Category Archives: D.O.T.W.

things to do, see, and experience in cities we love

Explore Vietnam: Going Back In Time in Hoi An

When travelers explore Southeast Asia, they’re often drawn to Thailand’s affordable accommodations, palatial tropical beaches, and ancient ruins. What many overlook, however, is the modest authenticity of other regions, especially Vietnam. Centuries of recondite history and culture culminate with a truly refreshing experience in this architectural oasis. If you’re looking for an international getaway brimming with solitude, reflection, and perspective, Hoi An has that and more.

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And although Mexican and European destinations may seem more appealing to the American traveler, Vietnam offers edifying veracity other tourist destinations overlook. Hoi An lies on the banks of the South China Sea, but remnants of its bustling past life as a port city are few and far between. Merchant houses, temples, and ancient architecture are but a few attractions in this quirky Asian hub. Next time you’re in Vietnam, make sure drop into Hoi An’s little-known melting pot.

 

Japanese Covered Bridge

This 400-year-old, rigidly constructed piece of history includes Chinese and Japanese influence that encourages respect and comradery among Asian nations. Its arresting salmon-colored exterior surrounded by concrete monkey and dog statues makes it one of the city’s staples. Access to the bridge is free, as is making time for personal meditation.

Japanese covered wall in hoi an vietnam

 

Palmarosa Spa

For the best in rest and relaxation Hoi An has to offer, Palmarosa is the place to be. Conveniently located on the edge of the ancient town, this historical spa blends traditional European and Asian massage with hot stone and full body treatments. The spa uses only natural ingredients in its extensive collection of stones and oils, a celebration of Hoi An’s colorful spa district. Given Vietnam’s famed affordability, it wouldn’t be out of the question to spend a lion’s share of your day immersed in unbounded decadence.

 

Central Market

A haggler’s paradise, Hoi An’s Central Market rivals that of New York City’s Chelsea Market. Offering fresh seafood, produce, and local delectices, the market’s vendors encourage the age-old art of bargaining. This practice can sometimes seem tacky to American travelers, but many Asian countries expect and even appreciate it. Take a tour through the market district to catch a glimpse of idiosyncratic Vietnam.

traditional vietnam masks sale

 

Quan Cong Temple

Named for ancient Chinese general Quan Cong, considered a symbol of rectitude and homage, this intricate temple includes delicate statues and tributes to peaceful Chinese imagery, including carp and native Chinese botany. Be sure to remove your shoes before entering any temple in Hoi An, and confirm customs in any sacred edifice.

Quan Cong Temple

 

Cam Kim Island

In the past, Cam Kim Island was connected to the mainland only by boat or ferry, but the recent construction of a bridge makes the island easily accessible to visitors. A number of local villages, covered in frayed coconut palms, makes Cam Kim a great escape into the less trafficked region of Hoi An. The island is home to buoyant bicycle routes that travel through some of the city’s unblemished small towns, offering first-hand societal perspective and a tranquil day trip.

Cam Kim Island Hoi An Vietnam
Cam Kim Island | Photo: Greg Willis on Flickr (CC BY-SA 2.0)

The Oldest Places in the World

As travelers, we’re attracted to noteworthy locations and eye-catching, superlative destinations. The oldest places in the world — those that have stared Father Time in the face and still stand to tell the tale — are among the most unique. What keeps a restaurant open for nearly 300 years? Which influences frame the world’s oldest institutions? Each of the following five places is not only old but also man-made. They have witnessed history and natural disasters and held prominent figures within their walls. Now they’re waiting for us.

Sobrino de Botin in Madrid

Sobrino de Botin in Madrid
What can you expect from dining at the oldest restaurant in the world? Guess traditional, regional recipes and antique yet timeless surroundings, and you’d be correct. Sobrino de Botin has been running since 1725 when it first opened as an inn. Four floors tall, with three separate dining rooms, the restaurant walls echo memories from the long-ago inn and its transition into today’s venue, which has hosted a number famous faces including America’s very own Ernest Hemmingway. The reason for the crowded dining rooms, however, may be more linked to delicious Castillian recipes, especially the two roasted specials: roasted lamb and suckling pig. A visit to Madrid isn’t complete without a feast, and Sobrino de Botin may indulge all of your senses!

University of Al Qarawiyyin Library in Fez, Morocco



This location contains two of the world’s oldest institutions. Dating back to 859, the university and library have been continually operating for 1,158 years. The library only became open to the public, however, last year, after a large restoration project. Inside the University of Al Qarawiyyin Library, scholars, historians, theologians, and anyone interested in Arab culture can find a treasure trove of manuscripts and information. Among its most prized possessions is a Quran from the 9th century. In addition to the beautiful white walls, archways, intricate mosaics, and wooden shelves covered in old texts, the history of the campus may attract visitors, especially women. Strong, independent women everywhere may like knowing that this institution was founded by a female, who later became a student; and centuries later, it was renovated by a female architect.

Bertrand Bookshop in Lisbon, Portugal



In our world of e-readers and smartphones, bookstores are an endangered species. Yet despite the changing technological tide, quite a few remain afloat. One, in particular, has existed for nearly 300 years, even surviving one of the most devastating earthquakes in the world’s history. Bertrand bookshop first opened its doors in 1732 but has enjoyed a cozy spot in Lisbon’s downtown Chiado neighborhood since it was rebuilt after the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Since then, the store’s walls have witnessed many historical events and sheltered more than a few literary minds. Its location in one of Lisbon’s trendiest streets makes it a great meeting point, and the store maintains a modern appearance. Unlike what you may imagine from the world’s oldest bookstore, you won’t find books topped with dust at Bertrand!

l’Eden Théâtre in La Ciotat, France


Hollywood has been touching hearts around the world for decades; but the birthplace of modern cinema takes us all the way to a charming little town in southern France, called La Ciotat. The lights first turned on at the l’Eden Théâtre in 1889, and the town’s residents enjoyed one of the first motion-picture films to ever exist. Although the theater was closed for a brief time, its doors and lights have opened once again, reflecting beautiful renovations and entertaining its guests.

Schloss Vollrads in Oestrich-Winkel, Germany



Schloss Vollrads, Oestrich-Winkel / Rheingau
Wine is said to get better with age, but what about the winery? The beautiful Schloss Vollrads estate may lead you to believe that it does. Complete with a 14th-century castle, green grounds, a restaurant, expansive vineyards, and modern care, its inviting nature has no problems attracting visitors. Then there is the wine. Schloss Vollrads is known for producing Reisling, a fruity wine with a refreshing taste. The first known account of wine sold was in 1211; and in 2011, the estate produced their 800th vintage. If you’re a wine-lover planning to visit Germany in the near future, this is a spot that shouldn’t be missed!

Hainan Island: A Tropical Chinese Retreat

When you think about China, you don’t necessarily think about palm trees and beaches. But when the noise and chaos of the mainland get overwhelming, I say do as the Chinese do: book a ticket to Hainan Province, an island off the southern coast.

A few years ago, I found myself traveling with my two brothers, my sister-in-law, and my parents through southern China. Under the guidance of two Chinese professors my parents had met when they taught English as a second language (ESL) courses in Changshu some 20 years ago, we started in a small city (of about 100,000 people) in the heart of Hunan Province. From there, we drove south toward Guangzhou, got on a plane, and headed for Hainan.

A Not-So-Tiny Island

Hainan Island

Though small in comparison to the mainland, Hainan is not actually that small — a China-sized island, if you will. At 330,000 km, it’s about one-third the size of Ireland and fills nearly as much space as Taiwan.

Haikou, the largest city, has a population of about two million; Sanya, the second largest city, which sits at the opposite end of the island on the southern-most point, has about 500,000 residents. But even with the existence of some larger cities, Hainan is still much more sparsely populated than the mainland, making it an ideal destination for those looking to take a break from city life.

Breathe Freely

With a warm year-round climate, Hainan is nicknamed the “Eastern Hawaii.” When Beijing dips down to snowy, 25-degree temperatures around mid-winter, Chinese residents can still visit Hainan to warm up — and the same goes for international travelers from cold places around the world. According to Lonely Planet, Sanya receives enough visitors from Russia to merit a second nickname — “Moscow in the South China Sea.”

Notably, the air quality is much better in Hainan than on the mainland — Haikou ranks 74th on a Greenpeace list of cities with high pollution, while Sanya doesn’t even make it on there.

Where to Go

Hainan Island

The two main cities in Hainan are Haikou and Sanya, which serve as points of reference for any other destinations around the island. When I was in Hainan with my family, we didn’t have the time to travel down to Sanya, so we spent most of our short stay in Haikou and a less populous beach section nearby called Wenchang.

Extending from Haikou, Wenchang still had a decent amount of space in 2013, but was definitely in the midst of being developed even further. In one day, we visited a subdivision full of posh vacation homes still under construction, just waiting to be completed and sold to lucky families. Later, we had dinner at an outdoor restaurant that was comprised of only a few picnic tables surrounding a simple, hut-like building. A certain casual, humble island culture is still strong here, even as tourism grows.

From what I hear, the same could be true for Sanya, but it’s much more of a resort destination. Since it’s more south, it’s warmer — and since it’s further away from a large city, it has an even better balance of nature and attractions. From Sanya, you can escape further from the crowds by heading to Houhai Beach, Dadong Sea, Monkey Island, and a long list of other mini-destinations.

What to Do and What to Eat

Hainan Island

How should you spend your time in Hainan? Well, you’re in the tropics, so you’ll be doing a lot of chilling — hanging out by the beach, drinking fresh coconut water, taking photos, and playing in the water.

As far as activities go, according to Lonely Planet’s Dora Whitaker, there’s lots to explore in one of China’s more recently developed getaways. You can rent a surfboard and try out your skills on waves that are a little more tame than Hawaii’s, or even rent a bike to take a tour away from the coast and into the hills. You can also arrange your trip around one of the annual festivals on the island — the Coconut Festival or Sanyuesan, a love festival.

Hainan is known for its Wenchang Chicken, a sort of a boiled, sweet-tasting chicken — as well as coconuts and fresh seafood. In general, if you’re going to China, go for the food. You’ll never be disappointed if plan with your stomach.

8 US Destinations for the Ultimate Cat Lover

Feline-fans, rejoice: your sweet, slightly sour, and sometimes spicy, ball of fur is really good for your health. Science shows that cats can cut down allergens, boost your self-esteem, elevate your mood, and even make it easier to socialize with other people. Cat owners also tend to be more intelligent and more particular than dog owners, says a 2016 study from Carroll University.

 

So, whether you’re a crazy cat lady or a dude that’s ready to publicly proclaim your “cat-mance” to the world, these eight locations will allow you to squeeze in a little more cat-cuddle time.

1. The Garfield Trail, Fairmount, Indiana

GarfieldTrailPGF
Indiana’s most famous son, Garfield, balances a neapolitan ice cream cone by Ivanhoe’s Ice Cream Restaurant— famous for its 100 different shakes and 100 different sundaes | Photo: Paula Schulz

Indiana’s most famous son, Garfield, balances a neapolitan ice cream cone by Ivanhoe’s Ice Cream Restaurant— famous for its 100 different shakes and 100 different sundaes. (Photo by Paula Schulz)

Everybody loves America’s favorite lasagna-scarfing, Monday-hating, spider-squashing fat cat, Garfield. The orange tabby makes the leap from paper to five-foot fiberglass in creator Jim Davis’ hometown of Fairmount, Indiana. Eleven statues depict the 35 year old feline in comical costumes or situations. Whether he’s reeling in grinning fish or squeezing himself into a Swayzee High School jersey, Garfield, the godfather of feline celebrities like Grumpy Cat, is the pre-internet king of cats—and he isn’t afraid to wear a cattywampus crown just to prove it.

 

2. Cat Town Cafe, Oakland, California

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Adoptable cats Rowan and Lewis move in for a kiss on a miniature taco truck in The Cat Zone | Photo: Cathy Niland

Six years ago, Cat Town pawed open the doors of America’s first cat cafe, beating out San Francisco’s KitTea. Saving nearly 1,400 cats and reducing its euthanasia rate by 32%, Cat Town is the future of adoption—a cross between a coffee shop and an adoption center.  Because of health code regulations, it’s split into two sections. The Rawr Coffee Bar serves Highwire coffee, espresso drinks, cat-themed pastries, catnip-infused toys, and dehydrated raw treats.  The Cat Zone features eight to 24 adoptable felines. (Adoption fees are $50 for one cat or $75 for two cats.) The cats are free to play on miniatures of Oakland’s landmarks, slink by bright, cat-centric murals, or curl up on the human clientele.

 

3. The Garden State Cat Club Expo, Somerset, New Jersey

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Pippi, a CFA-champion Somali, conquers the hoop obstacle in The Garden State Cat Club’s Feline Agility Competition | Photo: Linda Bohm

“The Cat Expo is the largest [and one of the oldest] of its kind in the country. We usually get 4,000 to 5,000 during its two days,” writes Linda Bohm, The Garden State Cat Club’s Marketing Director.  Here, you can watch therapy cats Waffle and Tirzah zoom around in their personalized, purple cars; take seminars on everything from pet CPR to grooming; or get your cat’s portrait done by New Jersey-native Steve Nyman. The highlight of the Expo? Two-hundred and fifty cats, representatives from nearly all 41 breeds, compete in 12-obstacle agility contests and breed showcases. All ticket proceeds go the Winn Feline Foundation, a nonprofit that funds cat health research.

 

4. The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, Key West, Florida

PGF_The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum
Six-toed, gray-tabby Hairy Truman walks across Ernest Hemingway’s writing desk | Photo: Rob O’ Neal

Ernest Hemingway may be famous for penning For Whom the Bell Tolls and A Farewell to Arms, but in Key West, Florida, he’s famous for another reason—six-toed, “gypsy” cats. In the 1930s, sea captain Stanley Dexter gifted the novelist a white, six-toed kitten named Snow White. (Seafaring legends claim that six-toed cats bring their owners a bounty of good luck.) As Hemingway once wrote, “One cat lead to another.” The proof? His grand, plantation-style home is teeming with 45 six-toed cats, all named after famous figures. Hemingway’s clowder spends their days sunbathing in the garden, lounging on century-old furniture, and receiving weekly veterinarian visits.  These historical treasures even have their own cemetery.  It’s just a hop, a skip, and a jump from the garden where Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe are buried.

 

5. The Average Joe Cat Show, Arlington, Washington

Elvis cinches the title of “Mr. Personality” in the 2014 Average Joe Cat Show | Photo: Connie Gabelein
Elvis cinches the title of “Mr. Personality” in the 2014 Average Joe Cat Show | Photo: Connie Gabelein

Whether your cat is a purebred or a moggie, it’s invited to the Annual Average Joe Cat Show (currently in its 14th year, held on May 6, 2017) at Shoreline’s Spartan Recreation Center in Arlington, Washington. The show shells out over-the-top titles like “The Most Impressive Ear Hair”, “The Prettiest Eyes”, and “The Loudest Purr.” At the very least, it’s a chance to make friends with local Kitten Cam fans and cat fanciers from places like Australia, England, and the Netherlands.

 

6. Meow Parlor, New York, New York

EthanCovey_PermissionGranted
Christina Ha’s cat-shaped macaroons come in boxes of 6, 12, and 24 | Photo: Ethan Covey

Welcome to Manhattan’s lower east side: a concrete jungle where dreams are made up of adoptable cats and feline-shaped munchies.  The Big Apple’s first cat cafe Meow Parlor has fostered 120 cats.  On any given day, Will, Sabrina, Freddy Knickerbocker, and nine other cats— who are available for adoption thanks to the cafe’s partnership with KittyKind—clamor over the tables, explore the crannies of bookshelves, and flop in front of the giant “MEOW” sign at the storefront. There’s a lot of hype surrounding this safe haven for cats and cat fanciers, so you’ll need to make a reservation in advance. Feel free to jump on Meow Parlor’s free Wifi, knock back a Counter Culture Coffee, and cuddle up with your favorite feline for up to five hours.

 

7. Bug’s Cat Gym, Madison, Wisconsin

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Every four years, Bug’s Gym holds the Kitten Olympic Games with events like catmitten, soccer, and the long jump | Photo: Ken Lambrecht

Pack your catnip, ladies. After all, “you can’t have a good party without it,” says Dr. Ken Lambrecht, who runs the biggest cat weight loss program in the United States. Once a month, Lambrecht and his colleagues at West Town Veterinary Center bring seven to ten new cats together. Owners use lasers, wands, and string cheese to lure cats on exercise wheels, up stone and wooden climbing walls, into cat tunnels, and onto a banana yellow surfboard — the only source of cat turf wars at the gym. Free and open to the public, they donate $10 for every pound that a dog loses and $20 for every pound that a cat loses. “We’ve raised $3,000 for local rescues,” Lambrecht said.

 

8. Feline Historical Museum, Alliance, Ohio

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Two Victorian Siamese cat dolls are on display in what was once the Midland-Buckeye’s bank vault | Photo: Karen Lawrence

Located on the first floor of The Cat Fanciers’ Association Headquarters, the Feline Historical Museum is a mecca for cat lovers. Everywhere you look there are cats, cats, and more cats. Cat posters, paintings, and calendars cling to the walls. Rooms overflow with maneki-neko, the felines that continually wave Japanese talismans, and Siamese figurines. Seven hundred books about cats are clustered together in a small library, and a memorial book commemorates the cats that have passed on to that big kitty condo in the sky.

World Destinations to Move to Right Now

Moving overseas is no longer the glamorously unreachable dream it was just a decade or so ago, which is good news for those of us looking for a fresh geographic start in 2017.

Under the ever more sensational news onslaught of 2016, you may be left at the start of this year feeling like the world is a rowdy and unfriendly place, but that’s hardly the case: while the Internet focuses on giving us a collective case of Chicken Little complex, positive news from around the world goes largely unnoticed.

We all know that Syria, Ukraine, and Venezuela are better left off the itinerary this year; but believe it or not, most of the rest of the world continues marching forward as always. Here are six destinations where peace, progress, and the good life are still dominant in 2017.

Medellín, Colombia: South America’s Nomad Hotspot

world destinations to move to right now

Medellín has been soaring through the rankings of the best residences for itchy-footed nomads since long before the Economist named it the country of the year in 2016; but now we can officially say that Colombia’s second city has landed on the mainstream map.

A four-year peace process finally resulted in an agreement and peace in Colombia in late 2016. When you combine that with the eternal spring climate that’s made Medellín a hotspot for digital nomads in recent years, it’s easy to see why every year more people from around the world are calling it home.

Constanta, Romania: Fast Internet and Black Sea Breezes

world destinations to move to right now

Speaking of digital nomads, Romania’s high-speed internet and low cost of living is drawing nomads and IT workers living the laptop lifestyle from across Europe and the planet. Dracula’s birthplace and home to the most gorgeous castles in the world, Romania also offers cheap and delicious wine and an untouched countryside for all who come to call it home for a while.

Constanta, Romania’s oldest and second most important city, offers a better balance for many expats than the busy capital of Bucharest. With just under half a million people in the metropolitan area, it has the connected feel of any medium-sized European city, but with its Black Sea coast offers a climate that in the summer will remind you more of Italy or Spain at bargain Eastern European prices.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Miami’s Down-to-Earth Sister

ft lauderdale

Is the Internet done hating on Florida yet? (Hah! Funny! J) It’s got some of the best beaches and beach towns in the US, and towns like Ft Lauderdale and Tallahassee are up-and-coming hubs of young professionals and urban innovation.

“America’s Venice,” as Fort Laudy is often called for its canals, offers all the benefits of moving to Miami without any of the South Beach price tag. With a strong local brewery culture, a well-connected international airport right on the edge of town, and year-round sunshine, you’d be hard-pressed to be unhappy in South Florida’s up-and-comer.

Montevideo, Uruguay: Latin America’s Progressive Leader

best world destinations to move to right now

If you’ve ever daydreamed about living somewhere with liberated attitudes on sex, drugs, and culture, you’ve probably pictured moving out to the West Coast somewhere. For a real adventure this year, look instead to South America’s east coast and the tiny, quietly successful nation of Uruguay and its capital Montevideo, where things always seem to be going well.

One of the most progressive Latin American cities, the Uruguayan capital is home to state-regulated marijuana dispensaries, marriage equality, and a community of artists and hipsters to rival neighboring Buenos Aires. It’s also one of the safest cities in all of Latin America, and an ideal home base for exploring Uruguay’s giant neighbors of Brazil and Argentina.

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam: Life in the Crossroads of Asia

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh city is not just a Southeast Asian foodie’s paradise. It’s also an ideal vantage point for watching the next year or two unfold on the South China Sea.

Also known as Saigon, Vietnam’s largest city and southern capital is situated at the maritime crossroads of wealthier northern countries like Hong Kong, Taiwan, and China with their dynamic southern neighbors in the rest of Southeast Asia. This corner of the world is changing rapidly under the forces of globalization and tourism booms, and there’s no better home base for exploring countries like Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, and the Philippines.

Auckland, New Zealand: Seventh Heaven in Middle Earth

world destinations to move to right now

The Kiwis try not to brag, but their small island country, often treated like Australia’s Canada, is home to one of the highest qualities of living in the world by just about any measure.

The balanced lifestyle and natural beauty that provided the backdrops for the Lord of the Rings make it easy to see why New Zealand consistently leads rankings of best cities for expats. Auckland, the country’s largest city, leads the pack. Recently ranked the third most liveable city in the world for the fourth year in a row, Auckland is a Southern Pacific paradise of volcanic beaches, economic prosperity, liberal tolerance, and a healthy respect for the wonders of nature that encapsulate it.

Queretaro: Central Mexico’s Best Kept Secret

Nestled in the Central Mexican lowlands of the Bajío lies a temperate colonial treasure that somehow continues to elude the guidebooks and the travel blogosphere. Just a few dozen miles away from backpacker favorites San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato, Querétaro hides in the shadows of the Sierra Gorda mountains and urban monstrosities like Mexico City and Guadalajara, where just short of a million Mexicans enjoy life in one of the most tranquil and picturesque cities in the country.

Santiago de Querétaro, as the city is officially named, is the center of gravity for so much that’s happening in modern Mexico. It looks nothing like the media images of conflict and unrest from along the northern border, nor the cruises and all-inclusive resorts of Cancún and the Caribbean. Its idyllic, semi-arid climate and a longstanding reputation for safety and stability have made it home to burgeoning tech industries and an influx of young, educated Mexicans looking for work and a good life. It’s its own contentedly beating heart, at the crossroads of climates and cultural regions in the world’s thirteenth largest country. And if it’s not on your Mexican itinerary, it needs to be now.

Centro Historico, the 16th century colonial city center that was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, is invitingly open and walkable. Parque Alameda is the natural starting point for arriving travelers, on the southern edge of the historic center, and you can easily make an entire afternoon of winding between vendors’ stalls at the market.

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A fountain in the center of Parque Alameda. Photo by Jakob Gibbons

Cut across Parque Alameda heading northeast and maneuver around jogging students and stroller-pushing families to head for the Aqueduct of Querétaro, the literal lifeblood of the city. Constructed in the 18th century as the byproduct of a starcrossed love affair between a nobleman and a nun, its stone arches step over the Pan-American Highway and lead you deeper into Centro Historico, where its irrigation fuels the soothing sounds of idyllic fountains in nearly every plaza.

Travelers of all budgets and styles should beeline for the Blue Bicycle House hostel as soon as they arrive in town. Located on the edge of Centro Historico and just steps away from the Aqueduct, it offers a selection of dorms or private rooms, all of which have access to the rooftop terrace overlooking the city and the Sierra Gorda mountains. After breakfast, you can rent one of the hostel’s namesake blue bicycles to spend your day taking in the city on two wheels.

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Graffiti painted on the wall of an alley in Centro Historico. The text at the top reads la ignorancia es capaz de hacernos cenizas, or “ignorance can turn us to dust.” Photo by Jakob Gibbons

Throughout Mexico there’s an endless inter-regional battle waged over whose local take on national dishes is the best, but even Norteños of Monterrey and Yucatecos of the Caribbean will admit, if you corner them in private, that Central Mexico is the king of street cuisine. Flautas resembling deep-fried chicken-filled flutes and crunchy chicharrón-filled gorditas await you around every corner in the city. If you search the quiet side streets surrounding the Blue Bicycle House, you’ll find delicious tacos al pastor for as little as three for one US dollar, which you can then wash down sitting in a mezcalería and sipping on mezcal.

Dive deeper into Centro Historico with your flautas in hand on any given evening and you won’t have finished chewing and swallowing before you stumble onto an impromptu live music performance in one of the many plazas with amphitheatre-like acoustics. Full uniformed mariachi bands share the streets with yukulele-strumming Central Mexican hipsters, streetside cover bands, and outdoor pianos; and brick walls and winding alleys keep the sounds of the band around the next corner from drowning out those of the one in front of you.

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One of the five 18th century Franciscan missions that collectively form a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Sierra Gorda mountains outside Querétaro. Photo by Jakob Gibbons

Once you’ve had your fill of the city you’ll discover yet another thing to love about Santiago de Querétaro: it’s close to everything. Within a four-hour bus radius lie the cosmopolitan capital of Mexico City, the famous monarch butterfly reserves of Morelia, and the vibrant cultural capital of the west, Guadalajara. If you need a reprieve from the urban density and festive streets, head northeast into the Sierra Gorda mountains, where you’ll find, among other things, another World Heritage Site in the form of the 18th century Franciscan Missions hidden in the steep wooded slopes of the Sierra Gordas.

7 Must-See Caves in the U.S.

Hidden below ground throughout the United States are entire worlds. There are an estimated 45,000 caves in the United States. Formed over thousands of years, some are full of history—famous spots where outlaws once hid—while others are still being discovered. All are home to natural wonders and some to a few man-made ones including dance floors and hotels. Whether you’re an expert at spelunking or simply want to do something a little different on your next weekend escape, here are seven U.S. caves you can plan a getaway around.

 

Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico

Carlsbad caverns

With more than 200,000 square miles stretching throughout three U.S. states and into Mexico you could spend a few weeks exploring the Chihuahuan Desert. Head to the New Mexico part of the desert where you can take in the wildlife and blooming cactus above ground while hiking on a few miles of trails, but don’t forget to make time to go below ground. Known as Carlsbad Caverns, more than 119 caves lie under the desert.  Stare in wonder at the natural limestone chamber that makes up a large part of the caverns.

 

Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve, Oregon

Oregon caves
Credit: NPS Photo

Go to Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve for a romantic weekend. Yes, you read that right. The preserve and marble caves within the lush Oregon forest are home to a historic chateau making it an ideal weekend escape. Hike the outskirts of the cave system before heading inside for a tour.  Adrenaline seekers will want to sign up for the off-trail caving tour. You get outfitted with a headlamp before trained guides teach you how to fit through tight spaces as you go spelunking through the caves.

 

Meramec Caverns, Missouri

Photo: el-toro on Flickr
Photo: el-toro on Flickr

Missouri is home to more than 6,000 caves but if you can only spend a day or even half a day visiting one make it Meramec Caverns. Rumored to have been the second to last stop along the Underground Railroad and used by Jesse James as a hideout, stepping down into the Meramec Caverns will transport you into the past. Take a guided tour and learn about the creation of the Caverns’ ancient limestone wine table and seven-story mansion. End your day with a meal at the on-site restaurant, or, if you have more time you can camp at designated spots nearby.

 

Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota

Wind Cave National Park boxwork formation
Wind Cave National Park boxwork formations

Gaze in wonder at the unique boxwork formation inside South Dakota’s Wind Cave. Tiny, skinny pieces of calcite hang off the walls and ceilings of the caves creating a honeycomb pattern that is both mesmerizing and a little spooky. While there are other caves throughout the world that have boxwork formations, these caves are home to the majority of them. After you’ve had your fill below ground, take time to explore the above ground areas of the park, home to wildlife including bison and elk.

 

Polar Caves, New Hampshire

Photo: Adam Tucker on Flickr
Photo: Adam Tucker on Flickr (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

More than 50,000 years ago receding glaciers created nine granite caves in the White Mountains. Known today as the Polar Caves, the area is a favorite summertime spot for families. Take your time exploring them during a self-guided tour but make sure to leave plenty of the time for the destination’s other activities. Explorers can take a stab at the rock climbing wall or sluice mining and young (or young at heart) visitors will love the animal petting zoo and the maple sugaring house.

 

Indian Caves, New York

inwood hill park new york
Photo: Erin Johnson on Flickr (CC BY-NC 2.0)

Yes, there are caves in Manhattan. You simply need to know where to look. Inwood Hill Park is perhaps New York City’s most overlooked park and it’s also its most magical. Winding walkways break up the roughly 196 acres of wilderness that compose the park. It’s here you’ll find the Shorakapok Preserve, home to the last remaining salt marsh in Manhattan, and the park’s Indian caves,  natural rock hangs used for centuries as the summer camp of the Wiechquasecks. Visit in June and learn the history while listening to drumming and watching dancers during the annual festival that celebrates the park’s history.

 

Craighead Caverns, Tennessee

craighead caverns
Photo: Brent Moore on Flickr (CC BY-NC 2.0)

Hidden at the bottom of a cave in Tennessee is the largest underground lake in the U.S. As you descend into the cave, tour guides point out the Craighead Caverns’ rooms while talking about the caverns’ vast history from use by the Cherokees to soldiers in the Civil War to the development of a dance floor for public use in the 1900s. But it’s once you reach the lake that the adventure really begins. Glass-bottom boats bring visitors around the lake for views unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.

I Drove Over 6,000 Miles Alone and Here’s What I Learned

For years, I’ve wanted to go on a road trip around the U.S. In college, I spent some longer periods of time abroad; and while I love international travel, there’s something about a domestic road trip that has always seemed like the ultimate chance at freedom. After all, it’s sort of the American dream, in the most 1950s way possible: Just you, your car, your tent, and a map.

Traditionally, I think that as a woman you’re expected to either have an eccentric BFF or a bank-robbing boyfriend along for the ride. But as it turns out, not everyone can take six weeks off to become an overly-ambitious road warrior — myself included. For a while, I hemmed and hawed, never finding quite the right time to go. But in the end, I just went. Sans-sidekick. Sans-vacation. As a freelancer, I could work on the road. I’d find the time. Right?

In the end, I had an amazing time and learned some lessons firsthand, which I’ve provided here so you don’t have to. But you know what? You probably should anyway.

newport, oregon
Newport, OR

1. Plan a strategic route.

I.e., a route that contains the most friends you can stay with. A handful of mine are conveniently scattered along the west coast, so I decided that a west coast tour of friends would be more realistic than a road trip across the entire U.S.. A bit of a bummer, the perfectionist in me thought, but alas. Flexibility is key.

Roughly, my route, starting from Missoula, MT, was Portland → San Francisco → LA → San Diego → Joshua Tree → the Grand Canyon → Tucson → Big Bend → Dallas → Bozeman, MT.

I’ll spare you the exact details, but let’s just say that I envisioned long walks on the beach, hikes through the desert, and in general more time than what I ended up with. However, with only a few modifications and sacrifices — like not taking Highway 101 the whole way down the coast — I got to experience a little bit of everything and miraculously stayed on top of my work. #Winning.

road trip
Pier 39, San Francisco

2. You’re not actually in this alone.

Traveling alone to visit friends affords you the best of both worlds — you don’t have to worry about keeping your travel buddy entertained, but you get plenty of social time. And it was amazing to catch up with old friends and realize that aside from new cities, new jobs, and new partners, not much has changed.

The world, as it happens, is also incredibly small. Traveling alone forced me to reach out to my network with questions about who they know in specific areas, which opened the door to many new friendships and interactions. Criticize the Internet all you want for taking away face-to-face interaction — I hear you — but if you use it right, it can actually make more of these connections possible.

For instance, while in San Francisco, I asked Facebook who was in the area, and ended up spending a day with a friend of a friend and his partner, who are both awesome. I also met their new friend who had recently moved to town, and the next day, we explored the city together. In San Diego, I found an online group for local creatives via Craigslist, and ended up tagging along on a photoshoot in L.A. and making two new friends through that. In Arizona, I contacted an acquaintance via Instagram and stayed at his house, then he rode with me to Tucson and introduced me to his friends who live there…

Are you sick of me saying the word “friend” yet? I think you get the picture. Use your resources and don’t be shy.

Newport Beach, OR
Newport Beach, OR

3. Gas stations are weird.

Stop in one gas station, and you won’t think much of it. But stop in a gas station every few hours for a few days, and you’ll start to wonder if it’s Groundhog’s Day. No sooner do you walk through the door then you’re assaulted by an onslaught of brightly-colored packaging. Or, if you’re in Texas, pickled things in jars. I’ll admit I was actually grateful to see them — aside from those jars, all these places look pretty much the same.

I don’t mean to complain, because I know it could be so much worse, but man, eating healthfully on the road is tough! Bring a cooler, fill it with carrots, string beans, and protein bars, and you’re set. That’s my advice.

4. Texas is huge and everything is really far apart.

road trip
Denton, TX

By far the most difficult stretch of the journey was driving from Tucson to Big Bend National Park. Texas, as it turns out, is extremely flat, and way more rural than I expected. After passing Van Horn, I drove along a straight and narrow two-lane highway for hundreds of miles and only passed a handful of cars. And then, the sun went down. At this point, I was actually getting a bit creeped out.

Outside Big Bend, in a town called Marathon, I stopped to gas up, and I could not believe how dark it was. There was nothing, just a super expensive hotel and an RV park and a gas station called Alon. And since I was only about an hour away from the park, I decided to go for it. In the end, I found an amazing campsite with a sky full of stars and warm breeze. Worth it.

5. Solitude is a gift.

As much fun as I had meeting new people, laughing with old friends, and feeling like a tourist in each city I visited, I was also usually pretty ready to get in the car and drive for a while once the time came. I’m obsessed with podcasts — in fact, I produce one — and hours of uninterrupted listening time is actually something of a dream come true. And although it was somewhat frustrating to not have the time to stop and explore every nook and cranny, I still enjoyed watching the scenery go by, listening to music and letting my mind wander.

My first night in Joshua Tree, I had this epiphany I’ll never forget. I was about halfway through the trip, and I was in my tent wrapped up in my cozy sleeping bag. And lying there listening to the coyotes, I felt a soaring gratitude — first, for those heat-producing objects making up my mobile home; then, for being in that beautiful place. And after that, for everything leading up to the moment, and for everyone responsible, no matter how inadvertently.

planning a road trip

But eventually, I ran out of people to silently thank in my head, because I never could have done this without myself. I was the real MVP, as cheesy as it sounds, and accepting responsibility for being where I was felt like the ultimate power.

You can read more about Mariah’s travels and listen to the podcast on her blog, the Millennial Search for Meaning.

London on the Cheap: The Budget Traveler’s Guide

London is a city that belongs to the world as much as it belongs to England. The city’s finance, fashion, and cultural heritage is the object of adoration on every continent and in every time zone; and while it’s true that the most luxurious hotels and boutiques draw tourists in droves from around the world, it’s a myth that only the rich and famous can afford a vacation on the River Thames. Savvy travelers can see the world on any budget, and the British capital is no exception.

In 2017, with the falling British pound continuing to drive down restaurant and hotel prices for foreign tourists, London will remain a city that belongs to us all. A little bit of preparation is all you need to unlock one of the world’s most expensive capital cities for as little as $30 a day.

Find Affordable Accommodation Through Airbnb and Hostelworld

london on the cheap

Staying in hostels is by far the most underrated way of seeing the world’s greatest (and most expensive) cities.

With options for privates and two- or four-person rooms, staying in a hostel doesn’t have to mean sharing a dorm with a symphony of snoring backpackers. Take a scroll through Hostelworld and you’ll find dorm beds at well-rated hostels for $15 a night or less, and private rooms from as little as three times that. Don’t forget that a hostel kitchen also gives you the option of popping into the grocery store and whipping up something cheap and simple before setting out to explore.

For accommodations that combine a personal touch with a steep discount compared to a hotel room, browse around Airbnb for some options to rent out a Londoner’s guest room or even an entire flat for a few nights. Prices run the gamut from comparable with a private room in a hostel to luxurious penthouse suites; but you get the added bonus of a local guide with all the best advice for venturing off the main tourist drag.

Daily lodging cost: from $12 for a reasonable hostel dorm with breakfast included, to $60-100 or more for an Airbnb flat in a well-located neighborhood

Save on the Tube by Springing for a Week Pass

london on the cheap

If you’re not careful, the London Underground—known locally and in pop culture around the world as the Tube—will eat its way through your holiday cash before you have a chance to notice.

A single-use ticket for the Tube in Central London will cost you £6.60 in 2017, or a little over $8 US dollars. Instead, consider buying day passes or a week pass at the beginning of your trip to save a few pounds and free yourself up to move about the city as you please. A London Underground Travelcard will allow you unlimited trips on the Underground as well as other forms of public transit like the Overground and city buses. If you’re only in town for a couple of days, you might want to purchase a new day pass for £12.30 each day.

But if you’re staying for more than a day or two, a week pass is definitely worth it. At £33, you’ll only need to take five trips to make it worth the money you’ve spent.

Daily public transit cost: Less than $6 USD a day for a week pass used over seven days, otherwise $15 for a day pass or around $8 per single ride on the Tube 

Eat Adventurously to Spare Your Wallet

fish and chips

Restaurant bills can start racking up out of nowhere in a city like London, where a modest sit-down meal can cost as much as a week of groceries at home.

Let the map of London’s street food be your blueprint for the day, and treat yourself to a steady stream of perfect on-the-go snacks for a few pounds here and there. Indulge in a reasonably-priced full English breakfast to start your day, and try to save up your budget and appetite for dinner, whether it’s a humble plate of fish ‘n chips or a delicious deal at the best cheap eats in the city.

Daily food cost: from $10-15 a day for a diet of mostly street food and hostel kitchen cuisine, to $30-40 or more depending on how frequently and where you dine out

Grab a £1 Cup of Coffee and Get Some Work Done in Pret a Manger

Hitting the pub or going out for a bite can be a hard hit to the pocketbook, but that doesn’t mean budget travelers need to say cooped up in hostels and Airbnbs the whole time.

Pret a Manger is a classic UK coffee chain you’ll find on every other street corner across London, and they’re also one of the few that offer a super affordable cuppa joe – at just £1. Order a cup or two and treat yourself to a pastry.

Daily café budget: from $1 for a quick cup to $8-10 for a pastry or a small meal along with it

Visit World-Class Museums, Libraries, and Cultural Institutions for Free

london on the cheap

The British Museum, the National Gallery, the Tate Modern: the stuff of dreams for cultural enthusiasts, and they’re all completely free to visit in London.

Many of London’s most famous sights also belong to the impressive list of free things to do in the city. You can pass your days at the British Library, or taking free walking tours around historic sites like Westminster, one of the world’s most gorgeous castles. In London, nearly all cultural institutions are open and free to the public, earning London its spot on the list of the most affordable destinations.

Daily attractions budget: $0

World-renowned nightlife and dining are one good reason to visit London, but another one is spending a few days or a week enveloped in the vibes of a truly global city. To top off your British holiday, take a day trip to a cheaper and less crowded corner of the Kingdom like Cornwall. The combination of a vibrant world city and stunning seaside beaches just hours away will surely have you planning to move overseas before you’ve even make it back home.

Wild Getaways: Hiking Western Australia

Touring Australia’s diverse continent typically includes snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef and driving through the famed Outback, but the country’s nearly 3 million square miles include some hidden gems, many of which are in Australia’s western territory. From vast desert to coastal cities, Western Australia has hiking for all talents. If you’re looking for a winter escape outside of the American Southwest, check out these hikes and start planning.

 

The Bibbulmun Track

Where: Perth to Albany

Total Distance: Roughly 600 miles – access points throughout

Difficulty: Moderate

Chatham Island Panorama
Chatham Island Panorama | Photo: Andrew Purdam on Flickr (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

Located southwest of Perth, this long-distance walking and hiking trail is considered one of the world’s premier multi-day excursion. The bush walk trail stretches more than 600 miles from Kalamunda, in the heart of the Perth hills, to the historic southern town of Albany, on the shores of the Indian Ocean. Along the way, you’ll find a number of attractions and accommodations for those looking for less camping and more glamping. You’ll intersect Serpentine National Park and multiple wineries too, with plenty of fun detours for the whole family. As you approach the end of your trip, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking coastal views.

 

Ghost House Trail

Where: Yanchep National Park

Total Distance: 7.5 miles

Difficulty: Easy

yanchep park australia
Boardwalk through Australian wetland
yanchep park australia
Ghost house in Australian Bush

This day hike isn’t far from Perth’s city center, but offers unspoiled encounters with Western Australia’s extraordinary wetlands. There’s even the possibility of koala and kangaroo sightings.  After trudging through miles of deep, luminous scrubland, you’ll approach the ruinous Ghost House. The dystopian remains of a home consumed by nature rest easy on the edge of Tuart forest. The looped walk includes a variety of cliffs and limestone caves suitable for all ages. Tours given throughout the day feature more details about the region and its wild inhabitants.

 

Cape to Cape Track

Where: Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park

Total Distance: 84 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Red Gate Beach, Margareth River, in Leeuwin National Park
Red Gate Beach, Margareth River, in Leeuwin National Park
Viewing platform at Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse Augusta Western Australia
Viewing platform at Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse Augusta, Western Australia

This hike begins on the southwest corner of Western Australia in Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park, just 150 miles south of Perth. Beginning and ending with a lighthouse, this hike is a coastal paradise. Along the way, you’ll be enticed with views of comely beaches and reticent forests. Nearby are a number of attractions including wineries, specialty cheese shops, and museums. While the hike is mostly on smooth, level ground, there are a few challenging scrambles required of hikers, but there are various access points throughout the trail for a less strenuous experience.

 

Mandu Mandu Gorge

Where: Ningaloo Reef National Park

Total Distance: 1.8 miles

Difficulty: Strenuous

Mandu Mandu Gorge, Cape Range, Australia
Mandu Mandu Gorge, Western Australia
Panorama lookout view along coast of Ningaloo Reef, Cape Range National Park
Panorama lookout view along coast of Ningaloo Reef, Cape Range National Park

If you’re unable to see the endangered Great Barrier Reef before coral bleaching further devastates it, Ningaloo Marine Park is a peerless alternative. The park protects more than 150 miles of coral on the mid-north coast. Park officials encourage visitors to snorkel through Coral Bay and swim with the native marine life, including sharks and dolphins. Hikers looking for a challenge are encouraged to take the end of the Mandu Mandu track and follow the northern ridge of the gorge to a panoramic view of the Ningaloo Reef. This hike usually requires a high level of fitness due to rugged terrain and scrambling.

 

The Pinnacles

Where: Nambung National Park

Total Distance: 1.2 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Pinnacles Desert, Nambung National Park, Western Australia
Pinnacles Desert, Nambung National Park, Western Australia
Pinnacles Desert, Nambung National Park, Western Australia
Pinnacles Desert, Nambung National Park, Western Australia

Dry, idyllic desert takes form at Nambung National Park, located in the Wheatbelt region of Western Australia. The Pinnacles are limestone spire formations created from the seashells of ancient marine life. The Pinnacles are best visited from August to October, and opportunities for wildlife sightings in the park are opulent. Western Gray Kangaroos, cockatoos, and emus are often recognized in the park. There’s a short scenic walking and driving trail that winds around the Pinnacles, giving you easy access to these once-in-a-lifetime sights.