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Top 6 Reasons Why All-Inclusive Resorts Are The Most Popular Winter Getaway

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Vacations are all about relaxing, escaping the routine, and truly enjoying a special moment at a beautiful place. All-inclusive resorts are the perfect solution to guarantee a seamless vacation experience.

While visiting a new city, exploring its museums, and getting around the nice neighborhoods is also an excellent vacation strategy, sometimes having busy schedules and checking all the boxes on a long bucket list can be stressful and daunting vacation.

Travelers who want to feel at ease during winter vacations are preferring resorts in warm and gorgeous destinations like the Caribbean. Here’s why all-inclusive resorts are getting so popular:

1. Stress-free Experience

Once a traveler books the flights and the stay at an all-inclusive resort there are very few decisions left to make and this can reduce stress significantly. Airports have been chaotic lately and just surviving the pandemic has been worrying enough for a very long time. There’s so much going on in the world already that staying at a place where guests can feel welcome, pampered, entertained, and relaxed seems like the perfect and deserving treat travelers need in 2023.

Another great advantage of all-inclusive resorts is that they provide a safe environment where guests don’t have to worry about personal safety or accidentally walking into a dangerous neighborhood in a foreign country. The language is not a barrier either as the staff and hosts usually have outstanding English skills.

2. Knowing Exactly How Much It’s Going To Cost

When it comes to budgeting a trip, all-inclusive resorts make it extra easy. Anyone can Google the average costs for a meal at a destination or check online menus for specific restaurants but there are always unexpected events and expenses that are impossible to predict while traveling.

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Knowing that all meals, drinks, and main attractions are included makes it so simple when it comes to estimating costs. And there are all-inclusive resort options for all budgets, from great alternatives for less than $200 per night in the Dominican Republic, to luxurious accommodations for almost $4,000 per night in Mexico.

3. The Ever-expanding Mega-resorts

Of course, the main attractions of all-inclusive resorts are the great amenities. Travelers will usually find pools, pristine beach access, different restaurants and bars, and there are so many options. According to Booking.com, there are 73 all-inclusive resorts currently available in Cancun and 83 in Punta Cana.

And new impressive properties keep opening. Marriott now has an all-inclusive resort with a water park in Cancun and its first luxury all-inclusive in the Dominican Republic featuring spas and personalized services. Another resort on a private island in the Dominican Republic will open in 2023, and a new $100 million luxury resort project is under construction in Montego bay.

4. Access To Luxury Services

The resort experience is changing and now more hotel brands are interested in providing glamorous and exclusive services for guests. Daily massages at elegant spas and sit-downs a la carte restaurants included in the price? It’s already happening.

From amazing culinary experiences to special spa treatments and personalized services—including your own butler—, many resorts are offering royalty experiences to make their guests feel in heaven. Crowded pools and overwhelming buffets are staying in the past.

5. Unlimited Drinks

Buying multiple individual cocktails or specialty mocktails can be very expensive and worrying the day after having a great time at the beach and drinking multiple drinks. For those that love to overindulge in cocktails, the value of the all-inclusive is definitely worth it. Each resort has its own policies regarding the drinks, certain hotels charge extra fees for premium drinks, but even alcoholic drinks are usually included. Two more margaritas, please!

6. Endless Organized Activities

There’s so much to do at all-inclusive resorts! As if the private beach, the pools, spas, and fitness centers weren’t enough to stay entertained, there are usually amazing activities included. From fun parties at night to dancing lessons to morning yoga to diving courses, it’s impossible to get bored!

All kinds of travelers will encounter special and interesting activities to get the best of the resort and the destination. Many resorts offer off-property tours to safely explore places outside of the property like nature spots, museums, and buildings, and get more in touch with local culture and surroundings.

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January 1, 2023
This Is Why Thailand Is The Most Popular Destination For Americans In Southeast Asia

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Now that their borders have reopened and they seem to have moved on from the darker days of the pandemic, Thailand is once again smashing tourism records and strengthening links with North America. In fact, new research has confirmed it is the go-to destination for U.S. citizens in Southeast Asia – but what’s behind this new wave of popularity?

For most of 2020 and 2022, Southeast Asia (which we’ll shorten to SEA) remained virtually sealed off for tourism as local governments cracked down hard on Covid, banning most, if not all, foreign arrivals, and imposing controversial measures such as nightly curfews and lockdowns. Thailand was no exception.

Certainly, we did not expect Thailand to bounce back as strongly or this quickly, yet here we are:

A Budget-Friendly Paradisaical Escape

As verified in new research conducted by BBC News, Thailand is the number one pick for both Americans (including Canadians) and Europeans when planning a trip to Southeast Asia. As a matter of fact, more than half of all respondents cited Thailand as their preferred destination over Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and other competitors.

To be more precise, 57.4% of those surveyed stated they would more likely visit Thailand than any other country in SEA. Why, then, is Thailand so trendy right now? In other words, why are thousands of Americans flying to the other side of the world, and facing long layovers in foreign airports, when there are other easier-to-reach sunny spots closer to home?

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We have two possible answers: first, there is budget, and second, Thailand’s stunning nature and the fact that it is simply the perfect destination for culture-driven explorers. We will begin with budget, a pressing concern for many U.S. citizens going abroad amid the ongoing economic upheaval and the soaring costs of travel fueled by inflation.

Thailand Is Much Cheaper Than Other Sunny Spots In The Western Hemisphere

Luxury travel is on the rise worldwide, as tourism boards around the globe begin focusing more on big spenders and long-term vacationers in hopes of cashing in from their willingness to pay more, no matter how much, for high-quality services. This includes semi-private jets, five-star, all-inclusive resorts, and other unique experiences.

Not all travelers are keen on the splurging trend, though: many of them are actively seeking cheaper alternatives to the overpriced beaches of Mexico and Europe, even if that means longer, more complicated journeys and places where they can still indulge in some luxury, but at a much lower cost. As it turns out, Thailand is very affordable to visit.

It may not be as cheap as its neighbors, especially Vietnam, but it still allows Western visitors to treat themselves without breaking the bank, be it ordering a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant at a much lower price than back at home, or spending a weekend in a guesthouse at a secluded beach without double-checking their funds.

In general, Thailand is 65% less expensive than the U.S.: when staying a whole month, guests can expect to pay an average of USD $742, as opposed to USD $2,112. Yes, the only direct flights from North America leave from Vancouver, in Canada, and no, it is certainly not cheap to get there, but once you do, you’ll find out your hard-earned dollars stretch the furthest.

A Vast Cultural Wealth

Then, there is the question of tourist offer. Thailand’s natural wonders and millennia-old culture precede it: from spotless beaches made famous by Hollywood classics to intricately-built, historical Buddhist temples to open-air markets where mouth-watering street food can be sampled, it has enough points of interest to keep visitors busy for weeks on end.

One of Thailand’s strongest assets is nature, at least when it comes to staying on top of travel trends. Next year, nearly 60% of travelers will be looking to completely disconnect from their phones and explore the great outdoors when vacationing abroad, and Southeast Asia’s tropical forests and crystal clear coastline is surely a good starting point.

Now more than ever, vacationers are also favoring deeper cultural immersions, and staying safe behind the walls of their gated villas or resorts is no longer an enticing thought for some. Thailand is ready to accommodate their needs, offering a whole range of off-path activities that will help Americans understand the Thai way of life a bit better.

As stated by John Williams, Vice President of the Advertising Sales department (BBC News), ‘travel has been in a state of flux since the pandemic, and we are seeing a wonderful comeback throughout South East Asia currently for travelers and the travel industry as a whole‘. Their own results corroborate our earlier findings:

The research asserted that travelers’ priorities moving forward are cultural and sustainable travel. 91% of Americans and Europeans crave ‘culture and heritage’, and 72% are environmentally-conscious. Lucky for them, Thailand is fully open for tourism, with no vaccination, testing, or quarantine restrictions in place.

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December 22, 2022
American Airlines Will Relaunch 7 Popular Long Haul Routes In 2023
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We know winter has barely started, and we’re only just getting cozy in our homes as we impatiently wait for the holidays, but there’s enough reasons already to look forward to July 2023. Months ahead of time, American Airlines (AA) has unveiled its long-awaited summer schedule, which includes the relaunch of 7 popular long haul routes.

After two years of border closures, the world has finally reopened for tourism. Understandably, demand for international travel, especially among Americans, has skyrocketed. As a result, flights that had been suspended in the early days of Covid, or even prior to the health crisis, are finally making a comeback:

The Complete List Of Resumptions

It’s been a busy year for American Airlines, as the carrier undergoes profound changes and tries to adjust to the new market dynamics. Besides reforming its First Class, and ordering 20 supersonic jets for shorter Transatlantic flights, the carrier is now reinstating service to highly sought-after destinations abroad.

In total, 7 flight routes are relaunching in time for summer 2023, some of which for the first time in three or more years:

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- Charlotte, NC (CLT) – Paris, France (CDG), last operated summer 2019
- Charlotte, NC (CLT) – Frankfurt, Germany (FRA), last operated summer 2021
- Dallas-Fort Worth, TX (DFW) – Santiago de Chile, Chile (SCL), last operated summer 2021
- Dallas-Fort Worth, TX (DFW) – Tokyo, Japan (HND), last operated summer 2020
- Los Angeles, CA (LAX) – Tokyo, Japan (HND), last operated summer 2020
- Los Angeles, CA (LAX) – Sydney, Australia (SYD), last operated summer 2021
- Seattle, WA (SEA) – London, United Kingdom (LHR), last operated summer 2021
American Airlines Is Rebuilding Network Following Covid

Out of those, four routes are already operational this winter, as seen on flight tracker Cirium. The remaining two, namely Charlotte to Paris, and Dallas-Forth Worth to Tokyo, are scheduled to resume from June. It’s been a long time coming: France and Japan are both tourism powerhouses, having drawn tens of millions of annual tourists in the pre-pandemic era.

Their numbers decreased drastically between 2020 and early 2022, mostly due to strict border controls and, in Japan’s and Australia’s case, an outright ban on all international travel. Interestingly, all other destinations on the list enacted pretty stringent rules rules that were only loosened in recent months.

During 2020 and well into 2021, the U.K. went through successive lockdowns and other curbs on social life and tourism, before finally reopening fully in early 2022. In line with the U.K. and the rest of Europe, Germany severely restricted travel as well, blocking the entry of non-immunized individuals until June 2022.

Naturally, American Airlines was forced to withdraw from these hubs until so,e sense of normality was achieved. Still, revitalizing services to Paris, Tokyo, Santiago, Chile, London, and Germany’s mega-hub of Frankfurt remained crucial for the rebuilding of American Airlines’ network, which had shrunk considerably in the wake of Covid.

With the exception of Chile, all of the above destinations have since lifted all restrictions. Japan is the latest to have done so in early October, in a move that prompted several airlines to resume Tokyo flights, American included. Traveling to six out of the seven countries, U.S. citizens are exempt from disclosing vaccination status or undergoing testing.

New Domestic Routes Launching

On top of relaunching these long-haul operations, the carrier announced further expansion with a slew of new domestic flights from its La Guardia base in New York. Starting May 2023, customers will enjoy new direct links to Birmingham, Alabama (BH), Buffalo, New York (BUF), Grand Rapids, Michigan (GRR), and many more.

Lastly, 4 other routes are getting a frequency boost beginning in April:
- Dallas-Fort Worth, TX (DFW) – Paris, France (CDG)
- Dallas-Forth Worth, TX (DFW) – Rome, Italy (FCO)
- Miami, FL (MIA) – London, United Kingdom (LHR)
- Miami, FL (MIA) – Sao Paulo, Brazil (GRU)
They are yet confirmed how many more flights are being added, but it’s definitely going to be a busy summer for AA as it re-enters the competition in some of the world’s most profitable markets. You can find more information about the updated schedule and fares for any of the routes already launched on the company’s official website.

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December 12, 2022
These 5 Popular European Destinations Have The Highest Rates Of Theft
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Europe has been historically regarded as safe for Americans going abroad. The continent as a whole is incredibly tourist-friendly compared to other destinations in the Americas, and the incidence of violence is indeed low, but there are five countries in particular where theft rates have risen substantially in recent years.

In total, 28 sovereign states in Europe feature on the U.S. Department of State’s list of ‘safest for travel’, such as the highly sought-after Adriatic gem of Croatia, America’s sister nation of Ireland, and even the lesser-known Georgia, a digital nomad hub that’s been welcoming U.S. passport holders without a visa for up to a year.

On the other hand, a handful of countries – surprisingly on the Western flank – have seen an increase in criminal offenses since 2019:

The New East/West Divide

Eurostat, the agency responsible for European statistics, has unveiled the official theft crime rate comprising the 2019-2020 period in the lead-up to the Covid pandemic. While the present data does not yet cover 2021 or 2022, it indicates where the crime surge was centered prior to the virus hitting and suggests a clear East/West divide.

On a positive note, with figures for EU/EFTA countries, which are closely aligned and form a Single Market, and aspiring EU candidates like Albania and Ukraine, the Eurostat report found that criminal acts have been on a downward trend, with theft reports in urban centers decreasing by as much as 19%, and burglaries by 13%.

Regardless of the positive indicator, experts consider it an incidental drop attributed to Covid restrictions and other social curbs. After all, prior to the health crisis, ‘serious assaults and drug-related crimes’ had been rising steadily in the Union, with an average of 40.8 theft offenses per hundred thousand inhabitants recorded between 2019 and 2020.

Some have been more affected than others, and contrary to popular belief, these are not obscure Eastern European nations with hard-to-pronounce names. More specifically, five Western EU have been suffering from a higher frequency of police-recorded theft offenses, including Portugal, one of the most popular sunny getaways of the year:
1. Belgium – 102.2/100,000
2. Spain – 95.6/100,000
3. Portugal – 87.2/100,000
4. Sweden – 83.3/100,000
5. Luxembourg – 75.4/100,000
Pickpocketing Remains A Widespread Issue In Europe

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Eurostat reiterates the number of crimes can vary ‘widely’ in the EU, and it is relative to population size, divergent national rules, and even over-estimation due to different ‘recording practices’. Other data is available for intentional homicides and sexual violence, but we will focus exclusively on theft as it tends to affect visitors more.

To sum it up, pick-pocketing remains a widespread issue in major cities like Brussels, the capital of Belgium, number one for police-recorded offenses in the 2019-2020 interval. This year, Belgian authorities issued their own warning against purse snatchers in the city amid a surge in wallet and phone thefts.

In Madrid, Spain’s number one city, other recent research informs us criminality is up 28.82% in the first quarter of the year compared to the same period in 2021, according to the latest Home Office Crime Statistics. Meanwhile, in Portugal, the third highest-ranking country on the list, Lisbon has registered a 7.7% increase in youth crime and gang activity in 2022.

Proving even Scandinavian countries are not immune to the crime wave, Sweden is reportedly facing a ‘very chaotic situation’ with gun violence on the rise, as assessed by the Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention. Lastly, figures for Luxembourg show an uptick in ‘violent robberies,’ up 16% from the pre-pandemic era.

Conversely, all five countries with the lowest number of recorded thefts are non-EU*:
- Albania – 3.7/100,000
- Montenegro – 7.7/100,000
- Kosovo – 9.4/100,000
- Serbia – 11.9/100,000
- Türkiye (formerly Turkey) – 12.8/100,000
*These rates may be influenced by under-reporting.

Does This Mean Europe Is Unsafe For Visitors?

The fact that European officials are alarmed by slightly higher crime rates does not necessarily mean these countries are dangerous for visitors. Europe has experienced enduring stability and prosperity in recent decades, and despite a moderate decline, it fares much better on the safety front than other global regions, including the U.S.

Stateside, theft (including auto theft) is approximately twice as high, while the homicide rate per 100,000 population nears 10.5 – Europe’s, on the other hand, falls below 2 per 100,000. Moreover, the U.S. has included nearly all of Europe, with the exception of four countries, in Levels 1 or 2 on their Travel Advisory listings.

For instance, Sweden’s gun violence stats, albeit higher than they used to be, are still negligible enough for the country to enjoy an enviable Level 1 status. The same applies to Luxembourg and Portugal, while Belgium and Spain rank lower in Level 2, mostly due to the potential threat of terrorism – in that case, exercising ‘increased caution’ in public spaces is advised.

In general, very few Americans fall victim to crime or find themselves in adverse situations vacationing across the pond, but there are four basic rules you can follow to minimize risks even further:
- Keep a high level of situational awareness when visiting tourist attractions (e.g., watching your belongings and never accepting gifts from friendly strangers)
- Never put your wallet in the back pocket, especially in crowded areas where people are close enough to bump into you
- When you’re on the subway, always wear your backpack on your front or place it safely between your legs
- Check the U.S. Department of State’s Travel Advisory for the European country you’re visiting, and verify whether there are any no-go zones listed
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December 6, 2022
Popular TV Shows Are Inspiring More Americans To Travel To These Destinations

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Deciding where to travel for your next trip is already overwhelming. With endless countries to choose from and guides listing hundreds of top destinations to check out, how do you narrow it down? Expedia delved into a chunk of its data on upcoming travel trends and was able to spot one global mindset in common… Travelers are turning to TV Shows to get their travel inspiration.

Dubbed the “set effect,” 39% of global travelers have booked a trip to places featured in a popular TV show or movie, while two-thirds have considered it. Advice from family and friends topped streaming services, but only by 2%.

Can you guess what shows are sending everyone traveling? We’ve chosen the most popular shows based on the trending TV destinations shared by Expedia but let us know any others you think in the comments.

New Zealand

It’s hard to picture any other place in the world that could mimic the fantasy world of Tolkien’s fictional Middle-Earth. The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power debuted on Prime Video on September 1 this year, and it’s bound to reignite the tourism curiosity that The Hobbit trilogy sparked.

Tourism New Zealand has claimed that New Zealand has been the most successful country to benefit from movie tourism in a decade. Tourism New Zealand says nearly one in five visitors still cite the Lord of the Rings trilogy as the reason they travel to New Zealand, even two decades after the first film was released.

Most of the filming took place in over 150 natural locations across sweeping landscapes near towns, rivers, national parks, and mountains in both the North and South islands. The most popular scenes include Tongariro National Park, which was the main setting for the land of Mordor.

You can climb Mount Doom, otherwise known as Mount Ngauruhoe, in a five to six-hour return hike. There is also a Hobbiton Movie set tour, which has been recreated in one of the original filming locations near the town of Matamata on New Zealand’s North Island.

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Great Britain

There’s one TV show that has reinvigorated people’s love affair with the Royal Family, and that’s Netflix’s The Crown. For those preferring more of a Jane Austen-romantic vibe, Bridgerton also captivated audiences with its bright and cheery sets.

With 3000 English estates and many of these being turned into tourist attractions, visitors can either expand their historical knowledge of aristocratic families or hope to meet a modern-day Lord. Stately homes have become a popular attraction for Great Britain and are usually very grand, with elaborate architecture and stunning landscaped gardens.

Meanwhile, Harry Potter continues to bring fans to popular TV locations, even a decade on. Just recently, the National Trust Pembrokeshire in Wales came out with a statement to ask Potterheads to stop leaving items such as socks and other trinkets at the fictional grave site of Dobby at Freshwater West Beach. Fans still travel to this beach 12 years on, leaving behind items such as socks to pay tribute to Dobby becoming a “free elf,” but these items started to pose a risk to the wildlife since they can enter the marine environment.

Hawaii

HBO’s The White Lotus won multiple Emmys, and although you may not want to live out the same experience as the plot, you can’t help having resort envy for its filming location in Hawaii. Filmed at the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, this luxury resort isn’t for the budget-minded since rooms start at around $1,000 per night. Situated along the stunning Wailea coastline, this resort is one of five hotels within the town and features world-class oceanfront views, lavish service, and incredible amenities with three pools, a spa, and dining under the stars, minus the questionable hotel managers.

Wailea is known for its five crescent-shaped beaches, which offer excellent snorkeling and sunsets, and its luxurious resort community spans 1,500 acres of land. The town also features three pristine 18-hole golf courses, but tourism in Hawaii has come under scrutiny in recent times due to its water scarcity and imbalanced allocation of water restrictions between locals and resorts.

Paris

Paris doesn’t need a TV show or movie to inspire ne w visitors, but a romantic comedy television series with flawless fashion and glamorized Parisian experiences come as a free tourism campaign for the city of lights. Emily in Paris follows an upbeat Chicago marketing executive who gets transferred to a French agency, where the city plays the central character.

The show takes viewers on a tour around the city from locations with the iconic backdrop of the Eiffel Tower to cobble-stoned streets and Beaux-arts bridges like Pont Alexandre III. Special highlights include the rue des Fossés Saint-Jacques, where Emily’s apartment, her frequented bakery, and her love interest’s restaurant are all within close distance, the grounds of Jardin du Luxembourg, the legendary opera house Palais Garnier, and Paris’ oldest and most iconic restaurant, Le Grand Véfour.

New York

New York ranks second as the most popular city for filming and also boasts Central Park as the most-filmed location in the world, which has been featured in over 500 movie credits. It’s hard to pinpoint exactly one TV show or movie that drives the most crowds, but you can’t go past the highly anticipated Sex and the City reboot, which aired back in December 2021 and continues to feature the city as a main character and Carrie Bradshaw’s best friend.

From Carrie’s apartment steps in the Upper West Side to the shopping streets of SoHo, ladies’ brunches at trendy restaurants like the East Pole restaurant, and trips to the Whitney Museum, this ten-episode series takes viewers on a tour around the city featuring the most delicious eateries, quintessential streets, and night spots. If the city wasn’t magical enough, it dazzles even further ahead of Christmas time.

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November 20, 2022
New Maya Train Will Make Cancun More Popular Than Ever
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Cancun has consistently broken tourism records nearly every month this year, and the trend isn’t slowing. However, an ambitious project is underway that will take tourism in the area to heights never before seen, The Maya Train. A sprawling 1500 km (≈932 mi) long railway will connect Cancun to the entire Yucatán Peninsula, allowing travelers access to over 190 tourist attractions and a total of 5 Mexican states. There will be 18 stops along the route, and the train will travel at a top speed of 160 km/h (≈100 mph).

What It Means For Cancun & Travelers

Although Cancun needs no help bringing in more tourists, The Maya Train will undoubtedly ramp up tourism in the area. With a direct connection to the train right from Cancun International Airport, travel to other areas will be easier and faster than it’s ever been. For instance, the first three stops out of the Cancun airport station will be Puerto Morelos, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

Incidentally, Playa del Carmen and Tulum are two more areas that have been breaking records. The new Maya Train will offer travelers an easier and faster way to reach these highly sought areas. As a result, Cancun International Airport should expect even more record-breaking in its future. Currently, it takes 1.5 hours to drive 118 km (≈73 mi) from Cancun Airport to Tulum. The Maya Train will connect Cancun to Tulum with a 110 km rail section with two stops in between.

Image Courtesy Of: Google Maps

Speed and Comfort

With a top speed of 160 km/hr and an assumption of 5 minutes at each of the two stops in between, travelers will still reach Tulum in under an hour. More specifically, it would take about 51 minutes. Aside from the significant time savings, the journey itself will be much more comfortable. The Maya Train will feature large comfortable seats, train cars that offer dining experiences, and even cabins with a place to lie down for those taking the train long distances.

Image Courtesy Of: Alstrom Maya Train Project

For Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, The Maya Train means they can each expect their visitor counts to grow exponentially. Easier access to these already-popular areas will make them more enticing to travelers looking to experience something new in the region. The adventurous traveler could plan an entire trip around the 18 stops along the route and utilize the cabins with resting areas for long-distance legs.

Image Courtesy Of: Alstrom Maya Train Project

When Can Travelers Expect To Ride The Maya Train?

Due to environmental concerns over section 5 of the railroad track, which connects Cancun with Tulum, the project was temporarily halted. However, work on the section has started again, and tourists can expect to be able to ride The Maya Train by the end of 2023.

What’s Along The Route?

There will be many opportunities for tourists to explore more of the peninsula. Indeed, there will be access to nearly 200 tourist attractions along the route. Access to 5 Mexican states in the area will also make it easier for locals to connect with bigger cities. The 18 stops planned for The Maya Train are below, with four stops of particular interest to tourists bolded.
1. Palenque, Chiapas
2. Boca del Cerro, Tabasco
3. El Triunfo, Tabasco
4. Escárcega, Campeche
5. Xpujil, Campeche
6. San Francisco de Campeche, Campeche
7. Merida Aeropuerto, Yucatan
8. Izamal, Yucatan
9. Chichen Itza, Yucatan
10. Valladolid, Yucatan
11. Nuevo Xcan, Quintana Roo
12. Cancun Aeropuerto, Quintana Roo
13. Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo
14. Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo
15. Tulum Aeropuerto, Quintana Roo
16. Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Quintana Roo 
17. Bacalar, Quintana Roo
18. Chetumal Aeropuerto, Quintana Roo 
Planned Maya Train Route

Travelers will have easy access to various activities and attractions along the route. Historical sites will now be a quick train ride away rather than a lengthy taxi ride. Travelers will be able to explore more independently with ease rather than feeling the need to book a guided tour. Some of the sites that will become more accessible along the route include:
- Mayan Ruins in the National Park of Palenque
- Mayan sites of Izamal
- The Chichén Itzá Ruins (TikTok Below)
- Puerto Morelos Reef National Park
- The Xibalba Cenote
@drewhacks i love that dog at the end 🇲🇽 welcome to Chichén Itzá! #mexico #travel #drewhacks ♬ original sound – DrewHacks

The Bottom Line

The Maya Train is a massive project that will benefit tourists and locals throughout the Yucatán Peninsula. Areas already majorly popular such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, will all see increased visitor counts due to how accessible the train will make these locations to all travelers. The train will open up the region to a whole new kind of traveler who may have passed on the area before its introduction. It will also give the travelers who come back every year a brand new way to see more of this beautiful slice of the world.

This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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September 13, 2022
Tourists Are Still Flocking To Hawaii Despite Soaring Prices – Here’s Why It’s More Popular Than Ever
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The cost of travel has increased exponentially this year, influenced by the economic crisis and the pent-up demand resulting from two years of pandemic management. Interestingly, several destinations continued reporting record revenues: one of them is Hawaii, a place tourists continue flocking into despite soaring prices.

Hawaii’s latest visitor numbers are incredibly close to reaching pre-pandemic levels, proving the population’s perceived drop of buying power has not influenced the tropical state’s performance on the tourism front. In fact, it received nearly one million visitors in July only, securing the status of America’s favorite domestic beach destination.

Taking into account the volatile scenario and the financial hurdles facing a majority of travelers, why is the ultra-expensive Hawaii still so attractive?

Hawaii Outpaces Other U.S. Destinations In Tourism Recovery

In the pre-pandemic years, Hawaii used to attract more tourism revenue than the busy hotspots of Cambodia, Brazil and Costa Rica combined. While arrivals notably reached historic lows in the turbulent years of 2020 and 2021, judging by its latest numbers, which signal a 92.4 per cent recovery compared to 2019, the Aloha State is now reclaiming its prestige.

July’s figures account for the highest volume of visitors the islands have received since January 2020, when the virus erupted and tough measures were brought in to curb its dissemination, including the closure of external Hawaiian borders. In total, $1.94 billion in tourist dollars were spent last month, 14.3 percent more than July 2019.

While we do not have access to data confirming this, this could be a reflection of the rise in costs, especially flight tickets and hotels, seeing that a full tourism recovery has not been achieved yet. Nevertheless, more than 90% of Hawaii’s once-shunned tourists are back, and inflated fares do not seem to be a huge concern here.

In July, hotel prices in the U.S. reached another historical peak of $159.08 on average per night, according to STR, or 17.5 per cent more than July 2019. Some destinations were particularly affected, such as Miami, where a sharp 50 per cent increase was observed. Hawaii’s was lower at a more moderate 36.1 per cent – still, it was far above the national average.

This Is How Much A Hotel In Hawaii Will Cost You In 2022

When visiting Hawaii in general, mainland Americans can expect to pay roughly $413.57 nightly, though some individual islands, like Oahu, may offer cheaper rates (17.9 increase only). Additionally, Hawaiian authorities have increased the controversial tourist tax, now 39.3 per cent higher than it used to be in 2019.

These latest hikes, placing Hawaii on a list of destinations openly discouraging budget travelers from returning, have not had a detrimental effect on the state’s growing popularity. The government reports a hotel occupancy rate of 81.5 per cent, a negligible 3.8 points lower than pre-Covid 2019. On top of that, Hawaii is already fighting overtourism only five months after reopening.

To draw a comparison, occupancy rates for the whole of the U.S. were actually down to 69.6 per cent in July following a 70 per cent peak in June, its most successful month since early 2020 – even then, significantly lower than Hawaii’s 81.5 points. In simpler terms, the Pacific retreat is more popular than it ever was.

So yes, it’s true travel demand is at its peak, notwithstanding inflation, but why Hawaii specifically?

The Answer Lies With Hawaii’s Natural Assets And Diversity

As asserted in a study conducted by booking platform Hostelworld on current solo travel trends, 74% of respondents claimed their primary goal when traveling now that the darker days of Covid are past is ‘natural world experiences’. This is partly why Central America is experiencing a boom in tourism lately, alongside other sub-regions where nature exists in abundance.

There is no state like Hawaii in the whole of the United States: an archipelago of 137 volcanic islands spanning close to 1,500 miles, this Pacific treasure is home to some of the nation’s most beautiful, and naturally diverse ecoparks, as well as a few of the world’s top-rated beaches and outdoor activities.

All of the six main Hawaiian islands – Kauai, Oahu, Molojai, Lanai, Mahui and the eponymous Hawaii – have their own distinct vibe and offer visitors unique experiences, be it luxury all-inclusives, nature retreats, or just pure beach relaxation. Of course, Hawaii is famous for its shiny blue ocean and white-sand beaches, rivaling those of popular sunny breaks like Cancun and The Dominican Republic.

Furthermore, the Westernmost state has been recognized by CNN as a trendy fall destination, with writers mentioning the rich marine life found here, whale watching and other open sea attractions. Other travel experts have also listed it as the perfect ‘babymoon‘ destination, surfing capital of the world, an LGBTQ+ haven – especially Oahu – and countless other accolades and titles.

In sum, there is a Hawaii island for every traveler profile:
- Youngsters
- Honeymooners
- Babymooners/families
- LGBTQ+ travelers of all ages
Having dropped all of its Covid restrictions, including mandatory mask wearing in public spaces, and rescinding travel rules applying to those coming from other U.S. destinations, the state is one of the most welcoming destinations in the Western World right now, making it even more appealing among restriction-wary Americans… even if that means they’ll be paying a higher price for one week in paradise.

Read More:

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This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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September 6, 2022
Cancun Ranked Most Popular Destination For Americans This Fall

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Cancun is calling, once again.

TripAdvisor released its fall travel index this week and the verdict is in: Mexico ranks #1 for U.S. travelers this fall, with Cancun being the top destination of choice for 2022.

While Cancun broke records for its number of international arrivals over the pandemic, things don’t seem to be slowing down for Cancun. With pristine beaches, plenty of all-inclusive getaway opportunities, festivals galore, great food, a huge party scene, and so much more, tourists can’t seem to get enough of Cancun.

In this post, we’ll go through what to look forward to when visiting Cancun for the fall season 2022.

Fall Is The Ideal Season To Travel To Cancun

Visiting Cancun during the fall months (October-December) means that you’ll have escaped the intense heat (well, more intense than usual) of the summer months. Instead, you’ll be treated with evening breezes and mild morning temperatures.

Just be aware that October is typically the tail end of the hurricane season which is most of late August and September, so you might encounter some bits of rain or stormy weather.

October Marks The End Of ‘Sargassum Season’

One of the biggest environmental issues in the Caribbean over the past years is the record-breaking amounts of sargassum that have been appearing on beaches in Cancun and the nearby regions.

If you visit Cancun this fall, you won’t have to worry about it as much. The high season for sargassum (typically) begins in March and lasts until September, so you can hope for sargassum-free beaches on your October trip to Cancun.

According to some of the most extensive research on the subject, sargassum appears to be the result of lots of factors including warming water temperatures and over-nutrified water from a growing human nitrogen footprint.

All-Inclusives That Will Make You Swoon

Cancun’s majestic ‘Hotel Zone’ and the surrounding area is where you can find some of the most top notch beaches in the world. And, it’s also where you can pamper yourself at some of Mexico’s most stylish all-inclusive resorts.

Large hotel chains have been adding new all-inclusive hotels to the area over the past few years, so luxury tourists definitely won’t be starved for choice when it comes to picking their perfect getaway.

Some all-inclusive resorts to look forward to in Cancun include the Hotel Riu Palace Kukulkan and the Hotel Riu Latino, which are scheduled to open to guests this fall. These resorts are located on some of the most exclusive areas of Cancun, so you’ll only be sharing these breathtaking private beach views with the other hotel guests.

Festivals Are Coming To Cancun For Fall 2022

The much-anticipated annual Just for Laughs Escapes festival in Cancun is set for the first week of November, so get ready for three full days of comedy in paradise.

Festival goers can chill out poolside watching one of the daytime performances, see some of their favorite comics at the Kukulkan Theater, and dance all night long at the after hours beach parties. Headliners and performers include Craig Robinson, Pete Holmes, Rachel Feinstein, Annie Lederman, and Jeff Ross.

What To Do In The Riviera Maya: Day Trips Galore

Cancun is the beginning of the beautiful Mayan Riviera.

From the hotel zone in Cancun, to Playa del Carmen, Akumal, and beyond, this strip of land is not only filled with powdery, white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, but plenty of day trips and excursion opportunities for an unforgettable vacation.

If you’re looking for some excursions, start with the MUSA, an underwater conservation museum where you can snorkel or dive amongst sculptures and some local marine life. Or, you can opt for a glass-bottom boat tour of the area!

The MUSA is just one of the many tours you can book during your Cancun trip. There’s also cenotes, historical ruins from the Mayan kingdom, scuba diving in Cozumel, and boat tours to gorgeous islands nearby.

With so much to see and do, what’s not to love about Cancun?

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This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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August 20, 2022
3 Popular Beaches In Mexico Considered Unsafe For Swimming Due To Bacteria
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Last Updated 32 mins ago

Three beaches in a top resort destination in Mexico have failed cleanliness tests, a story that’s bound to come as a blow to travelers who have plans to visit these areas. Whilst the vast majority of beaches passed the cleanliness guidelines put forth by the World Health Organization (WHO), the three beaches that failed have taken the headlines, and could have an impact on the overall levels of beach tourism in Mexico going forward.

It’s been a troubling few months for the beaches of Mexico, with authorities not only battling hard against the spread of the stinky seaweed sargassum for weeks, but now also having to contend with this latest development. However, there’s no need to go ahead and cancel your travel plans just yet. Here’s everything travelers need to know about the three beaches that failed the WHO’s cleanliness test, plus a look at how the situation regarding the spread of sargassum is at present.

Beaches Fail Cleanliness Tests – Information For Travelers

When it comes to determining the cleanliness of beach water, a range of standard bacterial indicators are used, testing for a range of issues such as E. Coli, fecal matter and enterococci. According to the WHO’s guidelines, beaches must have fewer than 200 enterococcus faecalis – that’s bacteria from a fecal origin – per every 100 milliliters of water. Unfortunately for Mexico, three of its beaches exceeded these limits, making them unsafe for recreational use and potentially jeapordizing the travel plans of many travelers.

The investigation, which was completed by COFEPRIS (the Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risk), found that the three beaches to exceed the limit were all in the same city, Acapulco – a destination that had recently posted tourist arrivals figures higher than the likes of Cancun and Mexico City. The beaches in question are Manzanillo, Hornos and Suave, and their levels of enterocci were 373, 292 and 241 respectively – figures that put them way above the permitted allowance of 200 needed to vacation there safely.

Last Easter, only one beach was deemed unsafe to visit, yet whilst the situation may appear to be getting worse, that’s not how travelers should see it. Avoiding the three beaches in Acapulco may be a pain for travelers who have already booked to visit that region, however there are plenty of other beaches across the country that are perfectly safe to visit, with an overwhelming majority of Mexican beaches deemed clean enough to enjoy.

A total of 98.96% of the beaches tested by COFEPRIS passed the analysis – meaning travelers really won’t have to go far to find a clean beach. Some destinations proved particularly clean, such as Yutucan and Tamaulipas, whilst the ever-popular destination Quintana Roo – home to Cancun, Playa Del Carmen and Tulum – was also found to have impressively low levels of enterococci on its beaches.

The 10 beaches that had the most bacteria are as follows:
1. Manzanillo, Acapulco – 373 enterococci per 100ml water
2. Hornos, Acapulco – 292 enterococci per 100ml water
3. Mild, Acapulco – 241 enterococci per 100ml water
4. Icacos I, Acapulco – 199 enterococci per 100ml water
5. Nexpa 1, Aquila Michoacán – 194 enterococci per 100ml water
6. Caleta, Acapulco – 193 enterococci per 100ml water
7. Yelapa, Jalisco – 181 enterococci per 100ml water
8. Tumbao II, Veracruz – 173 enterococci per 100ml water
9. El Bosque, Tabasco – 172 enterococci per 100ml water
10. Quimixto, Jalisco – 172 enterococci per 100ml water
Unfortunately, fecal matter isn’t the only thing to blight Mexican shores this year. The country has been beseiged by high levels of sargassum – a harmless, yet unsightly and stinky seaweed that has been washing up all over the Caribbean but has landed in Quintana Roo in particularly large volumes. Whilst help in containing the seaweed has come in the shape of an army of hotel workers and the Navy, travelers should brace themselves for its sulphuric stench and aesthetic-damaging properties.

Read More:

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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August 4, 2022
Most Popular U.S. Cities For Digital Nomads, According To Airbnb
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As remote work becomes more prevalent, many people are beginning to blend work with travel. The number of digital nomads is steadily increasing, and companies like Airbnb have benefited. The company says that many travelers have been living in an Airbnb for entire seasons at a time, with about 20% of guests in 2021 reporting that they were working remotely during their stay. Airbnb says the trend has continued into the first quarter of 2022 and has announced the five most popular U.S. cities for digital nomads this year.

1) Los Angeles, California

As the second most populated city in the U.S., Los Angeles is known for being a city of dreamers and is called home by people from all over the world. It’s an excellent city to settle into for a while and offers great options for digital nomads.

Some benefits of Los Angeles as a digital nomad include:
- Fast internet all over the city. For those using Airbnb, the internet is also likely included.
- There are plenty of cafes with internet and coworking spaces to work out of.
- You’ll never run out of new things to do and try.
2) New York, New York

New York City is the second most popular city for digital nomads and is the most populated city in the United States. For those just getting started as a digital nomad, the big apple can be a tall order as it has one of the highest costs of living in the world. However, for those who can afford it, New York City can be a great place to call home for a time as a digital nomad.

Some benefits of New York as a digital nomad include:
- Endless coffee shops with fast internet and loads of coworking spaces to choose from.
- There is so much to do in this city you’ll have trouble crossing everything off your list.
- You won’t need a car. New York City is very well connected, and public transportation is everywhere.
3) San Francisco, California

San Francisco is the third most popular choice for digital nomads, according to Airbnb. Following the theme of the first two cities on the list, San Francisco is also an expensive city. The average rent in the city is nearly $3,400, so digital nomads should prepare for higher costs. Still, there are benefits to the area.

Some benefits of San Francisco as a digital nomad include:
- Networking. As the home of global technology, San Franciso is a great place to meet other like-minded people using the internet to leverage their careers.
- The weather is incredible all year long. Winter is mild, and summer hovers in the mid-70s.
- It’s easy to explore. Public transport is thriving in the city, and those with a bicycle can quickly get around due to the city’s extensive bike lanes.
4) Houston, Texas

Houston is the fourth most popular choice for digital nomads this year and the fourth most populous city in the United States. The city covers a lot of ground and is fairly car-dependent regarding transportation. Digital nomads may find it challenging to get around without one. However, digital nomads are still flocking to the city.

Some benefits of Houston as a digital nomad include:
- It’s a big city but it is more affordable than many others. It had the second lowest cost of living compared to other populous U.S. metro areas in quarter one of 2022.
- There is always something going on. Concerts, sporting events, museums, and shows are constantly being put on. Entertainment will never be in short supply.
5) Seattle, Washington

Seattle is the fifth most popular choice for digital nomads for 2022. As the home of the world’s first Starbucks, it goes without saying there are endless options for coffee shops to work out of. There are plenty of transportation options in the city, and there really isn’t much need to have a car.

Some benefits of Seattle as a digital nomad include:
- Close to nature. Seattle is an excellent city choice for those who like to get away from the city to refresh for a day, with Olympic National Park in close proximity.
- There is no shortage of coworking spaces in the city for those who need more structure.
As digital nomads continue to change the fabric of work culture, it’s likely that Airbnb and other accommodations companies will work to attract them. Airbnb recently announced their own “live and work anywhere initiative,” allowing their employees to work remotely from anywhere without any change in pay. Hopefully, other companies will introduce similar programs for those interested in the digital nomad lifestyle.

↓ Join the community ↓

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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
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July 28, 2022