attracts many of the 70 million plus visitors that came to Orlando in 2023.

But Orlando is swiftly becoming known for more than just theme parks. It has a burgeoning dining and nightlife scene that’s a lot of fun, as well as thriving arts and culture.

3. Miami, Florida

Miami is breaking all-time tourism records, and it’s not hard to see why. This South Florida hotspot is known for its excellent beaches, like South Beach.

It’s also one of the top destinations in the U.S. for foodies, with lots of diverse influences. Additionally, Miami is a major hub for culture and the arts.

The annual Art Basel festival draws huge crowds to Miami every winter, and other art-focused events happen throughout the entire year.

Most Popular International Destinations

If you’re dreaming of traveling abroad in the new year, these are the most popular international destinations right now according to Hopper. The warm and sunny vacation destination trend continues here, with one notable exception.

1. Cancun, Mexico

Cancun remains the number one international destination for Americans going into 2024. It’s easy to get to, with affordable nonstop flights from around 40 cities in the United States.

Cancun has great beaches and a wide variety of resorts and hotels for every type of traveler.

Peak season in Cancun lasts from December through April, and here’s what travelers need to know about visiting at this popular time of year.

2. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta Cana is the most popular destination in the Caribbean for travelers right now, welcoming more than 10 million visitors in 2023.

This beach hotspot is known for its many all-inclusive resorts and stunning beaches.

If you’re looking for an affordable getaway in the Caribbean, Punta Cana is a good choice because it’s one of the cheapest island destinations in the Caribbean.

3. London, United Kingdom

Finally, one European destination makes the cut for the most popular travel hotspots in 2024, and that is London.

This UK capital city is a favorite for American travelers looking to travel across the pond because it’s easy to get to and there are very few cultural barriers to navigate.

London offers an amazing variety of historical sites, museums, shopping, restaurants, and bars that will appeal to every traveler. It’s also a great hub for taking day trips around the UK. Some of the best places to visit under 1.5 hours from London include Oxford, Canterbury, Bath, and Bristol.

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January 9, 2024
Why This Stunning European Resort City Is Becoming A Year-Round Destination

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For many Americans, going across the pond is a summertime thing, as it is when Europe is at its most vibrant, beaches feel livelier, and seas are warm for swimming, but what if we told you not all parts of the continent are plunged into darkness and freezing temperatures over winter?

In fact, this lesser-known resort city in Spain is notoriously known for having pretty mild winters, with average temperatures of 63°F during the day and an average of 8 hours of sun per day most days, even in January, the coldest month.

Looking at the weather forecast, it’s no surprise Valencia stays popular with tourists well into the off-season, but that’s not the only reason why it’s essentially become, at this point, a year-round destination:

Valencia Is Spain’s Next Tourism Hotspot

Valencia is Spain’s third largest city, as well as one of the most populated anywhere in the Mediterranean, with as many as 1.6 million people residing in the wider metropolitan area.

It’s become a permanent feature on summer trip itineraries due to its privileged coastal location, with easy access to beaches and stunning natural parks, and an impressive concentration of tourist attractions, ranking up there with Madrid and Barcelona as a Spanish tourism hotspot.

A little introduction if we may: Valencia was founded as a Roman colony, and over the years, it has been ruled by several different empires, including a North African-Muslim caliphate, until Spain came into being.

This makes it a melting pot, with its many different influences evident in its urban layout.

It still follows Roman city planning, lying on a fertile ground where the Turia River and the Mediterranean meet, yet its architectural heritage is anything but harmonious, combining European and Moorish (North African) styles, and of course, modern developments.

What To See Around Valencia

A symbol of Valencia, the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences is popular among museumgoers, as it encompasses a planetarium, a science museum, an aquarium, an innovative opera house, and immersive art exhibits.

At the same time, the city boasts a vast collection of far older monuments, some of which have been added to UNESCO’s ever-expanding list of World Heritage Sites, including Lonja de la Seda, a late-medieval secular building with a majestic Hall of Columns.

Walking around central Valencia, tourists will be stepping on centuries upon centuries of History, dating back as early as the Greco-Roman period up until modern times, and the unique combination of ancient, Baroque, and modernist monuments is sure to blow their minds.

Valencia is primarily a coastal resort destination, however, and there are plenty of luxurious beachfront hotels offering sweeping views of the turquoise Mediterranean and its sandy coast to choose from.

Valencia Is An Affordable Coastal Destination

The top-rated ones include Las Arenas Balneario Resort, which is significantly cheaper to stay during winter, with overnight rates starting from $184, the stately One Shot Palacio Reina Victoria, in the heart of Valencia, from $193 per night, and the SH Valencia Palace, with overnights as cheap as $141.

Additionally, consumer prices in Valencia are typically lower than in other Mediterranean hotspots, which is why the city has emerged as one of Europe’s most prominent digital nomad and expat destinations.

Sunny days and vibrant culture aside, you can lead a comfortable life in Valencia, earning on average $3,040 per month, or the equivalent in euros.

Perhaps more surprisingly, Valencia is rapidly becoming a year-round destination, to the surprise of local authorities themselves, as it continued to register a higher number of arrivals, compared to most European sunny cities, as late as October.

Is Valencia Already A Year-Round Destination?

One could argue this is hardly a noteworthy feat, as Valencia is Mediterranean and, thus, it is poised for a better-than-average off-season due to its hotter climate, but tourism in nearly every single other ‘Med’ competitor tails off the closer we inch to December.

The cobbled hills of Santorini feel more tranquil, the fortified Croatian port of Dubrovnik suddenly becomes walkable again, and Southern France returns to its crowd-free, Savoyard glory – in other words, they are (nearly) abandoned by tourists as weather conditions turn gloomier.

Though this spells great news for budget travelers, who typically prefer the shoulder months as prices drop, it is a double-edged sword, with many accommodation providers and restaurants only operating seasonally, thus reducing options and a lacking social scene.

Valencia, on the other hand – like much of Southern Spain – does not suffer from the seasonal draught as much, with 85% of hotels staying open this winter and over 1.036 million arrivals recorded in October alone.

This is proof foreign visitors are quickly realizing Valencia has a lot more to offer than just beaches:

The Med may not be exactly ideal for swimming in January, and evenings may be chilly, but with the temperate climate and long hours of sunshine, this is still a perfect winter sun getaway and, most importantly, a cultural behemoth of the highest order.

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January 8, 2024
Why This Sunny Region Of Spain Is A Must Visit For Americans This Winter

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We are sure visiting Europe in winter does not sound too appealing to most, as it’s the coldest period across the continent, and in a majority of countries, sunshine hours are severely limited, not to mention the fact that it normally gets dark before you have time to finish your post-lunch siesta.

Luckily for you who have yet to take a Transatlantic trip following Europe’s reopening for tourism, not all of it will be plunged into darkness come winter.

This one region along Spain‘s Southern coast will likely remain sunny and relatively warm still throughout the season, and for you culture enthusiasts out there, you are in for a treat:

The Perfect Off-Season Sunny Getaway

Costa del Sol literally translates from Spanish as ‘Sunny Coast‘, and it couldn’t have been more appropriately named.

Located in Southwestern Spain, near the border with Portugal, and at the closest point between Europe and Africa, it has pretty mild winters compared to other regions in Europe.

For starters, due to its geographical location near the African tectonic plate, its seasons are not nearly as defined as in Central or Northern Europe, where spring and summer are warm, autumns are rainy, and winters are typically extremely cold.

The best way to describe the weather in the Sunny Coast is ‘eternal spring‘, with a seasonal spike in temperatures starting from May and lasting as late as October.

In fact, we wouldn’t actually recommend you visit during the hotter months unless sunburns and sleeping under 95°F don’t faze you.

The coldest month on the Sunny Coast is January, and even then, temperatures still average 64.4°F during the day and only drop to a maximum low of 46.4°F late at night.

Rainy days are infrequent, and though the Mediterranean is off-limits for swimming this time of year unless you’re used to colder waters, you can still wear shorts and lightweight jackets when stepping out for some sightseeing.

It may sound like an odd statement to make, but the off-season, particularly winter, is when the Sunny Coast is best enjoyed.

What To See Around Costa Del Sol

The Sunny Coast is part of the Andalusia autonomous region of Spain, and extends from the province of Granada, to the East, all the way to the Gibraltar Peninsula, near Cádiz.

It is bounded by the Mediterranean Sea, and interspersed with traditional Andalusian villages, luxurious beachfront hotels and golden sands.

One of the largest cities is Malaga, a coastal resort spot that enjoys a year-round warm climate and a plethora of cultural attractions, from the House of Picasso, where the artist was born and spent his early years, to a medieval hilltop Moorish fort offering sweeping views of the coastline.

Other Malagueto icons are the Plaza de Toros, a historical bullring, Malaga Cathedral, a Reinassance effort built following the Christian Reconquista, and the Atarazanas Central Market, where visitors will find a variety of food items and Andalusian delicacies.

Outside Malaga, some unmissable gems include Estepona, famous for its palm-lined boardwalk; Fuengirola, where the liveliness of the social scene is not conditioned on the season; Marbella, the unofficial seafood and yachting capital, and Frigiliana, a whitewashed, cobbled village straight out of a fairytale.

Tourists are particularly fond of Torremolinos, a coastal resort town within short driving distance of naturist-friendly beaches and boasting a high concentration of LGBT-friendly venues, and Benalmádena, where hiking trails, a cable car ride, and a charming Old Town await them.

The Sunny Coast Is Affordable To Visit This Winter

One of our favorite things about traveling down the Sunny Coast of Spain in summer is how affordable it is.

Granted, it is far from being one of Europe’s most expensive destinations, and it’s been a go-to budget-friendly getaway for years, but it gets particularly cheap over winter due to the seasonal tourism drought, which helps bring prices down.

This January, you can book a hotel room in Hotel Zeus in central Malaga for only $78 per night, down from $87.

The four-star Room Mate Valeria, a chic accommodation a short 10-minute walk to Malagueta, the city’s main sandy beach, is also $128 this season, down 40% from the usual rate of $213.

For those who don’t mind sharing a room, we strongly recommend Chinitas Urban Hostel, in the heart of the Old Town, where they will have access to a rooftop bar with privileged views over the ocher-colored cityscape and of Malaga Cathedral for only $26.

If it’s an all-inclusive vacation you’re after, the Melia Marbella Banus is a great pick, located on a quieter coastal section near Puerto Banus, only 150 meters from the beach, with prices starting from $228 for a Premium room.

Over in Estepona, the Elba Estepona Gran Hotel & Thalasso Spa is a favorite among wellness seekers, with all meals included and access to state-of-the-art spa facilities for $208 per night.

How To Get To The Sunny Coast From America

If you’re flying in from America, the easiest way to reach the Sunny Coast is flying first into Madrid, Barcelona, or any other European destination offering winter flights to Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport, the main international hub serving the coastal provinces.

These would be a majority of Northern European and non-coastal destinations in Central Europe.

Some intra-Europe flights to Malaga can be as cheap as $25 one-way.

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January 8, 2024
4 Things Travelers Should Know Before Visiting This Iconic European City In 2024

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Planning a trip to Venice, Italy in 2024? These are the most important things travelers need to know before visiting Venice this year!

Venice is one of the most iconic cities in Europe. It’s a bucket list destination for many travelers who dream of seeing the city’s many canals and bridges — of which there are 150 and 435, respectively.

In addition to being one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in Europe, Venice is unfortunately also one of the most overcrowded. The city has been suffering from overtourism for years, and several measures are finally going into place in 2024 to combat this.

Here are the most important things travelers should know before visiting Venice this year:

Venice Is Finally Implementing A Day Tripper Fee

Although it was announced several years ago, Venice’s so-called “day tripper tax” has never actually been implemented — until now, that is.

Beginning in April, the city of Venice will implement a €5 fee ($5.45) on 29 select dates from April through July. This fee will be charged to visitors who are only in the city for a day, such as cruise tourists and day trippers. It will apply on most weekends and other peak travel dates.

Visitors will have to pre-book a ticket online and show a QR code at certain entry points around the city. The goal of this effort is to limit overcrowding, although it’s still on a trial basis.

Tour Groups Of Over 25 People Have Been Banned

Another recent update tourists should be aware of is the ban on tour groups of over 25 people in Venice. This new rule will go into effect in June.

It’s designed to alleviate large crowds, which may cause blockages and human “traffic jams” on the pedestrian-only streets of Venice.

Additionally, the use of loudspeakers will be banned in Venice. Many tour guides use loudspeakers while walking through the streets of Venice, but it causes a major noise disturbance.

These are just some of the latest changes, much like banning large cruise ships from entering the center of Venice, that are designed to protect the city from the effects of overtourism.

Off Season Is The Best Time To Travel

Based on all the drawbacks of traveling to Venice, such as massive crowds and sky-high prices, you might think you’re better off not visiting Venice at all in 2024.

However, my recommendation is actually to travel during the off-season.

Three of my four trips to Venice have been during the off season, including my latest visit in November 2023. And this is by far the best time to experience Venice as it should be experienced! From October through March, you can enjoy low crowds and lower prices in Venice.

Although it can be a bit chilly at this time of year, it’s much better than visiting Venice during the summertime when sweltering heat combined with crowds makes walking around nearly unbearable.

The only thing to watch out for when visiting Venice during the off season is the acqua alta — high tide that occasionally occurs during the winter and causes the lowest points of the city to become flooded.

During the acqua alta, the city installs temporary raised walkways over flooded areas, and you can purchase knee-high plastic shoe coverings to stay dry.

But Be Careful Of Visiting Venice In February

The only exception to the low crowds and low prices of Venice in the off season? Carnivale during February! Although experiencing Carnivale is a bucket list experience for many travelers, it’s not for the faint of heart. The city becomes absolutely packed and prices for hotels are exorbitant.

This year, the festival will take place from February 3 to February 13, although there will be some pre-Carnivale festivities happening the week before too.

If you want to save money and avoid crowds, this is NOT the time to visit Venice. But if you want to experience a festival unlike any other in the world, visit Venice during Carnivale!

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January 7, 2024
5 Reasons Why Americans Are Flocking To This Diverse South American Country

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There may be no better time to plan a trip to South America for an off-path sunny escape. Many American travelers opt for Mexico and the Caribbean, but South America offers a wide range of travel experiences.

This time of year brings bitter cold weather in many parts of the U.S., giving travelers even more motivation to seek a sun-soaked getaway.

One country in particular has been surging in popularity, largely in part because of Americans. Bringing in over 4.7 million international tourists through October 2023, that’s a whopping 74% increase from the prior year.

Here are 5 reasons why Americans are flocking to the diverse South American country of Brazil:

Culture Is A Driving Force

Embratur, the Brazilian Tourist Board, claims their unique culture throughout the country has been a driving force for increased tourism this year.

Over half a million American travelers have made their way to Brazil, where each destination in the country seems to have its own personality.

Some cities are more popular than others, of course, but many are still being put on the map beyond the recognizable names we all know.

In addition to culture, Embratur claims travelers are seeking a variety of ways to experience their diverse country, such as beaches, nature, historic cities, gastronomy, sunny escapes and sustainable tourism.

Rio de Janeiro

Rio may have the biggest recognition when we think of Brazil. Although it’s one of the furthest destinations from the U.S., that doesn’t stop Americans from checking this bucket-list beach city off their list.

With unmatched scenery and a lively, bustling culture, Rio is nonstop action even at famous Copacabana Beach.

This area is not for a tranquil beach getaway as you may get lost in a maze of crowds, a mix of locals and tourists alike.

Rio is a gem any time of year, but thousands flock to the city for the celebration of Carnival in late winter.

Sao Paulo

Those seeking an escape to an urban jungle brimming with cultural experiences should look no further than Brazil’s capital – Sao Paulo.

Often seen as the engine that runs Brazil, travelers can immerse themselves on the cheap into this underrated cosmopolitan giant.

Here is one of many places across the country to take advantage of phenomenal cuisine, arts and a variety of entertainment.

Stays are much more affordable compared to Rio, plus there are ample direct flights from the U.S., which tend to save travelers money on airfare.

Sao Paulo is then a cheap domestic flight to other popular destinations or a reasonable bus ride to Rio or other stunning coastlines even closer.

Other Destinations Being Spotlighted

Brazil is a vast country with many cities and regions not known to the average Joe or Jane. It’s not only Rio and Sao Paulo that are gateways into the country.

Sao Paulo can be your city escape, while Rio checks off the luxury beach destination, but what about the Amazon jungle or peaceful mountains of Minas Gerais?

There are also other coastal cities, such as Salvador gaining attention as a cultural hub and beautiful beach getaway – all easily connected by air.

According to Travelmath, U.S. travelers can fly nonstop to Manaus to explore the Amazon, Sao Paulo for a taste of the city life, and Rio for a bucket-list beach getaway.

Taking Advantage Of Visa Postponement

The U.S. requires a visa for Brazilian travelers, so Brazil flipped the script and will require the same.

Taking effect In April 2024, after a recent delay in implementation, all U.S. travelers will have to pay an $81 fee to obtain a visa to enter the country.

Americans are pouring in while they can to avoid the hassle and payment.

While the surge of travelers has only been reported through October, when the new visa requirements were originally supposed to be imposed, it will be interesting to see if tourism numbers dip from April onward.

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January 7, 2024
Why You Should Add This Exotic Destination To Your Bucket List For 2024

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When you think of exotic paradise island locations, what’s the first place that comes to your head?

Everyone will have a different answer to that question, but I reckon not too many of you will have had Fiji as your first choice.

But perhaps it’s time that you paid this South Pacific gem a little more attention.

An archipelago of more than 300 islands, this tropical paradise is having a record-breaking year for tourism this year for a reason.

Here’s why it’s time you said ‘bula’ to Fiji:

It Really Is Paradise

The climate is one of the main reasons why people head to Fiji – the country’s many islands offer pleasantly warm daytime temperatures between 78F and 87F throughout the year.

It’s a country of two seasons. Winter is from May to October and is generally considered the dry season where the evenings can get a little cooler once the sun goes down.

Summer is from November to April and will often see the highest daytime temperatures (though prevailing winds help keep it from feeling too hot), and also daily afternoon downpours that can appear in an instant.

In the summer, there’s also a chance of tropical cyclones, so be sure to check the latest weather information and safety tips on the Tourism Fiji website.

Wide Variety Of Places To See

As a country made up of so many different islands, it stands to reason that there’s a lot to do in Fiji.

The city of Nadi will likely be your entry point and is a great place to get your bearings and sample a taste of Fijian culture in its restaurants and vibrant markets.

Head south from here for a couple of hours, and you’ll arrive at the Coral Coast – a myriad of beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and pretty villages full of friendly locals just waiting to welcome you.

For those seeking the ultimate in luxury escapes, then the Mamanuca Islands are probably for you.

These accessible islands are surrounded by colorful reefs, peaceful lagoons, amazing diving locations, and some of the best-hidden beaches in Fiji.

And if lounging around on a pristine beach in a literal paradise isn’t your thing, then Fiji has plenty of hiking and walking options in places such as Koroyanitu National Heritage Park, Mount Korobaba, and Garden of the Sleeping Giant.

It’s also worth noting that Fiji is widely regarded as one of the world’s premiere diving and snorkeling destinations.

The islands are home to the Great Sea Reef and the Great Astrolabe Reef, as well as other famous underwater sights such as Nigali Passage and the Great White Wall.

Fast Becoming A Trending Destination

Tourism visitor numbers are trending up in Fiji, with overall figures for the year tracking ahead of those from 2019.

And travelers from North America are one of the largest groups who are currently visiting Fiji – roughly 15% of the total number.

So, while it might not be Mexico or the Caribbean, Fiji is certainly capturing the imagination of American travelers – so much so, that CNN named it as one of the top 7 designations in the world to visit this year.

The country was a latecomer to removing all of its Covid-19 restrictions (February 2023), so this may be why it has now returned to popularity.

It May Be Remote, But It’s Not Inaccessible

Fiji is pretty remote, but that is part of the country’s charm.

The archipelago is nestled in the South Pacific Ocean, about 1,300 miles north of New Zealand and about 1,900 miles east of Australia.

However, it’s actually not that difficult to get there with daily flights from Los Angeles and daily flights five days a week from San Francisco – both into the city of Nadi.

Just recently, Fiji’s national airline, Fiji Airways, just partnered up with JetBlue meaning travelers can fly from more places in the United States to Fiji with through-check on one ticket.

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January 6, 2024
These Are The Top 6 New Resorts Opening In The Caribbean For 2024

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Dreaming of a Caribbean getaway in 2024? These are the hottest new resorts opening throughout the Caribbean this year, according to a list from TravelPulse.

Some of these resorts are located on familiar favorite islands (like the Dominican Republic) while others are opening on lesser-known but trending islands such as Grenada, St. Vincent, and the Grenadines.

Here are the top Caribbean resort openings to have on your radar in 2024:

Sandals Saint Vincent And The Grenadines Resort

One of the most exciting new resorts coming to the Caribbean is Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Sandals already has 20 adults-only resorts across the Caribbean, and they are all known for their impeccable all-inclusive service.

This new resort is the most luxurious Sandals yet. Situated on a lush 50-acre property, it will offer over 300 guest rooms and suites, including overwater bungalows.

Although Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is an underrated destination in the Caribbean, that will likely change soon as more travelers discover this beautiful hidden gem.

The new Sandals resort is set to open in March 2024.

Zemi Miches All-Inclusive Resort

Another new Caribbean resort opening this year is Zemi Miches All-Inclusive Resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Punta Cana is the most popular destination in the Caribbean, thanks to its gorgeous beaches and abundance of all-inclusive resorts.

The Dominican Republic is also known for being one of the most affordable destinations in the Caribbean, so you can enjoy a getaway to paradise without breaking the bank.

This new all-inclusive resort from Hilton will open later in 2024.

St. Regis Cap Cana

Further expanding Punta Cana’s resort offerings is the St. Regis Cap Cana, a new five-star luxury hotel that is opening in the first quarter of 2024.

Marriott’s St. Regis brand is known worldwide for its ultra-luxury experience.

Guests staying at this hotel will enjoy amenities, including seven swimming pools, an indulgent spa, a fitness and wellness center, and access to the nearby Punta Espada Golf Club.

Six Senses La Sagesse

Grenada is a lesser-visited island in the Caribbean, but it’s growing in popularity with travelers thanks to the launch of new nonstop flights from the U.S. on JetBlue.

Nicknamed the Spice Island, this gorgeous Caribbean destination will soon welcome the Six Senses La Sagesse, a new luxury resort focused on wellness and sustainability. This 38-acre property will feature just over 70 suites and villas, giving it an intimate, boutique feel.

The Six Senses La Sagesse will open in May 2024.

Royalton CHIC Antigua

Another exciting new resort opening in the Caribbean this spring is Royalton CHIC Antigua. This resort, which will open in April 2024, is located in the stunning Dickenson Bay area of Antigua.

It’s an all-inclusive adults-only hotel that will feature tons of great amenities for guests.

Antigua and Barbuda is a small island nation that is still lesser-known among American travelers, but well worth a visit.

And getting there is easy — there are actually quite a few affordable flights to Antigua from the U.S. in 2024, making it the perfect time to visit.

Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman

Finally, travelers can look forward to a new hotel in Grand Cayman. Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman is expected to open in June 2024.

Located on Grand Cayman’s famed Seven Mile Beach, this hotel from IHG will offer over 280 guest rooms and an infinity pool overlooking the ocean.

It’s a great addition to Grand Cayman, which is one of the best destinations in the Caribbean for scuba diving and snorkeling. Grand Cayman is the largest of the Cayman Islands, making it a great choice for travelers wanting a fun, active vacation.

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January 6, 2024
6 Underrated U.S. Cities Perfect For A Weekend Getaway This Winter

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Now that the holidays have passed, travelers’ schedules may be limited. But that doesn’t stop us from scratching our incurable travel itch.

We might just have to sacrifice a weeklong trip and narrow it down to a fun weekend getaway. There’s nothing wrong with that this time of year, especially since the U.S. has so many cool spots to spend a few days.

We all know the iconic cities of the U.S., but there are some sunny, underrated gems that are easily accessible and just the right size to squeeze in a weekend getaway during the dead of winter.

Tampa, Florida

If there is one thing we can all agree on, we are all seeking a sunny escape this time of year. While places like Miami and Orlando steal Florida’s thunder, there are underrated cities like Tampa perfectly suited for a weekend away.

There’s no Disney World here, but an easy explorable city awaits near some of Florida’s top beaches.

Commonly in the 70s in January, Tampa is perfect for packing shorts for a nice bike ride or beach day.

Nearby Anna Maria island is an amazing tropical escape along with top-rated Clearwater and Siesta Keys.

And best of all, prices tend to drop in winter to splurge more on top-notch experiences and dining, such as the very underrated Cuban food scene.

Scottsdale, Arizona

Phoenix may be a much larger city, but those seeking a desert escape may want to opt for the trendy neighboring city of Scottsdale.

Home to the scenic Camelback Mountains and oodles of shopping, restaurants, and nightlife options, Scottsdale is worth a weekend splurge.

Arizona has sweltering summers. So much so that you may find yourself on the free shuttle in Scottsdale just for the A/C.

Winter makes for a great time to enjoy a much milder climate to wander the streets of Old Town or sit poolside at the many luxurious hotels to choose from.

Outdoor lovers can take in the surrounding scenery with plentiful hiking trails or play a round of 18 holes.

Orange County, California

While technically not a city itself, Orange County is a cluster of smaller cities suited for weekend getaways.

Rather than fly into San Diego or Los Angeles, Orange County does have its own airport with plenty of flights nationwide.

Upon landing, travelers can take their pick between the high-end shopping of Newport Beach, the luxurious lifestyle of Laguna Beach, or activate their inner child for a day at Disneyland in Anaheim.

Ritzy hotels are spread throughout Orange County, which is the hometown of some of Southern California’s prettiest beaches.

San Antonio, Texas

Just an hour south of Austin is a city with a completely different personality but well-suited for a memorable weekend.

A city made for restaurant patios, San Antonio is one of the top foodie destinations in America, where travelers can indulge in a variety of Mexican cuisine and margarita sippin’.

Home to an easily walkable downtown district with historical sights, luxury hotels, and the famous Riverwalk, travelers will have no problem staying busy and resting comfortably.

And, of course, you can’t skip out on the local Mexican markets.

Palm Springs, California

As an LGBTQ hotspot, come one, come all – Palm Springs is happy to have you. This quirky city has a historic past of being a popular escape for celebrities but is more known for nearby music festivals nearby Joshua Tree National Park nowadays.

You can easily jam-pack your weekend with all sorts of fun here with lavish hotels, trendy restaurants, and good vibes galore.

Palm Springs is typically a sunny escape in winter, so don’t be fooled when you fly in over snowcapped mountains.

South Padre Island, Texas

Commonly a Spring Break destination, a winter break in South Padre is nice too. While Texas is generally underrated for beaches, South Padre may be the best of all.

Some may argue Port Aransas, but South Padre has better winter weather and cheap beachfront resorts to enjoy picturesque beaches before the college crowds soon take over.

Vacationers can fly into nearby Brownsville and hit the beach for a weekend of sunny days lounging around, going on dolphin tours, or barhopping with more elbow room in the winter season.

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January 5, 2024
These Are The Top 6 Fastest Growing European Destinations Right Now

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Europe is coming out of yet another successful year for tourism, with many of its classic attractions drawing in visitors in flocks of millions.

Still, the continent as a whole is struggling to return back to its former glory, with foreign arrivals sitting at 3.2% below 2019 levels.

With that said, data collected throughout the year showed that there were six clear standouts in terms of tourism growth – countries whose visitor numbers reached all-time highs during 2023.

While many expected the likes of France, Spain, or Italy to lead Europe’s way in its post-pandemic recovery, the destinations that wound up with the biggest year-to-year growth were actually a bit more surprising.

Greece

Thanks to its picture-perfect beaches, centuries-old history, world-class cuisine, and Mediterranean charm, Greece climbed to unprecedented levels of popularity this past year.

While figuring out the exact recipe that contributed to the coastal nation becoming one of Europe’s fastest-growing destinations is impossible, it’s safe to assume the allure of dreamy islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete helped a lot.

The same can be said of iconic sites like the Acropolis of Athens and the ancient theaters of Epidaurus, which not only provide a glimpse into the country’s storied past but also leave visitors in awe with their architectural splendor.

Malta

Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta stood out this year as one of the region’s best-kept secrets.

Considering its rich cultural tapestry (best experienced in Valletta and the ancient Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum), Maldives-like beaches, and sheer cinematic appeal, it’s truly a mystery why the tiny European island hasn’t exploded in mainstream popularity sooner.

However, what really sets Malta apart from other idyllic beach destinations in the Mediterranean is its unique blend of European and African cultures, probably most evident in the one-of-a-kind language and attractions.

Turkey

For the Turkish hospitality industry, 2023 has been the most groundbreaking year to date.

The bridge between Europe and Asia is currently experiencing what can only be described as a tourism renaissance, grabbing a well-deserved spot among the world’s most coveted destinations.

Every. Single. One. of its biggest attractions is currently breaking all-time tourism records.

From the grandeur of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul and the fairytale-like landscapes of Cappadocia to the pristine shores of Antalya and Bodrum, travelers can’t seem to get enough of Turkey’s many, many wonders.

Portugal

Avid travelers already know that Portugal has had a record-breaking year – the country, along with its many dreamy hotspots, has been everywhere in the news these past few months.

After all, there’s a lot to love about Portugal.

Whether you’re looking to experience the colorful neighborhoods of Lisbon, the gastronomic wonders of Porto, the volcanic landscapes of the Azores, or the golden beaches of Albufeira, one thing’s for sure – Portugal is sure to exceed all of your expectations.

And with prices staying at some of the most competitive rates in all of Western Europe, Portugal is undoubtedly one of the best-value destinations you can choose for your next getaway.

Montenegro

The true surprise of the report’s ranking was Montenegro, a small nation situated along the Adriatic Sea that has finally come out from the shadows of its better-known neighbors and established itself as a remarkable hotspot.

Having had the chance to explore most of the country’s attractions, all I can say is that the level of geographical diversity and natural allure crammed in such a small country is nothing short of remarkable.

From the soft-sanded beaches of Budva to the snow-covered slopes of Žabljak, Montenegro is the ultimate budget-friendly European getaway year-round.

Serbia

Though one of the biggest countries in the Balkans, Serbia has just recently established itself as an international travel destination, and considering its dynamic cities, cultural vibrancy, and warm atmosphere, its placement among Europe’s top hotspots was long-due.

What the landlocked nation lacks in beachy allure, it more than makes up for with the vibrant nightlife of Belgrade, the historical allure of Novi Sad, and the lush greenery of the Tara National Park.

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January 5, 2024