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Home to ancient cities with origins lost to time and some of the most picturesque beaches in the world—as well as the most crowded—the Mediterranean seems to be on everyone’s bucket list for the upcoming summer.

Before you go ahead and book an overpriced Amalfi trip that will be anything from relaxing, with all the jammed traffic and tour buses, there’s a lesser-known resort town in the Eastern Med you should know about, offering sunny weather and Old World vibes.

Unlike all your usual tourism hotspots, however, this one actually fits your budget:

Welcome To The Turkish St Tropez

A mid-size city in the Aegean Coast of Turkey, Bodrum is an incredibly-popular summer destination for Europeans and Turks alike, though many Americans might not be all-that-familiar with it.

Think of it as the Turkish Saint-Tropez, with the same myriad of beach bars, luxury villas overlooking azure waters, and the Instagrammable historic center, except it’s somewhat less boujee (and usually half the price).

According to TIME magazine, these are some of the reasons why Bodrum is one of the top 100 ‘greatest places’ to visit in 2025.

The experts at TIME go further in comparing Bodrum to the Greek islands, which lie just offshore—the trendy Greek holiday island of Kos, for instance, is clearly visible from the Turksih mainland, and a short 51-minute ferry away.

In their own words, Bodrum rivals the ‘decadence’ of the Greek islands, which in recent years, have been overrun by tourists, and for the most part, feel anything but authentic, with the ever-fluctuating population, the seasonal workers, and cruise crowds.

Though Bodrum is no hidden gem itself, it can feel less tumultuous.

A Picture-Perfect Old Town Yet To Be Ruined By Overtourism

The Old Town shares many similarities with Greece, with stone-paved pathways lined with chalk-white dwellings and bougainvillea-clad street cafes.

Unlike Mykonos, Santorini and the like, however, you’re still able to find dirt-cheap ceramic souvenirs and leather sandals in the local bazaar, and gorge on sumptuous three-course dinners by the marina for around $36.80.

If you’re fine with kebabs and other popular takeout foods, that’s a surprisingly-affordable $5.26—$10.52.

Some of our favorite cheap eats in Bodrum include Levant Ocakbasi, for their ‘adana’ kebab, Hadik Balik, a laid-back bistro, famous for their grilled filets and freshly-caught fish, and Mirzaoğlu, everyone’s go-to bakery for that honey-soaked baklava.

Gorgeous White-Sand Beaches

We won’t lie, the beaches in Bodrum do tend to get busy in the warmer months, particularly between June and August, the peak season for travel, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a hidden spot or two for escaping the crowds.

For that, you’ll want to walk right past Bodrum Beach, the closest ones to the Old Town, unless you’re here for the wide range of amenities and windsurfing.

Take a taxi out to Yahşi instead, an 18-minute drive from town, and a long stretch of soft, clean sand bathed by turquoise waters, away from the shouting children and city sounds.

Further out even, in Aspat, there’s a less developed sandy strip lining a quiet, shallow stretch of the Aegean Sea.

If you’re looking to party Mykonos-style, and you don’t mind splurging a little (for Turkey’s standards), Türkbükü has a big choice of beach bars, including a well-frequented Reana, serving food and drinks all day long, and Miam, where a drink will cost you roughly $11.

For a more family-friendly experience, you can always opt for Camel Beach: be it riding camels (hence the name), paddle-boarding, snorkeling, or taking boat tours of the coastline, there’s plenty to keep you and the kids busy.

Just make sure you get there early in summer to get a good spot.

A Plethora Of Ancient World Wonders

Bodrum is not just picture-perfect alleyways and beaches!

To our fellow culture buffs out there, it is home to a landmark Castle of St. Peter, which dominates the yacht-lined harbor, and was built by an order of knights in the 15th-century.

On the outskirts of Bodrum, near the ruins of the ancient Greek city of Halicarnassus, Bodrum’s precedessor, there’s a partially-preserved, 2,400-year-old theater overlooking the sea.

It used to seat 13,000 spectators, and despite no longer being functional, it continues to command a breathtaking panorama of Bodrum in the distance.

A quick stop on the way, don’t forget to check out Myndos Gate, an equally-ancient structure that formed part of Halicarnassus’ fortifications, and the site of an important battle between Alexander the Great and the Persians.

Fascinating as those may be, Bodrum’s most famous historical monument is the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, not due to its impressive state of preservation—it’s mostly lying in ruins—but because it is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Built in 350 BC, it was formerly celebrated for its intricate design, sheer scale, and monumental tombs.

Oh, and like most things in Bodrum, the Mausoleum costs a bargain to visit: 129 Turkish liras, or approximately $3.41.

$77-A-Night For An All-Inclusive

Looking for an affordable-enough stay in Bodrum?

This May, the local Holiday Inn Resort has the cheapest rates and best reviews, with overnights starting at only $49 per adult:

It’s set in a peaceful area, within walking distance of a secluded beach, and the downtown zone is 1.9 miles away, not to mention the sauna (equipped with a Turkish bath), the beautiful outdoor pool, and the fitness center.

There are also all-inclusive offers, from only $77, which you can check out here.

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When you think of remote tropical islands surrounded by turquoise seas and home to luxury all-inclusive resorts, the Maldives are probably at the top of your head.

Known precisely for being less accessible than all your usual Caribbean hotspots—thus, more exclusive—the Indian Ocean country is seen by many as the ultimate sunny getaway:

People will save up for years to spend a single week lounging on its paradisaical beaches.

But what if we told there’s an even more offbeat Maldives dupe that’s not as expensive, and despite its relative anonymity, at least among Americans, has been rising fast in popularity lately?

The Maldives Alternative You’ve Never Even Heard About

Last year, the lesser-known island-nation of Cape Verde, lying off the coast of West Africa, has set new tourism records, hosting over 1.2 million guests.

Though it may not seem like much, this is a country that, similarly to the Maldives, only has about 522,000 inhabitants.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the country, you should know Cape Verde comprises 10 main islands, scattered loosely in an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean.

Its official language is Portuguese, by virtue of having been a Portuguese colony, and its culture is largely informed by a mix of Southern European, West African, and even Brazilian influences.

Let’s talk islands:

An Island-Hopping Paradise

The Maldives comparisons likely arise from the island of Sal (Portuguese for Salt), a paradisaical gem surrounded by the turquoise-most seas you’ve ever seen, and where powdered-sugar, white sands extend for miles on end.

Sal is primarily a resort destination, with its hotel-lined beachfront and plethora of beaches.

Staying in the main town, Santa Maria, a small village by any means, with a laid-back atmosphere and a big choice of seafood restaurants, you should expect to pay between $40 (for a one-bedroom holiday rental apartment), and $201 (for an all-inclusive hotel like Meliá).

As you might have noticed, even a luxurious beach getaway in Cape Verde, or Sal specifically, is unlikely to hurt your wallet, with the average price of hotels set at $133, compared to the Maldives’ much-pricier $234.

On top of accommodation, food in Cape Verde is generally affordable: ordering cachupa, a hearty stew of corn, beans, veggies and meat, from a local eatery will cost you around 550 Cape Verdean escudos, or approximately $5.51, while a pint of beer is an equally-cheap $3—3.76.

Granted, you won’t find the latter’s stunning rustic villas built on the water, connected by wooden pathways, but if it’s simply sunshine and relaxation you’re after, not the photo ops, it leaves nothing to be desired.

Cape Verde Is More Diverse Than The Maldives

Plus, Cape Verde offers a lot more diversity than the Maldives ever could.

The Maldives has many more islands, yet they’re largely similar in nature: they all have pristine beaches, vibrant-colored coral reefs, and crystalline seas. Unless you’ve booked yourself a resort with a wide range of amenities, it gets boring after a day or two.

Over in Cape Verde, the beaches of Sal, as dreamy as they may be, are not the only attraction around here:

For desert-like landscapes and even more secluded sandy beaches, Boa Vista is an offbeat island catering primarily to wellness-seekers and home to a limited number of guesthouses.

Staying in a single room at the privately-managed B&B Salinas, in Sal Rei, only a few steps from the beach, will run you up a mere $34-a-night.

In Santo Antão, the scenery is dramatically different: the sand-filled plains give way to towering, lush green mountains, traversed with hiking trails that lead to quaint, centuries-old villages that have barely seen the passing of time.

In short, it’s a nature lover’s paradise, and if you’ve ever been to Madeira, in Portugal, and ended up falling in love with it, you’ll feel no different towards its little brother.

Volcanic Landscapes & Colonial Architecture

Brava, on the other hand, has a bit of both worlds: it boasts pristine coves bathed by crystal-clear seas, rugged coastal drives, and flower-clad hills—it’s no wonder it’s called Island of Flowers.

Fogo (Portuguese for ‘fire’) has surreal volcanic landscapes, including a still-very-active Pico do Fogo, low hills dotted with colonial-era coffee plantations, and black-sand beaches (São Filipe Beach, a short drive from the namesake town, is particularly scenic).

Finally, for the culture buffs among us, you’ll find a beautifully-preserved colonial-era capital in Praia, located on Santiago Island: the Old Town, or Cidade Velha, is a petite version of Lisbon without the crowds, and the local food scene is simply unparalleled.

For Portuguese-inspired sweets, you should pay the hugely-popular Pão de Açucar bakery a visit (best pastel de nata we’ve ever tried outside Portugal).

For the all-you-can-eat Brazilian-style barbecue, Churrascaria Pirata is a no-frills rodizio restaurant featuring a variety of grilled meats.

Finally, if you’re craving a taste of native cuisine, don’t miss out on the traditional Kaza Katxupa, which features a signature corn soup and freshly caught fish doused in West African spices.

Is Cape Verde Cheaper & Easier To Get To Than The Maldives?

It can be, but only if you play it smart.

Much like the Maldives, getting to Cape Verde from the United States can be a bit tricky, not exactly because it is incredibly remote (not at all), but due to the absence of direct flights.

In the case of the Maldives, flights can take anywhere from 18 to a whopping 30 hours, depending on your U.S. departure point, and involve connections in one or more countries in Asia or the Middle East.

In the case of Cape Verde, it is in fact way more accessible, especially if you’re flying from the East Coast.

Once again, it lies off the coast of West Africa, and if you flew a straight line from any island Cape Verde, all the way across the Atlantic, you’d end up somewhere like Puerto Rico, or even Central America.

America may not have nonstop flights to Cape Verde, but once you get to Europe, a multitude of options are laid out before you:

Remember, Cape Verde is an up-and-coming sunny getaway for Europeans, and numerous European airlines offer cheap flights to the islands of Santiago and Sal from as little as $212 one-way.

Flying from New York to Paris (Charles de Gaulle), or Lisbon (LIS), two of the best-connected hubs for flying to Cape Verde, you can then change flights, either to Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID) in Sal, or Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI) in Praia.

It’s been a tricky world to navigate now that entry rules are tightening across the board, but the good news is, Cape Verde continues to welcome Americans visa-free, so long as they’re visiting as tourists, and for not longer than 30 days.

Make sure you bring a valid passport with enough blank pages, and proof of outbound or return tickets in order to ensure a smooth border control experience.

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We all know Rome is an instantly recognizable icon that lures all levels of travelers, from first-timers to the most seasoned of us with beat-up passports.

As such, we all know Rome’s crowds can be a bit out of control. Perhaps more so in a Jubilee Year. Not to trash one of the world’s most renowned cities, but it’s safe to say 2025 isn’t the best year to visit for the best possible experience.

According to Travel + Leisure, one local innkeeper was quoted as saying, ““If you’re coming in 2025, you should plan ahead for accommodation, sights like the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums, for all the things you need reservations and tickets for”.

Plus, Rome’s new tourist taxes are taking a bite from your coffee budget, and what better country to indulge in velvety cappuccinos?

Rome aside, there’s obviously a treasure trove of premiere destinations to immerse in Italy’s fascinating timeline, such as the romantic streets of Florence, ancient wonders of Pompeii, or whatever you believe about the Shroud of Turin, which has garnered more attention as of late with new findings.

But hey, let’s not sleep on Italy’s postcard coastlines either, where you don’t have to venture all the way down to the Amalfi Coast or Sicily.

Just 1 hour from Rome lies one of Italy’s most hush-hush paradises — and TimeOut just let the cat out of the bag.

Day Trip Or Main Stay, Don’t Skip Terracina!

Terracina is located on Italy’s Pontine Coast. Between Rome and Naples lies numerous secluded beach towns falling in the shadow of this pair of cultural cities.

With many tourists being more food and wine focused, beach getaways fall to the wayside, leaving a cluster of coastal paradises relatively undiscovered by mainstream travelers who care more about Rome’s Colosseum and Naples’ endless rows of pizza parlors.

TimeOut believes Terracina stands out the most, despite Sperlonga, Sabaudia, and Nettuno being worthwhile beach hideaways in their own right.

Terracina is perched between the foothills of Monte Sant’Angelo and the vibrant Tyrrhenian Sea, boasting a charming waterfront promenade and timeless Old Town giving a glimpse into the bygone era of Romans, while also embracing more modern acclaim as a seafood hub with TimeOut-backed Vicoletto.

For what its’ worth, Old Town Terracina is renowned by visitors on TripAdvisor with one recent tourist claiming ‘Terracina surprised us! Walking on the ancient pavement of the square transforms the visitor into a real Roman citizen’.

Terracina’s Best Beaches

Where to start? Terracina is speckled with gleaming blue-water shores from the jump, connecting from each end of town to aforementioned neighbors.

Spiaggia Sperlonga is Terracina’s top-reviewed beach on Google (technically one town over). One beachgoer said it’s a ‘clean beach, possibility of long walks, fantastic sunsets, kiosks present with excellent food’.

Fiumetta Beach is another top-rated beach, but locals are ashamed of the trash left behind. According to recent reviews, the aftermath of a many-a good times has presented painful moments of stepping on beer caps, which might be worse than LEGO pieces!

There are numerous beach hotels to choose from whether in Terracina proper or the connecting towns of Porte Dabino.

There you’ll find one of travelers’ favorite stays, Torre del Sol, a 4-star beachfront hotel with fantastic sea views and a $3 shuttle to go out and about town.

As for Terracina, you simply can’t beat the serenity of Hotel Acquasanta, which is nestled away from the “action” on a private beach and won’t break the bank at about $130 per night.

All Aboard! Easy 1-Hour Train Ride From Rome

Given Terracina is home to just 44,000 residents, you’ve probably gathered there’s no direct flight here.

The easiest journey is to fly into Rome and hop aboard a train that takes 51 to 69 minutes, depending on the schedule that day.

Operated by Trenitalia, you can purchase tickets on their official website or popular third parties like Omio.

Best of all, it’s as low as $4, according to Trainline. The official website has it listed for $6 most days.

Local publication Terracina Online claims the $16 Leonardo Express takes arriving tourists from Rome’s Fiumicino airport to Rome Termini, where there’s a direct train to Terracina every hour.

You could also take a train from Naples, also operated by Trenitalia, but expect to tack on another 30 to 45 minutes to your trip as well as a few more dollars.

Omio has $10 tickets on sale from Naples.

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Is there any bad time for beach season? Negative.

Delta has doubled down on that fact by announcing a plethora of exciting new flights to not one, not two, not three, but seven stunning international beach destinations!

Some are household names, while others are still rising in the ranks. But hey, that just means fewer crowds to deal with.

Bottom line — there’s no doubt you can go wrong with any of these paradisal getaways.

Think crystal-clear waters, flashy resorts, and all the delights Mexico and the Caribbean have to offer, whether you’re visiting to indulge in endless cocktails at the swim-up bar or simply looking to escape the city grind wasting away in a beachside hammock.

No matter your preference, Delta has got you covered with their latest launch, which is slated for later this year.

Delta’s New Flights To Caribbean Islands

Who wants to go to the Caribbean?! Well, that’s probably a dumb question. Who would say no?

Delta is giving you more options as if the Caribbean wasn’t teeming with enough postcard island getaways.

According to Airline Geeks, Delta is adding 11 new routes, but not all are to some of the prettiest beaches imaginable.

No offense to Los Angeles, but Santa Monica needs a bit of a cleanup, don’t ya think?

The Caribbean, however, is brimming with white-sand hideaways from notable names such as Punta Cana, which Delta is also increasing capacity from Atlanta.

But let’s get down to the nitty-gritty — the 5 proper Caribbean destinations Delta will be serving with new flights (don’t worry; we’ll get to Mexico in a sec).

Let’s start with some Caribbean up-and-comers, such as St. Vincent and the Grenadines, which, as just announced, is breaking all-time visitor records, and Grenada, which has seen 26 straight months of continued growth.

Both these pristine, lesser-known island retreats will soon be served by Atlanta.

Now for the rest, with more notable names:

• Minneapolis to Nassau, Bahamas
• Detroit to Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands (check out American’s historic new flight too!)
• Atlanta to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
• Boston to St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

Delta’s New Routes To Mexico’s Icons

You know where this is going…

As if Cancun needed any more connections, Delta just said “hold my cerveza“.

Americans’ favorite international beach vacation spot is becoming even easier to reach with a new flight from 3 U.S. cities:

• Nashville
• Kansas City
• Indianapolis

But, here’s the kicker: the new Cancun routes will only be offered on Saturdays, so plan accordingly. Although, Detroit lucked out a bit with additional flights being added to their already existing route.

When you land, don’t forget to take the new $7 shuttle to avoid the ongoing feud between taxis and Ubers.

Scroll back up and notice I said ‘icons’ — plural. That’s right; Delta is also launching a new flight to Cabo.

Austin is the big winner for this new route with daily service to Baja’s numero uno paradise, but let’s hope the airfare doesn’t top the resort rates — yikes!

While Cabo is undoubtedly the crown jewel of Baja, and always one of Mexico’s most visited cities, you might be surprised to know Cabo has also become more of a gateway to nearby beach destinations, such as the small coastal town of Todos Santos with vibrant culture and posh stays, or La Paz, a bigger city known for epic seafood cuisine and one of Latin America’s most beautiful beaches, Balandra.

All of Delta’s new routes are slated to launch December 20, 2025.

Delta Recap: The Popular Airline Is Going Big This Year!

In case you missed it in March, Delta made another major announcement for some thrilling off-path destinations Americans can reach easier than ever before.

Going beyond the glitz and glamour of Cancun and The Bahamas, Delta is betting big on travelers’ sense of adventure in 2025.

Here are 3 more of Delta’s ventures into international territory:

• Atlanta – Marrakech
• Atlanta – Accra
• Los Angeles – Melbourne

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Dreaming of a sip of that frothy, pitch-black Guinness in a dimly-lit alley lined with pubs, to the sound of Gaelic buskers?

Or maybe exploring fairytale castles nestled deep in a verdant hinterland, where few have trodden before?

You know, the stuff of legendary kings and chivalric tales.

Ireland is calling, and it’s high time you answered in 2025, but if you think overtouristed Dublin is the answer to those cravings, we’d urge you to reconsider unless you’re ok with paying $10 or more for industrialized lager, and seeing more kebab shops per square mile than you would in Istanbul.

Looking for a truer, more authentic version of Ireland? You should head instead to the West Coast, that is in fact a shorter flight from America and away from the spoils of globalization:

Why Swap Dublin For The West Coast Of Ireland?

Though not that many U.S. travelers know this, Dublin is not the only airport they can fly to nonstop when planning an Ireland trip.

They can choose to land instead in Shannon Airport, which serves the West Coast, or how poets have called it over the centuries, the Wild Atlantic Way, where the drab suburbs give way to lush hills, moon-like landscapes, and castle-dotted rugged scenery.

We’ll get to those flights in a bit, but what is it about West Ireland, exactly, that makes it such a magical destination?

It’s only natural we start with Limerick, the largest city around these ends, and one that’s a short 25-minute drive from Shannon Airport.

Limerick

A large city in the Western half of Ireland, Ireland’s third-biggest, at that, Limerick is best-known for its charming Old Town, where stone-paved streets run along rows upon rows of Georgian-era houses, and the monumental King John’s Castle.

A 13th-century fortification, it is perched on the River Shannon waterfront, and it’s among Ireland’s most historically-significant sites, founded by Norman lords to defend the territory against native Gaelic uprisings at the time of Ireland’s conquest.

As a university city, Limerick is also known for its vibrant nightlife, and if you think Dublin’s Temple Bar is all the rage, wait until you’re walking up O’Connell Street, a main thoroughfare flanked by centuries-old pubs serving Guinness pints for €6.30, and where you can almost always find live music.

Charming Towns Galore

You didn’t just swap Dublin for yet another booze-filled city break: in order to truly take in the beauty of the West Coast of Ireland, you must take a ‘wee’ detour to some of its small villages, still preserving their Gaelic heritage, and full of Old World allure.

Think Adare, known for its thatched-roof cottages and medieval church; Doolin, a small, traditional Irish town with a big pub scene and friendly locals; or Kinvara, a fishing village revolving around a picturesque Dunguaire Castle.

The historic city of Galway, popular for its pub-packed Latin Quarter and scenic bay, is also a one-hour drive from Shannon Airport, and it’s often used by tourists as base for exploring the wider County Clare, home to some of Ireland’s most beautiful natural landmarks.

Beautiful Coastal Scenery

Speaking of nature, those who fly into Dublin and only stay locally are missing out on a number of Ireland’s most notorious gems: the West Coast’s pride and joy, the Cliffs of Moher, are a series of sea cliffs stretching for 5 miles, some rising 702 feet above the Atlantic.

Nearby, the Burren is Ireland’s moon-like, karst desert, resulting from rainwater slowly dissolving the limestone over thousands of years, and over in the Loop Head Peninsula, you’ll find more breathtaking cliffs, sandy beaches and the landmark Loop Head Lighthouse.

All of these spots are within easy access of large cities like Limerick and Galway by car, but if you’re not driving, there are countless companies taking visitors on full-day, guided tours of major attractions like the Cliffs of Moher, from as little as €50.

The West Coast Of Ireland Is Generally Cheaper Than Dublin

This ties into our next point: Dublin is infamous for being one of the most expensive destinations in Europe, where a pint of beer will cost upwards of €10, in touristy areas like Temple Bar, and the average price of a pub meal is €28 (as per Budget Your Trip estimates).

Out West, prices tend to be on the cheaper end, owing it to the off-path appeal of most of the region, and its rural character—expect to pay €10 to €20 for a typical pub meal, and between €5 and €7 for a pint of frothy Guinnnes.

As far as accommodation goes, Ireland is not exactly the most budget-friendly of destinations, though there are some good deals to be found, especially at the Old Quarter Townhouse in Limerick, where a single room will set you back by €125-a-night, or the Wards Hotel in Galway (€88).

Fly Nonstop From The U.S. To Shannon Airport

Onto those flights now: if you’re wondering how accessible the West Coast of Ireland is for Americans, it’s an even-shorter flight than Dublin, that sits on the East Coast.

Shannon Airport (SNN) is much smaller than Dublin Airport (DUB), so options flying there are more limited, but it still hosts flights from 4 major U.S. hubs:

• Boston (BOS)—1 flight per day with Aer Lingus
• Chicago (ORD)—1 flight per day with United
• Newark (EWR)—1 flight per day with United
• New York (JFK)—1 flight per day with Delta or Aer Lingus

Aer Lingus is the flag carrier airline for Ireland, and the average price for an Aer Lingus flight from New York to Shannon stars from only €521 round-trip.

Naturally, prices are based on season and seat availability.

As for the flight duration from the East Coast of America, from somewhere like Boston, it is as short as 5h50.

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Paris may well be Europe’s most sought-after destination, home to a plethora of iconic landmarks: the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe and its adjacent Champs-Élysées, Montmartre with the buskers and cobbled lanes… 

Do we really have to go through the list again?

There are many reasons why we love Paris, from the romantic cafe culture to the elegant architecture, but there are also many reasons why it can get on our nerves at times.

Crowds, hectic traffic, beret-clad Instagrammers whose sole purpose in life seems to be to take selfies by hand be Seine, and oh, the staggeringly high prices for accommodation…

But hey, it’s not like Paris alone is fully representative of French culture.

If you’re flying all this way for the beautiful sights, the Old World allure, and delicious cuisine, you should make sure you try Lyon next:

Could Lyon Be The Next Paris?

One of the oldest cities in France, founded as early as the Roman period, and boasting cultural wealth like no other, Lyon is perhaps the best-equipped French city to rival the capital in terms of beautiful sights.

Its Old Town, locally known as Vieux Lyon, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site covering an area of 427 hectares, 4 districts, and comprising over 2,000 years of a fascinating history—it’s also one of France’s most landmark-packed downtown areas.

It is split between three main areas: the medieval quarter, or Old Lyon, proper, the Croix-Rousse, and the hilly Fourvière.

Old Lyon is where you will find all of the city’s most notable edifices from the Middle Ages, including the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral, a Gothic ensemble best known for its vaulted ceilings and astronomical clock that gives Prague’s a run for its money.

Getting lost in its uphill, narrow cobbled streets, you will find Renaissance-era villas and hidden courtyards, and the higher you go, the more stunning is the view of the terracotta roofs and church spires at your feet

Croix-Rousse is the heart of Bohemian Lyon and an equally beautiful maze-like grid of stone-paved streets, just about wide enough for cars to drive slowly by.

It lines the Saône, a river cutting through the heart of Lyon, much like the Seine in Paris, and the promenade is particularly pleasant to stroll, as you admire the ornate architecture of the riverfront buildings.

Going up Croix-Rousse, you’ll see that its pathways are lined with bars, selling Lyon’s signature Beaujolais wines, traditional French brasseries, and bakeries where you can get fresh-out-the-oven pastries from only 1 euro—for the best croissant in town, check out Boulangerie du Palais.

For the third and final historic district, you’ll want to take the funicular, which rattles up overground rails, offering scenic vistas of the picture-perfect downtown.

Fourvière is home to the famous Notre Dame Basilica, a neo-Gothic gem often compared to Paris’ Sacre-Coeur: they’re both on a hilltop, overlooking their respective urban sprawls, and they were built around the same time.

In this area, you will also find Lyon’s very own Eiffel Tower, La Tour Métallique, a prominent feature of Des Hauteurs Park, except it even predates Eiffel’s masterpiece by three years.

If you’re wondering whether there’s anything left from Roman-era Lyon, you’ll be thrilled to learn that Fourvière has an ancient theater, built in the year 15 BC, and still hosting open-air concerts in summer.

Lyon Is Way Cheaper Than Paris!

Lyon is not only just as pretty as Paris, with several uncannily-similar attractions, it can be considerably cheaper and less crowded.

Paris has become a tourism playground in recent years, particularly after the popularity of TV shows like Emily in Paris, and the start of the beret-clad, ‘hold my giant €32 stunt croissant’ Instagrammer phenomenon.

Don’t get us wrong, it is very touristy—France remains the most visited country in the world, after all—but it’s definitely not on that Paris level of fame, for its own sake.

As we pointed out before, croissants here will cost you between €1 and €1.30, while a three-course meal in a local restaurant (let’s say you get some roasted camembert for starter, aligot for main, creme brulée for dessert, and a bottle of red wine) will cost you €38-40.

If you’re only going for the main dish and a glass of wine, then that’s a much-cheaper €18-21.

When it comes to accommodation, the average overnight rate in Lyon is a reasonable €106, or roughly $115, as per Budget Your Trip estimates.

If you’re wondering how Paris compares, that’s a wallet-wiping $326 on average.

Before we leave you, in case you’re planning a trip to France soon, don’t forget to check out this other charming medieval city only an hour away from Paris—it has a monumental Notre Dame cathedral that rivals Paris’ in beauty, it has a mind-blowing history, and prices are on the cheaper end, too.

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Hey there, fellow travelers! Planning a trip to the vibrant island nation of Singapore? Awesome choice! This guide is designed to make understanding the Singapore entry requirements for Americans super easy. Forget confusing jargon and endless official documents. We’ll focus on the stuff that really matters to you as an American traveler, from what documents you need to how long you can soak up the Singaporean culture. Let’s get started and make sure your journey is smooth sailing from the get-go!

Your Passport: Your Golden Ticket

First things first, your passport is your most important travel buddy. To enter Singapore, your U.S. passport needs to be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. So, if you’re planning to be in Singapore for two weeks, make sure your passport doesn’t expire for at least six months and two weeks after you arrive. It’s always a good idea to double-check the expiration date well in advance of your trip to avoid any last-minute panics. Also, ensure you have a few blank pages in your passport for entry and exit stamps. You can confirm this info in the US State Department travel page for Singapore.

The Singapore Arrival Card: Must Have For American Travelers

To enter Singapore for a short tourist visit, U.S. citizens are required to complete the SG Arrival Card. This is a mandatory electronic form that you should typically submit online within three days before you arrive in Singapore. The SG Arrival Card collects essential information such as your personal details, flight information, and where you will be staying. The official platform for completing this form can be found on the website of Singapore’s Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA). It’s important to use the official ICA website to ensure you are providing your information securely and avoiding any potential scams or unnecessary charges.

How Long Can You Stay? The 90-Day Rule

Good news for those dreaming of an extended Singaporean adventure! As a U.S. citizen traveling for tourism or social visits, you can typically stay in Singapore for up to 90 days without needing a visa. That’s plenty of time to explore the stunning Gardens by the Bay, indulge in delicious hawker center fare, and experience the city’s incredible blend of cultures. Remember, this 90-day limit is for each entry. If you’re planning to stay longer or for purposes other than tourism (like work or study), you’ll need to look into the specific visa requirements through the Singaporean Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).

Multiple Visits? No Problem!

The great thing is, there’s no strict limit on how many times a year you can visit Singapore as a US tourist, as long as you adhere to the 90-day limit per entry and genuinely intend to visit for tourism. Immigration officers will assess your entry each time to ensure you’re not trying to live in Singapore on tourist visas. So, feel free to plan those multiple trips to catch different festivals or explore more of Southeast Asia with Singapore as your comfortable base.

Arriving by Air: The Most Common Route

Most travelers from the U.S. will arrive in Singapore via Changi Airport, a world-renowned hub known for its efficiency and amazing amenities (hello, indoor waterfall!). Upon arrival, you’ll proceed through immigration. Be ready to present your passport and potentially answer a few questions about the purpose of your visit and your intended length of stay. It’s always a good idea to have your onward flight information and proof of funds to support your trip handy, although it’s not always required for short tourist visits.

Entering by Land Border: From Malaysia

While less common for direct travel from the U.S., some travelers might enter Singapore via the land border with Malaysia. This usually happens by way of the Johor-Singapore Causeway: This is the most commonly used route, a bridge connecting Johor Bahru in Malaysia to Woodlands in Singapore. The same passport and entry requirements apply as if you were arriving by air. Be prepared for potential queues at the border checkpoints, especially during peak travel times. The One Motoring government website also covers information for those entering via land by car.

Understanding the Exchange Rate: Your Dollars in Singapore

Let’s talk about money! The value of Singapore dollars (SGD) compared to US dollars (USD) changes a bit day to day. On average for every 1 US dollar, you’ll get about 1.34 Singapore dollars.

So, when you’re thinking about grabbing that tasty plate of chicken rice that costs, let’s say, 10 Singapore dollars, it will cost you roughly $7.46 in US dollars.

Just keep in mind that this is an approximate rate and can change slightly. It’s always a good idea to quickly check a reliable currency converter closer to your travel dates to get the most up-to-date exchange rate.

Other Useful Tips for American Travelers

• Stay Connected: Consider getting a local SIM card or an international roaming plan to stay connected. Wi-Fi is widely available, but having your own data can be very convenient for navigation and staying in touch.
• Transportation: Singapore has an excellent public transportation system, including the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and buses. Consider getting an EZ-Link card for easy and affordable travel.
• Weather: Singapore is hot and humid year-round. Pack light, breathable clothing and be prepared for occasional rain showers.
• Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Singapore and is generally not expected.
• Language: English is one of the official languages and is widely spoken, so communication will be easy.

U.S. State Department Travel Advisory and Safety Tips

It’s always wise to check the latest travel advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State for Singapore before your trip. These advisories provide information on safety and security conditions in the destination country. As of the latest information, Singapore generally has a very low crime rate and is considered a safe country for travelers. However, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions, such as keeping your valuables secure and being mindful of your belongings in crowded areas. For the most up-to-date advisories, please refer to the U.S. Department of State website.  

Travel Insurance: Peace of Mind for Your Journey

While Singapore is a safe and well-organized country, unexpected events can happen. That’s why considering travel insurance is a smart move. Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations or interruptions, lost luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances.

Having this safety net can give you peace of mind so you can fully enjoy your Singapore adventure. Ready to explore your travel insurance options? Get a free quote today and travel with confidence!

So there you have it! Navigating the Singapore entry requirements as an American traveler doesn’t have to be a headache. With a valid passport, an understanding of the 90-day stay limit, and the simple SG Arrival Card process, you’re well on your way to experiencing the wonders of Singapore. By staying informed through official sources and considering travel insurance for added peace of mind, you can focus on what truly matters: creating unforgettable memories in this incredible city-state. Safe travels, and get ready for an amazing Singaporean adventure!

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2025 is the year of the Dupe. No, not dupe like you’ll fall for the ol’ three-card Monte trick; dupe as in travel alternatives.

Hard to believe it’s been years since the pandemic was declared over, but one thing has become increasingly clear to this day — travel is back.

Whether it be renowned resorts sold out night after night, having to unnecessarily check bags, or being forced to share selfies in what-should-be wide open plains of national or state parks, travelers are embracing their sense of wanderlust all the over the world, leaving the door open to discover more hidden gems.

When it comes to the U.S., one could argue Alaska is America’s least-explored state, but on the mainland, it’s gotta be West Virginia, right?

Known more for its deeply rooted history of coal mining and longstanding tales of Appalachian folklore, those who have visited West Virginia typically come out the other side shocked by how beautiful the “Mountain State” truly is ,especially being home to America’s most underrated state park.

West Virginia, Take Me…To Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

Anything beats counting bottles of beer on the wall, but let’s not even pretend there’s a better road trip song than Take Me Home, Country Roads.

We’ve all belted out West Virginia’s unofficial theme song at one point or another, but rarely do we ever scope out the state itself for a nice, relaxing getaway.

Full disclosure – West Virginia has often found itself on the wrong side of headlines as numerous former coal mining hubs are nothing but ghost towns these days, leaving locals living in poverty in some cases, and holding the highest death rate for overdoses in the nation, according to the CDC.

Those very headlines, along with dark mysteries of Appalachia, have cast a shadow over the bright spots of West Virginia people have long been missing out on — one of them being Cass Scenic Railroad State Park.

Those who have visited absolutely love it! The park’s Google rating stands at an impressive 4.7 out of 5, with one recent guest claiming, “My family and I truly enjoyed this trip. Beautiful scenery, knowledgeable staff. Nice places to stay nearby and good places to eat. There is so much to do. Lunch was provided with our train ride. 10/10 would recommend!”.

All Aboard The Cass Scenic RailRoad!

Located in blink-and-you’ll-miss-it town of Cass, this vast state park is home to breathtaking mountain vistas, ancient forests, and mazes of hiking trails to explore, but many opt for the a scenic train ride courtesy of Mountain Rail West Virginia, offering seasonal packages on the Cass Scenic Railroad throughout the year.

Best of all, come May, the historic locomotive is bringing back 3 routes with gorgeous views of waterfalls, lush wilderness, and rustic towns like Durbin nestled in the mountains.

These are Cass Scenic Railroad’s current excursions:

New Tygart Flyer (operating April – November) –

TLC was wrong on this one; you’ll definitely want to chase waterfalls. Enjoy comfortable, climate-controlled coaches, a cold-cut lunch, and stunning views of High Falls of Cheat, the region’s dazzling natural wonder, along with flowing rivers, and sky-high bridges.

Waterfall excursions begin May 4, 2025.

Greenbriar Express (operating May – October) –

Aforementioned Durbin is the highlight of this route. Departing from Cass, the Greenbrier Express offers a scenic journey to one of West Virginia’s most picturesque towns exuding timeless charm with general stores, Mom & Pop eateries, all backdropped by astounding wilderness of Monongahela National Forest.

Cass Bald Knob Trip (operating May – October) –

Hope you’re not afraid of heights! This 4.5 hour trek to Bald Knob takes passengers upwards of 2,300 feet for breathtaking views of Appalachian landscapes ranging from spruce forests and staggering mountains as this is the second highest point in West Virginia.

Cass Whitaker Station (operating May – October) –

Taking 2 hours round-trip, guests can hop aboard century-old trains and chug along scenic meadows and rolling hills, ultimately reaching Whitaker Station to deep dive into the area’s historic logging operations.

This route includes a 30 minute break to take in sweeping views of the countryside and peruse the recreated logging camp and intriguing exhibits.

Rent A Spacious Cabin

Camping isn’t for everyone. That’s why “glamping” has become more popular, but who would ever turn down a cabin in the woods?

Truthfully, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park’s cabins might be the best of all because they house up to 14 people comfortably with 2, 3, and 4-bedroom layouts.

These “cabins”, described as ‘restored company houses’, were formerly quarters for loggers back in the day but now serve as truly unique stays to make your base for exploring the park or indulging in the delights of Cass’s small town charm.

Houses are available year-round and can be booked directly here with rates starting at $105 per night this spring and upwards of $180 this summer.

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Well, well, well… in a time when it seems we’re seeing more airline bankruptcies than start-ups, one new U.K.-based airline is going for gold and hoping to strike it rich with a bold endeavor.

Usually, an airline starts out slow and gains a loyal fan base, but Global Airlines is already venturing ‘across the pond’ to lure in American passengers, whizzing them through the skies to one of the U.K.’s most fascinating cities.

This is news to me as I follow airlines like a hawk, hoping to scoop up a great deal no matter whose name is painted on the side.

Lucky for East Coasters, they can do so too and even have a chance (ever so slightly as it may be) to score tickets before they go live.

If adventure is pulling at your heartstrings this spring (and why wouldn’t it be?), let’s dive into everything you need to know to be one of Global Airlines’ first passengers jetting off from New York to the timeless city of Glasgow, Scotland.

A Refreshing Take On Travel: Global Airlines Sounds Promising

While it may be tempting to rack up points with your favorite airline, sometimes cheating on them works out better, and you don’t have to be discreet about it.

Global Airlines is just starting out, but don’t let that deter you. You won’t be a guinea pig here.

Obtaining FAA clearance for American skies is quite an accomplishment, so just know you’re in good hands flying Global, especially on their new fleet of Airbus A380 jumbo jets.

Plus, there’s no Netflix doc on Airbus, ya know?

Starting an airline is a gargantuan task; that’s why you tend to see more going out of business, especially with the state of the world right now, where even notoriously cheap Spirit has had trouble staying afloat when travelers are scoping out ways to save money.

I gotta say, after taking a deep dive into Global Airlines origins, I’m equally jealous as I am impressed.

Founded in 2021 by ‘renowned travel personality and serial entrepreneur’, James Asquith, has accomplished my dream by visiting196 nations, so who better to know the ins and outs of air travel?

If you believe the hype, expect Global Airlines to try to disrupt the airline industry, but hopefully not the same way Ryanair has teased with standing-room only bookings.

Geared toward customer satisfaction, Global Airlines appears to have some undisclosed tricks up their sleeve to tackle ‘long security queues, late flights, lost luggage, inedible food and constant poor customer service’, according to their official website.

Time will tell. If they want capture American travelers’ hearts, maybe offer free checked bags, amirite?

For now, we do know Global will offer standard seating of the usual Economy, Business or First Class with surely more news to come about their flight experience.

Great Scot! Fly Direct to Scotland’s Largest City

According to The Scottish Sun, Global Airlines first transatlantic flight to Glasgow will launch May 19, 2025, departing from New York (JFK) to Glasgow (GLA) at 8 am.

Global has partnered with another lesser-known airline, Hi Fly, with a “wet-lease” agreement to make this happen.

Tickets are bit tricky right now, so don’t mark your calendars just yet. If you’re wanting to be one of the first to sign up, you need to register for their presale.

You can do so by clicking here. Personally, I recommend following their Facebook page for frequent updates.

There are no other direct routes from Glasgow to the U.S.

Why Visit Glasgow?

Glasgow is a perfect balance of old-world charm and eye-popping modernization.

One street beholds some of the most astounding architecture in the U.K, and turn a corner and you’ll see modern structures rising beside centuries-old landmarks and vibrant murals illuminating what otherwise might seem like drab streets.

Despite being Scotland’s largest city, you’ll feel right at home here, which can’t be said for some of Europe’s most popular cities as overtourism has become a talking point across the continent.

It’s said that ‘People Make Glasgow’; it’s truly one of the most fun-spirited cities you’ll ever visit.

Perhaps best of all, if you’re itching to visit the U.K. but worried about blowing your budget through London, Glasgow is a lot more wallet-friendly.

For example, book a Queen Roo at trendy YOTEL Glasgow for $73. Yeah, try that in London…

If you prefer to cash/earn points, check out the Courtyard Glasgow SEC for a little more at $86, or live like royalty at a ‘castle’ at Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow for $183.

As for ordering a traditional plate of haggis – you’ve been warned!

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After many years of delays, it’s finally happening, my friends.

No, not the Electronic Travel Authorization, the other (equally) bureaucratic hurdle facing travelers when landing in the European Union (EU) in the near future—and this includes Americans.

The 27-country-strong block is gearing up to launch its much-postponed Entry-Exit System, commonly shortened to EES, as early as this upcoming fall, and for those of you who are still in the dark about Europe’s new plans, you better get ready for some stricter screening.

EU member states will start fingerprinting and entering your private information into their database for immigration checks from October 2025, and this is how it’s going to play out:

What Is Even An EES?

In case you’ve been living under a rock for the past three years, the EU has been considering introducing an Entry-Exit System that will considerably tighten border controls, including fingerprinting all new arrivals.

This is not only to ensure the information on their passport matches their biometric data, but also to crack down on irregular migration, or even just overstayers.

As you might be aware, as a U.S. citizen, you can only be present in the border-free Schengen Zone, which comprises all 27 EU member states, plus Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland, for 90 days out of any 180-day period.

In other words, if you fly to Paris, France, on May 1, 2025, and you spend 7 days exploring the City of Love and other medieval gems nearby easily-accessible with the TGV train, you will then have 83 days left to travel around the Schengen territories until October 28.

This includes countries like Spain, Italy, Croatia, Greece, and many more.

As of right now, the only way border officials have to know whether you’re within the 90/180-day rule is verifying entry and exit stamps manually.

You know where we’re going with this…

Once the EES launches, fingerprinting will make these checks way easier, as it will act as both a ‘check-in’, and ‘check-out’ device every time you cross an external European border, and any overstayers will be immediately flagged by the system.

And trust us when we say, if you don’t want to get a hefty fine, or worse, even banned from returning to the Old Continent, you should make sure you’re in compliance with the rules.

How Do We Know The EES Is Launching In October?

It seems that, following months of endless debates and back-and-forth, an agreement was reached by the EU’s Interior Ministers in Brussels last March.

In the words of the Polish Minister of the Interior, Tomasz Siemoniak, ‘October is our horizon‘ for the start date of the EES.

No official date has been set yet, but at least we have a month to work with now.

The one major roadblock is the various stages of preparedness seen across the EU: while some countries already have the technology in place and are ready to start the fingerprinting, others are nowhere near launching.

We have to remember that this will apply not only to passport, but all land and sea borders, and a number of European countries have multiple border checkpoints with non-EU, or non-Schengen states in the vicinity, that are not as well-equipped as an international airport.

For that reason, the European Commission is planning to be ‘flexible’, and allow for a phased introduction of the Entry-Exit System.

What Is The Path Ahead?

In short, European nations will have 2 options: either launch the system all at once, across all its checkpoints, or in a ‘phased manner’.

Those opting for the latter would kick off a 6-month transition period from October, and would be required to properly register 10% of incoming travelers after the first month.

For the first 60 days, they may also operate the EES without the biometric controls, i.e. the much-dreaded fingerprinting.

After 3 months, they must be ready to operate the system with all biometric functionalities, and they should finally be able to register ‘all people’ towards the end of the 6 months.

This will avoid any further delays, as it will enable European states to move at their own pace.

The wait is over, guys: get ready for some (more) border scrutiny by fall 2025.

How Will The EES Work?

If you’re wondering how exactly the EES will work, it’s simple:

You’re still required to bring a valid passport to the EU, and on top of that, it should remain valid for an additional 3 months beyond your intended date of departure.

Come October, however, once you scan your U.S. passport in an e-Gate, you will be instructed to provide your fingerprints and get photographed—this should take an additional 2-3 minutes for every traveler, and that’s considering they’re tech-savvy and don’t faff around, so beware there might be significant delays.

Once that’s done, you’re good to go, and you won’t have to do it a second time, or at least until your biometric data is stored in the EU database.

Based on what we’ve been informed previously, this might be a 2-year period if you’re not a frequent traveler, though that’s yet to be confirmed, and we’ll be sure to rectify this should it be necessary when the time comes.

As for the ETIAS, the new ‘digital visa’ applying to Americans and visa-exempt travelers, in general (or dare we say it, the other European boogeyman), you don’t have to worry about that until late 2026… at the earliest.

Worry not; we’ve got you covered, and we’ll be sure to fill you in on any updates on that front, too.

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