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The Best Destinations for Live Music in the US

It seems like a fairly safe bet that most decently-populated destinations in the U.S. have something in the way of live music, if you look hard enough. But certain cities have built their whole identity around their music scenes, which makes them the perfect places to visit if you’re an enthusiast.

But let’s be real — who doesn’t like to see live music every once in a while? That’s like saying you don’t like to have a good time. These are some of the best destinations for live music in the country.

1. New Orleans, LA

best destinations for live music
Photo by Chris Litherland

Also known as the birthplace of jazz, NOLA is famous for its festivals. There’s Mardi Gras, but then there’s also the Jazz & Heritage Festival, the French Quarter Festival, the Voodoo Music & Arts Experience, and a long list of others. The city is also well-known for an eclectic group of famous performers and musicians, including Louie Armstrong, Amanda Shaw, and Lil Wayne.

Nothing fosters the flow of live shows like the lack of a last call. Bars in NOLA stay open all night, which means you should plan to take an Uber, pace yourself, and make sure you bring that tube of lipstick. You’re in it for the long haul.

For music destinations and lengthy reviews, check out TripAdvisor’s NOLA page.

2. Austin, TX

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Photo by Lonestar Mike

Things take a turn for the country when you head over to southern Texas. Known as the “Live Music Capitol of the World” due to the sheer volume of the acts happening around town on any given night, Austin’s particular flavor of country has a progressive, counterculture twist.

But as the host for big-name festivals like SXSW and Austin City Limits Music Festival, Austin is far more than just a country, blues, and rock music destination. It’s branched out to all different genres, and also exists as a hub for beginning artists looking for somewhere other than Nashville to get noticed.

Check out this awesome guide from the Guardian for more details about where to go.

3. Fayetteville, AR

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Photo by Brandonrush

The first time someone mentioned this to me, I was like, “Say what?” It seemed pretty random. But apparently, Fayetteville, with a population of around 80,000 — a figure that is up nearly 40% since 2000 — is a small, Southern community that loves its arts and culture with a fiery passion.

For instance, this spring, they’re hosting Buddy Guy at the Walton Arts Center. And their most popular venue, George’s Majestic Lounge, is the oldest venue in Arkansas and the host of a long list of popular musicians over the years, including Leon Russell, Eddie Money, Pat Green, and Sam Bush.

Check out this Fayetteville itinerary for some suggestions, and make sure to tweet some personal reviews if you make it down.

4. Asheville, NC

best destinations for live music in the us
Photo by pulaw

The “Land of the Sky” is known for being a standout, free-spirited hub in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Another Southern arts town (like Fayetteville, just bigger), Asheville keeps it lively with a constant stream of musical acts and festivals year-round.

Blues is the name of the game in Asheville. When you look at the history behind some of Asheville’s iconic venues, you’ll see musicians like the Black Keys, Madeski Martin & Wood, Bob Dylan, and Sharon Jones — but it’s a progressive environment with a place for R&B, rock, soul, pop, and electronic music, as well.

Check out ExploreAsheville.com, the city’s website, for a great rundown of the local scene.

5. Brooklyn, NY

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Photo by Steven Pisano

With its rise to hipster fame in recent years, this seems like a no-brainer for great music. In fact, if you try to look online, the variety of options seems overwhelming. But Brooklyn faces a different challenge than smaller towns like Fayetteville do when it comes to sustaining growth: gentrification. With some long-standing venues shutting down due to increased rent, the Brooklyn live music scene is changing.

If you’re planning a trip and looking for a starting block, Vogue has a pretty good live music guide that will show you where to go dancing and where to chill out. For a slightly more local opinion, check out Brooklyn Mag.

6. Denver, CO

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Photo by Matt Wright

Finally, we arrive at jam band central — or, maybe, what used to be jam band central. Nowadays, what you hear about Denver’s music scene is actually regarding its diversity of genres, which includes punk, electronic, rap, and the like. Another thing you hear about Denver’s music scene is that there’s opportunity for growth, and it seems an influx of transplants are taking advantage.

Regardless of the country roots and jam band undertones, Denver now has a little bit of everything, from large stadiums to warehouses to small, gritty bars. Check out what the Guardian has to say about where to party in Denver before you travel.

The Best Places to Visit in Poland

There is much to be said about Central Europe’s gem that often goes unnoticed. Although typically described as an Eastern European country, Poles will quickly (and politely) set you straight. Common misconceptions of the colorful land of Poland are that it’s a dreary, industrial place not known for much more than its painful past, pierogis, and flavored vodka. This is a far cry from the truth.

Poland is a resilient country with a booming economy where old meets new. Offering rich history (it boasts 14 UNESCO World Heritage Sites) and undeniable beauty at every turn, there’s a place for everyone here. From vibrant metropolitans, big pub crawls, and world-famous historical sites, to seaside cities surrounding the Baltic Sea in the North down to the snow-capped Tatra Mountains in the South, these cities are sure to hit your travel sweet spot. Not sold yet? Then let us mention that Poland ranks in the top 10 for world’s biggest beer drinkers.

The 5 Best Places to Visit in Poland

Kraków

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Kraków is Poland’s most frequented tourist spot and it’s not hard to see why. With one of the largest market squares in all of Europe, medieval architecture all around, romantic cobblestone roads, gothic churches, and stunning castles, it’s no wonder they dub this Polish city as “the next Prague.” It’s here you’ll find Main Market Square, Wawel Castle, St. Francis’ Basilica, and a former Jewish quarter chock-full of history.

At only a day trip’s distance away lies Auschwitz and the Wieliczka Salt Mine. Not exclusive to Kraków, however, are Poland’s infamous milk bars. These are cafeteria-style restaurants where the locals eat that feature home-cooked meals and local beers at affordable prices. Be sure to be on the lookout for these during your time in Poland!

Warsaw

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No trip to Poland would be complete without a visit to its capital, Warsaw, which is also its biggest city. Unlike the more old-world Kraków, Warsaw has more of a 21st-century flare. It’s a hub of impressive museums, including the towering Palace of Culture and Science, Chopin Museum, Warsaw Museum (where you’ll learn about the city before and post WWII) and Copernicus Science Centre (the most family-friendly of the bunch).

Or you can take a stroll through Royal Baths Park, the city’s largest park, where you’ll find Lazienki Palace. For a taste of Warsaw’s glory days, visit Old Town Market Square. It’s the oldest part of Warsaw, rich in colorful architecture, cafés, and shops. You’ll also spot St. John’s Cathedral here.

Gdańsk

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Ask any local, and they’ll say you can’t leave the country without seeing their seaside off the Baltic coast first. One of three cities in the Tricity metropolitan area, Gdańsk is a developing port city that’s considered a true seaside gem and probably the most picturesque city on the list. What sets it apart from other Polish cities is its distinctive Germanic architecture, glowing waterfront, and golden sand beaches. It’s also a lively nightlife scene.

Spend the day in Sopot, where you can enjoy the beach, or walk along the impressive wooden pier year-round, kayak along the waterfront, or explore old town. Pick up some beautiful amber jewelry as a souvenir from one of the many shops along the shore. Catch the best views of the city on Gradowa, where you’ll get a panoramic shot of the city, river, and shipyard. Or visit nearby Malbork Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction. This striking brick castle is the largest castle in the world by surface area and has been entirely restored post-WWII.

Wrocław

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Old souls will enjoy the character of Wrocław (“vrots-wahf”) without the crowds found in Kraków. While still full of cultural attributes and entertainment, Wrocław is known for some pretty unique things. Over 200 gnomes adorn the streets – each with their own unique story that you can read up on. Their train station that looks like a castle (winning) and their Old Town Square is one of the prettiest in all of Poland.

A feast for the eyes, the housing flats and apartments here are vibrant and offer many good bistros and bars on their lower levels. You’ll even find the Hansel and Gretel houses here! The beautiful golden Town Hall (Ratusz) found in Old Town Square is a popular landmark of the city and a building commonly seen on Instagram.

Zakopane

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Zakopane is the winter sports lover’s paradise (only a two-hour bus ride south of Kraków). Much like Gdańsk, this is a popular holiday spot for Poles and tourists alike and has long been hailed the “Winter Capital of Poland.” The breathtaking ice-caked summits of the Tatra Mountains make this mountain town look like it came straight out of a fairytale. There’s plenty to do here, from skiing and an easy hike to Emerald Lake to taking a stroll down the main walking street and indulging in potato pancakes from Bar Mleczny. Long day on the slopes? Step into the hot pools at Terma Bukowina to relax.

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Lastly, while not a city, a scenic gem that’s a pride amongst many Poles is the awe-inspiring Masurian Lake District that stretches across northeastern Poland. It claims over 2,000 lakes that are connected by rivers and canals. Be sure to put this on your list if you’re looking to enjoy the simple pleasures the countryside has to offer.

As you can see, Poland should be a must-see country on your travel list. Some things to remember before touching down: English is their most common second language, the people are extremely hospitable, and they don’t use euros (their national currency is złoty, pronounced “zwoty”). We hope to see you livin’ it up Polish style and enjoying a cheap beer with a local very soon!

5 Fun and Inexpensive Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is the best of both worlds—this coastal favorite has golden beaches and tropical jungles, quiet cocktail bars and steamy nightclubs, cobblestone streets and quaint white-washed houses with orange-tiled roofs. On top of all that, it has the same latitude as Hawaii, providing it with year-round balmy temperatures and superabundant sunshine. Whether you’re a city slicker or nature-lover, Puerto Vallarta has something for you. So, amp up your español, dust off your passport, and lighten your luggage. From Bar La Playa to Los Arcos, we’re laying out the top five places that you need to visit in Puerto Vallarta.

 

Bar La Playa

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Nestled between beachwear and souvenir shops, Bar La Playa is a hidden gem that’ll make you sad when it’s last call. With a ten-seat wooden bar inside and five tables on its sidewalk, it might be tiny, but it fits the party-happy vibe of Vallarta. Even if you don’t visit during happy hour—when margaritas are $1.50 and Mexican beers are 76¢—the bar is packed with regulars that’ll share side-splitting stories and travel tips. “Alex the owner is a master mixologist,” says Mikee Bridges from Ventura, California. His Jell-O shots are served in hollowed out strawberries and watermelon rinds. His cocktails are handmade with fresh ingredients like fruits, herbs, juices, and spices, most of which have comical names like It’s All About the Lavender, Green Peace, and Release the Kraken.

 

Vallarta Botanical Garden

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Just 30 minutes from downtown Puerto Vallarta, you’ll find a landscape of unrivaled natural beauty where you can escape into pockets of still-pristine coastal wilderness. Opening in 2005, the Vallarta Botanical Garden (VBG) is primarily dedicated to preserving native Mexican plants such as strangler figs, prickly pear cactus, wild vanilla, and blue agaves. “There are currently around 200 species of orchids of the more than 1,200 that exist in Mexico,” says Jesús Reyes, the co-founder and general director of the VBG. “Many of the orchids you see here were grown in our in vitro propagation lab.”

You could spend your entire visit learning about the more than eight thousand plant species, but there’s so much more to do here. You can hike through swaths of rainforest on the Jaguar Trail, where squawking groups of Lilac-Crowned Amazon parrots wheel through the sky. Then cool off in the Horcones River. It has pools that are separated by house-sized granite boulders. At the Hacienda de Oro, you can tuck into shrimp stuffed avocados or beer-battered fish tacos while enjoying a gorgeous view of the Sierra Madres. You can also watch 13 species of hummingbirds sip nectar from feeders on the terrace.

 

Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe

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Photo: Bud Ellison

When Vallarta’s skyline ignites into a myriad of colors, just like a brightly colored Mexican serape, the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe’s crown can be seen miles away. A powerful symbol of Mexican identity and faith, its bells ring 15 and 30 minutes before every mass. Their sound becomes especially inviting during the Feast of Guadalupe that’s held every year from December 1st to the 12th. According to tradition, on December 12, 1531, the Virgin of Guadalupe appeared as a dark-skinned woman who spoke Nahuatl. She asked an Indian peasant named Juan Diego to gather Castilian roses from a hillside and then arranged them in his cloak. When he presented it to his local bishop, the flowers tumbled out, and they discovered a life-size image of the Virgin Mary.

“Our Lady retains her appeal without specifically being anchored in religious tradition,” says John Moran Gonzalez, director of the Center for Mexican American Studies at the University of Texas at Austin. “ She’s seen as the champion of the underdog, of the Indian, of all those who lack power in society.” That’s why tens of thousands of tourists come from around the world to enjoy this annual festival. They leave Milagros to ask her for healing, protection, and good luck. Fireworks decorate and light up the skies. Aztec warriors dance in the streets, and traditional parades entertain the crowds. The central plaza is also filled to the brim with street vendors selling Mexican folk art, Christmas ornaments, and foodstuffs.

 

Isla Río Cuale

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Isla Río Cuale will make you feel like you have one foot in the jungle and the other in the city. Formed by a huge flood caused by a tornado in October of 1926, it’s densely forested by bamboo, Madras Thorns, Caro Caros, and rubber trees. Locally dubbed the Isla de Gatos, roughly 150 feral cats roam the island. “It’s been a dumping ground for the past 20 or 30 years, and people abandon their cats,” says Jill Goldstein, the founder and executive director of Pause 4 Paws, a Minneapolis-based animal charity. You’ll also see orange-fronted parakeets darting around tree crowns, iguanas sunbathing in trees, and otters smashing clams with rocks.

Reached by swinging bridges, its main attractions are its rustic brick-paved streets surrounded by charming thatched bungalows. It also boasts one of the best two-story flea markets in the world. You’ll find everything from sarapes (blankets with a head opening, worn as a cloak) and huaraches (woven leather sandals) to paper machè figures and blown glass. Venture upstairs for authentic Mexican food like coconut ice cream and chicken tamales. Or view a small collection of Pre-Colombian pottery, tombs, and artifacts with English-translated panels at the Cuale Archaeological Museum. Movie buff?  There’s a statue of John Huston, who directed The Night of the Iguana, starring Richard Burton and Ava Gardner.

 

Los Arcos and El Malecón

“If you come to Vallarta and don’t come to the Malecón, you haven’t been to Vallarta,” says Alberto Garcia, who rounds up visitors for time-share presentations. It’s the heart of Puerto Vallarta and its version of a seaside boardwalk: minus the boards. Stretching from the Hotel Rosita to the Río Cuale, it’s a popular meeting point, featuring dancers and musicians playing traditional Mexican folk music.  From “The Seahorse” to local sand art, it’s like walking through a beach-side sculpture garden.

If you’re looking for a showstopper, watch the Voladores of Papantla: four men dressed in Totonac costumes rotate around a 65-foot pole to summon the four directions of the universe. Dig into grilled corn coated with cheese. Or down a tejuino, a fermented drink that’s made from the same corn dough as tortillas. Then head to Los Arcos. A symbol of the Puerto Vallarta, it’s used during weekends and holidays as an open-air theater for food tastings, sporting events, cultural performances, and festivals.

5 Places to See in Bali Besides the Beach

Named the world’s best tourist des­ti­na­tion by TripAd­vi­sor in 2017, Bali, the famed island of the gods, is a living postcard. A 95-mile-wide strip of land located in the Indian Ocean, its mere mention evokes thoughts of a beach bum’s paradise. But Bali is so much more than sun, sea, and salty breezes. It’s a cocktail of culture—a stirring and foreign blend of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Animism. From the Ubud Monkey Forest to Goa Gajah, here are the top five non-beach destinations that’ll get you into a tropical state of mind.

 

Ubud Monkey Forest

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A crab-eating macaque pulls her baby’s tail at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Padangtegal, Bali| Photo: D.Meutia via Flickr

This cool and dense swath of jungle houses 750 long-tailed Balinese macaques, who swing through the shade, laze along pathways, and feast on sweet potatoes, bananas, papaya leaves, and coconuts. They may be considered sacred because of Hanuman—the Hindu monkey god from the Ramayana, an ancient Indian epic poem—or through their association with the area’s three temples.

Strictly for prayer and built from Majegan, Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal is the main temple, built for Shiva the destroyer. The widow-witch Rangda flanks its main staircase. The second temple, Pura Beji, features holy water to cleanse the body and soul before worshipping Gangga, the goddess of the river Ganges, and the third temple is Pura Prajapati.

Dedicated to the “lord of all creatures”, it’s surrounded by 115 tree species, including the Banyan, whose leaves are used in cremation ceremonies, and the Pule Bandak, which embodies the spirit of the forest and is used to make traditional masks. “They’re only used inside the temple,” says Emily Perry, a yogini, acupuncturist, and herbalist in Santa Cruz, California.  “An auspicious day is chosen and the Pemangku asks permission of the tree’s spirit to cut a small piece of its wood. The spirit thus remains embodied in the mask.”

 

Mount Batur

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A side view of Mount Batur in Kintamani, Bali | Photo: Castio T. Lauren via Flickr

One of Bali’s four sacred Mountains, Mount Batur is believed to be home of Dewi Danu, the goddess of water. “An active volcano, Mount Batur is a giant bowl. Sitting in the heart of a nine-mile crater, its bottom half is submerged by turquoise waters and a set of volcanic cones juts out of its middle. It’s also covered with bubbling hot springs that cascade over its lower slopes. Sound spectacular? It is. Famous for its sunrise trek, hikers climb for two hours in the pitch black, bumper to bumper over steep, slippery rubble. Once they reach the top, the thick blanket of darkness is replaced by glistening orange and golden rays, bursting from the silhouette of Mount Agung.

 

Goa Gajah

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The entrance of Goa Gajah sanctuary near Ubud, Bali | Photo: Húpàn Lǎo via Flickr

Not far outside of the city of Ubud is a Buddhist-Hindu archeological site known as Goa Gajah, or, the “Elephant Cave”.  Visitors are forgiven for finding this name confusing—there were never any elephants in Bali. The temple’s name might actually come from the nearby Petanu River, which at one time was known as the Elephant River. Or it may be named after Ganesh, the elephant-headed Hindu god of wisdom, prosperity, and new beginnings.

Built around the 11th century,  the site is actually thought to have been a place of meditation and spiritual cleansing, where religious offerings were left. Buddhist monks carved the cave’s face into a demon with bulging eyes staring over the doorway that acts as its screaming mouth. This Hellmouth is surrounded by a sea of rolling flames and smaller sculptures of gods and demons—which were meant to ward off evil rather than invite it.

In front of the barely-lit cave, there are two square bathing pools, featuring six women pouring water out of jars into a central bath. To its left, there’s a statue of Hārītī, a child-devouring ogress who’s said to have been converted from her cannibalistic habits by Buddha. Inside the T-shaped cave lies the fragmentary remains of a triple lingga, the phallic symbol of the Hindu god Shiva, and its female counterpart, the yoni.

 

Bali Bird and Reptile Park

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A Great White Pelican floats on a lake in Bali Bird Park | Photo courtesy of Ashish Gautam via Flickr

Travel from the misty cloud forest of Borneo to the tropical grasslands of the African Savanna at the Bali Bird and Reptile Park. Walk side-by-side with flamingos, cassowaries, crested-cranes, and storks. Listen to the songs of 1,000 birds from 250 species, including the vulnerable Pesquet’s Parrot from New Guinea and the all-but-vanished Bali Mynah. Handfeed pelicans, who have the longest bill of any bird in the world, and rainbow-colored lories. Snap photos with macaws, cockatoos, wreathed hornbills, and a breeding pair of Eclectus Parrots, who’ll perch on your shoulders.

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A water monitor basks on a log | Photo: Cuatrok77 via Flickr

The park’s reptile section includes a serpent cave that holds King Cobras, Mambas, Vipers, and a 26-foot Reticulated Python—one of the largest snakes in captivity. Pet salamanders, water monitors, iguanas, and turtles, or marvel at Komodo dragons: giant monitor lizards that are direct descendants of the dinosaurs that lived nearly 100 million years ago.

 

Ubud Art Market

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Pasar Seni Ubud, an artisan market in the center of Ubud, Bali | Photo: Nicola Lemmon

Featured in the movie Eat Pray Love, the Ubud Art Market is located at the corner of the Ubud Monkey Forest and Jalan Saya Ubud, the main street that runs right through the center of town. It’s a two-story labyrinth of stalls bursting with basket bags, cotton sarongs, silver jewelry, batik fabrics, garuda sculptures, and Kamasan-style paintings.

Open from 6 am to 6 pm, the merchants negotiate with tourists for a living. “To get the best prices, hit the markets as early as physically possible, and ask for the “harga pagi”, i.e., the morning price,” says Geneva Vanderzeil, the author of DIY Fashionista. If you’re finding a steal instead of a deal, head to the stalls upstairs, where you’ll find the same products at a lower price.

*Featured photo: Nicola Lemmon

4 Days in Chiang Mai, Thailand

In northern Thailand, you’ll find the intriguing city of Chiang Mai nestled among rolling hills. An hour by air from Bangkok, its counterpart in the south, Chiang Mai is the capital of Chiang Mai Province and former seat of the Kingdom of Lanna, which still influences its culture. It’s the opposite of Bangkok in many ways, offering a more relaxed pace and opportunity to catch your breath after the hustle and bustle of the southern capital. The welcoming spirit of its people, breathtaking scenery and spicy food have been drawing more and more visitors in recent years. We’ve put together a list of must-sees that will have you communing with elephants, tasting the food and saying a prayer in and around beautiful Chiang Mai.

Wat Pan Tao in the Old City

In the heart of the old city is Wat Pan Tao, a small wooden temple that stands out from the rest of the temples in the country for its simplicity and natural materials. A golden statue of Buddha floats above a pond near the monastery. Remember that when visiting a wat, you must remove your shoes and cover your shoulders, so bring along a scarf or long-sleeve shirt.

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Huen Phen Restaurant

Before you leave Chiang Mai, have lunch at Huen Phen, a famous restaurant that has been catering to locals, and now many tourists, since the 1960s. They specialize in traditional northern Thai food, called Lanna cuisine, that’s served in the Karan-style on a family-style tray. Pork is an important part of Lanna cuisine, so be sure to taste the larb khua moo, a heavy, dry-spiced curry made with minced pork, seasoned with cinnamon and cumin and garnished with shallots and crispy kaffir lime leaves. The best part: a delicious four-course meal comes out to about the equivalent of $6, including tip.

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Chiang Mai Eco-Village in the Karan Valley

From Chiang Mai, the Karan Valley is just a bouncing and bumpy SUV ride away. If you’re lucky, the driver might just blast some Britney Spears hits from a thumb drive as you pass rice patties, banana trees and lounging elephants. Lying low among the hills is the Chiang Mai Eco-Village, a rustic hotel made up of six bungalows and an open-air kitchen. What it lacks in luxury it makes up for in elephants, which you can see from the window of your hut each morning when you wake up. Join a tour to a nearby watering hole. A cool, crisp spring trickles from the steep hills and gathers in a natural pool of sorts. It’s a delight to watch elephants relish their baths after a hard day of work. Eco-Village visitors can also go bamboo rafting. Just beware of the carnivorous snakes that lie below the surface of the muddy water.

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Savannah: A Spellbinding Getaway

I lived in Georgia for a number of years, and one of the best parts about it was having so many unique destinations nearby to visit on my weekends off. All throughout the Peach State, North and South Carolina, and into Florida are beautiful cities bursting with history, culture, and that Southern Charm for which the region has come to be known throughout the world. Savannah–where you’ll find majestic oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, cobblestone streets from decades past, and horse-drawn carriages, all throughout a grid of historical and architecturally-fascinating buildings–is the oldest, and possibly most classic city in Georgia.

It’s a perfect place for a quick getaway this season, not to mention, the weather is perfect right now for a city where it’s best to blow around wherever the winds take you.

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Image via Pixabay under license CC0

While putting this together, I enlisted the help of a good friend of mine, Mike, who happens to still live in the area. He’s always had such wonderful, interesting stories to tell of his adventures. He shared his first trip to Savannah with me:

“[It] involved the ‘best walking tour ever’ created by a close friend of mine. This ‘tour’ revolved around a clover shaped pattern centered on a pirate themed t-shirt store that sold dollar pints. We’d get a pint for each hand, go off on our merry way, find adventure, loop back, get more pints, repeat; you get the picture. Objectively, it was not the best tour. As memory serves, it was a fantastic evening.”

I have gathered from his tales and my own experiences that there is no wrong way to do Savannah. Mike was kind enough to provide me with some tried and true suggestions before I returned to the historic district of Savannah, GA.

 

SEE

Bonaventure Cemetery is the most famous cemetery in Savannah and is over 200 years old and 100 acres in size, according to the Bonaventure Historical Society. Here, you can take in the sights of unique Gothic headstones and grave markers, some above very prominent individuals in history. Stopping by here is a must; it is absolutely gorgeous. Half of the graveyard is simply (while not simple at all) works of sculpted art so ornate you may forget you’re in a cemetery. The famous Bird Girl statue from Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil was once a huge tourist draw to the cemetery (although it is no longer here). Stop by the visitor center on your way in for maps and all the information you need.

Bonaventure Cemetery – 330 Bonaventure Road, Savannah GA 31404

Photo courtesy of Bonaventure Historical Society
Image courtesy of Bonaventure Historical Society

You’ll find that there are plenty of tours to choose from–some walking, some in horse-drawn carriages–that will regale you with stories of the spirits that roam the city. A unique one is the World Famous Hearse Tour, which will take you around town in a real hearse, through cemeteries and historic districts, telling spooky tales to ensure the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. Don’t worry, they promise on their website to keep it funny and lighthearted.

Hearse Ghost Tours – 412 E Duffy St, Savannah, GA 31401

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Image courtesy of Hearse Ghost Tours

Savannah Smiles Dueling Piano Bar, located near River Street, is a great way to start the evening. There’s lots of food, drinks, and limitless energy, coming from both the crowd and the pianists.

Savannah Smiles Dueling Piano Bar – 314 Williamson St, Savannah, GA 31401

 

EAT

As far as food is concerned, Bay Street and River Street both have plenty of dining options to choose from. While they definitely cater to tourists, they’re no slouches when it comes to food.

As for ‘secret’ spots, there aren’t many Savannah places that stay secret for long. You can find so many good things to eat in this city, and it’s one of those locales where you have your choice of price ranges, cuisines, and at the drop of a hat, can wander in any direction and find something tasty.

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Image via Pixabay under license CC0

Tubby’s Tank House is a seafood restaurant that is considered ‘real’ Savannah. If you’re planning on having shrimp, crab, oysters, etc., Tubby’s is a great option. They have a giant deck overlooking the marina at the mouth of the river, providing a relaxing view while you dine on the waterfront.

Tubby’s Tank House River Street – 115 E. River St., Savannah, GA 31401

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Image courtesy of Live Oak Restaurant Group

World Famous Clary’s Cafe – skip the celebrity cathedral of butter and check out this nostalgic cafe for crab eggs Benedict, biscuits and gravy, grits, and more. Another southern staple you can get here: sweet tea. Nowhere is sweet tea done as well as it’s done in the South.

Clary’s Café, 404 Abercorn St., Savannah, GA 31401

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Image via Pixabay under license CC0

For those with a sweet tooth, check out Lulu’s Chocolate Bar – a dessert restaurant, all items made from scratch, that also serves drinks and martinis (in chocolate variations, of course).

Lulu’s Chocolate Bar -42 MLK Jr. Blvd., Savannah, GA 31401

Also, Savannah’s Candy Kitchen – because pralines; no need for further explanation. Keep in mind, you’re now in the part of the country where pecans are referred to as PEE-cans.

Savannah’s Candy Kitchen – 225 E River St, Savannah, GA 31401

 

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Moon River Brewing Company is known for good food and craft beers like “Yoga Pants,” a pilsner with fruit aromas, and “Taterlicious!” an amber ale made with sweet potatoes. According to their site, Moon River is also regarded as one of the most haunted in the city and is Savannah’s only haunted brewery.

Moon River Brewing Company21 W Bay St, Savannah, GA 31401

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Image via Pixabay under license CC0

Molly MacPherson’s. Go there. Mention Kevin Barry’s (Irish Pub). Start a fight. Molly MacPherson’s Scottish Pub has the East Coast’s largest selection of single malt scotch whiskey, according to their site. Try the Shepherd’s Pie, a traditional Scottish dish, or the fish and chips, a favorite among return patrons.

Molly MacPherson’s – 311 W Congress St, Savannah, GA 31401

molly macphersons pub
Image courtesy of Molly MacPherson’s Scottish Pubs

Vinnie Van Go Go’s Pizza for late night cravings – right in the middle of Bay Street and staffed almost entirely by SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) students, they will make you a heavenly slice. You’ll eat it right outside, standing, because its a busy joint. Cash only, of course.

Vinnie Van Go Go’s – 317 West Bryan Street, Savannah GA, 31401

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Image via Pixabay under license CC0

 

STAY

Elegant antique décor, luxurious amenities, and Southern charm await guests at the Marshall House in the Historic District. According to their site, ghosts have been seen in the hallways and foyers over the years, but they assure you that there’s nothing to be afraid of. Situated in a great location, the hotel is walking distance to River Street, a 200-yr old area filled with restaurants and shops, and just four blocks from Chippewa Square Park, the site of Forrest Gump’s bus bench from the 1994 film. The actual bench itself can be seen at the Savannah History Museum just 15 minutes away.

savannah river boat
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The Best Spicy Food Restaurants in the US

Raise your hand if you’re always ordering the spiciest dish on a restaurant’s menu. Sure, your friends may look at you in horror while they munch on their, shall we say, bland dish? But spicy food lovers know the joy of the stages to tasting spice. First you get the flavor, then you get layers of flavor, and then you get the heat.  Plus, according to a study from the University of Vermont, consumption of red hot chili peppers is associated with a 13 percent reduction in total mortality. So really, you’re being healthy when you order that craft beer brewed with ghost peppers. Here are five restaurants in the U.S. that will help satisfy your thirst for spicy food.

 

When in Nashville, make it spicy chicken at Hattie B’s

Nashville is known for its iconic hot chicken, basically, your traditional buttermilk-fried chicken doused in hot sauce. You should order it from Hattie B’s. The no-frills restaurant knows its spice. While they do serve a mild chicken for your friends that can’t stand the heat, you’re going to want to order their five-alarm fried chicken, “Shut the Cluck Up.” Don’t forget the side of mac and cheese.

hattie Bs spicy food
Photo: Jimmy Emerson, DVM via Flickr

 

Drink your spice in North Carolina

You’ve heard of ghost chili peppers, probably even tried them, but have you had them in a beer? Charlotte, North Carolina-based Ass Clown Brewing has two spicy brews you’re going to want to try: the Go Reap Yourself IPA, made with Carolina Reaper peppers, and a Ghost Chili IPA, made with ghost peppers.

 

When in NYC or San Francisco, try Mission Chinese

Eating at one of Mission Chinese Food’s locations (Brooklyn, Manhattan, San Francisco) is like throwing your very own spice party. The food is based loosely on Szechuan cuisine from southwestern China, which, on its own, is known for bringing the heat, but Mission Chinese Food takes it to another level by incorporating classics from around the world. It was one of the favorite NYC restaurants of the late Anthony Bourdain. Order the Chongquing Chicken Wings.

mission chinese spicy food
Photo: Foodie Buddha via Flickr

 

Spice up your BBQ at Big Bad Wolf’s House of Barbecue

Don’t be scared by the dive bar exterior. Baltimore’s Big Bad Wolf’s House of Barbeque is one of the city’s hidden gems, and it has some of the best BBQ in the country. Douse whatever you order in their sauces that range from mild to “Hot Enough for the Devil,” for a sweet and spicy taste you’ll never forget.

 

Some like it hot at Torchy’s Tacos in Texas

Every August, Texas-based Torchy Tacos rolls out a special “Some Like Hot” menu, and every year, people flee from the spicy tacos. (OK, we can’t confirm this, but the tacos seem to get hotter each year.) Even if you don’t hit up the place in August, though, the casual taco joint brings the spice during the rest of the year with classic options like “The Brush Fire: American Jerk Chicken,” with grilled jalapeños, mango, sour cream, and cilantro, with diablo sauce that will have you reaching for a glass of milk.

torch's tacos spicy food
Photo: Michelle Lee via Flickr

Banff National Park: Canada’s Dream Getaway

If you want to experience nature’s most beautiful, head to Banff National Park. Located in Albert, Canada, it’s the country’s first national park. It started as a modest hot springs reserve and today serves as an unmatched mountain destination tucked away in the Canadian Rockies. Not only for mountain lovers, Banff National Park has something to offer everyone — think skiing, fishing, golfing, plus the most luxurious in terms of accommodations.

Planning your itinerary? Here’s some of what you can expect.

The Best of Banff National Park

Hot Springs


Banff is famous for its hot springs. The geothermally heated water bubbles up to the surface from the earth’s crust, reaching a toasty 116°F in the winter and 81°F in the springtime. Soothing and packed with minerals like sulfate, calcium, magnesium, sodium, and bicarbonate, Canada’s year-round hot springs are the perfect place to unwind.

Each spring provides a unique experience, with its own balance of minerals, gases, and temperatures. Plus, the views are unparalleled: snowcapped mountains and the gorgeous sun rising or setting. Perfection.

Whitewater Rafting

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned expert, you won’t regret whitewater rafting in Banff. Kicking Horse River is the place to be. If you’re looking for a calmer rafting opportunity, they’ve got it. Want to live life a little more on the edge? They’ve got those kinds of rapids, too.

Don’t get us wrong: the Bow River, Highwood River, and Kananaskis River also offer their own unique adventures.

Sunshine Meadows

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Considered by many to be Canada’s number one day hike, Sunshine Meadows looks like it was pulled directly from a postcard. Venture to this area and you’ll be surrounded by some of the highest peaks in the Canadian Rockies.

Take Banff’s biggest gondola up to the Village, where you’ll have awe-inspiring views of the valley down below, all the mountain peaks, and the area’s wildlife. Then, pick from the six graveled hiking trails that wind through all three alpine lakes, waterfalls, and the lush fields packed with flowers spanning more than seven miles of Sunshine Meadows. Brilliant.

Lake Louise

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If nature is calling, you must answer her. While it’s about 40 miles northwest of Banff, if you’re spending time in the park, you can’t miss visiting the emerald waters of Lake Louise for canoeing or heading into the neighboring mountains for hiking or rock climbing. Go for a short walk or challenge yourself to an off-trail excursion. You can even saddle up and ride horseback to explore the lake and park. No roads. No rushing. Just you, your horse, and nature.

Museums

It’s not all outdoor adventures, although Banff certainly doesn’t disappoint in that arena. You can also get a heavy dose of culture, history, and art while you’re there. The resort town is full of museums. The Whyte Museum, for instance, honors both the historical and contemporary art of the country. It has guided tours, archives, and even a library.

Or there’s the Banff Park Museum National Historic Site of Canada, which is home to more than 5,000 animal specimens and is an excellent opportunity to learn about Banff’s wildlife.

Camping

lake louise in banff national park

Banff National Park has most other locations beat when it comes to its camping opportunities. With multiple campgrounds in the area, you can’t go wrong. Waterfowl Lake Campground is a mere 45 miles from Banff and has 116 sites. Enjoy the Mistaya River and Waterfowl Lake, and then take the trail to Cirque and Chephren Lakes.

If you visit Lake Louise and don’t want to leave, set up camp there! Park yourself in the woods along the Bow River, just 2.5 miles from the water. Multiple biking and hiking trails are right within reach.

night camping in banff national park

Accommodations

While you should explore Banff’s stunning outdoors as much as you can, no one will blame you for wanting accommodations that might be a bit cozier. Thankfully, the town doesn’t fall short there, either. You have plenty to choose from — like the Paradise Lodge & Bungalows, the Mountaineer Lodge, Johnston Canyon Resort, and Mount Robsten Inn, just to name a few, and that doesn’t even cover it.

Cave and Basin National Historic Site

This is a must-see for both nature lovers and history fanatics alike. Many consider this the original birthplace of Banff National Park, home to the original thermal mineral springs. This is where it all began. While those springs aren’t open to the public, you’ll learn about the park’s history and local wildlife. It’s possible people first began roaming the area 10,700 years BP, helping explain the deep cultural significance the Cave and Basin National Historic Site holds.

cave and basin national historic site

This is just a brief glimpse into what Banff and its national park have to offer. We haven’t even gotten into Helen Lake Trail, Bow Valley Parkway, and Surprise Corner — home of the hidden (and quite photogenic) historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. And don’t forget to make time for the park’s most picturesque waters, aside from Lake Louise, like Lake Minnewanka, Vermilion Lakes, Cascade Ponds, and Johnson Lake.

When you travel to Banff, the world is in your hands.

Have you ever been to Banff National Park? What’s your favorite thing to do there? Let us know in the comments!

6 Stunning Glamping Sites Around the World

There are few things I dislike more in this world than dirt, bugs, half-cooked food, and the fear of a bear attack, so as you can imagine, going camping has never been at the top of my bucket list. That is until I was introduced to the world of glamping. Yup, glamping, as in camping glamorously, which sounds like an exponentially better experience, in my opinion.

Glamping combines the outdoorsy feeling of camping with the experience of a hotel so you can bask in nature without missing out on your fav reality shows on E! Here are some of the best glamping sites in the world.

 

Treebones Resort

Big Sur, California

Treebones Resort is located in South Big Sur and has a perfect view of the Pacific Ocean, with several yurts, oceanfront campsites, and even a stunning little spot created from tree branches by Big Sur-based artist Jayson Fann. The spaces have comfortable beds, hot and cold running water, and indoor and outdoor seating. The resort also features a pool and hot tub, a restaurant with organic, locally grown food and a sushi bar. Hamburgers and hot dogs no more!

 

Camp Kalahari

Botswana, Africa

Camp Kalahari is located in the Kalahari Desert in Africa and is one of three campsites on one million acres of a private wildlife reserve. With only 11 tents available, Camp Kalahari is the perfect place to have a relaxing stay while also adventuring and taking in the sights and sounds of African Wildlife. The camp features canvas tents, ensuite bathrooms, and open-air showers. There’s also a common library, living and dining area, and swimming pool. You’ll commonly spot brown hyenas, zebras, cheetahs, and more.

 

Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru

Madivaru, Maldives

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After a day of diving, come home to a private tented villa that features a living room, bathroom, fully-furnished bedroom, private porch, and a stunning infinity pool. The five-star Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru also features a restaurant and bar, room service, and fitness center. Join the on-site marine conservation team in one of many on-going conservation projects.

 

Hôtel de Glace

Quebec, Canada

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If you’re planning ahead for some winter fun consider staying at the Hôtel de Glace located in Quebec, Canada, open from early January to late March with a truly magical atmosphere and an experience you’ll never forget. Guests can visit the Nordic relaxation area that features an outdoor spa and sauna, or for the active guests, an indoor waterpark, outdoor winter playground, and dog sledding excursions are available.

 

Collective Governors Island

New York City, New York

You’d never guess that this beautiful glamping oasis is just a quick ferry ride from downtown Manhattan; there’s even a view of the Statue of Liberty from the site. The tents have stunning décor and full electricity, comfortable bedding, and private or shared bathroom. Some of the bigger tents include complimentary breakfast and s’mores kits. Each evening opt into having a chef create a multi-course menu enjoyed either in the privacy of your own tent or at the on-site restaurant, Three Peaks.

 

Les Bulles de Bordeaux

Bordeaux, France

Have you ever thought of what it’d be like to literally live inside of a bubble? At Les Bulles de Bordeaux you can find out for yourself. Each of their bubble accommodations features its own bathroom with shower, electricity, and heating. There’s also an option for a private terrace spa featuring a warm bath while taking in the view.  I can’t stop thinking about how good Les Bulles de Bordeaux would look on my Instagram feed…

Eat the Best International Food in these 5 US Cities

While planning your next vacation, let your stomach be your guide. I love discovering different foodie scenes, and in a country as multicultural and diverse as ours, the options seem endless. Tasting the Caribbean’s best seasonings while lounging on an island, eating fresh sushi in Japan, and exploring Europe’s culinary heritage all sound fantastic, but international travel isn’t always easy. Fortunately, you may not need to go much further than your own backyard to taste some of the world’s most exotic flavors and freshest ingredients. Here are our picks of the best international food destinations in the US.

 

San Diego, California 

When talking about food scenes, California is nearly always mentioned, thanks to culinary superstar cities Los Angeles and San Francisco, but over the last few years, San Diego has seen some of that limelight. Sure, its proximity to Mexico means San Diego enjoys truly spectacular Mexican food, but if you want to be surprised, dive into the Asian food scene.

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San Diego’s Convoy Street is now boasted as “the” place to go for eating your way through Asian cuisine in the US. Despite stretching less than two miles, multiple vacations may be needed to try every Asian restaurant on this strip. Japanese, Chinese, Thai, Korean, Vietnamese, and Filipino cuisines are all offered. From dumplings to ramen, curry to kimchi, the possibilities are starting to seem endless in San Diego. And who wouldn’t want to visit “America’s Finest City”?

 

South Coast, Massachusetts 

As Massachusetts’ locals say, the shortest route from the US to Portugal is over the Braga Bridge, a main connection between Rhode Island and the south coast, where you’ll find the country’s largest community of Portuguese residents. Rich in flavor, Portugal’s culinary heritage has a history rooted in the maritime Age of Exploration, so be ready to taste hints of chili pepper, saffron, cinnamon, garlic, and vanilla, in addition to locally-grown herbs. The other connection to the sea comes from ingredients found in the Atlantic Ocean, and many dishes revolve heavily around fish and shellfish.

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These links to the sea are reasons why the Portuguese settled in New England during different waves of migration. Now that the travel world is buzzing about Portugal, why not discover what some of that excitement is about? From the famous monastery sweets to New England’s twists on traditional seafood recipes, to wine from the world’s oldest demarcated region (yes, that’s Portuguese!), you’ll find it all around the Massachusetts south coast.

 

 

Portland, Oregon

It’s not always easy to simplify a vegan lifestyle on vacation, especially if you want to get variety into your diet. That is, unless you visit a city like Portland, Oregon. Not only do the dining options seem limitless, but Portland has fun with veganism and it’s easy to find everything from donuts to burgers, cheeses, and wings.

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Sure, other cities like Los Angeles and NYC top the vegan charts and may offer even more dining options than Portland, but Oregon’s healthy living goes beyond the kitchen. It’s a state for nature enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies: hikers, kayakers, cyclists, and rock climbers are just a few groups who will find their niche in Oregon. Even if you’re not outdoorsy, it’s hard to get bored in Portland, a city boasted as one of the best for bookworms and music-lovers.

 

Miami, Florida 

Feel the heat of the Caribbean’s spices by visiting “The Magic City.” All you need to do is look at a map to know that Miami is a great place for Caribbean food in the USA; you can’t get closer to this group of islands than by heading to Florida, after all, and it’s where you’ll find the greatest concentration of Caribbean communities in the US.

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Sample the different cultural favorites from Cuban ropa vieja (shredded beef) to spicy Jamaican jerk chicken and fried green plantains that are common in Haiti. Fresh fish, coconut, lime, black beans, and okra are other ingredients often used in Caribbean cuisine, a multitude of influences mixing Spanish, African, French, and even Asian tastes and cooking styles.

 

Louisville, Kentucky

At the end of the day, what is all-American cuisine? Defined by a range of recipes developed in different parts of the country, it may be inaccurate to suggest that one city or state does “American” food better than others. Or is it?

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One city where you’ll find an undeniable American culinary heritage is Louisville, Kentucky. The land of Bourbon is also a land of barbecue, Derby pie (similar to pecan pie), and stews filled with wild game. In Kentucky, dishes take on a ‘southern-style cooking’ resemblance, but in addition to hushpuppies, grits, country-fried steak, and chicken-and-dumplings, you’ll discover recipes unique to Louisville like burgoo, a spiced meaty stew, and hot brown, an open-faced sandwich topped with turkey and locally-made cheese sauce. And this foodie destination is another great spot to taste a range of international flavors; the German community ensures there are always sausages available to help soak up the local craft beer, another reason to visit.