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Why This Stunning European City Is One Of The Most Popular Destinations For Americans This Year

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TripAdvisor just released the latest report from their Seasonal Travel Index series. There are some golden nuggets inside for travel trends, but the one topic that stood out was the most popular international destinations for American travelers.

Common places such as Los Cabos, Cancun and Paris made the cut, but one destination gaining popularity is the stunning city of Florence.

According to TripAdvisor’s data, it is a top 10 international destination for U.S. tourists this year. One of the more popular European getaways for Americans is the astonishing country of Italy.

Yet, more often than not, we hear about Rome, Venice, maybe Milan and the gorgeous Amalfi Coast.

Florence, or as locals call Firenze, doesn’t tend to make the top of the list when booking an Italy vacation. That has changed this year, and rightfully so.

This city will forever leave lasting memories from the moment you step foot on its cobblestone streets and your eyes meet its breathtaking scenery.

Why Has Florence Flown Under The Radar?

There are direct flights to Italy from the U.S., but none of them go to Florence. Even as a large city, it’s a trek to reach from America.

Starting off, you are guaranteed to have a long flight with a layover. If you aren’t starting your trip from a major city, chances are you will have multiple layovers.

That can be off-putting to some travelers. Even though Italy is a top destination for Americans, what they are discovering is Florence is worth the extra effort.

Florence will welcome you with open arms, whether traveling as a couple, with friends or even solo (female too), as it’s generally considered a safe city.

With a recent report from Expedia reporting a 20% decrease in airfare, now may be better than ever to visit.

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What Makes Florence So Special?

Florence is a true gem; there is no other way to put it. The largest city and capital of Tuscany is a sight to behold.

Not only will Florence mesmerize you with its visual wonders, but it will add the aromas of Italian food through its winding cobblestone streets.

It’s everything you ever dreamt of Italy. But we’ll get to the food later. Florence is stunning with eye-popping architecture and set along the picturesque Arno River.

You can’t miss the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, which overpowers the Florence skyline with its centuries-old history and beauty.

It’s about the most romantic backdrop imaginable. Boat tours are popular, but some say it’s best explored by bike. The city is perfectly walkable as well, especially with minimal vehicle traffic.

Sometimes a slower pace can bring a stronger sense of appreciation for what you’re seeing, and you will want to see a lot in Florence!

The Top Sites

Not only is the city filled with amazing art, top-notch museums and architecture that will leave you gobsmacked, but the Tuscan countryside is gorgeous as well, to say the least.

The perfect shade of green rolls on for miles and miles through the hills and charming small towns. This is where the highest-rated activity around Florence takes place.

TripAdvisor reported the favorite activity from American visitors is taking part in a small-group wine tasting in the gorgeous Tuscan countryside.

Tuscany is a major producer of wine in Italy, and there may be no more scenic place to indulge than here.

That is unless you happen to see a hole in the wall in Florence. Wouldn’t you reach in, too?

The Food Is Astonishing

Dating back to Lady and the Tramp, we’ve all had dreams of stuffing our faces in Italy. Florence turns those dreams into reality.

The moon doesn’t have to hit your eye like a big pizza pie to realize how amazing the food is here.

TripAdvisor nailed it when they recently reported that 67% of U.S. travelers prioritize their destination of choice around food.

Florence is a lovely place to explore and delight your tastebuds. Wandering the cobblestone streets, you can literally follow your nose to where you want to eat.

It goes without saying Florence is home to amazing pizza and pasta dishes, among other specialties, but you can’t forget the countless gelato shops to satisfy your sweet tooth.

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September 8, 2023
5 Reasons Why Puerto Vallarta Is Having A Record Breaking Year For Visitors

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Mexico is the number one destination for Americans going abroad, no matter if it’s their first time venturing out of their country of birth or their long-anticipated yearly getaway.

Now that international travel has been fully reinstated and U.S. citizens no longer have to worry about complex regulations when flying abroad, the sunny South is once again awash with tourists, and there is one place they are flocking to in record numbers — Puerto Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta Set For A Historical Year

A few of them have stood out, though, with Cancun emerging as America’s favorite destination and Los Cabos posting higher-than-usual occupancy rates. They’re not alone in driving up figures amid Mexico’s Tourism Reinassance.

Mexico’s tertiary offer of Puerto Vallarta is shattering records this year, drawing in millions of guests and reporting an impressive tourism revenue.

For the first half of this year, the Puerto Vallarta International Airport has already hosted 3.6 million passengers, and it looks set for a historical year in tourism. You may be wondering why, seeing that Cancun and Cabo are still Mexico’s absolute leaders in booking trends.

Here are 5 reasons why Vallarta has continued to be so popular in the post-crisis period and why some travelers still prefer it over other coastal competitors:

A Developed Wellness Industry

Wellness is one of the top travel trends for 2023, with travelers strongly favoring do-nothing vacations over action-packed itineraries. While there are enough attractions in Vallarta to keep you entertained for weeks on end, it truly excels as a relaxation retreat.

As reported by the Vallarta Daily, the city is now a ‘must-visit destination for mind, body, and soul‘, boasting a high concentration of well-equipped spas and resorts straddling the beachfront, offering the luxury American guests crave, spa treatments, and a tranquil natural environment.

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With as many as 29 five-star listings on Booking.com, ranging from only US$84 a night to a more hefty US$265 at the Hilton Vallarta, within walking distance of the beach, and with a wide range of world-class amenities, Americans surely have a lot of options to pick from.

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Vallarta is a city of contrasts, and other than being a wellness hub, it can also be a vibrant, diversity-friendly seaport, ranking among the most liberal in Mexico.

The country’s proud LGBTQ+ party capital, it is jam-packed with quirky bars, entertainment venues, and gay-friendly events.

According to the Community Marketing & Insights’ LGBTQ+ Tourism and Hospitality Survey, published last in the pre-pandemic year of 2019, it is still a favorite among gay/bi-identifying males from the U.S.

They are particularly enthusiastic about the locals’ friendliness to foreigners, irrespective of their sexual orientation, and local leaders’ initiatives in promoting equality.

Old Town Vibes & Vibrant City Break

All In One Place

Puerto Vallarta is one of only a handful of Mexican cities where you get the best of both worlds:

Both the architectural heritage and tradition, stemming from centuries of colonial rule, commonly associated with Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos, and the vibrant social scene found in Cancun, Cabo, and the like.

Strolling the Romantic Zone of Old Vallarta, you will walk past centuries-old civic buildings established by Vallarta’s European settlers of the 16th century and later. It is easily the most scenic and photographed part of the city, what with its cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and historic Catholic churches.

A short 15 minutes from the quaint Old Town, however, you will reach the ever-busy Malecon, a modern boardwalk spanning 12 blocs flanked by oceanfront restaurants and tequila bars, making it a nightlife hotspot.

Sargassum-Free Beaches

Unlike the Mexican Caribbean, where sargassum is a recurring event yearly, Vallarta’s beaches remain golden and seaweed-free regardless of season.

As sargassum more commonly impacts warmer basins, such as the Caribbean Sea, and the city is located on the Mexican Pacific instead, it stays protected from the smelly algae, allowing swimmers and sunbathers alike to enjoy their time in the sun disruption-free.

No checking sargassum forecasts weeks in advance when planning your vacation, nor coming up with alternatives to beaches when the golden sands are tarnished by the seaweed landfall: you can enjoy completely pristine beaches year-round.

Sargassum is a rare, even non-existent phenomenon in the Atlantic, where the waters are not as warm as the Caribbean basin and, thus, do not boost the organism’s proliferation.

Vallarta’s beaches are long, beautiful stretches of golden sand, and that pristine quality is maintained even when the Yucatan Peninsula gets battered by seaweed, making it the safest bet if you’re visiting Mexico in the humid season.

Vallarta Is For Everybody

Vallarta’s greatest strength, however, lies in its diverse offer.

It is for everybody: whether you’re a young, sociable traveler looking to have fun and enjoy the city’s lively nightlife, or you’re simply hoping to relax for a few days by the beachside as you get taken care of.

It is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly places in all of the Americas, as well as an extremely popular destination for couples and families, and it’s this exact contrast that makes Vallarta so enticing: it can be appropriate for every imaginable demographic if you know where to go.

Find out more about Puerto Vallarta’s incredible resorts and where you should stay during your visit here.

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September 6, 2023
These 6 U.S. Scenic Train Rides Offer The Best Fall Views This Year

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With the close of summer, it means that fall is starting to make its way into the minds of most of us.

To many people across the U.S., fall means cozy nights watching football, apple cider, warm sweaters, and, of course, the fall foliage craze that begins to take over the country.

Foliage fever is real, and it’s everywhere you look.

Nowadays the news has a leaf watch, and social media is taken over with the iconic fall snaps. While national parks, road trips, and fall getaways are great ways to check out the autumn views, why not consider viewing America’s beautiful foliage by rail this fall?

With some stunning views, the options for scenic train rides across the country are seemingly endless. Remember to check out the peak foliage times across the country for optimal leaf-peeping before you make any plans, especially as the prime color-changing times seem to come earlier each year.

Another reason to consider a fall train trip? Train travel is having a moment, and whether it’s for the views, the vibes, or the environment, it seems Americans prefer traveling by train right now in many countries.

Here Are 6 U.S. Scenic Train Rides That Offer Some Of The Best Fall Views This Year:

Catskill Mountain Railroad, New York

About two and a half hours north of New York City, you can find the Catskill Mountain region. This underrated area of upstate New York is a great place to see some of the country’s best foliage, and what better way than to do it by a historic steam engine?

The Catskill Mountain Railroad offers a wealth of activities for all ages as it winds through some of the oldest farmlands in the country.

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@travelwithsudipa Catskills Fall Foliage train ride#catskillsmountains #catskillsny #upstatenewyork #fallfoliagetrip #falltrips #fallbucketlist2022 @travelwithsudipa @travelwithsudipa ♬ original sound – Madeline Lu

Cuyahoga Scenic Railroad, Ohio

Ohio is no stranger to great fall foliage, and the winding Cuyahoga Scenic Railroad is a great way to experience the beauty of this region. You can take in the views in Cuyahoga Valley National Park and along the Cuyahoga River.

This area is home to some impressive deep forests, open farmlands, and endless hills rolling in the distance, all of which will explode into purple, red, and fiery orange shades this time of year.

@wildwolfvan Riding the Cuyahoga Scenic Railroad in Ohio #ohio #akron #akronohio #cuyahogavalleynationalpark #nationalpark ♬ Pure Imagination – Dotan Negrin + Prismatic Mantis

Colebrookdale Railroad, Pennsylvania

This favorite tourist railroad is also known as the Secret Valley Line, and the two-hour round-trip ride takes you through this historic and beautiful region that is often overlooked.

This Civil War-era heritage railroad offers special events with a focus on the unique history of the region. Not to mention, the foliage here along the Colebrookdale Railroad line is pretty stunning as well.

@railbrothers Had a great time at the Colebrookdale Railroad with @biddiescustomary! Would definitely recommend the dinner train. #dinnertrain #lunchtrain #dinnertrainride #scenicrailway #railroad #easternpa #boyertown #autumnvibes ♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim

Mount Hood Railroad, Oregon

If you are lucky enough to find yourself in the Pacific Northwest this fall, then a train ride on the century-old Mount Hood Railroad should be in your plans.

These scenic rides will take you through the Hood River Valley in Northern Oregon, and the foliage here will be something to marvel at. Of course, if you are looking for a bit more of a workout, the rail bikes are another option for you to explore the region.

@michelevenlee Fall colors are later this year so we missed them 😢 but y’all have time to see them in the next week or so! 🍁 #hoodriveroregon #pnwlife #rainydays #portland #scenictrain #fallfoliage ♬ California Dreamin’ – The Mamas & The Papas

Essex Steam Train, Connecticut

If you are looking for a combination rail and river expedition, then the Essex Steam Train might be just what you need. Located in the Connectivity River Valley, an often overlooked beautiful part of the country, this trip will offer some serious views.

Dating back to 1868, this ride is narrated and offers some great birdwatching in the wetlands along the river as well. The train and riverboat trip runs around two and a half hours, and if you opt only for the train, it will take about one hour for the trip.

Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad, New Mexico

Often referred to as the C&TSRR, this iconic railway is one for the views. Only 3 feet wide, this narrow gauge heritage railway runs along nearly 65 miles of track between Chama, New Mexico, and Antonito, Colorado.

With sweeping views along the Western Rocky Mountains, this has often been called the best train ride in the country. A National Historic Landmark, this is the highest, longest, and most authentic steam railroad in the U.S.

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August 29, 2023
4 New Reasons Why Cancun Will Be The Top Destination For Americans This Year

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For years now, Cancun has been the number one tourist destination for Americans going abroad, renowned for its luxurious resort zone, world-class amenities, and of course, the miles on miles of sandy beaches bounded by the turquoise-colored Caribbean Sea.

Its popularity has extended well into 2023, even after the world’s wider reopening for tourism and other countries’ return to the competition. This year, as many as 20.5 million visitors are expected to visit the wider state of Quintana Roo, proving the Caribbean giant is still at the top of its game.

It may already be the King of Tourism, but with the diversification of the tourist offer elsewhere in Mexico,it looks set to get a new lead on its competitors due to 4 new reasons:

Revitalization Of The Tajamar Boardwalk

One of the biggest complaints among those vacationing in Cancun is how the city feels largely underdeveloped, with potholed streets and poor walkability beyond the resort walls. That’s why a majority of tourists often restrict their movements to the glitzy Hotel Zone.

Soon enough, Cancun’s urban infrastructure problems will be formally addressed, with more parts of the city set to be revitalized, from municipal parks to smaller beaches away from the main one, the well-frequented Playa Delfines, though the one we’re most excited about is the Tajamar Boardwalk project.

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Currently, it makes for a pleasant leisurely stroll on the waterfront with views of the turquoise ocean, but there are no noteworthy amenities or tourist attractions along the ‘malecon’, at least for now.

In the near future, over $700,000 will be invested in making the boardwalk more attractive.

This may involve the widening of pedestrian and cycling paths, the introduction of restaurants and bars to the area, which borders the landmark Nichupte Lagoon, and open green spaces for the promotion of outdoor activities.

Free WiFi At The Beach

Cancun is not exactly renowned for the speed of its public WiFi, particularly in beach zones outside resort complexes, where connectivity can be remarkably weak. Unless you have a generous data package to see you through excursions out of your hotel, you could be left disconnected from the online world.

That’s not necessarily a bad thing, as a majority of tourists landing in the Caribbean are actively seeking to disconnect and take in the natural surroundings, but it can be a bit of a nuisance too.

Luckily, Cancun authorities have been paying attention to feedback and are now installing WiFi antennas along the Hotel Zone.

By the end of August, two of the busiest beaches in Cancun, Kilometer Zero and Playa Delfines, will be served by GigNet, a popular infrastructure provider in Mexico known to have introduced optical fiber to the Caribbean provinces.

While you shouldn’t exactly expect fast-speed internet in public spaces, at least now you won’t need to rush to the next convenience store to buy more data if your package suddenly expires.

Reopening Of Las Coloradas

After months of being closed off to tourists due to environmental concerns, the famous Las Coloradas are finally open again and hosting tourists.

One of the most popular day trips from Cancun and a top-rated attraction in the Yucatan Peninsula, it sits on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico.

Other than the verdant nature reserves that border it, the Las Coloradas lakes are, of course, best known for their bubblegum pink-colored hue, as a result of a combination of red algae native to salt lakes and tiny shrimp that inhabit the incredibly salty waters.

Last March, access to the site was closed due to disagreements between tourist guides and the salt company that oversees the landmark. These seem to have been resolved now, allowing for the return of visitor groups.

Day tours to Las Coloradas can be booked from Cancun through the numerous tour companies and private, certified guides that operate in the city, as well as Rio Lagartos, the nearest major city, and as far away as Merida, the capital of the state of Yucatan.

A New Tourist Train Launching

Finally, tourists can expect connectivity traveling to and from Cancun to improve from this December when the long-awaited Maya Train is set to launch.

Traveling on a loop around the Yucatan Peninsula, the train will call at all of the main tourist stops and as many as 34 stations, including Cancun and Cancun International Airport, making it a lot easier for passengers arriving at the Mayan Riviera to reach other destinations on the coast.

Image Courtesy Of: Alstom

The train will run parallel to the ocean and, in some sections, over a viaduct, offering panoramas of the verdant scenery below, Mayan ruins, and open-air cenotes, and should leave each station every two hours, from 6 am to 10 pm daily.

Official ticket fares have not yet been announced, but earlier reports indicate they may cost between 60 and 80 Mexican pesos. Learn more about the Maya Train and how it will transform travel in the Mexican Caribbean here.

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August 27, 2023
This Country Is One Of The Cheapest Fall Destinations To Visit This Year

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Now that the peak season is almost behind us and the summer crowds seem to be dispersing, travelers are turning their focus to fall destinations.

Sunny vacations are still a priority, but where should they go when the weather begins cooling?

Believe it or not, East is the answer: this inspiring country is one of the top fall hotspots, as well as one of the cheapest, standing out in an increasingly-Euroized Europe as a budget destination due to its low cost of living and attractive prices.

This season, there’s no place we’d rather be than Turkiye:

Why Is Everyone So Obsessed With Turkiye Right Now?

Formerly spelled Turkey, Turkiye is a transcontinental nation mostly located in Asia, though 3.4% of its land area is part of Europe. Known as the gateway to the Middle East, it has been a source of fascination for centuries, but it’s truly reaching a new peak of popularity now.

Istanbul, the country’s largest city, marks the natural boundary between both continents, sitting on both sides of the legendary Bosphorus Strait.

The minaret-dotted skyline, the lively bazaars, and the European side’s rich Byzantine heritage make it Turkiye’s most easily-recognized postcard.

We have written a detailed 3-day Istanbul itinerary already, which you can check out here, but we should perhaps stress again it is one of the world’s most exciting city breaks.

From ancient, UNESCO-listed monuments to modern districts, you will find the best of both worlds here.

A Diverse Tourist Offer

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Though Istanbul is the most famous destination in Turkiye, its strength in fact lies in its diverse offer. Beyond the Bosphorus and its adjacent megacity lies an entire peninsula blessed with verdant areas, unique geological formations, towering peaks, and pristine coastlines.

Whether it’s the arid landscape and cave towns of Cappadocia, or the scenic Aegean drive, you will be mesmerized by Turkiye’s sheer natural beauty.

This fall, the resort city of Izmir is the ideal place to be.

The country’s largest Aegean city, it has an enviable portfolio of luxury all-inclusive resorts lining the turquoise seafront, with many nightly rates that are far cheaper compared to Barcelona, Nice, and other European cities in its league.

An overnight at the Ibis Izmir Alsancak will set you back by $109 only this fall, while a shared room in a youth hostel in Barcelona can cost as much as $83. Nearly the same price range, but far less comfort.

Turkiye Is Hot This Fall

In case you have forgotten, Turkiye is a Mediterranean country, and Izmir itself boasts long hours of sunshine and hotter temperatures well into autumn, with highs of 84.2 degrees (F) in September and lows of 68.

It stays relatively warm as late as early November, when temperatures average 75.2 degrees during the day, before cooling off in the evenings for a pleasant 60 degrees.

Further down the Mediterranean coast, other popular resort spots include the smaller cities of Bodrum and Marmaris, where tourists can both bask under the scorching sun and marvel at Hellenic ruins that rival Greece’s in beauty.

On the Eastern Mediterranean, Antalya is an absolute leader in holiday bookings, as well as Turkiye’s busiest beach destination, having hosted over 4 million tourists between January 1 and June 10 of this year, according to the Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism.

Antalya is best known for its upscale beachfront hotels and walled Old Town, where several of Turkiye’s most famous Roman-era landmarks are concentrated, including the iconic Hadrian’s Gate and beautiful municipal beaches.

It is Turkiye’s hottest beach destination this fall, with temperatures soaring above 84 degrees and with waters that are warm enough for swimming, which may not be the case on the Northern Aegean later in the year.

Turkiye Is Incredibly Cheap

Other than its beautiful weather, Turkiye is incredibly cheap by Western standards.

This year, Bodrum has ranked as the third cheapest summer destination in all of Eurasia, with meals in non-expensive restaurants averaging a nearly negligible $5, and hotel rates standing at $88.

According to Numbeo, restaurant prices in Antalya are up to 62.2% cheaper than Barcelona, while consumer prices can be 61.7% lower than Nice’s.

This means you should expect to pay, on average, $5.08 for a meal at a cheap eatery in the trendy Konyaalti district of Antalya, and only $22.16 for a three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant. For comparison, a cheap meal in Nice costs roughly $20.74.

It’s no surprise holiday bookings for Turkiye are skyrocketing, as reported by British travel company On the Beach.

Britain is one of Turkiye’s most valuable markets, up there with Germany and the United States, and as many as 1.2 million seats on flights originating from the U.K. have been added this year.

In July alone, as many as 73,000 British holidaymakers flew to Turkiye, with Antalya consistently ranking as the most popular coastal destination for On the Beach customers.

Southern Spain and France’s Cote d’Azur may be Europe’s most sought-after fall destinations, as they are both Mediterranean regions enjoying long, hot summers, and balmy autumns, but despite their undeniable charm, they don’t stand a chance against Turkiye – especially now that new nonstop flights to Istanbul have launched.

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August 24, 2023
The Best National Parks To See The Fall Foliage This Year

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Some people live for summer, and others can’t wait for it to end. If you’re the latter, you’ve been eyeing your jackets, waiting to buy all the pumpkin spice products, and eager for the changing seasons.

Of course, there’s so much to love about fall. For instance, cooler temperatures, the beginning of the holiday season, and one of the most exciting parts, the fall foliage.

It’s coming up on that magical time of the season when the leaves start turning colors. It’s one of nature’s most stunning performances as the once-green leaves turn to vibrant yellows, oranges, reds, and soft browns.

And do you know the best places to see and experience the fall foliage?

You guessed it, national parks. Continue reading about which parks you should schedule a visit to experience this once-a-year event.

New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia

While visiting this national park, there are many ways to view the colorful archaic trees. A common way to explore the park is by walking along one of the many hiking trails.

Another great route across the park is kayaking through one of the world’s oldest rivers.

If you have fall allergies and don’t want to stay outside too long, you can still admire the beautiful landscape. You have the option of cruising in your car along the park’s driving routes.

The best time to visit this park is mid-October.

Zion National Park in Utah

This well-known park offers visitors a breathtaking canyon scenery along the Virgin River.

The colors of the park coordinate with each other as the yellow leaves of the aspen trees match well with the reddish canyon walls.

Strolling along the Virgin River will give you one of the best foliage views.

The ideal time to visit this magical place is late October to early November.

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Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

You’ll want to visit Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado if your favorite color is yellow. During the foliage, the forest becomes drenched in yellow leaves.

This golden color show can be witnessed as early as late August and continues to late September.

Traveling through this park can consist of going along many high-elevation trails. And all the trails offer spectacular views.

The park is most known for Trail Ridge Road. It is one of the highest continuously paved roads in America, with an elevation of 12,183 feet.

Acadia National Park, Maine

One of the four national parks in Maine is Acadia National Park, which gives off a colorful display of orange, yellow, and red leaves during the fall.

Located on the rocky coast of Maine, it is a great place to escape reality and drive along the road for scenic views.

You can also experience the colors by hiking or biking over 100 miles of trails in the national park.

The best time for a visit is the middle of October.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Border of North Carolina and Tennessee

With an elevation of 4,000 feet, the leaf colors change at the highest points and make their way down the mountain.

The park has some of the oldest and largest trees in the country, and they do not disappoint when their leaves turn to deep reds and lively oranges and yellows.

While color changes start to happen in late September, the best time to go is early November.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

The park is filled with sugar maples and Sassafras trees that turn to dark oranges and fiery reds.

A short drive outside of Cleveland, Ohio, you can enjoy a day of hiking along the Brandywine Gorge Trail until you reach Brandywine Falls.

You might have difficulty putting your phone away along the trail because you’ll want to capture all the vibrant colors.

The best time to visit is late September through November.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas

While old Western movies will have you believe that Texas is a mostly desert landscape, that is quite the contrary.

The Guadalupe Mountains National Park’s McKittrick Canyon is the not-so-obvious spot for fall foliage. Yet it’s spectacular.

The park has a mixture of evergreen green and deciduous trees, but their maple trees are the ones that call the most attention.

In the park, you get the full range of fall colors, and the best time to visit is mid-October to mid-November.

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August 16, 2023
5 Reasons Why You Should Not Visit Venice This Year

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Out of all European destinations, Venice is perhaps the most sought-after among American tourists.

Having featured extensively in the media and existing in our collective imagination as Italy’s magical city on water, it draws in millions of tourists every year.

Sadly, Venice has been battling its own serious issues lately, and it seems to be failing to overcome them, making it an increasingly less attractive destination in what’s already an overcrowded country.

But how exactly is the maritime power meeting its downfall – once again – and why should you avoid it?

In this article, we will give you 5 reasons why Venice is best avoided this year (and early fall):

Pickpockets Are Out In Droves

Unless you’ve been living under a rock in the last few weeks, you’ve probably scrolled past a series of videos of an enthusiastic Italian woman denouncing ‘borseggiatori’ in Venice.

The infamous ‘pickpockets’ roam the canal city targeting newcomers who are not yet familiar with local safety measures.

Recently, Italy was named the absolute worst for pickpocketing in Europe, and a majority of occurrences seem to be centered in the tourist hotspots of Rome, Milan, Florence, and of course, Venice, as it is one of the country’s leading destinations.

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Overall, there are 463 pickpocketing mentions across Italian cities for every million visitors, the highest figure in Europe.

As Venice accounts for a sizable percentage of those petty crimes, which tend to soar over summer, it is probably not the best place to be right now.

Locals Can’t Stand Tourists

If there’s one thing Italians, and in particular Venetians, disapprove of more than pineapple on pizza is tourists. Well, let us rephrase this: hordes of tourists.

Though Italy is heavily reliant on American dollars, with tourism accounting for close to 10% of its GDP, locals and authorities alike have repeatedly expressed their dislike of gentrification and price fluctuations caused by mass tourism and the crowding of historic centers.

Venice is no different, as it gets jam-packed not only in summer but year-round, with iconic points of interest such as the Piazza San Marco seeing excessive crowding day and night.

Speaking in an American or British accent, you will soon notice some Venetians may look at you as if they’re rolling their eyes internally, or you could even get a taste of their world-renowned rudeness towards tourists.

Don’t get us wrong, Italians are incredibly warm, friendly people, but they are navigating a fine line between being receptive to tourism, as it is part of their income, and having their livelihoods disrupted due to an uncontrolled increase in the number of visitors – and they have made their dissatisfaction known a number of times before.

There Is A Ticketing System Coming

Venice is so fed up with tourists that it now wants to introduce a ticketing system set to affect all American, British, and European passport holders visiting the lagoon and its many islands.

In other words, you will need to buy a ticket to enter the city, which only adds to the cost of visiting, as tourists are already subject to a visitor tax, and a ban on day trips when traveling as cruise passengers. Though the measure is yet to be implemented, it has already been confirmed.

Once implemented, tickets will be issued as QR codes to be checked upon entry at one of the city’s to-be-designated entry points. As you can see, this is a destination that has made it clear tourists should reconsider visiting unless they are willing to stay longer and pay up.

Venice Is Mad Expensive

On the topic of affordability, Venice is probably one of the most expensive cities for tourists not only in Italy but all of Southern Europe.

According to the popular crowd-sourced database Budget Your Trip, a peak-season trip to Venice will cost on average $253 per day, with tourists expected to spend on average $71 for meals per day at mid-range restaurants and around $30 on public transportation.

Additionally, hotel prices for two individuals average $265 per night, increasing the cost of a week-long sejour in Venice to roughly $3,542.

Unless you’re saving up by not eating out most nights, staying in a shared room in a hostel, and skipping museums, a Venice vacay surely has the potential to break the bank if you’re a budget traveler.

Venice Risks Becoming A World Heritage Site In Danger

Finally, UNESCO has recommended adding Venice to its list of World Heritage Sites in danger, largely due to overtourism concerns and the city’s failed attempts at adapting to the climate crisis.

As you should know by now, Venice is built on a complex ecosystem of islands scattered around a shallow lagoon, and it often sees either flooding or disruptive droughts depending on the season that often leave its picturesque canals drained for days on end.

These disturbances continuously threaten to damage the city’s architectural treasures, not to mention the scale of tourism it experiences, which contributes to more littering, the degradation of public spaces, and overall deterioration as a result of human interference.

UNESCO now believes Venice, one of our civilization’s greatest feats, faces ‘irreversible damage’, and proposes it is added to the organization’s in-danger listing from September. This means tourists should expect heightened surveillance and even more restrictive measures to curb visitation.

All in all, it’s not the best time to pay the Queen of the Adriatic a visit, but there are always lesser-known alternatives in Northern Italy that receive far fewer tourists and are just as charming and rich in History as Venice is.

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August 6, 2023
Why This Charming Spanish City Has Been Rated A Traveler Favorite This Year

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With a country packed so full of culture, beauty, and delicious food, choosing where to visit in Spain can be quite the undertaking.

Barcelona will always be a top choice for tourists, and Madrid is not far behind, and therefore it’s common for other fantastic locations to get overlooked.

One such city that is often not included on a travel itinerary is the 2,000-year-old city of Valencia, located on Spain’s eastern coast in the center of the Gulf of Valencia.

As Spain’s third largest city, Valencia is not a typical Spanish city — with its own language, unique cuisine, and a blend of ancient and futuristic buildings. Some say that Valencia is not the typical idyllic Spanish town that certain travelers are looking for, yet its uniqueness is part of its charm.

Recently rated as the top coastal destination in Europe, Valencia has a lot to offer travelers looking for something a bit different. It won the top spot on the coastal cities list, especially for being peaceful and quiet, being a great value, and having many attractions as well as a beach.

@miortravel Our favourite spots in 📍 Valencia #Explore #Viral #Visit #Spain #Valencia #Visitspain #Spaintiktok #Travel #Traveltiktok #Love #Esp #España #Viajes #Beautifulplaces #Trending #Fy #Fyp #fypシ ♬ LLYLM – ROSALÍA

The city is still quite unknown to most American travelers, often losing ground to Barcelona and Madrid. But more international tourists are starting to realize that Valencia has all the architecture, culture, and food of the bigger cities, with a much lower price tag.

Here’s Why Valencia Has Been Rated A Traveler Favorite This Year:

Old Meets New

As one of Spain’s oldest cities, exploring the Old Town is a must-do when visiting. Valencia’s old town is compact enough to enjoy walking around without getting lost in the maze-like streets, lined with vibrantly hued buildings and narrow cobbled alleys.

Check out the colorful street art that the city is known for, enjoy some al fresco food and drinks, and people-watch in the many plazas.

With architectural styles such as Art Nouveau, Gothic, Moorish, Roman, and more, there is quite a melting pot of styles to enjoy as you walk around.

You can’t miss seeing La Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, La Lonja de la Seda, or the 13th-century Valencia Cathedral.

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Did Someone Say Food?

While offered throughout many places in Spain, Valencia is known for their menu del dias. Usually available midday between 1-4 pm, most consist of a meal deal with a drink, bread, starter, entree, and dessert, all offered for a set price. Valencia is known by travelers as having a cheaper menu del dias than other major Spanish cities.

As the birthplace of Paella, Valencia is also known for its homegrown rice, a source of pride, as its unique taste is a result of the minerals in the water.

You can also easily spend a day eating your way through the popular central market, tasting local specialties from all over the region.

@amberb0s Things to do in Valencia – ultimate guide #fyp #valencia #travel ♬ Slow Motion – AMARIA BB

Keep Busy

Visit Valencia in the middle of March for the crazy spectacle of parades and fireworks known as Las Fallas, and enjoy the party atmosphere with the locals.

Or get outside and check out the nearly 10 km-long Turia Park, a must-visit if you like walking or running outdoors; some even cite it as one of the best city parks they have ever seen.

It also should go without saying that by choosing to enjoy Valencia for a holiday as compared to Madrid or Barcelona, you will be saving money. Some estimate that Valencia is nearly $40 a day cheaper than Barcelona, so take those savings and plan your next trip to another underrated destination!

Attention Beach Lovers

Valencia sees over 300 days of sunshine a year, which is perfect since there are over 12 miles of beach to enjoy near the city.

Las Areanas, La Patacoa, and La Malvarrosa are all the ones you can find closest to the Old Town, offering over 2 miles of the seafront to enjoy, with no end of bars and restaurants to watch the sea roll in after a full day of lounging under an umbrella.

Valencia Awaits

While Valencia might be known as being the more livable and practical of Spain’s major cities, that’s not to say it is lacking in charm.

Come here for a sunny and fun time, take in the history of the area, enjoy the landmarks and the food, and don’t forget to give the beaches a chance as well.

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July 28, 2023
Why Travelers Should Visit This Underrated Destination In The UK This Year

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The United Kingdom is the most popular international destination for American travelers in 2023, with a 145% increase in flight bookings from the United States to the United Kingdom compared to last year.

Most American travelers are going to London, which is the most popular international destination of the summer.

Though London takes the lead, other travelers will venture elsewhere in England or head north to spend some time in Scotland.

But far fewer travelers will venture to Wales, another country that is part of the United Kingdom. There’s so much more to the UK than just London, and Wales is one of those under-the-radar destinations.

Despite its proximity to London, Wales remains an underrated gem in the UK.

Here’s why this part of the United Kingdom should be on your travel wishlist this year:

1. It’s Less Crowded Than England

England is the most-visited destination in the United Kingdom, but Wales receives comparatively fewer tourists. The majority of tourists to Wales are day-trippers from England, so if you spend a few days to a week exploring the country, you aren’t likely to contend with extreme tourist crowds.

This makes for a much more pleasant experience. Rather than waiting in long queues and elbowing your way through crowds at popular tourist landmarks, you can enjoy solitude and tranquility in Wales.

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Wales is full of underrated beaches, national parks, and cities that see far fewer crowds than neighboring England.

2. It’s More Affordable Than London

Wales is also more affordable than London (and the rest of England.) Although London is the most popular international destination for American travelers, it’s notoriously pricy.

According to the travel planning resource BudgetYourTrip, the average cost of a hotel room in London, England is £247 (approximately $317 USD) per night.

However, in Cardiff, Wales, the average cost of a hotel room is only £186 ($238 USD) per night, which is around 25% cheaper.

Overall, you can have a much more affordable vacation in Wales than you can in England. The cost of living is lower, and everything from food to activities to transportation is cheaper in Wales.

3. Wales Is Full Of Natural Beauty

One of the biggest reasons to visit Wales this year is because of its unspoiled natural beauty.

For hikers and outdoor adventurers, Wales has several national parks to explore. Snowdonia and Brecon Beacons National Parks are known for their mountains, while Pembrokeshire Coast National Park has wild and rugged beaches.

Wales is full of surprisingly beautiful beaches, dotted with colorful fishing villages and ancient castles.

Cities like Cardiff and Swansea are also worth a visit, but the real highlights of Wales lie in the country’s great wealth of natural beauty and scenic landscapes, as well as its quaint and picturesque small towns.

4. It’s Easily Accessible From London

Getting to Wales is not difficult. In fact, it’s a very quick journey from London, which is the main travel hub of the United Kingdom.

Although Wales has an international airport in Cardiff, there are very few direct flights from abroad and none from the United States.

Instead, you can get from London to Cardiff by train in just 1 hour and 50 minutes. While it’s possible to visit Cardiff on a day trip and possibly squeeze in a couple of other sights, it’s really better to treat Wales as a destination in its own right.

With limited time, two or three days would allow you to see some of the main highlights of this fairly small country. If you have a full week, you can thoroughly explore Wales’ mountains, coastline, and cities and towns.

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July 18, 2023
This Fascinating City Is One Of The Top Cultural Destinations In Mexico This Year

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Mexico is the number one destination for Americans going abroad. Famous for its pristine beaches, turquoise-colored oceans, and well-developed resort zones, it attracts millions of tourists every year who are in search of a sunny break.

Not all of those who cross the Southern border are keen on lounging by the poolside all day, though: Mexico is indeed best-known as a tropical getaway, but it is also one of the world’s top cultural destinations, what with its host of UNESCO-listed ancient sites and rich Hispanic heritage.

If it’s culture you seek, then you should consider adding a visit to this lesser-known spot as well:

Why You Should Add Campeche To Your Mexico Bucket List

Campeche is one of Mexico’s 31 federal entities, located on the Yucatan Peninsula, where it is bounded by the Gulf of Mexico and borders the states of Yucatan and Quintana Roo.

Unbeknownst to most vacationers, who flock instead to the neighboring provinces, where the likes of Merida, Cancun, and Tulum are located, Campeche is perhaps Mexico’s most promising cultural destination, largely due to its stately capital.

San Francisco de Campeche, more commonly known simply as Campeche, stands among the oldest European colonies in the Americas, having been founded by the Conquistadores as early as 1540, almost seven decades prior to the settlement of Jamestown in Virginia.

Before the Europeans came, Campeche was the site of a Mayan port called Can Pech, from which it derives its name, though very few traces of the original town remain.

The modern city is a trove of inestimable colonial-era treasures, so much so that it was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status.

Campeche Is A Colonial Gem Waiting To Be Discovered

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The designation recognizes Campeche’s well-preserved historic core, built by the Spanish in accord with Iberian customs of the time and later fortified amid the threat of pirates in the Gulf and the wider Caribbean region.

Campeche’s fortifications are one of the city’s main points of interest, enclosing beautiful Spanish-era landmarks like the Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Inmaculada Concepción, and the colorful baroque buildings that surround the Plaza de la Independencia.

History buffs might want to check out Campeche’s defensive bulwarks, specifically Nuestra Señora de la Soledad, no longer a military stronghold, and now the house of the Museum of City History instead, and the San Carlos section, attached to the Sea Gate, now converted into a smaller city museum.

Even if it’s culture you’re after exclusively, and a more authentic Mexican experience, you should definitely take a day to simply relax and enjoy the oceanic vibes.

Beautiful Beaches Within Driving Distance Of Campeche City

Campeche is a coastal destination, after all, and its abundance of swimming spots rival even that of the Riviera Maya.

The city’s modern seafront promenade, the Malecón de Campeche, draws in thousands of visitors due to its collection of historical monuments straddling the coast and the breathtaking sunset views it offers, as do the golden sand beaches around Campeche.

It is a tropical paradisiacal beach of white and golden Caribbean sand, very popular with tourists. Summer vacations.

Playa Caracol is perhaps the most frequented beach due to its proximity to the city, the crystalline hue of the waters, and the shallow depths.

A bit further out, Manigua is also not to be missed, with its coconut palms, bright blue ocean, and traditional seafood eateries.

A Safe Cultural Hotspot

Although Campeche (city) is not yet a Magical Town itself, as defined by Mexican tourism and culture authorities – though it is certainly a strong contender – the wider state has two pueblos magicos within driving distance of the capital you might want to add to your bucket list.

These are Isla Aguada, an island in the Gulf of Mexico famous for its historic lighthouse, underwater archaeology museum, and unspoiled beaches, and Palizada, a European-style small town with colorful houses and French-inspired architecture.

Other than being a unique cultural hotspot, Campeche is Mexico’s safest tourist destination alongside the neighboring state of Yucatan.

Both are included in the U.S. State Department’s Level 1 Travel Advisory listing, meaning ‘normal precautions’ apply when traveling.

How To Get To Campeche

The closest airport to Campeche (city) is Alberto Acuña Ongay International Airport, which serves both the capital region and the entire state, though it only hosts flights from Mexico City.

There is a bigger airport in Merida, in the neighboring state of Yucatan, a short 2h17 drive away.

The hub in Merida is more well-connected, hosting nonstop flights from a number of U.S. and Canadian cities such as Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Miami, and Toronto (seasonally).

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June 26, 2023