Travel + Leisure

This Country Has the Most Clean Beaches in the World — and They're All Gorgeous

Vietnam has been touted as being one of the cheapest destinations in the world in 2024, but it's so much more than simply a bargain bucket list check. While, yes, Vietnam is decidedly an inexpensive destination, you'll come away feeling rich in cultural experiences and the interactions you have with friendly locals. Whether you're marching your way across the country by rail on the famed Reunification Express or discovering the lesser known hidden gem of Vietnam's southern islands, you'll be wowed at the value for money in this beautiful country.

One Of The Cheapest Travel Destinations In The World Is A Tourist-Friendly, Tropical Paradise

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After visiting 30 tropical islands, some of my favorites have been Bora Bora, St. Barts, Curaçao, Barbados, and St. Martin.

I've been to 30 tropical islands. From Bora Bora to Barbados, here are the top 5 I'd visit again.

If you want to plan a relaxing beach vacation but don't know if you can afford it, consider a trip to Dominica. Lush forests blanket the hot, mountainous island, accompanied by the songs of tropical birds. Whether you long to see Boiling Lake, the second largest hot spring in the world, or try a bowl of callaloo, Dominica makes a beautiful and affordable choice for a Caribbean getaway.

Head To This Caribbean Island For A Tropical Vacation That Won't Break The Bank

There were around 57.3 million visitors to Italy in 2023. While it hasn't reached the pre-pandemic height of 63.5 million in 2019, that's still a whole lot of tourists. Many will, of course, take some time to vacation in Rome with its iconic Trevi Fountain, Colosseum, and Forum, visit the incredibly well-preserved volcanic ruins of Pompeii, the fashionable Milan, or the romantic but slowly-sinking Venice. There is the Amalfi Coast, Capri, and Naples to enjoy as well, but if you're looking for something that isn't overrun by tourists, consider the region of Cilento, Italy. South of Naples, Cilento (pronounced Chee-len-to) sits in the subregion of Campania, and features places like the port city of Agropoli, the astonishing ruins of Paestum and Velia, the medieval hill town of Castellabate, complete with a castle to visit, and plenty of sandy beaches with clear water to swim in.

Is This Little-Known Hilly Region Italy's Prettiest Under-The-Radar Coastal Escape?

The myriad charms of Mexico offer something for every vacationer. Many of the nation's diverse destinations provide opportunities to enjoy laidback coastal paradises, amazing archaeological monuments, world-class cuisine, fascinating contemporary art, and luxurious accommodations. In numerous places across Mexico, several of these attractions can be experienced within a single day.

The Safest Destinations In Mexico For A Stress-Free Vacation, According To Research

Mexico sometimes garners attention for all the wrong reasons. Headlines often spotlight crime, gang activity, or even natural dangers like intense waves — so much so that those considering a trip to Mexico might decide against it. But like many locations, some areas are harder hit by criminal activity than others. Mexico is a huge country, after all — in fact, it's the 14th largest in the world when measured by size and 10th in population. So, while it's worthwhile to be vigilant in your planning, if you want to play it safe and enjoy a Mexican vacation that provides peace of mind, consider its safest town, Merida, and all it has to offer travelers.

One Of Mexico's Safest Cities For A Stress-Free Vacation Is Near The Best Gulf Coast Beaches

InsideHook

If you haven’t heard of Bimini, you’re not alone. This tiny Bahamian island — the closest to the United States, just 48 miles off the coast of Miami — has long been an under-the-radar spot known mostly to avid fishermen who come for big game like marlin and tuna, or for the bonefishing on the shallow flats between North and South Bimini. One such fisherman is a guy you’ve definitely heard of, Ernest Hemingway, who called Bimini home between 1935 and 1937 (his time here inspired The Old Man and the Sea). Prior to Hemingway’s residency, Bimini was a popular hideaway during Prohibition, given its proximity to America and lack of alcohol restrictions, and was once believed to be home to The Fountain of Youth (Ponce de Leon came here searching for it in 1513).

This Tiny Island Is Going to Be the Bora Bora of the Caribbean

Fenwick Island, DE

In the summertime, beach spots on both coasts and areas around the Great Lakes come alive with tourists. For many, these beach getaways are a slice of paradise. However, finding a place to relax on miles of uncrowded beaches can be difficult. Fortunately, with a little bit of homework, you'll find destinations like Delaware's Fenwick Island State Park. The little-known state park provides plenty of outdoor fun alongside a picturesque East Coast beach town.

Relax On Miles Of Uncrowded Beaches At This Little-Known State Park On The East Coast

Wisconsin State

Egg Harbor, WI

Tucked away along the serene shores of Lake Michigan, there’s a Wisconsin town waiting to surprise you with its beauty. Egg Harbor, with its charming streets and friendly locals, promises an adventure like no other. Beyond its picturesque scenery, this tiny lakeside town conceals one of the state’s most...

This Tiny Lakeside Town In Wisconsin Hides One Of The State’s Most Stunning Natural Wonders

What NOT to Do When Visiting Sorrento & Isle of Capri. Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you plan a trip to Sorrento, Italy. While most travel blogs will tell you the best things to do in Sorrento, we want to be sure you know what NOT to do when visiting Sorrento.

Mistakes That Tourists Make In Sorrento + The Isle Of Capri

From grand shows in Georgia to educational experiences in Alaska, the United States has a wide range of aquariums to visit. Aquariums are one of the best days out for families, couples, individuals, and just about anyone else. Not only do they offer other-worldly glimpses into weird and colorful aquatic ecosystems, but — along with the best American zoos — they are also educational for adults and children alike.

The Best Aquariums In America, According To Reviews

The Independent

 A beautiful house reef, beckoning waters, a soothing spa and elevated island-style design combine to make Coco Bodu Hithi a modern Maldives experienceLocationThe resort is located in North Malé Atoll, which take around 30–40 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport in the Maldives’ capital, Male. The transfer can be booked as part of your stay. The island sits on a house reef, offering access to fantastic scuba diving and snorkelling sites; try it at night, when you have the best chance of seeing (thankfully harmless) nurse sharks.The vibeThe look across Coco Bodu Hithi is one of lightweight, laid-back...

Coco Bodu Hithi, Maldives hotel review

Yosemite National Park, CA

Encompassing nearly 750,000 acres, Yosemite National Park is a haven for all those who love nature and the great outdoors. Yosemite, located in central California's Mariposa County, is especially alluring to hikers. The park has hundreds of miles of hiking trails that are ripe for exploration. This includes Taft Point, which is only open for half of the year and boasts the best views in Yosemite. There are also hiking trails that are accessible to wheelchair users, such as the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail. However, behind the beauty lies great peril. Hikers run the risk of falling, getting lost, and even dying in Yosemite.

The 5 Most Dangerous Hikes In Yosemite National Park

Rye, NH

"Old money whispers, new money shouts," wrote Canadian novelist and poet, Margaret Atwood — and her observation applies along the coasts of New England, where luxury thrives quietly in line with tendencies toward modesty and frugality. Thanks to the region's Puritan past, New Englanders don't usually "make it rain." This quiet luxury also keeps low-key towns like Rye, New Hampshire off the over-beaten tourist path. In fact, the entire state coastline plays fourth or fifth fiddle to more popular New England luxury destinations, including Bar Harbor and Kennebunkport, Maine; Cape Cod, Massachusetts; Newport, Rhode Island; and Mystic, Connecticut. That may be because New Hampshire's coast is only 18 miles long and remains overshadowed by the mountainous hinterland — with its beautiful but dangerous hikes and ultimate scenic drive along US-2 — that forms the popular image of "The Granite State."

This Laidback New Hampshire Beach Town Oozes Quiet Luxury

Bays are the best. Sheltered from the open sea, they often contain some of the loveliest water you'll ever swim in amidst some of the most dreamy backdrops imaginable. Trunk Bay in the U.S. Virgin Islands was recently named the best beach in the world, for example, and for good reason. Its white sand and islet-strewn setting make it an appealing destination for any beachgoer.

The Little-Known Caribbean Gem Rated As One Of The World's Most Beautiful Bays

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NewsNinja

"They get more than us, Why nobody told me about this?". If you're looking for a tasty option that won't break the bank, a Chick-fil-A's kids' meal might be just what you're after. It seems like a great deal. In fact, some people argue it's a better deal than a regular adult meal. This TikToker took the audience through the ins and outs of this meal.

Chick-fil-A customer says they’ll never order a full meal again after seeing kids’ meal

Perched on a promontory overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, Palazzo Avino was originally a 12th-century nobleman’s house before being reincarnated in 1997 as an elegant five-star hotel dedicated to giving guests a taste of la dolce vita. A design destination, it’s quieter than other Amalfi favourites and, while tourists may gather in the cobblestone alleyways, Palazzo Avino is like a beautiful fortress, offering the good life with stepped terraces dripping down the rockface, manicured gardens and high class hospitality. Affectionately known as the pink palace of Ravello, from the strawberry-hue, candy-striped parasols and crisp rosé wine to the blush of the horizon as sky and water become one, life here is rosy.

Hush Hush Haven On The Amalfi Coast: Palazzo Avino

Florida State

Have you ever wondered what makes Florida's 30A beach towns so special? Imagine a place where sugar-white sand meets crystal-clear waters, and charming communities offer a mix of relaxation and adventure. From Seaside's pastel cottages to Rosemary Beach's European flair, each town has its own unique vibe. Whether you're into paddleboarding, biking, or just lounging by the shore, there's something for everyone. Plus, local eateries serve up fresh seafood that will make your taste buds dance. Ready to find out why these coastal gems are a must-visit? Let's dive into the magic of 30A!

Seaside’s Turquoise Trail – Florida’s 30A Beach Towns

A big Olympic win and a shout out from an R&B celebrity call attention to what makes this island so special. A — As soon as travellers land atSt Lucia's Hewanorra International Airport, it becomes clear how this small Caribbean nation feels about its hometown athlete, Julien Alfred. A poster of the sprinter, who recently became the nation's first Olympic medallist when she won gold in the women's 100m, now sits in the arrivals hall, greeting visitors to this island paradise.

St Lucia's first Olympic win highlights another side of this tropical paradise

NewsBreak

This Pristine Paradise Island Might Be Australia's Best-Kept Secret Vacation Destination

If you're traveling around eastern Australia and you're looking for something new to explore off the main continent, a flight of about two-and-a-half hours from Brisbane...

This Pristine Paradise Island Might Be Australia's Best-Kept Secret Vacation Destination

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