An abundance of new nonstop flights has made Europe more accessible than ever for U.S. travelers this summer.
And the good news is that that’s a trend set to continue into fall too!
More American travelers have visited Portugal this year than ever before.
According to Portugal Resident more than a million travelers from the U.S. visited the country between January and June this year.
This is a figure that has almost doubled in 2 years, which is frankly incredible!
The reason? The Capital and largest city in Portugal, Lisbon, is connected to a whopping 11 different U.S. cities.
Flying Nonstop To Lisbon
During the summer months, you can fly nonstop to Lisbon from 11 U.S. cities, and flights from 7 cities operate year-round.
New York, Chicago, Miami, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, Boston, and San Francisco are the seven cities offering year-round flights that you can book right now.
January is the cheapest month to fly from the U.S. to Lisbon, with nonstop return flights available for under $500 if you book now.
However, flights in October and November are just as affordable, with options under $600, and these are the best months to visit the city.
I looked at nonstop flight options for October and found that New York and Miami were the 2 most affordable cities to fly from.
This flight is with Air Portugal with an outbound flight time of 6 hours 55 minutes and an inbound flight time of 8 hours.
United Airlines also operates on this route if you’d prefer a U.S. carrier, but for the same dates the flight cost was $1,214.
If Miami is a more convenient departure airport or connection point for you, you’ll be pleased to hear that Miami is the second cheapest U.S. departure airport for Lisbon in October.
A nonstop round trip in economy class departing on October 16 and returning on October 23 will cost $715.
This flight is with Air Portugal and has an outbound flight time of 8 hours 20 minutes and an inbound flight time of 9 hours 10 minutes.
Alternatively, you could fly the same route on the same dates with JetBlue for $1,236.
Why Visit Lisbon?
Europe is historically the stomping ground of us Brits during the summer months, with Britons topping the list of visitor numbers for almost every European country.
But you’re just as likely to bump into an American tourist than a British one in Lisbon this year.
And it’s easy to see why!
As well as the incredible connectivity, Lisbon is also an amazing city to explore. Lisbon is Portugal’s hilly, coastal capital city.
In the summer you can have the best of both worlds’ here: culturally significant historical sites and lazy beach days.
This means you can experience Europe’s beaches and its rich history in one city.
If you like mild weather and fewer crowds, fall is the best time to explore Lisbon.
Because it is such a culturally fascinating city, I love Lisbon in the fall, when the temperature is cool enough for plenty of walking and exploring.
Some of the best things to see and do in Lisbon include climbing to the Castle of São Jorge and then strolling through Alfama.
The Castle of Sao Jorge sits on Lisbon’s highest hill and looks over the city, making it one of the most iconic attractions. Entrance costs €15,00 ($16.60) per adult.
Be sure to visit the Praça do Comércio which is is a large, harbour-facing plaza and one of the most picturesque plazas in the city. Entrance is free and this is a great place to sit, relax, and people watch.
Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss MAAT – the Art, Architecture and Technology Museum which is in the heart of the city overlooking the water. The building is a modern architectural wonder in its own right!
Tickets cost €11.00 ($12) per person, but plan your trip in advance because the Museum is only open from Wednesday to Monday.
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.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
The appeal of Europe for American travelers shows no signs of abating, but instead of spending time in France or Italy, there’s a new hot spot in town!
Research from the Olive Press has found that the number of U.S. tourists visiting Spain is higher than ever.
I’ll admit, I love Spain!
In fact, a year I haven’t spent some time in the country is a very bad year. And it seems like a huge number of American travelers agree with me.
American visitors to Spain are up by 15% compared to last year, and the country welcomed more than 2 million U.S. visitors in the first half of the year.
As well as being a beautiful and culturally rich country to visit year-round, getting to Spain is also wonderfully convenient! Americans can fly nonstop to these 5 destinations in Spain this fall:
Air Connections Between The U.S. And Spain
In recent years, the air connections between the U.S. and Spain have increased considerably, which explains why travel between the two countries has surged in popularity so fast.
This fall, U.S. travelers can fly nonstop to Barcelona, Madrid, Tenerife, Malaga, and Palma.
Barcelona
Barcelona is the second-largest city in Spain, and this October, you can fly to this culture-rich hot spot from 9 different U.S. cities:
Miami
Chicago
New York
San Francisco
Boston
Atlanta
Philadelphia
Washington D.C.
Los Angeles
The 2 cheapest departure points, at the time of writing, are Miami and Chicago.
Flying out on October 20-October 25 with Iberia Air (a well-known Spanish carrier) will cost $582 per person for an economy class round trip. The outbound flight time for this route is 9 h 50 and the inbound flight time is 9 h 25.
Barcelona is a fascinating city best visited in the fall.
It’s still warm enough to sit outside in street cafes, eating tapas and watching the world go by, but the crowds are much lower.
The works of Gaudi are the highlight of Barcelona for me. These include the city’s most famous attraction, the unfinished Sagrada Familia cathedral.
Then go to the incredible, vibrant, Park Guell, better known as Gaudi Park. Its full of whimsical mosaics, sculptures, and awe-inspiring architecture. It’s one of my favorite spots in all of Barcelona.
Madrid
Barcelona is perhaps the best-known city in Spain among tourists, but Madrid is actually the nation’s capital.
In October U.S. travelers can fly to Madrid nonstop from New York, Boston, Washington D.C, Miami, Chicago, Dallas, Charlotte, Philidelphia, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Atlanta.
In October the 2 cheapest cities to fly from are New York and Boston.
The outbound flight time is 7 hours 15 minutes and the inbound flight time is 8 hours 15 minutes.
Madrid has a rich cultural heritage and some of the main, must-visit attractions in the city include the Prado Museum and the Royal Palace, which is the largest palace in Europe.
When you’re ready to relax, go and sit in the Puerta del Sol.
This public square is bursting with life, a great place for people-watching and experiencing what life in Madrid really feels like.
Tenerife
Tenerife is the largest and most populated of the Canary Islands. This is an island chain that is owned by Spain but actually located closer to Africa.
The Canary Islands are around 100 km off the coast of Morocco.
You can now fly nonstop to Tenerife from New York, which is the first direct route from the U.S. to the island.
The cheapest dates to fly to Tenerife in October are from 17-25. A round-trip economy class flight on these dates would set you back $694.
This flight is operated by United Airlines with an outbound flight time of 7 hours 5 minutes and an inbound flight time of 7 hours 55 minutes.
They boast year-round sunshine, and Tenerife has a fascinating, almost otherworldly volcanic landscape while still having some of the most beautiful European beaches.
The great thing about the Canary Islands is how well connected they are: you can fly into Tenerife then use the inter island ferries to explore all of the islands in the chain.
Malaga
New Yorkers are blessed with flight options if they want a getaway to Spain.
As well as having the only direct route between the U.S. and Tenerife, New York also boasts the only nonstop route between the U.S. and Malaga.
This routes stop operating for the season at the of September, so this is an ideal option for an early fall getaway. To travel from September 18 to September 25 with United Airlines will cost $859.
The outbound flight time is 7 hours 40 minutes, and the inbound flight time is 8 hours 35 minutes.
Malaga is a great place to visit in fall if you’re looking for uncrowded beaches, with the most famous beach here being La Malagueta.
Picasso was born in Malaga, and the city is incredibly proud of its famous son.
The house where he was born has been turned into a small, but genuinely fascinating, museum which also contains some of his works. It’s so interesting that I’ve visited it twice!
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.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Everyone knows someone who is preparing for a trip to Europe, with destinations like Italy, France, and Spain being the most popular European hot spots for American travelers.
But if you’re looking for an alternative that’s outside of the norm then why not consider the Algarve instead?
This stunning coastline is the jewel in Portugal’s crown.
And as an added bonus for travelers on a budget, it’s an affordable destination too.
Here’s what you need to know:
Why The Algarve?
Often called the “California of Europe”, the Algarve has been attracting growing numbers of American travelers this year.
In fact, The Portugal News reports that there has been a 70% increase in American visitors to the Algarve since when compared to pre-pandemic figures.
Don’t worry you probably won’t bump into your neighbors!
The number of Americans visiting Portugal is still much smaller than those visiting the UK, France, or Spain, for example.
But frankly, anyone who hasn’t visited this breathtakingly beautiful region is missing out.
The Algarve is home to an incredible stretch of 155 km of unspoiled beaches.
There are a whopping 150 named beaches here as well as smaller coves and bays, so you’re never far away from soft fine sand and turquoise water.
If you can tear yourself away from the beach, the Algarve also boasts delicious cuisine, a fascinating cultural heritage, and, unlike other European destinations right now, a warm welcome.
As an added bonus, Portugal is a country with a high level of English proficiency, so you won’t have to worry about learning a new language or things being lost in translation on your trip.
Why The Algarve Is A Great Budget Option For American Travelers
Historically, traveling in Portugal has been much cheaper than traveling to other European destinations such as Italy, France, and even its neighbor Spain.
Whilst that gap has closed slightly in the post-COVID world, Portugal still remains the cheapest country to visit in Western Europe.
To test this theory, and give you an idea of how much your trip might cost, I’ve done some research and some sums!
Airfare To The Algarve
The most expensive part of any European vacation will be the airfare, and there’s no getting around the fact that a nonstop flight from the U.S. to Portugal won’t come cheap.
Faro is the Algarve’s regional airport and right now there isn’t a direct route to Faro from the U.S.
United Airlines had planned to launch a route between New York/Newark and Faro in May 2024, and this will still go ahead, but it has been delayed until summer 2025.
Because of this, most American travelers to the Algarve fly into Lisbon and then take the scenic train to the coast, so these prices are based on flights to Lisbon.
You can fly nonstop to Lisbon from Boston, San Fransisco, Miami, New York, Philadelphia and Washington D.C.
For flights from Boston to Lisbon travelling from September 9 to September 16 you will pay $797, at time of research. This flight is with Air Portugal.
For flights from Miami to Lisbon travelling from September 9 to September 16 flights are a little cheaper at $701. This is also an Air Portugal flight.
Eating And Drinking In The Algarve
The cost of eating out in the Algarve is incredibly affordable, especially compared to other European countries and definitely compared to dining out in the U.S.
Of course, there are pricier fine-dining restaurants, and the Algarve also boasts Michelin-starred restaurants with price tags that match their reputations.
But if you want to go to a traditional Portuguese restaurant, then you should expect to pay between €8-13 ($8.60-14) for a main meal.
If you head off the beaten track and avoid the restaurants aimed at tourists, then you’ll find plenty of great restaurants offering a menu completo (a complete 3-course menu) for €10 ($11) ahead.
As a self-respecting Brit, I couldn’t write about eating and drinking on vacation without mentioning the price of a pint! You’ll pay between €1.50-2.50 ($1.60-$2.70 ) for a local beer and around the same price for a glass of wine.
Portuguese wine is excellent, so there’s no need to pay more for imported brands.
Is this cheap? Well, for context, you’d pay €4-5 ($4.30-5.40 ) for a beer in Barcelona, and the average cost of a pint in London is £6.75 ($8.70).
So absolutely!
Where To Stay In The Algarve
There’s no shortage of high-quality beaches and high-quality tourist accommodation options in the Algarve. It has long been a popular vacation destination for both British and German tourists.
So where should you stay in the Algarve? Well for a first visit you should base yourself centrally and in one of the region’s larger towns.
Choose Albufeira if you’re looking for a lively atmosphere and easy access to some of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches.
Alternatively, Faro is a great pick for a more laid-back and culturally rich vacation experience.
I looked at some accommodation options to go with those September flights I found above.
And a 7 night stay in the 3 star Hotel Ibis Faro Algarve will cost just $795 or $113 per night. If you prefer a 4 star hotel then the Hotel Monaco is coming in at $1,048 or $149 per night. These prices are based on 2 people sharing.
If you’re traveling on a tighter budget, then there are holiday apartments available in both Faro and Albufeira starting from just $40 per night.
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.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
We get it, it is home to the most beautiful, unspoiled coastal scenery, waters of the brightest-blue, and picture-perfect towns that look ripped out the pages of a fairytale novel, but there’s just one catch many are failing to take into consideration.
Never mind the overtourism and inflated prices, it isflaming hot right now, with wildfires raging on in Greek islands and travel alerts being issued for parts of Spain and Italy as temperatures soar above safe levels:
We’re not talking a cozy, balmy warm; we’re talking torrid, unmanageable, get-me-out-of-here kind of warm.
Seeing some hotels in Greek islands already being evacuated again as dangerous fires break out, we wouldn’t be the first ones to bank on a Mediterranean getaway this season.
But there may be an alternative.
Away from the Med, there’s this paradisiacal Portuguese island with emerald nature and perfect weather––not unpleasantly warm, but not too chill, either––and you can even fly there nonstop from the States:
It’s Time You Stop Sleeping On Madeira
Though it is hundreds of miles away from Portugal’s mainland, and in fact, closer to the coast of West Africa than it is to Europe, Madeira is a remote Atlantic island the Portuguese have held since the 15th century, and believe it or not, an increasingly-popular year-round destination.
Before we get to the actual good stuff, here’s a couple of equally-interesting facts about Madeira:
Despite being an integral part of Portugal, it is a self-governing autonomous community with a distinct character, and at times, you might even struggle to consider both as being part of the same national entity.
For starters, mainland Portugal is much older: its History starts as far back as Gaelic tribes and the Ancient Roman Empire, and similarly to Spain, it has verdant plains, a sandy coast and exceedingly-high temperatures over summer.
Madeira is a volcanic island traversed by towering peaks. As it is nearer the tropics–once again, it’s in proximity to Africa as opposed to its home continent–seasons are not as well defined as they are in the European mainland.
Now we get to the good part.
Why Madeira Is A Year-Round Sunny Paradise
Madeira is nearer the tropics, where the climate remains largely at a constant irrespective of seasonal changes, and come summer or winter, it’s never too hot, nor too cold to visit:
Right now in Funchal, the coastal capital of Madeira, it’s a pleasant 82.4°F during the day, dropping to 71.6°F in the evening, while other parts of the island that are higher up, it ranges from 55.4°F to an acceptable 69.8°F.
The trend repeats itself throughout the year, with an only-moderately chilly 69.8°F in Funchal in December, and some rain expected, but not an awful lot.
As you might have guessed, wildfires over summer are an uncommon occurrence, and when winter comes, snow is an even rarer phenomenon unless you’re climbing up to some of the tallest peaks where some dusting is expected.
In other words, you won’t be risking heat exhaustion while exploring Madeira, and boy, is there an entire world of natural wonders to be braved:
The Most Beautiful Nature Anywhere In Europe
Mainland Portugal is best known for its rich Ancient Roman and Baroque heritage, with cities like Lisbon and Porto concentrating a great deal of the country’s regal palaces and most ornate churches, but Madeira, on the other hand, is all about the thriving nature.
We’re talking epic hikes into the sunrise, swimming off a pristine, rugged coast in nature-made volcanic pools, footpaths locally known as levadas that lead to lush-green jungles and hidden waterfalls, and botanical gardens that seem to be in a permanent state of bloom.
It’s no wonder Madeira is called Land of Eternal Spring (it might as well be):
Epic Hikes Await
The most epic hike in Madeira, the climb from Areeiro to Ruivo Peak, takes you through highland scenery, crossing tunnels and zig-zagging across the dramatic landscape.
In the end, you are rewarded with sweeping vistas of the sea of mountains from the island’s tallest summit.
Get your comfy hiking shoes on, and make sure you pack plenty of water bottles and protein bars: there’s no stopping once you cross the infamous Stairway to Heaven (and if you suffer from vertigo, make sure you don’t look down).
Luckily for beginners like us, we can always book a sunset hike tour dropping us off at the first peak, and then proceed to summit the second––and highest one––before getting picked up again, for a fixed price of $35.98 on GetYourGuide.
There are many more peaks to conquer all around Madeira, 147 mountains to be precise, but you’ll want to set some time aside for some beachside relaxation.
Volcanic PoolsAnd Mystical Forests
For that, head to Porto Moniz, in the island’s north, where you’ll find some of the best volcanic pools with crystal-clear water, which as you may know, are not as easy to come across in the Atlantic as they are in the Med.
Porto Moniz is also a lively resort town lined with beachfront hotels and oceanfront restaurants, and it’s one of the gateways for reaching the UNESCO-listed Fanal, an eerie ancient forest dating back millions of years that’s best experienced at dawn, when the mist is yet to dissipate.
Perhaps the most iconic postcard shot in all of Madeira, Valley of the Nuns is yet another popular stopover for nature enthusiasts: a sleepy isolated village nestled in the center of a valley, it is flanked by imposing fog-crowned elevations almost bordering on ethereal.
For those epic coastal views, drive towards Ponta de São Lourenço, Madeira’s easternmost tip, and a rocky peninsula jutting out into the azure Atlantic: the kind of stuff that needs to be seen with your own eyes to be believed.
Has Madeira Been An Underrated Cultural Hotspot All Along?
The nature may be the star of the show in Madeira, but let’s not forget about its cultural contributions:
More specifically, the capital, Funchal, is a prime example of Portuguese colonial architecture, with its old cathedral, built from blocks of native volcanic rock and with a magnificent roof of cedar wood, the late medieval Convent of Santa Clara, and a well-preserved Old City.
Taking the cable car from the maze of cobbled streets starting from the ever-busier Central Market, you’ll hover above the terracotta roofs of historic Funchal, all the way up to the hilly suburb of Monte (translatable as Mount), best known for its exotic Tropical Garden.
For enthusiasts of recent history, particularly football, you don’t want to miss the CR7 Museum, which is celebratory of Funchal’s biggest international export: Cristiano Ronaldo, who was born and raised in Madeira before taking on the world.
Funchal is up there with Lisbon as one of Portugal’s trendiest summer getaways, and one of Europe’s fastest-growing city destinations, according to a recent research published by ForwardKeys.
A short 24-minute drive from Funchal, Ponta do Sol is a dreamy oceanfront village surrounded by banana plantations, and its Nossa Senhora da Luz Church is among Madeira’s last-surviving from the early colonial settlement.
Further west of Ponta do Sol, the laid-back coastal town of Ribeira Brava is perfect for unwinding, sampling traditional Portuguese food––the drenched-in-oil lagareiro octopus is a must-try delicacy––and going for long promenade walks.
On the north coast of the island, there is yet another cultural hub to be found in Santana, where houses are built in a unique triangular shape, and topped with thatched roofs––in the center of town, the whitewashed Baroque Santana Church is not to be missed.
Madeira Is Incredibly Affordable By European Standards
Budget-wise, Madeira is one of the cheapest summer hotspots in Europe at present, with particularly-low prices observed for food and drinks, and attractive room rates.
With local restaurants boasting an abundance of local produce and many tourism providers (hotels included) growing their own vegetables and fruit, consumer prices in Madeira are markedly lower than those in the European mainland.
On average, tourists spend $34 on meals per day, as estimated by Budget Your Trip, though that is unlikely to include elaborate, three-course dinners in Funchal’s top-rated Alta Vista Restaurant.
If you’re keen on keeping costs down, there are still plenty of $1.50 custard tarts, Portuguese-style, delicious $3 savory pastries, and $2.18 poncha shots to be had.
As for accommodation, the average visitor spends $113 per night on hotels, though there’s far-cheaper privately-managed guesthouses listing rooms from $68 on Booking.com, like Residencial Chafariz in Funchal, and Pensão Fernandes in Porto Moniz, costing $87 to book per night.
Overall, a one-week trip to Madeira can cost $701 per person, or the equivalent in euro, excluding flights.
Fly Nonstop From Boston And Toronto To Madeira
Recently, Portuguese carrier Azores Airline launched new nonstop flights from Boston, Massachusetts (BOS), and Toronto, Canada (YYZ) to Funchal (FNC), eliminating the need for Americans and Canadians alike to first touch town in continental Portugal ahead of connecting onward to Madeira.
On both routes, flights operate weekly, with departures from Boston on Tuesdays and returns from Funchal scheduled for the following Wednesdays; as for Toronto, departures take place on Saturdays, and homebound flights leave on Fridays.
Azores Airlines has deployed a Boeing 767-300ER on the new routes and plans to maintain this Transatlantic service throughout the peak travel season.
On top of Boston and Toronto, Azores Airlines already transports passengers from New York (JFK) to Funchal every Sunday, with return trips scheduled for Mondays.
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.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Spring is always circled on the calendar as one of the best times of year to travel.
While a majority of us seek out sunny beach getaways after a long cold winter, others opt for iconic cultural cities.
Aligning with Allianz’s most recent analysis of over 3.4 million Americans’ travel plans, that seems to be the case for a majority of travelers right now.
The travel insurance provider scoured millions of U.S. travelers’ itineraries for 5 to 8 day stays through April 15th.
Travelers’ bags are packed with passports in hand, ready to jet off to these incredible 10 destinations, according to Allianz:
10) Liberia, Costa Rica
9) Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
8) London, England
7) Oranjestad, Aruba
6) Nassau, Bahamas
It’s been a rough go for the Caribbean as of late in terms of safety concerns.
Whether overhyped or not, Nassau, typically deemed safe for tourists, saw a spate of crime in a short span.
While alarming, travelers are still booking vacations to this popular paradisal getaway with world-renowned resorts, otherworldly beaches, and multiple exotic islands.
Safety issues aside, it’s no surprise that Americans are visiting in droves, as the Bahamas is one of the easiest Caribbean islands to reach from mainland USA.
5) Montego Bay, Jamaica
The U.S. State Department issued an alarming travel advisory for Jamaica in January, but it appears as if many travelers are shoving it aside.
So much so that this popular island nation is still breaking tourism records despite safety concerns. That being said, Montego Bay continues to be the most visited.
Known for upscale resorts, amazing beaches, welcoming locals, and savory food, Montego Bay is high on the list for those in need of a vacation.
Jamaica offers much more than one resort hotspot, however. It’s a truly amazing cultural place to visit.
With new direct flights launching to delightful beach resort towns, such as Ocho Rios, travelers can’t help but be drawn to this iconic Caribbean island.
4) Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta is having a moment. Breaking tourism records in 2023, the gorgeous Mexican beach city is off to a hot start in 2024 as well.
Despite having some beach hazards to start the year, Puerto Vallarta has powered through to become the third most popular destination in the country right now.
As one of the few mega-popular beach getaways where travelers can still experience real Mexico, it only adds to the allure of the stunning beauty of mesmerizing blue waters and lush green hills.
This gorgeous getaway is for everyone. In fact, it’s one of the most LGBTQ-friendly destinations in Latin America.
3) Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic has long been among traveler’s favorite Caribbean getaways, but with recent travel advisories issued for Jamaica and The Bahamas, trips to the D.R. have surely increased.
While the affordable, easy-to-reach country offers amazing beach getaways, the inland cities of Santiago and Santo Domingo have also become trendy.
Of course, a trip to the D.R. is not complete without some beach time, and there is no place better than the shining star of the Dominican Republic —fabulous Punta Cana.
This safe, family-friendly resort city is the perfect escape with endless things to do in paradise, but nothing beats the powdery sands and crystal blue waters of Bavaro Beach.
2) San Jose del Cabo, Mexico
The lavish beach city of Los Cabos is split between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, so it’s interesting to see Allianz specifically highlight the latter.
While Cabo San Lucas is home to some of the most popular beach resorts and nightlife, San Jose del Cabo has retained its charming historic streets while also offering incredible resorts.
Sky-high prices aren’t stopping Americans from heading to the southernmost tip of Baja for the ultimate spring vacation with some of Mexico’s most pristine beaches.
1) Cancun, Mexico
Shocking, right?! As if Cancun hadn’t been hyped enough, it is now landing on another top destination list.
But it’s not all fluff. Cancun is the real deal with world-class resorts and mind-bending beaches.. The fact that it is so hyped shows it’s not destined to disappoint travelers.
Mexico’s iconic vacation hotspot is no different this spring in terms of popularity, except for the fact there’s a whole new way to explore this sunny region of Mexico.
That’s right – the long-awaited Maya Train is the hottest ticket in town.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Mexico is a country every American traveler will have visited at least once in their lives.
It’s their direct neighbor to the south, making it a convenient spot to travel to, where they are welcomed with open arms and lower prices, and the warm weather just makes it impossible to resist.
This year, it is expecting a record-breaking 42.5 million guests, a majority of which will be coming from the United States, and besides Mexico’s long-standing reputation as the cultural center of the Latin World, this fresh surge in popularity is attributed to further developments on the tourism front.
Mexico’s Tourism Reinassance is in full swing, and these are 7 of the main reasons why it will continue being America’s favorite sunny getaway in 2024:
A New Scenic Train In The Country’s Most Scenic Peninsula Has Just Been Launched
Perhaps the biggest tourism project to have launched in recent years, the Maya Train is revolutionizing travel across the Caribbean states, not only connecting and improving the livelihoods of local communities but bringing tourists closer to the trendy beach towns and historical sites.
From this Summer onward, when all lines are expected to be up and running, tourists landing in Cancun will be able to travel to the world-famous archaeological site in Tulum, the turquoise-colored Lake Bacalar, and other beautiful colonial towns that were previously only accessible by road.
In sum, Americans will soon have more autonomy in planning multi-city trips in Mexico: other than being a safer, faster transport, the train could help erode the local taxi monopoly, and encourage local tour providers advertising day trips out of Cancun to reduce prices to retain customers.
A New Airport Serving The Trendiest Beach Town
The next major development that’s drawing Americans to Mexico is the opening of a brand new airport in Tulum, with affordable flights linking key U.S. hubs, such as New York, Chicago and Houston, to the trendiest beach zone in the Caribbean.
Home to the postcard view most commonly associated with the Mexican Caribbean – the iconic Mayan ruins perched on clifftops, overlooking a crystal-clear sea – Tulum relied almost exclusively on Cancun International Airport, which is a two-hour drive away, to host incoming guests.
Now, American vacationers desperate for some winter sun can fly nonstop to the rapidly-developing Mayan town without paying exorbitant landside transfer fees upon arriving to Cancun, and more routes keep getting added as demand grows.
Hurricane-Hit Acapulco Is Expected To Make A Comeback This Year
Last year, Hurricane Otis wreaked havoc upon Acapulco, a traditional resort town in the Mexican Pacific famous for its high-rise buildings, long miles of sandy beaches, and riotous nightlife, littering the boardwalk, closing down hotels, and essentially putting the brakes on tourism.
According to a new report issued by the Mexican Government, though damage from the event has been significant, the community is approaching a full recovery, with reconstruction underway, health brigades already done with most of the cleaning, and tourist services having resumed.
4,534 rooms are already available for booking out of 127 hotels, equaling to roughly 45% of the total occupancy, and lucky for incoming tourists, a majority of those centered around the upscale Zonas Tradicional and Dorada.
Americans Are Hungrier For Culture, And There’s No Better Place To Find It Than Mexico
Unlike the United States, where remnants of the original English colonies, or even traces of more distant civilizations are hard to come by, Mexico is littered with historical sites, with every major city featuring colonial zones, and over 200 Mayan and Aztec sites scattered around the territory.
This cultural wealth makes it inherently fascinating to Americans, who in their vast majority will have never set foot inside 500-year-old cathedrals, climbed step pyramids, admired traditional architecture, nor come into contact with any ancient culture whatsoever.
This year, Mexican authorities have made great strides in highlighting the country’s invaluable and diverse heritage, including the establishment of a Gastronomic Corridor in the colonial heart of storied Merida and reviving historical settlements through their ‘Pueblos Magicos‘ initiative.
There’s never been a better time to take a plunge into Mexican History than now, when colonial tourism is at its peak and new exciting archaeological discoveries are on the horizon: just last year, four unheard-of Mayan ruins opened to the general public for the first time ever.
2024 Is The Year Inland Mexico Gets The Attention It Deserves
Speaking of lesser-known gems, Americans have never felt as encouraged to go off-path and be more adventurous when traveling than they are now, with a growing number of them actively seeking more meaningful experiences when going abroad.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, it’s inland cities like Guadalajara, a highly reputed foodie hotspot, Campeche, dominated by striking Spanish-era landmarks, and Puebla, with its colorful townscape, exotic markets, and ethnic barrios that are at the front of the ‘deep Mexico’ revival.
Cancun and Cabo are great for a winter break, but they are hardly representative of the Latino heartland of Mexico, and tourists are starting to wake up to the fact that there is an entire country to be discovered beyond their favorite, overdeveloped resort towns.
More Than 700 Daily Flights To Mexico From The U.S.
Of course, we couldn’t discuss Mexico’s record-breaking levels of tourism heading into 2024 without bringing up connectivity: as stated in the very first paragraph of this article, it is a no-brainer thanks to the geographical proximity with the U.S. and multiple flight options.
Irrespective of where they live and fly out from, Mexico is the most accessible vacation for the average American traveler, as there are over 700 daily flightsscheduled between the United States and Mexico, and every international Stateside airport has links to the Latin American giant.
Due to the wide availability of flights, predatory pricing practices between different airlines, and the year-round demand, airfares can be quite affordable, too: according to booking platform Kayak, there are Mexico-bound flights departing from the United States for as cheap as $127 one-way.
Mexico Is Safer Than Most Latin American Countries
Finally, one of the main reasons why Mexico is poised for a further surge in popularity in 2024 is the reinforced safety. While other Latin American countries have slid into a downward spiral of violence in recent months, the AMLO-led nation has remained relatively stable.
Popular tourist zones, particularly along the Mayan Coast, are surveilled day and night by tourist battalions, a majority of Mexican states have been issued a Level 2 classification by U.S. authorities, meaning crime levels are only moderate, and very few visitors are affected by crime.
Merida, the capital of the state of Yucatan, is considered one of the safest cities in the American continent, and Cancun is easily the most tourist-friendly areas in the Caribbean: as long as they practice general safety advice, Americans have nothing to worry about.
General safety advice involves avoiding displaying unnecessary signs of wealth in public, such as wearing expensive jewelry or taking out large sums of cash, sticking to well-lit, frequented areas after sundown, and staying away from peripheral districts.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
As the ground finally starts to thaw, travelers are starting to plan their long-awaited spring getaways, and a good chunk of them are thinking about making the long, overseas trip to Europe, where the allure of attraction-filled cities remains as strong as ever.
The aim of the report was not only to discover how people are currently feeling about overseas travel but also to shed some light on the most popular international destinations of spring 2024.
According to ETC’s meticulously curated polls, these 10 European countries stood out as the most popular hotspots among American travelers.
1. France
It seems like the most visited country on Earth still has travelers in a chokehold, drawing in millions of people through its famous cultural scene and even better-known attractions.
Chances are that if you’ve been dreaming about traveling the world for some time now, France has already made its way onto your bucket list – and millions of lucky Americans are crossing it off of theirs this spring.
Of the U.S. citizens planning to go to Europe these upcoming months, a whopping 35% have chosen France as their destination, which is nothing short of remarkable.
So, take this as a sign that you, too, can fulfill your dreams of seeing Paris from the Eiffel Tower, lounging on the soft-sanded beaches of Nice, or enjoying a glass of wine in the vineyards Bordeaux.
2. Italy
The gorgeous Mediterranean country fell just one percentage point short of beating France to the no. 1 spot, which goes to show just how popular Italy has gotten this last year – and for good reason.
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a destination as gorgeous, charming, and stunningly diverse, not only in Europe but the entire world.
Think about it – where else can you find something that compares to the historic ruins of Rome, the artsy streets of Florence, the rolling hills of Tuscany, the fairytale-like beaches of Capri, or the breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast?
3. UK
While miles away from your typical Mediterranean hotspot, what the UK lacks in beachy charm, it more than makes up for in culture, history, and lively city scene.
Those who thrive on exploring new restaurants, museums, and events (in short, city trippers) will fall in love with London, where you’ll get to enjoy your very own movie-like experience while doing even the most mundane of things, be it riding a double-decker bus or having a pint of beer in one of the local pubs.
4. Germany & Spain
In a surprising turn of events, the fourth and fifth spot in today’s ranking will be shared among four different countries.
I know this might seem a bit weird, but considering how much Americans are traveling to Europe and how many destinations they’re eager to explore, the fact that there’s stiff competition between these hubs should come as no surprise.
This time, at least, those who know what they’re looking for in their next vacation have their choice already made for them.
If you’re looking to go somewhere warm, fun, and beachy, you can’t go wrong with one of the many dreamy hotspots that dot the Spanish coastline, whereas those who can’t stand the heat and would prefer somewhere cooler where they can take long sightseeing excursions will definitely enjoy Germany a bit more.
5. Austria & Greece
The fifth place is shared between Austria and Greece, two wildly different but equally fascinating countries.
A lot’s been said about Greece, its record-breaking year, and paradisic beaches these past few months, so chances are you already know what to expect from the iconic Mediterranean country.
However, for those of you seeking the ultimate Alpine experience, complete with historical wonders and outdoor activities, Austria might just be the better choice, not to mention that Vienna, the capital, is one of those cities that needs to be experienced at least once in a lifetime.
Rounding Up The Top 10
Since there were four countries occupying the fourth and fifth spots, there are only three destinations left to complete the top 10 ranking of the most popular European destinations this spring.
Ireland is the proud holder of the no. 6 spot, with over 10% of surveyed travelers planning to explore the Emerald Isle, followed by Portugal and Belgium, which enjoy a visitor share of 9% and 8%, respectively.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Spend even just a few minutes looking through a travel guide or searching online for images of Iceland, and it’s easy to see why it is one of Europe’s most popular destinations.
This northern Nordic nation has been capturing the imaginations of travelers around the world in recent times, and no more so than in the United States.
Recent data from the Icelandic Tourist Board shows that American travelers accounted for almost 30% of Iceland’s incoming tourism in 2023, the highest out of any country and a significant increase on the previous year.
So, just what is it about ‘the Land of Fire and Ice’ that is attracting American travelers in their droves right now?
One Of The World’s Safest Countries
If there’s one thing Iceland is more famous for than its glaciers, volcanoes, and beautiful scenery, it’s for being a very safe country.
Crime rates are extremely low here, and in all honesty, the main safety considerations you need to be aware of have to do with Mother Nature and not human beings.
The excellent safety record mentioned above is combined with a country where English is fairly widely spoken, and people are generally friendly and welcoming.
There are also many hostels if you’re the kind of solo traveler who likes to make friends, while many of the activities and attractions here are great if you prefer solitude – gazing out onto majestic glaciers, anyone?
Unique Scenery And Landscapes
Perhaps the main reason to visit Iceland is for the unique landscapes and geological phenomena that make up this amazing island.
Made up of dramatic mountain ranges, volcanic fields, huge glaciers, and countless hot geysers and springs – Iceland leaves a long-lasting impression on almost all who visit it.
In many cases, it can feel like you’re visiting another planet, not just another country.
The country is also relatively small, so it’s easy to get around and see different parts of it, but it’s usually best to do this on guided tours, especially in the colder months when heavy snow can make driving very challenging.
And Iceland is probably one of the best places to witness this spectacle thanks to its extreme northern location and longer nights in the winter months.
Usually, the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is from September to March, so if you act fast, you may still be able to catch some of that early spring action.
Fascinating Culture And People
While they can sometimes seem a little reserved at first, Icelandic people are kind-hearted and friendly in general.
The family unit is hugely important to Icelandic people and there are many national holidays that celebrate the different aspects of it, such as Men’s Day and Women’s Day.
Food is another charming part of Iceland’s culture with popular dishes including fresh fish, smoked lamb, and also a type of yoghurt known as skyr.
Cheap To Fly To
There’s no escaping that Iceland is quite an expensive country to visit; however, you can save a lot on the flight if you shop around.
We recently revealed that the capital Reykjavik is one of the cheapest European destinations you can fly to from the U.S. this spring – from as little as $140 one-way.
Iceland has also just renovated and expanded a new airport in the north of the country called Akureyri International.
While you cannot fly here directly from the U.S., you can from some European cities such as London, and it also allows you to fly internally from Reykjavik – a sometimes cheaper and quicker alternative than a road trip across the country.
Volcanoes Not Stopping Travel
There has been a well-documented increase in volcanic activity in Iceland over the past few months, with an eruption near the southwestern town of Grindavik causing evacuations.
This activity was declared to have been completed by the Icelandic Met Office on February 8 this year.
Because Iceland is so used to volcanic activity, it has a very sophisticated monitoring and warning system, so you can be reassured that unless it’s an unprecedented eruption like Eyjafjallajökull in 2010, which grounded 100,000 flights, you should be fine to visit.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Well, there’s good news and bad news. Let’s start with the bad news. According to a new survey, only 25% of Americans plan to take a vacation within the U.S. this year. Borrrring!
But…the good news is one of the most fun ways to travel is destined to make an epic comeback this year.
While the first set of survey results are a downer since there are so many awesome places in the U.S. to explore, at least there’s hope for a resurgence for a long lost travel trend.
While digital nomadism and solo travel are taking over the planet, there is an old-school way of seeing the world.
Now that winter plans are coming to a close, the classic all-American road trip is calling travelers’ names yet again this spring.
No more icy roads and snow plows, just open roads and blue skies to some of America’s top destinations.
Survey Says…
The American Survey (powered by What If Media Group) resulted in U.S. travelers ready to put rubber to pavement this spring.
A majority of participants, 63% in fact, will pack up their bags and travel exclusively by car on their next trip.
A variety of factors have caused travelers to come to this decision to revive a classic way to see the sites.
Most importantly, revenge travel is best served by any means necessary. If that means sticking the highways and backroads at 60 mph rather than taking to the skies at nearly tenfold speeds, that’s what travelers are ready to do.
But, why now?
Lower Fuel Prices
In a world emerging with electric cars, they’re not exactly catered to road trips with the extra pit stops to charge up and the sweat-induing range anxiety drivers face.
You can’t turn on the news without hearing back-and-forth political ping-pong about gas prices, but the reality is fuel has dropped significantly since last September.
Remember the rental car fiasco after the pandemic too? Well, that’s long gone as well. The bottom line is traveling by car is a whole lot cheaper nowadays.
These cost-saving measures are much more appealing now and just in time to make plans for Spring Break.
Nostalgia
Ever have those thoughts of “the good ol’ days”? We all do. Being that we live in just a fast-paced society, sometimes it’s nice to take a step back.
In other words, the ‘scenic route’ can be much more enjoyable than the give-to-me-now way. Despite airfare dropping as well, travelers are seeking nostalgic experiences.
Maybe you have the desire to visit a place you went to as a child or are just seeking peace by listening to the radio on a long drive rather than being force-fed music by algorithms.
There’s no right or wrong answer, but we all seek it in one way or another. Growing up, we probably all had our own dreams of traveling, but we definitely all had the same dream of getting our drivers license.
There’s just something intangible about an all-American road trip.
Avoid The Hassles
Air travel may be the safest, but it can also be the most frustrating in multiple ways. From overbearing TSA agents to flight delays to being herded like cattle and being squeezed into tight spaces, at least you have more control behind the wheel.
Sure, you may hit some traffic jams depending on where you’re going, but is there anything worse than flight delays or even cancellations altogether?
Booking flights to far-flung places is undoubtedly the most efficient, but when it comes to visiting destinations in our own backyard, road trips became a lost art.
Flying over the ocean, National Parks and iconic cities does provide incomparable views, but a coastal drive or the infamous Route 66 is a whole different vibe planes just can’t match.
Plus, bringing pets on planes is a near-impossible task. You can bring the whole crew with nobody’s permission needed and enjoy the open road at your own pace.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
As usual, Mexico is on every American’s radar now that winter’s finally in full swing: irrespective of season, the sun is always shining brighter South of the border, and the vibrant culture, coupled with those serene ocean vistas, is just too hard to resist.
A stunning beach town in the Mexican Caribbean, boasting not only great weather and pristine beaches but a lively social scene, Playa Del Carmen is trending with U.S. vacationers right now, having nabbed a spot on Tripadvisor‘s Best of the Best awards last year.
Fast forward to 2024, and Playa is close to selling out this season, and we suspect this may be why:
A World-Class Resort Town
Playa Del Carmen straddles the Caribbean Sea, easily the top recreational zone for Americans in the colder months, and though that in itself is a huge draw for some, it’s not the only factor behind the laid-back town’s popularity boom lately.
It has a long-standing reputation for being a world-class resort destination and one of the top three best in the Mayan Coast alongside Cancun and Tulum, with its extensive list of luxurious all-inclusives and state-of-the-art tourist facilities.
Recently, the landmark Palmaïa, the House of AïA, a top-notch concept hotel a short 5-km drive from the center, featured on MICHELIN Guide‘s top twelve most popular resorts worldwide, bringing further attention to Playa.
As you may be aware, the guide rates only the most prestigious and highly-reputed hotels and restaurants, and Palmaïa’s inclusion on the list is proof Playa Del Carmen stands among the greatest beach destinations in the wider Caribbean.
Palmaïa is the obvious highlight here, but the hospitality sector in Playa as a whole delivers an impeccable service, with well-trained staff ready to cater to a guest’s every need, gourmet restaurants led by chefs who are Michelin-approved themselves, andimpressive amenities.
We’re talking winding, lagoon-style pools, the recluse, private stretch of beach each oceanfront resort lays claim to, and the comfort awaiting visitors irrespective of accommodation type: essentially, it is everything newcomers to the Mexican Caribbean expect it to be.
Perfect For Both Relaxing And Soaking Up Some Culture
We know there’s nothing Americans love more about a sunny getaway than kicking it back, pampering themselves by the poolside, and basking in the sun without a care in the world, and casual Playa Del Carmen is perfect for doing just that.
However, if you’re looking to add a bit of action to your idle-filled resort stay, there is plenty to do and see in, and around Playa Del Carmen, thanks to its strategic location on the Mayan Coast, within short driving distance of beautiful natural and historical sites.
Xcaret is a popular day trip for guests based in the area, costing $120 to enter. It may be on the pricier end, but it’s one of a handful of places in Mexico where cenotes, jungle trails, Mayan ruins, and a theme park can be found all within one eco park.
Sailing trips to neighboring destinations like Tulum and Akumal, two sun-drenched, rapidly-developing beach zones, and cultural excursions to archaeological zones like Chichén Itzá, the number one historical attraction in all of Mexico, make up the bulk of all available tours.
Playa Del Carmen Is Incredibly Safe For Tourists
Playa Del Carmen is also home to a vibrant social scene, competing for the title of nightlife hotspot with Tulum and Puerto Morelos.
Those venturing out of their resort complex will, at some point, end up in Quinta Avenida, where all of the trendiest restaurants and nightclubs are.
Playa remains safe by Mexico standards, with most issues encountered by visitors relating to inattentiveness on foreigners’ part and petty crime, most notably pickpocketing.
It can get a tad crowded at times, particularly over the peak season, which is why Americans should not let their guards down when strolling down the busy downtown area, particularly at night.
As is the case with any hugely popular tourist destination, leaving valuables in the hotel safe, sticking to well-lit pedestrianized zones, and avoiding deserted streets greatly reduces the risks of brushing shoulders with ill-intentioned individuals.
That being said, crime remains largely under control, as Playa Del Carmen, along with all its Quintana Roo competitors, is a Level 2 destination, as defined by U.S. authorities. This means reconsidering travel is not necessary.
As local news outlets have described it, Playa Del Carmen is a ‘hippier, more modern version of the fishing village it used to be‘.
It is at the center of the Mexican Caribbean’s hottest resort strip, exactly a one-hour drive from two of the busiest international airports in the zone, namely Cancun International and Tulum’s newly-opened Felipe Carrillo Puerto Airport, not to mention it’s now a stop on the Maya Train route.
Competition may be tough, but there is no doubt the award-winning resorts, proximity to Mayan cultural centers, improved connectivity via flights and rail, and safety will only serve to increase Playa’s attractiveness in 2024.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
