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We all know Milan for its grandiose edifices and art galleries, high fashion, and ornate Duomo––is there truly a more beautiful Gothic cathedral?––but there’s no denying it’s a bit out of the budget for the average traveler.

Between $202-a-night on hotels, and $107 on meals and transportation every day, a one-week city break in Italy’s elegant Northern metropolis does not come cheap, and that’s without factoring in the long wait to get into museums and hordes of tourists.

Luckily, there is this off-path gem a short 55-minute train ride from Milan that’s both comparatively cheaper and less crowded:

What Is Turin Famous For?

The capital and largest city of Piedmont, an alpine region in northwestern Italy, Turin is everything tourists wish Milan would be:

A different side of Italy than that you might be hoping to find if it’s Cinque Terre or the Amalfi Coast you’ve got your heart set on, it’s not exactly a maze of pastel-colored houses and cobblestones––in fact, it’s oftentimes called Paris of the East due to its Belle époque cityscape.

It has Milan’s grandiose architecture, with beautiful wide avenues lined by stately buildings, and the unrivaled food scene, except it’s not exactly overpriced nor crumbling under the weight of mass tourism as its sisterly metropolis.

It is best characterized by its plethora of Savoyard monuments, most notably Palazzo Reale and Palazzo Madama, and public squares so magnificent they look like palace courtyards, bordered by cafes that exude Old World charm.

Turin Is One Of Italy’s Most Historically-Significant Cities

Turin is also incredibly rich in history, having served as the first capital of Italy when the country was unified in the 19th century, and prior to that, it was the seat of the House of Savoy, one of Europe’s wealthiest royal houses.

A visit to Turin can be summarized in people-watching alfresco as you sip some cappuccino at Piazza Castello, exploring palaces, browsing the shops at Via Roma (Turin’s liveliest thoroughfare and its response to Paris’ Champs-Élysées), and strolling the scenic Po riverside.

Of course, there are some attractions you shouldn’t miss out on, like the soaring spire that dominates the skyline: Mole Antonelliana. Upon its completion, it was the tallest masonry building in Europe and now a permanent home to the National Museum of Cinema.

If you’re not a cinephile, you can still take a lift to the top of the Mole for around $9.41 (the views of Turin’s grid-like design backed by snow-capped mountains are breathtaking).

To our fellow museum geeks, the local Museo Egizio, opened as early as 1824, is one of Europe’s greatest collections of Egyptian artifacts, and when visiting the richly-decorated, marble-domed Chapel of the Holy Shroud, look for the Holy Shroud itself.

Yes, according to ancient tradition, the linen cloth used in Jesus’ burial is right here in Turin––some archeologists will dispute that, but in the very least, it’s a beautiful Baroque church worth checking out.

Unique Things To Do In Turin In 2025

Looking for unique activities to make your time in Turin even more memorable?

There’s no visiting Turin without sampling its world-class cocoa products:

Chocolate-making is a long-standing Torinese tradition, so much so it is considered one of Europe’s chocolate capitals.

It’s no wonder the Turin Chocolate Tasting Experience is a best-seller on GetYourGuide, combining sightseeing with visits to local chocolatiers, for only $39.77.

All that talk of food making you hungry yet?

You should definitely add this market tour, guided by a cesarina (an Italian female home cook) and topped with lunch back at hers, for $145.47.

This Is How Affordable Turin Is

On that note, Turin is surprisingly affordable by Northern Italy standards.

Considering it is so close to Milan, being under an hour away by train, you’d expect it to be as expensive as the Capital of Fashion––in reality, hotels here average a much-cheaper $165, and tourists will find themselves spending $77 on meals per day.

In reality, prices can be way lower, even:

The cheapest private room in Turin in summer, with an external bathroom, will set you back by $40 per night, at Hotel Serenella, while the 3-star Green Class Hotel Astoria, in the heart of the historic center, costs $80 to book.

Don’t mind splurging a little?

The luxurious Grand Hotel Sitea, on the well-frequented Via Carlo Alberto, and just behind Piazza San Carlo, has overnight rates starting from $196 for single rooms, a superb breakfast included.

You could always treat yourself to dinner with a view at an upscale restaurant, though we’d argue finding an affordable, locally-run trattoria where dinner seems to have been prepared by someone’s nonna is much more satisfying.

Try Pizzeria e Panozzeria La Sarda for delicious $8 pizzas, or the highly-rated Monegato Primi Secondi a Nessuno for excellent homemade pasta (and A+ service that won’t break the bank).

You get the gist of it:

Turin is relatively cheap, it has beautiful architecture, and it’s the perfect alternative to Milan if you can’t stand the Instagrammer crowds.

Are we really surprised, then, Europe-based travel agency TUI has named it best European getaway this February?

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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Lisbon is one of the world’s most sought-after digital nomad destinations, owing to its pleasant weather, rich culture, and thriving expat scene. However, there’s no denying that there’s growing animosity among locals toward foreigners.

Reports that Lisbon natives are fed up with digital nomads—–which they perceive to have strongly contributed to the worsening housing crisis—–have been around since at least 2023, and things have certainly not improved since then.

The Portuguese capital is experiencing some ‘nomad fatigue,’ yet not all hope is lost for Portugal-bound remote workers.

Albufeira is a sunny city in the subtropical Algarve, in the country’s extreme south, where the sun is (almost) always shining, and the cost of living is lower, and it’s poised to become the ‘next Lisbon’:

From Quaint Fishing Village To Lively Coastal Resort

Formerly a fishing village that’s slowly become a leisure destination over recent decades, following a spike in demand from European vacationers (particularly Brits), Albufeira ticks all the boxes as it pertains to a summer getaway:

It is centered around a picture-perfect, whitewashed historic center, where cobbled streets are bordered by locally run eateries and quirky art galleries. Not to mention, it straddles a busy sand strip, hugging an azure Atlantic and packed with bars.

Picture Albufeira as your average laid-back coastal resort with an unusually high concentration of nightclubs:

It’s not precisely metropolitan by global standards, yet it’s certainly among Portugal’s liveliest places to be in 2025.

Tourists often flock here for the social scene and affordable package holiday deals, with five-star resorts on the beachfront offering overnight rates from only $154. But what of digital nomads and their own basic requirements?

What Can Albufeira Offer Nomads?

We’re not sure about you, but as digital nomads ourselves, we’re looking primarily for 5 characteristics when selecting our next home base, however temporary:

• The attitude towards foreigners has to be friendly
• Safety levels must be high
• Prices must be cheaper than at home
• It would help if it is usually warm, as opposed to cold for most of the year

We’re glad to report Albufeira satisfies all those criteria and then some.

We won’t lie and say it is as vibrant or with a cultural offer as vast as Lisbon’s or Porto’s. However, it does appeal to the kind of nomad who’s mostly looking for a peaceful little corner to chill, go for leisurely strolls down by the promenade in between work, and not overspend.

Albufeira has consistently not featured on lists of cities where anti-tourism or anti-nomad protests have been staged in recent years, and regardless of the nonchalant approach towards non-locals, it’s not like that makes you feel unwelcome.

In Europe these days, you can count yourself lucky if residents are just indifferent to your presence.

As it pertains to safety, crime levels are incredibly low in Albufeira, with 9.47 crimes for every 100,000 inhabitant, as reported by The Portugal News, and that’s largely consisting of pickpocketing and other forms of non-violent, petty crime.

If you’re worried about the rising religious extremism across the pond, and knife attacks in broad daylight, you should know Portugal is much safer in general than England, France, Germany and the like, and that includes Albufeira.

Albufeira Offers A Lower Cost Of Living

According to Numbeo, a trustworthy source for assessing living costs across different destinations, a meal in Albufeira costs on average $12.19––we’re talking a generous seafood platter or a francesinha (a Portuguese roast sandwich), paired with inexpensive beer.

If you feel like treating yourself on the weekend, and maybe your better half or summer fling, a three-course for two in a mid-range restaurant will still only set you back by $49.12.

Rent is where you might feel the pinch a little, and even then, we’d argue you can get a much better deal in Albufeira than most major cities back in the U.S. or Canada, like New York or Toronto, where you’ll be paying upwards of $1,500 for a tiny matchbox apartment outside the Downtown area.

Albufeira doesn’t have the cheapest rent in Portugal, nor the Algarve for that matter––still, you can get an entire apartment with ocean views and pool access from $1,008-a-month on Airbnb.

Last but certainly not least, there’s that glorious Algarve weather to take into account:

The sun shines unobstructed for over 300 days in a single calendar year, and whether you’re staying in Albufeira in the dead of winter or the peak of summer, chances are you won’t need to unpack the raincoat you brought ‘just in case’.

There are differences in temperature, of course, as it’s way warmer from mid-April through September, but even right now, it’s a tolerable 64.4°F out.

Americans Can Stay In Portugal Visa-Free For 3 Months

Portugal has been issuing Digital Nomad Visas for some time now, aiming to provide remote workers with a facilitated immigration route into the country if they can prove they meet a certain financial threshold, and don’t have a criminal record.

In 2025, the sum equals roughly €3,280 per month, or around US$3,442.

This doesn’t mean you can just fly to Portugal and set up residence if you fulfill these prerequisites: you’ll need to complete the official application form, get in touch with the nearest Portuguese Consulate to schedule an interview, and gather the necessary documentation.

If getting a visa sounds too much of a hassle, as you don’t plan to relocate anywhere indefinitely, you should know you can stay in Portugal as a short-term visitor for up to 90 days out of any 180-day period as a U.S. or Canada passport holder, no visas are needed.

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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Last Updated 23 hours ago

While most Americans venturing south of the border will find themselves in Cancun, Cabo, or Mexico City, there’s another historic city that’s becoming far easier to reach this year.

Better yet, it’s on very few travelers’ radars, so you don’t have to deal with the headache of tourist crowds and inauthentic experiences.

Not only will travelers have 4 U.S. airports in total to choose from, but also 3 different airlines, including American.

Boasting Old World charm with centuries-old structures, San Luis Potosi is a sight to behold not only for its timeless treasures but its relatively undiscovered natural attractions too.

Best of all, this under-hyped city is one of Mexico’s safest destinations, making it all the more enjoyable to explore now that there are more ways to get here.

Why Visit San Luis Potosi?

Mexico used to be solely viewed as a beach destination by Americans, but Mexico City has since soared to new heights.

Following suit, places like Guadalajara, Guanajuato, and Oaxaca have become popular city breaks in their own right.

Some travelers have felt they’ve worn out their welcome in Oaxaca and Mexico City, in particular, as overtourism concerns have been well-documented.

When it comes to Mexico’s hidden gems, there’s more authenticity, better prices, and less crowds standing in your way,

San Luis Potosi certainly fits the mold. Not only can you explore charming cobbled streets and historic marvels, you can score the luxe Hilton San Luis Potosi for just $87 this spring.

The one must-see in the city center is the unmissable San Luis Potosi Cathedral, which has been anchoring the vibrant cityscape since 1593.

There are numerous postcard-worthy plazas to wander while you’re here, such as Plaza Fundadores and Plaza de Aranzazu.

Whatever you do, don’t leave without trying Bocoles or Enchiladas Potasinas, a pair of regional favorites.

Waterfalls & Vivid Lakes: Discover San Luis Potosi’s Natural Attractions

To most, Mexico is a mix of paradisal beach towns, culturally rich cities, and a handful of no-go zones.

While this is certainly true, what people sleep on is Mexico’s astounding nature aside from the aforementioned beach havens.

You might not think of Mexico as the place to go chasing waterfalls, but San Luis Potosi is just the place, actually.

La Huasteca Potosina is home to cascading falls like Tamul Waterfall, and crystal-clear rivers, swimming holes, and breathtaking cave systems.

There are ample tours to book from the city. Ruta Huasteca Expediciones is rated #1 on TripAdvisor.

New Volaris Flights

I might be a little biased since I live close to the border, but Volaris is one of my top go-to’s for cheap flights, especially since it seems they run insanely cheap sales every month.

Mexico City-based Volaris connects almost anywhere in Mexico, but they are slowly but surely expanding their presence in the U.S., giving Americans the opportunity to explore what seems like uncharted territory for the average traveler.

According to their website, Mexico’s top low-cost carrier just announced 30 new flights, but the most exciting ones connect a trio of Texas cities to San Luis Potosi (SLP).

Volaris is launching new flights from San Antonio (SAT), Houston (IAH), and Dallas (DFW) in July, with expected service three times per week for SAT and IAH and four flights per week for DFW.

New Aeromexico Flight

If you haven’t heard of Volaris, that’s okay. Surely, you’ve heard of Mexico’s flagship airline, Aeromexico.

Following Volaris’ unintentional Southern theme, another city from the South is getting a direct flight to San Luis Potosi.

Beginning June 5, 2025, Aeromexico will begin operating daily flights to SLP from Atlanta (ATL).

If you’ve never flown with Aeromexico before, know they are a SkyTeam member, making connections via Delta easy peasy.

U.S. Airlines Flying To San Luis Potosi

While Volaris and Aeromexico may be gaining the attention with new flights, American Airlines and United Airlines are the only U.S.-based carriers offering direct flights to SLP.

For what it’s worth, both of these Mexican airlines are deemed safe; otherwise, they wouldn’t have clearance for American skies.

But earning points can be tough, especially for Volaris. In that case, going with United or American is surely your best bet, given that they currently offer flights from Dallas and Houston, two of Volaris’ new destinations.

Sam Sears

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.

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Last Updated 5 days ago

Ancient history, rich culture, and some of my favorite food in Europe. The reasons for visiting Athens this summer are endless.  

And now we’ve got one more reason to add to that list: A new budget nonstop flight from LAX straight to the City of Wisdom.  

This will be the only nonstop route between Los Angeles and Athens, making it easier than ever to visit this iconic Greek hub.  

A New Route For Norse Atlantic  

Norse Atlantic will operate this new nonstop transatlantic flight and will offer the budget fare options that the brand is known for.  

If you’re not familiar with Norse Atlantic, they’re a relatively new Norwegian low-cost airline, having only been founded in 2021. This isn’t the only transatlantic flight from Los Angeles operated by Norse Atlantic. They already fly nonstop from LAX to London, Paris, and Rome. 

The new route to Athens will launch on June 3^rd 2025 and will operate 4 times a week with fights on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Giving sought-after flexibility to your travel dates.  

Flights are already available to book now, so I did a little research to see how much they would cost.

Flying out on Friday, 6th, June, and returning on Friday, 13th, June, will cost $372 for the outbound flight and $236 for the inbound flight, giving a total price of $608.  

It’s worth noting that for roundtrip flights, a discount of up to 20% is applied, so these prices will be a little higher if you only want to fly one way for whatever reason.  

As is always the case when you choose a low-cost airline, the price will increase if you want any extras. The prices above are based on the cheapest ‘economy light’ tickets, which give you one personal item and one carry-on bag but don’t include any checked baggage. 

You will also be the last to board and won’t receive an in-flight meal if you select this ticket. This may be tricky when the outbound flight will take 12 hours 40, and the inbound flight will take 13 hours 30!  

To upgrade to an ‘economy class’ ticket, which includes an in-flight meal service and one checked bag, will cost an additional $72 each way at the time of writing.  

Why Visit Athens?  

Athens is often referred to as the cradle of Western Civilization, and if you have any interest in mythology, art, or history then there’s nowhere better to visit.  

One of the first things you should do in Athens is visit its many archeological wonders. The Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus often attract huge crowds of tourists, but for good reason. They’re spectacular and well worth exploring.  

Make sure you allow for plenty of downtime, though: Greek hospitality is legendary, and although the ingredients are simple, there’s no such thing as a simple meal. You’ll find that you’re encouraged to take your time when eating, and the service is so warm and attentive. Eating out in Athens is an experience!  

In fact, the people in Greece are one of the main attractions of the country for tourists. They’re warm and welcoming, and because the Greek economy relies so heavily on tourism, they’re genuinely pleased to see you.  

Whether you’re buying souvenirs or lost and asking for directions, expect big smiles and warm conversation.  

Of course, you can’t visit Greece without going to the beach, and Athens is well-connected to several highly regarded beaches. Edem Beach in Palio Faliro is a free-to-enter beach in the Athens Riviera and incredibly easy to get to from the city center.  

Want to explore a little further afield? As well as being well worth visiting in its own right, Athens is also the gateway to wider Greece.

Head to Athens port, and you’ll find regular boats to the islands of Aegina, Spetses, Poros, Hydra, and Andros.  

At just a 40-minute ferry ride away, Aegina is the closest Greek island to Athens and is a popular weekend getaway for locals. If you’re looking for a day trip or a short break, this is a great choice.  

Tor Brierley

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.

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You may know Mexico already for its white-sand beaches, glitzy resort zones and buzzing beach bars, but that’s only the tip of the iceberg:

With a history spanning thousands of years, it is one of the most culturally-charged countries in the Americas, and if it’s Old World charm you seek, rest assured you’ll find as much of it south of the border, a short 3 to 4-hour flight away, as you would across the Atlantic.

Perhaps it’s not surprising, then, that a growing number of U.S. travelers is flocking to an offbeat Queretaro instead of the usual beach hotspots in the Mexican Caribbean: not only is it among Mexico’s finest offers in terms of city breaks, but it’s also European-pretty:

Queretaro Is One Of The Prettiest Cities In Mexico

A gem of central Mexico, Queretaro is a UNESCO-listed settlement dating back to the early period of European colonization, famous for having a historic center that’s been largely preserved as the centuries passed.

When you think of a city in the Americas, you probably picture steel-and-glass and endless rows of skyscrapers lining buzzing boulevards, and though that may apply to other larger cities, including Mexico City, it’s not the aesthetics that apply to Queretaro:

Picture narrower, pedestrianized streets lined with brightly painted facades, a plethora of Baroque churches, each of them unique in character and just as ornate as the next, and numerous plazas bordered by laid-back eateries.

Oh, and if you’re wondering whether Queretaro is just surface-level beautiful, you should know it is oftentimes considered the birthplace of Mexican Independence: it is here the revolt against Spanish rule erupted in the 19th century.

An Intact Colonial Center Awaiting Discovery

Among Queretaro’s most historically significant sites, there’s a pink-stone Temple of Santa Rosa de Viterbo, built in 1752, a Franciscan monastery now housing the Regional Museum of Queretaro, housing art that spans from the pre-Columbian to the colonial era.

In the heart of town, the Teatro de la República is a stunning Neoclassical venue that was once at the front of Mexico’s war for independence: it is where Emperor Maximilian I was tried, the same monarch who opposed freedom from Spain and got executed as a result.

Speaking of whom he would meet his tragic end up, Cerro de las Campanas, a centrally-located hill now topped with a chapel marking the place where the execution took place––regardless of the dark past, the view from the top is breathtaking, dare we say.

Looking for more important historic landmarks? From Casa de la Corregidora, formerly owned by Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez, the woman of the hour of the Mexican War of Independence, to the 74-arch, 18th-century aqueduct, Queretaro’s rich Spanish heritage is boundless.

It’s European Pretty And This Affordable?

Other than architectural value and history, Queretaro is one of the most affordable destinations in the sun-drenched center of Mexico, from the local-owned eateries, serving delicious enchiladas queretanas and strawberry tamales for around a dollar, to the inexpensive accommodation:

A 5-star standard room at Casa Inn Premium Hotel will cost you from $68 a night, and the City Express by Marriott is even more budget-friendly, starting at $63 for a queen room, with breakfast included, and within walking distance of the main attractions.

Looking for cheap eats while in town? Make sure you add the locally-run Zandunga to your list, especially if you love huevos rancheros ($5), and a well-frequented Santa Cecina, for a big selection of tacos and parrilladas, with prices ranging from a mere $1.26 to $4.35.

Queretaro is a world-class cultural city break. It has beautiful sights evocative of the bygone Spanish Empire, at its most elegant at that, and it will hardly break the bank if you think places like Cancun or Cabo are a bit out of budget for you.

What’s not to like?

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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Last Updated 1 day ago

As iconic as London may be, it might be a bit of a stretch to say step aside, but every giant has its downfall at one point or another.

For 2025, in a David vs. Goliath-type duel, the former is coming out on top, at least according to the UK’s longstanding go-to news source, BBC.

Compiling an insightful list of the 25 best places to travel this year, the nation of Wales took the crown as England’s top destination, but as far as individual cities go, there was an even bigger surprise.

In fact, London didn’t crack the top 25. Perhaps, like me, they were tired of dishing out $12 for a pint of local brew and $25 for so-so fish and chips.

Bradford, on the other hand, is much more affordable and declared the UK’s next big thing, backed not only by BBC but highlighted as a top 5 destination by TimeOut as well.

So, what’s all the hype for this relatively unknown city? Let’s dive in.

Bradford: The UK’s New Capital Of Culture

London may be the U.K.’s global household name and a melting pot of cultures in its own right. I mean, is there anywhere else in Europe to get better Indian food?

I think not.

That being said, Bradford is being given the chance to take center stage in 2025 to showcase its newfound cultural explosion and step out from the shadows of other major British cities such as Manchester, Birmingham, and neighboring Leeds.

Bradford has been nominated for the title of the 2025 UK City of Culture, and honestly, there’s no better time to visit.

Holding hundreds of spectacular events throughout 2025, there’s no bad time to visit. But, if you do squeeze in a last-minute winter getaway, definitely pack a raincoat.

Here are 10 exciting Bradford events to keep an eye on throughout 2025:

• A City of Film (the world’s first UNESCO City of Film)
• Nationhood: Memory and Hope
• Ramadan Festival 2025
• Marshmallow Laser Feast
• Ice Age Now
• Meet Our Mothers
• Dragons
• Dialled In
• BBC Introducing at the Underground
• Time for Tea (free; and what’s more British than this?!)

One cool experience to check out is the newly reopened Science + Media Museum.

Explore Bradford’s Timeless Streets, Including “Little Germany”

In typical U.K. fashion, you will captivated by timeless marvels and historic attractions dotted throughout the rather small city of 560,000 residents.

If you’re visiting to partake in the aforementioned events, then surely you’ll pass through the city center, where you can’t miss the staggering Bradford Cathedral, one of the city’s most photo-worthy sites.

An absolute must-visit is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Saltaire. Here, you’ll discover one of the most unique architectural villages in all of Europe, now lined with delightful shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Better yet, while thousands of tourists simultaneously gawk at Big Ben and the London Eye, you can stay in one of the most well-preserved picturesque villages in Europe by kicking back, grabbing a beer at Salt Beer Factory, where one recent patron boasted, “Don’t leave Saltaire without stopping here. In fact, make a special journey to go.”

Last but not least, “Little Germany” is small yet mighty. This pint-sized district is a window into the past with rows of Victorian structures and imposing facades.

It’s a true delight for those who like to arrive with an empty camera roll.

How Affordable Is Bradford? Very!

Whether it’s the Cotswolds, London, or numerous hidden gems, the big question mark for travelers visiting the notoriously pricey U.K. is always their budget.

While certain restaurants and pubs can still getchya with tourist prices, especially in a year with possibly more tourists than ever visiting, Bradford is still surprisingly affordable to visit compared to its counterparts.

For example, you can score a 4-star hotel such as Cedar Court Hotel Bradford under $60! Yeah… try that in London.

Getting around is fairly inexpensive too. Single bus tickets start at just $250. Check out a full list of MCard prices here for bus, train, and tram travel.

Sam Sears

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.

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One city in Italy has been dubbed the world’s new “Silicon Valley”.

Unlike San Francisco (actually Silicon Valley’s base), there’s no sign of sky-high rent rates and a spattering of crime waves pushing remote workers away – quite the opposite, actually.

While Rome, Venice, and the jaw-dropping Amalfi Coast will always be travelers’ go-to spots to immerse themselves in Italy’s renowned cultural delights, ranging from bucket-list wonders, phenomenal eats, and postcard beaches, one city in Sicily, which is somehow overlooked, is now proclaimed as the country’s latest digital nomad hotspot.

That’s right; the vibrant capital of Sicily, home to pizzas and piazzas, has become a haven for remote workers who’ve embraced the opportunity to reside in this laid-back, blue-water paradise.

More Americans Setting Up Shop In Palermo

It’s estimated Palermo, a city of nearly 700,000 people overlooking the stunning Tyrrhenian Sea, has already drawn in 1,000 new “residents,” with many Americans leading the charge.

Sicily is a name we all know, but you’d be surprised that most travelers favor the mainland’s aforementioned icons.

Digital nomads are discovering what others have been missing out on. First and foremost, Palermo (and all of Sicily, really) is splendid to visit any time of year for the views alone, but right now, heading into spring, the weather is hovering comfortably in the 60s and topping out in the high 80s in summer.

As you can see, as digital nomads begin to wrap up their winter sun needs, there’s no need to pack up and go in a hurry, especially with a welcoming community beginning to bloom with new co-working spaces popping up such as PMO Coworking, highlighted by Nomad Capitalist among the best in Europe.

Of All the Italian Cities To Make Your Base, Why Palermo?

Some of Europe’s most renowned cities can be the most costly, and Italy is no different.

Coming full circle, Palermo is a great spot for digital nomads not only because it’s embracing a new identity as a startup hub but also because you can experience Italy’s captivating culture, unmatched cuisine, and astounding scenery without breaking the bank – typically numero uno on digital nomads’ list of concerns.

Long-term stays on Airbnb can be found under $900 for a private apartment, and most are within walking distance to the beach and Palermo’s timeless city center.

Better yet, oftentimes local agencies are even cheaper than major platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo.

Known for epic seafood and cheap pizza, digital nomads’ savings on rent will likely go toward dining out since the food scene is impossible to pass over.

During downtime between work tasks, there are plenty of things to do and see. Obviously, Sicily’s breathtaking beaches are the top attraction.

According to TripAdvisor, these are Palermo’s top 3 beaches to visit:

• Spiaggia di Mondello
• Lido Valdesi
• Lido Sferracavello

Inland from the coast, you’ll discover picturesque ornate piazzas home to inviting street markets, staggering cathedrals like the unmissable Palermo Cathedral, and numerous cafes to start your day or use as an office with a warm cappuccino in hand.

Overall, Palermo ranks 22nd globally as top digital nomad destination.

Italy’s Digital Nomad Visa

Sure, you could just stay in Palermo to escape the frigid cold of much of the world, but what’s the fun in that when you can stay all year?

Italy launched its official digital nomad visa last spring. Obviously, travelers had a lot of questions like “what took so long?!”.

For real though, like most visas, there’s an expansive list of requirements, which you can read all about here, but we’ll cover the basics.

Basic requirements:

• Prove earned income of roughly $30,000 to ensure you’re exempt from healthcare costs
• Purchase a comprehensive health insurance policy valid for your entire stay
• No first-timers; must have worked remotely for 6 months prior to Italy arrival
• No criminal record in the last 5 years

Digital nomad visas are valid for a full calendar year and have the possibility for an extension of up to 2 years.

Sam Sears

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.

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Last Updated 9 mins ago

London, it was a good run! Now it’s another timeless city’s turn in the spotlight, at least according to the New York Times.

Naming 2025’s ‘52 Best Places to Travel’, taking home gold is a U.K. city often left in the shadows of London.

But, travelers have been more receptive to exploring more of what the U.K. has to offer, from trending destinations such as Edinburgh, the rise of Belfast, and other lesser-known cities on the up and up with new train routes, which is your best bet to reach 2025’s top destination.

Exuding Roman-era charm, delightful tea shops, and picturesque villages on the outskirts, you’ll be magnetized toward an array of historic sites and, even more so, the wide selection of spas to melt your stress away, hence the name Bath.

Plus, it’s a lot cheaper than London’s sky-high prices.

Forget The Household Names: How Bath Sets Itself Apart

At first glance, Bath may not feel like a typical U.K. city. In fact, it’s relatively small in size, housing just 94,092 inhabitants according to the last census records.

Boasting grand Georgian architecture and Roman-style bathhouses, Bath is a far cry from London’s towering skyline and tourist-curated landmarks.

Bath is easy to explore on foot and well-connect by bus and train from London, but while here, a great way to see the sites is by electric scooters dispersed across the city to see the sites

There’s no place like Bath anywhere else in the U.K. Sure, there are other timeless gems like the Cotswolds, but everything fails in comparison to what Bath offers.

Bath is an eye-popping city perfect for kicking back and unwinding rather than pub-hopping across London.

While there are certainly traditional pubs here, the main draw of Bath is ample Roman spas originally consisting of thousands of archaeological discoveries, many of which are open to the public to enjoy all the benefits of naturally warm hot springs just as the Romans did.

Bath’s Must-Visit Spas

With a name like Bath, it would be hard-pressed to find any tourists who didn’t enjoy a soak at a bathhouse.

While I’m certainly no spa expert by any means, I can attest to how relaxing and beneficial visiting such concepts can be as I’ve visited Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon Istanbul’s traditional hammams, and I liked both so much that I even made a point to visit a new hot spring resort in my home state of California.

I haven’t had the privilege to visit Bath, but can totally relate to visitors’ enthusiasm like this review for Thermae Bath Spa:

“Only thermal baths in the whole of the UK. Great to be in the rooftop pool looking out over the countryside and UNESCO world heritage city!”

You can also book tickets to the Roman Baths Museum, a fascinating tour showcasing the old world.

According to TripAdvisor, these are travelers’ 3 favorite spas to visit Bath:

• Thermae Bath Spa
• The Cross Bath
• The Bath Massage Company

Cheaper Stays: Historic Hotels And Cozy Inns

Saying Bath is cheaper than London is an understatement, as a majority of global destinations don’t sniff London’s bank-breaking prices.

Bath offers a variety of intriguing stays brimming with character rather than splurging on name-brand hotels.

Many of Bath’s top accommodations are centrally located, making for a great way to start your day with a cup of coffee or cap off your day with afternoon tea, a long-held British tradition.

Dating back to the 1400s Sally Lunn’s is a must-stop for great local fare, including tea and better yet, the chic Z Hotel is within walking distance and only $51 per night.

For those who do stick with the familiar brands back home to rack up points, Hotel Indigo is a great value too for a 4-star stay around $100 per night.

The best choice, however, has got to be 5-star Ayrlington, incredibly priced with a nightly rate of just $71 for a last-minute getaway or just $10 more in spring.

To discover the serene side of Bath, venturing away from the quaint city center, you’ll find a cozy inn overlooking the scenic River Avon – The Old Mill Hotel is also very affordable at just $56 through March.

Sam Sears

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.

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Last Updated 41 seconds ago

Traveling to Europe in winter is not an idea that appeals to most people:

It’s cold, for sure, daylight hours are limited, especially up north, and across many countries, locals are not exactly at their most welcoming selves––can you really blame them when it’s 23°F out?

Like everything in life, there is always an exception to the rule: in this case, not the freezing temperatures, but how exciting, lively, and welcoming a city can be despite the bleak weather, or more interestingly even, as a result of it.

Believe it or not, Stockholm is the perfect city break during the festive break, ranking the highest for friendliness across the pond, according to Condé Nast Traveller, and offering a fairytale-like winter experience (with the medieval Old Town and fascinating History to go with it).

It’s far from being a sunny getaway, but it might as well melt your heart:

Discover Sweden’s Colorful Medieval Capital This Winter

The capital of Sweden, Stockholm is built across 14 islands distributed around an archipelago on the Baltic Sea, all connected by as many as 50 bridges, an extensive underground system––which we’ll get to in a bit––and multiple ferry routes.

With a population of over 1.6 million people, it is the largest city not only in Sweden, but the whole of Scandinavia, so it can feel a little overwhelming at first, with so much to see and so little time, but if you’re visiting this winter, a good place to start is Gamla Stan.

Swedish for ‘Old Town’, this centrally-located island is famous for its cobbled streets and skinny, ocher-colored houses dating back centuries.

It’s true Stockholm is kinder to sightseers in summer when it’s (somewhat) pleasant out, and there’s more sunshine compared to the rest of the year, but we’d argue winter is when it’s at its most magical:

It is the friendliest city in Europe, as per the latest survey conducted by Condé Nast Traveler, where it scored an impressive 94.07, and indeed, walking into any bakery or restaurant or asking locals for directions, you’ll be greeted with politeness and a hospitable smile.

Maybe it’s the mysa spirit, maybe it’s the fact you can never get grumpy with a happy tummy full of cinnamon buns from Café Saturnus, the pride and joy of Stockholm’s coffeeshop scene; either way, Swedes are ready to welcome you with open arms.

And you know what they say, there’s no bad weather, just bad clothing:

It’s So Beautiful You Won’t Mind Being Outside

Stockholm is meant to be seen on foot, and you’ll be spending a lot of time outside.

Temperatures range from the mid-20s to low 40s in winter, and this is the Baltic Sea, after all, so it gets windy––definitely make sure you wear enough layers to protect yourself from the teeth-chattering cold and don’t hold back on the mulled wine and hot choccie.

Warning given: don’t miss a snow-dusted, 13th-century Storkyrkan Cathedral dominating the skyline, the majestic Kungliga Slottet Royal Palace, the official residence of the Swedish Royal Family––yep, they have one of their own, in case you didn’t know!––and the spearing, red-brick City Hall.

For unashamed wintery fun and an overload of culture, make sure you pay Skansen a visit: a short ferry ride away from the city center, this is Stockholm’s world-famous folk park, depicting life in a rural part of Sweden as if it was still the olden days.

Add to that winter markets filled with stalls, offering a wide range of products, from fine smithing and ceramics to Swedish street food faves like sausages and pickled herring, and historical celebrations with traditional music and dance, and you get the gist of it.

Escape The Cold Underground

Stockholm is hella cold this winter, and while there’s definitely some sightseeing to be done, and the freezing temperatures shouldn’t keep you from exploring the picturesque Gamla Stan, you can always take refuge in one of many indoor attractions:

Check out Moderna Museet, a vast collection of modern and contemporary art housing lesser-known work from artists like Matisse and Picasso, or Vasa, a museum entirely centered around a well-preserved, 17th-century warship.

The ABBA Museum is another must-do while in Stockholm, a thrilling exhibit (and celebration) of Sweden’s greatest musical act, and don’t forget about the often-overlooked Stockholm Metro:

‘Wait, the metro?’

Yes, the metro.

Forget about London’s dirty tube seats and the rampant pickpocketing plaguing the Paris underground: Stockholm’s is a literal gallery of surrealist art, with stations that have ceilings that look like boiling lava or spaceships and any other creative design in between.

We’re not talking about one or two stations: each of them has a particular, individual characteristic that sets them apart, with bright colors or psychedelic patterns, and the metro system itself is considered the world’s longest art gallery.

All we can say to you is happy exploring!

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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If you’re over mainstream news (and who wouldn’t be by now?), then there’s one remarkable city that always seems to slip through the cracks as more than just a pass-through city.

Chances are, if you’ve ever taken a road trip on I-10, then you’ve passed through one of the Southwest’s top hidden gems, yet nearly 700,000 people call it home.

Largely ignored even by its own state, with locals commonly mislabelling it as “Mexico” and misinformed characterizations since it’s lined by “the wall”, fellow Texans and general travelers have long been missing out on the cultural delights and affordable luxury of El Paso.

Yes, El Paso – the one often portrayed as a run-down desert town and unsafe hub for illegal migrant crossings.

As a former resident, I can attest that, yes, there are occasional border issues, but one small sub-section of a city shouldn’t represent the masses when there’s astounding nature, prideful, friendly locals, and an ever-changing downtown district beginning to buzz again.

The Forgotten City Of Texas

Despite breaking tourism records in 2023, El Paso still flies well under the radar except when talking heads spew negative depictions of what’s actually an awesome city to visit.

Even if you haven’t brushed up on Rosetta Stone lessons lately, you can probably surmise El Paso translates to “The Pass” in English, and that’s largely how El Paso has been visited – just a stayover on to somewhere else.

But El Paso deserves to be your next weekend getaway, at the very least. If you enjoy phenomenal Mexican food ranging from classic hole-in-the-walls and cart vendors to high-end Michelin-worthy eateries, El Paso has you covered, and it exudes authenticity, unlike that other record-breaking Mexican-influenced city.

No offense, San Antonio, but El Paso’s food is unmatched, and one hike in the Franklin Mountains puts your “river” to shame.

Despite many Texans pretending the Lone Star State’s southwest tip doesn’t exist, popular Texas publication Texas Monthly had the huevos to recognize two El Paso restaurants with the best tacos in the state:

Of course, indulging in local cuisine is great way to experience any destination, this is only a tidbit of El Paso’s cultural delights.

Not Just Margs & Tacos: Discover Historic Neighborhoods & Important Landmarks

You’ll find every legitimate Mexican dish under the sun in El Paso, with a special emphasis on Southwestern and Chihuahua influence, given the close proximity to Ciudad Juarez.

Texan and Mexican history blend timelines, and there’s no better place to experience the best of both worlds than a plate served in El Paso, but to witness the history itself is another story, and you can do that too.

One overlooked gem, even for locals, is in the next town over, Socorro. Here, you’ll find the El Paso Mission Trail home to an immaculately preserved glimpse of the past, with stunning historic Missions playing a significant role in a former trade route spanning from Mexico City to Santa Fe.

Make sure to check out all 3 missions, each with their own unique relevance:

• Ysleta Mission
• Socorro Mission
• San Elizario Presidio

In El Paso proper, the beauty of exploring the city’s historic neighborhoods is you never know what you’ll find.

Check out Sunset Heights, Manhattan Heights and my old stomping grounds, Segundo Barrio, for rows of streets oozing timeless charm and hidden gems like my favorite restaurant you’d otherwise never know about, Jalisco Cafe (only open on weekends).

Free Public Transit & Affordable Luxury

Downtown has continued to undergo a mass transformation since the pandemic’s ghost town vibes.

As WinterFest recently transformed downtown into a desert’s version of a winter wonderland, there are also many new bars, restaurants, cafes, and the city’s first-ever capsule hotel, breathing new life into formerly barren streets.

Getting around in El Paso’s splendid winter weather is easy, but if you plan to visit in the scorching summer, you may want to take advantage of the city’s free Streetcar connecting downtown to the high West Side.

Downtown is likely where you’ll want to make your base no matter the season. With a plethora of upscale hotels and rooftops with sweeping views, you’ll be shocked by how nice El Paso really can be – a far cry from its reputation as a bland desert town.

My favorite is The Plaza Pioneer Hotel (commonly referred to as “The Plaza”), recently awarded a Michelin Key and can be booked in the low $100s.

These 5 hotels offer affordable luxury in downtown El Paso: (under $150 per night)

• Hotel Paso Del Norte (check out the European-esque Dome Bar)
• The Plaza Pioneer Hotel
• DoubleTree By Hilton Hotel El Paso Downtown
• Hotel Indigo El Paso Downtown
• Aloft El Paso Downtown

Sam Sears

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.

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