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An alternative to Punta Cana? That might sound crazy, but there’s a brand new Dominican airport slated to open by the end of 2025.

Scouring travel forums, there’s already pushback at just the thought of a Punta Cana dupe, especially as Samana, Miches, and Puerto Plata inch closer to becoming mainstream each year.

But the Pedernales Province is one of the Dominican Republic’s last frontiers for tourism, and it might be off-putting to some simply because of its close proximity to neighboring Haiti, which, it goes without saying, is not exactly the postcard paradise it should be.

Home to stunning footprint-free shores, vibrant coastal villages, and far fewer crowds than Punta Cana’s flashy resorts, like it or not, Cabo Rojo is set to become the Dominican Republic’s new vacation hotspot once the Pedernales International Airport cuts the blue ribbon by year’s end.

Pedernales: The D.R.’s Virtually Untouched Shores

Untouched Caribbean seaside? Now that’s a selling point Punta Cana can’t offer.

If there’s one claim to fame in Pedernales, it’s Bahía de las Águilas, often going neck and neck with Punta Cana’s Playa Bavaro as the country’s most beautiful beach.

You’ll find gleaming white sand and vibrant turquoise waters, except there’s minimal development here, offering a better experience than Bavaro for those who don’t like crowds — but who does?

The stunning shores don’t stop there, though. In fact, Bahía de las Águilas is likely hard-pressed for competitors since this side of the D.R. is less frequented by vacationers, often viewed as more of a tight-lipped local escape.

One such place is Playa Blanca, a secret hideaway boasting epic sunsets and only has reviews from locals (all but one is a perfect 5-star rating by the way).

Another is Playa Cabo Rojo in the town of the same name where the new airport is located. Local patrons claim to enjoy the ‘crystal clear waters ‘ and close access to nearby attractions — not to mention ‘soft white sand’ and completely trash-free despite a lack of infrastructure being so isolated.

Most foreign tourists have yet to discover the spectacular shores near Cabo Rojos, but that’s expected to change in 2026 with far more enticements than just the region’s flawless beaches (with the exception of an occasional sargassum invasion).

Genuine Culture & Jaw-Dropping Nature

While there are a few negative aspects of Punta Cana, such as the prices for all-inclusives being more than reasonable, it lacks culture.

From what I saw on my trip, Punta Cana has become a tourist haven solely for its astounding beaches, posh resorts, and seductive vacation home market, while the culture is left to places like bustling Santo Domingo.

That’s not the case for Cabo Rojo, where Punta Cana’s curated experiences far outweigh any cultural delights you might find elsewhere.

That’s not to say there isn’t a slight touristy vibe, though. Just last fall, Port Cabo Rojo was completed, making it more appealing to cruisers to disembark and explore the region.

The town’s goal is to attract 150,000 cruise passengers in 2025, with no telling how many more air travelers come in 2026 once word spreads of this up-and-coming Dominican gem.

With such lush nature like Jaragua National Park, Cabo Rojo National Wildlife Refuge and the breathtaking Oviedo Lagoon (within Jaragua) with scenic boat tours and more flamingos than a Tommy Bahama shirt, it’s easy to see why the Dominican government chose this region to showcase.

The Pro Pedernales Tourism Project: Name-Brand Hotels & New Airport

Information regarding which airlines will serve Pedernales International Airport remains a mystery at this point, but given how the D.R. has been a raging success ever since the pandemic, it would be shocking if no U.S. airlines were among the first to join in.

What we do know is that the airport will open by the end of the calendar year, and if it’s anything like Tulum’s highly anticipated opening, airlines will trickle in month after month, creating a new Caribbean vacation hotspot.

As for hotels, there’s a lot more information with confirmed commitments from household names.

Last winter, it was confirmed such brands as Hyatt and Iberostar are set to develop new properties here with the goal to make Pedernales the Dominican’s next ‘luxury tourist destination’.

But if you’d like to get a head start on your vacation before the crowds take over one day, TripAdvisor currently ranks Hotel Pedernales Italia as the top stay.

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If you’re a U.S. citizen who has had it with the incendiary world of politics, regardless of where you stand, not to mention the high cost of living across most urban centers, you might be thinking whether now isn’t the time to contemplate a move to Europe, but where?

After all, moving abroad isn’t as simple as packing your bags, grabbing your passport, and heading to the next airport: staying long-term in Europe usually involves being required to apply for a visa, and if you’re a low to middle-income earner, we’re sorry to say, it won’t cut it for the financial threshold.

Still, not all hope is lost: there are a couple of options if you dream of moving to the Old Continent with lower levels of bureaucracy and financial strain.

More specifically, they are two hugely underrated countries that, despite being farther to the East than you might have envisioned, offer Americans a decent quality of life, the infusion of culture they may be missing, and even more safety than Paris, London, and the like.

The best part? You can stay for a whole year visa-free by virtue of being a U.S. passport holder only:

Albania

Have you ever been to Italy or Croatia, and the second you landed, the first intrusive thought that popped into your mind was… ‘should I move here?’

Well, you might encounter some hurdles trying to settle in those particular countries as a non-European with fewer qualifications and no job offer, but your future lounging by a Mediterranean beach, exploring picture-perfect coastal towns, and gorging on fresh seafood isn’t lost:

How about Albania instead?

Located directly opposite Italy, in the Balkan Peninsula, and south of Croatia and north of Greece, it is an ancient land, one of Europe’s oldest nations, at that, hugged by the turquoise Med waters and boasting historical wealth like no other.

Albania is best represented internationally by its quirky little capital, Tirana, a sea of communist-era apartment blocks and bunkers-turned-museums that has its fair share of cozy cafes and laptop-friendly eateries––shout out to our fellow digital nomads out there!

If you’re heading straight for the coast, however, you’re probably thinking of the resort city of Vlora, home to a long, golden-sand beach and a pastel-colored Old Town, or maybe the laid-back village of Ksamil, at the heart of the Albanian Riviera, and a feature on Travel Off Path’s Top Lesser Known Destinations for last year.

Albania is not as developed as other European states, lying both outside the European Union and the Schengen Area and suffering from concentration of capital at an elite level, though it is part of NATO and strongly Western-aligned:

Walking the streets of Tirana, you won’t find hints of Western Europe’s ongoing illegal immigration issue, nor will you feel as if you must walk with keys between your knuckles as a woman, especially in the Downtown area.

Along the coasts, settlements are largely peaceful and crime-free, and despite Albania’s struggle with the formation of smuggling gangs and circulation of illicit drugs, tourists aren’t targets for criminals, and levels of violence are extremely low.

Additionally, you can live in Albania for much cheaper than the average European country: in Tirana, going out for a meal at a local restaurant will set you back by a round $10, as per Numbeo data, and we’re talking a sumptuous presentation, with a meat-heavy soup for starter and a main.

As for renting, a one-bedroom apartment in the center costs $607 per month, approximately 58% less than in New York, considerably less than the average rent in Fort Wayne, Indiana, found to be the cheapest city to live Stateside.

In case you’re wondering, that would run you up roughly $1,233 per month on rent alone.

I guess it’s the perfect time to reveal that, as an American citizen, you’re eligible to stay in Albania a whole entire year without visas! You read that right:

One of Europe’s cheapest, most fascinating Mediterranean countries is essentially beckoning you to make the Transatlantic voyage and settle for a while, and if you end up falling in love with Albania and you do decide on extending your stay––why not? It’s the perfect base for exploring Europe––you can try and call up the immigration service to see about a residence permit application.

It’s not like they’d be opposed to the idea of Americans moving there permanently, anyway.

Georgia

The second one is a tad controversial, as many do not consider Georgia a European country, but allow us to explain:

It is located east of Turkey, directly south of Russia, and very close to the Middle East, which would in theory place it in Western Asia, but before you fret and close this page already, hear us out:

Georgia is considered European by its staunchly Orthodox populace and post-Soviet culture, and unless you run a DNA test on Georgians, you’d have a hard time telling them apart from most Eastern European populations.

Before we delve into some of the reasons why you should consider Georgia for relocation, however, let us address the elephant in the room: yes, it is within firing distance of some of the unfriendliest countries right now, and no, it’s not protected by NATO.

That being said, Georgians are in their vast majority strongly anti-Russian and oriental influences, so much so massive protests have erupted in the capital, Tbilisi, in recent months to denounce Russian interference in local elections, and their main goal is to one day join the European Union.

As a matter of fact, the country has already taken one step further towards that goal, as the EU has granted them official candidate status, regardless of the geographical isolation.

On the Russia issue, their Slavic neighbors tend to mess with the world of Georgian politics more than they tend to launch full-scale invasions affecting regular people––in reality, Georgia is a surprisingly safe destination with low crime and low terrorism.

Political upheavals are a whole ‘nother ball game, but it’s not like they affect the future of foreigners who aren’t citizens, anyway.

As for Tbilisi, the vibrant, largest city and administrative center, it is an architecturally eclectic hub where you’re as likely to stumble upon Persian and Ottoman-inspired monuments as you are Orthodox churches and European-style medieval fortifications.

The Old Town is particularly scenic, with a row of brightly-painted facades and protruding balconies lining narrow, cobbled lanes, and as it’s the standard rule in Europe, a hilltop fort––Narikala––dominates the cityscape.

For digital nomads out there, Tbilisi is a well-known name in the community, thanks to its plethora of incredible cafes––think a well-frequented Fabrika or the gorgeous brunch spot that is Coffee Lab in Kazbegi Avenue––and affordable prices.

Now, we must note that since the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the flocking of Russians and Ukrainians alike into Tbilisi, those once-dirt-cheap room rates have soared compared to what they once were.

On the bright side, by American and Western European standards, Tbilisi remains inexpensive.

A single-dish meal in the Old Town will cost an average $10.49, while a three-course meal for two is an acceptable $41.96––when it comes to rent, you’re looking at a minimum $685 for a modest Downtown rental, or $1,365 for a three-bedroom apartment in the same area.

There are other cities to consider in Georgia, such as Batumi, on the Black Sea Coast––black in all but name––an equally fascinating cultural center distinguished by its innovative skyscrapers, pebbly beach straddling azure seas, and stately squares.

Or maybe you’re looking to beat the crowds and truly cut down costs: in that case, the inland Kutaisi, where Georgia’s low-cost flights operated by WizzAir arrive, is the ideal option (just don’t expect the same exciting nightlife and established international community as in the other two).

In your free time, you can explore all of Georgia’s natural and manmade wonders, including deep gorges filled with turquoise waters and densely forested areas, fairytale castles and monasteries perched atop snow-capped peaks, and peaceful spa towns nestled up in the mountains.

Ready for it?

Similarly to Albania, you can stay in Georgia for a year as an American citizen: while you may find the journey there troublesome, as it is of course far, far East, there’s nothing a layover in Amsterdam or Paris can’t solve, and there is no need to apply for a visa in advance.

You can enter as a regular tourist, and you’ll be issued a 365-day stamp.

There is more: if you choose to stay longer, all it takes is doing a border run, either to the neighboring countries of Turkey or Armenia––we wouldn’t be going to Russia at the minute, mind you––or flying to ‘mainland’ Europe and back, and there you go, another 365 days.

Naturally, this is at the discretion of border officers––between us, they’re very receptive to Americans, unlike Russians, so it’s not like you’ll face major problems renewing your tourist stamp through this loophole.

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Last Updated 1 year ago

More travelers than ever before are choosing cruises over other types of travel.

In 2023, it’s expected that a record-breaking 31.5 million travelers will cruise this year. It’s clear that cruising is back with a vengeance, but just why is this form of travel so popular right now?

Here are the top five reasons that travelers are choosing cruises this year:

1. “Now Or Never” Mindset

Many cruisers have a “now or never” mindset when it comes to travel right now, according to a new report. After over two full years of lockdowns and travel restrictions, many travelers realized the danger of putting off that dream trip for “someday.”

Rather than waiting for the “right time” to take a trip, more travelers are living in the moment and booking their dream trips right now, knowing that tomorrow is not guaranteed.

Additionally, there is a lot of pent-up demand for cruises due to the harsh restrictions imposed on the cruise industry for over two years. Many travelers who had a cruise planned or wanted to take a cruise during those two years are finally getting the chance to do so now.

2. Ease Of Group Travel

Another reason that more travelers are choosing cruises right now is due to the ease of group travel. According to the report, many people are turning to travel to reconnect with family, friends, and other loved ones.

Cruises are an easy and hassle-free way for large groups to travel together, and multi-cabin bookings are at a record high.

From family reunions at sea to bachelor and bachelorette parties to friend group trips, cruises are a great way to spend travel as a group while still allowing plenty of time for everyone to do their own thing.

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3. More Options For Solo Travelers

Solo travel has been a huge travel trend in 2023. This always ties in with the “now or never” mindset of many travelers: why wait to travel just because your friends, family, or significant other can’t travel with you? More and more travelers are heading off on adventures solo rather than missing out.

It used to be that cruises were not a budget-friendly option for solo travelers due to cabin pricing based on double occupancy. This effectively means that solo travelers are paying double.

But now, there are a growing number of cruise ships offering cabins specifically for solo travelers. This makes cruising an attainable option for solo travelers, and solo cruising has been growing in popularity.

4. An Affordable Way To Travel

With skyrocketing airfare and hotel costs in 2023, cruising is a surprisingly affordable way to travel. It’s not uncommon to find cruise deals for well under $100 per day per person.

When you consider that cruises are all-inclusive, with all accommodations, meals, entertainment, and cruise ports included in your fare, it makes cruising a very attractive, budget-friendly way of traveling.

Of course, there are certain things that may cost extra on your cruise (like alcoholic beverages and sodas, WiFi packages, and shore excursions), but it’s still an overall affordable way to travel when you break down the per-day costs.

5. Cruises For Everyone

Let’s admit it, for a long time, cruising carried a certain stereotype. Think of a ship full of retirees playing shuffleboard on the lido deck while a Jimmy Buffett song plays in the background.

But these days, that stereotype is far from true. There are cruise lines and cruises for everyone, whether you’re young or old, a couple or single, a family with young kids or a group of adults, an adventure-seeker or a beach bum. Whatever you’re looking for, you can find it on a cruise.

For example, expedition cruises have been trending in 2023. Far from your typical Caribbean beach-hopping cruise, these adventurous cruises take travelers to exciting destinations like Antarctica, Alaska, Canada’s Northwest Passage, Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands, and the South Pacific.

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Leaves are falling, temperatures are dropping, and snow will blanket much of the U.S. before we know it.

The good news is that there are still plenty of places to visit for winter sun, and perhaps no type of traveler knows this better than digital nomads.

This newfound travel trend of recent years has quite literally taken over the globe, where remote workers bounce around the world with their laptops in tow.

Chances are not many digital nomads have Iceland, Norway, or Sweden in their sights for the coming months, but the Caribbean is another story.

Why suffer through a frigid winter with such a flexible lifestyle?

While Cancun, Punta Cana, and even Curacao make for great bases, there’s one little-known island welcoming digital nomads for a full year – and the ‘Remote Workers Stamp‘ is a straightforward process to get approved.

Montserrat: A Blip On The Map Ready To Make A Name For Itself

Ever heard of Montserrat? Most people would say no.

This tiny island between St. Kitts & Nevis and Guadeloupe, a pair of other lesser-known gems in their own right, sandwich Montserrat in the open sea.

This British Overseas Territory is a stunner, though. Boasting postcard landscapes from black sand beaches given its volcanic past, along with lush jungles, and vivid blue waters, this place doesn’t sound too shabby of a work environment, does it?

Recently hyped up as one of the world’s ‘top 25 beach destinations for digital nomads’, local publication Montserrat Focus backs the claim that their beloved island is an ‘ideal spot’ and could be your ‘private paradise office’.

Before and after Zoom meetings, you can shut your laptop and swim in crystalline waters, explore numerous hiking trails (including ancient sites), kayak hidden coves, and join local community events like group yoga classes.

Don’t let size be a deciding factor; Monserrat packs a punch and is ready to become a digital nomad hub.

Montserrat’s ‘Remote Worker Stamp’

Sometimes digital nomads find loopholes in certain countries without an official digital nomad visa.

Oftentimes countries allow tourists to stay within their borders 30, 60, or 90 days, but are a little behind the times with the new digital nomad craze.

Montserrat is already with the program, launching their ‘Remote Worker Stamp’ program back in 2021, so no need to try to “sneak in,” so to speak.

Applying is super easy. You simply go to this website and fill out a brief form, submit it, and you’ll hear back within 7 days.

The cost is $500 to apply for a single individual for a 12-month stay. There are some requirements to be considered:

• Must prove $70,000 income
• Must prove you work for a foreign company*
• Must carry valid health insurance that includes COVID-19 coverage
• Must provide a police record
• Must provide passport and photo (passport size)

*To bypass the requirement of a foreign company, you may also offer freelance/consulting services.

Being on the low end of Caribbean crime statistics, you couldn’t feel more at home with friendly locals and being able to go out and about without feeling like your head is on a swivel.

For those who prioritize speedy wifi for their work tasks, Montserrat’s average speed is 20Mbs.

Affordability

Montserrat ranked 26th on VisaGuide’s 2023 Digital Nomad Index – not too bad for such a microscopic island.

While income requirements are higher than the average digital nomad visa, living in Montserrat is quite doable.

According to the same report just mentioned, cost of living won’t deter you as there are far more popular digital nomad destinations with higher costs across the board.

For example, rent is about $1000 (slightly more for serviced apartments on Airbnb) in the capital, Brades.

Many of which are spacious with designated working spaces, but towns like Brades have great cafes like Saje Cafe, where iced lattes and sandwiches are under $5.

Obviously, rent is the highest expense, but there are so many free things to do outdoors, as Montserrat’s astounding nature is practically begging to be explored—paddleboard through Little Bay, read a book at Spanish Point, or visit the free Montserrat Volcano Observatory.

The only other high-cost option might be a flight since there are no direct connections from the U.S. For a full list of flight options, click here.

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Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.