Tag: LaidBack

This Is The Best Tropical Island In Mexico For Turquoise Seas & Laid-Back Vibes This Fall

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Planning a Mexican Caribbean getaway this fall, but you’re already taken aback by reports of crowds in Playa this September (even though it’s the off-season), or Tulum’s incessant, week-round party scene?

Long gone are the days when Mexico in the fall was synonymous with a more relaxed atmosphere.

As we reported previously, the sunny hotspot is now jam-packed with beach bums and bachelor event-goers, and this has led peace-seekers to wonder:

Is there any place in the confines of the Yucatán Peninsula that remains laid-back and calm, and where you can still find white sands and clear seas?

We’re not sure about you, but we’re going with the expert advice on this one, and according to the Cancun Sun, the leading English-speaking authority on all things Mexican Caribbean, the region’s prime autumnal destination is Isla Mujeres:

Unspoiled Paradise A Short Boat Ride Away From Cancun

Lying a mere 13 miles across from Cancun, this small island, about half a mile across and five miles long, may be a stone’s throw away from the busiest resort dump in the Western Hemisphere, but you’d be surprised by how far-removed it feels.

As the Cancun Sun put it, Isla Mujeres is the ‘ultimate September escape just minutes from (Cancun’s) Hotel Zone’, and that’s a party due to the higher degree of exclusivity you get here.

Take the room availability, for instance: Isla Mujeres is a tiny landmass, and there’s only so many luxury all-inclusive resorts you can fit within it. According to Booking.com, there are only 46 hotels listed on the island (excluding guesthouses and B&Bs) as of September 2025.

For comparison purposes, Cancun has an additional 100 hotel listings.

How Much Do Hotels Cost In Isla Mujeres?

When you narrow it down to 4-star hotels, and then you zoom in further on the best-rated at the cheapest price, the top property on Booking is Casa Alkimia Town, an elegant boutique hotel with a rustic touch, only a few steps away from the trendy Playa Norte.

It has an exceptional average rate of 9.9 out of 10, based on 100 reviews (that’s the closest you get to universal acclaim, really), and believe it or not, it isn’t even that expensive.

If you think a private room with a balcony overlooking a mini jungle of palm trees, and the teal-colored Caribbean in the distance, will set you back $370–$400 per night, just know fall getaway deals may have increased in prices across the board, but Casa Alkimia is definitely an exception to the rule:

Overnights here start from $176 for 2 adults, or $88 each.

Where To Escape The Crowds In Isla Mujeres

Fewer hotels don’t necessarily translate into no crowds, and that’s certainly true for a number of Isla Mujeres in certain beaches, and at certain times of the day.

That being said, there’s truly only one beach in all of the island that bears the brunt of the Mexican Caribbean’s mass tourism, and that’s Playa Norte: as it is a short walk from the ferry terminal, it is where most Cancun day-trippers head for the day.

We couldn’t really blame them, as this beach is indeed gorgeous, with its powdered-sugar white sands and crystal-clear seas, known to be largely free of sargassum throughout the year, but Isla Mujeres’ charm lies in its undeveloped coast.

Playa Norte is already pretty ‘chill’ by Cancun standards, but if it’s unspoiled nature you’re looking for, Playa Indios is one of the least crowded beaches.

Located on the West coast, the coastal stretch that directly faces Cancun offers shallow, crystalline seas and a palm-shaded shoreline.

Even more offbeat, Playa Paraíso is perfect for sunbathing away from the overpriced beach bars, and just south of the world-famous Playa Norte, Playa Sol boasts a more intimate setting, warm waters, and equally beautiful, unruffled sands.

For those staying close to Centro, Playa Mujeres’ equivalent to a ‘main settlement’ or capital, Playa Centro is also an option. It has recently renewed its Blue Flag status for the 2025–2026 season, and it’s outstandingly clean and well-managed.

Last But Not Least… Limited Sargassum

Sargassum is a curse afflicting Mexican Caribbean-bound travelers for most of the year, and let’s face it, even when its levels go down, it’s never guaranteed it will go away completely.

Though it usually tapers in the fall, residue patches of the persistent, foul-smelling seaweed continue washing ashore on the mainland, but rarely ever on Isla Mujeres, especially along its North and West coast.

This means beaches like Norte and Centro, two of the most sought-after, see very little sargassum as the island’s surfboard shape helps protect its West-facing side from the algae.

After all, sargassum is dragged westward, and Cancun is the Westernmost point it can go around these ends.

Learn more about Isla Mujeres—and all its fascinating culture and beautiful nature—here.

Vinicius Costa

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

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September 15, 2025
This Laid-Back Beach Town Named Florida’s Top Fall Getaway

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If sunshine is on your mind, there’s no better state to visit than Florida. No matter the time of year, the rightfully named “Sunshine State” provides paradise shores wrapping the Gulf, the speckled Keys, and up and down the Atlantic, all with their own unique flair.

If fall foliage and campfires are your jam this season, well, Florida might not be for you along the coast.

If you’re the type that wants to keep your checkered flannel tucked away for a rainy day, then there’s no question we have the place for you.

Boasting less crowds, sun-drenched shores, and a way more relaxing vibe than nearby Miami, the experts at Southern Living recently named one unsuspecting city as the state’s top fall getaway.

Just north of Fort Lauderdale lies Boca Raton, a laid-back beach town to escape the hordes of leaf-peepers seeking out the perfect photo-op in neighboring states.

Prime Location

Close enough but not too far from the city bustle, Boca Raton is a well-balanced hideaway. After all, there’s a reason so many retirees flock here to close out their golden years.

You can fly into either West Palm Beach (PBI), Fort Lauderdale (FLL) or Miami (MIA) and make your way to the Brightline train to Boca Raton, reaching this low-key haven of welcoming locals and beautiful shores in a jiffy.

Most fall trips are short but sweet since PTO is typically maxed out during summer, and the kiddos have to go back to class.

That makes vacationing here even more attractive. Southern Living states “The Boca Raton (a luxe resort) is recently renovated and perfect for a weekend getaway (or longer)”.

Upscale, Yet Laid-Back

Boca Raton’s namesake resort isn’t the only option to splurge on yourself. Being so close to Miami, opulence trickles in.

There are world-class spas such as holistic- minded Skin Apeel Day Spa, who’ve been in business for 30 years and impressively hold a perfect Google rating.

There’s also an array of upscale restaurants to treat yourself. Recents patrons visiting downtown Boca’s Le Sorelle Restaurant describe this Italian soiree as “exquisite”.

If you prefer a more intimate setting, Six Tables a Restaurant has, you guessed it, only 6 tables. Obviously, reservations go quick.

Those who’ve scored a seat simply say it’s a “phenomenal experience” and “great for intimate dinners”.

Of course, there’s also the yacht aspect. Like Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton shares a maze of waterways.

Maybe cozy up at a local bar and befriend the old guy in flip-flops. You never know who’s living their best life on their pension.

Boca Raton’s Top Beaches

Boca Raton’s population exceeds the 100,000 benchmark. It’s not a map-dot town with one beach everyone flocks to — you have plentiful options here.

Most notably, Red Reef Park is an expensive park to lounge under swaying palms or tap into your adventurous side by snorkeling the pristine waters to witness the vibrant coral reefs.

Not to be confused with Miami’s most sought-after beach locale, South Beach Park is a family-friendly beach with gleaming white sand, a playground, and daily lifeguard presence.

Spanish River Park is the one beach that might catch you by surprise considering its location splitting the intracoastal and Atlantic.

Holding rave reviews and earning a coveted Blue Flag certification, Spanish River Park is Boca Raton’s crown jewel for perfect beach days.

Of course, locals always have their secret spots too, and Boca Raton is known for being very friendly.

Though, I have a feeling Gumbo Limbo Nature Center will make the cut, especially if you’re a wildlife enthusiast, and they may also mention an Uber hack — take the BocaConnect shuttle where no ride costs more than $5.

So Long, Humidity & Crowds

If you visit Boca Raton in fall, you’re in for a treat. There’s plenty of room to sprawl out on any aforementioned beach as it’s mostly retirees, born-and-raised locals, and few tourists escaping Miami’s hustle and bustle.

Best of all, Florida’s notorious humidity slowly subsides in the coming months, making the weather so much more enjoyable, where you don’t have to bug spray and worry about your unsightly pit stains in vacation photos.

Right now, expect some 90-degree days to pop up, but by the time Thanksgiving rolls around, temps are more tolerable in the high 70s to low 80’s on average.

Do know that “hurricane season” is in effect until the tail end of November.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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September 13, 2025
Move Over Dallas! This Laid-Back City Is The South’s Trendiest New Destination

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The South gets a bad rap more often than not. There’s a lot more here than a bunch of hicks letting life slip by on their front porch.

Yes, there are definitely some podunk towns you can easily skip, but there are also some really cool cities well worth exploring.

Since southern cities are often overshadowed, the element of surprise is all the more alluring.

Rather than take selfies with Chicago’s ‘Bean’, New York’s Statue of Liberty or one of many scenic California beaches, it’s okay to steer away from what you know and give new places a chance.

One such city is giving you a head start after seeing over 24 million visitors, becoming the trendiest new destination in the South. (Sorry, Dallas!)

Oklahoma City: The South’s Biggest Surprise

Ever heard of someone vacationing in Oklahoma City?

Perhaps not, and that’s okay.

That’s partly because it’s an up-and-coming destination and if Rome wasn’t built in a day, how can we expect the same for OKC?

Well, if you were to look back on this city’s growth on a time-lapse, it would certainly seem that way.

OKC used to be nothing special – a coin flip between here and Tulsa for the state’s go-to “metropolis”.

But now it’s thriving and beginning to steal some of the spotlight away from nearby cities such as Dallas, a trendy destination in its own right.

Between vibrant neighborhoods, buzzing restaurants, and a diehard sports community, OKC is full of surprises.

Bricktown: The Heart Of The Action

Seems as if every city has a go-to place. In OKC, there’s no doubt it’s Bricktown.

Nestled along the scenic Oklahoma River, it’s not exactly Venice, but hey, people down here are simple folk.

Truth be told it’s very pretty and makes for an excellent backdrop amidst the busiest district of the city and you can book a fun water taxi, but sadly no gondolas.

This historic part of town has been revamped and rightfully named Bricktown after breathing new life into old buildings in desperate need of a makeover.

Despite being a new “it” destination, some might actually say this area is too touristy with escape rooms, etc.

But this is where locals come to let loose too. There are lively bars and award-winning restaurants ready to welcome you, such as Grey Sweater.

No Need To Resist The Urge To Splurge: OKC Is Very Affordable

Trendy southern cities such as Austin and Dallas aren’t nearly as affordable as they used to.

That’s where OKC steps in to say, “hold my beer”.

There’s no need to resist the urge to splurge here as a tourist. Many people actually move here for cheaper real estate, but you can take advantage of very affordable stays.

For example, the 4-star Wyndham Grand is in the $100 range. Try scoring that in just about any other major city!

Dining out also won’t break the bank with reasonable prices, especially ‘happy hours’ at some of the more popular bars like JJ’s Alley Bricktown Pub.

Better yet, many museums are free to enter, such as:

Don’t forget this is cowboy country, and as a cowboy, they tend to consider themselves as southern gentlemen.

As such, there are ample museums taking a deep dive into the fascinating ‘blazing saddles’ culture that would make Yellowstone fans blush, but not for free unfortunately.

Although, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is only $20 for admission.

A Big City With Small Town Vibes

Oklahoma City has a population of roughly 700,000 people, but many say its down-home charm gives it a small town feel.

Before OKC became a trendy hotspot, Oklahoma’s claim to fame was delightful getaways like Broken Bow, college football games, or casino towns like Durant, home to local favorite Choctaw Casino & Resort.

OKC hasn’t gotten too big for their britches and remembers their roots. Coming here is a nice balance between big city amenities and small-town charm where ‘southern hospitality’ still holds true.

Well, until the rowdy crowds of the Thunder games get the best of them…

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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August 26, 2024
Move Over Florida! This Laid-Back Beach City Is The South’s Most Underrated Summer Destination
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10 million people flock to a vibrant coastal city in Texas, yet it still flies under the radar.

Often overshadowed by the Caribbean-esque beaches of Florida and even neighboring Gulf Shores, Texas is commonly seen viewed as a hootin’ hollerin’ good time in many of the state’s inland cities.

Texas may not have a seat at the table with the likes of Cancun and Los Cabos, but it more than holds its own in the South.

As a born and raised Texan, I can tell you to skip Galveston’s brown waters, but Corpus Christi is a pretty cool place to visit, even if you never step foot on the beach.

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Dallas, Houston, and Austin lies a laid-back getaway ready to surprise you this summer from nearby beautiful beaches, delicious fresh seafood, and a thriving arts scene.

No Need To Visit Florida! Head To The Coast Of Texas Instead

There’s no doubt about it, Florida draws a crowd.

From the immaculate city of Miami all the way around to the Florida panhandle, you will find hordes of tourists enjoying the sun and sand at some of America’s best beach locations.

However, when it comes to Texas, most of the millions of visitors are locals who are aware of Corpus Christi’s allure.

A lot of Texas is flat, nothing reminiscent of paradisal beaches. But once you reach the southernmost points of this vast state, you will find a treasure trove of hidden gems flying under the radar.

Stretching from Corpus Christi to the Mexican border, this region isn’t discussed enough as a top vacation destination, especially in summer.

Florida’s hidden gems are unveiled left and right, but it’s time to shine a light on Corpus and the surrounding area.

And to do that, it needs to be affordable, right?

Budget-Friendly Beaches: Corpus Christi‘s Affordable Stays

Unlike California, the South, including Florida, is typically viewed as an affordable beach destination.

This is true for most of the South – you know, Gulf Shores, Destin, Biloxi, and yes, Corpus Christi.

Airfare can be hard to track with so many factors changing day to day, but Corpus Christi is large enough for its own airport.

On the other hand, hotels are much easier to keep an eye on and rates typically stay in the same ballpark unless there’s a major event.

In other words, if Taylor Swift isn’t touring here, you’re solid!

Corpus has some awesome hotels to stay in overlooking the scenic bay, historic U.S.S. Lexington, and even scattered around nearby beach towns.

Downtown has undergone major renovations where you can easily explore the newfound booming arts scene and surprises like European-esque cathedrals from affordable name-brand hotels such as:

Formerly the main draw of Corpus were the many tributes to native singer Selina, but this delightful city is undoubtedly a beach destination.

Although, most would agree it’s best to go outside the city limits to level up in terms of quality.

In nearby Port Aransas, Padre Island, and Mustang Island, there are some great deals too such as:

Fresh Seafood Galore: Indulge In The ‘Catch Of The Day’

Anyone in Texas, or perhaps in the South for that matter, knows the cult-like following of Whataburger, founded right here in Corpus Christi.

But this seaside city’s foodie claim to fame isn’t fast food burgers; it’s fresh seafood straight from the source.

My personal favorite is beachfront restaurant Fajitaville, a unique blend of Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville vibes mixed with Tex-Mex dishes, but also serve Shrimp Cocktail and Ceviche for your seafood fix.

There are too many to name individually, but what you want to do is take advantage of the breezy patios while indulging in your ‘fresh catch’.

Even more so for dinner as the Texas heat winds down with epic sunset views.

According to TripAdvisor, few of the top-rated restaurants where you can do so:
- Doc’s Seafood & Steak Restaurant
- Blackbeard’s On The Beach
- Snoopy’s Pier
Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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July 17, 2024
Why You Should Visit This Lesser Known Beach Town For A Laid-Back Winter Getaway

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Mexico is every American’s go-to pick for a sunny winter getaway, what with the long miles of sandy coast, balmy weather, and irresistible tropical atmosphere.

However, not all Mexican destinations offer the relaxation they may be craving after another long, tiresome year.

Cancun has the luxurious resorts and award-winning hospitality, but it’s far from being quiet, Vallarta has won our hearts due to its charming Zona Romantica and lively social scene, but local beaches can get very crowded, and even peaceful Cabo is struggling to keep up with a surge in tourism lately.

Where, then, can U.S. travelers go that is still tourist-friendly but laid-back enough for it to be relaxing?

You should be thinking Todos Santos, one of the top 10 best places to visit in the peak of winter:

Why Todos Santos Should Be On Your Bucket List

Tripadvisor has recently named Todos Santos, a small beach town a short one-hour drive up the coast from Cabo San Lucas, one of the best destinations for a February vacation.

February is arguably the gloomiest month of the year, with either rain and dark clouds or snowfall landing hard on a number of Stateside areas.

It’s the time Americans typically feel the urge to escape to sunny Mexico at its strongest and when the budget-conscious tend to travel.

The peak season has passed, prices are fluctuating down, and the weather is not one bit colder.

In the case of Todos Santos, it ranges from 57 to 78 throughout February – nights are only moderately chilly – and there are plenty of sunshine hours to be enjoyed.

That’s not the only reason why this 6,485-people-strong municipality is trending on one of the most popular booking platforms: in case you weren’t aware before, it is one of the cultural centers of the Baja California Sur state, and a pueblo magico of the first order.

While Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo excel at hosting high-end travelers keen on splurging on all-inclusive stays, Todos Santos attracts a different kind of visitor: culture buffs enthusiastic about exploring Mexico on a deeper level, and small town lovers.

Todos Santos Is Perfect For Relaxing

Forget about that overdeveloped stretch of coast, the Americanized beach zones, and the glitz and glamor of the Waldorf next door: Todos Santos has retained much, if not all, of its native Mexican Pacific charm.

Yes, there are luxury hotels and spa facilities in the vicinity – this is a stone’s throw away from Latin America’s largest wellness hub, after all – but these are generally much smaller in size, falling into the ’boutique’ subcategory and they can be more affordable.

While an overnight in Cabo averages $600 in a best-case scenario, tourists can find cheaper stays in three-star hotels in downtown Todos Santos for only $151 a night this February, or if they’d like to add a touch of luxury to their sojourn, Guaycura Boutique Hotel is a solid pick.

Equipped with a beach club and spa, prices start from an acceptable $494. Higher than the Todos Santos average but considerably less expensive than Cabo’s soaring resort rates.

If you really want to ‘go for it’, the newest addition to the town’s growing portfolio is the self-describing Todos Santos Boutique Hotel, an ultra-exclusive, luxurious 10-room listing housed in a traditional historic property dating back to the 1890s. Rates range between $995 and $1,295.

As you can see, there’s something for every traveler in Todos Santos, irrespective of budget. On top of that, it is an incredibly picturesque town to be based in:

A Charming Colonial Center

Having been established by missionaries in the 18th century, it has a rich cultural tapestry, with a number of Spanish-built churches and a vibrant colonial center full of colorful houses.

If you’re an active Instagrammer, you’ll want to leave no stone unturned when exploring Todos Santos.

As for its historical value, the last battle of the Mexican-American War, triggered by the American annexation of Texas in the 1800s, was fought near the town, making it a mandatory pit stop on culture-based itineraries.

That being said, Todos Santos is not known exclusively for its cultural assets.

It has a number of hippie shops, quirky art galleries, and pristine beaches for both sunbathing and surfing.

Overall, it’s remarkably peaceful, enjoying low rates of crime, unlike sprawling urban centers.

Whale-watching is also an incredibly popular tour among tourists, with ocean safaris departing daily throughout winter when migration trends for the giant sea mammals are higher.

Finally, as it sits on the azure Pacific coast of Mexico, not the Caribbean side, Todos Santos is not affected by sargassum, the brown, foul-smelling seaweed that is already making a comeback to the Mayan Coast as early as February.

Sargassum is not commonly observed in the Pacific, as it requires warmer waters to proliferate, and whether you’re following Tripadvisor’s advice this February or visiting later in the year, rest assured those golden sands will always be spotless.

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February 7, 2024