FINDING A TRAVEL BUDDY ON THE ROAD

SOURCE – http://www.thebrokebackpacker.com

The Broke Backpacker Trekking with Friends in Nepal

I’m a solo traveler! For me, one of the greatest thrills of backpacking is to rock up somewhere completely new and meet a whole new crowd of people, backpackers and locals alike. I have done a huge amount of both solo and group travel and I highly recommend you have a crack at both of them. When it comes to getting my friends to come out and travel with me for a bit I am a convincing bastard, so far I have managed to get eight of my friends from home to come out on trips with me at one time or another. What I used to do on longer trips is make a Facebook group with my, very rough, itinerary on it so people can work out when and where they want to join me.

Travelling with a friend is not only great fun and good for your budget (you can split transport and accommodation costs) but it is also a very effective way to minimize risk; if you get sick or injured your buddy can look after you. In India I literally carried a friend (who was suffering from anaphylactic shock) on my shoulder to a medical clinic where he was injected with adrenaline. In Nepal I slipped whilst suffering from altitude sickness and ended up hanging over an icy ridge with a sheer drop below me, my trekking buddy was able to pull me back onto the path and probably saved my life. Whilst backpacking it is usually pretty easy to find a travel buddy, I met a Dutch couple in a coffee shop in India and ended up travelling on and off with them for nearly five months.

If none of your friends are able to come with you then do not despair! One of the main reasons some backpackers never leave home is because they are worried they won’t meet anyone, they will be lonely and everything will basically suck. The reality could not be further from this. The backpacker community is awesome, everybody is extremely friendly and in general people will be really keen to invite you for a beer or to have a wander around together. It’s also really quite easy to find a travel buddy before you even get on the plane by turning to the internet…

If you are preparing to hit the road for the first time, check out my book; The Backpacker Bible – you will learn everything you need to know about longterm sustainable travel and how to earn money on the road!

Find a travel buddy online

As well as being a great place for finding free accommodation CS is also a great site for finding travel buddies. I have found numerous people through the site groups (forums) who I have traveled with for a few weeks at a time. On one occasion it didn’t work out so well but there was no pressure and we just went our separate ways. The best groups to look in are the ‘Backpacker’ group and the ‘Travel buddies’ group as well as checking out the specific group for whichever country or region you are visiting – often people will post in country or city groups asking if other CSers are around for drinks or to see if people are looking to travel with another lone backpacker for a bit. It is definitely worth heading to any local CS meetings in your area.

Challenge Chum

A great new initiative aimed at connecting adventurous souls looking for a buddy to do something epic with… Definitely one to watch, Challenge Chum will hopefully grow into a large community of explorers, athletes, challengers and nomads over the next year.

Travbuddy

I have used this site on a couple of occasions and found it to be a good way to liaise with other travelers heading in the same direction. I prefer the CS system as it tends to be quicker to contact people however this site is specifically designed for finding travel partners and should still be checked out.

Thorntree

It is always worth checking out Lonely Planet’s online forum for up to date information on where you are going and to find other backpackers headed in the same direction.

The 15 Best Beaches in Florida

Slide 1 of 16: From the Panhandle to the Keys, Florida has no shortage of powder-fine sand, national parks, and scenes that are both cocktail- and kid-friendly. Here, our favorite beaches in the Sunshine State.
This gallery was originally published in March 2016. It has been updated with new information.

From the Panhandle to the Keys, Florida has no shortage of powder-fine sand, national parks, and scenes that are both cocktail- and kid-friendly. Here, our favorite beaches in the Sunshine State.

Clearwater Beach

This Gulf Coast beach is a magnet for tykes and tots (and their parents), thanks to its clear, shallow waters, pillow-soft sands, colossal playground, and Beach Walk Promenade, ideal for bike rides, ambles, and rollerblading. Watch the kids build sandcastles and cavort across the beach. Stay for the nightly, festival-style sunset celebration at fishing Pier 60, where street performers delight as the sun paints the sky in hues of orange, yellow, and pink. Looking for where to stay while you’re there? Let this list be your guide.

Slide 3 of 16: Beautiful people, flashy cars, and quintessential Art Deco architecture come to life along the 2.2-mile stretch of golden sand that makes up Floridaâs most famous beach. The busiestâand most touristyâsection runs parallel to Ocean Drive (between 5th and 11th Streets), so locals tend to hang around the quieter patches of SoFi (South of Fifth), or near the 12th Street gay beach, a sea of Speedo-clad, sculpted beach bods. The swath between 17th and 21st streets is lined with (bar-serviced) beach clubs belonging to iconic hotels like The Setai Miami Beach and Delano South Beach.

South Beach, Miami

Beautiful people, flashy cars, and quintessential Art Deco architecture come to life along the 2.2-mile stretch of golden sand that makes up Florida’s most famous beach. The busiest—and most touristy—section runs parallel to Ocean Drive (between 5th and 11th Streets), so locals tend to hang around the quieter patches of SoFi (South of Fifth), or near the 12th Street gay beach, a sea of Speedo-clad, sculpted beach bods. The swath between 17th and 21st streets is lined with (bar-serviced) beach clubs belonging to iconic hotels like The Setai Miami Beach and Delano South Beach.

Slide 4 of 16: Come to this mile-long, undeveloped beach on the southern tip of Key Biscayne for lazy days of sunbathing and epic sunsets. Consider renting a bike and exploring the trailsâthereâs an extensive network across the entire island with superb Miami skyline views. Also, take a peek inside the circa-1845 Cape Florida Lighthouse (South Floridaâs oldest structure) and look to the horizon for a glimpse of Stiltsville, a collection of historic homes that appear to float atop Biscayne Bay.

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, Key Biscayne

Come to this mile-long, undeveloped beach on the southern tip of Key Biscayne for lazy days of sunbathing and epic sunsets. Consider renting a bike and exploring the trails—there’s an extensive network across the entire island with superb Miami skyline views. Also, take a peek inside the circa-1845 Cape Florida Lighthouse (South Florida’s oldest structure) and look to the horizon for a glimpse of Stiltsville, a collection of historic homes that appear to float atop Biscayne Bay.

Slide 5 of 16: This untouched, 3.5-mile-long island feels like a giant sand bar saved for the lucky few. It dazzles with its pristine environsâvast stretches of radiantly white sands, cerulean waters, mounds of beautiful seashells, and prolific bird life. Access the island by ferry from nearby Honeymoon Island State Park, or enter on foot via neighboring Clearwater Beach from the south (a major hurricane back in 1985 dredged up enough sand to create a link between Caladesi and Clearwater).

Caladesi Island State Park, Dunedin

This untouched, 3.5-mile-long island feels like a giant sand bar saved for the lucky few. It dazzles with its pristine environs—vast stretches of radiantly white sands, cerulean waters, mounds of beautiful seashells, and prolific bird life. Access the island by ferry from nearby Honeymoon Island State Park, or enter on foot via neighboring Clearwater Beach from the south (a major hurricane back in 1985 dredged up enough sand to create a link between Caladesi and Clearwater).

Slide 6 of 16: Sitting at the confluence of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico is a 524-acre beach park with some of the finest stretches of sand in the Florida Keys. At mile marker 37 of US-1/Overseas Highway, Bahia Honda is an essential stopping point on any road trip between Miami and Key West. There are both secluded and more trafficked spots for sunbathing and excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and snorkeling. While enjoying the beach, be sure to look up: the largest intact section of Henry Flaglerâs elevated overseas railroad is an eye-catcher.

Bahia Honda, Florida Keys

Sitting at the confluence of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico is a 524-acre beach park with some of the finest stretches of sand in the Florida Keys. At mile marker 37 of US-1/Overseas Highway, Bahia Honda is an essential stopping point on any road trip between Miami and Key West. There are both secluded and more trafficked spots for sunbathing and excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and snorkeling. While enjoying the beach, be sure to look up: the largest intact section of Henry Flagler’s elevated overseas railroad is an eye-catcher.

Slide 7 of 16: The Pabst Blue Ribbonâstrewn sands, Hawaiian Tropic oil slicks, and packed motels of yesteryearâs spring break capital are no longer. Nowadays, uncluttered stretches of sand, sparkling blue waters, upscale resorts, and mega-yachts are rewriting this beachâs history. Billions in economic development have gone into erasing the Where the Boys Are vibe, restructuring Fort Lauderdale Beach as an unfussy yet refined alternative to neighboring Miamiâs beaches.

Fort Lauderdale Beach

The Pabst Blue Ribbon–strewn sands, Hawaiian Tropic oil slicks, and packed motels of yesteryear’s spring break capital are no longer. Nowadays, uncluttered stretches of sand, sparkling blue waters, upscale resorts, and mega-yachts are rewriting this beach’s history. Billions in economic development have gone into erasing the Where the Boys Are vibe, restructuring Fort Lauderdale Beach as an unfussy yet refined alternative to neighboring Miami’s beaches.

Slide 8 of 16: This incredibly wide beach along the Gulf of Mexico flaunts âthe worldâs finest, whitest sandââmore than 99 percent pure quartz, which keeps it cool even under blazing tempsâand thereâs plenty of it to go around. Itâs not the drama-filled splash ground portrayed on MTVâs Siesta Key, but rather a kid-friendly expanse teeming with sand sculpture artists, hippies, and families basking in sun-drenched bliss.

Siesta Key Beach

This incredibly wide beach along the Gulf of Mexico flaunts “the world’s finest, whitest sand”—more than 99 percent pure quartz, which keeps it cool even under blazing temps—and there’s plenty of it to go around. It’s not the drama-filled splash ground portrayed on MTV’s Siesta Key, but rather a kid-friendly expanse teeming with sand sculpture artists, hippies, and families basking in sun-drenched bliss.

Slide 9 of 16: Reached exclusively by seaplane or boat, the main island of North Americaâs most inaccessible national park houses Fort Jefferson, a circa-1846 coastal fortress, and some mind-blowing marine life off its coast. Snorkel among seahorses, sea turtles, and rainbow-hued tropical fish; head toward the west moat wall in search of moray eels and nurse sharks. Thereâs limited shade and facilities, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

Garden Key, Dry Tortugas National Park

Reached exclusively by seaplane or boat, the main island of North America’s most inaccessible national park houses Fort Jefferson, a circa-1846 coastal fortress, and some mind-blowing marine life off its coast. Snorkel among seahorses, sea turtles, and rainbow-hued tropical fish; head toward the west moat wall in search of moray eels and nurse sharks. There’s limited shade and facilities, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

Slide 10 of 16: On land, this Gulf Coast beach impresses with more than 400 acres of fine, white sands and a wildlife-rich coastal dune lake. Under the sea, snorkel or scuba dive around seven larger-than-life works at the Underwater Museum of Art (UMA), the nationâs first permanent underwater sculpture exhibitâand part of South Waltonâs larger artificial reef program.

Grayton Beach State Park, South Walton

On land, this Gulf Coast beach impresses with more than 400 acres of fine, white sands and a wildlife-rich coastal dune lake. Under the sea, snorkel or scuba dive around seven larger-than-life works at the Underwater Museum of Art (UMA), the nation’s first permanent underwater sculpture exhibit—and part of South Walton’s larger artificial reef program.

Slide 11 of 16: A raised boardwalk separates this beach from hotel-lined Collins Avenue between 21st Street and 46th Street, an area collectively referred to as Mid-Beach. With stylish hotels like the 1 Hotel South Beach, The Miami Beach EDITION and Faena Hotel Miami Beach (all 2018 Reader's Choice Award winners), this area caters to a cool crowd that considers South Beach passÃ©. Anticipate a lounge-y vibeâday and nightâwith plenty of beach and pool clubs to choose from, as well as Miamiâs most buzzed-about nightlife.

Mid-Beach, Miami

A raised boardwalk separates this beach from hotel-lined Collins Avenue between 21st Street and 46th Street, an area collectively referred to as Mid-Beach. With stylish hotels like the 1 Hotel South Beach, The Miami Beach EDITION and Faena Hotel Miami Beach (all 2018 Reader’s Choice Award winners), this area caters to a cool crowd that considers South Beach passé. Anticipate a lounge-y vibe—day and night—with plenty of beach and pool clubs to choose from, as well as Miami’s most buzzed-about nightlife.

Slide 12 of 16: Think surfing in America, and towns along the California and Hawaii coastlines quickly come to mind. But, surprise, Floridaâs got game (or waves, shall we say), too. Case in point: this East Coast surfersâ paradise, which promises prolific breaks, thanks to some massive rock ledges four to five miles offshore. Hang ten or simply immerse yourself in the surf culture of this small stretch of Florida, which often receives accolades as one of the U.S.'s top surf towns.

12/16 SLIDES © Courtesy Visit Florida

New Smyrna Beach

Think surfing in America, and towns along the California and Hawaii coastlines quickly come to mind. But, surprise, Florida’s got game (or waves, shall we say), too. Case in point: this East Coast surfers’ paradise, which promises prolific breaks, thanks to some massive rock ledges four to five miles offshore. Hang ten or simply immerse yourself in the surf culture of this small stretch of Florida, which often receives accolades as one of the U.S.’s top surf towns.

Slide 13 of 16: With a whopping 1,136 acres spread across five islands, this beach park impresses with its powdery white sands, nature trails, and patchwork of mangroves, ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Itâs not uncommon to see bottlenose dolphins skirting the shoreline. Families should head to the sprawling natural tidal pool on the parkâs North Beach, an ideal spot for kids to collect seashells and splash around.

Fort De Soto Park, Tierra Verde

With a whopping 1,136 acres spread across five islands, this beach park impresses with its powdery white sands, nature trails, and patchwork of mangroves, ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. It’s not uncommon to see bottlenose dolphins skirting the shoreline. Families should head to the sprawling natural tidal pool on the park’s North Beach, an ideal spot for kids to collect seashells and splash around.

Slide 14 of 16: Those who travel with their four-legged family members or simply grow giddy at the sight of dogs will love this 2.5-mile-long dog beachâthe largest of its kind on the East Coast. From Beach Markers numbers 25 through 60 in northern Palm Beach County, expect paw prints of every shape and size as dogs swim, run, and frolic off-leash. Doggie bags are provided throughout, and four-legged beachgoers are expected to abide by the beachâs social code of conduct: B.O.W. (Behaved, Obedient, and Well-Socialized).

Jupiter Dog Beach, Jupiter

Those who travel with their four-legged family members or simply grow giddy at the sight of dogs will love this 2.5-mile-long dog beach—the largest of its kind on the East Coast. From Beach Markers numbers 25 through 60 in northern Palm Beach County, expect paw prints of every shape and size as dogs swim, run, and frolic off-leash. Doggie bags are provided throughout, and four-legged beachgoers are expected to abide by the beach’s social code of conduct: B.O.W. (Behaved, Obedient, and Well-Socialized).

Slide 15 of 16: A series of 30-foot white sand dunes underscore the natural splendor of this Florida Panhandle beach. Itâs one of the most picturesque stretches of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, an exquisite patchwork of barrier islands stretching 160 miles across the Gulf of Mexico, from Mississippi to the Florida Panhandle. Note that this beach park isnât just popular with humansâitâs also a favorite nesting ground for green and loggerhead sea turtles; a popular hunting ground for dolphins; and feeding ground for brown pelicans and black skimmers.

Henderson Beach State Park, Destin

A series of 30-foot white sand dunes underscore the natural splendor of this Florida Panhandle beach. It’s one of the most picturesque stretches of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, an exquisite patchwork of barrier islands stretching 160 miles across the Gulf of Mexico, from Mississippi to the Florida Panhandle. Note that this beach park isn’t just popular with humans—it’s also a favorite nesting ground for green and loggerhead sea turtles; a popular hunting ground for dolphins; and feeding ground for brown pelicans and black skimmers.

Slide 16 of 16: Easily accessible off the main Sanibel-Captiva Road yet remarkably undeveloped, this family-friendly beach lacks the crowds of neighboring stretches but promises all the pastel-hued sunsets and excellent shelling for which Sanibel Island is known.

Bowman’s Beach, Sanibel Island

Easily accessible off the main Sanibel-Captiva Road yet remarkably undeveloped, this family-friendly beach lacks the crowds of neighboring stretches but promises all the pastel-hued sunsets and excellent shelling for which Sanibel Island is known.

Fiesta San Antonio Will Bring Out Hundreds of Dogs in Colorful Costumes — Here’s How to Join Them

a small dog playing with a toy: San Antonio Fiesta Pooch Parade

In San Antonio, you can parade through the 2.6 miles of tree-lined streets in Alamo Heights with more than 800 of your four-legged friends, both of you dressed in colorful costumes, to raise money for charity.

The 21st Annual Fiesta Pooch Parade is a fur-friendly 4K walk that takes place during Fiesta San Antonio, a celebration of San Antonio’s rich and diverse cultures.

The parade begins at 9:15 a.m. on Saturday, April 27, 2019 at the Alamo Heights Pool House and showcases a Pooch Parade float with pooch dignitary King Anbarkio, a Canine Costume Contest, retriever agility demonstrations, interactive training course, and vendors offering various animal-related goodies.

a dog wearing a costume: Photograph courtesy of Fiesta® San Antonio Commission / ©Betsy Newman Photography. © Photograph courtesy of Fiesta® San Antonio Commission / ©Betsy Newman Photography. Photograph courtesy of Fiesta® San Antonio Commission / ©Betsy Newman Photography.

All Fiesta Pooch Parade contributions are used to provide the financial support needed for Therapy Animals of San Antonio (TASA) team therapy visits, training, evaluation, and work, as well as community education programs. Registration is $30-35 online or on-site.

Fiesta San Antonio started in 1891 as a one-parade event as a way to honor the memory of the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto. The 10-day-long celebration now includes over 100 events including Battle of Flowers Parade, King William Fair, the Fiesta Flambeau Parade, Fiesta Pops, and street parties.

The historic boutique Crockett Hotel offers direct access to the Fiesta events. The Furry Friend Package warmly welcomes four-legged family members to the hotel with treats, water, and a souvenir Crockett bandana.

HOW TO BE THE BEST TRAVEL BUDDY

Let’s GO!

Traveling together is one of our favorite ways to spend quality time with each other. For the past 15 years, Jess and I have been meeting each other in many different destinations. We have our rendezvous down to a tee and want to share our travel tips so you can be the best travel buddy too!

Traveling Then vs Now

So when we were just barely legal, traveling was different. We had to make sure we printed out Mapquest directions, called the hotel in advance to book our reservation, and find out by word of mouth what events were going on. Our travel interests were much different then they are today. We were all about bar hopping, dancing at the hottest clubs and wearing outfits we wouldn’t dare throw in our suticase now. These days, we like to restaurant hop, find a good brunch with the best bloody mary deals, go to concerts, do yoga, go on hikes and find some unbeatable deals at the local Farmers Market.

How to Prepare for a Buddy Trip

There are a few things you can do ahead so that you have the best trip possible.

Book a room with double beds. Having too much room is always better than not enough room. Plus, this gives both of you your own space to treat however you want.
When picking a place to stay, look at the surrounding area and think about what you want to do on this trip. If it’s for some relaxation, maybe you want to be outside the city away from the hustle and bustle. If you don’t plan on renting a car, maybe find a hotel or AirBnb that is around lots of walkable attractions. Talk about your intention for the trip and go from there.
Start bookmarking places on Yelp. This way you have hella options that you were already into. When you get to your hotel or place where you’re staying, look to see how far those places are to you. You will no doubt find more places near your location once you reach your destination.
Plan to use Lyft or Uber. These rideshare apps allow you to split the fare which makes it really easy. And you only need to know the name or address of your destination instead of looking up directions.
However, if renting a car is more practical for your trip, do that! Hawaii is a perfect example of where you would want to rent a car. Having a car gives you the freedom to go and do anything you want whenever.
If you are traveling with other couples or in a group, make sure everyone is included in a group text so you all stay up to date on your travel plans. Make sure everyone is on the same page about where you want to stay and the things you want to do. Traveling with others can be difficult so make sure you pick travel buddies wisely!
We LOVE discussing our outfits before a trip. Going to the beach? Staying at a place with a pool? Make sure you both got your swimsuits! If you plan on eating a fancy restaurant one night make sure you tell each other so you both have clothing to match any event that you plan on getting into!
Be upfront about costs and a budget you are on. Trips can still happen and be amazing even on a budget! We always split costs if we are staying together and always make sure what we are paying for is within the other persons budget. Being thoughtful about each other’s expenses is crucial as a travel buddy!
We have stayed in lots of Airbnb’s on certain destination trips so we can be together instead of in seperate hotel rooms. This is a great option for certain destinations. Staying in an Airbnb allows you to go grocery shopping and cook together as well. This also saves a shit-ton of money!
Discuss flights with your travel buddy! Coordinate your arrival and departure times which will make meeting up and departing together easier for both of you!
Pinterest is also a great tool to use for places you are visiting! Especially if you are visiting abroad or a place you have never been to before! Look up tips or top favorite things to do so you will have ideas of fun things to do before you even get there!
Utilize Groupon to mazimize your money and fun!! There are always great deals on local events in every city!

10 things to see and do in Menorca that will make you want to pack your bags

The Mediterranean’s best-kept secret!

With breathtaking beaches, luscious landscapes, and fairy-tale historic towns, Menorca makes for the perfect island getaway. Part of the Balearic Islands archipelago, this Mediterranean gem is less than an hour from Barcelona by plane. Its name translates to ‘small island’, and most tourists head straight for its larger sister island, Majorca, but let these 10 experiences convince you to try Menorca instead.

Slide 2 of 11: Located just a 10 minute drive from Menorca's capital, Mahon, this beautiful bay is found in the town of Es Castell. Peaceful and quaint, this harbour is the perfect setting for a relaxing drink or a stroll at sunset.

2/11 SLIDES © tonobalaguer/123RF

Take a walk along Cales Fonts in Es Castell

Located just a 10 minute drive from Menorca’s capital, Mahon, this beautiful bay is found in the town of Es Castell. Peaceful and quaint, this harbour is the perfect setting for a relaxing drink or a stroll at sunset.

Slide 3 of 11: With its glassy water and white sand, this beach is not one to miss. Its shallow waters make it the perfect bathing spot for families with young children. Tucked away in the south of the island, this bay is rather secluded, but that's what makes it so special. Make sure to bring plenty of water and provisions with you.

3/11 SLIDES © Marcogovel/123RF

Relax all day at Cala Des Talaier

With its glassy water and white sand, this beach is not one to miss. Its shallow waters make it the perfect bathing spot for families with young children. Tucked away in the south of the island, this bay is rather secluded, but that’s what makes it so special. Make sure to bring plenty of water and provisions with you.

Slide 4 of 11: Built into the cliffs of the southeast side of the island, this hidden bar is an essential stop on your trip to Menorca. Open day and night, this bar offers various drinks and a range of events from club nights to live music sessions. There's even a VIP area, but the sunset views are what really make the place feel sublime.

Discover the hidden bar at Cova d’en Xoroi

Built into the cliffs of the southeast side of the island, this hidden bar is an essential stop on your trip to Menorca. Open day and night, this bar offers various drinks and a range of events from club nights to live music sessions. There’s even a VIP area, but the sunset views are what really make the place feel sublime.

Slide 5 of 11: This incredible castle-like building is the town hall of Ciutadella, Menorca's second largest city, located on the west side of the island. Head inside the building to find the tourist information office, and don't miss the great views over the old port from the square in front of the building.

Visit the Ciutadella de Menorca

This incredible castle-like building is the town hall of Ciutadella, Menorca’s second largest city, located on the west side of the island. Head inside the building to find the tourist information office, and don’t miss the great views over the old port from the square in front of the building.

Slide 6 of 11: One of seven lighthouses on the island, the FavÃ ritx lighthouse is found on a rocky outcrop of the Albufera des Grau Natural Park. With its distinctive black and white bands and dramatic surroundings, the lighthouse is the perfect spot for an end-of-hike rest and photo.

Hike to the Favàritx lighthouse

One of seven lighthouses on the island, the Favàritx lighthouse is found on a rocky outcrop of the Albufera des Grau Natural Park. With its distinctive black and white bands and dramatic surroundings, the lighthouse is the perfect spot for an end-of-hike rest and photo.

Slide 7 of 11: The high cliffs on either side of this pristine bay make for both a great view point and sheltered, calm waters. Head up to the top of the cliffs for panoramic views, or if you're feeling adventurous, why not try jumping into the bay's tantalizing waters from the lower cliffs on the left side of the bay?

Explore Cala Mitjana

The high cliffs on either side of this pristine bay make for both a great view point and sheltered, calm waters. Head up to the top of the cliffs for panoramic views, or if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try jumping into the bay’s tantalizing waters from the lower cliffs on the left side of the bay?

Slide 8 of 11: Built by the British in the early 19th century, this defense tower is situated on the headland just north of the town of Fornells. Its location historically served as a vantage point during the British occupation. Today, it makes for a fantastic viewpoint over the town, its harbour and its bays.

Take in the view from La Torre de Fornells

Built by the British in the early 19th century, this defense tower is situated on the headland just north of the town of Fornells. Its location historically served as a vantage point during the British occupation. Today, it makes for a fantastic viewpoint over the town, its harbour and its bays.

Slide 9 of 11: Located inside a disused windmill in the heart of Ciutadella, many have said that this restaurant serves some of the best food on the island. Known particularly for its steak dishes and paella, it makes for a great stop after a long day exploring this historic city.

Eat at Molí des Comte Asador

Located inside a disused windmill in the heart of Ciutadella, many have said that this restaurant serves some of the best food on the island. Known particularly for its steak dishes and paella, it makes for a great stop after a long day exploring this historic city.

Slide 10 of 11: Taking a boat trip can be the best way to spend your day when vacationing on an island. With its many ports offering private boat hires and large boat tours, you'll be spoilt for choice in Menorca. Most tours make several stops, allowing for passengers to explore the coastline by taking a dip in the cerulean waters or venturing into the island's sea caves.

Take a boat trip around the island

Taking a boat trip can be the best way to spend your day when vacationing on an island. With its many ports offering private boat hires and large boat tours, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Menorca. Most tours make several stops, allowing for passengers to explore the coastline by taking a dip in the cerulean waters or venturing into the island’s sea caves.

Slide 11 of 11: End your day by climbing to the top of the island's tallest mountain, El Toro, to take in a mesmerizing Menorcan sunset. Atop its summit, you will find a beautiful 17th century church, a towering statue of Christ, and a view of the island. It's a truly peaceful place to watch the sun go down.

Watch the sunset at El Toro

End your day by climbing to the top of the island’s tallest mountain, El Toro, to take in a mesmerizing Menorcan sunset. Atop its summit, you will find a beautiful 17th century church, a towering statue of Christ, and a view of the island. It’s a truly peaceful place to watch the sun go down.

Now Is the Time to Purchase Flights for Amusement Park Destinations

a castle like building in a city: Cinderella's Castle, Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World, Florida

Is visiting one of the country’s top amusement parks on your list of to-do items this summer?

If the answer to that question is yes, and a flight is involved to get to the amusement park in question, you may want to hurry up and book airline tickets.

CheapOair has just released new data indicating that right now is an ideal time to book airfare for summer vacations to popular amusement park destinations.

The site’s travel expert and senior vice president of supplier relations, Tom Spagnola, told TravelPulse that securing tickets ahead of the peak summer travel season is the best way to score reasonable airfare to such popular destinations as Disney World in Orlando, Luna Park on New York City’s Coney Island or Six Flags Great America outside of Chicago.

“For summer travel, sooner is always better,” said Spagnola, adding that the ‘ideal’ time to book is no less than 30 days prior to departure.

What’s more, Spagnola said that as the popular travel months quickly arrive, travelers can expect to see fares rapidly increase as the available capacity decreases.

According to CheapOair data, the following are some of the country’s top amusement park locations where travelers can find the biggest deals on roundtrip airfare right now:

—Disney World’s Magic Kingdom and Universal Studios: roundtrip airfare of $259 (flying into Orlando International Airport)

—Six Flags Great America: roundtrip airfare of $269 (flying into O’Hare International Airport)

—Luna Park, Coney Island: roundtrip airfare of $303 (flying into John F. Kennedy International Airport)

—Disney Land, California: roundtrip airfare of $321 (flying into John Wayne Orange County Airport)

—Cedar Point, Ohio: roundtrip airfare of $262 (flying into Griffing Sandusky Airport)

—Hershey Park, Pennsylvania: roundtrip airfare of $369 (flying into Harrisburg International Airport)

The amusement parks included in the CheapOair data were selected based on their popularity on national and a regional scale, explained Spagnola, while also taking into consideration the destinations that included the most significant deals on airfare this summer.

CheapOair expects Orlando, Florida, for instance, with its landmark attractions, to be a very affordable destination this summer. The airfare will average around $259.

The greater Los Angeles area is another popular theme park destination, said Spagnola. A significant 25 percent of the top 20 theme parks in the country are within a one hour drive from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

Average airfares to the LA area this summer are also expected to be very reasonable, averaging around $321.

It’s also worth noting that while the airports listed in the CheapOair data represent the closest option in terms of proximity to each amusement park, consumers can get even more affordable airfare if they choose to fly into a larger airport, that isn’t necessarily as close to the park, Spagnola said.

“For example, travelers heading to California’s Disney Land may be able to find more affordable airfare if they fly into LAX and drive a bit further, as opposed to the close proximity of John Wayne Orange County Airport,” he said.

Airbnb’s Growth Worries Mexico Hoteliers

Airbnb logo on a smart phone screen

Hoteliers in Mexico are growing concerned about Airbnb’s soaring popularity.According to a report in Mexico News Daily, there are almost as many Airbnb properties as there are hotel rooms in the Riviera Nayarit, and hotel operators are beginning to raise the alarm and would like to see a level playing field.

“…we calculate that there are just as many. In other words, the same supply in different conditions, without regulation. Yes, hoteliers are worried,” said Richard Zarkin, public relations manager at the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau told Mexico News Daily.

Zarkin noted that the government was working on regulating the rental giant.

One of the ways in which the playing field could be leveled is that apartment owners pay residential rates for water and power while hotels are charged commercial rates. This is something that needs to be fixed Zarkin noted.

“We think that it’s unfair competition. Airbnb is a platform that benefits from [tourism] promotion whose budget comes from the accommodation tax. There should be responsibility. Airbnb should pay the relevant taxes,” he said.

Some states already have regulations in place and Airbnb pays relevant taxes to operate in Guerrero and Mexico City. The report notes that federal Tourism Secretary Miguel Torruco is planning to propose a nationwide regulatory framework for online hospitality services, an initiative that is supported by Riviera Nayarit hoteliers.

Airbnb has run into similar headwinds in the United States.

Recently, New York City proposed new rules to regulate home-sharing platforms preventing affordable housing and rent-stabilized units from being used as rentals on Airbnb and HomeAway.

In Los Angeles, the L.A. City Council also introduced rules that would ensure residents access to more affordable housing by limiting Airbnb rentals.

Hawaii also recently cracked down on illegal vacation rentals, echoing a ruling in California that holds home-sharing sites liable for unregistered rentals.

Cheap Travel Destinations to Visit in 2019

We went on so many trips in 2018 and we aren’t stopping anytime soon. Especially with our new travel hacking techniques and discovering cheap travel destinations for the new year.

So….

My parents gave us gift cards to Southwest Airlines for Christmas. I seriously love my family! That got me researching our trips for the year to get my creative, travel guide wheels turning.

I could use my new gift cards along with my points racked up from last year on my Sapphire Reserve Card for a free trip (with some left over).

In my research I found that you could fly to San Jose, Costa Rica from St. Louis, MO for as low as $199 each way if you book in the middle of the week in March and April.

Even if you don’t plan to fly there in those months you can still get cheap flights to Costa Rica. For the least expensive flights, book at least 2 months before your travel date.

Once you get there, Costa Rica can be more expensive than other Central American countries. However, I found that budget travelers can survive on $30 – $50 USD per day.

sagres portugal image cheap travel destinations

Sagres is the perfect spot to take in the gorgeous natural landscapes of Portugal. Between the gnarly waves you’ll find on the coast of the Pacific Ocean and the free hiking trails you can trek in and around the area, you won’t run out of activities on your budget trip to this European hidden gem.

This destination has many perks for the budget traveler. It is both affordable and doesn’t tend to get very crowded in the summer.

There are some incredibly nice hostels in the area too. The Goodfeeling hostel is within 10km to Sagres and starts at $17 a night with free beach transfers.

Flights to Sagres start for as low as $466!

What is not to love about this exciting cheap travel destination?

Verona, Italy

Verona is the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and a beautiful romantic setting for travelers looking to save a buck or two.

I originally found in my research that you can eat for as cheap as $6.75 per person, per meal. But later found in some forums that if you are in the more touristy areas of the city, you will need to expect to pay around 15 Euros per meal.

So plan where you will eat before you go, to save money.

There is plenty to do for cheap or free. The churches are breathtaking and only cost a couple of Euros to enter. If you sight see anything without entering, it can be for free!

If you are already in Europe, you can fly to Verona for as low as $109 round trip. If you fly from the U.S. (like us) you are looking at $1,000+ round trip because let’s face it, it’s far. But once you’re there, your budget travel dreams are endless.

World’s most impressive Roman ruins you probably haven’t heard of

Unexpected Roman wonders

Unless you’ve been living under a rock – or a temple – it’s likely that you’ll have heard of the famous Roman ruins of Pompeii and the ancient architectural gems of Rome. At its peak, the Roman Empire covered nearly two million square miles – spanning large swathes of western Europe, Africa and even parts of Asia – so there are plenty of lesser-known wonders to explore without the crowds.

Slide 2 of 46: Founded by the Greeks and later conquered by the Romans, this captivating site showcases the best of the Hellenistic and Roman eras. Found just a couple of hours to the east of the famous ancient Greek city of Ephesus in the village of Geyre, it has been beautifully preserved. Youâll find far fewer tourists here than at some of Turkeyâs more popular sites.

Aphrodisias, Turkey

Founded by the Greeks and later conquered by the Romans, this captivating site showcases the best of the Hellenistic and Roman eras. Found just a couple of hours to the east of the famous ancient Greek city of Ephesus in the village of Geyre, it has been beautifully preserved. You’ll find far fewer tourists here than at some of Turkey’s more popular sites.

Butrint, Albania

Less than 12 miles from the coastal resort town of Sarandë, this ancient Roman city sits in its own national park and was salvaged from its state of disrepair by funding from the lords Rothschild and Sainsbury in the late 1990s. While it is also home to Greek and Byzantine ruins, the Roman influence at Butrint is unquestionable, with a bathhouse on site as well as an aqueduct. There’s a fascinating museum, which details the area’s historical significance, and the area is a leafy, tranquil escape from the Mediterranean sun.

Slide 4 of 46: The city wall in Lugo is so well preserved, itâs almost hard to believe it was built in the Roman era. Lugoâs wall was originally constructed to protect the Roman city from barbarians and at its tallest point is almost 40 feet (12.1m) high. Todayâs visitors can walk along the wall and see fantastic views of Lugo and beyond.

Walls of Lugo, Spain

The city wall in Lugo is so well preserved, it’s almost hard to believe it was built in the Roman era. Lugo’s wall was originally constructed to protect the Roman city from barbarians and at its tallest point is almost 40 feet (12.1m) high. Today’s visitors can walk along the wall and see fantastic views of Lugo and beyond.

Slide 5 of 46: Jerash is Jordan's second most popular archaeological site and is often dwarfed by the country's mesmerizing ancient world wonder of Petra. North of the capital Amman and once known as Gerasa, the site remains remarkably intact considering the numerous earthquakes it has survived.

Jerash, Jordan

Jerash is Jordan’s second most popular archaeological site and is often dwarfed by the country’s mesmerizing ancient world wonder of Petra. North of the capital Amman and once known as Gerasa, the site remains remarkably intact considering the numerous earthquakes it has survived.

Slide 6 of 46: Midway between Tel Aviv and Haifa, Caesarea is one of the few places where the Roman Empire met the sea. Its namesake national park protects many of the archaeological treasures created by King Herod in the 1st century BC. The park is home to the worldâs only underwater museum where you can dive among ancient ruins. Check out 30 of the world's most jaw-dropping underwater attractions.Â

Caesarea, Israel

Midway between Tel Aviv and Haifa, Caesarea is one of the few places where the Roman Empire met the sea. Its namesake national park protects many of the archaeological treasures created by King Herod in the 1st century BC. The park is home to the world’s only underwater museum where you can dive among ancient ruins.

Hadrian’s Wall, England

Once snaking its way across the north of England from Wallsend near Newcastle to Bowness-on-Solway in Cumbria, Hadrian’s Wall was built by the conquering Romans in around AD 122 to protect against northern barbarian tribes. Today, only segments of the wall remain. Some of the best-preserved forts and settlements are Housesteads, Chesters and Vindolanda near Hexham, and Birdoswald in Carlisle.

Slide 8 of 46: Located in western Cyprus, this large site has been inhabited since Neolithic times and, according to legend, is the birthplace of Aphrodite. The mosaics here are among the finest in the world, while the houses of Dionysus, Orpheus, Aion and Theseus are beautiful examples of elaborate Roman villas.

Paphos, Cyprus

Located in western Cyprus, this large site has been inhabited since Neolithic times and, according to legend, is the birthplace of Aphrodite. The mosaics here are among the finest in the world, while the houses of Dionysus, Orpheus, Aion and Theseus are beautiful examples of elaborate Roman villas.

Slide 9 of 46: Roman-Berber Timgad, founded around AD 100, is on the northern slopes of the AurÃ¨s Mountains, southeast of the city of Batna. Often referred to as the âPompeii of Africaâ, Timgad was an ex-military colony and today you can still see remnants of the impressive 14 baths, as well as the ruins of grand houses with mosaic floors. Currently however, according to UK and US foreign office advice, tourists in Algeria should exercise increased caution and consider taking extra security measures when visiting the country.

Timgad, Algeria

Roman-Berber Timgad, founded around AD 100, is on the northern slopes of the Aurès Mountains, southeast of the city of Batna. Often referred to as the ‘Pompeii of Africa’, Timgad was an ex-military colony and today you can still see remnants of the impressive 14 baths, as well as the ruins of grand houses with mosaic floors. Currently however, according to UK and US foreign office advice, tourists in Algeria should exercise increased caution and consider taking extra security measures when visiting the country.

Slide 10 of 46: These beautiful and well-preserved baths date back to around AD 300. Believed to be the biggest Roman baths to be built outside of Rome, they feature a huge hot water bath, six boiler rooms, a steam bath, an intricate under-floor heating system and a cold-water bath. There is a small admission charge of $4.45 (Â£3.50/â¬4) but itâs worth it.

Imperial Baths of Trier, Germany

These beautiful and well-preserved baths date back to around AD 300. Believed to be the biggest Roman baths to be built outside of Rome, they feature a huge hot water bath, six boiler rooms, a steam bath, an intricate under-floor heating system and a cold-water bath. There is a small admission charge of $4.45 (£3.50/€4) but it’s worth it.

Slide 11 of 46: With a deep, natural port and the nearbyÂ silver mines to the east, this city inÂ southeast Spain was of huge strategic importance to the Romans, who took it from the Carthaginians in 209 BC. While thereâs not much left here, its Roman theater has been well preserved and is the second largest in the country.

Cartagena, Spain

With a deep, natural port and the nearby silver mines to the east, this city in southeast Spain was of huge strategic importance to the Romans, who took it from the Carthaginians in 209 BC. While there’s not much left here, its Roman theater has been well preserved and is the second largest in the country.

Leptis Magna, Libya

For over 900 years, Leptis Magna was a jewel in the crown of the Roman Empire. Found on the Mediterranean coast of Libya just 62 miles southeast of Tripoli, Leptis was the birthplace of emperor Septimus Severus and benefitted enormously from his patronage. It was discovered by archaeologists in the 1920s and is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. Sadly currently both the British and US governments advise against travel to Libya due to continuing unrest.

Slide 13 of 46: Located more than 70 miles southwest of Tunis, many of the Roman ruins found in Dougga date from AD 100 to AD 300 and remain in good condition. The site also offers superb views out across the valley of Oued Khalled. Although there are no restrictions on travel to Dougga, the UK and US advise tourists to exercise caution in the country due to recent unrest.

Dougga, Tunisia

Located more than 70 miles southwest of Tunis, many of the Roman ruins found in Dougga date from AD 100 to AD 300 and remain in good condition. The site also offers superb views out across the valley of Oued Khalled. Although there are no restrictions on travel to Dougga, the UK and US advise tourists to exercise caution in the country due to recent unrest.

Slide 14 of 46: Many of the ruins here date back to the Roman occupation which began around 188 BC. Located to the east of modern-day Antalya in the Aksu area, Perge is home to a bathhouse, stadium (the biggest in Asia Minor) and theater.

Perge, Turkey

Many of the ruins here date back to the Roman occupation which began around 188 BC. Located to the east of modern-day Antalya in the Aksu area, Perge is home to a bathhouse, stadium (the biggest in Asia Minor) and theater.

Slide 15 of 46: In the northeast of Spain, modern day Catalunya, sit the Roman-Greco ruins of the town of EmpÃºries. Overlooking the Balearic Sea, these ancient ruins are perfect for combining history with a beach break. Here youâll find the remains of everyday life â streets, houses, mosaics, temples and drainage systems. Just 90 minutes from Barcelona, when you've paid a visit to the ruins there's plenty to see and do in the Catalan capital too.Â

Empúries, Spain

In the northeast of Spain, modern day Catalunya, sit the Roman-Greco ruins of the town of Empúries. Overlooking the Balearic Sea, these ancient ruins are perfect for combining history with a beach break. Here you’ll find the remains of everyday life – streets, houses, mosaics, temples and drainage systems. Just 90 minutes from Barcelona, when you’ve paid a visit to the ruins there’s plenty to see and do in the Catalan capital too.