With European summer officially kicking off, American travelers are flocking overseas to enjoy a summer vacation in Europe.
According to Allianz Worldwide Partners, a travel insurance company, the number of Americans traveling to Europe this summer will be up 55% compared to last year. The most popular destinations on many travelers’ itineraries include London, Paris, and Rome.
But far from being a dreamy vacation, traveling in Europe this summer may offer a harsh reality check: massive crowds, heat waves, and high prices can put a damper on your plans.
Instead of visiting Europe this summer, here’s why this fall is actually the best time to go:
1. Cheaper Flights
Flights to Europe are exorbitant this summer, but those prices immediately drop going into fall.
You can pay as much as 50% less to book a flight from the U.S. to Europe in September, October, or November compared to July or August.
Now that summer is in full swing, it’s getting harder and harder to find good deals on airfare to Europe. But if you push your travel dates out a few months, you’ll find excellent prices on airfare to many European cities from the United States.
According to travel booking company Hopper, the cheapest time to fly to Europe from the U.S. is between October and March.
2. Lower Prices
It’s not just flights that are cheaper in the fall. Everything in Europe will be cheaper come September, including hotels, rental cars, and even tours and restaurants.
For example, Positano, Italy’s famous luxury hotel Le Sirenuse runs $3,000+ a night for a room in July or August. But in October, that drops down to $1,000 a night.
You might be thinking that’s still hardly a good deal, but the principle applies to cheaper hotels too. A hotel room that’s $300 a night in the peak summer months might be $100 a night in the fall.
You can save big on a European vacation just by pushing your dates back by a couple of months and traveling in the fall instead of the peak summer months.
3. Fewer Crowds
This summer is expected to be one of the most crowded on record in Europe, with a 55% increase in tourism compared to last summer.
Visiting Europe in the summer means battling excessive crowds, especially in popular tourist destinations. If your idea of a fun vacation includes shuffling through the Louvre or jostling your way to the front of the Trevi Fountain for a photo amid thousands of other tourists, then summer is a great time to visit Europe.
But if you’d prefer to enjoy empty streets, uncrowded museums, and no lines at tourist attractions, wait until the fall.
The tourist crowds in Europe largely disperse starting in September. In the fall, you can enjoy a sunset in Santorini or a beach day on the Amalfi Coast without having to share the experience with massive crowds.
4. Better Weather
Finally, fall can offer better weather in many parts of Europe. If you’re after a beach vacation, September can still feel like summer in many parts of Europe, including Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, and Greece.
There are still plenty of sunny days, and the Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas are still warm enough for swimming in September.
For the past several summers, many places in Europe have been experiencing record-high temperatures and extreme heat waves that make summer travel unpleasant.
So visiting during the fall can offer a nice respite from the heat. Cities like London and Paris are much more pleasant in the cool fall months than they are in the middle of July.
Traveling to Europe is a bucket list dream for many: a land of culture, a rite of passage, and the opportunity to walk in their ancestor’s footsteps.
Europe boasts some of the world’s most significant cultural attractions, and 6 of the ten most visited countries in the world for 2022 are located in Europe.
Everyone should visit Europe at least once in their lifetime. But despite its many attractions, summer 2023 is not the best time to visit Europe.
Here are 5 reasons why you should not visit Europe this summer:
The Crowds
Europe has seen a real post-covid travel boom.
Trips that were postponed because of the pandemic have been rearranged, and the result is that Europe is busy and crowded.
A new report from CNN has found that the number of Americans traveling to Europe this summer is expected to be 55% higher than last summer.
As a result, the crowds, particularly at the most popular tourist attractions, can feel overwhelming.
Many of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations are putting measures in place to control crowds, often to the detriment of the tourist experience.
Tourists in Portofino, Italy, have been banned from taking selfies, for example, and face a $300 fine if they linger to do so. This is to stop pedestrian traffic jams.
Anecdotal evidence from local residents in the most popular cities of Italy, Spain, and France has suggested that crowd levels are already so high that it’s difficult to walk through the streets.
The Weather
From floods in Italy to droughts in much of Spain, Europe is expecting another summer of extreme weather.
The European Parliament has announced that Europe will face ‘a war for water’ as a result of droughts this summer.
There is no avoiding that Europe in the summer is hot every year, but the number of 90-degree Fahrenheit (32 degree Celsius) days experienced this year is expected to beat all historical records.
Even without these extremes, it is very difficult to explore Europe during the heat of the summer, particularly if you are interested in cultural attractions rather than beaches.
The ruins of Pompeii, for example, are hugely exposed, and the heat can be prohibitive to exploration. The same is true of Gaudi Park in Barcelona and the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
You can both avoid the crowds and enjoy more clement temperatures if you travel to Europe in the spring or fall instead.
The Prices
When demand is high, so are prices.
The average price of a roundtrip plane ticket from the U.S. to Western Europe is currently $1,200. That is $300 more than the average price of the same ticket this time last year.
Accommodation prices are also higher in Europe this year than they have ever been before.
The average price of a five-star hotel in Spain in May 2023 was 14% higher than the price of the same-level hotel in May 2022, for example. This is a trend that has been spotted across Europe.
What’s more, the rampant inflation across Europe, much of which can be attributed to the conflict in Ukraine, means that the price of food and drink in European restaurants is also significantly higher than in previous years.
If you’re traveling on a budget, then there are more affordable destinations to choose from this summer.
The Closures
Much of Europe will simply close during the hottest month of the summer, meaning that visitors don’t see the bustling and vibrant cities at their best.
In many of the biggest cities in Spain, France, and Italy, shops and businesses will close during the month of August so that their employees, together with their families, can escape the oppressive heat of summer in the city and head to the mountain or coastal regions instead.
While these closures don’t impact tourist attractions such as museums and galleries, they will impact some shops and restaurants.
They also influence the overall atmosphere of a city.
If you want to experience the authentic heart of a European city, then you should visit a time when it is populated by its local people, not by throngs of tourists.
The Rest of the World
We live in a wide world, and while Europe may be one of the most popular vacation destinations, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best, particularly during the summer months.
There are plenty of other places you could explore this summer that are likely to be less crowded and more affordable than a trip to Europe.
For beaches, why not try African countries such as South Africa and Kenya? Adventurers should head to the South American countries of Argentina and Chile.
And if you’re looking for unique cultural experiences, then Sri Lanka and Northern India offer great weather and an abundance of temples and other attractions.
If you’ve fallen in love with Mexico on your last vacation and you’re thinking of returning, but another summer paying inflated tourist rates in Cancun doesn’t sound like your idea of fun, maybe you should consider exploring the country’s Pacific coast instead.
In other words, why not skip the Mexican Caribbean altogether, and fly somewhere new, where the weather is just as great, the seas bright blue, and the tourist offer comparatively vast?
Here are 4 reasons why you should spend your long-anticipated holiday in Los Cabos this year:
A Higher Concentration Of Wellness Retreats
While Cancun – and the wider Riviera Maya, on an extent – have developed a reputation for being Mexico’s party capital, actively promoting jungle parties and beach clubs as part of the tourist offer – the dual destination that is Los Cabos has pursued a slightly different path.
Instead of following in Cancun’s footsteps, much like Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta have, ‘The Capes’ have been focusing instead on developing a strong wellness scene.
That’s not to say you won’t find nightclubs or a lively social scene here, but a majority of the guests come to Cabo hoping to simply unwind.
As a matter of fact, it is now Mexico’s number one wellness destination, as well as Latin America’s absolute leader in this market, boasting the greatest presence of spa resorts and relaxation retreats out of any coastal spot in the subcontinent.
Whether it’s lounging by the beach all day without the constant thumping of electronic music originating from a random beachfront bar in Cancun or treating yourself and booking a much-needed spa day, you’ll soon find yourself enamored with Cabo’s unique vibes.
The Capes may not have pre-Columbian ruins, being located on the Southernmost tip of the Baja Californian Peninsula, and not the Ancient Mayan-Caribbean World, but it hosts a number of nationally-relevant sights History buffs will not want to miss.
For instance, three of the most beautiful Pueblos Magicos – Mexico’s ‘Magical Towns’, a nationwide designation for destinations with an incomparable cultural wealth – are located within short driving distance of both Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.
Visitors keen on experiencing a more authentic side of Mexico, where over-development is yet to drive locals out and the colorful houses make for a postcard-ready picture, will want to add the small towns of Loreto and Todos Santos to their summer wishlist.
Settled in the colonial era, when Europeans began populating Mexico’s territory, they have retained much of their Old World charm, from the distinctly vibrant-colored facades to the charming 18th-century churches.
Sargassum-Free Beaches
One of the biggest complaints of tourists vacationing in Cancun, or the state of Quintana Roo in general, is the state of the beaches when the humidity starts to build up.
In the summertime, other than a higher incidence of rain and tropical storms, Cancun’s coastal strip is invaded by the smelly brown seaweed known as sargassum, which continues to batter local swimming spots in spite of the municipality’s best efforts to keep it at bay.
Interestingly, sargassum is not a common occurrence in the Pacific Ocean, being exclusive to tropical and temperate seas instead.
This means Los Cabos remains sargassum-free year-round, even when the country’s Southeast is battling the phenomenon.
From the landmark Playa del Amor to Medano Beach, the sands remain golden, and the seas bright azure. Storms may hit the coast on occasion, but those are infrequent, and the skies remain clear for the best part of the season.
Cabo Is Safer
Mexico may have made headlines recently as an unsafe destination after a group of American visitors was kidnapped crossing into a border town, with a gruesome conclusion, but unlike what the mainstream media would have you believe, violent incidents involving tourists are very much an exception rather than the rule across all of Mexico.
When it comes to Los Cabos, these rates are not even statistically relevant, as they are so exceedingly rare it rarely ever makes the news.
Additionally, 67.5% of Cabo residents consider it safe to live in, as reiterated in research conducted by INEGI, the National Institute of Statistics and Geography.
In sum, Cabo is as safe as it gets, and it may well be Mexico’s safest destination overall, with improved surveillance in beach zones, including patrolling of bars and nightclubs in proximity to Medano Beach, and a crackdown on insistent beach vendors known to disturb beach-goers.
Cancun may still be the indisputable King of Tourism, drawing in 30 million visitors last year alone, but it has long ceased being Mexico’s fastest-growing destination.
It now trails behind Cabo in terms of recovery, openly challenging it for the spot of number one resort destination in Mexico.
If you’re looking for first-class service, a more ‘chill’ atmosphere, and unspoiled nature, this is a natural replacement for Cancun.
Despite strong competition, both in the Caribbean world and beyond, Cancun remains the number one beach resort for Americans going abroad this summer.
Having welcomed more than 30 million guests last year, it continues to eclipse all of its fellow competing sunny spots, such as Punta Cana and Jamaica.
In an attempt to assert what’s already an infallible popularity, the jewel of the Riviera Maya has continued to improve tourist infrastructure and services every passing year, to the point it is not simply a world-class destination, but one of the easiest to visit from the States:
Here are 4 reasons why:
More Low Cost Flight Options
Second only to Mexico City, Cancun International is the best-connected hub in the country, hosting at least 38 nonstop US flights as of December 2022.
For many Americans, Cancun is the main entry point into Mexico, and its high demand continues to foster both slot and fare wars between competing airlines.
Spirit has low-cost flights to Cancun starting from only US$79 one-way from select departure points, while Allegiant offers fares as cheap as US$102 from Fort Lauderdale.
One could argue Cancun is the cheapest ticket into the Mexican Caribbean for North Americans, with aa record number of flights operating between the Mayan city and numerous departure points in the United States and Canada, and plenty of all-inclusive vacation deals available.
Safety
One of the main concerns for Americans traveling outside the United States is security.
Seeing that a majority of destinations worldwide is either at Level 2 or 3 on the State Department’s Travel Advisory list, it may seem as if there are not enough safe spots to explore out there.
Regardless of the media frenzy, you should know Cancun wouldn’t be so hugely popular unless security was tight in tourist zones. Yes, it is a Level 2 destination, but so is France and the United Kingdom, and while crime has not been eradicated, much like in every major U.S. city, it is far from being rampant.
Yes, shootings can occur in peripheral zones, but gangs do not target tourists, and their activity is often restricted to suburban districts, where visitors do not routinely go.
This summer, state authorities are deploying drones to monitor the Hotel Zone from above, as well as reinforcing security personnel on the streets to drive down petty crime rates. As it is extremely safe, no other Caribbean city is easier to explore than Cancun.
Improved Transport Links
For years now, one of the main complaints of tourists arriving in Cancun has been how poor public transport infrastructure is.
Landing at Cancun Airport, other than being harassed as you walk through the Shark Tank – learn more here – you are extremely likely to be overcharged getting into an airport cab.
Sadly, public buses are not a viable option for many, as they lack the comfort, and usually do not drop you off at the doorstep of your hotel. Beginning in 2024, however, transport links will improve greatly.
Other than the usual cabs and Ubers, tourists looking to save a few dollars will be able to avoid rivate transfers altogether and hop on the Maya Train, which covers large swathes of the Yucatan Peninsula, calling at several tourist spots both within the Cancun municipality and the wider Riviera.
Additionally, roadwork currently being carried out along the Colosio Boulevard is set to reduce traffic jams. This includes the construction of a new bridge set to speed airport transfers, as reported by our sister website The Cancun Sun.
Both the infrastructure improvement, and the launch of the Maya Train, will make it easier for visitors to transfer between Cancun Airport and the city proper.
Hassle-Free Entry
Lastly, this year Cancun has simplified border procedures for American visitors, scrapping the dreaded customs form at arrival, and allowing them to breeze through the border by scanning their passports.
With the new e-Gates that have been put in place, U.S. and Canada passport holders are no longer expected to join a long line of travelers from the rest of the world waiting to get screened by a border agent.
There may be lines still, as Cancun is Mexico’s busiest coastal airport right now, but they are moving a lot faster now that North Americans are given priority.
As long as you carry a valid biometric American or Canadian passport, or a valid travel document issued by other low-risk countries, you are eligible to use the e-Gate and avoid the usual scrutiny at the border. International travel doesn’t get any smoother than this – certainly not in the Caribbean region.
Tourists are normally granted a 6-month stay entering Mexico at any crossing points, including Cancun Airport.
Heading to Cancun this summer? Make sure you read on about the Riviera Maya and all the latest developments to stay on the loop ahead of your beach holidays.
With summer just around the corner, many are finalizing their summer travel plans. Some will head abroad, and some plan to stick close to home, but regardless of where people are planning on traveling, it’s clear that a massive number of people will take a trip this summer.
While America’s national park system gets a lot of love from travelers both domestic and international, the more popular sites will likely suffer from over-tourism, leaving a visit that could be loud, crowded, and stressful.
So, if you are looking to get out into nature you could check out some of the U.S. national parks that are less crowded and underrated, or you could head north and check out some of Canada’s postcard-perfect national parks instead.
With 37 national parks scattered across the country, Canada’s park system offers some fantastic nature, epic views, and great chances to get outside and fill your lungs with crisp fresh air. There is a wide range of natural beauty to enjoy, and the parks offer up some stunning sights, from lakes, glaciers, mountains, and everything else you could want.
This summer is a great time for American travelers to visit our neighbor to the north, from the favorable exchange rate and cheap flights to the possibility of driving across the border to avoid flying altogether. So, if a visit to Canada is on the table this year, what better way to explore the beautiful nature of this country than by checking out some of it’s national parks?
Here are the most popular parks in Canada, based on visitor statistics from April 2022 to March 2023:
1. Banff National Park – Alberta
As the most popular national park in Canada, Banff sees a lot of visitors, last year 4,130,081 people came to explore this park full of natural beauty, and it’s likely this year that number will only increase.
Famous for its otherworldly colored lakes, and numerous outdoor adventure options, this Canadian Rockies gem deserves all the attention it receives. Visitors shouldn’t miss a trip to the stunning town of Banff, and the Upper Hot Springs as well.
Jasper National Park is famous for being the world’s second-largest dark sky preserve, and the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. With a massive 2,415,463 visitors last year, this is one park that can get crowded, so if you are lucky enough to plan a trip here, make the preparations early to avoid disappointment.
Come to experience the stunning mountain peaks and wide range of wildlife, and enjoy the over 11,000 square kilometers of beauty.
3. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve – British Columbia
With over 500 square kilometers of rocky ocean shoreline and dense forest, it’s easy to see the draw of this national park. Located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Pacific Rim is known for its powerful winter squalls, diverse marine life, and trees that are hundreds of years old.
With an estimated visitor count last year of 1,163,362, Pacific Rim is popular, so plan early if you are heading there this summer.
4. Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park – Quebec
An estimated 1,070,634 people visited this epic national park last year, an almost 25% increase from the previous year. Many come hoping for a chance to spot the whales that call these waters home.
With over 2200 species, Saguenay is considered one of the best places in the world for whale watching. You can also hop aboard a sailboat and ride the wind in the Estuary, or enjoy nature with your feet firmly planted on land.
5. Mount Revelstoke National Park and Glacier National Park – B.C.
These two parks count visitor attendance as one unit, with a combined total visitor count for 2022 coming in at about 775,190. Both beautiful parks offer some great hiking, wildlife viewing, cool rainforests, and alpine valleys and villages.
6. Yoho National Park – B.C.
663,878 people took a trip to Yoho National Park last year, with many coming to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Emerald Lake. Similar to Banff National Park, Yoho offers white-water rivers, wildlife, and ice-blue lakes.
7. Kootenay National Park – B.C.
574,126 people visited this British Columbia national park last year, and more are anticipated to visit it this year. Kootenay is known as the land of fire and ice, and the glaciers, hot springs, and fossils, and grasslands offer plenty to enjoy on a visit here.
To round out the top 10 most visited national parks in Canada we have:
Finland is officially the happiest country in the world.
For the sixth year running, the World Happiness Report has declared Finland to have a happiness score of 7.842 out of a possible 10, making it happier than any other destination.
Just some of the reasons why Finns are so happy, according to the report, is because they feel a strong sense of community and trust in one another. The country also has some of the lowest levels of suspicion of government corruption.
But what does that mean for tourists? It means that the people of Finland are warm and welcoming and that the country is a safe place to travel.
Here are six of the best reasons to consider visiting Finland:
Breathtaking Landscapes
Finland is well known for its beautiful and unspoiled landscapes. From snow-covered pine trees to rugged mountains and flat rolling hills to the south, the range of landscapes to appreciate is incredibly diverse.
In addition to this, there are 39 national parks to explore in Finland. Visitors can also explore Saimaa, the country’s largest lake, where people travel from across the globe to fish.
Of course, the main attraction of Finland’s landscapes is the chance to view the breathtaking aurora borealis, better known as the Northern Lights.
Finnish Lapland is the place to go for the best chance to see this natural phenomenon. The Northern Lights season in Finnish Lapland is between Mid-August until Early April.
Delicious Food
There are some national cuisines that are world-renowned thanks to their broad appeal. Italian, Chinese, and Mexican foods can be found almost anywhere you travel.
Seafood is abundant due to the huge number of lakes in the country, and chefs in Finland focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients that make the cuisine especially appealing.
Gravlax, rye bread, and sauteed reindeer are particularly popular local dishes.
Modern Architecture
Fans of modern, minimalist architecture will love visiting Finland.
Many of the buildings take inspiration from the local landscapes, and a minimalist, modern approach is often adopted to avoid detracting from the beauty the country already possesses.
Renowned architect Alvar Aalto is particularly popular here, and you will find his work everywhere.
Expect clean lines, natural materials, and buildings that are breathtaking in their simplicity.
Exciting Helsinki
Helsinki is the capital of Finland, as well as its most populous city. While most people think of Finland as being a remote and quiet country, Helsinki is the opposite of these things.
This is the perfect place to explore Finland’s rich cultural heritage, enjoy the vibrant night life, and enjoy Finland’s bustling art and music scene.
Did you know that Finland is the heavy metal capital of the world? Metal heads flock to Helsinki to see the huge number of national and international metal bands that frequently tour the country.
For a slightly quieter night out, there are also plenty of bars and nightclubs to enjoy in the city.
Explore Finnish Lapland
It would be near-impossible to talk about traveling to Finland without mentioning Finnish Lapland.
The home of Santa Claus and his reindeer; big kids and little kids alike will enjoy the high-octane activities to enjoy here, as well as stunning snowy scenery.
You can hunt for Santa Claus in his woodland cabin, ride in a sled pulled by husky dogs or by reindeer, and if you’re looking for even bigger thrills, you can take a snowmobile safari across the rugged terrain.
Finnish Lapland is also a great place to enjoy skiing, with Kittila here considered to be one of the best ski destinations in the country.
Embrace Sauna Culture
Taking a sauna is a very important part of Finnish culture. The concept of the ‘sauna culture’ in Finland involves using the sauna to cleanse both the body and the mind in order to obtain a sense of inner peace.
Almost 90% of Finns take a sauna once a week, and enjoying time in the sauna is integral to Finnish socializing and well-being.
Tourists are encouraged to experience the sauna culture for themselves during their time in Finland and will be presented with plenty of opportunities to give it a try.
Did you know it’s possible to skip customs entirely when landing back in the U.S.?
We’re not talking about some unknown loophole either — there are certain countries you can visit that allow you to go through U.S. Customs before taking off back to the States. Then when you land at home, you walk right out of the airport like you would for a domestic flight.
Best of all? One of those countries is one of the most stunning destinations in the Caribbean — ????️ Aruba????.
One Happy Island
If you’ve never been to Aruba, you aren’t alone. Many travelers flock to tourist heavyweights like Cancun or Montego Bay year after year.
But while those destinations are certainly worth returning to, a visit to Aruba might just change your annual vacation habits.
Affectionately called the “one happy island,” Aruba certainly lives up to its nickname. The moment you land on this eternally sunny island, you feel welcome and relaxed before you’ve even made it to your hotel.
Aruba is only about 20 miles long and 6 miles wide, so your ride from the airport to your hotel will be super quick no matter where you are on the island.
Many travelers head to Palm Beach, a breathtaking stretch of sand that many of the most popular resorts call home — including the alluring Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino.
If you’ve never been to Aruba, I’d suggest taking your arrival day to unwind on the beach or at your resort. Nobody likes flying half the day away, but as soon as your feet hit the white sands of Aruba, you’ll forget about the time it took to get there.
For a first-time visit (and every visit after, honestly…), one of the best areas to stay is going to be Palm Beach. The beach is about 2 miles long and has everything you could possibly want on a Caribbean vacation.
Watersports, beach bars, restaurants, shops, casinos… you name it — Palm Beach has it.
You won’t ever get bored exploring this stunning stretch of sand, and that’s assuming you even want to leave your resort. When planning my stay, I wanted to be able to get everything I could possibly need without having to leave the resort property. In this case, that property was the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino.
While I did leave the resort during my stay, there was no need to. Everything I could possibly want or need was on site and easily accessible.
I realized an hour into my trip I’d forgotten toothpaste, deodorant, nail clippers, and my snorkel gear (amateur move, I know). I walked downstairs and found all 4 quickly and easily!
For a first-time visit to Aruba, the Marriott was a perfect fit, and I’ll definitely be back again the next time I head to Aruba.
The room was incredible, and having morning coffee while looking off the balcony as the sun came up is a memory that will be etched in my brain for the rest of my life.
Of course, one of the highlights of heading to Aruba is going to be its gorgeous white-sand beaches. And when I say white sand, I mean it!
Aruba has some of the whitest sand in the Caribbean and, as a result, never feels hot on the feet. Everything about the sand and the beautiful blue waters screams relaxation and peace of mind.
But Aruba is more than its beaches! Aruba really is a destination for every type of traveler. Art, culture, adventure, nightlife, and more are all at your fingertips and easily accessible from anywhere on the island due to its small size.
Personally, I like to check out the local art scene and do more “off-path” things (yea, I said it).
On a different trip to Puerto Rico, one of my favorite experiences was exploring the amazing street art in Santurce. Little did I know Aruba is also home to absolutely breathtaking street art and murals!
San Nicolas Street Art
Founded in 2016 by Tito Bolivar after being inspired during a visit to Bogota, Colombia, Aruba Mural Tours in the city of San Nicolas offers travelers a glimpse into what’s possible when an idea becomes a sensation.
The first murals went up after the first-ever Aruba Art Fair, and San Nicolas’ fate was sealed.
Now, there are well over 40 murals to enjoy, and everywhere you turn your head, you will be met with art from some of the greatest muralists in the world.
I’d suggest the morning tour, as the sun won’t be as hot, and you can plan to stop and grab some great local fish on the way back to your hotel at Zeerover, a restaurant on a picturesque pier that looks out on the unbelievably blue waters where your fresh meal just came from.
There is no better way to truly get off path than by heading into the desert! I wasn’t aware that Aruba had a desert until a few days before my trip, but it’s definitely worth exploring.
Most of my experience of the Caribbean is from the time I spent living in Grenada, which is very mountainous. You can’t look too far in any direction without seeing a mountain unless you look at the ocean, of course.
In Aruba, you can see for miles. Everything is incredibly flat, and a trip into the desert really shows the unique character of this island.
What is the best way to see it?
A UTV tour! UTVs are different from ATVs; they are like a cross between an ATV, a golf cart, and a car, and they are an absolute blast to drive through the desert! We toured with De Palm Tours, and our guide was hilarious and informative.
During the tour, you’ll stop at several points in the desert to get a bit of history, a chance to stretch your legs, and the option to switch off driving to be a passenger for a while, which is the perfect time to grab some great video!
Pro-tip: Wear some really amazing sunglasses with great coverage, or bring some off-roading goggles. If you don’t have either, they have them for sale before the tour begins. There is no windshield, and there’s a lot of sand in the desert! ????
Go Home With More Than Souvenirs
One of the joys of traveling is coming back with something to remind you of your trip, but you can bring back far more than just a souvenir. Why not go home with new knowledge and an experience that will remind you of your trip again and again?
If you are staying at the Aruba Marriott, you can definitely make it happen. The best way?
I know, I know… you’re on vacation; why would you want to work at something? Don’t worry. The Marriott makes the class so easy on you that all that’s left to do is enjoy the experience (and reap the delicious rewards).
I can confidently say that I will now be eating a local dish from Aruba from the comfort of my own home for many years to come, and it’s such a tasty treat! If you’ve never had a Pastechi, you need to book your tickets to Aruba right now. Seriously, they’re that good ????
The Most Important Decision
Aside from choosing to visit Aruba in the first place, one of the biggest influences on whether you will have a great vacation is going to be where you stay. I touched on it above, and I’ll say it again, the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino was the perfect pick for a stress-free vacation with everything I could possibly need while enjoying all that Aruba offers.
From a delicious breakfast on the gorgeous balcony to a picture-perfect afternoon under the ocean-front palapas, the Marriott did not disappoint.
I wasn’t there long enough to try everything, but that just means that I’m more excited to go back for another visit.
In particular, I want to try the Massage de la Aruba at the on-site Mandara Spa and the Desert Bathing experience offered by the Marriott, where you can enjoy a picnic in the desert after a yoga session and some introspection.
To cap off your Aruba adventures, I highly recommend enjoying your last dinner at sunset at Atardi, where you can dine with your feet in the sand in one of the most beautiful settings in the Caribbean.
The view of the sun setting over your delicious dinner on your last night in Aruba will stick with you, and you’ll desperately want to come back the second you leave.
**Travel Off Path was a guest of Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, who helped with the creation of this itinerary by hosting some of our accommodations and attractions. Our opinions, recommendations, and suggestions remain our own.**
U.S. News & World Report just released its annual rankings, highlighting 16 categories of destinations to help travelers find the best place for their vacation plans.
One list stands out as the best of the top destinations worldwide, listing 30 of the best places to visit around the globe for an epic vacation this year.
The “World’s Best Places To Visit” list is geared towards every type of traveler this year, from bucket list beach trips to national parks, mountains, and popular city breaks. With choices from around the globe, an overall top list, including 30 destinations, is ranked. Readers can then vote to add certain shortlisted destinations to the list as well.
Rankings are determined by equal parts user score and editor score, looking at expert opinions, votes from readers, and overall current trends for destinations around the world.
Additional information for each place is gathered in regard to seasonality, affordability, food, culture, sights, attractions, and natural beauty to help determine which places are, in fact, the best to visit.
These Locations Are the Top 7 Best Places To Visit In The World, According to U.S. News & World Report:
Paris
The City of Light earns the top spot on this list, and as one of the most popular destinations in the world to visit, it’s not a surprise. Come for the food, the architecture, the fashion, or for the many other reasons to visit this famous city.
No matter the reason for your visit, it’s been said many times, and it forever rings true, Paris is always a good idea.
If over-the-water bungalows and crystal clear water surrounded by lush mountains sounds like something you would enjoy, then the pinnacle of this kind of environment has to be French Polynesia’s Bora Bora.
Keep in mind there are things you should be aware of before visiting this tropical paradise; being prepared for things such as costs, activities, and local customs will help ensure your dream vacation while there.
Glacier National Park
The only National Park to break the top 20 of this list, this Montana gem is very much deserving of its spot.
With the melting glaciers, valleys, lakes, and meadows everywhere you look, Glacier National Park seems to have jumped right from the page of a nature photography coffee table book.
If you are lucky enough to be planning a visit to this stunning national park, be aware you will likely need a reservation before visiting. Don’t miss popular spots such as Going-To-The-Sun Road or Saint Mary Lake, or hike to more remote areas if you are seeking off-road adventure.
Rome
While Rome definitely deserves a spot on your bucket list, keep in mind that Italy is bracing for one of its biggest summers on record, and crowds could be high. With more historic sights than you could ever cover in one visit, and not to mention more food than one could possibly try, Rome will keep even the hungriest travelers satisfied.
Rome is one of the many Italian hotspots that is raising prices for tickets and working to curb over-tourism, so make sure you are prepared for any changes before your visit.
Swiss Alps
Known as one of the top skiing destinations in the world (although perhaps not this past year), the Swiss Alps offers much more to do than ride the slopes.
Come in the summer for some great hiking with epic views, and explore the more than two hundred peaks, which climb into the sky reaching higher than 3,000 meters above sea level.
Don’t forget to visit some of the many storybook villages that you can find in the region, with the cool blue lakes reflecting the beautiful scenery.
Maui
As one of Hawaii’s main tourism destinations, Maui has been known to be the perfect blend of everything Hawaii has to offer. Not too big, small, busy, or quiet, Maui is great for any first-time visitor to the Aloha State.
If a trip to Maui is in the cards this year, you are likely going to want to visit the Iao Valley Needle. Visitors should be aware that as of this year, this iconic attraction is limiting the number of visitors it allows, and reservations are required.
London
As one of the top searched-for destinations this summer, London is as popular as ever with travelers.
Come explore the various neighborhoods of this sprawling capital city, steep yourself in history and culture by seeing the sights and spending hours (or days if you can) wandering the city’s amazing museums.
Head up to the London Eye and take in the bird’s eye view, and cool off with a couple of pints and some pub grub at one of the millions of watering holes that dot the streets.
London has never been more popular with American travelers, and it’s one of the most searched-for vacation destinations this summer.
With more and more flight options connecting the U.S. to the U.K., there’s never been a better time to hop over the pond and explore the beauty and history that the countries of the United Kingdom offer.
While a visit to London is worthwhile for many reasons, the travel surge this year might mean higher accommodation prices (higher than normal London prices, if that’s even possible) and massive crowds at the popular attractions.
So this year, why not get creative and explore some of the other amazing cities that the U.K. has to offer?
The experts over at Big 7 Travel have put together a very comprehensive list of the 50 most beautiful places to visit in the United Kingdom, with islands, small towns, cities, and regions to explore throughout England, Scotland, Whales, and Northern Ireland.
Here Are 7 Of The Most Beautiful Cities To Visit In The UK This Summer Other Than London:
Bath
In Southwest England, you can find the charming city of Bath, located in the county of Somerset (yes, like the cider). Bath has often been called the most beautiful town in Britain, and after a visit, you can see why.
With the River Avon running through it, Bath was founded by the Romans who were drawn to its natural hot springs. Using it as a spa in the 1st century AD, the city has since been turned into a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city makes a good day trip from London, as it’s only about 90 minutes by train. Bath is small and easily explored on foot and is known for being a great shopping destination, in addition to the wellness and relaxing aspect of the baths and spas.
One of the most iconic images from England has to be The Shambles, York’s tiny narrow twisting street with medieval buildings overhanging and leaning every which way.
While many think this remarkable street was used as the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley (and locals have gone to great lengths to capitalize on this), this is actually not true, and nor was it the filming location for the movies.
While the Shambles are one of York’s main draws, they tend to get quite crowded, so come early or plan to wait for the famous shops and photo spots. Aside from the Shambles, York has more pubs than you could ever cover in your lifetime (trust me, I’ve tried!)
The massively grand York Minster is one of the world’s largest cathedrals and a must-visit. You can even explore the roof if you book a guided tour ahead of time.
Cambridge
Another destination easily reachable by an hour or so train journey from London is the intellectual city of Cambridge. This picturesque town is all about the university, rightfully so, as it’s one of the world’s most famous.
The river Cam is also a huge draw, and relaxing in your boat as the punters take you on a tour is a must-do. Enjoy the views and the history, and don’t miss the river-bar boats, who gladly come up to you and mix your drinks right there.
There is nothing better than sipping a traditional Pimms while being chauffeured along the river, taking in the sights of Cambridge.
Oxford
The other university city in England, Oxford is reachable by an hour’s train journey from London, making it a perfect day trip if you don’t fancy staying over and exploring some of the Harry Potter filming locations and attractions.
After wandering around the city and marveling at its iconic architecture, enjoy the city’s pubs and dining scene.
A visit to Oxford is also perfect for pairing with a village tour of the stunning Cotswold, where you can explore some of the country homes of Britain’s mega-rich and famous.
Brighton
You can find the seaside city of Brighton in East Sussex, located in southeastern England. Only about an hour from London on England’s super efficient train network, or those who are flying into London’s Gatwick Airport can reach it in about a half hour.
Brighton is known for being the LGBTQ+ capital of the U.K., and the inclusiveness and welcoming atmosphere of this beachy, laid-back city is one main draw for visitors.
Brighton offers shopping, spas, and a great nightlife scene. The Royal Pavilion is worth a look to see its Eastern influence and make time to enjoy the world’s oldest continuously running electric railway, the seafront Volk’s Electric Railway.
Edinburgh
There is just so much to love about the Scottish capital city of Edinburgh, from the colorful Royal Mile to hiking up to Arthur’s Seat for the views.
Visitors in the summer do need to be aware of the city’s famous Fringe Festival, when music and comedy acts take over almost every venue in the city. While fun and enjoyable, this does make accommodation prices soar.
Edinburgh has direct flights to the U.S. if you don’t want to make the 5 hours train journey from London.
Belfast
With direct flights now available from the United States, reaching this up-and-coming capital city in Northern Ireland has never been easier. Or, if you are adding it on after a London trip, the cities are connected via budget airlines with cheap and frequent flights.
Belfast is having a moment, and what was once a gritty industrial city is now blossoming into a cultural hub. The recently upgraded Titanic Quarter is a must-see, and there are plenty of pubs and street art to enjoy.
A visit to the famous Giant’s Causeway is easy from Belfast, and a quick train connection to Dublin also makes a great addition to this trip, not to mention it might make for a cheaper flight from the States.
Amsterdam is The Netherlands’ largest city and one of the main Dutch cities that tourists visit when taking a trip across Europe.
Amsterdam is known for its extensive canal system, cultural attractions, and museum district.
You can enjoy the artistic works of Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Vermeer here or visit Ann Frank’s house, a museum dedicated to the Jewish wartime diarist.
Amsterdam’s famous nightlife attracts a lively and youthful crowd, and the city is a great place to explore both Dutch and global cuisine.
If you want to avoid the crowds that Amsterdam attracts, why not visit the equally exciting city of Leeuwarden instead?
Leeuwarden is a small but historically significant city in the municipality of Friesland, and it is just as beautiful as Amsterdam.
It has a similar canal system and was awarded the title of European Capital of Culture in 2018. It is everything you would expect when you think of a typical Dutch city.
Here’s why you should visit:
Small But Perfectly Formed
Leeuwarden is a city that is small but perfectly formed. With a population of just over 100,000, there’s no need to worry about overcrowding here.
Leeuwarden boasts a beautiful historic inner city that can easily be explored on foot, meaning you won’t need to navigate the public transport system, if you don’t want to. The historic center is home to over 600 monuments, the most famous of which is a tall leaning tower called De Oldehove.
Construction of the Oldhove began in 1529. The tower’s tilt began during its construction, so the project was stopped in 1532. Whilst the 9th Century church originally attached to the church was then demolished in 1595, the 39 meter tall tower still remains.
If you want to learn more about the history and culture of the Friesland region then you can visit the Fries museum, which sits in the heart of the historic inner city.
Visitors can also visit Stadhouderlijk Hof, now a hotel but formerly a palace owned by the Dutch Royal Family.
Nothing Is Lost In Translation
The Dutch language can be complicated and difficult to learn. But what makes Leeuwarden unique is that, unlike most other parts of The Netherlands, they don’t actually speak Dutch.
Instead, they have their own language called Frisian. And the Frisian language has more in common with English than Dutch!
Frisian and English share 80% lexical similarity, making it the Germanic language closest to English. This means that English speakers will find it incredibly easy to communicate and get around the city.
The reason? Friesland was once connected to England via a prehistoric land bridge known as Doggerland, which was submerged in water around 6500 to 6200 BC. Before this point, Great Britain was connected to mainland Europe via the Netherlands.
A Lively Nightlife Scene
When you think of nightlife in the Netherlands, you instantly think of Amsterdam. But Leeuwarden is a university town and thanks to its several higher education institutions, it has its own high-octane nightlife scene.
Like Amsterdam, the universities in Leeuwarden attract students from all over Europe, so the nightlife available is wonderfully diverse. You will find plenty of bars and clubs, as well as live music venues and other live performances.
Visit Doelesteeg, a small street packed with bars and clubs. This street is particularly busy on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, and is famed for its great atmosphere and late-night parties.
Beautiful Green Spaces
One of the main attractions of Leeuwarden is that it is in the heart of an area that boasts outstanding natural beauty.
You can sit by one of the many city center canals and enjoy the views with a cup of coffee, or even take a canal tour to explore the city from a different angle.
Locals often travel by bike, and it is possible to hire bicycles and explore many of the green spaces surrounding the city. From parks to cycle paths and hiking trails, you’ll be amazed at how much greenery there is in a relatively urban environment.
Ready to take time out of the city? You’re in the right place! Friesland is known for its lush greenery, and the Frisian Lakes are a popular place for water sports enthusiasts.
Consisting of 24 lakes spread across central and southwest Friesland, during the summer months the area attracts boaters from all over the country. Here you can sail, surf, or even try your hand at waterskiing.
Leeuwarden offers the best elements of a city break with all the fun of an activity-packed vacation at the same time.
