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Travel + Leisure

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

Croatia’s gorgeous Adriatic coastline features a Crystal-clear Adriatic Sea, natural beauty, lush Mediterranean vegetation, and untouched nature. Yes, I’m from Croatia, so you might think I have to say that, but just look at those incredible photos. Also, this small European country’s coastline has over 1220 islands, islets,...

Sun & Sand: A Guide to the 13 Best Beaches in Croatia

Greece is located in southeastern Europe, making up part of the Mediterranean alongside countries like Italy, Spain, France, Egypt, and Morocco. Greece is one of the most visited and best-rated thanks to its rich history, beautiful islands, safety, food, and weather. Of course, this popularity comes with a price — crowds and crowds of tourists.

The Underrated European Country Offering A Mediterranean Vacation Like Greece Without Crowds

If you're visiting Italy, it's a pretty good bet that you're starting your vacation in Rome. That means, if you want to visit the ancient ruins of Pompeii, you're looking at traveling around 150 miles away from where you began. That can cost you a lot of time, a new hotel or rental in a different city, and fewer hours to actually see the sights. Pompeii is wonderful, of course. In fact, it got almost 3 million visitors in 2022. However, you can find a less crowded ancient city much closer to Rome in Ostia Antica. Just around a 30-minute drive from the Eternal City, Ostia Antica is a lesser-known but incredible spot to see ancient ruins, much like the Appian Way just outside of Rome is.

This Ancient Port City Right By Rome Is A Less Chaotic And Uncrowded Alternative To Pompeii

These are the best places to enjoy the stunning Spanish coastline.

12 Beautiful Beach Towns to Visit in Spain

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

Planning a trip to Rome? The Eternal City is high on many travel bucket lists, and for good reason! Strolling through the streets of Rome is like stepping back in time, with iconic monuments like the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain around every corner. There are also incredible museums to visit, stunning piazzas to relax in, and, of course, amazing food!

Things to Do in Rome, Italy (Perfect for First Timers!)

The sweeping landscape, lively pub atmospheres, and friendly if enigmatic locals have long nourished Rick Steves' fascination with the Emerald Isle. It also probably doesn't hurt that it's one of the safest and most welcoming countries in Europe. Steves has praised many of the island nation's destinations over the years; however, one in particular has captured his heart. "Colorful little Dingle — my favorite town in all of Ireland — perches on Ireland's westernmost point," Steves shared on his website.

Rick Steves' Favorite Town In All Of Ireland Is A Coastal Paradise With Dramatic Views

Insider

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.

Italy, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, has an animal that stands out as a national symbol. When thinking about Italy, many might picture delicious pasta, ancient ruins, or stunning art. However, the Italian wolf holds a special place in the hearts of Italians. This majestic creature, also known as "lupo," roams the forests and mountains of the Italian peninsula. The wolf symbolizes strength, freedom, and resilience, traits deeply rooted in Italian heritage. From ancient Roman legends to modern-day conservation efforts, the Italian wolf continues to be a powerful emblem of Italy's natural beauty and enduring spirit.

What Animal Represents Italy?

Collecting seashells on the beach seems like a harmless activity. You may think it's no big deal to take a few home with you from a trip to your local beach or on vacation. It seems like the perfect souvenir. As it turns out, it's not. You could be doing harm to sea life, causing erosion, robbing crabs and other creatures from their homes, and in some places, it's actually illegal.

If You Take Seashells From A Beach, You May Be Doing More Harm Than You Realize. Here's Why

When it comes to travel destinations in Europe, Rick Steves is just about the undisputed master. He can tell you where you go, what to see, and when to make those flight reservations to experience each city at its peak. It stands to reason that, after spending so much of his life traveling the continent, he would have accumulated some favorite and not-so-favorite destinations. And since he's been gallivanting abroad since the 1960s, we're sure he's got quite a laundry list of disappointments — if only we could have a beer with him and get his real, unvarnished opinions.

Rick Steves' Most And Least Favorite Places In Europe

Set amidst the vast Atlantic Ocean, the Island of the Azores archipelago is a remarkable collection of nine volcanic islands, each offering a unique tapestry of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance. These islands, often described as Europe’s best-kept secret, beckon travelers with their lush landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and the promise of adventure. Let’s dive into the distinct features and allure of each of these majestic islands.

The Majestic Nine Islands of the Azores

Picture this in your head: You're driving through the Italian countryside, with the top down and the wind in your hair. You're passing rows of cypress trees as a hill town comes into view in the distance. Perhaps it's Cortona with its pretty shops full of wine, soap, olive oil, and pottery covered in lovely designs. Perhaps it's travel pro Rick Steves' favorite underrated hill town, Volterra, full of ancient Etruscan structures, or Montepulciano and its wonderful wines. This is the area of Italy known as Tuscany, and Steves suggests on his website this is a great spot to rent a car.

The One Region In Italy Where Rick Steves Strongly Suggests Renting A Car

What lake is widely praised by discerning international travelers as the most beautiful in the world? Surprise! It's not the famous Lake Como in Italy where George Clooney, Madonna, and Sylvester Stallone have villas. Guatemala's Lake Atitlán is Central America's answer to Lake Como and then some, but with fewer crowds, lower prices, and just as much culture, local color, and natural beauty. The deep, blue-green lake is a pristine jewel, ringed by volcanoes and ancient Mayan ruins. Throw in a flourishing ecotourism industry, and you may find yourself feeling a lot more clued-in than the Clooneys when it comes to fabulous vacationing.

Avoid The Crowds And Cost Of Como At The 'World's Most Beautiful Lake' In Central America

Virginia State

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Kentucky Vibes.net

Disclaimer: This article was written with the help of A.I. software. On July 28, 2024, a TikTok video posted by Erica W., known as @tasteofmelanin on the platform, garnered significant attention after she exposed disturbing racist decorations in an Airbnb rental. The incident occurred in a rental property that Erica had booked, although the exact location remains unspecified. The video has since gone viral, prompting widespread concern and leading to the removal of the listing from Airbnb's platform.

Airbnb Listing Taken Down After Black Woman Finds Hanging Monkeys and Cotton Used As Decor

TravelNoire

Rapper Latto is well known for her clever lyrics but fans can now look to her for travel inspiration. Her recent Instagram post flaunted her hot girl summer activities and showcased a stunning side of Italy. Latto’s summer getaway may even inspire travelers to embody the inspirational Big Latto energy while abroad. It’s all about showing off that beautiful bawdy, being catered to, and splurging on what makes you feel your best. Here’s what to know about the star’s recent relaxing, luxurious Italian vacation.

Latto Sets The Standard For Enjoying A Luxury Vacation In Italy

Maine State

The Independent

If you’re not tied to the school holidays, September is usually the best month to go away. Bask in the heat of summer without the usual crowds and swim in waters that are warmer than ever.The pace of life generally slows down from the hectic days of August, and beaches become less of a battleground over sunbeds and space.Spend a week in one of France’s most beautiful Atlantic islands where you can cycle past oyster-filled marshes and shellfish shacks. Explore Albania’s mountains, lakes, rivers and coast by electric bike, or hole up in an attractive Greek villa in the Aegean...

The best holidays to book for September 2024, from French islands to US road trips

Florida State

Williston, FL

Swimming holes are great because they are not only typically a hot spot for adventure activities — like snorkeling and scuba diving — but they also make for excellent travel photos with their telltale bright blue water. Luckily, to find a stunning swimming hole, there is no need to catch a long-haul flight to Hawaii (but if you do, here are some of the best swimming holes in the Aloha State). Instead, you can head to Florida, where you will find lesser-known but equally beautiful swimming holes — like Devil's Den.

Thrill Seekers Will Love This Lesser-Known Florida Swimming Hole With A Haunting Name

NewsBreak

This Unsung Country's Beaches Are Like Croatia's Dalmatian Coast Without The Crowds

Montenegro may not be the first country you think of when planning your European summer travels. Most visitors might dream of island hopping in Croatia or...

This Unsung Country's Beaches Are Like Croatia's Dalmatian Coast Without The Crowds

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