Tag: RecordBreaking

  • Why Now Is The Best Time To Visit This Record-Breaking Caribbean Destination

    Why Now Is The Best Time To Visit This Record-Breaking Caribbean Destination

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    Don’t let the rapidly decreasing temperatures here in the U.S. give you the wrong impression – there’s still plenty of time to make that dream beach getaway of yours happen finally.

    And I’ve got just the place for you.

    Hidden for far too long in the heart of the Caribbean, the U.S. Virgin Islands are finally emerging in the mainstream travel scene as one of the region’s top-tier destinations.

    Aerial view of Trunk Bay, St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands

    This year alone, the archipelago saw a record-breaking 26.5% increase in tourist arrivals, so it’s time to settle once and for all.

    Why are people flocking to the once-overlooked hub at such massive rates, and why should you, too, consider a trip to the U.S. Virgin Islands before the year ends?

    The Cheapest Time Of Year To Visit The U.S. Virgin Islands

    The short answer is that now’s hands-down the best time you can find for an amazing trip to either Saint Croix, Saint John, or Saint Thomas (or any of the other surrounding minor islands, for that matter).

    And the reason for that starts with uncharacteristically low prices

    Palm trees on a beach in the U.S. Virgin Islands

    Skyscanner estimates that September, October, and November (basically, all fall) are the cheapest months of the year to fly from the U.S. to the Virgin Islands, with round-trip tickets starting at just $119 this next month.

    And while that’s just the lowest possible price point, you’ll notice that decreasing airfare rates are trending across the board – just check out this flight combo from Spirit and Frontier.

    Best of all, you’ll find that hotels have become notably cheaper this time of year, too (this ties into the whole “less people are coming here in the fall” thing, but I’ll talk more about that below).

    People enjoying the pool in a U.S. Virgin Islands hotel

    The Hotel On The Cay is the perfect option for those on a tight budget, with rooms starting at just $120 a night, but if you’re willing to spend a bit more, I personally think Morningstar Buoy Haus Beach Resort offers the best value for money.

    That Caribbean Beach Experience Without The Crowds

    I’m all for visiting tried-and-true classics like Puerto Rico or the Dominican Republic, but now that the summer craze has slowly died down, we tend to crave someplace quieter, more peaceful, where we don’t have to share the pristine Caribbean coastline with hundreds of other people – in short, someplace exactly like the U.S. Virgin Islands.

    Empty beach in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

    According to Kayak, the busiest months in the archipelago are March and December, so if you move quickly and book that trip before fall ends, you’re all but guaranteed a peaceful, crowd-free experience. 

    The Weather Is Getting Better By The Day

    If you’re familiar with the climate in the region, you’re probably wondering – isn’t it rainy season right now in the islands?

    View from a beach in the U.S. Virgin Islands

    And while yes, that’s technically true, since we’re nearing the end of the extra humid phase, rainy days are pretty sparse – even when it does rain, the showers are brief and followed by plenty of sunshine, so there’s not much to worry about there.

    And with temperatures that range from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (about 24-30°C), all you have to do to make sure you have an amazing time in the U.S. Virgin Islands right now is to check the weather forecasts and bring a light jacket just in case.

    View of a beautiful bay on St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

    … And There’s Still So Much To Do!

    Just because the summer crowds have dissipated and the winter rush has yet to come doesn’t mean that there aren’t a million fun things to do on any of the islands.

    My ideal itinerary, for example, would definitely include an exploration session with the experts over at the Aqua Marine Dive Center (St. Thomas); a lazy sunbathing day at either Trunk Bay (St. John), Sapphire Beach (St. Thomas), or Shoys Beach (St. Croix); a trip to the incredible Virgin Islands National Park (St. John); and a long (and duty-free!) shopping spree in St. Thomas.

    Trunk Bay Beach, U.S. Virgin Islands

    And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. You can go either here or here to see the rest of the amazing things you’ll get to experience in the U.S. Virgin Islands this fall.

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  • 7 Reasons Why This Region Of Mexico Is Experiencing Record-Breaking Tourism 

    7 Reasons Why This Region Of Mexico Is Experiencing Record-Breaking Tourism 

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    If you’ve been thinking about traveling somewhere warm and sunny these upcoming months, chances are Mexico has come up more than once as you search for that perfect destination.

    And it makes sense.

    There really isn’t anywhere else so close to home that has the same combination of pristine beaches, exciting culture, and out-of-this-world cuisine that so many U.S. travelers have long fallen in love with.

    woman on a beach in the mexican caribbean

    Of the many beach havens in Mexico, one stunning region is drawing in visitors in unbelievable numbers—the Mexican Caribbean.

    According to the Quintana Roo Tourism Secretariat, over 21 million people flocked to this fairytale-like stretch of coastline this past year, marking a 7.1% increase from the already impressive numbers recorded in 2022 and setting a new tourism record.

    Here’s why people can’t seem to get enough of this dreamy region:

    Exploring The Mexican Caribbean Has Never Been Easier

    akumal beach at sunrise

    The world is filled with beachy landscapes that’ll make your jaw drop, but there’s no beating the convenience (and endless flight options) you get when traveling to the Mexican Caribbean.

    The average flight from the U.S. to some of the region’s most popular hotspots takes a little under 4.5 hours, which is pretty good considering the views you’ll be rewarded with at the end of your trip, not to mention that shorter flights like this make it easier for people to save an opt for more budget-friendly seats and airlines.

    Speaking of which, your choices when it comes to carriers and schedules are virtually endless, especially now that the new Tulum airport has started operating in full force.

    And once you actually get to your destination, you can take advantage of the long-awaited Maya Train (which, while not yet 100% operational, is still covering many major routes) and explore everything the Mexican Caribbean has to offer.

    Stunning Beaches

    boat on a beach in akumal

    I couldn’t write a piece on the reasons why travelers love the Mexican Caribbean without mentioning what made the region famous in the first place – its otherworldly beaches.

    From the bustling beaches of Playa del Carmen and Cancun to the more secluded havens of Puerto Morelos, each stretch of that iconic pearly-white sand offers a fresh, unique take on the classic Mexican beachy landscape.

    A Treasure Trove Of Historical Attractions

    The Chichen Itza Pyramid In Mexico During Sunset, Mayan Ruins

    What sets the Mexican Caribbean apart from other gorgeous destinations of its kind is the fact that the region has much more to offer than just pretty sights.

    Here, you’ll get to see some of the most fascinating and well-preserved remnants of the Mayan civilization, probably best found in the likes of Chichen Itzá, Coba, and Tulum.

    There’s Always Something To Do

    Conco Bongo nightclub in Cancun at the start of Spring Break

    If there’s one thing the Mexican Caribbean will never be, that’s boring.

    The region thrives on its lively, dynamic atmosphere, and don’t get the wrong impression, which translates to much more than just a fun nightlife scene (though that’s pretty legendary, too).

    Adventurous souls can zip-line through the jungle canopies, explore the underground cenotes, or embark on exhilarating ATV tours, while visitors looking for family-friendly entertainment will love visiting the likes of Xcaret and Xel-Ha and swimming with dolphins.

    Incredible Food

    Pork Carnitas Street Tacos Garnished with Jalapeño limes and salsa

    You don’t need me to tell you how good Mexican food is – its reputation precedes it.

    In the Caribbean coast of the country, though, the classic Mexican flavors are combined with many overseas influences, providing a modern twist to traditional dishes that better cater to a more diverse array of palates.

    Carnitas, cochinita pibil and ceviche, in particular, are must-tries. 

    A Fantastic Selection Of Hotels

    Aerial View Of The Hotel Zone And Playa Delfines In Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico

    Even though some people like to write off hotels as just “places to sleep in between sightseeing sessions,” the truth of the matter is that the quality of your accommodation is inherently linked to that of the entire trip.

    So, take advantage of the fact that there are well over 100,000 rooms taking in visitors across the Mexican Caribbean and start thinking about what you want from your hotel – chances are you’ll find just that.

    From cozy, budget-friendly stays that start at $25 a night to luxurious all-inclusives that make you feel like actual royalty, the region has something to offer to every traveler (and budget).

    So Many New Places Opening In The Region

    new resort in Riviera Maya

    What’s most fascinating about the popularity of the Mexican Caribbean is the fact that it has withstood the test of time, and a feat as impressive as this is only managed by places that are constantly open to growth, innovation, and change.

    From gorgeous resorts and luxury hotels to tantalizing restaurants and historical attractions, there’s no shortage of new, exciting places to explore in the Mexican Caribbean even if you’ve already been to the region before.

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  • 6 Reasons Why This Record-Breaking U.S. Destination Is Great To Visit This Spring

    6 Reasons Why This Record-Breaking U.S. Destination Is Great To Visit This Spring

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    When planning a spring getaway, it’s easy to be tempted by exotic choices such as Mexico or the Caribbean.

    But, if you’re willing to sacrifice the beach, there are a host of amazing cities right on our doorstep here in the United States that are amazing places to travel to in the spring.

    One such, perhaps underrated, city is Denver, Colorado.

    It might not be the first place you’d think of for domestic travel; however, it seems like its popularity is on a very strong upward curve.

    city skyline of denver at dusk with light trails from cars in foreground

    An impressive 77.8 million passengers used Denver International Airport in 2023, which is not only a new all-time record but also a 12.1% increase in 2022.

    Stats like this show just how popular Denver is as a destination – so why should you consider visiting the ‘Mile-High City’ this Spring?

    It’s Shoulder Season

    Denver’s two main shoulder seasons are in the fall and in the spring.

    Between March and May, you will find the city has more comfortable temperatures compared to the extremes of summer and winter, and it should also be less crowded.

    This can lead to cheaper hotels and other accommodations in the city – you can fairly easily find a hotel in the $125 to $150 per night price bracket during the spring, possibly even cheaper if you stay a little outside the center.

    And if you do decide to do that, you can easily get around on Denver’s affordable and convenient public transport.

    denver city skyline at night with full moon hanging above buildings

    There’s a strong bus and light rail network, and you can get tickets for each on a handy RTD app on your smartphone.

    Cheap And Easy To Get To

    Denver International Airport is home to two major U.S. airlines, Frontier and United, so you can be assured there is almost limitless choice when it comes to flights.

    A brief check-in with Skyscanner shows that you can get flights to Denver for an average price of about $50 one-way in the spring from American locations such as Atlanta, Kansas City, Dallas, Portland, Detroit, Los Angeles, Memphis, Miami, and more.

    passengers entering denver international airport under large sun shade canopy

    Tasty Temptations

    It might not always get the recognition it deserves on this count, but Denver is a great city for food lovers.

    And between 1-10 March, the city will run its annual Denver Restaurant Week event with four specific price points to choose from: $25, $35, $45, or $55.

    This means you can enjoy a multi-course meal at one of over 200 participating restaurants for a set price – it’s a great way to fully explore the food scene here.

    delicious hamburger with cheese and fries

    This year will also be the 20th anniversary of the event, so expect some extra fanfare and maybe even some extra special offers.

    City Of Art And Culture

    Of course, Denver is well-known as a great base camp for a winter holiday, but different parts of the city come to life in the spring as things start to warm up.

    In May, in particular, a host of music events will take place, such as the Five Points JazzFest and the Denver Day of Rock.

    That same month will also host the Colfax Marathon and the popular Cinco de Mayo celebration.

    interesting sculpture outside of denver art museum in colorado

    In between all those great events, you can fill the time by checking out Denver’s excellent art scene – Denver Art Museum just re-opened one of its main buildings after renovations.

    A Haven For Hikers

    Denver’s location at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains makes it the perfect place to base yourself for some early-season hiking.

    Hire a car, and you can find amazing trails all around the city in every direction, but did you know that the city itself is also great to hike?

    There is an extensive regional trail system throughout Denver that can show you the city from a different angle and make hiking more accessible to everyone in your traveling party.

    woman walking alongside a river in confluence park in denver colorado

    Several good books have been written about urban hiking in Denver, so take a quick search on the internet and see what you can find.

    Family Friendly

    There are many great family-friendly attractions in Denver that make it ideal for a long weekend in Spring.

    Examples include Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park, Denver Skatepark, and Lakeside Amusement Park.

    red rock park and ampitheater at sunrise

    You could even drive out of the city and visit the famous Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater.

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  • These 3 Destinations Could See Record-Breaking Sargassum Invading Beaches Soon 

    These 3 Destinations Could See Record-Breaking Sargassum Invading Beaches Soon 

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    At certain times of the year sargassum seaweed is unavoidable in many Caribbean beach destinations. But a massive seaweed invasion has the potential to ruin your vacation.  

    These 3 Destinations Could See Record Breaking Sargassum Invading Beaches Soon

    Sargassum seaweed can impact the appearance of your favorite beach; it can be smelly, and in some cases, it can even create a hazardous environment for humans.  

    Hoping to plan your next vacation to avoid sargassum? 

    A new report has found that these 3 destinations could see record-breaking sargassum seaweed invading beaches soon:  

    Mexico

    The unattractive and inconvenient sargassum is expected to arrive in Mexico by April or May.

    This could result in beaches that are overrun with brown seaweed and are difficult for travelers to enjoy.  

    The good news is that Mexican authorities take sargassum seaweed very seriously

    Cleaning the beach with wheelbarrow pitchfork Mexico Caribbean

    The Quintana Roo Technical Council for Sargassum Management is already following the path of this year’s sargassum mass and plans to deal with this seaweed before it reaches the most popular beaches in the region.  

    Tulum has invested heavily in 5 new anti-sargassum vessels and other equipment to stop any of the sargassum from reaching the shore.  

    If you want to plan a sargassum-free vacation to Mexico in April or May then you could consider traveling to Mexico’s Pacific coast and destinations like Puerto Vallarta rather than to the Mexican Caribbean. 

     seaweed sea weed grass sargazo in Playa del Carmen Quintana Roo Mexico.

    Pacific beaches aren’t impacted by sargassum seaweed in the Atlantic because this seaweed doesn’t migrate to the Pacific. Some of the prettiest beaches in Mexico are also located here, although the waters are a darker blue color and not quite as warm as they are in the Caribbean.   

    Florida  

    Florida is the U.S. State most widely impacted by sargassum, and just like in Mexico, the report says that it will arrive on Floridian beaches by April or May this year.  

    Most municipalities have plans in place for the removal of sargassum. This includes the use of tractors to manually remove as much sargassum from the beaches as possible. But when too much sargassum piles up on Florida’s beaches this can restrict beach access.  

    Sargassum on Florida beach

    Sargassum is unpredictable. Though forecasters can say when they think it might appear, it is impossible to know exactly when, where, and how much seaweed will wash up on Florida’s beaches at any given time.  

    But you might want to consider booking a resort with a good pool complex so you’ll still have somewhere to relax and unwind by the water if sargassum makes relaxing on the beach impossible.  

    Caribbean 

    Although less widely publicized than in Mexico, the Caribbean struggles with sargassum seaweed on its beaches.  

    The large sargassum mass is expected to arrive in the northern Antilles by the beginning of February and will reach the Dominican Republic in March.  

    Dominican Republic Bavaro Punta cana provinces La Altagracia. Seaweed on the beach. Algae sargassum. Caribbean ecological problem.

    Jamaica, The Bahamas, and the Dominican Republic are 3 of the Caribbean islands most impacted by sargassum, but relatively few areas of the Caribbean aren’t affected.  

    Both manual labor and machinery are used to remove sargassum from beaches in the Caribbean before being moved to locations away from the beach.  

    Why Is Sargassum Problematic?  

    Sargassum seaweed is a naturally occurring brown algae bloom. Wondering whether you should still plan a vacation if your chosen resort beach is covered in sargassum seaweed?  

    Sargassum and beach chairs on laya del Carmen beach

    While sargassum serves an important purpose when it is in the ocean on the shore, it is unattractive and releases a smell that is similar to either manure or rotten eggs. Not exactly the relaxing beach vacation you were dreaming of!  

    As well as being unsightly, there are also risks when beaches are covered in sargassum. Although sargassum beaches are generally safe to swim in, they look brown and uninviting. The sargassum can also feel uncomfortable when it scratches against your skin.  

    After 48 hours of being on the beach, sargassum starts to rot. When it rots it releases hydrogen sulfide which is a skin irritant and can also be hazardous to anyone with a respiratory problem like asthma.  

    Sargassum Filled Beach, Sargassum Season Concept

    But many resorts work hard to remove sargassum from their beaches for the comfort and convenience of their guests.  

    You should consider checking with your hotel or the local authorities that your closest beach is located in to make sure they have a management plan in place for the sargassum’s removal. 

    Beach webcams can also be handy for assessing what the current sargassum situation is in your chosen destination. And arrange to spend time by the pool or other activities away from the beach so that your vacation won’t be ruined if the beach isn’t accessible during your trip.  

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  • 6 Reasons Why This Stunning European Country Is Having A Record-Breaking Summer For Tourism

    6 Reasons Why This Stunning European Country Is Having A Record-Breaking Summer For Tourism

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    Europe is always at the top of travelers’ minds for the ultimate escape. The entire continent never ceases to lose its charm in fulfilling travelers’ desire to get away.

    Cities with unique architecture not found in the States, timeless cobblestone streets, savory sidewalk cafes, and so much more.

    But one place in particular used to be deemed off-the-beaten path. This stunning country has become more mainstream for many reasons, and this summer proves it’s a top destination in Europe.

    The magnificent country of Iceland has broken pre-COVID tourism records this summer, according to recent reports from June statistics.

    stunning scenery in Iceland

    Foreign tourists are flocking here in droves, making up 77% of the new record. In total, Iceland has had over 4 million total visitors in 2023.

    Here are 6 reasons why this stunning European Country is having a record-breaking summer for tourism:

    A One-Of-A-Kind Gateway Into Europe

    Iceland has become a lot more popular than it used to be. This is in part due to their low-cost airline, Play, which recently celebrated its one-millionth passenger.

    Formerly WOW Air, which has since ceased operations, the brand was revived and rebranded as Play. The low-cost carrier offers nonstop flights from many major U.S. airports at a very affordable price.

    @bvtravels_ flying Play airlines for the first time 😅 DC to Paris ✈️ Would you fly in this airline? I was amazed by how small the sizes for the backpack 🎒 requirements were! So happy we noticed before the flight & got a backpack with the measurements (in my last post from my amazon travel finds) 👀 #traveltiktok #fyp #playairlines #flying #parisvacation #goingtoparis #parisherewecome #travel #travellife #cheapflights ♬ original sound – Bergit 🫶🏼

    The airline runs sales throughout the year for travelers making Iceland their mainstay or off to other Play destinations, such as Paris, London, Madrid, and many more.

    Amazing Natural Attractions

    There is no place quite like Iceland. The closest match might be the country’s lesser-listed neighbor – the Faroe Islands.

    You name it, and Iceland probably has it:

    • Black sand beaches – check.
    • Immaculate waterfalls – check.
    • Geysers – check.
    • Volcanoes – check.
    • An island dedicated to puffins – check.
    • Sunsets on a postcard-worthy beach at 1am – check.

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    @tortillamaria13 How am I supposed to sleep in these conditions? #summer #travel #traveltiktok #travelbucketlist #solotravel #iceland #europe #dream #millennial #natural #nofilter ♬ Somewhere Only We Know – 𝖘 𝖊 𝖓 𝖘 𝖎 𝖙 𝖎 𝖛 𝖊 不同

    These just scratch the surface. Iceland has truly amazing landscapes with breathtaking scenery all over the country.

    No matter if you’re wandering the vast greenery or checking out the black sand beaches of Vik, it’s all worth the adventure.

    Quirky Airbnb’s

    Tourism statistics show Iceland’s Airbnbs welcomed over 200,000 guests in June alone. Keep in mind this is a country with a population of less than 400,000 people.

    @asasteinars Possibly the best place to stay in Iceland ! This is called Lake View 🏠❤️ #Iceland #Airbnb ♬ original sound – Owen

    That goes to show how much of a travel hotspot Iceland has become. There are some truly unique stays available at Iceland’s Airbnbs.

    Some are sleek condos in the charming capital city of Reykjavik. Others are Lord-of-the-Rings-esque cottages in towns you can’t pronounce. (Say “Hverageroi” 5 times fast!)

    Summer Weather Is Better

    It’s a common joke amongst locals to say Greenland and Iceland should have switched names. Iceland is very green, but it fits its bitter-cold reputation in the winter.

    @neemasadeghi Trip of a lifetime! #fypage #fyp ♬ Bad Habit – Steve Lacy

    With such high demand for travelers now, many patently wait for summer to come around to be able to enjoy their visit more.

    It’s simply less to pack and less to worry about. Winters can reach the negatives (in Fahrenheit), while summers are much more manageable, with average temperatures in the 50s.

    No Better Place For Solo Travel

    Iceland is about as perfect as could be for solo travelers. The country is one of the safest places in the world, and Reykjavik is home to cushy hostels for a home base to explore the country’s stunning nature.

    @guidetoiceland Iceland is one of the world’s best travel destinations for solo travelers ✈️🇮🇸🏆 #icelandtravelguide #iceland #thingstodoiniceland #howtotraveliceland #icelandtraveltips #whattodoiniceland #icelandtravel #goingtoiceland #bucketlist #icelandbucketlist #icelandvlog #travel #travelbucketlist #solotravel #icelandadventure #fyp #foryou #foryoupage ♬ Lofi Vibes – Gentle State

    Road trips are highly popular here. It’s easy to meet fellow travelers to join forces or go at it alone to see all the natural wonders.

    Many make it a bucket-list item to complete the Ring Road (also known as Route 1), which is a long loop circling most of the country.

    While you may run into the crowds at certain stopping points, Iceland is an excellent choice for those seeking to find inner peace and embrace solitude.

    The Famous Blue Lagoon

    @ellelouisekirk98 A dream come true! The Blue Lagoon was another level of serenity ✨ #travel#iceland#icelandtravel#australiantiktok#europeansummer#viral#fypage ♬ ceilings – Sped Up Version – Lizzy McAlpine

    The Blue Lagoon has long been one of Iceland’s famed attractions, even before the country has been in the spotlight.

    This stunning natural wonder is a must when visiting Iceland and is perfect for every type of traveler. Flying solo, a couples retreat, or a group outing with friends will all make for a memorable outing.

    It’s a year-round destination perfect for a summer getaway but also suitable for dreary winters since the waters are always warm.

    For those unaware, the Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa set in a lava field in southwestern Iceland. The spa is open later hours until midnight in the summer months.

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  • 5 Lesser Known Destinations In Portugal To Avoid The Record-Breaking Crowds

    5 Lesser Known Destinations In Portugal To Avoid The Record-Breaking Crowds

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    Portugal is a beautiful country with incredible beaches. This year alone it has been listed as one of the cheapest European vacation destinations as well as one of the most popular.

    So it should come as no surprise that Portugal’s travel and tourism industry is on target to break records in 2023. Data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) shows that by the end of the year, Portugal’s tourism industry will exceed its 2019 peak.

    5 Lesser Known Destinations In Portugal To Avoid The Record Breaking Crowds

    Locations such as Lisbon, Porto, and Madeira are listed as the most popular destinations in Portugal, and they all attract big crowds during the summer months.

    But what about if you want to explore Portugal without the record-breaking crowds?

    Here are 5 lesser-known destinations in Portugal to explore:

    Miramar

    Miramar is a small coastal village located between the towns of Gulpilhares and Arcozelo. Despite boasting a beautiful beach, Miramar doesn’t attract the same level of crowds as the beaches of the Algarve. Even in the high season, the beach here is pleasantly uncrowded.

    Miramar Beach Portugal

    If you’re looking for tourist attractions, then you won’t be disappointed here either. Miramar is home to the Capela do Senhora Pedra. This is a 17th-century chapel that looks striking against the wave-beaten headland that juts out from the beach.

    Miramar isn’t far from Porto, so it’s not exactly off the beaten track. But it is much quieter than many of the other easy-to-access tourist resorts in Portugal.

    Alto Alentejo

    If you’re hoping to explore the authentic heart of Portugal, then Alto Alentejo is the perfect region to visit.

    You won’t find luxury all-inclusive resorts here. And as it is an inland destination, you won’t be able to spend your days lazing on the beach. But Alto Alentejo offers an incredible mixture of pretty towns and medieval cities.

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    aerial view of city in portugal

    It is the best place in Portugal to mingle with locals and enjoy the country’s history and culture.

    The best way to stay here is in small, locally run hotels or farm stays. Alentejo cuisine is regarded as amongst the richest and best in Portugal.

    Marvao

    Marvao is a small, fairytale village with a population of just 2,972. Located in the mountaintops near the Spanish border, Marvao is a Medieval village, and the castle here is considered to be one of the most beautiful castles in Europe.

    Narrow street in Marvao

    Marvao boasts white-washed houses and incredible views. People often stop at Marvao as part of a wider road trip around Portugal, but it is less popular as a stand-alone vacation destination.

    Marvao is a vacation destination that is small but perfectly formed and is best suited to active, outdoorsy types. From hiking in the surrounding mountains to horseback riding and mountain biking, Marvao is best explored slowly, with plenty of stops to admire the breathtaking scenery.

    Viseu

    The most off-path locations are the ones that are hardest to reach, and that is true of beautiful Viseu.

    There is no train station here, so you will need to hire a car to reach your destination. But it’s worth making the effort to enjoy the incredible views, cultural attractions, and the lack of crowds.

    Viseu Portugal

    Viseu is a medieval walled city that is home to a monumental cathedral, beautiful cobbled alleyways, and immense plazas perfect for people-watching and unwinding after a busy day. As the location is in one of Portugal’s main wine-producing regions, you’re in the perfect place for a glass of red.

    And art lovers will find Renaissance treasures to savor in the Museu Grão Vasco.

    Ferragudo

    Ferragudo is known as the prettiest village on the Algarve. And while there are no completely tourist-free locations here, if you want to visit the Algarve, then this is one of the best places to choose.

    Ferragudo is a traditional fishing village filled with whitewashed cottages, hillside streets, and beautiful riverside views. The squares and terraces here have a buzzing night-time atmosphere, and you’ll find a host of great restaurants here too.

    On the narrow Alleys of Ferragudo, Algarve, Portugal

    One of the more unique characteristics of this area is the many cliff-top forts that you can explore. Ferragudo is at the mouth of a river rather than offering direct beach access.

    While the famous beaches of the Algarve are close by, this distance makes Ferraguda a much quieter location to explore.

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  • Why This Surprising Southern U.S. State Is Experiencing Record-Breaking Tourism

    Why This Surprising Southern U.S. State Is Experiencing Record-Breaking Tourism

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    When you think of the best vacations in the U.S., one might think of scenic beaches on both coasts, exploring the concrete jungle of New York City or simply packing up for an all-American road trip.

    One thing is for sure, and that is Arkansas doesn’t come to mind for most, but the Natural State has been experiencing record-breaking tourism since 2021.

    Kayaker in arkansas

    Bordering Texas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Louisiana and Mississippi, this southern state might surprise you with its many attractions.

    Anybody looking for something different than the typical beach getaway should give Arkansas a chance as it is much more than just a “pass-through state” on to somewhere better.

    Charming Small Towns

    Little Rock is the capital and largest city in the state of Arkansas, set along the Arkansas River.

    When you cross the Arkansas River Bridge into the scenic cityscape of a handful of high-rises, you won’t be overwhelmed by its magnitude and may instantly realize even the biggest city has a cozy feel to it.

    historic buildings in eureka springs

    As many large capital cities go, you will find what you need here, but the real draw is Arkansas’s smaller towns spread out across the state.

    The small towns of Mountain View, Hot Springs and Eureka Springs were recently voted 3 of the best small towns in the South by Southern Living Magazine.

    Another town to consider is Lakeview, home to less than 800 residents as of the 2021 census. What they lack in size, they make up for with breathtaking scenery as a true outdoor paradise.

    Far Fewer Crowds Than Other Popular Destinations

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    mount magazine in Arkansas

    While many Americans flock to the beach for a getaway, crowds can be overwhelming and ruin the purpose of a beach vacation – to relax!

    Coming to a state like Arkansas with wide open spaces and natural wonders to align with the Natural State motto is the perfect solution to avoid over-tourism.

    Visitors find the rolling green hills, lush forests, and other natural attractions just as enjoyable as a sunny beach vacation.

    However, for those dead set on having a beach escape, Arkansas does have them. It’s just not quite up to, say, Florida or California standards since they are on the lake.

    Lake Ouachita Arkansas

    Some are more packed with people than others, and it depends on the season when you visit.

    The Ozarks

    One of the biggest television shows in recent years is Ozark, set in the backwoods of the Ozarks “with more coastline than California”, as they mentioned on the show.

    This region of the country is shared primarily between Arkansas and Missouri, but a handful of others claim the Ozarks as well.

    With lakes that seem to never end, this is a perfect way to spend the summer with much more space to enjoy your surroundings than other crowded alternatives.

    boat on a lake in the ozark

    Whether it’s swimming, lounging, or boating, the Ozarks are a great escape to enjoy the beautiful green hills and outdoor activities Arkansas has to offer.

    Southern Hospitality

    According to a recent report on Arkansas’s thriving tourism numbers, many visitors are spending money on outdoor activities, entertainment and, more importantly, food.

    As social media continue to take over our lives, most people’s algorithms are full of tempting food videos. Arkansas offers a unique take on food as they are truly home to southern hospitality.

    diner in Arkansas

    Many small towns offer diners with old-school menus with a variety of comfort foods to indulge in. While Little Rock offers many restaurants with a pricier take on the classic southern dishes, such as fried chicken and waffles, for example.

    Travelers will not leave this state with an empty stomach!

    Natural Springs

    Arkansas is home to many natural springs to spend the day. The small town of Hot Springs lives up to its name with warm water to enjoy at a spa, multiple bathhouses to choose from, and even resorts.

    tourist at Blanchard springs

    Another excellent choice is Eureka Springs, set further north in the Ozarks, where the waters flow throughout town, including a popular park – Basin Spring Park.

    Blanchard Springs will leave you in awe with its picturesque waterfall to take in. Visitors can wander the great outdoors along its well-kempt trail and be able to take a dip in the clear swimming hole nearby.

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