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Wanna know where to go on the cheap this summer? Me too!

I don’t know about you, but Tax Day had me seeing red. Call me stubborn, but fewer commas in my bank account won’t stop me from seeing the world.

As you know, many of the global icons we’ve all fallen in love with, such as London, Paris, and our very own New York City, come at premium prices, driving us to venture off to the lesser-known.

Skyscanner just released its ‘Smarter Summer Report‘—emphasis on “smarter.” The truth is many travelers waste their hard-earned cash with spur-of-the-moment decisions, like waiting until the last second to book a trip or not looking at alternative dates.

But Skyscanner has done all the research for us, revealing that one of America’s most underrated beach towns has the cheapest flights in the nation.

Better yet, once you arrive, you won’t have to break the bank either with affordable stays and fun, low-cost activities.

Wilmington, NC: Average Summer Airfare Is Only $105

You can barely have a nice night out anymore without hitting triple digits. My last date night totaled $86 with a tip, and that was just happy hour!

When it comes to traveling, it’s hard to believe round-trip airfare anywhere can average a smidge over $100, but that’s the case for Wilmington, North Carolina, not to be confused with another cheap East Coast city, Wilmington, Delaware.

North Carolina’s coastal gem flies under the radar from the busy hub of Charlotte, the epic comeback of Asheville, and perhaps the trendiest coastline in the country, thanks to the popular Netflix show of the same name, The Outer Banks.

Isolated from the vast space of map-dot towns making up a swath of barrier islands, Wilmington is not an Outer Banks beach. It offers a more charming aesthetic and city feel, and its own cluster of beautiful beaches within close reach.

According to Skyscanner’s ‘Explore’ feature, these 10 cities have nonstop flights under $125 round-trip in June before summer temps hit their peak in July:

• Washington D.C. ($70)
• Nashville ($74)
• Detroit ($78)
• Tampa ($97)
• Rochester ($105)
• Orlando ($108)
• Houston ($112)
• Minneapolis ($113)
• New Haven ($119)
• Providence ($120)

Downtown Delights: A Blissful “Riverwalk” & Historic Attractions

Unless much of the Outer Banks, Wilmington offers visitors a balanced mix of urban delights and quintessential southern hospitality, all while being a stone’s throw from vibrant blue-water beaches.

To be frank, Wilmington’s skyline is a little lackluster, but don’t let the drab colors deter you from experiencing the joys of downtown.

The Riverwalk is downtown’s heartbeat with a bustling pedestrian promenade and scenic waterfront views snaking down the Cape Fear River with sensational seafood eats, killer breweries, boat tours, and some unexpected thrills like the Museum of the Bizarre ($3 admission).

All in all, the buzzing Riverwalk is home to 200 shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Of course, with such splendid summertime weather, there are ample ways to enjoy the outdoors, but locals’ favorite to simply grab a patio seat at such popular hangouts like Elijah’s Oyster & Fish Camp to enjoy a fresh catch and sweeping waterfront views.

Wilmington is far from flashy, so don’t expect prices to be out of control. For example, even a Wine Tasting Cruise along Cape Fear only costs $45.

In fact, Wilmington is one of the most under-appreciated cities in the South in terms of all the fascinating historical sites, whether it be the 230-plus block National Register Historic District or Battleship North Carolina.

Wilmington’s Wondrous Coast

Downtown may boast the scenic river, but going east of the city are the real gems of lesser-known beaches and unheard-of islands.

Wrightsville Beach is arguably the most sought-after and easiest to reach, but surrounding Wrightsville lies barrier island sanctuaries and celebrity-favored hideaways, known as the “Hamptons of the South”.

Wrightsville is the best choice for a nice beachfront stay if you want to wake up to views of the Atlantic rather than cozy cafes dotting downtown. However, coastal prices are a far cry from downtown’s double-digit rates for chain hotels.

4-star Trailborn Surf & Sound is going for $375 this June and July, 3-star Holiday Inn Resort Lumina on Wrightsville Beach goes for even more at $431 per night, compared to downtown’s 5-star Hotel Ballast Wilmington, Tapestry Collection going for just $108 this summer.

Maybe Uber to the beach?

Sam Sears

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

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2025 is the year of the Dupe. No, not dupe like you’ll fall for the ol’ three-card Monte trick; dupe as in travel alternatives.

Hard to believe it’s been years since the pandemic was declared over, but one thing has become increasingly clear to this day — travel is back.

Whether it be renowned resorts sold out night after night, having to unnecessarily check bags, or being forced to share selfies in what-should-be wide open plains of national or state parks, travelers are embracing their sense of wanderlust all the over the world, leaving the door open to discover more hidden gems.

When it comes to the U.S., one could argue Alaska is America’s least-explored state, but on the mainland, it’s gotta be West Virginia, right?

Known more for its deeply rooted history of coal mining and longstanding tales of Appalachian folklore, those who have visited West Virginia typically come out the other side shocked by how beautiful the “Mountain State” truly is ,especially being home to America’s most underrated state park.

West Virginia, Take Me…To Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

Anything beats counting bottles of beer on the wall, but let’s not even pretend there’s a better road trip song than Take Me Home, Country Roads.

We’ve all belted out West Virginia’s unofficial theme song at one point or another, but rarely do we ever scope out the state itself for a nice, relaxing getaway.

Full disclosure – West Virginia has often found itself on the wrong side of headlines as numerous former coal mining hubs are nothing but ghost towns these days, leaving locals living in poverty in some cases, and holding the highest death rate for overdoses in the nation, according to the CDC.

Those very headlines, along with dark mysteries of Appalachia, have cast a shadow over the bright spots of West Virginia people have long been missing out on — one of them being Cass Scenic Railroad State Park.

Those who have visited absolutely love it! The park’s Google rating stands at an impressive 4.7 out of 5, with one recent guest claiming, “My family and I truly enjoyed this trip. Beautiful scenery, knowledgeable staff. Nice places to stay nearby and good places to eat. There is so much to do. Lunch was provided with our train ride. 10/10 would recommend!”.

All Aboard The Cass Scenic RailRoad!

Located in blink-and-you’ll-miss-it town of Cass, this vast state park is home to breathtaking mountain vistas, ancient forests, and mazes of hiking trails to explore, but many opt for the a scenic train ride courtesy of Mountain Rail West Virginia, offering seasonal packages on the Cass Scenic Railroad throughout the year.

Best of all, come May, the historic locomotive is bringing back 3 routes with gorgeous views of waterfalls, lush wilderness, and rustic towns like Durbin nestled in the mountains.

These are Cass Scenic Railroad’s current excursions:

New Tygart Flyer (operating April – November) –

TLC was wrong on this one; you’ll definitely want to chase waterfalls. Enjoy comfortable, climate-controlled coaches, a cold-cut lunch, and stunning views of High Falls of Cheat, the region’s dazzling natural wonder, along with flowing rivers, and sky-high bridges.

Waterfall excursions begin May 4, 2025.

Greenbriar Express (operating May – October) –

Aforementioned Durbin is the highlight of this route. Departing from Cass, the Greenbrier Express offers a scenic journey to one of West Virginia’s most picturesque towns exuding timeless charm with general stores, Mom & Pop eateries, all backdropped by astounding wilderness of Monongahela National Forest.

Cass Bald Knob Trip (operating May – October) –

Hope you’re not afraid of heights! This 4.5 hour trek to Bald Knob takes passengers upwards of 2,300 feet for breathtaking views of Appalachian landscapes ranging from spruce forests and staggering mountains as this is the second highest point in West Virginia.

Cass Whitaker Station (operating May – October) –

Taking 2 hours round-trip, guests can hop aboard century-old trains and chug along scenic meadows and rolling hills, ultimately reaching Whitaker Station to deep dive into the area’s historic logging operations.

This route includes a 30 minute break to take in sweeping views of the countryside and peruse the recreated logging camp and intriguing exhibits.

Rent A Spacious Cabin

Camping isn’t for everyone. That’s why “glamping” has become more popular, but who would ever turn down a cabin in the woods?

Truthfully, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park’s cabins might be the best of all because they house up to 14 people comfortably with 2, 3, and 4-bedroom layouts.

These “cabins”, described as ‘restored company houses’, were formerly quarters for loggers back in the day but now serve as truly unique stays to make your base for exploring the park or indulging in the delights of Cass’s small town charm.

Houses are available year-round and can be booked directly here with rates starting at $105 per night this spring and upwards of $180 this summer.

Sam Sears

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

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An airline you may not be quite as familiar with has taken over U.S. skies as the ‘most reliable’ carrier in the country.

Given my awful experiences with budget airlines lately, that’s quite a feat, but not one to worry about with Avelo Airlines.

One of America’s newest additions, taking its first flight in Spring 2021, the low-cost carrier has rapidly expanded since its inception, starting off solely as a domestic carrier and now offering travelers affordable fares to some of the most sought-after international beach destinations.

Recently announcing a fourth international flight to one of the Caribbean’s most popular resort destinations, Avelo’s passport-required portfolio now totals 4 premiere getaways for an epic vacation.

Avelo Now Flies To 4 Amazing Caribbean Destinations

As the official first day of spring is right around the corner, there’s no better time to plan a Caribbean escape.

The downside is airlines know this and often jack up the prices knowing you’ll pay it regardless.

Well, that’s the beauty of budget airlines, especially when they’re as reliable as Avelo and not fighting bankruptcy or removing the only enticing perk that’s built a loyal team of travelers for decades (ahem, Southwest).

Avelo kicked off its international portfolio with Montego Bay in 2024 and has continued adding on with more flights to Cancun and Punta Cana as well.

So, let’s break down these popular vacation spots and why you should consider flying with Avelo over their competition.

Truth be told, Avelo has some strong competition with Frontier and Spirit both flying here too, but the biggest risk flying budget airlines isn’t safety or unreasonably high bag fees — it’s the scheduling.

Budget airlines stick to a tight schedule, often offering only one flight per day. If there’s a cancellation, it’s not unheard of to be stuck until the next flight, which could be days away.

While Avelo is certainly still growing, if you have the option to book with them, this lessens the odds of a massive travel headache should such a situation arise, all for trying to save a few bucks over peace of mind.

Montego Bay:

Jamaica’s most renowned resort town never disappoints. With ample flights here and numerous high-end resorts to choose from, Jamaica’s slice of paradise has long been one of the Caribbean’s most popular vacation destinations.

With bucket-list resorts like numerous Secrets properties, Sandals, and Riu, plus being a gateway to the stunning beach town of Negril, you can’t go wrong!

Avelo offers nonstop flights from Hartford and Raleigh-Durham (seasonal).

Cancun:

The most popular international beach getaway for Americans is none other than Cancun. Anyone surprised?

Mexico’s year-round escape for sun, sand, and luxurious resorts serving up ice-cold cervezas at the swim-up bar and endless plates at all-inclusives is never a bad idea for an easy-to-reach vacation.

At this point, many travelers have their favorite go-to resort year after year, but keep an eye out for these new hotels opening in Cancun, including a newly-opened posh Marriott all-inclusive resort.

Avelo offers nonstop flights from Hartford.

Punta Cana:

Despite being neighbors with Haiti, the Dominican Republic hasn’t missed a beat in terms of tourism.

The nation’s shining star continues to be resort-laden Punta Cana with largely affordable resorts and one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Bavaro.

With plentiful flights and upscale resorts, Punta Cana has planted their flag in Cancun’s shadow and continues to rise as the D.R. shows no signs of slowing down as more Americans vacation here.

Avelo offers nonstop flights from Hartford and Raleigh-Durham (seasonal).

Avelo’s Newest International Destination: Nassau

North Carolinians must Raleigh love vacations because this underrated southern city is quickly becoming a major springboard to some of the world’s top vacation spots.

Already offering flights to Punta Cana and Montego Bay, now Raleigh has landed Nassau as Avelo’s latest Caribbean addition.

The Bahamian capital is gleaming with colorful streets, gorgeous white sand beaches, and towering resorts with equal parts relaxation and entertainment for the whole family.

Travelers will have to wait until summer to take advantage of the new Nassau route as it’s slated to launch June 11, 2025, with two flights per week on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

However, tickets are already on sale online with promotional fares as low as $84 one-way.

Sam Sears

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

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

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One unexpected East Coast state has been quietly creeping up on travelers’ itineraries the past few years, including my own.

The magnetizing seafarer’s charm, endless seafood shacks, and tranquil shores of Maine have become a huge draw for travelers seeking sun and sand over the big city grind, but the O.G. of idyllic East Coast beaches is still alive and well…and surprisingly affordable!

That would be Massachusetts — home to popular beach destinations of Cape Cod, Provincetown, and Martha’s Vineyard

But there’s another lesser-known cluster of beach towns with virtually no crowds, and recently highlighted as the East Coast’s most affordable coastal getaway.

Cape Ann: New England’s Affordable Seaside Paradise

You might be wondering where Cape Ann is located and how it’s slipped through the cracks for so long, and rightfully so.

An easy 53-minute trip from Boston lies this gorgeous peninsula lined with numerous towns oozing charm and character with rustic waterfront shops, scenic harbors, and of course, beautiful beach hideaways.

Deeply steeped in maritime history, Cape Ann is a classic New England coastal escape with strong ties to the sea, which has now transformed into an underrated vacation spot.

Rather than name-brand resorts, Cape Ann boasts cozier stays without the corporate nonsense. Think historic inns and boutique stays, such as Rockport Inn & Suites in the low $100s through April.

Although, your best bargain isn’t a hotel but a State Park. Halibut State Park, located at the very tip of the peninsula, is free to enter and great spot for cycling, hiking, and sweeping coastal views.

Which Beach Towns To Visit

Let’s unpack this cluster of Cape Ann towns to give you a better idea of where to vacation this spring.

Gloucester:

Proudly boasting America’s oldest seaport, this scenic town blends history and coastal bliss with multiple insightful museums as well as stunning natural beauty.

A true vacation destination, despite not being a household name, there’s plenty to do, see, and indulge in.

Of the cluster of towns making up Cape Ann, Gloucester is arguably the best for a quintessential beach vacation.

So much so, their tourism goes as far as boldly claiming their vibrant coastlines behold ‘several of the world’s most beautiful beaches’ such as Good Harbor Beach with Caribbean-esque waters.

Order ‘oak grilled’ entrees from a wood-fired grill and 500-gallon smoker at Oak to Ember in the heart of the Seaport, book an ocean-view room at Beauport Hotel, and cap off your beach day with a sunset cruise.

Manchester-by-the-Sea:

Manchester-by-the-Sea (also known simply as “Manchester”) is a tranquil seaside town offering an upscale lifestyle with unmissable cliffside mansions, slower pace, and one of the American’s most unique beaches.

Singing Beach got the name not because it’s a 24/7 karaoke party but because the sand “sings” when you walk on it.

In a CBS News report showcasing how unique and wonderful Singing Beach is to visit, one resident claimed “Honestly, when it’s quiet, it’s heaven. It really is.”

Of this bunch of beach towns, Manchester is the priciest, but mostly in real estate. That being said, your best bet is booking in a neighboring town (or Boston) and making a day trip out of it.

Rockport:

While many vacationers enjoy much-needed downtime in peace and quiet, Rockport is where the “action” is with quirky shops, line-out-the-door seafood eateries, and Motif #1, the ‘most often-painted building in America’.

In other words, this beautiful coastal town is a huge draw for artists, free spirits and non-conformists as it offers a vibrant, welcoming, Boho atmosphere.

Unlike Gloucester’s long stretches of beaches, Rockport offers pint-sized coved and more secluded shores.

Grab a must-have bowl of Clam Chowdah from The Fish Shack, unwind in a seaside lounge chair at Eden Pines Inn, and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the calm blue waters.

Sam Sears

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

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

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Out of all 50 states, how do you narrow them down for a fun vacation?

Well, according to a new report from TrovaTrip, nearly 300,000 people gave their input resulting in a shocking revelation.

Typically, we think of incredible beaches to visit come spring as hordes of travelers flock to various beaches coast to coast.

But if you’re aligned with TrovaTrip’s report, you’re likely up for an adventure over simply lounging at the beach with a cold drink in hand.

Commonly considered America’s ‘last frontier’, travelers are seeking out new experiences in the vastness of Alaska, whether it be roaming National Parks, hopping aboard unforgettable cruises, or bearing witness to otherworldly Northern Lights.

Alaska: America’s Top 2025 Destination, But Why?

Alaska often seems unreachable, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

Whether flying into Fairbanks, Anchorage, or even the lush evergreen forests of the capital city, Juneau, this misunderstood state is teeming with wondrous destinations that are easily connected to major cities throughout the mainland.

Don’t let Alaska’s ‘last frontier’ notoriety deter you. In fact, look at it as an invitation. You might be surprised to know how many incredible resorts there are in Alaska such as 4-star Alyeska Resort, under an hour from the Anchorage airport.

Despite being the largest state in terms of landmass, there are only 740,000 people who call Alaska home.

Those seeking to go off-grid, whether it be for a full-plunge “digital detox” or simply a relaxing escape into Alaska’s remote abyss, there’s simply no place better to treat yourself.

You can easily find vacancies at multiple upscale resorts seemingly in the middle of nowhere or ample cozy cabins dotted throughout the state, many of which are nestled amongst alpine lakes and tranquil coastlines with up-close views of wildlife, such as breaching whale and eagles soaring overhead.

Just be mindful of bears. Grizzly Man probably isn’t the best watch on the flight over…

Alaska’s Juxtaposition: Mingle With Locals Or Embrace Solitude

Ever read or watched Into The Wild? It’s one of my favorite stories that has inspired my travels and largely took place right here in Alaska.

Of course, the ending is a bit of a downer, but the story’s core message has inspired thousands to brave Alaska’s wild, many of whom have done so on their own.

While you can no longer visit the famous broken-down bus from Into The Wild due to the dangerous trek, Alaska’s natural wonders know no bounds.

Here you’ll find some of the most astounding National Parks in America, although some feel as if you’re on an Interstellar planet.

If you’ve heard of any Alaskan National Park, it’s likely Denali, which is truly stunning and home to North America’s highest peak and some of the state’s most abundant wildlife.

But there are also lesser-known parks, such as Kenai Fjords, which falls into the category of aforementioned other-planetary vibes with, you guessed it, breathtaking fjords, along with luminous glaciers and the Instagram-worthy Harding Icefield.

Don’t worry, though. You won’t lose years of your life by visiting.

Alaska has the juxtaposition of embracing solitude at such places or hitting up all the charming small towns such as Sitka, Ketchikan, and Skagway.

There’s an easy solution, though – hop aboard a train! Check out these 4 scenic train rides for a mix of solitude and down-home charm in Alaska’s picturesque small towns.

The Ultimate Cruise Destination

It might be tempting to book a cruise to Mexico, the Caribbean, or even Europe if you’re on the East Coast, but experiencing Alaska this way lives up to the hype.

Obviously, Alaska sees teeth-chattering weather, experiencing longer winters than the mainland, so road trips might be out of the question given the icy conditions.

What better way to visit Alaska than book a balcony cabin so you can go in and out as you please between viewing astounding scenery and warming up in your room?

Plus, cruises are essentially curated hotels on the water with all the bells and whistles you need for a great trip and showcase all the major attractions.

Alaska’s cruise industry is booming, so the only real downside is your cruise will likely be jam-packed.

Before you book, make sure to read our writer Dale’s musts and must-nots for an unforgettable Alaska cruise.

Can You See Northern Lights This Spring?

If you have “Witness Auror Borealis” on your bucket list, then you have another month or so of viewing opportunities in Alaska.

Now that March has arrived, Northern Lights season typically runs through April, but it’s not a guarantee.

The skies dance green most vividly away from light pollution, so if seeing the Northern Lights is a must, then it’s actually more beneficial to you to fly into Fairbanks over Anchorage.

Sam Sears

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

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

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Every year, Mexico seems to be all the rage as if Cancun is the only place suitable for an epic vacation.

But, what’s essentially next door in terms of air travel lies an endless array of vacation options from bustling cities like Panama City, the natural wonders of Costa Rica, newfound hotspots like El Salvador, and historic towns and undiscovered beaches of Nicaragua, perhaps the most overlooked destination of Central America.

Well, there’s no need to overlook it any longer, as Nicaragua just became easier to reach with a new flight from a major U.S. airport.

As Costa Rica was just issued a travel alert, including the main airport, maybe it’s a sign from the travel gods to scope out more of Central America’s hidden gems, and what better starting point than Nicaragua’s sprawling capital city of Managua?

Nicaragua: Central America’s Most Underrated Country

Nicaragua is no one-trick pony; it’s among the most diverse nations of Central America with world-class beaches, lush tropical jungles, islands you’ve never heard of, and timeless towns well worth making your base.

In fact, the general consensus of travelers who’ve visited will tell you to skip the major cities of Managua and Leon in favor of charming villages and laid-back coastal hideaways such as resort-lined San Juan del Sur.

Most travelers, including expats and digital nomads, find themselves in the vibrant Colonial town of Granada, surrounded by numerous lakes and staggering volcanoes in the distance.

Of course, the biggest appeal is Granada’s affordability, especially for long-term stays. Although, short-terms guests can score cheap hostels in the $10 range and private Airbnb’s for $40 (just watch out for sneaky fees like charging for electricity!).

**NOTE: When entering Nicaragua, you are required to pay a $10 fee per visitor that MUST be paid in USD CASH. Don’t expect them to have change, and they do not accept any other form of payment**

Nicaragua’s Secret Caribbean Islands

Like Mexico, Belize, and Costa Rica, Nicaragua boasts a Pacific coastline as well as the Caribbean, and that’s where you’ll find some truly stunning islands no one ever seems to talk about.

Although having a funny name, there’s nothing corny about The Corn Islands. Set in the Caribbean off the coast from Bluefields, these blips in the sea are the ultimate Caribbean hideaway for those seeking untouched shores and virtually no crowds like you’ll find in Jamaica, The Bahamas, and of course the always-popular Mexican Caribbean.

The turquoise waters are as pristine as it gets for snorkeling, diving, swimming, or simply relaxing among one of the Caribbean’s most underrated backdrops.

There are multiple hotels and rentals, but no flashy resorts like you might envision for a Caribbean vacation.

The cuisine here is sensational, especially when sitting beachside overlooking turquoise waters and paying bottom-barrel prices like you will at Bar Beach Bar Vybz, walkable from a cozy stay at top-rated Villy’s Cottage.

Avianca’s New Flight To Managua

Avianca is one of Latin America’s top airlines and they have recently announced a major expansion into North American markets.

As such, a new flight to Managua is one of the most anticipated as there were only a pair of U.S. airports directly serving Nicaragua as Spirit Airlines has continually cancelled routes.

To be fair, Spirit does say they have been planning on re-booting their sole Managua route from Fort Lauderdale (FLL), but as someone who has purchased this flight multiple times, the controversial budget airline who is in the midst of deeply-rooted bankruptcy concerns has only pushed the goal posts further back.

Travelers shouldn’t have the same trust issues with Avianca, who will begin serving Fort Lauderdale for the first time in its history.

These are the only 3 U.S. airports directly serving Managua, Nicaragua (MGA) in 2025:

• Miami (MIA) – American Airlines, Avianca
• Houston (HOU) – United Airlines
• Fort Lauderdale (FLL) – Avianca (beginning May 10), Spirit Airlines (seasonally)

Is Nicaragua Safe?

Like any travel advisory, they should be taken seriously but also not serve as a blanket statement.

Truth is crime can happen anywhere, even in destinations deemed as safe havens like Cancun.

The difference with Nicaragua is their government, which is notoriously strict. It’s reasonable to say that you’ll want to avoid any unfortunate run-ins.

A new travel advisory was issued on December 13th, 2024, for such concerns, highlighting ‘arbitrary enforcement of laws, the risk of wrongful detention, and limited healthcare availability.’

Sam Sears

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

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

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

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Ever been to Europe?

There’s something almost indescribable in regard to wandering timeless streets mesmerized by centuries-old architecture and simplistic lifestyles.

Then we come back home dying to be first in line for the latest cell phone, video games, and whatever that whole NFT craze was.

Well, unlike the U.S., which is generally depicted as just wide open spaces, bougie beaches, and sky-high modernized metropolises, there are still plenty of timeless cities to enjoy, especially during the holiday season.

Perhaps the best area for such places is the South from New Orleans, Charleston, and one of America’s most charming cities, Savannah, Georgia.

This winter, discover cheaper stays and festive streets perfect for a winter escape in a city known for ‘southern hospitality’, old-timey plazas, and a springboard to a blissful side of the Atlantic coastline.

Winter In Savannah: Enjoy Less Crowds & Cheaper Costs

There’s many reasons to visit Savannah, but this historic city was just crowned #1 on Southern Living’s new ’10 Winter Vacation Ideas’ list primarily due to crowd-free streets and the affordability factor this time of year.

There’s really not a bad time to visit Savannah unless you’d like to avoid the humidity. In that case, a summer trip may not be for you.

Wintertime brings more splendid weather, consistently in the 60s, great for venturing out to nearby islands, perusing cobbled streets, or hopping aboard a scenic river cruise like Savannah Riverboat Cruises (where they ‘guarantee the lowest prices’!).

Savannah is a popular getaway year-round, but winter is the best time to take advantage of the least of amount of crowds for easier navigation and better photo-ops.

Perhaps more importantly, you can typically score cheaper stays and even airfare on occasion, according to Southern Living.

If you prefer luxury over boutique stays, check out the following 3 hotels with great rates in December and January (including Christmas!):

• Hotel Indigo Savannah Historic District – $99
• Aloft Savannah Downtown Historic District – $136
• The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa – $155

For comparison, the above hotels are all deep into the $200’s in summer, proving your bank account will thank you this winter.

Savannah’s architecture is to die for with well-preserved rows of a variety of styles from Georgian (of course!) and Greek Revival, among others.

There’s plenty of vacation rentals and converted hotels too, like the Olde Harbour Inn for true Savannah stay.

Savannah’s Festive Streets

There’s definitely a European vibe in Savannah and even more so come winter when the popular Savannah Christmas Market arrives (Nov. 21 – Dec. 31)

It’s not only the market that’s festive, however. The main parts of the city, such as always bustling River Street, are decked to the gills with holiday decor to set the mood for the ‘most wonderful time of the year’.

The Historic District is already teeming with charming streets, historic homes, and the unmissable Gothic-style Cathedral Basilica of Saint John the Baptist, which of course, is even more incredible to visit with the magical ambiance of Christmas.

One unique event that’s a must-see is the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights (November 30th) showcasing a dazzling display of synchronized lights.

While the Christmas Market takes a page out of Europe’s playbook, the Boat Parade is true Savannah through and through along the Savannah River. and always draws a crowd.

A Multi-State Coastal Escape: Seaside Bliss Is In Close Reach

Even though Georgia borders Florida, it’s actually the Georgia-South Carolina line that’s one of the best beach spots.

While you won’t find Caribbean-esque sun this time of year, walks on the beach, kayaking, surfing, and simply finding a nice beachfront restaurant is always enjoyable.

One such place to check off all these boxes this winter is Georgia’s Tybee Island, roughly 25 minutes from Savannah.

Across the Savannah River, however, is the South Carolina state line with its own set of beautiful islands like the hidden gem of Daufuskie Island, popular vacation spot Hilton Head, and one of our Editor, Tyler’s favorite beach getaways, Fripp Island.

Sam Sears

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

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

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