The Carmel Market (or Shook HaCarmel, in Hebrew) is both the backbone and the belly of Tel Aviv. It stretches south from busy Allenby Street for about a mile and a half, with narrow alleyways lined on both sides and stalls selling everything from rare spices to vibrant produce to fake Adidas. The vendors are famous for hawking their ways in a loud, intimate, but rather charming fashion. Carmel Market is where chefs and budgeting homemakers shop.

It’s not surprising that this iconic market is a theme of countless walking tours in Tel Aviv. I’ve been on a few myself and highly recommend taking one. (I recommend Delicious Tours for a real, in-depth tour of the market.)

Insider Tip: Among the great local treats to pick up at Carmel Market are halva, medjool dates, olive oil, and spices.

On my last trip to Tel Aviv, however, I went on a tour near the market, but not about it. Instead, the themed guided walk I took part in was called the Disappearing Professions Tour. Focusing on small business shops nearby, we explored the shoe repair store with the old cobbler sitting on a worn chair waiting for customers, the dusty store of a window glazier, and the shop with the rotting old sign signaling the bookbinder.

You might wonder why I signed up for a walking tour that stops at such prosaic places. Would you believe me if I said I thought it was one of the best ways to get to know the city and its history?

1. Another Side Of Tel Aviv

The Disappearing Professions Tour was created by Meital Katz, a former fashion designer, who got the idea after noticing how many of the businesses in her own field were disappearing. “The fabric sellers, the button designer, the whole chain,” she says. 

The clincher was when she walked over to a shoe repair shop in the neighborhood. “The owner was more than 80,” Katz continued. “Once upon a time, these kinds of shops were fixtures of the city. There would be lines outside and many shops like his. But today, he was just sitting outside the shop and had no work. ‘Today, you don’t fix it, you buy new,’ he told me. When you come to a country, you want to experience the culture in a different way; not just museums. I think my tour tells the story of the culture of Israel and the people that made the country, and how we’ve lived here. For many, it’s a journey back to old memories, too.”

Connecting The Past To The Present

“It’s an opportunity, perhaps the last to see their world,” National Geographic wrote about the tour. For me, the tour combined history with a truly authentic experience: Nothing makes me more fulfilled than feeling like a local when I’m traveling. This was the ultimate foray into day-to-day life.

Insider Tip: Tours can be three, four, or four and half hours and private or groups of up to twenty. They can be walking or minibus tours. They are given in English or Hebrew and cost varies but is about 75 dollars. 

2. One Of Tel Aviv’s First Neighborhoods

Along with the Carmel Market neighborhood, Katz takes visitors to the gentrifying neighborhood of Florentin in South Tel Aviv. Named after a Jewish immigrant from Salonika, Florentin was long home to fellow Greek immigrants who worked in exactly these kinds of shops. These artisans, craftsmen, and repair people were once the fabric of the city. 

Over the past 15 years, the cash-strapped creative class, many of them art students, have moved in. Hip bars and cafés now exist alongside the remaining ones. Stops on the tour can include the shops of Avi the iron forger, Zimber the bookbinder, or Shai the furniture restorer. 

A popular stop on the tour is the Gluska tile factory, where hand-painted floor tiles known eponymously as Gluska tiles are manufactured. These tiles are as famous to Tel Aviv’s domestic design as a white picket fence is to suburban America. Some spots are really unique on this tour.

3. An Easily Walkable Mishmash Of Neighborhoods

It’s an easy tour to take part in. Tel Aviv is a compact and walkable city with few steep spots, making multiple neighborhood forays easy physically. That said, its layout is a bit of a mishmash, the result of a city built in a hurry. A guide is almost essential for first-time visitors.

Insider Tip: In Florentin, each neighborhood street has a specialty. Herzl Street is where you can see carpenters’ handmade furniture that draws people from all over the city for quality and cheaper prices. Wolfson Street is known for chandeliers, Matalon Street for household goods, and Kfar Giladi Street for artisan costume jewelry, if you are looking for more luggage-friendly souvenirs.

4. Finding The Last Artisans In Tel Aviv

By taking us to the different artisans and their varied styles of ornamentation, we also saw how Tel Aviv is made up of people from all corners of the Earth. From the Ottoman era to Oriental style to the ‘30s European Modernists, these were the craftspeople and artisans who shaped the city. It wasn’t surprising to learn that one of Tel Aviv’s prominent architectural styles is known as Eclecticism.

Katz can take a tour group to the one person in the country who repairs old bells. Katz finds these artisans in multiple ways: Good old footwork, her own internet research, and as her tour becomes more well known, people reach out to her, either the artisans themselves or more often people who know or know of them. Recently, she learned about a man who is the last to make a certain kind of guitar, for example. She now has about 100 artisans and craftspeople on her list. Of course, the idea is not to gawk at them or treat them as relics, but to hear their stories and their histories.

5. A Growing Phenomenon

Such artisan tours are a budding trend. I’ve heard of them in Paris and Tuscany. And their appeal is reaching beyond the demographic with direct memories of these types of businesses. As the retail focus reverts back to well-crafted, artisan goods, and as we aim to become conscious consumers, the work of craftspeople and dying crafts is being pushed to the forefront.

Katz’s tour operates under the umbrella of BE Tel Aviv Tours, a company that was started by Israeli-American Eviatar Gover, specializing in other great tours, including popular graffiti tours of Tel Aviv or vegan tours of the city. 

Insider Tip: Tel Aviv is one of the vegan capitals of the world. Nearly one in 10 Tel Avivians is vegan with 400 vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants. Some of the best in and around Florentin include Aja and Meshek Barzilay.

I asked Katz about the vendors during her disappearing professions tour. They are old and won’t live forever. Besides sparking nostalgia, did her tour also ignite a resurgence of actual artisans and craftsmen? Did it spur some of the children or grandchildren of the few remaining artisans to keep the family business alive? Or other younger people to learn a trade?

She says that even if they don’t make their careers in these kinds of jobs, many young people are taking them up as a hobby. As trends for sustainability and owning fewer things that are better made and have a sense of purpose continue to grow, perhaps this won’t just be a tour walking backward in time for long.

Where To Stay In Tel Aviv

Jaffa

The ancient port city conjoined with Tel Aviv is one of narrow alleyways, millennia-old buildings, and small galleries and shops. Stay at the well-located Casa Nova Hotel right near St. Peters with grand views of the Mediterranean.

Near The Carmel Market

The Fabric Hotel is a great boutique hotel in a converted fabric-manufacturing facility near shops and restaurants.

Neve Tzedek 

Tel Aviv’s first neighborhood after Jaffa has been revamped into a boho-chic haven of beautiful boutiques and charming restaurants. It borders Florentin. Stay at The Vera, which boasts charming locally furnished rooms and the best breakfast in town.

Related Reading:

• 11 Delicious Foods To Try In Tel Aviv And Where To Find Them
• My 4 Favorite Experiences Visiting Beautiful Tel Aviv
• 9 Things To Know Before Visiting Captivating Tel Aviv

Rome has a rich history and vibrant culture that can transport you to a different era. Long before I ever visited Rome, what I knew of the ancient city came from the movies. I’m a classic movie buff, and Roman Holiday, the 1953 romantic comedy, is my favorite film.

The story unfolds as Princess Ann, who, during a visit to Rome, escapes her guardians to explore the city. Enter a handsome newspaper reporter who whisks her away on the back of his Vespa. I’ll never forget the images of iconic landmarks in the eternal city whizzing by as the movie unfolds.

On a recent visit, I found that exploring Rome by Vespa Sidecar Tour can make you feel like you’re living a similar fantasy. 

My private Vespa Sidecar Tour was provided by Anantara Palazzo Naiadi as part of a hosted stay at the beautiful hotel. As always, all opinions are my own.

The Vespa Sidecar Tour 

The Vespa Sidecar tour offers a unique way to discover the city’s famous landmarks, hidden gems, and picturesque squares. As you motor through the bustling city, you can imagine yourself as Audrey Hepburn’s character, Princess Ann, embarking on her own Roman adventure. 

The company’s owner, Luca Di Trapano, explained that the Vespa Sidecar Tour was born in a flash of inspiration after 2 decades of giving tours in Rome. He thought the concept was genius but later learned his idea was 45 years too late.

The makers of the Vespa stopped producing the model equipped with a sidecar in 1968. Not easily deterred, he persevered and brought his dream to reality. Since 2018, Luca has welcomed over 20,000 passengers on board without a single accident. He told me, “It is like having sailed through the streets of Rome with four or five gigantic cruise ships!”

The tours are 3 hours, depending on traffic. The price is 110 euros per person (about $117) on the small group tour (12 guests max). You can take the tour solo as I did or with a companion or group. Trade places halfway through for a new perspective. A private tour’s price depends on the number of guests.

Here are several reasons why you should explore Rome on this unique Vespa tour.

Easy Meeting Point

Piazza della Repubblica is the tour meeting point. The square is well-connected and easy for drop-offs by taxis and vehicles. Take the subway Line A to the Repubblica-Teatro dell’Opera stop. It’s just a 2-minute walk from the Central Termini Railway Station.

Pro Tip: If you want somewhere to stay close by, I recommend Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel. A restored 19th-century, crescent-shaped palazzo, it fronts Piazza della Repubblica, where the Vespa tour starts. At the assigned time, I met my guide, Alessio, at the concierge desk. My chariot, i.e. baby blue Vespa, was waiting just outside.

The Iconic Landmarks Of Rome

Exploring the highlights of the Eternal City, we visited 12 sights, including the Spanish Steps, Piazza del Popolo, and the Borghese Gardens. There were several opportunities to stop, stretch our legs, and linger, including the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon.

It’s A Blast!

When exploring the beautiful city of Rome, I loved all the astonished looks on people’s faces as we made our way down tight alleys and broad avenues. I felt like a movie star — everyone was smiling, waving, and snapping our photo. We must have been quite a sight; something special to share with family members when you get home.

Avoid The Crowds

What’s the best way to avoid crowds and see a different side of Rome? See it on a Vespa! If you’re fearless, you could rent one yourself. But my advice? Enlist a pro. You will feel much safer riding next to or behind someone who understands the ins and outs of Rome’s streets, where locals think traffic lanes are merely suggestions.

It’s A Beautiful Ride

The Vespa is a classic: These stunning coupes from Italy are iconic on the streets of Rome. Piaggio & Co. started making the Vespa after WWII as cheap, affordable transportation. Eventually, in 1953, the hit movie Roman Holiday showed the world how great a Vespa could be, resulting in record sales. Like the Colosseum, the Italian scooter has remained a part of Italy’s landscape. You will feel like an authentic Italian in the sidecar of a Vespa.

Unique And Unforgettable Way To See The Eternal City 

Unlike larger vehicles, a Vespa can easily maneuver through tight spaces, allowing you to see more of the city’s hidden gems and local hotspots. As you zip through the streets, you’ll experience the city in an exciting and unique way. Your guide will share his knowledge of the city’s history and culture, providing insights into the backstories of the pivotal figures in the Roman Empire.

A Driver And Official Guide Rolled Into One

My driver, Alessio, wasn’t just a history buff: He’s also an official guide, which means he’s been trained to lead tours and provide in-depth information on all the sites you’ll see. He knows how to keep you engaged, entertained, and informed, making your Vespa tour an unforgettable experience. Throughout the tour, he shared fascinating facts, historical anecdotes, and his favorite neighborhoods and restaurants. With his expertise and passion for sharing the city’s rich history, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind adventure that you’ll remember for years to come. 

Radio-Connected Modern Whispers

As we cruised along the streets of Rome, Alessio provided commentary directly into my ear through a modern whisper system. He pointed out the window overlooking St. Peter’s Square where the Pope makes his Sunday address. It was chilling to see the balcony above the Piazza Venezia, where Mussolini delivered his most famous speech, the declaration of war on France and Britain in 1940.

A Sense Of Freedom And Excitement

Take in Rome’s sights, sounds, and smells from the open-air Vespa sidecar. You can enjoy the warm breeze on your face, witness the daily life of Romans, and immerse yourself in the city’s timeless beauty. 

Pro Tip: Three hours is about the right amount of time to get a taste of Rome. I saw much more than I would in a walking tour, and it was a better experience than a hop-on, hop-off bus tour — we could go where large coaches could not.

I Felt Safe 

The guides are expert drivers and the top-class helmets have face shields and disposable head covers. The passenger wears a seatbelt with a shoulder harness. We traveled at the most 24 miles per hour; just the right pace. Once you are on board, your unease fades away as you sit back, hold on, and enjoy the thrill of exploring Rome on a Vespa.

The Hidden Gems Of Rome

Rome is one of the most beautiful places in Italy and a real bucket-list destination. But allow some time to visit the hidden gems many tourists miss. Janiculum Hill, called the “Eighth Hill of Rome,” is a beautiful, often overlooked area with the best views of Rome. It’s a bit of a climb on foot, but on a Vespa, sit back and enjoy the ride. Piazzale Garibaldi in the center has the Giuseppe Garibaldi Monument with a cannon that fires daily at noon. Don’t miss the 17th-century Aqua Paola Fountain.

Cappuccino And Cornetto 

After visiting the Pantheon, we stopped for a cappuccino and cornetto, the traditional Roman breakfast choice. Our baby blue Vespa was parked nearby and I enjoyed watching how much attention it got from passersby. On the afternoon tours, customers are offered gelato instead.

Unforgettable Experience 

This is the perfect gift for someone who has done everything and an unforgettable experience for curious travelers of all ages. You will carry home remarkable moments and fun memories. 

Would I recommend Vespa Sidecar Tour? Absolutely. If this had been my first time in Rome, it would have given me a good overview of the places I would like to return to for a deeper dive. I have been to Rome several times, but until now, I’ve never seen the eternal beauty of Rome from the seat of a Vespa sidecar. And the coin I tossed into the Trevi Fountain guarantees I’ll be back.

Related Reading: 

• 9 Ways To Avoid Looking Like A Tourist In Rome
• 7 Unexpected And Unforgettable Attractions You Need To See In Rome
• 7 Best Places To Indulge In Dolce Far Niente While Visiting Rome

From castles to cities, forests to cliffs, and sea to shining sea, there are a myriad of people, places, and things to discover on this list. Some are man-made, while others are naturally occurring; read on to see if your favorite landmarks made the list!

1. The Grand Canyon (Winner)

Arizona, United States

President Theodore Roosevelt said it best, “In the Grand Canyon, Arizona has a natural wonder which, so far as I know, is in kind absolutely unparalleled throughout the rest of the world.” The views throughout its 1,904 square miles are unparalleled and incomparable. The dry climate has well-preserved fossils and five of the seven life zones are present in this one park. From hiking to white water rafting, fishing, and biking, there are as many things to do, learn, and see as there are acres in this beautiful natural wonder of the world.

Pro Tip: While the South Rim is open year-round, the North Rim is usually closed December to June each year because of the harsher winter conditions. Make sure to check the NPS website for up-to-date reopening information. For more insider information, check out what Grand Canyon Park Rangers recommend before planning your trip.

2. Niagara Falls

New York, United States/Ontario, Canada

Did you know that Niagara Falls is home to not one, but three waterfalls? They sit at the end of the Niagara Gorge, with Horseshoe Falls being the largest and most recognizable. Sitting at 167 feet high, the falls see millions of visitors each year. You can access them from Ontario, Canada, or Niagara Falls State Park in Upstate New York. There are a plethora of ways to access the moisture and views of the falls. From the Canadian side, there’s an elevator that can take you down behind Horseshoe Falls, a cliffside park with a multi-story boardwalk and amazing views, and of course, the boat rides. The U.S. side boasts an observation tower, a unique dining experience, and you guessed it, more boat rides.

Pro Tip: While the falls are accessible and open year-round, the best time to visit is June through August. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday are typically the best days to visit as weekends are much more busy.

3. Cliffs Of Moher

Republic Of Ireland

For all the beauty there is to enjoy on the beautiful island of Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher is one of the most popular sights to behold. With views worthy of the silver screen, the cliffs are part of a UNESCO Global Geopark, a special protection area for birds and wildlife. Take in the views by land, air, and sea. Hours vary by the time of year you choose to visit and tickets are required for most visitors. From walks and birdwatching to shopping and dining, your time will be very well spent.

There are two beautiful walks to choose from: the Coastal Walk North (approximately 5 miles) and the Coastal Walk South (approximately 3.5 miles). Remember to leave no trace and dress for being seaside as weather conditions can change suddenly and drastically.

4. Eiffel Tower

Paris, France

There was a time when I would visit la Tour Eiffel each night on Google Earth before going to bed to satisfy my young wanderlust. Standing regally at approximately 905 feet, the Eiffel Tower was originally built for the 1889 World’s Fair in Paris. It took 2 years, 2 months, and 5 days to build. The tower was supposed to be torn down after only 20 years, but a radio antenna was installed on top, and it was too valuable as a radio transmission tower to be destroyed. 

Pro Tip: There are numerous accessibility options for exploring the grounds. Full access has you explore the top level first, then work your way down to the lower floors.

5. Neuschwanstein Castle

Germany

Some may recognize this Romanesque Revival castle as Walt Disney’s inspiration for Cinderella’s castle as well as King Stefan’s castle from Sleeping Beauty. Built in the 19th Century, Neuschwanstein Castle is nestled in southeastern Germany. It means “New Swan Stone.” Because of a forced alliance with Prussia, Ludwig II was no longer a sovereign ruler. He commissioned this castle as a kingdom where he could reign as king once more.

Pro Tip: The castle is undergoing major restorations that are slated to be completed in the spring of 2024, so some of the castle is currently inaccessible. The staff has put together informational videos about the rooms that are being restored so that you can still enjoy them digitally.

6. Statue Of Liberty

New York City, United States

The Statue of Liberty is the second landmark from the National Park Service on our favorites list. Lady Liberty was a gift of friendship from the people of France and was built there first to be dismantled and reassembled in New York City. The Statue of Liberty Enlightening the World was finally unveiled to roughly a million people on October 28, 1886.

Pro Tip: There is only one officially sanctioned way to visit both Ellis and Liberty Islands, and advance reservations are highly recommended as access is limited.

7. Acropolis

Athens, Greece

Athens, Greece, is known as the birthplace of democracy and is home to oh so many incredible ruins. One of the best-known ruins is the Acropolis. Acropolis in Greek means “High City” and sitting atop said high city are several ancient buildings, including the Parthenon. Fun fact, my husband proposed to me at the foot of the Acropolis in 2009, a moment I will never forget. It was there that we learned the rule that visitors shouldn’t dance, jump, or be disrespectful on centuries-old religious sites. 

It may be the off-season for the Greek Islands, but the best time to visit is in winter. Temps are lower, crowds are smaller, and entrance fees are half-price. If you happen to visit near Christmas, the tree in Syntagma Square is beautiful!

8. Angkor Wat

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Angkor Wat is considered the world’s largest religious structure according to the Guinness Book of World Records, spanning about 400 acres. It was originally built and dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu but has slowly transformed into a Buddhist temple over the years. Not unlike most tourist attractions and landmarks, the pandemic had a drastic effect on visitors. While open again, crowds are much smaller than years before.

9. Petra Archaeological Park

Jordan

Petra Archaeological Park is considered by many to be one of the new seven wonders of the world, and our readers can’t get enough of it! The site is half-built and half-carved into the rose-red cliffs of southern Jordan. There was a span of 500 years that the city sat undiscovered, as access to the city runs through the Siq, a narrow gorge that opens right up to the treasury. There are quite a few other trails to explore that range in difficulty from easy to hard and showcase the various ruins as well as the beautiful and unique rock layers unearthed by the ancient stoneworkers.

Pro Tip: It is recommended to allow for 3 days to see as much of the grounds as possible. And, take care when booking your trip as only licensed professionals are allowed to give tours and talks.

10. Machu Picchu

Peru

There are a lot of unknowns about Machu Picchu. But, most historians believe that the ancient city of the Inca was erected in the 1450s, only to be abandoned a century later as a result of the Spanish conquest. 

Pro Tip: Getting here takes a train or a multi-day trek through the mountains. After a short stint of closure, Machu Picchu re-opened on February 15, 2023.

11. The Vatican

Vatican City/Rome, Italy

The Vatican resides in a city-state completely surrounded by Rome and is a sovereign territory of the Holy See. The Vatican is basically the most popular attraction in all of Rome, despite technically not being a part of the city. With sites such as St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, it’s no surprise why this small micro-state is so popular among tourists. Be prepared for long lines and lots of walking.

12. The Colosseum

Rome, Italy

When in Rome, it just makes sense to visit the Colosseum, originally called the Flavian Amphitheatre. Most important to note about the architecture of the columns is that they were made in three of the major styles of the time: Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian.

Also of note is the hypogeum, the underground area comprised of 80 different tunnels and passageways that connected the barracks, as well as a private access tunnel for the emperor. This was not in the original design of the Colosseum and also made it impossible to flood.

13. Alhambra

Granada, Spain

Alhambra is a palace — which happens to be the most notable and “best-preserved palace in the historic Islamic world” — and fortress tucked in the Sierra Nevada on the Iberian Peninsula. The expansive complex covers about 26 acres and has multiple structures, including the Nasrid Palaces. As you can imagine, tickets are in high demand and advance reservations are required.

14. Taj Mahal

Agra, India

The Taj Mahal is a marble mausoleum that was commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away giving birth to their 14th child. He was buried next to her upon his passing, thus making Taj Mahal the romantic symbol of India.

Pro Tip: Tickets are required to visit the grounds. Five nights a month, there are full-moon viewings of the Taj Mahal (two nights before the full moon, the night of the full moon, and two nights following the full moon).

15. Stonehenge

England, United Kingdom

Coming in at 13 feet high, the Welsh sandstones known as Stonehenge were built in three stages. We may never know why this monument was built to begin with, nor the methods used to create the structure. It has been purported that it was used as an astronomical observatory or a religious site and that the stones came from as far as 240 miles away. While a million visitors make the trek each year, it’s plain to see that this marvel is quite the sight to behold.

Planning a family trip abroad can be a fun and exciting experience, but it can also be overwhelming and time-consuming. Fortunately, Beeyonder is a great tool to help you plan your trip with ease. Whether you are wondering where to begin or want to compare destinations, Beeyonder is an excellent resource for researching and planning your trip.

What Is Beeyonder?

Experienced local guides share their knowledge in Beeyonder’s 450+ private virtual tours and experiences. These interactive tours can be tailored for groups of any size. Here are the types of tours that are offered.

Walking Tours

On a Live-Walking Tour, a local guide shows you around just as they would if you were there in real life. Explore everything from neighborhoods to popular attractions. Tours take place via Zoom and are interactive, so participants can ask questions along the way. That’s right – throughout the tour, participants can speak to the guide just as if they were there in real life.

Live Presentations

In Beeyonder’s presentations, a live tour guide transports you to another place via visual aids, such as videos, maps, and more. Like the walking tours, this type of tour is also live on Zoom, so participants can ask questions along the way.

Luxury Tours

Luxury tours offer a one-of-a-kind experience, like riding in a hot air balloon over Luxor. Not included in subscriptions or packages, these extraordinary tours offer unique ways of exploring, such as by boat or camel.

How Beeyonder Can Help You Plan A Family Trip Abroad

1. Get Inspiration

Beeyonder’s online tours and experiences can inspire you to visit new places and try new things. Take a tour to get ideas for activities and experiences to include in your trip itinerary.

2. Explore Destinations With A Local

Virtual tours can give you a sense of what a destination is like before you go there. Beeyonder offers virtual tours of many popular destinations, allowing you to explore different cities, landmarks, and attractions. All tours are conducted live by a local vetted guide, so you have the opportunity to ask questions.

3. Save Time And Money

Virtual tours can help you narrow down your options and make more informed decisions about where to go and what to do. By exploring destinations virtually, you can save time and money by avoiding places that may not be a good fit for your family.

4. Plan Your Itinerary

Virtual tours can help you plan your itinerary more effectively by giving you a sense of how much time to allocate to different activities and attractions. Beeyonder’s virtual tours can help you prioritize what to see and do during your trip.

5. Share With Your Family

Easily involve your family in the trip-planning process by going on a Beeyonder tour together. Not only can you get their input this way, but it also gets them excited about the trip. Easily interact and share the tour with your family, wherever they may be.

Book A Beeyonder Tour Today

Beeyonder can be a valuable tool for planning a family trip abroad. By exploring destinations virtually, you can save time and money, and get inspired to create the perfect itinerary for your family. Browse trending tours, new ones, and popular countries, or simply search by country, city, or topic.

Each experience has an itinerary, an introduction to your local tour guide, and what you need to prepare (internet, a Zoom account, and speakers or headphones). Once you book a tour, you’ll receive a link to use when it’s time for your tour — so easy! Add a sensory package for suggestions such as recipes to make, related books to read, and even souvenirs you can buy.

Book your Beeyonder tour two to three weeks in advance of the tour date you have in mind to give guides plenty of time to prepare and plan your tour. Happy planning, and touring!

One might think that, as a flight attendant, I love to travel off the cuff — just land in a foreign country and hit the ground exploring. However, I have found my calling in group tours! The ease, comfort, and fun of group tours are addicting! So far, I’ve been on five group tours. My family has toured Australia, Italy, Greece, Egypt, and even taken a photo safari in Kenya, Africa.  

Group tours give you the opportunity to experience the culture and the people of the area you are visiting more fully and without worrying about the details of your trip. This might not happen if planning a trip on your own. Big decisions are made for you on a group tour. The hotel, most meals, and driving and entrance tickets are all handled, leaving you to relax and enjoy the experience. If there are any mishaps, the tour director will handle them. Your vacation is of the utmost importance.

Things I Love About Group Tours

1. Local Tour Leader

Our group tour leaders have been from the country we are visiting. They are the perfect hosts with language abilities and local knowledge of the region.

One big plus is the knowledge gained by having a tour leader. They have great insights about the region and share stories and anecdotes. They were chosen for their job because of their expertise and familiarity. Below are examples of how having a local tour leader saved me money and headaches. 

Egypt

In Egypt, at the pyramids, the tour leader guided us to trustworthy camel drivers and bartered the $20 fee. Other travelers were charged $250 just to dismount.

Australia

We were in Alice Springs, Australia, in the middle of the Outback. Our flight to Cannes was canceled. Our director called us in our hotel room. She had already informed the hotel we would be staying longer and rescheduled our flight and our airport transfers. Everything was handled.

Italy

In Italy, our tour leader efficiently took extra care of travelers who were not as mobile as they once had been. She had passenger carts waiting to whisk those travelers away to wait in cooler places and in shorter lines to visit the Vatican. Later, they talked about how wonderful their visit was as they could physically enjoy the day because of the extra care given by our tour guide.

Greece

Tour directors are your personal organizers. In Greece we discovered we had to leave the tour a day early and very quickly! Our tour director took over and scheduled our taxis, got our luggage, and kissed us goodbye.

2. Transportation Provided

It is a luxury to have transportation already arranged. Flights get delayed or canceled, and things happen. No matter what happens, the tour company is there to help. Travelers are met at the airport and guided through visa purchases and baggage retrieval. Once that’s complete, you never have to worry about transportation. The tour director lets you know what time the bus departs. Porters then handle your luggage. 

Pro Tip: Many tours include tipping the porters in the price of the trip. That’s one less thing to worry about! 

Tour buses often receive special consideration. You are dropped off in front of exhibits and in special areas passenger cars cannot enter. The buses take tour travelers to the door and when they are finished, voila, there they are to whisk you away. All transportation worries vanish.

Pro Tip: The bus drivers are tipped by you at the close of your visit. They are excellent photographers. Do not hesitate to ask them to take your photo!

3. First Access

Group tours have first access to many attractions. Directors sweep their groups inside, so you won’t be waiting in a 3-hour line like the one everyone complains about at the Sistine Chapel. When we were there, we walked right in with our tour guide, who introduced us to a Vatican guide who regaled us with stories of Michelangelo.

4. Most Meals Included

On group tours, most dinners are included and are carefully chosen for scenic locations and the variety of menus. Tour paperwork will disclose special dietary needs and the tour director ensures you will enjoy each meal. They have special needs covered. 

Typically, I book my tours through Affordable Tours. This company includes complimentary breakfast at your hotel. It’s usually a wonderful buffet that will fill you up until dinner!

About 85 percent of lunches and dinners are included. This helps keep everything on schedule. If the meal is not included, the tour director will recommend great local eateries that will give you a fee for the destination you are visiting.

Pro Tip: Arrange to have local currency in smaller bills for tipping and buying souvenirs. Aside from tipping your tour director and bus driver, most tipping is covered by the tour. Of course, you will still need to tip if you go outside of the group.

5. Accommodations Arranged

The tour has already reserved your rooms and arranged everything. No matter what time of day you arrive, you are granted immediate access to your room. There are no check-in or out times to worry about and no waiting for your room to be ready. The hotel is selected for security, comfort, and location. 

Pro Tip:  After a day of touring, hotels usually have a place downstairs where you can order a cool drink and talk with fellow tourists about the day. When you get to your room, your luggage will be waiting for you.

Possible Downsides Of A Group Tour

1. Too Many People

People who have anxiety about talking to others or do not like schedules may not enjoy group tours. You are with the same people for the majority of your tour. However, you do get to pick your seat on the bus. If you want to sit alone, sit on the aisle seat so no one can sit next to you.

2. The Annoying Person

There will be a person on your tour that feels they are special and deserve extra. The tour director knows exactly how to handle them. That is their job and it is not the first nor the last time they have to deal with “that person.” 

My Favorite Group Tour 

Choose tours based on the published itineraries of the cities or exhibits you want to visit. I use a group tour website called Affordable Tours. They contract with many established reputable tour companies. I have used this website for over 10 years and have had excellent, attentive service. Purchase one of the many tours offered by the different companies and Affordable Tours will assist with visas, travel insurance, and flights. 

People think group tours are expensive, but having traveled as much as I have, I consider them a bargain. The ease and comfort of knowing everything is decided is valuable. Having a driver and luggage handled is comfortable. Even tipping is included, aside from the driver and director.

Each tourist’s needs are met, whether they are dietary or mobility related. The director wants you to have a wonderful visit and works tirelessly toward that goal. Having decisions made will immeasurably enhance your excursion experience. The group tour is for the traveler who wants to relax and enjoy their travels.

Doing your group tour research? Don’t miss:

• 10 Amazing Small Group Travel Tours To Experience In 2023
• 9 Reasons I Always Take This Type Of Tour When I Visit A New City

Cherry blossoms, or sakura, have a special place in Japanese culture. They usher in the arrival of spring, the beginning of the farming season, and a time to congregate with friends and family to enjoy the pleasant weather. Many Japanese hold parties to celebrate hanami, the practice of watching the blossoms and contemplating life.

I visited in April of 2019, just in time to see the cherry blossoms and decide for myself whether they were worth the hype. Spoiler alert: They are. In fact, you could visit Japan just to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom, provided that you know where, when, and how to plan your trip. Here’s everything you need to know about cherry blossom season in Japan.

1. Peak Season Is Late January Through Early May

Booking your trip for optimal cherry blossom viewing will require some planning since sakura season starts early in southern Japan and then gradually moves north. According to the Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC), in 2023 “Northern Japan and eastern Japan will see flowering earlier than normal, while western Japan will see flowering at the same level as normal.”

In the south, Okinawa sees its first blooms in late January while Kyushu cities such as Fukuoka will start to see blooms in mid-March. Around Tokyo, the sakura bloom in mid to late March, while the Osaka area sakura trees begin blooming at the end of March. In mid-April, head to Aomori in the Tohoku region to see Ashino Park’s cherry blossoms. Sapporo cherry blossoms are expected to bloom in late April, while other areas of Hokkaido pop in early May.

If you’re planning a trip to a specific city, check the Japan cherry blossom forecast when booking your trip. It has data for cities such as Yokohama, Nagoya, Kumamoto, Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Kagoshima listed by region, including the Shikoku regions (home to Hiroshima) and the Kanto region (home to Tokyo), and more. The first forecasts of the year are typically released in early January.

When in doubt, book a few days later than the expected bloom date. Cherry blossoms only bloom for a week or two, and you’ll want to land in Japan during the peak bloom period when most of the cherry blossom trees are flowering.

2. Different Varieties Bloom At Different Times

Because the cherry blossom season is fairly short, you might miss the peak bloom even if you plan carefully. The good news: Different varieties of cherry blossoms bloom at different times. Late bloomers and early bloomers aren’t too difficult to find, and if you head to an area with a large number of trees, you’ll still have a perfectly pleasant experience.

In Tokyo, for instance, Shinjuku Gyoen has more than 1,000 cherry trees of different varieties, so you’ll see at least some of them blooming for at least a week after the peak bloom. If you miss the bloom in Nagano, you can head to Takato Castle Ruins Park, which has about 1,500 cherry trees.

When in doubt, ask the locals where to go or head to the largest public park you can find. As long as you’re within a week or so of the bloom, you’ll find some cherry trees showing their colors.

3. Be Flexible When Booking Your Accommodations

One morning in Tokyo, I started my day with a walk through Shinjuku Gyoen. Rows of beautiful cherry trees waved in the breeze, and I finally felt like the trip was worth the jet lag.

That incredible experience was an accident; I booked the cheapest hotel room I could find, which happened to be a few blocks away from Shinjuku Gyoen. When booking your accommodations, exercise a little more planning than I did. Look for hotels near parks or public transit lines. Japan’s excellent public transportation infrastructure makes the latter fairly easy, but if you’re hoping to stay near a park, you’ll need to do some research.

More importantly, recognize that flexibility is key. You might need to change your flight or your hotel reservations to ensure that you actually arrive in cherry blossom season — a cold snap could delay your trip by a few days — so look for hotels that allow for late changes or cancellations. If your airline offers an add-on that allows you to change your flight for free, pay for it.

4. More Than 30,000 Cherry Trees Bloom On Mount Yoshino

Located in Nara Prefecture, Mount Yoshino is one of the most popular spots for cherry blossom seekers. More than 30,000 cherry trees bloom here each spring, covering the mountain in extraordinary color.

This is also a great place to try an onsen, or natural hot spring bath. The nearby town, Yoshinoyama, has quite a few hot spring hotels, and some allow travelers to use their onsen for a small fee. Take a stroll by the mountain, snap a few pictures, and then find a hotel with an onsen where you can relax and reset.

5. See Nakameguro Cherry Blossom Illuminations Mid-March Through Early April

Tokyo has plenty of beautiful outdoor spaces like Yoyogi Park and Shinjuku Gyoen, and if you head to the capital city, you’ll have plenty of viewing spots to choose from.

However, one of the best places to experience hanami is the Meguro River near Nakameguro. Each year, a small portion of the river is lit with red lanterns; the sakura reflect off the water, creating a truly enchanting sight.

Pro Tip: One of the best cherry blossom spots in Tokyo is Ueno Park, which is home to the Ueno Zoo, museums, and over a thousand cherry trees.

6. Expect Crowds At Takato Castle Park In Nagano

The ruins of Takato Castle in Nagano Prefecture are well worth visiting at any time of year, but they’re truly incredible in spring. Book in advance, since the castle is extremely popular during sakura season owing to the 1,500 blossoming trees that cover the trails.

You’ll also get great views of the ruins, and if you’re interested in Japanese history, you’ll want to stop by the Takioyagura drum tower and the Shintokukan, a former samurai house. There’s even an art museum onsite, so plan on spending quite a bit of time here.

Pro Tip: Takato Castle Park just has the remains of a castle, but Hirosaki Castle Park in the Aomori Prefecture, another popular place for cherry blossom viewing, boasts a three-story castle complete with petal-filled moat and a botanical garden.

7. Some Over-The-Counter Allergy Medicine Is Illegal In Japan

When you’re surrounded by thousands of blossoms, they can certainly irritate your allergies. Of course, you can simply load up on allergy medication before your trip, but be careful. Some allergy medicines — including over-the-counter medications — can’t be brought into Japan legally in large quantities. Check out the U.S. Embassy’s page on the topic before your trip, and be sure to declare any and all medications when passing through customs.

You could also buy over-the-counter products during your trip, but note that they won’t include stimulants like pseudoephedrine, so they may make you drowsy. This Japan Drugstore Guide has an overview of Japanese allergy medications, along with pictures of their packaging (extremely useful if you don’t speak Japanese).

8. Cherry Blossoms Make Sweet Treats

Given that Japan has something of an obsession with cherry blossoms, it should come as no surprise that sakura-flavored desserts are a big deal throughout the country. To truly embrace the spirit of the season (and satisfy your sweet tooth), stop by a bakery and look for items adorned with cherry blossom petals.

If you’re looking to try something you can’t find anywhere else, stop by a café that serves sakura yokan. Yokan is a jelly made from the sweet red azuki bean mixed with honey or sugar. It’s similar to gelatin but much, much more flavorful. Sakura mochi, or sweet rice cakes, are also fairly easy to find during cherry blossom season.

Wrap up your meal with a sakura sake or a sakura tea. Both have a light, fragrant quality to them, though sakura tea is a bit easier to find (and a bit easier to drink, if you’re not a fan of rice wine).

Pro Tip: Be sure to follow proper dining etiquette; try to clean your plate completely, and if you use chopsticks, don’t raise them above your mouth.

9. Cherry Trees Have Special Significance In Japanese Culture

Every city will have public celebrations of hanami, including cherry blossom festivals. Regardless of where you head on your trip, you’ll encounter plenty of locals enjoying the sakura season.

For the Japanese, springtime isn’t just a time to enjoy pretty views; it’s a time to think about change and the impermanent nature of life. It’s a bittersweet time; high school students are graduating and leaving for college, the winter is ending, and unlimited possibilities are on the horizon.

To put it another way, sakura season is a time to walk slowly, breathe deeply, and enjoy every moment. It’s a time to stop and smell the flowers, literally. Keep that in mind during your visit, and you’ll see why cherry blossoms are so enchanting — and why they’re such an indispensable part of Japanese culture.

Pro Tip: How To Get The Best Photos Of Cherry Blossoms

If you’re planning on photographing the trees — and you absolutely should, by the way — you’ll want to turn off the automatic option on your camera or smartphone. Cherry blossoms tend to be light pastel colors, and cameras have trouble distinguishing them from the sky. If the blossoms make up the majority of your shot, it might end up looking underexposed.

Use your camera’s manual exposure mode to change the aperture and shutter-speed settings. Generally speaking, a slower shutter will give you a better result. Consider picking up a tripod to accommodate the slower shutter speeds.

Experiment with different settings, but don’t worry about editing your photos onsite. Try to shoot as much as possible. Remember, you can always edit out the mediocre pictures on your (extremely long) plane ride home.

Is there any more gorgeous a flower than the riotously colorful tulip? We adore these cheery harbingers of spring, and it turns out there’s a charming, picturesque city in Michigan that loves them just as much — if not more — than the rest of us. So much so that it hosts an 8-day bash devoted to these beautiful blooms each year, and it might just be the perfect destination for your next weekend getaway.

Holland, Michigan, located on the state’s western shore near Lake Michigan, is a 3-hour drive from Detroit and has a long and rich Dutch heritage. It’s also crazy for the flower that first became popular in Holland, a region and former province of the Netherlands. Since 1929, the Michigan town has played host to Tulip Time, a festival that features millions of blooming bulbs, art, entertainment, food, and lots of Dutch-themed fun.

Here are the best things to do during this terrific event.

1. Enjoy The Magnificent Blooms

You just can’t escape the festival’s lovely namesakes — nor would you want to! They are everywhere, a delightful riot of color spread throughout town. Holland’s parks and recreation Department plants a whopping 5 million bulbs across town every autumn. Sourced directly from the Netherlands, these beauties are typically in their full, glorious bloom the first week of May, when Tulip Time is held. Everywhere you turn, you’ll see festive splashes of red, pink, orange, yellow, and even purple, and there are perfect photo opportunities around every corner. Take in the floral splendor in parks and public spaces and along the roadsides — or tulip lanes — everywhere in town.

Tulip Time also features flower-specific activities and events for festivalgoers, including several walking tours, plus organized photo walks through the most scenic floral stretches of town. Also, back by popular demand, visitors can also take part in a special tulip immersion garden, featuring 50,000 tightly packed and perfectly planted blooms, with expert explanation and commentary from an internationally-lauded horticulturist. Talk about the perfect Instagram moment… be prepared to be dazzled!

New in 2023, you can even name a tulip bed after your family or a loved one. Talk about the perfect Mother’s Day tribute!

Even if you’re prone to allergies, you’ll have a great time: It turns out that tulips are some of the most hypoallergenic blooms out there.

2. Tulip Time Run

Want to flower-power your way through a unique and unforgettable workout? Then consider the Tulip Time Run to kick off your Holland visit. The event — which is held the first day of the festival and features both a 5k and a 10k — welcomes all paces, and you can’t beat the gorgeous views.

The race kicks off and also ends at Holland’s Kollen Park, right on the lovely shores of Lake Macatawa. You’ll run right through the tulip-lined streets of Holland, there’s terrific runner support, and we’ll challenge you to find a prettier spring race! Hint: it’s not going to happen!

3. Floral Arrangement Courses

Creating dazzling floral bouquets is an art, and if you’re inspired by Holland’s tulips to try it out, you’re in luck! Tulip Time is offering several hands-on floral arrangement sessions during the festival. In this hour-long course, you’ll learn the basics from award-winning floral designers, and even create your own masterpiece to take home. Tickets include your lesson and all the supplies you’ll need to build our own beautiful, one-of-a-kind creation.

4. Art Exhibits

Celebrating the arts has long been central to the Tulip Time Festival.

The Art in Bloem Fine Art Showcase focuses on pieces created by local artists. Here you’ll find the top 20 finalists in the Tulip Time artwork competition, and you can even participate in the Viewers’ Choice Awards by voting for your favorite image at the exhibit!

The Tulip Time Quilt Show is also a fan favorite, with the difficult and increasingly rare art form taking center stage. More than 100 hand-stitched quilts are on display, in a variety of styles, colors, and designs. Visitors can also buy raffle tickets for the chance to win a very special quilt: one created specifically to celebrate Tulip Time!

If you want to try your own hand at creating tulip-centered visual art, be sure to check out the Tulip Time Photo Walks. There, you’ll get tips and tricks from professional photographers about how to get the perfect image of these iconic flowers, and even have the chance to submit your photo to be considered for Tulip Time social media posts during the festival.

5. Windmill Island Gardens

The Only Authentic Dutch Windmill Still Operating In The U.S.

To experience Holland’s tulips in a truly Dutch setting, walk the 20 minutes from downtown to Windmill Island Gardens. The focal point of this beautiful spot is DeZwaan, the only authentic Dutch windmill operating in the United States. When we say operating, we really mean it: The mill grinds wheat flour and cornmeal that you can purchase on-site.

Climb to the fourth-floor deck for a gorgeous view of the grounds and gardens, which are perfect for strolling when the 100,000 tulips scattered across the three lush fields are in full bloom. As you can imagine, the gardens are bustling during Tulip Time, and for good reason. Tickets cost $12.

6. Tulip Time Parades

Volksparade

You’ll want to make time for at least one of the parades that take place during Tulip Time. The Volksparade is a traditional Dutch march that encourages crowd participation. First, the mayor dons ceremonial white gloves to inspect the cleanliness of the route. If the streets need scrubbing (and they most likely will!), you’ll see folks in traditional Dutch costumes bring out buckets and brooms for the spring cleaning needed for the parade to step off. After that, you’ll be treated to dozens of bands, community floats, and other entertainment. There’s also a Dutch dance performance just prior to the parade kick-off. 

Kinderparade

The Kinderparade — or children’s parade — is a sweet Tulip Time tradition for Holland’s youngest residents. Elementary school children will line up with their teachers and school administrators in full costume and march together through downtown Holland. Each school and grade will have its own theme that celebrates Dutch heritage.

Be sure to head downtown early to claim a spot for whatever parade you choose to view.

7. Traditional Dutch Dancing

Dutch dancing returns in a big way during the 2023 Tulip Time festivities. Costumed performers will show off traditional Dutch dance steps at Centennial Park in the middle of town. Expect lots of clomping in those clogs! There are also performances featuring far younger dancers as children from 3rd through 8th grade will also show off their talents. There are dance demonstrations each day during Tulip Time; be sure not to miss them!

Eating In Holland

During the Tulip Time Festival, Dutch cuisine takes center stage.

DeBoer Bakery is locally owned, and the people who live in Holland know that its two locations are the best places to go for pastries sweet and savory, including buttery krakelingen filled with almond paste and saucijzenbroodjes, or Dutch pigs in a blanket. Russ’, another locally owned favorite, features Tulip Time’s favorite Dutch pea soup.

Of course, you can enjoy Dutch cheese, beer, and sausage from vendors in and around downtown. And if you feel like mashing up your Dutch and Italian food faves, head to Hops at 84 East. Located downtown, this spot bakes up wood-fired pizzas with crusts made by DeBoer Bakery from flour milled at the local windmill. It’s truly full-circle cuisine!

Shopping In Holland

The shopping scene in Holland during Tulip Time tends to focus on all things floral, with artwork, textiles, and other home goods emblazoned with the bright spring blooms the festival celebrates. You’ll find tulip-themed gifts in nearly every downtown Holland boutique. You can also take home some tulip bulbs to plant in your own yard or garden once fall comes around.

You’ll find special Tulip Time souvenirs and much more, at the Artisan Market on the grounds of Beechwood Church. More than 150 juried artisans will offer their wares for sale at the market. If you work up an appetite while shopping, no worries, as food trucks will also be on site. And as an extra bonus: Dutch dancing demonstrations will take place during the duration of the market!

Where To Stay In Holland

There are three downtown hotels in Holland, which tend to book up fairly quickly for Tulip Time: the newly revamped Haworth Hotel on the campus of Hope College, a Courtyard by Marriott property conveniently located along the main parade route, and the modern, chic CityFlatsHotel.

If you can’t snag a room downtown, don’t worry: There are 2,000 additional hotel rooms within 3 to 4 miles of downtown, with accommodations to fit every budget. Homesharing sites like Airbnb and Vrbo are other options to consider, especially if you’re traveling with a larger group.

What To Know Before You Go

There’s no getting around the fact that there will be crowds at Tulip Time, especially on the weekends. Saturdays tend to be the busiest. Be sure to pack your patience, and just focus on having a terrific time! 

Also, this should go without saying, but we’ll go ahead and mention it: Although it might be quite tempting to do so, do not pick or cut any of the tulips on display in Holland unless you have express permission. It’s the only way to keep the blooms beautiful for everyone who visits during this special event.

Related Reading:

• How To Spend A Beautiful Weekend In Charming Holland, Michigan
• The 8 Best Tulip Festivals In The U.S.
• How To Visit Washington’s Skagit Valley Tulip Fields
• 7 Gorgeous Gardens To Visit In Michigan

Traveling to specific places at specific times of the year can yield stunning results, especially if you plan it right. Spring will be here before you know it, and with its arrival come some amazing opportunities to see and experience things that only happen for short periods of time. Here are five must-sees for this spring.

1. Sandhill Crane Migration

Nebraska

For some reason, some 10,000 years ago, a flock of sandhill cranes chose an area in central Nebraska as a rest stop as they continued their journey north after spending the winter in southern North America. The annual sandhill crane migration has become a historic event and lasts between six to eight weeks every spring.

About one million cranes descend on a 100-mile section of Nebraska called Central Flyway. It’s located between Grand Island, Kearney, and North Platte. It’s believed that the Platte River’s sandbars provide natural protection for the birds as they huddle together, recharging.

One recommended area for viewing is the Fort Kearny State Recreation Area. Here you’ll need a state-issued parking permit. It’s recommended that you visit around sunset, as this is when the sandhill cranes come in to roost each night. As the sun sets, the sky is filled with thousands of cranes. Keep your ears open for the bugle-like calls.

2. Blooming Wildflowers

Great Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains in East Tennessee are home to some of the most spectacular sights in the country — waterfalls, lush mountain ridges, and a landscape that never ends. But in the springtime, the blooming wildflowers steal the show.

Each spring, lasting through fall, the first blooms begin to appear throughout the forests and along the trails of Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The blooms grow upslope as the season proceeds and evolve as the elevation changes. Look for the little white or pink blossoms, the larger blooms of various trilliums, and the white petals and golden stamens of bloodroot.

Some of the best places to find the wildflowers include Little River Trail, Katani Fork Trail, Cove Hardwoods Nature Trail, Porters Creek Trail, Chestnut Top Trail, and Lead Cove Trail to Spence Field. Check online for dates and times for the annual Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage, which takes place near the end of April.

3. Gray Whale Migration

Oregon

There are two peak seasons to see grey whales off the coast of Oregon. The winter, between mid-December and mid-January, and the spring from late February through May. This is when as many as 20,000 gray whales begin to migrate between the cold seas off Alaska and their breeding lagoons down south near Baja, Mexico.

The grays can reach as long as 50 feet and weigh around 30 tons. The best way to see them is to scan the horizon with the naked eye, looking for spouts. Once you see one, have a pair of binoculars ready and zoom in.

Another great way to maximize your experience is to travel and attend the state’s Whale Watch Weeks. During these events, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department stations volunteer at 24 of the best viewing sites along the coast. The dates for this spring’s Oregon Whale Watch Week are Tuesday, March 28th to Sunday, April 2nd, 2023.

4. Shed Antlers

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

A new activity that is gaining popularity all across America is shed antler hunting. But if you’re looking for the premiere place to “hunt,” you need to be in Wyoming’s Jackson Hole valley.

In nature, male deers, caribou, elk, and moose grow new antlers each spring, after shedding last year’s antlers in the winter. The shedded antlers find new homes on the floors of forests and fields. That’s where the fun begins. In the spring, thousands of folks take to the woods in pursuit of finding the antlers.

In Wyoming, shed antler hunting season opens at midnight on May 1, when the winter wildlife closure ends. The Jackson Antler Opener kicks off at the National Elk Refuge, which is home to as many as 10,000 elk. Here, or at the neighboring 3.4-million-acre Bridger-Teton National Forest, is where you can find as many antlers as you can carry.

5. New Life In The Wetlands

Louisiana’s Barataria Preserve

They don’t call Louisiana a sportsman’s paradise for nothing. But even if you’re not into hunting or fishing, the hunt to see wildlife is a sport on its own. One of the premier places to find such sport is in the swamps of the Barataria Preserve, just outside of New Orleans.

Every spring, as the winter temperatures begin to rise, the park’s wildlife, including alligators, awakens along with the park’s plant life. In early April, the preserve’s Visitor Center Trail comes alive as spring blooms of spiderworts, dewberries, buttercups, and wild vetch erupt into a dazzling show of color.

Sadly, the springtime tradition of the blooming of giant blue irises, which filled the entire preserve, has been greatly reduced due to Hurricane Katrina in 2009. But, slowly, it appears the blue iris population is trying to make a comeback, so keep an eye open for these charmers.

There are plenty of other trails to explore and the park recommends staying on the trail because too many people have trampled the beautiful flowers that grow all around the park. Here’s a full list of what’s blooming at Barataria.

Related Reading:

1. 6 Fantastic Places To See California’s Gorgeous Wildflowers This Spring
2. My 5 Favorite Springtime Experiences In The Arizona Desert
3. 7 Best Towns In Texas To See Fields Of Bluebonnets

There is no surer sign of spring approaching than seeing the first snowdrop peeking through the snow, or a crocus popping up through the grass. It brings cheer and hope, especially if you live in a place where winters are quite harsh. And even though just a single flower can make your heart soar, bring a smile to your face, and make you happy for the rest of the day, when the flowers come en masse, lots of them in one spot, it is even better.

In Europe, especially northern Europe, where seasons are quite pronounced, the arrival of spring flowers is an event to be enjoyed and searched out. And be they planted or wild, popping up in organized rows or on a meadow in the mountains, there are some great places to visit and marvel at what spring is creating.

I have listed here a wide variety of places where to enjoy the spectacle of emerging spring flowers, all stunningly beautiful and well worth changing your travel dates for.

1. Keukenhof, Netherlands

Tulips

This is undoubtedly the most famous spring flower destination in the world. Keukenhof Gardens opens in late March each year and remains open for around a month and a half. It celebrates the humble tulip — the national flower of the Netherlands — in all its various shapes and colors. Planted in rows, in swirls, around trees, and along paths, some 7 million bulbs produce a spectacle unlike any other. And there are not only tulips to see in Keukenhof, but other gorgeous flowers such as orchids, roses, daffodils, hyacinths, irises, lilies, and many more. Most reside in the outside gardens, but others can be found in the large pavilions, making this a perfect place to visit during the unpredictable weather of spring. A mere 25 miles from Amsterdam, Keukenhof is an ideal day trip from the capital.

Pro Tip: When booking your ticket, also book the Combiticket for bus and train, which will make using public transport from central Amsterdam very easy. Or you can rent a bike and ride to Keukenhof along dedicated cycle paths. There are even recharging points at the entrance for your e-bike.

2. Paris, France

Cherry Blossoms

Spending springtime in Paris is magical at the best of times, with the 400-plus parks all bursting into flower, but combine it with cherry blossom viewing and you are in for a real treat. Within the city limits, the best places to go to enjoy the pink blossoms are the Square Marie Trintignant, between the Marais and the Seine; the tiny Square Gabriel Pierne by the Institut Francais; the amazing Jardin de Reuilly Paul Pernin along the Coulee Verte; and the Jardin des Plantes, with its large, ancient cherry tree.

But for a complete blow-your-mind experience, take the RER B for a 20-to-30-minute ride from Gare du Nord to the Sceaux or Parc de Sceaux stations, and head to the Chateau de Sceaux. In its gardens, designed by Andre le Notre of Tuileries and Versailles fame, lies an old cherry orchard that is filled with some 150 trees, all laden down with pink fluffy blossoms. It is a sight you won’t ever forget. Just bring a picnic and settle under a tree, and you have the makings of a perfect day out.

Pro Tip: Take your time and also explore the cute chateau, the park, and Sceaux itself, which is a pretty little village.

3. Tuscany, Italy

Poppies

Do you need another excuse to embark on that dream road trip through Tuscany? Okay, here it is: At the end of April and the beginning of May, the fields across Tuscany are not green but red. Poppies pop up everywhere, and the effect is amazing. Interspersed with other wildflowers, nearly everywhere is filled with endless expanses of poppies, and you can drive for hours, stopping off regularly for pictures, seeing these delicate pretty flowers next to the roads. There is no place where there are more poppies, but if I had to name one region, maybe the Val d’Orcia, south of Siena — a good place to just drive and enjoy.

Pro Tip: Give it another 2 months and you can enjoy pretty much the same fields not covered in red poppies but yellow sunflowers. It is really up to your personal preference which ones you choose to go and see.

4. Ashridge Estate, England

Bluebells

There is something very special about bluebells, those tiny little bells, more of a slightly purple hue than blue, but stunning nevertheless. You can often see them wild on meadows or even in some gardens, but there is nothing more spectacular than walking through a dense forest, with only a few shards of light reaching down through the canopy, and discovering the entire forest floor covered in bluebells. There are a few spots like this across Europe. I have walked among bluebells in North Yorkshire and near Fontainebleau in France, but another stunner is on the Ashridge Estate between Watford and Luton, roughly an hour’s drive north of London. Dedicated paths allow you to walk along this carpet of flowers without damaging them.

Pro Tip: You can get to Tring Station by train from London Euston, it’s roughly a 50-minute ride. From Tring, it’s less than a 2-mile walk to the estate.

5. Tatra Mountains, Poland

Crocuses

Deep in the heart of the Tatra Mountains, along the border of Slovakia and Poland, lie meadows that turn from green to purple each spring. From the end of March, the meadows, set against the snow-covered rugged mountainous landscape, are covered in millions of tiny crocuses all of the same purple color. With a short lifespan of 2–3 weeks, this spectacle is a brief one, but so worth going out of your way for. Most of these meadows are far away from civilization, in a stunning landscape devoid of people, but one of the more accessible places in Chochołowska Valley, around 60 miles south of Krakow. These little flowers are under protection, and it is forbidden to break or pick them, so tread carefully.

Pro Tip: If you are visiting Poland but have no chance of venturing into the mountainous south, try the city Szczecin (pronounced “zuh-chin”) in the north near the Baltic Sea instead. Not quite a wild phenomenon, the city, however, has planted its own version of the so-called purple carpet in its parks.

6. Andalucía, Spain

Almond Blossoms

Because of its southern location, the almond blossom is (nearly) a winter flower experience, as the flowering season starts as early as January but lasts into March, so I am including it here. In sunny Andalucía, in the Axarquia region of Malaga, they grow almonds across some 150,000 hectares (around 370,658 acres) of hilly land, and when the trees burst into flower, bit by bit and in different hues ranging from white to dark pink, it is a sight to see. This is a perfect road trip region, and following the Ruta de Almendra, or the “Almond Route,” will ensure you get the best viewpoints of the valleys filled with tree blossoms.

If you want more than to simply drink in the views, why not stop at Almendrera del Sur in the hillside community of Cartama, where you can learn more about the almond products, sample them, and buy almonds in all sorts of forms as perfect souvenirs?

Pro Tip: While you are on your road trip through Andalucía, head to Cordoba, less than 100 miles inland from Malaga, where every second week of May a festival of flowers takes place. On the UNESCO list of Intangible Heritage, the Courtyards Festival of Cordoba allows you a peek into the city’s best courtyards, private and public, to check out the owners’ green fingers. The courtyards filled with flowers, potted plants, and scents are nearly overwhelming.

7. Farndale, England

Daffodils

Up in the North York Moors, 33 miles north of York, lies what is known as Daffodil Dale, a valley full of cheery yellow daffodils. There is a dedicated walk, some 3.5 miles long, with shorter and longer versions, which takes flower lovers through the countryside dotted with the pretty spring flowers. What makes this even more special is that these are not the cultivated tall varieties you find in flower shops, but wild-growing daffodils, which are a little shorter than the best-known types. Combining the beautiful Yorkshire countryside with a walk and countless wild, natural flowers makes for a beautiful day out. The walks are easy, not steep, but at times a little muddy, so come prepared with “sensible” shoes.

Pro Tip: If you roll your eyes at a 3.5-mile walk, and prefer a decent hike, why not try the Coast to Coast Path, which also takes in Farndale? From Robin Hood’s Bay in the east across the entire country to St. Bees Head on the west, the 195 miles can be done in bite-sized segments.

8. Rome, Italy

Wisteria

Rome is a surprisingly green city, and in April, the Italian capital turns into a soft purple-hued city. Wisteria is a gorgeous plant, a creeper with stunning purple grape-like flowers, but when it’s not the season, it is easily overlooked. So it comes as a bit of a surprise when in spring, suddenly insignificant-looking vines outside houses creeping along walls and stretching along ancient ruins suddenly burst into spectacular flowers. Look out for the blooms around Roseto Comunale, Villa Celimontana Park, Piazza Venezia, along the neighborhoods of Trastevere and Monti, and even on the Roman Forum.

Pro Tip: Head out to Tivoli, to Hadrian’s Villa, for some more spectacular spring flowers, including wisteria.

Spring is coming, so be sure to check out these articles to wring in the new season:

• 5 Fantastic Locations To View Yellow Blooms During Napa Valley’s Mustard Season
• 9 Fantastic Wine Buys For Springtime Sipping, According To A Sommelier
• Millions Of Daffodils Are Blooming Right Now In North Georgia, How You Can See Them

Whenever I visit a new-to-me city, I schedule a tour with a local tour company. There’s no better way to get the lay of the land than to grab your shoes and hit the streets. And with a local leading you around town, you’ll learn way more, way faster than you would on your own. I have a particular fondness for culinary tours. There’s nothing better than enjoying great, local food and getting to know the stories behind it.

On my recent visit to New Orleans, I was lucky enough to experience a fabulous food tour that took us through the foods of the French Quarter. While there are lots of great food tours to choose from in NOLA, the city offers tours on almost any subject you can think of. From cemeteries to cocktails, there’s a tour (or two) for everyone. Here are some of the most amazing tours to experience in New Orleans.

1. New Orleans Food Walking Tour Of The French Quarter

Destination Kitchen

When you visit a food-centric city like New Orleans, a food tour is a must. A tour with Destination Kitchen Food Tours is perfect if you’re looking for a locally-led, small food tour, with lots of stops at unique places in the French Quarter. Our tour leader, Susan, led our group of 13 on a 3-hour walking food crawl all through the Quarter.

One of the first things she pointed out is that New Orleans is a city on the brink of a party — pretty much at all times. After all, the city is quickly sinking, and tomorrow is promised to no one. So it’s always drink-o’clock in NOLA. And with that, we were off to sample all the wonderful dishes (and cocktails) New Orleans is known for. At the top of my list are the boudin on a stick, the po’ boy, and the Southern fly cocktail.

Honestly, I think it’d be tough to find bad food or drink in New Orleans. Gastronomy is what they’re known for here. So while you can find good food on your own, you can’t learn about the history and culture of the people and the city unless you do a tour. Destination Kitchen provides expert, local tour leaders that know their stuff.

They’re a local, small business that’s based in New Orleans, not a gigantic tour company with offices in every city. The folks here are either native New Orleanians or have been here long enough that they’re the next best thing. This personal connection is what makes their tours a cut above.

2. New Orleans Garden District Tour

Two Chicks Walking Tours

If you want to learn about the Garden District, one of the most exclusive areas of New Orleans, a walking tour is the way to go. Two Chicks Walking Tours offers a great walking tour through the Garden District. See incredible homes and learn about the neighborhood’s history on this 2-hour tour.

Two Chicks Walking Tours is a small, locally owned tour company that’s been doing tours for about 10 years. We spent a couple of hours with our tour leaders, walking through the neighborhood viewing gorgeous homes, grand gardens teeming with all sorts of flowers and plants, and hearing fascinating tidbits about the history of the Garden District. Our Two Chicks tour guide was a wealth of knowledge about the area and the city of New Orleans in general.

We learned a lot about why the city has a “French” quarter, along with information about the original American sector of town. You’ll see magnificent homes built in a wide range of architectural styles including my favorite, the Greek Revival style. Known for its historic mansions and a range of architectural styles, the Garden District is one of the most fabulous areas in New Orleans.

We liked Two Chicks because they have insider information about famous people who have lived in the Garden District. Most of these historic homes have at least some intriguing history attached to them. Two Chicks will give you the low-down.

3. Treme/Storyville/Cemetery/Voodoo Tour

NOLA Historic Tours

If you’re looking for a combo tour that highlights multiple areas of the city and covers history, culture, and religion, book the Treme/Storyville/Cemetery/Voodoo Tour with Nola Historic Tours. A provider of educational and entertaining tours in the city since 1995, Nola Historic Tours does unique tours that you won’t find anywhere else, and their guides are some of the best. 

According to NOLA Historic Tours President Robert Florence, they look for guides that have impressive credentials on paper, but more importantly, they hire tour guides that have great communication skills, charisma, warmth, and a sense of humor.

As part of the cemetery tour, you’ll tour St. Louis Cemetery #2, the historic above-ground cemetery where many notable African American historical figures and musicians are buried. Among those buried here are Henriette Delille, founder of the Sisters of the Holy Family, the nation’s second oldest order of African American nuns; Jordan Noble, the free military drummer who drummed commands in 4 different wars; and early civil rights publishers Jean Baptiste Roundanez and Paul Trevigne.

If you’re into voodoo, this is the tour for you! You’ll visit Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, New Orleans’ oldest surviving Catholic Church, and learn about the connection between West African spiritual beliefs and Roman Catholicism. This is one tour offers a little bit of a lot of subjects that will appeal to a diverse group. So if your group can’t agree on just one tour, do this one with NOLA Historic Tours.

Pro Tip: If you want to visit St. Louis Cemetery #2, you need to go on a tour because it’s closed to the public due to recurrent vandalism issues.

4. New Orleans Streetcar Cocktail Crawl

Self-Guided Cocktail Tour On St. Charles Avenue

A self-guided cocktail tour through the Big Easy is a fun way to spend an afternoon. Did you know that New Orleans has a streetcar system that’s easy to navigate? To help promote the streetcar system and the local watering holes, the city has created a tour that allows you to experience both.

Jump on the St. Charles Streetcar and begin your New Orleans Streetcar Cocktail Crawl. This low-commitment tour allows you to plan your stops, using the framework of the streetcar stops. For only a few dollars you can ride the streetcar all day. The route goes from South Carrollton Avenue to St. Charles Avenue, and then into downtown. Stop at any or all of these restaurants and bars for a drink.

Cooter Brown’s is a sports bar where you can grab a cold beer and freshly shucked oysters. The Delachaise, a French wine bar, offers frog legs and frites with wine. To get a look at the New Orleans skyline, head to the Pontchartrain Hotel rooftop bar, the Hot Tin, where the views are amazing.

5. Burlesque NOLA Or NOLA Literary Craft Cocktail

NOLA Historic Tours

A salon tour is a unique splurge experience for people who are interested in history and culture and want to actually experience what life was like in the city’s early years. These Salon experiences combine a live, interactive experience and make the history and culture of New Orleans come alive.

NOLA Historic Tours offers several Salon Experiences, or you can create your own. Listen to readings from New Orleans literary greats like William Faulker, Ernest Hemingway, and Truman Capote and indulge in a cocktail they enjoyed.

Or, take in a live burlesque show as many did back in the day when New Orleans was a burlesque hot spot, and learn the stories of some of the most famous dancers. If you’d rather create your tour NOLA Historic Tours can customize a once-in-a-lifetime salon experience for just about any subject you may be interested in.

6. Our Favorite Ghosts

Unique NOLA Tours

Are you looking for spooky fun after dark? If you’re into paranormal activity, the Our Favorite Ghosts tour from Unique NOLA Tours may be just what you’re after. After all, New Orleans is known far and wide as one of the most haunted cities in the United States. In fact, many of the famous ghost-chasing series like Ghost Hunters, Ghost Adventures, and even American Horror Story have all filmed in New Orleans.

More specifically, the French Quarter is said to be a hotbed for ghosts and goblins. This 2-hour tour winds through the French Quarter, going to the highly haunted spots, where you’ll learn the history of all the ghostly activities that took place here. At one French Quarter stop, the St. Louis Cemetery, you may even catch one of the city’s most well-known ghosts, Marie Laveau, a Creole woman who was quite fond of practicing voodoo. Legend has it that she enjoys hanging around her tomb!

Pro Tip: This ghost tour commences in the evening when it’s dark and creepy!

Enjoying a local tour with a local tour operator is the best way to learn about a new city. These New Orleans tour guides are professionals and they know their stuff. No matter which tour you decide to try, you’re practically guaranteed to learn something new and have some fun.

There is something magical about driving and seeing the eye-catching beauty of wildflowers on both sides of the road. It’s what makes an ordinary road trip more the merrier.

Each year around the first of April, beautiful wildflowers start popping up all over Texas, and many wonderful wildflower drives occur by Texans and out-of-state travelers. Texas has over 5,000 species of wildflowers, but the most common ones are bluebonnets (Texas’s state flower), Indian paintbrush, pink evening primrose (known as a buttercup to Texans), Indian blankets, Texas bluebell, dandelion, brown-eyed Susan, white prickly poppy, and about twenty more.

I have many memories as a child playing with wildflowers and took for granted that they would always be around. Sometimes when walking by a dandelion, I pick it and make a wish. Wondering now if other Texans do that. Or all those times I would tell someone to smell a buttercup only to leave tiny bits of yellow matter on their noses. Then we would laugh.

If planning accordingly, there are several wildflower festivals to catch in a few of the small towns listed below. Springtime is definitely an awe-inspiring season to visit Texas and to play in the fields of wildflowers. Here are nine of the state’s best wildflower drives to explore for rich beauty and excellent photo opportunities.

In general, the best time to see fields of wildflowers in Texas is March through May, with the peak season being in April.

1. Northeast Texas

Linden, Avinger, Hughes Springs

A showcase of beautiful yellow fringed orchids, coreopsis, Indian paintbrush, phlox, and other wildflowers are sprawled out over this 40-mile triangle route through these tri-cities. This drive gives you a taste of what is to come on the expanded 128-mile route along Highways 43 and 49 down to Marshall and back up to Linden, should you want to continue. There are massive wildflowers such as the coneflower, dogwoods, field pansy, bachelor buttons, bluebonnets, and more to see. Wow, to me, that’s worth going the full route. Some of these flowers, I buy to plant in my flower pots and garden at home! The tri-cities host an annual Wildflower Trails of Texas celebration in Linden on the fourth weekend in April.

Tip: After exploring this area and before heading back to Linden, you may want to stop in the quaint town of Jefferson to get a photo of yourself in front of the iconic blue truck that’s parked downtown.

2. East Texas

Palestine, Rusk, Alto, Nacogdoches, Crockett

On this drive, you’ll wind through these towns spotting beautiful blooming trees, like the dogwood and the redbud, along with winecups and other wildflowers. If you start in Nacogdoches, you’ll drive through the Davy Crockett National Forest, then onto Crockett, then to Palestine, making your way back to Nacogdoches. And, while in Palestine, you may want to visit Davey Dogwood Park to see the gorgeous bloomed-out dogwoods. If in the area in the middle of March through the first of April, catch the Texas Dogwood Trails Celebration.

3. Mrs. Lee’s Daffodil Garden

Gladewater

You may want to make a quick stop in Gladewater (East Texas) if you love golden daffodils. Beginning mid-February to March, you’ll see millions of them scattered all over Mrs. Lee’s Daffodil Garden. If you have any plans at all to visit the charming town of Tyler, Texas, for a weekend getaway, Gladewater is about twenty-five miles north and is worth a drive to see the lovely yellow dainty flower.

Tip: There is no cost to enter the garden, and you can walk around the garden at your leisure seven days a week.

4. Washington County

Brenham, Burton, Independence, Washington, Chappell Hill

On this route into Washington County, you’ll come across blankets of bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush, thistles, purple coneflower, verbena, and so many more wildflowers to many to name here. This area is one of my favorite places to visit for family fun, and it showcases some of the best of Texas’s spring wildflower scene.

My grandson and I went camping in this area, and we made a mad dash to charming Brenham, Texas, where we ordered a scoop of ice cream at the nostalgic Blue Bell Ice Cream Parlor for only $1.

Tip: If making your way for that $1 scoop of ice cream is on your to-do list (which it should be), take note that the ice cream parlor is not open on weekends.

5. Brazoria County

West Columbia, Angleton, Lake Jackson, Brazoria

Brazoria County is located in the Gulf Coast region of Texas. So, if visiting Galveston is on your bucket list, you could drive the wildflower route in West Columbia, Angleton, Lake Jackson, and Brazoria and then spend a great day in Galveston and possibly stay overnight. You can see spider lily, black-eyed Susan, bluebonnets, morning glory vine, and wild indigo along this route. Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge offers the sites of tropical sage, coreopsis, yellow thistle, and sea oxeye daisy if you have time.

6. Texas Hill Country

Lampasas, Burnet, Marble Falls, Johnson City, Fredericksburg

Aww, probably the most driven route in Texas. I say that because it’s a forgiving piece of land out there and known for many things like great weather, wanderlust, and wine, to name a few of my favorites! It’s always okay to drive with the top down while viewing the many wildflowers that grace Texas Hill Country.

My favorite backroad to take to get to the wonderful scenery, and the one you’ll want to take, is down Highway 281 to Lampasas if coming from the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Coming from any other area, Austin is nice, but try to avoid going through the city — and instead take the backroads. If you end up in Fredericksburg, Texas, which is not a bad place to end a gorgeous ride, check out Wildseed Farms for many Texas memorabilia and souvenirs.

Tip: Burnet hosts its annual Bluebonnet Festival in April.

7. Red Poppy Trail

Georgetown

Springtime is when all the little red poppies come out to play with Georgetown’s residents and visitors. I spent a fantastic weekend in Georgetown during the holidays and got a glimpse of what the town will look like in the spring. You guessed it — all red. If you love the color red, you’ll love their small-town vibe. Known as one of the best areas to see the red poppy wildflower, the whole town is red all year long. But mark your calendar for this wildflower trail in April and for their Red Poppy Festival at the end of April.

8. Western Hill Country

Bandera, Leakey

If you’ve ever driven through the mountains of Bandera, you know that this drive is spectacular year-round. Add exceptional wildflower blooms to the mix, and you’ve got an awesome drive waiting to happen. On this wildflower drive, expect to see bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush, evening primrose, penstemon, mountain laurel, Blackfoot daisy, and gorgeous redbud trees as you meander through the towns of Utopia, Vanderpool, and Medina before you circle to where you started.

9. Big Bend Country

Alpine, Terlingua, Lajitas, Presidio, Marfa

If you’ve never been to this part of Texas, you may think there’s nothing there to see but land — and lots of it. But don’t make that mistake. Big Bend Country is where you can enjoy nature all day long at the Big Bend National Park. The towns in this area, Terlingua and Marfa, get visitors all the time for outdoor adventures and glamping. But, when the wildflowers, or desert blooms, some call them, start popping up, you better believe this area is a must-see. No matter where you start, this route is one big circle, and anticipate seeing blind cactus, rainbow cactus, strawberry pitaya, ocotillo, yucca, and desert marigold. Those who wander to the national park expect to see bluebonnets, cacti, more yucca, and more.

Tip: In this area, flower blooms depend on great rainfall. So it’s possible to see wildflowers in the summer months if enough rain has fallen. Also, don’t be afraid to drive on unpaved roads or canyons to see wildflowers, but be safe.

Pro Tip

Did you know it’s not illegal to pick wildflowers in Texas, not even the bluebonnets? However, you wouldn’t want to go on private property to pick them. So many people (Texans included) thought picking bluebonnets was against the law, but it’s not. So bring along a vase or two on your wildflower drives, pick some good ones for a lovely flower arrangement, and leave the rest in the fields so they can grow again next spring — and the next and the next.

The canons that dot the peaceful, rolling hills of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, have long been silenced, but the memories of the battle that took place here in 1863 lingers, echoing through the centuries via the hundreds of monuments and gravestones that have become permanent reminders. 

But the history of this charming eastern Pennsylvania town is much more than the famous Civil War battle. There was life here beyond the soldiers, beyond the booming canons, beyond the tragedy on the battlefield. Civilians attempted to continue with their lives the best they could as the war raged on around them. 

An exploration of this side of the town’s history adds a new dimension and understanding of the famous Battle of Gettysburg. The best way to do that is by visiting some of the town’s historic homes. Let’s explore five historic homes in Gettysburg that bring this side of its history to life.

1. Shriver House Museum

We often think of the Battle of Gettysburg in terms of the soldiers who lost their lives over those bloody 3 days in July 1863, but the civilian population also paid a heavy price. A visit to the Shriver House Museum re-opens the door to civilian life before, during, and after the battle.

The Shriver House was built in 1860 by 18-year-old George Shriver to not only begin a family with his wife Hettie, but also a new business, the Shriver Saloon and Ten-Pin (as in bowling) Alley. When the Civil War began, Shriver was called into service. As the battle in Gettysburg began, George’s wife Hettie fled their home with their two daughters for safety’s sake, only to find themselves right in the middle of the heaviest fighting at Little Round Top. When they finally returned home days later, they found it had been commandeered for use as a hospital.

Fast forward to the late 1990s, when restoration of the home began to bring it back to its original beauty. In the process, many fascinating artifacts were found and are now part of the museum’s collection.

Each room of the home looks like it has been frozen in time. Guided tours led by entertaining and informative docents dressed in period clothes take you through its history, including the basement saloon and the Confederate sniper nest in the attic. While the tour is only 30 minutes long, plan on spending at least an hour here to roam the 19th-century garden and museum.

The house and museum are closed in January for maintenance. They reopen on Valentine’s Day and President’s Day weekends in February, weekends only in March, then hours and dates vary for the remainder of the year. Visit the Shriver House website for a complete schedule and to purchase tickets. Be sure to book your reservation well in advance.

2. Farnsworth House Inn

The building that the Farnworth House Inn calls home pre-dates the Battle of Gettysburg by over 53 years. Construction began in 1810, with the now-familiar brick addition being added in 1833.

The inn is named for Brigadier General Elon John Farnsworth, who died along with 65 of his troops during the battle’s infamous Pickett’s Charge. During the battle, the house was used by Confederate sharpshooters to take down Union troops. Sadly, it is believed that 20-year-old Mary “Jennie” Wade was accidentally shot by these shooters, becoming the only civilian killed during the battle.

We’ll visit Jennie’s house in a moment, but right now, we are at the Farnsworth, where the event schedule is packed with fun and interesting experiences. Don’t miss the Haunted Cellar Presentation, where you will learn the history of the house and life in the mid-1800s. There are also spooky tours and presentations, like a reading of Edgar Allen Poe’s works, an exploration of the potential connection between Gettysburg and Jack the Ripper, and ghost tours and paranormal nights. Book your reservations online.

The Farnsworth is also a B&B. Visitors can spend the night in one of 10 authentically appointed rooms that will transport you back in time to the mid-1800s. Each room is double occupancy and well worth the experience. Reservations can be made online.

The Farnsworth also serves up incredible homestyle and fine dining. For the latter, enjoy amazing Pennsylvania Dutch–inspired dishes in the Meade and Lee Dining Room. The warm and comforting Maryland crab soup comes highly recommended as a starter, followed by the melt-in-your-mouth General Farnsworth’s Prime Rib served up with au jus and a side of horseradish aioli as the main dish. Everything is served by the wait staff dressed in period clothing. Reservations are required. Visit the Farnsworth website for information and hours of operation.

For something a little more homestyle, visit the beer garden and patio area or the family-friendly Sweney’s Tavern. Reservations are not required, but hours vary. Visit the website for the latest schedule.

3. Jennie Wade House

I mentioned 20-year-old Mary Virginia “Jennie” Wade earlier. She tragically became the only civilian killed during the battle when she was struck by a bullet while kneading dough in the kitchen. Jennie’s actual home, the Jennie Wade House, is a fascinating museum that takes you back to that fateful day.

The home has not changed much since the day Jennie died. It is decorated with historic artifacts and furniture of the period and is pockmarked with bullet holes from the battle. The only thing that has changed is that the home is now surrounded by modern buildings and a parking lot — but still, it is an interesting tour, brought to life by incredibly knowledgeable tour guides dressed in period clothes who know the history of Jennie, the home, and the events of the day inside and out.

There is a small admission fee.

4. Dobbin House Tavern

The Dobbin House Tavern is the oldest house in Gettysburg, dating back to 1776. Up until recently, the Dobbin House offered a fascinating 1-hour tour of the home, retelling almost 100 years of American history — from its earliest days to the Battle of Gettysburg, during which the home was used as a field hospital. A secret crawlspace was used to hide runaway slaves along the Underground Railroad. The tavern is hoping to restart the tours again in spring 2023 so you can once again roam through its authentically decorated rooms and antiques.

In the meantime, you can still experience the charm of the Dobbin House by dining in one of its two restaurants. For casual dining, try the stone-walled Springhouse Tavern for delicious sandwiches hot off the grill. I recommend the crabcake sandwich with Dijon balsamic mayo, lettuce, and tomato served on a brioche bun. Reservations are not required.

You can also experience fine Colonial-style dining at one of the candlelit tables of the Alexander Dobbin Dining Room. Hearty meals include the Roast Duck Adams County, which is roasted in Adams County apples and hard cider that warm the soul.

As with many restaurants around the country, staff shortages are causing increased wait times, and unfortunately, the Alexander Dobbin Dining Room has had to restrict the number of reservations they can take each evening. Make your dining reservation one week in advance at the very least.

5. Eisenhower National Historic Site

The 34^th president of the United States and World War II hero Dwight D. Eisenhower — “Ike” — found respite from the rigors of the office and Washington, D.C., at his farm nestled in the Gettysburg countryside, next to the battlefield. Ike would often retreat to the farmhouse on weekends with his wife, Mamie, or bring world leaders to this tranquil setting for important discussions.

Today, Eisenhower’s farmhouse and outlying buildings are operated and maintained by the National Park Service, which offers insightful tours of the farm and illustrates Ike’s service to the country. Tour schedules are variable and can be found on the Eisenhower National Historic Site website. Only 40 people are permitted per tour, and they are on a first-come, first-served basis, so meet the park ranger in front of the Eisenhower home early to make sure you get in. There is also a self-guided tour option.

Site admission and tours are free. 

Pro Tips: Visiting Gettysburg 

Any time is a great time to visit Gettysburg and its historic homes — except during the winter months of January and February, when many attractions have limited hours or are closed altogether. 

The most popular time to visit is during the battle’s anniversary weekend around the Fourth of July. There is so much to do and see, with dozens of reenactments, presentations, and special events, that it can be overwhelming, and if you are crowd averse, that’s not the time to plan your trip. The crowds are enormous. 

Visit Destination Gettysburg for tips on visiting the town during the anniversary, and be sure to get tickets for special events 2 or 3 months (at least) in advance. The website will also give you valuable tips on what to do and see in the town any time of year. 

While in Gettysburg, get to know the spooky side of the town by taking one of the many ghost tours offered by local paranormal organizations. Tours range from hour-long ghost walks down the darkened city streets to full-blown paranormal investigations.

Visitors with a curiosity about the other side of Seattle’s story need look no farther than a few feet below them, into the city’s notorious Underground.

Thanks to fascinating guided tours in the city’s historic Pioneer Square neighborhood, venturing beneath the streets is a fairly easy feat. For decades, Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour has been giving tourists a glimpse into Seattle’s colorful past — complete with stories of muddy streets, sinking buildings, non-existent sewage disposal, and ultimately, the devastating Great Seattle Fire of 1889.

As a frequent visitor to the Emerald City over the years, I was familiar with modern Seattle’s top attractions like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and Chihuly Garden and Glass. But as I was planning a recent return visit, I realized I had barely scratched the surface of Seattle’s early history as a logging town.

The Underground tour certainly helped to fill in the blanks, from Seattle’s start as a town built on a muddy tide flat, to the destruction wreaked by the Great Fire, and the development of the Underground as a fix for many of the early problems.

Here are 7 reasons to go underground for Seattle’s most unique tour.

1. Quirky History Of Seattle

Bill Speidel’s Seattle Underground Tour lasts about 75 minutes, and an enormous amount of information is packed into that time, all in an entertaining format. My tour guide threw in plenty of humorous stories about Seattle’s early history, including how the first steam-powered sawmill of the Pacific Northwest came to be located in Seattle, as well as the difficulties the pioneer city had disposing of its sewage.

Starting in a theater beneath Doc Maynard’s Public House in Pioneer Square, the tour also features a montage of early-Seattle personalities, including town founders David “Doc” Maynard, Arthur Denny, and Henry Yesler. Cardboard cutouts of the three men are arranged around the room, helping to bring their stories to life.

Tale Of The Great Seattle Fire

The Great Seattle Fire of 1889 was the impetus for the Underground, and the tour focuses considerable time on that devastating event. As relayed by my tour guide, at 2 p.m. on June 6, 1889, a 19-year-old carpenter-in-training burned the city down when he was melting glue in a pot. Halfway through the melting process, the young carpenter left the glue unattended for about 10–12 minutes. By the time he returned, the glue had come to a boil and began splattering onto the kindling that was lying all around.

Hours later, Seattle’s business district, which consisted mostly of wood buildings, was burned to the ground. Seattle opted to start over with stone and brick buildings, and the Underground was born.

2. Walking Tour Through Historic Pioneer Square

Starting at Doc Maynard’s, the tour heads into Pioneer Square and under the neighborhood’s famous pergola archway. Known as the birthplace of Seattle, Pioneer Square offers a frozen-in-time look at the brick and stone buildings of downtown Seattle in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

The cast iron and glass Pioneer Square Pergola was originally built in 1909 and served as a shelter for cable car passengers on the James Street and Yesler Way lines.

3. Underground Passageways And Storefronts

The Bill Speidel tour is billed as a “stroll through intriguing subterranean storefronts and sidewalks entombed when the city rebuilt on top of itself after the Great Fire of 1889.”

The tour delivers on that claim, taking the participants (there were about 20 of us in my tour group) down a series of stairs and into an area of narrow wooden walkways bordered by brick walls bearing vintage signs that read, “South End Steam Baths” and “Northern Hotel.”

Along the way, my tour guide explained the origin of the Underground. He told the group that after fire wiped out about 33 blocks of Seattle’s main business district in 1889, the city came up with the idea of building high-stone-retaining walls around the city blocks and then dumping dirt between them.

The tour’s website adds that the plan involved building walls on either side of the old streets, filling in the spaces between the walls, and then paving over the fill “to effectively raise the streets, making them one story higher than the old sidewalks that still ran alongside them.” Eventually, hollow tunnels were left between the old and new sidewalks, “creating the passageways of today’s Underground.”  

4. Seattle Street Views

The Underground Tour includes several separate underground areas, as well as walks in between and along the above-ground city streets and alleys.

One of the highlights for me was walking amidst the vintage Seattle buildings, soaking in the history. I learned, for instance, that tour founder Bill Speidel spearheaded the preservation of the buildings of Pioneer Square, many of which had fallen into disrepair by the mid-1950s. Through letter-writing and petition campaigns, Speidel succeeded by 1970 in getting 25 blocks of brick and stone buildings in Seattle’s birthplace listed on the National Historic Register. Along the way, he founded tours to tell the story of Seattle’s Underground.

Pro Tip: One of the standout buildings in the area is the 38-story Smith Tower, an early Seattle skyscraper. Today, it offers tours and an elevator ride to its observation deck with sweeping views of the region.

5. Underground Museum

The tour concludes in the Underground Tour’s Rogues Gallery, which features photos of characters featured in the tour narrative, as well as Northwest memorabilia from Seattle’s early days.

The Underground Gift Shop offers souvenirs and books, including the Sons of the Profits, a book written by tour founder Bill Speidel, who died in 1988.

Pro Tips

• Located on 1st Avenue in Pioneer Square, the Bill Speidel Underground Tour is just a few city blocks from the Seattle Light Rail Pioneer Square Station and is an easy 5-minute walk.
• As another option for underground guided tours in Pioneer Square, Beneath the Streets tours offers a choice of a family-friendly exploration of Seattle’s Underground; an adults-only exploration of the debauchery and vice of early Seattle; and a Queer History Tour.

Related Reading:

• 9 Amazing Things To Do In Seattle When It’s Raining
• My 6 Favorite Attractions To Visit With The Seattle CityPASS
• 14 Ways To Spend A Long Weekend In Washington’s Emerald City: Seattle

New Orleans is a city bustling with life that is always up to laissez les bons temps rouler (“let the good times roll”). Most famous for its Cajun cuisine and annual Mardi Gras festival, New Orleans attracts millions of visitors annually.

Initially founded in 1718 as part of a French colony, New Orleans has always been a melting pot of cultures. To honestly know New Orleans, you must peel away the city’s layers and immerse yourself in its fascinating past and present. One of the best ways to do that is to participate in one of the many walking tours in New Orleans. 

Exploring New Orleans with a local guide immerses you in this great city’s history, food, music, and cocktail scene. These guided tours allow you to not only hear all about the nuances of the city, but also walk away with some great tips from a local on where to eat, drink, and have fun during your time there.

My husband and I have visited New Orleans several times a year for the past 10 years and still participate in walking tours around the city. Every tour offers new and exciting information that we wouldn’t otherwise have known. With that in mind, let me introduce you to a few of my favorite walking tours in New Orleans.

1. Saints And Sinners Tour

As one of the larger tour operators in New Orleans, French Quarter Phantoms has several fun and unique tours to choose from. One of my personal favorites is their Saints and Sinners Tour. This tour does precisely as the title suggests; it dives into the few “saints” and the many “sinners” that have made history in New Orleans. 

As you meander your way through the French Quarter, a local guide tells stories that are on the “seedier” side of New Orleans’s history. These stories range from the pirate history of the city to the modern burlesque scene, all told through the colorful lens of your guide. The opportunity to learn more about the French Quarter’s lesser-known history makes the Saints and Sinners Tour a great experience. 

It is important to note that this tour is for participants that are 17 years old and older.

2. Voodoo Tour

Free Tours by Foot is one of my go-to tour providers in any city. In New Orleans, Free Tours by Foot offers several great tours. One of the unique tours offered is the Voodoo Tour. Voodoo is often misrepresented, thanks to the famous Hollywood portrayals of the religion. The Voodoo Tour, led by Priest Robi, strives to correct the misunderstandings associated with Voodoo. 

Priest Robi leads the group through the history of Voodoo. From its origins with the New Orleans slaves to fascinating stories of the famous Voodoo priestess Marie Laveau, visitors are exposed to all aspects of the religion while touring the French Quarter. During your tour, you visit Congo Square, New Orleans cemeteries, Marie Laveau’s former residence, and more before concluding inside a modern Voodoo temple. 

3. French Quarter Ghosts & Legends Tour

Join the guides of Haunted History Tours on a journey to explore the ghosts and paranormal activity in New Orleans’ French Quarter. During the 2-hour tour, guides share stories related to the dark side of New Orleans. Focusing on the famous hauntings throughout the city, tour guides treat visitors to countless stories of historical events and even a visit to a haunted bar!

This tour focuses on the French Quarter’s paranormal and ghostly encounters, but all of the stories are deeply rooted in factual historical events.

4. New Orleans Cocktail History Tour

Some say that New Orleans invented the cocktail, so you must do a cocktail tour while in The Big Easy. Luckily, Doctor Gumbo offers a fabulous cocktail history tour for you to enjoy! 

Join the expert guides from Doctor Gumbo as they take you through a journey of the cocktail scene in the French Quarter. Participants will visit 3–4 venues in the city to learn about the history of the cocktails and to sample historic cocktails. As you make your way through the cobblestone streets of the Quarter, an expert guide will educate your group on the history of classic New Orleans cocktails such as the Sazerac, the Pimm’s Cup, and more. You will be treated to historic cocktails prepared by award-winning mixologists during your stops. This is a great way to discover some of the hidden gem bars and classic restaurants in New Orleans. 

The best part of this tour is that it is only given to a group of 2–8 people!

5. Grand Garden District Tour

A visit to the Garden District neighborhood is like stepping into a different world when compared to the French Quarter. Beautiful tree-lined streets conceal multi-million dollar mansions and opulent homes here. While you could easily admire the homes on your own, it is way more fun to participate in a guided tour of the Garden District. That is where Two Chicks Walking Tours comes in! 

Allow the expert guides at Two Chicks Walking to lead you through the lush Garden District. Your tour guides will give you a brief history of the New Orleans and the Garden District neighborhood before diving into the architecture of the beautiful homes. Along the way, they will point out the homes of movie stars and celebrities. They will also highlight the homes that were used in the filming of multiple Hollywood productions. 

6. Magazine Street Foodie Tour

If you want to dine like the locals during your time in New Orleans, you need to join the Magazine Street Foodie Tour offered by New Orleans Secrets Tours. This 3-hour small group tour will have you eating your way through the acclaimed Garden District as you learn about some of the favorite eating establishments of the locals. 

During their tour, participants will visit five restaurants and taste more than seven food items. Don’t be fooled; this is more than a “tasting tour.” Come hungry because you will eat a full meal (and then some)! 

Note: The tour cannot accommodate vegan, gluten-free, kosher, or reduced-sodium diets. The company also does not recommend this tour for people with an intolerance to seafood or pork.

7. Friends Of The Cabildo Tour

Meet up with the Friends of the Cabildo Tour group at the 1850 House Museum Store on Jackson Square to embark on a 2-hour tour of the French Quarter. 

The Friends of the Cabildo is a nonprofit group that supports the State of Louisiana Museum. In addition to the Cabildo Building, the State of Louisiana also manages five other museums throughout the city. They employ expert guides to share stories of history, intrigue, and folklore with the participants of their tours. Their expert knowledge of Louisiana and New Orleans history makes this tour so outstanding. 

8. Killers And Thrillers Tour

If you are looking for a tremendous adults-only walking tour to experience in New Orleans, look no further than the Killers and Thrillers Tour from Ghost City Tours. The Killers and Thrillers Tour focuses on the notorious crimes in the city that have resulted in hauntings! 

Walking through the French Quarter on this 90-minute tour, you listen to harrowing tales of real-life crimes throughout the city’s history. If the crime stories aren’t enough for you, then don’t worry, as they are always associated with a haunting ending. The guides weave together the stories of true crime and the supernatural to ensure that each of their guests has a hair-raising experience. This is truly one of my favorite tours to take when I visit New Orleans. 

Participants are welcome to bring their pets and an adult beverage (which I highly recommend taking advantage of) if they choose to do so. You must be 16 years old to participate in this tour.

Pro Tip

New Orleans is a historic city that originated in the early 1700s. The historical nature of the French Quarter can sometimes make it hard to navigate. Many streets are cobblestone or brick, and there is often construction on the sidewalks. I recommend bringing a good pair (or two) of comfortable walking shoes as you navigate the city. This will help ensure that you have sure footing while you enjoy all these fabulous walking tours.

Now don’t get me wrong, I am not a trainspotter, nor am I particularly interested in transit systems of any kind, but for some reason, I cannot walk past a funicular when I see one.

Maybe it is the history behind them. Maybe it is their weird mechanics — the counterbalancing cars at either end of the strong haulage cable, ascending and descending in synchrony — or the steep slopes and gradients. Or maybe it’s simply the curiosity about where this cable railway will take me. Whatever it is, wherever I see a funicular railway or a similarly constructed transport device, I am on it.

In Europe, many cities have funiculars often leading up a hill to a castle or fortification, but you can find others around the world that take you up hills to spectacular views or allow you to connect to another part of town, and save your breath while you are at it. For instance, the Funiculaire de Montmartre (or Montmartre funicular) in Paris, though it didn’t make the cut here, saved me countless steps up the hill to Sacré Cœur.

This collection of my favorite funiculars around the world includes all sorts of rides I enjoyed. Not all are funiculars in the strictest sense of the definition. Still, each and every one mentioned here is worth going out of your way for, either for the experience of riding that particular mode of transport or for the place you will be transported to.

1. Hong Kong

The Peak Tram in Hong Kong is one of the world’s most spectacular funiculars. The funicular was constructed in 1888 to allow residents of Victoria Peak and guests at the Peak Hotel to get to the top of the 1,811-foot-tall Mount Austin, locally known as The Peak. Funicular travel was a more convenient method than the previous one: sedan chairs carried up on foot.

The now bright red funicular tram, the fifth generation since inauguration, offers ever-expanding views across Hong Kong Island, and the lush greenery many visitors are surprised to find in such proximity to the skyscrapers. Trudging past residences, it finally reaches The Peak, a forested oasis with truly breathtaking views across Hong Kong’s skyline and waterways.

Pro Tip: While you are up there, don’t miss walking the Peak Circle Walk, an easy 3.7-mile-round walk, which is not only interesting for its plants and wildlife but also its superb glimpses across this amazing city.

2. Budapest

Hungary

Budapest is a feast for the eyes for any architecture enthusiast, and it is no different for its funicular that takes sightseeing travelers up Buda Castle Hill. Dating back to 1870, this funicular is Europe’s second-oldest, after Lyon’s funicular, and one of the prettiest. The carriage has a three-tier arrangement, allowing for views across the Danube and its bridges to the other side as you go up the 164-foot elevation.

Pro Tip: Not far from the top station lies the Labyrinth, a warren of underground tunnels carved into the hillside, where reportedly Count Dracula was once imprisoned.

3. Zagreb

Croatia

From one of the oldest and prettiest to Europe’s — and the world’s — shortest, the funicular in Zagreb is a mere 216 feet long. The little funicular dates to the 1890s and was Zagreb’s first mode of public transport, taking one minute to reach the end of the line, but still saving a fair number of steep steps. The cabins used to be split into first-class spaces at either end of the carriage, and “others” in between the two first-class areas. Legend has it, the funicular used to break down regularly, and the “other” passengers were asked to push.

Pro Tip: On your return from the upper town, walk down past the daily Dolac Market, full of fresh, local produce.

4. Naples

Italy

Not the oldest, nor the prettiest, but probably the busiest European funicular is the Funicolare Centrale in Naples. Not one, but four lines take around 10 million passengers up the steep hills of Naples, with each train carrying up to 450 passengers. Taking 5 minutes to reach their lofty destinations, this is an efficient public transport service much used by locals and visitors. Just taking the funicular to Castel Sant’Elmo saves you from hundreds of steep and elongated, though very historic, 16th-century steps. You can always walk down them, which offers better views anyway.

Pro Tip: Within nearby castle grounds lies the Museo del ‘900, an art museum concentrating on art made by locals in the 1900s.

5. Lisbon

Portugal

Not only does Lisbon offer a myriad of elevators, including the oh-so-elegant Santa Justa Lift, to get up to the higher parts of the city, but it also has three funiculars: Lavra, Bica, and Gloria. The most famous is Gloria, probably partly due to its cute name, but also its destination, the Restauradores Square, which is the place to come in the early evening to watch nightfall over Lisbon and settle down with a drink or two in one of the many bars and cafes set up on the square.

Gloria and the other two date back to the late 1800s, and have since saved many a leg cramp of locals and visitors trying to navigate Lisbon’s steep hills.

Pro Tip: Alongside Gloria’s steep ascent path lies a street art heaven with graffiti and other art displayed on walls and side streets.

6. Valparaiso

Chile

Connecting the lower port side of Valparaiso with the upper residential and vibrantly decorated town, more than 20 funiculars were built d along the hillside between the late 1800s and early 1900s. And, while locals call them ascensores, these truly are bonafide funiculars, despite their names. I did try a few of them, finding myself in funicular heaven, and they range from sedate to quite scary, but all give you that thrill of ascending or descending a steep hill in a fabulous mechanical contraption.

Pro Tip: Don’t avoid all the stairs, as some have been turned into veritable works of street art such as the piano staircase at Beethoven 302.

7. Blue Mountains National Park

New South Wales, Australia

An hour out of Sydney lies the Blue Mountains National Park, offering some amazing rock formations, such as the Three Sisters in Katoomba. Many hikes take you up and down the rugged mountainsides into the valley below, but these can be strenuous, lengthy, and better taken with a guide. Why not, instead, take the world’s steepest funicular? Traveling at an incline of up to 52 degrees, the carriages take you from the top into a lush valley filled with Australia’s magnificent flora and fauna, and then back up again. As an added quirk, the seats are adjustable because the angle of the ride can be somewhat thrilling, if not downright scary.

Pro Tip: When you buy your ticket, book the whole experience, and include the Scenic Skyway, a cable car, for more thrilling views.

8. Wuppertal

Germany

Not exactly a funicular, but unique for certain, is the Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, a public transport tram that hangs suspended from the top. Dating to 1901, this is one of the world’s oldest suspension railways and has been updated several times since. It still carries some 25 million passengers annually. Wuppertal is not necessarily one of Germany’s top tourist destinations, but it does have a couple of good museums and a sculpture park. And if you have come for a ride on this suspended train, then you will also want to look at the Mungsten Bridge, which is the highest railway bridge in Germany.

Pro Tip: Google the amazing image of Tuffi the elephant who fell out of one of the suspended carriages in the 1950s into the river below, suffering only minor injuries.

9. Rio De Janeiro

Brazil

Topping the to-do list when in Rio is ascending some of its spectacular mountains. You go up the Corcovado mountain on the Corcovado train, which is similar to a funicular, but continue the next segment of the trip up to the statue of Christ the Redeemer by escalator. This remains one of my favorite travel memories of all time: riding the escalator into the dense clouds, with the statue slowly emerging from the mist. Pure magic and, in my mind, very much worth including in this selection of funiculars et al.

Pro Tip: Pre-book your ticket and head there as early as you can, trying for a slot on the first train of the day. Not only are there fewer people, but you might just get the chance to be there when the morning mist slowly disperses and the statue, as well as Rio, emerges in front of you.

10. Cape Town

South Africa

Table Mountain is one of the best experiences in Cape Town, and while you can hike up, there is an easy cableway to reach the top in style. No, not a funicular. However, it would be a real shame not to include this mode of transport to get you up to the mountaintop. The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is worth a mention not only because of the views across Cape Town and surroundings along the way, but because each gondola rotates 360 degrees while going up and down, so every passenger gets a chance to look out, never mind where you stand.

Pro Tip: On Table Mountain, you can find some 8,200 plant species and plenty of interesting wildlife, from lizards to cute dassies. Bring plenty of time with you, and good hiking boots, as there are a variety of trails of varied difficulties to saunter, walk, or hike along.

11. Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania

There are still a few hangers-on from the once golden age of funiculars in the U.S., but not many. In Pittsburgh, you can find two of them. The Duquesne and Monongahela inclines in Pittsburgh both ride from the river up to Mount Washington, with the Monongahela Incline being the oldest continuously working funicular in the U.S., dating back to 1870.

Pro Tip: The Duquesne Incline featured in the 1983 movie Flashdance.

12. Istanbul

Türkiye

Hidden in the mountainside near the Galata Tower in Istanbul, there is Tünel, a historic funicular connecting the two popular quarters of Karaköy and Beyoglu. It’s easy to overlook, as it is a tunnel, as the name suggests, but the little funicular very picturesque. It has a passing area for the ascending car and descending car, and it also saves you lots of puff when trying to get to the top of the hill. 

When the alarm went off, it was still dark outside. Peeking out of my window in Rome’s old town, the yellow light from the streetlights reflected in the shiny cobbles, as if it had rained. Not a soul was awake, except me and my excited husband. Way too excited for the time of day, if you ask me.

We were up at 6 a.m. to head across the Tiber to meet up with a GetYourGuide walking tour that had promised us first-in-line access to the Vatican, and more importantly, the Sistine Chapel. I was sincerely hoping this early-bird approach would be worth it.

A Meeting Point Perfect For A Quick Breakfast

Meeting at the kiosk on Piazza del Risorgimento, I registered with our guide, Julia, and had time for a coffee and cornetto before the tour. It quickly became obvious that ours was not the only “first-in-line” group, as more and more people met up with various guides and started walking toward the entrance to the Vatican museums, roughly a 10-minute walk from the piazza.

Learning While Standing In Line

Getting to the entrance of the Vatican museums, which open at 8.30 a.m., I was beginning to wonder why we had to get up so early, but to be fair, we might not have been the first in line but had only about 50 people, organized into various tour groups, ahead of us. Julia explained the ins and outs of the Sistine Chapel’s glorious ceiling painted by Michelangelo, with the help of pictures. She gave us the story of the images and history of its creation while we waited in line. She would not be allowed to give a talk within the chapel itself, so this was making good use of the time we stood in line.

A Quick Overview Of The Vatican Museums

A quick change-over of audio guides and we were in. Now my dilemma started. The Vatican museums have more than 70,000 paintings, sculptures, and art on display. There is a beautiful garden with modern pieces of art, stunning architecture, and many windows to peek out of. But we rushed past the vast majority of them. We were on a quest to get to the Sistine Chapel, before everybody else, after all. But it was a perfect opportunity to take note of a few areas for the next visit.

Catching A Raphael Or Two Along The Way

Julia luckily had a penchant for Raphael, the rival of Michelangelo while they were both working at the papal palace at the same time (can you imagine?), so we tended to stop a few times to look at various paintings whose size, skill, and history blew our collective minds. However, whenever we stopped for too long, and another group caught up with us, we rushed onward.

Arriving At The Sistine Chapel, Nearly First

Finally, we got there. After walking through amazingly beautiful corridors, down and up stairways, stopping for the odd piece of history or art, there it was: The Sistine Chapel in all its glory. It was just after 9 a.m. by then, and we were certainly not the first. But, Julia assured me, you never get the chapel to yourself, the only way to have a chance at being nearly alone is to opt for the Keeper of the Keys Tour, which allows you to follow the person who opens all the doors in the morning. However, that tour costs a small fortune. It is hundreds of dollars per person and it starts even earlier. So, this tour was the closest thing to being first. There were few enough people to be able to stand and stare at the ceiling for as long as you wanted to without being in anybody’s way. So, all in all, it was a success, and worth getting up for.

Surprise Treat: There Is Modern Art

After we had our fill of this stunning, but much smaller-than-expected chapel’s ceiling, we meandered out, the rush forgotten, stopped for a few other highlights — did you know there were paintings by Picasso, Van Gogh, Dali, and even Francis Bacon here? I did not expect to see those among the Raphaels — before heading past the Swiss Guards in their pretty striped uniforms into St. Peter’s.

The Grand Finale At Saint Peter’s Basilica

The largest church in the world (by interior measure), probably the most famous church in the world, resides at the end of the huge St. Peter’s Square. It is one of the largest squares in the world, and for Catholics, one of the holiest places in the world. This is a sight of superlatives. Yes, I had been here before, and yes, the entrance to this church is free, but somehow the sheer size and magnificence of it made me nearly forget the Sistine Chapel. The breathtaking work of Michelangelo, the Pieta, managed to make me completely forget about the ceiling he painted, however great, which is a bit of a shame. You’ve got to give it to him, he might have been a bit full of himself, but he had a valid reason to believe in his skill.

After having a look around the interior of the church, the guide left the group and we were free to roam, but alas, unable to get back into the museum itself.

Overall Verdict

Totally worth it. It truly was wonderful to see the Sistine Chapel, and while there were plenty of other people there, it was not by any stretch of the imagination overcrowded.

Would I do it again and recommend it to others? Yes. Certainly. However, come back again on another day. Otherwise, your brain will burst. Get a normal ticket to the museums and take your time looking at the thousands of little and large exhibits you rushed past in the morning and ignore the chapel. These museums are so huge and stuffed with amazing history that they will take several visits to truly appreciate.

As long as you are aware before, which I was not, that you will be rushing by some mind-blowing art without having the option to linger and just accept that you will have to come back again later, this is a worthwhile tour option. Just get up early, focus on the Sistine Chapel, and enjoy all the stops in between as a bonus. Then, let Michelangelo’s incredible talent wake you up. Who needs espresso?

The Colosseum is considered a symbol of Ancient Rome for its incredible architecture and gruesome past. It’s one of the most iconic structures in the eternal city, or as the Romans call it “La Citta Eterna.” They believed no matter how many empires rose or fell, Rome would live on forever. They were right. The Colosseum still stands against the gorgeous skyline today. To fully appreciate its massive scale, one must take a tour to fully appreciate how and why it was built. It was a massive undertaking opening a decade after construction began in A.D. 72.

There is so much to discover about the building that a guided, small-group tour is required to fully appreciate the history of the Roman Colosseum. We chose the Complete Colossseum Underground Tour with What A Life Tours after reviewing other companies because we wanted to explore both the Colosseum, the underground, and the Roman Forum. Here are 5 reasons to book a small-group tour when visiting this timeless city.

1. Optimal Time In The Colosseum

We researched tour companies and purchased tickets from What A Life Tours. It’s important to choose a company with positive reviews (this tour consistently receives five stars) and one that offers exclusive access to areas other tours don’t, including a “skip the entrance line” perk. With over 6 million visitors annually, the Colosseum is one of the most popular places to visit in Rome, and the lines are lengthy. Our tickets brought us through a specific gate — leaving the crowds behind and allowing us more time to fully enjoy the experience of touring through this ancient wonder of the world and the adjacent Roman Forum.

2. Access To The Colosseum’s Underground

Our tour offered exclusive access to the Underground of the Colosseum, normally a restricted area of the building. The price was worth every penny for this option. The size of our group — capped at 12 participants — made it easier to travel through the narrow corridors and see each section up close.

We stopped often and were able to gather around our knowledgeable guide to hear him explain the history of the underbelly. Headphones are also provided to make sure participants don’t miss anything the guide shared.

The History Of The Underground

Our guide told us tales of huge beasts such as lions, tigers, elephants, and panthers imported from Africa and the Middle East. Once transported to the arena gladiators would fight them to the death for the roaring crowds or hunt them for show.

As we moved through the area, we observed graffiti scratched into the marble by the anxious fighters. It was an incredible step back into history. Archeologists discovered and reconstructed elevator shafts that loaded the gladiators, exotic animals, or elaborate sets via a pulley system hauled by slaves up several stories to the arena floor. The construction of these elevators was mind-boggling as they were a marvel at the time. From here you can look upward to see where the arena floor once covered the maze of tunnels and corridors.

While gladiators were the main attraction, it was also the place to see dramas, comedies, reenactments of epic battles, and public executions.

3. The Gladiator’s Gate

Once you’ve experienced the ground floor, you climb the steps and walk out onto the now partial arena floor through the Gladiator’s Gate. Here you can imagine what it was like to be surrounded by all those spectators cheering and clapping at the spectacle unfolding on the stage. As you look around the incredible monument, you will hear stories of epic battles and gladiators who survived to fight another day. Then you will continue the tour into the stands to see down onto the main stage. The emperors and their guests had the best seats closest to the action.

The Emperor’s marble seats were in a box behind a mesh screen to protect him (and his guests) from the events in the arena. Seated behind his group were the senators, then the businessmen. Above them were the commoners, and at the top were foreigners, enslaved people, and women. Above these seats was a great awning that offered shade to the nosebleed seats. At the very top of the arena, you’ll see artifacts in the museum area — now protected by glass — that give more information about the fighters and events that played out daily.

4. The Roman Forum

Our ticket included a walking tour of the Roman Forum, adjacent to the Colosseum. The Roman Forum ruins are remarkable, and it’s still an active site for archeologists who continue to discover more about what took place on the grounds. Prior to the Colosseum’s grand opening, gladiators fought there. Before that, it was a market for daily shopping. Eventually, the Forum became a courtroom and a location for political debate.

After the Etruscan kings were overthrown, Rome became a republic around 500 B.C. The republic became one of the early examples of a democracy with representatives selected from some of the wealthiest citizens who decided on the fate of everyone else. The Roman people protested, and assemblies were formed for better representation of more of the society. The Senate and various assemblies would pass laws and declare war on their neighbors to grow the empire. By the first century B.C., Rome was the dominant power in the Mediterranean.

5. The Temple Of Vesta

The Temple Of Vesta was one of ancient Rome’s most important buildings. It was the place where Senate documents and the statue of Minerva (Athena) were placed. The temple was dedicated to the Roman Goddess of the hearth and held the city’s sacred flame, the symbol of Rome. Vestal Virgins were “brides” of Vesta and held the important job of keeping the fire burning — holding special secrets known only to them.

There was a long list of requirements to join the Vestals. They were chosen at the age of 6 (up to 10 years old) and had to remain pure until the age of 30, when they were free to marry and leave the sacred order. Many remained true to their vows for the rest of their lives. These women were highly regarded and taken care of during their time as observers of the flame. They were severely punished if they broke their vows, so many remained true in their service to Vesta.

A Brief History Of The Colosseum

When the Colosseum was completed, it measured 620 by 513 feet, rose four stories high, and offered access with 80 separate entrances. (Two were made specifically for the Emperor and the Vestal Virgins, and two were for the gladiators.) 50,000 spectators filled the arena at full capacity. Emperor Titus celebrated the opening with 100 days of gladiator games. Eventually, the Romans lost interest in attending these shows. After multiple earthquakes in the 5^th century, two-thirds of the building was destroyed. A restoration project in the 1990s helped uncover new discoveries about the Colosseum and repair what was left of the site.

Pro Tips: Visiting The Colosseum

You will walk for at least 3 hours and climb stairs in the Colosseum. Dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. Make sure to check the forecast. We came unprepared for rain and needed to purchase ponchos for part of our tour. Make sure to have water and pack an umbrella if rain is a possibility. Don’t forget your camera; the experience offers many photo opportunities that you won’t want to forget once you get back home.

If I told you a private guide was waiting to give you a personalized tour of Paris, you’d probably be excited — and a bit wary. Exactly how much would such a swanky experience cost? Thanks to one remarkable organizer and their volunteers, the answer is nothing at all!

Paris Greeters is part of the International Greeter Organization, and I was fortunate to experience a volunteer-led tour on my recent trip to France. Organizing everything was easy and it’s something I would do again. Here’s why you should do it.

You See The City Beyond The Guidebook

According to the International Greeter Association, “Greeters welcome visitors to their city and take them on a personal, two to three-hour walk showing them the city beyond the guidebooks and off the beaten track. Greeters are volunteers who love their city or region and are keen to share with you their enthusiasm and knowledge.” Setting up a tour like this is a chance to take a unique look at a city and see things you wouldn’t normally discover.

It’s Perfect For New Or Returning Visitors

I love Paris, but I know it’s a divisive destination. For every person who adores the City of Lights like I do, there’s at least one other who says that they hated Paris. I think a Paris Greeters walk could be the perfect solution. Instead of following a cookie-cutter itinerary of top-10 attractions, you’ll see the city through a new lens and have a local explain the lay of the land for you. 

As a returning visitor to Paris, I also found the experience incredibly valuable. The bulk of my tour took place in the Luxembourg Gardens. This is a spot I have visited before, but I gained valuable new insights about French history as my guide shared the history behind a group of statues representing French queens that I had never noticed before.

It’s Personalized For Both Of You

When you request a tour, you have to fill out a simple online form to share what some of your interests are, like urban architecture, local life, or history and culture. You can also write some information about yourself, what you want from the tour, and what area of the city you’re in. I shared that I’d be staying in the 7th district (or arrondissement) and I was open to exploring that area or the neighboring ones so I’d get to know “my” Paris better. 

The organization quickly got back in touch with me with the contact information for my assigned guide, but there was no detailed itinerary. I was in her hands! She, after all, would be sharing her neighborhood and her expertise. In my case, my guide had grown up nearby and attended school near the Luxembourg Gardens.

As a child, her morning walk took her through the property, and some physical education programs even took place in the gardens. Had I been assigned a different guide, I bet I would have experienced a completely different tour. That is the beauty of it. It’s personalized for you and your greeter. This is a chance to gain a friend for the morning and learn about the city through their life and experiences.

There’s A Chance For Cultural Exchange

During your tour, you share a lot about your respective cities and learn a lot about local Parisian life far beyond the tour. I didn’t share all of my guide’s opinions about politics and world affairs. You probably won’t get into global affairs, like we did, but the idea is that you’re open to meeting people who aren’t just from a different country than you but also who might be different from you in many ways.

Chatting about everyday life and the similarities and differences between your countries is a huge part of the Paris Greeters tours. You’re not just getting dry commentary.

There Are No Hints Or Tipping

How many free tours have you been on that are “free” except they’re a “pay what you can” experience and you are all but required to give a generous tip instead of payment at the end? For me, it’s been a lot. Paris Greeters isn’t like that. They are volunteers who are committed to sharing their city’s story. They are doing it out of a love of volunteering and a love of Paris. After the walk, you can donate online to the organization if you want, but there is no pressure or follow-up to do so. 

You’ll Be Encouraged To Explore More

My guide left me with some excellent parting advice. “Push on doors!” she said. It was a reminder that Paris is there for exploring and not to hesitate if there was a building I wanted to explore. Many churches, semi-private courtyards, and historical sites aren’t explored simply because people are hesitant to push on doors. It was advice that served me well throughout my trip.

Pro Tip: Make Meeting Up Easy

After the organization connected my guide and me by email, my greeter suggested a time and place to meet up. I knew the area in question, but where in that big intersection should I meet her? Was there a restaurant or shop I should stand beside? She breezily informed me that she’d find me. Uh, hello anxiety! How would she find me in that big crowd? I assumed she knew what she was doing, but I did email back to say that I’d be wearing my navy blue scarf. 

My guide did indeed find me with no problem but, I’m glad I had the scarf all the same. If your greeter is similarly laid back, sharing a photo or an identifying feature pre-tour might make it easier to connect once you’re on the ground.

Let’s face it: Travel can be, and very often is, expensive. Many of us need to budget in some way, shape, or form, no matter if we’re planning a weekend road trip or our dream vacation abroad. There are tons of ways to stretch your dollars, and many of them don’t at all dip into your overall travel experience. In fact, many of those decisions can make it all the richer.

But there’s one splurge that I will always make monetary space for when I’m visiting a new city, especially if it’s in an international destination: a great local tour guide. In my experience, they can truly elevate a holiday, allowing you to see things from perspectives you hadn’t previously considered. When it comes down to it, hiring a private guide is consistently the best money I spend on vacation. No question.

Here are nine reasons why!

1. You’ll Get The Lay Of The Land

Arriving in a new place can be discombobulating even for the most seasoned traveler. You’ve been in transit, so you might be tired, stiff, or dehydrated, and perhaps dealing with a killer case of jetlag. Chances are you’ll be bombarded with new sights, sounds, and languages before you even leave the airport. Even the most thorough research done from home can never completely prepare you for seeing and experiencing a city for the first time.

Having a tour guide all to yourself can give you a good level-set lay of the land. They can tell you about the historic centers, hot spots, and other areas of interest you might want to return to later. Also important: They will point out the areas you might want to avoid altogether. Having a day (or two) with a local guide will help you get more comfortable with the new destination, and that’s a big confidence boost that will last for the remainder of your holiday.

2. Language Won’t Be A Barrier

I always try to learn a few words of the language that’s spoken wherever I’m headed; the last thing I want to do in a new place is be rude! I took French in college and can muddle my way through it, or any of the Romance languages, really. But it can be tough even just to learn key phrases, especially when you’re dealing with a new alphabet, sound, and sentence structures.

A guide helps cut through the complications of a new language, interacting with others on your behalf as you explore. At least for the first day, especially in places like China, Croatia, or the Czech Republic with languages that can be difficult to get your ears around. A good guide helps soften that transition, and might even be able to teach you just a couple of easy phrases you can use the rest of your trip.

3. They Can Give You Real Insight

Your own personal tour guide will help you go far beyond the guidebooks, and truly bring a place to life. Remember: They grew up here; this is their home. They understand the people, the places, the customs, and the culture, and they can help you better understand it all, too. They provide valuable insight, context, and backstories that no book or website can because it comes from personal experience. If you really want to soak up the true essence of the spot you’re visiting, a guide can help you do just that. You’ll see, do, and interpret things like a local; an invaluable benefit that’s worth every dollar. 

My guide Jelena in Split, Croatia, pointed out many fascinating things I would have simply walked by had I been on my own. From pointing out the perfect selfie spot to small historic details, she had me covered, and I so appreciated it.

4. Got Questions? You’ll Get Straight Answers

My husband and I are both journalists so are curious, inquisitive folks by nature. It’s our job to ask questions, after all, and that doesn’t stop when we are on vacation! With a personal guide, we don’t have to worry about taking up a group’s time when we’d like to know more about a particular architectural style or the social/political influences on a city or town.

We can just ask away.

A great guide will be thrilled you’re interested enough to inquire about their hometown and be happy to address your question. Word to the wise: Be prepared that the answer you might receive might not align with your insights, and that’s okay. That’s what makes travel the great educator and equalizer it is: We don’t all feel or think the same way. Learning to understand and appreciate our differences while away from home is one of the best soul stretches I know. I always come away the better for it!

5. Expect A Customized Experience

The guides I’ve hired in the past made absolutely sure they knew what I was expecting from our time together and went the extra mile to make sure my preferences were taken into account. The best ones have been in touch well ahead of time to inquire about what’s important to me when visiting their hometowns. Getting a great guide means you’ll also be getting a bespoke, personalized experience designed just for you, one that will set the pace for your entire vacation.

In the past, I’ve let guides know I was interested in wine, food, history, and art. They’ve always delivered with tours that hit all the right notes.

6. Skipping The Lines

When you’re visiting a new spot and want to hit up the big sites, waiting in line can be a bummer. Who wants to sit in a ticket queue when there are new things to see and experience? Quite often, a guide will purchase your entry tickets ahead of time, allowing to you enter without a wait. In some cities, we’ve seen separate lines (and they are far shorter) for guides to buy tickets for their customers. While this is a perk you might not have thought of before, it truly saves precious vacation time!

7. You’ll Get Off The Beaten Path

When you’ve got time with a personal guide, chances are you’ll go off the beaten path a bit, an opportunity I relish. Sometimes when I travel to a new place, I tend to focus on a city’s historic center. Of course, that’s to be expected, but there is so much more to a place than its core. A good guide will tell you about, and likely show you, parts of their city that DIY tourists might simply gloss over. 

When Jelena learned I was an avid runner, she insisted I head out to Split’s gorgeous park, Marjan, a peninsula filled with forests, historic buildings, and incredible views of the sea. While in Istanbul, our guide Mustafa knew I wanted to shop for spices and textiles, so we headed to a few smaller bazaars not in the typical tourist zone. I was so thankful they got me outside of the half-mile area around my hotel!

With a guide, you’ll have the confidence to head off the beaten path, which can even further deepen your experience of a city.

8. Insider Tips And Tricks

In the past when I’ve been paired with a private guide, I ask all about their favorite restaurants, pubs, and other top things to experience. From the on-the-cheap choices (in Prague, our guide pointed out a local spot where we could have a dumpling lunch for just $3 a person!) to luxe, splurge experiences (where to find the best wine in town), your guide will give you tips and tricks that will be invaluable to you for the duration of your time in their hometown.

From favorite day trips you might not have considered to a town’s free festivals, performances, and quirky museums, lean on your guide for that terrific insider info. You never know where it might take you!

9. You Might Make A Lasting Friendship

Last but certainly not least, the relationship with the guide who helps make your vacation unforgettable might last well after you return home. Social media makes it a breeze to stay in touch, and I’ve made it a point to do so with several past guides. These are people I felt a real connection with, who truly enriched my travels. I love keeping up with them via posts and updates — they are like little virtual postcards. And should I return to their hometowns, I know exactly who I’ll reach out to first!

Pro Tip: Do your homework to find a guide that will truly add to your vacation experience. Get online, check out reviews, and find a company that focuses on the local aspects of your destination. On my recent trip to Croatia, I connected with Jelena via ToursByLocals, and I was super-impressed by her knowledge, expertise, and true love of her homeland. In the past, we’ve also hired university history students and government-licensed guides. Do your due diligence — it will absolutely pay off!

There is no doubt that walking tours are one of the best ways to explore a city, especially Paris, the home of the flâneur. Whether you have visited before, or you are simply looking for something a little different from the typical historic sightseeing tours, Paris offers some interesting alternatives.

Especially when it comes to multifaceted cities such as Paris, there are so many aspects to see and learn about that you will come away much richer in memories and impressions if you ignore the stereotypical sights for a day or two and instead walk around with a local and learn about something completely different.

Here is a selection of superb walking tours, guided by locals, and tapping into various interests. Be they fashion, literature, or history. In no particular order, but with excellent options, I am sure there is something for all interests.

1. Luxury Vintage Fashion Tours

For Fashionistas Who Like A Bargain

Kasia Dietz is a New Yorker who has called Paris home for many years, and as a handbag designer working in Paris, knows the ins and outs of the buzzing Parisian fashion scene. Apart from luxury fashion and designer walking tours, she also does one that appeals very much to me: A Luxury Vintage Tour. If you are a fashionista, or simply love classy clothes, there is nothing better than the luxury label boutiques of Paris. 

However, who can afford a brand-new Chanel jacket or bag, or, sometimes more to the point, who necessarily likes the current season’s offerings? Enter Kasia with her address book of vintage resale outlets where you can snag a designer bargain or two, at affordable — or at least less eye-watering — prices. She will tell you the history of the labels, the current fashion gossip, and a bit of history and insider knowledge of her adopted home along the way. She can also tailor your tour to your interests.

Pro Tip: Ask Kasia about her Bespoke Beauty Tour and learn more about famous perfume houses such as Guerlain and Fragonard in Paris and the sought-after French beauty brands found in Parisian pharmacies.

2. Entrée To Black Paris Tour

As in the rest of the world, the history of Paris is intertwined with black history and culture, but most visitors are simply not aware of the details, and where to find out more. Enter Dr. Monique Y. Wells, originally from Texas but a nearly 30-year resident of Paris, and founder of Entrée to Black. She leads walking groups through parts of Paris, such as the lovely Luxembourg Gardens, detailing some of the black history centered in the area, from Alexandre Dumas, author of the Count of Monte Cristo and The Three Musketeers, whom many do not know to be of mixed race, and Josephine Baker, the first Black woman inducted into the Pantheon.

Pro Tip: Is one of Paris’ scenic cemeteries on your to-do list? Entrée to Black also does tours around Pere Lachaise Cemetery, looking at the graves of famous black creatives.

3. Literary Walks With An Author

John Baxter, an Australian expat and author of countless books about his adopted city, has called Paris home for more than 25 years. He has not only made a niche for himself writing books about what he loves best: Walking around Paris, discovering its history and quirkiness, but he also shares his insights on walking tours around his quartier, the 6^th arrondissement. The 6^th is known as the literary quarter where greats such as Hemingway, the Fitzgeralds, and many others lived, worked, and met. Baxter not only offers various literary tours including one following in Hemingway’s footsteps and another digging deeper into the literary and philosophical world of the Left Bank after the occupation but also brings the small groups back to his lovely apartment in the house where Sylvia Beach, who founded the original Shakespeare & Company bookstore in Paris, lived.

Pro Tip: Do you have a book in you that is trying to get out? There is nothing like being inspired by Paris and its long literary history. Baxter also does writing workshops and can help you along.

4. Illuminations Tour

For Christmastime

Paris at Christmastime is simply magical. From the always fabulous decorations in the various department stores, such as the iconic escalators of the Bon Marche or the gigantic Christmas tree in the Galeries Lafayette, to the shop windows of great names, such as Cartier and Louis Vuitton. But decorations are nothing without twinkle lights, which make Christmas, well, Christmas. Enter April in Paris, who does the wonderful Illuminations Tour at Christmas. Marvel at the windows of the department stores, check out the trees on Place Vendome, and be enchanted along Avenue Montaigne. Avenue Montaigne is my favorite street in Paris at Christmas. Add a Seine cruise and a stop at the Christmas Market for a vin chaud, a mulled wine, and experience Paris at its best. At Christmas, at least.

Pro Tip: This walking tour is four hours long — including the vin chaud stop and the cruise – but it does cover a fair bit of ground, so wear comfy shoes. If it is not too cold, remember, this is Paris. There are not only vin chaud stalls at the Christmas market but also always a champagne tent and a glass of bubbles lends itself very much to the season.

5. The Flea Market Tour

For Unique Souvenirs

Going to the Parisian flea and antique markets is, or at least should be, on everybody’s to-do list. There is so much to see, beautiful pieces to find, and hopefully, a few bargains to be had, making for great souvenirs, which can grace your home forever. It can also be daunting. The markets at Saint-Ouen in the north of Paris are sprawling with many different sectors and a warren of alleyways. Where to best look for what? Then there is the language. While many vendors speak English, it can be worrying that you might not be getting the best deal possible, if your French is not fluent. Why not book yourself a bespoke tour with an American, but fluent-in-French interior designer, who can advise on the quality of pieces and then even help you haggle for the best price?

Atelier Tours offers small group or private walking tours at the flea market with stops for coffee along the way.

Pro Tip: For another more eclectic and more flea than antique market, try the weekend market at the Porte de Vanves. Take the metro line 13 from an inner city stop such as Champs Elysees Clémenceau to Porte de Vanves and walk down a few yards to Avenue Marc Sangnier. The stalls stretch out from there and you can spend hours browsing. I prefer it to the larger but more famous flea market. 

6. Art Nouveau Walking Tour

For Glimpses Of The Belle Epoque Style

When you think of Paris and some of the most iconic sights of the city, the green, organic swirls of the metro stations spring to mind almost immediately. Designed by Hector Guimard, they are as stunning today as they were more than 100 years ago. However, few visitors to Paris know that there are more gems by this architect to be seen in the city, such as the beautiful residential building Castel Beranger. This Art Nouveau Walking Tour will take you through the lovely 16^th arrondissement, looking at metro stations, buildings, and many examples of what the French call the Belle Epoque, the beautiful era.

Pro Tip: While you are looking at Castel Beranger, stop for a coffee – or a cocktail — at the cute little Café Cravan, a beautiful example of Hector Guimard’s work. If you happen to be there on Wednesday or Saturday mornings, don’t miss the Marche President Wilson, which is always brimming with colorful fresh produce.

7. Jewish History Of The Marais Tour

Tour Oldest Synagogue In Paris

The Marais is probably the most visited district of Paris, after Montmartre. The little lanes filled with individual boutiques, cafés, and restaurants are dotted with grand museums, such as the wonderful Carnavalet and Musee Picasso. There are squares such as the Place des Vosges, and the secluded Anne Frank Garden. Historically, the Jewish Quarter of Paris, the Marais is brimming with Jewish history that is so much part of the city, yet often overlooked.

The Jewish History Tour is a three-hour walking tour introducing you to the oldest synagogue in Paris, important sights, and memorials, all the while telling you individual stories of the people in the quartier.

Pro Tip: You stop for lunch at L’As du Falafel. Undoubtedly the best place in Paris for falafel, but also the most popular, and as such very busy. If you are going for a private tour, you could instead of sitting down, opt for takeout and sit down in the hidden-away Jardin du Rosiers Joseph Migneret, just steps away.

Van Goghs and Renoirs, a boat ride down the Seine, sipping Champagne at the top of the Eiffel Tower, strolling through outdoor markets — choosing what to do first in Paris is difficult in the best way possible.

A friend celebrated her 50th birthday in Paris and recommended seeing it by bike, specifically a cycling tour with Tours By Locals. Having not really ridden a bike for several years, I was unsure about the option but decided to give it a whirl with my family in tow.

Romain hosted us on our 4-hour tour through the city, and while there were a few tense moments dodging pedestrians, we saw, and learned, a lot during our thoroughly enjoyable ride.

Get To Know The Neighborhoods

The beauty of a bicycle tour is being able to cover a lot of area in a short period of time compared to a walking tour. We moved from neighborhood to neighborhood visiting the Marais district, St. Germain, Saint-Louis and City Islands, the Latin Quarter, and more, stopping at sites along the way as our guide explained the unique history of each area. Even when we were moving, riding along the quaint cobblestone streets, passing by tranquil gardens and cafes was a treat.

Bike Along The Seine

This portion of the tour felt like a scene from a movie, and I mention it for that pinch-me moment reason alone. There was something magical about biking along the Seine, passing the beautiful bridges, with the Eiffel Tower in the distance. It was a Saturday and the area was busy, but not overly crowded, with locals lounging in chairs along the river and playing games with friends.

We even rode through Tunnel des Tuileries, where the city invited artists from around the world to turn the tunnel into a unique art gallery.

While the ride along the river was occasionally interrupted by my maternal concern when my 9-year-old boys rode a bit too close to passersby, it was magical nonetheless. 

See The Major Sites

We didn’t feel like we missed anything after our tour was over. Quite the opposite. We visited Notre Dame Cathedral, The Pantheon, Luxembourg Gardens, and Musee d’Orsay, explored the Roman ruins, and rode across Love Lock Bridge. A walking tour would have allowed for more lingering at the sites, but I liked the bike tour for getting the lay of the land, knowing we would return to spend more time wherever we wanted.

While we didn’t ride by the Eiffel Tower, it didn’t matter because it’s something you’ll want to experience separately anyway, and you can see it from so many areas of the city that it’s really part of the experience, even if from a distance.

A Personalized, Private Tour

Romain is a licensed tour guide, which as you’ll learn on any tour, is important in France. He’s a former history teacher and not only shared important Paris and French history but also American history, stopping outside the building where the Treaty of Paris was signed, ending the Revolutionary War.

The best part of the tour? It was private. Just the four of us and Romain. Seeing other biking groups with 12+ in tow made me appreciate our intimate group, where we could go at our own pace, and any and all questions were answered.

The Ride Is Relatively Flat

I walk much more than I ride a bike, so I wasn’t sure how things would go winding through the streets of Paris. The ride was relatively flat — no steep hills to climb — although I did walk up the ramp from the Seine. 

The trickiest part of the ride, for us, was dodging the people. It was a busy Saturday in August, and everyone was out and about. I had recently ridden a bike in Cologne, Germany, and the custom there is to use your bell to let folks know you’re coming and they’ll jump out of the way. That is not the case in Paris. Quite the opposite. Using your bell is frowned upon, and bicyclists are expected to navigate around the people, who, by the way, are not concerned with your presence in the least!

We were mostly on uncrowded streets, but the few times we did encounter crowds, I found it easier to get off and walk my bike than to try and keep my balance while not hitting anyone.

Final Thoughts: I find a tour invaluable when getting to know any new city and a bike tour really is an amazing opportunity to cover a lot of ground. It also felt nice to get a little exercise, especially when one of our main activities in Paris was enjoying all of the amazing Patisseries!

Want more Paris inspiration? See all our Paris content here.

A tour is the one activity I recommend to anyone visiting a new city, especially one with as much history as Rome. It sets your visit up for success, giving you details about a destination you may not otherwise know, and you’re likely to learn a few tips along the way, including where to shop, eat, or grab a drink.

We had scheduled only two days in Rome during our trip to Italy, and I was hesitant to fill one of them with a full-day tour, but I kept eyeing The Roman Guy’s Rome in a Day Tour and decided to book it. I was traveling with my 9-year-old twin boys and knew I needed backup to engage them in the history of this great city. 

We were hosted by The Tour Guy, but any tour that holds the attention of jet-lagged 9-year-olds for nearly 8 hours is nothing short of amazing. Here’s why you will love it, too. 

Explore The Best Of Rome

The Vatican And Colosseum

The Vatican and Colosseum top every Rome visitor’s list, and while both were busy the day we toured, I can’t imagine navigating either on my own while absorbing all the details and knowledge only a tour guide can offer. The tour thoroughly explored both, and I wasn’t left wishing for more time in either place.

The only piece missing from the Colosseum, in my opinion, was the underground tour. This is a tour you can book separately on the Colosseum’s website or with The Roman Guy.

If a full-day tour is too much, using a tour to visit the Vatican is essential. There’s just an immense amount to see and understand, and, frankly, physically navigate, making almost any tour a great value.

Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, And Roman Forum

These were somewhat unexpected treats during the tour. Yes, the webpage mentioned we would see them, but I wasn’t sure how much time we would have at any of them or if we would just be walking by. 

We were able to go into The Pantheon, ate lunch by the Trevi Fountain, and learned quite a bit of history at Piazza Navona, making note to come back and enjoy more time at the surrounding cafes.

The last portion of our day-long tour took us through the Roman Forum en route to the Colosseum. While we had walked past the area when we arrived in the city, our guided walk really opened our eyes to what the area once was and the importance it played.

Needless to say, these experiences really took the trip over the top and solidified that my decision to book this tour was a good one.

Navigate With Ease And Skip The Lines

The ease of being escorted from place to place and not having to worry about buying tickets, figuring out where and when to enter, or how to navigate from location to location takes away a significant amount of stress and makes the experience immensely more enjoyable.

Being part of a tour also allows you to skip the lines that those winging it on their own must endure. We started the day at the Vatican and met across the street from where we entered. It didn’t seem like much until we made our way inside. I’m not sure I can adequately describe the chaotic scenario of the wall-to-wall people all trying to figure out how to enter and when. It was amazing to just be able to relax and wait for our guide to show us the way.

Our guide also handled our tickets for the Pantheon and Colosseum and organized our entry, so we were able to simply enjoy the experience. 

Knowledgeable And Enthusiastic Guides

Learning the entire history of ancient Rome, the Roman Empire, Christianity, and the Catholic Church, not to mention the role of key figures like Julius Caesar, Nero, the many Popes, and even Michelangelo and Raphael, is of course impossible unless you’re someone with multiple degrees on these specific subjects. 

Our guide, Carolina, created an environment where we were able to take in, understand, and appreciate the history in a wonderful and engaging way and learn a lot — at least things my world history class seemed to miss.

Carolina carried pictures and drawings with her throughout the tour, bringing different areas, like the Roman Forum, back to life to help us better envision what it used to be. 

She also used downtime wisely, priming us and explaining what we were about to see and its importance. 

You know a guide is amazing when you want to take them with you at the end of the day. Another sign of a great guide: the ability to hold the attention of 9-year-old boys. Not only did she engage them; they were on her heels the entire time, occasionally carrying the flag she used for us to easily locate her. The boys were always front and center and recounted the history they learned throughout the rest of our trip.

Also, as any parent understands, having someone who can answer the many questions children have when visiting a new place is invaluable. It saves you from googling or thumbing through a guidebook, and let’s be honest, they’re always going to believe someone else more than their parents. 

See History You’d Otherwise Miss

An original seat in the Colosseum, a portion of the Piazza Navona stadium, and every detail beneath you and around you — it’s difficult to describe how much we would have just walked past without knowing it if we were exploring on our own. In a city where there’s a story behind practically every detail, it’s wonderful to have a guide drawing attention to key pieces.

Small Group Size

There were only 13 people in our group. The small group size meant we never felt like we were missing anything. An audio device and earset were provided at the start of the tour, so when we chose to linger in different areas, we always could hear our guide and didn’t miss any of her insight. The maximum tour group for The Roman Guy is 15 people.

Pro Tip: Wear Comfortable Shoes

This tour requires a lot of walking and standing. You’re also walking on uneven surfaces at times. Wearing comfortable shoes is a must, but also know your limitations. It’s not for everyone. While you do take breaks, it’s a lot. Also, the time of year you visit could make a difference. We visited in July and it was very hot. Not Midwest humidity hot, but still hot. 

Pro Tip: Bring A Water Bottle

Rome has hundreds of beautiful water fountains throughout the city thanks to the Romans. While you can use your hands to sip, bring a water bottle, especially if you’re visiting during summer. Most of the fountains are constantly running, and while it seems odd to say the water tastes amazing, it truly does.

Twenty-twenty-two was my year for checking off bucket list items! I was finally able to take the 3-week tour my family and I had booked for early 2020: Egypt and Jordan. I had always wanted to see the pyramids, and I was so excited to finally visit in July of this year.

Egypt

After traveling for almost 2 days, we arrived in Cairo. It was nighttime and difficult to see anything out of the tour bus windows. We went to sleep immediately after arriving at our hotel, Steigenberger Cairo Pyramids. In the morning, I woke up, walked to the sliding doors, and pulled back the curtains. There was a pyramid, staring at me In all its morning sun glory! My heart pounded and I ran out to the balcony! It was like a rush! I was finally here, and my first view was of the pyramids! It was truly amazing, and I was awestruck.

Later that day we toured them and had our requisite photo taken with a camel. We dined that night in a rooftop restaurant overlooking Cairo while women baked pita bread in front of us. It was a dream. 

After the pyramids, I found myself thinking I had seen everything that I had wanted to see all my life. But then we took a 5-day Nile cruise. It was incredible! We stopped at each temple on the way. Each pharaoh built his own temple, and they were situated on the water. We would stop at each one, disembark, and go visit with our own tour guide. Some we saw during the day and some were lit in the evening. All of them were incredible and truly put the pyramids to shame. It was truly the trip of a lifetime!

Editor’s Note: Considering a Nile River cruise? Don’t miss Ulrike Lemmin-Woolfrey’s Everything You Need To Know Before Embarking On A Nile River Cruise.

Jordan

Jordan was so much like Israel: Desert and beautiful with brown houses and hotels built into the

sides of the mountains. Great civilian poverty together with rich ancient wealth. We stayed in The Old Village Resort overlooking the city by Petra. Eager for the next day, we all stood outside and marveled at the twinkling lights, feeling incredibly lucky to be there. 

Petra was wonderous and well worth the travel. We felt like we were in the Indiana Jones movies walking through the caverns on dusty paths, twisting and winding for a long time until bam! There was the Treasury! The infamous carved building you remember from the movie. You are not allowed inside, but you can scramble up the opposite side of the mountain and take photos. 

Our Jordanian tour guide informed us that it was built from the top of the mountain, down the cliff, like rappelling off the side of a mountain. The artists were hoisted and sat in swings for hours as they carved. It was a marvel and testimony to man to be able to envision and consummate that building. 

The city of Petra continued further, and our guide told us of The Monastery, which was built 950 feet high, the furthest building in Petra. We walked through the old city, which is now only inhabited during the day by vendors, who sell souvenirs, food, and water. We ran into other people from our tour and someone said, “Hey let’s try to walk to the top of the Monastery.” Eight of us started off. Not many endeavor to accomplish this rough, hard hike so high. The path was so narrow and switched back and forth. Some tourists paid for a donkey to ride up to the top. This was scary as the path was very precarious. One slip and you would fall very, very far down the mountain, with no hope of surviving. 

Incredibly, there were vendors with little shops set up along the terraced side of the mountain! We could purchase water (remember this was July!) and keep walking. We lost only one member of our group, who had to stop hiking and wait for us under a vendor’s cool tarp. We continued up the mountain, stopping to catch our breath several times. The last vendor encouraged us, “You’re almost there.” We turned the corner and stopped. We looked and saw a restaurant far away. We all looked at each other. We really climbed all this way for this?

We walked toward the restaurant, and behold! Immediately to our right around another corner was the magnificent, huge façade of an ancient building with many intricate columns and moldings. This was several times the importance and size of the Treasury. We whooped and hollered that we made it that far, congratulating ourselves and taking photos. It was quite the accomplishment! If you ever get a chance to go, make time and bring good shoes so you can climb to the Monastery!

Dead Sea

The last great bucket list item on our trip was a dip in the Dead Sea. We drove there and had a day pass($60 USD) at the Holiday Inn Dead Sea Resort. They have a private beach on the Dead Sea. It was really cool because we could swim in their pool afterward. A day pass is the way to go because you cannot spend more than 10 minutes in the Dead Sea as the salt content is so high. 

When we arrived, I could not wait to jump in the water. In deference to their Muslim culture, I had brought a modest swimsuit and I waded out. The water was not cool but it was not hot, either. I laid on my back and could not believe my own buoyancy! You really do float. I had brought my book to show that I could float and read without treading water. This was the end of our 3-week tour with E.F. Tours and our group of tourists had bonded so much, we played in that water like it was a pool party!

Pro Tip: Many people ask if I felt safe during my tour, and I would resoundingly say YES! There is a certain safety in a group tour. I would recommend a tour group because the cultures in these locations are so different from ours. Our tour leader stayed with us and became a friend to all. She lived there and guided us confidently. She was interesting and helpful. To me, this part of the world is so foreign and mysterious. I would encourage you to visit.

Want more bucket list trip inspiration? See all our bucket list content here.

If you haven’t heard of Venezuela’s Angel Falls, just picture a real-life Indiana Jones adventure deep in the jungles of South America, and you’ll be off to a good start. Buried deep in the heart of the southeastern jungles of Venezuela is a natural marvel so phenomenal that it has to be seen to be believed. Angel Falls, the highest waterfall in the world, explodes from the top of a pink-hued mesa thousands of feet above an emerald-colored jungle and plummets dramatically into a churning pool of water below. The waterfall, located within Canaima National Park, is impressive in its own right, but what makes it even more special is that it takes passion and determination to get there.

Named not for the celestial being, but for Jimmy Angel, an American bush pilot who crashed his airplane atop the sandstone-capped mesa in the 1930s, Angel Falls has always been a mysterious and mesmerizing place. The mesa, Auyantepui, is buried in lush wilderness with no road access. The only way to see the falls today is from the air, by boat trip up the river through Devil’s Canyon, or by a short hike to the viewpoint of the falls.

It is the trip of a lifetime. However, as with most things that are once-in-a-lifetime, it requires a bit of extra legwork to make happen. Still, for those with the drive to see this natural marvel, the experience is absolutely worth the work.

TRAVEL ADVISORY: The U.S. State Department has Venezuela listed as Level 4: Do Not Travel. We strongly advise that you read their report before considering a trip to Venezuela at this time.

Where Is Angel Falls?

Angel Falls (Salto Ángel in Spanish) is located within Canaima National Park in the Gran Sabana region of Bolívar state. Spanning more than 11,500 square miles in the wilderness of southern Venezuela, the park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most impressive places in the world. The majority of Canaima is covered with table mountain formations with breathtaking cliffs and beautiful, arching waterfalls, including Angel Falls, which, at 3,000 feet, is the world’s highest waterfall.

Canaima National Park sits on the southeastern border of Venezuela near Guyana (another destination that is definitely worth a Google search!) and Brazil. It is difficult to reach, but its remoteness is part of what makes it so attractive.

Fun Fact: Before it was known as Angel Falls, indigenous Pemon people called it Kerepakupai Merú or Parekupa Vena. In the Pemon language, Kerepakupai Merú means “waterfall of the deepest place,” while Parakupá Vená means “the fall from the highest point.”

How Do You Get To Angel Falls?

First, it’s important to note that it is not possible to reach Angel Falls by car, since there are no roads in the area. The most popular way to visit the Falls is by flying to the town of Canaima, Venezuela. There are no direct flights to Canaima from Caracas, Venezuela — you must first fly to Ciudad Bolívar, Venezuela, or Puerto Ordaz, Venezuela.

Angel Falls Package Tours

Purchasing a package tour that includes the trek to the falls, as well as accommodations, flights, and meals, is the easiest and most cost-effective way to see the natural marvel. Most visitors who visit Canaima do so through these package tours. The tours that include airfare are the most convenient for travelers, since flights tend to sell out far in advance.

Angel-Eco Tours

Booking your tour in advance is key and there are many tour companies to choose from. One that consistently receives good reviews is Angel-Eco Tours, which offers a three-day, two-night Canaima National Park experience. The tour includes assistance getting to and from Canaima from Caracas. On the first two days, visitors tour other sights in the area, and on the third day, they depart for the falls in a motorized canoe from Ucaima Port. The tour features moderate hikes to nearby lookout points. If you’re looking for something more adventurous and challenging, Angel-Eco Tours also offers a nine-day trek that includes Angel Falls and a visit to Roraima, Brazil.

Osprey Expeditions

Osprey Expeditions is another highly rated tour operator that offers treks to Angel Falls and other popular vantage points along the way. The company also assists with airport transfers to and from Canaima.

Hotel Package

Another way to visit the falls is to go through a lodge. Wakü Lodge is one of the better boutique lodges in the region and offers customized packages for visiting Angel Falls. Many of these packages include airfare to and from Puerto Ordaz.

Flyover Tour

You can also book a flyover tour of the falls if the boat ride is too much of a time commitment.

When Is The Best Time To Visit?

Again, we advise you to read the U.S. State Department’s advisory on traveling to Venezuela at this time.

The busiest months of the year to visit Angel Falls are July, August, November, December, and January. This is when prices go up considerably, and you’ll be competing for the picturesque views with other visitors. Visitors who want to make a flyover tour can schedule them year-round, but if you’d like to visit on foot, you must arrive during the rainy season, from June through November. This is because the park has to ensure that the Carrao River level is high enough for the water to make it all the way to the falls. During the dry season between January and May, there aren’t any organized trips to the area, but the park is still accessible.

What Will You See At Angel Falls?

The height of the falls is reason enough to add them to your bucket list. Picture a plummet that is 16 times higher than Niagara Falls! Already you’re starting with something incredible. Beyond that, the Venezuelan waterfall sits in the heart of the wilderness, with no road access, making the adventure to get to it the trip of a lifetime. Buried in the misty, jade-hued jungle, Angel Falls explodes onto the scene, plunging from the mountain above. Most of the visitors to the falls get their first glimpse of them on the short trek from the river that brings all the boat tours in. You’ll emerge from the bush to see bright blue skies; majestic, rose-colored cliffs; and the impressive cascade gushing down the sheer rock face into the verdant valley below.

Where Should You Stay?

Wakü Lodge

Wakü Lodge is one of the most popular places to stay near Canaima National Park; it’s located near the lagoon offering views of the area’s seven waterfalls. There are 19 rooms, one suite, and each room has its own balcony. Wakü Lodge’s tour packages include flights to and from Canaima, lodging, sightseeing, expeditions, and all meals. Visitors can choose a full-day expedition to Angel Falls or an overnight option.

Campamento Canaima

Campamento Canaima is another option for visitors to the park with 120 rooms in stand-alone cottages overlooking the lagoon. The cottages come in doubles, triples, and quads, all with daily room service, hot water, private bathrooms, and spectacular views. A bar and lounge round out the facilities. The hotel offers day trips to the falls as well as flyover tours.

Jungle Rudy’s Ucaima Camp

Jungle Rudy’s Ucaima Camp is yet another lodge with packages for visiting the falls. There are five cabins with balconies, hammocks, private bathrooms, and more. A dining room and salon with a view round out the amenities. Ucaima also has two cabins near the falls for visitors who are making the overnight trip to see them. Both cabins offer outdoor grills and spectacular views of the falls. The lodge’s packages include various amenities, tour services, and extras like a welcome cocktail, insurance, and more.

What Else Is There To Do Near Angel Falls?

There are so many natural wonders and impressive sites on the way to Angel Falls that a trip to the falls is really the cherry on top. This part of Venezuela is home to undulating savannas, palm forests, rivers, towering cliffs, and table-top mountains called tepuis.

Canaima itself is a remote village — its biggest claim to fame is that it is the jumping-off point for exploring Angel Falls. However, the rest of Canaima National Park is beautiful and well worth exploring. At the center, the Laguna de Canaima (Canaima Lagoon), a reddish-colored reflective lagoon, features palm trees and pink sandy banks. The red and pink hues are due to tannins from decomposing plants over the decades. Seven stunning waterfalls tumble from the lagoon and most tours to Angel Falls include a short boat trip and hike that allow tour goers to explore these other falls as well.

The park is also home to Uruyén Canyon and the sacred Kavak Caves, which are thought to have been the site of mystic shaman ceremonies. Angel-Eco Tours offers hikes from Uruyén to Kavak or vice versa. The trip to the waterfalls of Kavak includes hiking, wading, and swimming in the canyons before reaching the powerful waterfalls that tumble in the distance. The hike from Uruyén to Kavak is about 5 miles and takes roughly 3 hours to complete at a leisurely pace. Accessing the caves requires an additional 1.5-mile walk on slightly steeper terrain.

Dublin, Ireland, is rife with culture and history, from religious settlements in 795 A.D. and Viking settlements in the 900s to the vibrant city it is today. It may be best viewed on foot via one of the many walking tours in the city. From literary pub crawls to music tours, there’s a lot of ground to cover (pun intended). These are a dozen of my favorite Dublin walking tours.

1. The Original Dublin Historical Walking Tour

Starting at Trinity College – Dublin (TCD), Tommy Graham, the editor of Ireland’s History Magazine and a TCD graduate, provides a fast-talking, fast-walking tour that covers Ireland’s political history at a mind-spinning speed. You’ll quickly find that the depth of knowledge Tommy and his guides retain makes it possible to answer nearly any question. He covers the English conquest, the Great Hunger, Ireland’s struggle for independence (political and religious), and the Viking archeological site. He led the group past the Bank of Ireland, through Temple Bar, across Wood Quay, past Four Courts, up to Christ Church Cathedral, to City Hall, and finished at Dublin Castle.

Dublin’s cobblestone streets make it difficult to move easily with a walker. You’ll be fine if you can maintain a 15-minute-per-mile pace for 2.5 hours.

2. Pub Crawl

When most tourists think of Dublin, they think of Temple Bar, a small section of the city within Dublin 2, or D2. The quintessential way to get the most out of your night is to participate in a proper pub crawl.

You’ll learn that Temple Bar has the most expensive pint in all of Dublin. What may surprise you is the depth and breadth of music you’ll hear as you enjoy Guinness, Jameson, and all the flavors this tour offers.

Be sure to eat before your tour and drink plenty of water as the night progresses.

Pro Tip: With your crawl admission fee, enjoy a skip-the-line free entrance to several venues. Go early on your visit and use the bracelet for free entry to these venues for the remainder of your trip.

3. Literary Tour

Making the time to explore the literary heritage and seeing where the writers lived and loved that led to such work may cause you to re-read the classics. The art of storytelling reaches from pub to theater. Dublin, one of 295 cities globally to become a UNESCO City of Literature, is graced with four Nobel Prize winners. George Bernard Shaw also won an Academy Award (Best Screenplay for My Fair Lady).

On this 2.5-hour literary tour, you’ll walk from W.B. Yeats’s Abbey Theatre to Merrion Square, with Oscar Wilde’s statue overlooking his childhood home.

For an entertaining twist, take the literary pub crawl to combine two of Dublin’s most-loved pastimes. Starting at The Duke Pub, you’ll discover the rich literary heritage as you wander charming streets and visit sites embedded with informative actors who bring the history to life. There is a test at the end, with the winner bringing home both bragging rights and a special prize.

And don’t worry that the tour only covers the “old-time” greats including Sean O’Casey and Brendan Behan. Also included are modern poets and playwrights like Seamus Heaney (free exhibit at the Bank of Ireland building), Paula Meehan, Brendan Kennelly, and Eavan Boland.

4. Music Crawl

Don’t forget to check out your MeetUp options when you’re traveling. Starting at the ICON Factory, take the Dublin Music Tour as Eoin weaves the tale of politics and socioeconomic times into the fabric and texture of the Irish music scene. You’ll see part of Rory Gallagher’s guitar, learn about Bono’s time on the IRA kidnap list, and the development of Michael Flatley’s Riverdance.

Eoin concludes the tour on Grafton Street where buskers delight passing crowds. This delightful tour is chock-full of trivia and tips.

5. Glasnevin Cemetery

Visiting Glasnevin Cemetery, its population of 1.4 million approaching metro Dublin’s 1.5 million, there are many tales to tell, and many phrases that became common from this region — like “saved by the bell” or “his face rings a bell.”

The tour includes military monuments, leaders, political prisoners, and politicians. You’ll see the likes of Eamon de Valera, American-born yet Ireland’s longest parliamentarian as both president and prime minister; Michael Collins, whose grave is the most visited; and the women of the revolutions.

6. The Original Dublin Free Walking Tour 

Alan Swaine takes you on a whirlwind trip across town for an Overview of Dublin in a 3-hour tour (including a 30-minute pub stop). He covers the city with insight into Ireland’s turbulent past, literary greats, real-life legends, and captivating folktales including the city’s statues. If you can only do one tour on this trip, start with this one, every day at 11 a.m.

Pro Tip: The “free” walking tour guide’s tips are their salary. A traditional tip is €10–20 ($10.54–21.08) per person.

7. Trinity Trails Campus And Book Of Kells

Founded March 3, 1592, by Queen Elizabeth I, Trinity College – Dublin, Ireland’s Ivy League and sister institute to England’s Oxford and Cambridge, is a 47-acre oasis in the city center. The ancient front arches frame the square leading to the Campanile. But beware, it’s bad luck for students to stand under the bell tower. Legend foretells that students who do shall never graduate.

Trinity Trails hosts a campus-led tour built to your purpose, a self-guided walking tour of the campus, a guided tour of the campus, or an all-inclusive tour of the campus and Book of Kells, the prized medieval illuminated manuscript. I recommend the latter on your first visit for the best possible experience. And the Book of Kells building does have elevators, making it one of the few handicapped-accessible buildings on campus. The Long Room, at 65 meters filled with 200,000 books, is my favorite place in the city and one of the most impressive libraries in the world, home to each Irish-published book and each TCD student’s thesis.

8. Dark Dublin’s Murders And Mysteries

In a town as old as Dublin, in a country so rich with blarney, it’s no wonder the collision of the two created one of the most popular 2-hour tours, Unearthed Dublin. Starting at Dublin Castle, the heart of pomp, circumstance, torture, and death, see the upper courtyard’s history as the Devil’s Half Acre leads to the Christ Church Cathedral, built on “Hell.” Stories of witches and the infamous Hellfire Club are shared as you pass by the old city walls. You’ll take dark back alleys and learn of grave robbing, The Black Pig, and tales of a strangler and killer with no legs.

9. Talking Statues Self-Guided Tour

For a light-hearted stroll across town, have your mobile phone ready and take this statue tour across the River Liffey. Scan the bar code near the statues from Oscar Wilde in Merrion Square and Wolfe Tone in St. Stephen’s Green to the Hags with the Bags across from the Ha’Penny Bridge and James Joyce by the Millennial Spire. Hear in their words how they felt about life in this fair city.

10. Chester Beatty Museum Tour 

The Chester Beatty contains manuscripts, rare books, and treasures that cross and transcend world cultures, one of the world’s largest collections of religious artifacts crossing all faiths. With less than 10 percent of the collection on display at any time, the frequent rotation of exhibits makes each visit fresh and inviting. Better yet, make the time to go on a guided tour. Walk from floor to floor with a docent who guides the visit based on your interests. They can adjust on the fly and be sure that everyone has something of interest to see.

11. Rebels And Rebellions

This “Northside” tour, in Dublin 1, covers not only the Easter Rising but mentions many of the rebels and rebellions of the 1700s. Since it starts right at the Spire by the General Post Office (GPO), it’s an obvious fit with the Easter Rising, the 1916 rebellion that began when Patrick Pearse read the Irish Proclamation of Independence. The Easter Rising led to the IRA, Sinn Fein, the War of Independence, Ireland’s Civil War, and, finally, the independence of the Republic of Ireland. It’s a lot to cover in a single tour, but they do a grand job.

12. Food Tours

No compilation of Dublin tours would be complete without a discussion on food. Dublin’s food scene has improved dramatically over the past 30 years. Gone are the days of soggy fish and chips. In its place are Michelin-star restaurants and authentic (tasty!) Irish cuisine in restaurants, pubs, and food trucks across town.

For a street food tour, your guide will take you to five of their favorite food trucks that day, with the promise that at least one will be specifically for dessert. The tour goes from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. so plan to take your appetite.

For a walking tour of authentic traditional Irish cuisine in popular pubs and restaurants, you’ll enjoy a walking tour mostly around Powerscourt Townhouse in D2 for an inside scoop on the amazing culinary scene.

For more information on Dublin, check out these stories:

• My 8 Favorite Places To Enjoy A Pint Of Guinness In Dublin
• Cork Vs. Dublin: 9 Key Differences To Know Before Visiting
• 18 Incredible Things To Do In Historic Dublin, Ireland

Hallstatt, one of the most beautiful places in Austria, is growing in popularity for its fairy tale-like village, dramatic landscapes, and numerous attractions.

The quaint alpine village, situated on Lake Hallstatt’s western shore in the mountainous Salzkammergut region, is home to fewer than 1,000 inhabitants, an ancient salt mine, and unparalleled views of the Austrian Alps.

This small town invites visitors to get lost in its colorful streets, offering seclusion and serenity that you won’t find in overcrowded hotspots in Europe.

Here are 10 reasons to make time for Hallstatt on your next European vacation.

1. Accessibility

Nestled in the Alps of Upper Austria, Hallstatt makes a great day trip from Salzburg or stop between Salzburg and Vienna.

Getting To Hallstatt From Salzburg

Two buses run from Salzburg to Hallstatt: Bus 150 and Bus 542. Each trip takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Every day, several trains run from the Salzburg train station to Hallstatt, the first departing at 5:12 a.m. The trip takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes. If you take the train from Salzburg to Hallstatt station, you will actually be dropped off across the lake in the village of Obertraun and will need to take a short ferry ride to reach Hallstatt’s town center. A one-way trip costs €2 and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. For train times, visit the ÖBB website.

Getting To Hallstatt From Vienna

While a day trip from Vienna to Hallstatt would be difficult to accomplish, the train ride only takes about 4 hours. It does, however, require a transfer at the Attnang-Puchheim Station.

Another option for getting to Hallstatt from Vienna is renting a car. The drive from Vienna to Hallstatt takes about 3 hours and 20 minutes and passes through some stunning parts of Austria.

2. Gorgeous Scenery

Hallstatt is one of the most scenic towns in Austria, and if you research Austria online, you’ll probably stumble across numerous photos of Hallstatt.

Hallstatt is a fairy tale-like town sprinkled with pastel-colored houses and winding cobblestone streets and surrounded by the striking Northern Limestone Alps. The natural beauty and picturesque and enchanting views attract visitors to the tiny town year after year.

3. UNESCO World Heritage Site

The region of Salzkammergut has been around since prehistoric times, and the area’s salt mines were in use as early as the second millennium B.C. The Hallstatt-Dachstein/Salzkammergut was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997.

According to UNESCO, the salt mine “formed the basis of the area’s prosperity up to the middle of the 20th century, a prosperity that is reflected in the fine architecture of the town of Hallstatt.”

The dramatic landscapes of Salzkammergut and Hallstatt can’t be missed; even UNESCO says so! Get a bird’s-eye view from the Hallstatt Skywalk. Take the Salzbergbahn cable car to view the mountains, lake, and town from over 1,000 feet in the air — if you dare!

4. Hallstatt Salt Mines

In Hallstatt, you can gaze upon some of the oldest salt mines in the world. Hallstatt’s salt mines date back more than 7,000 years, and today visitors to the area can learn all about Bronze Age mining.

Hallstatt’s salt mines are also home to the oldest staircase in Europe. Discovered in 2002, the staircase has been the subject of scientific research for many years.

Adventure seekers can book an extended expedition of the salt mines, venturing to areas that others don’t normally get to see.

Pro Tip: There’s also a Giant Ice Cave nearby, but you have to take the bus to Dachstein Visitor Center, ride up Stone Mountain (Dachstein) on the cable car gondola, and hike for 20 minutes to get to it. Do note that the ice caves are closed in winter (November through May), but the mountaintop views are fantastic all year long.

5. Great In Every Season

Each season brings something different to Hallstatt, making the town a magical place to visit any time of year.

Winter brings stunning views of snow-capped mountains, while fall offers changing colors and crisp yet comfortable temperatures. In the spring, the town comes to life and the region’s local flora is in full bloom, and summer offers warm temperatures ideal for swimming and boating.

6. Winding Streets And Colorful Houses

Gazing upon Hallstatt is like looking at a work of art. It’s hard to turn away from the breathtaking views of the Austrian Alps, but if you take the time to wander through the town’s winding cobblestone streets, you’ll see that each little nook and cranny holds more charm and beauty than the last.

Hallstatt is full of pastel-colored houses and picturesque streets ideal for getting lost in. You can wander through the small village for hours on end, taking in the sounds and smells of the shops and bakeries and watching life unfold in this tiny Austrian village.

7. Historic Market Square

Colorful buildings surround Hallstatt’s historic market square in the car-free center of Old Town Hallstatt. The marktplatz is home to souvenir shops, cafés, restaurants, and a bar. It also hosts several events, including the romantic Christmas market during Advent season.

8. Delightful Cafés

Hallstatt’s adorable cafés are ideal for a midday snack, a quick coffee break, or a rest during a long day of sightseeing.

9. Swans At Lake Hallstatt

Some of the town’s most beloved residents are the swans who have made their home in and around Lake Hallstatt.

The celebrated birds were imported in the late 19th century by Empress Elisabeth of Austria and her husband, Emperor Franz Joseph I, who once owned a summer resort in Hallstatt.

10. Basecamp For Central Austria

Situated as it is in central Austria, Hallstatt makes a great base for exploring the area. It’s conveniently located near the popular tourist destination of Salzburg, and it is within driving distance of major European cities like Munich and Vienna.

Saint Gilgen is a traditional Austrian village that you can visit when taking the 150 Bus from Hallstatt to Salzburg. The area isn’t well known to tourists, and visitors can take a peaceful stroll through the town or enjoy views of Lake Wolfgang.

Munich, one of Germany’s most popular tourist destinations, is only a 3-hour train ride from Hallstatt. The capital of Bavaria is known for its annual Oktoberfest celebration and its popular glockenspiel show that tells stories from the 16th century.

Related Reading:

• How To Spend An Amazing Weekend In Salzburg
• 7 Perfectly Romantic Small Towns in Austria
• 9 Incredible Hidden Gems In Vienna, Austria

If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure while on a North Carolina beach vacation, then you need to experience a wild horse tour! This unique and exhilarating activity will have you exploring the beaches and dunes of North Carolina’s northernmost coast while enjoying the company of some of nature’s most beautiful creatures. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about this must-do experience!

Where To Find The Wild Horses Of North Carolina

You can find wild horses in the Currituck Sound Area and along the beaches near Corolla and Carova Beach. The horses roam over 7,544 acres, which they share with approximately 700 homes, thousands of vehicles, and even more humans.

There are other wild horse herds in Okakroke and farther south along the Crystal Coast of North Carolina.

How To Get There

Corolla is at the northern point of North Carolina’s Outer Banks. It is a remote but busy area that can be reached by a small plane, shallow-draft boat, or car via a curvy, two-lane highway. With the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Currituck Sound on the west, the northern border serves as a gate to Virginia.

If you’re driving, once you reach Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, head north on Highway 12 through Duck into Currituck County. The road ends 10 miles before you reach Virginia. The entire Currituck Outer Banks is commonly referred to as Corolla.

The History Of The Wild Horses On The Beach Near Corolla

Wild horses in present-day Corolla carry the distinguishing features of Spanish-type horses. Like horses of Arabian ancestry, they have one less vertebra than most breeds. Their size, endurance, and temperament, along with their unbridled beauty, indicate they are remnants of Spanish stock.

The famous Corolla Wild Horses are thought to be descendants of a herd established by Spanish settlers in the 1500s. Some feel they came when settlers arrived and when their settlement failed, they left the area and the horses to fend for themselves.

Others believe that the horses were on-board a ship or several ships that wrecked off the coast, and they swam to shore and ran free along the sandy beaches.

There are also other theories, but these two are the most popular. The horses have roamed the upper Outer Banks for over 500 years, and while their population has dwindled, the herd is slowly growing again. Over the years, they have weathered many a storm, hurricane, and other mishaps, but they continue to call the Corolla area home.

The Best Way To See The Wild Mustangs Of North Carolina

There are several ways to see the wild mustangs of North Carolina, but the best is to take a guided tour. Guided tours offer visitors a glimpse of the Spanish Mustangs that have roamed the beaches of Currituck’s Outer Banks for years. It is the best way to get as close as possible to them. Eight different companies provide tours along the northern coast of North Carolina.

The tours take you on the beach in a four-wheel-drive vehicle made for sand travel. They can also take you to other places in the area where the horses often visit. Tour operators know where the horses usually congregate, and you have the best opportunity of seeing them when you book a tour. Tours run several times a day with each of the companies. Some companies run their tours year-round while others run them from May through September.

When Is The Best Time To See The Wild Spanish Horses Of North Carolina?

The mustangs are viewable throughout the year. The season or time of day does not seem to matter. They are not always on the beach but often on the sound. The weather usually determines where the horses will be hanging out.

What You Need To Know About The Wild Mustangs Of North Carolina

• While beautiful, the horses are “wild!” They are not domesticated or tamed. They are considered feral horses.
• Wild horses can kick and bite. The horses may seem friendly and docile, but they will always be unpredictable and potentially dangerous.
• For your safety and the safety of the horses, you should not get closer than 50 feet from the horses. It is illegal to be closer than 50 feet to the horses. Petting them is not an option.
• A horse’s line of vision extends from its nose around its side and as far back as its hip.

They have a 350-degree field of vision.

• They eat sea oats, acorns, coarse grasses, persimmons, and other native vegetation. They find water by digging in the sand to release the freshwater below. Wild horses cannot eat apples or carrots; feeding them these items can cause severe sickness and even death. It is illegal to feed wild horses.
• If you observe an injured or sick horse, do not touch or try to help it; please call the Corolla Wild Horse Fund.

How Are The Wild Horses Of North Carolina Protected?

The wild horses of Corolla are ancestors of the horses of kings and deserve to be protected. 

There were once thousands of horses roaming wild, and now the Corolla and the Currituck Sound herd is down to approximately 107 horses.

In May 2010, the colonial Spanish mustang — the type of wild horse you’ll see in the Outer Banks — became the North Carolina State Horse.

Here are some more guidelines on keeping the wild horses safe and protected:

• It is illegal to be within 50 feet of a wild horse. View their unbridled beauty from a respectable distance. The wild horses sometimes wander along the beach when visitors are out and about. You are responsible for keeping a distance of at least 50 feet from the horses at all times, even when the wild horses approach you. Please do your best to move away from the horses without disturbing them. The horses head to the beach in the summer to get cooled off and get away from biting insects. Please respect their needs and provide space for them. 
• It is also illegal to feed wild horses. Apples, carrots, and other such items can mean death to a wild horse. According to the Corolla Horse Fund, several horses have died from being fed by well-intentioned humans.

How Does The Corolla Horse Fund Care For The Wild Horses?

As the guardians of the wild herd, the Corolla Horse Fund responds 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for emergencies and other tasks involved with herd management. 

Each wild horse is identified by home territories, color, and markings that are documented and entered into a database. They are not microchipped or branded. Aerial counts are conducted and compared to field studies.

If a wild horse becomes critically injured or is seriously ill, the fund may have to capture and permanently remove them from the wild. They also remove and raise orphaned foals.

A wild horse cannot be returned to the wild once rehabilitated because they have been exposed to domestic horses where they received care. They could carry a disease back to the wild herd if they returned. They also will get used to human handling and may approach humans if returned to the wild. The horses are often available for adoption.

How You Can Help The Wild Horses

• One of the best ways you can help is to view them responsibly. And if you see something is wrong or someone is hurting or harassing the wild horses, report it to the Corolla Wild Horse Fund.
• Make donations to the Corolla Wild Horse Fund.
• Shop their Museum Store.
• Attend the Corolla Wild Horse Fund events and educational programs.
• Consider adopting one of the rehabilitated wild horses.

If you want to see some of the most beautiful horses in North America, then a trip to the Outer Banks should be on your travel list. The Wild Horse Tour will take you through areas where these majestic creatures roam free. You’ll learn about their history and how they are protected while getting as close as possible to look at these stunning animals. Plan your visit today, and if you want to help protect them, consider donating or adopting one of these majestic creatures.

Related Reading:

• 17 Fabulous Experiences In Beautiful Outer Banks, North Carolina
• My 11 Favorite Beaches To Visit In North Carolina

The New York City area is a key destination for foodies. With thousands of restaurants, there are unique food experiences at every price point and from every cuisine. Exploring on your own is fun and we have had dozens of culinary adventures in the New York area.

We’ve done food tours all over the world but never in our home cities — New York and Jersey City. This year, we decided to try out some of the local food tours. Not only did we learn about new restaurants and places we’d never been to before, but we also discovered the joy of food tours and progressive meals. After sampling local food tours, we selected our top five. 

We were sponsored on some of the tours below. However, our opinions are our own. 

1. Fat Dave’s Five Borough Food Tour

Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, And More

Famous Fat Dave’s food tour is at the top of our list. It’s not so much a food tour as it is a New York City experience. Famous Fat Dave is in love with New York City and his tour will make you fall in love with it as well. You’ll have all kinds of food experiences and meet the family behind the deli counter, the owner of the bar, and even the guys from the neighborhood hanging out on the corner. You’ll meet New York City and its characters while eating amazing food.

For a special treat, book a tour with Famous Fat Dave in his 1982 white checkered cab. It’s a flash from the past. While we drove around with Famous Fat Dave, people in the streets took photos everywhere we went. As Famous Fat Dave explained, it flips the tourist experience, so people were looking at us while we were looking at them.

Our favorite stop was for egg creams at Ray’s Candy Store on the Lower East Side. Run by Ray Alvarez (his real name is Asghar Ghahraman) and open since 1974, Ray’s is a candy store and more. His egg cream was the best we’ve ever had, and we’ve had many. We also stopped by a neighboring butcher and a local deli.

Pro Tip: Famous Fat Dave does a variety of tours from 2 to 5 hours long. He doesn’t usually take the checkered cab out in Manhattan, but mainly uses it for tours of the boroughs. You can do a group or private tour.

2. Avital Tours

East Village, Michelin Progressive Meal, And Others

Avital offers a progressive meal that is as much about the food as it is about making friends with people who you just met over a meal. You go to four different restaurants — two for appetizers, one for the main course, and one for dessert. Come hungry because there’s a lot of food. At each stop, our tour guide Sophie created conversation among the guests. In between stops she told us about the history of the area and about the chefs and owners of the restaurants we were visiting.

Our first stop was Matthew Kenney’s Double Zero on the Lower East Side. We love pizza and consider ourselves New York City pizza experts. However, Double Zero was a whole other experience. Who would think vegan pizza with plant-based cheese is just as good as a traditional Sicilian or Neapolitan slice? The pizza made with cashew cheese and truffles was to die for.

The next stop was Frank’s Restaurant on 2nd Avenue for the famous Uncle Tony’s gnocchi. After that, we visited the MáLà Project, a Michelin Bib Gourmand-recommended Chinese restaurant specializing in dry pot — a wok-fried dish using over 24 types of Chinese spices and herbs. Fun, hip, and cool, it is a wonderful place to expand your taste buds and hang out with friends. We ended the day at Veniero’s Pasticceria which has been serving New Yorkers and tourists in the East Village since the late 1800s. Originally founded as a social club, the bakery is known for its quintessential New York-style cheesecake, cookies, cannoli, and cakes.

Pro Tip: Avital also offers tours in New York City, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. We recommend the wine pairing option.

3. Ahoy NY Tours

Mulberry Street, Little Italy, Chinatown

We did the Taste Mulberry Street food tour with Ahoy Food Tours. Starting in Nolita, we wandered down Mulberry Street, and through Little Italy and Chinatown during this three-hour tour. We lived a few blocks from this neighborhood for a decade and thought we knew it well. We were soon to discover how much more there was to learn.

Our first stop was at La Churreria — a Churros shop on Mulberry Street. The freshly made piping hot churros were served with hot dark chocolate sauce. Yum, they were wonderful — soft, yet crunchy and better than any churros we’d ever tasted. What an excellent start to the tour!

Then we were off to Taim Kitchen for falafel — the traditional green and harissa seasoned. We regularly eat at Taim, so this stop wasn’t new to us. At the French Cheese Board, we learned about French cheese and tasted seasonal cheeses like Comté.

Next was Little Italy and the famous Lunella Restaurant, for pasta alla Norma made with eggplant and sautéed with lots of olive oil, garlic, and tomato sauce. This Sicilian dish is a house favorite.

Our food journey continued at Thai Son, a few blocks away in Chinatown. We munched on Vietnamese summer rolls while Liz, our tour guide, told us about the history of Columbus Park.

Baz Bagels was our last stop on our tour. Baz is famous for making rainbow bagels. We came for their famous black and white cookies. We don’t like black and white cookies, but Baz’s are worth the trip — soft and perfectly sweet.

Pro Tip: This tour was 3 hours of walking. Lunella’s was the only place that we sat down to eat at. Good walking shoes, water, and sunscreen are essential.

4. The Underground Donut Tour

Manhattan And Williamsburg

If you love donuts, especially artisanal donuts, this is the tour for you. On this tour, we walked from the Flatiron District to the West Village eating donuts all along the way. Our first stop, Dough Doughnuts, specializes in handmade artisanal donuts. We tried the hibiscus glazed donut, a sweet and tangy glaze made with dried Mexican hibiscus and dried candied hibiscus flowers. Freshly made on-site in small batches, these oversize donuts are luscious.

Next up: The Donut Pub in Chelsea. We lived two blocks away from the Donut Pub for 10 years and never stepped inside. What a mistake! For the past 50 years, this donut shop has been serving dozens of types of donuts. Our favorite was the maple bacon cronut.

Mah-Ze-Dahr Bakery is owned by Umbed Ahmad and is located on Greenwich Avenue. It is a James Beard Foundation award nominee. The brioche donut was filled with a delightful vanilla pastry cream. Let’s not forget the donut hole that was perfectly soft and delectable. 

We have all heard about the “everything bagel,” but have you ever had an “everything donut?” You can try one at The Doughnut Project, a small shop in the West Village. The “everything donut” is a surreal combination of savory goodness on a much lighter dough. There’s also the popular Bronx donut — olive oil and cracked pepper! We especially loved Those Beetz Are Doped — a house favorite with a beets glaze filled with ricotta whip cream.

Pro Tip: While there were only four stops on this tour, trying lots of different donuts can fill you up quickly. Our tour guide carried extra to-go bags for everyone. You are encouraged to take whatever you can’t finish home.

5. Beyond The Plate Food Tours

Downtown Jersey City And Jersey City Heights

Our final food tour is from the Beyond The Plate Food Tours in Jersey City, a short subway ride from Manhattan. Jersey City is the second largest city in New Jersey and one of the most diverse cities in the country with incredible restaurants. The New York Times named Razza (one of the stops in this tour), the best pizza in New York several years ago. Yes, Razza is in New Jersey, not New York. Since we live in Jersey City (part of the year), we know Razza very well and highly recommend it.

Beyond the Plate begins at Luna, a restaurant in a refurbished bank building that serves excellent pasta. The tour also includes Gringo’s, a very inventive Mexican place for the chicken and waffle taco. We go there often and recommend the buffalo soldier, Gandhi’s tuna tar-taco, and almost everything else on the menu. Ghost Truck Kitchen and either ice cream from Torico or a cookie from Bang Cookies round out the tour.We highly recommend going on food tours when you travel and in your home city. Some of the tours we took were in neighborhoods we have known for decades. We learned something new every time.

New Brunswick, Canada, is a nature lover’s paradise. The geological features are fascinating in this part of the country; this includes over 1,000 waterfalls, formed due to continental collisions, volcanic eruptions, and melting glaciers. A visit to this Maritime province is filled with awe-inspiring sights and adventures, including The Bay of Fundy, home to the world’s highest tides.

The coastal region along the bay is spectacular. All rivers from the Saint John River westward flow over a waterfall on their way to the Bay of Fundy. If you like chasing waterfalls, there are many to experience in the Fundy Coastal region. The following seven, starting along the Fundy Trail Parkway, are a few breathtaking examples of the stunning waterfalls found along the Fundy Coast. 

Pro Tip: While visiting that part of the province, be sure to enjoy its charming villages and the iconic Hopewell Rocks.

I was a guest of Tourism New Brunswick for this experience, but all opinions are my own.

Fundy Trail Parkway

The Fundy Trail Parkway is the perfect place to start your waterfall chase. It’s a 6,323-acre park and 19-mile world-class drive that hugs the southern coast of New Brunswick. The trail took 25 years and around 100 million dollars to build. Completed in 2020 during the pandemic, the parkway features five beaches, four waterfalls, 22 miles of hiking and biking trails, plus picnic areas that offer spectacular views dotted around the drive. 

The Fundy Trail is also part of two UNESCO-designated sites: The Fundy Biosphere Reserve and Stonehammer Global Geopark. The scenery is so gorgeous here that you must pull off at any one of over 20 lookouts or 15 observation decks to take in the breathtaking sights of the Bay of Fundy.

1. Walton Glen Gorge Falls

Starting at the eastern entrance to the park, the Walton Glen Gorge is known as “The Grand Canyon of New Brunswick.” It’s a protected natural area and is 1,000 feet across, 525 feet deep, and 550 million years old. It was formed by a series of volcanic eruptions. In the spring and autumn, a high waterfall tumbles down the sheer rock walls, and it’s thought to be the second-highest waterfall in New Brunswick. The viewing deck is a 1.5-mile hike through the woods (the trail is well-marked off the Fundy Trail Parkway) and is considered easy to moderate. Once there, you can view the falls from the viewing platform, and on a clear day, you can see all the way out to the Bay of Fundy.

2. McLeod Brook Falls

The McLeod Brook Falls are named after Bentley McLeod. He discovered the falls and worked in the logging camps along the Fundy Coast in the early-to-mid 20th century. The trail is near the Walton Glen Reception Center and is considered a part of the gorge. The trek begins as you head down a wide gravel path that is an old ATV trail. As you near the falls, you will descend a well-maintained cable staircase that brings you down to McLeod Brook. When you arrive, you are at the bottom of the falls. 

The tumbling water is soothing, as the rushing water fills the quiet spaces. Verdant ferns and lush moss make this a secluded paradise, yet you aren’t that far into the woods. 

The trail is moderately difficult, and those with mobility issues might have difficulty reaching the brook at the bottom. You will climb down the stairs, which are slightly steep and rustic. 

After enjoying McLeod Falls, you can climb back up. Or when you reach the brook, you can opt to trek further, traversing the shallow water with the help of cables attached to trees to assist your crossing, and then hike back up the hill. This is a challenge, but if you are up for it, it’s a lot of fun.

3. Long Beach Brook Falls

The Long Beach Brook Falls is a moderate to challenging hike with a great payoff. When you travel along the Fundy Parkway, park at parking lot P-13. Then walk out to the Parkway and travel west toward the interpretive center. You will see the footpath for Long Beach Brook Falls. The trail has blue blazes to lead the way.

As you head through the forest, you will observe the remnants of the area’s mining history, which eventually leads you to Long Beach Brook Falls. You’ll walk through moss- and fern-filled forests as you hear the gushing sound of the rushing water pounding into a large pool — perfect for a dip on a hot day. The hike can be one-way in-and-back for about a mile, or it can be made a loop (2.2 kilometers, or a little less than a mile and a half.) This is a great place to sit and enjoy the relaxed seclusion in the forest. The hike is difficult for those with mobility issues.

4. Fuller Falls

Fuller Falls is a favorite stop on the Fundy Trail Parkway. You can reach the falls (when they’re open) by climbing up from the Melvin Beach Trail. The cable ladder to the lower observation deck is under construction and is currently closed; however, the multi-use trail is open for hikers, and the upper deck is still available for viewing. The platform overlooks the 50-foot-tall waterfall and the valley below. The beauty here is astounding, and a great place to shoot some photos. Once it tumbles down to the ravine, the water travels through various streams down to Melvin Beach.

If you drive toward the charming village of Alma, you will arrive at the gateway to Fundy National Park. Stop in town and enjoy a tasty lobster meal or sip a delicious microbrew at Holy Whale Brewery on your way to the park, established in 1948. Once inside, you’ll have the option to discover 25 waterfalls, but here are two you shouldn’t miss.

Fundy National Park

Fundy National Park is a mid-sized national park covering 80 square miles. There’s a lot to do inside the park, including hiking, camping, and swimming in the Bay of Fundy.

5. Dickson Falls

If you want to enjoy a fantastic hike to a waterfall, head to Dickson Falls. When you enter the park from the village of Alma, the trailhead is off Pointe Wolfe Road. It is rated easy to moderate; there are boardwalks for most of the mile-long trail, but there are plenty of stairs, so consider this if you have mobility issues. 

If you take your time to enjoy this hike, taking a walk slowly to admire the lush ferns and trees, it should take about 30 minutes to complete. The scenery is impressive, and even though Dickson Falls is only 25 feet high, it’s the most photographed waterfall in Fundy National Park and the climax of one of the most popular hiking trails, especially in autumn.

6. Third Vault Falls

The Third Vault Falls Trail is long — just around 4 miles. It’s an out-and-back trek considered moderately challenging and could take as much as 2 hours to complete. The best time to hike is from April to October, and it’s lovely as the path meanders through flat woodlands until finally sloping downward toward the Third Vault Brook. This trail is listed as a Fundy Biosphere Reserve Amazing Place. Its rugged beauty (the falls descend 52 feet down a rocky ravine) is remote. 

This is not recommended for anyone with mobility issues, as the trail is sometimes rocky and steep. If you visit the Third Vault Falls, ensure you have water and proper hiking shoes and layers while attempting to visit the tallest waterfall in Fundy National Park.

Saint John, New Brunswick

Saint John, Canada’s oldest incorporated city, sits on the Bay of Fundy. It has Canada’s oldest market and oldest museum, and it’s near many of New Brunswick’s covered bridges.

7. The Reversing Falls

The natural phenomenon known as the “Reversing Falls” is one of two in the world. It is aided by the bathtub shape of the Bay of Fundy, which makes the waves slosh back and forth and results in the highest tide in the world.

At the Reversing Falls, a tug-of-war occurs daily at different points in the tide cycle — low, slack, and high tide. At low tide, the river flows into the bay; as the bay’s tide rises, it slows the river’s current (most noticeably during the 20-minute slack tide period); and as the tide continues to climb, the river’s flow reverses. Basically, when the current and the tide collide, the power of the Bay of Fundy’s tides pushes the Saint John River backward, causing the Reversing Falls. 

Slack tide is the only time sailboats and pleasure crafts can sail between the Bay of Fundy and the Saint John River.  

You can observe the Reversing Falls from the Reversing Falls Rapids Lookout Point near the bridge in Fallsview Park. From the parking lot, take the trail on the right to find the lookout; then return to the parking lot and take the scenic Fallsview Park Trail along the cliff’s edge. Hiking NB gives a great overview.

It was one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War. There were over 50,000 casualties during the 3-day Battle of Gettysburg, of which over 7,000 lost their lives. Many say that the fallen still haunt the town, roaming the streets and buildings lost in perpetual purgatory.

It is no wonder, then, that Gettysburg is known as one of the most haunted towns in America. As a result, several fascinating ghost tours have been created where visitors to these hallowed grounds can hear the tortured stories and maybe even encounter the deceased.

As you walk the streets of Gettysburg with your guides, you will get a sense of the tumultuous battle, feel the grief of the residents who were caught in the crossfire, and get the feeling that you are not alone. 

Here are seven of the best haunted ghost tours in Gettysburg that will leave you with goosebumps, have the hairs on the back of your neck stand up, and make you a believer.

1. Gettysburg Ghost Tours And Gettysburg Paranormal Association 

A true family-friendly spooky tour awaits you when you book an outing with the Gettysburg Ghost Tours And Gettysburg Paranormal Association (GPA). 

GPA offers 14 candlelit walks down the streets, back allies, and cemeteries of the town. It is all brought to life by the GPA’s master storytellers, merging the strange sightings of townspeople and tourists with incredible historical facts. 

If you have ever wanted to take part in an actual ghost hunt, the GPA offers three tours where you can experience paranormal activity ranging from less terrifying, family-friendly hunts to the extreme ghost hunt that takes you to former field hospitals, abandoned farmhouses, and many more locations sure to make you a believer. You can view clips and stories from GPA’s hunts online. 

Pro Tip: Ghost tours and hunts occur every day, rain or shine, but get your tickets early! GPA is nationally famous due to its appearances on the Travel Channel and SyFy so tickets are scooped up early. Purchase them online. 

2. Ghostly Images Of Gettysburg 

Ghostly Images of Gettysburg on Baltimore Street offers many different tour options for those brave enough to venture out. 

Ghostly Images has three traditional walking tours including visits to the Jennie Wade House, the site of the only civilian death of the battle, as well as tours of the children’s orphanage dungeon where a cruel head mistress tortured misbehaving children. It also explores the oldest house in the city, the Dobbins House, once used as a field hospital. In fact, the red door on the front of the building was used as an operating table. Spooky, huh?

You can visit even more spooky haunts and hear other ghostly tales when you ride along the Ghostly Images bus tour. The bus tours are 2 hours long and are offered throughout the summer and fall. 

Make your reservations early by purchasing tickets online.

3. Sleepy Hollow Ghost Tour 

A unique destination for ghost lovers is the historic Farnsworth House recognized as one of the most haunted inns in America.

Built in 1810, Farnsworth is a beautiful bed and breakfast with an outdoor beer garden and dining area. It includes fine dining in the main dining rooms and bedrooms eloquently decorated with period furnishings such as lace-topped canopy beds and bathrooms with high-tank Victorian toilets, pull chains, and claw-foot tubs and showers. 

Several of the rooms have had paranormal activity reported, most notably the Sara Black Room, which is reportedly the most haunted in the house.

The Farnsworth offers several walking tours including the Yankee Spirits Walking Tour, a nightly 90-minute stroll down Gettysburg’s Baltimore Street to various haunted locations with storytellers telling tales of the departed. And don’t forget the truly frightening Tormented and Lost Souls Tour. It is not for children as the guide retells bone-chilling tales of death, murder, and ghostly encounters.

A favorite “haunt” (forgive the pun) for visitors to Gettysburg is Farnworth’s Haunted Cellar Presentation. Here, period-dressed storytellers bring the history of Farnsworth alive, as well as the house’s past residents who still live there, if you can call it living. 

Tickets for the Haunted Cellar Presentation should be purchased online. The owners remind you that since the Farnsworth is a working bed and breakfast, some areas of the house may not be accessible on certain dates. You can also make your reservations to spend a night at the Farnsworth online.

4. Civil War Ghosts 

Up to 12 historic — and haunted — sites are visited in one of two ghost walks presented by Civil War Ghosts.

These tours are short in length but guaranteed to leave you believing. The first tour is an hour long and travels approximately 1 mile. The extended tour is 90 minutes long and covers 1.5 miles.

Be sure to rent one of the tour’s EMF (Electromagnetic Field) detectors to bring along with you and know when there is paranormal activity near you.

Group sizes are limited, so plan on ordering tickets plenty of time before your trip.

5. After Dark Investigations

Have you ever watched the TV series Ghost Hunters or Kindred Spirits and wondered about the amazing gadgets they use to investigate paranormal behavior? Now you can try those gadgets out with an After Dark Investigations tour.

After Dark purposely keeps groups small so there is no waiting in line. You’ll get more personal guidance from your tour guide on using investigative gear such as K2 meters, EVP voice recorders to catch audio from the spirits, laser grids, and more while you explore some of the most haunted destinations in Gettysburg. 

Still a non-believer? Check out the After Dark website for creepy photos and videos, then book one of several tours online.

6. Battlefield Paranormal Excursions

Another Gettysburg ghost tour that allows you to become a paranormal investigator is Battlefield Paranormal Excursions (BPE).

Once again, BPE keeps their group size small, no more than 10 per tour. They allow you to use their investigative gear — EVP recorders, K2 meters, etc. — to capture your own evidence of paranormal activity.

Each tour is 2 hours long and, depending on the location they choose to investigate the night of your visit, they may cover up to two different haunted sites. 

To make reservations, call BPE. They do take walk-ins but it’s cash or PayPal only. 

7. Mark Nesbitt’s Ghosts Of Gettysburg Candlelight Walking Tours

This is the tour that starts many on their Gettysburg ghost hunting trip — the Ghosts of Gettysburg Candlelight Walking Tour. 

The Ghosts of Gettysburg Candlelight Walking Tour is based on Mark Nesbitt’s hit series of books of the same name, also made into a series on the History Channel. 

Period-costumed storytellers lead you down the dark back alleys of Gettysburg to hear frightening tales and maybe see some unexplained activity. One story that haunts me from the books — and it’s included on some of the tours — occurred at the Pennsylvania College Prep School, the story of Blue Boy.

A young boy was fleeing from the abuse inflicted upon him at a local orphanage. It was a bitterly cold, snowy night. Some of the girls at the college felt sorry for the boy and hid him in their room. 

Every night, the head mistress would head room to room checking on the girls. When she would approach their room, the girls hid the boy on a snowy ledge outside their window.

One night after inspecting their room, the girls went to bring the boy back in but all they found on the ledge was a pair of snowy footprints. The boy had disappeared. Today, people claim to see the eerie, ghostly blue face of the boy outside the college’s windows. Sometimes the words “help me!” can be seen scrawled in the frosty windows. 

Take a Ghost of Gettysburg tour — either the Baltimore or Carlisle Street tours — and maybe you will see the legendary Blue Boy. Or, visit a Civil War hospital where caretakers traveled down an elevator to the basement to see the ghostly apparitions of the hospital while still in operation!

Ghosts of Gettysburg also offers a self-guided tour where you can visit these locations on your own and at your own speed.

Pro Tips: Gettysburg Ghost Tours

All haunted walking tours in Gettysburg are held rain or shine unless it’s severe weather, so dress accordingly. Please visit the site’s websites for any changes in scheduling.

Many of the tours take you down cobblestoned back alleys and the footing is uneven. Use caution and be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.

If you have younger children, you may want to check with your guides before taking a tour with them. Some of these tales could bring on nightmares.

Pennsylvania has so much to offer, including:

• My 17 Favorite Experiences At Pennsylvania’s National Apple Harvest Festival
• The Amazing Pennsylvania Chocolate Shop Serving Authentic German Chocolates
• 9 Fantastic Experiences In Ohiopyle State Park

You have just arrived in a new-to-you city. Where do you start your adventure? What is this location’s claim to fame? And, most importantly, where is the best food? Typically when we travel, we are in a location for only a short while and want to make the most of every minute. Before I am on the plane to a new place, I schedule a food tour for right after my arrival.

When I can’t find a great food tour that fits into my schedule, I will make a plan to hunt down foods based on a theme. Where to find the best waterfront restaurants on Cape Cod or the best places to eat along the Ruta del Lechón in central Puerto Rico are good examples of getting out and exploring a destination through a food lens.

Traveling is about the experience and delving into a region’s food culture. Following a local guide is the very best way to explore an exciting new spot. Here’s why taking a food tour is a must in a new city.

Note: Some information in this piece was obtained during a sponsored press trip, but all recommendations are my own.

1. You Sample Amazing Food

Guided food tours bring local cuisine to life. They will take you to a selection of restaurants where you will sample small bites of a wide variety of dishes. It’s like having a progressive meal — a nibble here and a nosh there.

Great food tours will expose you to the exciting food offered in their region. For instance, the Street Corn Salad from The Mission restaurant in Scottsdale is a delicious interpretation of the classic Mexican street corn. This amazing bite of food — sweet corn, salty cheese, and creamy dressing — is so good. Many regional traditions and flavors come alive in this dish.

This tour experience was through Arizona Food Tours.

2. They Explore Local Culture

In the Little Havana neighborhood of Miami, roosters run wild — you could say they rule the roost! In Cuban culture, the rooster represents strength and power. They roam the neighborhood of Little Havana just like they would back in the residents’ hometowns in Cuba.

Old’s Havana Cuban Bar & Cocina serves up a classic mojito complete with sugar cane stalks. Their Cubano made with slow roasted pork, Swiss cheese, and pickles on warm, pressed Cuban bread is a slice of gooey deliciousness. The 1950s-inspired tropical decor punctuated by a rogue hen or rooster sets the stage for a culturally immersive meal.

This tour experience was through Miami Culinary Tours.

3. They Expand Your Comfort Zone

Our guide, Georgia, said, “Let’s walk through the fish market.” My first instinct was no thank you. She assured me it didn’t smell at all, and she was so right. The local food safety requirements keep the fish market clean and fresh. We even sat down and enjoyed a snack right in the market. I have wandered into many fish markets where the fishy odor was so overwhelming I had to leave. Trust your guide — you may discover a new perspective.

Athens’ food market is huge — exponentially larger than your local farmers’ market. You could easily spend an hour or more wandering through all the different sections. As you turn each corner, you are assaulted with a riot of colors, spicy aromas, and beautiful displays. The vendors are pleasant and helpful and many speak enough English to get through a transaction.

This tour experience was through Athens Walking Tours.

4. You Might Learn Cooking Techniques

When you learn to create a culturally rich dish, you gain a new perspective of a region or country. Exploring the history of food by crafting it with the guidance of a true artisan helps you capture the soul of a dish. At Agriturismo Il Mandoleto, I took a class on pasta making — I was astonished at how easy it was to make delicious pasta by hand. We made pasta without a machine, simply rolling the dough out with a wooden rolling pin.

Our instructor, a nonna who had been making past for many years, walked us through hand-mixing the flour, egg, and water and kneading it to the right consistency. After rolling out our gorgeous dough, we practiced cutting and forming shapes. Simple foods like pasta made from scratch transport you immediately back to a treasured adventure.

This tour experience was through Oceania Cruises.

5. They Can Introduce You To The Bar Scene 

The local bar and cafe culture offer visitors an interesting peek into the daily lives of hometown folks. In Prague, particularly at neighborhood bars like Lokál, you will find groups of friends enjoying the quintessential Czech beer — Pilsner Urquell.

After a long day, tables filled with workmates and friends gather for a few hours of sharing stories, food, and great beer. The lager has only a 4.4% alcohol content, making it very drinkable during a long evening of pub enjoyment.

Researching the bar scene can be lots of fun. You might want to try joining the locals on your next trip.

This tour experience was through A Taste of Prague Food Tours.

6. You Can Taste Great Wine

Wine tastings usually involve fabulous local wines and delicious bites — two of my favorite things. The excellent vintners in the Etyek-Buda wine region were a surprise for me. Wine tasting in a newly built tasting room is lovely, but when you can taste in a vintner’s cellar, that’s an experience.

We were treated to a tasting directly from the fermenting barrel. Our small group crowded into the underground stone cellar where the vintner used a “wine thief” to extract glasses of aging red wine from its barrel. Our experience was followed up by a glass of an aged vintage of the same wine. It was interesting tasting the unique journey grapes make on their way to becoming a great wine.

This tour experience was through Avalon Waterways.

7. The History Lessons

So many times a culture’s foundation is built on history. Guided food tours partner with local businesses and impart local history into the tour seamlessly. Puerto Rico’s coffee is a good example. They have been growing rich, flavorful coffee beans since the end of the 18^th century. The demand for Puerto Rican coffee in Europe, known for hints of chocolate, helped elevate the island’s farming economy.

Central Puerto Rico has a coffee culture built on high-quality coffee grown on the rich volcanic slopes of the island’s interior farmlands. Cuatro Sombras farm-to-cup coffee is one of the best coffee experiences in Old Town San Juan. Their coffee is grown in Yauco (Coffee Town) in the southern coastal region where the climate and soil are perfect for growing coffee.

This tour experience was through Flavors Food Tours – San Juan.

8. The Sweet Sensations

If you don’t have enough time for a half-day food tour, pick one delectable item and learn a little bit about how it is made. Short classes that focus on a local artisanal product are the ultimate way to experience food cultures.

The Swiss know how to manipulate chocolate. Known internationally for their decadent milk chocolate, the farmers tending herds of cows would say it is because the cows eat the sweetest grass and are happy and content. Sweet milk combined with perfectly roasted cocoa beans produces the best chocolate.

When I visited Interlaken for a ski trip, I took a day to explore the village. As a chocoholic, taking a hands-on class to make my own Swiss chocolate bars was an absolute must-do. A little taste testing along the way made for a chocolate-infused party.

This tour experience was through Funky Chocolate Club.

Finding The Best Local Food Tours 

When you are researching the food tour that’s best for you, there are several sites that can lead you to an excellent guided food tour. Local tour guides will sign up to be part of several group booking sites in addition to having their own website.

Viator is a good place to start. If you check the “Additional Info” section, it should list the name of the vendor. This allows you to research the vendor more thoroughly and explore all your tour options. Another good site is Get Your Guide, very similar to Viator. If you want a private tour, Tours By Locals is the way to go. For an immersive experience, you venture into the homes of local chefs with Eat With where you can explore dining on a personal level.

Take A Food Tour

Get out there and explore your next destination through its food. It will bring you closer to the local people, their history, and their culture.

Pro Tip: Foodie tour guides are accustomed to making dietary restrictions work for their guests — don’t be afraid to ask about substitutions.

A women-only tour is a fantastic way to explore the world with like-minded women. You’ll have buddies to share the experience with; someone’s always around to take your photo at the iconic sites. Travel can be a hassle these days. Why not have adventures without worrying about all the minutiae of planning a trip yourself?

There is a “don’t wait” attitude and a pent-up desire to travel these days. Not everyone is ready to jump back in the pool in this post-pandemic world — and your best travel partner might be unavailable.

Debra Asberry, founder and CEO of Women Traveling Together®, shares, “The demand for women-only tours has risen as women have become financially independent and want to spend their money pursuing their travel dreams. The convenience of packaged travel, combined with the safety and camaraderie of an all-female group, provides the perfect environment for a great travel experience.”

I have led women’s tours for almost 10 years. I’m happy to share a few reasons you should consider joining one. 

1. Step Out Of Your Comfort Zone

For many women, it’s just a matter of the right encouragement and support to do the things they’ve always wanted. A women-only tour brings a level of support that can spur one to take on new challenges. I have seen women bloom with new confidence after navigating tricky travel situations. 

Maybe you haven’t flown by yourself before. Little things like finding your gate at the airport or locating your luggage at the baggage carousel can deliver pride of accomplishment that motivates you to tackle bigger goals.

2. You Will Fit In

The dynamics of a women-only tour are different than a mixed-gender trip. For starters, you won’t feel like a third wheel on a tour filled with couples. 

You’re not identified as a mother, daughter, wife, or significant other. You can simply be yourself. Most find not having men around can be liberating– there’s no gender pressure. 

Meeting up with a group of women you don’t know might cause you to hesitate. I get it; that’s normal. One of the top concerns I hear is, “Will I fit in?” Let’s just put that fear to rest. The answer is yes. You are traveling with friends you just haven’t met…yet. 

Some tour companies allow tour members to interact online before the tour begins. This alleviates any apprehensions you may have, and it’s a great way to break the ice. Before you know it, you’re swapping information about pre-tour activities, sharing rides from the airport, and making plans to meet up for lunch. 

Pro Tip: The tour leader is trained in group dynamics, and she has your back. She will help ease the way for women to bond. 

3. Throwback: Do Your Homework

You should do your research. Choose the tour company that is a good fit for you. If you’ve browsed tours on the internet, it’s likely that something in an itinerary jumped out at you and piqued your interest.

• Do you melt in the heat? Then don’t go to Italy in the height of summer.
• Don’t like the cold? Avoid Iceland in winter.
• Some women like longer tours to minimize fixed costs like airfare.
• Some would rather not be away from home for more than a week. 

“I typically travel solo, but I’m not opposed to taking a group tour,” says Stacey Wittig, globetrotter and blogger at UnstoppableStaceyTravel.com.

“When researching group tours, my eye is especially caught by women-only tours. I’ve found that on girls-only trips, I come as a stranger, but I leave with loads of friends. It seems we lower our guards and somehow feel freer to be ourselves,” says Wittig about women-only tours.

“Beyond that, tailor-made tour packages offer great value in terms of the wealth of information you receive, plus behind-the-scenes things and little-known places you aren’t likely to experience without a local guide,” she adds.

Most women’s tour companies will match you up with a roommate to save on costs. I’ve shared a room, and bringing earplugs and an eye shade makes it a more comfortable experience.

Don’t like the idea of sharing a room with a stranger? Tour companies offer single rooms. You will probably have to pay extra, but some think it is worth the cost for more privacy. 

Pro Tip: Find a group tour that caters to women in your age bracket. You will have more in common with them.

4. Girls Just Want To Have Fun

Women bond very quickly. There is an interesting dynamic that occurs whenever a group of women congregates. We come on a tour with diverse backgrounds, and our unique personalities and life stories only enhance the shared travel experience. 

I started with a quick group introduction on one New York City tour. Soon, while walking up Broadway to our Welcome Dinner, what had been a bunch of strangers just a short time before were mingling with happy, excited chatter. I smiled because this is the alchemy that happens on women’s tours. Women who meet on tour keep in touch and may end up traveling together again in the future.

Pro Tip: Don’t be shy. Be the first to reach out to others in the group to say hello and introduce yourself. 

5. Sharing Is Caring 

Women naturally share. When a suitcase goes missing on arrival at a destination, we immediately share shampoo, clothes, and whatever we can. Women who are good with technology are happy to show how apps and airdrop work. Before you know it, we are sharing photos of our furry friends and family members.

6. Safety In Numbers 

Being with a group will make you feel safer than you will traveling alone. Many women on tours are single, divorced, widowed, or have a partner or spouse who doesn’t like to travel and is looking for a secure environment. When unexpected hiccups happen, and you know they will, there is a degree of comfort that the company understands the rules — and can navigate the confusing road of travel issues.

Pro Tip: I always recommend purchasing travel insurance for travel delays and unexpected health emergencies. I have an annual policy with Allianz and an evacuation policy with Medjet. There are single-trip options through both. 

7. Your Interests, Centered

Women want different things on a trip than men, including extended time for shopping and more frequent bathroom breaks. There is plenty of free time to strike off on your own to explore your own personal interests.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll always have someone who shares your interest. Some women’s tour companies also focus more on women’s issues, providing insights into the life of women in different cultures. 

Pro Tip: Your Tour Leader will have plenty of free-time suggestions and will help pair women with similar interests. 

8. Just Go For It 

Group tours are sometimes perceived as rigid, but that’s a bum rap. Going with the flow is part of the travel experience; being kind and respectful of your fellow travelers is one of the core principles. I have found that flexibility, thoughtfulness, and a good sense of humor go a long way in making group travel successful. How is a tour for 50+ women different than other group tours? 

Asberry, founder and CEO of Women Traveling Together®, shared, “We need to stop lumping everyone over 50 together and assuming they are incapable just because of their age. Many women are still physically active well into their 70s and want to do more than sit on a bus.”

Read the itinerary carefully and note the activity rating for each tour. Walking 3 to 5 miles daily is standard, and you’ll need to keep up with the group’s pace. If there are more stairs or rugged terrain than you can handle, you can always sit out an activity.

On most tours, you will need to be physically able to manage your own bags and be in reasonable health and shape. 

9. A Chance To Put Yourself First

Women who put their needs first tend to be much more satisfied with their lives. It’s time for a bit of self-care, engaging in activities that promote well-being and reduce stress. A bucket list item, no matter how large or small, may turn to regret if you wait too long to fulfill it. 

“If you think about a woman’s role 60 or 70 years ago compared to today, you’ll remember that most women stayed in the home,” shares Chris Cutler, traveler and blogger at Coldpastandredwine.com.

“Breaking down the bonds of that archaic life has taken time, and women have bonded over it. Women stick together. They tend to have a stronger sense of community, friendship, and support. When they travel together, they immerse themselves in a deeper and more intuitive way,” she adds. 

10. The Secret Sauce: Your Tour Leader 

The role of the tour leader is key; she’s there to look for your safety, help resolve issues, and facilitate your vacation. Tour leaders are seasoned travel pros trained in group dynamics, tour logistics, and problem resolution. She is part of the group and is passionate about ensuring your travel dreams are realized. 

A women-only tour is a fantastic way to travel. Women choose this option because it is fun, friendly, and enjoyable. I’ll put on my tour leader hat and end with my signature phrase, “So, pack your sense of adventure along with your most comfortable shoes; I know we’ll have a fantastic time.” 

Related Reading

• Is Group Tour Travel Worth The Money?
• 6 Reasons A Group Tour May Be Perfect For Your Next Trip

As my friend Tim and I drove south from Amarillo, Texas, toward Palo Duro Canyon State Park in the flat panhandle of Texas, I began to doubt that the second-largest canyon in the United States actually existed.

Located 25 miles south of Amarillo and only 14 miles from Canyon, Texas, this often overlooked canyon seems to pop out of nowhere. The drive through the flat, scrubby panhandle terrain gave no hint at the fact that a canyon that dips 800 feet down in places even exists out here in the dusty west.

“I think they’re fooling us,” I joked. “There’s no way there is a canyon out here.”

When Palo Duro Canyon does come into view, it’s sudden and shocking. One minute, you’re staring at plains; the next, the earth opens up into a wide panorama of colors, canyons, cliff walls, and knee-shaking vistas.

Second in size only to the Grand Canyon in Arizona, Palo Duro Canyon was formed by millions of years of relentless Texas winds and water erosion from the unassuming Prairie Dog Town Fork of the Red River.

Nicknamed “The Grand Canyon of Texas” because of its size, stunning geological features, multicolored layers of rock, hoodoos, and steep mesa walls, Palo Duro Canyon is also the second-largest state park in the state parks system, and it features 30 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails (PDF).

We spent a long, spring weekend at Palo Duro Canyon, which offers long, challenging hiking trails, flat scenic walks, stunning views, historical sites and markers, horseback riding, and a variety of camping.

History Of Palo Duro Canyon State Park

As the second-largest canyon system in the United States, Palo Duro Canyon is 120 miles long and 20 miles wide. At up to 800 feet deep, the canyon is filled with colors from 250 million years of geological layers.

According to Texas State Parks, Palo Duro Canyon has been inhabited for about 12,000 years, starting with the Clovis and Folsom peoples, who hunted herds of mammoth and giant bison.

The Apache, Comanche, and Kiowa also called Palo Duro Canyon home, but the canyon is also the site of one of the darkest moments for Native Americans.

The Red River War between the U.S. Army and southern Plains Indians lasted from June 1874 to spring 1875, and on September 28, 1874, the 4th U.S. Cavalry launched a surprise attack at dawn on a camp of Comanches, Kiowas, and Cheyennes.

The tribes fled, but the U.S. forces shot and killed their 1,400 ponies and burned all the winter supplies, leaving the families no choice but to surrender and return to the reservation.

A rancher named Charles Goodnight founded the JA Ranch in the canyon in 1876 with John Adair, and by 1885, the ranch boasted 100,000 head of cattle and 1,325,000 acres of land.

In 1887, the partners divided up the land, and in 1933, Texas bought the land for the park. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) spent five years building the infrastructure of the park, and today, that legacy can be seen in what is now the visitor center, the cabins on the rim and canyon floor, and the trails. The 28,000-acre park opened in 1934.

Things To Do In Palo Duro Canyon

Many visitors to Palo Duro Canyon State Park can spend days upon days exploring the canyon by foot, mountain bike, horse, or car. With more than 30 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, outdoor adventurers can stay busy studying nature, birdwatching, hiking, or just taking in the scenery during a day trip from Amarillo.

Get Riding!

Horseback riding is a popular activity at the canyon, and the Old West Stables offer guided horseback trail rides from March to November. The equestrian area at Palo Duro Canyon State Park has about 1,500 acres, and many of the trails in the equestrian area are strictly for horses for a leisurely getaway. The park has other horseback trails open to all users, including the Juniper Cliffside Trail (about six miles round-trip) and the Lighthouse Trail (about six miles round-trip).

The equestrian area has six primitive campsites, a corral and old west stables, and water nearby. You must walk or drive to a nearby camping area for restrooms and showers.

Find Treasures Through Geocaching

Geocaching is a treasure-hunting game where participants use a GPS to find (or hide) “geocache” containers, which contain small treasures and logbooks for participants to sign. Palo Duro Canyon has several geocaching sites to discover.

Mountain Biking In The “Grand Canyon Of Texas”

If you yearn to try mountain biking in this west Texas landscape, Palo Duro has a few mountain biking trails that offer views and a challenge. The Givens, Spicer & Lowry Running Trail is a favorite mountain biking route, but the Lighthouse Trail and Capitol Peak Mountain Bike Trail also weave through Civilian Conservation Corp sites, old west stables, and towering rock formations.

Paved roads to the visitor center in the second-largest canyon in the U.S. can also be reached by bicycle, though you should be cautious of cars and other traffic at Palo Duro Canyon State Park.

Learn About History And Art

For history and art lovers, Palo Duro Canyon State Park has a wealth of both.

The Canyon Gallery, which is operated by the Partners in Palo Duro Canyon Foundation, was built out of native stone in 1933 by the CCC and remains one of the most impressive buildings at Palo Duro State Park.

With soaring windows that give an impressive view of the canyon and its rock formations, the Canyon Gallery is full of nature exhibits, archeological discoveries of west Texas, and Southwest art. It’s also a great place to learn about the history of the “The Texas Grand Canyon” and the impressive geology that makes this Texas Panhandle park so unique.

Visitors can pursue handmade Native American pottery; Navajo, Zuni, and Santo Domingo silver and turquoise jewelry; local paintings; souvenirs; and books about west Texas and Texas panhandle history and “The Grand Canyon of Texas.”

For more souvenirs, camping supplies, and ready-to-eat food, visit the Palo Duro Trading Post. The trading post is also the only gas station and fast-casual restaurant in the park.

Hit The Trails At Palo Duro

By far, the most popular activity in the canyon is hiking. The Texas Parks and Wildlife trails range from flat and easy to steep and rugged, but even a hike along the paved roads gives countless opportunities to see the towering mesas and the diverse wildlife, like coyotes, rabbits, deer, and the nimble, regal aoudads.

The “Grand Canyon of Texas” has 16 marked hiking trails ranging from easy, half-mile paths to longer trails that can connect to one another through winding rock formations. The hiking trails lead to notable landmarks like ancient landslides, cavern-like areas, old Civilian Conservation Corps buildings, and wildlife viewing blinds. 

Even a day trip from Amarillo can allow you to explore all the hiking trails at this Texas state park.

A trail map can be found here (PDF).

Pro Tip: Always pack more water than you need. The canyon floor can become blistering hot, reaching 120 degrees during the warmer months, and the park ranger told us most of the first-aid emergencies are due to over-exertion and dehydration. Never begin a hike without at least a half-gallon of water per person, per hour.

Best Camping In Palo Duro Canyon

Tim and I stayed at the Hackberry Campsite, one of four Palo Duro State Park campsites with water, electricity, and public restrooms. Every morning, a large flock of turkey wandered through, gobbling and showing off their plumes as we drank coffee and watched the sun rise over the canyon walls and hoodoos.

Palo Duro State Park has numerous campsites with water and electricity, tent sites, equestrian sites, and backpack camping areas. You’re close enough to Amarillo, however, if camping isn’t your style, you can find plenty of hotels in the Texas Panhandle within an hour or so.

Note: Palo Duro Canyon is open for day use from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day, but for the foreseeable future, all guests, including annual pass holders, must purchase day passes and/or overnight reservations in advance through the Texas State Parks Reservation System.

Hackberry Campground

While all the campsites seem nice, I especially liked Hackberry because of the little creek that weaves around it and the way it nestles along a cliff face. We were lucky to score the last available campsite when we visited, and although it was a bit of a hike to the restroom, I thought it had the best views in the park.

The Hackberry Campsite at Palo Duro State Park has 32 sites and is the second public campsite you’ll come across after entering the park.

Juniper

The Juniper campsite is the first campground you’ll see after entering the park and passing the visitor center. Like the other campgrounds, this site has water and electricity as well as wonderful views of the west Texas landscape and rock formations. The Juniper has 18 sites with restrooms and showers nearby.

Mesquite/Sagebrush

Near the end of Palo Duro Canyon is the third campground, and the largest, with 47 sites. Some of the sites can hold a 60-foot RV. Nestled on the Palo Duro Canyon floor, this campground gives easy access to the old west stables, horseback riding paths, and trails like The Lighthouse Trail.

Cow Camp Cabins

For those looking for a rustic adventure, the park features three cabins on the canyon’s rim or four Cow Camp cabins on the canyon floor.

Pro Tips

Reserve campsites as early as possible, especially for holiday and summer weekends. If you plan to spend a lot of time in Texas and near Amarillo, consider a Texas State Park Pass, which offers unlimited visits to more than 90 state parks without paying the daily entrance fee. You can also receive discounts on camping, park store merchandise, equipment rental discounts, eligibility for other specials.

Personally, I think springtime is the best time to visit Palo Duro State Park. The weather doesn’t get as hot as it does during summertime in the Texas Panhandle, and it’s not as crowded.

Best Hiking In Palo Duro Canyon

On our first morning in Palo Duro Canyon, Tim and I woke just as the sun was beginning to glow to start hiking. With more than 30 miles of trails to choose from, including the Upper Comanche Trail that weaved right through our campsite (Hackberry), we ended up hiking 17 miles that first day.

The Givens, Spicer, And Lowery Trail

We started on the Givens, Spicer, and Lowery Trail, a 3.1-mile singletrack path that leads to the Red Star Ridge. The trailhead starts across the street from the Hackberry Campsite, and at about 1.5 miles, the terrain becomes less challenging and more rolling.

The Lighthouse Trail

The Givens Spicer Lowery Trail also connects to one of the most popular trails — the Lighthouse Trail, a three-mile easy, more-or-less flat path that leads to The Lighthouse, one of the most impressive and famous rock formations in Palo Duro Canyon. The Lighthouse Trailhead has an information board and parking, but this is also the busiest hiking trail in Palo Duro State Park during the high season.

The CCC Trail

One of my favorite trails to hike was the CCC Trail, a rugged and steep 1.4-mile trail built by the Civilian Conservation Corps that follows the Palo Duro Canyon State Park rim near the visitor center. While not necessarily hard, the trail is fairly rugged as it leads to Goodnight Peak. It also becomes so narrow that there are steep drop-offs and views on both sides of the trail.

Rock Garden Trail

We tackled the challenging and steep 2.4-mile Rock Garden Trail, which connects with the 3.7-mile Rylander Fortress Cliff Trail, where we spotted herds of aoudads and even two coyotes running through the brush. The Rock Garden Trail is steep in some places, but luckily, there are plenty of places to rest and recover from the west Texas heat.

Lower And Upper Comanche Trail

The 4.4-mile Lower Comanche Trail connects to the 3.3-mile Upper Comanche Trail for a nice hike that runs through most of Palo Duro State Park. The 2.2-mile Paseo Del Rio Trail is an easy, flat path that meanders along the river and is good for all levels of hiking. You’ll be able to see a great deal of the second-largest canyon in the United States along this hiking trail.

Backcountry Trails

One of our favorite hikes was a backcountry horseback riding trail that runs approximately 1.6 miles from the equestrian area and old west stables at Palo Duro State Park. I could have sworn we hiked way more than 1.6 miles, but we also wandered off trails to picnic by a small stream, climbed upon mesas and among rock formations, and explored hidden canyons in this “Grand Canyon of Texas.” Along that backcountry trail, which can be a bit strenuous in places, we discovered petroglyphs that are not advertised anywhere but are marked by a protective fence. Needless to say, that was a surprise we didn’t expect.

Pro Tips

Again, always bring enough water, especially during the warmer months. With extreme summer heats on the canyon floor, you can easily become overwhelmed by heat exhaustion and dehydration.

Weather conditions can change rapidly, and flash flooding can pose a serious danger. If water begins to rise quickly, move immediately to higher ground.

Remember, this is a wild area, and you may encounter wildlife like rattlesnakes, feral hogs, coyotes, bobcats, deer, and, if you’re lucky, the endangered Texas horned lizard.

Several members of the official State of Texas Longhorn Herd live at the park.

Related Reading:

• 10 Fantastic Experiences At Dinosaur Valley State Park
• 12 Incredible Texas State Parks For Stargazing 
• We Rated The Best Hiking Shoes On The Market

Tilaran, Costa Rica

I took a short boat ride near Arenal to a bus that had us stop at this lookout point. It was the first time I’d seen the rolling hills that are part of the landscape in much of Central and South America. This was the first of many views to leave me breathless.

Glenfinnan, Scotland

Taking the steam train and seeing the very bridge used in the Harry Potter films was, I thought, going to be the highlight of the ride. As we turned a corner, though, this stunning view awaited my eyes. Traveling through it, I had the thought that if God had a paintbrush, he would have painted this scene.

Reykjanes Peninsula, Iceland

Seeing the northern lights for the first time was a humbling moment. I felt as if I had met God. Soft light cascaded around me, and, to this day, I feel like the sky is missing something when I look up from other places.

Sa Pa, Vietnam

I did a trek to a homestay in Sa Pa, Vietnam. I didn’t understand why so many women had accompanied us, but as soon as we entered the rough terrain, I was so happy to have their help navigating it and making it up huge stone steps as we went. Along the way, we caught glimpses of the rice fields. I had never seen any before, and I found myself staring in every direction, unable to get enough photos of the tantalizing views.

Devil’s Throat, Iguazú, Argentina

I still cannot understand how nature created this convergence of three waterfalls. It is the most spectacular waterfall convergence I’ve ever seen, and worth getting wet from the violent meeting that turns water into an angry surge, then into droplets that scatter in every direction.

Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina

My trip to Argentina was the first time I saw glaciers — and began to understand the reality of the warming weather on the earth. This photo is from the beginning of my hike on the Perito Moreno Glacier. Being in the place where land ends and ice begins, knowing that I was about to walk onto that ice, was a sensory experience I’ll never forget.

Easter Island, Chile

I, of course, wanted to see the Moai on Easter Island, but I didn’t expect to feel so much around them. I was spellbound by this scene, watching the magical cloud on the horizon that felt like it might engulf us, and feeling like the Moai were somehow protecting us. This is an island where the sky plays as much a role in the magic as its mysterious past.

Machu Picchu, Peru

I had seen countless photos of Machu Picchu, but there is nothing that compares to being there in person. Being one of hundreds of visitors at any given moment but getting a photo that made it look like I was all alone amazed me. I was also awed that people, so long ago, had such intelligence to build structures that are still standing today despite many earthquakes.

Sossusvlei, Namibia (Inside Namib-Naukluft National Park)

This was such an intriguing mix of life and death in nature. The colorful sand dunes surrounding the dead acacia trees; the dead trees against the bright sand. It was like a painting where every element served to highlight the other

Cape Reinga, New Zealand

Before I knew I would spend 2 years in New Zealand, I took a tour out to the lighthouse that stands guard over the merging of two seas (the Pacific and the Tasman). It felt like I was standing at the edge of the world.

Angkor Wat Temple, Siem Reap, Cambodia

It’s easily recognizable, but there is still magic to the experience of watching the sun rise and set around this beautiful temple.

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

A perfect blend of water, cliffs, and trees, Victoria Falls is an impressive convergence of sights.

I was a travel snob — the worst kind.

It was the first evening of my first tour, after traveling mostly solo for 50 years. My teeth ached from smiling. Like many independent travelers, I longed for the freedom of making my own decisions about where to wander and how long to stay, leaving if I didn’t l like a town, and meeting the locals. But I had always wanted to see Mt. Rushmore.

South Dakota did not seem like the best place for me to wander alone in the winter. So, for the first time in my life, I had joined a Road Scholar group tour.

An intrepid female rancher spoke to our group about the challenges of raising cattle for beef, and I heard a Native American man talk about growing up in a school that prevented him from speaking his family’s language. I also found out the true story of Captain Dunbar while visiting the filming location for Dances with Wolves in the Badlands and Black Hills of South Dakota. 

The following year I joined another group traveling off season to Portugal, again with Road Scholar. I learned about the importance of cod to Portuguese culture and how far afield the Portuguese have gone to find their favorite fish.

Some tours, especially educational ones, can provide illuminating background information about a destination, often told by local historians and other people familiar with the culture.

Besides history, group trips also feature writing, photography, art and craft workshops, or cooking classes; they’re a great way to experience what living in a place means as well as meet both local people and fellow travelers. For active travelers, there are group hiking, birding, kayaking, and sailing trips. These are just a few reasons why traveling with a group can be eye-opening.

1. Safety In Numbers

Traveling with a group can provide an extra feeling of security, especially during these times of health challenges and transportation obstacles. When I travel solo, I am sometimes unsure about where I can walk at night. However, a guide not only speaks the local language but is familiar with safe neighborhoods and places to visit, as well as the best times to see popular spots. 

Pro Tip: Do Your Own Research, And Ask For Help

You can and should research travel advisories before going abroad. The U.S. Department of State has loads of information (and sometimes restrictions) on international destinations. 

When you’re abroad, be aware that local guides will be more able to gauge last-minute changes in a country’s health status, as well as potential civil unrest or natural disasters. When my daughter and I were in Istanbul several years ago, we would have welcomed some information about political protests rather than walking into one outside our hotel.

Having access to the latest information can be difficult in remote places; while you’re abroad, local guides often have better internet connections and can assist you.

2. Cost

Group rates and hotel deals can cut the price of your tour. And your upfront travel costs usually include guides, some meals, tips, and entrance fees. Solo or independent travelers can probably find cheaper places to stay and eat, but after traveling for 50 years I now prefer to choose safety, comfort, and location rather than just the least expensive accommodations and food.

3. Hands-Off Navigation And Increased Access

When you no longer need to worry about how to get from point A to point B, you can sit back and enjoy the journey. Your guide will know the best way to reach your destination and the amount of time you need to see everything. You may even get to skip the lines at the Louvre or the Colosseum or the Sistine Chapel (or at least visit them at hours when they are the least crowded).

Pro Tip: Skip The Pain Of Driving Abroad

When you travel with a group you don’t have to find a parking space — or figure out the difference between liters and gallons, or read road signs in languages you don’t understand, or feel panic when you are approaching a toll.

4. Community

Group travel does have some negative stereotypes, from the frenzied “If it’s Tuesday, it must be Belgium” fast tour to images of hordes of tourists converging on a shop or café. And I must admit that I was not crazy about wearing a name tag. I have found, however, that traveling with a group can help to form some unexpected bonds and may nourish friendships with people you might never have met.

Plus, you won’t need to take selfies! When you are traveling with a group, someone will always be there to take a photo of you in front of that gorgeous vista. 

It is sometimes pretty scary to travel solo; you often face fears of the unknown. Group travel eases this fear with experienced guides, but it can spark some discomfort in other ways. Will anyone sit next to me on the bus? Will anyone join me for dinner? Who will be my friend? But my friend, a Tibetan monk, has said that challenges are an opportunity to overcome obstacles.

5. Life Changes

I find that I am more comfortable traveling with a group as I age. I am not able to walk as far as I used to nor carry as much. Our needs change, and group travel is a satisfying way to rely on others for what may challenge us about travel. There is no shame in facing these changes and discovering a plethora of other pleasures.

Pro Tip: Find What Suits You

There are many different group travel possibilities; take the time to research a group with whom you have at least some interests in common. If you don’t like giant tours, make sure that the ones you sign up for are smaller. If you don’t want to shop, make sure that you find a tour that doesn’t make many stops at stores. And if you want privacy, make sure that you can get a room by yourself and that the cost is not prohibitive.

6. The Best Of Both Worlds

You can always incorporate group travel into solo travel or trips with friends or family. You have choices! Here are some ways in which you can balance your travel to be just what you want and need.

1. Take some time for yourself in a new country, then take a tour, and afterward go exploring. I am doing this in India in the fall — I’ll have solo time, a tour with a small group, and then I’ll travel with a friend living in Delhi. 
2. Go alone and join day trips. I last did this in Iceland. It is a perfect way to have alone time and do what you want and then have company to visit the sites.
3. Travel with someone, split, and then meet up. You’ll be happy to see each other after your individual adventures.

By going with a group, I learned to be flexible, and I discovered that I shared something in common with people I would have never met. Having traveled for more than 50 years, I have my own experiences, opinions, judgments, and enthusiasms. But little did I know that I would be so enthusiastic about everything from dinosaur fossils in South Dakota to World War II spy sites in Lisbon. Becoming a group traveler taught me that I can still, thankfully, grow and change. 

Have you ever prepared a locally sourced ethnic meal while traveling in an unfamiliar place? Most travelers will respond with the word no. After a day of exploring, vacationers who love food usually select well-regarded restaurants to sample a region’s culinary gems. In most instances, they are thrilled to leave the time-consuming preparation to a professional culinary staff. 

Foodies who are interested in taking a deep dive into a country’s diverse cuisine will be attracted to cooking lessons offered by locals. Instead of waiting patiently at a restaurant table to be served, guests can either observe the process or work alongside a local cook. During the workshop, guests can also learn about regional traditions and cooking techniques.

While we were touring Israel’s Galilee, my husband, Ira, and I experienced a unique cooking class offered by Galileat, specializing in culinary adventures in the Galilee. Almost a decade ago, founder Paul Nirens combined the culinary skills he acquired at Israel’s Dvir Culinary School in Haifa and his cooking experience as a chef with the expertise he accrued while managing several food-related businesses to create a company offering an assortment of engaging experiences.

Note: Our cooking class experience was part of a partially hosted 12-day private Israel My Way tour. All opinions are my own. 

The Largest Cultural And Culinary Tour Operator In The Northern Galilee 

As the largest operator of culinary and cultural programs in Israel’s northern Galilee region, Galileat offers a variety of food tours, cooking workshops, gastronomic demonstrations, and seasonal programs designed to accommodate the time constraints of busy tour itineraries. Programs run from less than an hour to a full day.

Before checking into our Rosh Pina accommodations, our Israel My Way tour guide, Eric Tomer, drove us to a home in the town of Maghar, which is halfway between Karmiel and Tiberius, approximately 10 miles west of the Sea of Galilee. At the doorway, we were met by Paul, who introduced us to Miad, a local woman who would present her version of Galilean cooking.

Since Miad has a minimal understanding of English, Paul acted as our interpreter. Miad told us about her fascinating Druze background, provided instructions on how to prepare some of her favorite dishes, and asked questions about our life in the United States. 

1. Experience Hachnasat Orchim In A Druze Home

Hachnasat orchim, or “welcoming guests,” is a traditional practice that dates to biblical times. In Genesis, Abraham and Sarah’s tent was open to strangers, and their guests were made to feel comfortable and relaxed. This long-standing custom of welcoming people into one’s home has remained an integral part of Middle Eastern culture. Throughout Israel, Jews, Muslims, Druze, and Christians adhere to this practice.

After entering Miad’s home, we were asked to sit down and were immediately offered coffee and tea. The Arabic coffee had been cooked on the stove with a touch of cardamon while the tea was made from a white-leaved savory shrub referred to in Hebrew as zuta levana. Paul told us that this tiny welcoming gesture represents the principle of hachnasat orchim. Locals have always understood coffee as a sign of wealth. By offering us coffee, Miad was honoring us.

2. Learn About Israeli Food

Throughout the workshop, Paul talked about Israeli foods. He reminded us that Sephardic Jews were influenced by their respective Mediterranean background. These Jews from Persian, Iraqi, Aleppo, Egyptian, Libyan, and Moroccan backgrounds, as well as Jews from other Mediterranean countries, used local foods to create their unique cooking styles.

“Just as Norwegian cooking is different from Spanish cooking; Sephardic cuisines are dependent on where the Jews first lived. As a result, it is not possible to identify a Jewish Galilean cuisine. What is described as modern Israeli cuisine is a mix of the Arab food and the influences of culinary traditions of Jews from around the world,” he told us.

In addition to workshops focusing on Druze cooking, Paul offers classes with Muslim, Christian, and Bedouin hosts. Even though these cultures are distinct, Paul doesn’t believe that there are significant differences between the ethnic groups. While he is aware of some regional differences, the defining element appears to be centered on each home cook’s past experiences.

However, he highlighted one key point: Druze families tend to use more cinnamon in their cooking than the other Arabic-speaking groups in the region. Miad asked us to place an abundance of this spice along with the customary baharat (a special combination of Middle Eastern spices) into the mixing bowls and cooking pots. We were also advised to use more olive oil than we would have at home.

3. Participate As A Couple In An Immersive Cultural Experience

Prior to our arrival, Miad had arranged the ingredients for the recipes on a narrow table covered with a purple tablecloth and had set her wooden dining table for our festive feast. For dinner, we would be eating stuffed vine leaves and zucchini, vegetable salad, majadara (lentils and bulgur wheat), cauliflower and tahini, mnazaleh (eggplant and chickpeas stew in tomato sauce), katai’if (stuffed fried pancakes), and homemade Middle Eastern cookies referred to as mahmoul or ma’amul. 

Fun Fact: These sweet treats are made with dates and mahleb, a spice sourced from a cherry stone. We were told that the last ingredient has a similar taste to marzipan. 

When asked if this menu represents a typical Druze evening meal, Paul responded, “My hosts over-cater as a sign of respect. Stuffed grape leaves will be served at almost every meal. I would label our upcoming meal as Galilean. All the Arabic-speaking groups cook and eat very similar dishes that are affected by the seasons. Since you are interested in Druze cooking, I’d like to add that Druze are forbidden to eat a few green leaf dishes — Egyptian Mallow (mulachya), cilantro, and watercress. The folklore states that these foods raise the male libido (yes, seriously) or more politely, it is forbidden to eat foods that raise an individual’s passions.”

For approximately 2 hours, Ira and I stood side by side with Miad and Paul to assist in the preparation of the recipes on her menu. Initially, we sliced, diced, and chopped an assortment of vegetables and then cored out the zucchinis with an unfamiliar narrow, long utensil. A rice mixture was placed inside the hollowed-out zucchinis. 

Later, we wrapped grape leaves and added and mixed numerous ingredients for the different recipes. Blocks of time were spent at the hot stove cooking the dishes and then pouring the finished products onto the serving platters. Even though Ira usually leaves the cooking to me, he remained engaged throughout the process.

4. Empower A Woman To Operate A Business

(And Promote Authentic Cooking)

Galileat cooking workshops bring people from around the world together in a Galilee home where they can experience camaraderie. Our inability to speak directly with Miad did not diminish our mutual appreciation of family and food. Even though her three children were not in the room, she pointed to pictures on the wall and provided a few details. She shared information about her husband Snir, a high-ranking border policeman who spends several nights a week in Jerusalem’s Old City defending the country.

Our ability to work together to create a bountiful meal reinforced our belief that our differences were irrelevant when our commonalities created a harmonious experience.

While helping Miad prepare the meal, I asked Paul what prompted Miad to open her home to outsiders. He responded by stating, “She is proud to show off her family along with her culture to other people.” As the food was cooking, he added, “This is a great example of empowering local women. A woman who barely finished high school can connect with travel writers, millionaires, and world leaders in her own home. By doing these workshops, she has created her own micro business. This scenario was unimaginable before I initiated this business.”

This backstory showcases another reason why this type of experience is worth booking.

5. Taste Farm-To-Table Mediterranean Recipes In A Galilee Home

The Galilee has a rolling terrain resembling Italy’s Tuscany region. The fertile fields are filled with top-quality agricultural produce. Since biblical times, the region has been associated with olives, olive oil, pomegranates, dates, grapes, avocados, and herbs, as well as an abundance of other fruits and vegetables. 

A portion of the ingredients used for our meal came from Miad’s own garden while other items were purchased at a nearby village store selling freshly harvested products. Each of the items displayed on Miad’s prep table had a robust color and exhibited a crisp texture when sliced. 

When it was time to sit down at the table, we couldn’t believe how much had been accomplished. Under Miad’s direction, we had worked together to create six homemade vegetarian dishes that we had placed in the middle of the table. Some still had steam rising from the top. The aroma associated with the combination of olive oil and spices like cardamom, cumin, nutmeg, cinnamon, and Miad’s baharat consumed the room. 

As we sampled each entrée, we could taste the robust flavor emanating from the fresh produce and herbs. From the simple tomato, cucumber, green onion, parsley, and mint salad with a smattering of sumac to the traditional stuffed vine leaves and zucchinis flavored with both baharat and dried chili flakes, our taste buds were invigorated as we savored every mouthful. 

At the conclusion of the meal, we sipped on a specially prepared herbal tea combined with wild sage while munching on mahmoul cookies made earlier in the day.

As the sun was beginning to set, we thanked Miad for her gracious hospitality and said goodbye to Paul. The hours spent cooking and eating together opened our eyes to the benefits of a cooking class in Israel.

Pro Tip: If you choose to book a similar experience, remember to inform the host of your food allergies and dietary restrictions.

I sat silently in my kayak, one hand swirling the water outside the boat. With each gentle swish, a miniature constellation of underwater “stars” twinkled around my fingers. In the kayak beside me, a woman spun her paddle in the water and gasped at the tiny explosion of light. Ahead of me, the comet-like streak of green in the water indicated a fish swimming near the surface.

I’d come to Isla de Vieques, off Puerto Rico’s main island, to kayak its world-famous bioluminescent bay. The experience was everything I’d hoped for — a stroke of luck, given how poorly I’d arranged my trip. Getting the most out of a bio bay tour requires a lot of advance planning, and, in the case of Vieques, more cash than you might expect.

Here’s what I wish I knew before making the trip.

1. Bioluminescence Is Surprisingly Common

Much like fireflies do on land, single-celled, water surface–dwelling organisms called dinoflagellates, a type of plankton, can emit light underwater. They aren’t the only marine organisms that glow. Some 1,500 species of fish are known to luminesce, as well as certain types of squid, jellyfish, worms, and crustaceans. Many use bioluminescence as lures for food or mates, or to confuse predators.

Although dinoflagellates are microscopic, they often form large colonies. The human eye doesn’t detect the bioluminescence when a water body is still. But when disturbed, such as by wind that ripples the surface or the slicing of a boat hull through the water, our eyes translate the light wavelengths into glow-in-the-dark sparkles and zigzags of green or blue-green.

2. Puerto Rico Has Three Bioluminescent Bays

The planet currently has five ecosystems where dinoflagellate concentrations are high enough to consistently cause this bioluminescent phenomenon. Puerto Rico claims three of them.

In Fajardo, along the east coast of the main island, Laguna Grande is the most trafficked of the trio. It’s not as bright as the others, but at only an hour by car from San Juan, it’s the easiest to get to. This also makes it the most touristy of the bunch.

A few of the better-known Laguna Grande tour operators include:

• Eco Adventures
• Kayaking Puerto Rico
• Yokahú Kayak Trips
• Puerto Rico Bio Bay Tours

In Lajas, on the opposite corner of the main island, La Parguera is the least visited of the three bays. At about 2.5 hours from San Juan, it’s a much longer drive than Laguna Grande, but a worthwhile stop if you’re visiting the western side of Puerto Rico.

Some tours allow swimming in La Parguera. Because chemicals in bug repellents, sunscreens, and body lotions can kill the phytoplankton, you’ll need to shower before joining a tour that includes swimming or diving through the bio bay.

Try one of these La Parguera tour operators:

• Parguera Eco Tours
• Bio Bay Tours
• Kayaking Parguera
• Alelí Tours

The granddaddy of all bioluminescent bays, and the brightest in the world, is Mosquito Bay in Vieques. Although Hurricane Maria devastated the island in 2017, Mosquito Bay’s dinoflagellate population has, miraculously, doubled since then. On a dark night, you’re almost guaranteed to see something spectacular.   

Tour operators on Vieques include:

• Abe’s Snorkeling
• Black Beard Sports
• Vieques Kayaks Bio Bay
• Jak Water Sports

3. Booking A Tour Can Lead To Unexpected Expenses

You can rent a car and drive to Laguna Grande or La Parguera. Mosquito Bay isn’t connected to the main island, so you’ll need to take a ferry (about $40 per person) or small plane (about $120 per person) from Ceiba, or fly directly from San Juan (about $130 per person), to get there. Depending on the time of year, ferry and flight service may or may not be available after 7 p.m. Residents are given preference on the ferry, which means you could get bumped from an especially full voyage.

In addition, many bio bay kayaking tour operators require an address where you’ll be staying on the island in order to complete booking. Since cars aren’t allowed on the ferry to Vieques, you must rent a car or line up a taxi ride once on the island.

The short story: It’s best to plan an overnight stay on the island.

Between our flights, taxi, accommodations in the least expensive Airbnb we could find, and the tour itself, my husband and I spent about $450 on this portion of our trip.  

We chose Abe’s Snorkeling for our excursion. The experience was very good overall, although the tour operator, like an airline, oversold their 7 p.m. tour. About a dozen of us were bumped, with no notice, to the 9 p.m. slot. For our trouble, our guide offered each pairing of people a refund on one ticket.

4. Almost Anyone Can Do It

Bio bay kayaking is appropriate for most levels of ability. The water is usually calm, and paddling is done at a laid-back pace, mostly in two-person boats. Because you’re kayaking in the dark, it’s important to follow your guide’s instructions and stick close to your tour group. This could be tricky for travelers with vision or hearing impairments. If you’ve got grandkids in tow, ask about age restrictions.

5. Know Your Moon Cycles, And Book In Advance

You might be able to book a tour on the fly, but I wouldn’t risk it. Most fill up several months in advance, especially during the high season.

Although Puerto Rico’s bays luminesce year round, you’ll have the best experience on a dark night. Kayaking during a new moon is preferable because the glow percentage is usually higher. Using a moon phases calendar will help you chart out the best time to go.

Most operators don’t even run tours 3 days before or after a full moon. We didn’t realize this when we booked our Puerto Rican vacation. Fortunately, the final night was just beyond the full-moon window.  

The day before or the morning of your excursion, call your tour operator to check on the bay’s brightness; it should be a minimum of 30 percent. In addition to the moon, tides and water temperature affect how much color you see.

6. Ask About Clear-Bottomed Boats

Some tour companies offer clear-bottomed boats, which allow for a unique look at the bioluminescence directly underneath you. This isn’t the default option, so be sure to ask if it’s important to you.

7. Dress To Get Wet

Wear comfortable clothing, such as shorts and a T-shirt, preferably made of tech or quick-drying fabrics; some splashing is normal during any kayaking outing. Pants and shorts with zipper pockets are useful for storing a credit card, in case you want to stop at a restaurant or bar on the way back to your hotel or Airbnb (no need to take a full wallet or cash). Sturdy walking sandals, knit sneakers, or aqua shoes are all good choices for footwear.

Don’t count on being able to stash extra clothing or shoes with the tour operator; take only what you need.

8. Skip The Sunscreens And Skin Lotions

Wash your hands and feet before the trip, and don’t apply any moisturizer, serums, or lotions. You’ll be allowed to dip toes and fingers in the water, but chemicals from common skin products can kill the dinoflagellates.

9. It’s Okay To Take Your Phone

Most bio bay operators will tell you to leave your cell phone behind, ostensibly because its camera won’t be able to capture the glow. This may be true, or it may be an effort to reduce the sharing of images, which might, in turn, lead to a reduction in tour purchases. I regretted listening to this advice. I think I could have used my cell phone camera in manual mode and gotten sufficiently long exposures to photograph some of the luminescence.

Bottom line: There’s no harm in taking your phone, as long as you seal it in a floating dry bag, and wear it on a lanyard around your neck. Just be aware that if you accidentally overturn your kayak, you might have trouble retrieving the phone in the dark. And don’t spend all your time taking pictures. The best part of the experience is staying in the moment and enjoying the display.

10. Be Prepared For A Wild Ride

The drive out to the bio bay is a bit like riding a roller coaster without a seat belt. Our bus driver clearly had been making this drive for years, and he knew every pothole and curve in the road — and took most of them at a robust clip. In the dark. I had to pry my fingers out of the seat upholstery after he swerved through small herds of the island’s free-roaming horses. Fortunately, he didn’t hit any.

Pro Tip: About those Viequense horses: They’re not wild, even if tourism brochures and resorts market them as such. All are owned by residents and are set free to browse the island’s grasses when not being used as transportation. Sadly, these beautiful animals are frequently killed in road accidents. If you rent a car, drive slowly and cautiously.

11. Keep Your Expectations In Check

Nature is fickle, and an evening of 100 percent glow might be followed by one of less than 30 percent. To make matters worse, all promotional images of bio bay tours are Photoshopped. While it is a breathtaking sight, you will not be engulfed in a happy blue halo, nor will the water light up on its own. What you’ll see is more akin to an underwater shower of glitter every time you or your tour mates dip an oar or hand into the bay.  

Is Bioluminescent Bay Kayaking Worth The Extra Trouble And Expense?

That’s a big yes. Although I can’t speak for Laguna Grande or La Parguera, kayaking Mosquito Bay was as close to magical as an outdoor experience can get. The bay is wide open and hushed, and even with other groups of kayakers out on the water, it felt like we were the only ones. Paddling was relaxed over the hour and a half we spent out on the water.

Because I’d read up in advance and scaled my expectations, I wasn’t disappointed. The bioluminescent glow was actually more pronounced than I figured it would be, with miniature fireworks going off each time a boat pushed through the water. It wasn’t the neon blue radiance shown on tour websites, but it still felt otherworldly, like holding a galaxy of tiny stars in my palms.

Cocktail culture in Las Vegas has grown exponentially in recent years, elevated by creative mixology accompanied by stunning theatrics and housemade ingredients. The standard Manhattans, old-fashioneds, and gimlets abound, but the city’s bar menus are more likely to feature original recipes and revamped classics.

Las Vegas being Las Vegas, where ostentation and indulgence rule, adds another element to the spirited bar experience: amazing views. The most talked-about cocktail lounges may be perched atop a glassy skyscraper or surrounded by lush gardens or tucked somewhere in between, but all promise a sublime ambiance as you relax with a refined beverage.

After making the rounds (get it?) during a recent media visit hosted by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, I raise my glass to the following incredible cocktail bars and lounges.

1. Legacy Club At Circa Resort And Casino

On the 60th floor of the Circa Resort and Casino is the ultra-luxe Legacy Club, a rooftop lounge with indoor and outdoor seating in conversation groupings. The hotel is located downtown on the Fremont Street Experience, about 4 miles northeast of the Bellagio Hotel and Casino, so you’ll have far-reaching views of the famous Las Vegas Boulevard (also known as the Strip), the Las Vegas Valley, and the mountains beyond.

A prime attraction at the Legacy Club is a glass kiosk containing 500 gleaming 2-ounce gold bars imprinted with the Circa logo. A ticker at the top shows real-time pricing, based on market values, so you can see how much the treasure is worth. The night I was there, it was $1,812.170. 

What To Order At The Legacy Club

A sophisticated menu features premium spirits and bubbles, plus fresh takes on beloved classics. The Green Felt Jungle is an exotic mix of coconut-washed Japanese whisky, dry curacao, herbal liqueur, lemon, cucumber, and orgeat.

Pro Tip: Book the Sunset Package, and you can watch the entire city gradually light up to its dazzling finest. 

2. The Cosmopolitan’s North Bar At Boulevard Pool

Get a head start on the weekend with the Sunset Cocktail Hour on Thursday evenings at The Cosmopolitan’s North Bar at Boulevard Pool. The 4th-level patio adjacent to the swimming pool is usually an after-hours event space (the pool closes at 6 p.m.), but once a week it transforms into a vibrant outdoor cocktail lounge with live entertainment, signature cocktails, and light bites. Make your own tequila margarita at the Summer Spritz cart.

What I enjoyed the most about this lounge, which is located directly on the Strip, was the view of Las Vegas Boulevard below. The venue is side-by-side with the Bellagio Hotel and Casino, and across the street from Paris Las Vegas and its replica Eiffel Tower. You’re high above it all, but close enough for grand people-watching. The party runs from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., prime sunset-viewing hours. 

What To Order At The Boulevard North Bar

Ichigo-For-It is a fruity, herby refresher made with Japanese whisky, blackberry lemongrass vodka, strawberries, yuzu syrup, and a splash of sparkling wine. 

Pro Tip: The featured entertainer is acclaimed DJ and saxophonist Natty Rico. Don’t be surprised if he jumps on your table as he struts his stuff. 

3. The Lost Cactus At FlyOver Las Vegas

I felt like I was a drone soaring above mountains, rivers, and plains during the immersive film, The Real Wild West at FlyOver Las Vegas. 

I was strapped into a row of seats that rose into the air, my feet dangling, in front of an immense wrap-around screen. The seats swooped, dipped, and turned as the film led through mesmerizing landscapes and cityscapes, accompanied by actual mists, breezes, and scents. Just as it seemed we were about to crash into a mountain, the scene changed to a buffalo stampede or serene waters. (Also showing was Legendary Iceland, which explores the Land of Fire and Ice.)

Guests who use wheelchairs and are unable to transfer to the mobilized seating are welcome to enjoy the film and its sensory effects from the stationary platform.

Elevate your sky-high adventure with a stop at The Lost Cactus bar and lounge, where the walls are wrapped in large murals of nature’s majesty, and “stars” twinkle overhead. The menu features specialty cocktails and mocktails inspired by the films and Las Vegas location.

What To Order At The Lost Cactus

Order the prickly pear margarita because you’ll “fly” over the Mojave Desert during the film. The cocktail is made with tequila, triple sec, lime juice, prickly pear syrup, sweet and sour mix, and garnished with chili salt. 

Pro Tip: You can visit The Lost Cactus without viewing the films, but why would you? 

4. BRERA Osteria At The Venetian Resort Las Vegas

Sipping a cocktail or glass of vino at BRERA osteria is like being at an outdoor cafe in Venice. The Northern Italian eatery and lounge is located at the hotel’s reproduction of the internationally beloved St. Mark’s Square. The Las Vegas version is a voluminous indoor shopping and dining plaza fashioned with stone-paved walkways, ornate street lamps, and a “sky” that changes by the hour.

The BRERA osteria menu features housemade pastas, gelato, and sorbet; wood-fired pizzas, seafood and dry-aged steaks; and risottos. While you imbibe and dine, you’ll be entertained by costumed classical opera singers, jugglers, a stilt walker, and other performers in the square.

What To Order At BRERA Osteria

Brera Osteria has an extensive wine menu, especially reds, and a pleasing assortment of authentic Italian cocktails including varied spritzes. The house sangria, my choice, was concocted with Italian barbera wine and apple cider, and dressed with fruity bits.

Pro Tip: Drop in between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. for Aperitivo Hour with complimentary bites and special pricing on pizza, cocktails, wine, and beer. Ask for a seat near the railing so you can see the performance stage.

5. Vanderpump À Paris At Paris Las Vegas

Reminiscent of a Parisian courtyard, Vanderpump à Paris is a vision of over-the-top grandeur. British restaurateur and reality TV royalty Lisa Vanderpump lavishes the art nouveau–inspired scene with velvet and brocade, crystal chandeliers and brass candelabras, and humongous floral arrangements.

The cocktails are as exuberant as the goddess of excess herself. The French Poodle, which incorporates gin, ginger liqueur, blackberry, rhubarb, and lime, is topped with a generous pouf of pink cotton candy and dusted with gold flakes. Order a dozen “Les Shots,” and they arrive tiered around a three-foot replica of the Eiffel Tower. The wine list is divided into New World and Old World labels.

What To Order At Vanderpump àt Paris

Louvre at First Sight is a decadent hickory-smoked mezcal and prickly pear cocktail served under a glass pyramid, a reference to the one designed by Chinese-American architect I. M. Pei that stands in front of the Louvre Museum in Paris.

Pro Tip: The menu is a delightful literary read, designed as a newspaper broadsheet decked in fancy fonts and photos of Lisa. The menus are for sale as souvenirs.

6. Liftoff Lounge At AREA15

AREA15 is a playground of artsy expression and alternate realities including a sculpture garden, immersive multimedia, unique retail and dining, and a plethora of wacky amusements.

One of them is Liftoff, a slow-moving vertical ride that rises 130 feet high while gently revolving 360 degrees over the desert landscape. Your ride is as smooth as a hot air balloon flight in that you don’t realize you are airborne until you look down. You’re seated and strapped upright around a circular 12-seat table with cupholders. Grab a beverage from Liftoff Lounge at the bottom of the ride.

What To Order At Liftoff Lounge

Liftoff Lounge is an outdoor space with a comfy industrial vibe and full-service bar. For my 10 a.m. ride, I drank a diet soft drink. You might choose from a quartet of specialty cocktails. I hear the Sky High Margarita comes with a spicy kick. 

Pro Tip: Liftoff operates day and night, so choose your view — city lights or desert landscape. Nights can be chilly, so bring a jacket.

7. Allē Lounge On 66 At Resorts World Las Vegas

One of the highest perches in the city, Allē Lounge on 66 is also one of the swankiest. Head to the lobby of the Conrad hotel, one of three hotels at Resorts World Las Vegas, and take an elevator to the 66th floor. 

The lounge is lavished with wood-paneled walls, parquet floors, marble tabletops, and golden accents. Leather and velour seating is composed into intimate conversation groupings. Floor-to-ceiling windows on two sides assure unobstructed views of the Strip’s ubiquitous neon, while a retinue of telescopes invites you to get up close and personal. 

The multi-page cocktail menu, fashioned as hard-bound books, lists an exceptional collection of fine and rare spirits and wines, signature cocktails, and variations on the classic old-fashioned. In case you were wondering, a half ounce of Louis XIII goes for $175.

What To Order At Allē Lounge On 66

The Twilight signature cocktail is a sweet, herbal mix of dry gin, creme de violette, black raspberry liqueur, lemon, egg whites, and simple syrup. Periwinkle in color and garnished with a flower, Twilight is highly Instagrammable.

Pro Tip: Plan your arrival an hour before sunset, before all the window seats are taken.

TravelAwaits reached out to major tour operators to see which underrated tour destinations should be on our radar for next year.

According to experts from G Adventures, Tauck, Intrepid Travel, EF Go Ahead Tours, and Trafalgar, here are the under-the-radar destinations folks need to put on their travel list for 2023.

1. Bhutan, South Asia

“Bhutan is slated to open the historic Trans Bhutan Trail later this year after a 60-year hiatus. This small, breathtaking country offers beautiful landscapes and hikes, charming local villages, and spirituality as the birthplace of the Gross National Happiness concept. Bhutan is an unforgettable, under-the-radar adventure for 2023.” — Marina Goodwin, senior manager of PR & Brand Partnerships, EF Go Ahead Tours

2. The Azores, Portugal

“The Azores is such a hidden gem for U.S. travelers. It’s not crowded, easy to get to, as spectacular as Iceland in terms of landscape, and it’s warmer. It has some of the best easier hikes possible and some of the most magnificent vistas you can imagine. The food is awesome, the people are super friendly, and the cost is affordable. It should be on everyone’s must-do list for 2023–2024.” — Yves Marceau, VP of Product, G Adventures

3. Tenerife, Spain

“Another destination that everyone should consider — and also not visited much by Americans — is Tenerife. The climate in the winter is like Florida. United now has a direct flight from New York, but it is also easily accessed via London, Madrid, Paris, and Amsterdam. The cost is low and the island is spectacular. Hiking is accessible to most people, and the food and wine are world class.” — Marceau, G Adventures

4. Croatia

“For those looking to explore a place in a new way, our sailing product in Croatia and Greece fits the bill. Each night, your small sailing group will dock in the center of town on a different island or picture-perfect village/town. You have dinner on shore, walk ancient towns during the day, and spend downtime swimming or relaxing on deck. I was skeptical about a sailing adventure until I did my first one (I’m not a sailor), but I got hooked. It is such a great way to disconnect while still being able to see and experience a variety of places in a unique way.” — Marceau, G Adventures

5. Sorrento, Italy

“For those not into hiking or not into sailing: Try living like a local in Italy or Croatia. It is a mind-opening, in-depth experience. Travelers stay in one place (so you can actually unpack those bags!) but discover the region in much more depth. The hosts make travelers feel as if they are visiting long-time friends, as they share their homes, neighborhoods, and culture with travelers. Accommodations are comfortable and have private baths, so while it’s not a homestay, it still feels very intimate and immersive. These trips are also short enough that if you want you can add a few days independently in the gateway arrival city.” — Marceau, G Adventures

6. Egypt

Egyptian attractions, such as the Valley of the Kings, give visitors a chance to walk through history — but Egypt isn’t just for history buffs. This once-in-a-lifetime destination is also for foodies, architecture aficionados, culture lovers, photographers, and adventure travelers. Here are 7 Reasons To Put Egypt On Your Bucket List.

7. Jordan

Pair a visit to Egypt with a trip to Jordan on Tauck’s Jordan & Egypt: Petra to the Pyramids. Enjoy a three-night Nile River cruise and a 4×4 adventure across the lunar landscapes of Wadi Rum. Of course, no visit to Jordan is complete without a peek at Petra and a soak in the Dead Sea. Tauck also lets you pair a Jordan tour with a visit to Israel.

8. Israel

Take a Tauck tour of biblical proportions. The two-week Israel and Jordan tour explores the “civilizations, cultures, history, traditions, religions, and the arts” of the Sea of Galilee, Petra, Bethlehem, Nazareth, Jerusalem, and Tel Aviv.

9. Antarctica

If icebergs and penguins are your thing, check the southernmost continent off your bucket list and witness the icy wilderness of the Great White Continent on an Intrepid Travel tour of Antarctica.

10. Iceland

Home to icebergs and glaciers, geysers and other geothermal wonders, Iceland is chock full of natural beauty. Intrepid Travel offers several ways to experience Iceland. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see the northern lights!

11. Costa Rica

Whether you’re into outdoor adventures or lazing by the beach, Costa Rica is a stunning Central American vacation destination. Here, you can find an incredible Cloud Forest, beautiful national parks, unique birds, and other incredible wildlife. Costa Rican Intrepid Travel tours take visitors from the jungle to the coast.

12. Everest Base Camp

Boasting spectacular scenery, Intrepid Travel’s trekking tour of Everest Base Camp is among the most dramatic and picturesque in the Himalayas. The only catch? You have to be between 18-29 years old for this adventure.

Related Reading:

1. 17 Most Popular Tour Destinations To Visit In 2023, According To Experts
2. 15 Lesser-Known Towns Around The World Our Writers Love
3. 9 Best Places To Travel In 2022 According To Experts

TravelAwaits looks into tour trends now that a test to return to the U.S. is no longer required.

We reached out to some of the top tour operators in the world, G Adventures, Tauck, Intrepid Travel, EF Go Ahead Tours, Trafalgar, and Globus, to find out whether the U.S. dropping its testing requirement has had an impact on bookings, and also to identify emerging tour trends. Here’s what they had to say.

Tour Bookings On The Rise

We asked major tour operators if they have seen an increase in bookings now that the U.S. has dropped its testing requirement to return to the U.S.

“Absolutely. While interest, and bookings, have been steadily increasing, the CDC announcement definitely gave a boost to sales for both summer and fall travel bookings internationally. It seems that many people were still hesitant to book a trip because of the x-factor around protocols to return back to the US. We’re also seeing more countries open borders, which of course helps with bookings,” said Steve Lima, G Adventures director of marketing for the U.S. and Latin America.

“We are continuing to see strong bookings for travel this year. Since April, bookings for 2022 travel have increased 89 percent over the same period in 2019 (pre-pandemic),” according to Marina Goodwin, senior manager of PR & Brand Partnerships at EF Go Ahead Tours

“Bookings have been strong all year, but lifting the testing was a huge step forward for the recovery of international travel to the United States,” says Matt Berna, president of Intrepid Travel, North America. “Many U.S. travelers were uncomfortable flying overseas because a breakthrough infection would mean not just getting stranded up to 2 weeks in a foreign country at their own expense, but also missing work, arranging child or pet care, and other logistical headaches back home. With that requirement now gone — and the U.S. joining Canada, Australia, and virtually all of Europe in scrapping the test mandate — we have seen a surge in international travel and bookings.”

“The return testing requirement had been one of the single biggest barriers to travel, and a source of great anxiety. Getting rid of the requirement has lifted a huge burden from our guests, and it marks another major step forward on the path back toward normalcy,” said Jeremy Palmer, CEO of Tauck.

2022 Tour Trends

Major tour operators to tell us the top two or three destinations that are being booked for this year.

Lima says, “In terms of destinations, South America and Europe are leading at the moment, which supports the ‘big trip’ trend that we’re seeing. We’re starting to see a return to the multi-country vacation, thanks to opening borders and more relaxed protocols.”

Palmer shares, “We’re definitely seeing a significant surge in bookings to Europe for the remainder of 2022, particularly for our tours in Italy and Spain.”

Berna says Intrepid Travel’s “top three destinations are Northern Africa, Morocco and Egypt; Southern Europe, Italy; and Western Asia, Turkey.”

2023 Tour Trends

“Bookings for 2023 are definitely on the rise,” according to Kim Greiner with G Adventures. “While book-to-travel windows are shortening, we also have seen a jump in the 6 to 10 months out timeframe too, showing a large increase in the intent to travel in 2023.”

“Yes, definitely bookings are coming in strong for 2023,” says Berna. “People are ready to prioritize spending on travel expenditures, and this is more vital than ever for communities that were financially crippled by the cessation of international travel and where inflation is even worse. There is of course a natural limit to customers’ willingness to tolerate inflation in travel. Consumers may be looking to travel where their dollar goes the furthest and it appears that most travelers still consider vacations a high-budget priority for the near future. Demand for outdoor adventure travel has increased dramatically, people wanting to get away from city crowds and closer to nature.”

Most Popular Tour Destinations 2023

Here are the top tour destinations being booked for next year, according to major tour operators.

1. Great Britain

Great Britain is one of the top destinations being booked through EF Go Ahead Tours. One of the best sellers is London, Paris, and Rome, an 11-day tour that offers a taste of three quintessentially European cities and a chance to see iconic sights such as Big Ben, the Eiffel Tower, and the Colosseum.

2. Ireland

Ireland is another one of the top destinations for 2023 according to EF Go Ahead Tours. The 12-day tour of England, Scottland, and Ireland takes a sightseeing route through London before taking a train through the English countryside up to Scotland’s medieval city of Edinburgh. Arrive in the Emerald Isle by way of the Lake District and Wales, including the Welsh village of Llanfair­pwllgwyngyll­gogery­chwyrn­drobwll­llan­tysilio­gogo­goch, the longest-named place in Europe. Have a pint in Dublin before heading off to see the stunning sea views of the Cliffs of Moher.

3. Italy

An ever-popular destination, Italy tops the list for a few tour operators. It is one of G Adventures’ most popular destinations for 2023 and Palmer says that Italy remains Tauk’s top-selling destination in Europe.

Italy is also one of EF Go Ahead Tours’ most-booked destinations for next year. Its 9-day tour of Venice, Florence, and Rome is a best-seller. It kicks off in Venice, where tour groups get a true taste of Italy through the city’s gondola-filled canals and picture-perfect piazzas. Highlights include Doge’s Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, and a glass-blowing demonstration. In Florence, gaze up at the hand-carved doors of the Duomo and shop along the Ponte Vecchio. Rome wasn’t built in a day, but it sure has been falling apart for a while. Tour many of the ruins in this ancient city, including the Colosseum.

4. Greece

Is there anywhere better than Greece? EF Go Ahead Tours’ 9-day tour of Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini takes visitors from the ancient Greek capital to the azure waters of the Aegean and white-washed buildings of the Greek Isles.

5. Peru

Cradle of the Incan Empire, Peru tops the list of 2023 bookings for G Adventures. It’s easy to see why — Peru is home to Machu Picchu, the Amazon rainforest, and Lake Titicaca, one of the highest lakes in the world. Over 50 tours of Peru are available, offering guests a chance to hike through the jungle, trek the Andes, and surf northern beaches. One of the top sellers is the week-long Inca Trail tour, which passes through the region’s ruins, mountainscapes, and cloud forests.

6. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is another popular 2023 destination for G Adventures. It is no wonder why — this unspoiled tropical paradise is blessed with beaches and biodiversity. Choose your own Costa Rican adventure from G Adventures’ 19 tours of the country. We wouldn’t mind going on the Wellness Costa Rica tour, which features thermal hot springs, yoga, and a therapeutic mud bath.

7. The Galapagos

Check The Galapagos off your bucket list with one of the 22 tours available from G Adventures. A guided tour is a great way to see this amazing archipelago because you don’t have to worry about transportation and accommodations on this remote island chain more than 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador. A small group tour to the Galapagos will show you how it inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. Meet sea lions sunning on white-sand beaches, giant iguanas, 100-year-old tortoises, and a few species of booby — and that’s just on land. Wait until you strap on your snorkel!

8. Morocco

Another popular 2023 destination for G Adventures, Morocco is home to spice markets, ornate doors, several types of tagine, and more mosques than you can count. This exotic yet affordable North African country is just a short ferry ride from Spain. From riding camels in the desert to climbing Mount Toubkal, one of G Adventures’ 17 Moroccan tours is sure to suit you.

9. Egypt

Egypt is another popular destination in North Africa for G Adventures. Seven tours are available. Dig into the geography, culture, and archaeology of an ancient Egyptian civilization on the Highlights of Egypt tour. Gaze at the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Nile, the Sphinx, and more.

10. Thailand

Thailand can get pretty wild, so it’s a good idea to go with a tour group like G Adventures to arrange hotels, transportation, and activities. This side of Southeast Asia boasts stunning scenery, interesting history, tropical beaches, idyllic southern islands, many mountains, delicious food, and amazing people.

Explore Thailand’s ultra-modern capital, Bangkok, and iconic temples such as Angkor Wat. Sail the Mekong, savor noodles in Hoi An, and shop in Ho Chi Minh City on G Adventures’ 29-day Indochina Encompassed tour. Or, while you’re over there, see two more Southeast Asian countries on the Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand: Riversides & Railways 22-day tour.

11. Jordan

Jordan is also in the top 10 destinations that G Adventures is seeing the most bookings for next year. Take the Egypt, Jordan, and Israel tour overnight in a Bedouin tent in the desert of Jordan. A stop in Petra gives visitors the chance to explore the 2,300-year-old city carved into rose-colored sandstone mountains. Relax in the Dead Sea before touring the historic cities of Jerusalem and Nazareth in Israel.

12. Mexico

Another top-seller for G Adventures, Mexico is a treasure trove of ancient sites and vibrant indigenous culture. Some of G Adventures’ 17 tours give you the chance to see other Central American countries as well, such as Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Belize, and Guatemala.

13. Iceland

Home to towering mountain peaks, massive glaciers, and gorgeous fjords, Iceland is an unforgettable experience. Best of Iceland is one of G Adventures’ eight Iceland tours, offering guests a chance to see erupting geysers, visit glacier lagoons, and explore breathtaking waterfalls and black-sand beaches. Add the Aurora Borealis in the mix with the Iceland Northern Lights and Golden Circle tour, which includes soaking in steamy geothermic hot springs, hiking through Þingvellir National Park, laying eyes on the pony-sized Icelandic horse, exploring lava caves, and chasing waterfalls.

14. Switzerland

“We’ve seen consistently strong demand for Switzerland,” says Palmer. It’s no surprise, considering the European country is home to such natural beauty as the Alps and glacial lakes. Tour Geneva, Saint Moritz, Lucerne, Stresa, Lausanne, and Bern on Tauk’s Switzerland: Europe’s Crown Jewel tour. Marvel at majestic mountains on The Ultimate Alps & Dolomites tour. Or, make your way down to Switzerland from Amsterdam on the water via The Rhine and Moselle river cruise.

15. Australia

“Our guests are absolutely thrilled that Australia and New Zealand have reopened,” Palmer tells us. So are we! See Melbourne, Sydney, the Outback, and more on Tauck’s Australian tours.

16. New Zealand

New Zealand’s staggering scenery includes glaciers, fjords, vineyards, gardens, and beaches. Tauck’s New Zealand tours “offer an in-depth exploration of the North and South Islands, including a taste of the Maori culture, local wines, and the natural wonders found throughout Milford Sound.”

17. United States

“America is now Intrepid Travel’s single biggest destination,” says Berna. “We launched an additional 15 new itineraries across the U.S focused on backcountry and hiking adventures that provide both a minimal footprint and immersive nature-based experiences few others get to see.”

The launch of these new active trips will take the company’s U.S. tour range from 65 to 80 trips, its largest offering in the world within one country while providing its customers with more sustainable and remote trekking experiences.

Related Reading:

1. 9 Best Places To Travel In 2022 According To Experts
2. 6 Best River Cruise Lines
3. Is Group Tour Travel Worth The Money?

Great food and a gorgeous view, a foodie vacationer’s dream destination. It can often be a challenge to find great options that offer both exquisite cuisine and panoramic vistas. In Canada’s Banff and Lake Louise, it is commonplace to have a fine-dining experience with picture windows framing gorgeous, rugged Rocky Mountain views.

With views of Banff National Park and beautiful Lake Louise, dining never tasted and looked so good. Below are nine of the best restaurants with a view in and around Banff. The restaurants are listed in no particular order.

Note: Some information in this piece was obtained during a sponsored press trip, but all recommendations are my own.

1. The Vermillion Room

Take a stroll through the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs hotel, where you will be transported back in time when travel was an elegant endeavor. Visible around Banff, the Fairmont rises from the pine forest with all the grace and beauty of a grand dame. It is a wonderful destination for a special occasion or celebration.

The Vermillion Room in the Fairmont Banff Springs is a quintessential Banff dining experience. Secure a romantic table by the window. There you can enjoy a view overlooking the lawn with Banff’s rugged peaks setting the backdrop. The view is only overshadowed by the exquisite cuisine.

The beef tartar is a perfect starter, served with a smoked egg yolk, black garlic aioli, and grilled sourdough bread. Alternatively, the roasted beets with an amazing orange ricotta and fennel jam will get your appetite warmed up. The entree selection will take time to peruse — the perfect opportunity to enjoy a glass of wine. The braised Alberta beef short ribs melt in your mouth and the mushroom gnocchi is delightful. Leave room for coffee and dessert — like the sinfully delicious creme brulee — to top off a relaxing dining event.

Pro Tip: Another amazing restaurant at the Fairmont is their 1888 Chop House.

2. Fairview Bar And Restaurant

The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for elegant appointments and exemplary service, a stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is a special treat.

Their Fairview Bar and Restaurant is one of the best places to experience breathtaking views of Lake Louise. Whether you visit for dinner or stop by for an adult beverage, the Fairview is a must-see on your Lake Louise itinerary. Expertly crafted regional cuisine will entertain all your senses and excite your foodie exploration.

Starters like the parmesan gratin mushroom served with creminis, garlic butter, and baguette; and the albacore tuna crudo with pomegranate seeds and jalapenos are delicious decisions to begin your culinary journey. Move forward to the likes of the burnt cedar plank sockeye salmon or the bison ribeye to round out your steakhouse-style, foodie desires. The extensive wine list will offer options for the perfect bottle to complement your elegant dinner.

Pro Tip: Short notice reservations can be difficult to attain. If you don’t have the opportunity to dine, make a point of enjoying a drink at the bar.

3. Maclab Bistro

In the heart of the cultural Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity sits the charming eatery, Maclab Bistro. The bistro’s modern style with floor-to-ceiling glass walls brings the outside tableside, or you can opt for al fresco dining with breathtaking patio views. The simplicity of the bistro’s decor allows the scenery to capture and hold your attention.

The house specialty is the Cobb salad, an enormous plate of fresh greens topped with avocado, goat cheese, chicken, hard-boiled egg, and other assorted goodies — yummy comfort food. The Classic Maclab Burger is a local favorite — piled high with bacon, mushrooms, onion marmalade, cheddar cheese, and other burger staples. You can understand the burger’s appeal.

One Banff local noted, “Maclab Bistro is just far enough from the hustle of Banff Village, but is just a short walk away — it’s our favorite get-a-way restaurant.”

Pro Tip: Maclab Bistro is the perfect stop if you have just finished hiking the close-by Tunnel Mountain Trail.

4. La Terrazza

Italian cuisine is always a crowd pleaser and La Terrazza is the best spot in Banff to experience Italian fare in a unique greenhouse-inspired dining room. Located in the Banff Park Lodge in downtown Banff, La Terrazza’s lush tropical garden-house ambiance sets the tone for a sumptuous dining experience. Views through the large windows and ceiling glass offers diners beautiful inside and outside vistas.

Start with the lobster bisque served with a flavorful whipped basil cream or the steamed mussels with a ‘nduja marinara sauce and garlic bread. Follow your appetizer with La Terrazza’s signature dish, Rosellini. It is a gorgeous plate of pasta roses stuffed with ham and cheese swimming in a light tomato sauce. It is perfection on a plate!

Pro Tip: The BPL-52 is a specialty dessert cocktail that is potent and delicious. Consisting of Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur, Tia Maria, and Hennessey VS Cognac, the sweet adult indulgence is finished with a liqueur-infused cream. It’s dessert in a glass.

5. Sky Bistro

Ride the Banff Gondola up to the top of Sulphur Mountain for a panoramic mountain-top dining view. Sky Bistro’s patio is perfect to enjoy a brew and a nosh while soaking up the gorgeous, panoramic views. The option of inside or patio dining makes Sky Bistro accessible in any weather. Carefully selected, locally sourced, and expertly crafted cuisine awaits your arrival.

Lunch with a northern flavor profile could include the spicy elk bolognese served with a local bucatini or the cold-smoked salmon open-faced sandwich. For dinner, start with the oka, a fried Canadian cheese served with a gooseberry chutney. Follow that with the Alberta braised short ribs served with charred broccolini and baked corn polenta — a hearty meal to fuel your hiking plans.

Pro Tip: You need a separate ticket to ride the Banff Gondola up to Sky Bistro.

6. Whitehorn Bistro

Enjoy a gondola ride up to the top of the Lake Louise Ski Resort to experience spectacular views. At the top of the mountain, dine at Whitehorn Bistro. This lunchtime venue is the perfect spot to share a Swiss classic — cheese fondue — with your bestie. In true Alpine tradition, the fondue is served with fingerling potatoes, artisanal breads, gherkins, pearl onions, and assorted accompaniments.

Pro Tip: Check the website for seasonal hours. It is open for a time during the short summer months.

7. Juniper Bistro

Perched on a hilltop at the Juniper Hotel, just out of Banff Center, Juniper Bistro offers beautiful mountain vistas while you dine. The brunch menu is small but powerful, perfect to fuel you up for a day of exploring Banff National Park.

The smashed avocado toast, with the unique addition of charred corn and goat cheese, accompanies a poached egg, all playing nicely together on yummy sourdough toast.

Juniper Bistro is also open for dinner offering delectable items like their beet burger crafted with organic beets and classic burger fixings. If you are asking, “Where’s the beef?” check out the Juniper Burger made with Alberta beef and smoky cheddar cheese.

Pro Tip: The Juniper Hotel is a fairly long roadside walk from Banff Village. This is one spot you will want to splurge on a Banff taxi.

8. Eden

The luxurious Eden restaurant, located in The Rimrock Resort Hotel, treats diners to stunning mountain views and multi-course tasting menus. The option of a three- or eight-course menu — and a vegetarian option — is made even better with the addition of an expert wine pairing. When you sit back and let the chef control your meal and the sommelier control your wine, you expand your culinary adventure by dining out of your comfort zone. It can be surprising and enlightening taste-testing someone else’s choices.

The eight-course, grand tasting menus includes chef-driven delicacies like sour cherries, spring pea ravioli, smoked elk tartare, seared scallop, dry-aged duck, wagyu strip, brie cheesecake, and finishes with a chocolate wonder.

Pro Tip: Diners will explore the taste of the Canadian Rockies and expand their culinary repertoire while enjoying the majestic scenery.

9. Cliffhouse Bistro

Cliffhouse Bistro on the top of Mount Norquay is a fun spot for a casual lunch. The Cliffhouse offers a gorgeous view of Banff and the surrounding mountain peaks. Accessible by the North American sightseeing chairlift, you will love the charming decor.

Enjoy a salad or sandwich with a local brew while you kick back and soak up the gorgeous views. It is one of those spots where you create fun memories.

Pro Tip: Visit Jolene’s Tea House in Banff Village after sipping your favorite brew at the top of Mount Norquay.

Explore Banff & Lake Louise

Foodies will love Banff National Park and all the wonderful culinary options available. When you couple great food with gorgeous, over-the-top views, it is a win-win for everyone. Dining in Banff should never be boring. With restaurants that run the gamut from bistro to fine dining, you will find something to fit your budget in a place where you can breathe fresh Bow Valley mountain air and fall in love with the scenery.

Pro Tip: Other restaurants in the Banff area that I hear are worth checking out include: Nourish Bistro on Bear Street, The Maple Leaf on Banff Ave, Tooloulous on Caribou Street, Block Kitchen and Wine Bar for great poutine, and Park Distillery Restaurant and Bar for some great Canadian cuisine on Banff Ave. 

Visit the Banff & Lake Louise Tourism Office; the best place to find up-to-the-minute information about the area.

Check out the beautiful Calgary scenery that surrounds Banff:

• 6 Unique Dining Experiences In And Around Calgary
• Scenic Alberta Road Trip: Calgary To Banff
• Banff To Jasper: 11 Stops Along Canada’s Gorgeous Icefields Parkway

When searching for the perfect restaurant for a special occasion, a celebration with friends, or just a romantic dinner for two, there are a few things I always look for: an inspired menu, tasty cocktails, and spectacular views. A gorgeous setting almost certainly upgrades your evening from a good time into an unforgettable experience. Here are our readers’ all-time favorite restaurants with a view.

1. TEN 3 (Winner)

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Voted the most breathtaking dining experience by readers, at 10,300 feet above sea level, TEN 3 is truly a magical setting. Sitting at the top of Sandia peak, visitors enjoy the epic scenery of the Sandia Mountains and the valley below. To get to TEN 3, visitors can take the Sandia Peak Tramway, or if you’d rather hike, take Ellis Trailhead and enjoy a 1.5-mile hike up to the restaurant.

TEN 3 offers both fine and casual dining. The menu includes locally sourced ingredients whenever possible and features modern American, New Mexican, and international cuisine. The bar area offers appetizers, specialty cocktails, and regional brews.

Must-Try Menu Items

• Grilled Ribeye (from the Fine Dining menu)
• The Three Sisters (from the Desert menu)

Editor’s Note: At the time of publication, the Sandia Mountains are under a Stage 3 Forest Closure due to extreme fire danger; however, the tram and restaurant will be operating under normal hours. 

2. Chisos Mountains Lodge Restaurant

Big Bend National Park, Texas

This casual eatery may appear unassuming at first glance. However, don’t be fooled by the decor; the real star of Chisos Mountains Lodge Restaurant is the phenomenal view. Through a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows, visitors are immersed in the stunning beauty of the Chisos Mountains. Arrive around sunset for an unforgettable display of nature’s beauty.

Chisos Mountains Lodge Restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as to-go boxes for adventures outside. The menu consists of locally inspired fare and a nice selection of local beer. Each table comes equipped with an informational booklet about the Big Bend region.

Editor’s Note: Days and hours of operation may vary due to short staffing. Please contact the property directly before planning your visit.

Must-Try Menu Items

• Texas Toothpicks
• Breakfast Burrito

3. Top Of The World

Las Vegas, Nevada

Located at the top of the Stratosphere tower, more than 800 feet above the Las Vegas Strip, Top of the World offers unrivaled views of the city and a spectacular dining experience. With a dining room that revolves 360 degrees every 80 minutes, it’s quite literally impossible to have a bad seat.

The upscale steakhouse-style menu includes an impressive selection of fresh seafood, prime-cut steaks, and decadent specialties. The atmosphere is elegant, and the restaurant does enforce an upscale dress code.

Must-Try Menu Items

• Roasted Lobster Tails
• Warm Butter Cake

4. BALEEN Naples

Naples, Florida

An incredible dining experience complemented by scenic beauty, BALEEN Naples offers a spectacular beachside setting for diners. Located within the LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort, BALEEN Naples is a top spot for both tourists and locals. Aside from traditional table settings, the restaurant also includes a few tables directly on the sand as well as beach fire pits — the perfect spot for your after-dinner cocktail.

BALEEN Naples offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner — all featuring a varied and gourmet menu. Make reservations for a sunset meal and enjoy a celebratory bell ringing while everyone in the restaurant claps — a perfect celebration for a special occasion!

Must-Try Menu Items

• Lobster Risotto
• Key Lime Pie

5. Mesa Grill

Sedona, Arizona

Overlooking Sedona’s famous red rocks, Mesa Grill features a menu of Southwestern fare and offers diners a sweeping vista of much of Sedona. Writer Cindy Barks advises, “The Mesa Grill is set back a bit from the big view, but it still offers a great vantage point. If the weather allows, ask to be seated in the enclosed patio, where you’ll have an unobstructed view of the distant orange-hued rock wall.”

As for food, Cindy recommends “the signature steak and green chili grits with a sunny-side-up egg and guacamole, or breakfast tacos with chicken chorizo” for breakfast. “At lunchtime, the go-to choice is the fish-and-chips entree featuring Parmesan-crusted red snapper with Creole remoulade. At dinnertime, check out the small plates such as the eggplant meatballs, Baja ceviche, and blistered shishito peppers with garlic-chili spice.”

Must-Try Menu Items

• Blistered Shishito Pepper with Garlic-Chili Spice
• Breakfast Tacos with Chicken Chorizo

6. The Wharf

Jekyll Island, Georgia

Jekyll Island’s The Wharf offers visitors an incredible mix of fascinating history, delicious local fare, and magnificent water views. Writer Kathleen Walls explains, “The casual restaurant is on the pier where once visitors to the Island’s exclusive club checked in. It was the only way onto the island. Wealthy members arrived either by their own yachts or by train and were then taken to the island on the 100-foot steamer The Jekyll Island.“

The Wharf, part of the Jekyll Island Club Resort features open-air dining, happy hour, a late-night bar, and live music two to four nights a week. Ther menu consists of a wide variety of seafood and Southern favorites.

Must-Try Menu Items

• Fried Green Tomato
• Shrimp And Grits

7. Le Jules Verne

Paris, France

Located on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower, Le Jules Verne offers diners a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Visitors can marvel at the view from inside a special elevator while making the trek up to the restaurant, bypassing tourists on their way. The ambiance of Le Jules Verne is elegant and intimate, and in the evening, the Eiffel Tower sparkles with light, creating an unforgettable display.

The menu has been described as creative and sophisticated. Le Jules Verne’s knowledgeable sommeliers have compiled a selection of incredible wine to pair with the five- and seven-course tasting menus.

Considering a lunchtime visit? Writer Ulrike Lemmin Woolfrey offers this pro tip: “There is always a cheaper option at lunchtime, but you won’t get to sit inside the Eiffel Tower when it sparkles, and that was worth nearly all the money on its own.”

Must-Try Dishes

• Prepare to be delighted by the a five- or seven-course tasting menu

8. The Signature Room At The 95th

Chicago, Illinois

Indulge in panoramic skyline and shoreline views high above the city of Chicago in family-owned The Signature Room. Located atop the former John Hancock Center, visitors take a specially marked elevator to go directly to the restaurant. Upon arriving in the restaurant, diners are treated to an amazing view of northern, eastern, and southern Chicago.

The menu offers upscale contemporary American fare and an extensive wine selection. An open stairway provides easy access to The Signature Lounge on the 96th floor for a happy hour cocktail or after-dinner drink.

Must-Try Menu Items

• A bottle of wine (they are known for an incredible wine selection!)
• Roasted Rack of Lamb

9. Scoma’s

Sausalito, California

Scoma’s Sausalito is a charming waterfront restaurant, offering diners unobstructed views of Angel Island, Tiburon, Sausalito, and San Francisco. Floating out over the bay, the restaurant has been family owned since 1969 and is a popular destination with locals and tourists.

Their menu consists of classic Mediterranean cuisine with sustainable fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients.

Must-Try Menu Items

• Oysters Sausalito
• Fresh Seasonal Seafood

10. Salty’s On Alki Beach

Seattle, Washington

Located on Alki Beach, Salty’s offers diners both a magnificent view of the Seattle city skyline and an award-winning menu. Established in 1980, Salty’s is a James Beard Smart Catch Restaurant and is family owned and operated.

The restaurant offers elegant glass-like tents on its deck to keep diners comfortable all year round. They are renowned for fresh seasonal seafood, Pacific Northwest Coastal cuisine, and a lively atmosphere.

Must-Try Menu Items

• Dungeness crab
• Emerald Acres Manila Clams

11. ALKA Mediterranean Restaurant

Il-Qrendi, Malta

The Mediterranean Sea is on full display at Malta’s ALKA Mediterranean Restaurant. The luxurious setting offers diners the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience. Situated walking distance from Malta’s Blue Grotto, ALKA specializes in fresh seafood, offering cuisine based on seasonal availability.

Must-Try Menu Items

The menu changes daily depending on seasonality and availability. Expect an assortment of antipasti, pasta, seafood, meats, and homemade desserts, and call ahead for specific details.

12. The Trident

Sausalito, California

Located on the gorgeous Sausalito waterfront, The Trident is best known for its spectacular views of San Francisco, Angel Island, and Alcatraz. Heated outdoor decks provide a relaxing and comfortable seaside location for a special lunch or dinner.

The menu offers seasonal, local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. While the atmosphere is casual, the food and service are perfectly upscale.

Must-Try Menu Items

• Creamy San Francisco Style Clam Chowder – a 55-year-old recipe (includes bacon)!
• The Trident Cioppino

13. The River Café

Brooklyn, New York

Located riverside under the Brooklyn Bridge, The River Café exudes romance with its breathtaking NYC skyline views. The atmosphere is further enhanced by gorgeous flower arrangements and live piano music.

As a Michelin-starred American restaurant, the menu features classic American fare while proudly complementing the changing seasons. The ambiance is elegant and upscale, and a serious dress code is enforced.

Must-Try Menu Items

• Wagyu Steak Tartare
• Chocolate Brooklyn Bridge

14. The Rock Zanzibar

Pingwe, Michamvi, Tanzania

Located in front of Michamvi Pingwe beach on the southeast coast of the island, The Rock Zanzibar has sometimes been referred to as “the floating restaurant.” An open-air terrace offers a romantic evening under African skies with panoramic seascape views. The restaurant is reached from the beach during low tide and by complimentary boat during high tide.

The menu is comprised of locally sourced products including fish caught daily by local fishermen and spices from the spice farms of Zanzibar.

Must-Try Menu Items

• Nyama Choma Na Chipsi (Grilled Tomahawk Steak)
• Pineapple Flambé With Vanilla And Zanzibar Spices Ice Cream

For over a decade, we’ve been taking food tours when we travel to new cities. We’ve found them to be an excellent way to learn about both the food and the culture. Immediately after booking our hotel and airfare to Rome, I knew that my next step was to reserve a food tour.

I’ve been fortunate to enjoy food tours with a few different companies, but one of our favorites is Secret Food Tours. Now offering tours in 25 countries, they pride themselves on introducing guests to exceptional, locally owned establishments. Guided by locals well-versed in the culture, history, and food scene, the experience is always memorable.

This tour was hosted by Secret Food Tours, but all opinions are my own.

1. Learn About The Local Cuisine

First and foremost, a food tour is about eating all the delicious cuisine in whatever city you’re visiting. I’ve always loved Italian food, so I was exceptionally excited for this tour.

But beyond eating good food, our well informed guide, Robbie, also provided the history and context of each food we sampled. While I’ve eaten Italian food my entire life, I knew very little about the origins of its most popular dishes. 

We began our tour at a classic Italian cafe bordering Piazza Navona, one of the best-known squares in all of Rome. Robbie introduced himself and gave us an overview of the afternoon. We would stroll through several neighborhoods and make five food stops along the way.

First was the pizza stop where Robbie explained that pizza was invented in Naples, sometime in the late 1700s. The version which we sampled, Roman-styled, was created in the 1950s. This thin crust pizza is made on large, rectangular metal pans and then cut into squares, typically sold by weight. While there were the toppings we are all familiar with, like sausage and mushrooms, there were also local toppings to be sampled like chicory, squash blossoms, and fresh artichokes. 

Later in the tour, we tried two traditional Roman pastas: cacio e pepe and amatriciana. The first is prepared with butter, parmesan cheese, and pepper; and the second with spicy tomato sauce and guanciale (cured pork cheek). We learned that pastas were originally long and thin and served with olive oil-based sauces. When tomatoes were introduced in the 16th century, the popularity of tomato sauces grew and shorter, rounder pastas were introduced.

Accompanying our pasta were fried artichokes, known in Italian as carciofi alla giudia. Our visit in the spring coincided with artichoke season, and we had seen them on every menu. Robbie explained that the style of artichoke we were enjoying was created in the Roman Ghetto, a Jewish ghetto just blocks south of the Pantheon, and has since become one of the city’s best-loved dishes.

Pro Tip: This food tour lasted 3 hours and we had more than enough food for an entire lunch. While it’s tempting to eat everything provided, I definitely recommend that you pace yourself.

2. Discover Family-Owned Restaurants

While Rome is full of fabulous restaurants, it also has its fair share of mediocre establishments, many of them located in the areas populated by tourists. One of the benefits of a food tour is having a local guide that curates stops at excellent family-owned purveyors. In several cases, the places we visited had been in the family for many generations.

Our second stop was at Norcineria Viola, a family-owned butchery specializing in pork products since 1890. Hundreds of sausages hung from the ceiling and filled the glass cases in this tiny shop. Salami varieties from all over Italy could be seen. We were treated to paper thin slices of these meats along with a few cheeses, all washed down with local red wine.

After some savory bites, we were treated to sweets at I Dolce di Nonna Vincenza, a bakery that traces its roots to the tiny Sicilian village of Agira. Nonna Vincenza began baking for friends and family in the 1930s and continued throughout her life. The family tradition continues in three bakeries located in Catania, Milan, and Rome. We sampled the popular Sicilian pastry, cannolo, or cannoli.

Each place on our tour had an interesting story which Robbie shared. Most were located on side streets we would not have explored on our own. It was like joining a local on their daily stroll through the city while they visited their favorite spots.

3. Explore The City’s History

Between food stops, we were treated to leisurely walks through Roman neighborhoods. Periodically, Robbie would stop and share the history of a statue, church, or street. 

Since our tour began in Piazza Navona, we spent a few minutes learning about its history. Long before the current piazza was built, it served as a chariot racetrack. Today, the focal point of the square is the Fountain of the Four Rivers, commissioned by Pope Innocent X and unveiled to the public in 1651.

The most memorable stop along the way was the Roman Ghetto. Once the required home for all Jews, this neighborhood has become a hotspot for foodies. In the center is a pedestrian street lined with restaurants, all of them at capacity.

But the Roman Ghetto is also the scene of tremendous tragedy. In front of many homes is a small bronze plaque, each a memorial to a Jewish person murdered during the Holocaust. The name, birthdate, date of deportation, and Nazi extermination camp are recorded on the plaque. Robbie spent several minutes chronicling the awful treatment of Jews in Rome, first by the Catholic Church and later by the Nazis.

While I always leave a food tour feeling full, I also leave better appreciating local history and culture.

4. Meet Other Travelers

In my experience, food tours are small, rarely more than 10 guests, making it a great way to meet other like-minded travelers. During our food tour, there were just seven of us, plus the guide. Two were from England, two from Israel, and one other person was from the United States. Over the course of 3 hours, we enjoyed learning about their hometowns, why they were traveling, and which foods they most enjoyed.

Fellow travelers are often eager to share recommendations for tours, hotels, and restaurants, either in the current location or their home country. In return, I’ve been excited to share my favorite things to do in the U.S. for anyone with an upcoming trip planned. While it’s certainly possible to meet other travelers during any tour, something about breaking bread together encourages camaraderie.

5. Recommendations For Future Meals

After our tour, Robbie was kind enough to send us all an email with a list of additional restaurants he likes, organized by Rome’s most popular attractions. He also recapped the places we had been in case we wished to return.

While I use websites like TripAdvisor and Yelp to select restaurants while traveling, personal recommendations from a local are always better. Often these don’t make it to the top of major sites, but are preferred by those who know the local food best.

Best Food Tour Tips

If you’ve never booked a food tour before, here are some planning tips.

Dietary Restrictions And Food Allergies

If you have any dietary restrictions or food allergies, be sure to contact the tour provider before booking. Most companies will do their best to provide options, but there are exceptions. Be sure to work this out in advance so you’re not disappointed.

Comfortable Shoes For Walking

Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk a couple of miles. If you have any mobility challenges, be sure to contact the tour provider prior to booking. Ancient cities like Rome often lack ramps and elevators, and can be challenging to navigate.

Various Stops Along Each Tour

Keep in mind that stops along each tour will vary. Secret Food Tours does a nice job of outlining the typical foods, but it is possible that a restaurant or shop will stop participating and a substitute will have to be found quickly. It has been a tough few years for restaurants all over the world, and it has subsequently impacted tour companies.

Discounts For Children

Many companies, including Secret Food Tours, offer discounted pricing for children. However, I would not recommend this tour for young children. The amount of walking, the short history talks, and the types of food included may not be enticing for them. I do, however, think teens would enjoy this experience, especially if they are open to trying new foods.

For more incredible experiences in Rome, check out these stories:

• The One Thing You Should Not Miss When Visiting Rome
• 6 Best Food Markets To Experience In Rome
• My 8 Favorite Gourmet Food Shops To Visit In Rome

Nothing is more majestic than nature in full force, and watching a waterfall in action is always a delight. While our waterfalls in Europe aren’t quite up to Iguazu or Niagara standards, there are still European waterfalls well worth your while to stop off at — or even make a detour for. Many of Europe’s most breathtaking waterfalls can be found in Iceland, but most countries have at least one good example.

Always drawn to water, I have been known to go out of my way for a pretty waterfall and have been soaked to the skin on many occasions when I’ve walked close to or even behind a fall. I have selected some of my personal favorite waterfalls, all of which I like for personal reasons, but which all deserve your attention for many others. Each and every one is perfect for making your own memories.

1. Rhine Falls, Switzerland

The Rhine Falls hold a special place in my heart because I first saw them as a small girl when on vacation at Konstanz, Germany, with my mother. She was keen to see the falls, and we went on a day trip to Schaffhausen, a Swiss town just across the border. Not only was this my first time in Switzerland, but it was also my first sighting of a rather impressive waterfall. The Rhine Falls are wide (490 feet) rather than high (only 75 feet) but are reportedly the most powerful falls in Europe. Adding to the utter beauty of the waterfall’s natural cascades are the castle Schloss Laufen looking out over the falls, as well as the bridge leading to the castle. It is a perfect spot for afternoon tea while watching this natural spectacle.

Pro Tip: You can get up close and personal with the falls on a boat trip right into the center of the falls. It is a thrill like no other.

2. Svartifoss, Iceland

There are so many stunning waterfalls in Iceland — and many that are more powerful, taller, and wider than Svartifoss — so why did I choose this one to be included here? When I was in Iceland, I fell in love with the amazing hexagonal basalt columns that you can find across the island, and this, at least on paper, quite insignificant waterfall is set right against these black lava columns, giving it its name: svarti meaning “black” and foss meaning “falls.”  

(Some other great examples of these columns can be found at Reynisfjara Beach on the way from Reykjavik.)

You can see this waterfall as part of a tour to the Vatnajökull National Park, which has many other attractions, including the opportunity to climb a glacier. A plethora of tours are available.  

Pro Tip: Just a little bit farther along the south coast lies Diamond Beach, a black beach strewn with chunks of ice glittering like diamonds. Whatever you do, do not miss this amazing site.

3. Skógafoss, Iceland

Skógafoss is one of the most famous and most visited waterfalls in Iceland. It’s not only beautiful in the traditional sense of a wide (82 feet), high (197 feet), and powerful waterfall, but it’s also popular because of its proximity to Reykjavik. Another draw is that the waterfall is set in front of the volcano Eyjafjallajökull, “the one that no one can pronounce,” and which caused havoc for international flights back in 2010. 

Skógafoss was also my first Icelandic waterfall, and offered a mighty sight from below as well as from the upper viewing point, which is a steady but manageable climb up the slope to the right of the waterfall. If you are lucky, you might even see some of those adorably shaggy Icelandic horses along the way.

Pro Tip: The best way to get around Iceland is by driving yourself, but there are also plenty of tours and roundtrips from Reykjavik, such as a Skógafoss day trip.

4. Aysgarth Falls, England

With the Aysgarth Falls, it is a long-running debate with my husband as to whether I saw them just before the release of Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991), where Kevin Costner as Robin Hood splashes through them with Little John — or just after. Either way, my in-laws still live close to the River Ure and its falls at Aysgarth, and hardly a family visit goes by that we do not walk along them, or at least go for a scone or a toasted sandwich in the cute little Mill Race Tea Shop right beside the falls. A wide, triple-fall spectacular, Aysgarth Falls is surrounded by the gorgeous North Yorkshire countryside and its quaint little villages. Each village is always home to a lovely pub.

Pro Tip: To get the most out of the surrounding countryside and the falls, go on this perfect circular hike, 2.6 miles long with a few inclines but nothing too steep. Look out for Bolton Castle across the fields.

 5. Hardraw Force, England

This is another waterfall that was introduced to me by my in-laws in North Yorkshire. A mile away from the lovely town of Hawes, with its antique shops and cafes perfect for that famous cup of tea, lies what is England’s longest single-drop waterfall. 

Not only is the waterfall and the walk up to Hardraw Force simply lovely, come rain or shine, but even better, you can only get to it by walking from a pub. Not bad, right? Next to the historic Green Dragon Inn is a small Heritage Center kiosk that charges 2.50 pounds to enter the private land and visit the 100-foot-high falls. You can dip into the natural pool under the falls, walk behind them for a refreshing shower, or simply enjoy the scenic setting.

Pro Tip: The Green Dragon Inn, dating to the 13^th century, is as typical a Yorkshire pub as they come, complete with beams on the ceiling, huge flagstone flooring, a roaring fire in winter, a good selection of beers, and a generous Sunday roast on the menu. What’s not to like? 

6. Terme Di Saturnia, Italy

Roughly halfway between Florence and Rome, in the gorgeous Tuscan countryside, lies the Terme di Saturnia, a set of warm, sulfurous springs cascading across rocks and forming waterfalls and pools. At a rate of roughly 800 liters per second, the body-temperature pools have a constant turnover of water. They are an ancient thermal wellbeing hotspot even the Etruscans and Romans knew about. Apparent health benefits include relief for skin conditions, aches and pains, and respiratory issues.

Pro Tip: To make the most out of the natural beauty of the springs and waterfalls, as well as take advantage of the natural healing powers of the springs, book yourself into the swanky Terme di Saturnia Resort. It offers a lovely setting as well as a spa, pools, treatments, and a golf course.

7. Las Fuentes Del Algar, Spain

This might not be a terribly impressive waterfall, but it’s a place of supurb natural beauty just inland from Costa Blanca, a favorite retirement hub in Spain. My parents used to live nearby, just a little north of the cascades, and this was the first waterfall my then very young daughter experienced on a family visit. Coming inland from the coast in the summer heat and finding these gorgeous falls was a refreshing interlude, especially dipping into the chilly water tumbling down the rocks. 

You can go for a walk along the riverbed or climb up a little and dive into the waterfall pools, or simply eat a snack and watch the world go by. There are a few restaurants alongside the falls, and you can easily make a day of it. They even provide lifeguards between spring and late summer, so don’t forget your swimming costume and a warm towel for after your dip.

Pro Tip: Back on the coast, don’t miss a visit to Altea, with its lovely old town center full of charm and small, winding streets. On Tuesdays, there is a traditional fruit and vegetable market with plenty of food stalls (including great churro stands).

8. Pliva Waterfall, Bosnia And Herzegovina

The country of Bosnia and Herzegovina one of the least-visited (and thus least-crowded) European countries, but it has phenomenal waterfalls. The Pliva Waterfall, just on the edge of the medieval town of Jajce, is a must-see destination. 

The Pliva Waterfall forms where the river Pliva meets the river Vrbas, and the result is one of the most stunning waterfalls in Europe, especially when viewed from the gorge with Jajce as the backdrop.

The river Pliva is home to the first hydroelectric power station in the Balkans, built in 1899, and twenty-four old wooden watermills run alongside the river. There are also two natural lakes in the area, as well. Add this all to stunning falls, and you can go for endless walks through beautiful countryside and be inspired by the water all around. 

Pro Tip: If you’re in Sarajevo, you can visit Jajce on a full-day tour.

Can’t stop chasing cascades? Check out:

• 7 Of America’s Most Stunning Waterfalls
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• And the beautiful waterfalls of the Midwest and Pacific Northwest

They say that Paris is the city of the flaneur — the leisurely walker — walking being the perfect way to discover the city. Agreed, London is a little busier and larger, but that does not mean it is devoid of lovely walks. They allow you to discover either the sights along the way, or indeed escape the city for a while, while remaining right in it.

London has a selection of dedicated walks, which you can follow, allowing you to experience the city at its best, and I have chosen a few walks which I love. Whenever I find myself in the heart of London, I tend to “escape” the city for a while and follow a walk to get the feeling of stretching my legs and yet enjoying the cityscape.

My selection is broad, from a canal walk to a river walk, to inner-city sightseeing, to an art trail, and even a memorial walk, so, hopefully there is something in my collection that suits everybody.

1. The Thames Path

The Thames Path is just that: a path that follows alongside the River Thames over 184 miles long. Obviously, it is a wonderful undertaking to follow the entire path, but so far, I have only managed a few sections in and around London. It officially starts at the Thames’s source in the Cotswolds and ends past the Thames Flood Barrier, at the river’s estuary into the North Sea. Within London, my favorite stretch to walk is from the shimmering Flood Barrier, past the O2 arena — formerly known as the Millennium Dome and recognized by most from the James Bond movie The World is Not Enough. Walking along the south side, you follow the river into Greenwich, to the Old Naval College, and to Greenwich Park with the Royal Observatory and the Cutty Sark. This stretch is just over 4 miles long and gives you a good excuse to have lunch and a Pimm’s in Greenwich.

Pro Tip: From here, the nicest way to get back into the center, apart from walking, is by hopping on a water taxi back into the heart of the city.

2. Regent’s Canal

Imagine walking through central London, with the birds singing, strings of ducks swimming past you, canal boats bobbing in the water, and not a car horn or whiff of exhaust fumes near you. The 8.6-mile-long Regent’s Canal was finished in 1820, designed by John Nash as a way of transporting cargo through inner London. Today, it is a tranquil waterway with many cafes and sights alongside it, showing you a very different London. You can walk the length of it, starting in Little Venice towards the west and ending at Limehouse Basin, just ahead of Canary Wharf on the Isle of Dogs in London’s East End. Or you could pop to the lovely Coal Drops Yard just behind St. Pancras and King’s Cross Stations, where the old warehouses have come good and now house superb restaurants and individual shopping; you can start walking from there.

Pro Tip: The canal traverses Regent’s Park and London Zoo, so keep your eyes peeled for some exotic creatures along the way.

3. Tate Britain To Tate Modern

This is no official path but one of my making, as I tend to always pop into one of the Tate galleries when in London, either Tate Modern or the original Tate Britain, or even both. Starting at Tate Britain, with its photogenic staircase, cross Vauxhall Bridge toward the iconic MI6 building — another landmark easily recognized from James Bond movies — turn left past Lambeth Palace, toward the London Eye, and the Palace of Westminster across the Thames. Keep walking along South Bank with its many attractions, cafes, and sights, such as Shakespeare’s Globe Theater, Tate Modern, and the Fabulous Millennium Bridge — recognizable from not only James Bond’s Spectre, but also from Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. The entire walk takes around 40 to 45 minutes.

Pro Tip: Not far from Tate Modern lies the iconic Borough Market, perfect for some sustenance. 

4. The Line

London’s first dedicated art and sculpture trail, The Line, with 12 works of contemporary art along the 3-mile route, roughly follows the Greenwich Meridian as it meanders between the Greenwich Peninsula and the O2 Dome in the south, crossing the Thames, and ending near the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford towards the north. Depending on how long you linger over the individual installations, the walk takes around 3 hours of leisurely walking and not only shows you unique contemporary expressions but also a part of London which few visitors ever explore. From Anish Kapoor to Tracey Ermin, the art is at times mind-boggling, stunning, thought-provoking, and beautiful. And you can cross the Thames by cable car from which you can spot a couple of sculptures in and next to the river.

Pro Tip: The Line and its works are on an app that offers guided walks through many museums worldwide, including this London walk.

5. Jubilee Loop

This loop walk is perfect for first-time visitors to London, as the Jubilee Walkway takes in many of the major sights within a 2-mile-round walk. From Trafalgar Square, you’ll walk up The Mall, with its grand buildings and many old-fashioned private gentlemen’s clubs to Buckingham Palace, then around St. James’s Park. Or, as I prefer to do, walk through St. James’s Park to feed (unsalted) nuts to the many very friendly squirrels. Then head to Parliament Square with Westminster Palace and Big Ben and a peek across the bridge to the London Eye. Officially, you are supposed to head back along Horse Guards Road, but I would suggest heading up along Whitehall, past Downing Street and the Changing of the Guards to Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery. Within an easy walk, you have seen many of the most important sights.

Pro Tip: Steps away, on Northumberland Avenue, lies the atmospheric Sherlock Holmes pub, full of interesting memorabilia of the fictional, yet so iconic London detective.

6. Diana Princess Of Wales Memorial Walk

There is no doubt that Diana, former Princess of Wales, is still revered by many, and this Memorial Walk, following plaques commemorating landmarks relevant to her life, celebrates Diana’s life in London. The 7-mile round trip takes you from her former home at Kensington Palace through Kensington Gardens, Hyde Park, Green Park, and St. James’s Park via Buckingham Palace, Spencer House, a former seat of her family, and the Diana Memorial, among other stops. This is not only a lovely walk for those who loved the princess, but also for those you simply want a decent stroll through four (nearly) interconnected, lovely parks in the heart of London, with a few royal sights thrown in along the way.

Pro Tip: In St. James’s Park, stop at the St. James’s Café, which not only does a typical English sausage sandwich, but also decent Fish & Chips, with a lovely view.

7. The Wall Of London Walk

Did you know that London was once a walled city? The Romans, back in around 120 BC, built a defensive wall around Londinium, as it was called then, to protect the valuable port city. Even though, maintained up to the 18th century, today, admittedly, there is not much of it left, too little for most visitors to even know about the wall, but enough to make it a worthwhile walk, if quite short. Conveniently, starting at the Tower of London where most visitors find themselves at some point, the 1.7-mile-long route takes you north past Aldgate (the clues are always there, if you know what to look for), turning westward and skirting the City of London. Then, the route moves past Bishopsgate along the road called London Wall (see what I mean?) to the Barbican and the equally conveniently placed Museum of London, to allow you to double-check the history of what you have just experienced. The map details 21 markers along the way, each of historic significance.

Pro Tip: Do pop into Postman’s Park, by St Bartholomew’s Hospital, the world’s oldest hospital dating to 1123, and near the end of the walk. It is a lovely park, named after the workers of the nearby post office who lunch here.

8. Hampstead Heath Circular Walk

If you need a break from London, which is, not for nothing, called “The Big Smoke,” and are in need of some foliage and fresh air, head north to Hampstead Heath, one of London’s biggest green areas. More than 790 acres are filled with woodland, meadows bursting with wildflowers, some 30 odd ponds, and plenty of wildlife. Depending on how much time you have, there is a 4.5-mile option or a longer 6.5-mile walk. Both walks are circular, taking you back to the starting point. There are plenty of stopping points along the way, from grand houses to art, from cafes to museums, such as Keats House. And yes, there are toilets on the heath as well.

Pro Tip: To make a day of it, pop into Euphorium at Hampstead Heath tube station and get a couple of delicious sandwiches to take with you.

Related Reading:

• 7 Outdoor London Restaurants With Amazing Views Of The River Thames
• The Amazing Spring Flower Show That Is Worth A Flight Across The Pond
• 7 Beautiful Parks In London That Locals Love

As author and U.S. Lighthouse Society board member Elinor DeWire once said, “There’s a human story at every lighthouse.”

So true. Every lighthouse, including those that dot the Florida Gulf Coast, has a story just waiting to be told. 

Lighthouses are reminders of our maritime past, when schooners would sail the oceans delivering passengers and cargo to destinations, battling nature’s fury and treacherous coastlines. The beauty of their towering heights and the stories they tell give people hope and inspiration to better themselves and be a beacon for others. 

A string of fabulous lighthouses rings the Florida Gulf Coast from the Dry Tortugas to Pensacola, each with its own story to tell and each with its own beauty and wonder. 

I’ve traveled the Florida Gulf Coast many times and have made sure that whenever possible I visit one of these beacons of the night. Let me introduce you to five of my favorites. After reading my reasons for these lighthouses topping my list, I think you will agree that they are all must-sees. While you can’t climb to the top of some of these 150-plus-year-old towers, a visit is well worth your time. 

Remember that any fees charged for tours or museum admission are used to help protect and preserve these structures. 

1. Loggerhead Key And Garden Key Lighthouses

Dry Tortugas National Park 

We’ll begin our journey in one of the most beautiful — and remote — locations to visit a lighthouse, the Dry Tortugas, for not one but two lighthouses: Loggerhead Key (aka Dry Tortugas) Lighthouse and Garden Key Lighthouse. Both are located in the Dry Tortugas National Park. 

The islands are surrounded by the most beautiful blue gulf water, coral reefs alive with color and wildlife, and gleaming white sand beaches that offer an amazing array of activities for all.

Loggerhead Key is located 70 miles due west of Key West on the largest of the key’s seven islands. The lighthouse was completed in 1857 and stands 150 feet tall. The interior of the lighthouse is closed to the public but still, it is an impressive sight in one of the most enchanting locations. 

Garden Key is actually located on one of the bastions of historic Fort Jefferson, a 19th-century masonry fort built to protect the Gulf States from foreign invasion following the War of 1812. 

Pro Tips: Wade The Water To Loggerhead And Garden Keys

Here’s the rub — you can only get to the islands by ferry, but what an experience you will have! There is snorkeling among the vibrant colors of fish and coral in Little Africa and scuba diving to the Windjammer Wreck. 

The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. Book passage aboard the Yankee Freedom to visit Loggerhead Key, tour Fort Jefferson, and have an incredible camping experience under one of the most beautiful starry skies anywhere on Garden Key. 

Learn more on the Dry Tortugas National Park visitor website.

2. Sanibel Lighthouse

Sanibel Island

Heading north to the Fort Myers area, we take the Sanibel Causeway across San Carlos Bay to Sanibel Island and the lighthouse of the same name.

The Sanibel Lighthouse was the first Florida Gulf Coast lighthouse built north of Key West and is an iron skeletal frame with spindly legs that surround an enclosed cylindrical base. The base that supports the light is painted a dark utilitarian brown to make it more visible from sea during the day. 

Pro Tips: Make A Day Out Of Sanibel Island

The lighthouse is located on the eastern tip of the island in the aptly named Lighthouse Beach Park. While you can’t climb to the top, you are still in for a treat swimming in the blue Gulf waters, sunning on the beach, or surfing or pier fishing. 

The island is also known worldwide as a shell collector’s paradise. 

Parking is limited so get there early, and is $5 an hour. The causeway toll to reach the island is $6. 

3. Gasparilla Island And Port Boca Grande Lighthouses

Boca Grande 

The narrow barrier island known as Gasparilla Island is where we find not one but two lighthouses. 

The first is the Gasparilla Island Lighthouse. Built in 1881, the steel structure was built in pieces by the Phoenix Iron Company of Trenton, New Jersey, then shipped to the island for assembly. 

The completed structure stands 100 feet tall and let me tell you, the islanders who live in Boca Grande love their lighthouse. Visitors can climb the tower on special event days and it is decorated with colorful lights during the Christmas holidays.

Heading south about 2 miles on Gulf Boulevard, we come to Gasparilla State Park, the home of the quaint Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum.

The square wooden building that surrounds the lighthouse was built on iron pilings. The lighthouse itself protrudes from its roof to a height of 44 feet. 

Pro Tips: Cant-Miss Lighthouse Events

For a schedule of special events such as climbing the Gasparilla Island Lighthouse, visit the Barrier Island Park Society website for dates. 

The Port Boca Grande Lighthouse is still closed due to the pandemic but hopefully will reopen soon. Still, make plans to visit the park. The view of the lighthouse is stunning against the blue Gulf backdrop and the museum is a fascinating trip back in time.

4. St. Marks Lighthouse

St. Marks

On the eastern edge of what is known as Florida’s Forgotten Coast, due to it being relatively undeveloped, the second oldest lighthouse in the state and the oldest on the Gulf Coast, St. Marks Lighthouse, stands stoically protecting mariners from crashing into the shoreline. 

Construction started in 1829 and was completed in 1831. Later in 1842, its 2-foot-thick walls were increased in height and now tower 82 feet above the northern gulf waters. It is the only lighthouse in Florida with wooden stairs leading to the top.

It is one tenacious structure. During its lifetime, it has survived over 100 hurricanes and the Confederate army during the Civil War, who tried to blow it up to keep it out of the hands of Union troops but were unsuccessful. 

Pro Tips: Amazing St. Marks Photo Ops

St. Marks is the most photographed lighthouse in the state and while the public can’t currently climb to the top, you can get some incredible photographs. It is located at the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge where there are also some great hiking trails. The refuge is open from 6 a.m. to sunset.

Be sure to stop at the visitor center when you arrive to get an overview of the refuge, the lighthouse, and information on the short hiking trails within the park. And pick up some bug spray; mosquitoes and yellow flies can be intense in the summer.

5. Pensacola Lighthouse

Pensacola

Built in 1859, the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum is still an active U.S. Coast Guard navigation aid.

The lighthouse stands 151 feet tall with an ornate spiral staircase of 177 steps that hugs the interior wall and leads to spectacular views of Pensacola Bay, historic Fort Pickens, and the Gulf of Mexico beyond. 

The keeper’s quarters, with its enormous wrap around porch, was built 10 years after the lighthouse and has since been transformed into a fascinating museum with artifacts from past lighthouse keepers. It also showcases the history of the U.S. Coast Guard, including the women’s branch, SPARS (“Semper Paratus — Always Ready”), during World War II.

Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola is the home of the Navy’s Blue Angels flying team. The lighthouse offers spectacular views of the Blues during their practice runs where they fly over 600 miles per hour between the lighthouse and the base’s water towers which are only 1,000 feet apart! Tickets to view the Blues from this vantage point are extremely limited.

Pro Tips: The Ghosts Of Pensacola Lighthouse

For various reasons, NAS Pensacola has been closed to civilians. The only way you can visit the lighthouse and museum is by reserving a seat on a public access tour bus. There are also beautiful sunrise and full moon tours, and a special ghost hunting tour. The SciFi channel’s Ghost Hunters visited the lighthouse for one episode and are convinced there are ghosts there. 

A little secret that tour guides will tell you after walking up the tower is that the steps are not your standard 7-inch height but 9 inches, giving you more of a workout. 

Editor’s Note: If you want to learn more about Elinor DeWire and the United States Lighthouse Association, check out their official website.

Look deeper into the beautiful destinations on this lighthouse journey:

• 11 Amazing Things To Do In Beautiful Pensacola, Florida
• Why Sanibel Island Is The Perfect Beach Vacation Destination
• 7 Amazing Experiences On Florida’s Unique Big Bend Coast

You really don’t need to take out a mortgage to visit New York City. While Broadway tickets, hotel rooms, and fine dining can max out your budget, there are many wonderful freebies to fill your Big Apple experience. Enjoy these tips for ways to spend your time and get the flavor of the city without taking out your credit card.

1. Soak Up The Views

While you could spring for a ticket to the Top of the Rock, The Edge, or the Empire State Building to see the city’s famed skyline, you really don’t have to. 

2. The Brooklyn Bridge And DUMBO

Put on your sneakers, instead, and walk the length of the Brooklyn Bridge for dramatic views of the city. Enter near City Hall in Manhattan and head west to DUMBO, one of Brooklyn’s most fashionable neighborhoods. At the end of the span, walk north to Brooklyn Bridge Park and grab a spot on the lawn. Your reward? A camera-ready view of the water taxis, ferries, tugboats, sightseeing cruises, and recreational vessels plying the East River, all against the backdrop of the Manhattan skyline.

For your Manhattan-bound return, first join the Instagrammers at one of the city’s most photographed spots, the view of the Manhattan Bridge from Washington Street. Then, climb the stairs to the Brooklyn Bridge and reverse direction to Manhattan. Stop and pause as the city unfolds before you. The midpoint of the bridge is the place to fully rotate and look at Brooklyn to the east, downtown Manhattan to the south, Randall’s Island to the north, and Manhattan due west. And you didn’t spend a penny, except maybe for lunch!

3. Staten Island Ferry

For a different perspective on the city, take the free ferry from the southern tip of Manhattan to Staten Island. En route, you’ll pass by the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Governor’s Island. On your return passage to Battery Park, get your camera ready for an inspiring shot of Manhattan. You’ll also have another chance to see the Statue of Liberty to your left.

Pro Tip: For just $3, you can take the nearby ferry to Governor’s Island, a 172-acre island in New York Harbor, for water-based views that angle towards Brooklyn and Queens as well.

4. Get Street Smart

Take advantage of New York City’s many street fairs, parades, and its popular Open Streets program. Sit (or stand) and watch as entertainers and people of all shapes and sizes drift by. New York City is a veritable melting pot and the best show in town is right on the streets and sidewalks.

5. I Love A Parade

New York City loves to celebrate, and parades and festivals are scheduled throughout the year. Odds are your visit will coincide with one of these special fêtes (a festival or celebration), like the Dominican Day Parade, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the German-American Steuben Day Parade, the Pride Parade, the Dance Parade, or maybe even the well-known Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The city’s Easter Bonnet extravaganza and the Coney Island Mermaid Parade are one-of-a-kind. Some routes cover multiple avenues and streets; others are only a block or two long, like the Bastille Day celebration.

6. Streets, Seats, And People Watching

New York City’s pioneering Open Streets program has created pedestrian-only areas where you can sit and relax. The red stairs near the TKTS booth in Times Square is a popular hangout. As are the tables and chairs on the adjacent triangular area, as well as around Herald Square and Madison Square Park. Food trucks are often parked nearby for some inexpensive fare as you enjoy the people procession, one of New York City’s greatest free entertainments.

For the ultimate in pedestrian-only strolling and sightseeing, the Coney Island Boardwalk and beach are free at all times.

7. Entertainment Down Under

Some of the city’s most diverse — and free — entertainment sits below the sidewalks in the subways. Through the MTA’s Music Under New York program, buskers must audition to perform in the stations, and the talent you’ll see is quite amazing. For the mere price of a generous tip (suggested) and a metro card swipe (required), you get access to some 350 classical musicians, opera singers, steel bands, and more currently participating in the program. 

Pro Tips: According to one of my favorite underground musicians, musical saw-player Natalia Paruz, the best stations for free entertainment are Times Square (42nd Street), Herald Square (34th Street), Union Square (14th Street), and the Q line’s 72nd and 86th Streets in Manhattan. If you’re in Brooklyn, stop at the Bedford Street L station.

8. Get Cultured

Museums

Museums encourage entry with free or pay-what-you-want days. The Bronx Museum of the Arts and the National Museum of the American Indian, part of the Smithsonian, are always free. Admission to the Brooklyn Museum is free on the first Saturday of the month, and the Jewish Museum is always free on Saturday. The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) asks you to contribute whatever you’d like as does the Whitney Museum on Friday evening and The Guggenheim on Saturday evening. Make a list of these museums and check their websites for special exhibits and programs. 

Art In The Subways

For more free art, the subways are a veritable treasure hunt. From glass tiles and mosaics by masters like Chuck Close to whimsical bronze sculptures by Tom Otterness, the MTA Arts & Design-commissioned art program invites you to slow down and look around as you travel. And the price tag? Again, a mere $2.75 subway ride. A list of the stations and their installations is available online thanks to nycsubway.org.

Outdoor Exhibits

Outdoor art is always free (unless it’s part of a museum) and fills the city with statues, sculptures, street art, and other surprising pieces. The city’s non-profit Public Art Fund program brings free, rotating exhibitions of international scope in all the boroughs. A current installation, Gillian Wearing’s statue of photographer Diane Arbus with her camera, stands at the edge of Central Park.

For a combo art and sightseeing tour, stroll the High Line, Manhattan’s groundbreaking elevated park. Contemporary artworks, videos, and murals line the 1.45-mile walk through an ongoing program called High Line Art. Set against the gorgeous views of the river and skyline, a giant fiberglass drone-like sculpture rotates on a steel pole at 30th Street. Paola Pivi’s comic take on the Statue of Liberty overlooks Hudson Yards. 

You can enjoy an unusual immersive experience at the Socrates Sculpture Park in Queens. The park displays large-scale and multi-media art in a former landfill setting.

Other large pieces currently on view include Jim Rennert’s three life-size tributes to the working man — Timing, Inner Dialogue, and Commute — sitting at 47th Street and 6th Avenue in Manhattan. The beloved 2.5-ton, copper tutu-clad bronze sculpture Hippo Ballerina by Bjørn Okholm Skaarup has returned to the city, now at Pershing Square Plaza West.

While you do your “free” window shopping, you can view two notable pieces from Colombian sculptor Fernando Botero. Adam and Eve, standing in the entrance to the Shops at Columbus Circle, have both been rubbed shiny in spots by the hands of many visitors. Brookfield Place’s free Art Walk showcases works throughout the downtown mall.

Theater fans aren’t left out when it comes to getting something free. The Broadway Grand Gallery exhibit in Times Square showcases 21 playbill covers, each 10 feet, from 21 currently running shows.

Pro Tip: If seeing the giant Hamilton Playbill (and maybe the show itself) has sparked an interest to know more, visit the grounds of Hamilton Grange, the “country” home of Alexander Hamilton. It’s also a designated historic landmark and free public park in Upper Manhattan. 

9. Parks And Recreation

A City Of Parks

No visit to New York City is complete without a visit to Manhattan’s giant backyard, Central Park. You can spend days here without spending a penny. Bird watching, catch-and-release fishing, concerts, movies, Shakespeare in the Park, and more are all available to you within the park’s 846 acres. Random entertainers at sites like Bethesda Fountain and The Mall and Literary Walk ask only that you leave a tip if you’ve enjoyed their shows. 

If you find yourself in other parts of the city and need a “green” break, Brooklyn’s Prospect Park, like Central Park, was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux and offers extensive spaces for exercise, people watching, and more. Smaller parks like Bryant Park, Union Square Park, and Madison Square Park also offer welcoming areas for respite, outdoor movies, art exhibits, and other seasonal events.

Central Park’s Conservatory Garden rivals any botanical garden. With three formal gardens, fountains, a wisteria-covered pergola, statues, and seasonally-changing floral plantings, it’s an oasis hiding in plain view of the city. Step through the ornate Vanderbilt Gate and smell the flowers — you’ll probably see a wedding or two happening as well (no gifts required). For a more extensive garden experience that’s still free, visit the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx on Wednesday morning.

The city’s newest and, perhaps, quirkiest park, Little Island, is a free manmade “island” that requires reservations. Sitting just off of the Greenway over the Hudson River, the park is built on concrete piles and offers rolling hills, pathways, and entertainment.

10. Free Sports

New York City offers lots of free recreational activities. Walkers and runners gravitate to Central Park’s bridle path and Jacqueline Onassis Reservoir. An expansive route for biking, jogging, and walking, the piers and pathways of Hudson River Park are also where you’ll find free kayaking at Pier 96 — lessons included. If you’re in Brooklyn, you can kayak for free from Pier 2 at Brooklyn Bridge Park. Brookfield Place offers free racquet sports options including badminton, pickleball, and ping pong on the weekends at their West Side and Brooklyn locations.

Pro Tip: Duck into Paley Park, a “pocket park” on East 53rd Street between Madison and 5th Avenues. Enjoy the waterfall and sound-deadening greenery hidden in the middle of the busy shopping area. It’s like having a free massage for your mind.

Related Reading:

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1. Red Beach

Santorini is part of a chain of Greek islands that were conjoined until a large volcanic eruption in 1600 BC, dubbed the Minoan eruption. The eruption left behind a string of islands, as well as plenty of black and red pulverized volcanic rock. The largest collection of red rocks mixes in with the sand on Red Beach, creating a stunning contrast against its aqua blue water.

2. Porto Ferro Beach

Although it may look like a perfectly Photoshopped beach photo for your desktop computer screen, the orange color of Porto Ferro Beach is just as vibrant in real life. It gets its unique coloring from a mix of orange limestone, volcanic rock, and copious amounts of shells, offset by the clear turquoise ocean water.

3. Makena Beach

The Hawaiian Island of Maui is home to many beautiful golden beaches, but the most popular is southern Makena Beach. Although this yellow-tinted sand is the most similar to “normal” beach coloring, the hue comes from calcium carbonate, broken down from seashells and marine skeletons.

4. Papakōlea Green Sand Beach

This jarring green sand beach is one of only four known in the world! The area, now known as Papakōlea Green Sand Beach, on Hawaii’s Big Island, was once a cinder cone volcano. When it erupted, the lava contained a high concentration of olivine, and the mineral’s coloring has since stood the test of time and erosion creating this marvel.

5. Vaadhoo Island

Okay, so the sand on Vaadhoo Island isn’t part of the rainbow, but we couldn’t pass up the magnificent neon blue glow created when the water hits the sand. This phenomenon comes to life annually during the late summer thanks to bioluminescence plankton. The movement of waves against the Lingulodinium polyedrum plankton causes it to glow, truly creating a Sea of Stars.

6. Pfeiffer Beach

Pfeiffer Beach is one of Big Sur’s best-kept secrets, as it’s a bit off the beaten path of Highway 1. The purple hue of the sand comes from a high concentration of manganese garnet deposits. These deposits wash down from the surrounding hills and locals say the color is most luminous after rainfall.

7. Pantai Merah

Pantai Merah is a beach on the infamous Komodo Island in Indonesia. Although the island is named for the Komodo dragons that roam the land, this pink beach is a big secondary draw for tourists. The sand gets its coloring from microscopic organisms called Foraminifera that leave a red pigment on the reefs. This pigment bleeds into the white sand, creating this extraordinary pink tint along the water. 

8. Ussuri Bay

Ussuri Bay is home to this extremely unique glass beach, made of thousands of actual glass bottles that have washed up onto the beaches. The waves have eroded the pieces into smooth sand pebbles creating this beautiful rainbow coastline.

9. Pa’iloa Beach

We mentioned above that many of Maui’s beaches are golden, but the truth is that the volcanic activity on the island has produced some incongruous coloring. The black sand beach in Waiʻanapanapa State Park is perhaps one of the most unique. The black sand is actually millions of finely ground lava rock pebbles, created when hot volcanic lava hits the cool ocean water.

London has many famous landmarks. Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and Royal Albert Hall are just a few of the things you might want to see while you’re in the city. But London’s most natural landmark, the thing you can not only see, but take a journey on, is the River Thames. 

The wide, majestic River Thames meanders right through the center of the city and out to the surrounding suburbs and villages. It’s one of the most beautiful rivers you’ll ever have the pleasure of viewing, and there’s no better way to view it than from your table at one of London’s fabulous restaurants. 

Here are several London restaurants that have amazing views of the Thames.

1. Tīng At Shangri-La The Shard

Tīng restaurant sits on level 35 of luxury hotel Shangri-La The Shard, with panoramic views over the Thames as well as the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and other major landmarks. 

Ting serves a Pan-Asian menu utilizing local British ingredients, with dishes such as marinated Thai scallops with chili, pomegranate dressing, and wasabi caviar; and sweet and sour lobster over fried rice with charred lime and green onion salad. 

Desserts are created by Executive Pastry Chef Leyre Pedrazuela, a passionate and talented chef whose natural, high-end culinary creations recently led to a TV appearance on the UK’s Bake Off: The Professionals. Asian flavors also play a part in desserts, with hazelnut, pecan, and yuzu cake; chocolate and miso mousse; or lychee and raspberry pavlova for those who like to share.

2. CopperNose And 1665 At The Mitre

Opened in September 2020, The Mitre is a 36-bedroom, Grade II listed boutique hotel set on the banks of the River Thames near Hampton Court Palace. The hotel is home to two restaurants with incredible views of the Thames. 

Coppernose is a vibrant, stylish, yet relaxed cocktail and wine bar that offers panoramic views of the river. This is where breakfast and brunch are served. Sample dishes include chicken milanese and truffle creme fraiche; an open bacon sandwich with ketchup on sourdough; and Clarence Court scrambled eggs served with cured Scottish salmon and chopped chives. 

1665, named after the date The Mitre was built, is the property’s stunning all-day riverside brasserie. It boasts a central bar, wine room, open kitchen, and beautiful riverside terrace on the Thames. Sample dishes include confit duck and watermelon salad; truffle roasted chicken; and tamarind glazed pork chop.

3. The OXO Tower Restaurant 

Perfect for a special occasion, or just if you want to push the boat out, The Oxo Tower Restaurant is fine dining with the most incredible views over the Thames. If it’s a nice day and you get the chance to sit out on the terrace, you feel as if you’re dining right on the river as it flows by. In the evening the city is lit up, and the reflections on the water bring an extra element to the atmosphere of your meal. The flavors in the dishes are delicate and are perfectly paired. The fish dishes are especially good, but if you’re really celebrating, go for the chateaubriand for two people as a sharing dish.

Pro Tip

It’s a little bit expensive in here, so make sure you know what you’re in for before you visit. The menu is available to view online, and it’s a good idea to take a look so you’re not shocked by the prices.

4. Skylon At The Royal Festival Hall

Situated on the third floor of the Royal Festival Hall in the Southbank Centre, Skylon is perfectly positioned for incredible river views. The South Bank is a vibrant area with a lot going on, especially creative experiences and cute cafes and restaurants. Skylon is ideal for anyone visiting the Royal Festival Hall for a show, but it’s also a great restaurant for a special occasion. 

A lot of people come to Skylon just for the bar. The cocktails are so good, and the atmosphere so welcoming, but it’s worth getting a table in the restaurant to try the incredible steaks. Skylon is also very good at accommodating anyone with dietary requirements. They will go out of their way to make sure you have something amazing to eat, no matter what your needs are.

Pro Tip

You can request a window seat when you book your table and you’ll be guaranteed an excellent view of the Thames with riverboats floating past while you eat.

5. Brindisa, Richmond

A little way out of Central London, in Richmond, you can eat Spanish tapas by the river at Brindisa. This is a lovely tapas bar — where you can still eat tapas at the bar — in a beautiful location. If it’s nice enough to sit outside, it’s like a perpetual lazy Sunday morning with the riverboats sailing by gently on the water. 

Brindisa boasts over 80 percent organic or vegan wines, and they strive to source all their ingredients locally, bringing you authentic Spanish tapas from British products — an impressive feat. The selection of cheeses is especially good, and you really get the impression the cheeses have been selected with a genuine passion for taste. If you want to go to Brindisa for a special occasion or you want to make a group booking, you can book the Bodega Room, which gives you a space that’s just yours. This room is also sometimes used for tastings and events.

Pro Tip

Brindisa runs a monthly supper club, focusing on a different region of Spain each month. You have to book ahead, but it’s a great way to experience something a little different, and you’ll learn a lot about regional Spanish food.

6. The River Café, Hammersmith

Located in Thames Warf Studios, an iconic and historic building which was originally an industrial building for an oil facility, The River Café offers a traditional Italian menu with some flair. The position of the restaurant is perfect for watching the river go by, and if you get a table outside on a nice day, it’s a relaxing way to enjoy a meal. 

I love Italian food, so it’s always going to be a winner with me, but to find an Italian restaurant in such a beautiful location, and within a historic London building, too, is pretty unique. I’d recommend the ravioli with buffalo ricotta and the Corish monkfish. They also make a mean negroni in the bar.

Pro Tip

The River Café runs a seasonal menu, so you’ll find something different is offered depending on when you visit. This is done to reflect the seasons in the dishes, but also so seasonal ingredients can be sourced locally.

7. Sea Containers

If you like your restaurant with a theme, or just something a little bit quirky, you’ll love Sea Containers. As you might guess by the name, Sea Containers is nautical themed and stands a little more on the unusual side than most restaurants. Its position on the South Bank gives diners incredible views of The Thames.

This restaurant provides relaxed dining with a fun element, great for anyone who doesn’t like things to be too formal. There’s even a separate children’s menu here. 

If you love it here so much you don’t want to leave, you can book a room, a suite, or even an apartment, and keep on gazing out over the river. The building itself, after all, was originally designed as a hotel.

Pro Tip

You can book private dining, or you can ask for a quiet table where you can try the oysters with a glass of sauvignon blanc while gazing out at the river. You can’t get much more perfect for London dining.

Bonus: Sindhu, Marlow

The Thames stretches far out of London, to some pretty locations along its meandering banks. If you make it out to Marlow, a small town just outside London in Buckinghamshire, you’ll come across a beautiful riverside hotel, The Compleat Angler. Waiting to be discovered within the Compleat Angler is an Indian restaurant called Sindhu. 

This is not a regular Indian restaurant like the ones you might find in any city center — this is fine Indian dining. Run by Atul Kochhar, a well-respected restaurateur, Sindhu enjoys a tranquil position by the Thames in a peaceful setting away from the busy city. The Telangana seafood pulusu is incredible, and they also serve some amazing champagne cocktails and a really good selection of mocktails.

Pro Tip

Marlow is a really pretty small town right on the banks of the Thames. It takes about an hour to get there from Central London, so it makes a lovely day trip if you’re staying in the city.

Further Reading:

• 9 Best Street Food Markets In London
• High Tea Vs. Afternoon Tea: What You Need To Know Before Visiting London
• 8 Best Places To Get Breakfast In London
• 9 Things To Know Before Your First Trip To London

Due to Philadelphia’s proximity to Manhattan and Washington, D.C., the City of Brotherly Love is often credited with offering only cheesesteaks, the Liberty Bell, and Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Art Museum.

Yet 6 miles from historic Olde City is Germantown. Purchased from Pennsylvania founder William Penn, the first German settlement (circa 1683) in what was then British North America was the precursor to all the German towns across the United States. Settled by Germans, Mennonites, and Quakers (Society of Friends), the history within this neighborhood rivals Downtown Philly and, in some ways, surpasses it. Known as “Freedom’s Backyard” and for being more of a low-key community, you will not find bus tours or a great invitation by the Tourism Office to visit. So, it is best to explore by walking or taking public transportation (Route 23) or Uber/Lyft. Thursdays through Saturdays are typically the best days to explore this neighborhood. 

Philadelphia’s Germantown thrives due to its three intersecting identities: Colonial/Federal Era America, Quaker Life, and The Great Migration (1916–1970). The places and sites I suggest include all three identities. As it is impossible to list every locale, I focus on my personal favorites and highlight a few others. 

Wayne Junction (completed 1881 as Wayne Station) is the official start of Germantown along its southern border. But before strolling down Germantown Avenue, which runs the entire length of the neighborhood, walk a few blocks east to see the first suggested stop on this tour…

1. Stenton Home

4601 N 18th Street

This former home of James Logan (1674–1751) was part of his estate that encompassed the surrounding area. Logan was a Quaker who came to the New World during William Penn’s second voyage (1702). He became a mentor to a young Benjamin Franklin. The house would later host George Washington and serve as the temporary camp for British General William Howe during the American Revolution. 

Dinah, a formerly enslaved woman who lived on the grounds, became part of the house’s legends after she saved the house from British soldiers. Sarah Logan Fisher (1751-1796), is mentioned during tours of the grounds due to her historical research, which was later used by the Historical Society of Philadelphia. 

2. Attic Brewing Co.

137 Berkley Street

Head back to Wayne Junction and continue through the passageway to “the Attic.” Housed in a former pencil factory, Attic Brewing Co. has quickly become a popular local hangout in the taproom or the outside garden. The collection of craft beers, mixed drinks using local spirits, and rotating food carts add to the relaxed mood. 

3. Loudon Mansion

After quenching your thirst, walk 10 minutes up Germantown Avenue. On your left, you will notice a house in the middle of the park surrounded by a fence: Loudon Mansion. The site was used during the Battle of Germantown (October 4, 1777) to house wounded Continental soldiers. To date, it is known as being haunted by a ghost named Little Willie.

4. Lower Burial Ground At Hood Cemetery

On the corner of Logan Street and Germantown Avenue, you will find the Lower Burial Ground, also known as Hood Cemetery. If you look through the fence, you can see the graves of soldiers who passed away in the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War. These graves are marked by their respective military flags nearby. 

From here, take Bus 23, which travels up and down Germantown Avenue, or request an Uber/Lyft. On the way up, you will see the following sites of interest…

5. Grumblethorpe

5267 Germantown Ave (philalandmarks.org/grumblethorpe)

This house was occupied by British Brigadier-General James Agnew (1777) during the Battle of Germantown. Agnew was mortally wounded in battle and passed away on the parlor floor, leaving a still-visible bloodstain. 

6. First Petition Against Slavery Plaque

This plaque commemorates what took place in 1688. That year, the Quakers became the first religious group in the 13 colonies to submit a petition in a protest of enslaving Africans. That’s why today, a nearby mall is called Freedom Square.

While passing this location, admire the colonial and federal homes on both ends of the street. Many of them have their own stories that you can find online.

Get off the bus at Market Square, which is in the heart of Germantown. If you visit on a Saturday, you will see vendors selling items as many generations have done since 1703. 

7. Uncle Bobbie’s

5445 Germantown Ave

If you need a menu or a moment to rest, visit Uncle Bobbie’s, which offers a touch of Bohemia in Germantown. The location invites local scholars, friendly conversations, and a preview of the future of Germantown provided by the younger generation. Once you step back outside, look to your left…

8. Deshler-Morris House

This house was used as President George Washington’s summer home during the Yellow Fever epidemic of 1793. Although it’s closed throughout much of the year, it’s still worth a visit to see the facade and read the various plaques and signage outside. 

9. Fromberger-Harkness House & Lest We Forget Museum

5501 Germantown Ave

On the other side of Market Square sits Fromberger-Harkness House, which hosts the Germantown Historical Society. On its bottom floor resides the Lest We Forget Museum.

This personal favorite museum houses a private exhibit of authentic slavery artifacts. Curated by the Ragsdales, this is the place to visit to have honest conversations about America’s “Peculiar Institution.” If you plan to visit, allow at least 2 hours — it will be well worth your time.

In the center of Market Square, you will notice various statues and memorials to the soldiers who died in the Revolution and Civil wars, including one who was on the Confederate side.

As you continue North up Germantown Avenue, pay attention to the large building on the right side of the street.

10. La Rose Jazz Club

5531 Germantown Ave

Throughout the year, Germantown hosts a number of special events that highlight local R&B and jazz. Typically featured on the local radio stations and at community events are a number of artists who have played at La Rose. Come to the club during the evening, and you may see future stars before they are “discovered.”

As you continue north of La Rose, you will notice a shift in the appearance of the area. To me, this is the most interesting aspect of the neighborhood. Throughout the 20th century, there was a bit of an identity crisis based around how the area should appear to visitors. To attract more tourists, many locals thought that focusing on the area’s German beginnings and colonial history would create the most interest. To me, the mix of all its histories — including those of Black and Brown Americans coming north during the Migration (1916–1970) and Italians looking for a cosmopolitan environment — is what makes it most interesting. You’ll see examples of this in a couple of places. 

11. Maplewood Mall

Created in the 1970s as part of Philadelphia’s Urban Renewal project, this mall is one of the area’s hidden secrets. Along this small street, you will find various architecture highlighted by bold colors, G-Town Radio, the Prince Hall Masons Lodge, and various small shops ranging from café and vegan dining to private galleries. 

12. John S. Trower Plaque (In Front Of The John S. Trower Building)

5706 Germantown Ave

This historical marker at Germantown and Chelten avenues highlights Black wealth in the late 19th and 20th centuries.

13. Vernon Park & Surrounds

This is the site of the Wister House, which is used by the Black Writer’s Museum. One of Andrew Carnegie’s libraries forms the northern edge of the park. Numerous memorials to the Continental Army stand throughout the grounds.

Across the street, you’ll find the ACES Museum at 5801 Germantown Avenue and can appreciate the various architectural styles along E. Price Street. Continue north and you will find Germantown City Hall, which stands out due to its unique design. A little further on, you’ll find the Wyck House, which highlights Quaker culture, at 6026 Germantown Avenue. From here, you can take another 10-minute walk north to see the following…

14. Johnson House

6306 Germantown Ave

Home to many generations of the Quaker Johnson family, this was also a site on the Underground Railroad and is rumored to have hosted Harriet Tubman for an evening.

15. Cliveden

6401 Germantown Ave

Keep on further north, and you’ll reach the summer home of Benjamin Chew (1722–1810) which was a Northern plantation that was in use until the 1970s and site of the Battle of Germantown, which Washington lost, thus allowing the British to march and occupy Philadelphia. This home hosted the area’s wealthy residents, as can be seen by their signatures carved into the window glass.

More To See In Germantown…

If you are up to it, also visit the Young American Hard Cider Room, the Concord School House, and the Lower Burial Ground. Continue north to Chestnut Hill, which is another neighborhood that offers bistros, artisanal ice cream, galleries, and antique stores.

As you now know, there is much more to see in Philly than what is found downtown. By visiting Freedom’s Backyard, you can experience local history and interact with friendly residents.

Visiting Philly? Also read up on 6 Best Things To Do In Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse Square, Plus Where To Eat and 13 Foods To Try In Philadelphia Besides Cheesesteak.