Tag Archives: adventure

International Trips You Can Take with Your Tax Return

Tax season is one of the best and worst times of the year. Getting a return is like winning the lottery – a small lottery – but still money dropped right back into your bank account.

A wonderful way to use that money is to go on that international trip you’ve always wanted. It’s an often overlooked option, as international travel is known as being pretty pricy. But if you know where to look, you can easily get abroad for $2,000 or less per person. Here are some top international locales you can travel to using your tax return this year.

 

Mexico City, Mexico

One of the best ways to go abroad and keep it cheap is to visit a neighboring country. Currently flights to Mexico City are popping up around $400 per person round trip on Expedia.com. Hotels can go as low as $55 per night on the daily deals.

mexico city mx
House of Tiles (Casa de los Azulejos), Mexico City, Mexico

The area boasts many natural sites and ecotourism draws. There’s the National Museum of Anthropology and Palacio de Bellas Artes (a famous art museum), too. There’s even Chapultepec Castle, which is filled with royal relics.

 

Florence, Italy

The airfare for this art and culture destination is running around $1,000 for a round trip ticket, while hotels are averaging around $200 per night. Your best bet for finding inexpensive lodging is using options like AirBnB.com.

Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence, Italy
Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence, Italy

But while it is one of the more pricey options on the list, Florence has stunning vistas, and the city itself is perfect for roaming and taking in the food and culture. The city even calls itself an “open air museum”, perfect for getting away for several days and exploring another culture.

 

Corfu, Greece

With Greece’s financial crisis, it has risen as a popular place to go on the cheap. Round trip airfare is currently sitting around $700 – not bad for flying halfway across the world! Meanwhile, hotels are super cheap, many going for far less than $100 per night.

Agios Georgios Church, Corfu, Greece
Agios Georgios Church, Corfu, Greece

Even better, you’re getting out into the seat of Western culture. There are castles, historic temples devoted to Greek gods, archeological sites like the Palaeopolis, and stunning churches to visit.

 

Nova Scotia, Canada

Hotels for this area run in the $100 per night range, with some deals going even lower. Meanwhile, flights can be in the $300-450 range, depending on what part of the country you are in.

Nova Scotia, Canada
Nova Scotia, Canada

Nova Scotia is a gorgeous area with tons of natural attractions. The location is a key area for activities like whale watching, food and wine tours, museums, beaches, and lighthouse tours.

 

Hamburg, Germany

Flights to this central European locale are currently around $800 per ticket round trip. Meanwhile, you can find hotels deals for as low as $100 per night.

Hamburg city hall (Rathaus)
Hamburg city hall (Rathaus), Hamburg, Germany

Hamburg refers to itself as the “maritime capital of the north.” Stunning architecture sits right along waterways where you can take canoe and kayak excursions. The area is famous for its sightseeing boat trips and trade centers.

 

St. Lucia, Caribbean

Lower-end flights to this Caribbean escape are popping up in the $600 range. Hotels can be pricey, at up to $800 per night for spa and beach resorts, but you can find hotel deals for as low as $75 a night. This city is located on a small island just south of Puerto Rico. It’s the perfect place to get away if you want some luxurious island time in an unspoiled region.

Halcyon Beach in St Lucia in the eastern Caribbean Sea
Halcyon Beach, St Lucia

Check out the rainforest areas for hikes, pristine beaches, and waterfalls. There’s horseback riding along the coast, and the area is known for activities like fishing, kayaking, and scuba diving.

 

Lima, Peru

Flights to Lima can be around $500-600 per ticket at the moment. Hotels can be found for deals as low as $43 per night, though many average around $100 per night.

Boat driver waits on passenegers in Lima, Peru
Boat driver waits on passenegers in Lima, Peru

Peru is a wonderful place for culture and history. It’s famous for the Inca site of Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Lima itself is a hotbed for great food, through which you can experience the culture of the area.

 

Copenhagen,  Denmark

Hotels in Copenhagen can run around $200 per night on average on Expedia, though they can get down to around $150. Flights can be in the $600-800 range.

The Gefion Fountain and St. Alban's Church, a large fountain on the harbour front in Copenhagen, Denmark
The Gefion Fountain and St. Alban’s Church in Copenhagen, Denmark

The city offers sightseeing tours, and is home to tons of history in the form of sculptures, castles, and palaces. There’s even a famous amusement park, Tivoli Gardens.

 

St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands

This one’s cheating, but if you want to feel like you’re traveling abroad without messing around with passports, consider visiting this U.S. territory to the east of Puerto Rico. It’s a popular vacation spot, so hotel prices can be around $500 per night, but there are more modest lodgings in the $100-200 per night range. Flights are going for around $500-600 round trip.

St. John, US. Virgin Islands
St. John, US. Virgin Islands

This is a true tropical island paradise – pristine blue waters sit along lush green backdrops and 60 percent of the land area is preserved national park, so it’s the perfect place to get out into nature.

 

Cambodia

If you’re looking to go to Asia, Cambodia has become a bit famous for the budget conscious as it’s a place where the US dollar can stretch pretty far.  Flights to Cambodia can run around $1,100 at the cheapest, but for hotels, you’re looking at less than $50 per night at many places.

Bayon temple in Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Bayon temple in Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Located between Thailand and Vietnam, this gorgeous country boasts white sand beaches, archeological sites, and unique religious art.

 

Sunshine Coast, South Africa

Airfare to this area of South Africa runs around $800-1,000 at some of the lowest rates, but hotels in the Eastern Cape region of South Africa can run for $40-100 per night.

Camdeboo National Park, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Camdeboo National Park, Eastern Cape, South Africa

This region encompasses a good bit of the Eastern Cape coastline. Here you’ll have your beaches, as well as access to classic African wildlife watching at Addo Elephant National Park, not to mention multiple other reserves nearby.

 

Negril, Jamaica

Jamaica is a great place to go if you’re in a tropical mood. Not as mainstream or built-up as a place like Hawaii, Jamaica runs in a more economical category. Flights are currently popping up around $600 per ticket round trip, and hotels can be found in the $200 per night range, sometimes below.

Negril, Jamaica
Negril, Jamaica

Negril is on the western coast of Jamaica, and is known for its expansive beach areas. It also boasts some top entertainment with festivals, cafes, and music.

 

Dublin, Ireland

If you’d like to visit the U.K., but London seems on the expensive side, try Ireland. Airfare can run around $700 per ticket round trip, and hotels can go for around $100-200 per night.

Dublin, Ireland
Dublin, Ireland

In Dublin you can see the heart of Irish culture, like Trinity College and the National Museum of Ireland: Decorative Arts & History. The scenic town is full of culture, traditional Irish music, and life at its many pubs. There are also plenty of day trips you can take to see the more natural areas, like Giant’s Causeway along the scenic coast, and it’s a great destination for road trips.

 

*Hotel and airfare prices were found on Expedia.com for May 2017, and may be subject to change.

The Top 6 Greek Islands to Visit

The Greeks gifted the world with democracy, philosophy, the Olympics, and yes, even the alarm clock. While there’s no doubt that the mere mention of the Mediterranean country conjures up images of crumbling coliseums, marble busts, and gods sitting atop Mount Olympus, Greece is more than the “heartland”, the Peloponnese Peninsula. It actually has more than 6,000 islands — and only 230 of them are inhabited. (Sidenote: Greece might populate 28 of the wild isles to stave off Turkish territorial claims.) Shutterbugs. Culture mavens. Beach babies. Gourmets. Romantics. The Greek islands have a little something for everyone. So, dust of your Rosetta Stone, snap up your passport, and travel light. From Corfu in the northwest to Crete in the east, we’re laying out the top six islands you need to visit.

 

Corfu

Surrounded by bluer-than-blue seas, Corfu is a green cathedral carpeted with six million olive trees. It’s also studded with 18th century Venetian villas, buttercream-colored churches, and the remains of weather-beaten fortresses.

Island of Corfu, Greece
Island of Corfu, Greece

Wander the ancient Roman vineyards of Agios Matheos, or drop by Spianada Square’s tribute to Lawrence and Gerald Durrell, the British author and zoologist featured in BBC’s smash hit The Durrells in Corfu. Geek out on Greek mythology at the Archeological Museum.  It houses the Lion of Menecrates, Kassel Apollo, and Artemis’ temple — one of 150 masterpieces of Western architecture. For a DIY-spa treatment, slather yourself in Canal D’Amour’s mineral mud.  And, if you can swim the whole length of the canal, you’ll rope yourself a unicorn boyfriend, legend says.

 

Milos

Milos has a lunar landscape. Craters plummet to depths of 420 feet. Rocks twist vertically like churros. Early Christian catacombs sink into the hillsides while mineral-rich pockets of water bubble up from the ocean floor.  It was in this Star Wars-eque landscape that the Venus De Milo was discovered. The goddess of beauty now holds court at the Louvre in France, but this horse-shaped island has plenty of other beauties to admire.

Milos Island, Greece
Milos Island, Greece

Hit up Paliorema Beach, one of Milo’s 80 sandy strips. Located by Thiorihio, it’s littered with old mining wagons and gear, along with crushed shells and sulfur crystals growing along the fine, white sand. Then watch the sunset on a castle in the clouds, Panagia Thalassitra. Good eats alert: local specialties, white pumpkin bonbons and watermelon pie, will help you parti’, karamu’, and fiesta all night long.

 

Crete

Greece’s largest island is the birthplace of Zeus, the sky and thunder god, and the cradle of European civilization. Wedged between emerald hills and moody villages, Mount Ida is home to the cave where Zeus was born.  Crete’s highest mountain, its summit has no water or trees.  Luckily, you can take refuge in stone shepherds’ huts or at Timios Stavros chapel, a Catholic church tucked inside of a limestone cave.

Crete, Greece
Crete, Greece

Want to examine galaxies far, far away? Visit The University of Crete’s Skinakas Observatory. Peel back the layers of history. Make a pit stop at Knossos Palace, the center of Minoan civilization. Dating back to the Bronze Age, it has winding hallways and rooms of various sizes.  It’s actually more like a maze than a castle. Apart from its rich historical tapestry, Crete is the perfect place to unwind. Kneed your toes in its pink sand, listen to local musicians play the lyre, and kick back a shot of fiery raki — paired with local honey-flavored cheese, of course.

 

Santorini

Santorini is like an artist’s palette. The crescent-shaped islands’ white buildings are topped with sapphire semi-circles.  Candy-colored houses carved into cliffs pop against the black sand. Santorini is an active volcano slumbering in the middle of the Aegean Sea. (Though, the last eruption happened 3,600 years ago.)

View of Aegean Sea from Santorini, Greece
View of Aegean Sea from Santorini, Greece

History buffs, it’s also most likely the origin of the Atlantis myth.  However, you won’t get swept away by the waves in Santorini.  It’s not really a beachside vacation spot.  Aside from the cities of Fira and Oia, it’s mainly scrub and sand.  So, consider sitting poolside with a cup Vinsanto and a plate of white eggplant parmigiana while watching the sun dip into the sea, turning it pink while brightening the black cliffs.

*Featured image: Santorini, Greece

 

Chios

A 45-minute flight from Athens, Greece, Chios is an ideal beach escape for the European Wanderluster. The birthplace of Homer, it’s a maze of tightly-spaced houses, narrow streets, and Medieval arches. Stroll through Pyrgi, and marvel at its geometric graffiti. Visit Nea Moni, a UNESCO world heritage site, and see the collection of human skulls from the 1822 Chios’ Massacre.

Windmills of Chios Island, Greece
Windmills of Chios Island, Greece

Board replicas of steamboats and sailing ships at The Maritime Museum. Book lovers, turn pages at one of the largest libraries in Greece — The Korais Library. Built in the late 18th century, it holds over 13,000 books. Foodie?  Greeking-up your flavor palettes with Mastic or “Arabic Gum”.  The pine-flavored resin has an herbal aroma and adds a power punch to confections and liquors like mastiha.

 

Patmos

With volcanic soil, towering cliffs, and lace-like coastlines, Patmos is for beach lovers.  Windsurf, sail, paraglide, or canoe on Kambos Beach’s shallow waters, or enjoy some R&R at Agrio Livadi Beach. Cha-ching: it’s fully-equipped with sun beds, umbrellas, snacks, and drinks. Dubbed “The Jerusalem of the Aegean”, Patmos, the island where Rome exiled its criminals, is also a popular pilgrimage site. It’s the place where John the Apostle survived being boiled alive in a vat of oil by Emperor Domitian.

Alleys of Patmos Island, Greece
Alleys of Patmos Island, Greece

This desolate landscape is also where he penned Revelation: an apocalyptic book filled with bizarre creatures and mystifying symbols. Stand in the place where “the son of thunder” had his visions of fire and brimstone, the Cave of the Apocalypse, or visit the Monastery of St. John. Constructed in the 11th century, it’s made up of 10 chapels and 99 cells.  The dark-hued fortress, however, holds a variety of treasures: 6th-century Coptic textiles, a 15th-century Arabic police baton, and even an Egyptian bust of Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and ecstasy.

Road Trip Your Way Through Ireland

It’s hard to resist Ireland. Between the lush green landscape, the friendly people, the history, the brews and spirits, and the music, it’s easy to be drawn into the island in the North Atlantic. And as of the luck of the Irish would have it, it’s a country that is easy to explore and made for road tripping.

While you could spend all your time in one of the major cities using public transportation, you’d be missing out on the best the country has to offer. Think breathtaking cliffs, sheep farms doubling as bed and breakfasts, 12th century castles, and more. Keeping your itinerary loose enough to allow for time to wander, the easiest way to see many of Ireland’s top sights is with a road trip through Southern Ireland. Plan to go in the spring or fall to avoid peak fares but remember to pack a raincoat and get an international driver’s license.

 

Galway

Dunguaire Castle, Kinvara, Ireland
Dunguaire Castle, Kinvara, Ireland

Fly into Shannon, pick up your car rental and hit the road. Drive through rolling green hills and little towns as you make your way to Galway, one of Ireland’s most popular cities and most charming. Plan to spend a couple of days here taking in the many sights like the Spanish Arch, which dates back to pre-medieval times, the medieval Kirwan’s Lane, which includes architecture dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries and now is home to many pubs and restaurants where you can indulge in the food and listen to music, and Quay Street, home to shopping, restaurants, pubs, and nightlife. Slightly further afield is Connemara National Park offering views of the Bay of Galway and Menlo Castle, a ruin of a 16th century castle with beautiful surrounding scenery.

 

Cliffs of Moher

cliffs of moher ireland
Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

After a night or two in Galway, travel south to the Cliffs of Moher. The stunning green cliffs rise up from the sea, often shrouded in fog, giving an end of the world experience. Walk along the paved pathways near the cliff’s edge, take in the many sea birds, marvel at the surfers down below and find a local to share some of the legends of mermaids, witches and monsters the Cliffs of Moher have inspired.

 

Limerick, Ireland’s first City of Culture

Dromore Castle, Limerick, Ireland
Dromore Castle, Limerick, Ireland

After breaking away from the mesmerizing heights of the Cliffs of Moher, plan to spend at least a night in Limerick, leaving room for more time if you want to explore more of the medieval town. Sign up to do a food tour from cookbook author Val O’Connor. The tour will give you an overview of the town while indulging in eats that include everything from pizza to oysters to herring. After the food tour, take in some of Limerick’s most well-known sights, including the 13th-century King John Castle, or the medieval-era St. Mary’s Cathedral.

 

Dingle

Dingle, Ireland
Dingle, Ireland

For proof Ireland has the whole charm thing down, look no further than the Dingle Peninsula. Quaint and adorable are the words that come to mind as you drive through. You’ll pass several towns along the way but plan to spend most of your time in the capital of the peninsula, the little fishing town of Dingle. Wander up and down the streets stopping in the shops and enjoying a Guinness at the pubs.

(*Featured image is of Dingle, Ireland.)

 

Cork

Blarney Castle, Cork, Ireland
Blarney Castle, Cork, Ireland

End your road trip in County Cork, where the county is truly your oyster. If you want a bustling, youthful city full of artisan coffee bars and restaurants you’ll find it in the city of Cork. For more history and legend, head just outside the city limits to the Blarney Stone. For more food, head to the English Market, a covered 18-century era food market where you can meet some of Ireland’s farmers. And further afield there are more parks to hike and castles to see.

The Silk Road’s Rainbow Mountains

The remote foothills of the Qilian Mountains in China’s Gansu Province yield an implausible display of kaleidoscopic sandstone structures developed more than 24 million years ago. Gansu Zhangye National Geopark, located in the old northwestern city of Zhangye, is home to what’s known as Danxia formations — eroded amber-colored mountains encircled by serpentine cliffs taking shape as early as the Cretaceous Period. The 124-square-miles of public land were not formally designated as a national park until 2016, although it has been a national gem for decades, even placing in the country’s sixth most beautiful places by Chinese National Geography Magazine in 2009. Colloquially known as China’s “rainbow hills,” Zhangye’s most popular polychromatic attraction shepherds foreign visitors to three particular areas of the Danxia formations: Linze Danxia, Binggou, and Sunan Danxia Scenic Areas.

Linze Danxia Scenic Area is considered the most visited, and safest, for travelers unfamiliar with the area. Located 19 miles west of downtown Zhangye, it’s the easiest way to appreciate the mountains. The region offers a shuttle service, convenient boardwalks, and ample viewing platforms each offering its own perspective on the park. There are affordable busses to take you from the city to the park’s edge.

china rainbow mountains

Another scenic area in the rainbow hills region, Binggou, is located 28 miles from Zhangye and offers visitors sharp elevation changes and canyon-like landscape not offered in Linze. Also known as Ice Valley, the elevation ranges from 5,000 to 8,200 feet above sea level during your journey. The captivating assortment of shapes and sizes of these structures, which some say resemble Buddha, will leave you in awe. The trip is a bit more challenging than the well-travelled areas of the park, but the views are gratifying. Visitors have the option of utilizing a sightseeing bus to the Xiaoxitian and Daxitian regions of Binggou. Both stops offer travelers access to viewing platforms for spectacular views and photo opportunities.

Sunan Danxia Scenic Area, located south of Linze, is the least travelled region of the park, and, therefore, less developed. There are no sightseeing busses cruising through Sunan, although you can drive a personal vehicle through the crimson hills. Be alert of incomplete and knobby roadways during this particular trip as well. While it’s off the beaten path, it offers larger, more dynamic, and striking landscapes to those who brave the isolation.

china rainbow mountains

Peak season at the park is from June to September, and ticket prices vary with attraction. When visiting the geopark, it’s likely you’d stay in Zhangye, and when you’re not admiring the marble hills, spend time in a city rich with cultural and historical significance. Zhangye is one of western China’s most paramount settlements. Resting along the helm of the silk road, the city features architectural anomalies such as the Great Buddha, Muta, and Dafo Temples. History and anthropology buffs should check out the Blackwater State site and ancient Han Dynasty tombs. These relics of a long-departed dynasty are constantly under threat of decimation thanks to weather and human influence. The site even features remnants of forgotten castles on both sides of Han Tombs Complex.

A Mountain Paradise in Estes Park, CO

Perched miles above the northeastern Colorado prairies rests a bijou resort town evocative of 18th century simplicity. Affordable, cozy cabin rentals, genuine downtown charm, and dramatic panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains are just a few comforts Estes Park capitulates. Known as home base for Rocky Mountain National Park, the quaint town of less than 6,000 features tourists from all walks of life — from longtime hikers to happy honeymooners. Although a marketable tourist destination, things move a bit slower in Estes Park. You’ll delight in the collective calmness and antiquity of this seasoned mountain town. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing sabbatical or a challenging day hike, be sure to check out these regional landmarks and local interests to completely immerse yourself in everything the front range has to offer.

The Stanley Hotel

Rendering panoramic views of Lake Estes and Long’s Peak, lodging with The Stanley is a truly opulent experience. Featuring hundred-year-old decor and rooms furnished with hardwood chattels, the hotel continues to earn its place on the National Register of Historic Places. Its upscale dining room, Cascades, is complete with an expansive entree selection and a prodigious whiskey bar offering hundreds of spirits to give your night an extra kick.

Stanley hotel estes park co

Enjoy a cocktail by the fire, or mingle with other compelling ramblers in the hotel’s homey lobby. For the superstitious, The Stanley is well-known as author Stephen King’s inspiration for his fictional Overlook Hotel in The Shining. The hotel includes a number of attractions for horror fans, including a gift shop and a variety of Shining-inspired menu items. The hotel even offers haunted ground tours for the most valiant of guests.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Boundless in its beauty and opportunity, Rocky Mountain National Park offers more than 250,000 acres of mountainscapes, alpine lakes, and wildlife sightings. The park embraces a multitude of climates and environments each season.

Rocky mountain national park

All ages and athletic levels are welcome, as RMNP volunteers plenty of activities, from small looped hikes around breathtaking lakes to moderate and difficult hikes for more adventurous guests. Traversing Trail Ridge Road, the 48-mile scenic byway that stretches from Estes Park to Grand Lake, will leave you spellbound with its birds-eye-view of the park’s highest peaks and forests.

Snowy Peaks Winery

Open seven days a week year round, locally owned Snowy Peaks offers an array of Colorado wines including Merlot, Syrah, and Riesling. The winery’s selection of gourmet food from Colorado-based artisans gives this shop an edge on the competition. Take your glass to the tasting room, where you’ll be awarded with palatial mountain views. For families, Snowy Peaks offers free juice samples and a “No Wine-ing Zone” playroom for the youngsters.

Downtown Estes Park

Grab some ice cream at the Danish Cone Factory, see a film at the Historic Park Theatre and Cafe, and admire the sweeping views of fourteeners from the valley of downtown Estes Park. More than 200 local shops, restaurants, and attractions along Elkhorn and Moraine avenues offer various and sundry activities for any time of year.

Estes Park colorado

Grab a drink at the Wheel Bar, or stop in for a slice at Bob & Tony’s Pizza to cut through the winter chill. If you’re lucky, expect to share the sidewalk with the wildlife that regularly saunter the town.

Estes Park Museum

For a peek behind the curtain of time, visit the free Estes Park Museum for more than 25,000 preserved Colorado artifacts. Known as one of the state’s top museums, the local research facility offers a well-stocked gift shop to grab a souvenir for friends who couldn’t make it.

The Taffy Shop

Converted from a laundry facility in 1935, The Taffy Shop has been hand-crafting mouthwatering saltwater taffy using the same recipe and four-step process for more than 80 years. Featuring dozens of daily flavors using gluten-free ingredients, this Estes Park staple affords you a guilt-free indulgence and the opportunity to support a local business.

Azores: Europe’s Hidden Gem

Far off Portugal’s coast, roughly a third of the way to Boston lies a collection of islands that mesmerize. Called the Azores, the nine volcanic islands that stretch 250 miles east to west make up an autonomous region of Portugal that for decades was Europe’s hidden gem. That’s slowly changing as more and more people discover the archipelago of lush greenery, dotted with quaint historic towns surrounded by waters ripe with fish.

Settled two centuries ago the islands have emerged as leaders in sustainability and paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and even culinary tourists.  You’re going to want to visit the Azores before even more people unearth their charms.

 

What to do

All nine islands have their own vibe and while you probably won’t be able to visit all of them in one trip, part of the beauty of Azores is being able to create a tailor-made trip based on your interests.

 

São Miguel

Start your Azores adventure on São Miguel, the largest of the islands. Even those seeking nothing but nature should spend at least an afternoon in the capital of Ponta Delgada. Wander the streets, browsing menus until you find a tapas restaurant where you want to indulge. You can’t pick wrong. There are also art galleries to explore and live music in the evenings.  Agri tourists will want to visit the tea plantation in the town of Ribeira Grande. It’s the only tea plantation in Europe and the two nearby tea factories, Chá Porto Formoso and Chá Gorreana,  offer tours and tastings. Adventure seekers should head to the Parque Natural da Ribeirados Caldeiroes where you can explore the hiking trails and marvel at the waterfalls. You can even rent some of the small houses in the park. Before venturing off São Miguel soothe any lingering plane travel aches at the hot springs of Terra Nostra Botanic Gardens.

Sao Miguel. Tea Plantations. Credit Associação Turismo dos Açores
Sao Miguel. Tea Plantations | Photo: Associação Turismo dos Açores

 

Terceira

Moving from southern island of São Miguel to the central islands, history lovers will want to spend at least one day on the small but charming Terceira. It’s main town, Angra do Heroísmo is the oldest on the Azores and Unesco World Heritage Center.

 Terceira.-Tipical-Houses-in-Terceira-Island.-Credit-Associação-Turismo-dos-Açores
Tipical Houses in Terceira Island | Photo: Associação Turismo dos Açores

 

Faial

If you make it to the Azores March through October, on another one of the central islands, Faila, you’ll find some of the best whale watching and water sports.

Faial. Humpback tail Credit. Hans van Klinken:Associação Turismo dos Açores – Convention and Visitors Bureau
Faial. Humpback tail | Photo: Hans van Klinken, Associação Turismo dos Açores

 

Flores

Moving to the western islands, Flores has to be seen to be believed. With less than 4,000 residents, Flores is a quiet retreat where in the spring blue and pink hydrangeas seem to bloom everywhere.  Along with the islands of Corvo and Graciosa, it is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

 

Where to stay

Places to rest your head at night abound in the Azores. Create your own itinerary while island hopping and you’ll find hostels in most of the towns, B&Bs in the countryside, and locals renting out homes or rooms through AirBnB and other services.  On the larger islands there are also many hotels. On São Miguel try Hotel Talisman or Quinta do Mar; on Pico, Baía da Barca; on Terceira,  Quinta do Martelo. Keep in mind that on some of the islands, accommodations are limited, especially in the busier months, so no matter your preference you should make reservations in advance.

Where to Stay. Flores - Aldeia da Cuada. Credit Credit Associação Turismo dos Açoresjpg
Flores. Hydrangeas | Photo: Turismo Açores

 

How to get there and when to go

Depending on where you’re based, getting to the Azores is either a snap or it’s own form of adventure. SATA airlines operates direct flights daily from Boston, as does TAP Air Portugal from London. While flights from Boston are only 4 and half hours, at upwards of $700 roundtrip they are pricey and no matter where you’re coming from you’ll want to give yourself at least a week on the islands. One you’ve arrived, travel between the islands can be its own challenge. SATA operates flights between the islands but the schedule is sporadic at best. There are also ferries between the islands. Remember you’re on vacation with (ideally) plenty of time; all the best places are often difficult to get to and the travel will be more than worth it.

For the best weather plan a trip between April and October as the rest of the year can be rainy. April and May will offer cheaper hotel and tour rates with decent weather.

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.

hoi an vietnam

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)

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

PG_CatTown
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

PGF_Garden State Cat Club Expo
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

PGBug'sCatGym
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

PGF_FelineHistoricialSociety
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.

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.

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.