As if nonstop flights to Malta hadn’t been big news enough, Delta continues to build up on their European network by adding the first-ever nonstop service between the United States and…
Sardinia!
Italy’s second-largest island (after Sicily), and one of the leading beach destinations in the Mediterranean, Sardinia is famous for its Caribbean-like white sand beaches, ancient heritage, hearty food, and rolling vineyards.
Despite its undeniable popularity among Europeans, Sardinia remains a relatively hidden gem across the pond. That’s largely due to its lack of transatlantic connectivity.
Starting May 20, 2026, this will no longer be the case:
As confirmed in a press release issued this week, Delta will become the first airline to service an inaugural U.S. to Sardinia route. More specifically, they will offer nonstop flights from their New York (JFK) hub to Olbia-Costa Smeralda (OLB), in the north of Sardinia.
The route will be operational four times a week, on the wings of the Boeing 767-300ER, equipped with Delta One, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort and Delta Main.
Their equivalent to First Class, Delta One features lie-flat seats, chef-signed meals to be washed down with Taittinger champagne, and Missoni amenities. The remaining seating categories may not be as well-resourced, but they do include curated dining and Delta Studio entertainment.
26 seats are reserved for Delta One, 18 for Premium Select guests, 21 in Comfort, and 151 in Main. Timetables are yet to be announced; however, we do know round-trip fares will average $1,100 for the latter (economy).
Considering Sardinia’s relative anonymity among Americans, Delta’s announcement took many by surprise. If you were wondering how this offbeat Italian island got picked out of numerous other Mediterranean hotspots, this is what we went down:
Delta held a so-called Route Race, inviting both Delta stakeholders and employees, and SkyMiles Members to vote on their preferred new destination for summer 2026.
Sardinia ranked in a highly-competitive top three, alongside Malta and Ibiza. Following five days of voting, with over 150,000 SkyMiles member votes cast, Sardinia surprisingly raced ahead of Spain’s party-centric island.
Simultaneously, Delta people chose Malta. Thus, they were elected as Delta’s new European destinations, both previously unserved from the U.S., and in Sardinia’s case, the first-ever direct Transatlantic connection.
If you’ve got so far in reading, and you’re wondering why pick Sardinia over Rome, the Amalfi Coast, or even Sicily, here’s the briefest summary of what makes the ‘European Caribbean’ so fascinating—as if that title weren’t enough indication.
You’ll be flying to Olbia, a small ciy in the north of Sardinia acting as a gateway to the stunning Costa Smeralda. As the name suggests, picture turquoise-colored seas lining white-sand shores.
Costa Smeralda is also peppered with lively Sardinian towns, like Porto Cervo, distinguished by its luxury shopping scene, yacht-dominated marina, and upscale resorts.
Looking for something a little more off-the-beaten-path? Check out San Pantaleo, a rustic mountain village overlooking the coast, criss-crossed by cobblestone streets, and home to a plethora of family-owned trattorie serving freshly-caught seafood and homemade pasta.
Trattoria Balbacana is particularly popular among locals.
Keen on some island-hopping? Take a day trip to the Maddalena archipelago, just off the Emerald Coast. The main landmass in the island chain, La Maddalena, is a short 15-minute boat ride from Palau port, and it’s known for its collection of pastel-painted buildings.
They come in every color under the sun: pink, ocher, yellow, green, coral, you name it.
Although Olbia is primarily known for being in the vicinity of Costa Smeralda, you can travel beyond the Blue Flag coast towards Bosa, yet another color-burst of a city built on the banks of a scenic river, and at the foot of a monumental ancient castle.
On the northwest coast, Alghero is a must-see stop. A unique walled city influenced by Catalan architecture, it has prominent sea walls, an incredible selection of restaurants, and the nearby Capo Caccia play host to the myth-enveloped Neptune’s Grotto.
In the event you’re continuing your journey south, make sure you add the bustling Sardinian capital, Cagliari, to your list. With its wall-encircled center, traversed by medieval pathways, historic towers, and Roman amphitheater carved into hard rock, it just exudes Old World charm.
A short 30-minute drive out of Cagliari, Cantine Argiolas is one of the most notorious family wine producers on the island, and they offer wine tasting tours.
Though not as famous as the northern beaches, the coastal stretch in southern Sardinia is equally-gorgeous, with Chia and Villasimius in particular standing out with their soft cream-colored sands, and teal, warm seas.
Need any more convicing? Read further about Sardinia—and its natural and manmade wonders—here.
Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.
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For years, savvy American travelers have dreamed of an easier way to reach one of Europe’s most stunning and historically rich island gems. Tucked away in the heart of the Mediterranean, this tiny nation has always been a bucket-list destination, but reaching it required a long, often frustrating journey with at least one connection through a busy European hub.
Well, get ready to update your travel plans, because that’s all about to change.
Here at Travel Off Path, we’re all about giving you the breaking news that makes your travel dreams a reality. In a landmark announcement that has been more than two decades in the making, Delta Air Lines has just confirmed it will launch the first regular, nonstop flights between the United States and the beautiful island of Maltain over 25 years.
A True Game-Changer For U.S. Travelers
This isn’t just another new route; it’s a historic breakthrough. For the first time since the mid-1990s, Americans will be able to fly directly to this Mediterranean paradise, slashing travel time and making a trip more accessible than ever before.
The Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA) is hailing the news as a “game-changer” and the “missing piece of the puzzle” for the country’s tourism industry. For years, the lack of direct flights has been a major hurdle, but this new connection is set to open the floodgates for American travelers eager to explore Malta’s unique blend of ancient history, stunning coastlines, and vibrant culture.
All The Flight Details You Need To Know
Delta has laid out a clear plan for the new service, giving travelers plenty of time to get this incredible trip on their calendars.
The New Nonstop Flight to Malta: All The Details
Get the full scoop on the historic new Delta flight. Click on each item below to reveal the details.
New York (JFK) to Malta (MLA)
The inaugural flight is scheduled for June 7, 2026.
The service will operate three times per week.
Flights will run from June through October 2026.
A wide-body Boeing 767-300ER with multiple cabin classes.
The best news? The flights are expected to go on sale soon, allowing travelers to lock in their plans well in advance for the 2026 summer and fall seasons.
Why Is Malta About To Be The Hottest Ticket In Europe?
So, why is this new route such a big deal? Because Malta is an absolute gem. This tiny island nation packs an unbelievable punch. Its capital, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage city, a stunning fortress built by the Knights of St. John with golden-hued limestone buildings and a grand harbor that is one of the most beautiful in the world.
Beyond the capital, you’ll find ancient megalithic temples that are older than the pyramids, the silent, walled medieval city of Mdina, and the crystal-clear waters of the famous Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino.
Malta’s tourism authority has made it clear they are targeting high-value American travelers who are interested in culture, history, and gastronomy. This new direct flight is the key to unlocking that potential, making it easier than ever for Americans to discover a side of Europe they’ve only dreamed of. For 2026, the “hidden gem of the Mediterranean” is officially on the map.
Check the latest entry requirements and travel advisories for you destination in seconds using our new flagship tool, The 1 Minute Trip Check.
Happy travels!
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Stunning architecture, fascinating cities, and beautiful Mediterranean beaches.
It’s no wonder Morocco is having a moment!
Where else in the world can you be lounging on a Mediterranean beach one day and exploring the Sahara desert the next?
According to the authorities in the Moroccan Ministry of Economy and Finance, the country recorded a whopping 10 million visitors by the end of July, setting a new record.
And the good news is that Americans can fly nonstop to this lesser-known Mediterranean hotspot this fall.
Flying To Morocco
Morocco might sound like a far-flung and exotic destination, but it actually has great flight connections to the U.S.
You’ll have two options when flying nonstop to Morocco: you can either fly to Casablanca or to Marrakech.
Direct flights to Casablanca will depart from Miami, New York, and Washington D.C.
Flying from Miami from October 18 to October 27 nonstop in economy class will cost $774. This flight is operated by the Moroccan airline Royal Air Maroc.
I often fly with overseas airlines because it saves so much money, but if you’d prefer a U.S. airline then the same route on the same dates with American Airlines will cost $1,422 for an economy class roundtrip.
The flight time on this route is 8 hours 15 minutes outbound and 9 hours 15 minutes inbound.
Direct flights to Marrakech will depart from New York, and these tend to be a little more expensive than nonstop flights to Casablanca.
A round trip from October 24 to October 30 in economy class will cost $1,709.
This is a walled medieval city that is tightly packed with commerce and people.
Once inside it has a mazelike feel. This is the place to shop in thriving souks, or to stop for mint tea and watch the world go by.
Tip: If you want to take a souvenir home, then you can buy handmade textiles and pottery here.
Other highlights in the city include the Jardin Majorelle which is a landscape and botanical garden with cubist elements and buildings in a beautiful shade of blue.
Finally, Marrakech boasts some of the best palaces in Morocco.
Visit the Bahia Palace for some of the best examples of traditional Moroccan marble and zellij tiles, fretwork, and ornate decoration.
Why Visit Casablanca
Casablanca is a stunning coastal city which means it offers the best of both worlds. Cultural explorations and lazy days on the beach.
Casablanca has a very different vibe to Marrakech. It feels much more relaxed and the people here are less focused on tourists (which can sometimes feel overwhelming in Marrakech).
From a cultural perspective the main attraction in Casablanca is the Hassan II Mosque. This has a 210m minaret topped with lasers directed toward Mecca and it stands in prime position over the water, meaning it dominates the city skyline.
Muslims can enter the Hassan II Mosque at no charge for daily prayer. If you’re non-Muslim then you will need a guide to enter the mosque.
Book this directly with the mosque for the best price, which is 140dhs ($14). Other tours will collect you from your hotel, but these are significantly more expensive.
Tip for female travelers: If you’re visiting Morocco (or any other Muslim country) and you want to visit the mosques then carry a scarf or wrap that you can use to cover your hair. You won’t be allowed in without one!
I often pack a lightweight beach wrap that can double as a hair wrap to save space in my suitcase.
You can’t talk about Casablanca without talking about its beaches!
The Sidi Abderrahman Beach has the calmest waters here, so it is the perfect spot for swimming and other watersports.
If you just want to relax by the shoreline then opt for the fully equipped Plage Madam Choual.
Tor has been writing for more than 20 years and has visited 25 countries (and counting!) She specializes in European and family travel and never says no to new adventures.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
An abundance of new nonstop flights has made Europe more accessible than ever for U.S. travelers this summer.
And the good news is that that’s a trend set to continue into fall too!
More American travelers have visited Portugal this year than ever before.
According to Portugal Resident more than a million travelers from the U.S. visited the country between January and June this year.
This is a figure that has almost doubled in 2 years, which is frankly incredible!
The reason? The Capital and largest city in Portugal, Lisbon, is connected to a whopping 11 different U.S. cities.
Flying Nonstop To Lisbon
During the summer months, you can fly nonstop to Lisbon from 11 U.S. cities, and flights from 7 cities operate year-round.
New York, Chicago, Miami, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, Boston, and San Francisco are the seven cities offering year-round flights that you can book right now.
January is the cheapest month to fly from the U.S. to Lisbon, with nonstop return flights available for under $500 if you book now.
However, flights in October and November are just as affordable, with options under $600, and these are the best months to visit the city.
I looked at nonstop flight options for October and found that New York and Miami were the 2 most affordable cities to fly from.
This flight is with Air Portugal with an outbound flight time of 6 hours 55 minutes and an inbound flight time of 8 hours.
United Airlines also operates on this route if you’d prefer a U.S. carrier, but for the same dates the flight cost was $1,214.
If Miami is a more convenient departure airport or connection point for you, you’ll be pleased to hear that Miami is the second cheapest U.S. departure airport for Lisbon in October.
A nonstop round trip in economy class departing on October 16 and returning on October 23 will cost $715.
This flight is with Air Portugal and has an outbound flight time of 8 hours 20 minutes and an inbound flight time of 9 hours 10 minutes.
Alternatively, you could fly the same route on the same dates with JetBlue for $1,236.
Why Visit Lisbon?
Europe is historically the stomping ground of us Brits during the summer months, with Britons topping the list of visitor numbers for almost every European country.
But you’re just as likely to bump into an American tourist than a British one in Lisbon this year.
And it’s easy to see why!
As well as the incredible connectivity, Lisbon is also an amazing city to explore. Lisbon is Portugal’s hilly, coastal capital city.
In the summer you can have the best of both worlds’ here: culturally significant historical sites and lazy beach days.
This means you can experience Europe’s beaches and its rich history in one city.
If you like mild weather and fewer crowds, fall is the best time to explore Lisbon.
Because it is such a culturally fascinating city, I love Lisbon in the fall, when the temperature is cool enough for plenty of walking and exploring.
Some of the best things to see and do in Lisbon include climbing to the Castle of São Jorge and then strolling through Alfama.
The Castle of Sao Jorge sits on Lisbon’s highest hill and looks over the city, making it one of the most iconic attractions. Entrance costs €15,00 ($16.60) per adult.
Be sure to visit the Praça do Comércio which is is a large, harbour-facing plaza and one of the most picturesque plazas in the city. Entrance is free and this is a great place to sit, relax, and people watch.
Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss MAAT – the Art, Architecture and Technology Museum which is in the heart of the city overlooking the water. The building is a modern architectural wonder in its own right!
Tickets cost €11.00 ($12) per person, but plan your trip in advance because the Museum is only open from Wednesday to Monday.
Tor has been writing for more than 20 years and has visited 25 countries (and counting!) She specializes in European and family travel and never says no to new adventures.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
The appeal of Europe for American travelers shows no signs of abating, but instead of spending time in France or Italy, there’s a new hot spot in town!
Research from the Olive Press has found that the number of U.S. tourists visiting Spain is higher than ever.
I’ll admit, I love Spain!
In fact, a year I haven’t spent some time in the country is a very bad year. And it seems like a huge number of American travelers agree with me.
American visitors to Spain are up by 15% compared to last year, and the country welcomed more than 2 million U.S. visitors in the first half of the year.
As well as being a beautiful and culturally rich country to visit year-round, getting to Spain is also wonderfully convenient! Americans can fly nonstop to these 5 destinations in Spain this fall:
Air Connections Between The U.S. And Spain
In recent years, the air connections between the U.S. and Spain have increased considerably, which explains why travel between the two countries has surged in popularity so fast.
This fall, U.S. travelers can fly nonstop to Barcelona, Madrid, Tenerife, Malaga, and Palma.
Barcelona
Barcelona is the second-largest city in Spain, and this October, you can fly to this culture-rich hot spot from 9 different U.S. cities:
Miami
Chicago
New York
San Francisco
Boston
Atlanta
Philadelphia
Washington D.C.
Los Angeles
The 2 cheapest departure points, at the time of writing, are Miami and Chicago.
Flying out on October 20-October 25 with Iberia Air (a well-known Spanish carrier) will cost $582 per person for an economy class round trip. The outbound flight time for this route is 9 h 50 and the inbound flight time is 9 h 25.
Barcelona is a fascinating city best visited in the fall.
It’s still warm enough to sit outside in street cafes, eating tapas and watching the world go by, but the crowds are much lower.
The works of Gaudi are the highlight of Barcelona for me. These include the city’s most famous attraction, the unfinished Sagrada Familia cathedral.
Then go to the incredible, vibrant, Park Guell, better known as Gaudi Park. Its full of whimsical mosaics, sculptures, and awe-inspiring architecture. It’s one of my favorite spots in all of Barcelona.
Madrid
Barcelona is perhaps the best-known city in Spain among tourists, but Madrid is actually the nation’s capital.
In October U.S. travelers can fly to Madrid nonstop from New York, Boston, Washington D.C, Miami, Chicago, Dallas, Charlotte, Philidelphia, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Atlanta.
In October the 2 cheapest cities to fly from are New York and Boston.
The outbound flight time is 7 hours 15 minutes and the inbound flight time is 8 hours 15 minutes.
Madrid has a rich cultural heritage and some of the main, must-visit attractions in the city include the Prado Museum and the Royal Palace, which is the largest palace in Europe.
When you’re ready to relax, go and sit in the Puerta del Sol.
This public square is bursting with life, a great place for people-watching and experiencing what life in Madrid really feels like.
Tenerife
Tenerife is the largest and most populated of the Canary Islands. This is an island chain that is owned by Spain but actually located closer to Africa.
The Canary Islands are around 100 km off the coast of Morocco.
You can now fly nonstop to Tenerife from New York, which is the first direct route from the U.S. to the island.
The cheapest dates to fly to Tenerife in October are from 17-25. A round-trip economy class flight on these dates would set you back $694.
This flight is operated by United Airlines with an outbound flight time of 7 hours 5 minutes and an inbound flight time of 7 hours 55 minutes.
They boast year-round sunshine, and Tenerife has a fascinating, almost otherworldly volcanic landscape while still having some of the most beautiful European beaches.
The great thing about the Canary Islands is how well connected they are: you can fly into Tenerife then use the inter island ferries to explore all of the islands in the chain.
Malaga
New Yorkers are blessed with flight options if they want a getaway to Spain.
As well as having the only direct route between the U.S. and Tenerife, New York also boasts the only nonstop route between the U.S. and Malaga.
This routes stop operating for the season at the of September, so this is an ideal option for an early fall getaway. To travel from September 18 to September 25 with United Airlines will cost $859.
The outbound flight time is 7 hours 40 minutes, and the inbound flight time is 8 hours 35 minutes.
Malaga is a great place to visit in fall if you’re looking for uncrowded beaches, with the most famous beach here being La Malagueta.
Picasso was born in Malaga, and the city is incredibly proud of its famous son.
The house where he was born has been turned into a small, but genuinely fascinating, museum which also contains some of his works. It’s so interesting that I’ve visited it twice!
Tor has been writing for more than 20 years and has visited 25 countries (and counting!) She specializes in European and family travel and never says no to new adventures.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Alaska may seem like a far-flung land, and that’s the case for parts of the state. Some regions are so vast and unexplored that they’re only reachable by plane or boat.
There goes your plans for an epic Alaskan road trip this fall…
One thing Alaska does have going for it is accessibility to some really cool places. It isn’t as lacking as you might expect.
There are plenty of nonstop flights taking you to some truly jaw-dropping destinations. The main gateway, other than cruise ships, is the capital city of Anchorage.
But a 6-hour drive north, the remote city of Fairbanks is full of surprises.
You don’t need to have a passport in hand and fly across the ocean to Iceland or Scandinavia to bear witness to one of nature’s most incredible phenomena.
That’s right, as summer winds down, it may be considered autumn for many, but in this part of the U.S., it’s the start of the Northern Lights season.
America’s Northernmost Airport
Alaska is a beast! If you thought Texas or California were massive, coming to Alaska is a whole different experience as bright skylines and gridlock traffic are few and far between.
Wide open spaces, frequent wildlife sightings, and majestic landscapes will have you forgetting all about city life distractions.
That being said, what would we do without flights? Exploring the world sure would look a lot different.
Even in places as isolated as Fairbanks, you gotta have an airport in this day and age.
Best of all, you don’t need to fly into Anchorage just to make an extra 6-hour journey to reach this underrated city.
The good news is that they’re not the only notable carrier serving Fairbanks.
Current nonstop routes to Fairbanks International Airport (FAI):
United: Chicago (ORD), Denver
Delta: Seattle (SEA), Minneapolis
Alaska: Anchorage, Seattle (SEA)
The rest are ‘puddle jumpers’ I can all but guarantee you’ve never heard of. You may notice American no longer flies here.
Perhaps that’s because the popular airline has a vendetta against liars! Despite being named Fairbanks International Airport, there are no international flights offered here.
Nope, not even to Canada. And especially not Russia, despite being able to see the controversial nation from Alaska’s ‘backyard’.
The Fall Adventure Of A Lifetime
Alaska is brimming with outdoor wonders living up to the moniker of ‘The Last Frontier’.
One thing is for certain – Alaska is made to be explored. There’s no better time for the remainder of 2024 than fall.
Teeth-chattering temps will overtake the state come winter, so it’s best to get a head start on your travel plans for fall.
As the midway point of August is behind us, September should be the focal point. This is the month when Mother Nature’s skies put on a show.
Aurora Borealis, otherwise known as the Northern Lights, illuminates the sky in greens, blues, and occasional pinkish hues from September to spring.
While there are certainly natural phenomena to not look forward to, such as the current hurricane season, seeing the Northern Lights in person is a bucket-list item to splurge on.
As someone fortunate enough to witness the dancing sky myself, there’s really no comparison and photos don’t do it justice.
In fact, my recommendation would be to put your phones away and soak it in. Even with the latest iPhone models, capturing the Northern Lights in their raw essence can be a tough project.
Best to leave it to the pros.
You can always venture out on your own to witness the Northern Lights, but for something really unique, you could try a tour like this one that includes dog sledding in the moonlight, dinner, and the Northern Lights!
Tip: For best viewing, go outside the city away from light pollution.
A Fairbanks Fall Over A Fairbanks Summer
Fairbanks is a bit of an oddball – lots of quirks around here.
Watch The Boneyard to throw your mind for a loop about this place!
Summer is a popular time for the small city, but it can be a nuisance to those who enjoy some shuteye.
Fairbanks sees long summers, meaning many days see 24 hours of nonstop daylight! Thankfully, hotels have heavily invested in blackout curtains, but this should be of minimal concern in fall.
Less crowds, cheaper stays, and the endless fall foliage and wonders of the sky will have you forgetting all about the city life back home in this delightful town.
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
We get it, it is home to the most beautiful, unspoiled coastal scenery, waters of the brightest-blue, and picture-perfect towns that look ripped out the pages of a fairytale novel, but there’s just one catch many are failing to take into consideration.
Never mind the overtourism and inflated prices, it isflaming hot right now, with wildfires raging on in Greek islands and travel alerts being issued for parts of Spain and Italy as temperatures soar above safe levels:
We’re not talking a cozy, balmy warm; we’re talking torrid, unmanageable, get-me-out-of-here kind of warm.
Seeing some hotels in Greek islands already being evacuated again as dangerous fires break out, we wouldn’t be the first ones to bank on a Mediterranean getaway this season.
But there may be an alternative.
Away from the Med, there’s this paradisiacal Portuguese island with emerald nature and perfect weather––not unpleasantly warm, but not too chill, either––and you can even fly there nonstop from the States:
It’s Time You Stop Sleeping On Madeira
Though it is hundreds of miles away from Portugal’s mainland, and in fact, closer to the coast of West Africa than it is to Europe, Madeira is a remote Atlantic island the Portuguese have held since the 15th century, and believe it or not, an increasingly-popular year-round destination.
Before we get to the actual good stuff, here’s a couple of equally-interesting facts about Madeira:
Despite being an integral part of Portugal, it is a self-governing autonomous community with a distinct character, and at times, you might even struggle to consider both as being part of the same national entity.
For starters, mainland Portugal is much older: its History starts as far back as Gaelic tribes and the Ancient Roman Empire, and similarly to Spain, it has verdant plains, a sandy coast and exceedingly-high temperatures over summer.
Madeira is a volcanic island traversed by towering peaks. As it is nearer the tropics–once again, it’s in proximity to Africa as opposed to its home continent–seasons are not as well defined as they are in the European mainland.
Now we get to the good part.
Why Madeira Is A Year-Round Sunny Paradise
Madeira is nearer the tropics, where the climate remains largely at a constant irrespective of seasonal changes, and come summer or winter, it’s never too hot, nor too cold to visit:
Right now in Funchal, the coastal capital of Madeira, it’s a pleasant 82.4°F during the day, dropping to 71.6°F in the evening, while other parts of the island that are higher up, it ranges from 55.4°F to an acceptable 69.8°F.
The trend repeats itself throughout the year, with an only-moderately chilly 69.8°F in Funchal in December, and some rain expected, but not an awful lot.
As you might have guessed, wildfires over summer are an uncommon occurrence, and when winter comes, snow is an even rarer phenomenon unless you’re climbing up to some of the tallest peaks where some dusting is expected.
In other words, you won’t be risking heat exhaustion while exploring Madeira, and boy, is there an entire world of natural wonders to be braved:
The Most Beautiful Nature Anywhere In Europe
Mainland Portugal is best known for its rich Ancient Roman and Baroque heritage, with cities like Lisbon and Porto concentrating a great deal of the country’s regal palaces and most ornate churches, but Madeira, on the other hand, is all about the thriving nature.
We’re talking epic hikes into the sunrise, swimming off a pristine, rugged coast in nature-made volcanic pools, footpaths locally known as levadas that lead to lush-green jungles and hidden waterfalls, and botanical gardens that seem to be in a permanent state of bloom.
It’s no wonder Madeira is called Land of Eternal Spring (it might as well be):
Epic Hikes Await
The most epic hike in Madeira, the climb from Areeiro to Ruivo Peak, takes you through highland scenery, crossing tunnels and zig-zagging across the dramatic landscape.
In the end, you are rewarded with sweeping vistas of the sea of mountains from the island’s tallest summit.
Get your comfy hiking shoes on, and make sure you pack plenty of water bottles and protein bars: there’s no stopping once you cross the infamous Stairway to Heaven (and if you suffer from vertigo, make sure you don’t look down).
Luckily for beginners like us, we can always book a sunset hike tour dropping us off at the first peak, and then proceed to summit the second––and highest one––before getting picked up again, for a fixed price of $35.98 on GetYourGuide.
There are many more peaks to conquer all around Madeira, 147 mountains to be precise, but you’ll want to set some time aside for some beachside relaxation.
Volcanic PoolsAnd Mystical Forests
For that, head to Porto Moniz, in the island’s north, where you’ll find some of the best volcanic pools with crystal-clear water, which as you may know, are not as easy to come across in the Atlantic as they are in the Med.
Porto Moniz is also a lively resort town lined with beachfront hotels and oceanfront restaurants, and it’s one of the gateways for reaching the UNESCO-listed Fanal, an eerie ancient forest dating back millions of years that’s best experienced at dawn, when the mist is yet to dissipate.
Perhaps the most iconic postcard shot in all of Madeira, Valley of the Nuns is yet another popular stopover for nature enthusiasts: a sleepy isolated village nestled in the center of a valley, it is flanked by imposing fog-crowned elevations almost bordering on ethereal.
For those epic coastal views, drive towards Ponta de São Lourenço, Madeira’s easternmost tip, and a rocky peninsula jutting out into the azure Atlantic: the kind of stuff that needs to be seen with your own eyes to be believed.
Has Madeira Been An Underrated Cultural Hotspot All Along?
The nature may be the star of the show in Madeira, but let’s not forget about its cultural contributions:
More specifically, the capital, Funchal, is a prime example of Portuguese colonial architecture, with its old cathedral, built from blocks of native volcanic rock and with a magnificent roof of cedar wood, the late medieval Convent of Santa Clara, and a well-preserved Old City.
Taking the cable car from the maze of cobbled streets starting from the ever-busier Central Market, you’ll hover above the terracotta roofs of historic Funchal, all the way up to the hilly suburb of Monte (translatable as Mount), best known for its exotic Tropical Garden.
For enthusiasts of recent history, particularly football, you don’t want to miss the CR7 Museum, which is celebratory of Funchal’s biggest international export: Cristiano Ronaldo, who was born and raised in Madeira before taking on the world.
Funchal is up there with Lisbon as one of Portugal’s trendiest summer getaways, and one of Europe’s fastest-growing city destinations, according to a recent research published by ForwardKeys.
A short 24-minute drive from Funchal, Ponta do Sol is a dreamy oceanfront village surrounded by banana plantations, and its Nossa Senhora da Luz Church is among Madeira’s last-surviving from the early colonial settlement.
Further west of Ponta do Sol, the laid-back coastal town of Ribeira Brava is perfect for unwinding, sampling traditional Portuguese food––the drenched-in-oil lagareiro octopus is a must-try delicacy––and going for long promenade walks.
On the north coast of the island, there is yet another cultural hub to be found in Santana, where houses are built in a unique triangular shape, and topped with thatched roofs––in the center of town, the whitewashed Baroque Santana Church is not to be missed.
Madeira Is Incredibly Affordable By European Standards
Budget-wise, Madeira is one of the cheapest summer hotspots in Europe at present, with particularly-low prices observed for food and drinks, and attractive room rates.
With local restaurants boasting an abundance of local produce and many tourism providers (hotels included) growing their own vegetables and fruit, consumer prices in Madeira are markedly lower than those in the European mainland.
On average, tourists spend $34 on meals per day, as estimated by Budget Your Trip, though that is unlikely to include elaborate, three-course dinners in Funchal’s top-rated Alta Vista Restaurant.
If you’re keen on keeping costs down, there are still plenty of $1.50 custard tarts, Portuguese-style, delicious $3 savory pastries, and $2.18 poncha shots to be had.
As for accommodation, the average visitor spends $113 per night on hotels, though there’s far-cheaper privately-managed guesthouses listing rooms from $68 on Booking.com, like Residencial Chafariz in Funchal, and Pensão Fernandes in Porto Moniz, costing $87 to book per night.
Overall, a one-week trip to Madeira can cost $701 per person, or the equivalent in euro, excluding flights.
Fly Nonstop From Boston And Toronto To Madeira
Recently, Portuguese carrier Azores Airline launched new nonstop flights from Boston, Massachusetts (BOS), and Toronto, Canada (YYZ) to Funchal (FNC), eliminating the need for Americans and Canadians alike to first touch town in continental Portugal ahead of connecting onward to Madeira.
On both routes, flights operate weekly, with departures from Boston on Tuesdays and returns from Funchal scheduled for the following Wednesdays; as for Toronto, departures take place on Saturdays, and homebound flights leave on Fridays.
Azores Airlines has deployed a Boeing 767-300ER on the new routes and plans to maintain this Transatlantic service throughout the peak travel season.
On top of Boston and Toronto, Azores Airlines already transports passengers from New York (JFK) to Funchal every Sunday, with return trips scheduled for Mondays.
Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Los Cabos is one of the hottest destinations in Mexico right now.
This popular beach destination has been breaking all-time tourism records in 2023, and it’s easier than ever to travel there thanks to expanded flight connectivity from the United States.
American travelers can fly nonstop to Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) in San José del Cabo from 23 cities in the U.S. this winter.
Here are all the flights available to travelers wanting to visit Cabo:
1. Los Angeles (LAX)
Los Angeles has the most flights of any U.S. city to Cabo, with nearly 100 flights a day across six different airlines, making it extremely easy to escape to Cabo for a getaway this winter.
Airlines: Alaska, American, Delta, JetBlue, Spirit, United
Flight Time: 2 hours and 40 minutes
Frequency: Daily
2. Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)
Another city with lots of nonstop flights to Cabo is Dallas. Los Cabos has been working to streamline the immigration process once travelers arrive to under 30 seconds, making for an easy and hassle-free entrance.
Airlines: 2 hours and 54 minutes
Flight Time: American
Frequency: Daily
3. Phoenix (PHX)
Phoenix, Arizona is another city with many nonstop flights to Cabo.
Airlines: American, Southwest
Flight Time: 2 hours and 11 minutes
Frequency: Daily
4. Houston (HOU and IAH)
Both of Houston’s two airports offer plenty of choices for daily nonstop flights to Cabo.
Airlines: Southwest, United
Flight Time: 3 hours
Frequency: Daily
5. San Francisco (SFO)
For travelers from San Francisco, there are quite a few daily flights to Cabo to choose from. Cabo is one of the safest destinations in Mexico for travelers.
Airlines: Alaska, United
Flight Time: 3 hours and 8 minutes
Frequency: Daily
6. Denver (DEN)
Next up on the list is Denver, Colorado. Travelers can escape the cold of Colorado and enjoy the sunshine, sand, and ocean waves of Cabo in just 3 hours.
Airlines: Southwest, United
Flight Time: 3 hours
Frequency: Daily
7. San Diego (SAN)
Being located so close to the border with Mexico, San Diego has plenty of nonstop flights to Cabo each day and the total flight time is just 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Airlines: Alaska, Southwest
Flight Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Frequency: Daily
8. Atlanta (ATL)
Travelers from Atlanta may be more accustomed to visiting Cancun, Mexico, which is only 2.5 hours away. But there are many compelling reasons to visit Los Cabos instead of Cancun this year, and it’s only 4.5 hours away from Atlanta.
Airlines: Delta
Flight Time: 4 hours and 35 minutes
Frequency: Daily
9. Austin (AUS)
Travelers from Austin, Texas can get to Cabo in under 3 hours with daily flights to this sunny Mexican destination.
Airlines: American, Southwest
Flight Time: 2 hours and 37 minutes
Frequency: Daily
10. Santa Ana (SNA)
Another Southern California city with direct access to Cabo is Santa Ana. This short, frequent flight makes a getaway to Cabo extremely simple.
Airlines: Southwest
Flight Time: 2 hours and 25 minutes
Frequency: Daily
More Cities With Nonstop Flights To Cabo
These are the rest of the U.S. cities offering nonstop flights to Cabo this winter:
Seattle (SEA): Daily flights on Alaska and Delta
New York City (JFK): Daily flights on Delta and JetBlue
Salt Lake City (SLC): Five times weekly flights on Delta
Chicago (ORD): Daily flights on American and United
San Jose (SJC): Five times weekly flights on Alaska
Newark (EWR): Twice weekly flights on United
Charlotte (CLT): Flights on American beginning in November
Detroit (DTW): Daily flights on Delta beginning in December
Kansas City (MCI): Saturday flights on Southwest beginning in October)
Las Vegas (LAS): Four times weekly flights on Alaska beginning in December
Minneapolis (MSP): Flights on Delta and Sunwing beginning in November
Oakland (OAK): Saturday flights on Southwest beginning in November
Sacramento (SMF): Saturday flights on Southwest beginning in October
For many Americans, it’s looking like the start of fall now, and most of us are happy to embrace the stunning foliage, cozy weather, and spooky season.
The only problem is that no matter how great all might be, we all know what comes next.
Soon the leaves will drop and a chill will start to overtake much of the country, and with it the arrival of a long winter.
It’s not all doom and gloom though, the good news is that with more Latin American travel destinations expanding in popularity, more flights from the U.S. to sunny and warm destinations are offered.
More and more direct flights to unique locations to see cloud forests, beaches, and Mayan ruins mean more opportunities for Americans to escape the cold and head off on a tropical adventure.
One such place that Americans can fly from many major airports is the Honduran island of Roatán, a diving hotspot filled with sun, sand, and great vibes.
When it comes to Latin America, many Americans head to Costa Rica, and for good reason: it’s a great destination worthy of all its hype.
However, the other unique and culture-packed countries making up this part of the world are very much deserving of a visit as well, including Panama, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras.
Yet, Honduras’s most popular tourist destination lies far from the country’s north coast, about 40 miles off the coast in the Caribbean Sea.
Welcome to the island of Roatán.
Ease Of Getting There
With direct flights from many major U.S. airports, Roatán is well-connected for a winter getaway. Multiple airlines fly this route with connections as well, and deals can be found if you book early enough.
As part of the Bay Islands, Roatán is the only one with an international airport. It operates in the central time zone, and a flight from New York will only take about four hours, meaning you don’t have to waste too much time traveling.
Roatán is only about 5 miles wide and around 40 miles long, and in total the area is around 32 square miles of beaches, towns, fishing villages, and green hilly unspoiled nature.
Let’s be honest, most people come here for the beaches, racing from world-class manicured shores to natural and rugged. Although the beaches are endless, the more popular ones for tourists are West Bay Beach, Hall Moon Bay Beach, Marbella Beach, Camp Bay Beach, and Mahogany Bay Beach. Make sure to read up on each area as they all offer a different vibe and might not be what you are looking for.
If you have heard of Roatán before, it’s likely because of its world-renowned driving opportunities. The island is surrounded by some of the most bio-diverse coral reefs in the world, and the vast diverse sea life that lives here keeps even the most seasoned divers coming back for more.
Roatán is actually home to the second-largest barrier reef on earth, and the endless diving companies here are eager to take you out and show you the splendor. Snorkelers are also spoiled for choice here, so don’t worry if diving is not your thing; there will still be plenty to see from the surface as well.
While you can relax and chill as much as you want on Roatan, it’s no secret that the island has some pretty epic nightlife as well.
Due to the large number of tourists, most of whom are here to dive, the bars and clubs along the beaches serve late into the night, and the nightlife is renowned for being a fun time.
There are numerous famous places known for partying when the sun goes down; from dock parties to tiki bars there is enough nightlife to go around.
So plan ahead when booking your accommodation to make sure you are as close (or far) from this as you want to be.
Perfect Weather
Being an island in the Caribbean far off the mainland, the weather in Roatán doesn’t follow a strict calendar. That being said, the winter months of November through February are known as being the cold season, although it’s hardly cold at all.
Christmas time is the coldest time of year, and even then the average temperature is around 75 degrees, with pleasant sea temperatures for swimming.
The high season for tourism is between October and May, so you won’t have the place to yourself, but it’s unlikely that you will find yourself swamped with crowds.
Underrated Opportunities
While Roatán is a more popular destination in Latin America, it’s still relatively underrated by American travelers (aside from the diving crowd).
A visit to Roatán will allow you to enjoy some Latin American culture and can be a great starting point for more travel in Honduras and beyond.
While it’s true there are some safety concerns, as long as you are well prepared and know where to visit and where not to, you can enjoy a very underrated and under-explored country that many average travelers never see.
Flight times are getting shorter for travelers going to and from New York and Boston with 11 new direct routes from New York’s La Guardia Airport (LGA), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), and Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) in 2023. JetBlue and American Airlines have added new direct routes through its Northeast Alliance, which was created in 2020 to increase competition in certain regions where airlines have dominance.
The addition of these routes will bring JetBlue’s lower fare options to the region, as major airlines such as Delta and United have dominated the New York City market. The new direct routes include eight domestic routes to locations such as Atlanta, Georgia; Birmingham, Alabama; Buffalo, New York, Columbia, North Carolina; Greenville, North Carolina; Hyannis, Massachusetts; Grand Rapids, Michigan; and Knoxville, Tennessee. Three new international routes have been added for Nassau, Vancouver, and Bermuda.
The alliance provides an incentive for JetBlue and American Airlines to coordinate collaborative flight scheduling between Boston and LaGuardia since JetBlue is the sole operator between the two, providing travelers with more convenient connection times.
The controversial alliance which has received criticism for decreasing competition has created 50 new routes out of John F Kennedy, La Guardia Airport, Boston Logan International Airport, and Newark, with 17 new international routes, while increasing frequencies and capacities on others already running.
“Giving customers more choices for travel is a critical part of the Northeast Alliance,” said Anmol Bhargava, American’s Vice President of Global Alliances and Partnerships in a press release. “We are pleased that with our partner, JetBlue, we will now serve 45 of the top 50 domestic markets from LGA.”
The new JetBlue routes will be going on sale in January, while American Airlines will be offering its flights for sale now.
New Direct Jet Blue Flying Routes
New York’s La Guardia Airport: Starting Spring 2023
Atlanta, Georgia (ATL) –visit Georgia’s capital and the most popular city with flight options four times per day
Bermuda (BDA) – enjoy pink-sanded beaches such as Horseshoe Bay with flight options once daily during the summer season
Hyannis, Massachusetts (HYA) – located on the Cape Cod peninsula, flight options to this beach village will fly once daily during the summer season
Nassau, Bahamas (NAS) – explore the capital of the Bahamas and its stunning coral reefs with flight options once daily
Newark Liberty International Airport: Starting Summer 2023
An additional Saturday service will be added from Newark and the Caribbean Island, Aruba, on its premium aircraft (select A321s, A321neos, and A321LRs) for its Mint business class. Mint is a premium experience that is only available on London flights and select coast-to-coast, Caribbean, and Latin America routes.
The airline will be bringing back once-daily flights from Newark and Montego Bay, Jamaica for the summer
Boston Logan International Airport: New Summer Seasonal Services
Vancouver, B.C – discover British Columbia’s bustling west coast seaport with daily summer seasonal services
New Direct American Airline Flying Routes
New York’s La Guardia Airport: Starting May 2023
Birmingham, Alabama (BHM) – taste some authentic soul food in Alabama’s largest city with flight options once daily
Buffalo, New York (BUF) – take a dip in Buffalo’s surrounding picturesque lakes with flight options three times per day
