These 2 Beautiful European Countries Are Offering Unlimited Train Travel For Under $66

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Get ready to pack your bags and dust off your adventure boots! Imagine this: exploring not one, but two stunning European nations by train, with virtually no limit to how many journeys you can take. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, for 2025, this dream is a reality, and it comes with an almost unbelievable price tag of under $66 for a month of incredible exploration in each country. If you’ve been itching for an epic European escapade that’s big on experience but gentle on the wallet, keep reading – because this is the travel hack you’ve been waiting for!

These 2 Beautiful European Countries Are Offering Unlimited Train Travel For Under $66

First Up: Pretzels, Fairytales, and Phenomenal Rail Freedom!

Let’s pull back the curtain on our first destination: Germany! This land of vibrant cities, enchanting forests, and too-many-castles-to-count is rolling out the red carpet for train travelers in 2025 with its fantastic “Deutschlandticket.”

For what amounts to roughly $66 a month (officially €58, so the exact dollar amount dances a little with the exchange rate, but it’s right in that super-sweet spot!), you get a golden ticket to Germany’s extensive public transport network. We’re talking unlimited rides on regional trains, S-Bahns (city trains), U-Bahns (subways), trams, and buses across the entire country. Think about it: one week you could be exploring Berlin’s edgy art scene, and the next, you might be hiking in the Bavarian Alps or sipping Riesling in the Rhine Valley, all without buying another ticket!

Deutsche Bahn DB high-speed train railway in Gemuenden am Main, Germany

Now, this pass is designed for deep dives into regions rather than lightning-fast dashes between major cities on the super-speedy ICE trains (those require separate tickets). But honestly, that’s where the magic lies! You’ll discover charming towns and hidden gems that fly-by tourists often miss. Fancy a spontaneous trip from Munich to see the Neuschwanstein castle? Covered. Want to explore the historic university town of Heidelberg from Frankfurt? Hop on! The Deutschlandticket is your key to unlocking the real soul of Germany, one scenic rail journey at a time. It’s usually a monthly subscription, super easy to manage, and perfect for a month-long immersion.


Next Stop: Goulash, Grandeur, and Glorious Journeys!

Our second country whisking you away on an affordable rail adventure is the heart-stealer, Hungary! This nation packs a punch with its stunning capital, relaxing thermal baths, and rich cultural tapestry. And for 2025, getting around to see it all is an absolute bargain.

Hungary offers its “National Travel Card” (you might hear it called “országos bérlet” or “Magyar Bérlet”), and the value is simply brilliant. For a price that has hovered around the equivalent of $50-$55 USD (often cited at about €49), you get 30 days of unlimited travel. This means it fits comfortably under our $66 headline, giving you even more bang for your buck!

Display board showing train schedules and destinations at the Eastern Railway Station in Budapest, with modern trains in view

This pass isn’t just for trains; it’s a multi-modal marvel! It generally covers unlimited travel on MÁV-START (national railway, 2nd class), GYSEV trains, Volánbusz (national and regional buses), and even the HÉV (suburban railway lines). What’s more, it often includes local public transport in the magnificent capital, Budapest (think trams, metro, and buses – though usually excluding special airport shuttles), and several other cities. So, you can glide from the architectural wonders of Budapest to the serene shores of Lake Balaton, or explore historic cities like Pécs or Eger, all with one simple pass. Imagine starting your day with a coffee in a grand Budapest café and ending it with a wine tasting in a countryside vineyard – easy peasy!

Chain bridge on Danube river in Budapest city. Hungary. Urban landscape panorama with old buildings and domes of opera

But Wait, There’s a Freebie!

As if these two incredible offers weren’t enough, there’s another European gem that takes affordable travel to a whole new level. Let’s talk about Luxembourg! This charming little Grand Duchy made history by introducing free public transport for everyone – residents and tourists alike.

That’s right! Since early 2020, you can hop on any national train (2nd class), bus, or tram across the entire country without paying a single cent. Imagine exploring Luxembourg City’s UNESCO-listed fortifications, the fairytale castles of Vianden, or the scenic Mullerthal Region (Little Switzerland) completely for free. It’s a fantastic bonus if you’re already planning a European tour and want to add another unique country to your itinerary with zero extra transport cost.

All Aboard for Your 2025 Adventure!

So, there you have it – two fantastic countries offering month-long, near-unlimited train travel for around $66 (or even less!), plus a bonus country where the travel is on the house! These are perfect for the savvy traveler looking to explore Europe more deeply, sustainably, and affordably in 2025.

Before you dash off, remember that while the core offers are pretty stable, it’s always a smart move to check the very latest details and specific terms with the official transport providers (like Deutsche Bahn for Germany and MÁV-START for Hungary) closer to your travel dates. Exchange rates can wiggle, and specific conditions might get a tweak.

 Double Decker trains on a bridge in Luxembourg during the day

But one thing’s for sure: 2025 is shaping up to be an amazing year for European rail adventures. Start dreaming, start planning, and get ready to say “All aboard!” to incredible savings and unforgettable memories. Happy travels!

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Move Over Rio! Airbnb Reveals Travelers’ Favorite Brazilian Getaway This Summer

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Travelers rightfully question if the long-haul flight to Brazil is worth it, especially with the country’s new invasive entry requirements for U.S. passport holders.

In other words, save your paycheck!

As Rio has held a sketchy reputation in recent years with notable upticks in crime, it’s become clear the iconic beach destination is no longer the same must-visit getaway one might expect.

As gargantuan as Brazil is, there’s gotta be some overlooked gems, right? Airbnb just revealed where travelers are making plans this summer, and it’s not Rio or even Sao Paulo highlighting itineraries this summer.

Praça da Liberdade in Belo Horizonte, Brazil

Nope — it’s the lesser-known urban sprawl of Belo Horizonte; a safe, welcoming, foodie lover’s dream that was coincidentally one of my favorite trips the past few years, if not solely because of my new weekend vice, the puckery-mouthed sweetness of caipirinhas.

But, Belo Horizonte isn’t just a haven for cheap eats and cocktails too good to be true; it’s a vibrant urban playground with a buzzing maze of markets, affordable luxury, world-class nightlife, and a gateway to a timeless UNESCO-protected town worthy of a day trip at the very least.

Fly Direct To Belo Horizonte

Woman at overlook with city views of Belo Horizonte, Brazil

Every traveler has to ask themselves if a trip is worth taking, whether it be due to costs or the amount of hours sitting idle in one space with the risk of crying children, bad movie selections, and the off-chance you get the middle seat.

I can attest that Belo Horizonte is very well worth the long journey, and I didn’t even take one of the pair of nonstop flights from U.S. soil.

As you might imagine, there are numerous nonstop flights to Rio and Sao Paulo, but Belo Horizonte doesn’t hold the same household recognition.

There are 2 direct flights from Florida, one being from Orlando (MCO) and the other being Miami (MIA).

Azul plane

Americans can fly with Sao Paulo-based Azul Brazilian Airlines from MCO 5 days per week, and the same goes from MIA 3 days per week re-upping in July.

Beyond Acaí: Feast On The World’s Most Underrated Cuisine

Chances are you’ve had an acaí bowl by now. This Brazilian treat would be like comparing a ground beef taco with shredded cheese to Mexico’s best.

Brazilian cuisine is full of depth and flavor, often deriving from ingredients you’ve never heard of. This is likely because their food is too challenging to replicate in the U.S., as it would lose its freshness if imported.

Pao de Queijo in Minas Gerais

In case you missed it years ago, famed chef and world explorer Anthony Bourdain traversed Minas Gerais on an episode of Parts Unknown, the state that holds Belo Horizonte, and is heralded as Brazil’s food capital — and not that my word should top Tony’s, but it definitely lived up to the hype.

Not one meal was disappointing, whether it was cheap skewers of mystery street meat, a few “splurges” on fine dining, or perhaps Brazil’s most notable sinfully delicious snack, Pan de Queijo.

Anthony Bourdain said, “Greens, chickens, pigs, fruit, everything is at hand — the food of the yard. And eventually, it all ends up here at the wood stove, the center of the Miniera kitchen.”

Sausage dish and caipirinha in Belo Horizonte, Brazil

I’d say that about sums it up. People of Minas Gerais are masters of making use of every tidbit of edible morsel and this was no more evident than my visit (and Tony’s) to Nonô, one of the few establishments open all night, welcoming all walks of life and serving up “peasant food” consisting of cheap meat cuts and slow-cooked stews for dirt-cheap prices.

But my real love from my Belo Horizonte trip was my discovery of caipirinhas, a dangerously delicious cocktail made of Cachaça, lime, and sugar that will have you hitting up Fogo de Chão’s happy hour when you get back home.

Enjoy Modern City Luxury And A Timeless Town Nearby

Aerial View Of Belo Horizonte, Capital Of The State Of Minas Gerais, Brazil, South America, Latin America

The lookout from Parque de Serra do Curral seems like the vibrant cityscape never ends. All you see is a sea of towering high-rises, but this is to your benefit as many of what you are see are cheap Airbnbs and luxury hotels.

Take the 4-star Royal Center Hotel Lourdes, for example. It’s only $51 per night this summer.

While you might be thinking Brazil is super hot in summer, think again. Belo Horizonte feels like spring with consistent 70-degree days across the summer months, which is all the more reason to explore, even though I could personally spend hours wandering the indoor Mercado Central, one of the city’s most popular attractions.

Historic church in Ouro Preto, Brazil

The centuries-old former gold-mining town of Ouro Preto is the perfect excuse to enjoy the nice weather by grabbing a cup of coffee at a sidewalk cafe or simply enjoying a nice stroll through the cobbled streets lined with sightly baroque buildings.

Ouro Preto is an hour away by bus and arguably Minas Gerais’ most postcard-worthy destination, even as culturally rich as Belo Horizonte is.

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This Is The Safest Country To Visit In Asia For 2025

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Planning an international trip often comes with a checklist: passport, flights, hotels… and safety. Especially now, with the world feeling a bit unpredictable, knowing you’re heading somewhere secure is more important than ever. When dreaming of Asia – a continent bursting with vibrant cultures, incredible food, and breathtaking landscapes – safety is definitely top of mind.

While many Asian nations are welcoming tourists back with open arms and offer fantastic experiences, one country stands out for its remarkable safety record in 2025. According to several major global rankings, this island nation isn’t just safe; it’s one of the safest places on the entire planet.

Get ready to add Singapore to your 2025 travel list!

Singapore: Officially Asia’s Safest Country (And One of the World’s!)

Forget outdated worries; modern Asia is booming, and tourism is bouncing back stronger than ever. From the beaches of Thailand to the temples of Japan, travelers are rediscovering the magic of the East. But if you’re looking for the destination with the highest safety ratings, all signs point to Singapore.

Beautiful architecture building exterior cityscape in Singapore city skyline with white cloud on blue sky

Recent global reports paint a clear picture:

  • The Gallup Law and Order Index (data from late 2024) consistently places Singapore near the very top globally, often scoring 95 out of 100. Residents report feeling incredibly safe walking around, day or night.
  • The Global Peace Index (GPI), a measure of national peacefulness, ranks Singapore as the most peaceful country in Asia and among the top 10 worldwide (often placing around 5th or 6th globally in recent reports).
  • Other indices, like the CEOWORLD Magazine International Peace Index, also rank Singapore as the safest in Asia (9th globally for 2025).
Traditional houses in Singapore

What makes Singapore so safe? It’s a combination of factors. The country is known for its strictly enforced laws, which act as a strong deterrent against crime. Violent crime rates are exceptionally low – among the lowest in the world. There’s a strong culture of respect for the law, taught from a young age, and high public trust in the police. Political stability and economic prosperity also play significant roles. While some might point to its strict rules, there’s no denying the result: an environment where tourists and locals alike feel secure.

Night view of Gardens by the Bay a nature park in Singapore City

Beyond Safety: Why Singapore Shines for Travelers

Okay, so it’s incredibly safe. But is it fun? Absolutely! Singapore offers a dazzling, futuristic cityscape blended with rich cultural heritage and lush green spaces. It’s a place where you can explore gleaming skyscrapers one moment and wander through traditional shophouses the next.

Here’s just a taste of what awaits you:

  • Iconic Landmarks: You can’t miss the stunning Gardens by the Bay with its Supertree Grove and Cloud Forest dome, or the architectural marvel of Marina Bay Sands (yes, the hotel with the infinity pool on top!).
  • Foodie Paradise: Singapore is world-famous for its food scene. Dive into bustling hawker centers (like Lau Pa Sat or Maxwell Food Centre) for delicious and affordable local dishes like Hainanese Chicken Rice, Laksa, and Chili Crab.
  • Cultural Melting Pot: Explore the vibrant streets of Chinatown, the colorful temples of Little India, and the charming boutiques of Kampong Glam. Singapore celebrates its multiculturalism, offering diverse experiences within easy reach.
street view of singapore with Masjid Sultan
  • Green City: Despite being a dense urban center, Singapore is surprisingly green. Visit the Singapore Botanic Gardens (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) or take a walk along the Southern Ridges for treetop views.
  • Effortless Travel: Getting around is a breeze thanks to an incredibly efficient and clean public transport system (MRT). English is widely spoken, making communication easy for international visitors. Plus, Changi Airport is consistently ranked as one of the best in the world, making your arrival and departure smooth sailing.
the Rain Vortex, a 40m-tall indoor waterfall located inside the Jewal Changi Airport in Singapore

For American travelers, Singapore is generally visa-free for short tourist stays (typically up to 90 days), making planning straightforward.

So, if you’re looking for an Asian adventure in 2025 that combines fascinating culture, delicious food, stunning sights, and gives you total peace of mind when it comes to safety, Singapore should be at the top of your list. It’s a shining example of a modern, stable, and welcoming destination ready to impress.

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American Airlines Launching New Flights To 4 Sunny International Destinations

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If your passport has been collecting dust, American Airlines is here to help with this week’s announcement of exciting new flights to 4 sunny international destinations.

Nobody likes the headache of going through customs, but is there a better feeling than getting some fresh ink in your passport book?

Okay, I can think of a few, but we’ll keep this PG…

American Airlines plane flying over St. Maarten beach to land at aiport

American is not only launching new flights internationally but also adding some notable new domestic flights and adding extra daily services to already popular routes such as Cabo, Montego Bay, and Cancun.

According to American Airlines’ latest press release, the latest 4 destinations will total 17 new escapes in 2025 for one of the U.S. travelers’ favorite airlines.

The following 4 new international routes will depart from Chicago (ORD) this winter:

Guatemala City, Guatemala

Anyone flying to Guatemala City with the idea of making a vacation out of it—good luck.

Guatemala’s capital city is best served as a gateway to neighboring Honduras’ San Pedro Sula and Belize City.

Santa Catalina arch in Antigua, Guatemala

I’ve flown into Guatemala City and was supposed to stay a couple of days before venturing into the timeless town of Antigua, but my Uber driver practically begged me not to stay in the big city as he feared I’d be robbed.

His plea seemed genuine, but honestly, I have no idea if this was a ploy to switch my route to Antigua for more money or perhaps he was hoping I’d hire him to guide me around to feel more secure.

According to numerous travel forums, Guatemala does have a sketchy reputation, but the reality is there are far more safe and charming destinations in the country, such as the aforementioned Antigua (which will always hold a special place in my heart), tranquil Lake Atitlan, and the portal to the past, Tikal, an ancient Mayan city, among others.

Historic cathedral in Antigua, Guatemala

American’s new route from ORD will launch November 6th with 3 weekly flights.

San Jose, Costa Rica

Speaking of springboard cities, Costa Rica’s capital is another, especially with a fairly recent security alert issued regarding San Jose’s airport.

For what it’s worth, American also increased routes to Costa Rica’s alternative airport in Liberia, which holds a safer reputation as the more glamorous side of the country with resort-laden beach towns.

Believe it or not, Costa Rica has actually seen a dip in tourism, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less enjoyable. In fact, one could argue it just means less crowds at the usual hotspots — not San Jose.

Bajos del Toro waterfall in Costa Rica

Whether you’re ready to hit the beach, explore the lush vegetation in hopes of wildlife sightings, or soak in a waterfall, it’s nearly impossible to have a bad time in such a diverse destination that suits all types of travelers, from solo trippers to digital nomads to romantic couples retreats.

American’s new route to SJO will launch with daily service starting November 2nd, providing easy access by car or bus to nearby destinations like Poás Volcano National Park, Zarcero, Jaco Beach, and the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest (3 hours away).

Curacao

For the Midwest, there’s no better time than winter to escape the frigid weather. While Chicago is beaming now, we all know “The Windy City” lives up to its name come winter.

Bridge during sunset in Willemsted, Curacao

What better place to escape to than a vibrant Caribbean island?

Curacao is arguably the trendiest Caribbean getaway right now with a blend of multiple cultures, Willemsted’s color-wheeled townscape perhaps brighter than their own turquoise waters, and pristine beaches that feel untouched by the masses unlike numerous fellow islands.

Rather than booking the same-o same-o in Montego Bay or Nassau, Curacao offers a more authentic experience with hidden coves, rich culture, and more sense of adventure rather than whittling away seaside with a drink in hand.

The food scene is spot on, the capital is vibrant and UNESCO-protected, and waters couldn’t be any clearer for snorkelers and divers, especially Playa Piskado where you can swim with sea turtles.

Curacao beach cove

Like most Caribbean islands, there’s a wide selection of beachfront stays to choose from — but Curacao is yet be overrun with flashy eyesores stealing the shine away from coastal charm.

American’s new route to Curacao is set to launch December 6th with Saturday-only service.

St. Maarten

St. Maarten is a blast from the moment your pilot says “flight attendants, please prepare for landing”.

If you snagged a window seat, your adventure has already begun as pilots somehow land safely after coming within 100 feet of beachgoers at St. Maarten’s popular Maho Beach.

Once your heart rate settles, St. Maarten is ready to whisk you away to a paradise of sun-soaked shores, delicious cuisine, and a unique Dutch-French flair.

aerial view of st maarten beach

St. Maarten is a quintessential Caribbean island we’ve all seen on screensavers and postcards — a place that seems too good to be real.

Extremely safe, welcoming, and surprisingly affordable, you can’t go wrong making this stunning island your next vacation spot with luxe resorts like Simpson Bay Resort, Marina & Spa, only costing $104 this summer.

American’s new route to St. Maarten is set to launch November 8th with Saturday-only service.

Make sure you dot your I’s and cross your T’s with St. Maarten’s newly required digital entry form upon entry.

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Texas Charm & Big City Thrills: Hop Aboard The South’s Most Underrated Train Ride

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People who’ve only seen Texas through the lens of classic Westerns will be gobsmacked by how diverse the Lone Star State really is.

Whether you’re drawn to charming small towns where the aroma of pit-smoked barbecue infuses your clothes, culturally vibrant cities with deep Hispanic roots, or the unique blend of cowboy tradition and modern growth in cities like Fort Worth, there’s no shortage of wondrous destinations in Texas.

Of course, there are some places that aren’t all they’re cracked up to be, either, as Austin has essentially become the new Dallas, and certain small towns definitely live up to let’s say, patriotic, trailer park-laden eyesores.

Amtrak's Texas Eagle train in Austin, TX

But no need to worry when hopping aboard perhaps the South’s most underrated train ride, the Texas Eagle, which features some of Texas’s most delightful small towns and captivating cities all in one route.

As a born-and-raised Texan turned California transplant, I had the pleasure of visiting San Antonio recently, reigniting my forgotten love for my home state.

In fact, I lived in 6 destinations on this route and never took the train (womp, womp).

Don’t be like me and regret not exploring Texas by rail. Hop aboard the Texas Eagle’s cushy air-conditioned cabins this summer and make sure to score a seat in the newly upgraded Sightseer Lounge!

Sorry Amarillo! The Texas Eagle Covers Texas’s Best Destinations

Austin, Texas skyline with lake view

No offense to the armpit of Texas, but the Texas Eagle nails it by offering a mix of idyllic East Texas towns, sprawling metropolises, and anything in between.

Much of the barren land, like Amarillo, Abilene, and Midland’s unsightly oil rigs, is skipped over, and if you’ve ever been, you surely understand there’s no reason for FOMO.

According to Texas Highways, this Texas route is part of the longest train route in the U.S. Despite the name, this route begins in Chicago, but for the sake of the article, we’ll be sticking to the Texas portion, which consists of 16 stops in the Lone Star State.

Texas Eagle train seating

In order from Northeast to Southwest, these are the Texas Eagle’s 16 stops that carve the state’s beautiful and varied landscapes:

  • Marshall
  • Longview
  • Mineola
  • Dallas
  • Fort Worth
  • Cleburne
  • McGregor
  • Temple
  • Taylor
  • Austin
  • San Marcos
  • San Antonio
  • Del Rio
  • Sanderson
  • Alpine
  • El Paso

8 destinations are in bold – these are the ones I believe truly stand out. With personal experience living in 6 of them, let’s delve into what makes each truly special.

Texas Eagle train sign on El Paso train ride

3 Small Town Must-Visits

Mineola:

The first stop across the Texas state line is Marshall, hugging the Louisiana border. But it’s not Marshall or even Longview that should be your first stop-off; it’s Mineola.

From age 7 to 12, I called Mineola home. Believe me, not much has changed in 23 years, and that’s a good thing.

Mineola is a time capsule. The main drag is lined with inviting boutiques, antiquities, down-home eats, and even a classic theater.

To fuel up for the rest of your journey, the town’s longstanding staple, East Texas Burger Co., alone is worth de-boarding.

Mineola, TX sign at train station

Cleburne:

Cleburne itself is a laid-back little town and a growing hub for outdoorsmen with scenic lakes and nature trails, but I believe it’s the neighboring town of Glen Rose that’s more of a draw.

We all know Jurassic Park is a fantasy, but Dinosaur Valley State Park is as close as it gets. Well, let’s see about the mammoth resurrections making waves lately…

Until then, a visit to Glen Rose’s popular state park is a thrill for all ages with dinosaur tracks preserved in dried-up riverbeds and a separate roaring attracting nearby.

Not to be confused with the state park, Dinosaur World offers dozens of animatronic dinosaurs and fossil digs — hold on to your butts!

Dinosaur tracks in Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose, Texas

San Marcos:

I went to college in San Marcos and didn’t graduate (woo! student loans!). Texas State University has made San Marcos a party town.

From the few brain cells I didn’t kill, I remember not only the all-night frat parties and anxiety-ridden report cards, but simply how pretty the vibrant blue San Marcos River is.

In fact, it’s 72 degrees all year long, perfect for tubing, fishing, even snorkeling since the waters are pristine.

Each Texas City Has Its Own Personality

Dallas-Fort Worth:

cattle drive stockyards fort worth

Despite being neighbors, Dallas and Fort Worth seem like worlds apart. Dallas is (shamelessly) more flashy, with upscale restaurants and high-end shopping, while Fort Worth has maintained its quintessential Texas roots as the ‘Gateway to the West’.

If you find yourself in Dallas, spend some time in the Deep Ellum and Bishop Arts districts for off-the-wall shops and eats. The Stockyards are a must-visit for anyone ready to explore Fort Worth, with daily cattle drives and old-timey steakhouses.

Austin-San Antonio:

Austin and San Antonio are located about an hour apart with aforementioned San Marcos, New Braunfels, and Buc-ee’s in between.

Tourist boat on San Antonio River Walk

While Austin has changed more than any other Texas city over the past decade, it’s still a blast to visit, with its world-famous 6th Street, too many barbecue restaurants to name, and surprisingly stunning nature, like beautiful Lake Travis and Mount Bonnell.

San Antonio has changed a lot too, but the classics remain like The Alamo and community staples like Los Barrios, my favorite “Texas Mexican” restaurant. Get the chimichurri sauce and tell Diana I sent you!

There’s no city comparable to San Antonio, famously lined with the always buzzing River Walk, with the entire network of waterways winding 15 miles through the city.

Indianapolis and Monterrey have their own takes, but nothing will match San Antonio, especially with one of the most fun citywide festivals I’ve had the pleasure of attending, Fiesta.

El Paso:

Skyline of El Paso at dusk

Concluding my tour of Texas is El Paso, perhaps the state’s most underrated city. I lived in El Paso for a year and absolutely fell in love with the welcoming people, cheap sensational restaurants, vibrant downtown dotted with posh rooftops, and some of the best hikes I’ve taken in recent memory.

If you find yourself in El Paso, my advice is to arrive hungry, leave happy. Check out local favorite L & J Cafe.

Tickets for The Texas Eagle are available online on Amtrak’s official website and app.

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