Archives April 2025

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World-famous for its turquoise seas, paradisaical islands where white sands run along the ocean for miles on end, and incredible weather, the Caribbean is the number one destination for many Americans when they crave a little sunny getaway.

There are just two small ‘buts’ that you’re probably familiar with if you’ve ever vacationed in Cancun, Tulum, Punta Cana, and the like:

When you’re at a public beach packed with your fellow tourists and holidaying local families, it doesn’t exactly give deserted island vibes, and if it’s exclusivity you seek, be prepared to pay upwards of $600-a-night on a luxurious all-inclusive.

But hey, there’s always a middle ground: these 4 Caribbean islands may be unheard-of, but they boast equally beautiful scenery, smaller crowds, and on top of that, cheaper prices:

Caye Caulker, Belize

Lying off the coast of Belize, a tiny Central American country just south of Mexico, Caye Caulker is an unspoiled Eden most beach bums and Instagrammers have failed to discover.

For starters, its landmass is cut through by a winding canal called Split, and on both sides, you’ll find stretches of virgin-white sands and lush nature: the southern half is home to the only settlement, Caye Caulker Village, whereas the north is densely forested and home to diverse wildlife.

The village has brightly-painted wooden houses, colored in coral, lime, and sunshine-yellow tones, and it’s peppered with family-run eateries: for fresh ceviche and Belize’s signature barbecue mango, add Reina’s to your list.

For the water babies out there, you can swim with sharks and sting rays at the Shark Ray Alley, or if you’re an experienced diver, snorkel around the iconic Great Blue Hole.

This is a sinkhole in the middle of the ocean surrounded by the turquoise waters.

The best part is, for Caribbean standards, Caye Caulker is definitely on the cheaper end, with entire-bungalow stays for 2 adults costing $143-a-night, and takeout food averaging $3-7 (meals are slightly pricier, costing around $33 in mid-range restaurants).

Little Corn Island, Nicaragua

Nicaragua is best known for its towering volcanoes and thriving rainforest, but something most visitors fail to acknowledge is that it, too, has a coast on the Caribbean, and countless small islands yet to be ruined by the masses.

One of those is Little Corn Island, some 43.5 miles from the mainland, and a car-free community of 7,747 people offering jungle trails, pristine beaches, and bays filled with translucent waters.

For many, it is a reminiscent of the Caribbean’s undeveloped past, before the big brands and resorts cornered local communities, and though getting there is no easy feat, involving at least 2 flights, and a small boat transfer, the final destination couldn’t be more rewarding.

Think of Otto Beach, an idyllic patch of beach with multicolored seas, the Tarpon Channel, where you can spot hammerhead sharks, or a tranquil Cocal Beach, with the typical white sands and crystalline waters, except none of Punta Cana’s crowds.

You won’t find larger-than-life resorts here—in fact, there is a single 5-star property in the vicinity—but rather rustic guesthouses and bungalows right on the beachfront, with double rooms (with shared bathrooms) costing as cheap as $12.

Food is just as inexpensive: a full lobster meal at the budget-friendly Rosa’s Restaurant will run you up a mere $8-10, while less elaborate seafood platters are an even more economical $5.

Roatán, Honduras

Who would have known these oftentimes-overlooked Central American countries would have this much to offer?

Up next, we’re taking a look at Roatán, the trendiest and offbeat nonetheless island off the Honduras coast: at 40 miles long and 5 miles wide (at its widest point), it has no shortage of amazing sights and natural wonders.

The main town, Coxen Hole, is where most of the action is centered, and where you’ll find a plethora of hotels and street markets, but in order to truly bask in the island’s tropical charm, you need to go further out to places like West Bay Beach:

Bordering the Mesoamerican Reef, it is a highly sought-after spot for snorkeling, due to the various fish species and sea turtles that congregate there, as well as a swimming site.

If you’re taking a day trip out, it should definitely be scuba diving in the Reef, the second-largest in the world: picture shipwrecks, underwater ridges, and if you’re lucky to cross their path, whale sharks.

For a comfortable-enough stay that won’t break the bank, we recommend you look at Victoria’s Beach House:

It is set on the waterfront and equipped with an open-air bath ($45-a-night for 2 adults), and when you’re craving street food, La Placita boasts a number of food stalls serving baleadas (flour tortillas filled with beans and cheese) for around $1-2.

For casual dining in Roatán, we love the Typical Buffet (that’s what it’s called), on the aptly-named Coconut Tree Plaza, where a wide range of seafood and local delicacies are served, with prices ranging from $5-10.

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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Colombia – a nation pulsating with vibrant culture, stunning Andean landscapes, lush coffee regions, and Caribbean coastlines – continues to capture the imagination of travelers worldwide. From the historic streets of Cartagena to the bustling energy of Bogotá and the modern vibe of Medellin, its appeal is undeniable. However, amidst this allure, the U.S. State Department has issued an updated Travel Advisory, urging potential visitors to weigh the risks carefully.  

On April 17, 2025, the State Department reissued its advisory for Colombia, maintaining the country at an overall Level 3: Reconsider Travel. This level sits just below the most severe warning, Level 4: Do Not Travel. A Level 3 advisory doesn’t mean Americans cannot go, but it signals serious risks to safety and security that warrant careful consideration before booking that ticket.  

Based on over 20 trips to Medellin within the last four years, I can sincerely attest to the importance of heeding official travel warnings. Although I have personally been fortunate enough to avoid major incidents, reports of robberies targeting foreign tourists are pervasive and occur almost daily. Spending even a short time browsing Medellin expat Facebook group offers a realistic understanding of the situation on the ground.

Why the Caution? Understanding the Risks

The advisory flags several major concerns across Colombia: crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. ^{Violent crime isn’t isolated to specific areas; incidents like murder, assault, and armed robbery are unfortunately common in many parts of the country. Organized crime groups are active, engaging in extortion, robbery, and kidnapping. Drive-by snatchings of phones and valuables by thieves on motorcycles are also a frequent hazard, particularly targeting those displaying signs of wealth like expensive watches or jewelry.}  

Terrorist groups, including dissident factions that refused to demobilize after peace agreements and organizations like the National Liberation Army (ELN), still operate and pose a threat. ^{They may attack with little warning, targeting locations frequented by tourists, transportation hubs, markets, government facilities, and other public areas.}  

Furthermore, civil unrest is a factor. Political demonstrations occur regularly and can shut down roads and highways unexpectedly, disrupting travel and sometimes turning violent.

“Do Not Travel” Zones: High-Risk Areas

While the country overall is Level 3, the State Department strongly advises against all travel (Level 4) to specific regions due to extreme danger:

1. Arauca, Cauca (excluding the city of Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments: These areas face significant threats from both crime and terrorism. Violent crime is particularly prevalent.
2. The Colombia-Venezuela border region: This zone is flagged for high levels of crime, kidnapping, potential conflict between armed groups, and the risk of accidental crossing into Venezuela, which could lead to detention.  

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to citizens in these Level 4 areas, and official U.S. personnel face severe travel restrictions there.  

A Specific Danger: Dating App Risks, Especially in Medellin

Beyond the general advisory, a critical security alert issued previously by the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá remains highly relevant, especially for visitors to major cities like Medellin, Cartagena, and Bogotá. Criminals are increasingly using online dating applications (like Tinder, Bumble, Grindr, and others) to lure victims, particularly foreigners.  

The pattern often involves matching with someone online and agreeing to meet at a public place like a bar or restaurant, or sometimes at the victim’s hotel or residence. Criminals, sometimes working in teams, then use drugs to incapacitate their victims – Scopolamine (also known as “Devil’s Breath”) is frequently used, as it can render a person unconscious and induce amnesia. Once drugged, victims are robbed of their belongings, including phones, wallets, bank cards, and computers. Tragically, numerous incidents involving U.S. citizens being drugged, robbed, and even killed after meeting someone via a dating app have been reported. The Embassy noted a significant spike in thefts and violent deaths involving foreign visitors in Medellin in 2023 and 2024, many linked to these dating app encounters and potential drugging or overdose scenarios.  

Traveling Smarter and Safer

If you decide to travel to Colombia despite the Level 3 advisory:

• Be Informed: Read the full Travel Advisory and Country Information page on the State Department website. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for alerts and easier location in emergencies.  
• Stay Aware: Maintain constant situational awareness. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Keep a low profile – avoid displaying cash or expensive jewelry.
• Transportation: Do not hail taxis on the street. Use reputable dispatch services or vehicle-for-hire apps. U.S. government employees are prohibited from using street taxis.  
• Dating Apps: Exercise extreme caution. If meeting someone new, do so only in very public places for initial encounters. Inform a friend or family member of your plans, who you are meeting, and which app you used. Never leave drinks or food unattended. Be wary of inviting strangers to your accommodation.
• Demonstrations: Avoid all protests and large crowds, as they can turn violent without warning. Monitor local media.  
• Have a Plan: Prepare for emergency situations and ensure you have adequate travel insurance covering medical evacuation.

Colombia offers incredible experiences, but the current security landscape demands caution. By understanding the risks outlined by the State Department and taking proactive safety measures, travelers can make more informed decisions to protect themselves while exploring this captivating country.

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Most travelers jetting off to France have scoped out the Eiffel Tower, world-renowned art museums, and endless sidewalk cafes, but to escape the city grind and sky-high prices, we recently unveiled France’s secret beach on the northern coast as an alternative to not only Paris.

But even as spectacular as this side of France may be, there’s no doubt most travelers have the beautiful Côte d’Azur (French Riviera) atop their travel wishlists.

While I personally loved my trip to Marseille, one of the most sought-after beach cities in France, it’s certainly not for everyone.

The same way travelers can be shocked by how gritty Athens is with graffiti-lined streets just below the iconic Acropolis, the same goes for Marseille, a vibrant seaside city with a delightful waterfront, world-class restaurants, and stunning islands, yet possessing an edgy undercurrent where unsightly spraypaint, dark-lit street corners and alleyways are a turn-off for those thinking they booked a flawless beach getaway.

According to the BBC, those looking for a reliable vacation spot along the French Riviera where you’ll feel safe without the hassle of elbow-to-elbow crowds, should follow in A-listers’ footsteps to a hush-hush peninsula nestled between Nice and Cannes.

Cap d’Antibes: France’s Hobnob Paradise

Other than Cap d’Antibes undergoing an arts renaissance with a fun jazz festival on the docket for summer, among other centennial celebrations, this region of the Côte d’Azur is more well-known as a celebrity haven.

You may know Cannes draws a crowd, especially for Hollywood’s elite, given it hosts the famous Cannes Film Festival each year.

Well, many of these one-percenters find themselves vacationing seaside in Cap d’Antibes at lavish retreats such as BBC-backed Belles Rives, a century-old Art-Deco treasure leading the charge in the region’s artistic festivities this year.

Cap d’Antibes exudes exclusivity, but is perhaps more welcoming to all types of travelers than ever before, as it breathes new life into the arts, enticing more visitors.

While summer is both literally and figuratively a hotspot for celebs, you never know who you’ll cross paths with.

Enjoy Golden Beaches To Yourself: Spring Is The Best Time To Visit

BBC hypes spring as the best time to enjoy a lot more to sprawl out like a starfish on Cap d’Antibes’ golden shores, particular now to early June as temperatures are a blissful 65 – 76 degrees until the official start of summer.

But just know the region surrounding Cap d’Antibes can be a little too breezy any time of year. In other words, it’s a haven for nudists!

Despite the postcard-perfect coastline wrapping the peninsula, you should expect a sight for sore eyes if you don’t do your homework first.

For starters, avoid Batterie Beach and Cape Taillat, unless you want an eyeful of birthday suits — not exactly the beach you wanna be on the “skins” team tossing the ol’ pigskin around.

These are TripAdvisor’s top 5 beaches in the region with no references of exhibitionists:

• Juan les Pins (Main Beach)
• Plage de la Gravette
• Plage des Ondes
• Plage du Ponteil
• Plage de la Baia des Milliardaires

Just note that there is a difference between Antibes, the coastal city (a gem in its own right), and the more isolated and exclusive Cape d’Antibes, tucked away from the more notable cities dotting the French Riviera.

Despite some stunning beaches in the region where beachgoers let loose, they are a small portion of the population, but travelers should be aware of this to avoid unwanted surprises.

The Perfect Base To Explore The French Riviera

BBC named Cape d’Antibes fourth on a list of ‘Nine European vacation destinations to visit in 2025′ and largely because of its exclusivity, going hand-in-hand with prime real estate.

As such, Cape d’Antibes makes for a great base to explore the surrounding area. For example, Metro just highlighted one of Europe’s most beautiful train rides passing through Antibes, Cannes, and Menton, all French Riviera paradises.

Best of all, you can find fares as low as $13 — a steal of a deal in such a lavish destination.

Hotels will surely be your most expensive splurge when staying in Cap d’Antibes, but it’s one of those places where rates match the service and luxury you receive.

For example, if you want to up your chances of bumping into a famous face, check out Cap d’Antibes Beach Hotel, a 5-star retreat perched along Les Pêcheurs Beach and home to Michelin-starred restaurant Les Pêcheurs.

Otherwise, a select few boutique hotels nestled between staggering seaside chateaus are much more palatable at rates in the $100s, such as Hôtel Miramar Cap d’Antibes.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Easter week (Semana Santa) in Quintana Roo holds a special kind of energy. You can almost feel the buzz as world-famous spots like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and the Riviera Maya prepare to welcome visitors from around the globe. It’s peak season, and the numbers show it – an estimated 1.2 million people are expected to arrive, drawn by the promise of sunshine, stunning beaches, and rich culture.

That sheer number of visitors is a testament to the region’s incredible appeal. But, as you can imagine, it also requires thoughtful planning to ensure the experience remains positive and safe for everyone – both the visitors making memories and the residents who call this beautiful place home. To manage this vibrant influx, the state government has put a significant support plan into action, running through April 27th.

A Major Commitment to Well-being

At the heart of this plan is a considerable mobilization of personnel – over 7,000 security individuals are involved across the state’s 11 municipalities. Governor Mara Lezama highlighted this deployment, underscoring its purpose: to serve the public during this exceptionally busy time.

Seeing a figure like 7,244 personnel gives a sense of the scale. It’s not just local police; it’s a coordinated effort involving state and municipal officers (5,560 of them), federal forces, and dedicated teams from the Mexican Navy (472 personnel), the Ministry of National Defense (233 troops), and the National Guard (979 members). This kind of teamwork across different agencies is crucial for managing logistics and ensuring widespread coverage.

Visible Support, Focused on a Positive Experience

What does this coordinated effort look like on the ground? For people enjoying the area, it translates to a visible, reassuring presence. According to security officials like Undersecretary Antonio Esteban Peralta Amador, you’ll see patrols actively monitoring popular gathering points – beaches, entertainment districts, restaurants – helping to maintain a safe and pleasant atmosphere.

Crucially for travelers, 217 dedicated Tourism Police officers are deployed in the main hubs (Cancún, Cozumel, Chetumal/Costa Maya, Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen). These officers are specifically trained to assist visitors, readily available to offer directions, answer questions, or provide support. Think of them as accessible points of contact focused on ensuring a smooth visitor experience. Road safety checkpoints and camera monitoring are also part of the strategy, aimed at managing traffic flow and providing oversight.

Enabling Exploration Beyond the Beach

Governor Lezama emphasized that the goal extends beyond just basic safety. It’s about allowing visitors to have an “extraordinary vacation” and confidently explore the diverse wonders Quintana Roo offers. While the beaches are legendary, she pointed to the state’s stunning lagoons, unique cenotes, fascinating archaeological sites, rich gastronomy, and connections with Indigenous cultures as experiences to be discovered.

This security framework provides the foundation, the peace of mind, that allows people to comfortably venture out and immerse themselves in everything the region has to offer.

Balancing Popularity with Quality Experience

Ultimately, this plan reflects the reality of managing a world-class tourist destination during its peak season. It’s about finding the right balance – ensuring visitors have an unforgettable and safe trip, while also supporting local communities and infrastructure under the pressure of high demand. It’s a significant undertaking aimed at preserving the positive atmosphere and reputation Quintana Roo is known for.

By proactively coordinating resources and personnel, the state aims to ensure this Easter holiday period is remembered for the right reasons – vibrant culture, stunning nature, and a welcoming, secure environment for everyone.

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Let’s be real – planning that epic international escape often comes with a side of budget anxiety. Prices for flights and digs seem to be on a perpetual upward climb, making globetrotting feel more like a splurge than ever. But fear not, savvy travelers! Even as we cruise into 2025, there are still incredible corners of the world where your travel fund can stretch further than you think, delivering maximum adventure without maxing out your credit card.

Forget settling for a staycation; the world is brimming with vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences that won’t break the bank. Ready to dust off that passport? Here are 5 international destinations that are still refreshingly affordable for your 2025 travels.

Vietnam

Ah, Vietnam. This Southeast Asian gem has long been a darling of budget travelers, and for good reason. In 2025, it continues to offer incredible value. The magic starts the moment you land – transportation, whether it’s a Grab bike through bustling Hanoi or a sleeper bus between cities, is ridiculously cheap.  

But the real star? The food! Pull up a plastic stool at a street-side stall and feast on pho, banh mi, or bun cha for just a couple of bucks. Accommodation ranges from super-cheap hostels to surprisingly luxe boutique hotels that cost a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere. ^{From the dramatic karst landscapes of Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh to the historic charm of Hoi An and the Mekong Delta’s waterways, Vietnam serves up a rich tapestry of experiences without demanding a fortune.}  

Mexico

Okay, hear us out. While certain resort towns might hit the wallet hard, vast swathes of Mexico remain incredibly affordable and offer way more authentic experiences. Think beyond Cancun (unless you snag a great package deal!) and explore cities like Oaxaca, known for its incredible food scene and vibrant culture, or Mexico City, a sprawling metropolis brimming with history, art, and tacos al pastor that cost next to nothing.

The US dollar often enjoys a favorable exchange rate against the Mexican peso, making your money go further. Domestic travel via comfortable buses is economical, and local comedores (small eateries) serve up delicious, hearty meals for cheap. Whether you’re exploring ancient Mayan ruins, relaxing on Pacific coast beaches like in Mazatlán, or soaking up colonial architecture, Mexico offers diverse adventures on a sensible budget. Just be sure to stay aware of your surroundings and check current travel advisories for specific regions.

Hungary

Dreaming of Europe without the Euro-sized price tag? Set your sights on Hungary. Budapest, its stunning capital straddling the Danube River, is often called the “Paris of the East,” but thankfully, it comes without the Parisian cost of living. You can wander through magnificent architecture, soak in world-famous thermal baths (like Szechenyi or Gellért), and enjoy hearty goulash and local wine without constantly checking your bank balance.

Beyond Budapest, explore charming towns along the Danube Bend or relax by Lake Balaton. While Hungary uses the Forint (HUF), prices for accommodation, food (especially outside the main tourist zones), and public transport are significantly lower than in Western Europe. It’s a fantastic entry point for affordable European exploration.  

Egypt

Standing before the Pyramids of Giza or cruising down the Nile – these are true bucket-list moments, and in 2025, Egypt makes them surprisingly accessible financially. While your flight might be the biggest expense, once you’re there, the cost of living for travelers is remarkably low.

You can explore awe-inspiring ancient temples in Luxor and Aswan, dive or snorkel in the vibrant Red Sea resorts like Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada, and navigate chaotic, captivating Cairo, all while spending relatively little on food, transport (like overnight trains or local taxis – just agree on the price first!), and even guided tours if you shop around. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to comfortable mid-range hotels that offer great value. As with any destination, stay informed about safety, particularly outside major tourist areas.

The Philippines

If island hopping through paradise on a shoestring budget sounds like your kind of trip, look no further than the Philippines in 2025. With over 7,000 islands, you’re spoiled for choice, from the dramatic landscapes of Palawan (El Nido and Coron) to the surf breaks of Siargao and the unique Chocolate Hills of Bohol.

What makes it affordable? Delicious and cheap Filipino food (hello, adobo and lechon!), incredibly low costs for domestic flights and ferries between islands, and a wide range of accommodation, from basic beach huts for a few dollars to comfortable resorts that won’t cost the earth. The locals are known for their friendliness and English is widely spoken, making it easy to navigate. It’s tropical bliss without the financial stress.

So there you have it – five incredible international destinations where you can have an amazing adventure in 2025 without needing to remortgage your house. Happy (and affordable) travels!

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