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Last Updated 6 mins ago

If you want to spend your spring break sunbathing on a stunning tropical beach, then Southwest has got you covered, especially if you live in or around Nashville!  

The airline has launched two brand new flights from Nashville to tropical beach destinations just in time for the start of spring. Both flights will launch on March 8 and are seasonal flights that won’t run in the winter months.  

The destinations?

You can now choose to fly from Nashville to either Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic or Cabo San Lucas in Mexico.  

Here’s everything you need to know about these new flight routes.  

Brand New Options From Nashville  

From March 8 2025 you can fly nonstop between Nashville and Punta Cana as well as Cabo San Lucas/Los Cabos.

Initially, these nonstop flights will only operate on Saturdays, meaning that you will be able to take week-long vacations in the sun, but you can’t use these flights to plan shorter getaways.  

Southwest already offers a nonstop route from Nashville to Cancun, but these two new routes will give people in the area even more convenient options for their next international vacation.  

The all-important question when any new international service is launched is how much will it cost! Both of these flight routes are already available to book on the Southwest Airlines website.  

Firs,t I looked at the prices for a nonstop return flight from Nashville to Cabo San Lucas/Los Cabos. These flights are from Saturday, March 22 – Saturday, March 29, shortly after this new route launches.  

The outbound flight currently costs $582, and the inbound flight currently costs $543. Meaning the total round-trip flight cost would be $1,124, including taxes and fees.  

If you’d rather enjoy the complete relaxation offered by island life then I also looked at the price for tickets between Nashville and Punta Cana. This must be the more popular route because economy tickets were sold out for the March dates I looked at above.  

These prices are based on flights from Saturday, April 5 – Saturday, April 12. The outbound flight currently costs $454 and the inbound flight currently costs $632.

This means the total round-trip flight cost would be $1,086, including taxes and fees.  

The ticket prices for these two new flight routes are very similar, so ticket price needn’t be a factor in which destination you choose.  

It’s worth noting that these prices are based on a ‘Wanna Get Away’ ticket, which is the cheapest economy flight ticket offered by Southwest Airlines.

This ticket is non-refundable, and you will also have to pay extra to select your seats. But two bags are included for free with all Southwest tickets.   

Punta Cana or Los Cabos?  

If you’re an international globe trotter, then you might be able to visit Los Cabos and Punta Cana this year. But if you only have the time (and the cash!) to visit one of these destinations, which one is best for you?

Both destinations are tropical paradises with spectacular white sand beaches.  

But while the landscapes in Punta Cana are fringed with palm trees and tropical jungle, you’ll find desert views (and the dry desert climate to go with it) in Los Cabos.  

Both destinations are blessed with excellent all-inclusive resorts, but if you’re on a tight budget, you’re likely to find a wider range of budget accommodations and restaurants in Punta Cana than you will in Los Cabos.

Los Cabos is a famously luxurious and high-end destination, so this is a better option if you’re looking for opulence at any price.  

Looking to party the night away? Punta Cana should be your first choice. The nightlife here is incredibly vibrant. There are plenty of nightlife options and a lively party atmosphere in the town.  

By contrast, the nightlife in Los Cabos focuses on chic rooftop lounges and high-end restaurants. Both options are a lot of fun, but Punta Cana is better suited to a younger party-ready crowd.  

Tor Brierley

Tor has been writing for more than 20 years and has visited 25 countries (and counting!) She specializes in European and family travel and never says no to new adventures.

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Last Updated 3 mins ago

If you’re planning on crossing the pond this spring or summer for a much-needed culture-infused sunny break, there’s one country in particular that should be at the top of your list.

According to Mabrian, a travel intelligence firm, Spain has already captured a whopping one-third of global travel demand for the region for 2025, with approximately 33% of Southern Europe-bound arrivals heading to this destination.

In Europe in general, it accounts for 12% of the rising demand, especially in the shoulder and low seasons, and that’s hardly a surprise: just check the (oddly-pleasant) weather for Las Palmas de Gran Canaria right now, in the middle of winter.

Spain as a whole is set for yet another record-breaking year in tourism, but if you’re wondering where travelers are being drawn to the most, these are the top 5 cities:

Palma de Mallorca

Capturing 4.1% of tourists landing in Southern Europe, Palma de Mallorca is the capital of its namesake Mallorca, an island worth visiting for the scenic callas lapped by turquoise waters and verdant hills strewn with rolling vineyards alone.

Gorgeous as all of Mallorca may be, with resort zones in Pollença and Alcudia drawing in big crowds, Palma is undoubtedly its crown jewel: dating back thousands of years, it has a rich amalgamation of Roman, Vandal, Moorish, and medieval-era landmarks.

Its magnificent cathedral, La Seu, or Cathedral of Santa Maria for English speakers, is the most easily recognized symbol of Palma’s skyline and perhaps the magnum opus of the Catalonian Gothic movement, with intricate rose windows and flying buttresses.

Just opposite the cathedral, Almudaina is a palace combining Islamic and Gothic elements, representative of Palma’s diverse breadth of architecture, whereas Castell de Bellver, sitting on a prominent hill with views of the city, is a uniquely circular-shaped, 14th-century castle.

If you’re looking for that hidden gem beachgoers are missing out on, the Arab Baths should definitely be on your bucket list: built in the 10th century by Mallorca’s at-the-time North African rulers, it has columned chambers and courtyards you’re free to wander through.

Alicante

Over in the Spanish mainland, with high-rises encroaching on a palm-lined, golden sand beach, Alicante is a vibrant resort city boasting year-round warmer temps––just so you know, they’re currently sitting at a pleasant 65 degrees right now in the dead of winter––and lower prices than average.

When you think that going to a tapas bar for patatas bravas and some sweet tinto de verano in a whitewashed Barrio de la Santa Cruz costs $15 or that you can book a room only a few steps away from the beach starts from $40, it’s hardly a surprise tourists are flocking in here.

More specifically, 4.4% of all Mediterranean arrivals, and among the pleasant surprises awaiting them in this offbeat Spanish gem, there’s Explanada de España, a long coastal walk paved with colorful, patterned mosaics, a hilltop, medieval Santa Barbara Castle, and a bustling Mercado Central:

The best spot in town for sampling fresh produce, sampling the seafood––the paella here is arguably up there with the best in the country––and browsing the local delicacies, this market is a sensory overload in the best possible way.

In desperate need of relaxation? Look no further than Postiguet, a postcard-ready beach at the foot of Santa Barbara Castle welcoming guests to crystal-clear seas, a wide range of amenities, and mid-range restaurants with terraces for sunset views.

The gemstone of Spain’s Costa Del Sol, a sun-drenched stretch of coast to the southeast of Spain, Malaga is a sprawling port combining resort city and open-air museum vibes, from the ruin-littered historic center, down to the parasol-sprinkled Malagueta beach.

As part of Andalusia, the hottest destination in Spain as a result of its geographical proximity to Africa, Malagueños and Malagueñas enjoy shorts weather for most of the calendar year, and chances are you won’t need to pack a raincoat irrespective of season.

Malaga’s greatest appeal, however, is its enviable collection of historical structures: for instance, there is a 1st-century Roman Theater built onto the side of a central elevation now dominated by an Islamic 11th-century fortress, the Alcazaba.

Then there is a nearby 14th-century Gibralfaro Castle, occupying yet another hill that overlooks the urban maze that is Malaga and its azure seas, and let’s not forget Malaga’s iconic Plaza de Toros, an intact bullfighting ring that continues to host select events.

Albeit a fascinating cultural ensemble, Malaga’s hustle and bustle can get a tad much at times, especially with the summer crowds––it captures 6.4% of Southern Europe’s arrivals––so if you’re in need of a breather, head out to the verdant, waterfall-dotted Montes de Málaga Natural Park.

Barcelona

At the runner-up position, capturing a whopping 21.7% of all arrivals to Europe’s southern half, Barcelona is the quintessential Mediterranean getaway combining resort city vibes and Old World allure.

Its Barceloneta golden-sand strip, backed by high-rise condominiums and glass-and-steel skyscrapers, is a favorite among beachgoers, and for those who love history, the medieval Gothic Quarter is filled with picturesque alleys, plazas, and locally-run tapas bars.

Despite having an unlimited cultural offer, Barcelona’s pride and joy is undoubtedly its Gaudí heritage, best evidenced in the Sagrada Familia cathedral, the Expressionist chef-d’oeuvre that is Casa Batlló, and the lush Park Güell, best known for its curvilinear shapes and bright colors.

Barcelona tends to get quite busy irrespective of season, so if you’re hoping to beat the crowds, you should leave the bustling streets of Eixample behind and head instead to an offbeat Gràcia, where you’ll find independent boutique shops, cozy cafes, and art galleries.

Other attractions first-time visitors wouldn’t normally pay attention to include Refugi 307, a Spanish Civil War-era bomb shelter now housing a museum, the Roman Necropolis buried beneath Plaça Vila de Madrid, and the serene Parc del Laberint d’Horta, Barcelona’s oldest park featuring a maze.

Madrid

Leading with a 24% share, the capital of Spain is officially the number one destination in Southern Europe right now, and this, to some, might be surprising, considering it doesn’t sit on the coast.

Madrid doesn’t need Mediterranean beaches or palm-lined promenades to woo tourists, though: dubbed Iberian Paris, it is characterized by expansive, leafy boulevards flanked by Belle époque buildings, sprawling green zones, and a host of world-class museums.

The most visited of them all, Prado is home to masterpieces by Goya, Velázquez, El Greco, and Raphael, and if you’re visiting Europe primarily for the magnificent architecture, exploring the area around the portico-bordered Plaza Mayor is a must.

Besides Madrid’s top landmarks, namely the aforementioned Prado, the richly-decorated Baroque Royal Palace, and Parque El Retiro, here are some unique, unexpected things to do in the city in 2025:

Escape the heat and go underground at Andén 0 (or Zero Platform), a historic metro station dating back to the early 20th century, still served by retro-style carriages, or take a leisurely stroll in Cementerio de la Almudena, probably one of Europe’s prettiest burial grounds, littered with ornate chapels and tombs.

Away from El Retiro’s crowds, Quinta de los Molinos is a much more peaceful park with wide avenues strewn with almond trees, and don’t forget Parque del Oeste, in Western Madrid: it will look it’s most beautiful in spring when the rose gardens are in full bloom.

Vinicius Costa

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

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Home to the ultra-popular resort destination that is Cancun, a plethora of ancient Mayan ruins, and vibrant city breaks, Mexico is the number one country for Americans planning a trip abroad, but no trip south of the border is exactly risk-free.

As safe as Mexico may be in general, with very few travelers being affected by crime when vacationing on its Caribbean coast or bustling capital, there are more dangerous parts of the national territory it would be best to avoid altogether.

As customary every year, the U.S. State Department has updated the Mexico Travel Advisory, and a total of 6 states are now placed at Level 4––up from 4 since the last count.

In other words, Americans are being urged to refrain from traveling to these regions due to crime:

Colima

A small state straddling the Pacific coast of Mexico, Colima has never been a much sought-after destination for Americans, and now it may be a longer while until it regains whatever little prestige it used to have, following its inclusion on the State Dpt.’s Level 4 list.

It is best known for its namesake colonial-era capital, endless miles of golden sand beaches hugged by azure waters, and Manzanillo, a whitewashed resort town dubbed the ‘Mexican Santorini‘––though undoubtedly beautiful, the state is one of Mexico’s worst hotspots for crime.

According to U.S. authorities, most killings are ‘targeted assassinations’ involving gang members, but U.S. citizens have also been victims of kidnapping and other forms of violence.

The State Dpt. does not, however, that Downtown Manzanillo, which comprises both the hotel zone and port, is considered safer, and government employees themselves are not barred from visiting.

Guerrero

Similarly to Colima, Guerrero is a Pacific state that, ironically, is far from being ‘Pacific,’ having been dominated by rivaling gangs in recent decades.

Its main resort hub, Acapulco, used to be a prime destination for Hollywood stars in the 50s and 60s, and despite its efforts to regain the long-lost popularity––since then, Cabo’s taken up that mantle––it continues to struggle as crime levels worsen.

U.S. authorities warn Americans heading to this state that armed groups operate ‘independently of the government’ in many areas and have been known to enforce roadblocks, use coercion tactics, and even force against visitors.

There are no ‘exceptions’ in Guerrero, with travel discouraged to all tourist zones, including not only Acapulco but also Zihuatanejo, Taxco, and Ixtapa.

Michoacan

Yet another beautiful state on the Pacific coast plagued by endemic violence, Michoacan had been rising in popularity as an off-the-beaten-path destination for travelers until being blacklisted by the State Dpt.

It is home to many indigenous groups, a diverse landscape comprising central highlands and unspoiled patches of coast, and its stately capital, Morelia is arguably one of Mexico’s most beautiful, with a UNESCO-protected historic center.

Sadly, Michoacan is not somewhere you should go unless you have a very compelling, strong reason to do so or you’re used to traveling to high-risk areas:

‘Crime and violence are widespread’, as reported by U.S. officials, and employees of the U.S. government are only allowed to travel into Michoacan by air, landing at Morelia Airport, or by using Federal Highways 43 or 48D, from Federal Highway 15D.

The beach town of Lazaro Cardenas is the only other destination left out of the blanket ban on travel, yet those who visit are expressly told to limit their activities to the center and port areas.

Sinaloa

The fourth Pacific state to feature here, Sinaloa, has been the epicenter of turf wars for many years, as countless criminal organizations base their operations there.

This hasn’t stopped major resorts like Mazatlan, Los Mochis, and Topolobampo from being added to cruise itineraries or favored by adventurous Americans who are eager to experience a more authentic side of Mexico beyond the glitz and glamor of Cancun, Cabo, and the like.

Indeed, Mazatlan seems to be relatively safe for tourists and the State Dpt. seems to echo that feeling, as it does not restrict its employees from traveling to the city’s well-frequented Zona Dorada and the picture-perfect colonial center.

We have reported extensively on Mazatlan as a destination, and based on feedback from our own readers, they have rarely felt unsafe or threatened in any way when vacationing there.

Nevertheless, traveling in the wider state of Sinaloa, especially in between municipalities, and further inland, is massively discouraged.

Tamaulipas

As it is a tiny Gulf state sharing a shot border with Texas, you may be thinking there’s not an awful lot to see and do in Tamaulipas anyway for its downgrading to Level 4 to be deemed a tragedy.

We’d beg to differ.

It lays claim to numerous well-preserved pre-Columbian archaeological zones, most notably the Huastec-era El Sabinito, distinguished by its overgrown pyramids and charming small towns yet to be spoiled by mass tourism and verdant preserves.

Tamaulipas’ nature is equally fascinating, from the waterfall-dotted jungle expanse that is El Cielo to the bustling Miramar Beach, a tried-and-true sunny getaway for Mexican locals… as you can see, there’s many a reason why this lesser-known state is worth a visit.

Regrettably, it is currently a no-go zone, with crime and kidnapping cited as main threats to the safety of visiting Americans.

The border zone is particularly dangerous, namely from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo, where local law enforcement is limited, whereas safety levels are higher in the ‘tri-city zone’: Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira.

Zacatecas

An unfortunate addition to the blacklist this year, Zacatecas is a historically-significant state in central Mexico best represented by its namesake capital, a pink sandstone city that traces its origins back to the 16th century.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising an ornate cathedral, a largely intact colonial core, with narrow streets lined with colorful facades, and a monumental Palacio de Gobierno Estatal, a Spanish-era edifice where the state government still convenes.

On the outskirts of town, the El Eden Mine is a colonial system of mines now housing guided tours––and even descending to its depths is a fun business, as it involves going on a bumpy, vertiginous mine-cart ride.

The main downside, of course, is that visiting Zacatecas is being discouraged by U.S. authorities at the minute, following reports that U.S. citizens have been subject to kidnapping and other forms of crime.

The city center of Zacatecas itself presents fewer dangers, but any travel outside the touristy zones, especially the suburbs and smaller towns in the vicinity, is advised against.

Vinicius Costa

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

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Long gone are the days when ensuring your passport in the bag was the main concern ahead of driving to the airport to catch that international flight:

In 2025, travel rules are either being enforced more strictly or tightening significantly, and before you ask, no, it’s got nothing to do with lab-originated pathogens.

Let’s leave that back in 2020-2021.

On the other hand, not many Americans may not know that presenting a valid passport at the border when landing in a foreign country is oftentimes not enough to grant you access to certain countries and territories.

In fact, depending on how you’ve handled your passport lately and what stamps have been added to it, you could be denied entry altogether.

So here are 5 important things you must check in your travel document before your next trip if you’re keen on avoiding being placed on a repatriation flight:

Never Get Souvenir Stamps

We get it, they’re cute collectibles, and they serve as a reminder of milestones we’ve reached in our travels, such as climbing Machu Picchu, the remote Incan highland town in Peru, or visiting the continent of Antarctica that isn’t claimed by any sovereign state.

In reality, however, these souvenir stamps that are regularly issued by tourism offices and have no practical validity can render your passport completely invalid.

As the U.S. State Department notes, getting your passport stamped in a celebratory way can be considered ‘damage’ to the document, as only border officers and other authorized officials of the U.S. and foreign countries can place visas or make notations or additions.

This is even stated on page five of all U.S. passports, something you can check for yourself if you’ve got yours handy.

Different countries enforce this rule with varying degrees of severity: for instance, there have been reports of travelers going around the globe with their souvenir stamps unnoticed, as well as cases where they were denied boarding and made to get a new passport.

To be on the safer side, it is best to just steer clear of them.

Handle Your Passport With Maximum Care

Passports are not merely booklets that can be twisted, folded, or handled with little to no care: the small gold camera logo at the bottom of the cover indicates there is a biometric chip inside, and it’s more susceptible to damage than you might think.

That’s where all your information is stored, and it’s how border agents will typically verify your identity and the authenticity of your document, so once that chip gets defective, the passport itself could be useless.

Additionally, any tears or imperfections on the cover or information page, however minor, could result in you getting repatriated––in other words, sent back home flying.

That’s the case in Bali, a popular tropical getaway for Americans, where border guards might refuse entry to newcomers unless their passport is ‘immaculate‘––in their own words, ‘normal wear and tear’, and even ‘minor tears or rips to the pages’ can be perceived as damage.

Check You Have Enough Months Left Of Validity

A common misconception among first-time travelers is that, as long as their passport will remain valid between the date of departure, and the date of return, they are good to go.

That couldn’t be farther from the truth.

Traveling to Europe, authorities will expect you to present a travel document that’s not only yet to expire but that is valid for an additional 6 months following the date of entry.

This means that if you have a single month left of validity, and you plan on going to Italy for a week and back, chances are the airline itself won’t authorize your boarding, or if you do get an exception, you might get turned away at the border landing in the Old Continent.

Most countries worldwide enforce the 6-month rule, with rare exceptions like Mexico (the passport must be valid for the intended length of stay), or Chile (must expire after you leave the country, with no specific period length set), so it’s worth verifying entry rules at your destination in advance.

Make Sure You Have Enough Blank Pages!

This one’s for our fellow frequent travelers out there:

On top of handling your document with care and checking you have enough months left of validity on it, you should ensure there are enough blank pages for stamps.

Once your passport gets filled up, you may be refused entry on the grounds of not having available space for a stamp to be placed, even if the document is only expiring months or even years down the line.

Collecting stamps doesn’t seem all that fun now, does it?

In general, you should ensure you have at least one blank page left before traveling to allow for plenty of room, and that is if you’re only visiting one country.

That being said, in some instances, the requirement is even more restrictive, with some asking for 2, 3, or a whopping 6 blank pages––that would be Namibia for you, so if the offbeat African country is on your bucket list, now you know.

Get That Travel Authorization Before Flying

Last but certainly not least, entry rules are changing for a host of different destinations to which Americans have routinely been allowed to travel without previous restrictions.

As of January, they can no longer board flights to the United Kingdom without applying for the UK ETA (or Electronic Travel Authorization) in advance––read more here.

Soon enough, a similar requirement will be enforced by the European Union, encompassing much of mainland Europe: unless they are pre-screened before boarding and get a digital entry permit, Americans will no longer be able to board Europe-bound flights.

Luckily, the measure isn’t being enforced as of right now, though it’s coming soon enough.

It’s a complex world to navigate, and entry requirements and visa rules seem to be changing by the minute, so don’t forget to double-check them prior to booking that trip.

Vinicius Costa

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

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It’s a challenge in today’s world to find anything truly free, often inciting thoughts of “what’s the catch?” and rightfully so.

With taxes, sneaky fees, and “gotcha” tactics, travelers often have to hawk-eye anything deemed ‘free’.

But Thailand is ready to showcase a lesser-known beach destination. In turn, doing so for free. Best of all, there is no catch per se, rather select dates to hop aboard a scenic train ride to escape the city grind of Bangkok in favor of a lesser-known idyllic beach paradise.

As icons like Phuket and the surging island of Koh Samui have seen hordes of unsightly crowds flock to their shores, it’s time to give under-hyped Hua Hin a chance.

What better way than doing so at no cost?

Better yet, once you arrive, you’ll discover Hua Hin is one of Thailand’s cheapest beach destinations!

Free Ride Aside, Why Visit Hua Hin?

Hua Hin is located within Thailand’s Prachuap Khiri Khan province and is teeming with many of the same attractions that other major cities and beach hotspots behold.

The main difference is Hua Hin is largely off mainstream travelers’ radar, leaving a truly authentic destination waiting to be explored.

For example, it’s been reported Phuket is ‘wall to wall’ full of people as 2024’s most crowded destination, so who would want to have a bunch of fellow tourists cramping your space when you’re supposed to be enjoying one of the world’s most acclaimed paradises?

That’s where Hua Hin makes for a great alternative, and we all know 2025 is destined to be a year full of discovering lookalikes as many destinations deal with overtourism concerns.

In Hua Hin, you’re not sacrificing a lackluster experience. In fact, you’re only enhancing it. Here are 5 must-visit sites to check out:

• Hua Hin Beach – long stretches of soft sand and vivid blue waters; great for swimming, lounging, and various water sports
• Phraya Nakhon Cave – the ultimate expedition for nature lovers; boasts a royal pavilion inside that will make you feel immersed in an Indiana Jones film
• Cicada Market – a buzzing night market teeming with goodies ranging from piping hot street noodles to local artisan crafts
• Moonsoon Valley – wine country in Thailand? You bet!
• Huay Mongkol Temple – a towering temple surrounded by peaceful scenery; home to one of Thailand’s largest statues

Stay At Luxe Resorts & Beachside Guesthouses On The Cheap

In a world where dollar stores are now $1.25 stores, it’s safe to say supply and demand can be a real doozy on the wallet.

Finding hotels is no different, but Hua Hin offers great stays with nightly rates cheaper than your weekly coffee budget.

This spring, you can easily find resorts and beachside guesthouses for unbelievable prices.

How about Karoon Hut Guest House set beachside for just $21? Or leveling up at the chic Stardust Boutique Hotel for $29?

Still have some wiggle room? Okay, check out waterfront villas at The Yana Villas Hua Hin for just $88, or cash out your points at either Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa or Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa.

There’s truly something for everyone, from solo travelers with tight pockets to vacationers seeking to pamper themselves.

All Aboard! Welcome To The Vana Nava Express Train

If you find yourself in Bangkok but have had enough of pollution, crowded streets, and the world’s strangest ping-pong games, then it sounds like you’re in the market for a free ride to the beach.

The free train (#43) leaves for Hua Hin from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal at 7:30am every Saturday and Sunday until March 30.

The full one-way journey takes approximately 3 hours, so you’ll arrive with plenty of time to enjoy the day beachside, market-hopping, or taking it easy at an aforementioned resort.

Along the ride, passengers are provided with free snacks, souvenirs, and even a towel as a keepsake.

Don’t worry; it’s not to cool down from the heat. The train is equipped with air conditioning.

How To Book Your Free Train Ride

According to Thaiger, these are the 3 steps to book your free train ride:

1. Visit the official train carrier website
2. Choose “General Customer”
3. Follow prompts

Keep in mind, booking is only open every Thursday from 7am to Friday at 3pm.

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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Cancun, Cabo, and Puerto Vallarta. Vacationers often limit themselves to this trifecta of Mexican powerhouses.

Truth is, Mexico as a whole gets a bad rap, and not everyone views this culturally enchanting and naturally astounding country as a playground for adventure.

Conversely, not everyone’s version of adventure is a relaxing, all-inclusive getaway in a city you might not have heard of before.

It’s time to change that perspective.

Rather than follow the crowd overpaying for Cabo’s glamorous resorts and having to fight your way to the swim-up bar, there are 3 underrated all-inclusive beach destinations calling your name this year — and one has been compared to Santorini!

A Travel Advisory Foreword:

All 3 destinations presented are based in Level 4: Do Not Travel states. But, there’s a catch…

The U.S. State Department categorizes Mexico’s travel advisories based on states, not cities.

Saying no to visiting Sinaloa, for example, basically equates to issuing an advisory for the entire state of California during L.A.’s recent wildfire disasters.

Would you feel that you should avoid Lake Tahoe, San Francisco, or Palm Springs too? Chances are that’s a hard no.

As a seasoned traveler throughout Mexico, I’ve visited numerous destinations ranging from ‘safe’ to ‘dangerous’, and I can attest the same perspective should be applied here.

Yes, there are definite no-go regions of Mexico, but these 3 bright spots, which just so happen to be located in problematic states, are well-protected with a hefty National Guard presence, local police force, and private security to maintain a safe haven for tourists.

Look at it this way — all 3 vacation spots have multiple nonstop flights from the U.S. and Canada.
Do you think airlines would be making a profit selling flights to no man’s land? Negative.

So, without further ado, here are Mexico’s 3 most underrated all-inclusive getaways for 2025:

Mazatlan: Sinaloa’s Shining Star For A World-Class Vacation

Let’s get the buzzword out of the way: Sinaloa.

As you’ve gathered, Mazatlan is completely safe to visit; no more concerning than Cancun, Punta Cana, or any of the household names we rely on for your sunny paradisal escapes.

Mazatlan has been steadily gaining steam on travelers’ radars, especially in the digital nomad world.

But, many vacationers are sleeping on Mazatlan as a laid-back all-inclusive getaway with numerous resorts overlooking pristine beaches surrounded by a captivating cityscape full of urban delights and incredible views, such as El Faro Lighthouse.

According to TripAdvisor, these are the top 5 all-inclusive resorts in Mazatlan:

1. Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlan Golf & Spa Resort
2. El Cid Marina Beach Hotel
3. Emporio Mazatlan
4. El Cid Castilla Beach Hotel
5. Hotel Riu Emerald Bay

Better yet, Mazatlan is fun to explore beyond the resorts with a buzzing nightlife, vibrant Plaza Machado, the scenic Malecon boardwalk, and even a random ode to The Beatles.

Mazatlan does have Uber, but you gotta check out the funky Pulmonias to get around; essentially their version of a “tuk tuk”.

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo: My Favorite Mexican Beach Town

I’ve been all over Mexico, but my recent trip to Ixtapa kicked Mahahual to second place in my favorite Mexican beach town’s rankings.

As a former Cabo Sun contributor, I even put my travel reputation on the line, saying Ixtapa is prettier! (no offense, Sammy Haggar)

Located in the state of Guerrero, the twin cities of Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo offer a different set of attractions, but you’ll find ample resorts on both sides.

I stayed at Barcelo, and it was fantastic having a pair of swim-up bars to choose from, an all-you-can-eat seafood feast, and a pool to die for overlooking the waves crashing ashore Playa El Palmar, a certified Blue-Flag beach.

According to TripAdvisor, these are the top 5 all-inclusive resorts in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo:

1. Club Med Ixtapa Pacific
2. Las Brisas Ixtapa
3. Emporio Ixtapa
4. Hotel Fontan Ixtapa
5. Sunscape Dorado Pacifico Ixtapa

Better yet, you can visit the secret island of Isla Ixtapa, with perfect snorkeling conditions and unknown ruins of Xihuacan, far off the radar from the likes of Teotihicaun and Chichen Itza.

Manzanillo: The “Santorini Of Mexico”

There’s no place quite like Santorini, Greece, but in Latin America, Manzanillo is the next best thing.

Beholding a white-washed townscape overlooking vivid blue waters, Manzanillo is perhaps Mexico’s most underrated all-inclusive resort town, largely in part due to the state of Colima’s uprise in crime.

Vacationers in Manzanillo shouldn’t be overly concerned with crime reports as the jewel of Colima has its own airport with numerous connections to U.S. cities, such as Houston, Dallas, and Phoenix, so you can fly over the “dangerous” areas, which are mostly attributed to Colima City.

Upon arriving, you’ll find ample high-end resorts perched beachside with a cultural town center to explore anchored by the picturesque Zocalo and idyllic Malecon for seaside strolls.

According to TripAdvisor, these are the top 5 all-inclusive resorts in Manzanillo:

1. Barceló Karmina
2. Las Hadas By Brisas
3. Hotel Vista Playa de Oro Manzanillo
4. Hotel Tesoro Manzanillo
5. Gran Festivall All Inclusive Resort

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Last Updated 5 days ago

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

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

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

A New Route For Norse Atlantic  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why Visit Athens?  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tor Brierley

Tor has been writing for more than 20 years and has visited 25 countries (and counting!) She specializes in European and family travel and never says no to new adventures.

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Are you heading to Europe this summer, but you’re dreading the thought of spending hundreds of euros a night, if not thousands, on an Amalfi or Greek island getaway?

Despair not: there is a much cheaper alternative, with seas an unbelievable turquoise color, an Old Town dating back to ancient times, and the cheapest all-inclusive hotels across the pond.

Experts at Britain-based agency TravelSupermarket have scoured the map of Europe for the most affordable sunny getaway this year, and they’ve reached the conclusion it’s Alanya, in Türkiye (formerly called Turkey), that takes the crown:

Turquoise Seas, Ancient Wonders & It’s Dirt Cheap

You might have heard of Antalya, with its lively Konyaaltı beach and a plethora of Greek and Roman ruins, where beachfront stays start from an affordable $62-a-night and grabbing a takeout Döner kebab for dinner will cost you an average of five bucks.

Antalya is one of Türkiye’s most popular destinations, and it tends to overshadow smaller, more offbeat spots nearby.

This includes a similarly-named Alanya, roughly 83 miles east of Antalya, that does not benefit from having its own international airport and a constant influx of tourists.

Despite its relative anonymity, it boasts an incredibly picturesque historic center, with cobbled streets bordered by colorful Ottoman houses, featuring the iconic overhanging, covered wooden balconies and a wall-encircled port hugging the teal waters of the East Mediterranean.

Alanya is a cultural treasure of Türkiye, with a long history spanning thousands of years and the rise (and fall) of many an empire.

Its golden-sand Cleopatra Beach is said to have been visited by the Egyptian queen herself on her visit to the then-Roman provinces in Anatolia, and standing on a rocky outcrop towering over the beach, there is the monumental Seljuk fort.

Perhaps Alanya’s most distinguishable sight, the octagon-shaped Red Tower, dating back to the 13th century, rises high above the sea of red-tiled roofs, and it now houses the Ethnographic Museum of Alanya.

How Cheap Is Alanya Effectively?

In sum, this is as Turkish a city as it gets, with minarets dotting the skyline, its fair share of kebab takeout spots, and a lively marina lined with upscale seafood restaurants where a three-course dinner will cost only a small fraction of what you’re used to pay in Western Europe.

Ordering the full Turkish breakfast spread served at Kaleiçi Meyhanesi Alanya will set you back by $15 tops, while dinner with a view at the Sade Lounge, overlooking the port, can run you up an acceptable $29––and that’s if you’re eating lavishly.

For those on a budget, eating out at any local-frequented eatery in the Old Town is an inexpensive $8.46, on average––you can easily find them by avoiding the bustling squares flooded with European tourists.

When it comes to accommodation, the research shows us the average price for a 7-day, all-inclusive break in Alanya comes at a cheap US$708, so let’s have a look at some of the hotel listings in offer and check if this adds up:

Beachfront Hotels From $253 For The Entire Week

There are exactly 84 hotels in and around Alanya offering all-inclusive deals in the high season, with the cheapest one being Keopatra Ada Hotel, where an all-paid-for, week-long stay costs a mere $253.

At this rate, you shouldn’t expect an overload of luxury: we’re talking a single room with a balcony, a decent breakfast, and chances are your dinners won’t be prepared by a renowned chef.

Think a $30 all-you-can-eat Japanese buffet, but make it Turkish.

The top-rated hotel for customer score and low price is Ramira Joy, only a few steps from Cleopatra Beach, and equipped with an on-site restaurant, a hamper for spa services, and 4-star amenities, starting from $402.

Now, for the truly luxurious properties, they’re not a far cry from what you’d expect to pay in 5-star resorts in places like Cancun or Punta Cana: for instance, a double deluxe room at the stately Serenity Queen Hotel on Konakli Beach, costs $2,046 to book for the week.

The hotel features spa facilities, a kid-friendly water park, fitness areas and lush gardens, and higher-quality food is served.

Similar service can be found at the Green Gardens Suites for $2,462 and at the adults-only Supreme C-Lounge for $2,083.

According to Booking.com, 57 out of the 84 all-inclusive hotels will cost under $638 to book for the week, which seems to support the average rate reported by TravelSupermarket.

It’s safe to say that whether you’re traveling on a strict budget or you’re used to that Caribbean level of splurging, Alanya will feel like a steal of a deal.

Vinicius Costa

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

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

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

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

Queretaro Is One Of The Prettiest Cities In Mexico

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

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

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

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

An Intact Colonial Center Awaiting Discovery

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

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

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

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

It’s European Pretty And This Affordable?

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

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

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

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

What’s not to like?

Vinicius Costa

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

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Fairytale castles, ancient cities dating back to times immemorial, and beautiful architecture just about everywhere you look: Europe is calling, and it’s high time you answered.

This year will be one of the most exciting ones for US-Europe travel yet, as not only is connectivity increasing between North America and the Old Continent, but a host of unexpected flight routes are launching, some of which had never been available before.

Starting in either spring or summer, these are 4 brand new Transatlantic flights launching soon we’re most looking forward to in 2025:

San Francisco to Terceira, Portugal

• Starts: June 3
• Frequency: 1x weekly
• Aircraft: A330neo
• Price: from $1,101 one-way
• Flight duration: 12h5m+

For the first time this year, the West Coast of the U.S. will be connected to the Azores archipelago in Portugal by means of a direct flight offered by TAP Air Portugal once a week from San Francisco International (SFO) to Terceira (TER).

Home to around 53,311 inhabitants and with a mainland-sized 153 square miles, it is one of the biggest in this island chain, located halfway between North America and Europe, and it’s an unusual pick for TAP, considering Terceira’s relative anonymity and isolation.

If there’s one lesson we learned from these recently-launched Greenland and Faroe Islands flights, however, it is that no island is too remote or too small a destination to accommodate big airlines, especially when Americans are craving off-path adventures.

As for Terceira, it is a volcanic island best known for its hilly interior, hydrangea-flanked roads, which loop around a rugged coastline, and its picture-perfect capital, Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site packed full of colonial fortifications and churches.

New York-JFK To Bari, Italy

• Starts: June 3
• Frequency: 1x weekly
• Aircraft: Boeing 787-9 Dreamline
• Price: from $485.63
• Flight duration: 8h40m+

Beginning next summer, Italian carrier Neos Air will begin operating the first-ever flights between New York (JFK) to Bari (BRI), the capital and cultural heart of Italy’s much-overlooked yet awe-inspiring Puglia.

A more laid-back version of Amalfi, it is a culturally rich region laying claim to both natural and manmade wonders, from Alberobello, an ancient settlement dotted with conical-roofed stone huts called trulli, to the scenic coastal cliffs strewn with whitewashed towns.

Bari itself is a medieval maze of narrow streets leading to charming piazze and Baroque cathedrals, and you should know seafood here reigns supreme––there’s countless locally-run trattorie to try, but if you’re looking for authentic cuisine at reasonable prices, try Mamapulia.

Nonstop flights to Bari will be available weekly from June 3 to October 15, making it easier for Americans to reach the boot of the Italian peninsula over summer and even the fall, when temperatures are at their most pleasant and the seas tranquil and warm enough to swim in.

New York-JFK to Catania, Italy

• Starts: May 22
• Frequency: Daily
• Aircraft: Boeing 767-300(ER)
• Price: from $1,088
• Flight duration: 9h10m+

2025 is the year US-Italy connections are at their apex, and further proof is the newly-announced New York (JFK) to Catania (CTA) flights, the first ever to link the trendy holiday island of Sicily to North America.

This one caught us by surprise––we thought that if flights to Sicily were ever launching, these would undoubtedly be hosted by the regional capital and largest city Palermo––but we can’t say we’re mad at Delta’s choice of destination:

Catania is a sprawling port city sitting at the foot of Sicily’s main natural attraction, Mount Etna, and a cultural center of the sorts, filled with world-class museums, ornate palaces, and public markets, most notably La Pescheria, ringed by top-notch eateries.

Flight start as early as May 2025––in our opinion, the best period to visit southeastern Sicily due to the milder temperatures, smaller crowds, and cheaper prices: staying at the Etnea Palace, within walking distance of all Catania’s main landmarks, will set you back by $34-a-night.

Newark To Bilbao, Spain

• Starts: May 31
• Frequency: 3x weekly
• Aircraft: Boeing 757-20 
• Price: $774
• Flight duration: 7h30m+

Forget Barcelona, Madrid, and the like: if you’re keen on experiencing a different side of Spain, away from the crowds of the Mediterranean and the overwhelming heat, you have to add an offbeat Bilbao to your bucket list (and thanks to United, now it’s a 7h30 flight away).

The largest city in the historical Basque Country, Bilbao is an innovation-driven city lining a fast-flowing Nervión River, characterized by a skyscraper-dominated center and a medieval-era Casco Viejo––if you’re asking us what’s Bilbao’s pride and joy?

That will have to be the Guggenheim Museum, a modernist structure on the waterfront, with swirling shapes and curvilinear edges that feel almost like it’s in permanent movement, even though it’s perfectly immobile.

From Bilbao, you can also visit other smaller, incredibly scenic towns along the Basque Coast, most notably Donostia-San Sebastián, a quaint seaside settlement encroaching on a long sandy strip, and Lekeitio, famous for its lively harbor and unspoiled beach.

Vinicius Costa

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

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