Tag Archives: Travel

Take a Hike in Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is a sprawling National Park in southern Utah featuring unique rock formations called Hoodoos and a beautiful ombre of red, orange, and white panoramic views. The park itself is actually a collection of naturally occurring amphitheaters with the highest rim sitting at 9,105 feet and the lowest point at 6,620 feet, resulting in a change in elevation of 2,485 feet.

bryce canyon utah

Because the elevation is higher, Bryce Canyon National Park stays much cooler than nearby Zion and Grand Canyon National Parks, so it’s still nice to visit even in the hottest months.

 

The park boasts trails of all levels, from easy to strenuous, and also accommodates backcountry camping for those seeking a bit more adventure. There are tons of choices if you’re planning to hike in Bryce Canyon.

 

Queens Garden Trail

The Queens Garden trail is only 1.8 miles long but goes right into the canyon and offers a great option for grandparents and kids alike, or, if you only have a short amount of time to see the sights. Use your imagination and you might even spot Queen Victoria at the end of a short spur trail.

Queens Garden Trail at sunrise
Queens Garden Trail at sunrise

Rim Trail

A longer but still easy trail is the Rim Trail, taking you the full 11 miles around the rim of the canyon and visiting the four main viewpoints, including Sunset Point, where you’ll get the best vista for observing sunset. The trail is paved and fairly level the whole way around.

View from Rim Trail Bryce Canyon
View from Rim Trail

Navajo Trail

A slightly more difficult and popular trail is the Navajo Trail. The loop begins at Sunset Point and takes you down into the main amphitheater through a slot canyon, where you can see Douglas Fir trees reaching high into the sky. The trail is short at only 1.3 miles round trip but you’ll want good closed-toed shoes to make the trip.

navajo trail bryce canyon
Navajo Trail loop

Fairyland Loop

If you have all day to spend hiking and are ready to dive in head first, the Fairyland Loop is a great trail to take you all through the park and offers the most diverse landscapes and vistas. It’s a fairly long trail at 8 miles and has multiple elevation changes. Plan on 4-5 hours on this hike, take plenty of water, and watch out for snakes!

Tower Bridge on the Fairyland Loop Trail
Tower Bridge on the Fairyland Loop Trail

Camping

Backcountry camping is also allowed in the park, if you’re looking for a more off the beaten trail experience and an incredible view of the night skies. There are 8 campsites on the Under the Rim Trail and 4 on the Riggs Spring Loop trail. Backcountry camping is $5 per person and requires a permit.

Camping at Bryce Canyon National Park
Camping at Bryce Canyon National Park

As with all hiking experiences, safety should be your number one concern. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes, like hiking boots or tennis shoes that have thick soles and come up above your ankles. Carry at least one liter of water per person for every 3 hours of hiking, and always purify water found in the backcountry. Bring snacks as well, like protein bars or trail mix to keep you energized throughout the day.

Stargazing from Bryce Canyon National Park
Stargazing from Bryce Canyon National Park

Be sure not to miss the Astronomy Festival if you’re in the area, as you’re able to gaze on some of the darkest night skies in the country from a well-equipped telescope field.

If you have some time to explore the southwest, don’t miss Bryce Canyon National Park. The vibrant colors and endless vistas makes for a completely unique experience you’ll always remember.

Yellowstone National Park: Still Old, Reliable

Pleated in the eye of the Northern Rocky Mountains, miles of ostensibly primordial geysers, hot springs and mudpots wait to be explored by a new generation of wanderers. Endless valleys are home to elusive wildlife such as bear, bison and pronghorn, often unfazed by human intercession – an ideal environment for viewing and photographing. The transitional granite mountains shrouded in Lodgepole Pines offer climbers a view reminiscent of a Tom Thompson painting. Petrified wood insightfully showcases volcanic activity operative more than 50 million years ago. Yellowstone National Park became America’s first in 1872, and as the National Park Service celebrates its centennial this August, you’d be hard pressed to find a better place to celebrate with fellow travelers.

canyon yellowstone
Yellowstone Canyon | Photo: Christina Suttles

Whether you’re a hiker, biker, or hitchhiker, Yellowstone’s trails and boardwalks make it convenient for all skill levels to enjoy our public lands. If you’re planning a trip this fall, be sure to visit the park’s staples, a route that’s sure to take you on an unforgettable road trip. Here are a few destination suggestions and travel tips to make your excursion as memorable as the summit views.

 

Grand Prismatic Spring

This evocative hot spring is the largest in the world, discharging up to 560 gallons of water per minute. The striking color dispersion of the spring takes shape thanks to colorful single-celled microorganisms at the spring’s edge, a visual lesson in biology. Located in the heart of the Midway Geyser Basin, there are plenty of ways to get a good view. For those with small children or limited hiking experience, a .8 mile looped boardwalk takes you to the spring’s foot, offering a view of the seemingly bottomless Excelsior Geyser as well. The Fairy Falls Trail renders the best aerial view of the spring, but be sure to check with park rangers before planning hikes as there are often closures due to construction. This 7-mile hike offers views of major geysers and hot springs, in addition to the park’s coveted waterfall, Fairy Falls.

grand prismatic yellowstone
Grand Prismatic Spring | Photo: Christina Suttles

 

Fountain Paint Pots

This region of the park features a number of hyperthermal features, including geysers, hot springs, mudpots and fumaroles. To truly soak up the park’s volcanic past, walk the half-mile boardwalk located in the Lower Geyser Basin, just a short drive from Midway Geyser Basin and Grand Prismatic Spring. Be sure to stop at Leather Pool, a calm, reflective body of water in stark opposition to the hot, bubbling springs and geysers surrounding it.

paint pots
Fountain Paint Pots | Photo Christina Suttles

 

Old Faithful

Being the primary tourist attraction at Yellowstone, the Old Faithful region can feel overstimulating and hectic. With the Old Faithful Inn and various gift shops and visitors centers in a relatively small area, be prepared to make this your token wifi/lunch stop. To avoid some of the crowds, take a walk on the 4.6-mile Upper Geyser Basin boardwalk to see other notable hotbeds. Old Faithful erupts an average of 17 times a day, so your chances are pretty good. Ask a ranger when they think the next eruption will be and plan to be there 20 minutes ahead of time – predictions are just that. Eruptions last one to five minutes and can expel up to 8,400 gallons each time. While short lived, this bucket list experience is one to carve out time to check off.

old faithful
Old Faithful | Photo: Christina Suttles

 

Lamar Valley

Lamar is the executive wildlife-viewing destination in the United States. Dubbed “America’s Serengeti,” this miles-long stretch of road takes you through herds of bison, pronghorn, badgers, grizzly bears, bald eagles, osprey, deer, coyotes and wolves. Many sit within yards of the convenient vehicle pull offs. Park rangers encourage visitors to stay 25-50 yards from all wildlife, so confirm the temperament of animals before approaching. Dawn and Dusk are the best times to visit the area due to increased animal activity.

bison yellowstone
Bison in Yellowstone | Photo: Christina Suttles

 

Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

Undeniably the most striking view in the park, Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon is a 20-mile long, 4,000 foot wide 1,200 foot deep spectacle that hold its own against Arizona’s more famed marvel. Mineral stains cooked the sides of the Canyon over the course of millions of years, leaving its walls with a medley of pink and yellow tinge. There are countless options for viewing the canyon, including Upper Falls and Lower Falls Trailheads, which require a short walk up to a viewing area. For serious hikers, the Canyon Rim North Trail to Inspiration Point offers a moderately strenuous 8.2-mile hike to lesser-known, breathtaking views.

grand canyon
Grand Canyon of Yellowstone | Photo: Christina Suttles

 

Mammoth Hot Springs

This heavily-trafficked attraction near the park’s north entrance includes a 1.7-mile boardwalk that explores the sulfur-rich, travertine deposits of Yellowstone. Overlooking the brassy, pitted springs, it’s easy to feel like you’re on the surface of Mars. This jarring landscape is an active hydrothermal area, always growing and adapting to the stimuli around it.

mammoth
Mammoth Hot Springs | Photo: Christina Suttles
mammoth
Mammoth Hot Springs | Photo: Christina Suttles

 

Travel Tips

Lodge outside the park: Unless you’re camping, nightly rates inside the park can be impractical. Booking economical hotels in Livingston, Mt., Rexburg, Idaho, or Cody, Wy. are much more feasible and the drive’s mountain view will make it worth the extra effort.

Leave things how you found them: It can be tempting to grab an obsidian rock, or an intact animal vertebrae and take it home as a free souvenir, but doing so is illegal and can, over time, drastically alter the park’s landscape.

Wear layers: Weather at high altitudes are unpredictable. It can be 85 degrees at high noon, and plummet below freezing by 9 p.m..

Bring more sustenance than you need: Pack at least 30 oz. of water per hike and a lot of salty, protein-rich snacks in case the hike takes a heavier toll than predicted.

Check for construction and wildfire closures: Wildlife season is upon us, with at least two major fires burning in the park. West and South Yellowstone are affected by these fires so do research before planning your route.

Fill up your tank whenever you can: If you plan on visiting the major park attractions, it can take a toll on your gas tank. Many major visitor areas have gas stations, making it easy to fill up often.

Be prepared for altitude change: Altitude sickness is real. Always take your time while ascending, stay hydrated and eat often.

yellowstone

Dutch Summer Like a Local: 5 Charming Cities Outside of Amsterdam

Summer in the Netherlands means boat rides through urban canals, sipping brews on café terraces, and squeezing through masses of tourists in the crowded summer streets of Amsterdam.

But that’s only for the tourists.

While thousands upon thousands of tourists squeeze their way into the Dutch capital every September to catch the final idyllic days of Dutch summer, Dutch families are squeezing in day and weekend trips elsewhere. Despite being roughly the size of Massachusetts, the Netherlands is home to a diversity of cultures, all squeezed into one of the world’s most densely populated countries, which means that while stone facades and windmills are to be found everywhere, each region has its own eccentricities that make it worth a visit. In every province of the country you’ll find medieval city centers, cobblestone alleys, centuries-old stone rowhouses, picture-perfect canals, and, if you stay long enough and look closely enough, vibrant and distinct local culture.

Do Amsterdam in a day, and then escape the touristic masses by looking to the cities favored by the Dutch for their own late summer city trips.

Utrecht

Utrecht sunset
The city most often compared with Amsterdam for its cosmopolitan feel and picturesque canals is probably Utrecht. A half hour train ride south of the capital and with about half its population, Utrecht has all the idyllic waterways and Gothic architecture that draw tourists up and down the streets of Amsterdam, but with a down-to-earth Dutch atmosphere and hardly a foreign tourist to be found.

The deep-lying wharfs and wharf cellars make a walk along the canals of Utrecht a singular experience unmatched in the Netherlands, with café-lined terraces hanging a story below the street alongside the waterways that have earned it the title of Europe’s most beautiful canal city. You can easily spend an entire day strolling along the canals toward the protruding Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands, and finish up the afternoon by touring the medieval church and climbing to its top for a perfect panoramic of the city below.
Nice colors of Utrecht's night

Maastricht

Maastricht by night
Lying in the extreme south of the country, at the tip of the tiny sliver of the Netherlands that slices between Belgium and Germany, Maastricht is a favorite among the Dutch for summer citytripping.

Best known within the Netherlands for having the best Carnival celebration of the country in spring, Maastricht is also one of the cultural capitals of the southern Netherlands, where laid back European Catholic culture rules in place of the Protestant work ethic of the rest of the country. That might explain its ever-growing popularity as a place to spend a day shopping, as well as the number of little cafés on terraces and church squares, perfect for lounging about in the late summer sun.

Selexyz Dominicanen

Take time during your visit to browse the Dominicanen bookstore, a 13th century cathedral that’s been refashioned into a unique bookshop with a literary atmosphere you’ll find nowhere else in the country.

Leeuwarden

Sunset
Just over two hours northeast of Amsterdam, Leeuwarden is surrounded by windmill-dotted pastures that are unmistakably Dutch; but it’s also a city that even seems a bit exotic to many of the Dutch. The cultural and administrative capital of the province of Frisia, Leeuwarden is the epicenter of a proud regional identity centered on the Frisian language and culture.

Frisia and the Frisians, a historically distinct Germanic people, became part of the Dutch Republic in the Late Middle Ages, but over the centuries have never given up their own distinct regional identity. This is one of the reasons Leeuwarden won its bid to serve as European Cultural Capital in 2018, inviting travelers from around Europe to come and explore the history and heritage of this little-known hook of the Netherlands.

Cultural enthusiasts will want to visit the Fries Museum, home to works of art, archaeological finds, and other artifacts that tell the story of Frisia and its people.

Den Bosch

Guardian of 's-Hertogenbosch
In the near geographic center of the country, a mere hour south of Amsterdam, Den Bosch is the kind of city that’s built for lovers of old architecture, imposing cathedrals, and eye-catching stonework at every turn.
Binnendieze, Den Bosch

The St. John’s Cathedral is unchallenged as Den Bosch’s most-visited attraction, and with good reason. Considered the pinnacle of Gothic architecture in the Netherlands, as well as the country’s largest Catholic church, a guided tour of the church tower and carillon comes with the added bonus of sweeping views of the city from on high.

Once you climb back down from the church tower, descend into the canals in a canoe or kayak and paddle through the semi-underground tunnels of the binnendieze as they twist through and beneath the city.

Leiden

Netherlands
Photo by Jakob Gibbons

Despite being hidden in plain sight in the heart of the country’s Western urban core, Leiden couldn’t be further off the beaten tourist path. A university town of barely 150,000 residents, Leiden’s geographic position and impossibly perfect historic center make it the ideal base for a Dutch vacation.

With the authentic Dutchness of Utrecht and a cosmopolitanism per capita to rival Amsterdam, Leiden has the perfect balance of young international students and Dutch families who’ve called the city home for generations. Tour the city by following its muurgedichten, the more than 100 poems in nearly as many languages painted on its medieval walls. On a Wednesday or Saturday morning in late summer, wake up and explore the outdoor market that pops up along the canals in the heart of the city, where you can buy anything from homemade stroopwaffels and organic french fries with mayonnaise to clothes and fabrics or any of countless kinds of Dutch cheese.

Amsterdam is famous for a reason: With world-class museums, extreme dining experiences, and a devil-may-care nightlife scene where anything goes, there’s no doubt it’s worth a visit. But don’t let the bright city light outshine the rest of the country and fool you into thinking there’s only one city worth seeing in the Netherlands—good trips often come in small packages, and this tiny country packs enough beauty and history to keep you coming back every summer.

Protecting National Parks in the Face of Conservation Challenges

In the kernel of 19th century New York, noted American artist Thomas Cole agonized over the often complicated relationship between mankind and nature in his painting The Oxbow. The Romantic-era image illustrates a quiet, overdeveloped Connecticut Valley on one end, and a remorseless thunderstorm above unmarked forests on the other. Through the use of evident juxtaposition, Cole captured an ongoing struggle to protect public lands in the midst of human expansion and progress, and, in many ways, helped kick off the modern conservationist movement.

grand tetons

Nearly 200 years later, Cole’s melee continues after the U.S. House of Representatives recently passed an environmental package so controversial, President Barack Obama vowed to veto should it reach his desk.

The bill, known as H.R. 5538, proposes funding for the Department of the Interior, Environmental Protection Agency, and related agencies for 2017, but includes some contentious amendments.

While the bill increases overall funding for the National Park Service, it cuts the Land and Water Conservation Fund, obstructing future attempts to secure new public lands and curtail mountaintop-removal coal mining (MTR).

rocky mountain

MRT requires removal of a summit to reach coal seams, primarily in the Appalachian region of the United States. While many in the industry cite the economic and safety benefits of MTR, several scientific journals, including Science, linked the practice to the heavy degradation of forests, putting inhabiting endangered species at risk. Local communities are also damaged. Those exposed to coal-related practices over a long period of time are at greater risk of pulmonary disorders, lung cancer and heart disease, according to other Science studies.

Another amendment within the bill would cut two percent from the Environmental Protection Agency’s budget and deny funding to implement rules under the Clean Air and Water Acts.

 

Bridget Spielberg, an educator for Rocky Mountain National Park and surrounding heritage sites takes issue with one amendment in particular.

Rocky mountains

“The bill would make it impossible for the Department of the Interior to partner with private organizations to help expand and protect heritage sites in parts of Colorado,” she says. “We regularly do this to help conserve and educate others about these sites, and this amendment is an unnecessary strain on our efforts.”

The National Park Conservation Association refers to these amendments as damaging “policy riders,” and publicly opposes the bill, says Senior Media Relations Manager for the NPCA Eric Bontrager.

“For the health and well-being of America’s national treasures, the environment and climate on which they rely, and the long-term preservation of resources, we urge opposition to (H.R. 5538) if these riders are not removed,” reads the association’s official position submitted to the House days before.

Joshua tree

H.R. 5538 isn’t expected to make it past the Senate without meaningful adjustments, but park rangers agree on the importance of advocating for the protection of our shared lands during congressional tension.

Spielberg encourages others to respect and appreciate public lands by taking conservation into their own hands.  She suggests getting involved with your local park programs.

“Most of us live within driving distance of some sort of protected land that could use an extra set of hands,” she says. “Even if just to help clean up, or learn about daily conservation practices. Volunteer in a wildlife rehabilitation center, teach a summer class if you’re qualified, there are so many programs in need of help. Monetary donations also go a long way in allowing our rangers to do their jobs.”

Rocky mountain squirrel

Rob Tasten, a volunteer ranger for Cuyahoga National Park, says the key to maintaining parks is to leave no trace.

“If you camp, don’t leave food out, it attracts wildlife and puts both of you at risk. Be sure your campfire is completely snuffed out, take everything you came with back with you. Don’t take ‘souvenirs’ like rocks out of the park. If everyone did that, our parks would exist only on the coffee tables of visitors.”

 

Other Ranger Tips for Conservation:

1. Clean up trash if you see it — even if you didn’t produce it.

“As long as it’s safe to pick up, do the earth a favor. If you’re uncomfortable cleaning it  up, tell a ranger,” Tasten says.

 

2. Leave wildlife alone.

“Photographing from a distance is fine, but closing in on even timid animals can agitate them,” says Spielberg. “If you’re bitten, parks can be forced to euthanize the animal for a preventable event.”

 

3. Use recycling bins.

“Most parks have convenient space for trash and recyclables for a reason,” says Spielberg.

 

4. Properly dispose of lighter fuel and kerosine and bonfire equipment. Failing to do so can cause a dangerous situation for the park and the next campers. If you’re unsure what to do with your canister, ask a ranger.

 

5. Watch your step, but have fun.

“Don’t put yourself in a situation that could end in the necessity for a rescue. It’s ok to turn around, and there’s no shame in saving rangers time and resources,” Tasten says. “But be sure to enjoy your time wherever you might be. These are your lands after all.”

joshua tree mojave

The Best Beaches and Beach Towns of the Sunshine State

Translucent turquoise seawater and minty mojitos under the shade of palm trees and luxurious Miami high-rises: It’s the timeless image of Florida beaches that we’ve inherited through decades of tropical crime dramas and partying Kardashians.

But that’s just the start of it.

The other 1,300 miles of Florida coastline spanning the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean Sea are home to all the beautiful Florida beaches and quirky beach towns that most visitors miss as they fly over the rest of the peninsula on their way to the southern tip of the Sunshine State.

Behind every great beach is a worthwhile beach town. From the pre-Columbian to the cosmopolitan, Florida’s beach towns and the famous beaches that line their shores come in a diversity of shapes, sizes, colors, and styles that can’t be beat this side of the equator.

1. St. Petersburg

Salvador Dali Museum Fisheye at Night
Photo by Matthew Paulson via Flickr under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0


St. Petersburg is a lazy beach town turned dense metropolis, occupying the part of the Tampa Bay peninsula that juts out into the Gulf of Mexico and lined with some of the most award-winning beaches of Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Furthest south from Downtown St. Petersburg is Fort De Soto Park, where adventurous beach-goers can camp and kayak or rent bikes to explore winding nature trails along and between the bayou beaches. On the next barrier island to the north lies Pass-a-Grille Beach, famous not only for perfect white Gulf sands but also for its own Eighth Avenue historic district running along the Pass-a-Grille Channel of the bay, frequently epicenter of art exhibits and block parties.

At the end of the day, head back into downtown St. Petersburg and pay a visit to the Salvador Dali Museum, the largest Dali collection outside Europe; or take a night on the town hitting up St. Pete’s favorite microbreweries.

2. Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach

Defence
Photo by Jill/Blue Moonbeam Studio via Flickr under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0


In the northeastern corner of Florida, nestled between Jacksonville and the Georgia border, is Amelia Island, the southernmost of the low-lying Sea Islands lining the coast of Georgia and the Carolinas.

In addition to its 13 miles of laid-back beaches capped by nature reserves on either end of the island, it’s also home to the Victorian and Old South architecture of historic Fernandina Beach. This petite antebellum city hosts a laid-back afternoon’s worth of quirky shops and cafés, as well as the Amelia Community Theatre, with regular shows for the performing arts enthusiast in need of a few hours in out of the sun.

Hit Amelia Island in October for its locally famous Jazz Festival, the proceeds of which go toward a scholarship program funding higher education for aspiring jazz musicians and reinvesting in the local jazz scene.

3. Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach Pier Reflection
Photo by Matthew Paulson via Flickr under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0


In the heart of Florida’s Space Coast, a couple dozen blocks of seaside highway down the road from Cape Canaveral and Kennedy Space Center is the town of Cocoa Beach.

Florida’s Atlantic surf capital, Cocoa Beach is home to the largest surf shop in the world, Ron Jon’s Cocoa Beach, which in turn houses the East Coast Surfing Hall of Fame, the perfect inspiration for a day spent catching Atlantic waves. Each year, Cocoa Beach hosts the country’s largest charity surf festival, the National Kidney Foundation Pro-Am Surfing Festival, always held during the perfect end-of-summer weather of Labor Day weekend.

When you start to crave a little shade from the direct Florida sun, head a few minutes up the Minutemen Causeway to the Thousand Islands conservation area, where you can canoe or paddleboard under and between the low-hanging mangroves and, with a little luck, find yourself paddling alongside a dolphin or a manatee.

4. Destin

Destin, Florida
Photo by David Kosmos Smith via Flickr under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Way out west in the Florida Panhandle lies Destin, where a few dunes are all that separate famously white quartz sand from a shopper’s paradise.

Part of Florida’s Emerald Coast, named for its deep green ocean water and the literally squeaky-clean white sand that meets it on the beach, the sand at Destin is so fine-grained that your bare footsteps on the shore sound like rubber soles chirping across a freshly waxed linoleum floor. Outside of Spring Break season in late March and early April (and most days), you’ll have no trouble finding yourself a spacious slab of sand to stretch out in peace.

Aside from its picture perfect shores, what Destin is really known for is its unrivaled shopping, with the higher-end Destin Commons downtown and the unbeatable designer outlets of the Silver Sands Outlet Mall. Designer swim apparel at half price or less is the best way to enjoy the sun in Destin.

5. Dry Tortugas and Key West

FORT JEFFERSON DRY TORTUGAS
Photo by Copeland Photo via Flickr under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0


Reachable only by ferry, catamaran, or seaplane from Key West, Dry Tortugas is a small group of islands 70 miles west of the Florida Keys. These coral reef-encircled islands with their marine wildlife make the Dry Tortugas the perfect place for a peaceful snorkeling tour in a region further unspoiled by human activity, and it offers five Florida beaches surrounding Fort Jefferson, the historic structure that occupies most of the island.

At the end of your tour of the park you’ll need to head back to your accommodation in Key West, but don’t just use it as a place to leave your luggage and rest your head: Visit famous Key West attractions like the Hemingway House, and fill up on key lime pie and delicious Caribbean seafood while you’re there.

6. South Beach

South Beach, Miami
Photo by Aurimas via Flickr under CC BY-ND 2.0


There’s a reason it’s famous, and there’s a reason it’s the tropical playground of the rich and famous.

South Beach in Miami is the stuff of luxury dreams, from the salty Caribbean breeze to the beautiful people plastered on its white sand. Both SOBE and the neighborhood around it carry an air of devil-may-care luxury to match, with the kinds of dance clubs and beach bars that draw celebrities and their expensive tastes from across the US and Latin America.

Behind the barrier strip of beaches lies the most cosmopolitan and diverse city of the Southeastern US by far, where day-to-day life is multilingual and pan-American. It’s precisely this mix of Latino and Caribbean cultures with that of the American South that makes it a cultural capital worthy of international art events like Art Basel and puts irresistible arepas, Cuban sandwiches, and stone crab claws on the menu for chowing down after lying out all day.

Florida is more than one palm tree-covered stretch of sand copied and pasted like an outline around the peninsula: Every corner of the state’s nearly endless coastline has its own distinct identity. For culture, history, nature, adventure, shopping, and of course sun, look no further than Florida’s best beach towns.

Eating Your Way Through Northern Italy

Italy, the birthplace of mouthwatering recipes known throughout the world, has been on my foodie bucket list since the first time I sunk my teeth into fettuccine. I recently crossed it off my list when I visited three regions in Northern Italy. History, high-end fashion, and 14-16th century Renaissance architecture surrounded me, but my feet moved towards as many ristorantes as possible.

In fact, I asked for culinary advice from a taxi driver during my first moments in Milan. I absolutely needed to discover which dishes were must-tries, and who better to ask than a native? After a few minutes grappling with the language barrier and resorting to a translation app on my phone, the young man laughed and fired off rapid Italian, but I managed to understand “risotto alla Milanese.” I also picked out the words “lasagna,” “pizza,” and “spaghetti.”

milan food expo italy
Tinxi / Shutterstock.com

Italian cuisine conjures thoughts of comfort foods, accompanied with olive oil, garlic, and fish in true Mediterranean fashion. We may not realize, however, that while pasta and cheese are the glues that bind each region, the stereotypical dishes that we’re familiar with are more representative of southern Italy.

A few rules to learn about northern Italian cuisine: Butter substitutes olive oil; sauces are creamy; rice, potatoes, and polenta replace pasta in many recipes; and while Northerners love their fish, menus are also filled with beef and poultry. My visits through the Lombardia, Venetto, and Piedmont regions opened my eyes to another side of Italian cuisine, which I am sharing here with you.

 

A Daily Food Routine in Northern Italy

Coffee is integral throughout the day and Italian roasts produce robust, aromatic, and amazing flavor. Drinking caffè begins in the morning (topped with steamed milk) and continues until late evening.

To blend in with the Italians, it’s crucial to learn the myriad of coffee drinks and the appropriate times to savor each. While this blood-pumping elixir did not originate in Italy, it’s safe to say that Italians helped to perfect it.

Caffè: an espresso, to be enjoyed throughout the day, after meals and during a quick break.

Cappuccino: equal parts of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam, in that order. This is usually a breakfast beverage.

Caffè latte: one part espresso, two parts steamed milk, and half part of milk foam, in that order. Can be drunk as an alternative to cappuccino at breakfast.

Macchiato: espresso topped with a thin layer of steamed milk, which can be enjoyed at any time.

cappuccino and marble bread
Cappuccino and marble bread

Italy’s daily meal structure is like most other countries around the world, comprising of breakfast (prima colazione), lunch (pranzo), and dinner (cena), with a mid-afternoon snack (merenda) thrown in the mix. The passion Italians have for food, however, is one of a kind.

 

Prima Colazione – Breakfast

My first breakfast in Milan was a simple affair. I skipped over the eggs, bacon, and toast at the hotel, and opted for a cappuccino and slice of chocolate marble cake in a traditional coffee shop.

Brioche (known as a cornetto outside of Lombardy) is the breakfast pastry of choice for many, and I mistakenly referred to it as a croissant on my second morning. Luckily, I met welcoming people throughout my trip who forgave many of my bloopers with warm smiles.

Cornetto
Cornetto

In addition to coffee, I soon discovered the rich Italian chocolate, and a few mornings were spent enjoying small cakes topped with this creamy delight.

 

Pranzo and Cena – Lunch and Dinner

Northern Italy has much to see, from the business-centric streets of Milan surrounding the Piazza del Duomo (the cathedral that took approximately 500 years to construct, beginning in the 14th century) to the historical Piazza Castelo in Turin (Italy’s first capital), and the breathtaking 13th century Casa di Giulietta  in Verona (“Juliette’s House” where the Capulet family from Shakespeare’s Romeo And Juliet may once have lived).

Milan caffe
Yulia Grigoryeva / Shutterstock.com

Rushing from one landmark to the next will work up an appetite, but luckily lunch is the heartiest meal in an Italian day. While it’s possible to order a simple panini (a toasted sandwich made with Italian bread) in a laid back osteria or trattoria (a homey eatery), or rush to a fast food restaurant, some prefer to relax and enjoy a two- or three-course meal. A traditional full-course meal is also offered for dinner at many ristorantes.

Primi (first course) followed by a secondi (second course) and contorno (side dish) is the classic set up, and I had the opportunity to satiate myself with one of these meals in Turin. First came out a simple antipasti (starter) of a hard boiled egg atop a bed of spinach and drizzled with sweet balsamic vinegar.

Egg on spinach
Egg on spinach

A primi is usually a rice or pasta, and I chose a rich alternative to penne with pesto. Instead of the deep green, basil-rich nutty sauce that I imagined, I enjoyed a couple spoonfuls of cream-based butter and cheese sauce infused with the chopped herb.

The secondi appeared upon finishing the primi, and this is typically a meat-based dish. Since I had been melting in the hot summer sun, I decided on juicy melon covered in prosciutto (thinly sliced, dry-cured ham). The combination of sweet and savory in this dish has haunted me since. Alongside the secondi was my choice of contorno, marinated vegetables.

Dolci with gelato, coffee, and chocolate
Dolci with gelato, coffee, and chocolate

Despite being too full for dolci (dessert), the lovely language barrier once again intervened and muddled the conversation with the waiter, resulting in an infusion of gelato, coffee, and chocolate in place of regular caffè. Yes, I happily finished the entire glass, along with the surprise complimentary digestif (an alcoholic after-dinner drink) that reminded me of Kahlua mixed with hot espresso.

Coffee chocolate digestif

 

Aperitivo

This traditional before-dinner cocktail hour began in Turin during the 18th century, but took off in Milan during the 20th century, and is a popular custom in this part of the world. The word aperitivo means “to open” in Latin and describes an “opening of appetite” by beginning the eating and drinking process.

During the summer evenings, it’s hard to miss the flocks of happy people enjoying refreshing orange cocktails in the middle of piazzas, alongside canals, and everywhere in between. These Aperol spritzers, made with prosecco and the orange-flavored Aperol spirit, are a popular aperitif that will entice the senses and tantalize your hunger. Served over ice and a slice of orange, they are a wonderful treat on warm summer nights.

aperol spritz and appetizers copy
Aperol spritz and appetizers

Don’t be surprised if your drink comes with a complimentary dish of appetizers, similar to Spanish-style tapas. Small bites of ossobuco (braised veal shanks) hit the spot alongside my cool cocktail.

Spaghetti cacio e pepe
Spaghetti cacio e pepe

While adventuring across northern Italy, I also indulged in pizza, homemade spaghetti, gnocchi, and ravioli. And a second trip is in the works to try winter dishes, like hearty minestrone soup, hot fonduta (cheese fondue, sometimes flavored with truffles) and comforting polenta porridge.

Gnocchi in sauce with salmon
gnocchi in sauce with salmon

Yes, I also recommend losing yourself to cheesy, saffron-infused risotto alla Milanese, which I ordered on the taxi driver’s recommendation as my first Italian dinner.

 

And as the famous Italian quote says,

La cucina di un popolo è la sola esatta testimonianza della sua civiltà.

– The cuisine of a country is the only exact attestation of its civilization.

 

The Most Gorgeous Castles in the World

Everyone’s got their reasons for wanting to travel the world. For someone, it’s to satisfy their hunger and sample some of the best food and beverages different cultures have to offer. For others, it’s to experience utter peace and solitude on some of the globe’s most gorgeous tropical islands. And some want to dive into a world of unique art and architecture in some of the finest museums on the planet. If your bucket list doesn’t include visiting some of the most beautiful castles in the world, feast your eyes on these stunning works of architecture steeped in history, power, and art.

1. Osaka Castle, Japan

castle
Image: Geoff Stearns/Flickr

This is one of the country’s most well-known castles, and it is a symbol of power and fortune. It’s a famous landmark and was crucial to the unification of Japan during the 16th century.

2. Mont Saint Michel, France

beautiful castles across the world
Image: Gilad Rom/Flickr

Located on a rocky island in Normandy, France, Mont Saint Michel is visited by more than three million people every year and is part of the UNESCO list of World Heritage sites.

3. Kilkenny Castle, Ireland

gorgeous castles
Image: christopher_brown/Flickr

Initially built for 4th Earl of Pembroke William Marshal in the first decade of the 30th century, Kilkenny Castle eventually became the residence of the Butler family for nearly 600 years.

4. Peleș Castle, Romania

castle
Image: young shanahan/Flickr

In the town of Sinaia in southern Romania, at the foot of the Bucegi Mountains, sits what many consider one of the most breathtaking castles in all of Europe. Peles Castle is a result of German new-Renaissance architecture.

5. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

castle
Image: Kevin Poh/Flickr

Located in Bavaria, Neuschwanstein is one of the most desirable tourist destinations in all of Europe. It was built by King Ludwig II, who was also known as the Fairytale King, and was even the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle.

6. Castle of Chambord, France

French castle
Image: Daniel Jolivet/Flickr

Chambord — chateau, park, and village — was once a retreat for the kings of France. The castle has 440 rooms, 365 fireplaces, and 13 staircases. Even Leonardo da Vinci couldn’t resist it: The artist paid a visit and added his own touch.

 

7. Windsor Castle, England

Windsor Castle
Image: jogep/Flickr

Windsor Castle has been housing British royalty for over 1,000 years, and it’s not only the oldest but also the largest occupied castle in the entire world.

 

*Featured Image: Bled Castle, Slovenia

5 Vacation Swaps to Avoid the Crowds this August

Vacationing at the end of the summer can sometimes mean being stuck in a crowd of other August travelers trying to squeeze in a trip before the season is over. Instead of picking a stereotypical summertime hot spot, consider some of these  alternatives that are less crowded with tourists this time of year, including winter destinations that offer discounted deals in the summer months, small cities that lie in the shadows of larger neighboring locales, and spots that are simply too gorgeous to overlook.

Here are five alternatives to popular summer destinations for a unique, uncrowded, and memorable vacation.

 

Popular vacation destination: New York City

Amazing alternative: Providence

If you want to visit the east coast, why not try Rhode Island’s capital? Unlike NYC, Providence is a college town that gets a little quieter as it empties of students during the summer.

Providence Rhode Island skyline.
Providence, Rhode Island skyline.

Known as America’s Renaissance City, Providence is certainly historical, but it is also eclectic with everything a tourist can want. One thing that is for sure is you won’t go hungry during your visit. Not only is it home to Johnson & Wales University, globally recognized as one of the best institutions for culinary arts and whose graduates oftentimes stay in the area to work, but the entire city is a foodie’s dream come true. Downtown is peppered with dining options from pizza places and fast food restaurants to a smorgasbord of diversity in the form of Mexican, Asian, Middle Eastern, European and New American restaurants that are both family and singles-friendly and alive with musical entertainment. And if Italian food is among your favorites, hop over to Federal Hill, the city’s Little Italy.

providence rhode island
Richard Cavalleri / Shutterstock.com

As one of the oldest cities in the US (and one of the 13 original colonies), many of the historical landmarks that reflect 19th and 18th century architecture are open to the public for tours. Among these is the John Brown House, a mansion that was once the home of John Brown (a major benefactor of the Ivy League Brown University) and visited by prominent historical figures like George Washington and John Quincy Adams. Providence also boasts cute boutiques, remarkable sculptures and nationally-renowned theaters that showcase a strong performing arts culture.

Castle Hill Lighthouse on Narragansett Bay in Newport, Rhode Island.
Castle Hill Lighthouse on Narragansett Bay in Newport, Rhode Island.

If you want to break your time between sightseeing and the seaside, head to one of the many gorgeous beaches on the nearby Rhode Island and Massachusetts coasts.  Skip over Cape Cod, which is a sardine-can tourist-packed alternative, and try any one of the several little beach-side towns, like Little Compton, that are the area’s lovely little secrets.

Narragansett Beach, Rhode Island.
Narragansett Beach, Rhode Island.

And don’t miss the chance to experience Water Fire, a public event that blends artistic expression with spiritual and community symbolism. During this event, 100 fire lanterns flow along the river through the city’s downtown area. Keep in mind that there are only a couple of these showings in August (it is mostly a fall event), so plan accordingly if you want to enjoy this experience.

 

Popular vacation destination: London

Amazing alternative: Ireland

Are you craving a taste of Europe, but are unsure whether you’re mentally prepared for the crowded August peak vacation season? While droves flock to England, why not head to Ireland? This is the perfect place to go for cool weather, luscious landscapes, thousands of castles, cathedrals, and more charming pubs than you can imagine.

Doonagore castle, Co. Clare, Ireland.
Doonagore castle, Co. Clare, Ireland.

While the well-known cities like Dublin, Galway and Belfast are must-sees, make your trip memorable by adding some unique stops along the way, like the breathtaking 2,000 year old Cliffs of Moher, whose landscape inspired centuries worth of Celtic folklore, myths, legends and witch stories, and where bird watchers and photographers spot over 20 species of seabirds. Or, jump back in time while visiting Kilkenny, home to Ireland’s Medieval Mile, which extends from the 13th-century St. Canice’s cathedral (and its 9th century tower) to the 13th-century Kilkenny castle and 16th century Rothe House and Garden.

Ocean and O'Briens Tower on Cliffs of Moher in Ireland
Ocean and O’Briens Tower on Cliffs of Moher in Ireland.

Known as the Marble city due to the natural limestone that makes up many of the shiny pavements and buildings, Kilkenny is also chock full of pubs, including the Kyteler’s Inn Pub which was originally owned by Alice Kyteler, the woman whose story instigated the first witch trial in Irish history. .

ireland

In addition to immersing you in history, Ireland will also tickle your nerdy side. Do your best impression of a Hogwarts student while visiting the library at Trinity College (and sneak a peek at the Book of Kells), or spend a day acting as a member of your favorite Westeros clan during a Game Of Thrones tour in Belfast and Dublin.

ireland

And the summer is a time riddled with festivals: boat festivals, cultural festivals, horse races and drinking fests are on the agenda throughout the country all season long. Guinness, anyone?

 

Popular vacation destinations: Finland, Norway, Denmark

Amazing alternative: Iceland

Are the Nordic countries on your bucket list? While much of northern Europe is breathtakingly beautiful, few places in the world are as ethereal as Iceland. In fact, parts of the countryside feel so otherworldly that fantasy movies and TV shows are consistently filmed there.

Thingvellir National Park. Southern Iceland
Thingvellir National Park, Southern Iceland.

August is one of the best times to visit and though it’s also the country’s busiest season, the crowds may seem minuscule for tourists from most American or European cities. In Reykjavík, the capital, you can enjoy striking architecture, late-night clubs, and adventurous expeditions through nature, not to mention a diverse assortment of museums. The days are also long and you can expect between 16-18 hours of sunlight to help you see as much as possible.

Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, Iceland
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, Iceland.

Unparalleled natural landscapes are the main magnets that attract tourists to Iceland and its three major national parks. To the southeast is the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, a mixture of fresh and salt water covered in chunks of floating ice. These glass mirrors of calm water reflect surroundings that include a painter’s palette of colors from blue and pink skies to black ice and sand, and turquoise glaciers.

Icelandic Ponies
Icelandic Ponies

Then, located 40 km east of Reykjavík, is Thingvellir National Park, the location of the oldest Parliament in the world, as well as one of the only spots where the Mid-Atlantic Ridge can be seen on land. Last, but certainly not least, is the 700,000 year old volcanic site built atop alternating lava and ash, known as Snæfellsjökull National Park. Located on the west coast, Snæfellsjökull is a spot for discovering caves, bird watching, and hiking.

Skyline cityscape of Reykjavik, reflected in lake Tjornin.
Skyline cityscape of Reykjavik, reflected in lake Tjornin.

In Iceland, you can also go swimming in a geothermal beach or the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, check out local festivals, drive around the perimeter of the country on its Ring Road for more photographic opportunities, and ride on Icelandic horses.

Hot spring Blue Lagoon in Iceland.
Hot spring Blue Lagoon in Iceland.

Summer is also the only time the roads open to the Highlands, the center of the country. More glaciers, volcanoes, nature reserves, mountains, deserts and hot springs than you can fathom are all part of the ecosystems in this virtually untouched part of the world.

 

Popular vacation destination: South Florida

Amazing Alternative: Mexico

In a hotspot with over 40 miles of beach lined with turquoise blue waters, the south of Florida is muy caliente (bienvenido a Miami), but don’t overlook the 6,000 miles of coastline in Mexico. The temperatures will scorch, which is why winter is a popular time to visit, but those who can handle the heat may appreciate the reduced airfare, hotel prices and decreased tourism.

Norten beach on colorful Isla Mujeres island near Cancun in Mexico
Norten beach on colorful Isla Mujeres island near Cancun, Mexico.

Cancun will answer the prayers of party-seekers, but in August it also attracts families with thoughts of water parks, day and dinner cruises, and zoos. For a bit more sophistication, visit Playa del Carmen, and those who want to submerge can find one of the best snorkeling and Scuba diving sites in the world in Cozumel.

The lagoon of fresh water just next to Caribbean Sea in ecological park on Cozumel
The lagoon of fresh water just next to Caribbean Sea in ecological park on Cozumel, Mexico.

Then again, maybe snorkeling followed by yoga and exploring old ruins are more your pace? In that case, head to Tulum, which is also among the smallest and quietest beaches on the Mexican coastline. This relaxing little getaway might make you want to curl up on a hammock with a book and is filled with relaxing spas, but don’t overlook the hiking opportunities through Mayan archeological sites.

People swimming in Dos Ojos cenote, located 20 km from Tulum.
People swimming in Dos Ojos cenote, located 20 km from Tulum.

 

Popular vacation destination: Los Angeles

Amazing alternative: San Francisco

California conjures thoughts of summertime, convertibles, surfers’ waves, and beautiful, friendly people, so considering it as the location for your summer vacation is a no-brainer. And while it’s true that Los Angeles is where you will find both the happiest place on Earth and some of the best Mexican food without going to Mexico, the smog and traffic may be enough reason to avoid it and skip right on over to San Francisco.

The Painted Ladies of San Francisco, California.
The Painted Ladies of San Francisco, California.

The Golden Gate City is home to miles of waterfront, beautiful yet underrated beaches, and weather that is much cooler than in its southern counterpart. While it is the most densely-populated city in the state,and the second most densely populated city in the US, the vibe is welcoming and relaxing. Don’t let the jaw-dropping 10,000+ people per square mile make you overlook the countless and assorted neighborhoods that offer distinctive experiences from ritzy hotels and hipster bars to quieter “small town” streets. And no matter which part of the city you choose to visit, bring a camera as there is lots to see. One of the more popular spots is North Beach, the second “Little Italy” on this list, filled with cafes and restaurants. Here you can climb to the top of the 210-foot Coit Tower for panoramic views, picnic on the luscious green Washington Square, and absorb the beauty of the 19th-century Saints Peter and Paul Parish.

View of North Beach and the San Francisco Bay from Coit Tower, in San Francisco, California.
View of North Beach and the San Francisco Bay from Coit Tower, in San Francisco, California.

And don’t forget to enjoy the winding streets over the rolling hills, traversed by bright cable cars, that are as iconic as the Golden Gate Bridge.

Famous Lombard Street in San Francisco at sunrise
Famous Lombard Street in San Francisco at sunrise.

While the Mexican food may not compare to what you can find in LA, the other cuisines are widely known for their excellence and authenticity. Culinary diversity is strong in San Francisco and the area is especially known for delicious Filipino and Caribbean food. You can also find plenty of farmer’s markets (like Ferry Building Marketplace), where locals and tourists enjoy spending their days.

The ABCs of the Caribbean: 3 Islands to Visit this Summer

 

From July to September each summer, the warm waters off the southern tip of Florida drag in hurricanes from the Atlantic and funnel them up into North America, temporarily excluding most of the Caribbean Sea and its famous beaches from savvy travelers’ itineraries. But don’t let the weather rob you of your Caribbean vacation altogether—instead, cast your beach-hungry eyes all the way to the southern edge of the sea, just off the coast of South America, and you’ll find three islands that are too cool for hurricane season.

Sprinkled a handful of miles off South America’s northern edge are the ABC islands: Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao. All are parts of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and all are infused with a cultural confluence combining that of their Dutch colonizers with Latin American flavors and a heart that’s pure Papiamentu, as the local Arawak- and West African-descended people refer to their creole language and culture.

With glitzy resorts on Aruba, world-class diving on Bonaire, and a buzzing cultural capital sandwiched between the two on Curaçao, there’s something for any summer traveler on the ABC islands.

 

Alluring Beaches on Aruba

The westernmost of the ABC islands lies just 18 miles off the northern coast of Venezuela, where aquamarine Caribbean water gives way to white sand marching up to multicolored beachfront shops and towering hotels and resorts.

Palm Beach at Aruba
Palm Beach at Aruba.
Natural Bridge Landmark in Aruba.
Natural Bridge Landmark in Aruba.

Aruba’s dry climate and the constant trade wind breeze, keeping the island a nearly unvarying 80 degrees year-round, draws more tourists to its beaches and resorts than any other island in the southern Caribbean. Most itineraries start with seafood and cocktails in the capital, Oranjestad, a popular port of call for Caribbean cruises and the cheapest airport of the ABCs for most visitors arriving from the US. From there, Eagle Beach and its neighbors are among the can’t-miss sandy shores of the southern Caribbean.

eagle beach
Eagle Beach | Photo by Ian Mackenzie via Flickr under CC BY 2.0.
Aruba
Photo by Carl via Flickr under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

Aruba’s beaches and the tourist establishments that surround them are a great starting point for those seeking waterborne adventures like windsurfing and diving. For an up-tempo August vacation, catch the annual Aruba International Regatta, three days of quintessential Aruban partying and boat racing.

 

Balmy Island Adventure on Bonaire

Sparsely populated and covered in green as far as the eye can see, Bonaire is a stark contrast to its larger neighboring islands to the west. It’s the smallest and least populous of the ABC islands, giving it a rural, spacious feeling that can be a welcome relief for those coming from the busier and more touristic islands just to its west; and while it’s got the same perfect weather and beautiful beaches as Aruba, the real treasure here is under water.

bonaire diving
Photo by David Stahl via Flickr under CC BY-NC 2.0.

Most tourists will use the capital of Kralendijk, the only major town on the island, as a base for launching their underwater adventures. With some of the most diverse marine life and reefs, Bonaire is home to some of the best diving in the Caribbean, offering experienced divers and first-timers the surreal experience of exploring some of the Caribbean’s best-preserved shipwrecks and coral reefs.

bonaire boats
Kralendijk | Photo by Cliff Hellis via Flickr under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

During your stay on Bonaire, think outdoors: bird watching, mountain biking, and anything involving a wetsuit deserve a spot high on your to do list for the island. While staying on the first 100% sustainable island of the Caribbean, look for a trendy eco-resort that combines some adventure activities with a few nights of rest in environmentally-responsible paradise.

Thousand Steps, Bonaire
Thousand Steps, Bonaire.

 

Cosmopolitan Meets Creole on Curaçao

Centered between Aruba and Bonaire, the largest of the ABC islands is also its cultural hearth: from quirky cuisine to festivals and historical sites, Curaçao has the widest variety of offerings for travelers burnt out on beach bumming and ready for a little stimulation.

Curacao
Bay views in Curacao
curacao handelskade
Photo by Nelo Hotsuma via Flickr () under CC BY 2.0.

The iconic buildings of the Handelskade showcase the cultural confluence that is Curaçao with starkly contrasting rows of distinctly Dutch rowhouses in bright yellows, sky blues, electric greens, and other such bright colors that pop against the backdrop of the turquoise Caribbean sea. The largest city of the ABC islands, it’s home to hip artsy neighborhoods like Pietermaai where urban alternative meets fun in the sun.

curacao market
Curacao Willemstad Market | Photo by Rene Leubert via Flickr under CC BY-NC 2.0.

Explore the touristy Punda district on your way in and head for historic Otrobanda, meaning “Other Side” in Papiamentu, home to cultural attractions like the Kura Hulanda museum, which showcases the island’s own history and its poignant place in the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Dine on fish caught in the same waters you were swimming in that same morning, or go for a vegetarian-friendly bowl of cactus-based kadushi, or other Curaçaoan dishes with their heavy Indian, Indonesian, Caribbean, and South American culinary influences.

Queen Emma Bridge in front of the Punda district, is a pontoon bridge across St. Anna Bay
Queen Emma Bridge in front of the Punda district in Curacao.
Curacao
Curacao at dusk

Save your money for shopping downtown and check into one of Curaçao’s favorite hostels, like the Ritz or Hostel La Creole, both of which include a dorm bed and breakfast for as low as $22 a night.

Traveling the Caribbean in hurricane season can still be paradise when done right, but the first step is choosing the right destination. Take your pick of beautiful beaches, unrivaled diving, and the culture and cuisine that defines the southern Caribbean, and escape to the ABCs this summer.

5 Reasons Charleston Is The World’s Best City

Any city can find its way onto a top-whatever list somewhere, but you know you’ve made it when you’ve hit Travel & Leisure‘s annual World’s Best Cities ranking. This year, Charlestonians are rejoicing over their #1 spot, having moved up from second place last year. Charleston has been named not the best American city but the number one in the world, appropriately bumping it to the top of many travelers’ to-visit lists.

the Magnolia Plantation in Charleston, SC.
The Magnolia Plantation in Charleston, SC.

The Holy City isn’t just another Southern site of antebellum nostalgia, but a cultural confluence of Deep Southern charm and youthful sensibility, infused with influences of the Gullah community and college students from across the country. But it’s not just luxurious lodging like the Spectator Hotel (which also took Travel & Leisure‘s #2 spot for world hotels) or trendy seafood restaurants like 167 Raw that make Charleston the world’s best city.

Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina

It’s hard to put your finger on the one thing that sets Charleston apart from other southern cities, but these five Holy City exclusives are definitely part of the picture.

 

#1: Marion Square Farmers’ Market

Right in the heart of Historic Downtown is Marion Square, a pleasant expanse of green off the side of Historic King Street. From April to November, Charlestonians and visitors will find the famous Marion Square Farmers’ Market, where farmers and artisans from the Low Country surrounding Charleston come to buy, sell, and gather with the community.

Marion Square in December during the Charleston Christmas Market.
Marion Square in December during the Charleston Christmas Market. | Photo: Jakob Gibbons

Aside from showcasing local goods—from homemade jams to sweetwater basket weaving to Sugah Scrub—the market also serves as a support and advocacy group for local farmers, artisans, crafters, and other producers. A few dollars spent at the farmers’ market will get you the freshest organic delectables available, and the money you spend is immediately invested in Charleston’s charm.

"Sugah Scrub", one of the many quirky local crafts you'll find at the farmers' market.
“Sugah Scrub”, one of the many quirky local crafts you’ll find at the farmers’ market. | Photo: Jakob Gibbons

Market enthusiasts will also find a holiday market at Marion Square in December, and should walk 10 minutes further southeast of Marion Square to the Historic Charleston City Market.

 

#2 The NotSo Hostel

Every cool city needs a quirky hostel to give it that bohemian edge, and the NotSo Hostel brings that to Charleston. The only hostel in both the city and the state, you’ll find it just a few blocks off of Marion Square, your perfect base of operations for meeting other travelers while exploring Charleston.

Starting at $28 a night for a dorm bed, the NotSo has its main location on Spring Street, where it offers private rooms and camping in addition to the traditional dormitory option. Each individual dormitory and private room has its own style and setup, which you can read about in detail before booking, and if you’re looking for more options, the NotSo’s annex location is just a couple of blocks down the street. The interior of the hostel is decorated with local and Gullah-themed art, with plenty of common spaces for enjoying your complementary breakfast in the company of fellow travelers.

 

#3 Kudu Coffee & Craft Beer

Between its assortment of espressos and its quality craft brews, Kudu Coffee is a magnet for local students as well as artists and other creative professionals.

Kudu Coffee House

Kudu Coffee House | Photo: Peter Merholz on Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)

It’s locally owned, operated, and adored, and it’s easy to see why. The interior is cozy with plenty of sitting space for the laptop-bound professional or a group of friends waxing philosophic, and outside there’s a classy courtyard with relaxed lighting perfect for sipping on draughts.

Kudu coffee charleston south carolina
Photo: Will Gurley on Flickr (CC BY-NC 2.0)

Order up a spinach parmesan quiche with a blueberry scone and a mimosa for a light morning, or plug in and sit down behind your laptop and keep their French press working all afternoon. It’s also an ideal  place to kick off an out in Downtown with a locally-brewed porter or pale ale.

 

#4 Hannibal’s Kitchen

You probably won’t see Hannibal’s in any guidebooks. Without knowing it’s there, you might walk right past without recognizing it, or you might make the mistake of skipping Charleston’s East Side entirely. And that’d be a shame, because it would mean you’d missed out on one of Charleston’s most genuine neighborhoods and the best soul food the city has to offer.

February 26, 2016 - Hannibal's Kitchen, Charleston, SC
February 26, 2016 – Hannibal’s Kitchen, Charleston, SC. | Photo: Hillary for America on Flickr (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)

Hannibal was the nickname of Robert Lawrence Huger, who opened his restaurant more than 40 years ago, and the soul kitchen named after him has been a pillar of the local community since. Alongside serving up savory plates of smothered porkchop and crab rice, Hannibal’s also works toward the betterment of the neighborhood by sponsoring community cookouts and youth basketball programs, keeping the neighborhood well-fed and well-connected.

Don’t let the fact that it’s off the King Street main drag throw you off—Hannibal’s is a goldmine precisely because it’s a local favorite with few tourists, and it offers a taste of the succulent soul food Charleston enjoys outside of its tourist districts.

 

#5 The Philip Simmons Gardens

Less than a block from Hannibal’s Kitchen is the Philip Simmons House, memorial to Charleston’s “poet of ironwork” who spent 97 years in Charleston until passing away in 2009. What Mr. Simmons left behind was a city adorned by gates, fences, and a miscellany of ironwork that Charleston locals will recognize immediately as his, one of the many details giving Charleston the personal touch that makes it unique.

simmons gate
One of Philip Simmons’s iconic wrought iron gates on Anson Street in Charleston. Photo via Wikimedia Commons under CC BY-SA 3.0

At the Philip Simmons House, you can explore two gardens—the Bell Garden and the Heart Garden —covered in his masterful ironwork. The house itself is in the St. John’s Reformed Episcopal Church where Simmons worshipped. Simmons created over 500 wrought iron works in Charleston, and the Philip Simmons Foundation maintains a map of sites that are home to his work across the city, a great recipe for an artistic scavenger hunt through the city.