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Sunny Weather & Coastal Views: This Hidden European Island Is The Perfect Winter Getaway
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You’re probably thinking winters in Europe are all about cobbled towns enveloped in mist, cozy Christmas Markets, and snow-clad landscapes, and while that’s certainly true for Prague, Edinburgh, and the like, this hidden island doesn’t seem to have got the memo.
As a matter of fact, it seems like it’s forever stuck on spring, with highs of 68°F and lows of only 66°F in winter, plenty of sunshine hours, and very, very limited rainfall––as for snow, it’s an unheard-of phenomenon.
If you’re craving some of that Old World culture, but you’re also craving that vitamin D boost, El Hierro in Spain is the answer to your prayers:
A Forgotten Gem Of The Atlantic
The second-smallest and most westerly of Spain’s Canaries, an archipelago lying off the coast of Africa, El Hierro is a laid-back island sized 103.67 square miles that makes up for its relatively small landmass with a thriving nature.
It is definitely not the side of Europe you may be expecting, with the medieval castles and storybook towns, with unique geological formations, ancient forests, and breathtaking volcanic landscapes taking center stage.
Charco Azul, a natural pool formed by a lava flow and filled with unusually clear, turquoise waters, is one of El Hierro’s most famous landmarks: it’s a popular spot for swimming, and there are no entry fees, though the nearby cafe will charge €2 for the toilet.
A symbol of El Hierro, El Golfo is a valley resulting from a powerful eruption thousands of years ago and shaped like an amphitheater––even when nature is the prevailing force, you just can’t escape Europe’s omnipresent culture.
The moderately challenging uphill trek to Mirador de la Peña is a must-do, not only for the breathtaking views that await at the very top but also for the stone-built Restaurante Mirador de La Peña, serving traditional Canarian food in a scenic setting.
UNESCO-Protected Laurel Forests & Pristine Beaches
Other natural wonders include El Sabinar, a row of twisting and bending juniper trees that have somehow survived the harsh environment, Charco Manso, yet another natural pool, shielded by basalt rock and distinguished by its picture-perfect arch, and Laurisilva:
Similarly to the other Canary Islands, El Hierro is mostly arid in nature, but at its very center, the moss-covered laurel maze is a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering refuge to Canarian wildlife and crisscrossed by hiking trails.
As for beaches, El Hierro doesn’t have the expansive sea dunes both Tenerife and Gran Canaria are famous for––the coastline is remarkably rugged––except for Arenas Blancas, a white-sand beach hugged by a teal Atlantic, a rather unusual sight on a volcanic island.
Experience Canarian Culture In Valverde
Valverde is the capital and cultural center of El Hierro, located on the island’s northeastern part: it is distinct for being the smallest capital of a Canary Island, as well as the only one not straddling the ocean (instead, it’s surrounded by a verdant countryside).
It is the best-equipped municipality on El Hierro, as well as where most of the restaurants and manmade landmarks are located: for great seafood at affordable prices, Yesimar is the place, and don’t miss a Baroque Purísima Concepción Parish Church.
Prior to the arrival of the Spaniards, El Hierro was inhabited by the Bimbaches, Berber peoples from North Africa, and in El Julan, you can still see their ancient petroglyphs carved on rocks, with guided tours being your best bet at deciphering them.
The most fascinating attraction on the island, however, is Punta de Orchilla, the westernmost point in non-contiguous Spain… and the exact spot where Christopher Columbus set sail to discover the New World.
Affordable Accommodation
Despite the island’s compact size and small population, with only about 11,000 Spaniards calling it home, it doesn’t suffer from lacking tourism infrastructure: there are exactly 47 accommodation providers listed on the island, from guesthouses to luxury hotels.
Located near Isora, Casa Carlos is a typical El Hierro rural homestay, with two-bedroom houses costing as little as $95 a night; in Mocanal, Casa Rural Aguarijo is a three-bedroom property where overnights will set you back by only $88.
In Valverde, there are good-value-for-money options in Hotel Boomerang ($74) and a one-bedroom apartment unit in V.V Juana ($48), or if you’re here for the coastal views and luxurious amenities, the Parador de El Hierro costs $213 to book per night.
The only flights to Valverde-El Hierro (VDE) are operated from Gran Canaria and Tenerife-North, so in order to reach this Atlantic Eden, you’ll first need to get yourself to one of the major resort islands of the Canaries archipelago.
Alternatively, you can take the ferry from Los Cristianos, in Tenerife, to El Hierro: there are departures 6 days a week, and the company operating on this route is Naviera Armas, with a crossing time of 2 hours and 30 minutes.
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4 Hidden Gems For Digital Nomads That Offer Cheap Prices & Laid-Back Vibes In 2025
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If you’re a digital nomad currently country-hopping around the globe, looking for the next safe haven to set up base temporarily and where you can enjoy both low living costs and a high quality of life, you’ve come to the right place.
Between Mexico City’s rising prices, Buenos Aires’ volatile currency, and even former offbeat spot Tbilisi’s housing crisis, we wouldn’t blame you for thinking all of our favorite nomad destinations globally are no longer viable options.
It’s definitely a trickier world to navigate, especially if you’re on a tighter budget, and that’s why you should keep these 4 laid-back hidden gems in mind for 2025:
Vitoria, Brazil
The mid-size capital to Brazil’s coastal state of Espírito Santo, home to roughly 323,000 inhabitants, Vitoria is a fast-growing city that’s yet to reach Rio’s level of disorderly growth, but that’s far from being dullsville:
It is best known for its wide, long sandy beaches, most notably Praia do Cambria, 16th century Penha Convent, perched on a rocky protuberance overlooking the Atlantic, and slower-paced living, boasting lower levels of petty crime and violence.
As a nomad, you’re expected to budget $1,640 per month living in Vitoria, as per Nomads estimates: rent prices are around 34.6% lower than in Sao Paulo, Brazil’s most expensive metropolis, averaging $504 for a downtown apartment, and a restaurant meal will set you back by around $6.
Alanya, Turkey
Antalya‘s less-famous sister, Alanya lies to the east of the world-famous resort, and it’s a smaller, less chaotic, fortified port town centered around a picture-perfect historic center with colorful Ottoman-era houses, and narrow streets covered in cobbles.
Cleopatra Beach is said to have been visited by, you guessed it, Cleopatra herself. The ancient Alanya Castle dates back to the period of Seljuk rule, and there’s even an octagonal Red Tower overlooking a turquoise Mediterranean: in sum, it exudes Old World charm.
Better even, it’s not the kind of balmy, off-season European getaway to break the bank––we’re talking $10 bucks for a simple meal in an inexpensive restaurant, $515-734 in rent (look up Numbeo), and $1,342 in monthly expenses overall.
Agadir, Morocco
A resort city straddling Morocco’s Atlantic Coast, backed by the jaw-dropping Anti-Atlas mountain range, Agadir is an up-and-coming leisure destination Europeans have been flocking to this winter for their sunny break.
Digital nomads, on the other hand, keep sleeping on it despite the fact it boasts pleasant off-season temps, with lows of 56 and highs of 71 degrees, a high concentration of laptop-friendly eateries, where lunch averages $4, and a beautiful hilltop casbah (citadel) overlooking the ocean.
Agadir is also much safer than your average Moroccan conurbation, with low levels of crime and offering residents a higher quality of life without blowing the budget: in fact, you can live comfortably in a waterfront condo, eating out most nights for under $1,713 a month.
San Miguel de Allende
A beautiful colonial-era town in the hinterland of Mexico, San Miguel de Allende is best known for its Instagrammable corners, with cobbled streets and charming plazas flanked by colorful houses, and a pink-washed, twin-towered cathedral.
Something most nomads themselves don’t know, however, is that it can be a great alternative to a bustling Mexico City or an overpriced Playa Del Carmen, with its many laptop-friendly cafes (check out Geek & Coffee), green areas and low criminality.
On top of being historically significant and considerably more peaceful than larger cities, San Miguel is sure to appeal to budget-conscious travelers, who would prioritize keeping their monthly expenses under $2,300 a month (more specifically, $2,332).
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Travel Alert: U.S. Officially Bans Hidden Fees For Hotels And Vacation Rentals
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Hot diggity dog! Our tax dollars have finally been put to good use by the very people we pay to represent us.
It’s been a contentious year in the world of politics, but no matter if you’re Team Donkey, Team Elephant, or toeing the line in the middle, surely we can all agree it’s long overdue for an overhaul of travel-related fees, especially sneaky ones!
I mean, wasn’t it popcorn-worthy to watch the CCOs of Frontier and Spirit squirm being grilled by the Senate for incentivizing gate agents to scope out oversized baggage?
Well, now it’s hotels’ and vacation rentals’ turn to make things right, so there’s no more sudden surprises.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) just announced a bipartisan rule officially banning so-called ‘junk fees’ just months after other traveler-friendly protections were implemented for flight delays and cancellations.
What Are ‘Junk Fees’?
Travel long enough, and you’ve probably encountered the ol’ bait-and-switch tactic at some point.
In fact, my girlfriend, who is a hotel manager, says add-on fees are guests’ most common complaint.
Fortunately, in this case, they’re bozos who didn’t read the clearly marked parking fee, but she also says there are many guests asking if her property charges a ‘resort fee‘ – Exhibit A for junk fees.
There have been many bad apples who hide charges at first glance only to tack them on your final bill, and you know exactly who the main culprit has been.
Is it a sin to tack on resort fees?
Ehh, maybe not. But ‘Sin City’ is the Mecca for sneaking in charges, where oftentimes tourists are caught by surprise with exorbitant fees higher than their room rate.
It’s similar to budget airlines selling $25 flights, only to tell you your bag is too large for a ‘carry-on’ as you board and charging you double (if not more) than what you spent on airfare before allowing you to take your seat.
In other words, a cheap trip can stack up really quickly! The FTC has taken notice and is putting a stop to it.
The bottom line is to check your bottom line. There will be so much more transparency moving forward.
Hotels and vacation rentals will still be able to charge extra fees, but you’ll know about them upfront.
“The FTC’s rule will put an end to junk fees around live event tickets, hotels, and vacation rentals, saving Americans billions of dollars and millions of hours in wasted time”.
– FTC Chair, Lina M. Khan
How Hotels And Vacation Rentals Will Look Going Forward
Truth be told, after visiting nearly 40 countries, the research that goes into a trip can be more exhausting than the travel itself.
Confirming prices, scouring reviews, and navigating complicated policies can be such a drag to the point you might ask yourself if it’s worth taking a trip at all.
The good news is those days will now be few and few between – at least for domestic trips.
The U.S. obviously has no bearing on what Cancun, Punta Cana, or Timbuktu charge.
Let’s use Airbnb as an example. When I plan out a trip and want more space or an amenity that hotels don’t typically have, like in-unit washers and dryers, I opt for Airbnb.
When searching apartments, you’ll see nightly rates all over the map, quite literally and figuratively, but what you won’t see right away are the big question marks that reveal themselves on the final checkout page.
These can range from pet fees, extra guest charges, and the company’s much-maligned cleaning fees, which can often be outrageous.
I’ve even had a host try to charge me extra for their electricity bill, which was never discussed until after checking out.
Needless to say that Venmo request was denied, but you can see why the FTC has needed to step in.
The primary issue with hotels is the aforementioned resort fees, so rather than think you just scored the deal of a lifetime on a $99 beachfront villa; it will now be listed as, say, a $500 beachfront villa with an itemized breakdown of resort fees, etc.
The FTC’s press release states, ‘the most prominent price in an ad needs to be the all-in total price—truthful itemization and breakdowns are fine but should not overshadow what consumers want to know: the real total’.
Live Events Are Affected Too
In a day and age where travelers follow their favorite musical acts and sports teams, the FTC is tackling the same issues for live events.
For example, when I buy tickets for my beloved Padres, I never pay anything close to the price listed for tickets.
If I think I’m buying $30 outfield seats, that likely means $55 outfield seats with all the extra fees tacked on.
Now those tickets should be listed as $55 (or close) to avoid any headaches and surprises.
The FTC estimates that consumers across the board will save over 53 million hours of time and over $11 billion over the next decade.
The new rules have already passed in a 4 to 1 vote and will become effective 120 days after it’s published in the Federal Register.
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Unveiling Mexico’s Hidden Gem! Americans Can Fly Nonstop To This Affordable Historic City
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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.
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White Sand Beaches And Historic Ruins: Escape To Florida’s Hidden Paradise This Fall
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Somehow, in a world where we crave the latest gizmos and gadgets, the old world of the Mayans has been trending in recent years despite being here way before our time.
Their fascinating culture and architectural marvels caught my eye, too, as I had just visited some incredibly preserved Mayan ruins in Copan Ruinas, Honduras, myself.
While there haven’t been any official Mayan ruins discovered in the U.S., there are some fascinating historical ruins attributed to our own timelines that often go overlooked.
And what better backdrop while perusing remnants of our past than pristine white sand along vibrant emerald green waters?
Rather than follow the crowds to Miami, Orlando, and Siesta Key for your next Florida getaway, escape to the hidden paradise of Fort Pickens this fall.
Dare We Say A ‘Poor Man’s Tulum’?
Home to beautiful beaches and American antiquities, Fort Pickens is a rare sight to behold.
Often overshadowed by dozens of more popular Florida destinations, this sliver of paradise at the very western tip of Pensacola’s Santa Rosa Island goes relatively unnoticed unless you’re seeking it out.
In other words – it’s a bit off the beaten path, but not a treacherous journey and you’ll definitely be rewarded regardless.
Boasting Caribbean-esque white sands and shimmering green waters, Fort Pickens is well worth a visit in the same sense as Tulum, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and captivating historical sites.
No, there’s no trendy arts scene, a brand new airport, or divine Mexican food, but where else can you visit a nice U.S. beach with such well-preserved ruins?
Answer: not many!
Perhaps South Carolina’s Fort Sumter or another Florida counterpart, St. Augustine, but it’s safe to say Fort Pickens is next level!
It’s Okay To ‘Ruin’ Your Beach Vacation
Fort Pickens’ significance dates back well over a century.
Serving as a popular landmark nowadays, its former glory continues to captivate visitors with its scenic coastal views and intrigue.
What was once a stronghold in the American Civil War, the grounds are still kempt and most structures remain intact, making for awesome photo-ops.
Fort Pickens’ job was to protect Santa Rosa Island all while stopping the enemy from infiltrating the bay and nearby Navy yard.
The base covers roughly 200 acres, easily explorable before or after time at the beach. Today, it’s overseen by the National Park Service, who should ask for a raise covering double duty as both park rangers and tour guides.
Expect a walk-through of the remaining brick forts, a stroll along the barrier island, and even kayaking through the marsh.
It may not be Chichen Itza, but it’s very impressive nonetheless.
Unlike Gettysburg, don’t expect cheesy battlefield reenactments, even though The Battle of Santa Rosa Island took place here in 1861.
Fort Pickens receives high praise on Google, holding an impressive 4.8/5 rating, where one recent visitor claimed, “…the fort is incredible. Great beaches too, much better than the packed public beach just down the road”.
Also, many who visit love to rough it by camping under the stars. Fort Pickens Campground holds 200 campsites only charging $25 for admission in addition to the Gulf Islands National Seashore entry fees:
- $15 per person
- $20 per motorcycle
- $25 per vehicle
- $45 annual pass
A Blissful Beach Escape Away From Florida’s Typical Crowds
No resorts, no wild nightlife, no Disney characters – just pure bliss along an authentic paradisal beach.
Okay, the resorts would maybe be a nice touch, but otherwise, we all love as much space as possible on our beach vacations.
Fall tends to see crowds shrink anyway, but Fort Pickens is never elbow-to-elbow like many coastal hotspots around the globe.
Here, you’ll find soft white sand and many areas without a footprint. And best of all the waters are clear and the weather is warm even in fall (think mid 70’s to 80’s)
Some Gulf beaches can become brown and murky, uninviting for a nice swim. That’s not the case here.
In all likelihood, you’ll be driving here from Pensacola.
Although, the Pensacola Bay City Ferry offers fun weekend rides.
If driving, you’ll want to input Langdon Beach as your destination since this is the most swimmable area, equipped with ample parking, restrooms, and beach showers.
Safety Tip: lifeguards are only on duty from May – September!
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Alaska Airlines Reveals The Top 3 U.S. Hidden Gems Surging In Popularity This Fall
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Forget the household names! Fall is the season where hidden gems shine brightest, at least according to Alaska Airlines.
The popular carrier has blown the doors off with their latest report, revealing the top 3. U.S. small towns to explore this fall.
Many of us seek out iconic city adventures in such places as Chicago, New York, or San Francisco, but scattered around the country are delightful towns often overshadowed by the grandeur of America’s finest metropolises.
But in the wise words of Michael Scott, “Well, well, well, how the turntables”…
Alaska has seen a strong spike in bookings for places without the crowds and towering skyscrapers in favor of simple down-home fall splendor.
These are the top 3 U.S. hidden gems surging in popularity this fall:
Santa Rosa: Gateway To Wine Country & So Much More
Despite popular belief, Napa is not the only major wine town in California. In fact, it’s not even the biggest in the state.
Lodi may take the cake on that one, but it’s Santa Rosa that has made a name for itself in the wine world and also serves as a gateway into Napa, among other delightful towns nearby.
But let’s stick with Santa Rosa proper, an often overlooked city that’s suddenly been thrown into the spotlight this fall, especially with Alaska’s new flights from Vegas.
So, why visit Santa Rosa other than to go winery-hopping?
The city of 177,000 people is surrounded by beautiful landscapes you can’t help but want to explore.
Take Sonoma Coast State Park ($8 admission) for sample size, where epic coastal views reign supreme over all the ‘leaf peepers’ snapping photos like they’ve never seen a tree before.
Kidding, of course. But, truth be told, this is one of few State Parks this time of year where you’ll forget all about the colors of leaves in place of colors of wines and stunning aqua-blue views.
And don’t sleep on Santa Rosa’s food scene either; it goes way beyond wine!
Check out nearby Michelin-starred French Laundry – so good that California’s Governor Newsom couldn’t resist the urge against breaking his own 2020 lockdown mandates by attending a dinner party here.
If that’s not a selling point, then what is?
Travel Tip: Check out Santa Rosa’s top hidden gem filled with history and scenic fall photo-ops: Jack London State Historic Park.
Bellingham: Springboard To Vancouver Or Relaxing Hideaway?
Which do you prefer: Picturesque lakes, numerous islands, and tranquil waterfalls or a buzzing cultural city, majestic mountains, and world-class cuisine?
Well, good news is you’re in the right place for both…sorta.
Just as Alaska Airlines described, Bellingham is a “hidden gem” nestled on the coast between Seattle and Vancouver, Canada.
Since Bellingham has its own airport, it makes for a relaxing fall escape on its own with astounding nature at your fingertips… or you can scooch across the border for a taste of the city life.
Any way you slice it, you’re in a great spot. You’ll find gorgeous coastal and inland views at such places like San Juan Island and Lake Padden, whichever suits your vibe, and ample ferry rides are provided to reach the various islands off Bellingham’s shores.
Not to mention a charming downtown filled with cozy cafes, scenic parks, and a booming arts scene.
Travel tip: Vancouver is roughly an hour’s drive by car or bus from Bellingham. Make sure to bring your passport and note that Global Entry is not accepted in Canada’s Nexus lanes.
Missoula: This Ain’t Yellowstone
Montana has been hyped up ever since the mega-hit TV show Yellowstone was released. But Missoula doesn’t convey the rootin’ tootin’ cowboy shootin’ image you may have emblazoned in your mind.
Missoula is where college town meets mountainous paradise – a place to bar-hop in the lively University District or relax along the Clark Fork River and dozens of scenic hiking trails.
For the more adventurous, there’s whitewater rafting to tap into your adrenaline rush or come late November, you can hit the slopes just 20 minutes from downtown.
Travel Tip: You may be surprised by Missoula’s multiple luxurious resorts set amidst vineyards, casinos, and vast ranches. Check them out here.
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