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10 Amazing Weekend Getaways in Europe You Will Love

Travel Tips

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Jul 13, 2020

10 Amazing Weekend Getaways in Europe You Will Love

When it comes to enjoying the perfect weekend getaway destination, there are a myriad of locations around the world that likely will spring to mind. However, for those of you fortunate to live in Europe, the list of possibilities is endless. Europe epitomizes everything there is to love about a quick and easy weekend getaway, with cheap flights, awesome public transportation and the convenience to hop between countries in a heartbeat. Whether you are located in a country that is part of the European Union or perhaps in the UK, we want to share some of the best weekend getaways in Europe based on our experiences.

Let’s start with a caveat that I think is important to emphasize before we dive into our list of 10 epic destinations. There are countless locations across Europe that could easily have made its way on our list but realistically, if you choose to follow our recommendations, we don’t believe you can go wrong. At the end of this post, we are going to encourage you to share your top 10 destinations across Europe and it will be interesting to see which of ours make your list.

Best Weekend Getaways in Europe

In addition to including some of the most popular European cities that I think would likely appear on many “top 10 lists”, we also want to introduce a couple of lesser known gems because they deserve just as much attention as their more popular counterparts. From delicious cuisine to historic architecture, from rich culture to ancient history, Europe well and truly has it all and to be able to experience all of this and more across a series of weekend getaways is the ultimate dream for any aspiring traveler.

Of course, if you are fortunate enough to be able to spend longer in each of these destinations…go for it! But if not, please check out some of the highlights in each of these destinations and don’t worry, you will always have the opportunity to return again in the future. Here is a list of our top 10 destinations in Europe that we think are the perfect place to enjoy that perfect weekend getaway:

Barcelona, Spain
Berlin, Germany
Budapest, Hungary
Lisbon, Portugal
Oslo, Norway
Prague, Czech Republic
Riga, Latvia
Strasbourg, France
Tallinn, Estonia
Warsaw, Poland

Europe is blessed to have such a well developed infrastructure that allows people from most European countries to be able to access each nation in a short time. For those that choose to fly with one of the many low-cost airlines such as Ryanair, easyJet or Whizz, you will soon realize that the no-frills experience is well worth the sacrifice as your credit cards certainly won’t take much of a hit when traveling from one country to another. Alternatively, why not utilize the awesome train service if you are looking for a quick and convenient getaway that is within a couple of hours of your home.

The beauty of European travel is that you have the flexibility to experience as you so desire – dependent on budget, time, and preference, you can visit a myriad of destinations and enjoy an epic 48-72 hour getaway. Let’s take a look at why we think the following ten destinations are ones that should be at the very top of your bucket list…many I am sure you would likely have thought about yourselves, while there may be one or two that are surprising yet intriguing!

Barcelona

Frequently recognized as Spain’s “second city” after Madrid, Barcelona is the perfect location to enjoy a weekend getaway enjoying stereotypical Spanish tapas and exploring the inherent beauty of the cosmopolitan capital of the Catalan region of the country. For those of you that love art and architecture, Barcelona is perhaps one of the top cities not only in Spain but across Europe for experiencing a plethora of historic buildings, artifacts, and art displays.

Two of the most iconic that weekend visitors should experience are the Sagrada Família, a large Roman Catholic basilica that is still unfinished 135 years after being started, and Park Güell, a public park system full of gorgeous gardens and architectural elements. Both of these landmarks are inspired by the work of Catalonia’s most infamous architect, Antoni Gaudi and are perhaps the most infamous locations in Barcelona. As examples of Gaudi architecture, these are certainly breathtaking designs.

If you only have 48 hours in Barcelona, we strongly encourage you to consider the “Hop on, Hop off” bus which is a great way to explore all of the iconic landmarks – ranging from the home of Barcelona FC, the spectacular Nou Camp stadium, the Olympic park which hosted the 1992 Summer Olympics and many more iconic attractions.

After a long day exploring the best of Barcelona, head to the Old Town of Barcelona to explore more architectural ingenuity and sample a collection of tapas, stereotypical of life in Barcelona. If you have enough time, consider taking a Barcelona food tour to enjoy a sampling of Spanish cuisine options.

Berlin

A weekend getaway to Germany’s capital city of Berlin offers the perfect opportunity to sample stereotypical German beer while exploring some of the iconic landmarks associated with this location. Take a moment to learn about the history surrounding the Berlin Wall while reading stories of locals who suffered for years during the “divide” between East and West Germany. Head to the heart of Berlin to visit Checkpoint Charlie, the most infamous crossing point between what was considered two separate cities – West and East Berlin.

One of the most spectacular German landmarks is the classical archway known as Brandenburg Gate which is located next to the Reichstag Building, home of the German parliament. If you are contemplating a weekend getaway to Berlin during late November or early December, this is the perfect time to experience the collection of Christmas markets that are typical throughout Europe at this time of the year.

Today, visitors to Berlin can experience the best of modern and historic Germany – it’s a city that offers the perfect blend of preserving the rich history while utilizing modern technology to allow the city to continue to grow and thrive in the 21st century and beyond.

Budapest

Let’s head further east the beautiful city of Budapest, capital of Hungary for another epic weekend getaway to experience delicious local cuisine while exploring another myriad of historic landmarks. The Hungarian Parliament Building, located along the banks of the Danube River is one of the most spectacular of its kind across Europe. Appearing more like a presidential palace, this building is well worth visiting and you can even enjoy the sight of the Hungarian guards protecting this area.

A short walk from parliament along the banks of the Danube will lead you to one of the most poignant spots in Europe – Shoes on the Danube Bank. This memorial was created in 2005 and pays tribute to the Jews that were killed by militia in Budapest during World War II. As you pay your own personal tributes, take a moment and peer across the Danube to the other side where you can enjoy the sight of your next location worth visiting – Buda Castle.

Enjoy the excellent public transportation system in Budapest to make your way to the foot of Buda Castle and then enjoy a leisurely walk to the summit to Castle Hill. The views from the summit are spectacular across the city of Budapest and there are several spots where you can enjoy lunch, perhaps stereotypical Hungarian goulash or other local fare.

If you have time during your weekend visit, head to Heroes’ Square and then head inside City Park to explore the inherent beauty of Vajdahunyad Castle, a medieval style structure that dates back to 1896 but has an eerie feel to it as you walk around the grounds.

Lisbon

The charismatic Portuguese capital of Lisbon is undoubtedly a destination that should be on everyone’s radar for a weekend. Like many of the other leading capital cities across Europe, trying to experience the very best of Lisbon in as short as 48 hours can be challenging yet incredibly rewarding. Of course, visitors that only have a short time here shouldn’t try to experience everything in the nearby vicinity such as the breathtaking civil parish of Sintra that is just a short distance from Lisbon. Check out some of the best things to do during 24 hours in Lisbon.

A walking tour of Lisbon is perhaps the best way to enjoy some of the highlight attractions if you are short of time. Take a stroll through the historic neighborhoods that collecting create such an amazing city. Whether you choose to take a guided tour or perhaps prefer a self-guided stroll around Lisbon, there are plenty of landmark attractions you cannot afford to miss. Belem Tower is a medieval defensive tower and along with the nearby Jeronimos Monastery are two of the most important attractions in Lisbon.

The parish of Belem is home to the aforementioned iconic landmarks but also home to the infamous Portuguese dessert – Pasteis de Nata. This egg custard dusted with cinnamon is something everyone visiting Lisbon cannot leave without sampling…it’s likely that you will want to return for more! São Jorge Castle is an ancient castle dating back to the 8th century is well worth a visit but simply walking around the city will likely leave you wanting to return to Lisbon in the near future.

Oslo

Ready to head to Scandinavia for a weekend getaway? Whether you prefer to go in summer or winter, the Norwegian capital of Oslo is definitely a perfect getaway location to enjoy 48 hours in the sun (or snow). The beauty of Oslo is that there are amazing things to experience all year round.

If you are planning a visit during the warmer months, head to Akershus Fortress to explore this iconic landmark before heading over to Aker Brygge to enjoy what we would consider the heartbeat of the city in terms of a wide collection of local (and international) eateries. Take a stroll along the promenade and admire Akershus from the other side, while this is also the perfect spot to hop on a local cruise to explore the Oslo Fjord.

For a little retail therapy, head to Karl Johans Gate which is the heart and soul of the best designer brands from across the globe that have a location in Oslo. This is also the main street that leads to the Royal Palace which is another spectacular architectural design worth visiting.

Prague

Another of Europe’s historical cities that is the perfect weekend getaway destination is the Czech capital of Prague. Conveniently accessible from pretty much anywhere in Europe, this central European city offers a vibrant collection of rich history, gorgeous architecture and stereotypical Czech cuisine.

The 14th century Charles Bridge is undoubtedly Prague’s pièce de résistance and is unsurprisingly the most popular landmark in the city. However, as you stroll along this bridge and admire the intricate details that are apparent on this majestic structure, you cannot help but glance towards the breathtaking Prague Castle that overlooks the city. The Old Town Square is a popular location for locals to showcase their skills and produce at the local market, especially during the seasonal festivities at Christmas.

Don’t forget to sample the traditional Trdelnik, either as a savory or sweet option (in fact, why not sample both!) and you will be soon raring to head back to Prague for both Czech delicacies. The Czech Republic offers a collection of destinations that are the perfect weekend getaway, but Prague is certainly at the very top for a variety of reasons.

Riga

One of our surprise picks but certainly one that justifies its place on this list of weekend getaway hotspots, the Latvian capital of Riga is a hidden gem in Europe that is well worth visiting all year round. A self-guided walking tour is a great way to experience some of the best things to do in Riga including some of the highlight attractions including the House of the Black Heads, St. Peter’s Church, Freedom Monument and Riga Castle.

While flying into Riga is one option, visitors to the Balkan region may wish to take advantage of the incredibly cheap, yet ultra-modern Lux Express coach service which transports visitors between Balkan nations with high levels of comfort.

Although many may associate the Balkan nation of Latvia with a lesser known European destination, Riga is definitely a place that you will quickly fall in love with. If you are looking for a budget weekend getaway, there are not many cities across Europe that can offer such an amazing experience. One of the other benefits of Riga is its proximity to some of the other Balkan capital cities – Vilnius, Lithuania and Tallinn, Estonia are notable others that should be on everyone’s radar.

Strasbourg

While the French capital of Paris is certainly a city you cannot afford to miss, we think that the second cities in France are equally spectacular. Head to the Eastern border connecting with Germany and visit the beautiful city of Strasbourg for a stereotypical French weekend getaway with a hint of German influence.

Strasbourg Cathedral is perhaps the focal point of the city thanks to its spectacular architectural design but there are plenty of other landmarks worth exploring around the city. Petite-France is a thriving neighborhood thanks to the well-preserved half-timbered homes, canals and cobble stoned streets that create a gorgeous landscape for locals and visitors to enjoy.

This part of the city is fully pedestrianized and perfect for visitors to enjoy shopping in the local boutique shops, meander through the collection of art galleries and of course, sample a baguette or other French delicacy in the local cafes.

Tallinn

Another of Europe’s hidden gems is the capital city of Estonia, Tallinn. Located in the Balkan region of Europe, Tallinn is a rather unique city given that it has preserved the walled, cobblestoned Old Town that epitomizes everything there is to love about Estonia. Whether you choose to visit in the heart of summer or prefer to enjoy Christmas in Tallinn, this city’s beautiful architecture and rich history awaits.

Visit the beautiful Tallinn Town Hall in the heart of Old Town and take a stroll to Toompea to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views across the historic city. Delicious cuisine can be enjoyed in one of the many local cafes scattered along the cobblestoned streets and for those fortunate to visit in December, you can enjoy what we consider to be some of the best Christmas markets across Europe.

Don’t forget to sample a warm glass of Glögg, a seasonal drink that is similar to mulled wine but with a slightly Estonian twist that makes this a unique drink you cannot help but fall in love with. 24 hours in Tallinn will give you the opportunity to explore plenty of the city but this is certainly the ideal type of location for that perfect winter wonderland getaway.

Warsaw

Poland’s capital city of Warsaw is another perfect example of the ideal weekend break destination, especially if you are looking to enjoy the contrasting experiences of a modern versus historic landscape. Warsaw epitomizes everything there is to love about a historic city, while also incorporating several 21st century, innovative structures that help create that modern environment we associate with many European cities.

The Royal Castle in Warsaw is a great place to start to learn about the history and heritage of this city via a guided tour. Warsaw’s Old Town is in the immediate vicinity to the castle and so is the perfect area to enjoy admiring the gorgeous architecture and perhaps sampling some of the infamous Polish cuisine such as bigos, kotlet schabowy, and pierogi.

Łazienki Park is home to the “Palace on the Isle” and this area of green space in the heart of Warsaw is a great place to getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life and relax.

Summary

10 unique cities but all perfect destinations for a weekend getaway. Whether you prefer a larger city for an action-packed weekend break or perhaps a lesser known destination, there are plenty of amazing options across Europe. We would strongly encourage you consider a city such as Riga or Tallinn but certainly the iconic destinations such as Prague and Budapest are equally spectacular.

Please share in the comments which European cities you would consider to be on your top 10 weekend getaways.

Craft Farms Golf Resort – Enjoy 36 Holes on the Gulf Coast

Alabama

Chris Boothman

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Jun 23, 2020

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Craft Farms Golf Resort – Enjoy 36 Holes on the Gulf Coast

Many of the greatest golf courses around the world are designed by some of the best players from previous generations. When you have the opportunity to play one of Arnold Palmer’s plethora of course designs, you will quickly realize why this is such an amazing experience. Craft Farms Golf Resort along the Gulf Coast of Alabama may not be the first place you think about visiting, or even associating with Arnold Palmer but after playing this recently, we 100% attest that this is a hidden gem that you will quickly fall in love with.

From Jack Nicklaus to Gary Player, Greg Norman to Ernie Els, the list of greats to now have their design imprint on epic courses is endless. However, there is one player that frequently stands head and shoulders above the rest, not only in terms of his design elements but also because of the legacy he left on this game – the great Arnold Palmer.

Palmer’s influence on golf goes way beyond the seven major championships that he won or additional 55 PGA tour wins. In fact, the reason why Palmer is recognized globally as “The King” is predominantly because of his attitude, his demeanor on and off course and most importantly, his desire to nurture others in the game of golf and also through life.

Let’s take a look at what helps Craft Farms Golf Resort stand out from the rest of the amazing golf courses on the Gulf Coast – for those of you that have never visited this stretch of breathtaking coastline of Alabama, you are in for a real treat when it comes to a myriad of amazing courses to choose from.

Craft Farms – Arnie’s Inspiration

Take a trip down memory lane when you drive into Craft Farms Golf Resort as you begin to imagine the great Arnold Palmer showcasing his design skills across both sets of 18 hole courses on site. Whether you prefer Scottish style links courses or stereotypical US parkland style courses, the beauty of Craft Farms is that you can experience both with 36 epic holes to play.

For the adventurous golfers, you may be inspired to play both courses on the same day whereas the realistic may choose to play each course on separate days.

Located just minutes away from the 32 miles of pristine, white sandy beaches of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, you can certainly enjoy the fresh Gulf breeze blowing across both courses as you meander your way through “beautiful southern landscape of south Alabama among massive live oaks dripping with Spanish moss, towering pine forests, numerous lakes, creeks and native wildlife.” (Craft Farms Golf Resort)

The story of Craft Farms is actually more than just about Arnold Palmer.

A former farm boy who worked his way up from gladiolus farm toiler to successful businessman, and who had a vision of transforming a sleepy coastal Alabama town into a world-class golf destination.
Craft Farms Golf Resort

This “farm boy” was R.C. Craft who was raised in a small town in Georgia. Craft moved south to Florida before venturing to the Gulf Coast of Alabama in 1954 and in the late 1960s actually purchased a plot of land that contained corn and soybean fields. This area would later become the site of Craft Farms Golf Resort!

While the farming business saw a decline over subsequent decades, the Crafts decided to venture into the world of golf course construction but realized they needed someone to oversee the design of this course. Enter the great Arnold Palmer! It was perfect timing as Palmer’s Management business was looking to make a breakthrough in golf course design and once Palmer set foot on the Gulf Coast, it was a match made in heaven.

While Palmer was brought in to oversee the design of the course, it was intriguing to see how Palmer appeared to show more interest in Craft’s sodding business, even showing a willingness to hop on a tractor and help out…when it came to the design of Craft Farms, that was pretty much a done deal after the relationship between Palmer and Craft flourished!

What also makes Craft Farms Golf Resort so unique is the fact that they are the only two courses in the state of Alabama designed by the great Arnold Palmer – definitely a claim to fame when you visit this sacred location.

Two Unique Courses – 36 Crafted Holes

Craft Farms is home to both Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend golf courses. Both offer a spectacular golfing experience and are unique in their design characteristics that help them both attract golfers from all across the globe. As you play both courses, you cannot help but relax among the breathtaking natural paradise and environment that they have been designed on.

Although both courses are still relatively new (Cotton Creek opened in 1987 and Cypress Bend in 1993) in terms of golf course construction, the plethora of eco-systems that can be found across both are what help them evolve into such a spectacular experience for golfers of all standards.

cypress bend course at craft farms gulf shores alabama

A visit to Craft Farms is more than just about a round of golf. It’s about playing 36 holes that were designed by a legend of the game while also appreciating the inherent beauty of this part of Alabama. You could be forgiven for thinking a trip to the Gulf Coast is all about the beach, but when you see a natural landscape like Craft Farms, you will quickly realize it’s much more than that!

Here are the details of the two courses before we dive in and review each of them:

Cotton Creek Course
Par 72
Year Opened: 1987
Yardage: 
Gold Tees - 7127 Yards; Blue Tees - 6617 Yards; White Tees - 6080 Yards; 
Silver Tees - 5438 Yards; Red Tees - 5160 Yards

Cypress Bend Course
Par 72
Year Opened: 1993
Yardage:
Gold Tees - 6848 Yards; Blue Tees - 6432 Yards; White Tees - 5975 Yards; 
Silver Tees - 5458 Yards; Red Tees - 5027 Yards

Cotton Creek Course

Head over to Cotton Creek if you are ready to face the more challenging of the two courses at Craft Farms Golf Resort. With rolling fairways and undulating greens (some rather severe that will test even the best putters in the world!), Cotton Creek is undoubtedly a true test of championship style golf for every standard of golfer.

As you play this course, you quickly realize that this is a true Arnold Palmer design, infamous for those risk/reward holes where you may play safe or be tempted to go for the “shot of a lifetime” while running the risk of running up a big score.

With a myriad of water hazards that line fairways and protect greens, it’s perhaps the 6th hole that is the focal point at Cotton Creek as you are faced with a daunting tee shot with water lining the right side of the fairway, yet the second shot isn’t any easier as the green is protected by the same water.

Cypress Bend Course

For those of you looking at a slightly friendlier layout, Cypress Bend is perhaps the best choice at Craft Farms. However, don’t let the generously wide fairways fool you because this is still a challenging layout and and experience every golfer will surely enjoy. With a slightly more coastal feel to the layout than it’s counterpart at Cotton Creek, Cypress Bend offers large greens along with those generous fairways to entice golfers to think this will be an easy course.

While the 4th hole at Cypress Bend has a reputation of being the most difficult on the course, there are plenty of holes that you will likely be thinking about making birdies to offset the potential for a bogey or two on both nines. Several lakes accent the course and offer a challenge for every golfer as you look to plot your way around a course that has a links style feel to it.

Cotton Creek Bar and Grill

After 36 holes at Craft Farms, you could be forgiven for being ready to head to the 19th hole and experience a couple of aperitifs and a delicious meal at Cotton Creek Bar and Grill. Located inside the gorgeous clubhouse, this restaurant is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat while overlooking the 18th green of the Cotton Creek course.

Homemade chicken salad is perhaps the highlight experience if you are just looking to sample some light fare following your round, while the Shrimp and Grits is a true southern favorite that you cannot go wrong with. With a plethora of options to choose from to satisfy everyone’s appetite, you can be sure there will be something at Cotton Creek Bar and Grill for all the family to enjoy.

Summary

A visit to Craft Farms Golf Resort is more than just about a round of golf – it’s about visiting a location that one of the world’s greatest golfers and legends has left his unique design characteristics on. Arnold Palmer is not only one of the greatest golfers of all time, he is also recognized as one of the most likable individuals in the golfing industry.

To pay a fitting tribute to this legend, we strongly encourage you to visit the Gulf Coast and sample his amazing designs at Craft Farms – you won’t regret it because this is a truly incredible experience.

FootGolf or Golf – Why Not Enjoy Both on the Gulf Coast?

Alabama

Chris Boothman

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Jun 8, 2020

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FootGolf or Golf – Why Not Enjoy Both on the Gulf Coast?

For the traditionalists, there is nothing better than hitting the links and enjoying a relaxing round of golf with friends or family. But for those of you that like a little adventure or perhaps experiencing something new, perhaps the thought of trying out one of the coolest new sports is appealing. FootGolf is a combination of “football” (or soccer as it’s known in the US) and “golf” and we think we have found the perfect place to experience this – Glenlakes Golf Club in Foley, Alabama. The Gulf Coast may be home to 32 miles of pristine, sandy beaches but it’s also home to Glenlakes, offering a fun-filled attraction for all the family to enjoy!

Whether you are an avid golfer or simply want to try something new, Glenlakes is undoubtedly the perfect place to experience. During our recent visit to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, we figured it was time to try something new. We LOVE experiencing the best golf courses on the Gulf Coast and have thoroughly enjoyed our visits to Peninsula, Craft Farms and Kiva Dunes but when looking for something new, Glenlakes is the place to go. If you plan your itinerary accordingly, you can experience the best of both sports and enjoy a round of golf and FootGolf at the same time! That’s the beauty of paying a visit to Glenlakes Golf Club.

Let’s take a look at why the Gulf Coast has quickly become a golfing haven along with a hotspot for one of the trendiest new sports that is perfect for friends and family to enjoy. The real beauty of FootGolf is that you don’t ever need to have played this before and you can have just as much fun as those seasoned professionals (that’s right, despite being a relatively new sport, there is already a professional FootGolf league with the American FootGolf Federation).

What is FootGolf?

FootGolf…it’s pretty simple really…it’s a combination of football and golf! That’s right, the aim of this game is to kick a soccer ball into a hole in the fewest number of kicks possible. Simple right? Well, theoretically yes but there are still some intricacies involved for those of you that want to get a little serious with this game.

If you love golf and have a little competitive edge running through your veins, the same will likely transfer over to FootGolf as you will have aspirations of being a combination of the next Tiger Woods and David Beckham. Whether you “bend it like Beckham” or prefer to hit a “Tiger stinger”, the concept of FootGolf is just as simple as it sounds.

There are a few rules that you will likely want to follow but generally speaking, it’s a game all of the family can understand and enjoy. Without going into the intricate rules and regulations, here are a few key things you should remember:

You start each hole by kicking the ball from the designated tee box. The starting kick (and subsequent kicks) can only be made from the ground (i.e. you cannot kick the ball from your hands).
Similar to traditional golf rules, a ball that is deemed to be unplayable can be moved (or taken from the original position) but with the penalty of one stroke (or kick).
Water hazards – as with golf, you can try and “fish out” your ball but you will be kicking your next ball with a penalty stroke added.

FootGolf at Glenlakes Golf Club

What better way to start your day at Glenlakes Golf Club than by heading over to the 9 hole Lakes course and enjoy a round of 18 holes of FootGolf. Whether you choose to play the actual golf course later or simply want to enjoy the 18 FootGolf holes that have been carefully designed among the fairways, this is a challenging yet rewarding experience that all the family can enjoy.

Either bring your own soccer ball or rent one for $1 inside the clubhouse before heading over to the first tee to test your football and golfing skills on the Lakes course. Cart rentals are available for $10 but this is certainly the perfect way to get some exercise and walk the FootGolf course – plus, we think you will find it much easier to navigate your way through the course if you choose to walk.

You will quickly find that if you consider yourself to be a good golfer, this doesn’t immediately translate into you being good at FootGolf. Yes, the concept is the same but it’s a completely different experience and you don’t have 15 clubs to rely on…just your trusty right or left foot to try and get the soccer ball inside the hole.

As you wind your way through the course that is interwoven among the trees, you will likely realize that “putting” the soccer ball into the hole is the trickiest aspect of FootGolf. A plethora of trees add another layer of difficulty to many of the holes but just as with putting on greens, you need to take into consideration the undulations and conditions before trying to kick the perfect putt!

Enjoy 27 Holes of Traditional Links

While Glenlakes Golf Club offers the unique FootGolf experience, it’s also worth noting that this location is home to 27 holes that will test every standard of golfer. Whether you choose to play the 9-hole Lakes course before or after the FootGolf experience, I highly recommend considering heaving over to the 18-hole Vista-Dunes complex which offers the ultimate test and is certainly one of the best golfing encounters on the Gulf Coast.

Designed by renowned players and architects Bruce Devlin and Robert Von Hagge, Glenlakes offers an “engaging Alabama golf experience” that everyone is sure to enjoy. At just under 7000 yards, the Vista-Dunes 18-hole layout offers a unique blend of Scottish style links, with a number of natural features that you would likely associate with a course deep in the Scottish Highlands.

The undulating fairways and greens create a challenging layout for all standards, while the pièce de résistance feature hole is perhaps the 7th on the Dunes course. A par 5 which epitomizes the “risk reward” ideology that create the perfect long hole.

If you hit a long, straight tee shot, you will be faced with a tough decision as to whether to layup or hit the shot of a lifetime over water to the green. This is one of many holes that will leave you thinking about which shot to hit, but this reflects on the unique design and why Glenlakes is such a popular golf course in the Gulf Coast region.

Visit the Bunker Cafe

After a long day at Glenlakes testing your skills at FootGolf and sampling some of the finest links on the Gulf, head inside the clubhouse to visit the Bunker Cafe and indulge in stereotypical Gulf Coast fare. Whether you are intrigued by the thought of devouring a Fish Po-Boy or perhaps a burger, there is something for every appetite. For those of you looking for a quick bite to eat midway through your round, why not order a “Turn Sandwich” which is freshly prepared and the perfect snack as you head into the back nine.

Summary

Are you ready for a fun-filled family experience? Are you looking for something an little different to enjoy on your next trip to the Gulf Coast? Head to Glenlakes Golf Course and enjoy one of the trendiest new sports across the globe – FootGolf. We thoroughly enjoyed playing both FootGolf and regular golf at Glenlakes and honestly, regardless of which sport you prefer, you can have an amazing experience at this location.

Universal’s Aventura Hotel – How to Enjoy an Epic Getaway

Florida

Chris Boothman

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May 25, 2020

3

Universal’s Aventura Hotel – How to Enjoy an Epic Getaway

When you think about iconic theme parks, the city of Orlando is likely the first place on the tip of your tongue. Universal Orlando Resort may not have the same number of visitors as it’s more infamous counterpart down the road but following our recent visit to Orlando where we stayed at the “ultra-modern” property in the portfolio of on-site hotels, we can 100% attest that this “resort” is one that needs to be on your radar. Universal’s Aventura Hotel epitomizes everything there is to love about 21st century hotel experiences, with a high focus on modern technology and a plethora of amenities that fit this intended approach.

Whether you are a millennial that loves high-tech products or perhaps an earlier generation that simply wants to enjoy a relaxing getaway, this gorgeous hotel is the perfect place to enjoy the very best of Universal Orlando Resort.

Universal Orlando Resort

A trip to Universal Orlando Resort is more than just about the hotel experience and so we want to share just a few reasons why this location should be on your radar if you are considering a long weekend Orlando getaway. The beauty of this resort is that once you are here, there is no reason to leave because everything you need can be found within this space that covers over 540 acres of land.

For those of you that are unfamiliar with the Universal Orlando Resort setup, here is a brief overview of what you can experience…I should add, all of which are easily accessible via the Universal’s awesome shuttle bus service.

Theme Parks

Universal Studios Florida – Opened in 1990
Universal’s Islands of Adventure – Opened in 1999
Universal’s Volcano Bay – Opened in 2017

Hotels On-Site

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando – Opened in 1999
Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando – Opened in 2002
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando – Opened in 2016
Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando – Opened in 2001
Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort – Opened in 2014
Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Opened in 2019
Universal’s Aventura Hotel – Opened in 2018

In addition to the above theme parks and hotels, the hub of entertainment can be found at Universal CityWalk – offering a wide range of restaurants, bars and fun-filled amenities for all the family to enjoy long into the night. We will share more details on this later but you will find that this is a great place to visit to just hang out and relax with your favorite beverage after a long day at the parks.

hogwarts express universal orlando resort

Universal’s Aventura Hotel

Having previously stayed at the Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando, we were very familiar with the convenient benefits of staying at an on-site hotel while visiting Universal Studios and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. But there was something that really intrigued us about the opportunity of staying the Universal’s Aventura Hotel, the newest in the line of premier and prime value properties in Universal’s portfolio of accommodation options (the budget traveler may see benefits in staying at the two newest properties – Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn & Suites and Dockside Inn & Suites).

Let’s start with the hotel and why this is such an attractive place to stay, particularly for the tech folks out there that love “smart” technologies. Before we delve into the specifics of the interior of the hotel, let’s find out why we think Universal’s Aventura Hotel is in such a good location for visitors to Universal Orlando Resort.

Location

In terms of location, Universal’s Aventura Hotel is perhaps the best of all on-site hotels given that it is located directly off the I-4 Highway in Orlando and just a short drive to a myriad of other attractions across the city. However, the real benefit of Universal’s Aventura Hotel is that we don’t see any reason why you would need to leave either the property of Universal Orlando Resort in general because there is everything you would need on-site to enjoy a long weekend getaway.

If you head outside of the Universal’s Aventura Hotel around the back behind the outdoor pool, you are just a short walk from Universal’s Volcano Bay waterpark. This is the most conveniently located hotel for walking access to this park, so if heading to a waterpark on a searing hot Orlando summer day is your idea of fun, this is one reason immediately that Universal’s Aventura Hotel should be at the top of your wishlist.

For those of you looking to visit Universal Studios or Universal’s Islands of Adventure, there are a couple of options:

Shuttle Bus = Convenience – Hop on the Universal Shuttle Bus that will take you to Universal CityWalk and you are just a short walk to either park entrance. These shuttle buses depart from directly outside the lobby of the hotel every 10 minutes and the ride is short, comfortable and ideal for those looking to quickly reach the two theme parks.
Water Taxi = Scenery – Head across to the nearby Loews Sapphire Falls Resort and walk through the lobby before heading downstairs to board the complimentary Universal Studios water taxi. This docks at Universal CityWalk and offers a scenic journey along the waterway.
Walking = Active – If walking around the two theme parks and Universal CityWalk isn’t enough for you, visitors can enjoy the walk from Universal’s Aventura Hotel to the two parks along the banks of the waterway among a myriad of lush landscaping.

The Rooms

From the standard room to the Skyline View Kids Suites, Universal’s Aventura Hotel has a variety of options to satisfy every traveler. Whether you are looking to enjoy a romantic getaway or perhaps a fun-filled family weekend vacation, the collection of room choices available at Universal’s Aventura Hotel will ensure all your needs are satisfied. We stayed in a Skyline View room that offered spectacular panoramic views across the Universal Orlando Resort and the city of Orlando. The large glass windows make this the perfect space to enjoy the evening firework display at Universal Studios.

These epic views make this room choice one you should consider but it’s when you start looking at the in-room amenities that you quickly realize that Universal’s Aventura Hotel is the best hotel choice in the area, especially if you love your technology. An iPad is located on the bedside table and will control everything you need to enjoy your stay at Aventura.

From controlling the myriad of channels on the TV to ensuring you have the perfect in-room temperature and light settings, this epitomizes everything there is to love about a “smart” room. For those of that are like us and have ideas of converting your home into a “smart house”, this room gives you a brief insight into just how cool it can be.

Grab the iPad to order from the “in-room” dining service menu, while you can also research a myriad of resources to give you full, in-depth details of everything you need to know about Universal Orlando Resort. You may be forgiven for being so indulged in advanced technology but you will have no problem falling asleep on the incredibly comfortable beds to ensure your stay is the epitome of ultimate relaxation. The bathroom is inviting with a walk-in shower offering a spacious area to relax after a long day at the park, while those opting for a suite will enjoy a separate living area, ideal to wind down while the kids catch some sleep.

Everything about the room and design reflects the overall modern feel of the hotel. The lamps, vanity and desk are all “ultra modern” yet at the same time are functional and allow all the family to enjoy the benefits of the in-room experience.

Outdoor Amenities

Guests at Universal’s Aventura Hotel can enjoy a variety of outdoor, on-site amenities. A relatively large outdoor pool area is undoubtedly a popular spot all year round but it’s the convenience of having an outdoor pool bar with Bar Sol just a short walk from your chosen lounger.

universal's aventura hotel bar 17 bistro

In the evenings, you can enjoy your favorite aperitif from Bar Sol while relaxing by the fire pit. For those of you looking to enjoy a little outdoor fun and games, head over to the outdoor game area to experience a pool table, table-tennis table, corn hole game and even an ice-hockey equivalent to Foosball!

As you walk around the outdoor area, you cannot help but notice the gorgeous Orlando foliage that is intertwined with the modern architectural design of the pool area and hotel. Just to reiterate, in terms of outdoor pools typically associated with resorts, this isn’t the largest and if you are wanting the ultimate pool experience, the nearby Loews Sapphire Falls Resort may be a better option given that the pool there is much larger with a waterslide and other features.

With plenty of seating around the perimeter and inside the pool area, this is the perfect spot to grab your morning Starbucks and head outside to enjoy the morning sun while planning your day experiencing the very best of Universal Orlando Resort.

The outdoor space by the pool may be a great spot for all the family but if you are ready to relax with your favorite beverage with a little solitude and breathtaking panoramic views of the city, head to the 17th floor and visit Bar 17 Bistro. With a plethora of outdoor seating available and a wide bar menu to choose from, this is undoubtedly the best place to enjoy a sunset accompanying a delicious cocktail (or two).

Indoor Amenities

Universal’s Aventura Hotel offers a collection of indoor amenities including a gym on the second floor full of every piece of equipment you would need to get extra exercise before or after a long day at the theme parks. One of the more unique on-site amenities that can also be found on the second floor is a state of the art virtual reality theater which includes “pay to play” games with the included VR headsets. This certainly continues the theme of the Aventura Hotel being an “ultra modern” accommodation option and will likely be a firm favorite among youngsters in your party.

On the ground level, you can head inside the Universal Orlando Resort souvenir shop to pick up any last minute items that you may have forgotten inside the park. The prices are the same so don’t worry that you may be paying a premium for items purchased here. In addition, guests staying at this property can head to the Universal desk close to the check-in counter to pick up any pre-ordered passes to facilitate ease of access to the parks.

On-Site Dining Options

Whether you are contemplating room service or simply want to enjoy the atmosphere inside Aventura’s on-site restaurants, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to cuisine options offered inside the hotel. As you pass through the lobby area, you are greeted by a full-size Starbucks where you can indulge in your favorite espresso beverage along with your chosen breakfast item.

For those looking for something with a little more substance, keep walking past Starbucks and you will enter what appears to be a “food court” within the hotel. This is one of the unique characteristics of the hotel as the Urban Pantry offers a collection of counters offering a myriad of cuisine options from across the globe.

A burger station is available with “grab and go” options like burgers, fries and other typical fast food items. If you have a little more time to enjoy the creative menu options available, consider the area for sushi, poke and noodles, a real oriental collection that has something for everyone that loves Asian cuisine. The noodle bar is another unique aspect as you can enjoy your selection of noodles, vegetables and protein for only $15.

In the morning, the sushi bar is converted into a breakfast parfait bar where you can enjoy a parfait bowl with your choice of yogurt, fruit and granola – a great option if you are looking for the healthier menu choices at Universal’s Aventura Hotel. Don’t worry, if you are looking for the typical breakfast items, you can head to the next area to indulge in waffles, eggs, bacon, sausage, ham and biscuits. Sweet treats are available at the gelato station while more savory options can be purchased from the area offering pizza, macaroni and cheese and many other menu items.

The beauty of the Urban Pantry is that there is something for everyone, ranging from the quick and easy options to the fine dining options where you can enjoy a delicious meal while overlooking the pool area which illuminates with the ambient lighting throughout the evening.

24 Hours at Universal Studios Florida

24 hours at any theme park around the world is a challenging experience if you want to enjoy the best attractions around the park and Universal Studios Florida is certainly no different. However, with careful planning and a willingness to explore, visitors to this park can enjoy a myriad of amazing experiences inside this infamous theme park. While The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is one of the iconic attractions in both this park and nearby Universal’s Islands of Adventure, there are plenty of other aspects of this park that will likely spark memories of both your childhood and present day favorite movie encounters.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Before indulging in the various areas that you can experience around Universal Studios Florida, let’s start at the heart of the park where many visitors flock every day – Diagon Alley! That’s right, the infamous alley alongside King’s Cross Station can be found in this area of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Visitors can enjoy everything from Gringotts Money Exchange to unique merchandise stores where you can find your favorite Wizarding wand and Potter attire. If you are ready to sample stereotypical British (or Harry Potter dependent on how you associate this food) cuisine, head inside the wonderful Leaky Cauldron to enjoy Shepherd’s Pie, Fish & Chips or perhaps Scotch Eggs.

As you walk around the hidden alleys around Diagon Alley, don’t forget to visit Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlor to indulge in a sweet treat or the pièce de résistance in both parks…a frozen Butterbeer! You could easily spend several hours inside this part of Universal Studios Florida but there are plenty of other attractions worth visiting before you head back to this location to visit platform 9 3/4 to head across to Hogsmeade from King’s Cross Station.

king's cross station universal studios florida

Explore Themed Sections

Universal Studios Florida is divided into sections representing geographical movie/TV themed locations – for example, New York is home to the Racing Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon while San Francisco is where the Fast & Furious ride and Chez Alcatraz restaurant can be found. One of the most spectacular areas in terms of design is Springfield, home of Bart and Homer Simpson. This area has everything from Duff Brewery to Moe’s Tavern and a collection of other Simpson’s inspired architecture.

If you are looking for a little thrill-seeking adventure, some of the best rides at Universal Studios Florida include Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, located inside Production Central, Fear Factor Live in World Expo and of course, Fast & Furious – Supercharged in the San Francisco area. Whether you are an avid theme park visitor that loves to sample the best rides or simply want to enjoy the food and atmosphere throughout this park, you cannot help but fall in love with everything at Universal Studios Florida.

King’s Cross Station

Once you are satisfied that you have explored and experienced everything there is to do here, head back to King’s Cross Station and make your way to Platform 9 3/4. Don’t forget to get a picture (or video) passing through the “wall” before boarding the Hogwart’s Express that will lead you with fellow Potterheads to Hogsmeade Station.

Dependent on your schedule, you may want to save exploring Universal’s Islands of Adventure for another day, so feel free to take the next train back to King’s Cross Station, so you can experience the journey in both directions.

Universal Music Plaza Stage

If you visit Universal Studios Florida during Mardi Gras season, you may be fortunate to utilize your ticket later in the evening to return to the park and watch a FREE concert. We thoroughly enjoyed watching TLC perform some of their iconic hits on the Universal Music Plaza Stage.

24 Hours at Universal’s Islands of Adventure

If you thought your first day at Universal Orlando Resort was packed full of adventure, you are in for a real treat when you head over to Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Ultimately it’s going to be dependent on what movies and themes you are more interested in that will determine which park you prefer but in our opinion, Universal have done an amazing job at creating something for everyone in both parks.

Exploring Hogsmeade Village

Obviously The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is another focal point with the village of Hogsmeade playing a pivotal role in attracting visitors from all corners of the globe. The towering Hogwarts Castle is an impressive sight but it’s the experiences in the village that will likely make you want to spend several hours enjoying everything a typical Potterhead would want to sample.

Head over to the Three Broomsticks for another iconic dining experience while you will likely want to purchase a Chocolate Frog or other souvenir before heading on to explore other parts of this park. For those of you that simply cannot get enough of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, finish your adventure here by riding either Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure or Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey Castle that will lead you through Hogwarts Castle.

universal's islands of adventure hogsmeade

Jurassic Park, Toon Lagoon and More

After passing through Hogsmeade, enter the world of dinosaurs in Jurassic Park. If you have seen any of the Jurassic Park movies, you will immediately recognize many of the locations here but always be aware of your surroundings as you never know when a Raptor or T-Rex may hop out and surprise you! Jurassic Park River Adventure is perhaps the iconic ride in this location as one minute you are floating along admiring the landscape and then suddenly a T-Rex appears and you only have one choice…to take the 85-foot plunge down the slide. Be prepared to get a real soaking but it’s all part of the fun!

Universal’s Islands of Adventure is separated into a variety of areas focused on providing entertainment for all ages. From Seuss Landing which will amuse the youngsters to the super heroes in Marvel Super Hero Islands, there is something for everyone.

Summary

A weekend getaway at Universal Orlando Resort is the perfect way to relax and bring back a myriad of childhood memories as you experience a collection of awesome rides and encounters. Staying at Universal’s Aventura Hotel is perhaps the ideal spot to embrace the “future” of travel as more hotels will likely start adopting the high-tech luxury amenities that can be found throughout the resort. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and cannot wait to return in the near future.

Visitors to Universal Orlando Resort can not only enjoy an amazing hotel experience, two awesome theme parks and Volcano Bay water park, they can also enjoy the amazing downtown Universal environment – CityWalk, renowned as the “Epicenter of Awesome”. Enjoy a donut from Voodoo Donuts while walking around and checking out the plethora of restaurants, a movie theater and a promenade that lines the waterway that takes you back to several of the on-site hotels.

If you have yet to visit Universal Orlando Resort, what are you waiting for? Excitement awaits and you will be spoiled for choice with things to keep you occupied throughout the duration of your stay!

Best Day Trips in Florida – Enjoy Epic 24 Hour Experiences

Florida

Chris Boothman

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May 18, 2020

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Best Day Trips in Florida – Enjoy Epic 24 Hour Experiences

One of the best ways to explore a variety of new destinations during a vacation is to experience a collection of awesome day trips. We have always loved finding a base location and then incorporating several day trips into our trip. Exploring many of the larger US states using day trips is a challenging experience but one of the best states that you can certainly achieve this is Florida. As we explore the best day trips in Florida with some of the most knowledgeable experts in the travel business, we hope that you are inspired to pay a visit to the Sunshine state and perhaps experience a plethora of these destinations.

Whether you prefer outdoor adventure or exploring urban expansion, Florida is home to a collection of destinations that will surely satisfy every type of traveler. From the pristine sandy beaches along the Gulf coast to the historic city of St. Augustine on the East coast, Florida is undoubtedly one of the most diverse states in terms of culture, landscape and attractions.

Let’s take a look at some of the best destinations that are worthy of day trips across the state. Whether you are based in the “origin” of the following recommendations or perhaps want to explore from further afield, you are certainly spoiled for choice when it comes to diverse variety.

Best Day Trips in Florida

From Miami to Key West, Orlando to Tampa and many more, Florida is home to a collection of destinations that create the perfect base to experience a myriad of amazing day trips. Here are some of the best day trips that we are going to cover throughout this post, thanks to our amazing travel blogging friends from across the globe that share their experiences and expertise on different parts of the Sunshine state.

Fort Myers to Sanibel Island
Jacksonville to St. Augustine
Key West to Dry Tortugas National Park
Miami to Everglades National Park
Miami to Key West
Naples to Big Cypress National Preserve
Naples to Captiva Island
Naples to Marco Island
Naples to Port of the Islands
Orlando to Gainesville
Orlando to Kennedy Space Center
Orlando to St. Petersburg
Palm Beach to Miami
Panama City Beach to Destin
Southwest Florida to Matlacha
St. Petersburg to Homosassa Springs
Tallahassee to Panama City Beach

While you may be tempted to head straight to the home of the mouse and experience Disney World in one day, we encourage you to consider one (or more) of the following day trip recommendations – we don’t think you will be disappointed.

Fort Myers to Sanibel Island

The beautiful Fort Myers area is the perfect place to take a break from commercial Florida and get back to nature. Be sure to take a trip west, over the causeway, and explore Sanibel Island in One Day.

The focus on Sanibel Island is wilderness and wildlife. Development has been limited since the 1970’s allowing nature to thrive. The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is the largest wildlife refuge on the island. Here you’ll discover wetlands and mangroves, ideal for bird-watching.

Sanibel Island is the perfect place to park the car and get active. Recreation options are plentiful. Biking around Sanibel is easy with dedicated bike lanes and multi-use paths as well. It’s easy to cover many sites on the island just by pedaling. Fishing and kayaking also let you enjoy the natural beauty of Sanibel up close.

Sanibel has many beaches to relax on. But there’s more here. Sanibel is famous for Shelling. Join in the fun and search for unique color and shapes of shells that are constantly deposited on the sand. Take the family and visit the Shell Museum and the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village.

End your day trip to Sanibel with a stunning sunset at Bowman’s Beach.

Thanks to Andy Vanr from Avrex Travel for sharing a convenient day trip from Fort Myers to explore the gorgeous, untouched wilderness at Sanibel Island. In only 30 minutes, you can be away from life in Fort Myers to enjoy the relaxing solitude of Sanibel Island.

Jacksonville to St. Augustine

Taking a day trip to St. Augustine from Jacksonville is one of the most unique Florida day trips and an absolute must if you’re in the area. St. Augustine, having been founded in 1565 and continuously inhabited ever since, is known as the “oldest city” in the United States. St. Augustine is also technically a part of Jacksonville so the short, 45-minute drive from point to point should be no sweat.

While in St. Augustine you can check out such beautiful and historic sites as Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the U.S., take a memorable tour of Flagler College, shop on the country’s oldest street, drink from the Fountain of Youth, ride a trolley around town and stop at each of the many important landmarks, and so much more.

The city is also home to many delicious, locally-owned restaurants, beautiful green spaces, an unbelievable amount of history, and even a publicly accessible lighthouse. The St. Augustine Lighthouse played a significant role in World War II and will be a highlight of your day trip to St. Augustine. Climb the 219 steps of the St. Augustine Lighthouse for amazing 360° views of the city and the coast, spend some time in the maritime museum, and grab a snack in the WWII-themed on-site cantina.

Thanks to Ashley Smith from My Wanderlusty Life for highlighting why the historic city of St. Augustine is one of the best places to enjoy a day trip in Florida.

Key West to Dry Tortugas National Park

One of the most significant cities in Florida is Key West, the southern-most city in the continental United States. But do you know that there is another site, 80 miles southwest of Key West, where you can visit one of the most pristine islands in the State of Florida?

Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most remote National Parks sites. In fact, it is so remote and quite expensive to get here that most people opt to skip it. But for those who are interested, a day trip to Dry Tortugas is one of the must thing to do from Key West.

There are only two common ways to get to Dry Tortugas National Park. Fly with a seaplane costs around $356-625 roundtrip, or the most popular one with a Yankee Freedom III ferry for $180. Both will require you at least half a day to do.

Because of its remote location, you can expect to find a pristine landscape that offers an adventure of a lifetime. You can join the guided tour of historical Fort Jefferson, or simply enjoy swimming or snorkeling in the white-sand beach with crystal-clear, blue water.

You can also arrange a kayaking tour if you bring your own kayaks on the ferry, as well as camping on this pristine land.

Thanks to Halef and Michael from The Round The World Guys for highlighting why one of America’s remote national parks is well worthy of a day trip from Key West.

Miami to Everglades National Park

This day trip’s drive is about 40 miles west of the city and takes about an hour with traffic. If you don’t have access to a car, there isn’t an easy public transport option but there are private tour agencies running this route.

Just a touch past the visitor center, make sure to stop in to the Miccosukee Indian Village, where you can learn more about the Miccosukee Tribe’s culture in both the present and past. They have a cafe for lunch, lots of real-time demonstrations with artisans and alligator handlers, and nearby airboat rides to get on the water (there are no airboat rides inside the park’s boundaries).

Start out at the Shark Valley Visitor Center, arguably the most popular hub of the Everglades National Park. There are a few small exhibits to explore before you set out on the paved, 15 mile path that leads to a tall observation tower with 360 degree views of the park.

You can rent bicycles or walk if you’d like to DIY but they also have naturalist-led tram rides that will stop to point out animals. Alligators are common along with countless colorful birds, snakes, and turtles. If you’re visited the Everglades with kids, be sure to do the junior ranger program as well.

Thanks to Stephanie Woodson from Explore More Clean Less for sharing why Everglades National Park is well worthy of visiting for a day trip from Miami.

Miami to Key West

If you are looking for a fantastic day trip to do, consider doing a day trip from Miami to Key West and back. You can do this as a long day trip or break it up into different islands along the way to Key West and back, but definitely doable as a nice day trip exploring the Florida Keys.

Once you get past the main highway from Miami and headed out to the first island at Key Largo, the roadway changes from multiple lanes so a slower two lane expressway with low and long roads that cross over the flat water almost giving that vibe that you are floating on water. There are so many cool places to discover on your Miami to Key West road trip starting with Key Largo, one of the largest islands including a visit to John Pennekamp coral reef, easy days on the beach or a nice enjoyable meal on the water on the island.

You continue on to scenic stops to Islamorada, Marathon Keys and the various keys along the way with gorgeous water views, dazzling beaches and sunny skies. A lovely stop at Bahia Honda State park is a great place to enjoy more beach time, some water activity or just lazing on the beach.

Once you head into Key West, the mood changes into more a historic and cool vibe with palm trees, cool Florida plantation style architecture and the historic district oozing with pedestrian venues, quirky shops and galleries, restaurants and some stunning sunsets that really takes your breath away. An overnight stay would be ideal but a day trip exploring the islands and beautiful waters of the keys is also a fun thing to do from Miami.

Thanks to Noel Morata from Travel Photo Discovery for sharing one of the more adventurous day trip options in Florida – it’s feasible but as Noel indicates, definitely worth considering as an overnight option. However, for those of you that love to explore as much as possible in only one day, the trip to Key West is definitely a challenge to see how much you can experience.

Naples to Big Cypress National Preserve

Naples, Florida is the perfect gateway city if you want to visit Big Cypress National Preserve without staying in the sleepy town of Everglades City. It’s just over an hour’s drive to the Big Cypress Welcome Center from Naples.

Most people probably don’t even know Big Cypress exists, but it’s a great Everglades National Park alternative with a lot fewer people and just as many gators. Make sure you do all of the little boardwalks in the park and visit Clyde Butcher’s gallery. If you want to do something a little more adventurous, sign up for a paddling tour with rangers.

Another great activity is visiting the Fakahatchee Strand State Park Preserve. On your way in to Big Cypress from Naples will be a nice boardwalk that is easy and under two miles. And if you want an even more unique experience, hike out to the Fakahatcheee Hilton. A little shack in the swamp with a pond full of gators out back. This is also 1-1.5 hours from Naples. It’s an easy hike and worth it if you love wildlife. Either way, the Big Cypress area is a great way to get away from the bustling city.

Thanks to Megan Johnson from Red Around World for sharing why the inherent beauty of Big Cypress National Preserve is worth visiting on a day trip from Naples.

Naples to Captiva Island

One of the best day trips you can take from Naples is to Captiva Island. Located 60 miles north of the city, this beachy getaway is the perfect antidote to city living. Captiva Island is the smaller sister to the larger Sanibel Island, located just over Turner Bridge.

Once upon a time, pirates sailed the waters near here followed later by the conquistadors. It’s also where the Calusa Indians once called home. These days, the island is famous for its brilliant sandy beaches, its beautiful shells and its spellbinding sunrises and sunsets.

Although the beach is the main draw, there are lots of other things to do in Captiva Island as well. Once you’ve had a swim, head to the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum. The museum was started in 1984 by a local shell collector and is today the only museum in the US devoted to entirely to shells and mollusks.

Next up should be a tour of the island, Florida style, on a golf cart. You can rent one from YoLo. Other fun things to do paddle-boarding, listening to live music at the Mucky Duck pub and eating delicious local Floridian food. Captiva Island really is a great day trip from Naples but you’ll enjoy yourself so much, you’ll probably want to stay longer.

Thanks to Katja Gaskell for sharing a few reasons why Captiva Island should be considered one of Florida’s hidden gems given that it frequently lies in the shadow of the larger, nearby Sanibel Island.

Naples to Marco Island

The Gulf Coast of Florida has many great beaches and day trip opportunities. One of my favorite ones is Naples to Marco Island. The drive time is only 25 minutes between the two and while Naples has more of a downtown vibe and is a much bigger town, Marco Island has more of a quaint little beach town feel.

While in Naples, be sure to check out 5th Avenue South for upscale shopping and dining or take one of the many eco-tours to go kayaking, dolphin watching, or boating around the islands in the area. Naples Pier is a nice place to drop a line and catch a fish, go for a walk on the boardwalk, or watch the sunset. There are also world-class golf courses and a small zoo as well.

On the drive south to Marco Island (taking Highway 41), you could stop in at Naples Botanical Gardens or see one of the largest mangrove swamps in the world at Collier Seminole State Park. Exit Highway 41 at Collier, and after crossing a bridge to get to the island, you will quickly notice the tranquil vibe of Marco Island. There are a couple of public beaches on the island with ample parking for guests.

The water here is usually warm and calm, and many private companies offer watersport rentals or dolphin watching cruises. Near sunset, there are always people watching from their balconies or walking the beach. You will often witness sea turtles nesting on the beach in the summer, which is pretty special.

If you are looking for more “hustle and bustle”, walkable downtown, golf courses and nightlife, then Naples is a great place in Florida to spend some time. Marco Island offers a more affordable and quiet alternative a quick drive away.

Thanks to Margie DQ from DQ Family Travel for sharing several reasons why both Naples and Marco Island are great day trip options in Florida.

Naples to Port of the Islands

A Florida Gulf Coast road trip is one of the best you can take in the state. This Florida day trip takes you from Naples to Port of the Islands to see manatees in the wild. Before hitting the road, spend some time exploring Naples. Get away from the tourists and snowbirds at Clam Pass Park. Hike the boardwalk through the mangroves keeping an eye out for majestic osprey.

The drive from Naples to Port of the Islands takes about 40 minutes. Book a 90 minute boat tour with Manatees Guaranteed ($59 USD per person). Idle gently along the river between Port of the Islands Marina and Fakahatchee Pass using polarizing sunglasses provided by the tour operator to make it easier to spot the manatees.

You’ll find that manatees are very curious and may stick their noses out of the water very close to the boat. We saw at least 5 manatees on our short cruise and they were all quite playful. If you see a series of circles in the water, that’s a manatee’s “footprint”.

Finish this Florida day trip with an “Old Florida” experience in Everglades City. Stop at The Rod and Gun Club to get a taste of Old Florida atmosphere including plenty of dark wood panels and taxidermy. Experience the Victorian sitting rooms, general store, and grab a bite to eat before you return to Naples.

Thanks to Jennifer from Sidewalk Safari for highlighting why we should all be considering Port of the Islands as an epic road trip destination in Florida – who wouldn’t want to see those amazing manatees?

Orlando to Gainesville

One of the best Florida day trips is from Orlando to Gainesville. Everyone knows Orlando has great theme parks and shopping. Less than two hours away in Gainesville, however, visitors to Central Florida can experience nature, culture, and amazing food.

There are a lot of things to do in Gainesville, for adults and kids alike. Home to the University of Florida, Gainesville has world class museums, including the Florida Museum of Natural History that has daily butterfly releases. There are also beautiful parks and gardens, with both paved and unpaved trails. Our favorite is Kanapaha Botanical Gardens which has the largest public display of bamboo in Florida.

Of course, we can’t forget to mention the food in Gainesville. It’s a college town, so there is a large variety of restaurants. From pizza to Southern comfort, Gainesville has something for every kind of foodie.

The fastest and easiest way to get to Gainesville from Orlando is on the Florida Turnpike and I-75. Please note that the Turnpike is a tolled highway. If you’re in a rental, make sure to get a SunPass for your car; it’s the easiest way to pay.

Thanks to Vicky from Buddy the Traveling Monkey for highlighting one of Florida’s lesser known cities, Gainesville and why this deserves to be on everyone’s radar for at least a day trip.

Orlando to Kennedy Space Center

Sure, your kids can meet Buzz Lightyear in Orlando. But, one hour’s drive away at the Kennedy Space Center, they can meet a real astronaut, see a space shuttle and maybe experience a rocket launch!

The drive to Kennedy is a well-travelled route from Orlando and an easy day’s return journey. You may find it hard to cram in everything so have a look beforehand and prioritize your time. The website has an interactive itinerary planner and you can buy tickets in advance online.

On base, key attractions include a tour of the Apollo and Saturn V missions, the Astronauts’ hall of fame, IMAX cinema and Rocket garden. An epic highlight is the Atlantis Space Shuttle experience. This fascinating exhibition has 60 interactive exhibits and a Shuttle Launch Experience ride – one of the best things we did on our visit to Florida.

Just as exciting, every day a real life astronaut gives a talk about their time in Space and there’s an opportunity to ask questions and take photos. Inspirational for budding young space travelers and armchair astronauts alike!

For an insight into a world of science, adventure, courage and intrepid travel, the Kennedy Space Center is a day out like no other – not to be missed on your Florida vacation.

Thanks to Jo from Where Jo Goes for highlighting one of Florida’s iconic attractions and definitely one that is worth paying a visit to during a day trip from Orlando (or surrounding cities). Check out our experience on a Kennedy Space Center bus tour to find out why we 100% agree with Jo’s comments.

Orlando to St. Petersburg

Less than 2 hours away by car, St. Petersburg makes the perfect day trip from Orlando. Arrive in St. Petersburg hungry. Stop into Bandit or the Bikery for some coffee, Trip’s Diner for breakfast, pizza at Cappy’s, a juicy burger at El Cap, fresh Mexican at Casita Taqueria, or some vegan fare at Cider Press Cafe.

After brunch, enjoy St. Petersburg’s natural attractions. Explore Weedon Island by renting paddle-boards, canoes, or kayaks at Sweetwater Kayaks. For a more private experience, travel to Shell Island Key Preserve with Coastal Kayak charters. Other options include windsurfing with North Beach Windsurfing, or jet skiing at the famous pink Don Cesar Hotel.

If relaxing is more your style, head to St. Petersburg Beach and enjoy some time with your toes in the sand, looking out onto the crystal blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Or, take a pontoon boat out on a sunset cruise of St. Pete Beach with Island Ferry St. Pete Beach.

In the late afternoon or early evening, walk down Central Avenue and do some shopping or just admire the street art and make your way to Bayshore Drive. Enjoy fantastic views of the bay, stop in to visit the Dali museum, admire the Vinoy Hotel, or take a drive to Sunken Gardens. Drive or walk a bit further north to Vinoy Park, admiring the architecture of St. Pete’s millionaire row.

End your night with some great seafood at either The Oyster Bar or 4th Street Shrimp Store, and a trip to a great brewery like Green Bench or St. Petersburg Brewing Company.

Thanks to Kelly Johnson from Snap Travel Magic for sharing why St. Petersburg is the perfect day trip destination on the west coast of Florida from Orlando.

Palm Beach to Miami

Beautiful beaches, world class shopping, great museums and tasty dining experiences. Yes, Palm Beach is a worthy destination, but sometimes the bright lights and big city call your name. A day trip to Miami from the Palm Beaches previously involve some notorious traffic and what could be up to a 3 hour transit. No more! Say hello to the Brightline.

Florida’s sparkling new train system can whisk travelers away for a quick one hour trip to the Magic City where a full day of sightseeing awaits. The enjoyable trip on the bright yellow transit system arrives in a convenient downtown location for easy transfer to all the city has to offer.

The morning can be spent posing for Instagram worthy snaps in front of myriad of street art in Wynwood. Stop for a bite in one of the many area cafes and then venture on to Ocean Avenue and a bit of fun in the sun in South Beach.

Make sure to save some time and your appetite for a walking tour in Miami’s Little Havana. Visiting family-owned restaurants and getting a behind the scene look at the food scene will afford great insight into the Cuban community. Don’t leave without admiring the tradition of a hand-rolled Cubano and listening to traditional music. Trains run frequently for your return trip, with additional stops in Ft. Lauderdale and plans for Orlando in the not too distant future.

Thanks to Alison Abbott from Green With Renvy for highlighting why Miami is now a perfect day trip destination from Palm Beach (or other nearby locations) thanks to the awesome Brightline train system.

Panama City Beach to Destin

One of the most common questions for visitors to the Florida Panhandle is, should you go to Destin or Panama City Beach? They are both great options.

Panama City Beach, with the natural beauty of Shell Island and all the dolphins in St Andrews Bay, is absolutely stunning. It’s known as ‘the Shipwreck Capital of the South’ because of all the Panama City Beach dive sites. Destin is known for its fishing and world-class white sand beaches of Okaloosa Island and deep-sea fishing. Why not do both and connect them by one of the best day trips in Florida along scenic Highway 30A?

It’s only fifty miles from Panama City Beach to Destin, but you can spend all day enjoying the sights along the way. As soon as you leave PCB, you reach Camp Helen State Park. The park is home to one of the most Instagrammable spots on the Panhandle, the ruins of an old pier on the beach.

A little farther up the road, you reach the idyllic town of Seaside. The town square looks like it’s straight from a 50’s tv show. Between the delicious restaurants and innovative food trucks, you can’t beat lunch at Seaside. Highway 30A rejoins US 98 at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. This park features some of the most beautiful beaches and secluded sand dunes in Florida.

Snorkelers will love the aptly named Seahorse Reef at Topsail Hill Reserve. After rejoining US 98, you’re on the outskirts of Destin. Soon, you’ll see all the attractions like Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park that sprang up when Destin became the ‘World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,’ but you’ll have the memories of the Highway 30A trip to remind you of the natural beauty of the Panhandle before all the tourists came.

Thanks to Jenn and Ed Coleman from Coleman Concierge for sharing some of the highlight attractions along Florida’s Panhandle coast.

Southwest Florida to Matlacha

There’s a small spit of land off the coast of southwest Florida that’s as colorful as can be, and a must-visit day trip from just about anywhere from Sarasota to Marco Island.

If you blink, you just might miss the tiny artsy town of Matlacha, Florida (mat-la-SHAY), since parking is limited and only a two-lane road runs through it. You won’t find chain stores, restaurants, or parking garages here — only locally owned places to support. The small island located between North Cape Coral and Pine Island is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts, anglers, and art-lovers alike, surrounded by water and some of the best fishing, boating, and paddling in all of SWFL.

But it’s the colorful art galleries you’ll notice when you arrive. Just pull off the main road and park yourself for the day. Stroll over the “Fishingest Bridge in the World” to and from galleries and shops filled with antique treasures, island clothing, and the signature funky artwork the town is known for.

When you get hungry, the freshest seafood awaits you at local joints like The Blue Dog Cafe and Bert’s — fresh Red Snapper sandwiches, Gulf Coast shrimp, and mouthwatering fish tacos. Come for the day by car or boat, and discover this undiscovered southwest Florida gem!

Thanks to Lori Sorrentino from Travlinmad for highlighting why the vibrant, artsy town of Matlacha is a perfect spot to visit from anywhere in the Southwest region of Florida.

St. Petersburg to Homosassa Springs

If you are looking for a relaxing and sunny place, St Petersburg will be perfect for you! Located on the west coast of Florida, it’s home to some of the best beaches in Florida, a lively downtown, many museums and beautiful state parks. There are many things to do in St Pete and plenty of day trip options!

One of them is going to Homosassa Springs! Generally overlooked compared to Crystal River, Homosassa Springs are a way better option if you want somewhere away from the crowds. This State park offers beautiful springs and is home to many manatees!

It will take you about 1 hour and half to get there. Once you do, head to the visitor centre. There is an admission fee of $13. From there, you will go on a mini cruise on the springs and the Homosassa River, all the way across to the wildlife park.

The best time of the year to visit is in winter (January to March). At this time, the springs are warmer than the sea and that’s why you will find many manatees. If you love outdoor activities, Homosassa will be your paradise. It’s the perfect place to go kayaking and snorkeling!

You can easily spend the entire day at Homosassa. However, if you want to add another activity to the list, you can stop at Weeki Wachee on the way. You can watch one of the mermaid shows there.

Thanks to Pauline from BeeLoved City for sharing one of Florida’s lesser known destinations but certainly one that should be on everyone’s radar during a future trip to the Sunshine state.

Tallahassee to Panama City Beach

When in the state of Florida and looking for the best day trip ideas, you may want to do something a little different. We started our day trip in Tallahassee the capital of Florida and from there, rented out a car to be able to drive over to Panama City Beach.

Depending on how much time you have you can also take a Greyhound bus to get to Panama City for as little as $20. This Seaside town makes a perfect getaway for those looking for something different, however, it all depends on what time of year you visit as the atmosphere changes drastically.

During the winter months, the town is completely abandoned but during the summer everything comes back to life. With Panama City Beach being the main attraction, you may want to plan your trip for the spring/summertime. However, be sure to book any accommodation well in advance.

We arrived during the month of June and aside from some lazy days sprawling on the white sands of Panama City Beach, one of our favorite things to do was to explore the WonderWorks. The bizarre upside-down building grabbed our attention as soon as we arrive in the town. We did feel the entry fee was a little overpriced, but in hindsight, we had a whale of a time spending a few hours playing inside on our last day.

All in all, a trip to Panama City from Tallahassee is well worth your precious time.

Thanks to Daniel James from Layer Culture for highlighting one of the best day trip options along Florida’s Panhandle coast.

Summary

Florida is inundated with amazing day trip destinations and is certainly one of the best states across the US for plotting our various day trip itineraries during a visit to the Sunshine state. We would like to reiterate our appreciation to our amazing travel experts for sharing their in depth knowledge of Florida, ranging from the Panhandle to Key West and beyond. Please feel free to share other day trip Florida destinations in the comments below as we look to compile a collection of the best spots across the state to enjoy an epic visit.

How to Plan an Affordable Weekend Trip in 5 Easy Steps

Travel Tips

Chris Boothman

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May 11, 2020

6

How to Plan an Affordable Weekend Trip in 5 Easy Steps

How do you travel so much? How do you afford to explore as much of the world as you do? Why can I never find cheap flight deals or understand how to take a weekend road trip? We have lost count the number of time we are asked these questions regarding how we are able to travel the world and so we felt it was time to start sharing some of our secrets and hopefully help you figure out the “how to” when it comes to planning a weekend getaway. If you want to plan a weekend trip, you need to be prepared and plan accordingly. Let’s take a look at a few ways in which we are able to accomplish so much and yet still maintain our regular 8-5 jobs.

Whether you are an avid traveler or simply looking to find some time to take your next weekend vacation, travel planning is critical in order to create an experience that you will not only enjoy but will also be affordable. When you achieve both of these components, that will have a knock-on effect that allows you to plan more trips in the future…it’s a bit like the old domino effect that we always hear about. But it’s so true and we can 100% attest to this philosophy after 10+ years of experience traveling the world.

Planning a Weekend Trip

We have decided to share our 5 easy steps to planning (and subsequently booking) the perfect, affordable (yes, that’s critical!) weekend getaway. Follow these 5 core principles and you can start planning the moment you finish reading this article! Let’s take a look at our insider tips to creating the perfect weekend getaway itinerary.

Location, Location, Location
Planes, Trains and Automobiles
From Hostels to 5-Star Luxury
24 Hour Challenge
Spontaneity Always Wins

Don’t worry, we are going to break each of the above categories down so you get a better idea of what we are referencing with each of these. But we are really confident that if you follow these strategies, you will ready and raring to book a trip in the near future.

Remember, our focus here is to create an AFFORDABLE experience and so this is always going to be subjective as every budget is different. We are basing our recommendations on an average lifestyle, one that we consider ourselves to be part of as we very rarely stay in 5-star luxury resorts or fly first-class.

Location, Location, Location

It may be rather cliché but let’s be honest folks, the number one component of planning any trip, regardless of the length of time, is the desirability of the location. You could argue that this is less important when planning a weekend getaway given that the length of time is shorter and if you hate the destination, well you will be back home sooner rather than later. But actually, we would argue the exact opposite. If you choose the perfect destination, you will be inspired to either go back again or in the very least, have a strong desire to keep exploring! And that’s what traveling the world one weekend at a time is all about…the desire to keep going!

So how you find the perfect destination? Well, there are a myriad of tactics here and ultimately it’s going to be down to personal preference. Let’s start by thinking about locations that are convenient to your home town. What do we mean by convenient? Realistically, if you are planning a road trip (don’t worry, we will come back to this a little later), you are not going to want to drive more than 4-6 hours for a weekend getaway. For the experienced (or should I say “daring and adventurous”) travelers out there, you could probably push this to 8 hours but for the beginners, let’s start with a gentle road trip destination.

Dependent on where you live is going to determine the feasibility of finding a reasonable location within this vicinity. Once you have a list, consider adding a few “dream” destinations to this but again staying within the realms of reality by focusing on your home country (if you live in Europe, you can extend this to neighboring countries for sure!). By now, the excitement and adrenalin should be pumping through your veins because you will soon be ready to start hitting up your favorite travel blogs (hint, hint), drooling over your favorite Instagram and Pinterest images and searching Google to your hearts content.

For your first trip, let’s go with three road trip destinations and three “potentially realistic” dream destinations. Now it’s time to take these locations and head to phase two of this preparation – aptly named…Planes, Trains and Automobiles!

Planes, Trains and Automobiles

After deciding upon a possible destination for your weekend getaway, it’s time to start look at numbers and considering just how realistic this trip is going to be. Again, the reality of this decision is going to be very much dependent on your personal budget and how much you determine to be “realistic” to spend on a weekend getaway. If we start by looking at flights, if you are leaving on a Friday and returning Sunday evening, you are probably not going to want to spend more than $200 per person – that immediately is going to restrict the number of available destinations (for the Europeans reading this, you have quite a few more options due to the plethora of low-cost airlines) but it’s still possible.

Our #1 tip is to utilize Google Flights. Similar to other travel metasearch engines such as Skyscanner, we think that Google Flights is the best one out there, notably because of the really cool map feature where you can enter your home city, enter your chosen dates and then browse around other destinations and their updated prices. A word of caution here, some airlines do not participate on here such as Southwest Airlines so if you know your airport is a hub for a certain airline and you don’t see it on the results, consider visiting their direct website before proceeding further.

Flights are not the only way to take a weekend getaway. Of course, those dream destinations are probably only realistic via plane travel but you may be fortunate to be able to consider hopping on the train if you find a cheaper alternative route or perhaps simply because you have always wanted to travel this way – the biggest issue of course with this is you are going to be extremely limited on destinations and the travel time is likely to be slightly longer. It is worth considering though.

Finally, the infamous road trip option. As you consider thinking about three chosen destinations that are nearby your hometown within that 4-6 hour radius, start plotting out some routes – again Google’s Maps tool is a great option but there are plenty of available websites and softwares that you can use for this. Do you want to get there as quickly as possible? If so, the interstate route is likely to be the optimal route. Do you want to stop along the way and admire the scenery? These are questions to consider when planning the trip!

From Hostels to 5-Star Luxury

Ok, so you have your heart set on a destination and you either have your road trip planned out or your flights booked. For a weekend trip, the likelihood is that you will need somewhere to stay for two nights. For those of you that are really trying to stick to a tight budget, accommodation options such as hostels or low-profile hotel chains may be your preferred option but also given that you are only having to book two nights, you may be able to indulge in a slightly higher priced property than perhaps you would if you were looking at a longer stay.

One of the best ways to search for great hotel deals, particularly if you don’t really have a preference on “brand name” is to utilize a resource such as Priceline. Whether you opt for an “express deal” where you won’t know the exact hotel until after you book, or simply opt for one of the “Guest Favorites” or “Pricebreaker Deals”, there are plenty of affordable options available to suit every budget. This is also a great resource because you can search for specific neighborhoods which may offer ideas on the best places to stay – if you are unsure, perhaps switching this step with the next one (planning things to do in the destination) may be more appropriate.

If you are passionate about starting to travel more frequently, whether it’s just on the weekends or perhaps with some longer vacations thrown in there, you may want to consider opting for a hotel chain where you can start earning loyalty points. We are avid, loyal Diamond members of Hilton Honors and always try to stay at one of their properties wherever we travel around the world.

It’s not always the most cost effective but the long term benefits give you free breakfast, free nights etc. It’s one of those that you may not see the immediate benefits but you have to trust the process…we can 100% attest it’s worth it!

24 Hour Challenge

You may be wondering what a 24 hour challenge has to do with a weekend getaway…well, in our opinion, the biggest problem people face is trying to experience too much in a short timeframe. The temptation when spending a weekend away at a new destination is to try and cram as much as possible into exploring the destination. This is actually one of the worse things you can do because you will get easily burnt out and possibly return home regretting even taking the trip.

Now I will add the caveat that much of our travels are the exact opposite of what we are recommending here but after many years of traveling like this, you certainly become seasoned professionals. However, when you first start out with planning weekend getaways, try the tactic of planning an itinerary for a single day trip.

Even though you may have up to 36-48 hours to explore the destination, having enough things to do in 24 hours will then allow you to spread these over the multiple days. What does this then allow? Step 5 of our strategy to planning the perfect weekend…spontaneity! More on that later.

Every destination is different – a weekend trip to New York City is going to require careful planning because there are so many attractions worth visiting. However, a trip to a lesser known destination such as Oklahoma City may not have quite the number of iconic attractions, yet you will still benefit from taking the time to identify spots you cannot afford to miss. If you love sampling local restaurants or coffee shops, go ahead and put them down on a list because the moment you arrive in the destination, you want to be ready to visit every spot without having to try and figure out opening times, location etc.

Spontaneity Always Wins

Regardless of how much planning and organizing you do before heading on your weekend getaway, there will ALWAYS be something that you don’t plan for. It is critical that you allow some time in your itinerary to be spontaneous and experience something that you hadn’t already scheduled.

If you allow spontaneity to take over (albeit still trying to stick to an itinerary), your experience will be enhanced to a level you could never have imagined. The main benefits of this, aside from the fact you will likely have an amazing experience, is that you will be raring to book your next trip because you realize just how many hidden gems are out there waiting to be discovered.

Spontaneous travel allows you to have the flexibility to enjoy the adventure of a lifetime. This is another potentially cliché statement to make but it should go without saying that having a “laissez-faire” attitude when exploring a destination will likely spark some amazing experiences. It’s sometimes a Catch-22 situation trying to establish the fine line between having an organized itinerary and allowing that carefree approach to life to enhance your getaway. But that is exactly why following step 4 is critical to achieving the perfect weekend getaway because it allows you to build in some time for these spontaneous events to occur.

Summary

You did it! You have followed our 5 simple steps to booking the perfect weekend getaway. All that you need to do now is actually book your trip and whisk yourselves away to enjoy an amazing short vacation. While many of you reading this may think these steps are obvious, we feel that this is something everyone should take a step back and think about because it’s all about creating a sustainable system that will enable you to travel more frequently. That is exactly what we are focused on trying to inspire – more travel!

We hope that you are able to travel the world as frequently as we do but if not, and you are only able to take an occasional weekend getaway, go ahead and follow these 5 steps and we assure you that your trip will be amazing! Let us know how you plan your weekend getaways…what are your keys to success? How do you achieve the dream getaway? Are you most concerned about the location or budget or something else? We want to hear your stories, so feel free to share them in the comments below! Happy travels folks!

Gulf Coast Getaway – How to Enjoy an Eco-Friendly Visit

Alabama

Chris Boothman

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Apr 20, 2020

1

Gulf Coast Getaway – How to Enjoy an Eco-Friendly Visit

Enjoying a Gulf Coast getaway is all about relaxing along the 32 miles of pristine, white sandy beaches that line this spectacular stretch of coastline…ok, that’s one way of experiencing a trip to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and you certainly would be 100% accurate about this type of visit. After visiting this beautiful region of Alabama on several occasions, during our recent trip we decided to take a look at this area from a completely different angle, one that I will genuinely admit we probably don’t pay enough attention to when we travel the world but something that we are committed at being more aware of moving forward – sustainability!

We are not going to try to convince you to become vegan or share expert opinions on sustainable travel, we will leave that to the experts. Instead, we want to share just a few reasons why we think Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is doing an amazing job of becoming an eco-friendly destination and why during your next visit to the Gulf Coast we think you should be inspired to experience some of the awesome spots that are truly driving the “green” concept to the region.

From the most environmentally friendly hotel in the region to some of the best places to eat and things to experience, we hope that our eco-friendly weekend guide to the Gulf Coast will give you a few ideas that you can enjoy on your next visit. Let’s take a look at some of the ways Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is becoming a sustainable destination (a caveat here, this is by no means an exhaustive guide, this is simply covering a few areas/restaurants/experiences that we enjoyed on our recent visit to the Gulf Coast).

Where to Stay? The Lodge at Gulf State Park

When it comes to where to stay in Gulf Shores, you are spoiled for choice. High rise condominiums line the 32 miles of gorgeous beaches and there are several other options that you can consider dependent on budget and personal preference. However, when it comes to picking the perfect eco-friendly accommodation option, there really is only one choice – the incredible Lodge at Gulf State Park. Located along Beach Boulevard in Gulf Shores, this ultra-modern coastal development epitomizes everything there is to love about hotels that are 100% focused on providing an environmentally friendly option for visitors to the area.

Part of the Hilton family, The Lodge at Gulf State Park is a flagship eco-friendly hotel for this brand to showcase their desire to move towards a collection of sustainable hotels. On November 1, 2018, the Lodge opened its doors and was proud to focus on the following.

A MODEL OF RESILIENT ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY COASTAL DEVELOPMENT
The Lodge at Gulf State Park

We all hear the words “sustainable tourism” and this has to start at the very top with global brands and we can 100% attest that Hilton has done an amazing job with the careful curation of this amazing hotel structure. In a nutshell, sustainable tourism is a combination of mainstream tourism and ecotourism by incorporating sustainable practices to benefit the local community (and the visitors also benefit from these initiatives also!).

the lodge at gulf state park gulf shores

At the Lodge at Gulf State Park, there are no details gone unnoticed. When it comes to providing the perfect experience to fit naturally into the existing environment of ecosystems, we are delighted to hear that this region is not only being preserved but also thriving because of the inherent features that the Lodge at Gulf State Park offers.

The moment you check in at the Lodge, you immediately realize you are in for an awesome experience. Offering 40,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space along with a plethora of outdoor reception areas, there is no shortage of space to enjoy the full hotel experience. If you are interested in learning all about the amazing natural resources and sustainability practices, check in at the front desk and ask to speak with the Lodge naturalist who will be more than happy to give you a full insight into these initiatives.

Environmentally-Friendly Characteristics

Some of the intriguing characteristics of this hotel that help create such an eco-friendly environment consist of the following, many of which may seem obvious, while others we would never even have contemplated as being able to benefit the local eco-systems:

All the buildings at the Lodge at Gulf State Park are designed to reduce energy usage by 32% and interior water use by 35% in comparison to a standard hotel (or similar accommodation option).
Natural daylight and ventilation in all regularly occupied spaces.
Passive cooling techniques including building orientation and wooden screens to filter sunlight.
Condensation from air conditioning units is collected and recycled to replace water in the on-site swimming pool. An average of 8,400 gallons are collected daily during the summer months.
Lighting sensitive to wildlife are incorporated into every building and no lights are directly pointed at the beach. In addition, all lights are shielded away from the sea turtle nesting areas.
Air conditioning units are installed with sensors that will switch them off automatically whenever balcony doors or windows are left open.
Rainwater is collected and directed to nearby wetlands to help those eco-systems continue to thrive.

The above are just some of the core features that the Lodge at Gulf State Park can be proud to have implemented. When you add in basic components such as in-room “boxed water”, instead of the standard plastic bottle, this is certainly something that will not only help the environment but also perhaps encourage more guests to start thinking about sustainable initiatives they can continue when they leave and head back home.

Eco-Friendly Eats in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach

The Gulf Coast is home to an amazing collection of seafood establishments and a myriad of cuisine options to satisfy every appetite. If you are focused on dining at eco-friendly restaurants, you are in for a real treat as there are a number focused on providing environmentally friendly service while catering to every type of diner. From extensive vegan options to the “behind the scenes” catering processes, you can be sure that a visit to one of the following restaurants will not only provide excellent cuisine, you can be reassured that there is a real focus on providing sustainable practices to help the environment.

If you are looking for an extensive vegan guide to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, our friend Ashley from Wild Hearted has put together quite the collection, many of which we are going to recommend also but some others that perhaps you wouldn’t think of. From decadent coffee shops to high-end luxury restaurants, the Gulf Coast may surprise you at the variety of options that are available for the eco-friendly minded traveler. We are going to give you an option for breakfast, lunch and dinner but we would love to hear other recommendations on what you have found to be sustainable eats in the area.

Soul Bowlz

What better way to start your day than a healthy, nutrient packed bowl of deliciousness. Head over to Soul Bowlz in Gulf Shores to enjoy “a bowl of heaven found on the Gulf Coast!” From the traditional Acai bowl to alternative Pitaya, Acerola and Graviola super fruit options, Soul Bowlz has a creative menu of fruit combinations that will leave you wanting to go back for me. This is certainly one of our “go to” spots for breakfast, particularly if you are wanting to start the day with one of the healthiest spots on the Gulf Coast.

The Sunrise (Goiaba blend, Hemp Granola, Strawberries, Raspberries, Banana and Honey) is a definite favorite of ours but there are so many unique offerings that you should try something different each time until you find the perfect bowl. Soul Bowlz offers these in two different sizes and also has a collection of smoothies. Whether you are wanting to dine in or take this “to go”, it’s the perfect way to start your day and have plenty of energy to explore the beauty along the Gulf Coast.

Picnic Beach

A “picnic at the beach” or “picnic in the park” is surely an appealing thought and while you may not want to go to the effort of packing your own picnic basket, you can head over to Picnic Beach to enjoy your very own “picnic” experience while indulging in a delicious collection of menu items. Renowned as being a casual dining spot in the heart of Gulf Shores, the moment you approach Picnic Beach you can see the typical picnic surroundings with benches, blankets and artificial green turf to represent the “park”.

Enjoy locally prepared food that follow the traditional BBQ theme and for those that prefer to eat plant-based cuisine, there are plenty of options available. The Buffalo Cauliflower Wings with homemade vegan ranch are a popular choice among every visitor, regardless of your cuisine preference.

An extensive menu is available, from light snacks to a variety of fresh seafood options, and of course, a visit to Picnic Beach wouldn’t be the same without sampling the resident “Beachwacker” which is a play on the traditional Gulf Coast Bushwacker which is popular in this region.

Safari Club Gulf Shores

Recognized as Alabama’s first “Green Restaurant”, Safari Club Gulf Shores is part of the all new renovated Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. Regardless of your opinion on zoos, we highly recommend taking some time to visit Safari Club to not only enjoy an extensive menu of vegan, vegetarian and other cuisine options but also to learn about the initiatives that we believe makes this the most eco-friendly restaurant on the Gulf Coast.

After sitting down with head chef, Greg Buschmohle, we learned about the intricate details of how this restaurant is focused on providing excellent service while providing the most eco-friendly environment to not only support sustainable initiatives for the local community but primarily to help provide a better environment for the animals in the Zoo. Zero styrofoam is utilized, no plastic straws can be found at the restaurant, and all all to-go containers are biodegradable and/or recyclable. These are just a few “common” ways that Safari Club differs from your regular restaurant.

Some of the behind the scenes approaches include onsite composting that can be utilized for animals in the Zoo along with the interior architecture of the restaurant that is designed to meet the core principles needed for this to be considered “green”. All ingredients are sourced locally and in conjunction with the City of Gulf Shores recycle program, any waste products follow appropriate recycling protocols to ensure as much can be utilized as possible.

When it comes to the menu options, you cannot go wrong with anything offered at Safari Club. Whether you are craving a pizza (the Moroccan is definitely a popular choice), or sandwich, there is plenty of variety for every taste palette.

Things to Do to Enjoy the Local Environment

Embrace the great outdoors while exploring the Gulf Coast and enjoy the plethora of ecosystems that are thriving in the region by experiencing some of the following things to do that we believe are the perfect way to protect the local environments. We should all take pride in helping to preserve the Gulf Coast ecological environment and take a moment to understand how the 32 miles of pristine beaches continue to serve as the heart of soul of not only the locals/visitors that enjoy this stretch of coastline, but also how this serves as a natural habitat for a myriad of wildlife.

Here are some of our recommendations on how you can learn about the environment and continue to understand the initiatives that are taking place to protect this region.

Cycle the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trails

Perhaps the best way to experience a wide variety of eco-systems is to hop on a bike and explore the 15 miles of Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail complex. A collection of intertwining paths make this a perfect area to explore and if you followed our recommendation of staying at The Lodge, you can take advantage of the Gulf State Park Free Bike Share program and pick up your bike outside the hotel and head across Beach Boulevard to begin your journey exploring this myriad of trails. Alternatively, head over to Beach Bike Rentals and pick up a bike for a small fee and enjoy the trails all day.

hugh s branyon backcountry trails gulf shores

From wildlife sightings to admiring the local flora and fauna that is thriving in these environments, the Backcountry Trails are the perfect way to get away from the stereotypical “beach life” associated with the Gulf Coast and instead explore another side of the region. The amount of wildlife you will see is a clear indication of the positive, sustainable efforts that the local authorities are having on the area as the untouched natural habitats continue to thrive.

gulf coast getaway gulf shores and orange beach

Sustainable Initiatives at Gulf State Park

Thanks to Ashley from Wild Hearted for contributing the sustainable initiatives that can be found throughout Gulf State Park.

Gulf State Park is comprised of two miles of beaches, a large campground, the Lodge at Gulf State Park and a variety of activities to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in relaxing on the beach, biking the trails, or wildlife watching, there’s plenty for you to do. But, make sure to stop by the Interpretative Center [located adjacent to the beach pavilion] to learn more about how they are preserving their environment and natural resources.

On top of being able to learn more about the land and marine wildlife, you can learn about all the amazing sustainability initiatives including: collecting, storing and treating 105% of the water needed by guests and the surrounding landscape, being self-sufficient and actually generating more energy than the facility uses, using locally sourced building materials, and more.

The facility includes a multi-use space, an amphitheater, public restrooms, bike parking, sand play area, covered porch with an interactive exhibit, and view of the beaches. The Center is truly unique being classified as a Certified Living Building and LEED Platinum-certified – the highest possible LEED designation, and Fortified Commercial certified.

Protect the 32 Miles of Gulf Coast Beaches

It goes without saying you will want to experience the inherent beauty of the gorgeous beaches along the Gulf Coast. Whether you are enjoying the epic sunrise and sunset experiences you get in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, or simply looking to relax on a secluded part of the beach throughout the day, please be sure to follow the basic principles that should be adhered to in any public space.

Be considerate of wildlife in the area – remember, you are visiting their natural habitat so please be sure to give them plenty of space and allow them to feel at home.
Be sure to remove any trash from beaches before you leave – while it goes without saying you should take your own trash with you, why not lead by example and take any other trash that you may see so that others may follow suit!
Choose organic and eco sunscreens that do not use chemical solar filters which can cause harm to the Gulf.
Use refillable bottles instead of taking plastic water bottles.
It may seem like a great idea to take as a souvenir but please don’t take any sand home with you – leave it so you don’t destroy part of the natural eco-system.

Of course, all of the above are fairly simple practices that should be considered on any beach getaway. If you do this, you can thoroughly enjoy the breathtaking beauty that attracts so many visitors to the Gulf Coast every year.

Enjoy Golf on the Gulf Coast

Heading to a golf course may not be everyone’s idea of a fun activity but regardless of whether you are aspiring to be the next Tiger Woods or simply enjoy the great outdoors, visiting one of the many courses in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is not only an opportunity to perfect your skills but also to enjoy breathtaking natural environments.

From the gorgeous links at Kiva Dunes to the 27-hole complex at Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club, there is a collection of courses along the Gulf Coast that are proud to have sustainable initiatives that help wildlife continue to thrive on and around the course.

Peninsula Golf & Racquet Club is located close to Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge and together, they combine to offer over 7,800 acres of natural habitat for migratory birds, nesting sea turtles, among many other species. Peninsula covers 800 acres of beautiful live oaks, cypress trees and more natural vegetation, so it’s no surprise that you will likely stumble across a resident alligator or eagle as you play your way around one of the three 9-hole courses.

Enjoy the beauty of Craft Farms Golf Resort by playing both the Cotton Creek and Cypress Bend courses (36-hole complex) and you will experience fairways lined with live oaks full of Spanish moss, and ideal surroundings for native wildlife to flourish.

Summary

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach is a destination that is near and dear to our hearts – it’s our home away from home when it comes to vacation spots and following our recent visit, we truly have a much greater appreciation for the environmentally friendly initiatives that many of the local businesses are focused on promoting. The more organizations that develop such initiatives, the better it will serve the collection of ecosystems that together create the beautiful environment that can be seen along the 32 miles of the Gulf Coast in Alabama.

We strongly encourage you to consider staying at The Lodge at Gulf State Park during your next trip to the Gulf Coast. Not only does this offer an amazing accommodation option that is conveniently located in the heart of Gulf Shores, it is also the most eco-friendly hotel in the region. With a myriad of dining options to choose from and plenty of things to do to foster the sustainable tourism along the Gulf Coast, this is certainly a region that may fall under the radar for sustainable destinations but many of the local establishments deserve praise for their ongoing efforts to help promote this philosophy.

Sydney to Canberra – Enjoy an Epic Day Trip to the Capital

Australia

Chris Boothman

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Mar 30, 2020

1

Sydney to Canberra – Enjoy an Epic Day Trip to the Capital

Australia is blessed to have a plethora of amazing destinations that every visitor should want to add to their itinerary. Whether it’s the beautiful cities of Sydney or Melbourne, or perhaps the iconic Gold Coast or Uluru in the heart of the Outback. But there is one destination that we think frequently falls under the radar and lays in the shadow of many of its more infamous urban counterparts – the capital city itself, Canberra. Whether you are visiting Australia for a week long adventure or perhaps just spending a few days, if you are planning a trip to Sydney or Melbourne, you should certainly consider adding Canberra to this itinerary. We want to focus this post on how to enjoy an amazing day trip from Sydney to Canberra but it’s certainly feasible to enjoy a two-day getaway if you are visiting from Melbourne.

Canberra is rarely the first place that people think about visiting and given it’s relatively neutral location in between the powerhouse cities of Sydney and Melbourne, this is one of the reasons why it was chosen as Australia’s capital city. After spending the day in the capital, we can 100% attest that this beautiful city is one that deserves to be on everyone’s radar and for those of you that love city life but want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the larger cities, Canberra is certainly a place you will fall in love with. There are not many capital cities around the world that have such a relaxing feel to them but Canberra is definitely one of those!

Let’s take a look at how you can make the most of a day trip from Sydney and why your next trip to Oz should include a visit to Australia’s historic capital.

Sydney to Canberra Day Trip

For the adventurous folks, a day trip from Sydney to the capital will be an experience you won’t want to miss out on. A 3-hour drive each way may seem a little daunting for many but after experiencing this for ourselves, we can confirm that this is well worth the effort given the amazing encounters you can have not only in Canberra but on the drive to and from the capital city.

The drive itself is relatively straightforward but depending on how much time you have will likely determine which route you want to take in either direction as there are a couple of more scenic alternatives that you may want to consider. Here are a couple of options, featuring the most direct route which we followed between Sydney and Canberra and an alternative picturesque return drive, albeit quite a bit longer in terms of duration.

Quickest Route – M31 to M23

Distance – 286 km (177 miles)
Duration – 3 hours 11 minutes
Click here to open this route in Google Maps

The quickest route between these two cities is undoubtedly along the highways of M31 and M23 – the majority of the drive will be along M31 until you hop over to the M23 in Yarra for the final 78km.

Scenic Route via Wollongong

Distance – 341 km (211 miles)
Duration – 4 hours 30 minutes
Click here to open this route in Google Maps

There are a few alternative scenic routes that you can take if you have enough time to enjoy your return journey to Sydney. If possible, be sure to take in the gorgeous Grand Pacific Drive along the East coast between Wollongong and Sydney (and further south depending on where you choose to start your route along the coast).

Best Things to Do in Canberra in 24 Hours

Spending only one day in any city across the world is going to be a challenging experience. Our number one tip is don’t try to do everything! When you realize that you will only be able to see a few highlights across the city, this will make your visit more rewarding because you won’t be rushing around trying to capture the best of everything. Canberra is certainly a city that is no different so after a 3-hour drive from Sydney, you will need to have the rest of your day planned out in order to maximize your time.

Canberra is a city full of history, gorgeous architecture and unique cultural experiences that makes this city standalone from it’s Australian counterparts. There are certainly a number of things to do here and they include the following:

Parliament House
Lake Burley Griffin
Australian War Memorial
National Gallery of Australia
Telstra Tower
Anzac Parade

These are just a few of the highlight attractions and are by no means an exhaustive list. There are several self-guided walking tours in and around the city that you can enjoy and we strongly recommend taking either the Lake Burley Griffin or Anzac Parade tours. We opted for Lake Burley Griffin but you cannot go wrong with either. The Anzac Parade is a shorter alternative (only 2.5 km and will likely take around 1.5 to 2 hours to complete) and offers a collection of memorial dedicated to commemorating Australian and New Zealand soldiers that have lost their lives in wars across the world.

History of Canberra

With so many cool things to do in Canberra, it can understandably be difficult to decide where to start. Given that we traveled three hours from Sydney to escape the horrendous bushfires that the area was experiencing, we wanted to spend as much time outdoors and there is no better place to start than Lake Burley Griffin in the heart of the city.

Head to the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre overlooking Lake Burley Griffin before starting your self-guided tour to learn all about the history surrounding the city and you will soon realize why we recommend this awesome tour for first-time visitors to Canberra. The lake is named after Walter Burley Griffin who was a Chicago architect that designed the city of Canberra and utilized this location as a focal point for the geometric design of the city.

I have planned a city that is not like any other in the world…. I have planned an ideal city—a city that meets my ideal of the city of the future.
Walter Burley Griffin

The history of Canberra dates back to only 1911 making this a relatively new city in comparison to many of the other iconic cities across Australia. When Burley Griffin was invited to design the city, he created a design that had a lake in the center. As you begin your self-guided tour of the lake, you will learn more about the architect, the city of Canberra and all of the historic events that have helped shaped this modern metropolis that is proud to be the capital of Australia.

Lake Burley Griffin Self-Guided Tour

Walk outside of the Visitor Center and decide which direction you want to start – if you opt to complete the full 5km loop, it really doesn’t matter because you will enjoy crossing the lake on two separate occasions. Here is a full list of the attractions and landmarks you can experience on this tour.

National Capital Exhibition
Walter Burley Griffin Terrazzo
RG Menzies Walk
Captain James Cook Memorial
Captain Cook Memorial Jet
Canadian Flagpole
Commonwealth Park
Citizenship Place
RG Menzies Statue
Site of Murray’s Bakery
Pioneer Women Memorial
Sybil Howy Irving Memorial
A Commemorative Oak
Rond Terraces
Gallipoli Reach
National Emergency Services Memorial
Blundells Cottage
Indian Ocean Tsunami Memorial
Merchant Navy Memorial
HMAS Canberra Memorial
National Carillon
National Police Memorial
National Workers Memorial
Boundless Playground
Kings Avenue Bridge
Bowen Place Crossing
Sculpture Garden
Reconciliation Place
Commonwealth Place
International Flag Display
Peace Park
Australians of the Year Walk
Commonwealth Avenue Bridge
Japanese Cherry Trees

Plenty of memorials, tributes and architectural masterpieces on display throughout this part of Canberra and you could certainly spend at least a half day exploring all of these attractions. We would recommend allocating at least 2-3 hours which is a great way to spend the late morning and early afternoon before heading to enjoy a late lunch in one of Canberra’s eclectic restaurants. For those of you that perhaps want to experience Lake Burley Griffin a little quicker, let’s take a look at some of the highlight attractions from the above.

Captain James Cook Memorial (and Jet)

Perhaps the most iconic landmark is Lake Burley Griffin itself along with the towering hydraulic jet stream that sends water over 150 meters into the air at 260kms per hour. As you start you walk around the lake and peer across the expanse of water, be sure to take a moment to admire the stream of water that epitomizes the many stunning engineering feats across the city. Back on land, a terrestrial globe commemorates Captain James Cook’s landing on the eastern coast of Australia over 250 years ago in 1770 and was dedicated as such on the bicentennial anniversary in 1970 by Queen Elizabeth II.

Details of Cook’s voyages can be seen inscribed on the handrail and for the avid travelers visiting Canberra, this will surely be a favorite landmark as you appreciate the historic journey that was made by Cook to reach the Australian coastline, given that he started in Plymouth, England back in 1768!

Commonwealth Avenue Bridge

Did you know that a part of London’s iconic Waterloo Bridge can be found on the north shore of the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge? That’s right, when this was demolished in 1936, several stones were donated to the Australian Government and they can now be seen on one of Canberra’s iconic bridges that may not have the same popularity as the British counterpart but it’s certainly a historic landmark that dates back to its original construction in 1928 (original design but the current version was actually opened in November 1963).

A plaque commemorating the stones has the following inscription, signifying how the close relations between the UK and Australia have continued to flourish.

Stones such as these from the bridge were presented to Australia and other parts of the British world to further historic links in the British Commonwealth of Nations.

As you walk across the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge, take a moment to take in the spectacular views across the lake (in both directions) along with admiring the CBD of Canberra to your left and the many landmarks that await on the southern shoreline of Lake Burley Griffin. You will also catch a first glimpse of Canberra’s spectacular Parliament House, located on Capital Hill at the tip of Parliament Drive along with the gorgeous National Library of Australia.

Australians of the Year Walk

Ok, are you ready to walk along Australia’s equivalent to the Hollywood Walk of Fame? How many iconic Australian’s do you know? From sports stars such as Cathy Freeman and Shane Warne to celebrities like Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban, there are certainly plenty to lay claim to having a spot on the Australians of the Year walkway.

The first award was given in 1960 and there is a commemorative plaque for each individual that was selected as the Australian of the Year. Take some time to see how many names you recognize, there will likely be several along with a few obscure ones that will be interesting to read their stories and realize why they deserved to be recognized as such.

International Flag Display

Canberra is home to one of the largest collections of international flags representing the diplomatic presence within the city. With over 100 flags on display, you can likely find your home country along with a variety of others that truly provide a reflection of how diverse Canberra has become over recent decades and can truly be called a multi-cultural metropolis.

This collection was originally opened in 1999 but recently in 2018 was transformed into the cultural attraction we see today. In addition to over 100 countries being represented, the flags of the European Union and United Nations can be seen, again emphasizing the importance of Australia having closed relations with nations across the globe.

Memorials

After crossing Kings Avenue Bridge on your return across Lake Burley Griffin, you will see the towering National Carillon, a bell tower that was a gift from the British Government to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Canberra. If you are fortunate to visit on a Wednesday or Sunday lunch time at 12:30PM, you will hear these iconic bells playing but regardless, it’s still an impressive sight.

A collection of memorials are grouped together along the shoreline after you leave the National Carillon and rather than focusing on any particular memorial, it’s certainly worth noting that all of these have a unique story associated with them.

Whether you are intrigued to learn more about the National Police Memorial (to commemorate the service and sacrifice of Australian police officers) or perhaps pay your respect to those lost in the tragic Indian Ocean Tsunami on Boxing Day 2004, there are several plaques and monuments that are grouped close together as you walk around the lake.

Blundells Cottage

One of the most unique landmarks around Lake Burley Griffin is Blundells Cottage, a former home of workers on the Duntroon Estate that dates back to 1860. For over 100 years, this cottage was occupied by three tenants: the Ginns, the Blundells, and the Oldfields. If you have time during your visit to Canberra, head over to the Duntroon Dairy, the oldest standing building on this particular estate.

Today, visitors can enjoy a tour of Blundells Cottage between 10AM and 2PM on Saturdays but even walking around the grounds and exterior of the property is an enlightening experience as you reflect on what life was like in the late 19th century before Canberra was transformed into Australia’s capital and the modern city we see today.

blundells cottage lake burley griffin canberra

Where to Eat in Canberra

As we established, Canberra is undoubtedly a diverse city and this is reflected by the variety of cuisine options available. Whether you are looking to sample fine dining or simply find a quick bite to eat, Canberra has something for everyone. We always love sampling coffee shops across the globe and close to where we parked at the Canberra Centre, we stumbled across The Coffee Club which we later found out has several locations across Australia (it was “local” for us rather than a standard Starbucks chain).

From decadent pastries to your favorite handcrafted espresso beverage, there are plenty of options if you are just looking for a late morning or afternoon snack. But for those that want to enjoy breakfast or lunch, there is a full menu offering sandwiches, salads, burgers and more. This was one of our favorite finds because there is a gorgeous outdoor patio area where you can relax and enjoy your coffee, while either planning your day or reminiscing on what you experienced throughout Canberra.

If you are looking to enjoy something with a little more substance, Courgette Restaurant is a short walk from Canberra Centre and offers European inspired fine dining options. Alternatively, Raku Japanese Restaurant or Akiba are both great options for those wanting to sample the Australian capital’s Asian dining scene.

Canberra to Sydney – Grand Pacific Drive

Planning your itinerary around Canberra can be challenging, especially when we encourage you to try and allocate enough time on your return to Sydney to enjoy the spectacular Grand Pacific Drive. For those of you that have driven the Great Ocean Road close to Melbourne, this is a similarly breathtaking experience.

If you don’t have enough time on this trip, don’t worry because it’s well worth taking another day trip from Sydney to experience Wollongong and the amazing sights along this stretch of coastline. But for those of you that choose to follow what we experienced, you can still enjoy some of the best attractions along this drive before darkness sets in.

Kiama

Having spent the majority of the day inland exploring the urban beauty of Canberra, when we first caught a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean we realized this part of Australia is a perfect area to enjoy a vacation given the close proximity of iconic cities and beautiful coastline. Our first stop saw us visit the coastal town of Kiama, infamously known in New South Wales as being the home of the iconic Kiama Blowhole.

This geological phenomenon attracts over 600,000 visitors every year and certainly for good reason. Be prepared to have those annoying flies buzzing around your face but if you are able to ignore those, the breathtaking sight of the Pacific Ocean shooting up through the blowhole is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Sea Cliff Bridge

The coastal drive from Kiama to Wollongong and through the Northern Illawarra region of New South Wales culminates in perhaps the pièce de résistance of the Grand Pacific Drive – the Sea Cliff Bridge. A towering cantilever bridge links the coastal towns of Coalcliff and Clifton and opened in 2005.

The scenic walkway is surrounded by rocky cliffs but offers awe-inspiring views overlooking the bridge and out into the Pacific Ocean. For those of you that prefer to stay on flat ground, park your vehicle before the start of the bridge and take a short stroll along the pedestrian walkway that crosses the Sea Cliff Bridge.

Summary

A day trip from Sydney to Canberra is primarily about exploring the unheralded Australian capital. However, the beauty of this trip is that there are several other experiences you can enjoy, such as the Grand Pacific Drive, if you allocate enough time. Regardless, visitors to Sydney (and Melbourne) should consider adding some time to their itinerary to pay a visit to Canberra as there are plenty of reasons to justify at least a one day trip.

The relaxing vibe of Canberra is something you don’t usually associate with a major city but it’s a refreshing experience and certainly taking a self-guided walking tour of Lake Burley Griffin will give you a real insight into the beauty of Australia’s capital. Have you visited Canberra? Would you consider adding Canberra to your Australian vacation?

Day Trips From Florence – Experience the Best of Italy

Italy

Chris Boothman

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Mar 9, 2020

3

Day Trips From Florence – Experience the Best of Italy

Visitors to Italy are spoiled for choice when it comes to destinations worth exploring. One of the challenging aspects is deciding where to visit but the beauty of Italy is that if you choose the right destination as your base, you can easily explore the rest of the country via day trips (or multi-day trips if you prefer). We have been fortunate to explore Italy on several occasions but in our opinion, Florence is perhaps the best place to call “home” and utilize this as a spot to experience the very best of what Italy has to offer. If you are looking to experience a collection of day trips from Florence, the list of opportunities are endless thanks to the central location of this historic Italian city.

Whether you are intrigued by the thought of visiting Cinque Terre for the day or perhaps heading to the urban areas of Pisa, Bologna, Rimini or Cinque Terre, Florence is perfectly situated to allow locals and visitors alike to experience the very best places around Italy. With awesome public transportation and the ability to take guided tours during your day trips from Florence, it’s no surprise that many visitors choose this as the perfect location to explore the gorgeous Italian landscape. Let’s take a look at the best day trips from Florence along with what you can expect during your stay in Tuscany’s capital.

Things to Do in Florence

Before heading out of Florence to explore the inherent beauty of the Italian nation, take some time to experience the spectacular capital of the Tuscany region. Perhaps the most iconic attraction is the Uffizi Gallery but first-time visitors to Florence will soon find out there are plenty of other reasons to explore this city.

The Duomo Florence is yet another gorgeous architectural masterpiece and provides a towering landmark above the city. Take a guided tour of this iconic cathedral and don’t forget to capture a memorable picture of the breathtaking Renaissance dome that stands tall above the city. Whether you are an avid art aficionado or simply want to relax among the historic streets while indulging in stereotypical Italian cuisine, there are a myriad of reasons why Florence should be on your radar.

As you walk around the city of Florence, you will cross the Arno River, perhaps on several occasions as you venture between the plethora of historic neighborhoods that collectively make up this beautiful city. One of the iconic crossings is the Ponte Vecchio, a medieval stone bridge that dates back to the Roman era and first documented in this location in the year 996. Michelangelo’s Piazza offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Florence and the square is decorated with a variety of distinctive sculptures created by this iconic artist. But rather than seeing Michelangelo’s works, it is the breathtaking views that visitors flock to this location to admire.

Day Trips from Florence

When it comes to the best places to visit during a day trip from Florence, the list is endless. Whether you choose to visit another iconic Italian city or perhaps head to a quieter, rural location, there are a myriad of opportunities just a short drive (or train ride) away from Florence. Here are some of our favorite spots that we think you should consider visiting during your next Italian vacation:

Florence to Chianti – 1 hr 5 minutes (55km)
Florence to Siena – 1 hr 8 minutes (78km)
Florence to Pisa – 1 hr 10 minutes (85km)
Florence to Bologna – 1 hr 25 minutes (105km)
Florence to Cinque Terre – 2 hr 25 minutes (183km)
Florence to Rimini/San Marino – 2 hr 35 minutes (226km)

Let’s take a look at each of these day trips individually and perhaps identify which each destination is worthy of taking a half or full day trip from Florence.

Chianti

If you are ready to get outside of the urban environment and sample one of Italy’s finest wine regions, head to the beautiful town of Chianti and the surrounding mountainous villages that offer breathtaking panoramic views and amazing wineries. One of the iconic attractions in the Chianti region is Castello di Verrazzano, a castle located in the town of Greve that offers an on-site winery, vineyard and gorgeous views of the surrounding area.

For architecture and wine lovers, Chianti is perhaps the place to visit in Italy to experience the best of both, as you can frequently stumble across medieval buildings and castles that have either been converted into wineries or serve as the perfect landscape to enjoy the finest glass of wine.

A half (or full) day trip into the Chianti region of Italy offers plenty of attractions outside of the wine experiences, including a visit to the Chianti Sculpture Park, attending a local festival or even sampling an Italian cooking class at Borgo Argenina B&B.

Siena

Florence and Pisa may be the infamous cities associated with the Italian region of Tuscany but one of the lesser known locations that is well worth visiting during a day trip from Florence is Siena. Recognized locally as a city known for delicious cuisine, distinctive art collections, a diverse range of museums and of course, a medieval cityscape, Siena is a place well worthy of taking at least a half-day trip from nearby Florence.

Siena’s authentic architecture is epitomized throughout the city’s historic heart, namely the Piazza del Campo located in a central location and offering everything there is to love about this city. Renowned as a location for local, public celebrations, this historic square is unsurprisingly recognized across Europe as one of the most spectacular medieval squares. The Palazzo Pubblico and its accompanying Torre del Mangia are the highlight architectural masterpieces surrounding the square but as you relax with a cup of local espresso (or something a little stronger), you cannot help but admire the intricate details of this beautiful city.

Siena Cathedral is another popular attraction, notably given that its history dates back to the early 13th century and views across the city are breathtaking from the summit of the interior. Climb one of the walls to enjoy the spectacular panoramic scenes across Siena and beyond.

Pisa

Can anyone justify a visit to Italy without taking some time to visit one of the world’s most iconic attractions – the Leaning Tower of Pisa? It should be noted that Pisa is much more than just this one landmark and despite attracting over one million visitors from all corners of globe each year, the Leaning Tower itself is a landmark everyone has to experience at least once in their lifetime. A short train ride or guided tour from Florence, Pisa is an Italian city that is perfect to experience for a short half-day getaway.

A visit to Pisa wouldn’t be the same without grabbing that infamous selfie that I am sure all of you have seen across social media…yes, that’s right, where you hold up the tower! It’s cheesy, it’s fun but taking some time to actually appreciate the architectural masterpiece and the ingenuity behind the design is well worth it.

If you arrive by train, you can experience much of Pisa by walking across the historic city to the Leaning Tower, taking in the local boutique shops and admiring the local artistry and culture that has helped transform a city that should be recognized for more than just a single attraction.

As you battle the hordes of tourists and locals attempting to sell their merchandise around the Leaning Tower, you can head away from the hustle and bustle of this attraction and admire the other architectural gems close by. The Piazza del Duomo is the urban green space that is home to the tower along with the nearby attractions of Cattedrale di Pisa (medieval cathedral dating back to the late 11th century) and San Giovanni Baptistery.

Bologna

Head to the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy to explore the historic city of Bologna. Another of Italy’s lesser known cities that frequently falls under the radar, Bologna is definitely worth experiencing if you love history, culture and the city’s pièce de résistance – Lambrusco wine! In less than 90 minutes you can be in Bologna from Florence and you will quickly realize that this is another very walkable city where you can explore a myriad of attractions in a short amount of time.

In term of the best things to do in Bologna, there are plenty of options. Why not start in the historic heart of the city by visiting Piazza Maggiore, a square that exemplifies how this city has continued to embrace the medieval and 15th century history surrounding it.

This central square is home to a variety of local restaurants, bars, coffee shops and more, meaning this is a popular spot among locals and visitors alike. The Basilica di San Petronio, Palazzo dei Notai, Palazzo d’Accursio and Palazzo dei Bianchi are just a few iconic buildings you can explore here and it’s fair to say that you could probably spend several hours just admiring the architectural brilliance of this square.

The Towers of Bologna are another must-see attraction and for those brave enough to climb to the summit, the views across the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy are breathtaking. Perhaps one of the most iconic and unique characteristics of Bologna are the 40km of porticos that help create a distinctive atmosphere throughout the city. Embrace the “undercover” benefits of these ancient arches to explore Bologna regardless of the weather.

Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre, frequently recognized as the Italian Riviera is an area you will want to visit if you are looking for those picture perfect scenes across the Mediterranean Sea. A day trip to Cinque Terre is barely enough to experience the inherent beauty of the Liguria region of Italy but if you can only spend one day here, it’s well worth the effort because the scenery, cuisine and other attractions are breathtaking.

The Cinque Terre stretch of coastline comprises of five fishing communities, each of which are gorgeous and offer distinctive attractions and panoramic scenes that will make you want to explore. The real beauty of Cinque Terre is that even though you are visiting a hugely popular area in Italy, there is still a real sense of authenticity that has been preserved despite the five villages being transformed into such popular attractions.

Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore collectively make up the Cinque Terre area and realistically, if you only have one day to visit, simply choose one of these to enjoy the real beauty of this Italian coastline. Riomaggiore is frequently the first stop on tour visits to Cinque Terre as it’s furthest south and the views overlooking the Mediterranean Sea from the top of the ravine are just as spectacular as the experiences you will have in the quaint harbor at the bottom.

Rimini and San Marino

A more adventurous day trip will start by spending the morning in Bologna before heading south to the coastal town of Rimini followed by a visit to one of the world’s smallest countries, San Marino. If you want to bypass Bologna and save this for another day, you can easily spend a half day in Rimini followed by the second half in San Marino.

Rimini is home to northern Italy’s oldest standing triumphal arch, Arco d’Augusto, dating back to 27 BC to commemorate the construction of Via Flaminia. One of Rimini’s unique attractions is the “Italia in Miniatura” experience where you can view all of Italy’s iconic locations in miniature versions. Ponte di Tiberio is an ancient Roman bridge that epitomizes the history associated with this part of Italy, along with the nearby Borgo San Giuliano, a colorful quarter home to local residences, piazzas and more.

Head to the train station in Rimini to hop on the local bus that will take you deep into the heart of the Apennines mountain region of Italy and allow you to explore the microstate of San Marino. With a little over 30,000 locals, San Marino is barely populous enough to be classified as a city, never-mind a country. But for those of you looking to check off your list of countries visited across the globe, a day trip from Bologna to San Marino or even Florence is definitely an experience you won’t want to miss.

The steep streets around San Marino are such that this makes this architectural design an even more spectacular experience. From the top of San Marino, the views across the Emilia-Romagna region and eastern coast of Italy are a sight to behold. Don’t forget to head inside the local tourist office to get an official San Marino stamp in your passport, the one true souvenir worth collecting aside from your memories and pictures.

Summary

Florence is a city that you can easily justify a visit without needing to get away as there are plenty of attractions, rich history and culture associated with it. However, this city also serves as the perfect location to choose as a base to explore many other iconic destinations around Italy. In fact, you could easily argue that Florence is the best place to stay if you are wanting to spend a week or two exploring the very best of the Italian nation.

The above listed day trips are just a few examples of the experiences you can enjoy from Florence. For those of you that are really adventurous, you could consider day trips to Rome or Milan along with a variety of other cities in the vicinity. The Frecciarossa high-speed train system is a great way to explore Italy and if you utilize Florence as your base, you can combine this amazing service with a variety of organized day tours to ensure your Italian vacation is relaxing, memorable and a truly authentic experience.

48 Hours in New Orleans – Enjoy the Best of the Bayou

Louisiana

Chris Boothman

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Feb 24, 2020

4

48 Hours in New Orleans – Enjoy the Best of the Bayou

This post is in partnership with Hotels.com.

Many cities across the world are fortunate to have a unique character and culture that helps them stand out from their counterparts when it comes to attracting tourists from all corners of the globe. However, the city of New Orleans takes this whole concept to a new level as it epitomizes everything there is to love about a quintessentially diverse destination. Whether you are a Louisiana native or simply love to head to the infamous “Bayou” to experience decadent Cajun and Creole cuisine, there is something quite magical about the city of New Orleans. 48 hours in New Orleans is about the minimum length of time you will want to explore this beautiful city and we would like to take you on a journey with us as we explore a destination that has an eclectic blend of cuisine, culture, music and much more.

NOLA, as it is colloquially known, is a city located on the banks of the Mississippi River along the south coast of the United States. For those of you that have visited New York City and consider that to be a “melting pot” of cultures, New Orleans is an equivalent US city that offers this same diverse background, with a collaboration of French, American, and African ethnic groups creating a one of a kind experience for locals and visitors alike.

Two days in New Orleans is barely enough to touch the surface of what you can enjoy in the “Big Easy” (another nickname for this French-inspired city), but it does give you just enough time to sample some of the iconic experiences…and honestly, that’s what it’s all about in New Orleans, enjoying the infamous local Zydeco street performers, sampling the best Po-Boys and exploring the above-ground cemeteries. Let’s take a look at how we recommend making the most of a fast and furious 48 hours in this beautiful, historic city.

Where to Stay in New Orleans

Finding the perfect place to stay in New Orleans is critical if you only have a short time to experience this city. Whether you are looking to stay close to the French Quarter, the iconic Bourbon Street or perhaps further afield near the Mercedes-Benz Superdome or Garden District, New Orleans is certainly home to a collection of unique hotel options that will meet every budget.

Here are a couple of recommendations on the best luxury and budget accommodation options in New Orleans.

Hotel Monteleone – When it comes to vintage, luxury hotels in New Orleans, this is perhaps the most iconic, not only because of the intricate details of the architecture throughout the interior but also because of the infamous Carousel Piano Bar & Lounge which is a rotating bar for visitors and guests. Located in the heart of the French Quarter, Hotel Monteleone is conveniently situated to experience the very best attractions across the city. Regardless of whether you choose to stay here, head to this rotating bar to enjoy a drink or two for the ultimate NOLA experience.
Lafayette Hotel – Frequently available for less than $100 per night, this is one of the best options for those that are looking for a budget option yet still conveniently located to enjoy the best experiences in New Orleans. It is renowned as the “perfect getaway for those looking to be near all the downtown and French Quarter attractions.”

48 Hours in New Orleans

If you are visiting New Orleans for only a couple of days, you need to be prepared to enjoy an action-packed itinerary if you truly want to enjoy the ultimate NOLA experience. I would argue that this is really a city that never sleeps (again, usually referenced with NYC but it’s very much similar in New Orleans) because regardless of the time of day or night, there is something unique to experience here.

While we will focus on some of the iconic experiences later in this post, it’s certainly worth noting that having prior knowledge of the best local spots to enjoy Cajun and Creole cuisine and where the best attractions can be found is crucial to maximizing your time in New Orleans. Whether you choose to follow our recommendations or simply allow spontaneity to take over, you can be sure your trip to New Orleans will be memorable…it’s just the nature of this city!

Day 1 – Garden District, Beignets and History

Day 1 may see you venture over to the Garden District to take a guided walking tour of one of New Orleans’ iconic cemeteries while also having the opportunity to see some of the vintage houses that many celebrities have called their homes. Think Sandra Bullock, Nicolas Cage, John Goodman, and Archie Manning…just a few of those that love this area of New Orleans.

Perhaps the iconic Commander’s Palace, a restaurant that has been in business since 1893, will be your chosen spot for lunch or maybe you will prefer to head back to downtown New Orleans to experience a late brunch and sample the best beignets in town at Cafe du Monde.

While most of the best experiences in New Orleans are outdoors, one of the best indoor attractions is the National World War 2 Museum. You can easily spend several hours here learning about the tragic and poignant events of this historic event and it truly offers one of the best reflective experiences of any museum.

Enjoy dinner at Mulate’s New Orleans Cajun Restaurant before taking a stroll along the banks of the Mississippi and heading to one of the liveliest streets in America – Bourbon Street. It’s certainly not for the faint-hearted during the evenings but it epitomizes everything there is to love about New Orleans with a myriad of live music options, vibrant bars offering iconic NOLA drinks and street performers that always offer something unique.

Day 2 – French Quarter, Oysters and Zydeco

Wake up early and head over to the French Quarter to experience the local farmers market before exploring this area known as the “Crown Jewel of New Orleans.” One of the magical neighborhoods across the city, the French Quarter is home to breathtaking architecture, epitomized by colorful buildings, cast-iron balconies, and locals that are always willing to interact with visitors to the area.

After spending the morning in the “Vieux-Carré” (Old Square), head to one of the many oyster houses to sample the best local delicacy. Whether you choose to visit Acme Oyster House, Bourbon House, Red Fish Grill or another restaurant, it’s fair to say that if you have never tried oysters, New Orleans is the place to experience them.

If you are looking for a relaxing afternoon, head over to Jackson Square to admire the impressive sight of St. Louis Cathedral that towers above this location. Enjoy mingling with locals while listening to Zydeco street performers, a genre of music that evolved in Southern Louisiana by French Creole natives.

48 hours in new orleans zydeco performers

Best Places to Eat in New Orleans

New Orleans is a haven for foodie connoisseurs because of the vast array of diverse cuisine options available across the city. A trip to the Big Easy wouldn’t be the same without sampling a variety of local Cajun and Creole cuisine, including the following:

Gumbo
Crawfish Etouffee
Jambalaya
Red Beans and Rice
Po-Boys
Beignets

The list is endless but if you experience all of the above, you will have a pretty good idea of why New Orleans is such an attractive destination for those that love this type of cuisine. Here are a couple of our favorite spots across the city that are well worth experiencing:

Cafe du Monde – Located on Decatur Street in the French Quarter, this legendary open-air coffee shop is the place to go at any time of the day to enjoy the classic New Orleans delicacy known as a “beignet” (deep-fried dough covered with powdered sugar) along with delicious cafe au lait (made with equal parts of coffee and chicory – the secret ingredient that makes Cafe Du Monde‘s coffee so popular). Be prepared to queue outside but don’t worry, it’s well worth the wait!
Mothers Restaurant – To sample one of the best po-boys in New Orleans (obviously a debate that many other restaurants will claim to possess), head to Mothers Restaurant on Poydras Street which has been serving this lunchtime favorite since opening its doors in 1938. Be sure to sample Mothers’ iconic po-boy, the Famous Ferdi Special, incorporating ham and roast beef topped with debris.
Red Fish Grill – Bourbon Street may be the home of New Orleans’ nightlife and entertainment scene but it is also home to a collection of great restaurants, none more so than Red Fish Grill which is the perfect spot to enjoy the best local seafood. The Alligator Sausage and Seafood Gumbo are a favorite while the infamous BBQ oysters are a great way to start your visit.
Commander’s Palace – Located in the heart of the Garden District of New Orleans, this is one of the city’s proudest restaurants dating back to 1893. The Victorian-style mansion where Commander’s Palace is found is one of the most spectacular landmarks throughout the city and the moment you enter and start sampling the cuisine, you will quickly realize how this is a six-time James Beard award-winning restaurant.
The Court of Two Sisters – Is there anything better than enjoying a late morning brunch sampling the finest New Orleans dishes while listening to live jazz music? Head to the wonderfully named “Court of Two Sisters” and enjoy an amazing experience on the courtyard terrace, indulging in delicious food while listening to local artists perform.

Best Attractions in New Orleans

You could be forgiven for thinking that a trip to New Orleans is all about indulging in local cuisine, listening to jazz music and enjoying live entertainment on Bourbon Street. While this is partly true, there is a myriad of attractions that are worth experiencing while in NOLA. Here are a couple of our favorite spots that you should consider adding to your 48-hour itinerary.

Garden District – A trip to New Orleans wouldn’t be the same without a visit to the Garden District to experience Lafayette Cemetery #1 and explore the plethora of Classic Revival inspired mansions that houses famous celebrities. A New Orleans Garden District tour courtesy of a local tour company (or even a self-guided walking tour) offers a historic look at some of the infamous celebrities that live in these gorgeous homes. Walking around this neighborhood is all about trying to spot the celebrity, from Sandra Bullock to Nicolas Cage and many more!
National World War II Museum – Learn all about the American Experience in the Second World War in terms of how it started, how it was won and the tragic losses that were suffered throughout. This military history museum is located in the business area of New Orleans but provides a one of a kind experience, unlike any other comparable museum.
Jackson Square – Explore St. Louis Cathedral that towers above this iconic square and listen to local Zydeco musicians while admiring artists creating works of art for locals and visitors alike to enjoy.
Steamboat Natchez Cruise – Enjoy a Natchez dinner cruise or daytime trip along the Mississippi River to enjoy epic skyline views of New Orleans and also listen to traditional jazz music performed while sampling local cuisine offered onboard this steamboat.
City Park – Take a stroll around an urban green space by visiting one of New Orleans’ oldest parks, dating back to 1850. The gorgeous botanical gardens within the park are a real sight to behold while the famous antique carousel is a sure favorite for children heading to New Orleans.

Summary

New Orleans is a city that epitomizes a rich culture, delicious cuisine, and quirky architecture. Spending 48 hours in the Big Easy will give you an idea of why this city is such a popular spot for return visitors, with a plethora of things to do and amazing places to eat. Whether you are a first-time visitor or frequent this city along the Mississippi River, you can be sure there is something new that awaits.

From the Garden District neighborhood to the historic French Quarter, New Orleans is a vibrant collection of unique cultures combined into a melting pot of diversity. Have you visited New Orleans? What would you recommend for someone visiting NOLA for the first time and only has 48 hours to explore?