Tag: Year

Top 7 Trending Destinations In The Caribbean This Year
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Are you dreaming of a Caribbean getaway this year?

Here are the hottest destinations in the Caribbean that are trending with travelers this year, according to data from ForwardKeys, a travel analysis company.

These trending destinations were determined by comparing tourist arrival statistics from 2023 with those of 2019. While some destinations in the Caribbean have been slow to bounce back from harsh travel restrictions implemented in 2020, these trending destinations have fully recovered.

Check out these Caribbean destinations experiencing the most growth in 2023:

1. U.S. Virgin Islands

Coming in at the top of the list is the U.S. Virgin Islands. This destination has experienced an impressive 23% growth in 2023 compared to 2019.

Known for its gorgeous beaches, the U.S. Virgin Islands is made up of three main islands: St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas. American travelers can visit this island paradise without a passport.

2. Turks And Caicos

Turks and Caicos is a British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean that has been growing in popularity thanks to its beautiful beaches (regularly named the best in the world) and great snorkeling and scuba diving.

This destination just recently dropped all travel restrictions (a vaccine requirement was still in place long after the rest of the Caribbean dropped it) so it’s likely that Turks and Caicos will only continue to grow in popularity this year.

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3. Sint Maarten

Having experienced 14% growth in tourism since 2019, Sint Maarten is next on this list of trending destinations in the Caribbean.

Sint Maarten is a constituent country of the Netherlands that is known for its colorful Dutch Caribbean capital Philipsburg, great beaches, and shopping, dining, and nightlife.

4. Guadeloupe

Although it’s experiencing a lot of growth right now, Guadeloupe is still one of the more underrated destinations in the Caribbean for American travelers.

This butterfly-shaped island territory in the Caribbean is part of France, and you’ll be able to see that reflected in the cuisine, culture, and language of Guadeloupe.

Guadeloupe, known for its beautiful beaches and mountainous and volcanic terrain, is the perfect destination for adventurous travelers who are interested in hiking, sailing, and swimming.

5. Jamaica

Jamaica has always been a popular getaway known for being one of the most affordable islands in the Caribbean for a tropical vacation.

This island nation’s popularity only continues to grow, with a 13% increase in tourism so far in 2023 compared to 2019.

Visitors to Jamaica are attracted to the country’s unbelievable beaches, variety of resorts, and laid-back atmosphere.

6. Dominican Republic

Another budget-friendly destination in the Caribbean is the Dominican Republic. This country is easily accessible, with many affordable flights and resorts around the island.

Not only is the Dominican Republic known for its gorgeous beaches and all-inclusive resorts, but it’s also a destination with so much to offer when it comes to history, culture, and food.

Santo Domingo is one of the best cities in the Caribbean to visit for travelers interested in cultural experiences.

7. Curacao

Part of the ABC Islands, along with Aruba and Bonaire, Curacao is making a name for itself as one of the top trending destinations in the Caribbean this year, with 11% growth in tourism.

This Dutch Caribbean island is known for being a year-round destination (as it’s not impacted by hurricane season) with great scuba diving and beaches.

Other Trending Destinations In The Caribbean

Although they didn’t quite make the cut for the top seven hottest destinations in the Caribbean this year, the following islands are still on the radar.

Each of these destinations has experienced 10% growth in tourism in 2023 compared to 2019:
- Martinique
- Puerto Rico
- Aruba
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April 1, 2023
6 Underrated Places To Visit In Europe This Year

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Summer is quickly approaching, and that means that it’s time to start making those summer travel plans.

For many travelers, that includes a trip to Europe, and while certain destinations are, of course, more popular than others, there are some underrated places that deserve some travel consideration.

A recent survey has polled over half a million travelers hailing from 178 countries to ask them about the best European destinations, and some of the mentions are a bit surprising.

While classic mainstays such as London and Vienna make the list, there are many lesser-known locations that make the grade as well.

So, if you are looking for a unique European town to visit this year, consider some of these places that will offer you stunning views and likely fewer crowds.

Here are 6 Underrated Places To Visit In Europe This Year:

Maribor, Slovenia

Although not as popular with travelers as its neighbors or Italy and Croatia, there are many reasons to visit the small and charming country of Slovenia this year.

With affordable prices, a lovely capital city, and nature everywhere you look, Slovenia has a lot to offer those who make the trip. One place that gets mentioned as a favorite with travelers is the northeastern city of Mirador.

A favorite among culinary and history lovers, the historic city center is one that rivals any other beautiful old town in Europe. Awarded the title of Europe’s best culinary destination, one source of pride here is the Guinness Book of World Record Awarded ‘oldest grapevine in the world’.

This laid-back city is one where you can spend your days strolling among the cafes, and not to mention hit up the beach while you are there as well.

Veszprém, Hungary

While there are many reasons to add the country of Hungary to your European itinerary this year, travelers should remember to check out more than the popular Budapest.

The city of Veszprem is a favorite with travelers for many reasons and has been named the best destination to visit in Hungary in 2023, as well as the European Capital of Culture this year.

Veszprém is often referred to as the ‘City of Queens’ and is one of the oldest towns in Hungary. The city is also a UNESCO City Of Music.

Fans of live music will love the many performances that take place around town all year, and the ample cafes and bars make sitting and listening to the artists perform enjoyable for all.

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Faial, Azores

What was once an unknown group of islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean has now become a popular tourist destination for travelers in the know.

The Azores are in the perfect location for U.S. travelers who are heading to mainland Europe, and some airlines even operate this route with a stopover option now as well.

Greener than Iceland, with a climate that’s moderate, warm, and a bit rainy, these islands are becoming an ideal spot for eco-conscious travelers, as well as those looking for some hiking, wine tasting, and general stunning landscapes.

Faial, in particular, rates highly with travelers and makes this list for its unique landscapes, unparalleled bird watching, and blue sea waves crashing into the statuesque rock formations around the coast.

Grenoble Alps, France

As the capital of the Alps, Grenoble is a city that appeals to travelers that love both nature and a city vibe.

Despite its location in some pretty epic mountain ranges such as Chartreuse, Belledonne, and Vercors, Grenoble is actually the flattest city in France and is easily explored by walking, biking, and hiking.

Famous for its street art, the city is a cultural hub and becoming an increasingly popular choice for visitors to France.

It’s considered one of the best tourist destinations in the country, and if you have a trip to France booked in the near future and are looking to stay away from Paris, this city might be a good option for you.

Ascona-Locarno, Switzerland

As if you needed another reason to visit Switzerland this year, here is an underrated city to add to your list. Situated on the Swiss side of the picturesque Lake Maggiore, this part of Switzerland is actually very Italian.

Most speak Italian here, and the architecture, cuisine, and way of life are all very Italian in every sense of the word.

While the lake is famous more for its Italian towns, the Swiss side is equally as stunning and much less visited by tourists from abroad.

Come here to swim, eat, drink wine, and gaze at the postcard-perfect sights. While only about a quarter of Lake Maggiore belongs to Switzerland, they make the most of it here.

Sóller, Spain

If you are lucky enough to find yourself on the Spanish island of Mallorca this year, a visit to the cozy village of Sóller is a must-do.

Sit at one of the many street-side cafes and people watch, or take the tram that runs right through town and head to the promenade and stunning beach.

Many have said that this might be one of the most beautiful towns in Spain, an accolade that is not easy to gain, with so many vying for the title.

If you get sick of the beach, hiking in the Tramuntana mountains is another option here, The Serra de Tramuntana range has UNESCO World Heritage status and offers some epic hikes and viewpoints.

Porto-Santo, Madeira Islands

While the larger island of Madeira has been getting a lot of attention for travelers recently, the little sister island of Porto Santo makes the list of favorite places to visit in Europe this year. With nine kilometers of soft sandy beaches, the island goes by the nickname of the ‘golden island’.

Offering breathtaking sunsets and fantastic weather almost year-round, this southern location is still only about a ninety-minute flight from mainland Portugal.

Whether you come by plane or ferry, and no matter if you are seeing nature, golfing, water sports, relaxation, wellness, or wine and dining, Porto Santo can tick those boxes for you.

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March 31, 2023
7 Of The Most Underrated Travel Destinations This Year

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Are you looking to travel somewhere off the beaten path this year? Check out these amazing, underrated destinations around the world!

While popular destinations like Paris, London, Italy, and Greece may be at the top of many travelers’ bucket lists, these destinations come with sky-high prices and unbearable crowds.

These are some of the top underrated destinations around the world to consider instead if you’re looking to go off the beaten path and explore somewhere new.

1. Ecuador

Tourists flock to Ecuador to visit the popular Galapagos Islands, but many of them skip the rest of the country or spend very little time in it.

But Ecuador is not to be missed. This small South American country offers stunning natural beauty, from mountains to beaches to jungles.

It’s also an incredibly affordable destination, with prices cheaper than neighboring countries like Peru and Colombia.

2. Albania

Many travelers overlook Albania when planning a trip to Europe and have no idea that they’re missing out on one of the biggest hidden gems on the continent.

Albania is growing in popularity but still remains incredibly underrated. This Balkan nation boasts a stunning coastline with beaches that rival those of Greece, Italy, or Croatia. It’s also home to scenic small towns, a funky and cool capital city Tirana, and some of the cheapest prices in Europe.

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3. Laos

Laos is one of the most underrated destinations in Southeast Asia. Neighboring Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia all receive more visitors than Laos, yet this country is one that should not be overlooked.

With some of the most affordable prices in the already budget-friendly region of Southeast Asia, Laos is a great destination for budget travelers.

Some of the most popular things to do in Laos are visiting the Kuang Si waterfalls and caves and touring the 4,000 Islands by boat.

4. Guatemala

While many American travelers have been to Mexico, fewer have explored Mexico’s neighbor to the south, Guatemala. This remarkable Central American country is extremely underrated.

On a trip to Guatemala, you can explore the gorgeous colonial town of Antigua, climb the Acatenango volcano, relax on the shores of Lake Atitlan, and explore the mysterious ruins of Tikal.

This is also a great destination for budget travelers due to its very affordable prices.

5. Mozambique

When the top destinations in Africa come to mind, Mozambique might not be the first place that pops into your head.

But this East African nation is very underrated and worth a visit due to its remarkable natural beauty. If you think that Africa is all about safaris, you’ll want to think again.

Mozambique is famous for its beaches which are among some of the most beautiful in the world, with crystal-clear water and white sandy shores. It’s the perfect place to go island-hopping, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

6. Slovenia

Slovenia is a small Central European country that is often overshadowed by neighboring Croatia and Italy. But this pristine gem of a country offers lower crowds and lower prices compared to its more popular counterparts.

Some can’t-miss destinations in Slovenia include the charming capital Ljubljana, picture-perfect Lake Bled, and scenic Triglav National Park.

7. Uzbekistan

Central Asia is a region of the world that remains off the radar of many travelers, but it shouldn’t be. This underrated region is full of breathtaking nature, incredible history, and fascinating culture.

Uzbekistan is the perfect introduction to Central Asia. This country was a stop on the ancient Silk Road, and that history can still be seen in the beautiful, colorful architecture of cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva.

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March 22, 2023
7 Of The Most Beautiful European Islands To Visit This Year

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Summer is fast approaching, and you know what that means, beaches, islands, and tons of photos of you lounging by a pool. Europe is the best place to spend summer due to its warm weather, diverse beaches, and food!

It’s even better if you’re on a European island with the best relaxing places. European islands have been known to be summer hot spots for decades now.

Celebrities have been vacationing here for ages, and you should consider booking your next vacation here. The best time to go is in the summer or early fall, but if you make it out, you’ll have a fantastic time.

If you’re daring this season, jumping from island to island might be something fun for you to do.

The European islands range from Greece to Malta, with different beaches, architecture, food, and people. Some of these islands have airports that allow for more accessible international travel.

Some places worldwide (especially islands) make it almost impossible to island jump. This is something that has plagued places like the Caribbean forever.

Check out seven of the most beautiful European islands to visit this year:

Paros, Greece

Paros is a Greek island on the Aegean Sea. It’s close to Naxos, which is another beautiful island.

The exciting thing about Paros is that it’s a chiller version of party places like Mykonos.

Also, you have an influx of artists and creatives that live there during the summer. The beaches are beautiful, but the real gem is the culture.

Hotels like Cosme, a Luxury Collection Resort, Paros, balance the island’s culture with its beach life to make travelers aware and comfortable enough to explore the island independently. The resort also has excellent food.

Their restaurants, Parostià and Volta, serve Mediterranean food and have fantastic ocean views. Paros is a win-win.

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@emyrodriguezflores A cute beach cottage in Paros, Greece at the Cosme, Paros resort. #greece #paros #greek #roomtour ♬ I Think I Like When It Rains – WILLIS

Majorca (Mallorca), Spain

Another Mediterranean hotspot is Majorca.

This Balearic island is home to fantastic wineries and pretty cool town centers.

It’s different from its sister islands, Ibiza, Formentera, and Menorca, in that it’s more relaxed and wide enough for people to live there. The best time to visit is in the summer.

The coast is fantastic here, but it has some of the cutest mountain villages that give you the best views on the island.

Comino, Malta

Unlike Majorca, very few people live in Comino, but it’s a prime summer spot if you’re in the area. It’s a tiny island between Gozo and mainland Malta, and you can get there by a short ferry ride.

What shines here is the Blue Lagoon. It’s on a cove protected by Comino and another small island called Cominotto.

Light blue water covers this entire area, and it’s perfect for enjoying water sports like kayaking, sailing, and other forms. It’s worth a visit, for sure.

Procida, Italy

Procida is a Flegrean Island off the coast of Naples and has the most exciting island town. This island won Italy’s Capital of Culture in 2022, and famous films like The Talented Mr. Ripley were filmed here.

Walking through Marina Grande will amaze you with its multi-colored buildings and gastronomic options.

This island also sports beautiful volcanic beaches like Chiaiolella, where you can find interesting rock formations. Overall, this is one place you should check out soon.

Tenerife, Spain

Next door to Africa, you’ll find the Canary Islands, and Tenerife is one you should visit.

Known for having the best stargazing in the area, Tenerife is home to places like Michelin-star restaurants and Europe’s most extensive lava tube.

It’s also known as a fantastic scuba diving spot because its waters stay at a moderate temperature year-round. Even better, the weather on this island stays pretty warm year-round, making it a seasonless destination.

Capri, Italy

Known as a playground for the rich and famous, Capri is becoming a modern traveler’s favorite destination.

Places like the Blue Grotto are becoming increasingly prominent, and it’s becoming an alternative to places like the Amalfi Coast, which can become overcrowded during summer months.

Hvar, Croatia

Hvar is an island near Croatia with some of the best port views on this side of Europe.

It shares the Adriatic Sea with Italy, which contains the most crystal blue waters you can’t find anywhere else. This destination is excellent because you see a different side of Europe.

Only some spots are like Italy or Spain; this Croatian island is a perfect place to explore this country in the Balkans.

If you plan on traveling this year, check out some of these beautiful European islands.

They all have their own diverse culture and different personalities, making them more beautiful than a sunny coastline.

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March 21, 2023
Turkey Will Be One Of The Busiest Summer Destinations This Year – Here’s What To Expect If You’re Visiting

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After two and a half years of lackluster numbers, resulting from the COVID slump and strict border curbs which discouraged millions of tourists from visiting, Turkey (alternatively called Turkiye) is exploding in popularity like never before.

Having already posted a strong recovery rate last year, it is set to become one of the busiest summer destinations in 2023.

Located at the crossroads of two continents – Europe and Asia – and straddling both the Black and Mediterranean Seas, Turkey is one of the most intriguing countries in the world.

A cultural melting pot where influences range from late Byzantine to Indo-Anatolian, and of course, Ottoman, it has been an object of fascination for Historians and visitors alike for centuries.

Now, it could well shatter its own pre-established tourism records.

If you’re heading to the Turkish Republic this year, this is what you should expect to find:

Turkey Expecting A Record-Breaking Summer

Following a rocky start to the year, which has been marred by the unusually high inflation rate and a tragic earthquake in Eastern Turkey, the country is seemingly back on its feet and ready to compete not only on a European or Middle Eastern but global level.

As reported by Norbert Fiebiq, head of the German Travel Association (DRV), Turkey is ‘very much in demand’, with a ‘huge increase’ in bookings in recent months.

Now that fears over new potential earthquakes have subsided, ‘the turnover is increasing week by week‘.

Germany is one of the biggest and most important markets for the local tourism sector, contributing hundreds of millions of euros every year, but Germans are not the only foreign nationals obsessed with Turkey at the minute.

Upward booking trends were also noted across other nationalities as well, including the U.S.

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When it comes to the United States, 337,000 Americans landed in the sunny hub in the first half of 2022 alone, making it one of the most popular Eastern European and Middle Eastern destinations for U.S. citizens last year.

That number could increase exponentially in 2023 now that new flight routes between the mainland U.S. and Istanbul, the number one tourist destination in Turkey, have been added.

In other words, Turkey will be a lot busier than usual this summer, and you should definitely expect more crowds. But that’s not the only caveat:

What Will Visiting Turkey In Summer 2023 Potentially Feel Like?

It Will Be Busier Than Before

Turkey remained sealed off from the outside world for most of 2020 and 2021, as the national government clamped down hard on COVID and enacted a number of draconian policies aimed at keeping the virus out, such as banning entry to non-vaccinated Americans and implementing a testing regime.

Needless to say, the number of visitors to Turkey plummeted in that period until the local Health Ministry took a U-turn and decided it was time to treat the virus as endemic.

Turkey would eventually lift its remaining border curbs, and demand would naturally surge in response.

Visiting this summer, you are extremely unlikely to have some of the country’s most iconic points of interest, including the ancient Byzantine cathedral-turned-mosque Hagia Sophia and the Greco-Roman ruins in Ephesus, all to yourself, as became customary in the pandemic era.

The crowds are back, and long wait lines are the norm once again as tourists flock to Turkey’s world-famous sights to witness their grandeur firsthand.

When visiting Istanbul in particular, you are advised to book tickets in advance for a number of attractions as ticketing queues could be hours-long.

Price Oscillations

Besides the influx of visitors, you should note Turkey is no longer as cheap as it once was.

While it is still one of the most affordable mainstream destinations out there, inflation is taking its toll on Turkish society and hitting the pockets of budget-conscious tourists harder.

Naturally, any increase in demand amid a limited offer inevitably leads to price escalations, as seen last year across most of Western Europe.

Now, it is still improbable Turkey will follow in the footsteps of competing Mediterranean power Croatia, where prices have truly skyrocketed, as it is neither in the Eurozone nor tied to the Brussels economics, but tourist dollars may not buy as many Turkish liras as it would have been possible three to four years back.

That’s not due to the lira’s appreciation over the dollar also: in fact, the Turkish currency is still at one of its lowest points since records began.

There is another reason behind the local market’s volatile pricing:

The cost of living in Turkey is rising as a result of the crippling inflation (now stationary at 55.18% after reaching dangerous highs of 85.51% last December), the War in Ukraine, which forced thousands of Russians to escape the harsh realities at home into Turkey, impacting the real estate market by pushing prices up and adding pressure to the housing crisis, and the country’s own decade-long economic downturn.

And, Of Course, Politics

Turkey has faced one of its most harrowing tragedies in recent memory this year, when an earthquake struck the Hatay Province claiming the lives of over 41,000 citizens.

As if that weren’t enough to throw the country off-balance, the elections are coming, and they are set to represent one of the most polarizing and defining moments in Turkish History.

On May 14, in the lead-up to summer, Turks will decide whether long-serving President Erdogan remains in power, following his much-criticized economic policies and poor response to the earthquake, or the opposition will take the reins.

The effects of Turkey’s election will be felt across the country for months, and the overall political climate could be tense as current President Erdogan attempts to cling on to power.

Politics don’t tend to affect tourists directly, though they most certainly can: recently, Machu Picchu in Peru was closed down due to widespread civil unrest and political demonstrations that swept the country, while airports also suspended flights and tourism came again to a standstill, even if temporarily.

We’re not saying this will be the case in Turkey – most likely, the elections will take place without greater disturbances – but it doesn’t hurt to have a backup plan in case things do get out of hand, especially when flights are canceled due to strikes or nationwide protests. Much like Paris.

For that reason, ahead of flying, make sure you take out travel insurance covering travel disruption and interruption, as well as illness and other incidents, ahead of boarding your flight.

It may no longer be an official requirement, but it remains one of the best and easiest preventive measures when unforeseen circumstances arise.

Find out more here.

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March 18, 2023
These Are The U.S. National Parks To Visit This Year If You’re Looking To Avoid Crowds
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U.S. National Parks have been getting some much-deserved attention in recent years, partly thanks to them providing some safe respite from travel bans and lockdowns during the pandemic.

Thanks to this and to a post-pandemic boom, we are learning more and more about the many sites that make up America’s National Park system, and with that comes new opportunities to explore some of the lesser-known places.

With around 424 National Parks in total, Americans (and visitors from around the globe) are spoiled for choice when it comes to deciding which one(s) to visit.

While some of them are hugely popular, there are many that do not report a lot of traffic.

Due to being off the beaten path, or too remote, or possibly just not well known about, these National Parks can be your secret paradise this year.

While there are many ‘low attendance’ parks in Alaska and offshore, such as Samoa and The Virgin Islands, let’s look at the ones in the continental U.S. that are more easily accessible for a visit.

The Least Visited National Parks Within The Continental U.S. Are:

Isle Royale National Park, Michigan

With just over 25 thousand visitors in 2022, this national park located in Lake Superior offers those who visit some seriously peaceful exploring.

This rugged archipelago is reachable by seaplane or a few ferry services from the mainland.

Open from mid-April to the end of October, this national park is comprised of over 400 islands, though the main one, Isle Royale, is likely where you will spend most of your time.

With a low visitation rate, 165 trails, and 36 campgrounds, Isle Royale National Park never seems to feel busy, even during the peak months.

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Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans For 2023 Starting At $10 Per Week

North Cascades National Park, Washington

Despite being only three hours away from Seattle, North Cascades National Park doesn’t see a huge number of visitors.

In 2022 it only welcomed around 20 thousand people into its gates, and those who made the trip were rewarded with stunning vistas, amazing hiking, and wildlife in abundance across its nearly 700 thousand acres.

You can go deep off road or stay closer to the trails, and those who are not into hiking can enjoy some seriously scenic drives as well.

The park itself is open year-round, but the conditions are completely up to the elements. So while a winter visit is possible, make sure to stay on top of weather and road information.

Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Located in northern Minnesota and sharing a border with Canada, this National Park offers you the chance to see the northern lights if you are lucky.

Voyageurs National Park is connected by four large lakes and numerous smaller ones, and 84,000 of its 218,055 acres are made up of water.

As you can imagine, boating is a big pastime here, although personal watercraft are not allowed, meaning the silence of the area can better be maintained.

Swimming is a nice way to cool off after some strenuous hikes, and of course, summer is the best time for that.

This National Park is open year-round and has no entrance fee (unless camping overnight), and autumn is considered the best time to visit for peak foliage times.

In the winter, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and sledding are all favorite pastimes.

Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

As one of the many underrated places to visit in Florida, this stunning National Park is quite unique. Home to the impressive Fort Jefferson, Dry Tortugas National Park is comprised of many small islands, although most of its 100 square miles are made up of turquoise blue open water.

As this National Park is only reachable by boat or seaplane, it’s not too surprising that it doesn’t report a very high attendance. In fact, in 2022, only 78,488 visitors were recorded.

So if you are looking to tick another National Park off your checklist and you are interested in coral, bird, and marine life, then this one is for you.

Open year-round and only a little over two hours on a ferry from Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is doable on a day trip, although an overnight offers more time to experience this special place.

Congaree National Park, South Carolina

What do 204,522 people have in common? They all visited the lesser-known Congaree National Park in 2022.

Found in central South Carolina, only 18 miles from the state capital of Columbia, this park keeps intact the largest old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States.

With the waters of the Congaree and the Wateree rivers meeting here, most of this park becomes a flood plane filled with biodiversity and life.

The trees growing here are some of the tallest in the eastern U.S. and combine to make one of the highest temperate deciduous forest canopies in the world.

Easily explored in one or two days, and open year-round, this park makes the perfect weekend trip for those looking to get into nature but don’t want to use their whole vacation to do so.

Great Basin National Park, Nevada

From the summit of Wheeler Peak to the depths of the Lehman caves and everything in between, there is something for everyone at Great Basin National Park.

Located In east-central Nevada, near the border of Utah, this park is very remote and covers around 77,000 acres of land.

The park’s rolling foothills, basins, and mountain ranges are all nestled between the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada mountains, making this area quite rugged.

Visited by only a little over 142 thousand people last year, you are likely to have these hot desert valleys, cool caves, and mountain peaks nearly to yourself.

Just remember to make all the required plans and take the necessary safety precautions out in this wild terrain.

Pinnacles National Park, California

Formed from volcanoes that erupted around 23 million years ago, Pinnacles National Park is now a unique landscape of rock formations, caves, and woodlands.

This park offers ample hiking opportunities, from easy-going family hikes to hardcore climbing.

Providing a chance for northern Californians to escape the city and get out into the natural landscape, this park is better enjoyed in the cooler months.

Although it’s one of the 15 least visited parks in the country, it can (and often does) get busy on weekends, so it’s best to plan a trip accordingly.

In 2022 Pinnacles National Park saw about 275 thousand visitors, and many say about two days is enough to really take in the beauty of this unique California landscape.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas

Where can you see the world’s largest Permian fossil reed, historic sites, various different ecosystems, as well as Texas’s four highest points all in one?

This would be the lesser-known United States National Park, Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

While only visited by around 220 thousand people last year, this park offers over 80 miles of trails to hike and take in the beauty amongst some peace and quiet.

One special experience here is to hike the Salt Basin Dunes that reach up over 100 feet from the floor of the desert.

This west Texas hidden secret is best reached from El Paso, although Carlsbad, New Mexico is also under an hour away.

Summer months here get HOT, and hiking in this wilderness is not recommended.

The best times to visit Guadalupe are winter and spring to really be able to take in the vast and varied landscape of this area.

The Least Visited U.S. National Parks Found Outside of The Continental U.S. Are:
- National Park of American Samoa
- Virgin Islands National Park
- Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, Alaska
- Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska
- Lake Clark National Park and Preserve, Alaska
- Katmai National Park & Preserve, Alaska
- Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, Alaska
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March 17, 2023
This European Country Is One Of The Trendiest Destinations Of The Year

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As mass tourism sweeps across Western Europe’s most popular hotspots, travelers are now heading East in an attempt to escape the crowds. There are many unspoiled European destinations to pick from, but one Eastern country, in particular, has risen to prominence as one of the trendiest destinations of the year: Albania

A country that had been largely ignored by tourists over the years, but that has now become one of Europe’s most promising tourist destinations:

Why Has Albania Been Ignored By Tourists For So Long?

Travel demand for Europe has soared between 2023 and 2023, especially after it dropped all health-related entry requirements and fully reinstated normality, but while tourism giants like France, Italy, or Spain have taken steps to reduce the number of visitors, other lesser-known states are eager to welcome more.

Albania is a small Southeastern European nation nestled in the Balkan Peninsula, where it borders Greece to the South, North Macedonia and Kosovo to the East, and gorgeous Montenegro to the North. Unlike many of its neighbors, however, it was only formally introduced to the world 30 years ago.

Prior to 1992, the country remained sealed off from the rest of Europe due to a repressive Communist regime, when most foreigners were kept from entering, and Albanians could not leave themselves. Fortunately, the winds of democracy would eventually blow over the country.

Influenced by the fall of the Iron Curtain, it transitioned into a democratic state, and pre-existing border curbs were finally be removed in the nineties, but the effects of the dictatorship would be felt for years to come: having been shielded from foreign influence for most of the 20th century, Albania entered the 21st century as one of Europe’s most enigmatic states.

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Very little information about the country could be found on travel guides, as so very few had visited before, and promotional efforts were often hampered by internal political crises and Albania’s own geographical isolation as a non-member of the European Union in an increasingly Brussels-centered continent. That’s not to say it lacked potential.

After several consecutive setbacks, it seems to be finally getting the recognition it deserves.

Albania No Longer A Grey Area On The European Map

According to INSTAT, 377,211 foreigners landed in Albania in January of this year, a whopping 94.2% year-on-year increase. These numbers are nothing short of impressive, considering Europe is still in its ‘off-season’, and generally, arrival figures tend to drop dramatically in this period.

On top of that, all European countries have lifted border measures and allowed for the resumption of tourism. The fact that Albania has kept growing at such a fast rate, in spite of its fiercest competitors’ return to normality, is further proof it has sustained the momentum it gained early on in the pandemic.

While most of Europe shut down over COVID, going as far as banning American tourists for prolonged periods of time, Albania stayed open restriction-free, a factor that undoubtedly contributed to its sudden popularity.

Last year, 7.5 million tourists vacationed in Albania, an increase of over 32% compared to 2021, and should the upward trend continue, the country’s all-time record could easily be surpassed by December.

Why Is Albania Now On Everyone’s Radar?

Many Americans may not be aware of it, but Albania is, in fact, a summer paradise.

It straddles the Adriatic Sea, one of the arms of the wider Mediterranean, much like Croatia and Montenegro, but the comparative cost of living is much lower than other countries in the region. Here you’ll find the exact same turquoise-colored waters, white-sand or pebbly beaches, and stone-built medieval towns without the overpriced hotels and usual tourist traps.

Large portions of Albania’s Southernmost tip, named the Albanian Riviera, are yet to see any kind of development, which means the nature is virtually untouched, the beaches unruffled, and traditional cobblestone-laden villages where generations of families have lived for centuries are shielded from external influences.

The Balkan country also has a beautiful countryside, encompassing rolling green hills, vast plains, and alpine peaks, medieval citadels and castles that have stood the test of time, in spite of questionable preservation efforts, and modern, dynamic cities.

Tirana, the quirky, beautifully chaotic capital, is renowned for its cafe scene, young demographic – it was recently named Europe’s Capital of Youth – and multiculturalism resulting from decades of inter-Balkan migration and a large expat community: Travel Off Path editors have enlisted it as one of four of the most incredible, and cheapest destinations for digital nomads this year.

Nomads are also particularly fond of Shkoder, in Northern Albania, a smaller, less tumultuous city bordering Montenegro, Vlore, a resort strip on the Adriatic Coast, and Gjirokaster, an Ottoman-era gem and UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ethnic pan-Balkan cuisine and medieval heritage.

According to other findings by the World Tourism Organization, Albania boasts one of the best recovery rates following COVID, with both arrival figures and tourism revenue easily surpassing 2019. In other words, it has successfully seen off the health crisis and came out the other side far stronger and far more popular than before.

If you want to experience Albania while tourism is still under control, you better get there quickly, though: it is hardly a hidden gem anymore, and it is only a matter of time until the general public is let in on Europe’s best-kept secret.

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March 13, 2023
4 Of The Cheapest And Most Incredible Destinations For Digital Nomads This Year

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With remote work on the rise and Digital Nomad Visas (DNVs) now existing in abundance, it’s hard to keep track of which countries have eased their visa requirements and opened migration paths for the category and, more importantly, how budget-friendly they are.

From the Western Hemisphere to Europe and the easternmost reaches of Asia, there is certainly a lot of ground to cover, and picking a single destination can be quite a challenge. Being nomads ourselves, we’ve years of experience in the field and have taken the liberty to select some of the very best, based not only on their cultural wealth and trendiness but also affordability.

These are four of the most incredible – and cheapest – nomad hotspots for 2023:

Tirana, Albania

The capital of Albania, an under-visited European nation bordering Greece and Montenegro, Tirana emerged from a Communist dictatorship in the 1990s, a newborn city full of promise. While remnants of the Enver Hoxha regime continue to haunt its urban morphology, be it through underdevelopment or lacking infrastructure, it is still impossibly electric and youthful.

Tirana is not for everyone, though: if you’re expecting Paris aesthetics, it is not embellished by neoclassical buildings, nor does it boast the most remarkable European architecture, but it redeems itself with a plethora of work-friendly cafes, a massive urban park full of arching trees and a gorgeous man-made lake that provide an escape from the usual chaos of shops and bars, and a riotous nightlife.

And, of course, it serves as the main gateway to the wonderful country that is Albania, bounded by alpine peaks to the North, straddling what’s arguably the most beautiful section of the Adriatic Coast, where golden sand beaches and teal-colored waters can be found, and dotted with cobblestone-laden medieval towns.

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When it comes to affordability, one could argue no European country beats Tirana, and Albania by extension. According to the Wage Indicator, the national minimum wage is stipulated at ALL 34,000 per month, equivalent to USD $316.43, a nearly-negligible sum for remote workers relocating from America, who are granted a one-year entry permit for free upon arrival.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Located in the North of Thailand, Chiang Mai is every bit as exciting as Bangkok and boasts an imperial greatness comparable to that of the capital. From elaborately-built Buddhist temples to street markets and a peculiar, flavorful cuisine, there are plenty of attractions in the country’s second-largest urban center to keep you entertained for months.

Originally the beating heart of the bygone Lanna Kingdom, one of the most influential in medieval Southeast Asia that would eventually crumble in 1558, Chiang Mai retains much of its historical value.

The Old City is protected by fortified walls and moats, encircling some of Thailand’s most magnificent temples, such as the 14th-century wonder of Wat Phra Singh.

If living in this faraway land still sounds like an unachievable dream, especially in this economy, you’ll be glad to know Chiang Mai stands among some of the most affordable destinations for American nomads in Southeast Asia. Moving to the Thai city, you should set aside USD $1,346 to cover monthly expenses, as per the latest estimate published by NomadList.

Validity for regular entry visas to Thailand ranges from 3 to 6 months, at the discretion of immigration authorities – more than enough time to get a little taste of what Chiang Mai has to offer. If you intend to stay longer in Thailand, you could apply for a Long-Term Residence Visa, usually issued for up to 10 years. Regrettably, availability is usually limited to high-income professionals, as seen here.

Medellin, Colombia

Dubbed the number one city break in Colombia, Medellin is the busy capital of the Antioquia department, in the Latin American nation’s mountainous inland, and a popular backpacker and nomad destination. Medellin’s greatest strengths lie in its enviable collection of quirky bars and co-working spaces, street art-filled districts, and banging nightclubs.

The one major downside to Medellin is the poor safety record in some neighborhoods in peripheral zones, awash with gang activity and crime, but as long as foreign short-term visitors or long-term residents keep a low profile, learn the do’s and don’ts, and familiarize themselves with the no-go zones, the risks of being affected are dramatically reduced.

With that being said, a majority of nomads residing here are not frightened and have chosen to live in the area for one simple reason: imperfect as it is, Medellin is addictive. We’re not sure it’s the locals’ smiling faces and big hearts, the stunning nature within close reach of the city center, or the color-splashed cityscape that inspire us most, but it surely holds a special place in our hearts.

Last but not least, it is surprisingly affordable for a city this touristy. In fact, the whole of Colombia is super budget-friendly, recently earning the title of cheapest tourist destination in South America for 2023, beating Brazil, Argentina, and other strong contenders. Luckily for nomads eager to join in on the fun, the Colombian DNV is one of the easiest and cheapest to apply for.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Sitting at the crossroads of two continents, where Europe meets Asia, the Georgian capital of Tbilisi is one of the oldest human settlements in the world and a tried-and-true digital nomad haven. Extremely popular due to its low cost of living and several millennia-old culture, it is a fascinating city of many layers that deserves your consideration.

The Old Town’s wooden facades are colorful and full of character, the skyline a unique melange of neoclassical monuments, USSR-era apartment blocks, and city parks, and the cuisine is unlike anything you’ve ever tried. When in Tbilisi, we strongly recommend you try Khachapuri, a tender canoe-shaped bread stuffed with melted cheese, crowned with a soft-boiled egg on top.

Unlike the previous entry on this list, security concerns in Tbilisi are minimal. Although it is a bustling capital, central Tbilisi is extremely safe to walk, even at night, and the recent increase in tourism and rapid internationalization of Georgia following the nomad boom has encouraged local authorities to improve accessibility and policing in most sites.

The U.S. Department of State has deemed Georgia a Level 1 destination in terms of security, making it one of the safest destinations not only in Eastern Europe/Western Asia — but globally. On top of that, Georgia has a relaxed immigration policy, allowing Americans to remain in the territory for up to an entire year without applying for any visa in advance.

Looking for more countries where digital nomads are welcomed with open arms? Don’t forget to check out our dedicated page on the topic.

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March 9, 2023
Why This Underrated European Country Deserves To Be On Your Travel Radar This Year

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When you think about traveling in Europe, there is certainly no shortage of amazing countries to choose from, with most offering cities, small towns, and beaches, with history and culture at every turn. While there are certain destinations that are more popular than others, there are also some countries that fly under the radar amongst travelers and therefore remain hidden gems.

One of these hidden gems is Bosnia and Herzegovina. Nestled in the heart of the Balkan region, this country is filled with beauty, warmth, and seemingly countless other reasons to visit. While the Balkans have seen a vast increase in tourism in the past couple of years, some countries have emerged more popular than others.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of those places that has remained a bit of a secret amongst travelers, and the country is hoping to change that with a reinvested interest in bringing travelers in.

Here is why Bosnia and Herzegovina should be on your travel radar this year:

Culture & History

To get to know Bosnia and Herzegovina, start in the vibrant capital of Sarajevo. A favorite amongst those who visit, this city is jam-packed with history and wears the scars of its horrific past for the world to see. Just look for the ‘Sarajevo roses’ all over the pavement, with the markings of past shells that have been painted red to commemorate those who lost their lives in the world’s longest siege that gripped the city in the 90s.

With a history so complex, getting into it here would not do it justice. A visit to Sarajevo will educate travelers on the major plot lines of what they need to know. Just be aware that the country is home to three main ethnic groups, Bosniaks, Serbians, and Croats. And the Bosnian war (to sum it up) was fought amongst these groups, although now they live alongside each other more or less peacefully.

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Walk along the bridge where Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife were assassinated, resulting in World War I, and explore the Tunnel Of Hope, a passageway under the airport runway that the residents used to stay alive while under attack from the nearby mountains.

Aside from the heartbreaking lessons that you can learn about the country’s past, visitors will find Sarajevo a hip city that’s full of life. Many street-side cafes and bars line the cobblestone alleys, and the surrounding mountains offer an opportunity to explore the 1984 Olympic facilities and take in the city from another vantage point.

Budget Friendly

As with most of its Balkan neighbors, one big plus with visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina is the fact that it remains an incredibly budget-friendly destination, and your money will go much farther here than in other European countries.

In fact, this is one of the cheapest countries in Europe, with food and drink coming in way less than even nearby Croatia or Montenegro. Accommodation and transportation are also much cheaper here, and one bonus is that there really isn’t ‘high season’ here yet, meaning there are no price increases depending on the month you visit.

Nature For All Seasons

While there isn’t technically a high and low season, there are, of course, times of the year when more and fewer people visit. Similar to many countries in the surrounding area, the tourism season here is centered around April, June, July, August, and September. While these warmer months offer the chance to experience the country during its long and sunny days, sometimes the heat can get a bit much. Mostar, for example, can get a bit crowded, with its narrow and windy lanes filled with tourists, some of whom come on day trips from cruises that have docked at nearby Croatia.

Those who are looking for a beach holiday will often not consider Bosnia and Herzegovina, although the small 20km stretch of coast along the Adriatic makes it the second smallest coastline in the world and does offer some beaches.

Popular places to visit in the warmer months include Una National Park, Jajce, and of course, Mostar. Watch the divers on Start Most collect money from onlookers before they make the trying plunge into the shallow waters below and enjoy the picturesque restaurants with terraces that hang over the Neretva River.

Winter activities are popular here in February and March when the winter sun shines, and the days are starting to grow longer than in December and January. The mountain towns are especially picturesque when covered in snow, and skiing and other winter sports are popular here (after all, it did host the Winter Olympics). Not only is hitting the slopes here much cheaper than in other European countries, but the number of dreamy winter lodges makes it an ideal place to cozy up from the cold.

Food & Drink

First things first, drinking Bosnian coffee might be worth the trip on its own. Although some say it’s nearly identical to Turkish coffee, it still should be experienced to be understood. The daily ritual of taking a small cup of strong coffee from the copper-plated pot, topping it off with a bit of sugar, and finishing it off with a small Turkish delight candy, is a must-do while visiting. Just remember not to tip the whole cup back and drink the thick grounds from the bottom, as I may or may not have done my first time.

Coffee aside, Bosnian cuisine is similar to its Balkan neighbors and is meat and bread heavy, with an emphasis on seasonal vegetables and stewed pots of deliciousness. Cevapi is a popular choice amongst people from all walks of life, and the grilled sausages are served with raw onions and grilled bread.

Another famous grab-and-go dish is Burek, which is a stuffed pasty well known among many Balkan countries. Desserts are worth the calories here as well, and the fruit-based Tufahija or biscuity Hurmašica are both popular options.

Writing an article about Bosnia and Herzegovina and not mentioning the country’s growing wine scene would be a shame, as the over 2 million cases that they produce are winning over more visitors each year. Most of the grapes come from the area surrounding Mostar, and the most well-known variety is Žilavka. Much more budget-friendly than other options, a bottle of Bosnian wine pairs perfectly with your grilled meats and stewed vegetables.

Easily Accessible

Having been recognized as a “candidate country” by the EU, Bosnia and Herzegovina is working to become more connected to other European cities. While buses, roads, and rail within the country are developing (very slowly, as some locals might say), access from nearby neighboring countries is pretty straightforward. Many come from Croatia, starting from the cities of Split or Dubrovnik. Busses from Serbia and Montenegro are options as well.

There are a few other airports in the country, but Sarajevo is by far the biggest and most popular option for travelers coming from further afield than the Balkan states. Although it was previously serviced by budget airline Wizz Air, the company has left this route and now Sarajevo International Airport is in talks with Ryanair to establish a hub here.

So, for now, budget airlines are not an option to fly into Sarajevo, but Turkish air and other main carriers are good options for connection routes. For example, when trying to return to New York in 2021, I found a much cheaper ticket from Sarajevo (with a short connection in Istanbul) than I could find in nearby Split, Croatia.

So while it might not be the easiest place to find cheap flights to, it’s definitely possible to fly here for a lower cost than some other nearby cities, and of course, a bit of flexibility with the dates helps as well.

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March 8, 2023
Launch Of New Fee To Visit Europe Delayed Until Next Year

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Europe’s plan to launch an Electronic Travel Authorization, which will require Americans to pay a fee every three years in order to travel, has just been pushed back until 2024 as Brussels continues to grapple with operational issues and the complexities of the system’s implementation. The ETIAS, as it’s been dubbed, was initially set to come into force at some point this year.

As things stand, Americans are not required to apply for a permit in order to enter Europe. In fact, authorities have made border crossings an incredibly smooth experience for U.S. citizens, allowing them to cross freely via several e-Gate entry points, with no other requirement other than carrying a valid biometric passport.

Once ETIAS come into force, however, they will need more than simply providing ID:

What Is A Travel Authorization System?

Europe is preparing for a major overhaul of its existing border rules, and Americans will be among those affected. Soon enough, tourists who are currently exempt from applying for a short-term visa traveling to Europe will be expected to obtain a travel permit in advance or an Electronic Travel Authorization – but what exactly does that mean?

ETAs, in their short form, have become widely popular since the United States introduced its ESTA in 2008 as part of an array of measures aimed at increasing national security. Other countries like Australia and New Zealand have also implemented their own, with Australia being a pioneer in launching the Electronic Travel Authority as early as 1996.

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Even though it’s not a visa, and it’s normally issued online in a matter of minutes, ETAs have been a stone in the shoe of travelers who are growing wary of border formalities, especially in a post-pandemic context. After all, unless they hold a valid permit for an ETA-requiring country, they risk being barred from boarding or even refused entry into that territory.

Interestingly, Europe – more specifically, the European Union (EU) – never introduced an ETA, despite talks that it would be enforced circulating in the media for years. Confirming the rumors, the European Commission finally set an introductory date for the permit in 2020 – and then, of course, the pandemic hit. Ever since, several postponements have taken place.

When Will Europe Launch Its ETIAS?

The most recent date, announced in August 2022, had been set for the May-November 2023 period, but the launch will no longer be going ahead as planned. Apparently, the EU Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs silently kicked the can down road further by removing any mentions of a November 2023 launch from the official website.

Now, it simply reads 2024, though more details were not given, such as an exact month or reason behind the latest postponement. While this is merely guesswork at this point, we suspect it may be due to the ongoing challenges of enforcing a complex, cross-national border strategy when there are 26 countries involved.

Based on the information provided, the ETIAs will apply to visa-exempt travelers seeking entry into the Schengen Area, a customs union and border-free zone within Europe that comprises not only a majority of EU member states but also the nations of Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. Other than improving security, the main goal is to track every tourists’ move into and out of Schengen.

Americans can visit Europe hassle-free, but they must observe one simple rule: never staying longer than 90 days out of any 180-day period. This means that, when using up an entire three months inside Schengen, including any time spent in any of the participating countries, they must immediately leave the territory of all member states and wait three additional months to be readmitted.

Over the years, the enforcement of this rule has led to some confusion, especially when newcomers are unsure whether their date of entry counts as day 1, or if the date of exit counts towards the 90-day limit, and ended up overstaying, amid other uncertainties. Luckily, the Commission developed a calculator that helps Americans verify the legality of their stay.

How Expensive Is The Fee?

ETIAS applicants must pay a €7 fee through the official ETIAS website or app. The EU has reminded tourists the system is not yet operational and that any third parties offering travel permits are scammers. For now, and until 2024 at the latest, Americans are not subject to EES or ETIAS rules, being allowed to enter Europe requirement-free.

Besides the Travel Authorization, Europe is also introducing a new Entry-Exit System (or EES), already being trialed in a number of external borders ahead of a wider rollout. This means that, from late 2023/early 2024, all foreigners entering the bloc will be expected to register fingerprints for stricter border checks on top of presenting their ETIAS at the check-in desk.

For a complete list of all the countries Americans must pay to enter in 2023, please read our accompanying article.

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March 2, 2023