Travel Blissful

New York City in the Spring

By Erica Johansson on in North America & Caribbean

Brooklyn Botanical Gardens Cherry Blossoms. CC Image by FreeVerse Photography (Flickr).

The leaves have grown back, the blossoms have bloomed and the ponds in Central Park have thawed. Yes, Spring has returned to New York City and the tourists are bustling into the city. Seasonally shaped to indulge the tastes of every visitor, New York City offers a diverse of attractions that will satisfy even the most picky tourists. But before you go, you have to be ready to take in the city and to experience everything that it has to offer. The only way you can do this is to be prepared and informed.

What You’ll Need to Take:

1. Take enough money, and then some! New York City can be pricy, especially Spring which is the peak of the tourist season. Make sure you have enough cash for cab trips or subway rides since you may not find parking in New York City unless you’re in Brooklyn or Queens.

2. You’ll need maps! Whether it’s a paper map or a map app on your phone, be sure that you know where you are. The last thing you want is to end up in Jersey. A subway map is also helpful.

3. Bring your itinerary! Itineraries will help you stay on schedule, this way, you can enjoy everything the city has to offer.

Where You Can Go:

Over the years, I have experienced New York City to almost to it’s full extent (although I don’t think I’ll ever be able to completely experience the city), searching every brick and mortar nook and cranny for and fun adventures and unique thrills and have found that most attractions can be found in two boroughs: Brooklyn and Manhattan. Luckily, each of these boroughs has something specific to to offer in the Spring.

Brooklyn

The city celebrates the coming of Spring in good taste with New York City’s Official Barbeque at Greenpoint. Brooklyn also hosts an array of wine, beer and food festivals that line the city streets every weekend, making it the perfect pit stop for foodies worldwide. While you’re in Brooklyn, make sure to also tour the Brooklyn Brewery, visit the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens and take a gander at the cherry blossoms, walk through the Greenmarket at Grand Army Plaza to taste the fruits of labor of the local city farmers, shop at the trendy independently owned art galleries and boutiques that Brooklyn’s famous for, take the D train down to Coney Island and enjoy a walk on the beach.

Manhattan

One of the hotbeds of world tourism, Manhattan really takes the cake when it comes to hosting events and attractions that captivate the diverse interests of its inhabitants and visitors. If you happen to be in Manhattan in the Spring, visiting Central Park should be at the top of the list. Whether you’re having a picnic on the East Side or taking a stroll near the pond, Central Park is no doubt a sight for sore eyes. Near the southern end of the city, the neighborhoods come alive as the the frost dissolves.

Enjoy these neighborhoods by visiting the wonderful art fairs in Washington Square Park, admiring the fashions of local designers in SoHo’s street shops, trekking your way up to the Ninth Avenue International Food Festival, catching a few flicks at the Tribeca Film Festival or the New Directors/New Films Festival on Amsterdam, stopping by Times Square to catch a Broadway show and finishing off the day by heading Uptown to Serendipity to indulge on their nationally recognized, Oprah “favorited” frozen hot chocolate.

New York City is place of celebrations, culture, music and traditions that challenge the very senses. Get out there and see what the city has to offer. You won’t regret it! There are an insurmountable number of events and attractions that take place seasonally and annually in New York City and every year is different, so make sure to keep an eye out for the novelties the city has to offer. For more information about city-wide events visit nyc.gov.

Ideal Spring Holiday Locations

By Erica Johansson on in Africa, Europe, Family Travel, North America & Caribbean

Sheep Meadow, Central Park. CC Image by Heath Brandon (Flickr).

Spring is approaching and calls for the first longer holiday of the year. The British company Co-operative Travel offers a wide variety of different all-inclusive holidays. If you have any family members that are still in school, the company offers holiday packages that keep the school dates in mind as well as a great variety of Easter Holidays, too. No matter where you want to go or with how many people you will be travelling, you can find good deals on the site. To make the decision of where to travel a little easier for you, we have picked the ideal spring holiday locations.

A Trip for Two to New York

Do you want to go on a short holiday with your significant other? Then the city of skyscrapers and the Central Park is an amazing destination, especially if you’ve never been. Walking through the vibrant streets of New York City is a thrilling experience. Shop until you drop, visit the Guggenheim and the Statue of Liberty, soar to the summit of the Empire State Building and grab some seats at the Yankee Stadium.

A Family Trip to Disneyland Paris

Visiting Disneyland in Paris is probably one of the best holiday destinations if you’re travelling with kids – but it’s fun for adults too! Who doesn’t want to meet Mickey Mouse and live in a fairy tale for a couple of days? There are also Disneylands in California, Hong Kong and Tokyo (and Disneyworld In Florida) but Disneyland Paris is a great fit, as it’s close and allows you to visit the city of light for a day or two leading up to your stay in Disneyland. A trip for four persons will cost you about £599 including accommodation and food, which isn’t a lot at all.

Affordable Family Holidays to Marrakesh

If you want to spend some time in a warmer country, Morocco is both a good and affordable option. Travel through the Atlas Mountains, meet storytellers and snake-charmers at Jemma el Fna and visit one of the many mosques in the city. Taste some new food too – you’ll be pleasantly surprised!

Trip to an Austrian Ski Resort

Are you itching to ski? Then visiting one of Europe’s most popular ski destinations, Austria, is your best bet. The Austrian resorts have hosted the Winter Olympics time and time again, but now it’s your opportunity to shine! If you’ve never been skiing before, Co-operative Travel offers lots of opportunities to learn how to ski. You’ll feel like a pro in no time! While St. Anton is terrific for off-piste and after-ski parties, picturesque Ellmau and Niederau suit better for families. If you’re with a big group, Soll is the destination for you.

A Banana Pancake Trail

By Erica Johansson on in Video & Film

A Banana Pancake Trail from Jessica Devnani on Vimeo.

Taking Off: Five Tips for a Happy, Healthy Extended Vacation

By Erica Johansson on in Travel Preparation

Flight. CC Image by Today is a good day (Flickr).

By JEFFREY FERRARO

There’s an inherent excitement in cutting ties with home and embarking on a long journey. College students seeking to experience international travel, vacationing couples celebrating an empty nest with a far-flung adventure, and retirees on a sabbatical to somewhere new all find certain exhilaration in long-term travel.

That anticipatory thrill, however, may be countered with concern about the challenges that stem from weeks or months away from home. Fortunately, it isn’t difficult to make the most of your sojourn despite the trials that you will surely encounter.

Following are five tips for getting the most of your next extended vacation while taking care of your mind, body and soul.

Map Out Your Trip
The one constant on any trip is change. New people and new places are sure to overwhelm even the most seasoned traveler, but a loose schedule can minimize undue stress and provide a guide as you embark on your adventure.

Plan Ahead: During the weeks leading up to your trip, develop ad outline of places you want to visit. Don’t be too specific, so that you can preserve some spontaneity, but it is good to plan an idea of where you are going and when.
Keep A Schedule: On the trip, evaluate your plan each evening and determine the details of the following day. This will ensure that you make the most of your time wherever you are, and it will prevent you from spinning your wheels or sacrificing quality experiences while bogged down in low-value tourist areas.
Take It Slow: Plan to keep a slow to moderate pace while traveling. This isn’t a sprint; it is a marathon. If you try to do too much, you’ll end up experiencing less. Don’t set a pace that you will never be able to sustain.
Be Flexible: Make an effort to adhere to your schedule, but don’t be disappointed if you wander off course. Some of the most exciting adventures can’t be anticipated, so be prepared to change your path if a new opportunity arises.

Travel Light
Not only should you limit the number of garments that you take on your trip, but pay attention to the actual weight. Stay away from bulky pieces and focus on lightweight clothing that’s suitable for your destination(s). Bottoms take up more space than tops, so pack two tops to every one bottom, and plan to do laundry on the road once a week.

Make Your Own Meals
The most convenient choices for lunch and dinner while traveling are often the unhealthiest and most expensive, particularly if you eat out daily for a long period of time. Take the following steps to maximize healthy intake and minimize unnecessary costs:

Make sure to select accommodations that have a kitchen so that you are able to cook meals on your own.
Only purchase the amount of food that you will consume while in one location to cut down on waste and prevent the need to carry food with you from place to place.
Purchase large bottles of water. This will allow you to fill up smaller bottles to take with you on your day-trips, and it will ensure that you have quality water to drink.
Limit your alcohol intake. It is easy to turn your vacation into one long party, but this will not only burn a hole in your wallet, it will leave you worn down. An occasional night out on the town is certainly fine, but don’t make it a habit.

Maintain an Exercise Regimen
Maintaining an exercise regimen while traveling has health benefits, but it also supports a daily schedule that will help you maintain the normalcy that you are accustomed to back at home. Exercise will also help clear your head and release any stress from travel or keeping close quarters with travel-mates. You may even discover some unexpected treasures on a jogging route.

Keep a Travel Journal
Depending on how long you will be on the road, your thoughts and memories will surely begin to blur. A travel journal allows you the opportunity to record your experiences, observations, and ideas as you make your way from destination to destination. Consider including your budget in this journal so that you can track your expenditures and keep your fingers on the pulse of your bank account.

A journal is particularly handy when your trip is wearing you down and you are longing for the comforts of home. Read a few pages and refocus on why you are out there. Past experiences provide perfect fodder for self-motivation, and your journal could be the key to refueling you on the next leg of your journey.

When you embark on your long-term vacation, the excitement will surely surround the places that you will go and the sights that you will see. But to get the most out of your adventure, you must plan ahead, pack light, and take care of yourself to ensure that your days, weeks, or months on the road are as epic as you have always dreamed.

Jeffrey Ferraro is a travel enthusiast and expert. He is the Director of Marketing of www.diamondtours.com, the leading provider of charter group bus tours in the US and Canada, which include tours of major cities, bus trips to shows and casinos. Jeffrey loves uncovering lesser known travel destinations and sharing them with his customers.

Step Back Through the Centuries in Alicante

By Erica Johansson on in Europe

Coast of Alicante. CC Image by Nathan Gibbs (Flickr).

The landscape and skyline of the Spanish city Alicante is dominated by Mount Benacantil, and the Castle of Santa Barbara that sits atop the towering peak. The city is rightly proud of the impressive icon of the Valencia region, adorning as it does the city coat of arms and the regions’ flag. A fiercely independent region, the symbols of military might and defiance has long served purposes other than as a fort, being opened to the public in the 1960s.

It may look a forbidding and imposing sight, but lifts sunk into the mountain itself ascend Benacantil and make Santa Barbara available to all. A surprisingly easy trip. Guided tours take you along the battlements and deep into the fortress, with exhibitions and galleries detailing hundreds of years of volatile history. History comes to life with the castles’ re-enactments and dramatised demonstrations – great for children and families with the thirst for knowledge!

From the sun-drenched walls to the castle, you can plan the rest of your trip to Alicante. From the towers of the fort you have an uninterrupted 360° panoramic view of the city below, and all its major attractions.

First of all, you cannot fail to notice the astonishing clear blue of the Mediterranean Sea, over which Alicante stands guard. Of course, taking a dip in the water is easy to arrange, but a little more exploration can offer a great deal more. Daily boat trips across to Tabarca Island are a must-do for anyone visiting Alicante.

Historic Hideaway

Barely visible from Santa Barbara, and once the hideout for fearsome Berber pirates, the founding of a fortified town in the 17th century soon put an end to their shenanigans, and the pristine island hideaway of Tabarca was born. The walls of the town have long been known as a site of international historical importance and interest, one of the true gems of Tabarca is its beach. It may be small compared to its mainland competition, but in many ways it is far superior. Soft white sand soaked in Mediterranean sun; the surrounding waters are a designated Mediterranean Marine Reserve, known for their excellent, crystal clear quality and the rich biodiversity of the islands flora and fauna.

Don’t believe us? Take a scuba diving lesson and discover the bustling vibrancy of the native wildlife hidden below the calm blue sea. Once you have worked up your appetite, return to the surface and seek out one of the many local restaurants and cafes.

The tiny island paradise is but a boat and a plane away. Cheap flights to Alicante from airlines like Jet2.com touch down at the airport every day, and put you right at the heart of the action, making sure you don’t miss a thing.

Rome: More Modern Than Mythology

By Erica Johansson on in Europe

Sunset on the streets of Rome. CC Image by Zach Dischner (Flickr).

Most people’s idea of Rome involves a mixture of mythology, romance and historical fact. From the fantastical stories of its founders, Romulus and Remus, raised by wolves on the shores of the Tiber, to the spectacular presence of the Colosseum and the Pantheon, Rome stirs the imagination of all who visit. Long at the forefront of world and European culture, art and politics – does Rome’s heritage still hold the same appeal for modern travellers?

Rome’s extravagant imperial past is on show throughout the city – and attractions like the Colosseum reveal spectacular feats of engineering. Visitors can explore ‘behind the scenes’ of the huge amphitheatre and see exactly how thousands of Rome’s citizens were entertained by bouts of gladiatorial combat. Alongside the Colosseum, remnants of the Empire remain beautifully preserved amongst the hustle and bustle of the modern world. You’ll spot eye-catching landmarks, like the Arch of Titus on Via Sacra, the statue of Emperor Augustus on Via del Fori Imperiali or The Forum, the political and commercial heart of the ancient city, sharing a skyline with a bustling urban environment.

The city’s fame isn’t limited to its history – as Rome grew, it won a reputation as one of the greatest cultural and commercial centres in Europe. Rome’s streets are lined with Europe’s biggest names: Bulgari, Fendi, Prada and Chanel all have luxury boutiques in the city – and many of the greatest designers in the world use it as their headquarters. Shopping spots include the historic Spanish Steps, Via Borgognona and Via Frattina – where a metropolitan atmosphere mixes cutting-edge style with the historically laid-back Italian lifestyle.

The cultural heritage of Rome is proud: the city bursts with art and architecture dating from the ancient world, through to the Baroque, Renaissance and Modern periods. Contemporary artistic movements include a healthy cinema industry, and include the Cinecittà Studios, which produces hundreds of feature films and television shows each year.

No city would be complete without a thriving food scene – and Rome is no exception, with dining options ranging from quiet sidewalk cafes to stylish restaurants. Discovering the food and drink of the city represents another chance to look back in time – as traditional dishes, perfected over centuries, mix with the latest creations of some of the most talented chefs in the world. Don’t miss local pasta specialities, such as the famous ‘Alfredo’. Modern delicacies also vie for space on menus: espresso coffees, delicious baked fresh-baked breads and mouth-watering cheesecakes contribute to a vast culinary experience and ensure that when you’ve finished your explorations of this fascinating city – you still have plenty to look forward to!

If you would like to find out more about Rome, why not have a look at Titan Travel’s blog post on Rome and Italy in 2013?

Sicily – A Paradise of Attractions and Culinary Delights

By Erica Johansson on in Europe

Cefalù in HDR. CC Image by Mario Cutroneo (Flickr).

What to see in Sicily? This Mediterranean gem boasts such a vast array of attractions that it’s quite difficult to provide a satisfying answer to this question. Whether the main goal is visiting the beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, intriguing towns or ancient ruins, one fact is for certain; foodies in search of culinary adventures will definitively fall in love with the place and the food. Explore your options and see if a Sicily holiday with First Choice can make your culinary dream come true.

The Beautiful Beaches

Many Sicilian beaches evoke memories of distant exotic paradises. San Vito Lo Capo is a true Caribbean beach boasting pristine white sand and crystal clear blue waters. While the beach of Scopello lacks sand, its deep blue waters and massive rocks offer a beautiful backdrop to the surrounding flora and fauna known for offering a paradise of biodiversity. Also worth visiting is Castellamare del Golfo, a beach town located in the province of Trapani, and offering a white sandy beach lapped by crystal clear waters. When the weather gets scorching hot nothing beats a nice, refreshing Sicilian style “gelato” or Italian ice.

Intriguing Towns and Cities

Palermo, Agrigento, Catania, Syracuse, Trapani, Ragusa, Messina and Caltanisetta are the eight Sicilian Provinces. These large cities all offer a wealth of attractions. Small picturesque towns worth visiting include Cefalu’, Erice, Monreale, Piazza Armerina, Avola and Noto. Visitors seeking culinary adventures should watch for local food festivals held year round in many small towns.

The Stunning Natural Landscapes

A must see is Mount Etna, the largest volcano of Europe that occasionally comes to life with spectacular eruptions. Equally fascinating are the several islands surrounding Sicily. Malta, Favignana, Pantelleria and Lipari are splendid destinations to treasure for their unique beauty. Visiting Agrigento when its almond trees are blooming in February is an unforgettable sight. Worth trying are the artistic almond paste creations shaped in all types of fruits and vegetables.

The Ancient Ruins

Sicily has been for many centuries the meeting point for many ancient cultures which have left their traces scattered throughout the island. Agrigento, Selinunte, Syracuse and Taormina boast ancient temples and Greek theatres. The Romans, Normans and Arabs have also left behind stunning villas, beautiful castles and magnificent mosaics. Of course, the local cuisine also reflects the many centuries of different, intriguing cultures.

The Wonderful Food

Nothing feels better than ending an evening catering to the taste buds and enjoying some mouth-watering Sicilian dishes. The Sicilian cuisine is strongly influenced by the Arabs, and therefore, boasts an interesting combination of sweet and savoury. Typical Sicilian dishes include rice balls, stuffed pizza, eggplant caponata and pasta dishes. Travellers with a sweet tooth will rejoice at the sight of marzipan, ice cream, ricotta filled cannoli and the famous Sicilian Cassata.

As seen, it’s very difficult to answer the question “What to see in Sicily?” because there are just so many things to see that a brief stay will likely not suffix. Whether travellers are visiting Sicily for business or for pleasure, this marvellous island will impress with its beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, historic attractions and its wonderful culinary delights.

7 Reasons You Will Love Cambodia

By Erica Johansson on in Asia

By CHRIS BAILLET

If you are still hesitating where to go for your next holiday destination, Cambodia is a country to put on the top of your list. Here are seven reasons why I think you should come to the “Land of Smiles” and have an unforgettable experience:

1. People

Meeting these warm people is THE reason that will make your stay in this country memorable. Despite all the tragedies during the decades of war, the people of Cambodia have an incomparable kindness. Smiling, tolerant, helpful and honest even if the prices swell a little at the sight of tourists. (Prices do become affordable after a bit of bargaining and a funny and friendly “Tlay na”, translated as “Very expensive!” in Khmer). Throughout your journey you will go from friendly contact to friendly contact, smiles to smiles.

2. Angkor Wat Sites

They have breathtaking monuments, magical and majestic, especially Angkor Wat Temple which is the largest religious building in the world and will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your trip. They were mostly built between the ninth and thirteenth century, and the majority of them are located in the archaeological park around the town of Siem Reap, where you will have to pay an entrance fee for the day ($20 for one day, $40 for a three-day pass, and $60 the past seven days). You cannot come to Cambodia and miss the ruins of the ancient Khmer civilization.

3. Cambodian Cuisine

Many people consider the Cambodian cuisine as a pale imitation of Thai cuisine, known worldwide for its strength and flavors. It is true that there are similarities, but the art of the Khmer table is a finer taste, less robust for us poor Westerners, which lets us discover its subtle and extraordinary flavors. Traditional dishes, various curry and many other delicious treats will delight your every meal. And the street food, another culinary delight, will offer all sorts of oddities. Over the years cooking classes have become very popular and there are good affordable, ways to learn the secrets of local chefs while feasting and passing a good time.

4. Cheap Destination

Indeed, Cambodia is one of the cheapest countries in Asia. A tasty meal in a small street restaurant will cost you between $1 and $3 depending on the dish you choose, a basic but comfortable room with fan will be charged less than $10 during high season and less than $15 if you prefer air conditioning, and for less than $15 you will find a bus ticket that will take you anywhere you want in Cambodia or even up to one of the top destinations in the neighboring countries. Travelers can easily get by with a budget of $20 per day.

5. The Change of Scenery

During a trip abroad it’s not uncommon to find similarities with your own country, the architecture of a building, a landscape, a specific time in a specific context that makes you say to yourself, “Oh! It seems like… “. There are few chances this will happen in Cambodia. Places and unusual scenes can give you a sense of exoticism and wonderment all day long.

6. The Nightlife

The country is known for its magical landscapes, magnificent historical sites, but much less for its lively life after the sunset. Cambodians like to gather in the evening with a drink and a good meal, so you won’t have trouble to find bars, cafés and bistros, shows and live bands, karaoke, beer gardens and night clubs to go for a crazy “Cambodian party”. It will actually be hard to get back at a reasonable hour as the temptations are great and the evenings exhilarating.

7. People Again

I repeat, I know, but that’s really what strikes you the most throughout your travels, all those unforgettable encounters and spontaneous smiles with those lovely people.

I tried to give you seven good reasons why you should love Cambodia, but the list is endless and everyone will find in his journey his own reason, because this country is fantastic. But like any fantastic country it’s changing (unfortunately) very quickly due to the ever increasing number of tourists, 3.2 million in 2012, but do not worry, there will always be reasons why you’ll love it.

Chris Baillet left his homeland France in 2010 to explore Asia. When he arrived to Cambodia and especially Siem Reap, he really got stuck, fell hopelessly in love with the place and its people. Today he is one of Siem Reap’s biggest fans, through a recently launched web travel guide www.siemreap.net, he is now on a daily basis promoting and sharing with the world the wonders of this enchanting place and their smiling culture.

Goa in the Spotlight

By Erica Johansson on in Asia

Palolem Beach. CC Image by Amit Rawat (Flickr).

Goa is one of India’s top travel destinations, and it’s easy to see why: with white, sandy beaches, fun watersport activities, and well-preserved architectural sites, there’s plenty to see and do in Goa. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect when you plan a trip to Goa:

The Beaches of Goa

For most travellers, Goa’s biggest draw is its beautiful beaches. Baga and Calangute beaches are the most commercial in Goa, while the isolated shores of Agonda are a great place to relax and get away from it all. The hippie influence can be experienced at the beaches of Arambol and Anjuna, the latter of which is home to a sizeable flea market on Wednesdays. If you’re looking for luxury resorts, the beaches of Varca, Cavelossim, and Morbor are your best bets. Regardless of where you go, check out the opportunities for watersports—water skiing, paragliding, and scuba diving—to give your holiday a bit of added adventure.

Historical Sites

History buffs will be interested in getting a glimpse into Goa’s storied past. Visit the Ancestral Goa at Laoulim and the Archives Museum Goa in Panaji to gain a better understanding of the city’s rich history. Next, pay a visit to Goa’s most important forts – Aguada Fort, Chapora Fort, Terekhol Fort, and Tiracol Fort, all of which were either acquired or built by the Portuguese to protect the city against invaders. Finally, don’t forget to pay a visit to Goa’s most important churches and cathedrals. Bom Jesus Basilica is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which houses the immortal remains of the patron saint of Goa, St. Francis Xavier, while Se Cathedral pays homage to St. Catherine of Alexandria. The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is also worth a visit, as it is the oldest church in Panaji.

Natural Wonders

Goa boasts some great nature trails which give tourists the opportunity to get acquainted with the regional flora and fauna. The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary near Mollem is of particular interest, as it houses a long list of exotic animals which includes black panthers, Bengal tigers, bonnet macaques, wild boars, king cobras, hump-nosed pit vipers, and a wide collection of butterfly and bird species. Other natural attractions that are worth a visit include The Sahakari Spice Farm in Ponda and The Arvalem, Lamgau, and Rivona Caves.

Cuisine

Goa holidays are not complete without sampling the region’s delicious cuisine. As you might expect, the seafood forms a major part of the local diet, however, vegetarians don’t need to go hungry. Finish off your meal with one of Goa’s most famous desserts, bibinca, a multi-layered cake made from pancakes.

Elegant and Romantic Vacation Destinations

By Erica Johansson on in Europe, Middle East, North America & Caribbean

Paris romance Elegant and Romantic Vacation Destinations

As the weather warms up across much of the Northern Hemisphere, flowers begin to bloom and pants quickly turn into shorts and skirts. Spring is in the air and, as always, the warm weather brings up warm feelings and romantic outdoor activities.

But sometimes couples simply want to get away from jobs, kids and life in general. Thankfully, there are hundreds of amazing getaways to experience and the following list are some of the most elegant and romantic vacation destinations in the world.

Paris

Often called the City of Love, Paris is the capital city of France. From its distinctive Eiffel Tower, the Cathedral of Notre Dame and even the artists lining the cobblestone walkways of Montmarte, Paris has certainly earned its reputation for romantics worldwide. Couples can spend entire weeks strolling through the tree lined walkways of the city, stopping into local bakeries to sample the day’s treats and even throwing a picnic with wine at the base of that tall tower. Luxury hotels that cater to romantic vacations are a mainstay in every section of the massive city, making it one of the most elegant destinations in the world.

Dubai

Dubai is one of the largest cities in the United Arab Emirates and is an absolute vacation destination. Located right off of the Persian Gulf, the weather in Dubai is hot and pleasant much of the year. There are plenty of water based activities like surfing and diving to enjoy, not to mention the possibility of spending a day getting a massage on a beautiful luxury beach. Spas in Dubai are world renowned for the luxurious amenities and high class treatments. Many are located on the region’s beautiful beaches, or in incredibly tall skyscrapers with amazing views. Whatever you choose to do, Dubai is one of the best-kept secrets in world travel.

Hawaii

Hawaii is a string of tranquil islands located in the Pacific Ocean. Most popular with Asian and American tourists, Hawaii has something for everyone, especially romantics. From world-class surfing to mountain biking down a mountain to romantic yoga retreats, Hawaii’s five distinct islands are visited for a reason. Adventurous couples can even take a helicopter ride to experience the sunset over the big, and very active, volcano on the Big Island. Still, Kauai may be the most romantic of all the islands. It is the most secluded island and only has a population of under 100,000. Seclusion, untouched beaches with gentle waves and the sound of the rain forest are all a happy couple needs to enjoy an elegant time on the islands of Hawaii.