Archives 2025

Southwest Airlines Launches 2 New Nonstop Flights To Tropical Beach Destinations

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If you want to spend your spring break sunbathing on a stunning tropical beach, then Southwest has got you covered, especially if you live in or around Nashville!  

The airline has launched two brand new flights from Nashville to tropical beach destinations just in time for the start of spring. Both flights will launch on March 8 and are seasonal flights that won’t run in the winter months.  

View from the window seat of a Southwest Airlines plane

The destinations?

You can now choose to fly from Nashville to either Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic or Cabo San Lucas in Mexico.  

Here’s everything you need to know about these new flight routes.  

Brand New Options From Nashville  

From March 8 2025 you can fly nonstop between Nashville and Punta Cana as well as Cabo San Lucas/Los Cabos.

Initially, these nonstop flights will only operate on Saturdays, meaning that you will be able to take week-long vacations in the sun, but you can’t use these flights to plan shorter getaways.  

Aerial view of white sand beach in Punta Cana

Southwest already offers a nonstop route from Nashville to Cancun, but these two new routes will give people in the area even more convenient options for their next international vacation.  

The all-important question when any new international service is launched is how much will it cost! Both of these flight routes are already available to book on the Southwest Airlines website.  

Firs,t I looked at the prices for a nonstop return flight from Nashville to Cabo San Lucas/Los Cabos. These flights are from Saturday, March 22 – Saturday, March 29, shortly after this new route launches.  

Aerial view of the Arches in Cabos San Lucas

The outbound flight currently costs $582, and the inbound flight currently costs $543. Meaning the total round-trip flight cost would be $1,124, including taxes and fees.  

If you’d rather enjoy the complete relaxation offered by island life then I also looked at the price for tickets between Nashville and Punta Cana. This must be the more popular route because economy tickets were sold out for the March dates I looked at above.  

These prices are based on flights from Saturday, April 5 – Saturday, April 12. The outbound flight currently costs $454 and the inbound flight currently costs $632.

This means the total round-trip flight cost would be $1,086, including taxes and fees.  

Southwest Airlines and JetBlue Airlines passenger jets at gates

The ticket prices for these two new flight routes are very similar, so ticket price needn’t be a factor in which destination you choose.  

It’s worth noting that these prices are based on a ‘Wanna Get Away’ ticket, which is the cheapest economy flight ticket offered by Southwest Airlines.

This ticket is non-refundable, and you will also have to pay extra to select your seats. But two bags are included for free with all Southwest tickets.   

Punta Cana or Los Cabos?  

If you’re an international globe trotter, then you might be able to visit Los Cabos and Punta Cana this year. But if you only have the time (and the cash!) to visit one of these destinations, which one is best for you?

Couple Sitting On A Swing On A Beach In Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Both destinations are tropical paradises with spectacular white sand beaches.  

But while the landscapes in Punta Cana are fringed with palm trees and tropical jungle, you’ll find desert views (and the dry desert climate to go with it) in Los Cabos.  

Both destinations are blessed with excellent all-inclusive resorts, but if you’re on a tight budget, you’re likely to find a wider range of budget accommodations and restaurants in Punta Cana than you will in Los Cabos.

Los Cabos is a famously luxurious and high-end destination, so this is a better option if you’re looking for opulence at any price.  

View Of A Resort In Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico

Looking to party the night away? Punta Cana should be your first choice. The nightlife here is incredibly vibrant. There are plenty of nightlife options and a lively party atmosphere in the town.  

By contrast, the nightlife in Los Cabos focuses on chic rooftop lounges and high-end restaurants. Both options are a lot of fun, but Punta Cana is better suited to a younger party-ready crowd.  

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These Are the Top 5 Most Popular Sunny Destinations In Europe For 2025 – And They Are All In One In Country

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If you’re planning on crossing the pond this spring or summer for a much-needed culture-infused sunny break, there’s one country in particular that should be at the top of your list.

According to Mabrian, a travel intelligence firm, Spain has already captured a whopping one-third of global travel demand for the region for 2025, with approximately 33% of Southern Europe-bound arrivals heading to this destination.

In Europe in general, it accounts for 12% of the rising demand, especially in the shoulder and low seasons, and that’s hardly a surprise: just check the (oddly-pleasant) weather for Las Palmas de Gran Canaria right now, in the middle of winter.

Spain as a whole is set for yet another record-breaking year in tourism, but if you’re wondering where travelers are being drawn to the most, these are the top 5 cities:

Palma de Mallorca

Gothic Cathedral In Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Capturing 4.1% of tourists landing in Southern Europe, Palma de Mallorca is the capital of its namesake Mallorca, an island worth visiting for the scenic callas lapped by turquoise waters and verdant hills strewn with rolling vineyards alone.

Gorgeous as all of Mallorca may be, with resort zones in Pollença and Alcudia drawing in big crowds, Palma is undoubtedly its crown jewel: dating back thousands of years, it has a rich amalgamation of Roman, Vandal, Moorish, and medieval-era landmarks.

Picturesque View Of Palma De Mallorca In Spain, Southern Europe

Its magnificent cathedral, La Seu, or Cathedral of Santa Maria for English speakers, is the most easily recognized symbol of Palma’s skyline and perhaps the magnum opus of the Catalonian Gothic movement, with intricate rose windows and flying buttresses.

Just opposite the cathedral, Almudaina is a palace combining Islamic and Gothic elements, representative of Palma’s diverse breadth of architecture, whereas Castell de Bellver, sitting on a prominent hill with views of the city, is a uniquely circular-shaped, 14th-century castle.

If you’re looking for that hidden gem beachgoers are missing out on, the Arab Baths should definitely be on your bucket list: built in the 10th century by Mallorca’s at-the-time North African rulers, it has columned chambers and courtyards you’re free to wander through.

Alicante

Aerial View Of Alicante, Spain

Over in the Spanish mainland, with high-rises encroaching on a palm-lined, golden sand beach, Alicante is a vibrant resort city boasting year-round warmer temps––just so you know, they’re currently sitting at a pleasant 65 degrees right now in the dead of winter––and lower prices than average.

When you think that going to a tapas bar for patatas bravas and some sweet tinto de verano in a whitewashed Barrio de la Santa Cruz costs $15 or that you can book a room only a few steps away from the beach starts from $40, it’s hardly a surprise tourists are flocking in here.

Panoramic View Of A Sandy San Juan Beach Bordered By The Mediterranean Sea, Alicante, Province Of Valencia, Southern Spain, Southern Europe

More specifically, 4.4% of all Mediterranean arrivals, and among the pleasant surprises awaiting them in this offbeat Spanish gem, there’s Explanada de España, a long coastal walk paved with colorful, patterned mosaics, a hilltop, medieval Santa Barbara Castle, and a bustling Mercado Central:

The best spot in town for sampling fresh produce, sampling the seafood––the paella here is arguably up there with the best in the country––and browsing the local delicacies, this market is a sensory overload in the best possible way.

In desperate need of relaxation? Look no further than Postiguet, a postcard-ready beach at the foot of Santa Barbara Castle welcoming guests to crystal-clear seas, a wide range of amenities, and mid-range restaurants with terraces for sunset views.

Malaga

woman looking at panoramic view of malaga spain

The gemstone of Spain’s Costa Del Sol, a sun-drenched stretch of coast to the southeast of Spain, Malaga is a sprawling port combining resort city and open-air museum vibes, from the ruin-littered historic center, down to the parasol-sprinkled Malagueta beach.

As part of Andalusia, the hottest destination in Spain as a result of its geographical proximity to Africa, Malagueños and Malagueñas enjoy shorts weather for most of the calendar year, and chances are you won’t need to pack a raincoat irrespective of season.

aerial view of Malaga, Spain

Malaga’s greatest appeal, however, is its enviable collection of historical structures: for instance, there is a 1st-century Roman Theater built onto the side of a central elevation now dominated by an Islamic 11th-century fortress, the Alcazaba.

Then there is a nearby 14th-century Gibralfaro Castle, occupying yet another hill that overlooks the urban maze that is Malaga and its azure seas, and let’s not forget Malaga’s iconic Plaza de Toros, an intact bullfighting ring that continues to host select events.

Albeit a fascinating cultural ensemble, Malaga’s hustle and bustle can get a tad much at times, especially with the summer crowds––it captures 6.4% of Southern Europe’s arrivals––so if you’re in need of a breather, head out to the verdant, waterfall-dotted Montes de Málaga Natural Park.

Barcelona

barcelona skyline

At the runner-up position, capturing a whopping 21.7% of all arrivals to Europe’s southern half, Barcelona is the quintessential Mediterranean getaway combining resort city vibes and Old World allure.

Its Barceloneta golden-sand strip, backed by high-rise condominiums and glass-and-steel skyscrapers, is a favorite among beachgoers, and for those who love history, the medieval Gothic Quarter is filled with picturesque alleys, plazas, and locally-run tapas bars.

Despite having an unlimited cultural offer, Barcelona’s pride and joy is undoubtedly its Gaudí heritage, best evidenced in the Sagrada Familia cathedral, the Expressionist chef-d’oeuvre that is Casa Batlló, and the lush Park Güell, best known for its curvilinear shapes and bright colors.

Tourist Riding A Bike Through The Gothic Quarter Of Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona tends to get quite busy irrespective of season, so if you’re hoping to beat the crowds, you should leave the bustling streets of Eixample behind and head instead to an offbeat Gràcia, where you’ll find independent boutique shops, cozy cafes, and art galleries.

Other attractions first-time visitors wouldn’t normally pay attention to include Refugi 307, a Spanish Civil War-era bomb shelter now housing a museum, the Roman Necropolis buried beneath Plaça Vila de Madrid, and the serene Parc del Laberint d’Horta, Barcelona’s oldest park featuring a maze.

Madrid

View of Madrid

Leading with a 24% share, the capital of Spain is officially the number one destination in Southern Europe right now, and this, to some, might be surprising, considering it doesn’t sit on the coast.

Madrid doesn’t need Mediterranean beaches or palm-lined promenades to woo tourists, though: dubbed Iberian Paris, it is characterized by expansive, leafy boulevards flanked by Belle époque buildings, sprawling green zones, and a host of world-class museums.

The most visited of them all, Prado is home to masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez, El Greco, and Raphael, and if you’re visiting Europe primarily for the magnificent architecture, exploring the area around the portico-bordered Plaza Mayor is a must.

old street in Madrid at golden hour

Besides Madrid’s top landmarks, namely the aforementioned Prado, the richly-decorated Baroque Royal Palace, and Parque El Retiro, here are some unique, unexpected things to do in the city in 2025:

Escape the heat and go underground at Andén 0 (or Zero Platform), a historic metro station dating back to the early 20th century, still served by retro-style carriages, or take a leisurely stroll in Cementerio de la Almudena, probably one of Europe’s prettiest burial grounds, littered with ornate chapels and tombs.

Away from El Retiro’s crowds, Quinta de los Molinos is a much more peaceful park with wide avenues strewn with almond trees, and don’t forget Parque del Oeste, in Western Madrid: it will look it’s most beautiful in spring when the rose gardens are in full bloom.

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Americans Are Being Urged Not To Travel To These 6 Regions Of Mexico In 2025

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Home to the ultra-popular resort destination that is Cancun, a plethora of ancient Mayan ruins, and vibrant city breaks, Mexico is the number one country for Americans planning a trip abroad, but no trip south of the border is exactly risk-free.

Aerial View Of A Beach In Colima, Mexico

As safe as Mexico may be in general, with very few travelers being affected by crime when vacationing on its Caribbean coast or bustling capital, there are more dangerous parts of the national territory it would be best to avoid altogether.

As customary every year, the U.S. State Department has updated the Mexico Travel Advisory, and a total of 6 states are now placed at Level 4––up from 4 since the last count.

In other words, Americans are being urged to refrain from traveling to these regions due to crime:

Colima

Whitewashed Santorini-esque building in Manzanillo

A small state straddling the Pacific coast of Mexico, Colima has never been a much sought-after destination for Americans, and now it may be a longer while until it regains whatever little prestige it used to have, following its inclusion on the State Dpt.’s Level 4 list.

It is best known for its namesake colonial-era capital, endless miles of golden sand beaches hugged by azure waters, and Manzanillo, a whitewashed resort town dubbed the ‘Mexican Santorini‘––though undoubtedly beautiful, the state is one of Mexico’s worst hotspots for crime.

According to U.S. authorities, most killings are ‘targeted assassinations’ involving gang members, but U.S. citizens have also been victims of kidnapping and other forms of violence.

The State Dpt. does not, however, that Downtown Manzanillo, which comprises both the hotel zone and port, is considered safer, and government employees themselves are not barred from visiting.

Guerrero

Acapulco Beachfront, Mexico

Similarly to Colima, Guerrero is a Pacific state that, ironically, is far from being ‘Pacific,’ having been dominated by rivaling gangs in recent decades.

Its main resort hub, Acapulco, used to be a prime destination for Hollywood stars in the 50s and 60s, and despite its efforts to regain the long-lost popularity––since then, Cabo’s taken up that mantle––it continues to struggle as crime levels worsen.

U.S. authorities warn Americans heading to this state that armed groups operate ‘independently of the government’ in many areas and have been known to enforce roadblocks, use coercion tactics, and even force against visitors.

There are no ‘exceptions’ in Guerrero, with travel discouraged to all tourist zones, including not only Acapulco but also Zihuatanejo, Taxco, and Ixtapa.

Michoacan

Cathedral Of Morelia Seen At Sunset, Michoacan, Central Mexico, Latin America.jpg

Yet another beautiful state on the Pacific coast plagued by endemic violence, Michoacan had been rising in popularity as an off-the-beaten-path destination for travelers until being blacklisted by the State Dpt.

It is home to many indigenous groups, a diverse landscape comprising central highlands and unspoiled patches of coast, and its stately capital, Morelia is arguably one of Mexico’s most beautiful, with a UNESCO-protected historic center.

Sadly, Michoacan is not somewhere you should go unless you have a very compelling, strong reason to do so or you’re used to traveling to high-risk areas:

‘Crime and violence are widespread’, as reported by U.S. officials, and employees of the U.S. government are only allowed to travel into Michoacan by air, landing at Morelia Airport, or by using Federal Highways 43 or 48D, from Federal Highway 15D.

The beach town of Lazaro Cardenas is the only other destination left out of the blanket ban on travel, yet those who visit are expressly told to limit their activities to the center and port areas.

Sinaloa

Aerial view of Mazatlan

The fourth Pacific state to feature here, Sinaloa, has been the epicenter of turf wars for many years, as countless criminal organizations base their operations there.

This hasn’t stopped major resorts like Mazatlan, Los Mochis, and Topolobampo from being added to cruise itineraries or favored by adventurous Americans who are eager to experience a more authentic side of Mexico beyond the glitz and glamor of Cancun, Cabo, and the like.

Indeed, Mazatlan seems to be relatively safe for tourists and the State Dpt. seems to echo that feeling, as it does not restrict its employees from traveling to the city’s well-frequented Zona Dorada and the picture-perfect colonial center.

We have reported extensively on Mazatlan as a destination, and based on feedback from our own readers, they have rarely felt unsafe or threatened in any way when vacationing there.

Nevertheless, traveling in the wider state of Sinaloa, especially in between municipalities, and further inland, is massively discouraged.

Tamaulipas

Natural Spring In Tamaulipas, Mexico

As it is a tiny Gulf state sharing a shot border with Texas, you may be thinking there’s not an awful lot to see and do in Tamaulipas anyway for its downgrading to Level 4 to be deemed a tragedy.

We’d beg to differ.

It lays claim to numerous well-preserved pre-Columbian archaeological zones, most notably the Huastec-era El Sabinito, distinguished by its overgrown pyramids and charming small towns yet to be spoiled by mass tourism and verdant preserves.

Tamaulipas’ nature is equally fascinating, from the waterfall-dotted jungle expanse that is El Cielo to the bustling Miramar Beach, a tried-and-true sunny getaway for Mexican locals… as you can see, there’s many a reason why this lesser-known state is worth a visit.

Regrettably, it is currently a no-go zone, with crime and kidnapping cited as main threats to the safety of visiting Americans.

The border zone is particularly dangerous, namely from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo, where local law enforcement is limited, whereas safety levels are higher in the ‘tri-city zone’: Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira.

Zacatecas

View Of The Historic Quarter Of Zacatecas And Its Colonial Cathedral, Mexico, Latin America

An unfortunate addition to the blacklist this year, Zacatecas is a historically-significant state in central Mexico best represented by its namesake capital, a pink sandstone city that traces its origins back to the 16th century.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising an ornate cathedral, a largely intact colonial core, with narrow streets lined with colorful facades, and a monumental Palacio de Gobierno Estatal, a Spanish-era edifice where the state government still convenes.

On the outskirts of town, the El Eden Mine is a colonial system of mines now housing guided tours––and even descending to its depths is a fun business, as it involves going on a bumpy, vertiginous mine-cart ride.

The main downside, of course, is that visiting Zacatecas is being discouraged by U.S. authorities at the minute, following reports that U.S. citizens have been subject to kidnapping and other forms of crime.

The city center of Zacatecas itself presents fewer dangers, but any travel outside the touristy zones, especially the suburbs and smaller towns in the vicinity, is advised against.

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5 Important Things You Need To Check In Your Passport Before Your Next Trip

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Long gone are the days when ensuring your passport in the bag was the main concern ahead of driving to the airport to catch that international flight:

In 2025, travel rules are either being enforced more strictly or tightening significantly, and before you ask, no, it’s got nothing to do with lab-originated pathogens.

Let’s leave that back in 2020-2021.

5 Important Things You Need To Check In Your Passport Before Your Next Trip

On the other hand, not many Americans may not know that presenting a valid passport at the border when landing in a foreign country is oftentimes not enough to grant you access to certain countries and territories.

In fact, depending on how you’ve handled your passport lately and what stamps have been added to it, you could be denied entry altogether.

So here are 5 important things you must check in your travel document before your next trip if you’re keen on avoiding being placed on a repatriation flight:

Never Get Souvenir Stamps

Border Officer Stamping A Passport

We get it, they’re cute collectibles, and they serve as a reminder of milestones we’ve reached in our travels, such as climbing Machu Picchu, the remote Incan highland town in Peru, or visiting the continent of Antarctica that isn’t claimed by any sovereign state.

In reality, however, these souvenir stamps that are regularly issued by tourism offices and have no practical validity can render your passport completely invalid.

As the U.S. State Department notes, getting your passport stamped in a celebratory way can be considered ‘damage’ to the document, as only border officers and other authorized officials of the U.S. and foreign countries can place visas or make notations or additions.

This is even stated on page five of all U.S. passports, something you can check for yourself if you’ve got yours handy.

A Young Womna At The Airport Ready To Board A Flight With Her U.S. Passport

Different countries enforce this rule with varying degrees of severity: for instance, there have been reports of travelers going around the globe with their souvenir stamps unnoticed, as well as cases where they were denied boarding and made to get a new passport.

To be on the safer side, it is best to just steer clear of them.

Handle Your Passport With Maximum Care

Passports are not merely booklets that can be twisted, folded, or handled with little to no care: the small gold camera logo at the bottom of the cover indicates there is a biometric chip inside, and it’s more susceptible to damage than you might think.

Woman standing in an airport

That’s where all your information is stored, and it’s how border agents will typically verify your identity and the authenticity of your document, so once that chip gets defective, the passport itself could be useless.

Additionally, any tears or imperfections on the cover or information page, however minor, could result in you getting repatriated––in other words, sent back home flying.

That’s the case in Bali, a popular tropical getaway for Americans, where border guards might refuse entry to newcomers unless their passport is ‘immaculate‘––in their own words, ‘normal wear and tear’, and even ‘minor tears or rips to the pages’ can be perceived as damage.

Border Officer Scanning What Appears To Be An Australian Passport During Border Check, International Travel

Check You Have Enough Months Left Of Validity

A common misconception among first-time travelers is that, as long as their passport will remain valid between the date of departure, and the date of return, they are good to go.

That couldn’t be farther from the truth.

Traveling to Europe, authorities will expect you to present a travel document that’s not only yet to expire but that is valid for an additional 6 months following the date of entry.

This means that if you have a single month left of validity, and you plan on going to Italy for a week and back, chances are the airline itself won’t authorize your boarding, or if you do get an exception, you might get turned away at the border landing in the Old Continent.

Woman Boarding A Plane

Most countries worldwide enforce the 6-month rule, with rare exceptions like Mexico (the passport must be valid for the intended length of stay), or Chile (must expire after you leave the country, with no specific period length set), so it’s worth verifying entry rules at your destination in advance.

Make Sure You Have Enough Blank Pages!

This one’s for our fellow frequent travelers out there:

On top of handling your document with care and checking you have enough months left of validity on it, you should ensure there are enough blank pages for stamps.

Close Up Of An American Passport Open On A Page With Several Entry Stamps, International Travel

Once your passport gets filled up, you may be refused entry on the grounds of not having available space for a stamp to be placed, even if the document is only expiring months or even years down the line.

Collecting stamps doesn’t seem all that fun now, does it?

In general, you should ensure you have at least one blank page left before traveling to allow for plenty of room, and that is if you’re only visiting one country.

That being said, in some instances, the requirement is even more restrictive, with some asking for 2, 3, or a whopping 6 blank pages––that would be Namibia for you, so if the offbeat African country is on your bucket list, now you know.

American Traveler Holding Up Two US American Passports As He Uses His Computer, Booking A Plane Or Checking Into A Flight

Get That Travel Authorization Before Flying

Last but certainly not least, entry rules are changing for a host of different destinations to which Americans have routinely been allowed to travel without previous restrictions.

As of January, they can no longer board flights to the United Kingdom without applying for the UK ETA (or Electronic Travel Authorization) in advance––read more here.

Soon enough, a similar requirement will be enforced by the European Union, encompassing much of mainland Europe: unless they are pre-screened before boarding and get a digital entry permit, Americans will no longer be able to board Europe-bound flights.

Luckily, the measure isn’t being enforced as of right now, though it’s coming soon enough.

It’s a complex world to navigate, and entry requirements and visa rules seem to be changing by the minute, so don’t forget to double-check them prior to booking that trip.

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Free Train To Run From Bangkok To Lesser-Known Beach Paradise This Spring

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It’s a challenge in today’s world to find anything truly free, often inciting thoughts of “what’s the catch?” and rightfully so.

With taxes, sneaky fees, and “gotcha” tactics, travelers often have to hawk-eye anything deemed ‘free’.

Couple holding hands at Hua Hin train station

But Thailand is ready to showcase a lesser-known beach destination. In turn, doing so for free. Best of all, there is no catch per se, rather select dates to hop aboard a scenic train ride to escape the city grind of Bangkok in favor of a lesser-known idyllic beach paradise.

As icons like Phuket and the surging island of Koh Samui have seen hordes of unsightly crowds flock to their shores, it’s time to give under-hyped Hua Hin a chance.

What better way than doing so at no cost?

Better yet, once you arrive, you’ll discover Hua Hin is one of Thailand’s cheapest beach destinations!

Free Ride Aside, Why Visit Hua Hin?

Evening view of Hua Hin cityscape

Hua Hin is located within Thailand’s Prachuap Khiri Khan province and is teeming with many of the same attractions that other major cities and beach hotspots behold.

The main difference is Hua Hin is largely off mainstream travelers’ radar, leaving a truly authentic destination waiting to be explored.

For example, it’s been reported Phuket is ‘wall to wall’ full of people as 2024’s most crowded destination, so who would want to have a bunch of fellow tourists cramping your space when you’re supposed to be enjoying one of the world’s most acclaimed paradises?

Sunshine over Phraya Nakhon Cave

That’s where Hua Hin makes for a great alternative, and we all know 2025 is destined to be a year full of discovering lookalikes as many destinations deal with overtourism concerns.

In Hua Hin, you’re not sacrificing a lackluster experience. In fact, you’re only enhancing it. Here are 5 must-visit sites to check out:

  • Hua Hin Beach – long stretches of soft sand and vivid blue waters; great for swimming, lounging, and various water sports
  • Phraya Nakhon Cave – the ultimate expedition for nature lovers; boasts a royal pavilion inside that will make you feel immersed in an Indiana Jones film
  • Cicada Market – a buzzing night market teeming with goodies ranging from piping hot street noodles to local artisan crafts
  • Moonsoon Valley – wine country in Thailand? You bet!
  • Huay Mongkol Temple – a towering temple surrounded by peaceful scenery; home to one of Thailand’s largest statues

Stay At Luxe Resorts & Beachside Guesthouses On The Cheap

Poolside loungers with beach views in Hua Hin

In a world where dollar stores are now $1.25 stores, it’s safe to say supply and demand can be a real doozy on the wallet.

Finding hotels is no different, but Hua Hin offers great stays with nightly rates cheaper than your weekly coffee budget.

This spring, you can easily find resorts and beachside guesthouses for unbelievable prices.

How about Karoon Hut Guest House set beachside for just $21? Or leveling up at the chic Stardust Boutique Hotel for $29?

White sand of Hua Hin and resorts in the distance

Still have some wiggle room? Okay, check out waterfront villas at The Yana Villas Hua Hin for just $88, or cash out your points at either Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa or Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa.

There’s truly something for everyone, from solo travelers with tight pockets to vacationers seeking to pamper themselves.

All Aboard! Welcome To The Vana Nava Express Train

If you find yourself in Bangkok but have had enough of pollution, crowded streets, and the world’s strangest ping-pong games, then it sounds like you’re in the market for a free ride to the beach.

Hua Hin train station

The free train (#43) leaves for Hua Hin from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal at 7:30am every Saturday and Sunday until March 30.

The full one-way journey takes approximately 3 hours, so you’ll arrive with plenty of time to enjoy the day beachside, market-hopping, or taking it easy at an aforementioned resort.

Along the ride, passengers are provided with free snacks, souvenirs, and even a towel as a keepsake.

Don’t worry; it’s not to cool down from the heat. The train is equipped with air conditioning.

How To Book Your Free Train Ride

Tickets sign at Hua Hin train station

According to Thaiger, these are the 3 steps to book your free train ride:

  1. Visit the official train carrier website
  2. Choose “General Customer”
  3. Follow prompts

Keep in mind, booking is only open every Thursday from 7am to Friday at 3pm.

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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.



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