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They did it! For the first time in recorded history, the sun-drenched paradise that is the Dominican Republic has recorded its 11th million annual visitor in 2024, over a million more than in 2023.

Needless to say, the surge in arrivals has been led by a wide margin by Punta Cana, the leading resort town on the easternmost tip of the island and every American’s go-to destination in winter––that is, if they’re not going to Cancun.

If you’re wondering how Punta Cana keeps building on its popularity year after year, to the point it’s arguably the number one destination in the Caribbean this winter, here are 6 reasons why:

Cheap Flights From America

The excellent flight connectivity plays a huge part in Punta Cana’s popularity with Americans: no matter where you live Stateside, you’re likely to be a short 1-2 hour drive away from an airport that offers flights to the resort hotspot.

If that does not apply, your regional airport is surely connected to one of the 20 larger hubs hosting Punta Cana flights.

These include major airports like New York (JFK), Atlanta (ATL), Charlotte (CLT), Philadelphia (PHL), and Miami (MIA), with airlines such as American Airlines, JetBlue, and Frontier, among many more, selling tickets from only $85, as seen on Kayak.

Picture-Perfect Beaches

Then there’s the fact Punta Cana is home to some of the most beautiful beaches anywhere in the Caribbean.

Lying adjacent to Playa Bavaro, in the eastern Dominican Republic, it forms the wider Costa del Coco, or Coconut Coast, a stretch of coastline strewn with palm-tree-dotted white sands and bordered by gin-colored seas.

The area is literally packed with swimming sites catering to a diverse audience:

The peaceful Playa Blanca has laid-back restaurants, plenty of room to lie in the sun, and serene waters; are you a surfer and water sports enthusiast? Macao Beach is the place to be, with its tube-shaped waves and youthful atmosphere.

Now, if you love Cancun’s Hotel Zone for the buzzing shopping scene and nightlife, and you’d like to check out Punta Cana’s version of it this way, Carretera Cabeza de Toro runs parallel to a well-frequented beach, and it’s lined with shops and seafood restaurants.

Pick Your All-Inclusive!

It isn’t a Caribbean vacation if there isn’t some pampering involved.

Similarly to other leisure destinations in the turquoise sea, Punta Cana boasts a high concentration of luxury resorts with a wide range of prices, whether you’re simply looking for somewhere comfortable enough to sleep and within walking distance of the beach or an all-inclusive.

For the former, Aventura Villas Los Carales is a great alternative to the pricier resorts, with overnight rates of $154 for a Deluxe Suite with ocean views, an outdoor pool for all guests, and 9 restaurants in the premises of the accommodation.

If all-inclusive’s your way to travel, the award-winning Royalton CHIC Punta Cana is a solid pick, with a private beach, 7 restaurants on-site, a lagoon-style pool, and spa facilities––not to mention all of the endless food and sumptuous breakfast buffet for $390-a-night.

Other 5 incredible hotels in Punta Cana include:

Dominican Culture

Besides living it up in luxurious resorts, immersing themselves in Dominican culture is just as appealing to tourists.

While Punta Cana is not necessarily great for sightseeing, serving primarily as a beach destination, there’s nothing stopping you from using it as a base to explore other parts of Hispaniola island:

The overlooked capital, Santo Domingo, is a colonial-era gem and the oldest city founded by Europeans in the Americas, distinguished by a UNESCO-protected historic center, 16th-century fortifications, and ornate churches.

This day tour of Santo Domingo leaving from Punta Cana is the easiest and safest way to discover the historically-significant city, from $75.

Alternatively, you can visit a monkey sanctuary in the Dominican jungle, as well as plantation fields dating back to the period of colonial rule ($95), take a catamaran ferry to unspoiled Saona Island ($97), or enjoy a food sampling tour in Punta Cana itself (for only $8).

Great Food All Around

Though not as widely popular in America as Mexican or Cuban, Dominican food is just as delicious as their Caribbean counterparts, and Punta Cana has its fair share of amazing restaurants, both in and outside resort premises.

Don’t leave without trying Bandera Dominican (Dominican Flag), the national dish, combining white rice, beans, and stewed chicken, beef or pork, sancocho, the meat-heavy Caribbean stew, and any of the lemon-sprayed, freshly-caught fish.

Venturing outside your hotel?

Some of the top-rated restaurants in town are La Tiendita, a 4.5-star-reviewed steakhouse, La Yola, a Caribbean-Mediterranean fusion serving delicious lobster risotto, and Jellyfish Beach Restaurant, famous for their fillet mignon.

Punta Cana Resorts Are Safe For Tourists

Last but certainly not least, Punta Cana is a low-risk destination for Americans vacationing abroad: between the luxury resorts and their crime-free beaches and the well-surveilled downtown, violent crime affecting visitors in this part of the island is almost unheard-of.

That being said, you shouldn’t lower your guard if venturing out of your resort: make sure your valuables are kept in a hotel safe, and only take out your phone to take pictures if the surroundings feel safe enough.

Other parts of the Dominican Republic may be less safe than Punta Cana’s resort strip, such as Santo Domingo, where petty crime and even violent crime occur at higher rates.

For that reason, you’re advised to refer to the official U.S. travel advice.

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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The work-from-home craze has taken over the workforce worldwide as more and more countries create digital nomad visas to accommodate one of the latest travel trends.

But, some places are quite surprising when it comes to such a vast array of destinations digital nomads have at their fingertips.

Whether it be Latin America’s hidden gems, far-flung hideaways in Europe, or dirt-cheap yet culturally rich hotspots in Asia, there’s no limit to digital nomads’ new base.

That being said, as popular as the Caribbean may be for American travelers, many places in the region don’t fit the mold of what digital nomads tend to look for.

Startups just revealed the next digital hotspot for 2025 and although it’s mega popular for Americans, it’s worth questioning if the island’s well-documented safety issues and affordability tick off the boxes for digital nomads.

Is Jamaica Too Boujee For Digital Nomads?

According to Startups, there’s a 250% increase in remote work in Jamaica. As someone who visited Jamaica in the last year or so, I can see how such an immensely welcoming culture and obviously drop-dead gorgeous island would be enticing to wake up to every day.

The truth is not every digital nomad is bankrolling.

When I visited Kingston, I hung out on the upscale side of the city known as New Kingston, where Bob Marley’s mansion is located.

There are new developments dispersed across this district with some really nice apartments available to rent, but the issue digital nomads face is pricing.

Many apartments, even in notoriously sketchy Kingston, resemble U.S. markets with rents in the $1000’s – a far cry from what many scope out when there are many destinations you’re total cost will be under $1000.

Then there’s obviously Montego Bay, laden with high-end resorts, followed by quaint, yet trendy Negril, and the up-and-coming hotspot of Port Antonio, the most authentic of the bunch.

According to Nomads, Kingston ranks #110 globally for digital nomads, with expected monthly costs pushing $3,000.

Jamaica’s Safety Concerns

Jamaica is no stranger to welcoming visitors with open arms. I found this island to be one of the friendliest places I’ve ever been.

Unfortunately, Jamaica is also no stranger to travel advisories, especially related to the capital, Kingston.

Wandering Downtown Kingston and passing run-down streets on my Uber from the airport, it’s easy to see why.

The latest advisory issued in July highlights high crime levels and lackluster health care, including slow response times to emergencies throughout the country.

Kingston also received low marks for safety on Nomads but surprisingly high scores for overall contentment with glowing positive experiences.

If I ventured to guess, most nomads would reside in New Kingston, where there are ample co-working spaces like The Hub and trendy cafes offering delicious Blue Mountain coffee sourced roughly an hour away.

However, Startup highlights Negril as Jamaica’s top beach spot for digital nomads with plentiful oceanfront cafes.

Kingston isn’t so much a beach town, although I did find a secret beach tourists largely don’t know about, but it wouldn’t be the best spot to work from since the seaside eateries are hole-in-the-wall shacks along unkept dirt roads.

As for Montego Bay, Jamaica’s most popular vacation destination, you can find affordable apartments on Airbnb on the outskirts of the city for under $800, but a quick Google search shows co-working spaces are lacking here.

Jamaica’s Entry Requirements

Jamaica doesn’t offer a ‘digital nomad visa’, but Americans can visit as a standard tourist for 90 days visa-free, the perfect amount of time to soak up winter sun.

As stated, there are monthly listings on Airbnb, so this is likely your best bet. Just familiarize yourself with Jamaica’s neighborhoods first.

There is a full list of Level 4 no-go zones listed on the U.S. State Department’s latest travel advisory, many of which are in and around Kingston.

When I booked an Airbnb here, I found the wifi to be reliable, but preferred working from New Kingston cafes, such as Cafe Blue.

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 4 months ago

Mexico is the most popular vacation destination for American travelers. But that popularity comes at a cost….and a significant hit to your wallet.

Popular resorts like Cancun and Tulum are often big-budget destinations. But it doesn’t have to be that way!

Enter Puerto Escondido. The new hot Mexican beach destination for travelers who have a tight grip on their purse strings.

Puerto Escondido is home to bucket list-worthy beaches, it’s the top-rated surfing destination in Mexico (and one of the best in the world), and boasts outstanding natural beauty, too.

Here’s the thing: Budget travel doesn’t have to mean inferior travel.

I reckon you can have all the same cultural explorations, white sand beaches, and epic local grub at a fraction of the cost of a resort vacation in Cancun.

And to prove it, here’s a breakdown of the perfect trip to Puerto Escondido and how much it will cost:

Things To Do In Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido is located on the Emerald Coast of Oaxaca and is known for its beaches and its epic nightlife scene.

One of the best beaches to explore in the area is Playa Carrizalillo, which is a calm cove perfect for swimming and kayaking.

This is one of the few beaches in Puerto Escondido where you could take out a paddleboard too.

Or Puerto Angelito. This is a more popular spot with tourists which means it is busier and has a more vibrant atmosphere.

But it’s a great place to eat seafood and sunbathe on the soft sand.

I love nothing more than spending time on the beach, swimming, and riding my paddleboard, but as an added bonus, these are some of the most affordable vacation activities: they don’t have to cost a penny!

Many turtles come back to the beaches along this stretch of the coast to nest.

Visiting the Baby Turtle Release Centre is a great way to learn more about these incredible creatures, and you can do your bit for their conservation by getting involved in the nightly turtle release.

You can hold the baby turtle as you gently release it into the sea and experience the site of hundreds of these tiny animals scuttling toward the water.

You’ll be asked to make a contribution of $150 Mexican pesos ($8) per person to take part in this.

If you’re in Mexico’s surfing capital, you’re probably going to want to surf.

Surfers travel from all over the world to ride Puerto Escondido’s famous barrel waves.

If you’re an experienced surfer then the best and most affordable way to do this is to just hire a board and hit the waves.

If you’re new to surfing then it’s a good idea to take a lesson or two first. Puerto Surf has a great reputation and you can choose between private or group lesson options (with group lessons being the most affordable choice.) A group lesson will cost 750 MXN ($39) and a private lesson will cost 900 MXN ($47).

Getting To Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido boasts its own airport (PXM) Airport which is obviously the most convenient option, but you can’t fly here directly from the U.S. right now as it isn’t an international airport.  

You’d have to fly to Mexico City and then take another flight from here.

The 2 cheapest airports to choose to fly this route in October are Houston and Chicago, at the time of writing.

From Chicago, from October 8 to October 15, flying economy class roundtrip, you can expect to pay $276.

This is flying with Vivo Aerobus, and as I mentioned above, you’d have a layover in Mexico City.

Or you could fly into Oaxaca (OAX), which is 131.3km away, with a range of transfer options available.

In October, you can fly directly to Oaxaca from Los Angeles, Dallas, or Houston. Flights from Los Angeles are currently the cheapest option.

Fly from October 7 to October 14 to secure an economy class round trip for $269.

You’ll fly with Volaris, and the flight time for this route is just 4 hours and 2 minutes.

There are flights with similar prices throughout October and November.

The drive time between Oaxaca and Puerto Escondido is just under 3 hours if you want to hire a car or a private driver. (Fun fact! It took me longer to get to Tulum from Cancun airport via private transfer in May)

Alternatively, you could take a bus, which would take around 7/8 hours, but on the bright side, the journey costs less than $20!

Where To Stay In Puerto Escondido

Where I was most pleasantly surprised when putting this piece together was just how affordable accommodation is in Puerto Escondido.

There are hostels available in the city for as little as $15 per night, and these are popular with both backpackers and surfers.

A huge majority of these have great reviews. But as I wouldn’t stay in a hostel myself, I won’t list any here!

A 3-night stay in the 3-star Hotel Camino Del Sol from October 16 to October 19 would cost $189, based on 2 people sharing a superior king room. That’s just $63 per night, and the hotel has a pool, air conditioning, and is close to the beach.

If you want to splurge on a 4 star hotel then the Hotel DC Boutique and Spa is just 50 meters from the beach and boasts a rooftop outdoor pool, spa and wellness center, and on site bar and restaurant.

For the same dates this would cost $268 based on 2 people sharing, which works out at $89 per night.

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 6 months ago

When you choose your next beach escape, odds are you’ll be looking where to spend blissful beach days in Mexico or the Caribbean.

One Caribbean nation that has soared to new heights in terms of tourism is the Dominican Republic.

Even the country’s cultural cities have become more popular, like Santiago de los Caballeros and the sprawling capital, Santo Domingo.

Near both cultural hubs are some of the most pristine beach resort towns you’ll find along Caribbean shores.

One that is super easy to reach and continues to thrive is La Romana, home to lavish resorts and stunning beaches.

Move Aside Punta Cana! La Romana Is The Place To Be

As someone who just spent 5 days at a luxe resort in Punta Cana, I can easily compare apples to apples since I also spent some time in La Romana.

If you’ve done any vacation planning along the East Coast or Caribbean, surely you know it’s sargassum season.

Sargassum is an unsightly brown algae that invades coastlines for miles and miles ruining your postcard-worthy photo-ops.

Punta Cana, including world-renowned Bavaro Beach, was teeming with icky piles of sargassum baking in the sun, creating not only an eyesore, but an unpleasant odor and constant annoyances trying to swim in the crystal clear waters.

Taking a day trip to La Romana was like flipping a switch from an okay beach vacation to the dreamy paradise you envision when splurging on a Caribbean getaway.

Perfect Conditions For The Ultimate Beach Escape

Not a flake of sargassum was spotted when I swam in various spots throughout the La Romana region.

Setting sail on a Catamaran from Bayahibe, there were stops away from shore to swim and snorkel.

Water conditions were absolutely perfect with warm temperatures and limpid visibility – no seaweed or trash in sight.

Like Zac Brown said, the ‘Only worry in the world is the tide gonna reach my chair’, the only worry here is stepping on Starfish as they’re a very protected and encouraged by tour guides not to touch.

The only portion not suitable for water activity are the ports of Bayahibe and Isla Saona, where the water is still very clear, but you will need flip-flops to avoid cutting your feet on jagged rocks.

Stunning Tropical Islands

Within close distance from the small resort town of La Romana lies a pair of stunning islands – Isla Saona, and Isla Catalina.

While I can’t speak to personal experience with the latter, tourists have left rave reviews with comments like, ‘Saona Island gets all the cred but this was an awesome excursion’.

Home to gorgeous beaches clear waters for snorkeling and diving, this short journey to the island is definitely worth checking out.

I went to Isla Saona. Beyond simply relaxing with endless poolside pinã coladas, this jaw-dropping island was the highlight of my Dominican vacation.

You are instantly welcomed by towering palm trees and sandy pathways giving access to what feels like secret beaches, and it was some of the clearest water I’ve ever swam in.

No sargassum, jellyfish, garbage, stingrays – nope, just picture-perfect blue waters and white sand.

La Romana’s Lavish Resorts

Punta Cana is great, but everyone wants to be here.

The same way Cancun is an awesome vacation spot since everyone knows about, that’s not to say you won’t have an awesome time in Puerto Escondido.

The same goes for Punta Cana and La Romana. The latter is a very popular resort town but doesn’t hold the same recognition.

Vacationers can come here expecting to have the time of their lives the same as you would in Punta Cana, but the experience may be even better.

With high-end all-inclusive resorts such as Hilton, Dreams, and Iberostar, you can’t go wrong, especially since the beaches don’t find themselves in the path of massive seaweed invasions.

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 4 months ago

Asia has long been a popular destination for digital nomads watching their budgets. It’s a great place to stretch your buck as far as possible.  

And now there’s a new budget-friendly hot spot to look out for.  

The Global Intelligence Unit has created a comprehensive report of the world’s best digital nomad destinations.  

The top-ranked Asian country where digital nomads live and work is officially Taiwan.  

Taiwan also came in 12th place overall in the global arena, meaning that it’s a destination well worth considering for digital nomads, especially for those who don’t want to flash the cash.  

Here’s why:  

Why Digital Nomads Should Consider Taiwan 

Taiwan is an incredibly beautiful country that ticks so many boxes.  

A subtropical climate, outstanding natural beauty, gorgeous beaches, and modern vibrant cities too. Check, check, check, check!  

On top of all of this, living here won’t break the bank.  

On average, the monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Taipei is between NT$8,000.00 and NT$25,000.00 ($263–$823).

However, if you choose an off-the-beaten-path destination outside of the city, your rent will be considerably lower.  

Eating out here is cheap too, and the street food is delicious.

Less than $5 will fill your tummy with a street food meal and some good company at the same time.  

Locals are friendly and welcoming to foreigners and digital nomads: there are no anti-tourism protests here!  

Taiwan was also one of the first countries in the region to legalize same-sex marriage back in 2019 and has robust anti-discrimination legislation in place, making it a safe country for LGBTQ+ nomads to explore.  

Taiwan Is Small But Perfectly Formed  

From a practical point of view, it’s worth mentioning Taiwan’s small size.

The country is around half the size of Scotland for Brits like me. Or ever so slightly bigger than Maryland for U.S. readers.  

Rather than being a drawback, this could actually work to the advantage of a savvy digital nomad!  

You can explore absolutely everything the island has to offer with relative ease.

The capital of Taipei tends to be the most popular spot for digital nomads, boasts incredibly high internet speeds, and has the largest number of coworking spaces.  

But you aren’t welded to city life. Taipei is just 30 minutes away from the lush green nature of the Yangmingshan National Park.

There is no entry fee to explore this park, so if you’re on a budget, this is a great place to visit.  

And getting around Taiwan is a breeze, too, as the country has a reliable high-speed rail network.

In real terms, this makes what is already a small country feel even smaller and easier to explore.  

Public transport is affordable. The Metro (known as the Mass Rapid Transit or MRT) costs NT $20 (61 cents) – NT $65 ($1.96) a ticket in Taipei.  

If you want to take the high-speed rail and explore the length and breadth of the country then you’ll pay between NT $35 and NT $2,500 ($1 – $76) depending on the journey you want to take and the class you choose with non-reserved tickets being the cheapest option.  

A New Digital Nomad Visa For Taiwan? 

Although full details of the scheme have yet to be released, Taiwan announced last month that it intends to launch a dedicated digital nomad visa.

This is great news as, up until now, there hasn’t been an official digital nomad visa in the country.  

The new visa will make Taiwan an even more appealing option for digital nomads.  

Taiwan will be the 4^th country in the region this year, after Japan, Thailand, and South Korea, to launch a digital nomad scheme.  

So far, we know that the visa will have a 6-month validity period and that the Minister for the National Development Council in Taiwan, Paul Liu, hopes it will attract new talent to the country.  

Though this new digital nomad visa scheme has been proposed, it will not come into effect until it is approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  

In the meantime, prospective nomads can apply for an Employment Gold Card.

This is a work permit, residency permit and re-entry permit in one handy document that is relatively easy to apply for and allows professionals to live and work in Taiwan for up to 3 years.  

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 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 3 months ago

It’s the season for solo travel!  

And whether you’re looking for frantic cities, laid-back beaches, high-octane adventure, or cultural enrichment, there’s one destination that is attracting solo travelers in huge numbers.  

Thailand is having a real moment right now, especially among those thinking of going it alone.  

Here’s why this Asian destination is a hot spot for solo travelers: 

Why Should Solo Travelers Choose Thailand? 

Thailand boasts an excellent tourist infrastructure that is easily accessible for solo travelers.

Getting around the country is straightforward, and finding places to stay as a solo traveler is also easy here.  

Thailand is also an incredibly affordable destination for solo travelers.

From hostels to higher-end hotels, you won’t break the bank when choosing somewhere to stay.  

If you’re new to solo travel or a seasoned solo traveler looking for some company, then there are plenty of small group trips throughout Thailand.

These are a great way to meet new people or to explore somewhere you might not feel comfortable going it alone.  

From tours of Bangkok noodle shacks to snorkeling tours of lesser visited islands, there are diverse options to choose from.  

I recommend booking a tour or two and combining this with your own solo adventures and seeing where the day takes you, so that you get the enjoy the best of both worlds.  

Bangkok Food Tours offers a historic Bangrat food tasting and culture tour that is ideal for solo travelers. Bangrat is a popular foodie destination for locals in Bangkok and is an area with a rich cultural heritage.

This tour costs 1650 THB ($) per person.  

While some people see eating as a social experience, the nature of dining in Thailand makes it ideal for solo travelers.  

The street food stalls you’ll find everywhere and casual ‘hole-in-the-wall’ restaurants mean that grabbing a bite and eating on the go, or taking a stool and sitting shoulder to shoulder with the locals, is the norm.  

A Diverse And Cultural Rich Destination  

Thailand is an incredibly diverse and multi-faceted destination.

If you want to relax on paradise-like white sand beaches, Thailand is for you. But you can also embrace the rich culture, bustling cities, and spectacular temples here.  

Thailand is a temple-rich (some might say temple-tastic!) destination, so if learning more about Buddhism and exploring its most spectacular temples is on your to-do list, then there is no better place to be.  

The most famous temple in Thailand is Wat Phra Kaew, and as it’s located right in the heart of Bangkok this is also one of the easiest to visit.  

Wat Phra Kaew is located within the city’s Grand Palace and its most noteworthy feature is the Emerald Green Buddha, considered one of the most sacred in Thailand.

Entrance costs 500 baht ($14) per person.  

For something truly unique, visit the Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya.

This is a spectacular and intricately carved temple that has the distinction of being the largest wood building in Thailand.  

Entrance here costs 500 baht ($14) per person too, and your entry fee also includes a guided tour in either English or Thai.  

Thailand is also famous for its beachfront Full Moon Parties, which take place in Koh Phangan.

Up to 20,000 people gather on the beach here once a month when the moon is full.  

This is a great place to be if you love to party and meet new people.

It’s a riot of fun and decadence. However, solo travelers should be aware of their safety at these parties.

Where there is drunkenness and excess there can sometimes be poor decision making.  

Being aware of your surroundings, and not leaving your drink unattended are both good tips.  

Other Reasons To Choose Thailand

You can’t talk about Thailand without talking about its people.

Thailand is nicknamed ‘Land of Smiles’, and for good reason.

You’re guaranteed a warm welcome when you’re in the city, which contributes to solo travelers feeling safe and comfortable in the country.  

It’s also worth noting that Thailand offers a high degree of safety for solo travelers, and this includes solo female travelers. 

The U.S. Department of State has awarded Thailand a Level 1 Advisory Rating. This is the lowest possible rating, and means that travelers should exercise normal precautions, but are otherwise free to enjoy their travels.  

The only exceptions are the regions of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla.

Due to civil unrest associated with ongoing insurgent activities, these provinces have a Level 3 travel advisory rating.  

Solo travelers are advised to avoid these regions when traveling around the country.

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 9 mins ago

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

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

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

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

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

Where In The World Is Vlora?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vlora’s New Airport Opens In March 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Albania’s Digital Nomad Appeal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sam Sears

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

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Last Updated 1 min ago

Cancun may have the all-inclusive hotels, Puerto Vallarta the golden sand beaches, and there’s truly no beating Cabo’s wellness tourism scene, but this season, it’s Veracruz that’s stealing the limelight in Mexico as one of the country’s fastest-growing destinations.

Located on the Gulf Coast, it was formerly one of the most popular beach getaways in the country before slowly fading into the background, as the Mexican Caribbean and the Pacific resort hubs soared in popularity, but it’s now making an unlikely comeback.

As stated by Iván Martínez Olvera, Veracruz has broken a series of tourism records this year, with a 100% increase in the number of visitors, and an even-more impressive 470% growth in regional tourism investment and development.

Figures aside, this means tourists are flocking back to Veracruz after years of just blatantly ignoring it, and it’s time we looked into the reasons why.

Veracruz Is One Of The Cultural Capitals Of Mexico!

First of all, it may have something to do with the fact that Veracruz is one of the most culturally-significant cities in the country, as it is Mexico’s oldest and largest port, founded as early as the 16th century by the Spanish.

It has an architectural wealth to rival Mexico City and Merida, with a landmark-packed historic center playing host to grand plazas, left virtually untouched since the Europeans first settled the area, beautiful churches and pedestrian-friendly lanes.

Think the monumental Castle of San Juan de Ulúa, a European-style fortress guarding the entrance to the harbor, the Municipal Palace, dating as far back as the year 1608, or the historical Venustiano Carranza Lighthouse, a neoclassical building with a palatial design.

The whitewashed Cathedral of Veracruz, finished in 1731, is yet another of Veracruz’ top attractions, distinguished by its five naves, richly-decorated cupola, clad in tiles extracted from Puebla, a fellow colonial gem of Mexico, and a crystal candelabra-lit interior.

Sandy Beaches For Miles On End…

Aside from the obvious historical value, Veracruz straddles the bright-blue Gulf of Mexico, with the local malecón (the popular Mexican word for boardwalk) stretching for several long miles from the colonial center, all the way into the fringe areas of town.

It offers breathtaking ocean vistas, and the taco and tamales stalls, souvenir shops, and laid-back restaurants make it an incredibly lively area to stroll day and night, and if it’s unspoiled beaches you’re looking for, look no further than these:

• Playa de Chachalacas, a peaceful sandy strip hugged by the warm waters of the Gulf, with tall dunes and limited development along the shoreline
• Costa Esmeralda, an off-path beach strip lined with tall palm trees, with beachfront stays starting at a shockingly-cheap $52
• Playa Martí, a short drive from the city center, with clean sand and serene waters, often preferred by families with small children
• Playa Mocambo, one of the best-equipped beaches near Veracruz, boasting a wide range of amenities, from spas to camping areas to tourist-friendly restaurants
• Isla Sacrificios, an islet lying just off the city harbor surrounded by a colorful coral reef, with a handful of white-sand beaches

How Actually Cheap Is Veracruz To Visit?

If you’re wondering how much cheaper Veracruz is compared to other Mexican beach hotspots, we don’t have an exact average to present you, but we can say it’s for sure on the more economical side, especially when paired with Cancun:

It’s not yet been converted into a resort haven for Americans and other gringos arriving from abroad, and the majority of the clientele remains Mexican families escaping the overpriced, jam-packed Caribbean and Pacific coasts, so prices tend to reflect the local purchasing power.

Out of the seven 5-star hotels listed on Booking.com, Gran Hotel Diligencias on the Veracruz boardwalk is the most affordable this season, with double room rates set at $64, while the pool-featuring, beach-facing Camino Real Veracruz is a moderately-priced $129.

The most expensive option is Grand Fiesta Americana Veracruz, where a king-size deluxe room will set you back by $212 per night: with 2 pools, 3 restaurants, a fitness center, poolside bar, private beach access, and airport shuttle included, it’s the closest one to a Cancun-style stay.

Nonstop flights to trendy Veracruz are available from 2 U.S. airports this winter, Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston Intercontinental, respectively with American Eagle and United Airlines, with one-way fares averaging $249 for the former and $317 for the latter.

When it comes to safety, the Gulf city is among the least-dangerous destinations south of the border, officially ranking as a Level 2 destination in the U.S. State Department Advisory, on a par with Cancun and Los Cabos, and having ‘moderate’ levels of crime as seen on Numbeo.

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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