Mexico is one of the most popular countries on the planet for tourism, yet there are so many destinations that get overlooked.
While many travelers head to the stunning coastlines of Mexico, there are still hidden gems to discover away from the beautiful beaches.
Mexico City is no secret to travelers; Oaxaca has become a hub for digital nomads, but what about the lesser-known city of Aguascalientes?
Have you heard of it? If not, this lovely city is located just north of the cultural cities of Guadalajara and Guanajuato.
While any traveler will fall in love with this relatively unknown city, solo travelers may be the perfect fit.
Let’s take a look at why this cultural treasure should top your list for your next Mexican getaway:
It’s Safe For Tourists
Mexico as a whole can get a bad rap in the news. Sometimes, one rare instance can take over headlines and make travelers question if Mexico is right for them.
However, that would be like looking at a murder in Boston and saying you can’t visit San Diego. It just doesn’t make sense.
Most tourists in Mexico return home unscathed, bragging about how amazing their trip was. That’s the norm, not what you may see on TV or read in mainstream news headlines.
Many destinations in Mexico are perfectly safe to visit. Not to say travelers shouldn’t have a heightened sense of awareness no matter where they go.
Aguascalientes should not raise any red flags in terms of safety. The U.S. State Department issued a new travel advisory for Mexico last month.
Aguascalientes holds the same standing as some of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations, such as Cancun, Mexico City, and Los Cabos.
Insane Affordability
Solo travelers tend to be on a budget. Not many travelers flying solo are staying at the Four Seasons. Here in Aguascalientes, it is truly one of the most budget-friendly destinations in the country.
While digital nomads have fallen in love with Mexico due in large part to the affordable stays, Aguascalientes may take the trophy.
It’s not uncommon to find comfortable accommodations under $400 per month. Feel free to wipe your eyes as much as you need to, but yes, you read that right!
Solo travelers who spend a month here can expect a total monthly budget under $900, which is almost unheard of.
This includes a comfortable apartment in a centrally-located area, dining out on occasion, groceries, and transport costs, such as Uber.
As off-the-beaten-path as Aguascalientes is, it’s not surprising to discover the city only has a few hostels.
Finding an affordable rental may be your best option for saving money while having more space.
The Best Value For A Cultural Experience
Travelers will save a ton of money by making Aguascalientes their next Mexican getaway, but its not like it’s some podunk town with nothing to see.
Set near 2 of the country’s most cultural cities, of course, Aguascalientes is a place to immerse yourself in its beautiful traditions.
Not only is this lesser-known city super affordable, it is actually the best bang for your buck. According to a GoBankingRates study, there is no better place in Mexico to spend your money.
The city is a little off the beaten path, yet still easy to reach. Once here, you can easily take advantage of cheap traditional food, shop at local artisan markets, and take in stunning historic architecture.
Solo travelers who want to get some work done on the road will have no trouble doing so here. Whether staying at one of the affordable accommodations with reliable Wi-Fi or opting to reserve a virtual office at one of the plethora of co-working spaces, this is the place for you.
Not to mention the many cafes with patios perfect for people watching to take in all the sights and sounds of this highly underrated Mexican city.
While not all solo travelers have a remote job, Aguascalientes is perfectly suited for the digital nomad lifestyle as well.
American travelers have flocked to Mexico’s beaches all year long, contributing to record-breaking tourism in hotspots such as Los Cabos and Cancun.
Travelers wanting something new and trendy should look to another gorgeous coastline in Mexico. The twin cities, Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, are beaming with opportunities for an awesome beach vacay.
The scenery is stunning and has everything any beach vacationer could want to make the trip worthwhile. It could easily become your new favorite Mexican getaway.
Here are 6 reasons why you should visit this lesser known beach destination:
More Direct Flights From The U.S.
Airlines have taken notice of how awesome Itxtapa-Zihuatenejo is for beachgoers. We’ll just call it Ixtapa, as this is more common.
It was just announced that Alaska Airlines is launching new flights this winter from 2 major U.S. cities, adding to their impressive portfolio for our southern neighbors.
Just in time for Christmas, the new service will begin flying to Ixtapa on December 23 from both cities. Although, this will be Alaska’s first international flight out of Chicago.
Sale prices currently start in the low $400’s from San Diego and the mid-$700’s from Chicago.
Other airlines flying direct from the U.S. and Canada to Ixtapa:
United
American
WestJet
Sunwing
Sun Country (seasonal)
Volaris (seasonal)
Underrated Beaches
Ixtapa may not be as well known, but it holds its own against the mega-popular beach destinations.
Playa Linda is one of the commonly visited beaches here, and with good reason. There is a fun bike and skating path parallel to the beach, making for a great family hangout.
Others may prefer to go a little more off-path to Isla Ixtapa, an idyllic island within sight from the shore. And just a $4 boat ride.
Here, pristine soft-sand beaches are easy to reach and the perfect place to lounge for a worry-free beach day.
Fewer Crowds Than Other Popular Beach Destinations
Cancun and Los Cabos are amazing places to visit, but some elbow room would be nice, would it not? Here in Ixtapa, the beaches are lovely, open and awaiting more travelers to enjoy.
Now that summer is basically over for most, this may be the perfect time to plan your trip. Summer is synonymous with beach getaways, so planning your fall or winter getaway will be your best bet.
Located in the state of Guerrero, Acapulco may be the most familiar name, but Ixtapa is ready to embrace more vacationers.
But travelers won’t be cheated with low-quality digs. There are some legitimate nice places to stay with all-inclusive packages.
The region is lined with waterfront resorts spread across the coastline between both cities with familiar luxury brands, such as Barcelo.
Even Holiday Inn has a 4-star all-inclusive stay right on the gorgeous La Cucaracha Beach. And no, you will not find pesky cucarachas to ruin your stay.
What you will find is a beautiful beach with crystal blue waters. Nightly resort rates are often found in the $100s or even lower for multiple beachfront resorts.
A Plethora Of Water Excursions
If you’re the type that can’t sit still and needs to be on the move, Ixtapa has what you need. Some of the best ways to experience Ixtapa are tours in and on beautiful blue waters.
Whether you go to Isla Ixtapa or not, there are some awesome spots for snorkeling and other activities: kayaking, surfing, fishing and more.
You can even take a horse on the beach for a casual stroll, taking in all the stunning scenery. One of the top-rated attractions is hopping aboard a sailboat for one of Ixtapa’s magical sunsets.
And hey, if you’re into diving, you may be fortunate enough to find God. No no, not a case of religious awakening. Literally, find God.
Paseo del Pescador
You can’t visit this region of Mexico without taking a stroll through the Paseo del Pescador, a bayside promenade in Zihuatenejo.
If you time it right, this is one of the most tranquil spots between both cities, with stunning scenery at every turn, from the lush green hills to the sounds of crashing waves.
Surrounding this walkway are plentiful shopping areas and restaurants serving some of the finest local mouth-watering seafood imaginable.
The Mediterranean is one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. Known for its turquoise waters and verdant nature and home to cities and civilizations that are thousands of years old, it is arguably the best spot for both beach and culture.
Not all Mediterranean countries are well known to the American public, however, who will often falter in naming countries that are not Spain, Italy, or Greece, when in fact, one of the most beautiful islands in the basin does not belong to any of these major states – and believe it or not:
It is simply the perfect fall destination, being best enjoyed in the off-season. Here are 5 reasons why Cyprus should be your next international trip:
The Gateway To Olympus
Before our European readers rush to the comment section to denounce our classification of Cyprus as a ‘lesser-known’ country, you must know it is very much so an off-path destination for a majority of Americans, who rank nowhere in Cyprus’ top-ten most frequent visitors.
To our American readers who might never have heard of Cyprus before, it is an Eastern Mediterranean island just south of Turkiye (formerly spelled Turkey) with Hellenic origins. This means Cyprus is, in essence, a Greek-speaking island, except it is not part of Greece.
Cyprus is its own country, and although the Greek language is most widely spoken, and ethnic Greek Cypriots form a majority, Turkish is also an official language at the national level due to the island’s strong cultural ties to its closest neighbor.
A bit of History, if we may: Cyprus has been an island divided since the 1970s, when Turkish forces occupied the Northern third of the island, and the self-declared, breakaway state of TRNC (Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus) was declared to very limited international recognition.
You can learn more about Cyprus’ division, which in no way affects tourists or their safety, here.
A Middle Eastern Island That Is Part Of Europe?
If you look at a mapa mundis, you will see Cyprus is firmly planted in the Middle East, which would make it in theory an Asian country, as it is closer to Turkiye (70 km), Syria (110 km), Lebanon (200 km), and Israel (300 km), and Syria than it is to Greece, the closest European neighbor (800 km).
Still, Cyprus is geopolitically and culturally a European nation, being a member of the European Union (EU), and having the Euro as its official currency.
Now that we have got the technicalities out of the way and given you the shortest possible introduction to Cyprus, here’s why it is perfect for an autumn getaway:
Prices Will Drop This Fall
As it is remote, being the Southeastern-most country in the EU, Cyprus is very remote and trickier to get to, especially if you’re traveling from America. That doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
It may not host nonstop Transatlantic flights, but it is served by several low-cost airlines operating in Europe and the wider Mediterranean region, with airfares as cheap as $39 departing from certain British hubs.
As traveling to Cyprus will inevitably require a layover in a third European country, Americans get to pick which departure point is the cheapest out of a vast continent with plenty of budget-friendly offers – and lucky for them, prices are set to drop significantly this fall.
Great Connectivity
Fall is the off-season in Europe when air passenger numbers plummet as a result of the start of the school year and end of the summer holidays, and though connectivity to Cyprus is affected – some Cyprus-bound routes are seasonal – connectivity to mainland Europe is certainly not severed.
Traveling from Paris (Beauvais) to Larnaca (LCA), the busiest airport in Cyprus in late September, Americans can find flights as cheap as $38 one-way flying WizzAir, as seen on Skyscanner, while London Luton departures start at just $27.
Cyprus is served by budget airlines from all over Europe, and you’ll certainly be spoiled for choice as long as you get to Europe first.
One of the reasons why Cyprus is still so well-frequented in the off-season is its amazing weather.
As you might have guessed glancing at the map, it is essentially a Middle Eastern destination more than it is Southern European proper, which means the shoulder seasons are pretty mild.
While you do get snow in the mountainous inland of Cyprus over winter, the coast remains relatively warm, enjoying highs of 68°F even in February. If winters are that mild, you can imagine how warm autumns are.
According to TUI, a Britain-based travel agency, ‘days are usually hot with balmy evenings’, and tourists are encouraged to ‘pack light and cool clothing’ long after summer is through. The average daily maximum is 89°F in September, with a minimum of 71°F.
In October, the temperature remains high at 82°F, on average, dropping to a pleasant 73°F in November. In sum, Cyprus stays warm the entire off-season, and as it is a Mediterranean island, the seas also remain much warmer than other European swimming sites.
It Is A Year-Round Destination
This fall, Cyprus is expected to register a high occupancy, with hotels close to being sold out at least two months after the peak of summer.
Looking at its gorgeous weather, this is hardly a surprise, but it’s maybe the first time Cyprus has had such a long and successful tourist season.
In a way, it seems to have consolidated its spot as one of the top shoulder season destinations not only in Europe or the wider Eurasia but the whole world.
It seems the Tourism Ministry’s efforts for Cyprus to become an all-year-round tourist destination have paid off, with recent data pointing that ‘tourist units will have high occupancies until mid-October’.
‘Our tourism partners report that in some areas, such as Paphos, there will be an increase in tourists from November 2023 – February 2024, compared to previous years‘, he added, referring to one of the trendiest resort cities on the island.
Paphos is best known as the birthplace of Aphrodite and an ancient port home to UNESCO-listed monuments, including the landmark Tombs of the Kings, a vast necropolis with well-preserved Doric columns and frescoes.
While there has not been a ‘uniformity’ across Cyprus, with other resort regions like Famagusta reporting a drop in bookings as early as June, the overall picture looks good.
Cyprus Is Still Not As Touristy As Other Mediterranean Countries
Finally, Cyprus is less busy than Greece or Italy. That’s not to stay it is a hidden gem awaiting discovery.
It may not be the first destination Americans think of when planning an off-season beach vacation, either due to a lack of knowledge on Southeastern Europe, or the absence of nonstop flights which makes getting to Cyprus harder, but it is a hugely popular sunny getaway for Europeans.
You should expect well-frequented beaches and lively cities brimming with life and tourists, but it is still nowhere near the crazy levels of tourism seen in Italian hotspots such as Rome, Florence, and Venice, or neighboring Greece’s Santorini and Mykonos.
Visitor numbers will probably not dwindle significantly in the fall, but Cyprus will still be considerably less hectic than its European counterparts, as its all-time high for yearly figures peaked at only 4.12 million in 2019.
Last year, only 1.94 million tourists vacationed in Cyprus, a majority having arrived between the summer months.
Summer is finally over, which means the high season for traveling to Europe is nearing its end as well.
In only a few weeks, stronger winds will sweep across the Old Continent, and several popular tourist hotspots will begin shutting down as they prepare for the colder months to come.
While a Transatlantic trip could sound less attractive to some in a colder climate, it’s worth noting not all of Europe will be cooling down in the immediate future. In fact, much of Southern Europe could stay warm and make for a perfect off-season getaway.
Here are 4 lesser-known sunny spots in Europe that are set to enjoy high, summer-like temperatures throughout this fall and also smaller crowds:
Menton, France
A hidden pearl of France’s Côte d’Azur, Menton is the last French town before the border with Italy, and understandably so, very multicultural in character.
Its pastel-colored, closely packed buildings feel more Italian than French proper, and you may even hear Ligurian dialects spoken on the streets.
Either way, Menton is a one-of-a-kind weekend getaway. Sandwiched between two countries, it combines both the traditional charm of the Italian Riviera – think a slow-paced lifestyle, fresh citron pressé and cobblestones – and the unspoken elegance of the French Mediterranean.
Though the local beach is pebbly, which may be a bit of a nuisance to some, the waters are crystal clear, and the long boardwalk is incredibly multicultural to stroll, lined with gelato stalls and artisan workshops and stretching all the way into Italy.
Additionally, staying at a 3-star hotel in Old Town Menton will set you back by only $76 per night this fall.
Paphos, Cyprus
One of the trendiest resort zones in the Eastern Mediterranean island nation of Cyprus, Paphos is renowned for its year-round warmer weather, long, endless miles of sandy beaches, and turquoise-colored shallow lagoons.
As it is geographically located in the Middle East – despite being culturally European – Cyprus boasts scorching summers and pleasantly warm autumns, with the best time to visit being actually between August and late October, when it’s not too hot out.
Visiting Paphos this fall, you will be met with less crowded beaches, a more youthful atmosphere, as there will be very few families on vacation, and affordable beachfront stays, with rates starting at only $121 for the Queens Bay Hotel on Booking.com this October.
Sanlucar de Barrameda, Spain
An autonomous region within Spain, Andalusia is the hottest region in all of Europe this fall, with temperatures soaring above 86°F degrees across several cities, but if there’s one beach spot that is set to make headlines, what with its vibrant nightlife and summery weather, is Sanlucar.
Officially called Sanlucar de Barrameda, it is a smaller coastal city on the shores of the Mediterranean, a short one-hour drive from Seville, home to an array of different historical sights, including a medieval castle and a charming Old Town, and a 6 km-long, 50 meter-wide sandy beach.
Plenty of space to lounge and bask in the sun, especially in the low season, when most holidaymakers will have already made it back home.
With hotel rates as cheap as $64, Sanlucar is one of the most affordable sunny breaks in this part of the world.
Hvar, Croatia
A paradise island off the mainland coast of Dalmatia, one of the main ethnic groups comprising the country of Croatia, Hvar has been recently named the new ‘Ibiza’, in recognition of its subtropical atmosphere, paradisaical beaches, up-and-coming resort scene, and riotous nightlife.
Throughout the tourist season, which lasts from summer until late fall, guests will find a myriad of beach clubs and bars operating until late hours, including the trendiest one on the island, Carpe Diem, and the central Veneranda Club, hosting techno parties and famous DJ sets.
The cost of accommodation for one-week stays in Hvar this fall will set you back by roughly $2,000 for a mid-range B&B or hotel room, with overnight rates at the extremely popular Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort starting from only $162.
As a cultural destination, this small island is not to be underestimated, either, as it is home to one of Croatia’s oldest settlements in Stari Grad and centuries-old historical fortresses that rival Dubronvik’s in beauty.
This extensive high-speed train project will connect 17 locations that are home to culturally rich towns, Mayan ruin sites, and beautiful beaches.
Undoubtedly this will bring an even larger number of tourists through the region by making them more accessible.
These 6 lesser-known Mexican destinations are set to explode in popularity with the creation of the new Tren Maya route:
Palenque
Palenque is located in Mexico’s southeastern state of Chiapas, one of the least visited states, and is the first stop on the new Tren Maya route.
It’s a somewhat remote place to visit currently as it only has a small airport with few flights, meaning that most people choose to arrive by car or bus. The addition of the train will make the location much more accessible for travelers.
Although the town itself may not be as charming as popular destinations like San Miguel de Allende, Oaxaca, or nearby San Cristóbal de las Casas, there are still many reasons why travelers will want to visit.
When most people think of Palenque, they think of the Mayan ruins of the same name. The Palenque Ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once one of the Mayan civilization’s most important cities.
It’s located in a national park offering a stunning jungle landscape filled with howler monkeys and toucans, and if you go early enough, you can often see the temples shrouded in mist.
The cost to enter is only 110 MXN ($6.50 USD) and includes access to the onsite museum, which is less than half of what it costs to visit the popular Chichén Itzá ruins.
Palenque is one of Mexico’s best historical sites offering travelers access to three amazing Mayan ruins, Palenque, Yaxchilan, and Bonampak. It is also home to the gorgeous waterfalls of Agua Azul, Misol Ha, and the crystal clear pools at Roberto Barrios, which only costs $30 MXN ($1.50 USD)
Once you finish exploring the town of Palenque, its quaint streets, and local markets, you can take a trip to nearby San Cristobal or hop back on the Tren Maya and head towards its next stop.
Campeche
San Francisco de Campeche, called Campeche for short, is located in the second section of the Tren Maya route. It is known for its colorful colonial architecture, historic center, and nearby Mayan ruins.
The city is the only walled fortress in Mexico and one of its 35 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
One of the best things about Campeche is that you can explore most of it on foot, and since it’s still relatively underrated, you will be able to find better prices and smaller crowds than other more popular destinations.
While visiting the city, you can wander through the historic center, have a meal on the pedestrian-only street Calle 59, stroll along the malecon (waterfront boardwalk), or visit one of its two fortresses: Fuerte San Miguel and Fuerte San Jose el Alto.
The fortresses are each located on small hills overlooking the city and the ocean, that you will need to take a taxi to get to. They both have a small fee to enter, which provides visitors access to their museums filled with information on how Campeche was built to protect itself from pirate invasions.
Outside of the city, Campeche is also known for its nearby Mayan sites of Calakmul and Edzna.
The latter is less than an hour outside the historic center and is said to be influenced by the family who built Chichen Itzá with its layout copying that of Mexico City’s famous Teotihuacán.
Two historically interesting reasons to visit, and if you need another reason, you can often find yourself wandering the site alone without the crowds of other locations.
Whether you stay within the walled city, adventure out to the ruins, drive to Bécal to see Panama hats being made, or head to the nearby beaches like Sabancuy and Isla Aguada, you will find that Campeche is one of Mexico’s hidden gems.
The locals, or Campechanos, which translates as hearty, kind, and cordial, are exactly that. It’s easy to see how this small city is set to explode in popularity.
Mérida
You may have already heard of Mérida, as it has been steadily growing in popularity over the last several years. It’s known for being one of the safest cities in the world, for its colorful colonial architecture in the historic center, and for its proximity to nature.
The announcement of the new Tren Maya has already spurred an increase in development and intrigue into Mexico’s White City, as it’s affectionately called.
The train station will be located near Mérida’s international airport and will have an electric tram to bring travelers into the new Gran Parque La Plancha. The park is set to contain an artificial lake, areas to relax, repurposed trains with places to eat at, and will connect travelers to the popular culinary row of Calle 47.
Once in the historic center, visitors can stroll along the pretty tree-lined Paseo de Montejo, a two-mile long street filled with cute cafes and restaurants.
On Sunday mornings, the city closes down one side of the street for the Biciruta, an event where you can rent a bicycle for 20 MXN per hour ($1 USD) and ride through the main plaza and into the cobblestone streets of La Ermita.
The historic center is a great place to wander around and take in the beautiful architecture, discover local shops, and find hidden speakeasies and restaurants.
One of the best things about Mérida is that you never know what you might discover behind a building’s façade as they often open into stunning interiors and leafy courtyards.
After exploring all that the city has to offer, travelers can adventure into nature. Within an hour of the city, there are a variety of beautiful beach towns like Sisal, Progresso, and Telchac Puerto.
You can visit flamingos in Celestun, swim in one of the many cenotes in Homún, tour an abandoned hacienda from the old henequen production days, or see an ancient Mayan ruin.
Mérida is a large city with a small-town feel that has much to offer. It comes as no surprise as to why this destination is going to continue to grow in popularity.
Izamal
The final station within the third section of the Tren Maya will be in the unique small town of Izamal, one of Mexico’s Pueblo Magicos.
Located in the state of Yucatán and only an hour and a half by car from Mérida, this town is the perfect stopping point for travelers on their way towards popular Quintana Roo destinations like Cancun or Tulum.
Izamal is famous for historic colonial architecture that is all painted the same color yellow. It’s hard to say for sure why this is the agreed-upon color scheme for the town. However, it is rumored to have been done for the visit of the Pope in the 90s or to honor the Mayan sun god of Kinich Kakmó.
Whatever the reason, these yellow buildings make for the perfect backdrop for photographers and social media enthusiasts. It’s almost impossible to take a bad picture in the adorable town.
Izamal is a safe and authentic Mexican town that can easily be explored in a day. Its main attraction is the Convento de San Antonio Padua containing the second-largest atrium in the world outside of St. Peters.
The other popular thing to do is to walk to the top of the Mayan Ruins of Kinich Kakmó. The entrance is free to the site, and the view from the top is amazing.
After a day of exploring the town and its artisan shops, a trip to Izamal wouldn’t be complete without stopping for a meal at the famous Restaurante Kinich, known for its local Yucatecan cuisine and freshly made corn tortillas.
Visitors can opt to spend the night in a local Airbnb, one of the surrounding haciendas, or continue on toward their next destination.
Valladolid
This small town has a decidedly European vibe to it and is famous for its proximity to Chichén Itzá. Its charm comes from its laid-back atmosphere and traditional colonial architecture.
Valladolid is great for a day trip or a weekend getaway. You can see all of its main attractions in one day. However, there are a lot of interesting destinations nearby as well.
As with any Mexican city, the Plaza Grande is always a must-see for its little shops, restaurants, and nightly cultural shows.
The most popular street in Valladolid is Calzada de los Frailes, or Calle 41A, which is home to some of the best boutiques and hotels, like the famous Coqui Coqui.
At the end of the street sits the convent of San Bernadino of Siena, an impressive church and fortress you are able to explore for only 30 MXN ($1.25 USD).
Valladolid is also a popular spot to explore some cenotes. These freshwater sinkholes or caverns come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some are open to the air, some are relatively untouched, and others have been modified greatly for tourist appeal.
The town has its very own cenote that is only 10-minute from its centre. Cenote Suytun is one of the most Instagram famous cenotes, known for its man-made stone ledge and perfectly positioned hole in the cavern ceiling that illuminates it.
Other popular nearby attractions include: Ek Balam, a lesser-known Mayan ruin but easily one of the best sites to visit, and Las Coloradas, which is a small fishing village that has a salt field with pink lakes.
With the amount of things to see surrounding Valladolid and its close proximity to Cancun and Tulum, it makes sense that the new Tren Maya station will undoubtedly bring even more travelers to experience this beautiful little town.
Bacalar
The town of Bacalar is located in the state of Quintana Roo, just two hours south of Tulum and an hour from the border of Belize. It’s been a long-time favorite destination for locals but still remains relatively laid back and devoid of Mexico’s usual tourist crowds.
This is likely to change soon as the new Tren Maya station there will make accessing this destination easier than ever.
Bacalar is a Pueblo Magico best known for its “Lagoon of Seven Colours”, a lake that was originally formed by combining several cenotes and now offers many stunning shades of blue and turquoise.
The lagoon is pretty much the main attraction of Bacalar, and there are a lot of water-based activities to enjoy.
Renting a boat or joining a tour is the most popular way to experience the lagoon. The excursions are for 3 or more hours and take you to see the cenotes and the well-known Canal De Los Piratas. This small shallow waterway connects the Bacalar lagoon to another smaller lagoon and was once used as a trade route between Belize and Mexico.
Another popular activity is to spend the day at Los Rapidos, although not technically in Bacalar, it’s just a short drive away. The site is a narrow channel within the lagoon that is lined by stromatolites and mangroves and has a current you can float down.
To enter, you have to pay a 150 MXN fee ($7.50 USD) at the attached restaurant, and this allows you access for the entire day.
Some articles have been claiming that Bacalar is the new Tulum. With its sleepy laid back town and sparkling blue waters, it is bound to continue to grow in popularity.
If you’re looking for a place to unwind without the tourist crowds, then you need to head to Bacalar now before it explodes on the international scene.
Portugal is a beautiful country with incredible beaches. This year alone it has been listed as one of the cheapest European vacation destinations as well as one of the most popular.
So it should come as no surprise that Portugal’s travel and tourism industry is on target to break records in 2023. Data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) shows that by the end of the year, Portugal’s tourism industry will exceed its 2019 peak.
Locations such as Lisbon, Porto, and Madeira are listed as the most popular destinations in Portugal, and they all attract big crowds during the summer months.
But what about if you want to explore Portugal without the record-breaking crowds?
Here are 5 lesser-known destinations in Portugal to explore:
Miramar
Miramar is a small coastal village located between the towns of Gulpilhares and Arcozelo. Despite boasting a beautiful beach, Miramar doesn’t attract the same level of crowds as the beaches of the Algarve. Even in the high season, the beach here is pleasantly uncrowded.
If you’re looking for tourist attractions, then you won’t be disappointed here either. Miramar is home to the Capela do Senhora Pedra. This is a 17th-century chapel that looks striking against the wave-beaten headland that juts out from the beach.
Miramar isn’t far from Porto, so it’s not exactly off the beaten track. But it is much quieter than many of the other easy-to-access tourist resorts in Portugal.
Alto Alentejo
If you’re hoping to explore the authentic heart of Portugal, then Alto Alentejo is the perfect region to visit.
You won’t find luxury all-inclusive resorts here. And as it is an inland destination, you won’t be able to spend your days lazing on the beach. But Alto Alentejo offers an incredible mixture of pretty towns and medieval cities.
It is the best place in Portugal to mingle with locals and enjoy the country’s history and culture.
The best way to stay here is in small, locally run hotels or farm stays. Alentejo cuisine is regarded as amongst the richest and best in Portugal.
Marvao
Marvao is a small, fairytale village with a population of just 2,972. Located in the mountaintops near the Spanish border, Marvao is a Medieval village, and the castle here is considered to be one of the most beautiful castles in Europe.
Marvao boasts white-washed houses and incredible views. People often stop at Marvao as part of a wider road trip around Portugal, but it is less popular as a stand-alone vacation destination.
Marvao is a vacation destination that is small but perfectly formed and is best suited to active, outdoorsy types. From hiking in the surrounding mountains to horseback riding and mountain biking, Marvao is best explored slowly, with plenty of stops to admire the breathtaking scenery.
Viseu
The most off-path locations are the ones that are hardest to reach, and that is true of beautiful Viseu.
There is no train station here, so you will need to hire a car to reach your destination. But it’s worth making the effort to enjoy the incredible views, cultural attractions, and the lack of crowds.
Viseu is a medieval walled city that is home to a monumental cathedral, beautiful cobbled alleyways, and immense plazas perfect for people-watching and unwinding after a busy day. As the location is in one of Portugal’s main wine-producing regions, you’re in the perfect place for a glass of red.
And art lovers will find Renaissance treasures to savor in the Museu Grão Vasco.
Ferragudo
Ferragudo is known as the prettiest village on the Algarve. And while there are no completely tourist-free locations here, if you want to visit the Algarve, then this is one of the best places to choose.
Ferragudo is a traditional fishing village filled with whitewashed cottages, hillside streets, and beautiful riverside views. The squares and terraces here have a buzzing night-time atmosphere, and you’ll find a host of great restaurants here too.
One of the more unique characteristics of this area is the many cliff-top forts that you can explore. Ferragudo is at the mouth of a river rather than offering direct beach access.
While the famous beaches of the Algarve are close by, this distance makes Ferraguda a much quieter location to explore.
Venice stands among Europe’s most iconic destinations.
Traversed by centuries-old canals lined with pastel-colored buildings and beautiful, ornate churches, it is indeed one of humanity’s greatest feats, but there are some huge downsides to Venice first-time visitors often fail to take into account when planning a vacation:
It can get jam-packed with tourists — so much so that local authorities are mulling over introducing a ticketing system to reduce overtourism, on top of already enforcing a cruise ship ban, implementing strict policies governing vacation rentals, and worse even, struggling with drying canals.
This is one hot, crowded city, but luckily for canal enthusiasts, it is far from being the only one of its kind in the old continent.
Here are 4 great alternative destinations with their own canal systems you can visit instead of Venice this summer:
Aveiro, Portugal
Aptly nicknamed the ‘Portuguese Venice’, Aveiro is an ancient city in Northern Portugal, only one hour’s drive South of trendy Porto.
Much like Venice, it is best known for its various canals, except Aveiro’s were built artificially in the 18th century as a means to bolster local economic growth.
Sitting on the shores of the Atlantic, this medium-sized port is inhabited by around 80,000 people, against the Italian counterpart’s 261,000, making it less densely populated, and more pleasant to stroll in the hot summer months
Additionally, while the latter’s cityscape is ocher-colored, Aveiro’s is more distinct for its vibrant tones.
You will find several Iberian-style houses painted in lively hues of red, yellow, and green lining the main canal front, where the traditional barcos moliceiros, the Portuguese gondolas, travel carrying tourists and goods from the Atlantic Sea.
Besides taking a boat tour around the canals, visitors should pay the beautiful Cathedral of Aveiro a visit, a 15th-century Catholic monument in a perfect state of preservation. The historic Aveiro Museum, housed within a medieval convent where a Portuguese princess is entombed, is also not to be missed.
Bruges, Belgium
In the Flemish North of Belgium, where Dutch is the most widely-spoken language, Bruges has been historically dubbed ‘Venice of the North’ due to its masterfully-engineered canals, instrumental to European trade as late as the 20th century, and boundless medieval treasures.
The city center has been listed by UNESCO as one of its World Heritage Sites, and taking a quick glance at its grand canal, bordered by stone buildings, 15th-century churches and their gorgeous belfries, and cobbled promenades, you’ll soon understand why.
Close to 117,000 people live permanently in Bruges, though only 20,000 reside in the compact, walkable, oval-shaped center, meaning it is not as crowded and certainly not as polluted as the sprawling Old Venice.
Bruges is not exactly a hidden gem, featuring on several travel brochures on Belgium and Central Europe, but it is more quaint, arguably more romantic than its more famous Mediterranean competitor, and enjoys a small town feel we are sure couples on a belated, post-COVID honeymoon will appreciate.
Empuriabrava, Spain
Perhaps the least famous entry on this list, Empuriabrava is an affluent residential marina in Spain’s Costa Brava, within the autonomous province of Catalonia, encompassing more than 24 km of navigable waterways and up to 40 km of canals in total.
You read that right.
Although the area has been inhabited since immemorial times, Empuriabrava only flourished as a tourist destination in the mid-seventies, when work on the canals was finished, and guesthouses and luxury stays started popping up.
Unlike Venice, however, it is not a historic city, serving instead as a resort destination.
Although History buffs will appreciate the Roman archaeological zone of Sant Martí d’Empúries located nearby, holidaymakers spending their summers in Empuriabrava are simply searching for some relaxation and quality time in the sun, and there’s nothing wrong with that.
This incredibly exclusive, high-end community has its canals arching along the Gulf of Roses, bounded by the azure waters of the Mediterranean, and the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà, a protected reserve popular among nature seekers.
Wrocław, Poland
The fourth-largest city in Poland, claiming an area of 292.8 km² with over 673,000 residents, Wrocław (Anglicized as Wroclaw) is often overlooked among visitors to this Eastern European country, despite being as cosmopolitan as Warsaw, and just as charming as Krakow or Gdansk.
On top of that, a little-known fact about Wroclaw is that it is an urban conurbation spread across twelve islands on the wide Odra River. With many canals fed by tributaries of the Odra and over 200 bridges, it’s no wonder it is sometimes called the ‘Polish Venice’.
Similarly to Venice, other than the busy watercourses, Wroclaw has a host of world-class attractions on land, such as a Gothic town hall erected as early as the 13th century, the towering Wroclaw Cathedral, sitting imposingly on Ostrów Tumski island, and a pedestrianized Market Square.
If you’ve been to Poland already, you know most of what you see around its Old Towns has been rebuilt or renovated following the devastating bombings of World War II.
Wroclaw is no exception, but a majority of the structures flanking Market Square have remained intact, making it a unique heritage site for Poland.
Heading to Europe this summer?
Find more unique off-path destinations to explore here.
The Caribbean is indisputably America’s number one vacation spot, but it can be argued that it remains largely unexplored. While destinations like Cancun and Punta Cana are all awash with visitors, other lesser-known sunny spots are still flying under the radar of most travelers.
That is the case with the British Virgin Islands (BVI), an autonomous archipelago that is overseen by the United Kingdom and a direct neighbor of Puerto Rico to the East.
An up-and-coming destination, the BVI is trending among sunseekers right now.
Here are 4 reasons why you should give the Cancun-Punta Cana power duo a miss this year and be among the first to explore this British dependency:
It Feels More Exclusive
Whether you’re staying on the most populous and best-equipped island or any of the more remote paradise islets that surround it, you will be met with long stretches of virtually deserted white-sand beaches glistening against the turquoise waters and beautiful palm tree-lined promenades.
The British Virgin Islands host, on average, 83,000 tourists every year.
If you’re looking for some utter relaxation away from the hordes of holidaymakers flocking into Mexico’s gentrified mega-resorts, then the BVI will definitely feel a lot more exclusive.
According to 2019 estimates, the islands have a population of about 30,000 British subjects, and due to their relatively compact sizes – the main island, Tortola, is only 12 miles long – their capacity is reduced. In other words, expect fewer crowds.
One of a handful of five-star listings on Booking.com, the Sugar Mill Hotel has deluxe double rooms with sea views starting at US $399.
Still, within the US $400-US $500 price range, the Long Bay Beach Resort, 7 km from Road Town, the main settlement on Tortola, offers overnight stays from US $489, but if you’re on a tighter budget, you will find guesthouse stays as cheap as US $81 per night in the city center.
Tropical Vibes
As a natural world destination, the British Virgin Islands boast unique biodiversity and a truly pristine nature you are unlikely to find anywhere else in the overtouristed subgroup.
Comprising more than 50 islands, the BVI is famous for having stunning beaches lined with coral reefs, scenic coastal drives, volcanic terrain, and unspoiled rainforests serving as natural parks dotted with tourist trails and wildlife observation areas.
It is somewhere you go for disconnecting from the craziness of the modern world, placing it at the front of the ‘digital detox’ travel trend.
If lying on the warm sands all day as the Caribbean Sea caresses your feet under the bright tropical sun, notifications off, sounds like your idea of fun, these unheard-of islands are definitely where you should be headed.
As tourism isn’t as prominent in the BVI as in their Caribbean counterparts, and the islanders enjoy a high level of social development due to their status under the British flag, you are extremely unlikely to be disturbed by beach vendors or even face safety issues.
Your only job is to kick back, relax, and take in the oceanic vibes.
Unique Culture
The BVI may be primarily a resort destination, but it is also an incredibly underrated cultural site waiting to be discovered.
Originally inhabited by indigenous Americans hailing from the continent’s South, the islands were re-settled by Europeans following Christopher Columbus’ second excursion into the Americas in 1493, after which they were renamed ‘British Virgin Islands’.
Throughout the centuries, the archipelago would fall under the control of several different empires, being administered by the English, Dutch, French, the Danish, and even the Spanish, who fought their Anglo-Saxon rivals in an attempt to assert their Empire’s borders in the New World.
Ultimately, the territory would return to British control when it became an important trading hub associated with the sugar cane trade.
During this period, a large number of enslaved Africans would be forcibly brought to the BVI to work in the fields.
Today, the archipelago’s multi-ethnic populace is reflective of centuries upon centuries of racial diversity and intermarriage, though Afro-Caribbean descendants continue to form a majority. Nonetheless, all islands are British citizens.
For those interested in the complex History of the BVI, especially tourists who would like to add in some culture to their sunny break, there are four major museums in Tortola where they can learn more:
H.M. Prison Museum, the oldest building on the island, was established as early as 1794
The Old Government House, the official residence of the archipelago’s Governor, originally built in 1899
The 1780 Lower Estate Sugar Works, a plantation formerly linked to slavery
The Folk Museum, chronicling the History of the islands’ native inhabitants, the Arawak and Carib peoples
Direct Flights
Finally, if you’re thinking the BVI are not worth the hassle as they are more remote than other resorts a stone’s throw away from home, you might want to reconsider upon learning that the first-ever nonstop flight between the mainland U.S. and the territory has launched recently.
Offered by American Airlines, the inaugural three-hour journey took place on June 1, linking Miami to the BVI’s main international airport on Beef Island.
Although it is not the capital or most populous island, it is connected to Tortola via the landmark Queen Elizabeth Bridge, spanning the bright-blue sea.
The daily flight will remain operational through August 14, pausing in the fall before restarting service in November.
Overall, the BVI administration estimated that more than 2,100 monthly visitors would be transported to the archipelago during active months.
The flights depart Miami at 10:07 a.m. arriving at Beef Island at 1:06 p.m. Returning to America, guests will take off at 1:47 p.m., touching down in Miami at 4:25 p.m.
Additional flights have also been added on certain June dates due to strong demand.
As stated by BVI Premier Natalio Wheatley, ‘this is the first time in history that a flight has completely sold out in such a short amount of time‘, and the administration is grateful to American Airlines for partnering with them in fulfilling this long-awaited service. ‘bringing ease and accessibility’ to the ‘treasured’ destination.
Round-trip flights from Miami start from US $998 and US $503 from San Juan in Puerto Rico.
Low-cost options are non-existent, as both seat availability and capacity are lower, but this is a more exclusive destination where you’ll be able to truly enjoy the natural wonders of the Caribbean without battling for a spot in the sun amid the raging crowds.
For some, that might be worth the extra hundred bucks.
Travelers looking for an off-path holiday might find just what they’re searching for in this lesser-visited eastern European country.
Vampire legends, a quirky replica Arc de Triomphe, ancient thermal baths, a hit Netflix series, and some of the fastest internet in the world, all in one destination? Romania is definitely worthy of its newfound offbeat popularity.
Find out why tourists are flocking to Romania this year:
Set Jetting To The Wednesday Sets
Romania has long been linked to spooky characters, drawing Dracula fans to castles all over Transylvania for decades. This year, however, a new gothic character is leading the jet-setting trend in Romania – the hit Netflix series Wednesday.
Right in the heart of Bucharest, you can find groups of Wednesday fans peeking through the windows of Casa Niculescu-Dorobantu, touring Monteoru House, and exploring Bucharest Botanical Gardens, all to see the pieces of Nevermore Academy with their own eyes.
More dedicated superfans make the trip up to the Carpathian Mountains to see the true facade of Nevermore Academy: Cantacuzino Castle in Busteni.
Even if you’re not a Wednesday fanatic, the imposing hillside castles and historic baroque buildings of Romania are certainly worth exploring.
The Charm And Affordability Of ‘Little Paris’
If you didn’t know that Bucharest was known as the ‘Little Paris of the East’ from the turn of the 20th century, don’t worry – the replica Arc de Triomphe would have clued you in eventually.
For a fraction of the cost of the true French capital, travelers can revel in French architecture, charm, and cuisine right in the heart of Romania’s capital.
From the romantic French architecture and patisseries of Calea Victoriei to the distinctly Parisian glass-encased Pasaj Macca-Vilacrosse, Bucharest has earned its reputation as Paris’ protégé in eastern Europe.
Locals can even be heard thanking each other with a French ‘merci’ (which is much less of a mouthful than the Bulgarian equivalent, ‘blagodarya’). You’ll have a chance to practice your ‘merci’ when ordering a genuine croissant Mara Mura or reveling in the French fine dining experience at Ici Et La.
Timișoara, Romania’s Cultural and Creative Capital
If Bucharest is “Little Paris,” Timișoara is “Little Vienna.”
Timișoara just can’t seem to slow its award-winning roll. The EU honored Timișoara as one of three European Capitals of Culture 2023, while TIME selected it as one of the World’s Greatest Places 2023.
But Timișoara is used to topping lists and being ahead of the curve. It was the second city in the world to have electric lighting (just after New York), one of the first in Europe to use horse-drawn trams, and the “first free city in Romania” to shake off the yoke of communism through revolution.
Travelers can see Timișoara’s cultural prowess for themselves on an architectural walk around the city starting from Unirii Square. Roman ruins, brutalist communist blocs, Baroque palaces, Gothic spires, colorful Byzantine churches, and Art Nouveau splashes of color all come together to compose an art lover’s paradise.
Cultural activities:
Take in a show at Mihai Eminescu National Theater
Wake up your musical ear at the Romanian Opera House or Banatul Philharmonic
Enjoy Timișoara Art Museum, located inside the historical baroque Old Timișoara Palace
Brașov Old Town
Nestled in the inner curve of the Carpathian Mountains, Brașov is one of the historic hearts of Romania. This 13th-century storybook town benefited from strong Middle Age fortifications that helped secure and preserve it as the historic Transylvanian icon it remains to this day.
Key historic attractions include:
The “Black Church,” which got its charred coloring from Brașov’s Great Fire of 1689
Rope Street, the self-proclaimed narrowest street in southeast Europe made just for firefighters
Strada Republicii pedestrian street and Council Square, the center of Brașov’s buzz
Pharmacy Cafe, offering craft cocktails with a side of time travel
Thermal Baths
Bucharest and Budapest share something more than a similar name: thermal baths.
The most well-known of these are the Herculean Baths. One of the oldest thermal baths in Europe, this two-millennia-old mineral spa has been attracting health-focused travelers since the Roman empire, but exploded in popularity for leisure travelers in the 19th century.
Romania is full of serene rejuvenating hot springs often overshadowed by the famous Herculean Baths:
Balvanyos Baths
Verena Thermal Baths
Calimanesti Caciulata
Thermal Baths Acas
Vatra Dornei
Salt Baths of Praid
Plenty of resorts and spas in the Carpathian mountains offer rustic baths and wellness retreats for travelers’ health-centered holidays.
Perfect For A Workation
When travelers are through exploring gothic castles, enjoying fascinating architecture, and recharging in thermal baths, they can get to work with the 10th fastest internet in the world.
Romania is the perfect destination for a workation. HomeToGo’s Workation Index lists a whopping four Romanian cities, including two in the top 20 locations for a working holiday.
Romania is red hot in the digital nomad scene right now. This up-and-coming remote work destination is generating buzz, attracting working travelers, offering digital nomad visas, and opening new coworking spaces at the double.
