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Last Updated 2 weeks ago

One of the aspects of travel that saddens me personally is how often Mexico is wrongly portrayed.

Mainstream news grips any negative event with a tight fist to paint a misinformed picture of one of the world’s most fascinating countries.

But the truth is that most of Mexico is safe; otherwise, millions of tourists wouldn’t return home unscathed with unforgettable vacation memories.

While beach destinations are incredible to visit, many of the country’s hotspots lack authentic culture, which is really a shame (apologies to Sammy Hagar).

Mexico City may be the mecca to indulge in an array of culinary masterpieces and witness some of the nation’s most captivating sites, but one historic city just a couple of hours away will rock your socks off.

Safe, cheap, and gleaming with incredible architecture and traditions, Puebla makes for a perfect escape to experience real Mexico, as even such places as Guadalajara and Oaxaca have become touristy.

One Of Mexico’s Top Cities For Affordability And Safety

No need to keep your head on a swivel wandering through Puebla’s wonders; the U.S. State Department confirms Puebla is very safe.

On par with many other popular destinations at Level 2, you can comfortably explore as you would just about anywhere.

That’s not to say there aren’t bad apples, but Puebla is a far cry from Mexico’s ‘dangerous’ reputation away from the safe havens of Cancun and Los Cabos per se.

Puebla’s historic city center makes for a great base, and there are some amazing values in both the luxurious and boutique hotels that dot the area.

Lined with colonial structures of Talavera tiles and meticulous detail, you’ll forget about Mexico’s glitzy resorts and become captivated by the city’s timeless atmosphere all while saving money!

Stay in luxury at Quinta Real Puebla this winter for great rates at $76 or perhaps a cozier feel at the Casa Rosa Gran Hotel for $42 this December.

If staying in the city center, it’s best navigated by walking so no stone goes unturned as there are numerous vibrant streets boasting lively bars, traditional eats, and artisan shops – none of which will break the bank either.

Plus, this city is a foodie’s paradise!

Should you venture beyond the city limits, Puebla does have Uber too, which is typically more affordable than taxis who can pull the classic “my meter is broken” tactic to obvious tourists.

Although, locals have been widely regarded as warm and very helpful to visitors.

Phenomenal Cuisine And Fascinating History

Across the U.S. there are world-class Mexican eateries and what you may not know is many cooks derive from Puebla bringing traditional flavors stateside.

Puebla is often regarded as ground zero for some of Mexico’s most renowned cuisine. In fact, famed chef and world traveler Anthony Bourdain visited Puebla on one of his first episodes to showcase the region’s distinct dishes, such as Mole Poblano, a must-try on your trip.

In other words, it’s impossible to go hungry in this city as every meal is a delight for your tastebuds (and don’t skip the cocktails either!).

Make sure to make a reservation at Mochomos Puebla for an unforgettable meal; it’s one of the top-rated restaurants in the city holding an impressive 4.9 rating Google with over 10,000 reviews.

Circling back to your travel budget, Puebla offers many free attractions like many outdoor celebrations and incredible cathedrals.

Being so eye-catching, you won’t be able to help yourself but enter one of the multitude of churches no matter your beliefs, simply to appreciate these architectural marvels.

Make sure you visit the Cathedral of Puebla, Santo Domingo Church, and La Compañía Church to name a few.

What may be even more fascinating for some is the nearby town of Cholula, but don’t get too excited thinking this place is home to the popular hot sauce brand.

Cholula’s claim to fame isn’t mouthwatering red peppers; it’s home to captivating ruins, including the world’s largest pyramid – take that Egypt!

Reaching Puebla Is Easy

Mexico City offers the most flight options directly from the U.S., but you can also fly nonstop from a couple of American cities (one being the ultimate travel hack).

Houston and San Diego (via Tijuana) are your only nonstop options at the moment. United flies nonstop from Houston, while both Viva Aerobus and Volaris fly from Tijuana which can be accessed by Southern Californians by never stepping foot across the border with the handy Cross Border Xpress.

If you fly into Mexico City, however, you’ll need to hop aboard a bus or take an expensive Uber or taxi.

According to Busbud, bus fares range from $6 – $23 this winter.

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 3 months ago

It’s the season for solo travel!  

And whether you’re looking for frantic cities, laid-back beaches, high-octane adventure, or cultural enrichment, there’s one destination that is attracting solo travelers in huge numbers.  

Thailand is having a real moment right now, especially among those thinking of going it alone.  

Here’s why this Asian destination is a hot spot for solo travelers: 

Why Should Solo Travelers Choose Thailand? 

Thailand boasts an excellent tourist infrastructure that is easily accessible for solo travelers.

Getting around the country is straightforward, and finding places to stay as a solo traveler is also easy here.  

Thailand is also an incredibly affordable destination for solo travelers.

From hostels to higher-end hotels, you won’t break the bank when choosing somewhere to stay.  

If you’re new to solo travel or a seasoned solo traveler looking for some company, then there are plenty of small group trips throughout Thailand.

These are a great way to meet new people or to explore somewhere you might not feel comfortable going it alone.  

From tours of Bangkok noodle shacks to snorkeling tours of lesser visited islands, there are diverse options to choose from.  

I recommend booking a tour or two and combining this with your own solo adventures and seeing where the day takes you, so that you get the enjoy the best of both worlds.  

Bangkok Food Tours offers a historic Bangrat food tasting and culture tour that is ideal for solo travelers. Bangrat is a popular foodie destination for locals in Bangkok and is an area with a rich cultural heritage.

This tour costs 1650 THB ($) per person.  

While some people see eating as a social experience, the nature of dining in Thailand makes it ideal for solo travelers.  

The street food stalls you’ll find everywhere and casual ‘hole-in-the-wall’ restaurants mean that grabbing a bite and eating on the go, or taking a stool and sitting shoulder to shoulder with the locals, is the norm.  

A Diverse And Cultural Rich Destination  

Thailand is an incredibly diverse and multi-faceted destination.

If you want to relax on paradise-like white sand beaches, Thailand is for you. But you can also embrace the rich culture, bustling cities, and spectacular temples here.  

Thailand is a temple-rich (some might say temple-tastic!) destination, so if learning more about Buddhism and exploring its most spectacular temples is on your to-do list, then there is no better place to be.  

The most famous temple in Thailand is Wat Phra Kaew, and as it’s located right in the heart of Bangkok this is also one of the easiest to visit.  

Wat Phra Kaew is located within the city’s Grand Palace and its most noteworthy feature is the Emerald Green Buddha, considered one of the most sacred in Thailand.

Entrance costs 500 baht ($14) per person.  

For something truly unique, visit the Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya.

This is a spectacular and intricately carved temple that has the distinction of being the largest wood building in Thailand.  

Entrance here costs 500 baht ($14) per person too, and your entry fee also includes a guided tour in either English or Thai.  

Thailand is also famous for its beachfront Full Moon Parties, which take place in Koh Phangan.

Up to 20,000 people gather on the beach here once a month when the moon is full.  

This is a great place to be if you love to party and meet new people.

It’s a riot of fun and decadence. However, solo travelers should be aware of their safety at these parties.

Where there is drunkenness and excess there can sometimes be poor decision making.  

Being aware of your surroundings, and not leaving your drink unattended are both good tips.  

Other Reasons To Choose Thailand

You can’t talk about Thailand without talking about its people.

Thailand is nicknamed ‘Land of Smiles’, and for good reason.

You’re guaranteed a warm welcome when you’re in the city, which contributes to solo travelers feeling safe and comfortable in the country.  

It’s also worth noting that Thailand offers a high degree of safety for solo travelers, and this includes solo female travelers. 

The U.S. Department of State has awarded Thailand a Level 1 Advisory Rating. This is the lowest possible rating, and means that travelers should exercise normal precautions, but are otherwise free to enjoy their travels.  

The only exceptions are the regions of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla.

Due to civil unrest associated with ongoing insurgent activities, these provinces have a Level 3 travel advisory rating.  

Solo travelers are advised to avoid these regions when traveling around the country.

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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Last Updated 5 months ago

Isn’t it nice to share? Well, that’s what’s happening in Taiwan, where an exciting new pass allows locals and tourists alike to both enjoy the perks of unlimited train travel.

Some countries can be stingy only allowing locals to relish the perks of such a pass, but not in this case.

While Taiwan certainly found itself in some eye-popping headlines in recent months, safety concerns at this point are null and void.

The last travel advisory issued was in July 2023, and even then it was the lowest designation for safety risks with Level 1 status.

Taiwan has been given the all-clear. Its vast wonders from the bustling streets of Taipei to lesser known Chiayi are safe to explore, and what better way than by train?

Especially at high speeds!

The Need For Speed

There are 3 different pass packages, but we’ll start with the most thrilling and make our way down.

Asia is synonymous with lightning-fast bullet trains in terms of rail travel. Taiwan is no different, except here you have unlimited travel for 3 days with the new Taiwan Pass.

Those with the need for speed seeking for a fast-paced adventure through Taiwan’s stunning sites should look no further.

In fact, this pass for Taiwan’s High-Speed Rail is only for foreigners, so take advantage! At just $67, this seems more than worth it, right?

Your starting point, in all likelihood, is the capital city of Taipei as this is the most popular entry point into Taiwan.

High-speed trains run north to south ending in the highly underrated city of Kaohsiung with stop-off points to transfer to other Taiwanese treasures.

Why is this important? Because not only do you receive 72 hours of access for unlimited bullet train rides, you also receive:

• Choice of 1 Taiwan MRT pass (local metro)
• Choice of 1 Taiwan Tourist Shuttle pass

Ride Low And Slow Through Taiwan: A 2-For-1 Deal

Next up is the Taiwan Railway, a more traditional train ride where you can actually snap some photo-ops along the way.

This package is for those who take on the popular perspective of ‘it’s not the destination, it’s the journey’.

Costing slightly more than the high-speed line, for $86 you get to ride through some of Taiwan’s most beautiful scenery as you can essentially make a loop around the entire island nation.

Better yet, taking a page out of Southwest Airline’s book, this package comes with a companion pass. So really you and a friend are only spending $43 – an unbeatable deal.

Since this train doesn’t travel at breakneck speeds, you also get an extra couple of days for unlimited train travel.

Go anywhere you want within a 5 day period and also make the most out of the same benefits as above with an additional Metro and Tourist Shuttle Pass.

MRT And Tourist Shuttle Add-Ons

It would be foolish not to take advantage of freebies thrown into your package, but knowing where the MRT and Tourist Shuttle go is probably your net question.

Only 4 cities have MRT lines, which are:

• Taipei
• Taoyuan
• Taichung
• Kaohsiung

Additionally, there are 4 Tourist Shuttle stops (labeled A, B, C, and D on the route map):

• Nantou Qingjing Line
• Nantou Sun Moon Lake Line
• Chiayi Alishan Line
• Kenting Express Line

Taipei is where your adventure begins, not necessarily where it should end. Milking the perks of free MRT tickets is an unnecessary excuse to explore this amazing city.

If you were to head south from Taipei on either the high-speed train or the Taiwan Railway, the last thing you should do is feel guilty freeloading from the Tourist Shuttle.

It goes to some really cool places like Chiayi, for example. You can hop off and take the Chiayi Alishan Line and discover a hidden gem nobody ever talks about.

Brimming with fascinating temples, scenic nature reserves, and delicious local cuisine, you’ll quickly realize there’s so much more to Taiwan beyond the urban sprawl of Taipei.

No matter where you go, whether high-speed, low and slow, or shuttle, all you have to do is download the Taiwan Pass app from the Apple Store or Google Play for easy access for the ultimate adventure.

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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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

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Last Updated 1 year ago

Solo travel and cruises are two travel trends that have been increasing in popularity lately, and yet at first glance, they may not seem like they mix well.

More travelers than ever are venturing out solo for their vacations rather than traveling with friends, family, or significant others.

Cruising is also exploding in popularity right now after the industry was dealt a heavy blow due to travel restrictions for several years.

However, most cruise ship fares are based on double occupancy, with the option to add a third or even fourth passenger to the cabin for a lower price.

On most cruise lines, there’s no discount for solo travelers, so even if you’ll be the only one in your cabin, you’ll still have to pay the two-person rate. Some cruise lines offer a reduced single supplement (for example, 75% instead of 100%) but you’ll still end up paying quite a bit.

The following four cruise lines don’t charge single supplements.

Instead, solo travelers have the option to book single cabins on these cruise lines at a rate that is much more reasonable and less than a standard double-occupancy cabin.

1. Norwegian Cruise Lines

Norwegian is one of the best cruise lines for solo travelers. Six of Norwegian’s ships offer “studio cabins” priced for just one person:

• Norwegian Epic
• Norwegian Breakaway
• Norwegian Getaway
• Norwegian Bliss
• Norwegian Joy
• Norwegian Encore

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These studio cabins are only around 100 square feet but come with all the same amenities as a double occupancy cabin.

As a bonus, solo travelers staying in studio cabins will have access to a shared common area called the Studio Complex and Lounge which functions as a social gathering place with events to meet other solo travelers.

2. Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean was just named America’s favorite cruise line, and offering cabins for solo travelers is just one more reason to love this popular cruise line.

The seven Royal Caribbean ships that offer studio cabins are:

• Quantum of the Seas
• Spectrum of the Seas
• Ovation of the Seas
• Anthem of the Seas
• Odyssey of the Seas
• Harmony of the Seas
• Symphony of the Seas

These cabins are priced specifically for single travelers. Unlike Norwegian, which only offers interior studio cabins, Royal Caribbean has a mix of interior, exterior, and balcony cabins for solo travelers.

Cabins range in size from 96 to 119 square feet.

3. Holland America Line

Finally, Holland America Line is another popular cruise line that doesn’t charge extra for passengers who are traveling solo.

Right now, only three Holland America ships offer solo cabins, and there are fewer of these onboard (only 12 per ship) compared to Norwegian and Royal Caribbean.

The Holland America ships with studio cabins are:

• Koningsdam
• Nieuw Statendam
• Rotterdam

Studio cabins are priced for just one person and are on the more spacious end, with cabins ranging in size from 127 to 172 square feet.

What About Other Cruise Lines?

Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America are the only major cruise lines to offer solo cabins priced for one person. Smaller cruise lines like Oceania Cruises also offer single cabins.

And other popular cruise lines occasionally offer deals for solo travelers.

Although rare, sometimes the single supplement may be waived or greatly reduced for specific voyages.

If you want to keep up with these offers and score a great deal, Cruise Specialists has a regularly updated list of cruises with waived or heavily reduced single supplements.

Other cruise lines may not offer solo traveler-friendly pricing, but many do host meet-ups and events for solo travelers onboard to meet other cruisers.

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Last Updated 5 months ago

People opt for all-inclusive resorts for a variety of different reasons.

For some, it’s the endless amounts of food and drinks; others spend countless hours poolside, and the rest may simply want to unwind in paradise, enjoying all the posh amenities like complimentary room service.

My recent trip to the Grand Palladium Punta Cana Resort & Spa checks off all the boxes and more, and to be honest, I couldn’t think of a better way to kickstart summer.

From the seamless airport pick-up to room check-out, I was treated like royalty instead of just another face in the crowd of a long line of vacationers.

Greeted with a welcome cocktail and the friendliest bellhop I’ve ever met, Francel led me to my spacious ocean-view room for the week, mere steps from private access to the Dominican Republic’s most renowned beach, Bavaro.

Tucked away from loud motorcycle-filled streets and Punta Cana’s famous nightclubs, staying at this lavish 5-star resort is a haven for privacy in paradise, arguably one of the most blissful beach vacations on Caribbean soil.

Bon Appetit: 18 Restaurants To Choose From

Let’s start with the endless options of food…and maybe a few cold ones here and there.

But first, know that there are 4 separate resorts all part of one grand property. In addition to the Grand Palace (where I stayed), there are:

• TRS Turquesa
• Grand Grand Palladium Punta Cana
• Grand Palladium Bavaro Suites

Guests have access to all the restaurants no matter where you stay as part of your all-inclusive package, excluding 4 limited to TRS guests only.

I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed starting my day with breakfast as Las Torres day after day.

Some resorts have buffets where you may question what’s on your plate – not here, though.

From made-to-order omelets, a crepe station, an array of fresh fruits, and surprisingly delicious cappuccinos (yes, I’m a coffee snob!), this was my go-to day after day.

For lunch, I switched it up from beachside steaks Helio’s Beach Club one day to endless pizza the next, but it’s dinner where this resort shines the most in terms of its wide variety of international cuisines.

From interactive Japanese teppanyakis, to flavorful Indian delights, and decidant pasta topped with truffles and caviar, you can’t go wrong.

There’s even the Healthy Habits Bar for those who refuse to give in to “cheat days” on vacation. No judgement – more sugar and carbs for me!

I would highly recommend trying to score a plate of the freshly sliced suckling pig offered at Las Torres’ dinner service – so tender and flavorful.

While some may rightfully use vacations as their excuse to catch up on sleep, I’m the type who wants to take advantage of the moment and experience it all.

Where I found myself night after night was the only 24-hour establishment on-site, Xtra Time Sports Bar. When the hand-crafted cocktails came to a stop at Hemingway’s, the night continued on at Xtra Time.

Here, you won’t know where the night ends and the morning begins. You have a wide selection of snacks and cold Presidentes available at all hours where you can keep up with your favorite team back home.

If I Go Missing, You Can Find Me At The ‘Secret Pool’

Turns out the ‘Secret Pool’ is not so secret, but what’s great about it is this is a haven for those of us looking to escape screaming children for some grown-up time.

As a family-friendly resort, you will surely have run-ins with kids, but there are ample spaces to enjoy some peace, quiet, and adult beverages.

The Secret Pool was my hands-down favorite place to hang out during the day with a swim-up bar specializing in Pina Coladas, shaded cabanas, and more open space, not that crowds were ever an issue.

Of course, there were multiple pools scattered throughout the lavish resort, but this one stood out the most for its draw of exclusivity.

Across from the TRS, this side of the property is for those of us looking to enjoy our downtime unbothered, which more than exceeded the mark in that aspect.

Fun In The…Mud? A 10/10 Spa Day!

Not everyone is into spas on vacation, but you would be doing yourself a disservice by skipping out on a day pass to the Zentropia Spa and Wellness.

The entire program offered is unmatched,. The 30-minute massage was among the best I’ve had anywhere and this comes from someone who has been transformed into a human pretzel in Bangkok.

Immediately following the massage, you’re provided with a hot tea while awaiting a truly unique experience, something I’ve never had the pleasure of taking part in.

Zentropia takes a page out of Katy Perry’s book believing in hot and cold treatments. Once you take a required shower for hygienic purposes, you’re guided into a sauna followed by an ‘ice room’.

Going back and forth between extreme opposite temperatures may sound tortuous on paper, but it’s shockingly pleasant. 

Followed by my personal favorite, the steam room, spritzing a menthol fragrance for the perfect finish before relaxing in the jacuzzi to recharge.

For the grand finale, you’re guided to a hidden area of the spa where you sit on a rock Flinstones-style after lathering organic clay masks, each with different health benefits.

These colorful mud baths may make you look crazy, but they’re surprisingly soothing. Just keep in mind removing all the mud afterwards can be a challenge in the unpredictable hot and cold showers, somehow oddly fitting given the spa’s itinerary.

Opt For A Private Beach Or Incredible Day Trip

As part of the ‘Palladium experience’, you will have exclusive access to over half a mile of not only the D.R.’s most renowned beach but also one of the most sought-after in the entire Caribbean.

Bavaro Beach is undoubtedly gorgeous with crystal-clear waters and soft sand living up to the hype. 

Unfortunately, Mother Nature has other plans this time of year, such as turning this paradisal beach into a game of The Floor Is Lava with seaweed.

In other words, it’s sargassum season. Some days are better than others and the beach is still great for lounging in the sun or going for a swim, but you will brush up against sargassum, an icky brown algae, at one point or another.

While I loved taking walks on the pristine Blue-flag certified beach and going for a swim, the highlight of the trip for me was a day trip to Isla Saona.

Tucked away from luxe resorts, hordes of tourists, and best of all, free of sargassum, my time spent on the postcard-worthy island was well worth the hours-long journey by bus and boat.

The waters and beach were truly pristine and top-notch for snorkeling, especially to see plentiful starfish. It’s highly advised not to touch them as they are a protected species.

_{Travel Off Path was a guest of Grand Palladium Punta Cana Resort & Spa, 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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