Archives November 2024

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Even before we engorge ourselves with a Thanksgiving feast and deal with the annual Black Friday frenzy, many travelers are already dreaming of sunny escapes.

Leaves are still falling and menus continue highlighting pumpkin spice concoctions, but winter adventures are right around the corner.

Some of us seek sun-kissed shores while others embrace the magic of winter by digging up snowboards and skis from storage ready to carve up the slopes.

If the latter is more your vibe, then you can’t miss Amtrak’s Winter Express train passing through the majestic Rockies, taking you to a top-rated ski resort as well as a Colorado hidden gem.

Better yet, fares are as low as $19 if you act fast. Plus, bringing your own skis and snowboard as a carry-on is absolutely free of charge!

Depart From Denver

Backdropped by the Rockies is Colorado’s largest city with riverside trails, vivid green parks, trendy restaurants, and a thriving craft beer scene, not just silver cans that light up blue.

Despite being a mountainous city dubbed ‘Mile High’, it’s actually quite pleasant in winter; not nearly as frigid as you might suspect.

As such, to take advantage of a quintessential ‘white Christmas’ and satisfy your winter wanderlust, you gotta go deep into the mountains.

And what better way than to only spend $19 for a domed-window seat to observe some of Colorado’s prettiest scenery as you glide through the snow-capped Rockies and blanketed valleys?

Whether passing through or a proud ‘Denverite’, hopping aboard the Winter Express is the best option for a ski trip to avoid the slick, winding mountain roads.

I mean, why deal with tire chains when you can let a conductor do all the work?

The train departs from Denver’s timeless Union Station. If you’ve never been, it’s worth visiting just to be in awe of this Beaux Arts masterpiece.

You can purchase tickets on Amtrak’s app or website, or in-person at the station.

Beginning December 20, 2024, the train departs Denver at 7am, arriving at skiing hotspot Winter Park Resort at 9:11am only on weekends.

Service will increase from January 9, 2025, through March 31, 2025 (excluding Tuesday and Wednesday).

Winter Park Resort: A Top-Rated Adventure

Winter Park Resort proudly boasts front and center they are the ‘Top Ski Resort in North America’.

This place is astounding and truly has it all. From lush forestry, gleaming snow-covered landscape, and never-ending things to do, such as Snowcat Tours and Glow Night Tubing, why would you go anywhere else?

The options are endless here, and it doesn’t matter your level of experience hitting the slopes. In fact, their experts will teach you on-site.

Stays range from cozy lodges to spacious townhomes, many of which are near the gondola for easy access to start your day off right with epic mountain views.

Visitors have their choice to purchase daily lift tickets or season passes, depending on how long you anticipate being here.

Try to book daily tickets at least 48 hours in advance to score big savings!

The train arrives from Denver at the WPR station, where you can choose to hop off for an unforgettable ski trip or continue onward to the route’s newest stop, Fraser.

Last Stop: Fraser, Colorado’s Authentic Mountain Town

Fraser is a lesser-known mountain town well under the radar for most travelers. Here, you can find a charming village not curated to tourists unlike the glitz, glamour, and chain-laden eyesores of Aspen, for example.

In Fraser, what you see is what you get, and you’ll like what you see. You can learn about the town’s history at the Cozens Ranch Museum and mingle with locals at their favorite hole-in-the-wall eateries like The Back Bowl, where brisket burritos are to die for.

Fraser is best served as a gateway for winter sports, however. Expect cheaper stays at mid-tier chains and even the MeadowRidge Resort – but just know the fun police run things around here, enforcing a strict ‘no alcohol’ policy.

Don’t fret though; you can enjoy some adult beverages on the train’s two-level Sightseer Lounge providing elevated views up top and snacks and drinks on the bottom.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Last Updated 1 year ago

More travelers than ever before are choosing cruises over other types of travel.

In 2023, it’s expected that a record-breaking 31.5 million travelers will cruise this year. It’s clear that cruising is back with a vengeance, but just why is this form of travel so popular right now?

Here are the top five reasons that travelers are choosing cruises this year:

1. “Now Or Never” Mindset

Many cruisers have a “now or never” mindset when it comes to travel right now, according to a new report. After over two full years of lockdowns and travel restrictions, many travelers realized the danger of putting off that dream trip for “someday.”

Rather than waiting for the “right time” to take a trip, more travelers are living in the moment and booking their dream trips right now, knowing that tomorrow is not guaranteed.

Additionally, there is a lot of pent-up demand for cruises due to the harsh restrictions imposed on the cruise industry for over two years. Many travelers who had a cruise planned or wanted to take a cruise during those two years are finally getting the chance to do so now.

2. Ease Of Group Travel

Another reason that more travelers are choosing cruises right now is due to the ease of group travel. According to the report, many people are turning to travel to reconnect with family, friends, and other loved ones.

Cruises are an easy and hassle-free way for large groups to travel together, and multi-cabin bookings are at a record high.

From family reunions at sea to bachelor and bachelorette parties to friend group trips, cruises are a great way to spend travel as a group while still allowing plenty of time for everyone to do their own thing.

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3. More Options For Solo Travelers

Solo travel has been a huge travel trend in 2023. This always ties in with the “now or never” mindset of many travelers: why wait to travel just because your friends, family, or significant other can’t travel with you? More and more travelers are heading off on adventures solo rather than missing out.

It used to be that cruises were not a budget-friendly option for solo travelers due to cabin pricing based on double occupancy. This effectively means that solo travelers are paying double.

But now, there are a growing number of cruise ships offering cabins specifically for solo travelers. This makes cruising an attainable option for solo travelers, and solo cruising has been growing in popularity.

4. An Affordable Way To Travel

With skyrocketing airfare and hotel costs in 2023, cruising is a surprisingly affordable way to travel. It’s not uncommon to find cruise deals for well under $100 per day per person.

When you consider that cruises are all-inclusive, with all accommodations, meals, entertainment, and cruise ports included in your fare, it makes cruising a very attractive, budget-friendly way of traveling.

Of course, there are certain things that may cost extra on your cruise (like alcoholic beverages and sodas, WiFi packages, and shore excursions), but it’s still an overall affordable way to travel when you break down the per-day costs.

5. Cruises For Everyone

Let’s admit it, for a long time, cruising carried a certain stereotype. Think of a ship full of retirees playing shuffleboard on the lido deck while a Jimmy Buffett song plays in the background.

But these days, that stereotype is far from true. There are cruise lines and cruises for everyone, whether you’re young or old, a couple or single, a family with young kids or a group of adults, an adventure-seeker or a beach bum. Whatever you’re looking for, you can find it on a cruise.

For example, expedition cruises have been trending in 2023. Far from your typical Caribbean beach-hopping cruise, these adventurous cruises take travelers to exciting destinations like Antarctica, Alaska, Canada’s Northwest Passage, Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands, and the South Pacific.

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Last Updated 4 months ago

Set on the beautiful shores of the Atlantic lies a lesser-known beach town conveniently located between the fun-filled city of Orlando and the glitz and glamour of Palm Beach.

Home to luxe beach resorts along gorgeous waters, the spotlight is beginning to shine brighter as it forges its path, emerging as Florida’s new “it” destination.

To back up this claim, one budget airline is betting big on this sunny destination this summer, holding monopoly status as the only carrier serving this pint-sized airport…for now.

The town isn’t much bigger, but what vacationers get in return proves once and for all size doesn’t matter.

Savings + luxury = the perfect vacation if you ask me!

With new direct flights and lavish resorts, Vero Beach is destined to become Florida’s new vacation hotspot.

Florida’s Hidden Gem: Vero Beach Is Late To The Party

There are a plethora of beaches along the Atlantic in neighboring states well worth visiting, but Florida is always the leader of the pack.

Even Orlando, an inland city an hour away from the nearest beach, sees hordes of tourists, so it’s not all about the beaches.

In Vero Beach, however, there are 26 miles of gorgeous coastline with far fewer tourists than Orlando, Miami, all the Caribbean-esque beaches near Tampa, and any other trendy beach town your mind can muster.

In other words, Vero Beach is late to the party, but better to arrive fashionably late than to never show up at all.

Vero Beach does show up dressed to impress with vivid blues and greens and a mix of soft white or golden sand, depending on where you are along the shoreline.

This small, inviting beach town is laying down its welcome mat in preparation for more tourists despite Vero Beach Regional Airport (VRB) not having much success.

Multiple airlines ceased operations over the years, to no fault or lack of appeal of Vero. I mean, have you heard of Eastern Air Lines? Not exactly a household name…

Breeze Airways, one of America’s newest low-cost carriers, plans to change that. And so far, so good.

In fact, it’s the only airline that serves VRB at all.

Breeze’s 5 Routes To Vero Beach

East Coasters get first dibs taking a crack at Vero Beach. Launching their first VRB flight in early 2023, the network has grown evermore to 5 routes thus far.

Obviously, Vero Beach has been a hit, unlike other budget airlines that dip their toes in the water too quickly only to pull out at the drop of a hat. (*cough, cough. Frontier…)

The latest was announced last week—a nonstop flight from Newburgh, NY (SWF), one of New York City’s handful of alternative airports.

Speaking of, Long Island/Islip (ISP) and White Plains (HPN) also serve VRB.

That leaves Providence, Rhode Island (PVD) and Hartford, Connecticut (BDL) to round out the 5 routes.

Breeze offers promotions frequently, including the new Newburgh – Vero Beach route on sale right now as low as $99 the week it launches November 21, 2024.

Lavish Beach Resorts Without The Crowds

Sure, you could spend your paycheck at Disney World or splurge on the finer things in life in Palm Beach, but about half between lies Vero Beach – typically more affordable, yet still a luxurious beach vacation spot.

Disney World can be a blast, but your bank account will take a pounding! Try sticking to a $250 per day budget, especially with kiddos—good luck!

But did you know Vero Beach actually makes for the perfect Disney World alternative? That’s right.

You may not be aware of Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, where rooms average a smidge over $250 per day.

Rather than have the soundtrack to your life of screaming roller-coaster-riding kids all day, what about a Disney hotel nestled upon an idyllic beach on sea turtle nesting grounds?

Talk about A Whole New World…

To level up even more, especially without the kiddos, name-brand resorts such as the posh Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa got you covered, among other paradisal beachfront stays:

• Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa
• The Caribbean Court Boutique Hotel
• Prestige Hotel Vero Beach

Dolphins, Manatees, And Birds, Oh My!

Lastly, vacationers in Vero Beach would be doing themselves a disservice by not visiting the surrounding Indian River Lagoon.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love renting a paddleboard or kayak along the scenic waterways, which are teeming with opportunities to spot wildlife, especially dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species.

For those who don’t want to put in work on vacation (understandably so!), fun boat tours are also an option ranging from tiki boats to private guides.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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‘Leaf peepers’ may be in full force scoping out vibrant foliage across the continent, but before you know it, snow will soon transform those very same tree lines into vast winter wonderlands.

Colorado is one of the top places for such an excursion where the gorgeous Rockies are dotted with delightful towns perfect for a winter escape.

Airlines have surely taken notice, adding a handful of new flights to one underrated Colorado town with village-like streets and wondrous mountains as a picture-perfect backdrop.

While Aspen may be the household name of Colorado’s numerous small-town mountainous getaways, it’s time to set your sights on Vail this winter, as it’s easier to reach than ever before.

Alaska’s New Flight To Vail

Typically popular along the West Coast and Mexico, Alaska couldn’t help but dip their toes in Colorado’s frigid winter waters by adding Vail as one of their newest destinations.

However, the airline is no stranger to Colorado’s beauty, as it also flies to Denver, Aspen, and a boatload of hidden gems, such as Steamboat Springs.

In other words, adding Vail to the list is long overdue. So who are the lucky 2 cities that get to fly nonstop come December?

Well, in typical Alaska fashion, 2 of the West Coast’s best cities are the big winners. Those would be Seattle and San Diego.

Beginning December 20th, both Washingtonians and Southern Californians can get their winter splendor fix with direct flights to Vail.

Frontier’s New Flight To Vail

Say what you want about Frontier, but they have stood the test of time in the rapidly changing budget airline industry, and kudos to them.

Despite many of us feeling sorry for their PR team with bad press issued left and right in recent years, the proud low-cost carrier recently announced in tandem with fellow cheapo Spirit they are dropping cancelations and change fees on all flights to become more flyer-friendly.

The airline has announced multiple new flights in recent months, but Vail may stand out the most in their surprisingly impressive network for winter escapes.

Obviously, Frontier knows Colorado like the back of its headrests, which is based in Denver. But truth be told, it’s a good thing they’re adding Vail because a winter drive through the backroads from Denver is a tough trek!

The 2 lucky cities with direct routes to Eagle County Airport (EGE) are Dallas/Fort Worth and San Francisco.

Initial flights out of DFW will begin December 16th and a few days later out of SFO on December 19th. Both cities will operate flights twice per week for Frontier’s first-ever routes to Vail.

No Better Place To Hit The Slopes!

Since all new flights are slated for the week before Christmas, are you thinking what I’m thinking?

December is when Vail truly becomes a quintessential “winter wonderland”, almost is if you’re stuck inside a snowglobe you don’t want to escape.

The mountains gleam with fresh powdery snow, providing ideal conditions for skiers and snowboarders throughout the month and into the new year.

Better yet, unlike the movie that put Aspen on the map, you won’t be saying to yourself, ‘I expected the Rocky Mountains to be a little rockier than this’, with over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain to shred, bruh. 🤙

The slopes are suitable for beginners, experts, and anyone in between, but these 3 runs are the most sought-after according to Snow.com:

• Dealer’s Choice
• Born Free
• Look Ma

On the flip side, Snow.com also recommends these 3 ‘Legendary Back Bowls’:

‘Tis The Season For Magical Stays And Picturesque Streets

You’ll definitely want to pack your winter-wear, not just for skiing, but for perusing the magical town center lined with trendy bars, boutique shops, and opulent hotels boasting stunning views.

Visiting the unmissable Lionshead Village is a must and feels borderline European. Here is a great spot to make your base in between your ski/snowboarding adventures.

But where should you rest up? That’s a tough question since there’s so many great places to stay!

According to TripAdvisor, these are the top 3 luxury Vail hotels this winter:

• Austria Haus Hotel, A Destination By Hyatt Hotel
• Grand Hyatt Vail
• Tivoli Lodge

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Last Updated 2 years ago

Close your eyes and imagine a perfect tropical paradise with incredible sunsets, overwater bungalows, white sand beaches, and turquoise waters. That’s Bora Bora in a nutshell. This remote island in the South Pacific is 143 miles northwest of Tahiti and feels a million miles from anywhere.

The small, 5-mile by 3-mile island is made up of a lush, rainforest-covered dormant volcano. Surrounding the island is a lagoon, coral reefs, and motus, the small islets where many of the resorts are located. Bora Bora is the epitome of romance, relaxation, and tropical vibes that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

But before setting off, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about traveling to Bora Bora, including:

• What are the costs for travelers?
• Things to know about culture and etiquette
• What are the top activities?
• How safe is it?
• Local food and drinks
• How good is the wifi?
• How long can you stay?

Ready? Here are the top 7 things you need to know before visiting Bora Bora:

Did you know… Bora Bora is part of the Leeward Islands of French Polynesia and has a population of around 10,000. During World War II the U.S. set up a base on the island where more than 6,000 soldiers were stationed. While the base closed in 1946, the military left behind several cannons which are still in place on the island today.

1) Bora Bora Affordability

You know the saying “you get what you pay for”? Well, nowhere is that more true than in Bora Bora. This tiny French Polynesian Island is certainly not cheap, but boy, does it deliver.

The currency in Bora Bora is the French Pacific Franc or CFP/XPF. Currently, the exchange rate is 1 USD = 112 CFP.

Here are the average costs for travelers in USD:

Accommodation

Bora Bora’s high season is from May – October. Slightly cheaper rates can be found during the low season, but rain showers and mosquitoes could put a damper on your vacation.

• Average hotel price: The current average price for a 3-star hotel in Bora Bora is $249 per night, while a 4-star hotel costs $879/per night.
• Luxury 5-star hotels: One night in a luxury 5-star hotel, such as the incredible St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, will cost around $2,385 on average. This includes many of the overwater bungalows that the island is famous for.
• If you’re on a budget: There are a handful of smaller hotels and guesthouses with rates under $200/night.

Food

Food is very expensive in Bora Bora. Because of its remote location, much of its food is imported, which adds to the cost.

• Hotel breakfasts typically cost around $35-$40
• A 3-course meal at a mid-range restaurant for two can cost between $130 – $175
• For a cheap meal at an inexpensive restaurant, expect to pay around $20.
• A bottle of beer costs around $9, while cocktails can range between $18-$30 each.

Transportation

If you plan on leaving your resort, there are plenty of ways to get around the island.

• There is a free ferry from the airport into Viatape, although most resorts will also provide boat transfers from the airport, so be sure to check ahead.
• Most resorts have shuttle boats that can take guests into Viatape, the cost, if any, depends on the resort.   
• The island does have a local minibus dubbed Le Truck, although it is notoriously unpredictable. The bus circles the island on the coastal road and costs around $3.75 per journey.
• Rental cars average $250/day, but drivers should know that the majority of available cars are manual transmission. Scooters can also be rented for $100/day. Bikes are a great way to explore the island. Rates start at $20/day for a standard bike or $35/day for an electric bike.
• Taxis and water taxis can be arranged through your resort or by calling the taxi company directly. Rates typically start at $20 during the day and $30 at night, depending on the destination, and be sure to settle on a price with the driver before taking off.

2) Culture And Etiquette In Bora Bora

Check this list before your trip! Here are some of the major Dos and Don’ts in Bora Bora.

• DON’T wait for the bill: Many restaurants (with the exception of in-resort restaurants) expect guests to pay the bill at the front rather than at the table. So don’t wait around for the wait staff to bring you the bill when you are ready to leave.
• DO put on shoes: While the island is very casual, visitors should cover up their swimsuits and put on footwear when away from pool or beach areas.
• DO ask the restaurant about transportation: Many restaurants will offer transportation to and from the resorts for anyone with a reservation.
• DO tip your tour guide: It is customary to tip local tour guides around 10% for their services. Tipping for other services is generally not expected but always appreciated for exceptional service.

3) Top Activities in Bora Bora

• Matira Beach: Often touted as the best beach in Bora Bora, Matria Beach is a can’t-miss. The mile-long stretch of white sand and the pristine waters of the lagoon are calm and perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• Bike around the island: The island’s small size makes it perfect for exploring on a bike. The 19-mile coastal road is mostly flat and takes you past ancient Polynesian temples, relics of WWII, and breathtaking views of the island and lagoon.   
• Take a hike: Bora Bora is home to some incredible hikes that are well worth the effort. Local guides are available to help choose the right trail and lead the way.

4) How Safe Is It For Tourists?

The crime rate in Bora Bora is very low. However, there are still some things that travelers should keep in mind to stay safe and healthy:

• Be mindful of marine life: swimmers should take care to avoid sharks, stingrays, and barracudas in the water, and watch out for stonefish and urchins hidden in the sand.
• Know what to do in an emergency: As a remote Pacific island, Bora Bora is vulnerable to natural disasters, particularly tsunamis. Be aware of your surroundings and know the fastest route to higher ground.
• Look out for falling coconuts: this sounds like a joke, but people have been seriously injured by falling coconuts.
• DO get travel insurance: Travel insurance can help in health emergencies as well as with covering the costs of any travel mishaps during your Bora Bora trip. For 5 great options, read more here.

5) Local Eats And Drinks

One of the best parts of travel is checking out the local cuisine. Don’t let yourself leave Bora Bora without trying at least one of the following:

Food

• Poisson Cru –  This is the national dish of Tahiti and is on most menus in Bora Bora. It consists of raw tuna, lime juice, coconut milk, and fresh veggies.
• Fresh Fruit – Is there anything better than a breakfast of fresh tropical fruits? The island’s tropical climate means that coconut, mango, banana, papaya, pineapple, and melon all grow locally.
• Po’e – the most popular dessert, usually made with banana or papaya puree that is baked with sugar and coconut milk

Drink

• Hinano Beer – the local beer, brewed in Tahiti since 1955
• Coconut water – did you even go to Bora Bora if you didn’t drink the water straight from a coconut?
• Cocktails –­ No trip to Bora Bora is complete without a visit to Bloody Mary’s, the famous beachside haunt with incredible cocktails.  

6) How’s the WiFi?

WiFi in Bora Bora isn’t always the best as it can be unreliable. Some resorts boast speeds of 100+ mbps however, guests have noted that it is typically much slower and tends to cut in and out.

7) How Long Can I Stay?

Americans traveling to Bora Bora or other destinations in French Polynesia can visit without a visa for 90 days within a 180-day period.

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