Tag: Dreamy

Dreamy Mexico Getaway Without The Crowds: Top 4 Destinations To Visit

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We’ve all seen the pictures of the dreamy beaches and incredible-looking food from all over Mexico this summer, but if you’ve actually been there yourself (or are close to someone who has), you know that that’s far from the whole picture.

The beaches are jam-packed, you’ll have to wait an obscene amount of time just to take a picture or two in front of a famous attraction, and getting a dinner reservation in one of those trendy restaurants you’ve seen all over the place is near impossible.

The good news is that if you’re not set on a destination yet, you still have time to plan a Mexico getaway with all the fun, relaxation, and stunning scenery you expect with none of the crowds.

Just take a look at these four underrated gems scattered across the country and try to book those tickets while you still can!

Mahahual

After years of dealing with insufferable crowds and miles-long lines, I’ve officially fallen in love with Mahahual, and it’s not hard to see why.

The once-secluded fishing village has become one of the trendiest, most fascinating beach hubs in the country while maintaining its authentic and laid-back flair—in today’s hectic travel world, that’s no easy feat!

And if you’ve yet to experience the Mexican hub firsthand, count yourself lucky.

You’re getting a chance to take in all of its charm right as the town slips into its low season.

Don’t worry, though; temperatures still sit at a pleasant 75°F-90°F range (24°C-32°C), so make sure to pack lots and lots of swimsuits.

Your days here will be spent taking a peaceful stroll along the town’s Malecón, snorkeling along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, or just soaking in the sun at Maya Chan Beach (a personal favorite).

And for all my adventurous souls out there eager to take in the region’s incredible underwater landscape, there are so many amazing diving centers in Mahahual you’ll have a hard time picking just one, though, if I were you, I’d start with either Mar Adentro or Doctor Dive.

Bacalar

Bacalar has long been touted as the next Tulum, but I think the comparison doesn’t do it justice.

Don’t take my word for it, though – The Cancun Sun just came out with a report naming the town the most sought-after destination in the entire rand Costa Maya tourism corridor.

And remember, most of the rooms available in the area are already sold out, so if you want to book that Bacalar trip anytime soon, you’ll want to comb through the article linked above for some amazing hotel recommendations.

My tip would be to choose the cheapest option you’re comfortable with – you’ll be spending little to no time in your hotel room anyway,

Instead, you’ll be swimming in the crystal-clear lagoon, exploring the surrounding cenotes, and strolling through the narrow streets that take you right to the historic Fort of San Felipe – it really doesn’t get any better than this!

Bacalar San Felipe fort in Quintana Roo of Mexico

Puerto Morelos

There’s no denying the draw of Cancun – it’s exciting, relaxing, and downright gorgeous.

But if you’re put off by the insane crowds and hefty price tag, there’s a place you can go less than 40 minutes away where you’ll get a much quieter, more peaceful experience at a fraction of the price – Puerto Morelos.

With its fishing village charm and old-world vibe this often overlooked gem promises a blissful beach vacation, complete with quaint streets, a darling town square, and dreamy weather with temperatures that hover around the mid-80s°F.

Out of all the places to make it to today’s list, this is probably the one I’d recommend most to foodies.

Don’t get me wrong, the other towns all have their fair share of great restaurants, but the chicken fajitas and males you’ll find in El Charro are truly in a league of their own.

La Ribera

Finishing off with an even lesser-known town that’s nestled just north of Los Cabos, La Ribera has emerged as one of the season’s trendiest hubs, and considering the competition, that’s no easy feat.

While everyone can have the time of their lives here, I’d especially recommend La Ribera for those who’ve been traveling a lot to Mexico these past couple of years and are looking for someplace to re-experience the types of untouched beaches and crowd-free scenery that’s long been lost in bigger cities.

Megi Canco

Having explored over 20 countries in the last 3 years, Megi is committed to bringing the freshest, most up-to-date news and perspectives on the world’s most fascinating destinations.

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September 13, 2024
White Sand Beaches And All-Inclusive Resorts: This Is The Dreamy Island Breaking All-Time Tourism Records

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Nothing screams “summer” quite like a getaway to some stunning Caribbean island.

But as some of us grow tired of going to the same ol’ places over and over again and others try to avoid the insane tourist crowds at some of those all-time favorite hubs, there’s one destination with surprisingly untouched beaches that emerges as the region’s trendiest hotspot.

Paradise Island in the Bahamas welcomed close to 1.9 million visitors in the first four months of 2024 alone, which not only marks a 13.2% increase from the same time last year but also lets us know that an even more successful summer season lies ahead.

But what is it about this place that sets it apart from so many other Caribbean gems of its kind?

Stick around to find out.

Some Of The Caribbean’s Most Incredible Beaches

I know, I know – all Caribbean beaches are postcard-worthy, but it’s about time we accepted that some are simply more impressive than others.

You’ll see what I’m talking about as soon as you set foot on Paradise Island and catch a glimpse of the pristine white sand and translucent-looking waters.

While you could argue that the entire island is one big beach you won’t be able to get enough of, there are actually a couple of places that might be worth a visit more than others.

My personal top picks would be Cabbage, Paradise, and Colonial Beach – all different enough so that you don’t feel bored, but similar in what really matters – to-die-for views and the best waters you’ve ever swam in.

Flying To This Actual Paradise Has Never Been Easier

When people named this place, they weren’t kidding – it’s an actual real-life paradise!

And now, you can just hop on just about any plane and take it all in, thanks to the many airlines that have come out these past couple of years with new exciting routes to the Bahamian gem – well, to Nassau, but Paradise Island is just an 18-minute drive away from the Bahamian capital, so all the same.

Even budget-friendly carriers like Southwest and Jetblue have thrown their hats in the ring, making the once mysterious island reachable only by a lucky few more accessible than ever.

Not only have these companies helped expand scheduling opportunities, but they’ve also had a noticeable impact in lowering airfare prices from competitor airlines, too – as we speak, some tickets are priced at a little over $200.

Here, You’ll Find Everything From Budget-Friendly Stays To Indulgent All-Inclusive Resorts

I want to preface this by saying that there aren’t any really cheap hotels in Paradise Island, at least not ones widely available to the public, so the use of “budget-friendly” here is a bit subjective.

For example, one of the best lower-cost stays on the island is Comfort Suites, whose rooms start at $370 per night.

Still, consider the fact that these are all big-ish resorts where you pay for more than just your stay, it all balances itself out; and when it comes to iconic places like the Atlantis Paradise you pay for the service and overall atmosphere, too.

The good news is that if your budget doesn’t allow for any of that, you can always book something cheaper ($80-$120 a night) near Nassau and drive back and forth whenever you want to take advantage of Paradise Island’s unreal beaches – I guarantee it’ll be worth it.

A Surprisingly Lively Hub With Lots To Explore

At just 1.1 sq mi (2.8 km2), you’d expect Paradise Island to be a tree-filled piece of land when nothing really happens.

Luckily, that couldn’t be further from the truth.

The island’s event calendar is jam-packed this summer, and depending on what you’re into, you can take your pick between culinary festivals, basketball matches, wine tastings, gallery openings, and monastery excursions.

However, if being among nature is your top priority this summer, Paradise Island is still a fantastic choice.

Go diving in the Blue Hole, take on kayaking, try a boat tour or fishing charter, or enjoy a scenic hike – the choice is yours.

Megi Canco

Having explored over 20 countries in the last 3 years, Megi is committed to bringing the freshest, most up-to-date news and perspectives on the world’s most fascinating destinations.

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June 22, 2024
5 Balkan Countries With Dreamy Beaches I Have Visited On A Budget
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We’ve been conditioned to think that any European getaway, let alone a fun beachy one, is bound to drain savings – have you seen the movie-like views people are posting all over social media? Those don’t seem like budget-friendly places.

But what if I told you that there’s a very real way to get the summer you’ve dreamed of for less than what you’d pay even in some places in the U.S.?

That’s right, if you’re trying to plan the ultimate European holiday this season but don’t want to blow through thousands of dollars, I’ve got just the place for you – the Balkans.

The gorgeous yet so often overlooked region just so happens to be home to some of Europe’s most incredible beaches, and luckily for those of you looking to get all of the insider tips you can, I’ve been to almost all of them.

So today, I’ll be going through the 5 most amazing Balkan countries where I’ve vacationed on a budget as well as what makes each of them a worthy addition to your bucket list.

Albania

When it comes to value for money, few destinations complete with Albania – that’s why travelers are flocking to the country like never before.

While the Balkan gem offers a lot to travelers year-round, summer is especially lively here since just about everyone wants to get a taste of its incredible Riviera, especially the beaches along the Ionian Sea.

Saranda, Ksamil, Dhërmi, Himara, and so many smaller yet just as stunning hubs welcome travelers with jaw-dropping views and the types of prices that are hard to come across elsewhere.

A typical budget for a solo traveler here would look something like this:
- Accommodation: $40 – $70 a night
- Budget-friendly meal: $5
- Restaurant meal: $12 – $20
- 1-mile taxi ride: $5
- Average entry fee to popular attractions: $5 – $10
Greece

If unreal views and unbelievable variety are what you’re after, there’s no topping Greece.

Between Zakynthos, Lefkada, Crete, Mykonos, and even Halkidiki, the country is home to what I consider to be some of Europe’s most gorgeous beaches, and as long as you book your trip a bit in advance and research where you’ll eat/go beforehand, you’ll probably be able to get by on less than $100 a day.

Here’s what you can expect to pay for some traveler musts:
- Accommodation: $60 – $100 a night
- Budget-friendly meal: $8
- Restaurant meal: $15 – $25
- 1-mile taxi ride: $6
- Average entry fee to popular attractions: $15 – $20
Turkey

Turkey’s 8000-kilometer (5000-mile) coastline is filled with beaches that cater to just about every traveler – from secluded coves reachable by only the most experienced hikers to long stretches of sand filled with restaurants and beach bars.

In my experience, however, you’ll get the best value for money here by booking an all-inclusive resort.

Places in popular summer hubs like Antalya or Bodrum usually charge between $200-$450 a night for their ultra all-inclusive packages – these include unlimited food and drinks, access to pools, saunas, jacuzzis, and private beaches, as well as organized entertainment.

If we’re looking at the entire country, though, here’s what you can expect to pay:
- Accommodation: $30 – $200 a night
- Budget-friendly meal: $8
- Restaurant meal: $25 – $30
- 1-mile taxi ride: $1.5
- Average entry fee to popular attractions: $25 – $40
Croatia

By now, Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coast needs no introduction – the way it has boomed in popularity these past couple of years, it’s safe to assume everyone has heard of Dubrovnik and Split by now.

But with so much publicity, comes contradictory information, so what beaches are actually worth visiting and how much can you expect to spend during your time here?

My top recommendation would be to explore the Makarska Riviera, Primosten, Rab Island, and Vis, and as far as costs are concerned:
- Accommodation: $70 – $200 a night
- Budget-friendly meal: $10
- Restaurant meal: $20 – $25
- 1-mile taxi ride: $2
- Average entry fee to popular attractions: $15 – $30
Montenegro

Last but certainly not least we have Montenegro.

There are plenty of unmissable beach destinations scattered across the tiny Balkan hub, though I’d usually recommend Budva, Kotor, Ulcinj, and my favorite hidden gem, Herceg Novi.

And let’s not forget the low prices:
- Accommodation: $45 – $80 a night
- Budget-friendly meal: $10
- Restaurant meal: $15 – $20
- 1-mile taxi ride: $2
- Average entry fee to popular attractions: $5 – $15
Megi Canco

Having explored over 20 countries in the last 3 years, Megi is committed to bringing the freshest, most up-to-date news and perspectives on the world’s most fascinating destinations.

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

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.
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June 19, 2024
Why This Dreamy European Country Was Just Named Most Popular International Destination

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A new report has provided valuable insight into what we can expect to be 2024’s biggest travel trends.

Between the many visit-worthy destinations picked for their natural allure, cultural attractions, and historical value, one particularly dreamy European country took the No. 1 spot as the most popular international destination.

So, what helped the stunning Mediterranean country of Italy nab the coveted title?

The Timeless Allure of Italian Culture

Italy’s cultural heritage spans millennia, so it’s safe to assume that the majority of travelers flocking to the Southern European gem are seeking to experience the virtually endless cultural landmarks that adorn the country.

Visitors are drawn to the Colosseum, the Vatican City, the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo di Milano, Pompeii and Herculaneum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa Palazzo Vecchio, and who knows how many other attractions that provide the same sense of wonder, just a little more under the radar.

A Gastronomic Odyssey

No piece exploring the Italian allure would be complete without a mention of its world-class cuisine.

From the simplicity of a perfectly crafted pasta dish to the complexity of regional specialties that take decades to perfect, Italy offers one of the only culinary experiences in the world that can be appreciated by foodies and picky eaters alike.

Think of pizza in Naples, a bowl of hearty pasta in Bologna, or freshly-made gelato in the streets of Rome – even the harshest critics are bound to find something to love in Italy’s abundant eateries, whose charming atmosphere is only overshadowed by the eye-rollingly good food.

Diverse Landscapes

Italy’s geographical diversity is one of its biggest draws.

Whether you’re planning a skiing holiday in the majestic Alps, a romantic summer getaway in the sun-kissed beaches of the Mediterranean, a countryside escape in Tuscany, or the ultimate city break amidst Europe’s most remarkable landmarks, Italy is sure to surpass even your highest expectations.

This type of versatility comes in particularly handy for travelers who tend to get bored easily – with so many cities and sights to go through, the only challenge will be making enough time to experience as much of them as possible.

Heart-Warming Hospitality

The beauty of Italian culture goes well beyond the picture-worthy buildings – it’s the people that give the country that unmistakable charm.

Visitors often find themselves embraced by the genuine friendliness of the locals, creating an atmosphere that goes beyond that typical tourist experience.

The art of “La Dolce Vita” is reflected in the way locals celebrate the beauty of everyday moments by taking life a bit slower and making the time to sit in streetside cafes or eat a meal with loved ones almost every day.

Ever-Improving Infrastructure

While Western European countries are unmatched when it comes to public transport quality and overall infrastructure, Italy shows never-ending efforts when it comes to making travelers’ lives a bit easier.

Modern transportation networks, well-maintained historical sites, and a plethora of accommodation options cater to the unique needs of almost every tourist.

As we speak, conscious efforts are being made to improve transportation both in and out of the capital – just this past July, a new high-speed train was introduced, linking Rome and Pompeii in under two hours, while expansions of local metro lines are set to make travel even easier in the following years.

Year-Round Events

Though the stunning sights and warm atmosphere are enough to keep most travelers entertained on their own, those looking to indulge in something beyond the world-class food and architecture will be happy to learn that Italy is an event-filled hub.

Depending on when you’re planning to travel in 2024, you’ll get your pick between a wide array of thrilling events and festivals, including (but not limited to) the Venice Carnival, the National Flower Festival, the 99th Opera Festival in Verona, the iconic Venice Film Festival, and the exhilarating Battle of the Oranges.

Read More:

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December 15, 2023