Palm Springs, California, got its resort town reputation from Hollywood stars like Elvis, Frank Sinatra, and even the U.S. Vice President at the time, Charles Fairbanks. Over the years, however, that retro feel has kept some of the more trendy visitors away. What makes Palm Springs hot this year though, is that the city has transformed from "old fashioned" to "vintage-chic." Enjoy the sun, take in a good spa session, and do it all in a place that looks like the set of Mad Men.
Palm Springs is known for its natural hot springs, hotels, restaurants, golf courses, and pleasant weather. This popular tourist destination has everything for everyone, including recreational activities, shopping, dining, and relaxation. The Coachella Valley has numerous hiking, biking, and equestrian riding trails. Discover Palm Springs and the surrounding area this year to have memories for years to come.
Barbados has a split personality. This is the Caribbean after all, where everything runs at a laid-back pace and schedules fade into the background, but this island nation also maintains its love of stuffy British customs. Cricket is the sport of choice, and teatime is observed even after years of independence. That's what makes Barbados such an interesting place to visit. This island is regarded for having some of the world's most beautiful beaches.
The peaceful Caribbean coast on the west is famed for its turquoise waters and silky dunes, while the wilder beaches on the east coast, such as those in Barbados, are fascinating to explore with huge waves and breathtaking landscape. The eastern side of the island is more crowded, with large resorts and famous guests than the local feel of the Western coast. Check out the Crop Over festival in August, Barbados' version of Carnival while you're there. This holiday break, head down to the warm waters for world-class snorkeling and legendary Rum.
Artsy Asheville has the hippest scene south of the Mason-Dixon line. This North Carolina city is one of the breakout travel destinations this year, as visitors are discovering how the community has openly embraced the locally-sourced food and microbrewery movements. If you're looking to skip the major business chains and unleash your quirky side, head on over to the Blue Ridge Mountains of Appalachia.
The Blue Ridge Mountains and the Biltmore Estate are the most famous features in Asheville. There's also a burgeoning craft beer scene here. While you're there, take in the art and architecture, and spend a day relaxing in Pack Square Park. The most hippie town in North Carolina is also the most hippy town in the state.
This valley in the Tetons near the boarder of Wyoming and Idaho is an outdoorsman's paradise. Jackson, Wyoming, and the greater Jackson Hole are quickly becoming one of 2018's most popular vacation sites year-round: skiing in the winter; hiking in the summer. Jackson, Wyoming, is only a stone's throw from the Tetons, which itself is just south of Yellowstone National Park.
Anyone in the know would be enticed by the tale behind this pop-up hot spot. This city installed a live camera in its city plaza long before it was fashionable. As a result, many observers felt compelled to check what all the fuss was about. So, whether you want to become famous online or just want to relax, this is the place for you.
You can't visit Memphis without a stroll down Beale Street. While some have complained that commercialization has moved the area away from the blues' true roots, there's no denying that Beale Street's success has sparked a redevelopment boom in downtown. Memphis in May is the biggest event, or you can catch a Redbird's game throughout the summer. don't forget about the amazing barbecue. It's the best in the country (but don't tell Kansas City we said that).
It's famous for its rich musical heritage and effect on blues, rock, and jazz. It is also a major producer of cotton and lumber. The Memphis Grizzlies of the NBA, as well as a number of other sports teams, play there. Elvis Presley, B.B. King, and Johnny Cash all recorded records at the legendary Sun Studio. To add Presley's Graceland home is a famous tourist site. Other music attractions include the Blues Hall of Fame and the Rock 'n' Soul Museum.
Many tourists know of the Panhandle as a spring break destination, but the area's renewed interest in beefing up its hospitality economy. As such, more and more families are finding it to be the perfect spot for a family vacation: beautiful beaches without the huge crowds. Destin and Panama City are the big draws here but look into Perdido Key, Navarre, or Seaside for more intimate getaways.
The barrier islands fronting the Gulf of Mexico's beautiful sand beaches and blue-green waters will entice you in and soothe your thoughts. Gulf Islands National Seashore's gorgeous sugar-white beaches are made of pure quartz eroded from granite in the Appalachian Mountains. This hotspot will be a blast for you and anyone you wish to travel with, from Seaside to Destin.
"Cleveland rocks! Cleveland rocks!" Drew Carey told us this in the early 2000s, but people seemed to have forgotten along the way. Now, however, it seems that everyone is rediscovering Cleveland. From the impending Republican National Convention to Lebron's return, the city is back on the map. You might not realize it, but Cleveland is a cultural powerhouse with the second-largest performing arts district in the nation (Playhouse Square), world-class museums (Rock and Roll Hall of Fame), as well as NBA, NFL, and MLB teams.
Cleveland is known for its beautiful parks, vibrant arts and cultural scene, and musical history. It's often said to as the birthplace of rock and roll. This is the spot to go if you want to take a spin in a rocking hot region. Bring your friends and family to a Browns game, or rekindle your passion for music and rock.
This capital city is a new regional favorite and is sure to bring national tourists in the coming years. You don't have to be a mason to enjoy the Bricktown area. Downtown's former warehouse district has been converted into an entertainment hub of restaurants, bars, clubs, and sports venues. There is one ticket in town that is consistently difficult to get, however: the city's NBA team Oklahoma City Thunder.
It is famous for its cowboy culture and capitol complex, which is surrounded by active oil wells. Near the Oklahoma City National Memorial, there is a reflecting pool with empty glass and bronze chairs for a peaceful moment in your travels. This lively city full of exciting attractions has a diverse choice of activities to offer you.
We're not saying it's possible to tire of Napa Valley, but if you want a change of scenery, try heading south of the border. Only a two-hour drive from San Diego, the Guadalupe Valley is poised to become Mexico's winemaking center. Rustic style is the name of the game here. Turning off the main thoroughfare (Route 3) can be a rocky journey, but with welcoming locals wishing to spread the word about the best-kept secret in the region, you're in for a one-of-a-kind experience.
In recent years, the Valle de Guadalupe has grown in prominence. Top wine aficionados and chefs from across the world are praising Valle de Guadalupe and its 100-plus wineries, which are known throughout Mexico for producing excellent wines. Book a massage, go canyon-biking, or take a balloon ride, but if you just do one thing, sample the wine.
Nashville is at the confluence of two cultures, often seen as the Northernmost Southern city and the Southernmost Northern city simultaneously. Confused? Picture this. Nashville is a place where cowboys and hipsters comingle in harmony. Sound too good to be true? Take a trip to find out for yourself. Whatever this recipe is, it's a combination that sure does seem to be working well.
Nashville is the birthplace of country and bluegrass music, as well as R&B and the vibrant pop and rock scene. Visitors flock to see the famous recording studios on Music Row and listen to live music at the honky-tonks on Broadway throughout the year. See the Grand Ole Opry for yourself, and while you're at it, pick up a cowboy hat.
America's northern neighbor hosts massive summer parties. Each year, Canada hosts Comic cons, Sci Fi Conventions, and Medieval tournaments. These are the perfect opportunity to discover some lesser-known Canadian gems. The eastern city of Moncton has played host to a few World Cup games. Check out the city's Magnetic Hill, an optical illusion where you can place your car in neutral and watch as it begins to roll "uphill."
From the untamed northern tundra to heavily populated island settlements like Summerside and Charlottetown on Prince Edward Island, our northern neighbors go to great lengths to make their lands welcoming to all who pass through. So put on your coat and head north to see what all the hype is aboot.
D.C. is the new "it" place to move and has seen a dramatic influx of twentysomethings, bringing with them new, hip hangouts. However, Washington is still very much about the past and hasn't lost its sense of history. Visitors could spend hours and hours getting lost indoors inside museums, but one of the greatest aspects of the city is when you step outside to see the cherry blossoms in spring.
Washington, D.C., usually known as just Washington or just D.C., is home to a diverse range of attractions and scenery. From the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool to the Smithsonian Institution, this site has much to offer even the most discriminating traveler. While you're there you might even meet some of the most powerful humans on the planet, so read up and keep your eyes peeled.
Whether you're a true outdoorsman or just a city-dweller looking to recharge, the Catskills remain one of America's preeminent untouched wildernesses. Despite the influx of small boutiques and fine-dining spots, the Hudson Valley still allows visitors plenty of chances to unplug from the stresses of city life with its world-class trout fishing, 200 miles of hiking trails, and numerous hunting opportunities.
Woodstock, New York was the original set location of the festival by the same name. It was moved to Bethel when they couldn't get the party rights. Kingston was once occupied by the British and takes pride in calling themselves the new Brooklyn. Thus, you can find a plethora of art in this hot spot. You can even find old stone houses in Hurley where the 1st settlers lived. There are old post offices and pubs with doors so small you can visually see how much we've grown! Check out the old tram lines and Trolly Museum. Visit the beach. The Hudson Vally has much to offer for all your vacation needs.
The Caribbean is well-known for its laid-back attitude, but for visitors seeking under-the-radar destinations, quite Port Antonio is the perfect place. Much of Jamaica's tourism is concentrated on the western coast, but the fast-moving crowds disappear when visitors head east. There are definitely no chain restaurants here, and the friendly locals are overflowing with a willingness to share their culture. Try out some of the best deep-sea fishing around this Jamaican port city.
Port Antonio, Jamaica, is well-known not only for its banana and coconut trade but also for its stunning views and vistas. The Blue Lagoon's unique tincture will leave you speechless, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences are right around the corner whether you visit the Rio Grande or the marvelous Bay View resort.
We're in an "Age of Whiskey," and what better way to celebrate than by visiting the home of the most American whiskey of all: bourbon? Similar to how the term "Champagne" can only be used for sparkling wine made in the Champagne region of France, the term "bourbon" can only be used for American-produced whiskeys of at least 51% corn in new charred oak barrels. While you can debate whether or not there actually is a bourbon shortage, why not head to Kentucky and experience bourbon-making firsthand?
Bourbon Country is where bourbon was created. It's a small town with a big personality. People who desire to be immersed in classic architecture and historical landmarks would love this place. The Bourbon County Courthouse, the county's fourth, has to be one of the county's most famous landmarks. This is the place to go if you want a smart, stylish experience in a no-nonsense local.
Denver's "mile-high" location puts the Rockies in the city's backyard. All of that mountain air must be good for the residents as Denver is consistently ranked as one of the fittest cities in the nation. If travelers don't wish to journey the few minutes outside of town for ample hiking opportunities, there are plenty of public parks and bike trails of which to take advantage of. That's to say nothing of the new green tourism that has recently been added to the local economy.
Fulfill your urge to explore the city. Denver is a wonderful choice if you want to immerse yourself in culture. Denver has a variety of tourist attractions, including museums and breweries. In the city, there are over 50 museums dedicated to various parts of the city's rich history, and traditions. Traditions, which include nude skiing on occasion.
Yosemite isn't necessarily "under-the-radar," seeing as how it's one of the most-visited national parks in the country, but with 1,200 square miles of land, there are plenty of activities in which to get lost. Your trip will need some careful planning, however. The summer months are extremely popular so don't be surprised if there are lines to get into the park on weekends. Skip the crowds by visiting during the week. Yosemite Falls, one of the park's geologic crown jewels, is usually bone-dry by August. Sorry late-summer travelers!
With its various jagged cliffs and domes, this National Park boasts a landscape that dates back over 10 million years. With over 350 native creatures and majestic coniferous woods with groves and lone gigantic sequoias, the world's largest trees, there is no better place to be outside. Take in the fresh air at this amazing location.
Savannah or Charleston are the traditional gateways to the Sea Islands. While interesting cities in their own right, they are also popular destination points. Heading outside of these popular cities, travelers can experience just how stuck-in-time the region really is. Beaufort, South Carolina, lies directly between Savannah and Charleston, and it has preserved a majority of the city's Antebellum architecture. It's not just Southern American culture that has been maintained, but also that of the Gullah people (descendants of formerly enslaved Africans brought to South Carolina and Georgia). Immerse yourself in their artwork, food, and creole-style language while taking in beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Immerse yourself in their artwork, food, and Creole-style language while taking in beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Sea Islands of South Carolina are truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with over 100 islands and white sand beaches, no other destination compares to those who adore the water. Its wild terrain and thriving towns will provide you with a sense of awe unlike any other.
"Europe?" you say. How cliché, right? Wrong! In case you don't follow foreign exchange rates, the dollar and the euro are almost at parity.That might not seem like much, but it sure adds up over the hundreds of dollars a plane ticket costs. Paris flights are a steal now, as are central European destinations. Check out Prague in the Czech Republic, often said to be the most beautiful city on the continent, yet less visited than its Western neighbors. Norway is also another safe bet for those wanting to cash in on a Frozen-themed vacation.
A must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in culture and variety. You will find anything your heart desires, whether it be culture, sights, or perhaps love. No two destinations will be the same, and no two experiences will be the same; there is no other spot on the planet where you will find a sense of familiarity along with the sense of something new.
At the southern end of the Golden Gate Bridge lies the Presidio, a former military post that is now a designated historic landmark and part of the larger Golden Gate National Recreation Area. With wood trails, camping areas, and quaint inns, as well as the historic military buildings, The Presidio gives visitors the chance to experience the beauty of nature while simultaneously viewing the engineering marvels of man.
Who knew the tech-savvy hub of San Francisco had so much variety to offer? There are many interesting, exciting, and beautiful things to do in Presidio Park, from refurbished red brick military buildings that house museums, restaurants, and hotels to dozens of magnificent hiking routes and even a golf course.
