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Last Updated 1 year ago

Solo travel and cruises are two travel trends that have been increasing in popularity lately, and yet at first glance, they may not seem like they mix well.

More travelers than ever are venturing out solo for their vacations rather than traveling with friends, family, or significant others.

Cruising is also exploding in popularity right now after the industry was dealt a heavy blow due to travel restrictions for several years.

However, most cruise ship fares are based on double occupancy, with the option to add a third or even fourth passenger to the cabin for a lower price.

On most cruise lines, there’s no discount for solo travelers, so even if you’ll be the only one in your cabin, you’ll still have to pay the two-person rate. Some cruise lines offer a reduced single supplement (for example, 75% instead of 100%) but you’ll still end up paying quite a bit.

The following four cruise lines don’t charge single supplements.

Instead, solo travelers have the option to book single cabins on these cruise lines at a rate that is much more reasonable and less than a standard double-occupancy cabin.

1. Norwegian Cruise Lines

Norwegian is one of the best cruise lines for solo travelers. Six of Norwegian’s ships offer “studio cabins” priced for just one person:

• Norwegian Epic
• Norwegian Breakaway
• Norwegian Getaway
• Norwegian Bliss
• Norwegian Joy
• Norwegian Encore

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These studio cabins are only around 100 square feet but come with all the same amenities as a double occupancy cabin.

As a bonus, solo travelers staying in studio cabins will have access to a shared common area called the Studio Complex and Lounge which functions as a social gathering place with events to meet other solo travelers.

2. Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean was just named America’s favorite cruise line, and offering cabins for solo travelers is just one more reason to love this popular cruise line.

The seven Royal Caribbean ships that offer studio cabins are:

• Quantum of the Seas
• Spectrum of the Seas
• Ovation of the Seas
• Anthem of the Seas
• Odyssey of the Seas
• Harmony of the Seas
• Symphony of the Seas

These cabins are priced specifically for single travelers. Unlike Norwegian, which only offers interior studio cabins, Royal Caribbean has a mix of interior, exterior, and balcony cabins for solo travelers.

Cabins range in size from 96 to 119 square feet.

3. Holland America Line

Finally, Holland America Line is another popular cruise line that doesn’t charge extra for passengers who are traveling solo.

Right now, only three Holland America ships offer solo cabins, and there are fewer of these onboard (only 12 per ship) compared to Norwegian and Royal Caribbean.

The Holland America ships with studio cabins are:

• Koningsdam
• Nieuw Statendam
• Rotterdam

Studio cabins are priced for just one person and are on the more spacious end, with cabins ranging in size from 127 to 172 square feet.

What About Other Cruise Lines?

Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America are the only major cruise lines to offer solo cabins priced for one person. Smaller cruise lines like Oceania Cruises also offer single cabins.

And other popular cruise lines occasionally offer deals for solo travelers.

Although rare, sometimes the single supplement may be waived or greatly reduced for specific voyages.

If you want to keep up with these offers and score a great deal, Cruise Specialists has a regularly updated list of cruises with waived or heavily reduced single supplements.

Other cruise lines may not offer solo traveler-friendly pricing, but many do host meet-ups and events for solo travelers onboard to meet other cruisers.

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Last Updated 5 months ago

People opt for all-inclusive resorts for a variety of different reasons.

For some, it’s the endless amounts of food and drinks; others spend countless hours poolside, and the rest may simply want to unwind in paradise, enjoying all the posh amenities like complimentary room service.

My recent trip to the Grand Palladium Punta Cana Resort & Spa checks off all the boxes and more, and to be honest, I couldn’t think of a better way to kickstart summer.

From the seamless airport pick-up to room check-out, I was treated like royalty instead of just another face in the crowd of a long line of vacationers.

Greeted with a welcome cocktail and the friendliest bellhop I’ve ever met, Francel led me to my spacious ocean-view room for the week, mere steps from private access to the Dominican Republic’s most renowned beach, Bavaro.

Tucked away from loud motorcycle-filled streets and Punta Cana’s famous nightclubs, staying at this lavish 5-star resort is a haven for privacy in paradise, arguably one of the most blissful beach vacations on Caribbean soil.

Bon Appetit: 18 Restaurants To Choose From

Let’s start with the endless options of food…and maybe a few cold ones here and there.

But first, know that there are 4 separate resorts all part of one grand property. In addition to the Grand Palace (where I stayed), there are:

• TRS Turquesa
• Grand Grand Palladium Punta Cana
• Grand Palladium Bavaro Suites

Guests have access to all the restaurants no matter where you stay as part of your all-inclusive package, excluding 4 limited to TRS guests only.

I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed starting my day with breakfast as Las Torres day after day.

Some resorts have buffets where you may question what’s on your plate – not here, though.

From made-to-order omelets, a crepe station, an array of fresh fruits, and surprisingly delicious cappuccinos (yes, I’m a coffee snob!), this was my go-to day after day.

For lunch, I switched it up from beachside steaks Helio’s Beach Club one day to endless pizza the next, but it’s dinner where this resort shines the most in terms of its wide variety of international cuisines.

From interactive Japanese teppanyakis, to flavorful Indian delights, and decidant pasta topped with truffles and caviar, you can’t go wrong.

There’s even the Healthy Habits Bar for those who refuse to give in to “cheat days” on vacation. No judgement – more sugar and carbs for me!

I would highly recommend trying to score a plate of the freshly sliced suckling pig offered at Las Torres’ dinner service – so tender and flavorful.

While some may rightfully use vacations as their excuse to catch up on sleep, I’m the type who wants to take advantage of the moment and experience it all.

Where I found myself night after night was the only 24-hour establishment on-site, Xtra Time Sports Bar. When the hand-crafted cocktails came to a stop at Hemingway’s, the night continued on at Xtra Time.

Here, you won’t know where the night ends and the morning begins. You have a wide selection of snacks and cold Presidentes available at all hours where you can keep up with your favorite team back home.

If I Go Missing, You Can Find Me At The ‘Secret Pool’

Turns out the ‘Secret Pool’ is not so secret, but what’s great about it is this is a haven for those of us looking to escape screaming children for some grown-up time.

As a family-friendly resort, you will surely have run-ins with kids, but there are ample spaces to enjoy some peace, quiet, and adult beverages.

The Secret Pool was my hands-down favorite place to hang out during the day with a swim-up bar specializing in Pina Coladas, shaded cabanas, and more open space, not that crowds were ever an issue.

Of course, there were multiple pools scattered throughout the lavish resort, but this one stood out the most for its draw of exclusivity.

Across from the TRS, this side of the property is for those of us looking to enjoy our downtime unbothered, which more than exceeded the mark in that aspect.

Fun In The…Mud? A 10/10 Spa Day!

Not everyone is into spas on vacation, but you would be doing yourself a disservice by skipping out on a day pass to the Zentropia Spa and Wellness.

The entire program offered is unmatched,. The 30-minute massage was among the best I’ve had anywhere and this comes from someone who has been transformed into a human pretzel in Bangkok.

Immediately following the massage, you’re provided with a hot tea while awaiting a truly unique experience, something I’ve never had the pleasure of taking part in.

Zentropia takes a page out of Katy Perry’s book believing in hot and cold treatments. Once you take a required shower for hygienic purposes, you’re guided into a sauna followed by an ‘ice room’.

Going back and forth between extreme opposite temperatures may sound tortuous on paper, but it’s shockingly pleasant. 

Followed by my personal favorite, the steam room, spritzing a menthol fragrance for the perfect finish before relaxing in the jacuzzi to recharge.

For the grand finale, you’re guided to a hidden area of the spa where you sit on a rock Flinstones-style after lathering organic clay masks, each with different health benefits.

These colorful mud baths may make you look crazy, but they’re surprisingly soothing. Just keep in mind removing all the mud afterwards can be a challenge in the unpredictable hot and cold showers, somehow oddly fitting given the spa’s itinerary.

Opt For A Private Beach Or Incredible Day Trip

As part of the ‘Palladium experience’, you will have exclusive access to over half a mile of not only the D.R.’s most renowned beach but also one of the most sought-after in the entire Caribbean.

Bavaro Beach is undoubtedly gorgeous with crystal-clear waters and soft sand living up to the hype. 

Unfortunately, Mother Nature has other plans this time of year, such as turning this paradisal beach into a game of The Floor Is Lava with seaweed.

In other words, it’s sargassum season. Some days are better than others and the beach is still great for lounging in the sun or going for a swim, but you will brush up against sargassum, an icky brown algae, at one point or another.

While I loved taking walks on the pristine Blue-flag certified beach and going for a swim, the highlight of the trip for me was a day trip to Isla Saona.

Tucked away from luxe resorts, hordes of tourists, and best of all, free of sargassum, my time spent on the postcard-worthy island was well worth the hours-long journey by bus and boat.

The waters and beach were truly pristine and top-notch for snorkeling, especially to see plentiful starfish. It’s highly advised not to touch them as they are a protected species.

_{Travel Off Path was a guest of Grand Palladium Punta Cana Resort & Spa, who helped with the creation of this itinerary by hosting some of our accommodations and attractions. Our opinions, recommendations, and suggestions remain our own.}

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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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

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.

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Last Updated 24 hours ago

Who’s up for an adventure?

Typically, winter travelers stay close to home for winter sun and save up for a big summer trip, but why wait?!

Life is short. Sometimes you just gotta say fu…

Fun is calling. Yeah, that’s what I was gonna say.

The world is a big place, but it seems a lot smaller when there are nonstop flights to far-flung destinations.

Good news for Americans is one of the most exciting new routes was just launched to an incredible warm weather city in ‘the land down under’.

While it might be tempting to explore Melbourne’s buzzing streets or pose in front of Sydney’s world-famous Opera House, there’s another Australian city deserving of a seat at the table with 3 nonstops routes from the U.S.

Brisbane: One Of Australia’s Coolest Cities

Ever heard of Brisbane? Let’s refresh your memory.

If you’re like me, one of the most famous Aussies was a childhood hero of mine.

You know who I’m talking about, the Crocodile Hunter himself, Steve Irwin. Just north of Brisbane was Steve’s playground for all his thrilling animal encounters.

His parents founded Beerwah Reptile Park, where he was practically raised, is now the world famous Australia Zoo, home to 1,200 animals and counting.

Say what you want about zoos, but this one has to be the exception to any hesitations as you won’t be able to withhold your enthusiasm for wildlife in typical Irwin fashion.

Tip: the zoo offers day tours from Brisbane every day at 9am.

That being said, the zoo is not the only reason to jet off to Brisbane – it’s truly an awesome city to explore, especially when it’s 85 degrees here and freezing back home.

Here in Brisbane, the outdoors seem to come alive, whether perusing trendy neighborhoods and enjoying a coffee under a shaded patio, to going for a swim at the man-made urban oasis, Streets Beach (free admission!).

And that’s just within the cityscape. Brisbane is best explored as a region rather than staying within arm’s reach of the pretty skyline.

Come hungry, pack your swimwear and hiking shoes, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip discovering Aussie’s paradises, such as Nudgee Beach, Suttons Beach, and D’Aguilar National Park.

Jaw-Dropping Coastlines & Kangaroos On The Beach

Brisbane is set on prime real estate with its own set of beautiful beaches but also within 2 hours of both Sunshine Coast to the north and slightly closer Gold Coast to the south.

Within Brisbane, visitors will love hitting up Suttons and Nudgee as I just highlighted, but also Shorncliffe Beach lined with fish ‘n chip eateries and the reddish sands of Redcliffe Beach as well.

There are too many to name, but what may be most enticing is a trip to Brisbane’s numerous islands, which may fly under the radar.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a trip to Australia without kangaroo sightings – but why not level up with said sightings on the beach?

Bribie Island is home to unbounded Eastern Grey kangaroos, among other wildlife.

Just try to avoid getting into a boxing match as seen on some viral TikTok clips albeit you probably stand a better chance than whatever the world just witnessed watching Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson…what was that?!

For more tame wildlife sightings, head to North Stradbroke Island by ferry from Cleveland for out-of-this-world beaches and whale sightings.

For more insight on Brisbane’s top islands, check out Australia’s official tourism page here.

Reaching Brisbane From The U.S.

The West Coast had a monopoly on Brisbane’s direct flights, but yippy ki yay, there’s a new sheriff in town.

Dallas has entered the chat, launching the Lone Star State’s most exciting new route on October 26th.

Now that the new flight has commenced, all of America top dogs fly to Brisbane nonstop – Delta, United, and the latest to the party, American, who also just announced 2 new routes to Italy as well.

Here is the full rundown for Brisbane – U.S. flights:

• Los Angeles: United flies from LAX on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday on a 13 hour 25 minute flight
• San Francisco: Delta flies from SFO excluding Monday and Thursday on a 13 hour 5 minute flight
• Dallas: American flies out of DFW every day at 9:40am on a 14 hour 55 minute flight

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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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

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.

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Last Updated 9 mins ago

There’s no shortage of paradises to choose from for digital nomads to pack their bags and jet off to, but there’s one more to add to the list, with a new airport expected to put this coastal gem on the map.

The Mediterranean is teeming with blue-water shores and laid-back communities embracing the nomad lifestyle, but not all of them can be crowned the best of Europe.

Fortune just released their list of ‘Best European Cities for Digital Nomads 2024′ and the top dog was a real surprise.

Albania has seen an influx of digital nomads since issuing an unofficial digital nomad visa in 2022, but many have opted to plant roots in the capital city, Tirana, among other quaint beach towns.

One is an absolute stunner, Vlorë. But we’ll go with the English version, Vlora, so I don’t have to keep inputting those weird dots.

Where In The World Is Vlora?

Vlora is Albania’s third largest city, located along pristine shores overlooking the Bay of Vlorë (those pesky dots again!), a passage almost a straight line from Italy’s trendiest escape, Lecce.

But this side of the passage will soon be Albania’s trendiest escape as the country continues to gain steam, largely in part to more hidden gems such as Vlora being uncovered.

This resort town is oozing potential as there are already ample upscale accommodations to enjoy for a serene vacation, but more notably, apartments can easily be scored for $400 per month.

Surrounded by more turquoise than a Santa Fe necklace, this delightful town is truly postcard-perfect when lounging at one of many idyllic beaches once you’re free from unnecessary Zoom calls.

According to TripAdvisor, these are Vlora’s top 3 beaches to scope out:

1. Gjipe Beach
2. Dhermi Beach
3. Pulabardha Beach

Being a rather large city, Vlore is decked out with charming Old Town cafes as well as co-working spaces, such as top-rated CoWorkingVlora, just a few blocks from the scenic Lungomare promenade.

While there’s already been an uptick in remote workers flocking here, expect even more cushy amenities to pop up once Vlora’s highly anticipated new airport opens.

Vlora’s New Airport Opens In March 2025

It’s important to note not all of Albania is well-developed. In other words, the backroads should be left to the pros.

Reaching Vlora will be so much easier come March 2025 when the new airport is slated to take flight for the first time.

Albania’s flagship carrier, Air Albania is leading the charge and you can surely expect other suitors as well.

Heck, if Ryanair is launching flights to Dakhla, Western Sahara of all places, don’t you think Vlora is on their radar?

For now, the easiest way to reach Vlora is by bus from Tirana, which is a well-connected city as Albania’s hype has soared.

For a more adventure option, you could also fly into Corfu or various Italian ports (Bari, Brindisi, and Lecce, as previously stated) and take a ferry.

Although, the more reasonable avenue may be simply to wait on more news regarding Vlora’s new flights.

Albania’s Digital Nomad Appeal

Albania as a whole is a great blend of cultural experiences, cheap living, and unbounded natural beauty. Oh, and the food is pretty top notch too comparable to Greek’s most notable dishes.

There are a multitude of reasons for general travelers to visit, but digital nomads can soak up the most benefits here.

Albania’s nomad-catered ‘Unique Permit’ was a nice selling point for remote workers, but what you may not know is you don’t need a visa at all up to one year.

That’s right; American tourists can stay within Albania’s border up to 12 months without the hassle of bureaucratic paperwork – just a stamp and you’re good to go.

The Unique Permit is a straightforward application process and offers nomads the options to stay up to 5 years.

Narrowing down to Vlora; there’s no better place to call home.

With $400 apartments, comfortable co-working spaces, and delightful cafes in one of Europe’s most underrated Old Town districts, your day-to-day backdrop couldn’t be more enchanting when perusing timeless streets or enjoying a beach day.

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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Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

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.