from CNN.com - Travel http://ift.tt/2aHW4TF
Sunday, July 31, 2016
For travelers who want to move beyond cookie-cutter hotel experiences
from CNN.com - Travel http://ift.tt/2aHW4TF
Pokémon GO ... to Hong Kong
from CNN.com - Travel http://ift.tt/2aHQroe
Spellbinding charm, fairytale beauty and dirt-cheap drinks: Why Tallinn is your next break
Safe, comfortable and carefree: Holidays at home are the best
Cleveland aiming to draw new visitors with restaurants, winning attitude
With NBA Championship under its belt, Cleveland is busting with pride, energy.
from USATODAY - Travel Top Stories http://ift.tt/2a9fcZw
Best frequent-flier promotions for August 2016
There are some great promotions out there to fill up your mileage balance.
from USATODAY - Travel Top Stories http://ift.tt/2aTPCor
Rooms clasped to cliffs and sleeping with the fishes: These the most unusual holiday stays
Why tourists can’t get enough of this real-life land of the DEAD
Saturday, July 30, 2016
Top 10 sporty things to do in Olympics 2016 destinaton Rio this summer
Spa breaks, edible storybook and stand-up: The best things to do this week
The high life: Luxury holiday destinations
WATCH: Motorbike rider learns the hard way why you should never cross floodwaters
Instant mood booster: These are the most adorable baby animals around the world
All aboard the spectacular catamaran you could live on forever
Friday, July 29, 2016
"What Died in Here?" Rare Corpse Flower Blooms in NYC
Look out, “Hamilton”, there’s a new hot-ticket event that has New York City buzzing. A rare “corpse flower” bloomed late Thursday, filling the New York Botanical Garden with the pungent scent of rotting flesh. The six-foot-tall flower, which is native only to western Sumatra, takes 10 years to grow and emits its unusual aroma to attract pollinators that typically feed on carrion. Morbid botany enthusiasts will have to act fast, though, the decade-in-the-making bloom only lasts for about 25 to 36 hours and will likely only bloom again in another seven to 10 years. So, only slightly longer than it takes to get “Hamilton” tickets.
from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2a6ACqc
Long Weekend in Riviera Nayarit
With 200 miles of pristine pacific coastline and dozens of tiny seaside towns and pueblos, the coastal community of Riviera Nayarit near Puerto Vallarta is just calling out to be explored. There are lush mountain peaks, nature reserves, golden sand beaches, and even an exclusive luxury resort community with some of the top hotel brands in the world. Punta de Mita, home to resorts like The Four Seasons Punta Mita and The St. Regis Punta Mita is a fabulous destination for those seeking over the top accommodations, privacy, and 5-star service. A long weekend with some beach time and lots of delicious food is perfect for a quick trip, and Mexico’s pacific treasure is closer than you think.
Friday
Arrive into Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport in Puerto Vallarta and once you’ve made it through customs and immigration, make your way to your rental car. In Mexico, a U.S. driving license and major credit card is sufficient in order to reserve and book a rental car, although it’s best to set up a reservation online ahead of time. Money exchanges are available in the airport and cash machines and banks are accessible throughout the area. Once in the car, take a short drive to Punta Monterrey Beach Resort, a private beach where you can disconnect and settle into vacation mode.
Punta Monterrey is a secluded destination accessed by a narrow and bumpy road. The all-inclusive resort is made up of cabins and bungalows, surrounded by 300 acres of an ecological jungle reserve. There’s limited Wi-Fi in the common areas and no televisions—it’s all about getting to know the other guests and taking in the breathtaking views of the private beach.
Saturday
After sleeping in and enjoying a typical Mexican breakfast, jump back in the car and drive to Sayulita, a surfing and beach town just down the road. While in Sayulita, find a parking space and take on the town by foot. There are lots of food options and boutique shops to splurge on. After lunch, head down to the water and rent an umbrella and chairs, take a surfing lesson, or enjoy a few tacos with a beer or two. By evening, return to Punta Monterrey for a final nights sleep before departing to San Blas the next morning.
Sunday
Depart Punta Monterrey by car and drive to San Blas, a small fishing village of about 12,000 people. Ecotourism here is a main draw, and after spending some relaxing days by the beach, San Blas will provide a different atmosphere and experience. Check into the Hotel Garza Canela, a family operated business with one of the best restaurants in all of Riviera Nayarit. Grab a quick bite at the hotel and drive over to La Contaduria, an abandoned fort where visitors can get up close and personal with the structure and enjoy the spectacular views of San Blas and the harbor.
Afterwards, drive to the harbor and hire a boat guide to visit La Tovara National Park. This is a bird lover’s paradise where you’ll find more than 250 species of migratory birds. Additionally, your guide will spot crocodiles and other wildlife during your tour. If birds aren’t really your idea of a good time, then take a different boat ride out to Mexcaltitan, a small man-made island off the coast, which was decreed as a historic monument zone in 1986. The population on the island is about 800 people and visitors can spend the day there walking down the small streets, visiting the museum and town square, and eating fresh fish. That evening, return to Hotel Garza Canela and indulge in Chef and owner Betty Vasquez’ El Delfin restaurant. Chef Vasquez has been regarded as one of the best chefs in the region and her menu makes for a great last meal and experience before departing back to the airport the next morning.
Where to Stay
For that extra-secluded feel near Sayulita, Punta Monterrey Beach Resort will provide just what you’re looking for—a hidden paradise. If you’re looking for something a little more lively, there are plenty of private home rentals close to the action in Sayulita. In San Blas, the Hotel Garza Canela will be your best bet, since it’s home to the best restaurant in town.
Getting There
There are direct flights to Puerto Vallarta from various U.S. cities including Dallas, Honolulu, Phoenix, Portland, and Chicago on American Airlines, while Delta Airlines has direct flights from cities like Minneapolis, Salt Lake City, and Atlanta. Additionally, Air Canada and WestJet Airlines have direct flights from almost every major city in Canada.
Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's Riviera Nayarit Guide
from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2aRaYDc
19 Free Things to Do in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is encountering a renaissance. Once a city with a gritty reputation, Philadelphia is a metropolis celebrated for its history, inventive cuisine, and a progressive arts scene. With the recent title of America’s first UNESCO World Heritage City, Philadelphia has been placed on the international stage, named in Fodor’s Go List as one of the top places to visit in 2016. Best of all, Philadelphia gives visitors the opportunity to experience much of what it has to offer for free.—Kae Lani Kennedy
from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2a6AJlS
"What Died in Here?" Rare Corpse Flower Blooms in NYC
Look out, “Hamilton”, there’s a new hot-ticket event that has New York City buzzing. A rare “corpse flower” bloomed late Thursday, filling the New York Botanical Garden with the pungent scent of rotting flesh. The six-foot-tall flower, which is native only to western Sumatra, takes 10 years to grow and emits its unusual aroma to attract pollinators that typically feed on carrion. Morbid botany enthusiasts will have to act fast, though, the decade-in-the-making bloom only lasts for about 25 to 36 hours and will likely only bloom again in another seven to 10 years. So, only slightly longer than it takes to get “Hamilton” tickets.
from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2a6ACqc
Long Weekend in Riviera Nayarit
With 200 miles of pristine pacific coastline and dozens of tiny seaside towns and pueblos, the coastal community of Riviera Nayarit near Puerto Vallarta is just calling out to be explored. There are lush mountain peaks, nature reserves, golden sand beaches, and even an exclusive luxury resort community with some of the top hotel brands in the world. Punta de Mita, home to resorts like The Four Seasons Punta Mita and The St. Regis Punta Mita is a fabulous destination for those seeking over the top accommodations, privacy, and 5-star service. A long weekend with some beach time and lots of delicious food is perfect for a quick trip, and Mexico’s pacific treasure is closer than you think.
Friday
Arrive into Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport in Puerto Vallarta and once you’ve made it through customs and immigration, make your way to your rental car. In Mexico, a U.S. driving license and major credit card is sufficient in order to reserve and book a rental car, although it’s best to set up a reservation online ahead of time. Money exchanges are available in the airport and cash machines and banks are accessible throughout the area. Once in the car, take a short drive to Punta Monterrey Beach Resort, a private beach where you can disconnect and settle into vacation mode.
Punta Monterrey is a secluded destination accessed by a narrow and bumpy road. The all-inclusive resort is made up of cabins and bungalows, surrounded by 300 acres of an ecological jungle reserve. There’s limited Wi-Fi in the common areas and no televisions—it’s all about getting to know the other guests and taking in the breathtaking views of the private beach.
Saturday
After sleeping in and enjoying a typical Mexican breakfast, jump back in the car and drive to Sayulita, a surfing and beach town just down the road. While in Sayulita, find a parking space and take on the town by foot. There are lots of food options and boutique shops to splurge on. After lunch, head down to the water and rent an umbrella and chairs, take a surfing lesson, or enjoy a few tacos with a beer or two. By evening, return to Punta Monterrey for a final nights sleep before departing to San Blas the next morning.
Sunday
Depart Punta Monterrey by car and drive to San Blas, a small fishing village of about 12,000 people. Ecotourism here is a main draw, and after spending some relaxing days by the beach, San Blas will provide a different atmosphere and experience. Check into the Hotel Garza Canela, a family operated business with one of the best restaurants in all of Riviera Nayarit. Grab a quick bite at the hotel and drive over to La Contaduria, an abandoned fort where visitors can get up close and personal with the structure and enjoy the spectacular views of San Blas and the harbor.
Afterwards, drive to the harbor and hire a boat guide to visit La Tovara National Park. This is a bird lover’s paradise where you’ll find more than 250 species of migratory birds. Additionally, your guide will spot crocodiles and other wildlife during your tour. If birds aren’t really your idea of a good time, then take a different boat ride out to Mexcaltitan, a small man-made island off the coast, which was decreed as a historic monument zone in 1986. The population on the island is about 800 people and visitors can spend the day there walking down the small streets, visiting the museum and town square, and eating fresh fish. That evening, return to Hotel Garza Canela and indulge in Chef and owner Betty Vasquez’ El Delfin restaurant. Chef Vasquez has been regarded as one of the best chefs in the region and her menu makes for a great last meal and experience before departing back to the airport the next morning.
Where to Stay
For that extra-secluded feel near Sayulita, Punta Monterrey Beach Resort will provide just what you’re looking for—a hidden paradise. If you’re looking for something a little more lively, there are plenty of private home rentals close to the action in Sayulita. In San Blas, the Hotel Garza Canela will be your best bet, since it’s home to the best restaurant in town.
Getting There
There are direct flights to Puerto Vallarta from various U.S. cities including Dallas, Honolulu, Phoenix, Portland, and Chicago on American Airlines, while Delta Airlines has direct flights from cities like Minneapolis, Salt Lake City, and Atlanta. Additionally, Air Canada and WestJet Airlines have direct flights from almost every major city in Canada.
Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor's Riviera Nayarit Guide
from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2aRaYDc
19 Free Things to Do in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is encountering a renaissance. Once a city with a gritty reputation, Philadelphia is a metropolis celebrated for its history, inventive cuisine, and a progressive arts scene. With the recent title of America’s first UNESCO World Heritage City, Philadelphia has been placed on the international stage, named in Fodor’s Go List as one of the top places to visit in 2016. Best of all, Philadelphia gives visitors the opportunity to experience much of what it has to offer for free.—Kae Lani Kennedy
from Fodor's Travel Wire http://ift.tt/2a6AJlS
Breathtaking views, amazing seafood and gorgeous beaches: Discover Cassis
Roald Dahl’s Welsh wonders
Sweden in the slow lane: Exploring the Scandinavia's natural delights
Nicholas Parsons: Celebrity traveller
These images will give you serious wanderlust
Bargain hunting for the best beach holiday? THIS is when to book, say experts
10Best: Olympic experiences you can have now
Olympic fun can be found across the USA, no training required.
from USATODAY - Travel Top Stories http://ift.tt/2ajIvqV