Tag: Year

5 Reasons Why Puerto Rico Is One Of The Hottest Destinations Of The Year

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Puerto Rico has been growing in popularity among travelers in recent years as the ultimate destination for a tropical island getaway.

This Caribbean island, which is a territory of the United States, saw a record-breaking 5.1 million tourists in 2022 — a massive increase from the 3.7 million tourists it received in 2019.

Why is Puerto Rico so hot right now?

Here are some of the reasons to consider this island destination for your next vacation:

1. Easily Accessible From The U.S.

Getting to Puerto Rico could not be easier. As a territory of the United States, American travelers to Puerto Rico do not need a passport.

There are nonstop flights from more than 25 cities across the U.S. to Puerto Rico, with frequent service on budget airlines like Spirit and Frontier. This makes Puerto Rico an affordable destination if you’re looking for a Caribbean getaway.

It’s also a short flight from many destinations in the United States. For example, Miami to San Juan is only 2.5 hours, while New York to San Juan takes 4 hours.

2. Beautiful Beaches

One of the biggest draws to Puerto Rico is the island’s beautiful beaches. Many of Puerto Rico’s beaches are regularly named among the best in the Caribbean.

Flamenco Beach, on the small island of Culebra, was recently rated as one of the best in the world.

If you’re looking for powdery white sand, gently swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear blue waters, you’ll find it in Puerto Rico’s many stunning beaches.

On the western side of the island, beaches like Rincón are popular spots for catching a gorgeous sunset.

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3. Lots Of Hotels And Resorts

Visitors to Puerto Rico will be pleased to discover that there is a great variety of hotels and resorts on the island, perfect for any type of traveler.

From sprawling resorts to intimate boutique hotels, there are options for every traveler. You will also find hotels and resorts at every price point.

Room rates are lower during the off-season in Puerto Rico, which lasts from June through November. Although it may be a little rainier and more humid on the island during these months, it’s a great time to travel to save money on accommodation costs.

The hotel options in Puerto Rico are only continuing to grow. Hilton has announced they plan to open 10 new hotels in San Juan, Ponce, and Dorado by 2025.

4. History And Culture

If you’re more interested in exploring a destination’s history and culture than just lying on the beach all day, Puerto Rico is the perfect place for you.

Along with its natural beauty and beaches, Puerto Rico is also a great cultural destination.

San Juan is a popular place to stay in Puerto Rico because it offers a great mix of history, culture, art, and cuisine, while still being close to good beaches.

From historic Spanish forts to colorful streets to art galleries and museums, San Juan is a must-visit destination to explore while in Puerto Rico.

5. Adventurous Activities

Finally, Puerto Rico is a great adventure travel destination. There’s so much more to the island than just beaches — you’ll find tropical rainforests and lush mountains too.

Exploring El Yunque National Forest is one of the top activities to do in Puerto Rico. You can walk on elevated pathways among the treetops, discover beautiful waterfalls, and even try ziplining through the canopy if you want to get your adrenaline pumping.

Another unique spot to visit in Puerto Rico is Mosquito Bay, known for its bioluminescence, which has been recognized as the brightest and most vivid in the world.

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June 8, 2023
These Are The 7 Most Popular National Parks To Visit In Canada This Year
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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.

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2. Jasper National Park – Alberta

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:
- 8. Point Pelee National Park – Ontario
- 9. Waterton Lakes National Park – Alberta
- 10. Bruce Peninsula National Park – Ontario
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June 3, 2023
Why A Repositioning Cruise May Be The Cheapest Way To Travel This Year

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Repositioning cruises are one of the best-kept secrets in the travel industry.

While they aren’t for everyone, repositioning cruises can be one of the best and most affordable ways to travel long distances.

Here’s what travelers need to know about repositioning cruises and how they can save you money:

What Is A Repositioning Cruise?

A repositioning cruise is a one-way cruise with different departure and arrival ports, typically crossing a major body of water.

For example, a trans-Atlantic repositioning cruise may depart from a port in Florida and arrive in a European port like Barcelona.

Another example of a repositioning cruise is a cruise leaving from Seattle, traveling down the Pacific coast, passing through the Panama Canal, and arriving at a port in Florida.

Cruise lines need to move their ships to different seasonal home ports, which is why repositioning cruises occur.

However, because of this, repositioning cruises are typically longer than the average cruise and contain many more days at sea. A repositioning cruise may be 14 days or longer, with 10 or more days at sea.

If you don’t mind spending a long time on a cruise ship, then a repositioning cruise can be a great way to travel abroad from the United States.

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Why Are Repositioning Cruises A Good Deal?

Repositioning cruises are a great deal for travelers because the cost is often much less than that of a typical cruise.

The price for a 14-day repositioning cruise from the East Coast of the United States to Europe is often well under $1,000 per person (with inside cabins available for as little as $600.)

This includes your accommodation, all meals, and entertainment for two weeks.

Trans-Atlantic cruises also allow you to stop at ports of call that are otherwise difficult or expensive to visit. A typical trans-Atlantic cruise route may have you stopping in the Azores and the Canary Islands before making your way to Malaga, Valencia, and Barcelona.

When you consider that airfare to Europe from the United States has increased by 37% since 2022, a trans-Atlantic cruise can be a bargain.

The average cost of a flight to Europe from the U.S. is $1,167 right now, according to data from Hopper. However, Americans traveling to Europe from most cities in the U.S. will find that flights are even more expensive, typically exceeding $1,500 round-trip.

So a repositioning cruise can be cheaper than a flight to Europe, and it includes accommodation, food, entertainment, and stops at exciting ports along the way.

Who Is A Repositioning Cruise Good For?

Repositioning cruises are perfect for travelers who have ample time and enjoy the journey just as much as the destination.

If you have limited vacation time, a repositioning cruise probably isn’t right for you since most repositioning cruises are at least two weeks.

Repositioning cruises are also good for travelers who are okay with being offline for a while. WiFi on cruise ships has improved considerably in recent years, but on repositioning cruises, especially trans-Atlantic and trans-Pacific voyages, it can still be inconsistent.

So while you may be able to work or stay connected on other cruises, it’s still hit or miss when it comes to many repositioning cruises.

Another thing to consider when taking a repositioning cruise is how you’ll get back to the U.S. after it’s over. Since repositioning cruises end in a different location (which may even be across the ocean from where you started) you’ll need to arrange a one-way flight home.

However, if you have the time, a repositioning cruise can be an incredible experience and a good value.

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May 15, 2023
Why This Small European Nation Should Be On Your Travel Radar This Year

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Travelers looking to go off the beaten path of typical places like Paris, Rome, or the Greek Islands should strongly consider the small nation of Malta.

This pint-size archipelago located between Sicily and North Africa is full of amazement with its rich culture and history.

The wondrous, walled capital city, Valletta, was named the European Capital of Culture 5 years ago, but it should remain at the top of Malta’s must-see places.

To those who haven’t already been to this beautiful country, this is the year to change that.

With many new things to experience, Malta should be at the top of the list when booking a European getaway.

A New Thriving Foodie Scene

Valletta is an old city full of character than can take visitors back in time through its winding streets of endless, scenic views along its rocky coastlines.

Although it may be old, there is an emerging food scene coming into bloom. To those that know Malta’s history, it should be no surprise that the culinary scene is starting to get noticed.

With deep roots in Italian, Arab, and African influences, local chefs highlight an ode to the past while boldly combining new flavors that can please any palette.

Whether it’s the fresh produce or Malta’s take on farm-to-table cuisine, foodies will absolutely love the local grub.

In fact, 6 restaurants across this small country have Michelin stars making a perfect pairing with Malta’s already world-renowned wine offerings.

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More Hotels Are Opening

While Malta is not considered to be unpopular, it’s certainly not on the same playing field as many other European destinations.

That doesn’t mean there aren’t luxurious places to stay. There are many, actually, such as The Phoenicia Malta.

But since Malta is so small, more hotels opening will entice travelers to stay somewhere shiny and new to make themselves feel more comfortable at their home away from home.

Luxury boutique hotels are popping up left and right, including the highly anticipated ME Malta, aiming to show the more artsy, fashionable side of the country and breathtaking views from the ritzy rooftop bar.

Take A Deep Dive Into Malta’s History And Culture

Malta is home to a trio of UNESCO World Heritage sites. It would be hard to visit Malta without at least passing through the gorgeous city of Valletta, but visitors may not be aware of other sites.

The capital city is a protected site, along with the island’s unique megalithic temples. Others might be interested to see The Hypogeum of Ħal Saflien.

This is a giant Neolithic underground structure discovered in the early 1900s that dates back to at least 2500 B.C.

There are some notable galleries and museums to consider visiting in Malta, such as MUZA, the National Museum of Art.

Art lovers will love to know MUZA is prepping to launch the first-ever Malta Art Biennale set to take place in the Spring of 2024.

Aligning with Malta’s festa season, where villages partake in weeklong festivities to honor patron saints.

Tourists who arrive in the spring next year can expect a celebration through music, food, art, and wine.

Malta’s Newest Attraction

Malta is already considered to be a top-flight destination for divers. Surrounded by pristine blue waters, that should be no surprise.

What may be surprising is the latest attraction in Malta as they are set to become the first nation to offer a first-of-its-kind archeological park in deep waters.

Adventurous travelers can soon head to Xlendi Bay to discover another world in the deep depths of the ocean.

The new site has an official name – Tower Wreck Deepwater Archaeological Park. Divers can explore a seemingly endless abyss of over 720,000 square feet of deepwater space.

Ancient relics lie here, dating back well over 2,000 years ago. While this area is definitely for experienced divers, those who aren’t privy to exploring the deep sea can still gain access.

A virtual museum with 360-degree models, photos, and high-quality videos will be showcased online for anyone to enjoy.

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April 24, 2023
Top 3 Comeback Destinations Of The Year For American Travelers
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Have you ever noticed that many people travel back to the same places each year?

Seeing as much of the world as possible is on many travelers’ bucket lists, but some destinations keep us coming back time and time again.

Whether solo traveling or bringing the family along, there are benefits to returning to the same places. Each visit brings something new, and returning each year gives you time to appreciate a destination and all it offers.

If you’re wondering where everyone else is returning to, here are the top 3 comeback destinations of the year for American travelers:

Destination spots like Japan, Bali, and Thailand are favorites for American travelers for all sorts of reasons, including:
- They’re far enough to be off the beaten path and have some of the best amenities, like pristine beaches and urban cities for travelers of all shapes and sizes.
- Places like Tokyo and Bangkok are some of the biggest cities in the world, but if you travel less than an hour away, you’re in a tropical paradise—this juxtaposition of urban vs. rural makes any vacation awesome.
Here are the top three comeback destinations of the year for American Travelers:

Japan

Japan just opened for international travel for the first time in years, and travelers are itching to return.

It has tons of culture and history, an urban metropolitan vibe, beautiful scenery, and fantastic food.

Traveling here once won’t doesn’t even scratch the surface of what Japan really is, which is why so many travelers come back time and time again.

Travelers discover something new everytime they come here.

If you’re headed there this summer, check out some of the hotsprings. Some towns, like Beppu, are considered hot springs meccas, which can add another layer of enjoyment to this already famous Asian country.

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Bali

If you’ve ever watched Eat, Pray, Love with Julia Roberts, you know how magical Bali can be. In the movie, it’s the last stop on her journey — where she finishes her story.

It might be a mixture of the culture or the fantastic natural amenities like beaches and waterfalls, but Americans love this place, and Bali is a paradise that should be treasured.

There’s so much to the province that it’s almost impossible to discover all of it during one visit alone.

Places like the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary fascinate travelers. We don’t know if it’s because they find it comical that they get mugged by monkeys every time they go there, but it seems to draw travelers from all over the world.

Other spots like Sanur are great because they have a relaxed vibe, but you can still enjoy many water sports like scuba diving, snorkeling, and more.

Thailand

Returning to Thailand takes little thought. It’s another destination in Southeast Asia known for having everything you would need as a traveler.

Thailand has great beach towns like Ko Samui, Pa Tong, and Pattaya City.

Urban areas like Bangkok can be intimidating for travelers just looking for a beach vacation, but if you’re down with jumping into a city, Bangkok has some of Thailand’s best restaurants and bars.

If you want to party by the beach, head over to Phuket.

Here you’ll find a mixture of island life with nightclubs, bars, raves, and beach parties. The parties here may be intense, but you should try going at least once.

The Phi Phi Islands are another reason why Thailand is so great. If you make it there, you’ll be blown away by the transparent water and almost alien-like mountains.

Americans genuinely love these destinations, and have returned to them over and over again for years. Now that they are all restricion free, excpect them to be filled with travelers as they each make their comeback to the travelsphere.

Returning to these places year after year is fine because, like a movie or book, watching it the second or third time will show you something new.

It’s those little things that make traveling worth it, and with the pandemic behind us, it’s the perfect time to return to your favorite destination. You might learn something new.

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April 19, 2023
6 Ways To Save Money On Last-Minute Trips This Year

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Last-minute trips are one of the biggest travel trends of 2023.

According to the 2023 Travel Trends Report from the travel booking website Hopper, travelers are spending 30% less time planning trips compared to 2019.

Travelers are planning trips just 5 weeks in advance, compared to almost 7 weeks in advance for pre-pandemic trips.

And when it comes to actually booking trips, travelers are doing it just 3 weeks in advance.

So how can you save money on last-minute trips this year when everything from hotel prices to airfare has skyrocketed in 2023?

Here are six savvy tips to help you score a good deal on last-minute travel:

1. Be Flexible On Travel Dates

One of the best ways to save money on last-minute travel is to be flexible with your travel dates. Departing mid-week is an especially good way to save money on airfare.

According to data from Hopper, travelers who fly mid-week can save an average of $90 on domestic flights and over $140 on international flights.

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2. Avoid Saturday Night Stays

Another big way to save money is by avoiding Saturday night hotel stays. This is often the most expensive night at hotels, and avoiding it can help travelers save 25% off their nightly rate, according to Hopper’s report.

Checking out on a Saturday morning isn’t ideal if you were hoping to make the most out of the weekend, but it’s a big way you can save money overall.

3. Be Flexible On Destination

If you don’t have your heart set on one particular destination, being flexible about where you go is a great way to save money.

The “Everywhere Search” feature on Skyscanner allows you to search flights to all destinations from your home city so you can see the cheapest options. You can also do something similar on Google Flights by clicking the “Explore Destinations” button after you put in your home city for departure.

4. Opt For City Breaks

Last-minute airfare to big cities in the United States is often cheaper than you might expect. For example, the average airfare to Miami is $264, and to Las Vegas it’s $298.

Compare that to West Yellowstone ($772) or Martha’s Vineyard ($375) and you can see that a city break works out to be cheaper than visiting a national park or beach town destination.

5. Find Last-Minute Hotel Deals

Hotels that still have room inventory a few days in advance often offer great last-minute deals as an attempt to fill their rooms.

Websites like Hotwire and Hotels.com are worth checking for last-minute hotel deals. It’s possible to score great prices that just aren’t available weeks or months in advance… but be careful if you’re traveling during a destination’s peak season because last-minute deals may not be available, and hotels can even be fully sold out!

6. Combine Work And Travel

“Workations” that combine work and travel have become extremely popular in recent years as more employees have the ability to work remotely or in a hybrid environment.

According to Hopper, 77% of travelers plan to tack on work to the beginning or end of a vacation this year. If you can work remotely during part of your trip, it makes it easier to depart mid-week and get better deals on flights and hotels.

Other Ways To Save Money On Travel This Year

Looking for more ways to save money on travel this year?

These international destinations are some of the most affordable for 2023.

These tips will help you save money on airfare, and these are some of the most affordable rental car companies if you’ll be driving during your vacation.

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April 15, 2023
These Are The Top 6 Places To Witness The Total Solar Eclipse Next Year

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The year 2024 promises to be an exciting one for star-gazing Americans (and neighbors) as a total solar eclipse will sweep across parts of North America.

Although eclipses do happen once or twice a year, they are often partial and only visible from a select few places across the globe.

Next year’s eclipse will be the last total solar eclipse visible from North America until 2044, and people are already planning their trips to witness the rare event.

The path of totality (the prime viewing locations) spreads across Mexico, the United States, and Canada, starting in the Pacific Ocean and continuing to the northeast.

The eclipse, which will occur on April 8, 2024, will be visible in some major cities, as well as some unique and surprising locations.

Here are some of the best places to see the 2024 total solar eclipse:

1. The Emerald Princess Cruise Ship

Passengers of the Emerald Princess can actually watch the eclipse from the ocean off the coast of Mexico on a special cruise route.

The cruise line has altered one of its existing itineraries, departing Los Angeles and continuing to Fort Lauderdale, to include the phenomenon.

Guests will be given glasses to safely watch the eclipse and be joined by an astronomy expert.

2. Mazatlan, Mexico

The charming coastal city of Mazatlan, Mexico happens to be in the direct path of totality.

Known for its stunning beaches and delicious seafood, Mazatlan is a popular destination for a relaxed beach getaway.

Visitors can take a stroll on the Malecon boardwalk or stay in one of the many resorts.

This could be a great option for those wanting to combine an affordable beach vacation with an unforgettable eclipse viewing experience.

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3. Texas

Some of Texas’s most well-known cities lie just on the edge of the viewing path.

San Antonio, Austin, and the Dallas/Fort Worth area are all amazing destinations for those who would like to view from a larger city.

With many options for accommodation, there may be more availability for those who want to book later.

With San Antonio’s famous River Walk and Austin’s stunning nature, visitors can easily find an ideal viewing point, as well as some other fun activities to fill a long weekend (April 8^th lies on a Monday).

4. Northwest Arkansas

Northwest Arkansas is known for its natural beauty – it is the Natural State, after all.

A cozy cabin tucked away in the Ozark Mountains would be a perfect place for a peaceful getaway, as would one of the many campsites located throughout.

The quaint and charming towns of Hot Springs and Eureka Springs are also great options, although it would be best to book any of these locations as soon as possible.

Campsites are already being booked for the event, and small towns in the area are currently looking for ways to accommodate the influx of people.

5. Niagara Falls State Park

With its incredible natural beauty and rich history, Niagara Falls State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Offering breathtaking views of the falls as well as opportunities for hiking, boating, and other outdoor activities, it’s no wonder that it is the most Instagrammed state park in the U.S.

Combine that with a rare phenomenon such as the total solar eclipse, and you’ve got the ultimate viewing location.

The area also offers a number of accommodation options, ranging from campsites to hotels to vacation rentals.

6. Canada

As the path moves to the northeast, it will just barely pass Toronto, then cross Montreal before moving over Prince Edward Island.

These distinct locations offer their own unique characteristics. Montreal is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, captivating visitors with its charm and energy.

Prince Edward Island, on the other hand, is a picturesque island province known for its red-sand beaches and quaint fishing villages.

Each has its own allure, allowing travelers to choose the experience that suits them best.

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April 11, 2023
These Are The Top 8 Trending Destinations This Year

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Now that travel has returned, where are people going?

While many countries have seen their tourist arrival numbers steadily increasing last year and so far this year as well, there have been some countries that have performed much better than anticipated.

Using data gathered from official tourism agencies around the world, there are certain destinations that are coming out on top so far this year.

With tourism numbers climbing to pre-pandemic levels again, these countries are some that are showing the biggest jumps in arrivals.

These Are The Top 8 Trending Destinations This Year:

Armenia

One county that is trending with travelers this year is the often-overlooked Armenia.

In January 2023, 69% more foreign tourists visited Armenia than in January 2022, based on numbers from the Armenia Tourism Committee.

People are flocking to this Eastern European country for its diverse landscape of deserts, canyons, and mountains, and not to forget the stunning Lake Sevan.

Aside from the beauty, Armenia is rich in cultural heritage and fantastic food and wine.

While tourism numbers are up for Armenia, it seems that many American travelers still don’t know about this stunning country and all it has to offer.

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Georgia

Thanks in part to a tourist campaign initiated by the Tbilisi government, international arrival numbers are up for this underrated country.

Known as the birthplace of wine, many come here for the rich melting pot of its capital city, to explore the countryside for the ancient cave cities, and to see Europe’s highest village.

As a trending destination, there are many reasons to visit Georgia this year.

Being known as a safe destination helps boost Georgia’s profile for tourists as well, as having a relatively perceived degree of safety is a big draw for those who come here.

Thailand

This Southeast Asian hotspot is trending again, with many international tourists arriving so far this year.

Data from the Thai Ministry of Tourism and Sports indicate that in January of 2023, 2.14 million visitors arrived in Thailand, a jump of over 1,500% from this time last year.

One reason for Thailand’s massive spike in arrival numbers is the reopening of China, with Thailand being a favored destination for Chinese tourists.

Of course, Thailand has been and will always remain a popular option for tourists from around the world; with beaches, islands, temples, and fantastic food, it’s clear why it’s always a frontrunner.

Those planning a trip to the Land of Smiles will need to keep in mind that this year, a tourist fee will begin.

Hong Kong

After finally dropping its travel restrictions at the end of last year, Hong Kong has seen a huge boost in international arrivals.

January 2023 brought over seventy times the amount of visitors that January 2022 did.

With the scrapping of masks this March, tourists have been heading back to this one-of-a-kind city.

In addition to arrival numbers being up, officials have reported that retail figures are steadily creeping back up to pre-pandemic levels as well, as many people do come to this metropolis for shopping.

Not only is Hong Kong trending with travelers, but with shoppers as well.

Saudi Arabia

One country in the Middle East that is trending with international travelers is Saudi Arabia.

In an effort to boost its tourism profile, Saudi Arabia is aiming for 25 million foreign visitors this year, after 16.5 tourist arrivals last year.

Ahmad Al-Khateeb, the kingdom’s Minister of Tourism, has stated that he expects Saudi Arabia to rank 17th in terms of worldwide tourist attractions, enticing visitors to come and explore the kingdom’s archeological sites, beaches, and other diverse sights.

Another reason to keep an eye on Saudi Arabia for future trips is the massive project they are planning, resulting in a new city that will be 33 times larger than New York City.

Spain

Europe is the world’s largest designation region, and travel numbers across the continent are up, with some countries faring better than others.

One front-runner with international tourist arrivals is Spain, with a whopping nearly 65.8% increase in arrivals for this January as compared to last, according to information from the National Institute of Statistics.

Spain welcomed over 70 million tourists last year, but as over 4 million arrivals have already arrived this January alone, it’s looking like it will smash last year’s number.

From magical small villages to stunning coastal towns to big cities jam-packed with culture, there really is something for everyone to enjoy in Spain.

Also, another reason for anyone to take a trip to Spain this summer is the prospect of free train passes, allowing visitors to explore this amazing country via rail for free!

Dubai

It should come as no surprise to see Dubai on this list of trending destinations for 2023, as it’s also recently been named the top destination worldwide.

And with more flight options from the United States, travel to Dubai has never been easier. As one of the top 5 most visited cities in the world, Dubai saw nearly 1.5 million visitors in January 2023 alone.

While there are many reasons travelers love Dubai, it seems this year they love it a bit more.

With endless attractions, amazing hotels and skyscrapers, and unbelievable landscapes, Dubai deserves its fanfare.

It’s been described as a perfect blend of luxury and adventure, and travelers who visit are met with an array of ways to pass the time. From desert rides to rooftop cocktails, there seems to be something for everyone’s tastes in Dubai.

Kenya

Travel to Africa has taken a bit of a slow start since the pandemic, with many countries reporting upticks in international arrivals but nowhere near the massive spikes we have seen in other regions such as Europe or Asia.

A long-time favorite with those looking for safaris is Kenya, and this West African gem is seeing its international arrival numbers steadily climbing back up.

In 2022 Kenya had nearly 1.5 million international tourists, which was a massive climb from the previous year. January and February of 2023 saw nearly 300,000 tourist arrivals for Kenya, meaning it’s well on track to beat last year’s number.

Travelers who are looking for a little more luxury while they safari will also be pleased to know that high-end options in Kenya are expanding, with JW Marriott opening their first luxury safari property there this year.

Other destinations that have seen significant jumps in their international arrivals numbers so far this year include the Balkan region, Mexico, Maldives, and Switzerland.

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April 9, 2023
The 10 Best Events In The United States This Year According To USA Today

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With the warm weather approaching, one thing on many people’s minds is that it’s nearly festival season again.

From multi-day sleeping-in-tents festivals to more laid-back food truck rodeos, there seems to be an ever-expanding array of events across America to spend your summer days exploring.

Are you a foodie who can’t travel to some far-flung destination? Then these food festivals can help you awaken your taste buds closer to home. Perhaps you are looking for some culture but can’t get abroad at the moment; good thing there are many cultural events in the U.S. to help expand your mind this summer.

It’s estimated that around 32 million people attend a U.S. music festival each year, and with air travel showing signs that it will be a nightmare this summer, what better way to enjoy your free time than by wandering around some of these top-rated best events close to home?

Here Are Some Of The Top Rated Events In The U.S., According To USA Today:

City Food Festivals

1. Taste of Buffalo – Buffalo, New York

To start off the list, we have a big one, the biggest in fact of all of America. Taste of Buffalo is the largest two-day food festival in the U.S. and now attracts almost half a million visitors each year.

Come and try the classic hometown hero, the famous Buffalo wings -but don’t you dare try to dip them in ranch! This is blue cheese territory my friends. Taste of Buffalo runs July 8th and 9th this year, so get your tickets early.

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2. Queens Night Market – Queens, New York

Featuring up to 100 independent vendors, who sell everything from food, art, and other unique merchandise, this open-air night market is a staple for this neighborhood.

2023 brings the Queen’s Night Market’s 8th season, and the weekly event is a great way to try a variety of food from all around the world.

@pictureperfectluis Let’s see how much food we can get for $20 at Queens Night Market #newyorkcityeats #newyorkfoodies #queensnightmarket #nyctop3 #thingstodoinnewyork #nycfoodies ♬ What You Know – Two Door Cinema Club

Don’t forget to check out the rest of the best city food festivals all around the country.

Specialty Food Festivals

1. Picklesburg – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

This fan-favorite food festival takes place in the charming streets of Pittsburgh and celebrates the beloved pickle.

Come for the famous pickleback shots (trust me, just try it) and stay for all things pickle-flavored. The 2023 event is planned to take place the weekend of July 21st – July 23rd and is worth the trip.

2. Windy City Smokeout – Chicago, Illinois

This 4-day event is for anyone who is a fan of Chicago’s BBQ, beer, and country music. This year’s music lineup includes popular acts such as Darius Rucker, Luke Bryan, and Zac Brown Band.

The 2023 dates are July 13-16, and this event fills up, so plan ahead!

All of the top 10 best specialty food festivals in the U.S. can be found here.

Music Festivals

1. Made In America – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Jay Z’s beloved Made In America festival takes place along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia and features some major music acts.

Past events have had artists such as Tyler, the Creator and Bad Bunny, and more big names. In addition to music, food trucks come to cater to the hungry crowds.

Check out their official website for ticket and date information for upcoming events.

2. FloydFest – Floyd, Virginia

You can find this quirky festival located along Virginia’s heritage music trail, known as the Crooked Road.

This festival in the Blue Ridge Mountains features music from bluegrass to reggae and also chances to get into nature with hiking and mountain biking.

While the 2023 FloydFest is uncertain due to location issues, the festival is now way over. They have promised to be back and better than ever in 2024.

3. Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion – Bristol, Tennessee and Bristol, Virginia

Celebrating the rich musical heritage of the area, this festival is all about Appalachian music.

Visit the Birthplace of Country Music Museum while you are here, and enjoy this festival along the Tennessee/Virginia border from September 8-10th this year.

Be sure to check out all of the winners for the favorite music festival in America and get some inspiration for your 2023 travel plans.

Film Festival

1. Out On Film – Atlanta, Georgia

This 11-day film festival showcases LGBTQ work and features many documentaries highlighting the issues that they face.

One of the first of its kind, the Out on Film Festival 2023 dates are September 21 until October 1st.

2. Washington West Film Festival – Reston, Virginia

This Virginia festival is all about giving back to the community and celebrating indie filmmakers at the same time.

All proceeds are donated, and the event does draw some top names, so make sure to get your tickets early. October 12 -16th are the dates for this year’s event.

To see the full list of the top 20 favorite film festivals across the United States, you can check it out here.

Cultural Festival

1. National Cherry Blossom Festival – Washington, D.C.

Here’s one festival you can check out right now, as it runs March 20th – April 16th this year.

A beloved symbol in the National Capital, this festival celebrates the blossoming of the cherry trees with a parade and many events. This event also highlights Japanese culture as well.

2. Kutztown Folk Festival – Kutztown, Pennsylvania

Tucked away in Pennsylvania Dutch region, this nine-day festival celebrates the heritage and culture of this area.

Highlights include the largest quilt sale in America, and this year’s event is scheduled for July 1st through the 9th.

The United States has no shortage of cultural festivals, and many tend to fly under the radar. Check out these favorites for some opportunities to learn more about various cultures and experience the fun.

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April 6, 2023
6 Reasons You Should Add This Central American Country To Your Travel Plans This Year

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With so many diverse places to choose from in Central America, it’s likely that the majority of travelers head for popular destinations such as Costa Rica and Guatemala, and with good reason.

Central and Latin America are full of diverse countries that overflow with natural beauty, and choosing between them can be a tough call.

While all these places definitely deserve a place on any traveler’s wish list, there are some Central American countries that tend to get overlooked by visitors, and here is where you can often find the undercover gems.

One such place is Belize – which is in no way a secret – but is, however, a country that hasn’t traditionally gotten as much traveler attention as it should, although this is changing and the country is becoming more and more popular with tourists.

In fact, 2022 saw Belize being named one of the top destinations of the year, and CNN Travel listed Belize as one of the 23 destinations to visit in 2023.

You can find the small tropical country of Belize nestled between Mexico and Guatemala.

The country is full of postcard-perfect beaches, colorful towns, ancient Mayan ruins, dense rain forests, and, not to mention, so much natural beauty both on land as well as offshore.

Here Are 6 Reasons You Should Consider Visiting Belize This Year:

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Easily Accessible

While you might feel as if you are worlds away from most American cities, technically speaking, you are only a short 3-4 hour flight from most of the U.S. and Canada.

Belize City is well connected to many American airports, making this lush destination an easy flight compared to some other tropical places further south or over in Southeast Asia.

Recently airlines have been adding Belize City to their routes from major Canadian cities as well, meaning there are more options and better fares than before.

Southwest, United, and American Airlines are popular options from the U.S., while WestJet and Air Canada offer options from Canada.

Not to mention that Belize is easily reachable from Mexico’s Uber-popular Yucatán Peninsula, and bus connections make this addon an option for any Cancun area trip.

It also offers a bit of a different vibe for those looking to avoid the crowds and nightclubs of the ever-popular hotspots along Mexico’s Caribbean coast, although there is possibly no escape from the seaweed.

It’s best to check the local reports for that, as the record sargassum that has been plaguing the Mexican coast might be an issue here as well, depending on the current conditions.

Sustainability

Many reports have indicated that sustainable travel is a big trend for this year, and travelers are making more of their holiday choices based on the economic impact of their trip.

Those who are attempting to make strides in this area will be happy to know that Belize is too.

The country’s new Tourism Minister has stated that Belize is dedicated to becoming a low-impact/value destination for visitors.

The country recently publicity committed to protecting 30% of its ocean territory, and many are hailing Belize as a conservation success story for this and the many other initiatives taken thus far.

No Language Barrier

This may or may not be a reason for some people, but Belize is technically the only English-speaking country in all of Central America.

Being a county that is as diverse as Belize, the official language is English, yet Spanish and Creole are commonly spoken as well.

This lack of language barrier makes traveling here much easier than in other Central American countries, where you might find it a bit more difficult to get around if you do not have some basic Spanish under your belt.

New Resorts

An increased interest in Belize also means more accommodation options can be expected to spring up, and this year saw one major one open its doors.

The popular resort chain Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville has just opened its newest Caribbean property in Ambergris Caye, one of Belize’s most popular tourist areas.

Alongside the Margaritaville opening, Belize has seen a handful of other high-end properties breaking ground recently, including The Belize Marriott Ambergris Caye Resort and Residences and The Alaia Belize.

In addition, luxury hotel group Four Seasons has announced their plans for their first private island in the Americas, off the coast of Belize, planned for 2024.

Dive Right In

For being such a small country, Belize makes up for it with its stunning waters full of life and wonders to discover.

Home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, snorkelers love this area for the warm, clear turquoise waters and the variety of fish, coral, and many other kinds of marine life you are sure to see here.

In addition to the coral reef, one main draw for divers looking for adventure is the famous Blue Hole. This massive underwater hole was made famous by Jacques Cousteau in the 1970s and remains a huge draw for those looking to see it for themselves.

Experienced divers can make the trip, and the hole – about 1,000ft wide and 412ft deep – is known to be the world’s largest.

Mayan Ruins

One thing that Belize has in abundance is Mayan Ruins, which shouldn’t be hard to believe since it is the cradle of the ancient Maya civilization.

In fact, the small country of Belize actually holds more Mayan Ruins per square mile than any other country in the World.

While the ruins range from easy to visit to ones you have to trek to get to, they are no doubt worth visiting.

If you are one of the many who are waiting for the Maya Train to open in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, hopping over the border to explore the Belize ruins is a good alternative.

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April 2, 2023