I’ve always loved scouring for the best deals when it comes to travel.
There’s something about exploring someplace new on a budget that not only keeps you feeling content and worry-free but also gives you the opportunity to see far, far more than you would otherwise.
That’s why when this study on the cheapest (and most expensive) U.S. destinations was released, I ran there looking for some ideas on that next great place to add to my bucket list – and that’s exactly what I found.
Of the top 100 travel destinations in the nation that were analyzed, these ones promised the best touristy allure – low price point balance:
Spots 6-10
Before we move on to the top 5 or the crème de la crème, as I like to call them, let’s quickly go through the places that were ranked sixth to tenth in the report; sure, they might not be the absolute cheapest, but they’re still gorgeous hubs that are very much worth a look:
Monument Valley, Utah
Bend, Oregon
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Sedona City, Arizona
Now that that’s said, we can dive right into our No. 5 spot holder – Galtingurg, Tennessee.
5. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Don’t let Gatlinburg’s unassuming, small mountain town facade fool you – the Tennessee gem has been on almost every “Top Underrated Places To Visit In The U.S.” list this fall, and if this trend continues as is, you’ll soon be struggling to find a hotel to book.
That’s why for the best experience (and deals), I’d recommend coming here ASAP.
Sidney James Mountain Lodge has available rooms starting at just $58, the Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival is just around the corner, and the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not only jaw-dropping this time of year, but free to enter, too!
4. Tybee Island, Georgia
If you feel like you’ve missed out on a relaxing beach getaway this summer, why not plan it now instead?
Located just a 30-minute drive from Savannah, this often-overlooked gem is actually the perfect place for those who want to go sunbathing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or even dolphin-watching (tickets start at just $27.95 per adult)!
Here, you’ll also find plenty of cute little restaurants that serve mouth-watering food at unbeatable prices – I, for one, will always have a soft spot for Sundae Cafe.
3. Helen, Georgia
This next one’s for all of you looking to experience a slice of Europe right here in the U.S., and most importantly, on a budget.
That’s exactly what you’ll find in Helen, a small Georgia town that was built to replicate a Bavarian alpine village and is, of course, home to one of the longest-running Oktoberfests in the country.
From now up until October 27th, the event will be running nightly, complete with traditional music, lively dances, indulgent food, and lots and lots of beer.
2. Outer Banks, North Carolina
Coming back to a more typical U.S. hub, the Outer Banks in North Carolina are what I’d describe as a slice of coastal heaven.
Here, you can spend your days strolling through Jockey’s Ridge State Park, exploring the Wright Brothers National Memorial, or going in the water to kayak, paddleboard, or even surf – the best part is equipment rentals are notably cheaper now that the summer rush’s over, so if there were ever a time to try your hand at something new, it’s definitely now!
1. Charleston, West Virginia
West Virginia is quickly establishing itself as one of the country’s trendiest hotspots, first by breaking its all-time tourism record and now by having its gorgeous capital nab the No. 1 spot as the best-value destination in all of the U.S. – no wonder so many people are coming here!
The great thing about Charleston is that there’s truly something here for everyone.
Outdoor lover? Coonskin Park and Kanawha State Forest are not only perfect for hiking, picnicking, and everything in between, but they’re also completely free to enter.
City tripper?
The Clay Center for the Arts and Science, the West Virginia State Museum, and the Capitol Market are all must-sees.
Foodie? Don’t miss out on the chance to try a pepperoni roll (my top recommendation would be Swiftwater Cafe).
Having explored over 20 countries in the last 3 years, Megi is committed to bringing the freshest, most up-to-date news and perspectives on the world’s most fascinating destinations.
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.
“New York City” and “affordable” don’t often belong in the same sentence. In a city that cracked down on Airbnbs, hotels have skyrocketed.
According to the New York Times, the average hotel room will run you over $300 per night – a new record. Although, a quick search shows some steals like the Eurostars Wall Street for 79% off in July.
As iconic as the ‘Big Apple’ remains today, tourists far and wide still have NYC in their scope as a premiere getaway for urban adventures ranging from incredible cuisine, world-class museums, and renowned sites in every borough.
Summer is one of the best seasons to explore New York with so many fun things to do outdoors, but the top travel hack revealed by the U.S. Sun will save you boatloads of money.
For less than a cup of coffee, you can visit the city’s top attractions and it’s so much easier than you may think.
Stop Overpaying For Boat Tours
Boat tours serve their purpose, but they’re not all they’re cracked up to be, especially some with outrageous prices.
Perhaps you can luck out by scoring a Groupon for a fun time on the water, but there’s no need to do so.
Much like my hometown of San Diego, where tourists overpay for boat tours to hit the scenic waterways of the San Diego Bay, many are disappointed to find out they could have a similar experience for less than $10 by booking the Coronado Ferry.
Saving potentially hundreds of dollars, it’s the same for NYC. Unless you want a repetitive tour guide who’s given dozens upon dozens of tourists the same spiel, then the NYC Ferry is for you as low as $4.
From Coney Island To The Statue Of Liberty: The Options Are Endless
New York City is home to 5 boroughs, unless you count Jersey City as the unofficial sixth. Any way you slice it, some of the best ways to borough-hop is by boat.
If anything, it sure beats taking the rat-filled subways! Especially since there are power outlets on-board to keep your phone ready for photos, as well as snacks and refreshments – yes, including alcohol!
The city offers daily commuters cheap NYC Ferry rides, but it’s also tourists’ best travel hack here.
Rather than fork over your paycheck for an unnecessary tour of the Statue of Liberty, you can take in the same views and awesome phot-ops aboard the ferry.
Not to mention unmatched views of the illustrious Manhattan skyline as well.
While booking a ticket is surely the most budget-friendly way to experience notoriously expensive New York City, the ferry is not solely the best alternative to Statue of Liberty tours.
Heck, perhaps the ferry’s real shining moment was when U.S. Airways’ Captain ‘Sully’ heroically landed a plane in the Hudson River, with multiple commuter ferries jumping into action.
While seeing planes in the Hudson isn’t typically on the itinerary, there are 7 routes to choose from.
You can easily visit other top attractions like Coney Island or even Rockaway Beach for a break from the hustle and bustle in the City That Never Sleeps.
Unfortunately, those visiting Coney Island won’t get to see champion Joey Chestnut scarf down wieners at Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest on July 4th any longer.
The NYC Ferry’s 7 Routes
These are the 7 routes the NYC Ferry offers:
Astoria – Western Queens and Roosevelt Island
East River – East River to Midtown and the Financial District
Soundview – The Bronx and the Upper East Side to Lower Manhattan
South Brooklyn – South Brooklyn to Midtown and the Financial District
St. George – Staten Island to the West Side of Manhattan, in Battery Park and Midtown West
Rockaway – Rockaway Beach, Sunset Park, and Lower Manhattan
Governors Island Shuttle – *Seasonal*
It’s important to know riders can transfer at no charge from any of these routes, including the above Governor’s Island shuttle.
Better yet, travelers can also hop aboard the Staten Island Ferry – a free service offered year-round.
No matter where you go, from Wall Street to Brooklyn to Sunset Park, the NYC Ferry has grown in popularity.
It’s strongly advised to book tickets in advance, which you can do so on the official NYC Ferry App and vending machines.
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.
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.
Demand for cruise travel is at a record high right now — but unfortunately, so are prices.
Cruise travel is back with a vengeance, and as a result, the average cost of a cruise is up as much as 22.5% compared to 2019 prices.
When restriction-free cruising finally returned in the midst of 2022, there were some great deals to be found on cruises as things slowly got back to normal.
However, those deals have now disappeared, and cruise fares are higher than ever before.
Here are some tips for how you can still save money on your next cruise:
1. Travel During The Off-Season
If you can be flexible with your travel dates, one of the best ways to save money on cruises is to travel during the off-season or “shoulder season” for a destination.
For example, Alaska cruises are most popular (and most expensive) in June, July, and August. If you can book one of the first cruises in May or one of the last cruises in September, you are likely to save money.
Similarly, avoid traveling on school breaks. Thanksgiving break, Christmas break, and spring break are all some of the busiest and most expensive times to take a cruise.
2. Use CruiseSheet
One of the best ways to save money on a cruise is by tracking deals that do appear. Even though the average cruise fare has increased, there are still good deals to be found.
CruiseSheet is a free tool you can use to get notified of the best deals in real-time. Just indicate which port you will be traveling out of and set a filter for dates you’re interested in, and you’ll be notified immediately when deals appear.
Again, if you can be more flexible in your travel dates, this is one of the best things to do to save money.
3. Skip The Pricy Add-Ons
What if you can’t necessarily be flexible with your travel dates? Luckily, there are still other ways to save money on your cruise!
One of the biggest ways to save money is by skipping pricy add-ons.
These are things like unlimited drink packages, onboard WiFi, and shore excursions that will end up costing you a ton of money.
Do the math on an unlimited drink package before buying — most people will come out ahead simply paying for drinks individually, and this helps limit your alcohol consumption.
For WiFi, just skip this and opt to use free WiFi or cellphone data on the days when you’re in port. Internet while at sea is notoriously expensive.
And for shore excursions, you often don’t need to book through your cruise ship. You can DIY the same excursion for a cheaper price by booking directly with a local operator or just do a free activity like exploring the town or hitting up a local beach on your own.
4. Take A Repositioning Cruise
A lesser-known strategy for saving money on a cruise is booking a repositioning cruise.
What exactly is a repositioning cruise? Basically, this is when a cruise ship needs to move home ports at the beginning or end of a season. As a result, it’s a long route (think a two-week trans-Atlantic cruise from Barcelona to Miami) with many days at sea.
But you’ll get the chance to stop at some exotic and far-flung ports along the way (like the Canary Islands, the Azores, or Bermuda) before reaching your final destination, and you can get deals for as little as $50 a day.
5. Be Flexible On Your Stateroom
Finally, you can save money on your cruises by being flexible on your stateroom assignment.
Choosing a specific stateroom often carries a higher cost as opposed to selecting a “guaranteed” stateroom. This means you are guaranteed a stateroom in your chosen class (interior, exterior, balcony, or suite), but you won’t be able to choose the exact location.
If you’re okay with this, it’s a great way to save some extra money.
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.
San Diego is known for having that quintessential SoCal vibe we’ve all seen in the movies.
While ‘America’s Finest City’ is just that – a fine city – there are ample scenic beach towns dotting the seemingly endless coastline filled with your typical dude-bro surfers and skateboarders.
But don’t fret! You can easily escape the ‘bruh’ this and ‘bruh’ that and hand signals with their pinky and thumb extended.
There are more ways to hang loose than catching waves and grinding handrails.
Most tourists set their sights for San Diego’s prime beachside real estate, but those who do are actually doing themselves a disservice by missing out on a slice of Mediterranean paradise away from the all-but-guaranteed packed beaches. (Although, crowds tend to dwindle down in fall)
Perhaps you’ve heard of Del Mar, a ritzy little beach town roughly 20 minutes from San Diego proper where celeb sightings are common and the average home costs $2.725 million – yes, that’s not a typo.
The average traveler’s beach home dreams may come to a screeching halt here, but splurging on a well-deserved vacation should never be out of the question.
Nestled inland amongst rolling hills and vast canyons lies the Fairmont Grand Del Mar, a lavish 5-star hotel oozing Mediterranean vibes, where adults can blissfully recharge by day, and indulge in Southern California’s only 3-star Michelin restaurant by night.
As a recent guest, I can’t recommend staying here enough. And if you must go to the beach, Del Mar’s pristine beaches are less than 15 minutes away.
No Passport Needed: Let The Mediterranean Come To You
Upon arriving, you’re glued to Fairmont Grand’s pure elegance as if every throw pillow, every cocktail glass, and every glistening chandelier are meticulously placed to exude class and luxury at every turn.
Fairmont Grand describes themselves on their website as a ‘Mediterranean estate’, which is certainly an understatement feeling more reminiscent of San Diego’s version of the Alhambra.
I walked the entire grounds multiple times, and while not classified as a “resort” per se, many aspects feel like one.
Home to multiple pools, a globally renowned golf course, and world-class 5-star spa honored by Forbes, this is the ultimate place to unwind all without even feeling like you’re in San Diego; at least how it’s often portrayed.
I booked a King Room overlooking the adults-only pool (more to come on that!) and was delighted to see how spacious it was. Even 5-star hotels can skimp on breathing room from time to time, but not here!
The bathroom alone felt bigger than my whole apartment and the gold-accented European-style soaking tub was the icing on the cake.
Not to mention, the mattress was truly heavenly, the complimentary coffee better than Starbucks, and the secluded balcony was surprisingly peaceful for a poolside room.
I couldn’t have asked for a better way to the cap the day than enjoying the cool evening breeze on the patio while catching up on reading and writing articles for you on their speedy wifi (you’re welcome!).
A Family-Friendly Hotel With A Private Haven For Adults
Remember in Dumb and Dumber when Lloyd attempted to make the ‘most annoying sound in the world’?
Well, for some of us, it’s whatever Jim Carrey’s dissonant vocal cords blurted out, and for others, like me, it’s the sound of screaming children…or my ex’s weird TikToks, but that’s a different story…
Kids can be a lot of fun and deserve a vacation like anyone else, but adults-only pools are a whole other level of peace, amirite?
Fairmont Grand Del Mar boasts 4 heated pools, but the 1 adults-only pool is free of kids running rampant and miserable parents realizing they need another vacation while on vacation.
Plus, the service was top notch from setting up my cushy lounge chair, offering complimentary sunscreen, to serving an ice cold Mexican cerveza poolside.
Accompanied by an equally blissful secluded hot tub, the adults-only pool lived up to the name. I’ve been to other hotels where staff turn a blind eye to obviously obnoxious teenagers invading my quiet zone, but this was truly an adults-only haven.
Although, most impressive was how spotlessly clean the entire hotel was – a rarity for a kid-friendly and pet-friendly stay.
If the grown-ups need a safe space for the kiddos, check out the Explorer’s Club.
Whether You Rest Your Head Here Or Not, You Must Eat Here!
San Diego is one of the best foodie destinations in America, but dining at Fairmount Grand levels up your tastebuds.
Home to Addison, Southern California’s only 3-star Michelin restaurant, along with Amaya, a fabulous restaurant where Paris meets SoCal, you can’t go wrong.
Although, Addison’s twilight views are arguably as grand as their menus. Diner be warned, though, Addison is so sought-after you will need book a reservation well in advance, which can be done here on OpenTable.
The nearest open availability I could find is over a month away for a late 9pm dinner, for example.
Amaya, however, is not at all a bad alternative, where I had an incredible dinner to remember from savory appetizers like the Burgandy Escargot Vol Au Vent to locally sourced wine for dessert – yeah, you read that right.
The star of the show was the ‘Chef’s Special’, not even listed on the already impressive menu. So impressive in fact, the waiter had to make 4 trips before we decided what we wanted to order.
The imported Dover Sole was divine and cooked to perfection, so special thanks to our friendly, knowledgeable server, Ignacio, for the recommendation!
My girlfriend and I couldn’t stop raving about how amazing our meal was as we strolled through the beautiful grounds with a post-meal glass of wine in hand.
Their wine selection was extensive and so well incorporated with their impeccable cuisine that we opted for another round over dessert since Amaya allows guests to take wine to-go.
See? ‘Adulting’ really is another level here!
Tip: if ordering the Steak Tartare, ask for the ‘parmesan espuma’ on the side for the perfect bite paired with quite possibly the best bread I’ve ever had!
Horsing Around: Fairmont‘s Fun Activities
Fairmont Grand is a popular golf getaway, but there’s far more to do than hit the links. However, if you’re not avid golfer and would like to learn, clinics are offered for only $50 on Friday and Saturday.
After pigging out at Amaya, a Monday morning yoga sesh was out of the question for me, so I opted for a pool day.
On Tuesday, though, I made a visit the hotel’s very own Equestrian Center, which if you know anything about Del Mar, should be no surprise.
Del Mar is the ‘Kentucky Derby’ of San Diego, home to the very popular Del Mar Racetrack.
Fairmont Grand offers Equestrian Trail Rides, Pony Rides, along with the chance to ‘Feed the Horses‘ on Tuesdays; some of which are retired racehorses. Needless to say, they’re absolutely gorgeous animals!
Behind the Equestrian Center is a trailhead of hiking trails along the golf course, winding through open canyons for some terrific views of the surrounding scenery – the perfect way to start your day with a complimentary cup of coffee from your room, and best of all, hiking is free!
For a full calendar of events, check out Fairmont Grand’s Event Calendar.
**Travel Off Path was a guest of Fairmont Grand Del Mar, 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, 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.
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.
Nothing makes the world feel smaller than an airplane.
And every time a new nonstop international flight route is announced, exploring the world becomes a little bit easier.
This is why it’s so exciting that United Airlines has announced the largest international expansion in its history.
Next summer, United Airlines will fly to more destinations across the Atlantic than any other U.S. airline.
That means more than 760 flights a week to over 40 different destinations.
And 5 of these flights will be brand new nonstop international routes that no other U.S. airline currently flies to.
5 New International Routes From United Airlines
The 5 new international routes from United Airlines will launch in May 2025.
They will all depart from the United Airlines hub in Newark/New York (so this is particularly interesting news for New Yorkers).
Those new routes will be to: Nuuk in Greenland, Palermo in Italy, Bilbao in Spain, Madeira Island in Portugal and Faro in Portugal.
By their own metrics, these new flights will make United Airlines the largest airline in the world.
Nuuk, Greenland
Nuuk is the capital city of Greenland and United Airlines will fly to the city twice weekly from June 14 next year.
Nuuk is the northernmost capital city in the world and is home to the midnight sun in the summertime.
This makes it a wonderfully unique place to visit in Europe in the summer and a contrast to the crowds and beaches of other European hot spots.
The nonstop flight from Newark to Nuuk will be just over 4 hours long, making it a convenient and incredibly accessible journey.
Price information for this flight route isn’t currently available.
Palermo, Italy
Palermo will be one of 5 destinations in Italy that United Airlines will fly to nonstop next summer.
But Palermo is the only one of these that is a United exclusive route at this point.
This route will launch on May 21 and will be a 3 times weekly seasonal nonstop service.
Palermo is the most popular destination in Sicily and will open up this iconic island to a whole new American audience. This new route will put Sicily’s rich history, luxurious beaches and stunning architecture at your fingertips.
Return flights from June 20 to June 26 on this route are currently priced at $1,889 for the most restrictive, basic economy ticket.
Bilbao, Spain
Nonstop flights from Newark to Bilbao in Spain will launch on May 31 2024.
A nonstop round trip flight from June 12 to June 18 on this route is currently priced at $1,027 for the most restrictive basis economy ticket.
The outbound flight has a flight time of 7 hours 30 minutes.
Bilbao is the heart of Spain’s Basque country and an important cultural hub. One of my favorite attractions is the iconic Guggenheim Museum, and for watersports enthusiasts, the surf is epic here, too.
This isn’t the only exclusive United flight to Spain. United is also the only U.S. carrier to fly direct to Palma de Mallorca, Tenerife, and Malaga.
Madeira Island, Portugal
United will launch the only nonstop service from the U.S. to Madeira. This flight will start on June 7 and will operate 3 times a week.
Madeira is a stunningly beautiful island. It boasts everything a nature lover could dream of: natural pools and waterfalls, incredible beaches, and lush verdant mountains.
Price information for this route hasn’t been released yet.
Faro, Portugal
United will also be the only U.S. airline serving Faro in Portugal. This flight route will start on May 16 and will fly 4 times each week.
This means that United will have the only nonstop routes to Faro, Madeira, Porto, and Ponta Delgada, making it the most wide-reaching U.S. airline for Portuguese flights.
Flying from June 11 to June 17 on this route will cost $1,578 if you choose the cheapest and most restrictive fare.
Faro is a beautiful city with a charming old town and easy access to pretty beaches, giving travelers the best of both worlds in one easily accessible package.
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.
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.
As a digital nomad based in Europe, I have traveled extensively around the continent, working remotely from every country you can possibly name across the pond, from the tourist hotspots of France and Italy to the lesser-known Baltic states and the multicultural Balkan Peninsula.
Nope, I haven’t skipped the millionaire-owned micro-state of Monaco, war-raging Russia and its neighbors, nor newly-born Kosovo, one of the poorest states in Europe.
With over 40 European countries under my belt, I was bound to have a personal favorite by now.
That one special place that keeps pulling me back, where I could actually see myself staying longer than the usual three months or even putting down roots at some point down the line, and that somehow feels like my home away from home.
When I set out to visit every European country as a digital nomad, never would I have expected an unheard-of, post-communist state most tourists mistakenly believe to be dangerous, and even not worth seeing, to rank at the top of the list by the end of the five-year journey, yet here we are.
It’s beautiful Albania that stole my heart, and this is why I believe it is the strongest contender for European Digital Nomad Capital:
Why Albania Of All Places?
Unless you’ve been country-hopping around Europe as a tourist for a while, having had to come up with ingenious ways to extend your stay beyond the restrictive 90-day Schengen rule, it is unlikely you have passed through Albania, much less heard of it.
We’re here to remedy that together, but first, where even is Albania?
Geography isn’t everyone’s forte, so I won’t dawdle and waste your time going into the specifics of it: all you have to know it is located across the Adratic sea from Italy, and just north of Greece.
We know what you’re thinking: if it borders these two popular vacation spots, could Albania be yet another off-path Mediterranean destination waiting on the sidelines to be discovered?
The short answer is a resounding Yes!, and the shocking part is it’s been deliberately concealed for decades.
What we mean by that is it was actually kept hidden, so we wouldn’t blame you for not having the foggiest idea about Albania beforehand: as customary in Eastern Europe in the 20th century, the country was ruled by an iron-fisted communist regime.
Why Haven’t You Heard Of Albania Before?
Albania’s dictatorship was among the harshest in Europe, with very few people being allowed to leave the territory, and likewise, only a select number of visitors were allowed to enter well into the 90s, meaning this wing of the Mediterranean was virtually off-limits only three decades ago.
In case you’ve been wondering, Albania is now an open, progressive state, having adopted democratic principles since the collapse of communism and being on a firm path to aligning with the Western World: it joined NATO in 2009, and it has applied to become a member of the European Union.
The latter aspiration has not been as successful yet, but we’ll get into that soon enough – the question is, why has this unsung, troubled nation surpassed every other Southern European competitor to become my safe haven as a digital nomad?
I don’t know about you, but like any self-proclaimed Europhile, this continent’s immense cultural wealth was a decisive factor in my decision to stay a whole five years so far, and my dear fellow nomads, sure Albania has a lot going for it on the culture front:
Hospitality Is At The Heart Of Albanian Culture
Albania is a one-of-a-kind-country, in the sense that its language (Albanian) is not closely-related to any other languages on the periphery, like Serbo-Croatian or Bulgarian share similitaries, and its culture is markedly different from the Slavic-dominated Southeastern Europe.
Family is extremely important, and it’s not uncommon to find nuclei of relatives living together in the same neighborhood, or even the same street, and to them, hospitality is not only a long-standing tradition, but a national value.
In the words of renowned Albanian novelist Ismail Kadare, who couldn’t have phrased it better:
‘Of God and the guest, you see. So, before it is the house of its master, it is the house of one’s guest. The guest, in an Albanian’s life, represents the supreme ethical category, more important than blood relations. One may pardon the man who spills the blood of one’s father or of one’s son, but never the blood of a guest.’
There were certainly occasions where Airbnb hosts would invite me to partake in rounds of raki tasting shortly after we’ve made acquaintances, and hospitable locals would invite me back to theirs to share high-spirited conversations and a hot meal.
As a digital nomad traveling solo, actively seeking to distance himself from other expats to fully immerse in the local way of life, it was definitely not a challenge to befriend Albanians, even if the older generations are more proficient in Italian than they are in English.
If anything, my rusty Italian and poor attempts at mouthing basic words in Albanian would get me humorous smiles in response, friendly pats on the shoulder, and more raki invitations: I’m not sure previous writers have coined this already, but Albanians are the Latin Americans of Europe.
The Whole Of Albania Should Be A UNESCO Heritage Site
We know you’re here for some of that Old World flair, the cobbled towns with origins lost to time, and fairytale castles Disney has tried their best to emulate in kitsch theme parks, and you’ll be glad to know Albania has its fair share of manmade wonders.
From the Accursed Mountains in the north, home to the ethnic village of Theth, best known for its rustic cottages and solitary church, to the medieval citadel in Kruje, south towards a UNESCO-listed, Ottoman-built Berat, and the Stone City of Gjirokaster, this country’s beauty is truly boundless.
The 296-mile long Mediterranean coast is littered with historic port cities as well, including Durres, where a 5th-century castle still stands, the charming Vlore, with its Italian-inspired, pastel Old Town, and the hilltop, whitewashed village of Dhermi, overlooking the turquoise sea.
If you’re looking forward to wearing your Indy Jones hat again, Butrint is a vast archaeological zone dating back to the 10th century BC, encompassing flooded Byzantine palaces, partially-preserved colonnaded agoras, and a landmark Greek theater.
The point is, Albania may not be as popular as some of its closest neighbors, for the reasons already outlined above, but it certainly does not suffer from a shortage of heritage sites. In fact, it’s almost as if it’s taken a page from the book of every other Mediterranean hub in the vicinity:
A Potpourri Of Everything That’s Great About Europe
With Its Own Little Albanian Twist
Some of its settlements are as ancient as Italy’s, it is just as warm as Greece, the pebbly beaches as pristine as Croatia’s, the local cuisine rivals Spain’s, and it is as topographically diverse as France, with a territory that comprises both towering alpine peaks and a subtropical coast.
I’m not averse to harsh winters myself, and I’m a firm believer that, in order to truly appreciate the balmy days of summer, you need to experience the changing of the seasons, but if you can live without the occasional snow, coastal Albania will not disappoint.
Temperatures can plummet to negative levels in northern Albania, but much of the coast remains perfectly sunny and a pleasant 64°F. Having visited in February myself, I was surprised to find that the additional wool coats and puffer jackets I packed ‘in case’ were not at all necessary.
If you’re hell-bent on escaping the cold, the laid-back coastal village of Ksamil, a stone’s throw away from the lively harbor city of Saranda, is your best bet at year-round springtime weather, with lemon trees, soft white-sand beaches and teal-colored waters making up the scenery.
Don’t Come To Albania On A Strict Diet
Albania may be isolated in terms of language and culture, but the food served in Albanian homes and restaurants is typically Mediterranean and Eurasian in character, having been heavily influenced by Italy, Slavic gastronomic practices, and even Turkish cuisine.
Its cheese and spinach-filled, flaky-dough byrek pastry is a variation of the Turkish burek, the cold cucumber soup takes direct inspiration from Bulgaria’s tarator, and I could certainly draw parallels between Gjirokaster’s qifqi rice balls and the more mainstream Italian arancini.
That being said, there are a number of native delicacies only Albania can lay claim to, with my personal favorites being the deep-fried petulla fritter, crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, typically served with butter and jam, and tavë kosi, lamb baked in yogurt.
Given Albania’s ample selection of dairy and hearty meat-based dishes, not to mention the fresh seafood and fruit growing in abundance in the verdant hinterland, rest assured you’ll never go hungry here, whether you’re staying in a small qytet on the shores of the Adriatic, or the sprawling capital city of Tirana.
How Nomad-Friendly Is Albania?
How about digital nomad infrastructure, a.k.a. long-term rentals, availability of coworking cafes, foreigner-friendly services, and so on?
I’ll be honest with you: outside major urban centers, life as a remote worker can be challenging (at times).
That is particularly true in the off-season, when restaurants and guesthouses on the coast typically close down, and getting around without a car is an adventure you don’t want to embark on.
Albania is nothing short of stunning, but it’s years behind in development compared to the average European country.
For that reason, I would recommend you spend most of your time in a large city like Tirana, where there’s enough of a social scene and nighttime services to keep you entertained, as well as bus connections to the resort zones on the Adriatic coast, unless a quaint village life resonates with you.
Tirana Beyond The Grey Clusters Of Communist Apartment Blocks
Tirana may not be the prettiest of capitals – much of the old city has been razed to the ground in favor of a modernist makeover – but you can’t deny it is intriguing, with communist-era bunker museums, artifical lakes and eccentric high-rises dominating the skyline.
If you’re a regular cafe-goer, you should probably know Albania is a global leader in the number of cafes, with around 654 such establishments per 100,000 inhabitants.
There are no Starbucks, but there are plenty of local-owned and Mulliri Vjeter coffeehouses around.
Mulliri Vjeter is the oldest coffee chain in Albania, and stores are typically rustic in character, offering visiting nomads free WiFi and a cozy nook to work from. Central Tirana is loaded with those, and not a day goes by that I don’t miss their signature Capuccino Chocomel.
It’s truly no wonder Tirana has proudly taken up the mantle of Europe’s center for digital nomadism, hosting a Digital Nomad Conference since 2022 and with an expat community that continues to grow year after year.
The Top 5 Best Digital Nomad Destinations In Albania
The way I see it, the top five best destinations for digital nomads in Albania are:
Tirana: the exciting capital city, packed with quirky cafes, oozing urban art, and full of verdant parks for temporarily escaping the city crowds and crazy traffic
Shkoder: the cultural heart of Northern Albania, famous for its revitalized, restaurant-lined Old Town and an imposing 2,400-year-old Rozafa Castle
Durres: the busiest port, offering ferry connections to Italy and distinguished by its ruined, recently-unearthed Roman amphitheater and Venetian Tower
Saranda: the largest city in the Albanian Riviera, bounded by the teal-colored waters of the Adriatic and within short driving distance of the up-and-coming leisure zone of Ksamil
Elbasan: the fourth-largest city in Albania, and one of its food meccas, where I tried the best jani me fasule on the trip (make sure you add Taverna Kala to your list of restaurants)
Albania Is The Cheapest Country I’ve Been In Europe
It only took me a couple of days of being in Albania to understand, at least in part, why nomads like me are finding an unlikely home in this overlooked Adriatic gem: prices are the cheapest I’ve seen anywhere in Europe.
On average, Albania is 40.6% less expensive than Western Europe, with meals in inexpensive restaurants costing an acceptable $10.43, based on data gathered by Numbeo, and monthly expenses for a single person capping at roughly $700, excluding rent.
Even though accommodation costs aren’t included in this estimate, rent can be up to 69% cheaper than Paris or London, two overpriced cities that will wipe your wallet clean if you’re not careful enough. Luckily, living costs are nowhere near as exorbitant in Albania.
A quick Airbnb search led me to find seafront condos in Vlore for only $617 per month this April, whole apartments with dedicated workspaces in Saranda for a negligible $343, while in Tirana, there are private, centrally-situated flats for as cheap as $520 monthly.
It Is Incredibly Safe For Foreigners
Not only is Albania remarkably cheap to live in, it is just as safe as fellow Southern European states Italy and Spain.
That’s not my own judgment, but the U.S. State Department’s, which officially considers Albania a low-risk destination, as seen here.
Having spent most of my time between Tirana, Shkoder and Durres, never once did I feel unsafe walking the streets during the day, or get ‘jumpy’ in crowded areas, as much as I normally do in busier areas of Barcelona, or sketchy zones of South Dublin.
While I wouldn’t take my chances going for a late evening stroll in Tirana – Albanian cities are not particularly well-lit at night – crime levels are under acceptable levels, and visitors are rarely, if ever, affected by violence.
Your main concern here is pickpocketing, though I never felt the need to hide my phone when out in public, and judging by the amount of jewelry Albanian women wear and the fancy sportscars the men drive, nobody’s visibly worried about petty theft, either.
Naturally, general safety advice applies, but odds are you’ll be fine. Once I was lulled to sleep by the gentle sound of crashing waves at a busy Ksamil beach, with my laptop bag by my side, and I startlingly woke up to find it still untouched where I left it.
I’m not sure this fortunate outcome was an exception to the rule, or whether Albania is really so safe your personal unattended items will be probably left alone, but it doesn’t change the fact I’ve never felt on edge, nor remotely suspicious of the people around me.
Believe it or not, I’ve saved the best for last:
Are You A U.S. Passport Holder?
You Can Stay An Entire Year In Albania
Every digital nomad based in Europe has a love-and-hate relationship with Schengen.
In case you’re not familiar with the term, it corresponds to a 27-country-strong, passport-free zone where customary cross-border checks typically do not apply.
All of Europe’s top destinations are signatories to Schengen. I’m talking France, Italy, Croatia, Greece, Spain, and the list goes on: flying, taking trains, or boarding ferries between any of the Schengen states, you will not be subject to passport control.
The only downside to Schengen? You can only be present in the Schengen territories for 90 days out of any 180-day period. In other words, if you’ve used up your 90 days in Spain, another Schengen country can’t be your next destination for another three months.
In Albania’s case, the strict Schengen policy does not apply, as it is not a member of the European Union (EU), and it is not bound to join the borderless area anytime soon in the future.
Foreign nationals get a whole 90 day-stay in Albania, irrespective of time spent elsewhere in Europe.
If you’re an American citizen, however, you’re issued a whole year-long tourist visa upon arrival, on the basis of being a U.S. passport holder alone, making Albania the perfect long-term destination, if you’re not merely looking for a grey zone to wait for your Schengen clock to reset.
Despite being outside the EU, Albania remains at the heart of Europe, sharing land borders with four other countries, and boasting low-cost flight connections to the entire continent, with fares starting from $19 on Ryanair.
What Are Some Of The Main Downsides About Life As A Nomad In Albania?
What are some of the negative aspects about life in Albania as a digital nomad, you may ask?
I have already touched on some of those throughout this article, but I would say some of the main ones include:
The lack of public transport (good luck getting from point A to B if you’re not renting a car and you have reservations about hitchhiking)
With the exception of the main motorways linking Tirana to the coastal ports and resort towns, the regional road network can be quite precarious, with lots of potholes and missing road signs (if you’re driving, I would advise against hitting the gas, especially after sundown when visibility is lower)
Reception can be poor in remote areas, particularly up in the mountains, so make sure you save your drafts working from your computer during that bumpy ride up the Accursed range, or you might have to write that 1,500-word article from scratch again (not that it’s happened to me…)
This is no spotless, idyllic, First-World European country: basically, as much as you try to turn a blind eye, you can’t easily ignore the poverty-stricken areas
Nomad-friendly facilities, like work-friendly cafes and coworking offices may be harder to come across outside cities like Tirana, Shkoder and Durres (I would add Berat and Gjirokaster, but compared to the capital city, they are not even close to being considered well-equipped)
Social attitudes in Albania are pretty carefree, considering this is one of Europe’s handful of Muslim-majority countries, but I wouldn’t encourage you to show affection with your same-sex partner in public if you don’t want to get grumpy Albanian nonos to curse you lowly, or more rarely, an unfriendly shoulder bump
If you’re flying, your only way into and out of Albania is via Tirana: mind-boggling as it may be, there are no airports yet on the Adriatic Coast, and the country’s only other operational international airport is located in Kukës, near the Kosovo border (with a single seasonal flight route to Basel in Switzerland)*
*The easiest way to get to Southern Albania is actually flying first to the Greek island of Corfu, which lies just offshore, and then take a ferry to Saranda. The journey takes just over half an hour on average.
Needless to say, the good far outweighs the bad, and I can’t wait to be back in Albania myself this summer. I’m now based in Paris, and there’s no way I’m sticking around to see how utterly anarchic this city will get once the Olympics – or should I say Hunger Games? – commence.
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.
Love it or hate it, Cancun is the most popular destination for Americans going abroad this winter: for some, it just can’t be beat on the hospitality front, what with the numerous luxury resorts, bustling shopping scene, and of course, beautiful beachfront.
That being said, a growing number of visitors seem to have had enough of Cancun–or, to be more specific, its surging crowds–and are now banking on this paradisiacal island lying just off the Yucatanese coast.
It has unspoiled beaches running along crystal-clear oceans for several long miles, it feels far more peaceful and offbeat, and it offers something Cancun can’t: ancient culture.
Welcome To Cozumel
The largest island off the coast of Mexico, Cozumel is experiencing a well-deserved tourism revival at the minute, as vacationers swap the jam-packed Riviera Maya for less-busy alternatives––and it doesn’t get more laid-back than an island getaway.
According to a new report by Expedia, it is particularly popular among young travelers right now, who do not have children, are flying to Mexico primarily for relaxation and some much-needed quality time in the sun, and no longer feel Cancun’s mega resorts meet their needs.
All you got to do is look at the figures for both: while Cancun is home to a whopping 189 properties, as listed on Booking.com, Cozumel has 45; Cancun is a coastal metropolis over 800,000 people call home, whereas the entire population of Cozumel is 88,626.
Last but not least, Cancun hosts over 10 million international guests yearly, so it never feels exactly idyllic, even when you’re lounging by a private beach––Cozumel, on the other hand, receives an average 2 million visitors per year.
Cozumel Is Perfect For Beating The Riviera Crowds
Expedia’s report is particularly timely, seeing Cancun is gearing up for another record-breaking season, with occupation within the Hotel Zone already 90%, and it’s not even December: great news for the local tourism industry… not-so-great news for crowd-wary vacationers.
Lucky for them, Cozumel offers a plethora of unspoiled playas and tourist attractions that are not as crowded:
Think Playa Palancar, with its vibrant-colored reefs and soft, white sands, the snorkeling hotspot that is Playa Corona, or the well-frequented Paradise Beach, a beach club playing uptempo beats and serving food and drinks all day.
For families, Playa Mia Grand Beach Park is the place to go, offering a wide range of amenities, including oceanfront pools, restaurants and water slides for the kids, and if you’re a nature enthusiast, Chankanaab National Park has verdant areas, jungle trails, and secluded beaches.
Costing $29 to enter, it isone of the largest protected reserves in the Mexican Caribbean, and it’s also a popular port of call for cruise ships, so if you want to experience it in all its glory, without the day-trippers, we suggest going early or later in the day.
Cozumel Has The Culture Cancun Doesn’t
Another advantage Cozumel has over Cancun is it wasn’t built in the 70s to accommodate American tourists:
It’s an island that’s been inhabited for thousands of years, and it has the cultural wealth to back it up, with Mayan ruins scattered around its 184.5 square miles, some as old as 800 AD, like El Cedral, a group of Mayan dwellings lying in ruins near the namesake town.
Cozumel’s most relevant historical site is San Gervasio, an ensemble of monuments and temples attributed to a cult to Mayan jaguar goddess Ixchel––some of the main structures include Las Manitas, where local leader Lord Itzá de Cozumel lived, Casa Alta and the Central Plaza.
Even in Chankanaab there are Mayan landmarks, or should we say, replicas of them: if you’re visiting the park, make sure you stop by its collection of reconstructed Mayan temples, the famous reclining Chacmool statue, and the colossal Olmec heads.
Looking For Unique Experiences?
Expedia has noted there is an increasing preference for more unique experiences among visitors to the Mexican Caribbean.
In other words, lying by the poolside all day sipping mimosas no longer satisfies their wanderlust, and they’re craving more… well, it’s not like Cozumel is lacking in cultural attractions, with its historic sites, authentic villages and thrilling tours:
Tourists can, for instance, opt to visit San Gervasio with a jeep tour, passing by unforgettable landscapes and undeveloped jungle on their way to the abandoned Mayan settlement, for $95.34 per person on GetYourGuide.
Small-group buggy tours starting at $143 are also offered in Punta Sur, where some of the most pristine beaches on the island are found, and if you’re a water baby, you’ll love this guided excursion of Cozumel’s Mayan treasures, topped with free time in the exclusive Playa Uvas.
Cozumel is one of the top trendiest destinations for the upcoming year-–again, according to Expedia––and it’s not hard to see why.
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.
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.
With gentrification having ruined a number of tried-and-true workcation spots worldwide, from a no-longer-peaceful Tulum, all the way over to Tbilisi, in Georgia, where rental prices have shot through the roof since it got ‘discoverd’, I get it if you feel as if you’re running out of options.
Us digital nomads are always looking for the cheaper alternatives, preferably those yet to be ruined by mass tourism––or should we say, mass nomadism in this case––and based on a new report published by Search Logistics, we might just have found them.
The digital marketing agency has listed 3 surprising cities as the best destinations for digital nomads in 2025, and having lived experience in all of them myself, I’m inclined to agree:
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The third-best ranked is Rio de Janeiro (or just Rio), in Brazil: this vibrant coastal metropolis backed by verdant mountains and straddling an azure ocean scores 62.35 out of 100, and it’s the closest Brazil gets to a digital nomad paradise.
I mean, between the postcard-ready beaches––think a world-famous Ipanema or a glityz Copacabana––and the eclectic cultural scene, with colonial buildings and samba bars galore, it’s easy to see how Rio would be stealing the hearts of my fellow long-term travelers.
I particularly love it for its laid-back atmosphere (Praia do Leme and some fresh coconut is all the relaxation you need after a long office day), and plethora of laptop-friendly brunch spots, though my absolute favorite is American-run Gringo Cafe in Ipanema.
As beautiful as Rio may be, however, I’d encourage you to proceed with caution: definitely do not flash valuables in public (this includes your phone), beware of pickpockets, and if you’re going to a favela event or gathering––foreigners love those, for some reason––do not go unaccompanied.
Average cost of living in Rio de Janeiro according to Numbeo
Price of a meal in an inexpensive restaurant: $5.77
A three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant: $34.44
Monthly cost of transportation: $49.08
One-bedroom apartment in downtown Rio: $419.58
Estimated monthly expenses: $996
Bucharest, Romania
Taking up the runner-up slot is Bucharest, with a score of 65.62, the fascinating capital of Romania, and an Eastern European gem I called home for just over a month many winters ago, and I am glad it is finally getting the praise it deserves:
Bucharest has incredibly-diverse architecture, with elements of Belle époque and Soviet-style Brutalism, and it’s a hugely-underrated cultural hub playing host to world-class art galleries––if you’re a museum geek like me, I would strongly suggest you pay the National Museum of Art a visit.
I won’t lie to you, the endless clusters of communist-era apartment blocks away from the Paris-coded city center may feel oppressive at times, especially if you’ve grown up as a Western kid, but the good thing about Bucharest is, there’s always a tranquil park to escape to.
Herastrau in spring puts New York’s Central Park to shame, and a peaceful Parcul Tineretului in Sector IV is great for beating the downtown crowds, and the nearby Erbario Coffee is a cozy eatery serving brunch and specialty coffee at local prices.
Average cost of living in Bucharest according to Numbeo
Price of a meal in an inexpensive restaurant: $11.66
A three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant: $52.98
Monthly cost of transportation: $16.95
One-bedroom apartment in downtown Bucharest: $596.14
Estimated monthly expenses: $1,304
Bangkok, Thailand
Taking the lead on a score of 69.98 out of 100, the temple-dotted urban sprawl that is Bangkok, Thailand is officially the best destination for digital nomads next year according to Search Logistics, and in all fairness, I second that:
Not only is this supported by Nomads, which lists Bangkok as the most popular city in the community right now, Bangkok is essentially a Mecca for remote workers thanks to its extensive list of coworking spaces, unmatched social scene, and dirt cheap prices.
You can get dinner for $3, pamper yourself with a foot massage for around $8, and spend as little as $154 in a week––well, you could probably get the same, if not cheaper, in places like Chiang Mai, in Northern Thailand, or Hanoi, in Vietnam, but you get my point.
Last but not least, Bangkok is just unabashed, riotous fun from Monday to Monday, with gay-friendly Silom Soi 4 catering to a libertarian crowd, and a busy Sukhumvit Soi 11 offering a big selection of cocktail bars and laid-back rooftop venues.
Average cost of living in Bangkok according to Numbeo
Price of a meal in an inexpensive restaurant: $2.85
A three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant: $28.52
Monthly cost of transportation: $37.07
One-bedroom apartment in downtown Bucharest: $555.16
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.
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.
