When it comes to a place as iconic and stunningly diverse as Italy, it can be hard to pick a single place to visit and even harder to differentiate between the unmissable gems and the overhyped tourist traps.
Milan, in particular, has always been the subject of an ongoing debate among travelers, with some insisting it’s one of Italy’s most visit-worthy cities and others claiming it’s a waste of both time and money.
So I decided to take a leap and see for myself – is Milan actually worth visiting, and more importantly, can you do it on a budget?
After four amazing days in the city, I’m happy to report that the north Italian gem is not only one of the most stunning places I’ve ever seen in my life, but I was actually able to have an incredible time on less than $100 a day.
Here’s how:
Finding Low-Cost Accommodation In Milan
Accommodation might be the trickiest thing to do on a budget in Milan, especially if you have certain expectations regarding location or overall quality, but it’s not impossible.
The no. 1 tip I can give you here is to prioritize Airbnb over hotels.
I loved the view from my Airbnb
I know that Airbnbs have notoriously become more expensive than hotels in most destinations, but after searching for the perfect affordable place to stay for at least a month, I can confidently say that Milan is not one of them.
Places like these (1, 2) while unassuming, are still comfy, clean, and conveniently located, offering excellent value for the money (assuming you’re traveling with a companion, the nightly cost ends up somewhere around $40-$55 per person).
You’ll notice that both of these apartments are located in Porta Venezia – in my opinion, that’s the best area for a tourist to stay in the city.
This was just one of the many gorgeous buildings in Porta Venezia. Not just conveniently located but beautiful too!
You’re close to both the city center (~25-minute walk) and Milano Centrale, the main train and bus station (~15-minute walk), and believe me, if you don’t have your own car, you’ll want to be close to Minano Centrale because that’s where you’ll go for every day trip and airport transfer.
The neighborhood itself is peaceful but still lively and near great shops and bars, and you even have access to a beautiful park (Indro Montanelli).
I always looked forward to passing through the Indro Montanelli Gardens on my way to the Duomo
Getting Around The City
OK, so you want to be close to Milano Centrale for all inter-city trips, but what about getting around Milan itself? How do you do that and how much can you expect to pay?
The easiest and most convenient mode of transportation here is by metro, no competition.
There’s a station at almost every corner, and as long as you do your best to understand how the system works, you should get the hang of it in no time.
Getting used to the metro system took a bit of trial and error, but I got the hang of it in less than two days – not too shabby
Basically, there are three main lines that cover most of the city, Red (M1), Green (M2), and Yellow (M3), each with its own set of stops which you can learn more about here.
Still, as a tourist, you might have a challenging time figuring out what station you need to get to and what line you should take, so I highly recommend you download the ATM Milano App.
You just type in your location and where you need to go, and the app will come up with an exact itinerary of how to get to the right metro station near you, what line to take, and where to stop, and it’s definitely a time and headache-saver.
The ATM Milan app is completely free so definitely give it a try
Even with the app, though, you’ll still want to pay close attention to the signs and maps displayed inside metro stations as well as the digital displays inside the actual metros to make sure you’re going in the right direction.
As far as pricing is concerned, a single ticket (which can be used as many times as you want within a 90-minute time frame) costs 2.2€ or ~$2.5, while a 3-day pass costs 15.5€ or ~$17.
Eating Out And Well Doesn’t Have To Be Expensive
Eating out in Milan can get pretty expensive – there are probably thousands of restaurants and fast food joints in the city and most of them are obvious tourist traps with sky-high prices and mediocre food.
With that said, there are still some places where you can get amazing, great-value food, even in more touristy areas.
Be it the food itself or the overall vibe of Navigli, I had the best time with this meal at Pizza e Mozzarella
This pistacchio and biscotti gelato I got from Gelato Fatto Con Amore was one of the best I’ve ever had
The Same Goes For Entertainment
With accommodation, food, and transportation covered, it’s time to delve into what it costs to do other touristy activities in Milan, you know, things like visiting a museum, exploring a historical attraction, or going out for a cocktail.
With museums, you’ll want to try your best to time your visit to Milan so that you’re here during the first Sunday of the month – some of the city’s most coveted historical and cultural attractions are free to enter on that day alone.
If that’s not possible, you’ll want to aim for either the first or third Tuesday of the month, when there will still be some gorgeous museums you can enter for free (places that charge anywhere between $5 and $25 per ticket the rest of the month).
Castello Sforzesco is free to enter every first and third Tuesday of the month – definitely worth a stop!
With Duomo, you’ll have to pay for a ticket no matter the time of the month you go, but there are a few tips I can give you to get the most out of the experience:
If you’re reasonably fit, choose the Combo Stairs ticket instead of the Combo Lift – there are only 200 stairs, the lines for the lift can get insane during specific times of the day, and there’s no descending lift, so you’ll still have to make your way down by foot
Make use of the 10% discount code for the gift shop that comes with any Combo Ticket
None of the pictures I took inside the Duomo (this one included) can do the actual view justice
Now when it comes to bars, the best places to go for those on a budget are definitely neighborhoods like Porta Romana or Porta Venezia, where cocktails cost anywhere between $8 and $10.
If you’re set on having a drink with a gorgeous view of the Duomo, my top recommendation would be SunEleven Rooftop Bar – for just $16 a cocktail you get great service and the most incredible backdrop.
This view and a good cocktail were the recipe for one of my best nights in Milan
So, with all of that said, what can you expect the average day in Milan to cost you?
Airbnb – $45
Breakfast + coffee (espresso) – $6
Sightseeing + museum tour – $0
Lunch – $18
Cocktail – $10
Dinner – $15
All of that adds up to a total of $94, well under $100.
Having explored over 20 countries in the last 3 years, Megi is committed to bringing the freshest, most up-to-date news and perspectives on the world’s most fascinating destinations.
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.
For better or worse, Paris is having quite a year. First, the French icon was dethroned by Istanbul as the most visited city in the world, and now they have fallen out of the top 3 entirely.
Followed by the looming Olympics as the City of Light lays down their welcome mats to the world playing host to this magnificent global event Jul 26, 2024 – Aug 11, 2024.
However, early reports are showing mixed reviews of Paris during this period.
Air France, expecting a gargantuan loss of $193 million, was quoted as saying, “International markets show a significant avoidance of Paris.”.
Taking a page out of Southwest Airline’s playbook, tourists are saying they ‘wanna get away’…or stay away for that matter.
Good news is you can, and very cheap at that. One of the main concerns tourists have visiting Paris during the Olympics is the all but guaranteed surge in pricing.
Fortunately, that doesn’t impact trains outta town, but there’s also great deals extending through fall.
Travel to these 4 underrated destinations from Paris under $30 by train:
Ditch France Entirely! Take A Short Ride To Luxembourg ($27)
Luxembourg is undeniably one of the most expensive destinations in all of Europe and also insanely beautiful.
Don’t let your travel budget deter you from visiting one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, however.
Although pricey for hotels and dining, Luxembourg is worth a splurge for a day-trip or weekend getaway and it’s more than meets the eye with small towns like Echternach, known as “Little Switzerland”.
Everybody likes free stuff, and when it comes to traveling, we all appreciate freebies even more.
In this case, you would be arriving by train via SNCF Connect, so all you have to purchase is your ticket from Paris (Gare de l’Est) into Luxembourg, totaling 2 hours, 43 minutes after a brief stop in Metz.
Those looking to escape the crowds watching Lebron James light up the scoreboard will have to fork over anywhere from $50 – $100 during the Olympics, but can score $27 tickets various dates Sep – Oct.
Au Revoir, Nice! Hit Up The Northern Coastal Town Of Le Havre ($23)
Paris, Lyon, Nice, Cannes…none of these household names are Le Havre. You may have never heard of it and that’s okay.
The road less traveled, or in this case, the rail, is one of the best ways to explore the world.
Those looking to check out more of France and want to stay close to Paris should check out Le Havre, which is just a 2-hour and 18-minute nonstop journey.
According to Rail Europe, tickets are $27 during the Olympics and $23 in October – the perfect escape for a day trip away from crowds, especially since trains run throughout the day.
Visitors may find Le Havre is a bit quirky, but aren’t we all?
This artsy port city, blending modern architecture and well-preserved structures surviving World War II bombings, has earned itself UNESCO recognition.
Easy to explore with the city’s grid-like layout, Le Havre is full of surprises, from savory beachside seafood restaurants to eye-popping art installations.
If there’s one thing not to miss out on it’s the remarkable Saint Joseph’s Church, a feast for the eyes.
Toast To New Adventures: Visit France’s Champagne Capital($14)
Reims is a city steeped in history, but its claim to fame is being France’s champagne capital.
We’ll toast to that!
Boasting phenomenal attractions ranging from historic to indulgent, you can visit such sites as the Gothic-style Reims Cathedral to the beautiful Abbey of Saint-Remi, both protected by UNESCO.
Of course, you can’t visit the ‘champagne capital’ without sipping some bubbly.
Feel free to pop bottles at Reims’ renowned Champagne Houses for tours and tasting.
A few of the top-rated are:
Mumm
Veuve Clicquot,
Taittinger
You can reach Reims easily from Paris (Gare de l’Est) as low as $14 during the Olympics on SNCF Connect. Oddly enough prices go up to $19 in fall.
The route takes 2 hours 11 minutes for these fares, but an express route via TGV Inoui will get you there in just 46 minutes for $26.
A Grand Tour Through Tours ($11)
Tours, France is a hidden gem in the Loire Valley and just a stone’s throw from Paris in terms of train travel.
The city is quaint, easily navigable, and underappreciated for authentic French cuisine, but the real draws are the world-class chateaux and wineries outside the city limits.
Explore more of Loire Valley and visit stunning castles like Chambord, Chenonceau, Villandry, and Amboise, each with its own unique style and backstory.
But first, you have to get to Tours. Doing so is easy aboard the direct SNCF Connect route from Paris Montparnasse station, reaching Tours in as little as 51 minutes.
Tickets are as low as $17 July 29th during the Olympics and as low as $11 September – November.
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.
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.
Hear me out. I also used to think chartering a super yacht was something reserved for the ultra-rich and famous, and not something I would ever experience myself.
Most of us have seen Below Deck and imagined ourselves on a super yacht with our friends or family, sailing around gorgeous Mediterranean islands, eating fresh seafood with truffles and drinking fine wines. But then reality hits us that we probably don’t have an extra $20 million sitting in the bank to buy a 50-meter yacht.
However,there is a solution. One that doesn’t require much more money than you would spend on a 4-star All-Inclusive resort in Cancun for example. And I’m going to show you how to get it.
I recently got the chance to spend a week on a super yacht in Croatia, and I’m here to tell you all the juicy details.
Pricing (which is surprisingly lower than I thought), the perks that are included, exactly how to book it yourself, and why Croatia has recently become the hottest sailing destination.
While of course time on a super yacht is going to cost more than a Carnival cruise, I’m happy to report this bucket-list experience is within reach for many travelers, even easier if you have a group to travel with, and it will surely stand out from any vacation you’ve had before.
Let’s dive in.
Goolets – A charter company that offers luxury for less
I recently sailed with a European yacht company called Goolets, aboard their yacht called ‘Cristal’ throughout stunning Croatia.
Goolets is different than your average stuffy yacht charter company. They’re making a name for themselves in the yachting world because they make charting more affordable without skimping on the luxury. Where traditionally, it’s difficult to find a luxury yacht charter for under $250k a week, Goolets is offering charters for much less, but keeping the experience high-end.
This is what originally piqued my interest, their ability to compete in the market and offer a prime yacht experience for less, and of course, then I saw how extravagant Cristal really was.
I stepped aboard the Cristal in the middle of the enchanting city of Split, Croatia, which is an experience in itself, and immediately fell in love with how different the yacht world is compared to other types of vacations.
The Experience – What Sailing on a Yacht is Actually Like
I’m no stranger to traveling, I’ve been doing it full-time for the last 8 years, so when I say I am impressed by something, it’s a genuine declaration. I think anyone in the world would say they were superbly impressed by a week on a super yacht, but I’m going to tell you why.
The one-on-one service, the attention to detail, and the small intimate environment make it unbeatable in terms of memorable experiences. I was on the ship with 25 other people, which still felt social and fun, but extremely private at the same time. Everyone had their own space and freedom but was easy to connect when we wanted to.
The service on a super yacht is unlike anything you can find at a hotel, resort, or on a cruise. The staff has a psychic-like ability to predict what you need, when you need it.
To be honest, the service is so unparalleled, it kind of ruins you for other types of travel. Just imagine a team of staff that is excited about meeting your every need and executes everything from a simple drink to a towel refresh, to a gourmet meal with ease.
Here’s what I did on a typical day:
A day in the life of super-yachting
8:00 am – wake up to the light sound of the motor as we get ready to set sail from port and onto the Adriatic
8:30 am– Having breakfast upstairs while leaving city port, watching the cityscape and the coastal scenery.
10:00 am – Taking a coffee and a book on the sundeck as we’re cruising through open waters
1:00 pm – Lunch is served in the lounge, Tuna tartar, roasted sea bass with veggies, and lavender panna cotta to finish.
2:00 pm – We’ve set anchor in a crystal clear bay, time to go down the mega-slide, have a swim and get on the jet-skis.
4:00 pm – We’ve anchored in a quaint and charming Croatian island town. Taking the next few hours to walk around, try some local snacks, do some shopping, take some photos, and enjoy the quiet vibe.
6:00 pm – Cocktail hour on the bow deck with champagne, appetizers and martinis, watching the sunset, spending time with friends on board.
8:00 pm – 3-course dinner in the lounge of seafood salad, black truffle and caviar pasta, finishing with pistachio cannoli.
10:00 pm – Dance party on the sundeck with cocktails, followed by a dip in the hot tub.
Now, I know you came here for the nitty-gritty, so let’s talk numbers…
The Pricing – Chartering A Super Yacht In Croatia Is More Affordable Than You Think
When I say affordable, I mean it, but there is a caveat to having some friends, family, or a small group join you.
How does vacationing on a private super yacht, casually sailing through crystal blue waters of Croatia, being spoiled by attentive staff, with gourmet food and drinks included, for around $3900 a week sound?
That is how much a week-long luxury vacation is aboard the Cristal when all of her cabins are occupied.
Per person breakdown:
3900 euros
1 week
Gourmet breakfast, lunch, dinner included
All-inclusive drink package
This is based on the yacht having all 15 cabins booked, roughly 30 guests, as the price per week starts at 90k. Traveling as a group significantly reduces the cost per person, making this luxurious experience surprisingly affordable.
While you might be thinking “Okay, I can’t even wrangle my immediate family together for Christmas dinner, let alone a vacation in Europe”, here are some other ideas where getting a group of 20-30 people together for a trip is perfect:
Hosting a retreat or a workshop
Having your wedding aboard
Milestone birthdays, anniversaries, or other celebrations
Family or school reunions
Corporate Incentives
Groups, clubs, or teams you belong to
And of course, friends and family will make the most memorable vacation
The price changes based on occupancy, so for example if you have 10 people, it’s roughly $10k each, or 20 people around $4800 each.
Compare This To An All-Inclusive Vacation
To put this into perspective for you, here is a great example of a different kind of vacation you could take for the same amount of money, even if you only had 15-20 people on the yacht.
As I write this, I just returned from an All-Inclusive trip to Cancun, so I have my recent hotel bill to compare.
While an All-Inclusive resort in Cancun and a super yacht in Croatia are extremely different, it’s very important to note how similar they are in price.
I stayed at the Andaz, a 5-star resort tucked away in a gated community near Cancun called Mayacoba. 1 week here in an ocean view room is $4400 per person during shoulder season, coming in at the same for the Croatia super yacht experience with 20-30 passengers.
However, the value inclusions are strikingly different.
While I have nothing bad to say about the Andaz, the level of service and the level of experience are intensely contrasting.
At the Andaz, there is no personalized service; it’s just a normal, white-washed rectangle room in a spread-out compound with no real charm. The property itself, while good-looking, isn’t jaw-dropping by any means. And, well, it’s no yacht!
Yes, the Andaz doesn’t need you to gather 10 other couples for that pricing, but if you’re going down as a group for a wedding, to me the yacht trip makes way more sense.
What About Compared To A Cruise?
If we compare a super yacht experience to a luxury cruise experience, there are definitely more similarities, but also notable differences.
To compare apples to apples, I’ll have to compare to a luxury line, smaller ship vibe.
We are talking gourmet food, nice cabins, and no buffets in sight. (Sorry Carnival, you cannot be not included in this comparison)
A week sailing around the Med on a luxury liner with 200-2000 other guests will set you back $4500-$1200 per person. While some of the benefits, like sailing into different ports, beautiful sea views, and the gourmet food might be the same as the yacht experience, here is where they differ: the personalized service. Even on one of the highest-end cruise liners, the staff have too many other guests to attend to, changing the level of personalized service you receive.
Luxury Liner compared to Yacht Charter
Pros for Luxury Liner
More onboard amenities and services, like shows, lectures, or large pools
More options for having daily variety in dining
Pros for Yacht Charter
In most cases, the cost is lower on a yacht charter, with Goolets at least.
More one-on-one attention and service.
The other guests will be people you know.
A yacht can enter more diverse ports, even ones in the middle of town (like in Split for example) where a cruise liner usually has to park far away.
More customization of the trip, itinerary, menu, and schedule.
More private and exclusive.
On-demand access to water toys and equipment.
The clout of charting a yacht, plain and simple.
The yacht charter still takes the cake for pricing, exclusivity, customization, and overall experience.
What’s Included For $90k A Week?
Okay, you’ve got a bunch of excited friends and you’re ready to book the charter, but what is actually included for the 90k rental?
You’ll get:
Goolets concierge and planner (to help you plan and customize your trip)
The yacht rental with 15 cabins, sleeping 30 (for the Cristal ship, their other yachts have different configurations)
4 hours of cruising fuel per day
11 crew members to take care of your every need, including housekeeping, bartending, cooking, serving, laundry, and really everything else under the sun.
Unlimited use of the A/C
Wi-Fi on board so you are always connected
VAT/TAX on the rental
On top of the rental, there are food and drinks packages for you to add on and customize as well.
HALF BOARD (breakfast, lunch): 450 €/person/week
ADVANCED HALF BOARD (breakfast, lunch, and 3x dinner): 500 €/person/week
FULL BOARD (breakfast, lunch, and dinner): 650 €/person/week
So how we came to our $3900 per person per week price was:
The yacht rental with 30 people in May + plus full board meal plan + domestic drink package = $3900
You’ll also need to account for port/tourism taxes and tips.
The Spaces and The Vibe
This was my first time spending more than a few hours on a yacht, so I had a lot of questions. What are the rooms like? Is there a lot of movement? What are the amenities like? Are there places to work?
(Okay maybe that last question just applies to me, but with more people remote working than ever before, you never know!)
Cabins: The cabins are surprisingly spacious for the size of a yacht and how many passengers she fits. They were remodeled recently to be ultra-modern in color and vibe and have everything you need. The en-suite bathrooms are also bright with great lighting for makeup and showers larger than I had expected.
Outdoor Space: There are many decks to relax on, both in and out of the shade, front and back of the ship.
On the top sun deck, there is also a hot tub which is perfect for after dark or on cooler days. The outdoor spaces are a mix of couches, chaise loungers, bar with stools, and tables with chairs.
There is pretty much a space for everyone and every kind of activity.
Indoor space: We had most meals served inside the lounge area, a space with proper dining tables, couches, and another bar. This area is super modern, and luxurious, and a nice break to get out of the sun.
There are massive windows beside the dining tables, so you won’t miss a thing going on outside.
Goolets has also just installed a cinema room in the Cristal for the 2024 sailing season, perfect for dealing with bad weather.
Vibe: We luckily didn’t deal with any bad weather during our charter, so there were no rough waters or crazy movements to deal with, just a light rocking while we were cruising though open waters.
Everything was extremely relaxed and pleasant.
Croatia: The Premier Yacht Charter Destination of 2024
Why Croatia?
I have been a raving fan of Croatia for years. From their digital nomad visa that allows remote workers to live and work for extended periods of time, to their insanely good food that rivals Italy’s (hello truffles and olive oil), to their jaw-dropping beaches, historical cities, and vibrant culture – Croatia has it all.
Croatia was the most popular sailing destination in the world in 2022, and came in 2nd place for 2023, with over 38% of the worldwide yacht charter bookings, so it’s no wonder Goolets has positioned itself in the perfect market.
Croatia is cheaper than Italy, it’s arguably more beautiful than Greece, and it’s safer than many other Mediterranean sailing ports.
With over 1000 islands, you can easily pull your yacht right up to many different cities and towns, including:
Even if you don’t end up gathering 30 of your closest pals and chartering a super yacht anytime soon, you do need to add Croatia to your bucket list.
How To Book
It’s super easy and they help you the entire way through. Goolets has yachts all over the Med and is expanding into more destinations as we speak.
They have yachts for all sizes of groups and budgets. While the one I had the delight of sailing on, The Cristal starts at $90k per week, they also have yachts running from just $36k per week. For group sizes, they can accommodate as little as 2 people, all the way up to 36 guests.
Travel Off Path was a guest of Goolets who helped with the creation of this article by hosting our accommodation and attractions. Our opinions, recommendations, and suggestions remain our own.
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.
So much for the Mayan calendar, huh? Well, you may question if yours is right too.
As many of us feel forced to sip pumpkin concoctions, throw on a dusty flannel from the back of the closet, and hit the back roads for incredible vibrant scenery this time of year, some places simply didn’t get the memo that the seasons have changed.
September 22nd may have marked 2024’s official start to fall, but summer vibes galore away from the endless amounts of autumn ‘leaf peepers’.
According to MySA, a local news publication in San Antonio, the marvelous beach town of South Padre Island is the place to be where summer has yet to end.
With perfect afternoon temps around hovering 80 degrees, the Gulf feels like bath water.
All the fall splendor can await back home; you’ll be mesmerized by your newfound island life of palm trees, white sand, and affordable beachfront resorts in this slice of Texas paradise.
34 Miles Of White Sand Beaches
There’s no shame in South Padre’s game; their tourism board proudly boasts their claim to fame front and center as a 34-mile-long barrier island with ‘white sand and clear emerald water’.
Now, even the colorblind can tell you Padre white is not Maldives white, so let’s temper expectations here.
And before carrying on, a little message for Crayola – Padre White is my original idea so I better not see my niece coloring with a new shade of crayon!
As a born-and-raised Texan, I can attest that anything, and I mean anything, is an upgrade from Galveston, another coastal town locals escape to for sun, sand, and definitely not white sand and emerald waters.
To sum up Galveston for you – last time I was there I stepped on a soiled diaper. ‘Nuff said?
South Padre may share the Gulf with Galveston, but they are apples and oranges in comparison.
Padre is a tried and true paradisal beach town hugging Mexico in a part of Texas that far too often flies under the radar, especially for the deals you can score in the off-season!
You may want to avoid the crowds of Spring Breakers here, but fall is pure bliss and ultimate savings for a nice vacation.
Tip: Isla Blanca is rated #1 on TripAdvisor out of South Padre’s beaches
Book A Beach Resort Under $100 Per Night This Fall
You can’t get much closer to Mexico than South Padre Island.
Many vacationers overlook this Texas escape for a sexier Mexican vacation with the likes of Cancun, Los Cabos, and Puerto Vallarta across the border.
In doing so, travelers typically fork over their whole paycheck to stay there. If only they had known about Padre…
Beach resorts here are very affordable right now. In fact, if you were to book a last-minute vacation for September, you would be shocked!
For example, the Margaritaville Beach Resort is only $88 on select dates beginning September 30th, and even as low as $75 mid-October.
Better yet, there are many others to choose from in case the Parrothead vibes are a little too much to handle.
Here are 3 more outstanding resort deals this fall: (in order of lowest rate found on Google Travel)
Sand Rose Beach Resort – $60
Holiday Inn Resort at South Padre Island – $84
Peninsula Island Resort & Spa – $93
What To Do And How To Get Here
Despite MySA rejecting my job application for a Reporter role, they did pick the right Texas beach to showcase as a tourist destination since it’s so well-suited for all ages and interests.
MySA mentions wildlife is plentiful where Laguna Madre Nature Trail and Sea Turtle Inc. are excellent options for tourists to see the region’s vast array of animals, the ladder being an up-close-and-personal
Beyond lounging in the sun with the tide at your feet, there are many fun water activities to consider.
For the more adventurous, parasailing and jet skiing are always top choices, while those looking to relax can choose from snorkeling on their own or the numerous fishing or dolphin-spotting excursions like top-rated Captain Murphy’s Deep Sea Fishing.
Remember, this is a popular Spring Break getaway for a reason, so there are still lively bars to choose from in fall too, like Clayton’s, the ‘Biggest Beach Bar in Texas‘ or more casual digs, such as Tequila Sunset Bar & Grill.
I don’t know about you, but they had me at ‘Tequila’ and ‘Sunset’.
Reaching South Padre is easy peasy since they share an airport (BRO) with nearby Brownsville where United and American offer flights year-round.
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.
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.
Secluded beaches, laid-back pace of life, and old-world charm.
These are just some of the reasons to explore the lesser-known allure of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
These stunning islands just don’t get the attention that they deserve.
But now, to make getting to these paradise islands even more convenient, JetBlue has added new flights to St. Vincent and the Grenadines to their seasonal schedule.
This will be a twice-weekly service, with inbound and outbound flights on Wednesdays and Sundays.
To celebrate the launch of this new route, JetBlue is offering limited $139 fares.
In fact, when I checked out the JetBlue website, I found single tickets for a little less than that.
Taking an outbound flight on November 13 would cost just $121 while returning a week later on November 20 would cost $184. This gives you total flight price of $303 including taxes and fees for this particular example.
The outbound flight departs at 8am, landing in St. Vincent and the Grenadines at 1.41pm. This flight has a 4 hour 41 minute flight time.
These prices are based on a Blue Basic fare which is the cheapest option available, and there are extra charges for choosing seats or taking luggage (although carry-on is free in every flight class).
JetBlue is the airline with the most legroom in coach, which is good news for budget travelers who don’t want to upgrade their tickets for a little extra space.
Why Visit St. Vincent And The Grenadines?
St. Vincent and the Grenadines is one of the lesser-known Caribbean destinations, but that only adds to its charm.
It isn’t actually a single destination but rather a group of 32 islands and cays, though only 9 of these are inhabited.
But sailing between the islands for snorkeling and swimming is one of the charms of visiting St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
St. Vincent is the largest of the islands, so if you’re looking to explore its history and culture, this is the place to be.
Think fascinating colonial mansions and Gothic churches with towers that dominate the skyline. The St Vincent Botanical Gardens should be included in this cultural hit list.
These stunningly beautiful gardens were established in 1765, making them the oldest botanic gardens in the Western Hemisphere. Entry costs just $5 per person.
St. Vincent has also been given the curious nickname of “Critter Capital of The Caribbean”. This is because of the abundance of sea life found in its waters, making it a mecca for scuba divers and snorkelers.
Project Expedition offer an affordable snorkel tour of St. Vincent which lasts 3 hours and includes all equipment and light refreshments. This costs just $55.
Immersing yourself in St Vincent and the Grenadines underwater world is one of the very best things that you can do on the island, so be prepared to get wet!
Staying In St. Vincent And The Grenadines
Because almost all international flights (including the new route from JetBlue) land into St. Vincent, this is considered the most convenient place to stay in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
But if you’re looking to explore something even more off path then look for resorts on the destinations hidden private islands. Palm Island and Petit St Vincent are both great choices.
Choose a chic, private cottage on Petit St Vincent where you can enjoy incredible fine dining and relax on huge, unpopulated white sand beaches. Rooms on this boutique beachfront private island resort are rarely available due to its outstanding popularity.
For something a little more budget friendly look to the Spring Hotel just outside of Port Elizabeth. The hotel is small and the rooms are simple but comfortable.
Prices here start from $150 per night, proving that you don’t have to break the bank to explore the Caribbean.
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.
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.
The capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarajevo is a city with a troubled past but a very bright future. This small Balkan capital is full of history, colorful locals, amazing food, and endless cobblestone alleys to explore.
Recently named a best value destination for 2023, the reasons to visit Sarajevo just keep growing. I spent 4 days exploring this city and left with a strong impression of not only Sarajevo, but Bosnia and Herzegovina as a whole.
Sometimes referred to as the Jerusalem of Europe, Sarajevo is a city of contrasts around every corner. In the same afternoon, you can visit a Mosque, a Synagogue, an Orthodox Church, and a Catholic Church. Turn a corner in this city, and you can see hints of Vienna and Istanbul in its architecture and history everywhere you look.
Is It Safe?
The very mention that you are traveling to Sarajevo might be met with some trepidation or worry from your loved ones, as it’s known for its violent past. While the infamous siege from 1992 -1996 is one of the main things people know about Sarajevo, today, it’s safe to visit.
The Balkan region is no stranger to politically complex cities, and Sarajevo is no exception. The complexities of the political situation that led to the Siege of Sarajevo in 1992 are a history lesson in itself, so I won’t get into it here. There are numerous resources to learn about the longest siege in military history and how it came to be. A visit to Sarajevo is a history lesson in itself, and the many local guides who lived through it will be your best way to learn about this major historical event.
So, why did I venture to Sarajevo, and what kind of impression did it leave on me?
Let’s just say that after an 8-month trip exploring the Balkans, this city was one place that really stuck with me for many reasons.
5 Reasons You Should Consider A Trip To Sarajevo
Historical Importance
Did you know World War I technically started right in the center of Sarajevo?
The Latin Bridge in the middle of town is where Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife were assassinated while riding in his motorcar. This event triggered a political crisis among the major European superpowers and led to a domino effect of decisions leading to the start of WWI.
Endless Things To Do
There is just so much to see and do in this small capital city, and my 4 days were not enough time to explore everything. The entire city is basically a history lesson in itself, with many walking tours dedicated to the siege, history, architecture, or street art. When you are exploring, make sure to look for the Sarajevo Roses. I won’t spoil it for you here, but let’s just say they are not what you think.
While there is SO much to do in Sarajevo, here is a brief list of things I did and 100% recommend:
Take a siege tour to really get the full experience of what happened when the city was blocked off from the rest of the world in the 90s. I went with FunkyTours, and they are known as the most reputable agency in town for a good reason. Our guide spoke passionately about his experience, and the tour was very eye-opening.
You cannot miss the war tunnel experience, where you can witness the drastic measures locals took to move goods in and out of their city.
Head up Trebević Mountain and walk along the abandoned bobsled track used in the 1984 Winter Olympics.
Check out the historic Sarajevo Brewery, taste the local brews and learn why this brewery is considered to have saved the city.
Spend hours wandering around the old bazaar, full of metal works and other stalls. Sit in Baščaršija Square and sip a Bosnian Coffee next to the famous Sebilj Fountain. I spent far longer than I care to admit watching the locals and tourists feed, photograph, and get bombarded by the famous pigeons that call this area home.
Head up past the striking Alifakovac cemetery to the Yellow Bastion for a great sunset over the city. While you are up there, check out the little hidden Kamarija cafe nearby. This place has amazing views over the valley, nestled in the trees of the hillside.
A City Full Of Characters
The people of Sarajevo have been through a lot, that goes without saying. The siege was not all that long ago and most of the residents are old enough to remember the daily terror they lived through for 4 years, and every local I spoke with had lost family or friends in the violence.
Despite their bloody past, the people of Sarajevo are absolute characters. I couldn’t believe the smiles, belly laughs, and overall happiness that I saw in this city. I was expecting rough and tough and was blown away by the opposite. Sarajevo is full of talkative, friendly, and yes sometimes solemn locals. If you ask questions, they are eager to answer and educate foreigners on the complexity of their city’s past. After 8 months of traveling throughout the Balkans, I quickly listed Sarajevans as the friendliest people I had encountered.
Connectivity
Sarajevo is becoming increasingly connected to the U.S. and Canada, with more airlines including it in their 2023 routes, and this is one of the main reasons I was able to sneak it into the end of my Balkan trip.
Finding ourselves in Split, Croatia, and needing to get back to New York rather quickly, the best flights I could find were actually out of Sarajevo. After a quick search, I realized that reaching Sarajevo from split was fairly straightforward, cost-effective, and allowed us to stop in Mostar on the way. So not only did we save hundreds of dollars on flights, we also got to explore Bosnia and Herzegovina a bit.
Aside from flying, Sarajevo is well connected to the rest of the Balkan region via bus and rail, and traveling these methods is easy and cheap. Located between Belgrade and Croatia, the city makes a logical stopping point to explore.
One thing not to miss when talking about Sarajevo transportation is the tram network. In fact, this might be where my love of tram travel started. Sarajevo’s trams crisscross the city and into the suburbs. Some are quite old and rustic, while others are a bit more modern. A local told us that the Sarajevo tram network is actually one of the oldest in Europe and was used as the model for other famous tram systems, such as Vienna.
One Word: Mostar
As I mentioned before, our trip from Split, Croatia to Sarajevo required a stop in the small town of Mostar. Being one of those places I have always wanted to see for myself, there was no way I was settling for just an afternoon in this little gem tucked into the southwest corner of Bosnia and Herzegovina. While we stayed 3 days and had to pry ourselves away, Mostar is an easy day trip from Sarajevo if you want to get out of the city for a bit.
Reachable in under 2 hours from the city by bus or train, a day trip to Mostar is a must when visiting Sarajevo. Amble among the hilly cobblestone streets and market stalls, and head for Stari Most (Old Bridge), easily the most famous landmark in Mostar. If you are lucky, there will be high-rise divers on the day of your visit, collecting money and taking the death-defying plunge into the shallow Neretrva River below.
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.
History is still being made in a pair of timeless U.K. cities. As you know, getting from A to B in Europe is a lot different than the States.
Rather than be shuffled through security like nameless cattle and scrolling TikTok for hours waiting for a flight to board, you gotta hand it to Europe for their impressive rail system end to end.
I just took a high-speed train from Paris to Marseille and it couldn’t have been more flawless, and while the latest exciting train announcement won’t zoom through the French countryside, it will connect 2 must-see destinations for your next U.K. adventures.
CrossCountry’s new direct service will benefit travelers looking to explore more of the U.K. beyond the bright lights of London with at least one familiar name and another up-and-coming capital city.
History in The Making: First Direct Route Connecting Cardiff & Edinburgh
CrossCountry is excited to announce their first-of-its-kind route connecting Cardiff and Edinburgh.
As the U.K. has spiked in popularity, travelers will soon have an easier way to reach Scotland’s Gothic icon of Edinburgh and Wales’ trendy capital with plentiful hidden gems in between.
Set to launch December 15th, just in time to make use of your holiday vacation days or start 2025 off right, you can seek new thrills in the U.K. from either Edinburgh or Cardiff as the train will travel both ways every weekday.
Expected to total roughly 6 hours in length, there are 20 stops in between along the 455-mile journey.
Choose to hop off to explore a treasure trove of lesser-known gems, such as Gloucester or Sheffield or enjoy the full journey on CrossCountry’s Voyager trains.
Keep in mind, the route does split at Birmingham and Gloucester, so keep an open ear for announcements to make sure you’re heading the right direction!
Otherwise, you may end up on the English seaside in Plymouth or Penzance wishing you packed swimwear.
Why Visit Cardiff?
Cardiff is an up-and-coming destination, backed by Conde Nast’s article crowning this lesser-known capital as the U.K.’s ‘Best City‘ in 2023.
As we turn the page to 2025, the hype has only grown stronger for Cardiff, and now travelers have a more convenient way to discover all the delights of this city.
Equal parts timeless and modern, there’s no shortage of places to immerse yourself in Cardiff’s past timeline or enjoy there here-and-now with trendy neighborhoods lined with buzzing bars.
Hit up the unmissable medieval Cardiff Castle for a grand tour (only $5!) or visit the revamped Cardiff Market oozing Victorian vibes, where local vendors sell local goodies like Welsch cakes.
While British food may get a bad wrap from time to time, cuisine here goes way beyond endless tea and bland crumpets.
Skipping anywhere in the U.K. without grabbing a pint is a hard pass. Here, one of your best bets is The Duke of Wellington, a real traditional pub dating back to the 1880’s and still whipping up savory pub grub and pouring the best cold ones.
And don’t skip out on classic Fish & Chips on Caroline Street (known as ‘Chip Alley’ for a reason!).
Why Visit Edinburgh?
Edinburgh has a lot going for it, especially for Americans. As the only U.K. destination exceeding pr-Covid tourism numbers, there’s no reason to think the city will backtrack any time sooner.
With the soon-to-launch train and current nonstop flights from the U.S., Edinburgh makes for a great alternative to London’s chaos as a shrunken-down urban jungle with great attractions.
Perusing Old Town is an absolute must and will have you feeling like you’ve stumbled into a storybook no matter the season.
Home to towering grandeur castles like the rightfully named Edinburgh Castle, among others in and around the city, Edinburgh certainly holds its own against any other European icon in terms of architecture and history.
The only problem you may have visiting here is questioning if you want to continue on to Cardiff! There’s no doubt Edinburgh is an easier starting point since there’s direct flights here.
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.
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.
Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned traveler, you might be used to checking the U.S. Department of State for updates regarding the security situation in a number of countries:
It’s strange times we’re living in, after all, with all these geopolitical conflicts, and there’s nothing wrong with wanting some reassurance.
For Americans, this means checking their destination’s status on the State Department’s official website: if it’s Level 1 or 2, they’re good to go, though some caution is advise for the latter, if it’s Level 3, they should maybe reconsider traveling, and at Level 4…
Well, that’s the likes of Russia, North Korea and Iran for you.
This week, the entity updated its list, reissuing travel advice for 5 destinations, including 3 popular Caribbean getaways some Americans might have on their radar this winter, and we have good news for you:
Updates have been mostly positive. Let’s start with the Caribbean.
3 Caribbean Islands Placed At Level 1
Featuring at Level 1, the most desirable status any country can aim for, we now have Bermuda, a British island territory famous for its pink sands, picturesque capital Hamilton, featuring pastel-colored buildings and red telephone boxes, and luxury resorts.
According to the State Department, Americans visiting Bermuda this season should exercise ‘normal’ precautions, as levels of crime on the island aren’t significant, and the vast majority of vacationers have a hassle-free stay.
After Bermuda, U.S. authorities included an offbeat, yet incredibly-beautiful Grenada in their Level 1 advisory: an archipelago-nation comprising a mountainous main island and several satellite islets, it boasts a rich British-colonial heritage, with historic plantations and 18th-century forts galore.
Grenada is also highly sought-after for its unruffled golden sand beaches, that are nowhere as crowded as in other resort islands, and the fact safety risks are minimal makes it particularly appealing to U.S. guests.
That being said, the islands of Carriaocu and Petite Martinique are still recovering from Hurricane Beryl, as noted in the advisory, and some services may yet to be re-established.
Last but not least, there’s Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, yet another independent collective of islands distinguished by yacht-lined harbors, dramatic volcanic landscapes, especially in St. Vincent, the largest landmass, and paradisiacal isles that host private villas.
Be it lounging on a deserted Princess Margaret Beach, where the sands are powdered-sugar white, or sailing along a reef-fringed Bequia Island, this safe, mostly crime-free island is perfect for unwinding, with overnight stays in beachfront hotels starting at $220.
Similarly to Grenada, however, you should know the islands of Canouan, Mayreau, Palm Islands, and Union Island are still recovering from Hurricane Beryl.
One Of The Safest Destinations In The World Is Now At Level 2
Greenland is one of the safest destinations in the world, as an autonomous country within the Kingdom of Denmark only 56,865 people call home, with low, to negligible crime, so you’d naturally expect it to be part of the Level 1 crowd.
That’s no longer the case, but not for the reason you may be thinking.
Greenland continues to be a low-risk adventure when personal integrity is concerned, but on the downside, its extreme weather conditions and limited emergency services may pose a problem to American visitors in need.
As the State Department reiterates, consular assistance in Greenland is extremely limited, and as the weather can be harsh, most notably in winter, and resources are scarce away from larger settlements like Nuuk, visitors should proceed with ‘increased’ caution.
In other words, as fun as those can be, don’t go snowmobiling or dog-sledding by yourself, as it can take search and rescue efforts several days to reach the site of an accident.
South Africa Remains At Level 2 Despite Rising Crime
To end this story on a good note, advice has been reissued for South Africa, a bucket list country for millions of travelers, and we’re glad to report it is officially considered moderately-risky to visit.
Though a lot has been said in the media about South Africa in recent years, following the significant spike in inter-communal violence and incessant power outages, Washington officials have refrained from issuing their feared Level 3, or even Level 4 alert.
It continues at Level 2, as per the November 7 review.
That’s not to say Americans should let their guard down when traveling in Africa’s southernmost state, with crime, civil unrest, and even kidnapping remaining major concerns––still, incidents involving foreigners do not occur at alarming rates so as to warrant more serious warnings.
The advisory reads that ‘violent crime is common and includes armed robbery, rape, carjacking, and mugging’, as well as ‘smash-and-grab attacks’ on private vehicles, so you should be vigilant at all times when traveling through urban areas.
Here are some safety tips for South Africa:
Keep your valuables in a hotel safe, if you’re traveling with jewelry and/or luxury watches
Do not use your phone in public (newer iPhones and other expensive models are most-targeted)
Avoid joining demonstration and protesting crowds as these have the potential to turn violent
Do not go to suburban areas unaccompanied
Beware of existing racial tensions within certain communities
If traveling inside South Africa, plan your route in advance and stick to the main highway (shortcuts are not advised as these may be controlled by militia)
Roll up windows and lock doors when driving
Avoid walking alone at night in poorly-lit, deserted areas
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.
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.
Are you glad COVID-19 feels like history? Many nations have dropped all travel restrictions for Americans — including Greece, Mexico, The United Kingdom, Costa Rica, and Jamaica — but that’s not the case for all nations.
Some nations still have strict COVID-19 restrictions in June 2022.
With that said, these nations have eased or removed COVID-19 entry requirements this week:
1. South Korea
South Korea has had very strict COVID-19 entry requirements since March 2020. Although the nation hasn’t removed entry requirements, they’ve significantly eased them this week.
The nation is now issuing short-term travel visas for the first time in two years. Foreign visitors can now apply for C-3 visas, which allow international visitors to enter South Korea on group or individual tours.
Previously, South Korea only allowed international tourists to apply for a C-3 visa if they met specific requirements — such as diplomacy, conducting government affairs, or preparing treaties.
The nation will now lift its regulations on international flights, so it’ll be more straightforward to fly to South Korea from North America.
However, South Korea will maintain the requirement for a negative COVID-19 test before entry and a PCR test result within 72 hours of arrival, regardless of a traveler’s vaccination status.
Prime Minister, Han Duck-soo, said: “While there was a 7-day quarantine obligation for non-vaccinated foreign arrivals until now, such requirement will be eliminated from June 8 regardless of their vaccination status,”
However, face coverings are still mandatory on public transport in South Korea. The police may issue fines of around $70 for not wearing face coverings.
2. Bosnia & Herzegovina
Although Bosnia & Herzegovina isn’t the most popular nation for American tourists, many backpackers love the Balkan nation. Better still, the country removed all COVID-19 entry requirements last week.
Therefore, visitors no longer need to:
Undergo testing.
Undergo mandatory quarantine.
Show proof of vaccination.
Complete passenger locator forms.
The nation is back to complete normality and ideal for Americans.
Uzbekistan joined a growing list of nations worldwide toend all COVID-19 entry requirements on June 8, 2022. As a result, all tourists will no longer need to:
Undergo testing.
Undergo mandatory quarantine.
Show proof of vaccination.
Complete passenger locator forms.
Therefore, Uzbekistan is back to normality for American tourists in regards to entering the country.
However, there are still some internal COVID-19 restrictions, such as mandatory quarantine for positive COVID-19 tests. Anyone who breaches the mandatory self-isolation after testing positive could face ten years in prison or fines of up to $1000.
The government no longer mandates masks face masks.
4. Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan also joined a growing list of nations worldwide by ending all COVID-19 entry requirements from June 10, 2022. Therefore, tourists no longer need to:
Undergo testing.
Undergo mandatory quarantine.
Show proof of vaccination.
Complete passenger locator forms.
According to local media, “The Interdepartmental Commission made the decision to cancel requirements due to the stabilization of the epidemiological situation in the country and worldwide.”
Tunisia is a relatively popular destination for European tourists, but it’s not as popular with Americans compared to other North African destinations, such as Morocco. With that said, Tunisia significantly eased its travel restrictions this week.
Unvaccinated tourists no longer need to self-isolate on arrival in the country. Instead, unvaccinated tourists will require proof of a negative PCR test taken no more than 48 hours before arrival or a negative lateral flow test taken within 24 hours of arrival.
However, fully vaccinated visitors don’t need to undergo testing requirements.
All travelers may be subject to random testing on arrival.
Tunisia still requires travelers to wear face coverings in indoor spaces, mandatory temperature checks, and sanitizing upon entry. Travelers also need proof of vaccination to enter many public places.
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.
While most people are trying to get a sneak peak of Black Friday deals or making last-minute preparations to avoid Thanksgiving disasters, travel nerds like me look forward to the so-called “experts” listing the next big “it” destinations.
The Points Guy just released their 2025 list of ‘The 29 best places to travel‘ and there are some real humdingers!
Ranging from trendy islands, places you’ve never heard of, and some outright surprises, one Northeast city falls under the latter.
This side of the States is teeming with incredible cities dotting the map, but this one is rarely discussed as a top-tier getaway unless it’s football season.
One reason being you may want to avoid winters here as it’s known for unbearable weather, but hey, there’s 3 others seasons to enjoy all the surprising delights of Buffalo in 2025.
New York’s Biggest Surprise
What do you know about Buffalo?
If you’re like me, if you’ve heard anything at all, it’s that it’s drab, cold, and the Bills are forever cursed after 4 consecutive Super Bowl losses in the 90’s.
Other than that, it’s somewhat of a question mark for most travelers. Heck, even nearby Niagara Falls has its own airport to bypass stepping foot in Buffalo if you want.
But what if we’ve had the wrong interpretations all along? You know what they say, “don’t judge a book by its cover”…
Buffalo is neighbors with some pretty cool places. While eyeballs never seem to lose sight of our southern border, one could argue Buffalo is America’s most underrated ‘border city’. Sorry, El Paso.
Hugging Canada’s iconic city of Toronto and under half an hour from world-famous Niagara Falls, Buffalo seems to behold prime real estate, so why the negative reputation?
It could be a lot of things, but it’s mainly that it’s simply overshadowed by Toronto, Niagara Falls, and since it’s a New York zip code, it’s way off the radar for those magnetized to Manhattan.
But here’s the thing – locals love their city. Not to make this a sports article by any means, but here’s an example:
Now retired NFL Quarterback, and former Buffalo Bill, Ryan Fitzpatrick, is what’s known as a career journeyman, playing for 9 teams over 17 years.
When asked his favorite city to play for his answer was simple, but spoke volumes. He said, “It’s Buffalo. That’s why, because it’s Buffalo.”
Welcoming people, gorgeous architecture, surprisingly cool neighborhoods, great food, intriguing museums – what’s not to love besides the sub-zero wind chills?
New York’s Other Cultural City
Despite being overlooked, one reason Buffalo’s proud residents love their city is there’s something fun and unique going on all the time.
As highlighted by The Points Guy, one of the most anticipated events of 2025 (other than the Bills being Super Bowl contenders), is the 50th Juneteenth Festival, one of America’s oldest and largest festivals.
Here, you’ll get a glimpse into Buffalo’s fascinating history and sample the culture through a surprising array of diverse cuisine, such as Jamaican, and even Egyptian.
Another awesome place to visit is reopening its doors at the turn of the new year. Don’t skip out on the Historic Colored Musicians Club & Jazz Museum, the longest running Black-owned music venue in America.
Beyond events and top-rated museums like Albright-Knox Art Gallery, the city is great to explore 3 seasons out of the year before it’s blanketed in snow.
Lake Erie’s waterfront is a great hangout spot to get a feel for the city, but one place that can’t be missed is the Westside Bazaar, a buzzing market and groundbreaking concept where all walks of life no matter of status have equal opportunities to showcase their products or services.
Great Places To Stay & Eat
You might be too chicken to brave Buffalo’s winters, but that doesn’t mean you can’t chow down on some bird in the birthplace of Buffalo wings.
Legend has it Anchor Bar is the go-to spot to try the world’s first Buffalo wings, but the city’s food scene goes well beyond messy bar food.
Food trucks are commonplace, and there’s a thriving brewery scene. Keep an eye out for local staples Beef on Weck where it’s equivalent to Philly’s cheesesteak battle – everyone has their own secret spot.
Buffalo will soon be much easier to navigate with the opening of a new light-rail station coming to the action-packed Cobblestone District.
Better yet, there’s some great places to rest your head at night, but perhaps no more than the historic century-old Statler.
But if you’d like something recently revamped, check out The Richardson set in a former State Asylum, which that fact alone sounds like it will soon be added to Buffalo’s ghost tours.
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.
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.
