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Everyone knows Mexico is a no-brainer if you’re looking for a sunny break in a gloomy winter, with world-class leisure hotspots like Cancun, Tulum, and Puerto Vallarta to its name, where it’s always balmy out, and resort staff treat you like royalty.

Well-established as it may be, we still feel Mexico is criminally underrated for culture.

If you’re looking for somewhere a little more laid-back than Mexico City, and you feel San Miguel has already become far too popular for your liking, this hidden colonial gem boasting a UNESCO-listed center and affordable prices might just do the trick.

And the best part is, you can fly there nonstop!

No long layovers in CDMX or Cancun International:

Is Querétaro One Of The Prettiest Cities In Mexico?

Tucked away in the central Mexican hinterlands, Santiago de Querétaro (commonly shortened to just Querétaro) serves as the capital of its eponymous state, and it’s easily one of Mexico’s most overlooked destinations based on its architectural wealth alone:

Established as early as 1531, during the first wave of European migration to the Americas, it has accumulated an enviable array of monuments that have stood the test of time, ranging from religious to civic structures.

In other words, its cityscape feels timeless, unlike other resort-packed areas of Mexico that have been engulfed by the 21st-century development boom.

Perhaps the city’s most easily recognized attraction, the striking orange-colored Church of St. Francis of Assisi houses beautiful sacral art, while the domed Church of St. Rose of Viterbo has a distinctive Baroque exterior and a gold-clad interior.

If you know your History, you’ll be glad to learn the trial of Maximilian I, a former emperor of Mexico, was held at the nearby Teatro de la República, and up the Hill of the Bells, you can visit a small chapel built on the site where he was executed in 1867.

With its ornate inner patios and art exhibits, the ex Ex-monastery of St. Augustine is also not to be missed, not to mention the numerous plazas, 18th-century colonial homes, and charming restaurants dotting the aqueduct-fringed Centro Histórico.

You Can Explore The Old Town In A Vintage Car For Less Than $10 Bucks!

As you might have guessed, there is plenty in Querétaro to keep you busy, so a guided tour of the historic center is easily the best way to optimize time and see as much as possible.

You can choose between a walking tour of the western half of the UNESCO-protected zone, which is arguably our favorite, as exploring on foot is your best bet to discover picture-perfect, secret spots, and it costs only $14.83 per person.

Alternatively, if you’d rather exert as little physical effort as possible and still take in the sights, you can hop on a 1908 Classic Ford T to drive around the colonial core of the city for a negligible $9.89––for less than the price of lunch in a mid-range downtown restaurant!

This tour is perfect for capturing the extent of Querétaro’s 18th-century aqueduct or even driving up the Hill of the Bells where the Maximillian chapel is––meanwhile, you get to quench your early-century nostalgia by riding a vintage automobile.

Querétaro Is One Of The Most Affordable Cultural Destinations In Mexico

Cultural value aside, part of Querétaro’s huge appeal to foreigners, in particular Americans, is how affordable it is compared to other tourist-dominated cities in Mexico.

Based on Numbeo estimates, you can eat for as cheap as $8.90 if it’s some street tacos and soda you’re craving, whereas sitting down for a more elaborate, three-course presentation in a restaurant patio will set you back by around $40.

You can even stay in the heart of the colonial center for as cheap as $51-a-night (El Serafin Hotel Boutique), or $72 for a superior double room with city views at the five-star Hotel Criol.

It’s not dirt cheap, and it’s comparable to other large cities in Mexico, but it won’t break the bank, either.

Looking for the best empanadas and guacamole in town? Try The Carter Bar: the wood memorabilia and Old World atmosphere are unmatched, and their drink menu leaves nothing to be desired.

Whatever you do, do not leave Querétaro without sampling Hacienda El Salitre‘s octopus (pulpo) ceviche, and unless you’re iffy about pork, Tacos Mario serves the best pig meat tacos you’ll have in your life––not even an overstatement.

Fly Nonstop To Querétaro From The U.S.

This year, the Querétaro International Airport (QRO) has broken its own yearly record by registering more than 2 million passengers transiting in 2024 for the first time, a 15.1% increase over 2023, proving demand for Querétaro city breaks are growing.

This season, you can fly nonstop to Querétaro (QRO) from the following U.S. departure points:

1 flight per day with Aeromexico

1 flight every Tuesday and Friday with Volaris

2-3 flights every day with American Airlines

1 flight every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday with Aeromexico

4-5 flights per day with United Airlines or VivaAerobus

1 flight every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday with VivaAerobus

Additionally, starting in April 2025, nonstop flights will be offered from Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) every Wednesday and Saturday with low-cost carrier VivaAerobus.

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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Last Updated 2 days ago

If you’re scoping out Europe for an epic vacation next year, you can skip the global icons we’ve all dreamed of visiting in favor of lesser-known destinations.

Many travel experts have been highlighting cities off the traditional tourist path, which makes sense given how many travelers are seeking out alternatives to avoid crowds, contributing to overtourism concerns.

Forbes just revealed a real surprise for most, but not for me, since I was fortunate to visit in October and totally get the hype.

With nonstop flights from the U.S., brand new ritzy hotels, and thousands of islands to explore, at first glance, you might think this city sounds like the Caribbean, but it’s actually Scandinavia.

Sweden may not be commonly associated with island-hopping, being more notable for deeply-rooted viking culture and their ‘fika’ lifestyle.

While visiting this region during winter comes with blistering cold weather, planning ahead for spring and beyond is your best bet to enjoy all the thrills, delights, and luxury of Stockholm in 2025.

Travel In Style: Stockholm’s Selection Of New & Revamped Luxury Stays

Stockholm is teeming with ritzy stays throughout the city. In fact, it holds a reputation as being pretty pricey.

I scored a great deal at the conveniently located AC Hotel on the outskirts in Solna next to the train station, which made reaching the city center a breeze.

But, many travelers will want to stay in Stockholm proper, and rightfully so. According to TripAdvisor, these are travelers’ 5 favorite hotels heading into the new year:

1. Hotel Rival
2. Bank Hotel
3. Hotel Skeppsholmen
4. Grand Hotel
5. Hotel Frantz

Additionally, Forbes just announced a pair of exciting new hotel openings to kick off 2025, as well as another remodel to a 120-year-old staple.

So, let’s start with the ladder. Situated in Vaxholm, a vibrant archipelago village near Stockholm, the Waxholms Hotell is undergoing an extensive makeover, transforming into a ‘food and lifestyle destination’ backed by renowned local restaurateurs Jesper Ahlbom and Stefan Strömberg.

Mark your calendars for February 15, 2025 for this historic hotel’s new chapter.

As for the new additions, travelers can look forward to Stockholm Stadshotell, a 32-room boutique hotel set to open in January 2025, and Hagastrand, a new haven for the ultimate relaxation anchored by a state-of-the-art spa, slated to open doors at an undisclosed date in Fall 2025.

Explore Thousands Of Islands, Including A Breathtaking Old Town

No matter what time of year you visit, Stockholm’s incredible islands are calling your name. Although, not all are accessible, there are sightseeing tours and ferries to reach those open to the public, along with the city’s easy-to-use metro to some as well, which sells tickets from single use to yearly passes with numerous increments in between to save you money.

My favorite was Gamla Stan made up of the island of Stadsholmen, otherwise known as Stockholm’s ‘Old Town’.

While the city center beholds a mix of old and new like many major European cities, Gamla Stan’s quaint alleyways and cobbled streets take you back in time.

Here, you’ll find an array of cafes, bars, and fascinating architecture, including the Royal Palace and Riddarholmen Church, among rows of multi-level buildings seemingly illuminating every other shade on the color wheel.

It’s a beautiful place. So much so we kept going back to sip mulled wine and partake in the ‘fika’ way of life after an obligatory IKEA stop and wandering other neighborhoods.

Gamla Stan is not alone in must-visit islands. TripAdvisor highlights Sodermalm as travelers’ favorite Stockholm island, lined with endless cafes and restaurants, plus cozy hotels and vibrant streets.

I visited Sodermalm, too, and loved starting my day with a cappuccino and pastry from Embargo Cafe & Bar and capping off the night with traditional Swedish meatballs and lingonberries at Meatballs for the People (book ahead!).

Forbes also mentioned the highly-anticipated Stockholm Archipelago Trail (SAT), a new attraction spanning 168 miles and linking 21 islands in 2025.

Which Airlines Fly Nonstop From The U.S. To Stockholm In 2025?

Many travelers prep for at least one connection when jetting off to Europe, but there are 3 routes and 3 airlines with direct service to Stockholm.

Bad news being a majority of the U.S. will have to opt for a layover as only East Coast routes are nonstop.

Scandinavian Airlines’ 2 routes:

• Newark (EWR) – flights every Thursday and Sunday
• Miami (MIA) – flights every Wednesday and Saturday

United’s lone seasonal route:

Newark (EWR) – flights every day from June 18, 2025 through September 2025

Delta’s lone route:

New York City (JFK) – flights 4 days per week beginning April 15, 2025

Fun fact: Believe it or not, you can stay at an IKEA Hotel and visit an IKEA Museum, both located in Almhult, Sweden.

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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Now that the hassle of Thanksgiving and Black Friday have died down, winter plans are in full force.

As your electric bill continues to spike as you put your heater to good use, a better way to splurge is to book a sunny getaway.

How about an often-overlooked Texas coastal city with easy flight options, 70-degree beach days, and 100 miles of shorelines?

While many travelers flock to Florida as their beach destination of choice, you can experience fewer crowds and cheaper stays in one of the South’s most underrated escapes.

Corpus Christi is a vibrant city with a fascinating history ranging from pop icon tragedies to military might.

Better yet, the coast is a never-ending playground for all things beach-related: lounging, fishing, camping, you name it, or simply bringing the whole crew along for a warm winter vacation.

Corpus Christi‘s Surprising Urban Treasures

If you’ve never visited Corpus Christi, you may be surprised to find a towering skyline and revamped downtown district.

Those who’ve never paid a visit have probably heard of Corpus, but it’s often discussed as a small town.

That’s not the case. Over 300,000 people call this underrated beach haven home with 3 major airlines serving Corpus Christi International Airport.

Multiple downtown hotels have been given new life as well as a laundry list of new businesses slated to open.

No longer is downtown Corpus an urban ghost town; there’s plenty to see and do. Of course, you can’t explore downtown without taking a nice stroll along the 1.5 mile long ‘Seawall‘ lining Shoreline Blvd.

While downtown doesn’t boast the region’s nicest beach, it’s a great starting point at the very least. Overlooking Corpus Christi Bay, you can’t help but notice numerous Navy ships, which may pique your interest in touring the U.S.S. Lexington Museum ($20.95 admission).

This captivating ship is just scratching the surface of Corpus’ attractions as you can also visit:

• The Art Museum of South Texas
• Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History
• South Texas Botanical Gardens
• Tejano Civil Rights Museum

Most notably, however, would be the Selena Museum, a tribute to the life of Corpus Christi’s very own Selena, a world-famous pop star tragically killed in her hometown in 1995.

Budget Travel Tip: Check out Corpus Christi’s recently updated list of ‘15 Free Things To Do‘.

100 Miles Of Shores

If you’re trying to narrow down your vacation options, let this be a selling point – 100 miles of shores.

Some more remote and spacious than others, there’s no question you’ll find a beach that matches your vibe.

If you drive to Corpus or rent a car, there are multiple beaches allowing vehicles with a permit. One of many reasons why both Mustang Island State Park ($7 admission) and Padre Island National Seashore ($10 admission) are the most popular beach getaways around here.

One that’s a sleeper, however, is JP Luby Beach – home to soft white sand, great surfing conditions, and evening campfires.

Although, a secret beach town beloved by Texans statewide is nearby Rockport. Offering a mix of small-town charm, historical sites, and idyllic coastlines, booking a Gulfside vacation rental here is never a bad idea.

Great Food And Affordable Stays

They say everything is bigger in Texas, and you’ll quickly see why when you dine out. It

It’s no different in Corpus, except the Texas-sized portions you’ll find are more of the seafood variety than quintessential barbecue and Mexican food.

Not to mention Texas’ favorite burger chain, Whataburger, which started right here in Corpus. There’s even a replica of the original storefront you can snap a selfie with.

As great (and humungous) as their burgers may be, my favorite eatery to pig out is Fajitaville.

Just as it sounds, order fajitas beachside at what’s essentially the ‘Fajita’ version of Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville (but there are no ties).

And after you delight your tastebuds in Corpus’ delicious food scene, you’ll need a place to relax and recharge.

According to TripAdvisor, these are the top 5 hotels in Corpus Christi this winter: (ranked by value):

1. Omni Corpus Christi Hotel (my favorite!)
2. Hyatt Place Corpus Christi
3. Embassy Suites by Hilton Corpus Christi
4. Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Corpus Christi
5. Hotel De Ville

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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When you think of Asia, it’s probably the terraced paddies of Vietnam, the riotous party scene of Thailand, or maybe the island-dotted seas of Indonesia that come to mind––who doesn’t dream of escaping to Bali for a long, romantic weekend, right?

Those all sound great, but have you ever wondered about a lesser-known Cambodia, just next door to all these tried-and-true tourism hotspots, yet still shrouded in mystery?

Having hosted nearly 5 million visitors this year, a personal record, Cambodia is quickly catching up with its peers in popularity, and we’ll go out on a limb in asserting it’s to do with the fact it’s the home of one of the most beautiful ancient cities in the continent:

Discover The Cultural Capital Of Cambodia

Phnom Penh may be the administrative center, but if Cambodia ever had a cultural capital, that is Siem Reap, its second-largest conurbation, home to around 245,000 people, and a historically-charged city originally settled in the year 802 AD.

That’s exactly 1,222 years of accumulated heritage for you, and if you love marveling at ancient monuments, rest assured there’s a plethora of those scattered all around Siem Reap––not to mention vibrant street markets, a stunning riverside walk, and lush nature.

This is a city that has seen the rise and fall of many a civilization, from the Siamese to Khmer Kingdoms, and even the French Empire, which controlled much of Cambodia for the first half of the 20th century: from medieval temples to French-colonial palaces, you’ll find it all in here.

Though the entire town is an open-air museum, Siem Reap’s pride and joy is Angkor Wat, the former seat of the discontinued Khmer Kingdom from the 9th to 15th centuries, and a national monument so emblematic it features on the Cambodian flag.

Look it up.

If It’s Good Enough For UNESCO, It’s Good For Us

Vast, mysterious, and full of intrigue, Angkor Wat is a UNESCO-protected temple complex of many intricate stone-carve buildings, including the Main Temple of Angkor Wat, the silhouette of which you see displayed on the Cambodian flag.

It is the main reason travelers are flocking from all over the world to visit Cambodia, having recorded a 28% increase in tourist numbers this year, easily making it the most-popular attraction in the Southeast Asian country, ahead of beaches, resort zones and city breaks.

Angkor Wat is not Siem Reap’s only ancient marvel, though: tourists also have their eyes set on nearby Bayon, distinguished by its 216 smiling stone faces, the partially-overgrown Ta Prohm, with towers slowly being reclaimed by the jungle, and a pink sandstone Banteay Srei Temple.

With so much amazing History, it’s no wonder the small-group sunrise tour of Angkor Wat, with pickup available from many locations around Siem Reap, is the best-selling activity in the area, costing only $16 to book per person.

@pisalguidefrancoangkor #angkor_wat_of_cambodia_🇰🇭♥ #guidefrancophone khmer classic danse APSARA #apsara ♬ សំឡេងដើម – KhmerCulture🇰🇭វប្បធម៌ខ្មែរ💗

Other unique activities in Siem Reap include attending an Apsara Dance Show, a display of classical Khmer dance, with performers engaging in entrancing movements while wearing colorful, elaborate traditional costumes.

For around $28.85, you can go market shopping with the aid of a knowledgeable local and then attend a cooking class, where you’ll be initiated on the centuries-old art of Khmer cooking, an immaterial cultural highlight of Cambodia.

Go easy on the fish amok and the spring rolls! You’ll want to save room for the bananas in palm sugar with coconut juice that’s coming for dessert…

Last but not least, no trip to Asia is complete without a little dose of adventure, and for the thrill seekers amongst us, hiking up Kulen Mountain, where there are majestic waterfalls and more ancient ruins, and where the Siem Reap River originates from, is a must-do.

How Expensive Is Siem Reap?

My friend, we totally get it why this question might have been at the back of your mind reading through this article.

The inflation and skyrocketing consumer prices have been hard on all of us and flying halfway across the world to some country in Asia, as beautiful as it may be, can sound a bit too delusional with the current state of affairs.

If you’re wondering how expensive Siem Reap––and Cambodia as a whole––is to visit, we’re glad to report that it’s not expensive at all.

Granted, it’s a bit tricky to get to, as there are no nonstop flights between America and Cambodia, and you’re likely to have a stopover in another Asian or even a European or Middle Eastern country, depending on which coast you’re flying from, getting there.

Once you’re in Cambodia, the $3 meals, luxury double rooms in spa hotels for a negligible $45, and one-hour curbside massages for around ten bucks will make it all worthwhile, trust us.

On average, tourists spend between $11 and $27 per day on food, $3.34 to $8.75 on local transportation, and an average $32 to $102-a-night on hotels, with the total cost of a one-week stay in Siem Reap as a mid-range traveler being an economical $647, excluding flights.

Culture has never looked this good or affordable!

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

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

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

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If you thought New Orleans was the only Bayou beaut filled with European flair, you’d be mistaken!

The timeless streets of Louisiana’s oldest city are illuminated by its very own vibrant “French Quarter”, with its color-wheel facades, wrought-iron balconies, and old-timey inns for a glimpse into the past.

With less hustle and bustle and a calmer atmosphere void of thumping nightclubs and impromptu jazz performances, this quaint town of 17,000 has all the charm of New Orleans’ most popular district without the headaches.

Enjoy scrumptious Cajun cuisine, comfortable stays, and picturesque streets all packed into a tight squeeze without the Bourbon Street chaos or safety concerns, as New Orleans is ranked #6 in the latest report of the ‘Most Dangerous Places in the U.S’.

You can swap the city grind for small-town charm in Natchitoches, an affordable escape with a name that’s harder to spell than it is to pronounce (“nack-a-tish”).

The City ‘Where History Lives’

Natchitoches’ slogan is ‘Where History Lives,’ and it fits the bill.

Established in 1714 (beating New Orleans by four years), it is Louisiana’s oldest city.

The original ‘French Quarter’, founded by French explorer Louis Juchereau de St. Denis, is right here.

There may be no such thing as a time machine (yet), but visiting Natchcitoches is as close as it gets for Louisiana.

Visitors can peruse the Natchitoches National Historic Landmark District for free, so make your camera roll has plenty of space to snap all the French and Spanish Creole architecture.

While it’s easy to compare this historic town to Europe, it’s truly a down-sized New Orleans a dupe in terms of what many tourists come to experience: stunning architecture, savory Creole cuisine, and yes, even Mardi Gras!

Except in Natchitoches, things don’t tend to get too out of hand; they are more of a cultural delight than an all-night rager.

More seasonably relevant, however, is the town’s nearly century-old Christmas Festival taking place now through January 6th.

To deep dive into Natchotoches fascinating timeline, the most informative experience may be the Northwest Louisiana History Museum, touching on Native American history to modern times.

Ultimately, you’ll want to venture away from the French flair to the Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site, a flawless replica of the 1716 French fort and drawing rave reviews, where one patron said, ‘All I can say is wow! Highly worth the stop. Only $4 per person and worth every penny.’

Step Back in Time: Enjoy A Nice Stay At A Historic Inn

Despite the temptation of posting selfies from a 5-star resort in a “pics or didn’t happen” world, there’s nothing wrong with stepping back in time to enjoy a nice stay in an old-timey inn.

Just because there’s no swim-up bar or plush robes and slippers doesn’t mean you won’t have an unforgettable trip.

In fact, in today’s information age, you can enjoy the irony of something old being something new. Dotted through town are a variety of historic inns and bed and breakfasts, all receiving positive accolades.

These 5 historic inns/bed and breakfasts are postcard-worthy and hold impressive Google ratings of 4.6 and up:

• Sweet Cane Inn
• Judge Porter House Bed & Breakfast
• Andrew Morris House Bed & Breakfast
• Queen Anne Bed & Breakfast
• Church Street Inn

You could also test your fate at the (allegedly) haunted Chateau Saint Denis Hotel, a conveniently located downtown boutique hotel.

But many bed and breakfasts are set in revamped century-old homes, providing a comfy stay and a unique, historical experience with or without spooky ghost stories.

Fun fact: The popular movie Steel Magnolias was filmed in Natchitoches. You can stay at the Steel Magnolia House, where many of the iconic scenes were filmed.

Phenomenal Cajun Cuisine (Including An Overlooked Local Favorite!)

We all know New Orleans is the mecca for Louisiana cuisine, but don’t sleep on the food scene here.

You can delight your tastebuds with many, if not all, the same famous dishes, but there’s one local favorite that doesn’t get enough hype.

Despite being closer to Texas’ mainland than the Gulf coast, seafood here is still phenomenal, but it’s meat pies that locals and visitors rave about.

Known for their flaky crust and savory filling, you can’t have enough of these handheld treats. Check out Lasyone’s Meat Pie Restaurant for this local delicacy consisting of beef and pork.

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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Last Updated 2 weeks ago

One of the aspects of travel that saddens me personally is how often Mexico is wrongly portrayed.

Mainstream news grips any negative event with a tight fist to paint a misinformed picture of one of the world’s most fascinating countries.

But the truth is that most of Mexico is safe; otherwise, millions of tourists wouldn’t return home unscathed with unforgettable vacation memories.

While beach destinations are incredible to visit, many of the country’s hotspots lack authentic culture, which is really a shame (apologies to Sammy Hagar).

Mexico City may be the mecca to indulge in an array of culinary masterpieces and witness some of the nation’s most captivating sites, but one historic city just a couple of hours away will rock your socks off.

Safe, cheap, and gleaming with incredible architecture and traditions, Puebla makes for a perfect escape to experience real Mexico, as even such places as Guadalajara and Oaxaca have become touristy.

One Of Mexico’s Top Cities For Affordability And Safety

No need to keep your head on a swivel wandering through Puebla’s wonders; the U.S. State Department confirms Puebla is very safe.

On par with many other popular destinations at Level 2, you can comfortably explore as you would just about anywhere.

That’s not to say there aren’t bad apples, but Puebla is a far cry from Mexico’s ‘dangerous’ reputation away from the safe havens of Cancun and Los Cabos per se.

Puebla’s historic city center makes for a great base, and there are some amazing values in both the luxurious and boutique hotels that dot the area.

Lined with colonial structures of Talavera tiles and meticulous detail, you’ll forget about Mexico’s glitzy resorts and become captivated by the city’s timeless atmosphere all while saving money!

Stay in luxury at Quinta Real Puebla this winter for great rates at $76 or perhaps a cozier feel at the Casa Rosa Gran Hotel for $42 this December.

If staying in the city center, it’s best navigated by walking so no stone goes unturned as there are numerous vibrant streets boasting lively bars, traditional eats, and artisan shops – none of which will break the bank either.

Plus, this city is a foodie’s paradise!

Should you venture beyond the city limits, Puebla does have Uber too, which is typically more affordable than taxis who can pull the classic “my meter is broken” tactic to obvious tourists.

Although, locals have been widely regarded as warm and very helpful to visitors.

Phenomenal Cuisine And Fascinating History

Across the U.S. there are world-class Mexican eateries and what you may not know is many cooks derive from Puebla bringing traditional flavors stateside.

Puebla is often regarded as ground zero for some of Mexico’s most renowned cuisine. In fact, famed chef and world traveler Anthony Bourdain visited Puebla on one of his first episodes to showcase the region’s distinct dishes, such as Mole Poblano, a must-try on your trip.

In other words, it’s impossible to go hungry in this city as every meal is a delight for your tastebuds (and don’t skip the cocktails either!).

Make sure to make a reservation at Mochomos Puebla for an unforgettable meal; it’s one of the top-rated restaurants in the city holding an impressive 4.9 rating Google with over 10,000 reviews.

Circling back to your travel budget, Puebla offers many free attractions like many outdoor celebrations and incredible cathedrals.

Being so eye-catching, you won’t be able to help yourself but enter one of the multitude of churches no matter your beliefs, simply to appreciate these architectural marvels.

Make sure you visit the Cathedral of Puebla, Santo Domingo Church, and La Compañía Church to name a few.

What may be even more fascinating for some is the nearby town of Cholula, but don’t get too excited thinking this place is home to the popular hot sauce brand.

Cholula’s claim to fame isn’t mouthwatering red peppers; it’s home to captivating ruins, including the world’s largest pyramid – take that Egypt!

Reaching Puebla Is Easy

Mexico City offers the most flight options directly from the U.S., but you can also fly nonstop from a couple of American cities (one being the ultimate travel hack).

Houston and San Diego (via Tijuana) are your only nonstop options at the moment. United flies nonstop from Houston, while both Viva Aerobus and Volaris fly from Tijuana which can be accessed by Southern Californians by never stepping foot across the border with the handy Cross Border Xpress.

If you fly into Mexico City, however, you’ll need to hop aboard a bus or take an expensive Uber or taxi.

According to Busbud, bus fares range from $6 – $23 this winter.

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 24 hours ago

Who’s up for an adventure?

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

Life is short. Sometimes you just gotta say fu…

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

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

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

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

Brisbane: One Of Australia’s Coolest Cities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jaw-Dropping Coastlines & Kangaroos On The Beach

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reaching Brisbane From The U.S.

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

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

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

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

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

Sam Sears

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

↓ Elevate Your Travel↓

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

✈️Join Our Travel Off Path Community Forum: Where travelers unite, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel buddies!

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.

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.