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Arizona plates have already taken over San Diego highways, which means only one thing – it’s the unofficial start to summer.

But this summer will be different than the rest as quite possibly the most highly anticipated hotel in America is set for a soft opening May 15th, followed by the official blue-ribbon cutting the following days.

A whopping $1.3 billion was spent to bring not only the largest hotel on the West Coast, but the first-ever resort to Chula Vista, a lesser-known city sandwiched between San Diego and the Mexico border, and one of the last remaining swaths of untouched land in Southern California for a secluded, paradisal escape.

As many vacationers seek out ritzy stays in Coronado and Del Mar and family-friendly fun in San Diego’s Mission Beach, it’s actually Chula Vista that’s destined to be California’s new summer vacation hotspot with the grand opening of Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center.

Chula Vista? Where?

Most often, San Diego tourists stay central in and around Balboa Park or venture west to nearby beaches or north to small beach towns or Legoland in Carlsbad, but few tourists even consider Chula Vista unless they’re passing through to have a wild night in Tijuana just across the border.

South Bay, as it’s known, hasn’t been a particular draw to outsiders unless they’ve seen a viral taco stand on TikTok, experienced a classic drive-in theater, or wanted to see the famous “wall”.

Chula Vista boasts a beautiful bay with lush green parks and a vibrant marina, but no proper beaches. Imperial Beach, the southernmost beach in the U.S., is more known for its hazardous conditions due to sewage run-off from Mexico rather than how its postcard boardwalk and the only other South Bay beach, Silver Strand, is a state-run beach with entry fees, and even so, there’s nothing the state can do to temper bacteria from spreading north.

As such, the South Bay didn’t have much of a selling point until this month. In fact, the most notable selling point before the Gaylord’s soon-to-be grand opening is Seven Mile Casino, a couple of blocks away, which gets its name from the 7-mile drive to downtown San Diego.

So, the Gaylord is actually one of the most convenient resorts to San Diego vacationers despite being in a different city.

“This is Chula Vista’s decade. We will have billions of dollars invested in the Chula Vista Bayfront over the next several years […] and we’ll be doing a substantial upgrade on dining, designing, and amenities that the city has never had before.

– Chula Vista Mayor, John McCann

The Gaylord Pacific: A Destination Unto Itself

According to San Diego Magazine, the Gaylord Pacific is set to debut 12 restaurants. Unfortunately, it’s not all-inclusive, but guests will have an array of options from the dry-aged experts at Old Hickory Steakhouse with sweeping bay views, sushi to-go at Taiyo so you snack poolside or fuel up for a sunny day spent floating the lazy river, and even Growlers Sports Bar & Taproom, boasting a 75-foot tv screen to watch the big game in peace away from noisy kiddos.

Gaylord has something for everyone, but it’s definitely family-friendly, with its 4+ acre water park featuring slides, a wave pool, and a massive water playground.

Not that you would ever want to leave the resort grounds, just last month, Sweetwater Park reopened to the public with miles of pedestrian walkways and bikeways lining the scenic bayside — the perfect place to take in the sunset if you don’t care to make the 20 minute drive to San Diego’s Sunset Cliffs.

The Gaylord offers a wide range of accommodations, from standard rooms with mountain, marina, or Pacific views to 89 spacious suites, including the posh Presidential Suite with an ocean-view balcony worth the sky-high price alone.

Grand opening weekend rates are as low as $350 per night, while mid-summer rates are in the $500s.

What Else To Do In Chula Vista

As a resident of Chula Vista, I have to say I love living here! Out of all the places I’ve lived in San Diego County, this city is my favorite.

Rather than follow the tourists who flood the Gaslamp Quarter, check out Chula Vista’s Third Avenue District, a pint-sized drag of breweries, dive bars, cafes, food trucks, taco shops, and my favorite restaurant in the city, Lime in the Coconut.

Eating in Chula Vista is a loophole for your tastebuds to enjoy authentic flavors of Baja without needing a passport. There are numerous hole-in-the-wall taco stands serving Tijuana-style tacos and mulas like famous Tacos El Gordo, or you can compare Jalisco flavors to Baja’s with newly-opened El Pastor Del Rica, owned by champion boxer Canelo Alvarez.

But Chula Vista isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a highly underrated place to explore the outdoors. The further East you go, the more you’ll want to come back to the coast to cool off during the summer months.

One of my favorite local secrets is Mountain Hawk Park in the Eastlake neighborhood of Chula Vista.

It boasts panoramic Otay Lake views backdropped by the staggering Otay Mountain range.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Often considered the largest city in the world, Tokyo’s efficiency in navigating an endless sea of crowds is a remarkable achievement.

One would think the narrow alleyways teeming with hidden izakayas would be impossible to explore in a city north of 14 million residents, and that’s not factoring in the number of tourists in Tokyo at all times either.

Even as efficient and streamlined as Tokyo may be, there’s a reason the city employs “pushers” to quite literally stuff passengers into subway trains when the doors won’t close.

Hard pass on that if you ask me…

Well, even though Tokyo tops my travel bucket list, after reading Condé Nast’s take on Japan’s new travel hotspot, the allure of Osaka even has me questioning if crossing off Tokyo is the right decision this year.

With a never-ending array of cultural delights, new luxe hotels, and hip and funky vibes, Osaka has been rightfully crowned Japan’s new “it” destination for 2025.

Japan’s ‘Second City’ Is Rising Fast

Let’s be real. Tokyo isn’t going anywhere. That being said, Osaka has created a name for itself where many travelers are now double-dipping in Japan making sure to visit both cities.

Of course, Japan’s bullet trains make that quest a lot easier. There are nonstop flights from Los Angeles and San Francisco, as well as Toronto and Vancouver. Obviously, Tokyo is more connected, but Osaka is easy to reach by lightning-speed trains in under 4 hours, and the precision is masterful.

Point being Osaka has been surging as of late and Condé Nast isn’t the first or last to report on Japan’s new hotspot.

Whether it be more Americans scratching their wanderlust itch or solo travelers from all over the world, Osaka ticks off many boxes from fascinating cultural experiences to sensational food and cheaper hotels than Tokyo, where it’s not uncommon to find 4-star stays in the low $100’s.

No More Quiet Time: Slurping Encouraged

If you’ve researched Tokyo as your next passport-required adventure or have already visited, you’re probably well aware of the efficiency I mentioned up top.

Locals are almost unrecognizable, respectful of other people’s surroundings, and must think Americans are absolutely nuts if they were to ride on the New York subway — and it’s not just the pizza-eating rats.

Whether it be restaurants, train rides, or public spaces, locals are polite and try not to draw any attention to disrupt your day, but Osaka is a different story.

While Osaka locals are still friendly and respectful, it’s okay to slurp your noodles and engage in conversation without concern for your neighbor.

Osaka is actually considered Japan’s party playground, so noise is pretty common as this vibrant city also permeates a grittier edge than Tokyo’s notable tidiness.

You’ll find an array of fun bars, including karaoke-themed clubs and backrooms, and of course, gaming centers, which have become all the rage.

Most importantly, you’ll never go hungry in Osaka. The food is truly phenomenal, whether it be sushi you’ve never fathomed back home and different variations of authentic noodles, seafood, Japan’s famous Kobe beef, and local favorites such as okonomiyaki.

The Dotonbori district is the most sought-after region of Osaka for foodies, but isn’t everyone a foodie when visiting Japan?
You’ll also find scenic canal cruises here.

What’s New In Osaka: Luxe Hotels, Cutting-Edge Tech, & Cherry Blossom Blooms

Osaka will host the World Expo 2025, a massive event showcasing the latest global innovations of gizmos and gadgets and expected to draw a surge of visitors from all over the world.

Condé Nast highlighted the following 3 newbies to Osaka travelers need to check out this year:

Of course, a trip to Japan in spring is one of the prettiest places in the world as cities such as Osaka see blushing blooms of cherry blossoms spread all over the city.

Even more locals come outside of their four walls to embrace their vibrant city to participate in the tradition of hanami, a time to enjoy cherry blossoms by spending more time outdoors such as picnics.

Here are 5 great spots to enjoy Osaka’s cherry blossoms this spring:

• Osaka Castle Park (formerly Japan’s largest castle; free to enter)
• Kema Sakuranomiya Park
• Expo ’70 Commemorative Park
• Osaka Mint Bureau
• Okawa River

Or if you prefer to have someone else lead the way, simply book a cherry blossom tour or scope out the best spot when you visit by checking out this updated forecast.

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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Iceland is no longer what it used to be – a faraway dreamland that nobody knows about. That’s not to say Iceland isn’t an amazing destination; it’s just no longer a secret.

What used to be an ideal place for all types of travelers, especially solo travelers seeking an adventure, now it’s a mainstream destination with prices through the roof.

Your first stop in Iceland is Keflavik, where in all likelihood, will be your springboard to reach the capital city, Reykjavik.

Here is where your jaw may hit the floor with hostels costing double, triple, or even quadruple, what other popular European destinations charge, meaning upscale lodging is even more of a punch in the gut.

Good news is a new travel hotspot has emerged as a result of higher travel expenses across the board and influx of travelers invading Europe’s most eye-popping country.

Formerly a top road trip destination, as Iceland’s ‘Ring Road’ is the ultimate bucket-list item, now the gorgeous town of Akureyri is making a name for itself all on its own as Iceland’s new tourism hotspot.

A Whole New Way To Reach Northern Iceland

Iceland is still a blast the old fashioned way. You know, renting a car, getting lost on roads you can’t pronounce and stopping at all the top sites, like the Blue Lagoon.

But…there’s a new way to experience Iceland, making the country more enticing to visit than ever before.

Akureyri is Iceland’s second largest city, which isn’t saying much considering there are less than 400,000 residents in the entire country!

If you’ve been to Iceland, you probably flew Iceland Air or their flagship budget carrier, Play (formerly WOW Air).

Rather than take these airlines to Keflavik and spend hours on the road upon landing, there is another option to connect in England with a nonstop flight from easyJet straight into Akureyri.

Skip The Blue Lagoon And Embrace Northern Iceland

With 8.5 million travelers set to fly into Keflavik this summer, many have their sights set on one of Iceland’s top attractions – the famous Blue Lagoon.

What tourists may not know is showers are required before entering the lagoon. Let’s just say weaving through the very Euro style locker room is an adventure in its own right, and even more so if it’s jam-packed.

But did you know there is an awesome alternative that opened in 2022 in Akureyri? The tranquil Forest Lagoon is the anti-Blue Lagoon where you can have some space for a nearly identical experience.

Receiving rave reviews, one recent guest exclaimed, “Of all the lagoons I visited in Iceland, this one was my absolute favorite!”, with others such as the Myvatn Nature Baths within 40 miles.

Alternative lagoons are not the only draw to lure more tourists in Akureyri and the surrounding area. This entire region packs a punch with less crowds and insanely beautiful natural sites.

Not Just A Winter Wonderland

Iceland sees most tourists from the U.S. during the summer months. While Akureyri is magnetizing during winter as top spot for witnessing the Northern Lights, it’s great for a summer getaway too.

As tourism has sky-rocketed, the country is doing its best to disperse tourists across the nation to thin the crowds.

Set along Eyjafjordur, the longest fjord in Iceland, what Bergen is to Oslo, Akureyri is to Reykjavik. In other words, it’s worth the extra bit of effort to reach.

Those new to Iceland may be surprised by the country’s endless green landscapes. Locals commonly joke Iceland and Greenland should switch names.

The scenery is gorgeous throughout the area with similar, and perhaps even more jaw-dropping sites, than southern Iceland with waterfalls like Skjalfandafljot Falls nearby.

Between May – September, Akureyri is an incredible place to go whale watching through multiple tour operators.

While many Iceland tourists are all about Puffin sightings, spotting a variety of Humpback Whales, Minke Whales, and even Blue Whales and Orcas on occasion, is a whole other level.

And like Reykjavik, Akureyri is both charming and quirky and worth some on your itinerary hopping around all the scenic spots from the Akureyrarkirkja church, a handful of museums, and trendy cafes.

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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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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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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The work-from-home craze has taken over the workforce worldwide as more and more countries create digital nomad visas to accommodate one of the latest travel trends.

But, some places are quite surprising when it comes to such a vast array of destinations digital nomads have at their fingertips.

Whether it be Latin America’s hidden gems, far-flung hideaways in Europe, or dirt-cheap yet culturally rich hotspots in Asia, there’s no limit to digital nomads’ new base.

That being said, as popular as the Caribbean may be for American travelers, many places in the region don’t fit the mold of what digital nomads tend to look for.

Startups just revealed the next digital hotspot for 2025 and although it’s mega popular for Americans, it’s worth questioning if the island’s well-documented safety issues and affordability tick off the boxes for digital nomads.

Is Jamaica Too Boujee For Digital Nomads?

According to Startups, there’s a 250% increase in remote work in Jamaica. As someone who visited Jamaica in the last year or so, I can see how such an immensely welcoming culture and obviously drop-dead gorgeous island would be enticing to wake up to every day.

The truth is not every digital nomad is bankrolling.

When I visited Kingston, I hung out on the upscale side of the city known as New Kingston, where Bob Marley’s mansion is located.

There are new developments dispersed across this district with some really nice apartments available to rent, but the issue digital nomads face is pricing.

Many apartments, even in notoriously sketchy Kingston, resemble U.S. markets with rents in the $1000’s – a far cry from what many scope out when there are many destinations you’re total cost will be under $1000.

Then there’s obviously Montego Bay, laden with high-end resorts, followed by quaint, yet trendy Negril, and the up-and-coming hotspot of Port Antonio, the most authentic of the bunch.

According to Nomads, Kingston ranks #110 globally for digital nomads, with expected monthly costs pushing $3,000.

Jamaica’s Safety Concerns

Jamaica is no stranger to welcoming visitors with open arms. I found this island to be one of the friendliest places I’ve ever been.

Unfortunately, Jamaica is also no stranger to travel advisories, especially related to the capital, Kingston.

Wandering Downtown Kingston and passing run-down streets on my Uber from the airport, it’s easy to see why.

The latest advisory issued in July highlights high crime levels and lackluster health care, including slow response times to emergencies throughout the country.

Kingston also received low marks for safety on Nomads but surprisingly high scores for overall contentment with glowing positive experiences.

If I ventured to guess, most nomads would reside in New Kingston, where there are ample co-working spaces like The Hub and trendy cafes offering delicious Blue Mountain coffee sourced roughly an hour away.

However, Startup highlights Negril as Jamaica’s top beach spot for digital nomads with plentiful oceanfront cafes.

Kingston isn’t so much a beach town, although I did find a secret beach tourists largely don’t know about, but it wouldn’t be the best spot to work from since the seaside eateries are hole-in-the-wall shacks along unkept dirt roads.

As for Montego Bay, Jamaica’s most popular vacation destination, you can find affordable apartments on Airbnb on the outskirts of the city for under $800, but a quick Google search shows co-working spaces are lacking here.

Jamaica’s Entry Requirements

Jamaica doesn’t offer a ‘digital nomad visa’, but Americans can visit as a standard tourist for 90 days visa-free, the perfect amount of time to soak up winter sun.

As stated, there are monthly listings on Airbnb, so this is likely your best bet. Just familiarize yourself with Jamaica’s neighborhoods first.

There is a full list of Level 4 no-go zones listed on the U.S. State Department’s latest travel advisory, many of which are in and around Kingston.

When I booked an Airbnb here, I found the wifi to be reliable, but preferred working from New Kingston cafes, such as Cafe Blue.

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 4 months ago

Set on the beautiful shores of the Atlantic lies a lesser-known beach town conveniently located between the fun-filled city of Orlando and the glitz and glamour of Palm Beach.

Home to luxe beach resorts along gorgeous waters, the spotlight is beginning to shine brighter as it forges its path, emerging as Florida’s new “it” destination.

To back up this claim, one budget airline is betting big on this sunny destination this summer, holding monopoly status as the only carrier serving this pint-sized airport…for now.

The town isn’t much bigger, but what vacationers get in return proves once and for all size doesn’t matter.

Savings + luxury = the perfect vacation if you ask me!

With new direct flights and lavish resorts, Vero Beach is destined to become Florida’s new vacation hotspot.

Florida’s Hidden Gem: Vero Beach Is Late To The Party

There are a plethora of beaches along the Atlantic in neighboring states well worth visiting, but Florida is always the leader of the pack.

Even Orlando, an inland city an hour away from the nearest beach, sees hordes of tourists, so it’s not all about the beaches.

In Vero Beach, however, there are 26 miles of gorgeous coastline with far fewer tourists than Orlando, Miami, all the Caribbean-esque beaches near Tampa, and any other trendy beach town your mind can muster.

In other words, Vero Beach is late to the party, but better to arrive fashionably late than to never show up at all.

Vero Beach does show up dressed to impress with vivid blues and greens and a mix of soft white or golden sand, depending on where you are along the shoreline.

This small, inviting beach town is laying down its welcome mat in preparation for more tourists despite Vero Beach Regional Airport (VRB) not having much success.

Multiple airlines ceased operations over the years, to no fault or lack of appeal of Vero. I mean, have you heard of Eastern Air Lines? Not exactly a household name…

Breeze Airways, one of America’s newest low-cost carriers, plans to change that. And so far, so good.

In fact, it’s the only airline that serves VRB at all.

Breeze’s 5 Routes To Vero Beach

East Coasters get first dibs taking a crack at Vero Beach. Launching their first VRB flight in early 2023, the network has grown evermore to 5 routes thus far.

Obviously, Vero Beach has been a hit, unlike other budget airlines that dip their toes in the water too quickly only to pull out at the drop of a hat. (*cough, cough. Frontier…)

The latest was announced last week—a nonstop flight from Newburgh, NY (SWF), one of New York City’s handful of alternative airports.

Speaking of, Long Island/Islip (ISP) and White Plains (HPN) also serve VRB.

That leaves Providence, Rhode Island (PVD) and Hartford, Connecticut (BDL) to round out the 5 routes.

Breeze offers promotions frequently, including the new Newburgh – Vero Beach route on sale right now as low as $99 the week it launches November 21, 2024.

Lavish Beach Resorts Without The Crowds

Sure, you could spend your paycheck at Disney World or splurge on the finer things in life in Palm Beach, but about half between lies Vero Beach – typically more affordable, yet still a luxurious beach vacation spot.

Disney World can be a blast, but your bank account will take a pounding! Try sticking to a $250 per day budget, especially with kiddos—good luck!

But did you know Vero Beach actually makes for the perfect Disney World alternative? That’s right.

You may not be aware of Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, where rooms average a smidge over $250 per day.

Rather than have the soundtrack to your life of screaming roller-coaster-riding kids all day, what about a Disney hotel nestled upon an idyllic beach on sea turtle nesting grounds?

Talk about A Whole New World…

To level up even more, especially without the kiddos, name-brand resorts such as the posh Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa got you covered, among other paradisal beachfront stays:

• Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa
• The Caribbean Court Boutique Hotel
• Prestige Hotel Vero Beach

Dolphins, Manatees, And Birds, Oh My!

Lastly, vacationers in Vero Beach would be doing themselves a disservice by not visiting the surrounding Indian River Lagoon.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love renting a paddleboard or kayak along the scenic waterways, which are teeming with opportunities to spot wildlife, especially dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species.

For those who don’t want to put in work on vacation (understandably so!), fun boat tours are also an option ranging from tiki boats to private guides.

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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Ready to plan your next winter thrills? Look no further than Iceland’s new “it” destination!

Surprisingly, Iceland is one of the easiest European countries to reach despite seeming like a fairytale land in the middle of nowhere.

With 2 Icelandic airlines serving the U.S. as well as a pair of America’s own, your bucket list dreams await.

But if you’ve held off scratching Iceland off your list, you may be late to the party since Reykavjaik, as well as some other former hidden gems, have spiked in popularity.

One city on the northern side is all the rage right now, especially as more airlines trickle in, making for convenient connections.

With frigid weather full steam ahead, Iceland may not seem like an ideal escape, but with some awe-inspiring natural phenomenons and cheap thermal spas to combat the cold, don’t sleep on visiting Iceland’s new tourism hotspot this winter.

Reykjavik Is Old News! More Travelers Are Scoping Out Akureyri

Reykjavik is a cool little city. The word “city” is a stretch since it feels more like a charming town, yet it’s Iceland’s largest “metropolis” at just a smidge under 140,000 in a nation of only 394,000 people.

More often than not, Keflavik, followed by Reykjavik, are the most common gateways into one of the world’s most otherworldly destinations to explore indescribable landscapes, stunning waterfalls, active volcanos, and possible elf sightings – well, at least to some locals who swear by it.

While spotting Will Ferrell in an open field would surely make lasting memories, in reality, more travelers are discovering the charms and wonders of Iceland’s fourth biggest city, Akureyri.

Offering more of an authentic feel than, say, Reykjavik’s Hard Rock Cafe and touristy shops, this vibrant community has so far welcomed visitors with open arms.

Honestly, that’s partly because locals know much of a trek their beloved hometown is to reach, even with easyJet set to launch a new flight from the U.K. on November 12th.

Secondly, Reykjavik isn’t a common place to witness the Northern Lights, given the light pollution, but Akureyri is more remote and a great entry point this time of year to see the skies dance green.

Akureyri’s Fabulous Northern Lights Display

Colder months = more Northern Lights. At least that’s the case for Akureyri.

Tour operators rake in the dough this time of year taking you to the best spots away from light pollution to witness Aurora Borealis put on a show.

According to Arctic Adventures, one of Akureyri’s top tour guides, the best time of year to witness this natural phenomenon is from ‘mid-September until March’.

All you have to do is pack some extra layers and let the experts do the rest.

The bad news being tour guides don’t control the weather, so you will need a bit a good fortune with a clear night.

While Arctic Adventures offers a great price at $123, it’s best to do your due diligence since Northern Light Tours is their own industry here.

For a full list of options, check Akureyri’s official tourism page.

Forget The Blue Lagoon! Visit Akureyri’s Cheaper Spas

Popular belief is Iceland is best explored by road trip.

That’s why you’ll see so many awesome photos or videos of travelers’ adventures across the country on Instagram and TikTok.

Of course, one of the most common and photo-worthy places to visit is the world-famous Blue Lagoon, often a highlight on many travelers’ road trip itineraries.

That said, the experience of relaxing in this spa’s natural thermal springs is expensive.

The cost of visiting the Blue Lagoon varies by package, but even the most affordable option doesn’t compare to what Akureyri offers.

Spas galore in Akureyri. Arguably the most popular is Forest Lagoon, holding an impressive 4.7 Google rating and only costs $50 to enter, while the Blue Lagoon is roughly $75 – $105 for the low-end Comfort option.

Another great choice is the Beer Spa, where yes, you can take a beer bath!

Or opt for another thermal bath away from the charming town’s delights.

Set along a black beach overlooking astounding open scenery, a day pass at Hauganes Hot Tubs only costs $14!

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 2 weeks ago

When it comes to Europe, it’s almost impossible to pick just one place to visit.

It’s a beautiful, culturally diverse continent where almost every city has its own unique look and feel. 

Europe is also a destination with a reputation for knowing how to get your wallet out of your pocket! 

But visiting Europe doesn’t have to be expensive. You just have to choose the right destination!  

Spending time in London, Paris, or Copenhagen isn’t going to come cheap.  

But according to new research from Omio, the best low-budget destination for travelers in Europe is the beautiful and historic Spanish city of Granada.  

Free Things To See And Do 

One of the main reasons Granada ranked so highly in the Omio report is the abundance of free things to see and do in the city. 

In fact, the report states that there are a whopping 112 free attractions in the city. This includes 10 free-to-enter museums.  

The best of these include The Federico García Lorca Center, which is an arts and culture center hosting regular events and changing exhibits.

The center also includes a permanent exhibit of one of Granada’s most famous sons: The poet Federico Garcia Lorca.  

Close to the Alhambra you will find the Carmen de los Mártires which is a beautiful building with an orchard and European-style garden. A great place to take a moment of calm and relaxation.  

The Outstanding Alhambra

The most significant thing to do in the city is visit the iconic Alhambra: by far the most famous building in Granada.  

The Alhambra is a palace and fortress complex. It is built in Islamic style, and is the best and most well-known example of Islamic architecture not only in Spain but in Western Europe.

There is an entrance fee to see the main palace complex in the Alhambra (with prices starting from 10.60 euros or $11.50 per person) but if you only visit one sight in Granada, this should be it!  

The Palace is famous for its stunning fretwork, perfectly maintained courtyards, and numerous fountains.

But the Nasrid building, which is considered the heart of the complex, is where the royals actually lived and is the most ornate as a result.  

If you want to visit the site without spending a penny, then you can visit The Palace of Charles V, which houses the Alhambra Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts within the Alhambra complex, completely free of charge.  

Incredible Architecture 

The architecture in Granada is so outstanding that it should be considered an attraction in its own right.

Granada was the last city to be reconquered by the Catholic Monarchs in 1492 so many of the buildings here have a distinctive Moorish influence.

In fact, you’ll wonder if you’re in Europe or in North Africa at certain points!  

Be sure to see the Catedral de Granada, even if you only admire the exterior architectural details.

Then go inside the Monasterio de San Jerónimo, which was built in a Renaissance style and is as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside.  

This was the first Christian monastery to be constructed after the reconquest of the Catholic Monarchs and it exudes a spirit of celebration.  

You will need a ticket to enter, which you can buy in advance and each ticket is priced at 6 euros ($6.50) 

Granada isn’t the most walkable city in Europe. But the good news is that you can get a sightseeing bus tour ticket for just 6 euros ($6.50), meaning that you can hop on and hop off between all the city’s main attractions.

This is one of the most affordable sightseeing buses in Western Europe.  

Granada’s Nightlife 

Finally after all that sightseeing, it’s time to hit the town. Because Granada has a very active (and affordable) nightlife scene. According to Omio, there are a whopping 86 bars and nightclubs in the city where you can buy a beer for just over $2.  

What’s more, there’s no need to fork out for a pricey meal before you hit the bars.

Granada has a long-standing tradition of offering free tapas with each drink ordered, adding to the value of your night out even more!  

In most bars, you won’t have a choice of the tapas you are offered: a small plate will just be brought to your table with your drinks.

Other bars will have a chalkboard on a bar, and you can choose from several options, which often change on a regular basis.  

Some of the best free tapas dishes to try in Granada include calamares (squid), gambas (shrimp), Jambon iberico, or croquettes.  

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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