Archives November 2024

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Last Updated 4 weeks ago

Asia is one of the most in-demand continents for digital nomads globally.

Not only is it inherently fascinating, boasting an immense cultural wealth certain to appeal to Westerners, but it is also, for the most part, far more welcoming towards foreigners and incredibly cheap to live in.

If you don’t exactly fit in with the multi-million Dubai entrepreneurial crew, and Europe’s visa rules are far too complex to navigate, the Far Orient is the perfect home base for working while enjoying a higher quality of life––and spending far less on it.

On that note, here are 4 amazing Asian countries where both living costs can average $2,000 or under, and easy-to-apply Digital Nomad Visas are widely available:

Philippines

An archipelagic nation in Southeast Asia hugged by teal-colored seas, the Philippines is an up-and-coming nomad haven offering affordable options for long-term accommodation, inexpensive food, and great weather for most of the year (minus monsoon season).

Some of its busiest workcation hubs include Manila, a vibrant capital combining Spanish colonial forts and modern skyscrapers, Cebu City, where you’re as likely to find European-inspired Baroque cathedrals as you are Taoist temples, and tropical island getaway Palawan.

Based on Numbeo estimates, it costs roughly $869 per month to live in the Philippines with rent, with particularly-low prices observed for food and transportation: eating out in the Central Market in Manila, you can find a range of Filipino delicacies from only $3.57.

What Are The Requirements For The Philippines Digital Nomad Visa?

Normally, foreigners can only be in the Philippines for up to 30 days visa-free, but as reported by VisaGuide, nomads are eligible to stay for a rather-generous 2 years by applying for the Philippines Digital Nomad Visa.

Essentially, they must meet a certain income requirement, currently estimated to be over $24,000, provide a clean criminal record as well as proof of engagement in remote work, and health insurance covering the 2-year stay is also required.

The best part is nomads in the Philippines are considered non-tax residents, meaning they live in the country, but as they are not employed by a Philippines-based business, and thus not involved in local business activities, they aren’t subject to local income tax.

Thailand

Up next is Thailand, affectionately called The Land of Smiles, with bustling national capital Bangkok, Chiang Mai, a UNESCO-listed, temple-dotted city, and a beach-fringed Phuket Island, with all ranking as popular workcation spots.

Out of those, Bangkok is the definitive winner, owing it to its thriving expat scene, abundance of laptop-friendly eateries, legendary nightlife––probably the best anywhere in Asia––and most importantly, remarkable inexpensiveness.

Living costs will typically total $1,290 in Bangkok, if you’re eating local and your Airbnb rental is a 1-bedroom apartment in a residential zone, and though prices can increase slightly on the islands, Thailand as a whole remains budget-friendly.

What Are The Requirements For The Thailand Digital Nomad Visa?

Thailand’s Digital Nomad Visa is pretty straight-forward, though it may not be suitable for middle-income workers: you must hold a passport currently valid for at least 6 months still and your annual income must mount up to over $80,000.

It’s not like relocating to Thailand as a nomad is exactly a breeze, compared to the 2-month visa-free stay as a tourist, but if you have the money for it, it’s entirely doable, and once approved, you may then remain in the country for up to 15 years!

There is yet another appealing benefit: instead of the 35% tax rate applicable to regular residents, nomads are granted a major discount, paying only 17% in taxes, and in some cases, they could be eligible for tax exemption if their income originates from overseas.

Japan

The darling of American in Asia, Japan is best-known for its sprawling urban centers, stunning nature, millennia-old rites and delectable cuisine, and despite not being as cheap as the other entries on this list, it’s been surging in popularity with digital nomads lately.

Whether it’s a neon-lit Tokyo, pagoda-dominated Kyoto, or an electric Osaka, there are co-working spaces galore, and if you’re not the splurging type, there are plenty of cheap eats in restaurants costing from as little as $6.95, not to mention monthly rental starts from $626.66.

Overall, Numbeo reports it costs an approximated $1,641 – $2,215 to live on a budget in a major city––that’s definitely on the pricier end for Asia, but we don’t know a single nomadic American who wouldn’t be happy living in dreamy Japan on under $3,000 a month.

What Are The Requirements For The Japan Digital Nomad Visa?

As an American citizen, you can already enter Japan visa-free for up to 3 months, and there are no known restrictions on carrying out remote work from within the country, so long as your source of income isn’t Japan-based and your primary reason for traveling is tourism.

That being said, you may opt for the just-launched Japan Digital Nomad Visa, granting you a 6-month stay––double the tourist visa––and believe it or not, the financial threshold for eligibility is lower than Thailand’s!

Other than the usual documentation and background checks, like health insurance, a clean criminal record and proof of online job, you must earn a minimum 10 million Japanese yen annually (don’t worry, that translates into a reasonable $69,666 as of October 2024).

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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Ready to plan your next winter thrills? Look no further than Iceland’s new “it” destination!

Surprisingly, Iceland is one of the easiest European countries to reach despite seeming like a fairytale land in the middle of nowhere.

With 2 Icelandic airlines serving the U.S. as well as a pair of America’s own, your bucket list dreams await.

But if you’ve held off scratching Iceland off your list, you may be late to the party since Reykavjaik, as well as some other former hidden gems, have spiked in popularity.

One city on the northern side is all the rage right now, especially as more airlines trickle in, making for convenient connections.

With frigid weather full steam ahead, Iceland may not seem like an ideal escape, but with some awe-inspiring natural phenomenons and cheap thermal spas to combat the cold, don’t sleep on visiting Iceland’s new tourism hotspot this winter.

Reykjavik Is Old News! More Travelers Are Scoping Out Akureyri

Reykjavik is a cool little city. The word “city” is a stretch since it feels more like a charming town, yet it’s Iceland’s largest “metropolis” at just a smidge under 140,000 in a nation of only 394,000 people.

More often than not, Keflavik, followed by Reykjavik, are the most common gateways into one of the world’s most otherworldly destinations to explore indescribable landscapes, stunning waterfalls, active volcanos, and possible elf sightings – well, at least to some locals who swear by it.

While spotting Will Ferrell in an open field would surely make lasting memories, in reality, more travelers are discovering the charms and wonders of Iceland’s fourth biggest city, Akureyri.

Offering more of an authentic feel than, say, Reykjavik’s Hard Rock Cafe and touristy shops, this vibrant community has so far welcomed visitors with open arms.

Honestly, that’s partly because locals know much of a trek their beloved hometown is to reach, even with easyJet set to launch a new flight from the U.K. on November 12th.

Secondly, Reykjavik isn’t a common place to witness the Northern Lights, given the light pollution, but Akureyri is more remote and a great entry point this time of year to see the skies dance green.

Akureyri’s Fabulous Northern Lights Display

Colder months = more Northern Lights. At least that’s the case for Akureyri.

Tour operators rake in the dough this time of year taking you to the best spots away from light pollution to witness Aurora Borealis put on a show.

According to Arctic Adventures, one of Akureyri’s top tour guides, the best time of year to witness this natural phenomenon is from ‘mid-September until March’.

All you have to do is pack some extra layers and let the experts do the rest.

The bad news being tour guides don’t control the weather, so you will need a bit a good fortune with a clear night.

While Arctic Adventures offers a great price at $123, it’s best to do your due diligence since Northern Light Tours is their own industry here.

For a full list of options, check Akureyri’s official tourism page.

Forget The Blue Lagoon! Visit Akureyri’s Cheaper Spas

Popular belief is Iceland is best explored by road trip.

That’s why you’ll see so many awesome photos or videos of travelers’ adventures across the country on Instagram and TikTok.

Of course, one of the most common and photo-worthy places to visit is the world-famous Blue Lagoon, often a highlight on many travelers’ road trip itineraries.

That said, the experience of relaxing in this spa’s natural thermal springs is expensive.

The cost of visiting the Blue Lagoon varies by package, but even the most affordable option doesn’t compare to what Akureyri offers.

Spas galore in Akureyri. Arguably the most popular is Forest Lagoon, holding an impressive 4.7 Google rating and only costs $50 to enter, while the Blue Lagoon is roughly $75 – $105 for the low-end Comfort option.

Another great choice is the Beer Spa, where yes, you can take a beer bath!

Or opt for another thermal bath away from the charming town’s delights.

Set along a black beach overlooking astounding open scenery, a day pass at Hauganes Hot Tubs only costs $14!

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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I know most of us would rather focus on history, attractions, or overall allure when choosing our next destination, but the truth of the matter is we just don’t have the luxury to do that.

As safety and public health have become increasingly uncertain, it’s time we start to prioritize the places on our bucket list that make us feel relaxed and at ease.

But how do you figure out which ones these are?

WalletHub just conducted a study on the safest and most dangerous cities to visit in the U.S., an analysis based on key indicators like assaults per capita, traffic fatalities, and even unemployment rates.

In the end, these 5 often-overlooked cities were crowned the safest in the nation (and luckily for us, they’re all pretty interesting to visit, too!).

5. Boise, Idaho

You might be surprised to hear that the Idaho capital just recently broke its all-time tourism record since it’s not really the first place to make it to every traveler’s bucket list, but as people look for quieter, safer, and more authentic hubs, Boise becomes such an obvious choice.

Not only is the violent crime rate here low, at ~2 incidents per 1000 residents, but that number has been consistently decreasing in the past four or five years.

Combine that with the fact that here (or at least a short drive away), you’ll find some shockingly stunning natural scenery highlighted by places like Shoshone Falls Park, Twin Falls, and the Perrine Memorial Bridge, and you get the perfect quiet retreat.

4. Burlington, Vermont

If you’re looking for a place with a bit more of a vibrant city scene that still fits into the “laid-back and safe” category, look no further than Vermont’s biggest city.

Burlington remains a bit of a hidden gem, but in my opinion, that makes it all the more interesting to visit, especially this time of year.

You can explore the charming downtown area and watch a sunset over Lake Champlain all while feeling like one of the locals.

3. Warwick, Rhode Island

This shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, as Rhode Island is generally among the safest states in the country.

Warwick, as one of its quietest havens, is perfect for anyone traveling solo, with family, or who wants to escape the noise, chaos, and even danger of bigger cities.

What many don’t realize, though, is that this is actually a pretty incredible place to experience – between its gorgeous beaches, cultural landmarks, and adorable specialty shops, Warwick promises every traveler an experience they won’t forget.

2. Casper, Wyoming

I know that most people think of Casper as just a place you go to ski every once and again, but for those who don’t mind a more low-key getaway, it’s a fantastic place to experience year-round.

Sure, the nights here might be a bit quieter since the city is not exactly known for its thriving club scene or high-end restaurants, but you’ll get to spend your days taking in the most awe-inspiring views outdoors and exploring the quaint downtown shops and cafes – those traveling with family will have an extra amazing time.

1. South Burlington, Vermont

Vermont makes another appearance, this time with the big winner – South Burlington.

Famous for its pristine environment, excellent quality of life, and of course, stellar safety record, this small yet dreamy city is everything you wish for during those particularly stressful days.

You can spend your time here strolling through Red Rocks Park, relaxing with a good drink in one of the local bars, or, better yet, enjoying a full-on guided brewery tour.

Most Dangerous Cities To Visit In The U.S.

So, we now know which places promise us the greatest peace of mind while traveling, but are there any cities those of us who prioritize safety should avoid altogether?

While it’s hard to speak in absolute terms when it comes to topics like these, there were a couple of destinations that scored pretty poorly in the WalletHub survey, so if you were planning on visiting any of them it might be best to rethink your plans, or at the very least, take some extra safety measures:

5. Memphis, Tennessee
6. Detroit, Michigan
7. Fort Lauderdale, Florida
8. Baton Rouge, Louisiana
9. New Orleans, Louisiana

Megi Canco

Having explored over 20 countries in the last 3 years, Megi is committed to bringing the freshest, most up-to-date news and perspectives on the world’s most fascinating destinations.

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Last Updated 2 months ago

I’ve always loved scouring for the best deals when it comes to travel.

There’s something about exploring someplace new on a budget that not only keeps you feeling content and worry-free but also gives you the opportunity to see far, far more than you would otherwise.

That’s why when this study on the cheapest (and most expensive) U.S. destinations was released, I ran there looking for some ideas on that next great place to add to my bucket list – and that’s exactly what I found.

Of the top 100 travel destinations in the nation that were analyzed, these ones promised the best touristy allure – low price point balance:

Spots 6-10

Before we move on to the top 5 or the crème de la crème, as I like to call them, let’s quickly go through the places that were ranked sixth to tenth in the report; sure, they might not be the absolute cheapest, but they’re still gorgeous hubs that are very much worth a look:

10. Monument Valley, Utah
11. Bend, Oregon
12. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
13. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
14. Sedona City, Arizona

Now that that’s said, we can dive right into our No. 5 spot holder – Galtingurg, Tennessee.

5. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Don’t let Gatlinburg’s unassuming, small mountain town facade fool you – the Tennessee gem has been on almost every “Top Underrated Places To Visit In The U.S.” list this fall, and if this trend continues as is, you’ll soon be struggling to find a hotel to book.

That’s why for the best experience (and deals), I’d recommend coming here ASAP.

Sidney James Mountain Lodge has available rooms starting at just $58, the Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival is just around the corner, and the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not only jaw-dropping this time of year, but free to enter, too!

4. Tybee Island, Georgia

If you feel like you’ve missed out on a relaxing beach getaway this summer, why not plan it now instead?

Located just a 30-minute drive from Savannah, this often-overlooked gem is actually the perfect place for those who want to go sunbathing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or even dolphin-watching (tickets start at just $27.95 per adult)! 

Here, you’ll also find plenty of cute little restaurants that serve mouth-watering food at unbeatable prices – I, for one, will always have a soft spot for Sundae Cafe. 

3. Helen, Georgia

This next one’s for all of you looking to experience a slice of Europe right here in the U.S., and most importantly, on a budget.

That’s exactly what you’ll find in Helen, a small Georgia town that was built to replicate a Bavarian alpine village and is, of course, home to one of the longest-running Oktoberfests in the country.

From now up until October 27th, the event will be running nightly, complete with traditional music, lively dances, indulgent food, and lots and lots of beer.

2. Outer Banks, North Carolina

Coming back to a more typical U.S. hub, the Outer Banks in North Carolina are what I’d describe as a slice of coastal heaven.

Here, you can spend your days strolling through Jockey’s Ridge State Park, exploring the Wright Brothers National Memorial, or going in the water to kayak, paddleboard, or even surf – the best part is equipment rentals are notably cheaper now that the summer rush’s over, so if there were ever a time to try your hand at something new, it’s definitely now!

1. Charleston, West Virginia

West Virginia is quickly establishing itself as one of the country’s trendiest hotspots, first by breaking its all-time tourism record and now by having its gorgeous capital nab the No. 1 spot as the best-value destination in all of the U.S. – no wonder so many people are coming here!

The great thing about Charleston is that there’s truly something here for everyone.

Outdoor lover? Coonskin Park and Kanawha State Forest are not only perfect for hiking, picnicking, and everything in between, but they’re also completely free to enter.

City tripper?

The Clay Center for the Arts and Science, the West Virginia State Museum, and the Capitol Market are all must-sees.

Foodie? Don’t miss out on the chance to try a pepperoni roll (my top recommendation would be Swiftwater Cafe).

Megi Canco

Having explored over 20 countries in the last 3 years, Megi is committed to bringing the freshest, most up-to-date news and perspectives on the world’s most fascinating destinations.

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Last Updated 4 months ago

“New York City” and “affordable” don’t often belong in the same sentence. In a city that cracked down on Airbnbs, hotels have skyrocketed.

According to the New York Times, the average hotel room will run you over $300 per night – a new record. Although, a quick search shows some steals like the Eurostars Wall Street for 79% off in July.

As iconic as the ‘Big Apple’ remains today, tourists far and wide still have NYC in their scope as a premiere getaway for urban adventures ranging from incredible cuisine, world-class museums, and renowned sites in every borough.

Summer is one of the best seasons to explore New York with so many fun things to do outdoors, but the top travel hack revealed by the U.S. Sun will save you boatloads of money.

For less than a cup of coffee, you can visit the city’s top attractions and it’s so much easier than you may think.

Stop Overpaying For Boat Tours

Boat tours serve their purpose, but they’re not all they’re cracked up to be, especially some with outrageous prices.

Perhaps you can luck out by scoring a Groupon for a fun time on the water, but there’s no need to do so.

Much like my hometown of San Diego, where tourists overpay for boat tours to hit the scenic waterways of the San Diego Bay, many are disappointed to find out they could have a similar experience for less than $10 by booking the Coronado Ferry.

Saving potentially hundreds of dollars, it’s the same for NYC. Unless you want a repetitive tour guide who’s given dozens upon dozens of tourists the same spiel, then the NYC Ferry is for you as low as $4.

From Coney Island To The Statue Of Liberty: The Options Are Endless

New York City is home to 5 boroughs, unless you count Jersey City as the unofficial sixth. Any way you slice it, some of the best ways to borough-hop is by boat.

If anything, it sure beats taking the rat-filled subways! Especially since there are power outlets on-board to keep your phone ready for photos, as well as snacks and refreshments – yes, including alcohol!

The city offers daily commuters cheap NYC Ferry rides, but it’s also tourists’ best travel hack here.

Rather than fork over your paycheck for an unnecessary tour of the Statue of Liberty, you can take in the same views and awesome phot-ops aboard the ferry.

Not to mention unmatched views of the illustrious Manhattan skyline as well.

While booking a ticket is surely the most budget-friendly way to experience notoriously expensive New York City, the ferry is not solely the best alternative to Statue of Liberty tours.

Heck, perhaps the ferry’s real shining moment was when U.S. Airways’ Captain ‘Sully’ heroically landed a plane in the Hudson River, with multiple commuter ferries jumping into action.

While seeing planes in the Hudson isn’t typically on the itinerary, there are 7 routes to choose from.

You can easily visit other top attractions like Coney Island or even Rockaway Beach for a break from the hustle and bustle in the City That Never Sleeps.

Unfortunately, those visiting Coney Island won’t get to see champion Joey Chestnut scarf down wieners at Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest on July 4th any longer.

The NYC Ferry’s 7 Routes

These are the 7 routes the NYC Ferry offers:

• Astoria – Western Queens and Roosevelt Island 
• East River – East River to Midtown and the Financial District 
• Soundview – The Bronx and the Upper East Side to Lower Manhattan
• South Brooklyn – South Brooklyn to Midtown and the Financial District 
• St. George – Staten Island to the West Side of Manhattan, in Battery Park and Midtown West 
• Rockaway – Rockaway Beach, Sunset Park, and Lower Manhattan
• Governors Island Shuttle – *Seasonal*

It’s important to know riders can transfer at no charge from any of these routes, including the above Governor’s Island shuttle.

Better yet, travelers can also hop aboard the Staten Island Ferry – a free service offered year-round.

No matter where you go, from Wall Street to Brooklyn to Sunset Park, the NYC Ferry has grown in popularity.

It’s strongly advised to book tickets in advance, which you can do so on the official NYC Ferry App and vending machines.

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

Demand for cruise travel is at a record high right now — but unfortunately, so are prices.

Cruise travel is back with a vengeance, and as a result, the average cost of a cruise is up as much as 22.5% compared to 2019 prices.

When restriction-free cruising finally returned in the midst of 2022, there were some great deals to be found on cruises as things slowly got back to normal.

However, those deals have now disappeared, and cruise fares are higher than ever before.

Here are some tips for how you can still save money on your next cruise:

1. Travel During The Off-Season

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, one of the best ways to save money on cruises is to travel during the off-season or “shoulder season” for a destination.

For example, Alaska cruises are most popular (and most expensive) in June, July, and August. If you can book one of the first cruises in May or one of the last cruises in September, you are likely to save money.

Similarly, avoid traveling on school breaks. Thanksgiving break, Christmas break, and spring break are all some of the busiest and most expensive times to take a cruise.

2. Use CruiseSheet

One of the best ways to save money on a cruise is by tracking deals that do appear. Even though the average cruise fare has increased, there are still good deals to be found.

CruiseSheet is a free tool you can use to get notified of the best deals in real-time. Just indicate which port you will be traveling out of and set a filter for dates you’re interested in, and you’ll be notified immediately when deals appear.

Again, if you can be more flexible in your travel dates, this is one of the best things to do to save money.

3. Skip The Pricy Add-Ons

What if you can’t necessarily be flexible with your travel dates? Luckily, there are still other ways to save money on your cruise!

One of the biggest ways to save money is by skipping pricy add-ons.

These are things like unlimited drink packages, onboard WiFi, and shore excursions that will end up costing you a ton of money.

Do the math on an unlimited drink package before buying — most people will come out ahead simply paying for drinks individually, and this helps limit your alcohol consumption.

For WiFi, just skip this and opt to use free WiFi or cellphone data on the days when you’re in port. Internet while at sea is notoriously expensive.

And for shore excursions, you often don’t need to book through your cruise ship. You can DIY the same excursion for a cheaper price by booking directly with a local operator or just do a free activity like exploring the town or hitting up a local beach on your own.

4. Take A Repositioning Cruise

A lesser-known strategy for saving money on a cruise is booking a repositioning cruise.

These cruises are different from your average cruise, but they are by far one of the most affordable ways to travel.

What exactly is a repositioning cruise? Basically, this is when a cruise ship needs to move home ports at the beginning or end of a season. As a result, it’s a long route (think a two-week trans-Atlantic cruise from Barcelona to Miami) with many days at sea.

But you’ll get the chance to stop at some exotic and far-flung ports along the way (like the Canary Islands, the Azores, or Bermuda) before reaching your final destination, and you can get deals for as little as $50 a day.

5. Be Flexible On Your Stateroom

Finally, you can save money on your cruises by being flexible on your stateroom assignment.

Choosing a specific stateroom often carries a higher cost as opposed to selecting a “guaranteed” stateroom. This means you are guaranteed a stateroom in your chosen class (interior, exterior, balcony, or suite), but you won’t be able to choose the exact location.

If you’re okay with this, it’s a great way to save some extra money.

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Last Updated 2 months ago

San Diego is known for having that quintessential SoCal vibe we’ve all seen in the movies.

While ‘America’s Finest City’ is just that – a fine city – there are ample scenic beach towns dotting the seemingly endless coastline filled with your typical dude-bro surfers and skateboarders.

But don’t fret! You can easily escape the ‘bruh’ this and ‘bruh’ that and hand signals with their pinky and thumb extended.

There are more ways to hang loose than catching waves and grinding handrails.

Most tourists set their sights for San Diego’s prime beachside real estate, but those who do are actually doing themselves a disservice by missing out on a slice of Mediterranean paradise away from the all-but-guaranteed packed beaches. (Although, crowds tend to dwindle down in fall)

Perhaps you’ve heard of Del Mar, a ritzy little beach town roughly 20 minutes from San Diego proper where celeb sightings are common and the average home costs $2.725 million – yes, that’s not a typo.

The average traveler’s beach home dreams may come to a screeching halt here, but splurging on a well-deserved vacation should never be out of the question.

Nestled inland amongst rolling hills and vast canyons lies the Fairmont Grand Del Mar, a lavish 5-star hotel oozing Mediterranean vibes, where adults can blissfully recharge by day, and indulge in Southern California’s only 3-star Michelin restaurant by night.

As a recent guest, I can’t recommend staying here enough. And if you must go to the beach, Del Mar’s pristine beaches are less than 15 minutes away.

No Passport Needed: Let The Mediterranean Come To You

Upon arriving, you’re glued to Fairmont Grand’s pure elegance as if every throw pillow, every cocktail glass, and every glistening chandelier are meticulously placed to exude class and luxury at every turn.

Fairmont Grand describes themselves on their website as a ‘Mediterranean estate’, which is certainly an understatement feeling more reminiscent of San Diego’s version of the Alhambra.

I walked the entire grounds multiple times, and while not classified as a “resort” per se, many aspects feel like one.

Home to multiple pools, a globally renowned golf course, and world-class 5-star spa honored by Forbes, this is the ultimate place to unwind all without even feeling like you’re in San Diego; at least how it’s often portrayed.

I booked a King Room overlooking the adults-only pool (more to come on that!) and was delighted to see how spacious it was. Even 5-star hotels can skimp on breathing room from time to time, but not here!

The bathroom alone felt bigger than my whole apartment and the gold-accented European-style soaking tub was the icing on the cake.

Not to mention, the mattress was truly heavenly, the complimentary coffee better than Starbucks, and the secluded balcony was surprisingly peaceful for a poolside room.

I couldn’t have asked for a better way to the cap the day than enjoying the cool evening breeze on the patio while catching up on reading and writing articles for you on their speedy wifi (you’re welcome!).

A Family-Friendly Hotel With A Private Haven For Adults

Remember in Dumb and Dumber when Lloyd attempted to make the ‘most annoying sound in the world’?

Well, for some of us, it’s whatever Jim Carrey’s dissonant vocal cords blurted out, and for others, like me, it’s the sound of screaming children…or my ex’s weird TikToks, but that’s a different story…

Kids can be a lot of fun and deserve a vacation like anyone else, but adults-only pools are a whole other level of peace, amirite?

Fairmont Grand Del Mar boasts 4 heated pools, but the 1 adults-only pool is free of kids running rampant and miserable parents realizing they need another vacation while on vacation.

Plus, the service was top notch from setting up my cushy lounge chair, offering complimentary sunscreen, to serving an ice cold Mexican cerveza poolside.

Accompanied by an equally blissful secluded hot tub, the adults-only pool lived up to the name. I’ve been to other hotels where staff turn a blind eye to obviously obnoxious teenagers invading my quiet zone, but this was truly an adults-only haven.

Although, most impressive was how spotlessly clean the entire hotel was – a rarity for a kid-friendly and pet-friendly stay.

If the grown-ups need a safe space for the kiddos, check out the Explorer’s Club.

Whether You Rest Your Head Here Or Not, You Must Eat Here!

San Diego is one of the best foodie destinations in America, but dining at Fairmount Grand levels up your tastebuds.

Home to Addison, Southern California’s only 3-star Michelin restaurant, along with Amaya, a fabulous restaurant where Paris meets SoCal, you can’t go wrong.

Although, Addison’s twilight views are arguably as grand as their menus. Diner be warned, though, Addison is so sought-after you will need book a reservation well in advance, which can be done here on OpenTable.

The nearest open availability I could find is over a month away for a late 9pm dinner, for example.

Amaya, however, is not at all a bad alternative, where I had an incredible dinner to remember from savory appetizers like the Burgandy Escargot Vol Au Vent to locally sourced wine for dessert – yeah, you read that right.

The star of the show was the ‘Chef’s Special’, not even listed on the already impressive menu. So impressive in fact, the waiter had to make 4 trips before we decided what we wanted to order.

The imported Dover Sole was divine and cooked to perfection, so special thanks to our friendly, knowledgeable server, Ignacio, for the recommendation!

My girlfriend and I couldn’t stop raving about how amazing our meal was as we strolled through the beautiful grounds with a post-meal glass of wine in hand.

Their wine selection was extensive and so well incorporated with their impeccable cuisine that we opted for another round over dessert since Amaya allows guests to take wine to-go.

See? ‘Adulting’ really is another level here!

Tip: if ordering the Steak Tartare, ask for the ‘parmesan espuma’ on the side for the perfect bite paired with quite possibly the best bread I’ve ever had!

Horsing Around: Fairmont‘s Fun Activities

Fairmont Grand is a popular golf getaway, but there’s far more to do than hit the links. However, if you’re not avid golfer and would like to learn, clinics are offered for only $50 on Friday and Saturday.

After pigging out at Amaya, a Monday morning yoga sesh was out of the question for me, so I opted for a pool day.

On Tuesday, though, I made a visit the hotel’s very own Equestrian Center, which if you know anything about Del Mar, should be no surprise.

Del Mar is the ‘Kentucky Derby’ of San Diego, home to the very popular Del Mar Racetrack.

Fairmont Grand offers Equestrian Trail Rides, Pony Rides, along with the chance to ‘Feed the Horses‘ on Tuesdays; some of which are retired racehorses. Needless to say, they’re absolutely gorgeous animals!

Behind the Equestrian Center is a trailhead of hiking trails along the golf course, winding through open canyons for some terrific views of the surrounding scenery – the perfect way to start your day with a complimentary cup of coffee from your room, and best of all, hiking is free!

For a full calendar of events, check out Fairmont Grand’s Event Calendar.

_{**Travel Off Path was a guest of Fairmont Grand Del Mar, who helped with the creation of this itinerary by hosting some of our accommodations and attractions. Our opinions, recommendations, and suggestions remain our own.**}

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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Nothing makes the world feel smaller than an airplane.  

And every time a new nonstop international flight route is announced, exploring the world becomes a little bit easier.  

This is why it’s so exciting that United Airlines has announced the largest international expansion in its history.  

Next summer, United Airlines will fly to more destinations across the Atlantic than any other U.S. airline.

That means more than 760 flights a week to over 40 different destinations.  

And 5 of these flights will be brand new nonstop international routes that no other U.S. airline currently flies to.  

5 New International Routes From United Airlines  

The 5 new international routes from United Airlines will launch in May 2025.  

They will all depart from the United Airlines hub in Newark/New York (so this is particularly interesting news for New Yorkers).  

Those new routes will be to: Nuuk in Greenland, Palermo in Italy, Bilbao in Spain, Madeira Island in Portugal and Faro in Portugal.  

By their own metrics, these new flights will make United Airlines the largest airline in the world.  

Nuuk, Greenland 

Nuuk is the capital city of Greenland and United Airlines will fly to the city twice weekly from June 14 next year. 

Nuuk is the northernmost capital city in the world and is home to the midnight sun in the summertime.

This makes it a wonderfully unique place to visit in Europe in the summer and a contrast to the crowds and beaches of other European hot spots.  

The nonstop flight from Newark to Nuuk will be just over 4 hours long, making it a convenient and incredibly accessible journey.  

Price information for this flight route isn’t currently available.  

Palermo, Italy 

Palermo will be one of 5 destinations in Italy that United Airlines will fly to nonstop next summer.

But Palermo is the only one of these that is a United exclusive route at this point.  

This route will launch on May 21 and will be a 3 times weekly seasonal nonstop service.  

Palermo is the most popular destination in Sicily and will open up this iconic island to a whole new American audience. This new route will put Sicily’s rich history, luxurious beaches and stunning architecture at your fingertips.  

Return flights from June 20 to June 26 on this route are currently priced at $1,889 for the most restrictive, basic economy ticket.  

Bilbao, Spain 

Nonstop flights from Newark to Bilbao in Spain will launch on May 31 2024.  

A nonstop round trip flight from June 12 to June 18 on this route is currently priced at $1,027 for the most restrictive basis economy ticket.

The outbound flight has a flight time of 7 hours 30 minutes.  

Bilbao is the heart of Spain’s Basque country and an important cultural hub. One of my favorite attractions is the iconic Guggenheim Museum, and for watersports enthusiasts, the surf is epic here, too.

This isn’t the only exclusive United flight to Spain. United is also the only U.S. carrier to fly direct to Palma de Mallorca, Tenerife, and Malaga.  

Madeira Island, Portugal 

United will launch the only nonstop service from the U.S. to Madeira. This flight will start on June 7 and will operate 3 times a week.  

Madeira is a stunningly beautiful island. It boasts everything a nature lover could dream of: natural pools and waterfalls, incredible beaches, and lush verdant mountains.  

Price information for this route hasn’t been released yet.  

Faro, Portugal  

United will also be the only U.S. airline serving Faro in Portugal. This flight route will start on May 16 and will fly 4 times each week.  

This means that United will have the only nonstop routes to Faro, Madeira, Porto, and Ponta Delgada, making it the most wide-reaching U.S. airline for Portuguese flights.  

Flying from June 11 to June 17 on this route will cost $1,578 if you choose the cheapest and most restrictive fare.  

Faro is a beautiful city with a charming old town and easy access to pretty beaches, giving travelers the best of both worlds in one easily accessible package.  

Tor Brierley

Tor has been writing for more than 20 years and has visited 25 countries (and counting!) She specializes in European and family travel and never says no to new adventures.

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Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.