Tag: Love

These Are The Top 4 UK Destinations That American Travelers Love Most

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 1 second ago

When it comes to Europe there are plenty options to visit, but Americans have a great interest in the United Kingdom.

Besides the English language advantage, this European region has amazing cities with multiple attractions and rich culture that travelers enjoy exploring.

According to recent data shared by the Office of National Statistics (ONS), 4.56 million U.S. citizens visited the United Kingdom in 2022 leading the ranking as the most popular tourists and surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

The report also highlighted the preferred destinations for foreign visitors last year and included trendy destinations for Americans.

These are the top 4 destinations in the United Kingdom:

1) London

London is still the star in the United Kingdom, but travelers are beginning to explore other destinations, and tourism in this city hasn’t yet surpassed pre-pandemic levels according to the official information.

However, Americans adore this fascinating city. Walking by Buckingham Palace, admiring the stunning panoramic views from the London Eye, visiting amazing museums, seeing the London Bridge in action, riding a boat on the River Thames, and getting a selfie next to the Big Ben remain on American traveler’s bucket list when visiting the U.K.

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

Since summer is expected to be very busy this summer, travelers are opting for off-the-beaten-path activities in London like strolling through Little Venice, visiting Richmond, and going for a picnic on Primrose Hill.

2) Edinburgh

Yes, Americans are falling in love with Scotland and Edinburgh is the protagonist! According to recent data, 75% of U.S. visitors include this city as their main destination when visiting this country.

And Edinburgh has so much to offer! Many travelers are amazed by the impressive architecture and interesting history. Edinburgh Castle is just one example. Walking along the fascinating Royal Mile and comparing the Old Town and the New Town are other ways to truly experience this city.

There are also multiple festivals and unique experiences—like climbing Arthur’s seat— that make visitors want to come back. This summer great events take place here, like the Edinburgh international festival, and travelers have great opportunities to create amazing memories.

3) Manchester

This city is also locals’ favorite destination. A new report revealed that Europeans’ favorite destination in 2023 is Manchester.

American travelers visiting Manchester this summer will get to enjoy the city next to locals and get the most out of its culture and unique ambiance.

From music lovers to sports lovers to families, Manchester has great activities for all.

Sportif travelers usually add Etihad Stadium or Old Trafford to their must-visit list. The home of European football in the United Kingdom has the best museums, bars, tours, and experiences for soccer fans.

Music lovers try to attend concerts at the impressive venue O2 Ritz Manchester or the Manchester Arena. This summer, the  Manchester Jazz Festival , and the Manchester International Festival are expected to offer the most extraordinary days for melomaniacs.

And, of course, all kinds of travelers can have a great time in this city with its special architecture, museums, parks, and lovely neighborhoods.

4) Birmingham

Also in England, Birmingham has been gaining popularity among foreign visitors as it has been charming them with its amazing canals, historic buildings, and modern structures.

Birmingham has more miles of canals than Venice—not more canals, as it has been falsely spread— built in the 1700s and 1800s, and now visitors can take a fun boat tour or just walk along its paths and enjoy its beautiful views.

Its fascinating industrial history and spectacular museums can take travelers through important historic events and enrich the travel experience. There are also special attractions like a fun chocolate day at Cadbury World, one of the families’ top attractions in the UK.

After Birmingham, other cities like Liverpool, Glasgow, Bristol, Cambridge, Oxford, and Brighton and Hove also made it into the top ten. While most foreign travelers remain in England (82%) others also enjoy exploring Scotland and Wales for leisure during their vacations.

Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

June 6, 2023
6 Reasons American Travelers Are Falling In Love With Scotland

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 1 second ago

American travelers are always dreaming of a European getaway, but the question always seems to be, “Where should I go?”.

There are so many amazing European places, from thriving major cities to charming small towns that fly under the radar.

But, American travelers may have found the next hotspot for a great escape across the pond.

According to Private Tours Scotland, there has been over a 70% increase in U.S. tourists in the past couple of years.

Scotland is a gorgeous nation within the U.K.

While many vacationers opt for London, there is so much more the U.K. has to offer. As such, Americans are falling in love with Scotland!

Here are 6 reasons why:

Scottish Heritage And Its Unique Cultural Influence

Given its reasonably close proximity to mainland North America, it’s not uncommon to find Americans with Scottish roots. Many wanting to explore their past go to Scotland to trace down their bloodline.

Fans of Braveheart and Outlander, for example, have spiked the interest of U.S. tourists in checking out Scotland’s unique culture.

Scottish locals are very welcoming to tourists and have embraced the influx of American visitors.

Scotland offers a wide variety of attractions that can appeal to anyone, such as whiskey tours through famed distilleries and world-class golf courses, such as St. Andrews, that date back centuries.

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

The Capital City Of Edinburgh

Private Tours Scotland claims almost 75% of American travelers have Edinburgh at the top of their list when visiting Scotland.

This historical city has breathtaking architecture, including amazing castles you can visit. The cobblestone streets are a great way to immerse yourself as this is a true cultural hub of the U.K.

The Oxford Bar is a must-stop on your travels as it’s so historic and stuck in time it seems like a myth! Open since 1826, this is a great place to get a true taste of Scotland with a local ale.

Many U.S. tourists find themselves loving the Royal Mile, full of shops and local eateries. There are many festivals that take place in Edinburgh, but perhaps nothing more well-known than the Edinburgh Festival each summer.

The Gateway To The Highlands

Inverness is a top destination for U.S. travelers coming to Scotland. In fact, 64% of them include it on their itinerary.

The Highlands are a truly majestic sight to see. Inverness is a city located on the Northeastern coast and known as The Gateway To The Highlands to many.

This region offers a truly stunning landscape, and that’s the main draw to Americans, other than the fact you just might get a glimpse of the infamous Loch Ness Monster.

Inverness also has a very charming Old Town city center and the popular Culloden Battlefield to visit too.

Scotland’s Largest City – Glasgow

Even though Glasgow is larger than Edinburgh, it hasn’t been quite as popular when comparing the two cities.

But that doesn’t mean Glasgow isn’t appealing! Quite the opposite, actually. This major city is the artsy brother to Edinburgh, with a thriving music scene and top-notch museums and art galleries.

Many love to wander the streets and admire the unique Victorian and Art Nouveau architecture throughout the city.

Lovely Loch Lamond

This scenic beauty can be found in the Trossachs National Park. Americans flock here to take in gorgeous landscapes of rolling hills and mountains.

Visitors can hop on a cruise on the loch (the Scottish term for lake) for an even better experience taking in the jaw-dropping scenery.

This area is scattered with charming towns and villages ready to be explored. Some of the more popular ones tourists visit are Tarbet, Balloch, and Luss.

Isle Of Sky

The Isle of Sky is a very popular place among U.S. tourists, with over 60% making a stop on the island.

Another magical destination with serene landscapes of green hills and striking rock formations, such as Old Man of Storr.

Skye offers medieval castles open to visit and enchanting villages, such as Dunvegan and Portree, for a glimpse of the slower pace of Scottish life.

Lastly, Americans make the Fairy Pools a priority when in Skye. It’s free to enter and a perfect way to enjoy this stunning region of the world surrounded by waterfalls and the Cuillin Mountains.

Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

May 27, 2023
These Are The Secret Off The Beaten Path Tours In New York That Even Locals Love
[ad_1]
Share The Article

Last Updated 1 second ago

If you’ve ever been to New York City before, chances are you’ve visited top spots like the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Central Park. While many top attractions are well worth a visit, there is so much more to explore.

New York City is massive, and you could spend a lifetime discovering the history, neighborhoods, food, and culture found around every corner.

But with so much to explore, many visitors don’t know where to turn once they’ve checked off all the top sights.

Luckily, seasoned NYC visitors, locals, and even first-time visitors have a great option to discover more off-the-beaten-path treasures within the city limits.

Founded by an NYC Local, the New York Adventure Club runs tours with something different to offer, and it has everyone buzzing.

New York Adventures For Locals And Visitors

Regardless of background and interests, visitors are bound to find something exciting within New York Adventure Club’s extensive portfolio of over 100 tours.

The company runs 20 different excursions each week, and categories include food and drink tours, factory tours, theatre tours, and tours of mansions and private clubs. Some of the notable events include:

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week
- Secret Eats of Chinatown Food Crawl
- Exploring Greenwich Village’s Music History: From Dylan to Springsteen
- A visit to the Victorian Mansions and Japanese House in Prospect Park
- Tours of the members-only New York Society Library
- A behind-the-scenes tour of a 1920s mansion and its underground speakeasy
- An “Around The World” food crawl in Astoria, Queens
- After-hours tour of the world’s largest cathedral
Some of the tours with the New York Adventure Club feature places you probably never knew existed.

For instance, did you know New York has an unofficial museum full of vintage tableware, or that you can visit a waterfront army fort in Queens that dates back to the 1800s?

Additionally, if you have a particular interest in one of NYC’s neighborhoods, there are tours that explore the history, culture, and secrets of each one.

How Much Are The Tours?

Each tour is priced differently. However, the majority last one hour and range between $32 – $35 per person.

The exception is food tours, which cost more but include food and last longer. Most are between 2-3 hours long, and prices range from $50 – $80.

All tickets can be purchased through the New York Adventure Club website and must be booked in advance.

Insider Access To NYC’s Best-Kept Secrets

The company aims to be more than just a provider of interesting tours. Instead, they are building a community of curious-minded people who are eager to learn more about New York City.

The New York Adventure Club is perfect for locals but also a great option for tourists who want a more authentic view of NYC. Additionally, it is a great option for solo travelers and can be a good way to meet fellow like-minded tourists.

In addition to the in-person tours, New York Adventure Club also has other offerings. Visitors can join in on fun activities like team puzzle adventures, drum workshops, and tea ceremonies.

There are also regular virtual events that are accessible to any New York enthusiast, and the company can organize private group events, perfect for a girl’s weekend or a get-together with friends.

Adventurous Beginnings

Founded by Corey William Schneider in 2013, the New York Adventure Club has really taken off. After moving to the city for a job in 2011, Schneider realized that after a full year of living there, he still knew nothing about the city.

So he began exploring and encouraged others to follow suit. The New York Adventure Club started as a Facebook group and has now grown into a full-fledged $ 1 million/year business with a massive following.

Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
[ad_2]

Source link
May 21, 2023
The Top Five Things I Both Love And Hate About Visiting Paris

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 52 seconds ago

People often say that Paris is the kind of city you either love or you hate. But it is possible to do both!

More than 44 million travelers visited Paris in 2022, and anecdotal reviews of the city vary wildly.

Paris is my favorite city in the world, and the short hop across The English Channel means that I’m able to visit regularly. But no city is perfect, and it’s easy to see why a visit to Paris leaves some travelers with a bitter taste in their mouths.

You can love the view from the Eiffel Tower but hate the queues to get in. Love the quaint cafes, but hate the surly waiters.

Here are the top five things I both love and hate about visiting Paris:

The Crowds

Paris is a busy and bustling city, and it can be particularly crowded with tourists during the peak Spring and Summer months.

On the one hand, the crowds make for great people-watching, particularly when you’re sat outside a boulevard café with a coffee. People watching feels like a national sport in Paris, and the more people there are, the better!

On the other hand, visiting Paris attractions when they are crowded can be frustrating and time-consuming.

The elevators to ascend to the top of the Eiffel Tower will leave you crammed in like sardines in a tin, and while I’ve been to the Louvre, I’ve only ever seen segments of the famous Mona Lisa from behind someone else’s head.

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

If you can, I recommend traveling to Paris during the quiet season: it may be bitterly cold in the winter, but at least you’ll have room to breathe in the city’s main attractions. You can also ice skate on the first deck of the Eiffel Tower during the winter months. And the Champs-Elysees looks so pretty when it’s lit up for Christmas.

The Cost

Paris is ranked as the second-most expensive city in the world. And while it is possible to visit Paris on a budget, you should plan for it to cost more than you think.

It is possible to buy a baguette or croissant to take out and eat while sitting along the River Seine for just a couple of euros. This is one of my favorite ways to eat on a budget in Paris.

And walking around the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens or the famous Montmartre district doesn’t have a cost at all.

But accommodation and restaurant-standard food are expensive, particularly during peak periods. And while many European cities open their museums and art galleries to the public for free, it costs 17 euros to visit the Louvre in Paris.

In my experience, the cost of food and activities in particular can be more expensive than in many other European cities if you aren’t prepared to shop around or only enjoy activities that are free of charge.

The Size of the City

Paris is a large city, and many of its most famous attractions are not located close to each other.

The 300-meter-tall Eiffel Tower dominates the city skyline, while churches such as Notre Dame and the Basilica of the Sacre-Coeur attract millions of visitors each year. But the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame are just over 5km apart from each other. You will travel almost 7km from the Eiffel Tower to reach the Basilica de Sacre-Coeur.

This means that if you want to see all of the main attractions in Paris in a relatively short period of time, you need to think ahead and plan your route to do so. It might look like you can wander from Montmartre to the Louvre in the movies, but it’s just not possible in the real world.

While this can mean that Paris isn’t as easy to navigate as other, smaller cities, the good news is that Paris has a very efficient and affordable Metro system. It’s also easy to use and operates until around 1 am.

My favorite way to explore the city’s main attractions is by Batobus: This convenient hop-on, hop-off boat will take you down the River Seine, allowing you to see and stop at all the main attractions you’ll pass on the way.

The size of the city can be both a hindrance and a help: It would be near-impossible to cram so many incredible attractions into a smaller space, and getting lost as you travel from A to B, discovering new side streets and hidden gems, is part of Paris’ charm.

The Food

French food has a reputation for being some of the best in the world. And there are some dishes that the French do better than anyone else.

If you’re looking for decadent fine dining, full-bodied red wines, crusty baguettes and pastries from tiny boulangeries, and delicate macarons and cakes, then there is nowhere better to be. You can even grab Laduree macarons whilst passing through certain train stations in Paris.

But if you’re looking for something a little less, well, French, then you’re going to be disappointed. In the mood for sushi or tacos? This is not the place for you.

While of course, world cuisine is available, there is less diversity in the food in Paris than in most other European capital cities. The comparison to London is a great example of this.

This might not be a problem if you’re only in Paris for a couple of days, but if you’re spending weeks in the city, you might find you start craving dishes that are a little more plain and simple than the traditional cuisine on offer.

The Je Ne Sais Quoi

Je ne sais quoi is a quality that cannot be described or named easily, and Paris just has it. It is a city that feels effortlessly cool.

Whether you’re admiring the fashion choices of the French ‘it girls’ or watching school children walking to the park, French people ooze style and confidence.

Even watching a middle-aged woman cycling home with a baguette for dinner feels exciting when you’re in Paris.

But if you arrive in Paris expecting perfection, you might be disappointed.

Paris has a reputation for being the most romantic city in the world, and it doesn’t always live up to that reputation. Some travelers arrive expecting love and romance and are shocked when they find Paris is a dirty, noisy city like any other.

The Eiffel Tower may be beautiful. But it also has a children’s carousel underneath it, and the surrounding streets are packed with hawkers selling low-quality souvenirs to tourists.

While for me, the chaos and the bustle add to the je ne sais quoi, it’s easy to see why this might put off other travelers, especially those expecting hearts and flowers at every turn.

It’s also worth mentioning that Paris smells. And not like flowers. This is particularly true in the heat of the summer when urine and garbage leave a lingering stench in parts of the city. It could either ruin the city for you or just add to its je ne sais quoi.

Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

May 19, 2023
Turkiye Is The Number One Leisure Destination In The Middle East – Here’s Why Travelers Love It

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 1 second ago

Turkiye is becoming trendier by the minute now that international travel has resumed and its borders are open restriction-free, so much so that it’s been now named the number one leisure destination in the Middle East, surpassing tourism hotspots like the UAE and Qatar.

According to India-based travel technology firm Rategain, international arrivals in the Middle East will be 15 percent higher during summer 2023 than the peak year of 2019. Surprisingly, Turkiye is the driving force behind this recovery, not the Persian Gulf with its futuristic skyscrapers.

But how did Turkiye get here, and why is a growing number of travelers choosing to spend their vacations there? We may have the answer:

Turkiye Has A Vast Cultural Wealth

A cross-continental giant straddling both Europe and the Anatolian Peninsula, the Westernmost portion of Asia, enriched by millennia upon millennia of History, and at the meeting point of civilizations, Turkiye is a one-of-a-kind nation.

It is home to some of the most exciting city breaks out there, including Istanbul, where world-renowned sights, such as the Hagia Sophia, an Ancient Roman cathedral-turned-mosque, the Basilica Cistern, the Galata Tower, and Suleymaniye Mosque are all located.

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

On the Aegean Coast of Turkiye, tourists will find fast-growing resort zones, from the bustling metropolis that is Izmir, best known for its landmark Ottoman-era clock, to the smaller, more exclusive beach destination of Bodrum, where a medieval castle and a picturesque Old Town await them.

All along the coast, from the upper Aegean to the East Mediterranean, where the trendy Antalya sits, there are numerous historical ruins, areas of outstanding natural beauty, and virgin-sand beaches to be explored.

Whether it’s the ruins of a biblical Ephesus, where the Gospel of John was reportedly written, the flowing thermal springs that cascade down the calcium steps of Pamukkale, or the turquoise waters of Fethiye, the Turkish coast is a mix of Ancient World and outstanding natural beauty.

The Black Sea region is also not to be overlooked, boasting an overdevelopment-free coast dotted with quaint cobblestone villages and lesser-known swimming spots, like the scenic Sinop, a rich Greco-Roman heritage, and even mountain retreats and alpine peaks (think Trabzon).

Inland, the fairy chimneys, a swarm of hot air balloons, and underground cities of Cappadocia dominate the landscape, while Eastern Turkiye, close to the borders with Georgia and Armenia, is known for its traditionalism and indigenous Anatolian culture.

As you can see, there is a lot to do and see in Turkiye to inspire not only one, but several visits, but its vast cultural wealth is not the only reason why tourists love it.

Turkiye Remains Affordable Compared To Most Of The Middle East

Despite the soaring inflation and rising prices of recent years, Turkiye is still incredibly affordable by both Western and Middle Eastern standards.

The already-cited Bodrum has been named the third cheapest Mediterranean destination this year, while the financial hub that is Ankara, Turkiye’s seriously underrated capital city, has been crowned the most affordable city for digital nomads worldwide.

As the country’s cultural capital and leading destination, Istanbul is easily one of Turkiye’s most expensive cities.

Even then, it may be 57.1% less expensive than New York, if data shared by Numbeo is to be considered, with meals at inexpensive restaurants averaging only USD $7.17, according to Numbeo contributors.

Turkiye is a bargain, and it doesn’t surprise us it’s on track to become one of the busiest summer destinations in the post-pandemic scene.

Turkiye Outpaces All Middle Eastern Destinations In Recovery Trends

As confirmed by Rategain, the Middle East (led by Turkiye) is outpacing all travel markets in recovery rates for the April-June quarter, indicating a strong summer season ahead. More specifically, the firm attributes Turkiye’s success to its friendliness and open border policy.

Unlike the Western World, it has not enacted barriers for Russian visitors, and this year, the number of arrivals from Russia jumped by more than 100 percent compared to 2022. They are not the only ones favoring budget-friendly Turkey over an overpriced Europe:

Americans and Brits are flying to the country in droves, with American arrivals up a whopping 61% in the post-crisis era. Thanks to the wider availability of transcontinental flights linking the U.S. and Turkiye, those numbers are set to climb even further.

Currently, there are three daily nonstop flights on average connecting New York’s JFK, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, Newark, San Francisco, and Washington D.C. to Istanbul, while at least four flights depart weekly from Atlanta, Dallas, and Houston – and more keep getting added.

Turkiye’s figures for the current quarter sit 40 to 50 percent above last year’s, as it is set to surpass the already historical year of 2022 when up to 44.5 million tourists were registered. Rategain reiterates the surge in demand for leisure travel is driven by travelers from the U.S. and Europe.

20 to 30 percent of searches for overnight stays in the broader Middle East are conducted by U.S. travelers, as confirmed by the report.

Other than Turkey, other Middle Eastern destinations* trending right now are Egypt, on the Maghreb subdivision of North Africa, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Israel.

*As defined by the report. It is worth noting Middle East is not a continent but a geopolitical term often used in reference to countries located in the Westernmost part of Asia, which would then include the State of Israel, or in some instances, the Turkic-Arab World.

Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

May 11, 2023
Argentina Is Exploding In Popularity Right Now – Here’s What Americans Love About It

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 9 mins ago

Having re-emerged from the health crisis as a free, more welcoming country, Argentina is exploding in popularity right now, drawing in a record number of visitors and comfortably leading recovery trends in South America.

But what is it about Argentina that has been captivating so many Americans lately?

Believe it or not, South America is one of the strictest continents in the world for travel right now, at least when it comes to entry restrictions. Only a handful of countries have lifted their border measures, while an overwhelming majority continues to adhere to an early-pandemic state of alert.

Argentina is, of course, not one of them, but its relaxed border policies are far from being the only reason why it is so trendy all of a sudden:

Pre-Pandemic Capacity Exceeded By 101%

According to a new report published by the Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association, abbreviated to ALTA, Argentina has officially exceeded its pre-pandemic levels of passengers in January 2023, suggesting this year could be on track to become the country’s biggest since records began.

Effectively, it has reached 101% of growth in the first month compared to January 2019, placing Argentina at the forefront of the tourism scene in the wider Latin World: no other destination in the geopolitical group has kickstarted 2023 as successfully:

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

Although it is still likely to top an ‘overall passenger numbers’ chart somewhere, Mexico has only grown by 25% compared to 2019, perhaps slowed down by Cancun’s less potent rebound; meanwhile, Brazil is yet to return to its pre-pandemic traffic, having got as far as 93%, with no growth in January 2023.

The fact that Brazil has recently decided to re-impose visa requirements for Americans is also not playing out in its favor. In Chile’s case, where 88% of January traffic levels have been recovered, the slower growth can be attributed to a strict border regime and other harsh local anti-COVID measures.

In other words, Argentina is crushing it compared to its strongest competitors. But how did it outpace them so quickly?

One Of The Safest Countries For Tourists In South America

Not only is it relatively affordable to visit, with the excellent currency exchange rate, but Argentina also ranks as one of the safest countries in South America. It is one of only three countries in the continent where Americans are not advised to exercise ‘increased caution’ when visiting or even avoid visiting at all by the U.S. State Department.

Crime rates in parts of Argentina are surprisingly low — lower than some U.S. cities, for that matter — and urban safety levels are high, with cities like Buenos Aires, Rosario, La Plata, and Mendoza all deemed low-risk. In comparison, neighboring Brazil has one of the highest crime rates globally.

And then, it boasts an endless supply of cultural attractions. You could easily spend an entire month in Buenos Aires only and never exhaust your possibilities, from wandering the city’s colorful La Boca district to indulging in fine dining, watching a polo match in upscale Palermo, or simply marveling at the beautiful 18th and 19th-century Europe-inspired architecture.

Well-delineated by wide boulevards flanked by green patches, interspersed with Belle epoque, Art Deco, and Neo-Gothic buildings, Buenos Aires has deservedly earned the nickname ‘Paris of South America‘, and in this respect, it is easily the most beautiful capital Mercosur capital.

In other parts of the country, tourists will find glaciers and even Welsh-speaking minorities, particularly in the Patagonian South, as a result of a large influx of migrants from Wales. Alternatively, approaching the border with Brazil, where the Iguazu Falls are located, the landscape is dominated by vineyards, tropical forests, and hiking trails.

The diversity is immense, and it won’t be long until you’re enamored with Argentina yourself.

No COVID Entry Requirements

Lastly, Argentina has no entry requirements, as mentioned above. In order to visit from the U.S., you will not be expected to present a vaccination card upon boarding nor undergo any form of testing upon landing. Entry is a breeze, and the attitude towards COVID is much more relaxed than it was in 2020 or 2021.

Americans are generally allowed to stay in Argentina legally for up to 90 days as tourists, though there have been instances where they were granted a longer sejour.

Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

March 14, 2023
Why Travelers Love This Island In The Mexican Caribbean

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 23 mins ago

This Winter, many American travelers have been flocking to the Caribbean to escape snowstorms and freezing weather with the hope of finding comfort and more fun at the warm and beautiful beaches of Cancun. But there is another special destination that is getting a lot of attention for its beauty and advantages — Isla Mujeres.

This spectacular island in the Mexican Caribbean used to be a popular destination for full-day tours from Cancun and Playa del Carmen, but now more visitors have been extending their stay, and the island has been experiencing a boom in tourism this year.

Isla Mujeres has a lot to offer, and here are a few reasons why travelers are falling in love with this destination:

Sargassum Free Beaches In The Mexican Caribbean

Imagine saving money for months or years to avoid the cold winter and enjoy the crystal blue waters of Cancun and instead finding miles and miles of shoreline covered in smelly brown algae. That’s what many visitors have been experiencing in the Mexican Caribbean for the past few weeks.

Unexpectedly, this winter, the unpleasant sargassum seaweed has been arriving off-season in Cancun and its surroundings. The sargassum’s peak season is usually between April and October, and now tons of this algae are already being cleaned and removed from shorelines.

Fortunately, Isla Mujeres is usually free from sargassum and has become travelers’ best bet when it comes to finding sargassum-free beaches. There are a few beaches where travelers might encounter this seaweed, but its most beautiful beach, Playa Norte, is usually clean and ready to become any traveler’s paradise.

Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

Great Caribbean Activities

Getting to Isla Mujeres usually involves a boat activity. International visitors arrive in Cancun and then take a 15-minute ferry ride—which costs around $15— to get to the island. And the journey is absolutely beautiful.

For those who just want to relax in paradise after their trip, Playa Norte is considered the best beach in all of Mexico — with beautiful white sand and warm blue calm waters. The perfect weapon against stress. But there are also great bars, restaurants, and cool places to visit.

Visitors can rent a bike or a golf cart to explore the island — which is only approximately 5 miles long — go shopping, compare beaches, and grab a bite at any of its tasty restaurants.

Travelers can also snorkel and admire an amazing underwater museum with large sculptures and colorful fishes nearby. There are also different tours and beach clubs available with activities for all kinds of travelers.

New Hotels And Beach Clubs

International travelers’ interest in Isla Mujeres has made more hospitality companies invest in this island. There are resorts and hotels for all budgets and with a great reputation, such as the 5-star hotel Mia Reef or the hostel and beach club Nomads Hotel. Just a few months ago, Secrets announced a new adults-only all-inclusive resort in Isla Mujeres, Secrets Impression Isla Mujeres, featuring 8 restaurants, 9 bars, a spa, and four pools.

There are also great beach clubs available, such as the exclusive Green Demon Beach Club — travelers recommend making a reservation in advance — or the Guru Beach Club with great pools and beach access, where travelers can enjoy an amazing day with pleasing amenities in front of a gorgeous beach.

Perfect For Special Events

Isla Mujeres has all the best ingredients for a unique vacation and an unforgettable life experience. This is probably why it has also been a popular wedding destination. In 2022 there were 56% more weddings compared to the previous years, and authorities expect to see even more celebrations in 2023.

At the moment, there are special events for carnival celebrations—which had been suspended for two years due to the pandemic— and local authorities and organizers are hosting a big celebration under the theme “Soy Caribe” (I am Caribbean, in English). Travelers visiting Isla Mujeres at the moment will get to enjoy special activities like concerts, local king and queen crownings, and more.

Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

February 20, 2023
5 Luxurious Beach Resorts With Foodie Experiences Travelers Love

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 8 hours ago

Torn between leaving the resort for a meal and maximizing your beach time by eating onsite? Traveling often goes hand in hand with trying new foods or drinks, so do it in style without leaving the resort! Gastro-tourism is gaining popularity, and 4 out 5 travelers say food helps shape their overall travel experience. Channeling your inner foodie and sampling local foods can leave a more lasting impression of your destination.

Image Courtesy Of: Corazon Cabo Resort

Luxury stays all over the globe have taken notice. In the spirit of exclusivity, many have curated foodie experiences travelers love. Each of the 5 luxurious beach resorts below offers a unique experience that will allow you to unleash your inner foodie without having to leave the resort.

Pastechi Cooking Class at Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino – Aruba

The Area & Resort

Aruba isn’t just a famous lyric in a Beach Boys song! Its beautiful beaches, welcoming culture, and perfect year-round weather makes this island an ideal Caribbean getaway. The Marriott Resort sits on Palm Beach, where guests can enjoy private cabanas with cocktails in hand before heading in for the evening to try their luck at the Casino.

Image Courtesy Of: Marriott

The Foodie Experience

There’s nothing better than trying a local staple dish while away on holiday, or so we thought. After recently trying this ourselves, we can now say there is something better, learning how to make the dish yourself!

Aruba Marriott’s executive Chef will teach you how to make Pastechi, one of Aruba’s most traditional dishes, in a fun, private cooking class best shared with friends or family. Once finished, enjoy the fruits (or Pastechi) of your labor!

Check Prices At Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

Private Wine and Food Pairing at Quintessence Hotel – Anguilla

The Area & Resort

33 chalk-white beaches and turquoise waters await travelers heading to Anguilla, but for those looking for luxury and seclusion, the Quintessence Hotel is the way to go. With captivating views of Long Bay Beach, travelers can soak up the sun in style at this boutique 5-star resort. Rest easy knowing your 24-hour butler is waiting for your every request.

Image Courtesy Of: Quintessence

The Foodie Experience

This experience is for those who want the ultimate seclusion with world-class dining service. Choose from 4 different private dining areas before allowing Chef Dominique to whisk away your senses with a private wine and food pairing.

Image Courtesy Of: Quintessence

If money is no object, book the Bruts, Blancs & Beaches package. This includes flights from the U.S. on a private jet, a stay in the penthouse, and special vintage wine selections.

Check Prices At Quintessence Hotel

Mesa1 Tequila Experience at W Punta de Mita – Mexico, Riviera Nayarit

The Area & Resort

Just 10 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta International Airport rests Riviera Nayarit, a beautiful Pacific Mexican beach destination. With over 200 miles of coastline, you’ll never want for space at the beach. Enjoy your morning coffee while overlooking the ocean on your private balcony before heading to the private beach for the day.

Image Courtesy Of: W Punta de Mita

The Foodie Experience

The resort plays host to numerous dining options, but the most unique is undoubtedly the Mesa1 Tequila Experience, where guests will enjoy an alfresco chef’s table experience on a private island located in the heart of the resort.

Image Courtesy Of: W Punta de Mita

Guests can only reach the island by using stepping stones and will dine on a 100-year-old table made from a Parota tree. There is only one nightly sitting, meaning this is a seriously exclusive experience that offers a five-course dinner paired with Clase Azul Tequila.

Check Prices At W Punta de Mita

Secret Vegan Menu at Caribe Hilton – Puerto Rico

The Area & Resort

Puerto Rico is one of the most accessible destinations in the Caribbean for American travelers due to its connectivity and lack of need for a passport. Travelers heading to The Caribe Hilton will be located in the heart of Old San Juan, the stunningly beautiful historic district of San Juan, Puerto Rico. As the home of the first Piña Colada ever made, guests can rest easy knowing their next fruity cocktail will be top-notch. Naturally, it will be best enjoyed beachside while soaking up the sun.

Image Courtesy Of: Caribe Hilton

The Foodie Experience

Foodies of every type will love the Caribe Hilton, which houses the only beachfront Morton’s Steakhouse, as well as 10 other restaurants. But we’ll let you in on a secret… a secret word, to be more specific.

Image Courtesy Of: Caribe Hilton

Travelers interested in sticking to a vegan diet while enjoying their stay at Caribe Hilton need only use the code word “homegrown” during a visit to the onsite Caribar restaurant. Doing so will give them access to a vegan menu offering farm-to-table service with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Butternut squash risotto, truffle essence soup, and flourless chocolate cake await!

Check Prices At The Caribe Hilton

Oyster and Champagne Pairings at Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa – Cabo San Lucas

The Area & Resort

Los Cabos, and Cabo San Lucas by extension, is an extremely popular destination, especially among American travelers. The numerous beaches, perfect weather, and luxury resorts keep travelers returning to this Mexican gem year after year. Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa is an ideal place to vacation, with ocean-front infinity pools, the largest beach club on Medano beach, and stunning views offered at Rooftop 360.

Image Courtesy Of: Corazon Cabo Resort

The Foodie Experience

Every day, guests can head to Rooftop 360 for an afternoon Oyster and Champagne pairing. Nothing says luxury like sampling oysters and champagne against the backdrop of the Sea of Cortez and the Cabo San Lucas Skyline.

Check Prices At Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa

Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!

↓ Join Our Community ↓

The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

[ad_2]

Source link

November 2, 2022