Tag: Culture

Hidden Gem Of Greece: This Sunny Island Boasts Crystal-Clear Waters & Ancient Culture

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With over 6,000 islands to its name and boasting warmer temperatures year-round, Greece is one of the most sought-after sunny getaways across the pond in the fall.

Be it the whitewashed villages of Santorini, Mykonos’ unrivaled party scene, or the rugged scenery of Milos, the Aegean will be brimming with visitors this season, but there’s one paradisiacal spot most Americans will skip on their island-hopping adventure through the Ellas heartland.

Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and oozing ancient charm, Crete is a stand-alone destination, and if TUI’s latest figures are anything to go by, it is where European sunseekers will be going themselves for that last bit of sunshine before the cold creeps in.

One Of The Most Popular European Getaways This Fall

Before you proceed with reading, take a wee second to look up Crete on Google Maps. It’s really south, right?

For example, in the very south of the vast expanse of blue is the Mediterranean, which is subject to hot winds coming from not only Africa but also the Middle East.

Needless to say, it’s much, much warmer than your average European destination year-round, but particularly in the fall, when summer-like temperatures can still be recorded along parts of the coast, like Heraklion, Crete’s bustling capital, or the laid-back coastal town of Chania.

As TUI reports, Greece’s biggest island enjoys ‘mild and comfortable’ weather as late as October, with very little rain expected and long sunny days throughout the month, minus the scorching heat waves and raging wildfires you’d expect in the peak season.

On average, the average daily temperatures in different parts of Crete will range between 63°F and 73°F in this transitional period, only slightly cooler than summer, yet warm enough to be outside sunbathing, swimming, and taking part in outdoor activities––just remember to pack a sweater for the evenings.

More Than Just Pretty Whitewashed Towns And Blue Domes

If you’ve looked up Crete on a map, you might have realized it’s much larger than the Greek islands that lie north of it.

Its size is comparable to that of a mid-size European country: covering an area of 3,219, it is about as big as the state of Delaware and packed with iconic sights.

While there’s not much to see in Santorini, Mykonos, and the like other than Instagrammable bougainvillea-framed alleys and blue dome churches, Crete is dominated by historically charged sites, some dating back over 2,000 years.

A comprehensive trip to Crete will likely include a visit to Knossos, an archeological complex famous for its frescoed temples, a walk along Chania Port, a colorful fishing village renowned for its Venetian heritage and restaurant scene, and the nearby Roman ruins of Aptera.

That’s only 3 picks out of Crete’s extensive list of cultural activities that should keep you busy for longer than 2 or 3 days––once again, this is not another tiny stopover island you don’t linger for longer than a weekend on your way somewhere:

Countless Unique Activities To Take Part In

Crete is its own destination, and you could easily spend an entire week or two here without ever getting bored: the nature here is simply breathtaking, and if you love being out and about in the wild, this Samaria Gorge Trek is a must-do.

Starting from Chania, the tour starting from Chania drops you off right at the entrance of one of Europe’s longest gorges for a four-hour trek: though it may be challenging for some, it is surely rewarding, offering views of Crete’s White Mountains and of thousand-year-old forests, from only $35.80.

For the culture buffs out there, definitely book a spot in this Authentic Cooking Class at the foot of the White Mountains, where you’ll learn how to prepare traditional Greek––and specifically Cretan––dishes while learning more about the local History (reservation costs $121.55).

Now, if you’re hoping to be on the water at some point, after all, Crete is a Mediterranean getaway, don’t miss out on a sailing trip from Heraklion to the neighboring Dia Island, an uninhabited paradise lapped by seas of turquoise-blue––starting from $79.83, lunch, snorkeling and paddleboarding are all included.

Pink-Sand Beaches And Natural Mediterranean Pools

Is Crete still warm enough in the fall for a beach getaway? Darn right it is!

Think about it: the Med has had all summer to heat up, and now it’s just beginning to cool down as we head into the coldest seasons, so it’s a particularly good time for swimming.

Water temperatures are around 73.4°F, and unlike summer, the hordes of tourists will have already departed some of the busiest swimming spots, like Elafonissi, the busiest beach on Crete due to its unique, pink-colored sands, and the Caribbean-like, soft-white-sanded Balos.

For the best chance to beat whatever small crowds may gather along the Cretan coast, head to Preveli, near Rethymno, where an inland river flows into the sea, flowing by palm trees and forming a lake close to the Mediterranean: literal Eden.

Another beautiful beach that looks like a Mediterranean dream come true is Vai, in the Lassithi region.

A peaceful strip of honey-colored sands wedged between the largest palm tree forest in Europe and aqua waters, it is arguably Crete’s most picturesque natural wonder.

Crete Can Be A Budget-Friendly Getaway This Fall

We all know that once the peak season’s over, prices across Europe drop significantly, and Crete is no exception: everything from accommodation down to food gets markedly cheaper, whether you’re staying in a touristy town like Heraklion or an isolated coastal village.

In Heraklion, the cheapest rooms start from a negligible $21 this October at Happy Days, while privately-managed double rooms with terraces can still cost as cheap as $40 per night, as seen on Andy’s Apartment.

Inexpensive food is just as easy to come across, with $5-7 gyros sold at pretty much every street corner, and plenty of Mediterranean-style eateries serving freshly-made pasta and seafood for between $15-25: you can rest assured you won’t go hungry in Crete, even on a limited budget.

Naturally, you can go way above budget on a 4 or 5-star resort, but our point is, Crete can be budget-friendly if you’re not actively looking to splurge on luxurious stays: on average, a budget trip to the island will set you back by an acceptable $926.

Vinicius Costa

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

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September 16, 2024
Cooler Summer Escape: These Breathtaking European Islands Offer Culture And Beauty

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Does the thought of a scorching 100°F heat, raging wildfires that every now and then lead to the evacuation of resort strips, and unsustainable mass tourism put you off visiting Southern Europe this summer?

You’re not the only one:

A growing number of travelers are actively avoiding Spain, France, Italy and the like, as visitor numbers and temperatures soar past manageable levels.

But if you’re still eager to experience some culture while enjoying cooler weather and beating the crowds, we have an alternative for you.

Just off the coast of Northern Norway, the Lofoten offers unrivaled natural scenery, Scandinavian heritage, and most importantly, milder weather:

What Is Lofoten, Even?

Norway’s most famous archipelago, Lofoten, is a collective of seven main islands connected by manmade bridges and narrow nature-made crossings, like a once-intact peninsula that has been broken into smaller pieces.

It is quite remote, and you’re unlikely to see crowds of tourists disembarking here, even at the peak of cruising season, which makes Lofoten particularly appealing to actual travelers who want to get off the beaten track, and immerse themselves in the local culture.

Norway as a whole is already a great destination for escaping the hustle and bustle of Europe’s big cities, as it is mostly rural, traversed by towering highlands and winding fjords, but these islands give idyllic a whole ‘nother meaning:

Summers Are Always Much Cooler Up Here

Lofoten has unique geological features, being characterized by jagged peaks, sheltered bays, and undisturbed Arctic nature.

You read that right: as it part of the Nordland county of Norway, it sits above the Arctic Circle.

It’s never too warm in Lofoten, even at the peak of summer, when other destinations in Southern Norway can easily reach highs of 86°F, and you can expect pretty mild temperatures, ranging between 73.4°F during the day and 57.2°F at nightfall.

As we like to say, shorts out when the sun’s out, long-sleeve shirts––and maybe a cozy, lightweight summer cardigan––after sundown: believe us, you’ll be spending a lot of time outside in Lofoten, and if you love the great outdoors, you’ve definitely come to the right place:

What Makes Lofoten So Special?

This is a natural oasis of crystal-clear lagoons and scenic mountain ranges and it’s beautiful regardless of season, but we’ll argue summer is probably the best period to visit, as the seas around Lofoten are not frozen, snowing is restricted to some mountain peaks, and daylight hours are plentiful.

Whether it’s an evening kayak tour off the Svolvær coast, when the sun’s setting over the mountains, or a guided summiting of the landmark Svolværgeita, there are countless activities to keep the adventurer in you entertained over a long weekend, if not a whole week.

To give you a bit of a headstart, these are 5 of the most unique guided tours in Lofoten and their prices:

Perfect for visiting smaller islands only accessible by boats and secluded beaches.

Ideal for those who want to get active, and experience the wild Arctic nature up close

The easiest way to visit Værøy Island and its sleepy fishing villages on a day trip

An open boat tour across one of the most breathtaking fjords in Norway––what more could you ask for?

Your best chance to spot the elusive lights in a Northerly location while it’s still not the freezing winter

*This tour is offered from late August only, when aurora activity resumes in the Arctic

It Has Some Amazing Free Activities

That being said, nature in Norway is free to explore, and everyone has the right to roam freely in it:

There are beautiful spots all around Lofoten, including unspoiled beaches with gleaming-white sands, like Haukland, on the island of Vestvågøy, elected Europe’s finest this year by Lonely Planet, and Punn Beach in Værøynd.

Just don’t, you know, jump in the water expecting it to be as warm as the Mediterranean, or you may be in for an unpleasant surprise.

For enthusiastic hikers, Tjeldbergtind is a popular mountain to conquer.

It takes roughly two hours to complete and offers priceless views of the archipelago’s snow-dusted peaks and the several tiny islets scattered along the bay.

A 2 hours up and 2 hours down trail, the eerie-sounding Devil’s Gate (Djevelporten) is where you find Norway’s second-most iconic suspended rock lodged between two cliffs, after the one in Kjeragbolten:

Visitors commonly pose for pictures on top of it, and though accidents have not been recorded, do so at your own risk––of course; the most fascinating part is the sweeping panorama of the rocky formations bounded by azure waters in the distance.

Near Moskenes, the Reinebringen hike is another must-do.

It rises as high as 448 meters above sea level and is best enjoyed between May and September when it’s not super chilly to climb and the sun’s relatively warm and pleasant.

There’s certainly no shortage of nature-made wonders to admire around Lofoten, and hiking options are numerous, but if you’re searching for something manmade and truly unique, the walk from Nusfjord to Nesland should be at the top of your list.

Nusfjord is one of the oldest villages in Lofoten, and if you’re planning on staying overnight to complete the hike at a relaxed pace, consider booking a cottage stay with fjord views at the marvelous Nusfjord Arctic Resort, starting from $282.59 a night this summer.

The pathway to the equally picturesque village of Nesland can be steep and strenuous in certain sections, but the completely undisturbed Arctic nature makes it all worthwhile.

Has Lofoten Got Anything To Offer On The Culture Front?

You’ve likely come all the way to Northern Europe to experience some of that Old World, Scandi charm, and you’ll be thrilled to learn that one of the most beautiful towns in all of Norway, the postcardy Reine, sits on a small bay on Moskenesøya Island.

With its vividly red, wooded houses, Reine must (probably) be the most-photographed spot in the archipelago, but its largest town, often called ‘smallest big city in the world’, is the surprisingly-lively Svolvær:

As pretty as the other villages are, this compact regional ‘capital’ is the best place to stay in Lofoten, with its World War II memorial museum, art galleries, casual seafood restaurants, and well-equipped tourist facilities.

If you’re looking for an authentic restaurant to sample Norwegian food––they do have the best-smoked salmon in the world––make sure you add Børsen Spiseri, in the heart of Svolvær, to your list.

Norway is known to have some of the highest prices in Europe, and accommodation is no exception to the rule, but there are still a fair few good deals to be found around Lofoten, particularly in Svolvær, where there are more listings to choose from.

For example, an overnight stay at the privately-managed Kule gule huset guesthouse will only set you back by $89 per night on wide-availability dates this summer, while a double standard room at the centrally-located, basic-amenities Marina Hotel costs an acceptable $143 to book.

Those would be on the cheaper end, but of course, room rates can go much, much higher once you start looking for some more comfort and maybe a continental breakfast included.

What we’re trying to say is that Lofoten is definitely not the cheapest summer adventure to embark on once you start adding secondary expenses, like car rentals–trust us, you will need one to get around unless you fancy walking long distances or taking ferries–but it is worth a shot.

Vinicius Costa

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

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July 27, 2024
The Top 5 Digital Nomad Destinations For Affordability And Culture In 2024
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With national governments easing border curbs for digital nomads and some going as far as competing for the title of nomad hotspot while launching migration routes unique to the category, you may feel as if there are (far too many) options at hand already.

Which so many digital nomad residency permits available and multiple countries relaxing visa requirements, which are some of the best destinations for remote workers?

Why Affordability And Culture Are Important

As part of the community ourselves, when picking a new base, we normally take into account factors like affordability and the cultural aspect.

For instance, though it is an intriguing metropolis and a microcosm for the East-West divide, Hong Kong wouldn’t rank high on our list of nomad-friendly spots due to its strict residency rules, expensive cost of living, and eroding democracy.

The same applies to a number of European and Latin American destinations: who wouldn’t love to live in charming, heart-of-Europe Paris? French cuisine is an immaterial world heritage, the architecture is stupendously beautiful, and the vibes romantic, immaculate.

Or then, tropical Rio de Janeiro, where glitzy beachfront apartment blocks are interspersed with Atlantic forest and bounded by an azure Atlantic, and consumer prices are extremely low compared to much of the Northern hemisphere?

The downsides to those? Paris is one of the most expensive nomad destinations worldwide, where you are expected to earn on average US$5,307 monthly to make a decent living, and as for Rio, it is not exactly tourist-friendly by any standards, with crime being rampant.

Where, then, should you go that ticks all of these boxes?
- It has a vast cultural offer and wide range of attractions
- Good to great nomad infrastructure
- Easy to relocate to
- Safety levels are either ok or high
We have 5 picks:

Mexico

The most obvious pick for American nomads, Mexico’s biggest appeal is its diversity, as the country combines elements of the Hispanic World, owing to its background of Spanish colonization and much earlier pre-Columbian civilizations.

Cities like Mexico City (CDMX) offer long-term residents a plethora of coworking spaces and artsy trendy districts to explore; at the same time, those choosing to relocate to the Mayan Riviera instead get to live by the seaside and within driving distance of a number of prominent historical landmarks.

Other up-and-coming destinations include the state of Baja California Sur, on the Mexican Pacific, a favorite among nomads looking for a more peaceful, quieter alternative to the bustling Caribbean coast, and the inland historic cities of Guanajuato and Guadalajara.

Away from the major tourist hotspots like Cancun and Los Cabos, Mexico is also relatively affordable to live in, with NomadList estimating monthly expenses to be US$2,314, though these can vary wildly depending on city/state.

Finally, Mexican cities are not any more dangerous than the average large urban center in the United States, with the Mexican President claiming himself it is actually ‘safer’, and authorities allow most foreigners to remain in the national territory for up to six months visa-free.

Georgia

The rising star of the digital nomad scene, Georgia (the country) is a lesser-known sovereign state in the Caucasus, an ambiguous territory nestled between Europe’s far East and Western Asia.

Historically, it’s always been a poorer country, having remained under Russian control for much of its modern existence, but following its full transition into a democracy in the early nineties and pursuit of closer ties to Europe, it started becoming more attractive to potential migrants.

As a land, Georgia is simply mesmerizing, being bounded by the majestic snow-capped Caucasus peaks to the North, marking the natural boundary between Europe and Asia, straddling the shores of the warm, bright-blue, misleadingly-titled Black Sea, and boasting a verdant, fertile hinterland.

Not only is Georgian nature a force to be reckoned with, but its national capital, the charming Tbilisi, has been recently dubbed the Eurasian Capital for Digital Nomads, owing to its vast selection of nomad-friendly cafes and coworking centers, the friendliness of locals, and high affordability.

Staying in Old Town Tbilisi, the prettiest district, jam-packed with medieval structures and colorful heritage mansions, remote workers looking to live comfortably by themselves in a well-equipped, centrally-located flat and treat themselves to nice dinners are expected to budget only US$2,217 monthly.

Other nomad ‘centers’ include the seaside resort of Batumi, where prices are roughly the same, and the equally fascinating ancient city of Kutaisi.

Fortunately for nomads, they can stay in Georgia for up to one year visa-free, though they are automatically liable for income tax after 183 days.

Thailand

Over in Southeast Asia, Thailand is one of the world’s fastest-growing nomad destinations for a reason – well, several reasons.

First of all, it is warm all year long, and other than the rainy season – which is a temporary nuisance more than anything – it will certainly help you beat those winter blues in the Northeastern U.S. or Canada, whether you’re based in Bangkok or a tropical island on the Gulf of Thailand.

Speaking of Bangkok, you should probably know it is ranked number one for Digital Nomad Cities on NomadList, with a more-than-perfect score of 5.08/5.

This means you are extremely likely to approve of Thailand as a destination in your capacity as a remote worker.

Thailand is extremely affordable in general, and Bangkok itself, supposedly one of the most expensive destinations in the country – it is, after all, the sprawling capital and a major financial hub – will only set you back by around US$1,419 a month.

Further North, in the increasingly popular Chiang Mai, a UNESCO-listed historic city famous for its protective, moated Old Town, an average meal will cost you on average a negligible US$4.18, and you may find kerbside foot and shoulder massagists for a very reasonable US$7.04.

Prices may double in seaside resorts like Phuket Island and Pattaya, as they cater mostly to vacationers and short-term visitors with money to splurge, but all in all, Thailand remains a remarkable budget ‘workcation’ by any standards.

Recently, Thailand has announced the rollout of a Digital Nomad Visa, promising to make relocation and long-term residence easier for those interested.

Turkiye

Sitting atop the natural border between Europe and Asia, Turkiye (formerly spelled Turkey) has always been Europe’s go-to summer and winter sun destination.

Since it reopened its borders, however, it’s been attracting a new niche of visitors, and they are unlikely to leave anytime soon.

Digital nomads love Turkiye for its gorgeous Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean coastlines, dotted with quaint seaside villages, exciting city breaks, natural wealth, and of course, its low cost of living. In case you weren’t aware, it is one of the cheapest nomad destinations in Eurasia.

This is due to the depreciation of the Turkish lira, which has been getting progressively weaker against an ultra-valued dollar and giving Americans more purchasing power when residing in Turkiye for prolonged periods of time.

Some of the best cities to be a nomad in are Istanbul, the country’s most multicultural metropolis and an ancient gem we have written extensively about here; Antalya, a large city on the Mediterranean shoreline; Ankara, Turkiye’s vibrant inland capital; and Trabzon, the gateway to the Black Sea.

Regrettably, Turkiye has more restrictive visa rules than other countries on this list, requiring U.S. passport holders to apply for an eVisa ahead of visiting, but once approved, which is the likely outcome in practically 100% of cases, they can stay for 3 months as short-term tourists.

Those wishing to reside in Turkiye for longer must apply for a Residence Permit on other grounds, as Turkiye does not yet have a Digital Nomad Visa in place.

In general, authorities are not opposed to migration from the U.S. or Europe, which makes obtaining a long-term visa easier.

Albania

The final entry on this list, Albania was Europe’s underdog nation and its last hidden gem before it went viral all over TikTok last year, and tourists started flooding into its Adriatic beaches from all over the world, but that doesn’t mean it has been spoiled – not yet.

Unlike a majority of European countries, Albania is neither in the European Union nor the Schengen Zone.

This means they apply their own visa rules, and the Immigration Authority is not at all strict when it comes to long-term stays, especially when it’s Americans.

U.S. citizens can stay in Albania for a whole year visa-free, and you may be wondering why you should exactly, seeing it’s an unheard-of small Balkan nation.

If this article doesn’t inspire you to pack your bags and get the next plane out to Tirana, let us just reiterate that Albania is one of the most beautiful yet overlooked European countries.

It has 476 km of pristine coastline, hugged by the teal-colored waters of the Adriatic, a subdivision of the Mediterranean, crowd-free, fairytale UNESCO-listed towns dating back centuries, such as Berat and Gjirokaster, a quirky, unusually-modern national capital in Tirana, and a flavorful ethnic cuisine.

Tirana itself is a self-proclaimed European Capital for Digital Nomads, with its numerous internet cafes and low consumer prices.

It even hosted a nomad conference last year, which we attended ourselves and have been able to evaluate, firsthand, the infrastructure put in place for the community.

On average, you can live a pretty decent life in Albania, earning US$2,010 monthly, as verified by NomadList, and quite frankly, considering the amazing culture, breathtaking coastal views, and temperate climate – the Albanian coast is generally warmer than other European destinations in winter – we’re not sure we’d ever want to leave.

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December 5, 2023
This Is One Of The Top Destinations In Europe For Sun, Sand, And Culture In 2023

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It’s still only January, but anticipation for summer is at an all-time high in Europe now that it has entered the post-pandemic phase. Popular countries like France, Italy, and Greece are all seeing a rise in demand — as expected — but this hidden gem, in particular, is stealing the show as one of the top destinations for sun, sand, and culture in 2023:

Welcome To Cyprus

Cyprus is an island nation in the Mediterranean and the Southeasternmost member of the European Union (EU). Although it is indisputably European, its closest neighbors geographically are Turkey (the Anatolian peninsula is only 50 nautical miles north), Syria, Lebanon, and Egypt. Due to its unique status, it sits at the crossroads of Europe and Western Asia.

It is also one of the most ethnically diverse states in Europe, home to Cypriots of Greek, Turkish, Armenian, Maronite, and Latin origin. Although the ethnic Greek population forms an overwhelming majority – over 78% of the island – the cultural contributions of minority groups are evident, whether it’s the local folklore, cuisine, or customs.

As a tourist destination, Cyprus boasts a scenic Mediterranean coastline, untouched nature, and a fascinating History. From Ayia Napa, in the East, to Paphos out West, it offers a plethora of sandy beaches, heavenly turquoise-water bays, and marine parks, all interspersed with quaint fishing villages and lively urban developments.

During the health crisis, international arrivals dropped to a historical low of 663,000, a 79.57% decline from 2019. Similarly to other EU member states, the Republic of Cyprus enacted some of the strictest anti-tourism measures in their attempt to keep Covid variants from being imported, including banning entry to most non-EU nationals.

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It only reopened for the wider public in 2021, though its vaccination, multiple testing, and mandatory quarantine requirements discouraged a majority of tourists from visiting. Once the virus came under control across the Union, however, Cyprus became one of the first European countries to lift all border measures as early as May 2022.

Cyprus Is Nearing Pre-Pandemic Levels

Following two years of self-imposed isolation, the move was warmly received by tourism officials, who feared the Cypriot Government’s tough stance would harm its competitivity in the Mediterranean region in the long term. Indeed, arrival figures are below 2019’s nearly a year into reopening, but they are nearing pre-pandemic levels fast.

According to the latest data published by the Statistical Service, between January and December 2022, 3,201,080 foreigners arrived in Cyprus, up from 1,936,931 tourists the year before. So far, 2019 retains the all-time record for yearly arrivals, with close to 4 million holidaymakers registered that year.

From 2020, the year-on-year growth is rather impressive, taking into account that border curbs were only lifted in 2022 Q2 (second quarter), and the war in Ukraine led to a sharp decrease in the number of tourists from Russia and Ukraine, two of Cyprus’ most lucrative markets. To put it simply, Cyprus is totally smashing it on the post-pandemic scene.

Despite its popularity within Europe, Cyprus is still relatively unknown among Americans. They are nowhere to be seen in the top 10 nationalities visiting Cyprus every year, though the Government is investing heavily in online campaigns aimed at introducing the beautiful island to the world, reaching, on average, a billion smartphone users per year.

Why Is Cyprus Your Best Bet For A Relaxed European Summer?

More challenging to reach from the mainland U.S. than Italy or Spain due to non-existing nonstop flight options, Cyprus is largely ignored by U.S. passport holders heading to Southern Europe. For the crowd-wary traveler looking for alternatives off the beaten path, it is one of the best bets for a slow-paced, truly relaxing Mediterranean vacay.

If it’s all-inclusive packages you’re into, Protaras and Ayia Napa, on the Southeastern tip, have an extensive portfolio of luxurious beachfront resorts and villas. Looking for a lively social scene and the island’s best nightlife? Head to the coastal Limassol, the country’s second-largest city dubbed the ‘mini Dubai’. You’re a History aficionado? No problem:

Some of the top sights include Romanesque cathedrals dating back centuries, incredibly well-preserved Hellenic ruins, such as the UNESCO-protected Tombs of the Kings in Paphos, and cobblestone towns tucked away in a mountainous inland, famous for their tradition and winemaking. On top of that, Cyprus is the birthplace of Aphrodite in Greek mythology.

North vs. South Cyprus

Traveling to Cyprus, non-European tourists are reminded the island remains divided between the internationally-recognized Republic of Cyprus, an EU member, and the breakaway, unrecognized state of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). A UN buffer zone runs along the northern third of the island and splits the Cypriot capital Nicosia in half.

For tourism purposes, there are only two official entry points into the Republic of Cyprus: the airports in Larnaca (LCA) and Paphos (PFO). The third airport, Ercan (ECN), is controlled by TRNC authorities. Foreigners landing first in Ercan will be denied entry to the Republic of Cyprus when attempting to cross from North to South.

Read more about the Cypriot division and other important travel tips here.

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January 24, 2023
Top 5 Things Americans Need To Know About Mexican Culture

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Mexico is an extremely popular destination for American travelers. Americans account for the largest percentage of tourists in the country, with millions visiting the country every year.

In 2022, Mexico’s popularity with Americans has continued to grow, with destinations like Cancun and Puerto Vallarta breaking records. In the first quarter of 2022 alone, more than 3 million Americans visited Mexico.

It is also the top country for American expats, with as many as one million Americans living temporarily or permanently in Mexico.

Mexico is popular with Americans due to its beautiful beaches and nature, exciting cities, delicious food and great culture, affordable prices, and close proximity to the United States.

For Americans planning to visit Mexico soon, here are several key things to know about Mexican culture before your trip:

1. Tipping Is Customary In Mexico

Unlike some international destinations in Asia or Europe where tipping is not a thing, it’s customary in Mexico.

Much like in the United States, it’s expected that you leave una propina for restaurant servers, bartenders, valets, hotel maids, and other service workers. At a restaurant, 10% to 15% of the total bill is an appropriate tip.

In more touristy areas, a gratuity may be automatically added to your bill at a restaurant, in which case an additional tip is not needed.

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2. Don’t Expect English Everywhere

In many popular destinations in the country, you’ll have no trouble finding fluent English speakers within the tourism and hospitality industries.

However, in total, only 12% of Mexicans speak English as a second language (which is still much higher than the percentage of non-Hispanic Americans who speak Spanish as a second language.)

This means that English is not as common in Mexico as some American tourists might expect, especially away from the most touristy areas.

Learning basic Spanish before visiting Mexico will go a long way, making it easier to communicate and get around the country.

3. Prepare For A Slower Pace Of Life

There’s a slower pace of life in Mexico when it comes to many things, some positive and some negative.

Long, unrushed meals with friends and family and the traditional afternoon siesta are examples of Mexico’s more relaxed pace of life. Shops often close earlier and may not open at all on Sundays or holidays, and there’s less of a 24/7 culture like the U.S. has.

However, this can also be a drawback because things can take longer than some Americans may expect, and there’s plenty of slow-moving bureaucracy in the country.

4. There’s Always Something To Celebrate In Mexico

Mexican culture is incredibly vibrant. Family, friends, and community are extremely important in Mexico.

You’ll find that someone is always celebrating in Mexico, whether it’s unique holidays like Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead), Semana Santa (Holy Week), Navidad y las Posadas (the Christmas season), and Día de la Independencia (Independence Day.)

Parades, processionals, decorations, and other events are common during holidays in Mexico, along with special meals. Weddings and birthdays (especially quinceañeras) are also a big deal.

Many Americans may find the country to be shockingly noisy, with fireworks and loud music common at any time of day, but that’s just part of the culture and day-to-day life in Mexico.

5. Mexican Culture Is Incredibly Diverse

Despite pervasive stereotypes Americans may be familiar with, Mexican culture is not a monolith. It’s actually incredibly diverse.

Mexico is a blend of many different cultures, including Indigenous, European, African, and mestizaje (mixed.) Although Mexico is an 80% Roman Catholic country, there is also still significant Indigenous influence.

More than 300 languages are spoken in Mexico, and the diversity of the country can be seen in its varied destinations, from electrifying cities to ancient Aztec ruins to picture-perfect colonial towns.

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November 29, 2022