Tag: Heres

Here’s What To Expect Visiting Carnival In Rio De Janeiro

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From block parties starting at dawn, samba music echoing the streets, and a wild feast of hedonism, this is Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival. Although over 50 countries celebrate Carnival before Lent, there is none more famous than Carnival in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil.

More than 80,000 tourists will be flocking to this year’s Carnival celebration, representing an all-time high when compared to the past two years that curbed tourist numbers.

Organizers are faced with heavy planning for throwing one of the biggest parties of the year, but the payoff is an energetic and colorful celebration that will be even bigger and better this year. Residents and Carnival attendees have been starved of the celebrations during the 2-year hiatus, and Eduardo Paes, the Mayor of Rio, has called this year a “carnival of democracy,” a time that is welcomed after a tumultuous political climate.

Visitors can expect over 150 block parties (or blocos) during the main celebration of February 17-25, while samba schools will hit the streets to parade through Carnival’s official venue – Marques de Sapucai Sambadrome. Since the celebration is so large, it can be hard to know what you’re walking into, but here’s what to expect during the month of wild and brightly colored festivities.

The Official Blocos

Blocos is the term used to describe the free and wild parties that take place on the streets, which are considered the heart and soul of Carnival. There are more than 450 official blocos (150 during the official period) that are granted to roam the blocks this year up until late February. Celebrations for Carnival start a few weeks before and continue after the parade ends, so don’t think the parties are only exclusive to the official dates.

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It’s recommended to get to the starting point on time since the parades are on the move, and it might be difficult to locate them if you’re late. Make sure you also keep your valuables and phone at home (if you don’t have a good hiding spot) because petty theft is quite common.

Each bloco has its own flair, whether it be the type of music they play, how people dress up, or the number of people (the smaller ones can be just as fun as the larger events). You’ll find the more family-friendly block parties are the ones that kick off at dawn, while the large, tourist ones take place on the beaches. To get the full experience, you’ll want to head to as many blocos as possible, and you should plan your itinerary in advance since there are different locations spread across the city.

The Unofficial Blocos

While the official blocos are organized events, there are plenty of unofficial groups that are known to organize parties via Whatsapp and Instagram. These parties are spread through word of mouth, so you’ll want to make friends with a local to be kept in the know.

These spontaneous block parties are considered an essential pillar of Carnival, where the playfulness and creativity really shine from the local organizers. Just like the official blocos, they are known to have themes or interesting names, such as one carnival organizer named a bloco “Geleia da Shakira” / Shakira’s Jam – a nod to the recent news about popular singer Shakira catching her ex cheating by how much jam was left.

Sambadrome Parades

Despite being more of an attraction for tourists, you don’t want to miss the Sambadrome parades that take place across five different nights in the official stadium. This is where the best of the best Samba schools compete against each other in a dazzling spectacle of over-the-top costumes and decadent floats. Unlike the block parties, this is a paid event, with the final champion parade being the most expensive (from around US $114), so you’ll want to get your tickets ahead of time.

Carnival Balls

If you’re looking for something more exclusive, the Rio Carnival balls are popular events with a guest list of the rich and famous. The most famous balls are considered the Magic Ball at the Copacabana Palace and the Scala Ball. These over-the-top events come with a theme and dress code and a competition for the most eccentric costume.

The balls are considered a very glamorous and classy event, with tickets ranging from US$600 to US$1200 per person to attend. If you’re not fussed about attending the main balls, you can find some cheaper carnival ball options, which are considered much wilder.

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February 14, 2023
Here’s Where To Sit On A Plane If You’re A Nervous Flyer
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There are plenty of things to stress about in everyday life, and flying is no different. Experts estimate that 25 million American adults have a fear of flying. The reasons behind the fears and the reactions individuals display in response to those fears can vary greatly. Luckily there are actions one can take to manage and even overcome a fear of flying while on board a plane. One such measure is to choose the correct seat when booking a flight. Some seats are better than others depending on the reason behind the fear, and that is what we will discuss here.

Why Are You Nervous?

In order to choose the best seat, nervous passengers first need to identify what exactly is causing their anxiety. While that is sometimes easier said than done, knowing the root cause of a fear can be helpful.

Airline passengers can be apprehensive for any number of reasons. Worries range from anxiety about getting sick during the flight to the worst-possible-case doomsday scenario, and everything in between. Some of the more common reasons why people are anxious about flying include:
- Fear that the plane will crash
- Nervousness about take-off and landing
- Germs or sickness being spread onboard
- Dislike of turbulence
- Fear of heights
- Claustrophobia
The Safest Seat

Passengers who worry that something catastrophic will go wrong during the flight either mid-air or during take-off or landing should know where the safest seat is. The exact spot will vary by plane size and type, and can also change based on which type of accident we are talking about. But in general, experts agree that the middle seats in the back of the plane are safest.

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Best Seat For Germ-Free Travel

Anyone who has flown in the past 3 years will know that there are plenty of precautions they can take to reduce the risk of getting sick on a plane. We’ve all masked up, sanitized every inch of our seating area, and distanced ourselves from fellow passengers. Now that many airlines have dropped mask requirements, passengers who are nervous about getting sick might feel more vulnerable. If you want to avoid germs onboard a plane, studies have shown that window seats have the lowest rates of exposure.

The Smoothest Seats

So many airline passengers tighten their grip when turbulence hits. While some bouts of turbulence can be nerve-racking or even uncomfortable, it is rare that it becomes severe. Flyers who want to ensure a smooth ride should select seats in the rows directly over the wings. Because the wings provide the plane’s stability, the seats closest to them will offer a smoother ride. If those seats are not available, the next best place is towards the front of the plane. It is best to avoid the back if turbulence will cause you distress, as it is the most susceptible to bumpiness.

Where To Sit If you Have A Fear Of Heights

Being fearful of heights is a very common phobia. While not all people who are afraid of heights have a problem flying, many do. Unfortunately for those people, there is no getting around the need for the plane to fly high. Passengers who are nervous about being so high in the sky should choose aisle seats or rows in the middle of the plane where views out the window are obscured. Another tactic is to stay focused on a book, screen, or other distractions to avoid thinking about how high up you are.

Best Seats To Avoid Claustrophobia

If being packed in a plane with lots of other people gives you anxiety you are not alone. So many travelers struggle with this fear, so the best way to cope is to find a seat with plenty of space. The least crowded section of the plane is first or business class. But if upgraded flying isn’t in your budget there are still options. Try sitting in an aisle seat in an exit row towards the front of the plane. These seats typically have more legroom, are easier to get out of, and also reduce the number of other passengers in your view, making the space feel less crowded.

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February 10, 2023
Here’s Why 17 Million Americans Have Abandoned The Office For Digital Nomad Life

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With an official end to the pandemic in sight, it appears we can now look back at the past couple of years and start to take it all in. One major change in our culture is how and where we work. When offices shut and nearly everyone worked from home, a shift in mentality occurred, and more digital nomads were born.

People realized that not only could they do their work from places outside the office, but they preferred it and were more productive. For many, that mindset stuck, and when offices began to reopen, they chose to stay home or travel abroad to new exciting locations while still maintaining their workload. Thus, the term digital nomad was on everyone’s minds.

These digital nomads did not appear overnight, as before the pandemic, it wasn’t unheard of for people to work remotely from around the globe, logging in and working alongside coworkers back home and abroad. What did change, however, is the sheer number and popularity of the digital nomad life. Between 2019 and 2020, the shift towards a digital nomad lifestyle nearly doubled, growing by 49%.

What’s The Draw?

Why do people become digital nomads? In a recent study, the top reasons reported were better work-life balance, freedom, the love of travel, avoidance of office politics, and the longing to explore and immerse yourself in other cultures. Those who have chosen the lifestyle of a digital nomad do so in search of freedom, with the ability to live and log on from wherever they want to be the biggest draw.

Any digital nomad will tell you that it’s not exactly like you see in the pictures, and working from the beach logistically doesn’t usually work (Blame the glare, sand, splashes, etc.). Although it might be a bit less glamorous than stock images will have you believe, there is no denying that the nomadic lifestyle is alluring to many. Work from a cafe in Buenos Aires one week and a camper van in the mountains the next? What’s not to like!?

Who Are The Digital Nomads?

If you think traveling the world and working from anywhere sounds like a dream, you are not alone. Today nearly 17 million Americans alone consider themselves to be digital nomads. Worldwide there are around 35 million people that define themselves as digital nomads.

Recent surveys have begun to collect data from digital nomads, and results indicate that the average age is 32, the majority are married couples, and they move locations on average every six months.

The majority of digital nomads report that they live in hotels, with a close second being with family or friends, followed by those who live in an Airbnb, while the rest live in vans/RVs/cars and hostels.

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There is a growing trend for families to embark on a digital nomad lifestyle, with more and more parents embracing the opportunities and unique childhood experiences that it can give their children. Of course, schooling is a main factor here, and ensuring that children are receiving a quality education is often a deterrent for parents who long for the digital nomad lifestyle.

In addition, there are many mistakes to avoid, and while trial and error can help new digital nomads navigate these uncharted waters, there are also numerous groups online to help and share resources with.

Cost of Living

It’s a well-known fact that living in America is expensive and only becoming increasingly so. While many turn to being a digital nomad in search of a lower cost of living, ultimately, this is an area where it really depends on how you want to live.

There is a big price discrepancy between roughing it in Columbia and having a penthouse apartment in Paris, and the good news is there really is something for everyone in terms of accommodation. With platforms such as Airbnb increasingly offering incentives to entice digital nomads to choose their properties, the trend is only working in favor of the nomad.

Today there are many tools that can help the digital nomad with their financial planning, including this calculator that helps determine where you can afford to go next.

The best thing about being a digital nomad is that it’s not a one size fits all formula. With more and more digital nomad visas becoming available, you can stay much longer in one place if that suits you. While some digital nomad visas require the applicant to earn a very high amount of money, there are many that you can qualify for making less than $2000 a month. One thing to remember is that visa or not, you should always carry health insurance, and in fact, many countries require it for long-term visitors.

The End Of An Era?

With the official end to the pandemic in sight, might this signal the end of the digital nomad lifestyle? After all, many companies are now requiring workers to return to the office, leaving many to consider a career change in order to remain nomadic.

In addition to a return to the office, higher demand has led to higher prices among digital nomad hubs. The bright side is that even with these increased prices, the cost of living is usually still lower than that of American cities.

The 2023 digital nomad has learned a lot in the past few years, and the freedom that their lifestyle affords them is a core value for them.

No matter the challenges, the digital nomad movement is not going away anytime soon. And nomads are not letting these factors phase them too much anyways. One of the main draws of this lifestyle is the lack of everyday stresses that living back home brought with it.

For example, what is the biggest daily stress reported by digital nomads in a recent survey? Finding WiFi seems to be the top concern, as it’s the most critical tool for remote working is staying connected. *Hint, always buy local sim cards and load them with data.

These are almost always a fraction of what it would cost back home, and you provide a backup connection via hotspot if and when your wifi isn’t sufficient or in cases of a power outage.

Challenges and Inspiration

Now, it goes without saying that packing it in and heading out into the world with your laptop is easier for some than others. Family and financial obligations are, of course, huge factors in terms of being able to make the lifestyle work.

While there are many people that have successfully transitioned to a digital nomad life with kids, the logistics for schooling and healthcare are much more complex when you factor in children and other family commitments.

Another barrier is financial obligations. Oftentimes, you will meet digital nomads from two categories. The first is those who never owned a home or even possibly a car — so “packing it all in” literally meant just getting rid of your apartment and possessions, a task that isn’t really all that hard.

On the other end of the spectrum, you will find those who sold their homes and cars and are using that money as a cushion to help fund life abroad. This leaves out those who fall somewhere in the middle, perhaps owning a home but not ready to give it up. It’s no secret that the cost of living and inflation have made the financial burdens on us very heavy, and it’s much easier said than done to sell it all, rent it out, put it in storage, and head out into the unknown.

It’s understandable that the risk of becoming a digital nomad might sound too great, but don’t be discouraged. Ultimately only you know what’s right for you, and if you are one of those who long for the digital nomad lifestyle but it’s just not feasible for you currently, there is some good news!

There is no age limit for being a digital nomad. Embarking on this lifestyle when you are 65 can be just as fulfilling as if you were 25. There’s a lot of the world to explore, and there really is something for everyone. Until you are ready to set off, there are more than enough articles and travelogs online to keep you informed and inspired.

Digital Nomad Tip

One idea for those interested in the digital nomad life but unable to dive in headfirst is a workcation. Does the idea of taking a few weeks away from the office yet still working and not using any holiday time sound good? Then a workcation might be just the answer for you.

Many companies are beginning to embrace this trend, realizing that workers are just as productive out of the office, and time away from the cubicle leads to an increase in employee satisfaction. If your workplace doesn’t explicitly announce that work cations are possible, it’s worth asking, just don’t be surprised if it sets an office trend.

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February 9, 2023
The Black Sea Coast Is The New Mediterranean – Here’s Why It’s So Popular
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After years of being disregarded as a ‘Plan B’ summer destination, the Black Sea region is set for a historical growth in the post-pandemic scene, with some going as far as calling it the ‘new Mediterranean’ — but what makes it so popular right now?

The Budget Alternative To The Med

The Black Sea is a cross-border marginal sea whose misleading name often scares away the least knowledgeable tourists. As any quick search will tell you, it is far from being an uninviting, moody, dark sea: it is beautifully azure and serene, with sandy beaches that stretch for miles on end and numerous swimming spots.

Granted, it is not crystal clear compared to the seas surrounding Greece or Croatia, but it is beautiful nonetheless and just as postcard-perfect — and worth noting, not one degree colder than the Mediterranean during the peak season. Color-wise, think of Cancun’s teal-tinged Caribbean Sea versus the Mexican Pacific‘s deeper blue, and you’ll get the idea.

Unless being able to see your legs while submerged in translucent water is that big of a deal, we wouldn’t consider paying 76.7% more on an escapade to Ibiza worth it. And trust us when we say the Black Sea Coast is still very clear and a lot more affordable as a sunny break, with all the countries that line it offering cheaper vacation rentals and lower consumer prices.

In certain parts of the Eastern Balkans, where tourism has always come second, international traffic is already up by 43% year-on-year, proving the appeal of the Black Sea as a destination keeps increasing. Furthermore, all Black Sea countries have reopened for tourism following the COVID setback, and collectively they form one of the freest zones to travel in the world.

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Looking at consumer prices, it’s not hard to see why it’s so trendy at the minute:
- Vacationing in Burgas, Bulgaria, you can expect to spend 24.4% less than you would in Malaga, Spain
- A meal in an inexpensive restaurant in Sinop, Türkiye, will cost on average a negligible USD$1.86
- Long-term rentals in the city of Batumi, Georgia are 53.2% less expensive than Nice’s in France
- The cost of living in the whole of Romania is roughly 58.7% lower than in Western Europe
We know it’s hard for some to imagine how a European summer would feel like a complete experience without island hopping in the Aegean, eating gelato in a small town in Liguria, or going for a romantic strolls at sunset in Valencia, Spain, but here you’ll also find plenty of:
- Sun, sand, and fun
- Beachfront resorts (except they are usually half the price)
- Scenic drives
- Gorgeous nature
- Ancient cities that predate many Mediterranean ports by many centuries
Which Countries Are On The Black Sea Coast?

The complete list of tourist destinations on the Black Sea can be found below:

Bulgaria

The Bulgarian Riviera is full of golden sand crescents, marine parks, as well as quaint, stone-built villages that have somehow been ignored by the Instagram hordes and are just begging to be explored. Both Burgas and Varna, the two main airports in the area, have seen passenger numbers grow jointly by 59% year-on-year.

Georgia

Eurasia’s number one digital nomad hub may not traditionally be included in summer getaway lists due to its predominantly cold temperatures throughout the year, but it does reach pleasant temperatures in the upper 80s or 90s between June and early August. The bustling coastal city of Batumi and the seaside resort of Kobuleti are your best bet for catching a tan in the Caucasus.

Romania

Bordering Bulgaria to the North, Romania has a Black Sea coastline stretching for 152 miles, dotted with fishing villages, ancient sites, and water parks. The largest urban center facing the ocean is Constanța, where tourists can relax by the picturesque Plaja Eforie Nord, visit Roman ruins, and admire the classical architecture of the city center.

Turkiye

Turkiye’s top attractions are situated on its Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, but the underrated Black Sea province is home to plenty more gems that are yet to be tainted by mass tourism. Trabzon, for instance, is full of Byzantine landmarks and late 19th-century heritage houses with rococo facades, while the small town of Asmara is best known for crowd-free beaches and its laid-back nature.

Two other countries border each other along the Black Sea, namely Ukraine, and Russia, though they are not mentioned here due to the ongoing conflict, which makes them extremely dangerous to visit.

Get There While It’s Still A Hidden Gem

The Mediterranean has always been the go-to destination for Americans crossing the pond in spring and summer. Known for its lovely warm weather and Roman heritage, this region is definitely not one to be missed on a trip to Europe, but the Black Sea has its own charm and plethora of historical sights, and it won’t be quiet and peaceful for much longer – especially in the age of viral TikToks.

When it comes to cuisine, the Southeastern Europe diet is equally rich in protein and seafood. Red meat, pork products, dairy, and fish are consumed daily, in addition to locally-grown vegetables and potatoes. Winemaking is a defining trait for many Black Sea states, too: as a matter of fact, Georgia is the cradle of wine, having created it 6,000 years.

As the wise travel experts have proclaimed already, the cost of travel to Southern Europe has risen across the board – even Croatia, which once was perceived as the budget alternative to Italy, has succumbed. Fortunately, now you know the ‘Med’ is not the only warm sea in Europe.

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February 8, 2023
Delta Airlines Has Officially Launched Its Free WiFi – Here’s What Flights Are Included
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It’s been a long time coming, but Delta has raced ahead of every major, full-service airline in the United States and launched complimentary WiFi service during flights. As of this week, passengers are no longer required to be disconnected from their socials or email while flying, in a major change of policy that is set to have wider repercussions in the industry.

As exciting as it sounds, Delta has reiterated not all flights are included:

Free WiFi On All Domestic Mainline Routes

Lack of connectivity on board Delta flights is no longer a problem. On February 1, the company introduced its ‘fast, free’ Wi-Fi across a sizable portion of its fleet, allowing customers to access the internet without paying high fees. The initiative, which is a partnership with T-Mobile, has impacted ‘most’ domestic mainline routes.

For those of you who may not be familiar with aviation lingo, any aircraft operated by an airline’s main operating unit is deemed ‘mainline’. In simpler terms, only routes serviced by Delta directly, as opposed to regional subsidiaries, have benefited from the rollout. Needless to say, it was not extended to a majority of low-cost operations.

The Delta secondary fleet is run under the Delta Connection brand, including the carrier’s own Endeavor Air, as well as subsidiaries Republic Airways and SkyWest, regularly used as part of code-sharing agreements. In total, Viasat-powered Wi-Fi was activated on more than 500 aircraft on the launch date, with more to come.

By the end of the year, they plan on offering Wi-Fi on more than 700 aircraft. Remaining connected in-flight is no longer a luxury; it is ‘essential to daily life’, especially in the context of business owners and digital nomads who use every opportunity they get in those in-between moments (e.g. flying or transiting airports) to catch up with some work.

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According to CEO Ed Bastian himself, their connectivity ‘should be no different’ on Delta flights. He stated in Delta’s press release that their vision ‘has long been to deliver an experience at 30,000 feet that feels similar to what our customers have available on the ground‘, beginning with mainline, domestic operations.

Airports Served By Delta Air Lines

The following destinations have been served by Delta Air Lines:

Alabama
- Birmingham – Shuttlesworth International
- Huntsville
- Mobile
Alaska
- Anchorage – Ted Stevens International
- Fairbanks
- Juneau
- Ketchikan
- Sitka
Arizona

Arkansas
- Fayetteville – Northwest Arkansas National
- Little Rock – Clinton National
California
- Burbank
- Long Beach
- Los Angeles – Los Angeles International
- Oakland
- Ontario
- Palm Springs
- Sacramento
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- San Jose – Norman Y. Mineta International
- Santa Ana – John Wayne Airport
Colorado
- Denver – Denver International
- Hayden – Yampa Valley Airport
- Montrose
- Vail – Eagle County Airport
Connecticut
- Hartford – Bradley International
Florida
- Daytona Beach
- Fort Lauderdale – Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International
- Fort Myers – Southwest Florida International
- Fort Walton Beach – Destin-Fort Walton Beach
- Gainesville
- Jacksonville
- Key West
- Melbourne – Melbourne Orlando International
- Miami – Miami International
- Orlando – Orlando International
- Panama City – Northwest Florida Beaches International
- Pensacola
- Sarasota – Sarasota-Bradenton International
- Tallahassee
- Tampa
- West Palm Beach
Georgia
- Atlanta – Hartsfield-Jackson International
- Augusta
- Savannah
Hawaii
- Honolulu – Daniel K. Inouye International
- Kahului
- Kona
- Lihue
Idaho

Illinois
- Chicago – Midway International
- Chicago – O’Hare International
Indiana

Iowa
- Cedar Rapids – Eastern Iowa Airport
- Des Moines
Kansas
- Wichita – Eisenhower National Airport
Kentucky
- Louisville – Muhammad Ali International
Louisiana
- Baton Rouge – Metropolitan Airport
- New Orleans – Louis Armstrong New Orleans International
Maine
- Bangor
- Portland – International Jetport
Maryland
- Baltimore – Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
Massachusetts
- Boston – Logan International
- Worcester
Michigan
- Detroit – Metropolitan Airport
- Grand Rapids – Gerald R. Ford International
- Traverse City – Cherry Capital Airport
Minnesota
- Duluth
- Minneapolis-Saint Paul
Mississippi
- Gulfport – Gulfport-Biloxi International
- Jackson
Young woman looking at the flight information board on the airport, checking her flight

Missouri
- Kansas City – Kansas City International
- Springfield – Springfield-Branson National Airport
- St. Louis – St. Louis Lambert International
Montana
- Billings – Billings Logan International
- Bozeman – Bozeman Yellowstone International
- Kalispell – Glacier Park International
- Missoula
Nebraska
- Omaha – Eppley Airfield
Nevada
- Las Vegas – Harry Reid International
- Reno – Reno-Tahoe International
New Jersey
- Newark – Liberty International
New Mexico

New York
- Albany
- Buffalo – Buffalo Niagara International
- New York City – John F. Kennedy International
- New York City – LaGuardia International
- Rochester – Greater Rochester International
- Syracuse – Syracuse Hancock International
- White Plains – Westchester County Airport
North Carolina
- Asheville
- Charlotte – Charlotte Douglas International
- Fayetteville
- Greensboro – Piedmont Triad International
- Raleigh – Raleigh-Durham International
- Wilmington
North Dakota
- Bismark – Municipal Airport
- Fargo – Hector International
Ohio
- Cincinnati-Covington – Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International
- Cleveland – Cleveland Hopkins International
- Columbus – John Glenn Columbus International
- Dayton
Oklahoma
- Oklahoma City – Will Rogers World Airport
- Tulsa
Oregon

Pennsylvania
- Harrisburg
- Philadelphia
- Pittsburgh
Puerto Rico
- San Juan – Luis Munoz Marin International
Rhode Island
- Providence – T. F. Green Airport
South Carolina
- Greenville – Greenville-Spartanburg International
- Myrtle Beach
South Dakota
- Rapid City – Regional Airport
- Sioux Falls – Regional Airport
Tennessee
- Bristol – Tri-Cities Regional Airport
- Chattanooga – Metropolitan Airport
- Knoxville – McGhee Tyson Airport
- Memphis – Memphis International
- Nashville – Nashville International
Texas
- Austin – Austin-Bergstrom International
- Dallas – Dallas/Fort Worth International
- Dallas – Dallas Love Field
- El Paso – El Paso International
- Harlingen – Valley International
- Houston – George Bush Intercontinental
- Houston – William P. Hobby
- San Antonio – San Antonio International
U.S. Virgin Islands
- Saint Croix – Henry E. Rohlsen International
- Saint Thomas – Cyril E. King Airport
Utah
- Salt Lake City – Salt Lake City International
Vermont
- Burlington – Burlington International
Virginia
- Norfolk – Norfolk International
- Richmond – Richmond International
- Roanoke – Roanoke International
Washington
- Seattle – Seattle-Tacoma International
- Spokane – Spokane International
Washington D.C.
- Washington – Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
- Washington – Washington Dulles International
West Virginia
- Charleston – Yager Airport
Wisconsin
- Appleton – Appleton International
- Green Bay – Green Bay-Austin Straubel International
- Madison – Dane County Airport
- La Crosse – La Crosse Regional
- Milwaukee – Milwaukee Mitchell International
Wyoming
- Casper – Casper-Natrona County International
- Jackson Hole
WiFi Expected On All International And Regional Flights By The End Of 2024

In principle, flights between these hubs already feature Viasat WiFi. Moving forward, Delta expects to include coverage on all international and regional aircraft ‘by the end of 2024’. At present, only passengers flying to and from any of the cities above enjoy free WiFi, available through their Delta SkyMiles® account.

Bastian stated that they didn’t ‘just want free Wi-Fi to offer base-level service’: they expect it to be ‘transformative’ for the flying experience: ‘It is imperative all customers onboard can enjoy their favorite content just as they would at home, and we’ve put this system through meticulous tests to make that possible‘.

Delta may have been the first airline to successfully implement complimentary WiFi on mainline aircraft, but it was not the first to conduct a trial: last year, low-cost Southwest began offering the service on a number of flights while lifting restrictions on browsing. Previously, a WiFi pass had to be purchased for $8, excluding streaming.

Despite Delta’s and Southwest’s latest upgrades, free WiFi on board is yet to be replicated by most of their competitors, though slowly but surely, the industry is changing and adding it to their list of amenities. A decade or more ago, accessing emails onboard low-cost commercial flights would have been an inconceivable idea, yet here we are.

As competition increases, it is only a matter of time – perhaps a couple more years – until WiFi is widely available across all intra-U.S. flights.

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February 3, 2023
Do-Nothing Vacations Are More Popular Than Ever – Here’s Where To Go For Ultimate Relaxation
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After enduring nearly three years of strict restrictions, health mandates, and lockdowns, Americans are desperate to do nothing, log off their socials and escape the chaos of the modern world on their next vacation – even if temporarily. We don’t blame them: as much as we love sightseeing and cultural expeditions, taking a breather is just as important, but where to go on when looking for ultimate relaxation?

Let’s Face It: International Travel Can Be Quite Tiring

Although we have suspected it for months, as the wellness trend continued to grow, new research conducted by Expedia has finally confirmed Americans have a clear preference for the recently-coined ‘nothing-cations’, a neologism used in reference to trips with far more relaxed itineraries where sightseeing and culture aren’t the primary focus.

Out of 4,000 participants, 1360 have reported feeling ‘burned out’ from previous experiences. Whether it’s sleeping at airports to catch the next early flight, worrying about entry restrictions, deciding which attractions to cram into a tight two to three-day stint in a particular city, and that inevitable FOMO, international travel can be quite stressful.

The health crisis and economic instability that ensued only added to their difficulties: a WHO-assisted study carried out in early 2022 came to the conclusion that mental health concerns have skyrocketed in recent years. More specifically, the feeling of doom and gloom associated with COVID has led to a 25% increase in anxiety and depression rates.

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Ever since COVID started, it feels as if we are stuck in a vicious cycle of bleak news, whether it’s the virus itself, a war in Europe, the energy crisis, or the global economic upheaval that’s led to a staggering decrease in the purchasing power of middle-income families. It’s hardly surprising travelers have had it with the state of affairs and want a break from it.

To put it simply, it’s that dolce far niente, lying on a beach listening to the crashing of the Pacific waves in a coastal location, not adhering to strict plans on where to go or what to see next, that travelers crave the most. Cultural trips are still extremely popular in 2023, but the fact that 34% of those surveyed simply want to unwind and have some free time can’t be overlooked.

Where To Go For Ultimate Relaxation?

Quoting Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group Brands Public Relations, ‘for most travelers, getting the most out of their next vacation means setting aside dedicated time for nothing’. Beyond the 34%, an even greater number of interviewees – 3840 people or 96% – reported they intend to spend at least some days of their next vacation ‘doing absolutely nothing’.

As Expedia experts confirm, beach destinations are leading booking trends this winter, not only due to the colder temperatures in the Northern hemisphere, a major factor behind the temporary mass migration of Americans to the Global South, but also their ‘nothing-cation’ value. Expedia lists up to 7 wellness retreats where fatigued travelers are able to slow down, soak up more nature and just wish their worries away:
- Kauai, a Hawaiian island boasting emerald peaks and pristine beaches
- Costa Rica, a Central American country offering sweeping jungle views and access to both the Pacific and the Caribbean seas
- Fiji, an island nation in the South Pacific Ocean famous for its remoteness and teal-colored seas
- Nevis, the smaller of the St. Kitts and Nevis island duo, where the landscape is dominated by palm tree-lined beaches
- Koh Samui, Thailand’s mountainous, second-largest island stacked with tropical jungles and Buddhist temples
- Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost tip, much more laid-back and quaint in nature than the busy, landmark-packed Lisbon or Porto
- Sanibel, a Floridian island where cycling routes always seem to end up on a white sand beach
Despite not being mentioned on this list specifically, Los Cabos in Mexico has recently been named Mexico’s number one wellness destination, recognized for a plethora of spas, wellness centers, and posh resorts in tranquil settings, far away from the hustle and bustle of Downtown areas, and where customer service is always top-notch.

2023 Is The Year Of Wellness

As assessed by Expedia, 47% of Americans would like to start off 2021 with a trip ‘to look forward to’, with up to 31% attributing the urge to go on a ‘nothing-cation’ to feeling anxious and 34% to the poor January weather. Parents of children aged 4 years or younger are the group most likely to report post-vacation burnout (49% against 34% of nonparents).

Nevertheless, 62% have deemed the sporadic lie-in days, where they’ll either read a book or stay inside binging the latest Netflix hit series while ordering room service their ‘favorite part’ – but you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars on an all-inclusive trip to Mexico, or check into ultra-luxurious Maldives resort to kick back and start enjoying life:

Check out our top 6 wellness destinations to visit in the U.S. for 2023.

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January 27, 2023
Vietnam Is Becoming More Popular Among American Tourists – Here’s Why

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Vietnam is coming into prominence as one of the top destinations in Southeast Asia (SEA). Its natural wonders and incredible culture are making it into the mainstream, inspiring American tourists to get out of their comfort zone and travel across the world to explore the country – despite the limited flight options and the complex logistics of getting there.

Since it fully reopened for tourism in early 2022, becoming one of the first in SEA to drop entry rules and welcome U.S. travelers irrespective of vaccination status, demand for nationwide tourism has increased dramatically. So much so that the famous online travel agency Kayak proclaimed Vietnam the top destination in Southeast Asia for 2023.

Only adding to the buzz, the mystical Land of the Blue Dragon is now on a steady recovery path, with further growth expected this year:

23.3 Times More Visitors In 2022

Last year, Vietnam welcomed 3.36 million visitors, still down by 79.9% compared to the pre-pandemic reference year of 2019, but 23.3 times more than it did the year before, proving its reopening was hugely beneficial to tourism. Prior to March 2022, the vast majority of foreign travelers were barred from crossing into the territory.

Vietnam enacted one of the toughest anti-Covid measures seen in Asia, sealing its borders as soon as the World Health Organization sounded the alarm and remaining completely isolated for two years. During this period, travel into Vietnam was restricted only to Vietnamese nationals and foreigners who had obtained authorization or held a residency permit.

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Of course, the initial reaction sent the travel industry into a tailspin, and the fact it has only recovered by 30% almost a year into reopening is proof the long-term effects of the Government’s earliest decisions will be felt for a long time still. On the bright side, tourists have started to come back, and Thai authorities have identified America as a market worth exploring.

Out of 3.36 million guests in Vietnam throughout 2022, 388,873 arrived from the Americas, including North, Central, and South. U.S. visitors, in particular, have contributed the most to this number. While American traffic as a whole (continent-wise) increased by roughly 6.9% in December, one of the busiest months, U.S. arrivals climbed by an even higher 7.7%.

Vietnam Showing Positive Signs Of Recovery

While it may not seem like much at first, it is worth noting hesitancy around travel to Asia remains widespread, even though many destinations in the region have abandoned their hardline Covid policies by now. Some would argue it is a direct consequence of two years of self-imposed seclusion coming back to bite them:

Unlike Mexico, which remained open from the beginning and paved the way for a historical 2022, Vietnam, and other SEA partners will need to work harder to regain the trust of travelers – both the reintroduction of health mandates following the viral surge in China and Thailand’s back and forth with entry rules has not helped their case.

Taking this into account, as well as the fact that there is a limited number of flights connecting the U.S. and Vietnam, we can assert that the 2022 figure, albeit moderate by most standards, is still quite impressive. The General Statistics Office in Vietnam also listed Europeans (508,398) and Australians and New Zealanders (156,645) as valuable customers.

So why, exactly, is Vietnam attracting a rising number of visitors in the post-Covid scene?

This Is Why Vietnam Is Becoming So Popular

Vietnam is a culturally-rich country with a painful yet fascinating recent history. Whether you were born in the seventies and watched it live on the telly, or in the nineties and learned about it from textbooks, we are sure the iconic images of the Fall of Saigon and the controversial triumph of communism in South Vietnam are imprinted on your mind.

In spite of its millennial heritage, this is a newborn country still finding its footing in a fast-changing world, and that has only eased visa restrictions for outsiders in recent years, allowing us the privilege of visiting previous generations simply didn’t enjoy. Needless to say, it is a different world altogether from your usual vacay spots in the West.

The Most Chaotic, Vibrant Cities

If you like your cities a bit rough around the edges, then you’ll understand why so many adventurous Americans find Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) impossible to resist: the two most important urban centers are a complex maze of narrow, unplanned streets thriving with trade, vibrant fleamarkets, old colonial buildings, and ancient temples.

A Picturesque Countryside

On the other hand, if the busy city life doesn’t seem appealing and its bucolic, rolling rice terraces etched into green hills, quaint villages, and remote pagodas set against dramatic backdrops you’re after, you’ll soon realize Vietnam is brimming with them, from the Sapa heartland to the pilgrimage sites of the Ninh Binh province.

Beautiful Architecture

A fan of architecture and old ruins? Worry not: there are numerous jaw-dropping imperial palaces to keep the sightseer in you entertained for days. A favorite of ours is Hue, a historical city in central Vietnam home to the stunning Forbbiden Purple City, the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty, sumptuously-decorated temples, and a monumental moated citadel.

Pristine Beaches

You’re not a huge lover of History, and you’re looking instead for a place to unwind, bury your feet in the sand, and disconnect from the chaos of the modern world? Vietnam has got you covered: it is packed with paradisaical beaches boasting postcard-perfect turquoise waters and lined with luxurious resorts – available at accessible rates.

Vietnam Is Cheap To Visit

This is a big country, slightly larger than the state of New Mexico, and as you can see, there is something for everybody. There is, of course, one last thing to mention: Vietnam is incredibly cheap for middle-income Americans, as the devalued currency, coupled with the lower cost of living, allows them to access luxuries they wouldn’t be able to afford in the States.

In actual numbers, their purchasing power is boosted by 170.2% in cities like Hanoi; consumer prices tend to be 75.7% cheaper than in New York. Effectively, this means their dollars stretch much further here than back at home. In a way, Vietnam – and Southeast Asia, for that matter – is the perfect backpacking destination when you’re young and broke.

Find out more about Vietnam by clicking here.

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January 17, 2023
6000 Holiday Flights Cancelled, Here’s How To Get Refunded or Rebooked
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As winter storms rip through the United States over the holidays, more than 6000 flights have been canceled with an even higher number of delays. With this being the busiest season for holiday travel since 2019, hundreds of thousands of passengers are finding themselves stranded, delayed, and rerouted.

With all of the stress and pressure that last-minute cancellations come with, especially at Christmas time, here is an easy-to-read guide of your passenger rights, including when you should be refunded and when the airlines owe you extra benefits for the delays.

How To Get A Full Refund If Your Flight Is Canceled

If your flight is canceled, even for reasons like weather, and you no longer wish to travel, the airline owes you a full refund, despite what they might say to you at the counter.

The U.S Department of Transportation’s Aviation consumer protection page clearly posts that consumers are entitled to a full refund, not a voucher, if the airline cancels their flight and they no longer want to travel. The government’s policy includes cancellations for bad weather, pilot shortages, mechanical issues, and a list of other reasons.

Even if you have booked a basic-economy or non-refundable ticket, the government’s strict policy states a full refund must still be given.

If your flight has been canceled and you are no longer traveling or you are going to drive or take a train there instead, here is how you will obtain your refund:
- Contact your airline via phone, email or online chat and demand your refund. As protocol, they will always try and offer you a voucher first. Do not accept.
- If they still will not refund you, you can file a formal complaint with the U.S. Department of Transportation here
- A more detailed ’how to’ list can be found on this guide
How To Get Rebooked If Flight is Canceled

If your flight has been canceled, but you’re still headed to mom’s house for some turkey dinner, the airlines are responsible to rebook you on the next available flight. This rebooking process is mostly automatic and may happen moments after your flight is canceled. Be sure to check your airline’s app and your email to see if an alternative route has been set up for you.

If your flight has not been automatically rebooked, but you got a cancelation notice, follow the instructions in the text or email on how to rebook.

If you are already at the airport when your flight gets canceled, and you are not automatically rebooked or cannot contact your airline via phone/chat, you can also try and approach your airline’s customer service desk, as agents will be rebooking and handing our vouchers there are well.

More passenger rights and tips for canceled flights include:
- The airline must rebook you on the next available flight free of charge
- If the cancellation has you waiting overnight, airlines will provide you with hotel vouchers, and shuttle or transportation vouchers to and from the accommodation. Airlines that provide accommodations due to canceled or delayed flights are Amerian, Delta, Southwest, United, Jet Blue, Alaska, and Hawaiian.
- If a hotel room is not available, some U.S. airlines like Delta will offer an airline credit for the value of the average hotel price to be used for future flights.
- If the cancellation has resulted in a delay of more than 3 hours, you are also entitled to meal vouchers
- Some airlines, like JetBlue, offer additional credits for delays. If the flight delay announcement happens before boarding, passengers are entitled to a $50-$200 credit depending on the time frame of the delay. If the delay happens after boarding, the credit amounts are $100-$250 depending on the time frame of the delay.
If They Have Bumped You Because Of Overbooking

Some passengers may still be negatively affected by holiday flights this week, and not because of storm cancellations, but instead of airlines overbooking flights.

If an airline sells more tickets than there are seats available on the plane, which is, unfortunately, a common practice of U.S.-based airlines, they need to pay you big money for the inconvenience.

If you agree to get bumped on a new flight and the airline can get you to your final destination between one and two hours of your original arrival time, you are entitled to 200% of your one-way fare cost or $775, whichever amount is lower.

If the airline can get you to your final destination more than two hours after your original arrival time (or four hours for international flights), or if the airline cannot make any alternative travel plans for you, the minimum compensation is 400% of your one-way fare or $1,550, whichever amount is lower.

Your Travel Insurance Will Have Extra Perks and Coverage

I’ve been a full-time traveler for over 8 years now and I can tell you honestly, I ALWAYS have travel insurance, no matter if it’s a short domestic trip or an extended international journey.

If you are canceled or delayed, check your travel insurance terms and conditions, as they will likely have additional payouts and benefits over and above those of the airline. Some will give you extra cash for sundry items like toothpaste and shampoo for delays, while others might provide additional accommodation options if your airline is impossible to reach to do high call volumes.

If you find yourself stuck at the airport for hours this week, here is a list of 10 Ways To Pass The Time Delayed At The Airport

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December 24, 2022
Here’s How Much You Should Expect To Pay For Flights In 2023
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As travel demand has reached levels never seen before over the last year, prices for flights have been quick to catch up. While airports and airlines continue to try to solve their staff-shortage issues, rising ticket fares and travel disruptions have become too familiar. Staff shortages aren’t solely to blame, as rising fuel costs and inflation have also led to increasing ticket prices.

Going into 2023, travelers can expect to pay more for nearly all travel costs, including flights. To help travelers prepare for the upcoming year, expected increases for multiple regions throughout the world are outlined below. Additionally, we’ve put together a few tips for saving money amid rising costs at the end of this article.

Looking at the year ahead, American Express has published its annual Air Monitor Report to explore what prices travelers should expect for flights in 2023. While prices aren’t predicted to rise by extraordinary amounts, some routes will see significant increases. To paint a clearer picture, world regions and expected costs are discussed separately below.

North Americans Can Expect These Flight Costs In 2023

Those living in North America have probably noticed the sharp increase in fares over the course of 2022, as the region led the world in air travel recovery. However, this quick uptake in fares during 2022 actually spells better news for 2023. Prices are still predicted to increase, but the increase will be less drastic than in areas like Europe and Asia.

To show what travelers can expect to pay, we’ll outline the expected increases for Economy and Business class for various routes and provide some concrete examples:

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- North American Regional Flights
  
  Business Class Increase: 3.4%
  
  Economy Class Increase: 2.9%
- North America to South America
  
  Business Class Increase: 4.2%
  
  Economy Class Increase: 6.4%
- North America to Europe
  
  Business Class Increase: 3.0%
  
  Economy Class Increase: 2.4%
- North America to Central America
  
  Business Class Increase: 3.7%
  
  Economy Class Increase: 3.6%
- North America to the Caribbean
  
  Business Class Increase: 2.3%
  
  Economy Class Increase: 5.8%
- North America to Asia
  
  Business Class Increase: 6.1%
  
  Economy Class Increase: 9.5%
North American Ticket Prices: 2022 vs. 2023

Percentages are helpful metrics for understanding how much flights are expected to change next year. Still, real-world examples often paint a clearer picture. For that reason, we’ve outlined a few examples below using real nonstop one-way fares found on 12/18/2022 using Google Flights.

One thing to note is that the fares below reflect pricing around the holiday season, and travelers will likely see drastically different prices depending on the dates chosen. These fares simply give a more concrete example of expected price increases:
- New York to Montego Bay, Jamaica (JFK to MBJ)
  
  2022: $154 Economy, $464 Business
  
  2023: $163 Economy, $475 Business
- New York to Tokyo, Japan (JFK to HND)
  
  2022: $2,161 Economy, $13,587 Business
  
  2023: $2,366 Economy, $14,416 Business
- New York To London, England (JFK to LHR)
  
  2022: $1,063 Economy, $3,730 Business
  
  2023: $1,089 Economy, $3,841 Business
What About Ticket Prices In Europe?

While an international flight is a significant expense, many travelers fly to Europe intending to take regional flights once there. For years, travelers have relied on low-cost carriers in Europe to spend a few weeks checking out multiple European gems. However, travelers should expect these prices to rise as well.

In 2023, economy class fares for flights within Europe are expected to rise 5.5%, while business class fares are expected to rise 6.0%. Luckily, this doesn’t equate to a significant increase for many low-cost flights within the region. Imagine purchasing a one-way ticket from London to Madrid for $50 (they can often be found for less). In that case, you’d only be paying an extra $2.50 in 2023.

How To Save In The Face Of Rising Costs

While there is no one size fits all method for saving on flight costs, these tips are tried and true methods for ensuring you get the cheapest fare possible.
- Utilize Google Flights: Google Flights is the easiest way to search across multiple airlines, research cheap destinations to fly to, and set up alerts to let you know when fares drop.
- Travel In The Off-Season: Not only does traveling in the off-season lower travel costs across the board, you also have the added benefit of crowd-free tourist attractions.
- Check Multiple Sites: Sometimes, it makes sense to book direct, and sometimes it may cost you more. Be sure to check across sites like Kayak, Skyscanner, and CheapOair to make sure you are getting the lowest ticket price.
- Don’t Book On Your Phone: Experts say it is best not to book flights on your mobile phone due to drip pricing. These are the added fees we’ve become all too familiar with, such as adding luggage, picking a seat, or adding in-flight meals. When using a mobile phone, travelers are less likely to compare pricing across sites or carriers.
Regardless of how much flight prices are increasing, travelers are ready to get back out into the world. This year has seen unprecedented travel demand, which is likely to continue into 2023. By preparing for rising costs and utilizing cost-saving tips, travelers can still find good deals and enjoy their vacations, knowing they are getting the best value for their money.

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December 20, 2022
Here’s Why Digital Nomads Are Flocking To Bulgaria This Winter
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Proving it is at the peak of its popularity, Bulgaria is staying ahead of travel trends and becoming a certified digital nomad hub. In fact, a small town nestled at the foot of the country’s most scenic mountain now has more co-working spaces per capita than anywhere else in the world – but why exactly are nomads flocking to the Eastern nation?

European countries may have abandoned their strict Covid policies and, to an extent, opened up more migration paths for remote workers, but this does not mean travel has become more accessible: inflation has hit numerous markets hard, and both the cost of living and the price of accommodation has soared in response.

Understandably, nomads are looking for alternatives to the overpriced West, preferably somewhere with an equally vast cultural wealth:

Why Is Bulgaria Such An Appealing Destination To Nomads?

This winter, digital nomads are finding a home in an improbable location in Bulgaria’s Pirin mountain range. More specifically, the small town of Bansko, where unobstructed views of spectacular peaks and ski stations can be found and where the permanent population totals only 9,000 inhabitants.

You may be wondering: if they’re looking for an idyllic wintry escape, then why not the seasonal classics of Switzerland or Austria? What is it about Bulgaria, and this remote alpine town in particular, that draws in nomads in their hundreds? The answer is in the absence of crowds and, most importantly, high affordability.

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Although it is a member of the EU, Bulgaria is not yet part of the Eurozone, using instead its own national currency, the much weaker Bulgarian (BGN) lev. At the current conversion rate, one thousand dollars get you twice as many lev notes, unlike the Euro and other strong currencies in the Western EU that have been historically stronger than the dollar.

Finding the average minimum wage is a great way to measure the cost of living in a destination, and across the whole of Bulgaria, it is far lower than other EU counterparts, averaging BGN 710.00, or only USD 380.91 monthly. In simpler terms, everything is cheap, at least for the Westerner: food, travel, cultural attractions, rent, you name it.

The Alpine Charm Of Bansko

Back to the alpine retreat in Bansko, it has been described as a ‘proxy’ for digital nomadism globally, hosting a whopping 500 remote workers from 41 different nationalities at the time of the last census in June 2022. Surprisingly, Americans make up the majority of nomads, or 19.1%, in spite of charting outside the top ten in a list of foreign arrivals to Bulgaria.

During the Bansko Nomad Fest, held over the summer, organizers opined that American globe-trotters are moving to Bansko in droves due to the inviting nomad scene – DW has asserted it has the highest proportion of co-working spaces among all global destinations – and significantly more affordable rates, compared to high-income countries like the U.S.

Additionally, Bansko is a well-developed recreational site, offering a whole range of outdoor activities all year round:
- Hiking
- Rafting
- Mountain biking
- Wine tours & tasting
- Skiing (during winter)
Moreover, it is located a short two-hour drive from Sofia, the Bulgarian capital, and one of our top picks for 2023. If being isolated in the snow-capped Pirin Mountains sipping on some hot chocolate and watching the burning logs is not your idea of fun, you can certainly consider a prolonged stay in Sofia instead.

What If Mountain Retreats Are Not For You?

One of Europe’s oldest and most fascinating cities, Sofia has enough historical landmarks and jaw-dropping sights to keep you busy for months:
- It is built on top of a much older Roman settlement named Serdica, and ruins of the forgotten city are still exposed in strategic locations
- Its Brutalist skyline is pierced by the golden-tinged Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a symbol of Bulgaria and one of the largest Orthodox monuments in the Balkans
- The city is dotted with medieval mosques and other remnants of the Ottoman era
- Located on the outskirts, the Boyana Church is a UNESCO-protected temple built as early as the 10th century, lavishly decorated with some of the most impressive medieval frescoes known to History
*On top of that, there is a myriad of work-friendly, quirky cafes that are open until late, where they serve the most amazing food, and fast, stable connection is available for guests.

Other options include Plovdiv, Europe’s oldest continuously-inhabited city featuring an iconic Roman theater perched on a hilltop overlooking a colorful Old Town; Varna, Bulgaria’s leading international resort destination lining the shiny blue Black Sea coast; and Ruse, a most elegant city in Northern Bulgaria affectionately called ‘Little Vienna’.

Does Bulgaria Have A Digital Nomad Visa?

On the downside, Bulgaria does not have a Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) in place that would enable American nomads to stay longer than three months at a time. However, as more Eastern European competitors join the race to become the continent’s ‘workcation’ haven, we can expect this strong candidate to announce its own DNV soon.

Lastly, Bulgaria has removed all entry requirements for U.S. passport holders traveling to the country this winter:
- No vaccine requirements
- No pre-departure testing
- No entry forms
- No post-arrival quarantine
- No masks, both indoors or outdoors
*Non-EU/EFTA tourists can remain in Bulgaria for 90 days out of every 180-day period. As the country is not yet part of the Schengen Area, visits to Bulgaria do not count towards your 90-day Schengen.

A Hidden Gem Of The Balkans

Straddling the Black Sea coast and representing the south-easternmost EU border, Bulgaria remains one of the bloc’s least-visited among Americans. Correct us if we’re wrong, but when planning a move to Europe, it’s the far more popular sights of the sparkling Eiffel Tower, Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia, or the majestic Colosseum that come easily to mind.

‘Bulgaria’ is yet another mysterious, bordering-on-exotic name that lies somewhere East on the map, but you can’t quite pinpoint it, and we know it probably doesn’t rank high up there on your bucket list. Still, we are here to remind you that, more often than not, it’s the lesser-known places that end up stealing our hearts in the end.

This hidden gem of the Balkan Peninsula is no exception.

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December 7, 2022