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These Are The Top 5 European Destinations Solo Travelers Love Most

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There’s nothing quite like the freedom and exhilaration that traveling alone can give you.

You’re the boss, you can do your own thing, and quite often you can do it for less compared to traveling with friends or partners.

The hardest part can actually be choosing where to go – but if you’re thinking of taking a solo trip to Europe next year, then a recent list compiled by airline Wizz Air of the best solo travel destinations on this continent may be helpful.

Wizz collated data from reviews by solo travelers on TripAdvisor to come up with a list of the top five destinations in Europe that are most loved.

Containing a great mix of popular cities and one or two surprises, this list could make a great solo travel itinerary for spring or summer 2024.

Rhodes, Greece

Rhodes will always be a favorite among travelers who head to Greece, and for solo travelers, it’s no different.

Despite suffering some devastating fires this summer, Rhodes has maintained its position as a top-rated destination in Europe.

Rhodes is a relatively safe place with good healthcare and public services – and it’s reasonable when it comes to cost.

Lonely Planet estimates that hostel rooms can be as cheap as $35 a night, while dinner for two in a local restaurant can be as cheap as about $50.

Split, Croatia

Croatia was recently ranked as the best country in the world for solo female travelers, and Split is certainly one of its most popular destinations.

This coastal treasure has just the right mix of beautiful beaches and fascinating history and culture – perfect for exploring at your own pace, which is one of the great pleasures of traveling solo.

Croatia is widely regarded as one of the world’s safest countries, ranking number 14 on the most recent Global Peace Index.

It will also be a great year to visit in 2024, with major events such as the Mediterranean Film Festival and the celebration of Saint Sveti Duje set to take place.

Faro, Portugal

Destinations like Faro show just why Portugal has been having a record-breaking year when it comes to tourism.

Nestled in the heart of the country’s beautiful Algarve region, Faro is the gateway to some of the most breathtaking beaches in all of Europe – not to mention generally favorable weather all year round.

The city has a fantastic party vibe and is home to major festivals such as Afro Nation (June) and Festival F (September).

And if you’re still not convinced on Faro and the surrounding area, then perhaps the news that Americans will be able to fly there direct next year will sway you?

Istanbul, Turkey

A city jam-packed with famous icons such as the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar as well as many hidden gems too – Istanbul is somewhere that can entertain a solo traveler for many days.

Istanbul has long been a place where the cultures of Europe and Asia collide, so it’s a great place to enjoy some unique sights, sounds, and smells as you wonder through its maze of cobbled streets.

While it can be a frantic place, it’s generally safe for solo travelers provided you exercise normal precautions – it also has great, affordable public transport and street food.

Florence, Italy

Set in the heart of the Tuscany region, Florence is easily one of my favorite cities in Europe.

A beautiful riverside city that is defined by its artistic importance and as being one of the main epicenters of the renaissance, Florence is a place that will move you.

The headline acts of this incredible Italian show are no doubt the Cathedral and its ‘Duomo’, the famous David statue by Michelangelo, as well as the unrivaled Uffizi Museum and the Ponte Vecchio bridge.

But what makes it great for solo travelers is the quaint independent cafes and bars, the excellent nightlife, and the uniquely beautiful apartments you can stay in right at the heart of the city.

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December 4, 2023
These Are The Top 6 Destinations To Spend New Year’s Eve This Year

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New Year’s Eve is one of the most overrated holidays. Your favorite bars are too crowded and too expensive. There’s too much pressure to make great plans and have the night of your life.

You could call it a night and stay home in your pajamas. Or you could use it as an opportunity to travel, explore, and have the night of your life!

Some of my favorite New Year’s Eves are ones I spend surrounded by strangers on the other side of the world.

These are the top 6 destinations to spend New Year’s Eve this year:

1. New York, New York

Watching the ball drop in Times Square, New York, is so iconic that people from all over the U.S. and even around the world tune in to watch it happen. Why not enjoy the experience in person?

Spending New Year in New York is an experience that’s on many people’s bucket lists as long as you don’t mind braving the cold. Up to 100,000 people attend the New Year’s Ball Drop event each year and as an added bonus access is free.

Happy woman tourist taking photo picture with tablet in New York City, Manhattan, Times Square. Girl traveler taking selfie joyful and happy smiling. Multiethnic Asian Caucasian woman in her 20s.

Outside of this focal point event the bars and clubs of New York City are a great place to spend the New Year if you want to party.

Other fun informal traditions to celebrate the city include seeing in the New Year on the Brooklyn Bridge, watching the fireworks that are launched in Central Park, or joining the New York Road Runners Club to start the New Year with a 4 mile run!

2. Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is a fun and exciting place to spend New Year’s Eve, especially if you want to celebrate in the sunshine.

All of the bars are decorated with bright and colorful decorations to get you into the party spirit and there are glitzy and glamorous parties hosted all over the region particularly in the hotels and all-inclusive resorts. Cancun might not be the cheapest place to celebrate New Year’s Eve but you are guaranteed a wild celebration.

If you want to put on your glad rags and dance all night long then Cancun is one of the best places to see in the new year.

Stop at midnight to eat 12 grapes as quickly as possible – this is a longstanding tradition where each grape represents an upcoming month and will bring you luck. Most bars and clubs will offer grapes to their guests on New Year’s Eve.

3. Edinburgh, Scotland

Perhaps the world’s most famous New Year’s celebration is in Edinburgh where Hogmanay is celebrated with gusto. The whole city pours into the streets to celebrate, to join hands to sing ‘Auld Lang Syne’, and to enjoy the fireworks.

Edinburgh has been awarded the best outdoor celebration of New Year’s Eve in the world and the party lasts for around 3 days. Start by joining the torchlight procession through the city on December 30 to warm up for the epic street party on the 31^st.

If you’re not feeling delicate after a few too many malt whiskeys the night before then on January 1 you can enjoy other public entertainment options such as a traditional ceildh.

The Discovery Channel listed spending the new year in Edinburgh as one of its ‘Top 25 World Travel Experiences’, and it is one of the best and most exciting New Year’s Eves I have ever experienced.

4. Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

The 2 million people that head to Rio De Janeiro for New Year’s Eve every year can’t be wrong! It’s summertime in Brazil so if you want to see in the New Year with sunshine this is a great place to be.

Live music is set up on Copacabana beach with performances starting from 8pm. Because the Copacabana beach is so big there are several stages set up along the shore meaning there’s plenty of room for everyone and you can see the hottest Brazillian singers and bands.

It is traditional to wear white for New Year’s Eve in Brazil. This is a tradition that originated in rituals to seek peace and spiritual purification. And it’s a great way to show off your tan.

Many people also wear brightly colored underwear because it’s thought to be lucky. Red to bring you love or yellow to bring you money.

5. Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland is known as the land of fire and ice thanks to its dramatic contrasts. No time of year shows this more clearly than New Year’s Eve.

Set against a freezing cold background of snow and ice, New Year’s Eve is celebrated in Iceland with fireworks and huge community bonfires.

In Reykjavik you will find a Nordic bonfire in the heart of the city and fireworks displays like no other. In the greater Reykjavik area, there are usually around fifteen bonfires and these really stand out against the cold night sky.

Watch the bonfires as the fireworks explode in the sky then find a cozy bar to retreat to. And because bars in Reykjavik don’t have entry fees it’s a great place for bar hopping too!

New Year’s Eve is considered a night of magic and mystery in Icelandic folklore – a night when the elves come out to play. This makes it a fun place for a lighthearted night of celebration.

6. Sydney, Australia

Ring in the new year early by heading to Sydney where you can enjoy the largest and most technologically advanced New Year’s Eve fireworks display in the world.

Sydney celebrates twice with spectacular 9pm and midnight fireworks displays, ideal for Cinderellas that can’t stay up past midnight!

Sydney’s New Year’s Eve fireworks are watched by more than one million people around the harbor, plus another one billion people on television around the globe. It is a bucket list experience to see this incredible display in person.

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December 3, 2023
These Are 7 Of The Top Destinations for Digital Nomads For 2024

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The beauty of digital nomadism is that it allows you to stay in places you love for longer.

But where will the best digital nomad destinations be for 2024? A recent study could have the answers.

InterNations recently surveyed its large community of expats and digital nomads to find the locations where people enjoy being the most.

It ranked no fewer than 49 different destinations around the world, however, these seven rated as some of the very best:

Bangkok, Thailand

Southeast Asia’s original megacity, Bangkok is as charming as it is chaotic.

Despite continuous popularity, Bangkok remains an affordable and fun place to spend some time as a digital nomad.

The sheer size of the city means accommodation can be found at a decent rate; public transport is also cheap, as are ride-share apps such as Grab, while you can enjoy a hearty meal in a restaurant for less than $15 in some cases.

It’s also one of my all-time favorite destinations for solo travel.

Malaga, Spain

Surrounded by beautiful beaches and basking in a warm Mediterranean climate with more than 300 days of sunshine a year, Malaga has a lot going for it as a digital nomad destination.

Combining a perfect blend between Andalusian history and modern culture, there’s a lot more to the artsy town of Malaga than the stereotypes would have you believe.

There are plenty of parties to be found if you’re the type who wants to make friends, while the iconic Alcazaba fortress and museums dedicated to the life and work of artist Pablo Picasso offer a more chilled, cultural way to experience this destination.

Mexico City, Mexico

The sprawling metropolis that is Mexico City is easily one of the most popular destinations for solo travelers and digital nomads in Latin America.

From the hipster neighborhoods of Roma and La Condesa to the mainstream icons like Palacio de Bellas Artes, Mexico City has no shortage of attractions to keep you entertained for as long as you decide to stay.

The city has many positives for digital nomads, such as an easy visa, generally affordable cost of living, good internet, and a relatively good record when it comes to safety, despite what you may have heard.

Alicante, Spain

Recently rated as one of the cheapest Mediterranean destinations, Alicante is situated on Spain’s Costa Blanca and has stunning beaches to match that name.

Food, public transport, and accommodation are all very reasonable in Alicante, despite its popularity as a holiday town for much of Europe.

Break up your working day with trips out to one of the many beaches or visiting one of the regions historic castles, such as Santa Barbara.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The colorful capital of Malaysia has a different vibe to many of its Southeast Asian counterparts, with a slightly slower pace of life and less chaotic nature.

It’s a multicultural city with desirable nightlife, a fantastic food scene, and some iconic landmarks such as the Petronas Towers and the KL Tower.

Malaysia is also regarded as a very safe country for digital nomads, and it has better infrastructure than many of its neighbors in the region.

If you decide to go, be sure to visit the nearby Batu Caves for a taste of Malaysian culture and wildlife.

Valencia, Spain

A fine example of how to blend age-old tradition with cutting-edge modernity, Valencia is a trendy and increasingly popular city for digital nomads to spend some time in.

You can see the old side of Valencia at icons such as the Miguelete and Holy Grail Cathedral and the Barrio del Carmen, while the more modern side is on display in the stylish City of Arts and Sciences area.

Valencia is relatively cheap and has very clean, efficient, and affordable public transport including trams, which can be used to easily get out to its beautiful beach.

Madrid, Spain

The final Spanish destination rounding off this list is the capital of Madrid.

While it doesn’t have the year-round warm temperatures of some of its coastal counterparts, it is a city dripping with culture and history.

Americans have been attracted here in record numbers, perhaps in part thanks to iconic sights such as the Plaza Mayor, the Royal Palace, or the many quiet and beautiful gardens around the city.

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December 1, 2023
These Are The Top 5 Overseas Destinations For American Travelers According To New Report

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When it comes to international travel, Americans’ go-to destinations are pretty well-established by now, with Mexico and Canada sitting comfortably at number 1 and 2 respectively, partly due to their many cultural and natural wonders and partly due to their geographical proximity.

However, what about the places Americans are crossing oceans to visit – where do those rank in comparison to one another?

The newest Outbound Survey of International Travelers released by the National Travel and Tourism Office shed some light on this very question by releasing the official ranking of the most visited overseas destinations by U.S. travelers during the first two quarters of 2023.

One interesting fact to note is that the countries you’ll see below are not only this year’s favorite among North American travelers, but they’re also being visited in never-seen-before numbers that far surpass the traffic we’ve seen before the pandemic.

Here’s why:

5. Spain

Having welcomed over 867,000 U.S. tourists, Spain saw an 18% increase in this demographic compared to its pre-pandemic highs.

Between the architectural wonders of Barcelona, the historic charm of Seville, and the sun-kissed beaches of the Costa del Sol, travelers have a lot to experience in Spain, a country whose passion for life is evident in every single corner.

So, while there, try to take in some of the region’s warm, lively atmosphere, either through the buzzing festivals of La Tomatina and Running of the Bulls, the spirited flamenco performances, or the world-class culinary scene.

4. Dominican Republic

For those who doubted the Dominican Republic’s meteoric rise in popularity this past year, the fact that this stunning Caribbean country is the only non-European destination on today’s list goes to show just how much Americans have grown to love this previously overlooked gem.

With its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and warm, genuine atmosphere, the Dominican Republic has become the ultimate place to be for those seeking sun and excitement, especially this time of year.

Here you can explore the crystal-clear waters of Punta Cana, the historical allure of Santo Domingo, or the captivating rhythms of Bachata in Santiago de los Caballeros – one thing’s for sure, you’ll leave every single one of your stops with a renewed sense of excitement and appreciation for life.

3. France

Though the most visited country on Earth has lost some ground to trendier, less overcrowded hotspots, its timeless allure is still attracting American travelers by the millions, and it’s easy to see why.

Whether you want to experience some of the world’s most talked-about landmarks in Paris, indulge in the romantic ambiance of Provence, savor a gourmet meal in Lyon, or sunbathe on the beaches of Nice, France is sure to exceed your already-high expectations.

2. Italy

A whopping 1.5 million Americans visited the boot-shaped peninsula during the first two quarters of 2023, marking a 35% increase from 2019, the previous record-holding year.

Though impressive in their own right, these numbers don’t seem all that surprising – that’s because the country is so rich in culture, history, and breathtaking sights that you’ll be hard-pressed to find someone who wouldn’t want to experience it all firsthand if given a chance.

Italy’s unshakable allure isn’t concentrated in a single region of the country.

Between the historic cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice, the scenic Amalfi Coast, the idyllic Tuscan countryside, and the cultural and architectural wonder that is Milan, travelers, especially those visiting for a limited amount of time, will find planning a comprehensive itinerary to be borderline-impossible.

1. United Kingdom

Be it the familiar language, fascinating history, or diverse, awe-inspiring landscape, the United Kingdom has emerged as the most popular overseas destination among American travelers.

London, the country’s biggest tourist magnet, will leave you breathless with its plethora of world-class attractions (Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, and the London Eye, just to name a few) and bustling streets.

After a busy day in the city, you can always wind down in one of the charming villages of the English countryside, where you’ll get to enjoy the local food, culture, and untouched views in their truest form.

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November 30, 2023
These Are The Top 10 Safest Countries For Travelers Right Now
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Wondering about the safest destinations in the world for travelers?

According to a recent ranking, these are the absolute safest countries in the world right now.

This data comes from the 2023 Global Peace Index, an analysis from the global think tank Institute for Economics and Peace. Factors taken into consideration for this ranking include the level of societal security and safety and the extent of ongoing conflict — basically, things that make a destination safe for travelers to visit.

Here are the safest and most peaceful countries to visit right now:

1. Iceland

The number one safest country in the world is Iceland. This popular travel destination is perfect for solo travelers thanks to its small size and well-developed tourism infrastructure.

Nicknamed the Land of Fire and Ice due to its volcanoes and glaciers, Iceland is truly a bucket list destination. Waterfalls (flowing in the summer and frozen in the winter), natural hot springs, and the Nothern Lights are just some of the amazing sights you’ll find in Iceland.

This small country, which is the least populated in Europe, is extremely safe, making it the ideal destination for a worry-free vacation.

2. Denmark

Another one of the safest countries in the world is Denmark. This Scandinavian nation is best known for its colorful capital, Copenhagen. This bike-friendly city is known for its historic Nyhavn waterfront, palaces like Rosenborg and Christiansborg, and Tivoli Gardens, the oldest amusement park in the world.

Denmark is extremely safe, and Copenhagen was recently ranked as one of the best cities in the world for solo travelers when it comes to safety. I’ve personally visited Copenhagen as a solo female traveler so I can confidently say that I agree with this!

3. Ireland

Ireland is another one of the safest countries in the world. This popular destination has actually been named the best in the world for nine years straight in the Travel Weekly Reader’s Choice Awards.

Travelers love Ireland because of its fun cities like Dublin and Galway, as well as its enchanting countryside and breathtaking natural beauty in places like the Cliffs of Moher and Glendalough. Being such a safe country, you can explore Ireland without any concerns.

4. New Zealand

Another very safe and peaceful country to visit in 2024 is New Zealand. This small nation is made up of two main islands, the North and South Islands. Each is unique and has tons of stunning scenery and beauty to offer to nature-loving travelers.

As one of the safest destinations in the world, New Zealand is the perfect vacation for this winter — since it’s in the Southern Hemisphere, it experiences opposite seasons, meaning that a warm and sunny summer is just beginning.

5. Austria

Yet another European country ranking among the safest in the world is Austria. This German-speaking country truly has it all: incredible cities and some of the most unbelievable scenery in the world.

The capital Vienna is a world-class city for art, music, and culture. Salzburg, a smaller city in the western part of the country close to the border with Germany, is actually my favorite destination in Austria though! You also can’t talk about Austria without mentioning the Alps. Whether you visit in summer or in winter, these mountains are simply stunning.

And with Austria being such a safe and peaceful country, you can feel confident exploring this destination, whether you’re traveling solo or with others.

More Of The World’s Safest Countries

Here are the rest of the top 10 safest countries according to the Global Peace Index:
- Singapore
- Portugal
- Slovenia
- Japan
- Switzerland
As you can see, there are several more European countries among the top 10 safest countries in the world, as well as two Asian nations: Singapore and Japan.

You can check out the full ranking on the Global Peace Index website.

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November 29, 2023
These Are The Top 4 Tropical Destinations To Visit In Colombia This Winter

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Colombia is currently one of the trendiest destinations in South America, owing not only to its warm culture and natural wealth but also the wide availability of flights, which make it easier for Americans to travel, and the country’s overall affordability.

It is still a rather diverse territory, comprising inland metropolises surrounded by Andean peaks, jungles, and a sunny Caribbean coast, and if it’s the latter that appeals to you the most, you may be wondering which spots to hit for the ultimate tropical experience.

Worry not: we’ve got you covered. Here are four of the best beach getaways in Colombia that will help you escape those winter blues:

Santa Marta

A lesser-known city in the Magdalena Department, one of the Caribbean regions of Colombia, Santa Marta is a smaller city home to just under half a million inhabitants and boasts a fascinating history dating back to the Spanish colonization.

It was originally founded in 1525 by Spanish ‘conqueror’ Rodrigo de Bastidas as one of the first European settlements in modern-day Colombia. It is distinctive for being Colombia’s oldest standing and second oldest European-founded city in South America, surpassed only by Cusco in Peru.

Other than the stunning Iberian-inspired architecture, Santa Marta is known for its semi-arid climate and enviable sea access. Some of the most beautiful nature reserves in Colombia are, in fact, within driving distance of the city center, including Tayrona.

A national park covering both an unspoiled section of the Sierra Nevada and the Caribbean Coast, it is a postcard-like picture of palm-lined sands and rainforests.

Within the park, tourists will also find the Pueblito ruins, dating back to the long-lost indigenous Tayrona civilization.

Cartagena

The gateway to the wider Colombian Caribbean, Cartagena is a sprawling coastal metropolis known for its Afro-Latin heritage, beautiful colonial-era architecture, and year-round warm weather.

It was established as a colony in the 16th century, though indigenous people had already called the territory home prior to the arrival of Europeans and enslaved Africans. Still to this day, the modern-day city is a fascinating mishmash of cultures and different influences.

Walking the cobbled streets of ‘Ciudad Amurallada’, which comprises Cartagena’s UNESCO-listed historic center, visitors will be transported back to the golden age of the Spanish Empire, marked by stately buildings with ornate facades, a fortress, and monumental churches.

Around the Bocagrande Harbor area, sitting across the bay from the Walled Town, the historical, yellow-tinged cityscape gives way to clusters upon clusters of modern skyscrapers, providing a unique contrast between colonial traditionalism and 21st-century development.

Bocagrande is also home to a stretch of volcanic-sand beaches, bounded by the azure Caribbean Sea, though some of the best beaches on the Colombian Coast actually lie offshore:

Baru

While the seas around the Cartagenian mainland are perfectly appropriate for swimming, they can appear muddier due to the volcanic nature of the sands and are thus often skipped altogether by tourists landing in the Colombian Caribbean.

On the other hand, the tourist island of Baru, part of the Rosario island group, located just off the coast, is famous for its bright-blue oceans, thin-white sands, and impossibly tall palms providing much-needed shade from the scorching sun.

Baru is the definition of paradise on Earth, lacking the skyscrapers and busy city life that may make Cartagena less attractive to some, and being a protected reserve dotted with small, boutique hotels that put wellness at the front of the tourist offer and affordable hostels with a youthful, sociable community.

Colombia is one of the cheapest tropical destinations there are, and overnight rates in idyllic Baru, in properties straddling the landmark, aptly named Playa Blanca, start from only US$57 (though they can go as high as US$344 depending on the level of comfort and exclusivity preferred).

San Andres

Our last pick for the season, San Andres is Colombia’s most beautiful tropical island. 470 miles north of the mainland, it is a pristine coral archipelago encompassing numerous reefs, atolls, and sandbanks bounded by translucent waters.

El Centro, the region’s capital, occupies the northern end of the main island, and it’s the best-equipped town, home to major hospitality brands, a lively bar district, and some of the archipelago’s best-preserved colonial structures.

When it comes to natural beauty, it’s truly hard to summarize San Andres’ abundance of protected reserves and scenic spots. It is, after all, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and there is truly no shortage of thin white-sand crescents bordered by teal-colored oceanic lagoons.

San Andres is also famous for being the Colombian capital of ecotourism, due to its rich biodiversity. Some of the most popular activities tourists can take part in while sojourning on the island include snorkeling in the reefs, sailing around the archipelago, and admiring marine life.

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November 27, 2023
4 Reasons Why This Latin American Country Is One Of The Top Destinations For Solo Travelers
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It’s true what they’re saying — solo travel has become the new trend, and it’s taking off quickly. Whether you’re a slow-mad, digital worker, or simply backpacking around alone, the same question remains: where do I visit first?

As someone who has solo traveled extensively myself, I can really speak to the positive impacts traveling alone has. After wandering across the globe, one of my favorite destinations I visited as a solo traveler was actually in South America.

While there are certainly still safety concerns to be mindful of wherever you go, many travelers seem to share my views of the country and rank Colombia on their list of top places to travel solo in Latin America! Like any popular destination, sticking to the touristy areas is generally safe.

You’re Not In It Alone

Have you ever heard the saying ‘when you solo travel, you’re never really alone?’ Well, as someone who’s done it multiple times — it’s true! There are always new friends to be made, locals to be met, and fellow travelers along the way: and Colombia is no exception.

If you’re staying in Medellin, El Poblado is an excellent hub for digital nomads and solo travelers. One of the safest areas (and very close to the city), Poblado truly is a backpacker’s haven.

Nomad cafes, vibrant hostels, and quirky bars — it’s definitely worth a visit.

BUT, you don’t have to limit yourself to just staying here. The entire country has a huge digital nomad/traveler scene.

You’ll find that all major cities around Colombia have spaces for remote workers to spend their days and welcome bars for those who are alone.

Solo travelers flock to this culturally diverse country. Sign up for a couple of day tours, check out the nightlife scene in Medellin, or stay at a few hostels — you’ll 100% meet a few people in the same boat as you and make a new buddy or two!

Affordability Is Key

You know one of my favorite things about visiting Colombia as a solo traveler? The price tags!

Depending on where you decide to go, a meal with a drink can often cost under $8, and a bottle of wine is typically around $5 – $6 (what a bargain!)

Venturing around Colombia is also relatively cheap. If you’re traveling throughout Medellin, the train will typically cost around 2,880 Pesos ($0.73). Due to taxi-focused scams happening during my travels, I opted for Cabify during my time here (Colombia’s version of Uber, very affordable and safe for solo travelers to use).

If you’re on a budget, you’ll also find that accommodations are somewhat cheaper than you’d expect.

I stayed in a hotel off the coast of Isla Baru which was super affordable for its location along the beach, and also spent some time at Los Patios Hostel in El Poblado, Medellin.

While this hostel is definitely pricier than most, it also comes with a rooftop bar, weekly activities, and bar crawls with the locals. However, if you’re just looking to save money, there are many other options in Medellin and throughout Colombia.

Did Someone Say Non-Stop Flights?

Depending on where you’re flying from in the U.S., there are many non-stop flight options to Colombia, and most are under 4-6 hours! Like anywhere, it’s important to track flights to keep an eye on price-changes (especially during low and high seasons).

Here are some non-stop flight options from the U.S.
- Boston – Bogota – 6 hours
- Miami – Cartagena – 3 hours
- Miami – Bogota – 4 hours
- New York – Medellin – 5 hours
- New York – Cartagena – 5 hours
Culturally Diverse

A diverse hub filled with history, amazing food, and friendly locals, Colombia is a cultural melting pot waiting to be explored by all! If you’ve ever thought about visiting — now’s the time.

Walking through the neighborhoods in Colombia, you’ll come across many different cultures, locals, and expats. That’s what makes the country so diverse and welcoming! There’s a place for anyone and everyone who visits and is looking for a home away from home.

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November 27, 2023
These Are The Top 3 Countries To Visit In Central America This Winter

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As the cold weather creeps in, we’re all looking for a warm escape with plenty to do and price tags to match. Luckily for us, Americans are fortunate to be close to some of the best winter getaways, where the temps remain hot and cultures are thriving.

Central America has so many remarkable destinations to visit, but these 3 countries are the best to visit this winter season if you want a slice of paradise.

Costa Rica

As one of Central America’s leading destinations, Costa Rica is of course on the list. Known for its biodiverse landscapes, adventure activities, and scenery, it’s a nature-lovers playground. The country is filled with forests waiting to be explored and incredible beaches.

Aside from ziplining over tall trees, diving, and beach-hopping, did you know Costa Rica is home to a unique attraction, voted by U.S. tourists as one of their favorites in Central America?

Located on the Poas Volcano, The Hacienda Alsacia Starbucks Coffee Farm is a magical place to visit if you want to explore a different neighborhood and surround yourself with the smell of coffee beans and passionate people.

We’ve covered activities, day trips, and landscapes, but what about the weather? Luckily, the best time of year to visit Costa Rica is during the winter, as it’s considered dry season! Which means warm days, ocean swims, and hopefully no rain.

Panama

A buzzing metropolis with all the pleasures of a beach getaway, Panama offers a little something for everyone. City vibes on one side and sweeping beaches on the other, it’s a top contender for best winter destinations in Central America.

Voted one of the best spots for digital nomads, this vibrant country has so much to offer! For solo travelers over the holidays, it’s incredibly easy to meet people here.

If you’re planning to stop in Panama City during your stay, the well-developed public transportation system (the metro is actually a key highlight for most tourists!) makes it easy to get around and explore various neighborhoods too- and with the rainy season ending in November, there’s no excuse not to roam!

Aside from skylines, silky sands, and friendly faces, you know what else is a key selling point here? Prices! That’s right… Panama is one of the most affordable destinations for winter travel, and we’re all looking to save a little when traveling.

Belize

With Jetblue’s exciting announcement that they’re adding a direct route from JFK to BZE this December, jetting off to paradise has just become so much easier!

A tropical haven surrounded by crystal-blue waters, Belize is home to some of the most picturesque resorts you can imagine. The Cayo Espanto private island resort ensures guests have access to a slew of unique activities: from diving in the Great Blue Hole to helicopter tours from above.

Since the weather is in ideal form, why not get out and explore some of the many caves, ruins, and boat excursions this oasis has on offer? Belize is a showstopper when it comes to winter getaways… Have we convinced you to book your flight? 😉

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November 26, 2023
These Are The Top 7 Warm Destinations For Digital Nomads This Winter

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One of the benefits of living a digital nomad lifestyle is that you can choose to live and work somewhere warmer when winter comes.

There’s nothing quite like throwing on your swimsuit and heading down to the beach when you close your laptop at the end of a hard day – but where can you embrace this lifestyle?

With digital nomadism growing in popularity as a trend, it can be hard to narrow down the best destinations – but we have a few suggestions we think will be appealing.

Here are our top 7 warm weather destinations for digital nomads to check out this winter:

1. Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

A sun-kissed beauty on the Mexican Caribbean coast, Playa Del Carmen has a bustling party atmosphere with a host of great bars and restaurants, many of which face out onto the stunning beaches.

It’s around a 4 to 5 hour flight from most of the mainland United States, and it’s in the Central Time Zone – making it easy to work remotely while you’re stationed there.

Despite being popular and easy to get to, this bohemian beach town has remained a relatively cheap place to live, with a good choice of monthly accommodation and affordable food and drink.

There’s also more to this town than the beach, with attractions such as beautiful cenotes and impressive Mayan ruins just a short bus ride away.

Mexico is also one of the easiest countries to obtain a visa for Americans, which makes it simple to get set-up.

Average monthly cost: $2,500

Average temperature in January: 65-80°F

Best for… beach town party vibes but still close to home.

2. Phuket, Thailand

The island of Phuket is a longstanding outpost on traditional Thai backpacking routes, but recently it has also become a great digital nomad destination.

Providing fantastic weather, incredible food and culture, much improved internet, and a generally friendly attitude towards foreigners, it’s easy to see why Phuket is popular.

Phuket has a thriving café culture that caters to every taste. You’ll find plenty of vegan and vegetarian options as well as a wide range of establishments owned and run by Westerners as well as by local Thai people.

And you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to beautiful beaches.

Over in the west, you’ll find stunners such as Patong Beach, Hua Beach, and Kata Beach, whereas from Phuket City in the east, you can catch a boat to more remote locations such as the Ko Yao Islands or the iconic Phi Phi Islands.

Average monthly cost: $1,700

Average temperature in January: 75-90°F

Best for… tropical climate and beach parties.

3. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is another well-trodden digital nomad destination, but that’s not a bad thing.

It’s popular and well-known for a reason – it’s a great place to live this kind of lifestyle.

Featuring lush jungles filled with vibrant nature, some of Earth’s most beautiful beaches, and no shortage of historic and cultural sites, Bali is a great place to base yourself, which is why it regularly ranks among the top destinations on Nomadlist.com.

It also has a low cost of living, decent infrastructure, and a range of visa options for digital nomads.

Bali’s downside is that it’s crowded at peak times of the year, but despite that, there are still some hidden gems you can seek out.

Average monthly cost: $2,000

Average temperature in January: 72-85°F

Best for… captivating culture and making travel friends.

4. Medellin, Colombia

The Colombian city of Medellin has exploded in popularity in recent years to become one of the most popular destinations in Latin America.

Dubbed ‘The City Of Eternal Spring’, Medellin is a cooler option for digital nomads, and not just in terms of its climate.

It’s an incredibly trendy place to be right now, with its Laureles neighborhood recently named one of the coolest in the world.

It’s a hive of cool cafés, bougee businesses, and noteworthy nightlife that leaves people wanting to stay for a while.

Average monthly cost: $1,400

Average temperature in January: 55-70°F

Best for… cool cats who don’t need to be by the beach.

5. Tulum, Mexico

Another Mexican destination on our list is the iconic Tulum – a place where ancient temples meet gorgeous Caribbean coast.

Due to its popularity and growing tourism infrastructure, Tulum is not necessarily the cheapest place to live as a digital nomad, but you can still enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle at a modest cost if you’re sensible.

It has plenty of upsides to balance out the higher prices, such as a super easy visa, a lively party scene, countless ancient sites, and a good choice of long-term accommodation.

Average monthly cost: $3,300

Average temperature in January: 70-80°F

Best for… larger budgets and those who love luxury.

6. Cebu, Philippines

This spellbinding island in the Philippines has been attracting digital nomads for several years now thanks to its very low cost of living, gorgeous coastline, and warm climate.

That said, Cebu is still a little under the radar, but it won’t be for long when you see how beautiful it is.

Lined with pure white sands and shimmering turquoise seas, Cebu is easily accessible and an ideal place to spend a decent amount of time.

While the Philippines doesn’t have a digital nomad visa yet (one is apparently in the works), the country is very welcoming to those who choose to stay a little longer.

Average monthly cost: $1,400

Average temperature in January: 75-85°F

Best for… a sense of escape, but still easy to get to.

7. Mazatlán, Mexico

This smaller and lesser-known digital nomad destination in Mexico, nestled on the stunningly beautiful Pacific coast, looks set to be a popular one in the future.

Featuring many of the hallmarks digital nomads love, such as great weather, proximity to amazing beaches, and solid services and infrastructure, Mazatlán is rapidly gaining fans from the United States.

Because it’s still an emerging destination, the costs of long-term accommodation, food, and other vital services are still relatively low when compared to other places in Mexico.

A downside is that it’s in the state of Sinaloa, which is known for having problems with crime, so if you do decide to go, make sure you exercise caution and be sensible.

Average monthly cost: $1,500

Average temperature in January: 60-77°F

Best for… a quieter, more off-path digital nomad experience.

Average monthly cost figures are estimates based on Nomadlist.com data, average January temperatures are estimates based on several weather services.

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November 25, 2023
These Are The Top 3 Beach Destinations In Mexico For Digital Nomads This Winter

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Mexico is the number one destination for digital nomads in Latin America, particularly those coming from the United States.

Not only is it geographically close to their homeland, Mexico offers Americans warmer weather, that slow-paced living they wouldn’t find had they stayed in their birth cities, and a higher quality of life, making it ideal for a temporary wintertime relocation.

Still, where exactly are remote workers moving south of the border to beat those intrusive winter blues? We have 3 major picks:

Puerto Escondido

Straddling Mexico’s gorgeous Pacific Coast, Puerto Escondido is a lesser-known gem in the state of Oaxaca that’s achieved notoriety due to its fast-growing tourism sector, up-and-coming resort zone, and miles on miles of unruffled, spotless sandy beaches.

Though it was founded only in the 1930s, it rapidly grew in relevance as the downscale response to a high-end Huatulco, hosting young surfers and backpackers, as well as Mexican families going on low-cost vacations – and in recent months, also digital nomads.

Affordability is one of the main drives behind the surge in remote workers in this sleepy, once-forgotten beach town, as average monthly expenses total only $2,231, and nomads get to enjoy the same beautiful nature and coastline as they would elsewhere in the Mexican Pacific for far cheaper rates.

According to NomadList, the largest database for digital nomad trends, Puerto Escondido is the category’s third most-loved beach hotspot South of the border.

Members describe it as ‘great fun’, listing the nightlife, the friendliness to foreigners, the high concentration of ‘places to work from’, and the lively social scene as big attractions for potential medium to long-term residents.

Tulum

According to NomadList, the incredibly popular Tulum, a resort town in the heart of the Mayan Riviera, is the second most popular coastal destination for digital nomads in Mexico right now, highly sought-after for its pristine beaches and nomad-friendly infrastructure.

An extremely rare feat, 100% of the digital nomad platform’s respondents approve of Tulum, deeming Quality of Life and Safety there ‘okay‘, highlighting the weather conditions as a positive aspect (a pleasant 84.2 degrees on average), and praising the internet speed (19 Mbps).

In sum, Tulum is perfect for ‘beginners’ as the local hospitality industry is almost exclusively catered to foreigners, making it extremely easy for them to integrate and access services hassle-free, as they normally would at home.

From numerous coworking spots to digital nomad cafes to fast public WiFi on beaches, it’s no wonder Tulum is such a strong contender for the favorite.

The only downside? Renting long-term and consumer prices can be quite expensive, and nomads are advised to budget at least $3,393 per month.

Playa Del Carmen

The unofficial expat capital of Mexico, Playa Del Carmen is listed as the leading beach destination in the country by NomadList, as well as the fourth most popular overall, barred from the top three by the mighty Mexico City, its cultural competitor Guadalajara, and off-path Oaxaca City.

Carmen is liked by over 90% of NomadList members, a lower percentage than Tulum’s universal acclaim, but it does fare better in more subcategories, such as affordability – nomads can live here on $2,640 per month – average internet speed (47 Mbps), and walkability (Great).

Safety perception is yet another determining factor in Carmen’s success, as the beach town is heavily policed day and night by local security enforcers, whose sole aim is to keep visitors safe – in fact, time and again, it’s featured among Mexico’s safest coastal destinations.

Additionally, the fact that American nomads are eligible for a six-month stay in Mexico visa-free makes Carmen incredibly popular, more so than its Caribbean counterparts, especially now that Cancun International Airport allows U.S. passport holders to simply scan their way into the country.

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November 21, 2023