Tag: Destinations

Top 10 Beach Destinations For Digital Nomads
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Remote work is allowing travelers to live their workation experience at their best! Most workers with the possibility to do their jobs from anywhere in the world are choosing beach destinations.

The possibility to finish assignments and later swim or watch the sunset in the ocean adds quality of life and valuable experiences for digital nomads. Remote, a global HR company, has recently shared a study showcasing the best beaches in the world to work remotely.

Remote’s specialists considered the best locations for a healthy work-life balance that would motivate and excite remote employees. The study considered these main aspects:
- Population.
- Average Internet speed.
- Average sunlight hours per day.
- Visa requirement.
- Entertainment options.
- Cost of living.
- Average cost of rent.
- Crime rate.
Experts considered lifestyles and the basic needs for digital nomads and came up with a wonderful list of options from Asia to Africa to the Caribbean.

Airbnb already disclosed the most popular cities for digital nomads in the United States, but for those who want to explore further here’s the list of the top 10 beach destinations according to this study:

Brades, Montserrat

Montserrat, the beautiful island in the Caribbean offers remote workers a special location in the capital. Digital nomads can rent a place for around $308 per month in Brades. This town has low crime rates and visitors have the possibility to stay for up to six months without a visa in this relaxing town.

The Valley, Anguilla

The capital of the Caribbean island Anguilla offers travelers a unique town with famous colonial buildings and gorgeous panoramic coastal views as well as great outdoor activities.

Zadar, Croatia

Croatia, the most sought-after destination in Europe at the moment, hosts a fascinating city on the Dalmatian coast: Zadar. Digital nomads can enjoy the quiet beaches, and explore its Roman and Venetian ruins for up to 90 days without a visa.

Lagos, Portugal

This city in the south of Portugal allows remote workers to use high internet speed and collect unique experiences that can only be found here. From local wine tasting to dolphin watching to visiting natural sea caves, there are so many things visitors can do.

Taghazout, Morocco

This fishing village might be hard to pronounce but so easy to live in. Monthly rents cost on average $150 and the monthly cost of living is around $390. It’s also ideal for remote workers who enjoy surfing, visiting lovely cafes, and admiring local arts and crafts.

Saint George’s, Bermuda

Super fast internet connection and spectacular beaches will make any remote worker feel in paradise in this town in Bermuda. But nothing is perfect, the monthly costs of living reach on average $1,847.

Goa, India

For those who enjoy visiting exotic and multicultural destinations, this state in India offers a wonderful Portuguese and Indian cultural mixture, a beach paradise, and the lowest monthly costs of living including rent: $306.

Flic en Flac, Mauritius

Not too far from Madagascar, the island Mauritius offers remote workers a wonderful coastal destination: Flic en Flac. This location has a magnificent public white sandy beach, no visa requirement for 90 days, and a decent internet connection. Digital nomads can live there for $630 per month.

Bridgetown, Barbados

Another fascinating capital, Bridgetown—Rihanna’s hometown—, provides the best service for digital nomads. Fast internet connection of 60.25 Mbps, up to a six-month stay without a visa, and spectacular beaches. Remote workers get to really enjoy their stay, get to know the historical town, and swim in the warm Caribbean waters.

Noord, Aruba

Noord allows visitors to stay for 30 days without a visa, but digital nomads can request an extension to enjoy this gorgeous beach destination for 180 days. The costs of living for one person aren’t that low, around $950 per month. Travelers can also stay at low-rise or high-rise hotels and visit the spectaculars Eagle Beach and Arashi Beach.

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

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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August 12, 2022
Record Amounts Of Seaweed Invading Top Destinations Including Cancun And Puerto Rico
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Masses of sargassum seaweed have been invading popular and touristic Caribbean destinations—from Puerto Rico to Barbados— for months, ruining travelers’ vacations and worrying local authorities about economic and environmental consequences.

“This year has been the worst year on record,” said the researcher and faculty member with Florida Sea Grant Lisa Krimsky as reported by the news agency Associated Press (AP).

Krimsky, also Water Resource Regional Specialized Agent based in southeast Florida added: “It is absolutely devastating for the region.”

Over 18.8 million tons in May and over 24 million tons of these brown algae spread across the Atlantic Ocean this year and during July authorities informed that the sargassum keeps arriving non-stop and numbers have not decreased.

This year’s numbers have been considered by the University of South Florida’s Optical Oceanography Lab as “a new historical record” in a report recently published.

Oceanography professor Chuanmin Hu said that according to the data analyzed, the previous record was noted in May 2018 and this year the sargassum levels were higher by 20%. The professor confessed his reaction: “I was scared.”

Over 800 tons of sargassum were collected in June only from Cancun beaches. The different authorities in the Caribbean have been dealing with this problem by applying different strategies to protect local nature and prevent tourism chaos.

What Travelers Should Know About Sargassum

The large brown seaweed is considered harmless to humans but gives off an unpleasant smell —similar to rotten eggs— when it decomposes, covers beautiful sands and pristine waters, and can affect the local ecosystem.

Some people have reported rashes and blisters after being in contact with this seaweed. According to Florida Health’s report, this is caused by sea creatures that live within this algae. So, it’s better to avoid contact with it.

The sargassum creates island-like masses in the ocean that help animals migrate and has an important role in our ecosystem, but it gives off hydrogen sulfide that can irritate the eyes, throat, and nose. Travelers with asthma or other breathing illnesses might be more affected or could have trouble breathing after being exposed to it.

These are general recommendations when visiting a beach with sargassum:
- Avoid touching it.
- Use gloves if you have to handle it.
- Close doors and windows if you are staying near beaches or coasts with sargassum.
- Avoid the beach or staying for too long if you have asthma or respiratory problems.
- Do not cook it or eat it. It is not edible, it can contain metals like arsenic and cadmium.
Another strategy for travelers is to plan their Caribbean vacations during times when they can avoid these algae or consider locations where it doesn’t usually sit.

The best times to visit the Caribbean are between November and March, sargassum’s peak season is usually between May and September.

Top Destinations Dealing With Sargassum

Cancun authorities have assigned local workers to collect sargassum away from there to beaches. Travelers have opted for beaches and locations that do not have these algae like Isla Mujeres or visit spectacular Cenotes around the Quintana Roo state.

In Puerto Rico, local authorities worry about sargassum because they believe that it can affect one of the hottest spots on the island, the bioluminescent bay Fajardo. Tourism kayak companies and the government are studying the sargassum and working on solutions while cleaning it from their coasts.

In Costa Rica, authorities assigned a team to take care of the algae and protect the nesting process of sea turtles. The government also worries about the offshore industry and has been working in collaboration with other nations.

International organizations, including the United Nations, are studying the sargassum, trying to understand why it keeps growing, and working on the best solutions.

Also, different local companies are turning sargassum into new products —from gas to cosmetic products to vegan leather— to use its excess and turn it into innovative solutions.

Read More:

3 Popular Beaches In Mexico Considered Unsafe For Swimming Due To Bacteria

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

Digital Nomad Scene In Mexico City Exploding In Popularity

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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August 4, 2022
Top Global Destinations For Remote Working Revealed
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The best destinations around the world for remote working have been revealed following a study. Travel wasn’t the only thing to change significantly as a result of the pandemic, with the way in which we work also undergoing a facelift courtesy of strict policies such as lockdowns and stay at home orders. As a result of these policies, now more and more people are choosing to work from home where possible – with some even electing to work from a different country altogether.

Taking into account a range of different factors, from a country’s digital infrastructure to its economic and social conditions, a definitive list of the best places to work remotely has been created by NordLayer – and it might just inspire you to take the plunge and book those tickets. Here’s a look at the list of the top global destinations for remote working, plus a look at the methodology behind how it was calculated.

Top Destinations Revealed – Information For Travelers

The study into which destinations around the world are the best choices for remote workers was completed by the network access security company NordLayer. Officially titled the Global Remote Work Index, it analyzed destinations across several key metrics, including safety, internet quality, tourism attractiveness, cost of living and English proficiency. Each country was then assigned an index score, which were used to rank countries. A total of 66 countries were included in the study in total, providing travelers with remote work on their minds with plenty to digest.

Taking top spot in the Global Remote Work Index was Germany. The European economic powerhouse scored an unbeatable 0.824 on the index altogether, with notable highlights including the country’s impressive cyber security and economic and social conditions. Whilst it’s cost of living was amongst the higher side of the table and its internet quality and prices might put some travelers off, its high English proficiency, investment in education and healthcare and tourism attractiveness ratings were enough to see it crowned #1.

Second place went to another European nation, Denmark, with an index score of 0.816. Whilst being one of the most expensive countries on the list might prove unpopular with prospective remote workers, Denmark ranked in the top 10 in various categories such as internet quality, e-infrastructure and global health coverage – all of which are key things for remote workers. Offering a high quality of living coupled with a high cost of living, Denmark is a destination many may want to consider – but it might not be a hit for those looking to save.

The bronze medal went to the US, with an overall index score of 0.809. The US scored highly in key metrics such as economic and social conditions, digital and physical infrastructure and Covid-19 handling – where it came out on top overall. Low cyber security rankings and a high cost of living might put many remote workers off the idea of moving to the states, however it does offer travelers a high quality of living – which is one of the reasons many consider remote working in the first place.

Spain came in fourth place with a score of 0.796, citing good cyber security performances, a more affordable cost of living than many destinations and the best tourism attractiveness rating out of any of the countries included in the index. Fifth place went to Lithuania, narrowly behind Spain with a score of 0.794. Lithuania boasts the second highest cyber security rating and third most affordable internet, though its quality is far behind some of its peers. Not the most glamorous location, Lithuania offers remote workers the opportunity to save money and conduct their work with peace of mind.

The top 10 countries in the Global Remote Work Index are as follows:
1. Germany
2. Denmark
3. U.S.
4. Spain
5. Lithuania
6. Netherlands
7. Sweden
8. Estonia
9. Singapore
10. France
Read More:

U.S. State Department Issues 16 New Travel Advisory Updates

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

TikTok Study Reveals Most Popular Travel Destinations

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August 1, 2022
These Are The 10 Worst Destinations In The U.S. For Mosquitos This Summer
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Travelers often don’t even need to leave their own backyard to know that mosquitos are one of nature’s most frustrating inventions. In particularly bad areas, you’ve often already been bitten four or five times before noticing. Usually, mosquitos are just an annoyance, but they can also spread diseases like Zika and malaria. In the United States, only about 12 out of 200 different types of mosquitos can spread germs and illnesses, according to the CDC. However, whether avoiding a minor nuisance or germs, it’s helpful to know where you can expect mosquitos to be prevalent. Below are the top 10 worst U.S. destinations for mosquitos this summer, according to an analysis by pest control company Orkin.

1) Los Angeles, CA

               Mosquito Season: All Year

Los Angeles has now claimed the top spot on Orkin’s list for two years in a row. The city’s temperate year-round climate means they nearly always have mosquitos around, but the worst time for mosquitos runs from June to November in Los Angeles.

2) Chicago, IL

               Mosquito Season: April – October

Chicago ranks as the second worst city for Mosquitos, moving up from its previous position in fifth place. Mosquito season in Chicago typically begins in April, worsens during summer, and tapers off in Autumn.

3) New York, NY

               Mosquito Season: April – October

New York also moved up in the ranks by three slots this year and is now the third worst destination in the U.S. for mosquitos. Mosquito season in the big apple runs from April through October, and most mosquitos in the city pose no harm of disease. The city has taken notice of its increase of annual pests and even sprayed larvicide from a helicopter over uninhabited parts of the city to curb their prevalence this year.

4) Washington, DC

               Mosquito Season: March – September

D.C. has improved its ranking over its third place rating from last year and is now the fourth worst destination in the U.S. for mosquitos. The capital’s mosquito season runs from late March to early September, and West Nile virus has been found in D.C. mosquitos. However, other diseases such as Zika and Dengue fever have not.

5) Atlanta, GA

               Mosquito Season: March – October

Atlanta improved by three slots this year and is now the fifth worst destination for mosquitos this summer. Several diseases spread in the Georgia mosquito population, but the West Nile virus was detected in Atlanta just this past week. Mosquitos start to come out in March and leave in October, but they are most prevalent during summer.

6) Dallas, TX

               Mosquito Season: February – November

Dallas improved its ranking by two slots this year but is still the sixth worst destination for mosquitos in the States. Summer months are the worst for mosquitos, and the season can begin as early as February in warmer years and last all the way until November.

7) Detroit, MI

               Mosquito Season: March – November

Detroit has ranked as the seventh worst destination for mosquitos for two years in a row. Mosquito season in Detroit can begin as early as late March and last into November. The West Nile Virus has also been detected in the population in the past.

8) San Francisco, CA

               Mosquito Season: All Year

San Francisco had a massive jump of 34 slots over the last year, giving it a new designation as the 8^th worst U.S. destination for mosquitos this summer. At the time of this writing, there have been five total human cases of West Nile virus in California this year, and none were in San Francisco. Given its temperate climate, San Francisco’s mosquito season runs all year, peaking from September to November.

9) Miami, FL

               Mosquito Season: All Year

Miami moved down the list one slot to become 2022’s 9^th worst destination for Mosquitos this summer. Many diseases are found in the mosquito population here, and The Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County just issued a mosquito-borne illness advisory after a confirmed case of Dengue fever of a resident. Mosquitos are around all year but peak in summer.

10) Philadelphia, PA

               Mosquito Season: April – October

Philadelphia jumped in the ranks by two slots over the last year, making it break the top 10. The city announced last month that it had detected the first West Nile virus-positive mosquitos of the season and recently sprayed larvicide to lower the mosquito population. Mosquito season here typically runs from April to October.

How to Prevent Mosquito Bites
- Pants and long sleeves that are loose-fitting will make it more difficult for mosquitos to bite you.
- Repellent that contains DEET will help keep mosquitos away.
- Eliminating standing water will help ensure you aren’t supplying a breeding ground for mosquitos.
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July 26, 2022
TikTok Study Reveals Most Popular Travel Destinations
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A recent TikTok study published this month has revealed which are the most popular travel destinations in the world right now. Social media has long since had a significant impact on the way we travel and which destinations are considered to be the most en trend and “must-visit” – and TikTok, despite being a more recent global phenomenon than other more established platforms, is front and centre of gauging the demands of the millions of travelers in our post-pandemic world.

Spanning five different continents and billions of views, the top 20 list, compiled by the luggage storage company Bounce, features some of the more typical favorite destinations that travelers have been loving for decades, in addition to some more left-field choices that may come as a surprise. Here’s a look at the world’s most popular travel destinations according to TikTok, plus a look at how the study was completed.

TikTok Travel Survey

The study, called the TikTok Travel Index, determined the popularity of each of the locations in the study by calculating the total view counts for a range of destinations around the world. Bounce collated the total use of hashtags containing each destination’s name, in addition to other alternative hashtags that were used where appropriate, such as #NYC or #LA. Each of the total view counts found by Bounce are accurate as of May 17th, 2021, making the finding up to date and relevant to the present day.

Most Popular Travel Destinations – Information For Travelers

Taking the top spot as the most popular travel destination on the platform is New York City – the first of five destinations in the US to feature on the list’s top 20. Whilst the attractions of New York City need no introduction, travelers couldn’t get enough of the city on TikTok, as it attracted more than 216 billion views – way ahead of the competition. Home to stunning cityscapes, some of the world’s best restaurants and top social media aesthetic-suiting backdrops such as Central Park, travelers couldn’t get enough of New York City, which will be bracing itself for an army of cell phone-toting travelers this summer and beyond.

Coming in as the world’s second most popular travel destination according to TikTok is Dubai. The TikTok friendly mega city, famed for its luxurious hotels, opulent malls and countless top-class attractions, attracted a whopping 37 billion views as social media users fantasized about days spent hopping across the man-made Palm islands, sampling its gold-crusted steaks and basking in the region’s hot climate.

The third most popular international travel destination on the platform is Istanbul. Somewhat of a surprise in the list, pipping much more established destinations such as Paris, London and Hawaii to a place on the podium, Istanbul garnered almost 17 billion views on the platform. Whether wooed by its sprawling markets, Islamic architecture or activities such as hot air ballooning, travelers reveled in any content based on the Turkish city, which is fast establishing itself as a must-visit destination.

The rest of the top 10 was fairly predictable. London was a close fourth place, attracting 13.9 billion views on the platform, with the photogenic destinations Barcelona and Paris relatively close behind with 12.6 billion and 11.2 billion views respectively. Mumbai was somewhat of a surprise in 7th place, with the Indian mega-city attracting 9.6 billion curious views, whilst the charms of the North America destinations Hawaii, Miami and Toronto sealed their places in the TikTok top 10 with 9.4 billion, 9.1 billion and 8.4 billion views.

The rest of the top 20 is as follows:
- Los Angeles, US (7.5 billion views)
- Bali, Indonesia (6.4 billion views)
- Chicago, US (6.4 billion views)
- Kerala, India (6.2 billion views)
- Berlin, Germany (5.7 billion views)
- Sydney, Australia (5.1 billion views)
- Melbourne, Australia (4.7 billion views)
- Madrid, Spain (4.3 billion views)
- Delhi, India (4.2 billion views)
- Medellin, Colombia (4.1 billion views)
Read More:

Top 10 Destinations Americans Are Most Likely To Get Sick

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

These Are The Top Hotel Brands In North America According To Travelers

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July 25, 2022
Top 10 Destinations Americans Are Most Likely To Get Sick
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One of the great joys of traveling is trying out new and exciting foods in the culture in which you immerse yourself. However, things don’t always work out after a delicious meal in a beautiful setting. Sometimes the result is far from beautiful. Trying new foods in a new place can lead to stomach problems or food poisoning, and nobody wants to be sick on their vacation. A recent study from Radical Storage revealed the top ten destinations where Americans are most likely to experience stomach troubles, and some of the results may surprise you.

65% of the Americans surveyed reported that they had experienced stomach sickness from eating or drinking while traveling. Of those who experienced stomach issues, over half said that it ruined 2-3 days of their trip. When spending hard-earned money to take a break from the day-to-day, a stomach bug can certainly do some serious damage to your wallet and your vacation. Below are the destinations Americans are most likely to have stomach issues and the percentage of respondents that reported having problems there.

These Are The Top 10 Destinations Americans Are Most Likely To Have Stomach Problems

1) Mexico (43.2%)

2) United Kingdom (33.1%)

3) Canada (30.7%)

4) Italy (22.1%)

5) France (21.5%)

6) China (17.4%

7) India (16.6%)

8) Spain (16.2%)

9) Germany (15.8%)

10) Dominican Republic (14.6%)

According to the study, the older you are, the less likely you are to experience stomach problems while traveling. This seems counter-intuitive since statistics tell us that you are more likely to experience health issues as you age. However, younger travelers are often more adventurous and willing to take risks with food and drinks. 31% of respondents who had gotten sick reported that they were confident they got sick after eating food from a vendor that was not a restaurant, such as a street food vendor.

Income also played a role in who fell ill and who did not. Respondents who earned more than $80,000 per year reported the least amount of stomach problems, implying that spending more on food and beverages decreases the likelihood of sickness. However, it’s impossible to prevent food-borne illnesses 100% of the time. Even five-star restaurants will have the occasional ingredient that ends with a customer being sick.

The clear “winner” for destinations where you are likely to experience stomach problems was Mexico, with 43% of respondents reporting that they had a problem there. Of those respondents, 31% said they would avoid future vacations to the area based on their experience. Many have heard of Montezuma’s Revenge, usually picked up from drinking tap water in Mexico. The illness only affects tourists and visitors as those native to the area are resistant to the bacteria that cause it. When traveling internationally, it is good practice to research whether or not the local tap water will affect you and try to stick to bottled water if you are uncertain. Despite the risks, 31.5% of respondents said that they would be willing to drink tap water while on vacation.

How To Prevent Stomach Illnesses

While there are never any 100% guarantees, you can take steps to protect yourself from falling victim to stomach illnesses while on vacation. Many Americans are not guaranteed vacation time, so making use of every moment while traveling is essential. Here are a few things you can do to lessen your chances of experiencing stomach trouble.
- Research the tap water. Many countries have tap water that is safe to drink for Americans. Still, knowing if your destination falls in that category is essential before you head out.
- Never eat undercooked meats.
- Stay hydrated. Your stomach functions best when adequately hydrated, so keep drinking water throughout the day.
- Wash your hands. If there is one thing that Covid drilled into everyone’s brains, it was to wash your hands. Gastroenteritis (the stomach flu) is most often transmitted by hands. If you are unable to wash, consider using hand sanitizer.
Regardless of your destination, if you take proper precautions, eat from reputable restaurants and groceries, and do your research, it is unlikely you will run into trouble.

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July 23, 2022
10 Destinations Where Travelers Are Most Likely To Be Pickpocketed
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Travel lovers are, unfortunately, the most likely targets for pickpockets around the world. Whether true or not, pickpockets often view tourists as wealthy, making travelers a prime opportunity in a pickpocket’s mind. For travelers, falling victim to a pickpocket can quickly turn the trip of a lifetime into a dreadful ordeal. A recent study by money.co.uk reveals the top 10 places tourists are most likely to be pickpocketed. Below are the top 10 places to be on your guard based on total Tripadvisor reviews that mention pickpocketing and what you can do to lessen your chances of becoming a victim.

1) Las Ramblas pedestrian walkway – Barcelona, Spain
- 3,271 Reviews mention pickpockets.
- Barcelona is known to have many pickpockets, and this famous walkway is one of the main hotspots.
- There was an average of 12 robberies every hour in 2018 in Barcelona.
2) Eiffel Tower – Paris, France
- 2,569 Reviews mention pickpockets
- Paris, and the Eiffel Tower specifically, is known to have a significant number of pickpockets and street scams.
- In 2015, there was even a temporary shutdown of the Eiffel Tower as employees staged a walkout to protest the surge of pickpocket gangs in the area.
3) Trevi Fountain – Rome, Italy
- 2,206 Reviews mention pickpockets
- According to legend, if you toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain, you will return to Rome. This leads to almost $1.7 million worth of coins collected yearly, which goes to charity. Naturally, a pickpocket views the area as an opportunity to steal coins and pickpocket visitors.
4) Charles Bridge – Prague, Czech Republic
- 1,081 Reviews mention pickpockets
- Like the Trevi Fountain, Charles Bridge has its own ritual. Touching the statue of St. John of Nepomuk on the bridge will bring you good luck and make sure you return to Prague. Pickpockets see this area as a great way to distract you while they attempt to steal your vacation money.
5) Sacré-Cœur – Paris, France
- 914 Reviews mention pickpockets
- This church offers some fantastic views of Paris, but street scammers and pickpockets are lining the entrance and the walk up to the main building.
6) Colosseum – Rome, Italy
- 666 Reviews mention pickpockets
- Every year, over 6 million people visit the Colosseum. This makes it a hotspot for pickpockets who take advantage of the crowds and distractions.
7) Old Town Square – Prague, Czech Republic
- 646 Reviews mention pickpockets
- The central square of the historic section of Prague, Old Town Square, is one of the top attractions in the capital city. The astronomical clock, in particular, is a go-to site for tourists. Its popularity with tourists also makes it famous for pickpockets.
8) Louvre – Paris, France
- 598 Reviews mention pickpockets
- The Louvre is one of the top attractions in Paris, welcoming over 9 million people per year. As such, it is a popular spot for pickpockets. Just like the Eiffel Tower, staff at the Louvre have staged walkouts in the past to protest the increasingly bold pickpockets in the area.
9) Notre-Dame Cathedral – Paris, France
- 408 Reviews mention pickpockets
- This world-famous cathedral welcomes 30,000 people a day. As with many other places on this list, a tourist magnet like this also attracts pickpockets.
10) Sagrada Família – Barcelona, Spain
- 407 Reviews mention pickpockets
- An architectural masterpiece, Sagrada Família, is another tourist destination with its fair share of pickpockets. 4.5 million people visit this site annually, making it an ideal spot for thieves.
So What Can You Do?

The number of reviews that mention pickpockets seems high enough to worry when visiting the above areas. Still, there are several precautions you can take to minimize your chances of becoming a victim.
- For men, don’t wear your wallet in your back pocket. Pickpockets tend to avoid front pockets, buttoned pockets, and zippered pockets. If you cannot secure your wallet more, be sure never to carry more than you can afford to lose.
- Don’t continually tap your pockets to see if you still have all of your items; this tells pickpockets exactly where to find them.
- For women, don’t carry your wallet inside your purse. Instead, opt for a zippered pocket if possible.
- Leave expensive jewelry at home, and don’t carry expensive designer items. These set you apart as a target.
- When visiting high-traffic areas, be extra cautious. Be on the lookout for lone pickpockets as well as pickpockets that work in groups. A common scam to watch out for is younger people in a group of three or four walking around trying to get signatures for a petition. While they distract you with your signature, your view is obstructed from your vulnerable pockets.
- Most importantly, don’t let the threat of pickpockets keep you from enjoying yourself! If you are smart and stay cautious when needed, your chances of being pickpocketed are minimal.
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July 22, 2022
New Tourist Train Connecting Cancun To Major Tourism Destinations Will Launch Next Year
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Maya Train Set To Connect The Yucatan Peninsula Like Never Before

An exciting new railway system is set to be unveiled in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula in 2023 after the government removed roadblocks surrounding its development. The controversial project will connect the popular hub of Cancun with countless towns, cities, and sites around the region like never before.

Cancun, along with the likes of Playa del Carmen and Tulum, is an incredibly popular destination for sun-seeking vacationers but suffers from a lack of connectivity with the wealth of cultural attractions in its surrounding area. The vast majority of visitors to the region have their sights set on an all-inclusive resort in the hotel zone and rarely venture out unless on an organized tour.

The new railway project, The Maya Train, is set to change all that. The sprawling 948-mile line will connect Cancun with the entire peninsula with ease, offering tourists and residents alike the chance to explore the region with independence, transforming the landscape for the industry. The line will pass through the states of Quintana Roo, Yucutan, Chiapas, Campeche, and Tabasco.

If estimates are correct, tourists will now be connected with as many as 190 individual cultural sites, archeological zones, or tourist attractions. 46 Mayan sites will be accessible, as well as 14 of Mexico’s “Magical Towns,” which are villages or towns noted for their cultural significance or beauty.

The final product will be a large loop with two offshoots to reach destinations slightly further out and will feature twenty individual train stations at strategic points around the peninsula.

Tourists can expect the typical big names to all have their own station. Cancun, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Morelos, all the major beach destinations, will be connected along their short strip of the Mexican Caribbean coast, opening the opportunity for resort loyalists to try a quick trip to another town with ease.

More exciting is the new kind of travel experience it will provide regular visitors and new ones alike. Cancun is generally avoided by cultural tourists due to the lack of historic sites in the immediate vicinity and the emphasis on luxury and resort life. When the system is completed, travelers will now be able to visit the likes of Merida, recently named one of the best cities in the world to visit.

Merida highlights a drastically different experience from the beachside resorts, offering a chance to try more local food, understand the colonial history of the area, and move at a different pace than the hotel zones.

There’s also a stop for the world-famous Mayan ruin, Chichen Itza, one of the wonders of the world. Previously, if visitors to Cancun or Tulum had intended to visit the site, the easiest way would have been to book an organized tour or rent a car. The train simplifies the accessibility issues of visiting, adding to the value of a stay anywhere in the peninsula.

Other interesting stops on the line include often neglected Quintana Roo capital Chetumal and several other lesser-known inland towns.

The project hasn’t been without its controversies, however, and dissenters have successfully stalled its construction several times. Environmentalists and historians have scorned the seemingly rushed development of the Maya Train. Many claim the construction in some areas is bulldozing through valuable undiscovered Mayan archeology zones, destroying pieces of Mexico’s cultural heritage.

Those protecting the environment are concerned about underground caverns and cenotes that will be destroyed in the process. Many of these caves were also sacred places for the Mayan civilization and could also be valuable archeology sites. Others have highlighted the destruction of rainforest areas in the region.

Mexico’s government is often accused for cutting corners for financial benefit, and it appears to have wrangled its way around any further roadblocks by declaring the project a “National Security Project,” which grants it priority over some of the cultural discrepancies that have been brought to light.

If all goes to plan, the train linee should be functional by the end of 2023, although it is likely it may be extended into 2024 along with Tulum’s new airport.

A full list of the intended Maya Train Stations are listed below:
- Palenque
- Tenosique
- Balancan
- Escárcega
- San Francisco de Campeche
- Mérida, Izamal
- Chichén Itzá
- Valladolid
- Cobá
- Cancún
- Puerto Morelos
- Playa del Carmen
- Tulum
- Felipe Carrillo Puerto
- Bacalar
- Calakmul
- El Triunfo
- Boca Del Cerro
- Xpujil
- Nuevo Xsan
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July 21, 2022
CDC Moves 4 Destinations To High-Risk Category
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States recently updated its Travel Notice page and moved four countries in its COVID-19 Travel Recommendations section.

All countries were previously in “Level 2: COVID-19 Moderate”, but due to increasing cases in these locations, the agency is now considering these destinations as high risk. The criteria consider new cases per 100,000 population and for this category over 100 cases must have been registered.

The countries that were already deemed high risk:
- Sweden
- Jamaica
- Mexico
- Bahamas
- Aruba
- Dominican Republic
- Argentina
- France
- Germany
- Greece
Four New Countries Join The High Risk Category

Bolivia, Peru, Lebanon, and Tunisia now join the list of countries and popular destinations considered high risk. high risk like the Dominican Republic —updated just a few weeks ago—, Mexico, Sweden, Jamaica, the Bahamas, Aruba, Argentina, France, Germany, and Greece.

CDC’s Travel Advice For Bolivia, Lebanon, Peru, And Tunisia

The US agency has similar considerations and travel recommendations for Bolivia, Peru, Lebanon, and Bolivia regarding COVID-19.

These are the CDC’s main recommendations for travelers who are interesting in visiting these nations:
- Before travel, make sure to have all COVID-19 primary vaccines series and boosters.
- Non-vaccinated travelers should avoid traveling to Bolivia, Peru, Lebanon, and Tunisia.
- Travelers must understand that even if they are vaccinated, there is a high risk of getting and spreading the virus in these destinations.
- Travelers over 2 years old should wear face masks properly in indoor public spaces and in public transportations, including trains, airplanes, buses, or ferries.
- Those with weakened immune systems should consider delaying the travel because even vaccinated travelers could be seriously affected by the virus.
- Follow and respect recommendations and requirements from local authorities in Bolivia, Peru, Lebanon, and Tunisia —including mandatory testing, mask mandates, and quarantine requirements— and also from airlines.
- Travelers who decide to visit high-risk destinations should take precautions and get tested before traveling.
- Those with any COVID-19-related symptoms —such as cough, fatigue, headaches, sore throat, nausea, diarrhea, or difficulty breathing— should not travel.
Travelers can visit the CDC Travel section to learn more about health and travel recommendations as well as travel requirements.

More About The Now High-Risk Destinations

The CDC has recently shared general recommendations for travelers focused on COVID-19. But travelers might also be interested in learning more about these destinations in South America, North Africa, and the Middle East, as well as other travel recommendations:

Peru: This country hosts one of the greatest attractions in Latin America, the Machu Picchu. Travelers from all over the world come to explore the remarkable Inca ruins, one of the Seven Wonders of The World, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and the rich culture in this country.

Besides, COVID-19-related warnings, the CDC has more travel warnings regarding Altitude Illness —typical while climbing Machu Picchu—, yellow fever, malaria, and other infectious diseases.

Bolivia: This country has gained popularity for its loads of lamas, beautiful landscapes, and the impressive Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat. American travelers need a visa to visit this country, it will allow them to visit for 30 days.

There are no local COVID-19-related restrictions at the moment, but according to the information shared by the US Embassy, facemasks are still mandatory in public places and some rules might change depending on the municipality.

Tunisia: Travelers enjoy visiting its great variety of historical attractions, amazing sand dunes, and deserts used as Star War sets. Tunisia has the 4th most important city in the Islamic World, Kairouan, established 670AD.

Testing requirements for travelers have been removed, but due to recent strikes, the US State Department recently issued a warning and reminded US citizens to be cautious and stay vigilant.

Lebanon: Besides its amazing music, food, and art, this small country is also home to ancient Roman ruins, castles, and also historic mosques and churches.

Travelers enjoy exploring this country for its rich culture, delicious food, and great attractions: from beautiful beaches to ski resorts.

Read More:

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Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

Top Hotel Chains That Have Fast Internet And Are Perfect For Digital Nomads

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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July 17, 2022
Italy Launches Campaign To Promote 1000 Off The Beaten Path Destinations

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Italy has become a very popular destination for summer vacations, especially for Americans. A recent report published by Airbnb revealed that US travelers are highly interested in visiting destinations like Venice, Capri, and Florence this year.

The Italian government is aware of the popularity of the country for international travelers, and —while it helps the nation overcome the pandemic and the Ukrainian war crisis— it’s also worried about overtoursim.

The Italian Ministry of Tourism and the National Tourism Board have recently worked together on a solution and launched a new campaign to promote spectacular off-the-beaten-path destinations.

“This was part of the strategic plan by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to better connect the well-known areas with those less known,” says Maria Elena Rossi, head of the tourism board, as reported by Euronews.

The new initiative is called “Viaggio Italiano” (Italian journey) and hopes to show travelers unpopular destinations with high tourism potential. This project has been described on the official website as “an unforgettable journey through villages, landscapes, paths, and foods”.

Over 1,000 fascinating villages, 100 landscapes, and 100 walking routes are being promoted with this new campaign. In the press release it was stated: “Today, Italy is more desired than ever. Precisely for this reason, it is the ideal moment to intercept visitors, Italian and non-Italians, through a clear and evocative insight: ‘A lifetime would not be enough to discover all of Italy”.

Now travelers have a fascinating guide created by experts to discover “the real Italy”, avoid large crowds, and still experience the fascinating Italian culture.

Hidden Gems In Italy

The Italian government has developed a platform visitors can use to discover exotic and special landscapes. Users can try the interactive map and plan a route or use a filter to choose a destination within a specific region.

Travelers will discover charming short videos and even historic quotes related to the location. These are three examples of the fascinating destinations promoted on the website:

Abruzzo: Not Just Mountains

According to the information featured, in this region Travelers will encounter friendly people and can learn about local ancient festivals. Visitors can also taste the delicious local wine and explore its rivers, coast and green mountains and meadows.

Cinque Terre: In Liguria

In this string of five ancient coastal villages, travelers will find colorful houses, beautiful vineyards, and amazing views from the tops of the cliffs. The website states that nature has a “strong personality” here and visitors will feel happy walking on its paths.

La Valle Dei Templi, Selinunte: In Sicily

The valley of the temples offers visitors a fascinating archaeological landscape with Greek culture and aesthetics. Travelers will find powerful energy and a very Mediterranean charm. “Even after millennia, as products of ingenuity and spirituality impossible to be reduced to a simple ruin or a banal postcard image, but to be understood as a historical landscape that honors civilization.”

There is also a special category for the “Flavors of Italy” where travelers will find a guide explaining the traditional local dishes, routes with places to visit to taste original local food, and information about food and wine events.

For example, if a user wants to know more about food in the region of Puglia, the platform will display information about its wonderful olive oil and wines, details about traditional dishes like the “Panzerotti”, itineraries on the coast, and interesting facts about the “Due Mari wine fest di Taranto”, a gastronomical event in Taranto.

Those interested in trekking and cycling routes will also find valuable information. The Italian government has highlighted 100 amazing routes to promote “slow travel” and sustainable tourism. Travelers can discover Italy by exploring some of the featured paths like The Mining Route of Santa Barbara in a national park in Sardinia, with different routes that can be explored by walking, bike, or horse riding.

More information is available on the official website for the campaign viaggio.italia.it.

Read More:

Top Summer Destinations 2022 For U.S. Travelers According To Airbnb

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

Italy Vacations Threatened As Airport Staff Announce Strikes Over Summer

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

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July 5, 2022